《My Descendants Are My Power》


 Chapter 1: Chapter 1: After school

    April 3024.


    At the top Psychic Academy in Federal California.


    On his way home from school, unlike other students who jump around, use psychic powers, anti-gravity boots, or personal flyers, Ethan Blackwood just twitches his ring, and voila¡ªa sports car pops up on the avenue.


    "Hey, not even of age and already burning rubber, no worries about traffic jams after school."


    He presses a token onto the car''s steering wheel to fire it up, "Magical world, huh?"


    Even after three years, Ethan still occasionally marvels at the wonders of this world.


    Originally, a thousand years ago, this world was pretty similar to the Earth he came from. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But then, cosmic rays triggered mutations, transforming the world into a hybrid of technology and superpowers. After years of conflict, a federation was finally established. There are no longer separate nations on Earth; it is unified under a federal system.


    Everyone''s cultivating psychic powers, aiming for immortality, and Earth even started interstellar travel in no time.


    "Look, isn''t that young Master Ethan?"


    "Out with his psychic gear again. Heard crafting that gear ate up a ton of Energy Stones, costs at least three basic ones just for a school round trip. Nice to be loaded, huh?"


    "Pfft, what''s there to brag about? He''s just an ordinary F-grade Psychic like us. Heard he got booted from the Blackwoods, they say he''s the family''s disgrace!"


    "..."


    Many students on the roadside, unable to use psychic powers for travel and too broke to buy Psychic Gear, watch.


    Ethan, cruising in his energy-stone guzzling sports car, naturally becomes the center of attention.


    Listening to the bystanders, Ethan isn''t bothered.


    He puts on his sunglasses, glances in the rearview mirror at a few students still jealously whispering, grips the steering wheel with one hand, flips them off with the other, and zooms off.


    Why waste time bickering when he could be home gaming?


    ...


    Soon, Ethan has finished shopping and drives back to Psychic Gear, where the guard at the Advanced Psychic Sanctuary, John Smith, is munching on KFC, gnawing on a chicken leg. Hearing the roar of the engine, he puts down his chicken leg and warmly activates the portal for Ethan.


    "Mr. Ethan, did you travel far for groceries again? Aren''t the high-grade Energy Pills tasty enough?"


    "Mr. John."


    Ethan replies with a smile, "No matter how fancy those Energy Pills get, they still taste like wax. We''re cultivating psychic powers here, not torturing our taste buds, right? What''s the point if we can''t enjoy real food?"


    Hearing this, Mr. John''s eyes light up, and he gives a thumbs up, "You got that right. Eating Energy Pills for body purity? That''s nonsense. No point in cultivating powers if it cramps our style."


    "Well, Mr. John, I better get back to cooking."


    Ethan drives towards the villa area, greeting familiar faces and ancient folks with a smile.


    The Psychics here in Psychic Gear are different from those students.


    Years have made them wiser and more worldly, and they don''t mind that Ethan is young or rumored to have a mixed Psychic Constitution. They''re all friendly, knowing well that anyone living here is no ordinary person.


    The Psychic Sanctuary in the villa area is just like any other villa, but with its unique charms.


    And Ethan''s Psychic Sanctuary¡ªPsychic Gear Number One¡ªis at the very end.


    As Ethan''s car pulls in, a heavenly young girl in a white maid outfit catches his eye, her long, slender legs in white stockings are particularly striking, especially her charming face framed by bangs.


    Even after three years, Ethan still nearly loses his composure under her seemingly smiling eyes.


    "Welcome home, Commander," says the AI Bionic Robot in a voice as refreshing as a spring, instantly soothing his school-day irritations.


    "Lisa, park the car in the garage."


    Ethan tosses a set of keys to the AI Bionic Robot, "The groceries are in the front trunk, got quite a bit today. You handle dinner, just bring it to my room. Planning to spend the holiday gaming."


    "Right away, Commander."


    As Ethan steps towards the villa, Lisa adds, "By the way, Commander, your family hasn''t sent this month''s Energy Stone Allowance yet. Our account is running low. Should I contact them?"


    This AI Bionic Robot, whose level Ethan can''t even fathom, has been taking care of him since he was born, far surpassing any advanced AI he knew of in his previous life.


    "Not yet?"


    Ethan frowns, "Make a call and hurry them up. Start with Chris, he''s one of us. Let''s see what''s up."


    "Yes, Commander."


    Hearing Lisa''s response, Ethan heads back to his room without further concern.

 Chapter 2: Chapter 2: Man, what the heck?

    All over California, there are plenty of families known for cultivating psychic powers, and the Blackwood family is definitely top-tier.


    But Ethan doesn''t know much about the Blackwood; ever since he was born, for reasons unknown¡ªmaybe because of his lackluster talents or his missing parents'' rocky relationship with the family¡ªhe''s been living at Psychic Gear, raised by Lisa.


    He''s seen folks from Blackwood fewer times than he''s hung out with the uncles and aunties at Psychic Gear.


    As a direct descendant of his family, even though he didn''t grow up with them, he still gets a decent allowance every month for his expenses, all thanks to his parents'' significant contributions to the Blackwood.


    As long as the Blackwood name lives on, his lineage will always be well taken care of.


    So, Ethan''s not sweating the small stuff when it comes to life.


    Back in his room, Ethan plops down in front of his computer, zoning out for a good while.


    "Guess this life''s all about chilling," he mutters to himself with a chuckle as he boots up his computer.


    This kind of life, living off his parents'' legacy, is exactly what he''s always wanted¡ªno worries about food or clothes. He''s happy with his life, you know? knowing that as long as he doesn''t mess up, his life is pretty enviable.


    Ethan even has a laid-back, carefree future all planned out.


    "Although..."


    Ethan pauses, thinking about those powerful psychics in the world who lead epic lives, seeing vast new worlds among the stars, while he''s stuck at Psychic Gear for life.


    "Dude, I need to chill. This life''s already pretty sweet."


    Ethan scoffs at himself, but by now, his computer is up and running. Even though this world is all about cultivating psychic powers, there are still games around, a perfect pastime for a laid-back guy like him.


    Mostly, it''s VR games that also help train psychic reaction speeds¡ªa kind of alternative education.


    But Ethan prefers the old-school games from his past life, like the one he''s playing now with an actual mouse, an antique by today''s standards. After all, modern VR games are mostly about fighting and killing, and that gets old fast.


    He fires up an ancient game that Lisa had managed to dig up from an antique market, copied from a millennium-old computer, just as ancient as his.


    Looking left and right, Ethan hesitates to click on any game; he''s pretty much played them all to death. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thinking it over, Ethan opens a folder to see if there''s anything new forgotten in there.


    Just as he''s searching, a game file catches his eye!


    Ethan, always up for some new kicks, fired up a game called "Cultivating Psychic Powers Family Simulator." Was it some kind of management game? He was about to find out.


    The screen loaded in a flash, revealing an old-school art style that would''ve been considered retro even in Ethan''s past life. A landscape painting slowly materialized into view, showing a small cabin.


    A young man was setting up a memorial cards and burning incense in front of a bronze furnace.


    [Today, your only descendant left in the world is paying tribute to you. As a slave without even a last name, he heard that kneeling before the Forebearer could bring blessings.]


    [Please establish a surname for this family, which might rise to prominence or fade into obscurity.]


    [___ Family]


    "Pfft," Ethan, sipping on his Coke, nearly spit it out. Was the game starting off this tragic? Just one person in the whole family registry?


    Still, he went along with the game''s prompt and typed in "Blackwood."


    After entering the surname, the game''s interface began to change, though it remained straightforward.


    Ethan glanced around and noticed a "Time Rate" slider on the left, set to 1 hour/year¡ªreal time.


    "Is there no pause button?"


    It seemed that only during Ancestral Communion or special events would the game pause, automatically resuming after 5 minutes.


    And right now, it was the first Ancestral Communion.


    It seemed like a tutorial, as the Blackwood name magically appeared on the memorial cards.


    The sole descendant of Blackwood saw the change and a message appeared above his head.


    "The Forebearer has manifested! My surname is Blackwood, haha!"


    Watching the descendant''s ecstatic reaction, Ethan didn''t know whether to laugh or feel moved, as he couldn''t really empathize with a game NPC.


    Meanwhile, on the right side of the screen, a large black interface popped up with a message.


    [Your descendant feels your presence and is overjoyed. He has named himself Nathan Blackwood.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +1]


    And in the family tree section...


    Ethan even saw a genealogy...


    [First Generation: Nathan]


    He could even check Nathan''s personal info¡ªyep, totally ordinary.


    "So, ''Cultivating Psychic Powers Family Simulator'' means I just watch the family grow?"


    Ethan was still puzzled by the game.


    [Your descendant is participating in Ancestral Communion, a major tribute every ten years.]


    [Tribute Offering: A pile of burnt paper ashes]


    [Retrieve it?]


    "What do I need this stuff for?"


    Though he didn''t see an inventory, Ethan clicked ''no.''


    [You have canceled the Tribute Offering.]


    A gust of wind blew across the screen, scattering the ashes.


    But Blackwood''s sole descendant panicked.


    "Forebearer, calm your anger, your unworthy descendant failed to present a pleasing Tribute Offering!"


    [Do you intend to Divine Gift your descendant during this Ancestral Communion?]


    Staring at the screen, Ethan froze, his Coke can suspended mid-air, his hand trembling slightly, his eyes widening, his mouth agape.


    Not because of the game screen, but...


    A Mystic Burner, which shouldn''t exist, appeared right next to his cluttered desktop computer.


    Ethan could even smell the scent of burnt paper that had just been on the Mystic Burner!


    This Mystic Burner was identical to the one he had just seen on the game''s altar.


    "Man, what the heck??"

 Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Nathans Gift

    "Game, Mystic Burner... Game, Mystic Burner..."


    Ethan stared at his computer screen, his brain in overdrive!


    This world was already all about cultivating psychic powers, where anything could happen, and since he was a time-traveler, he''d seen his fair share of weird stuff.


    He quickly realized this wasn''t just any game.


    This computer had been dug up from an ancient tomb.


    Meaning, it''s likely this game was a cheat code that accidentally became his.


    The options "Tribute Offering" and "Divine Gift" were channels through which this cheat code could benefit him.


    Through "Divine Gift."


    The descendants in the game would grow stronger, snagging precious items from the game world to give back.


    And he could get "Tribute Offering" through the Mystic Burner.


    "So now, I gotta do everything possible to help Nathan level up!"


    In his room, aside from the familiar music, Ethan could even hear his own heartbeat.


    But still.


    Ethan kept his cool, his demeanor chillingly calm. In this Psychic Gear world, even if the whole planet exploded, Ethan wouldn''t sweat it.


    Watching the game timer.


    "Please place your Divine Gift into the Mystic Burner."


    "3:45"


    Time was ticking. If it hit zero without a gift for Nathan, the next Ancestral Communion wouldn''t be for another ten years, and by then, 20-year-old Nathan might starve!


    Ethan suddenly stood up, scanning the room while thinking of what could be useful.


    "What should I give him? Food? Nah, he''s a runaway, he''ll figure out how to eat."


    "An Energy Stone? Nope, Nathan''s just a regular dude, and that could bring him trouble!"


    "The way of cultivating psychic powers, yes, that''s it! Strengthen himself, and he can survive and grow the family over these ten years!"


    Ethan frantically searched his room. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Finally, he found a dark book, trembling as he placed the stone carefully into the Mystic Burner with just 1:00 left on the "Divine Gift" timer.


    And then, the game system''s message appeared again.


    "Detecting your Divine Gift¡ª"


    "Psychic Arts Manual"


    "Would you like to send it?"


    Ethan didn''t hesitate and clicked ''yes''!


    This "Psychic Arts Manual" was modern tech fused onto an abandoned Energy Stone.


    It combined the essence of Psychic Arts Manuals condensed over a millennium by numerous Psychic professors globally, a prenatal-level textbook for all psychic power cultivating academies!


    Without a doubt.


    This was the perfect study material for Nathan. Only by mastering power could Nathan improve his survival odds in the game world and lay a solid foundation for his family''s future!


    "This is..."


    At that moment, Nathan on the screen, clutching the "Divine Gift," seemed to have an epiphany. He knelt before the altar, declaring, "Unworthy descendant thanks the Forebearer for this gift, I will not let you down!"


    "Glug glug..."


    Ethan casually threw his legs up on his gaming chair and took a big swig of Coke, "You better live up to my expectations, survive and fiercely multiply, expand our clan!"


    Ethan cranked up the game''s time speed to max in a flash!


    Soon, the altar in the game vanished, leaving just a shabby little hut.


    But under Ethan''s intense gaze, Nathan''s living conditions started to improve bit by bit.


    A field began to form next to the house.


    The original wooden hut slowly started to be rebuilt with stones.


    Outside, there were poles for drying meat.


    And more trees started popping up around.


    A whole hour passed.


    It was like peeping into someone''s life, and Ethan found it all pretty wild.


    "Your descendant Nathan has adapted to living solo in the mountains, diligently studied the ''Psychic Arts Manual,'' and finally became a Foundational Energy!"


    "Forebearer bless!"


    Ethan saw Nathan bowing at the altar again.


    "Spiritual Tribute +2"


    "He finally broke through!"


    Ethan was just as thrilled, checking Nathan''s stats.


    In a long list of data, he found the key info.


    "Trait: Striving Hard"


    "Though his talents are poor, he works harder than anyone."


    "That''s my boy, facing life head-on just like me!" Ethan praised.


    Then, Ethan set the game''s time speed back to normal, realizing it was about time for dinner.


    He headed to the dining room where the table was already set with two dishes and a soup.


    He poured himself some soup, took a sip, then started loading his bowl with food, turning to Lisa with a puzzled look, "Did you get in touch with Chris? What did he say?"


    Lisa replied, "I reached out, but no word from Chris or the others from Blackwood."


    "Huh?"


    Ethan paused, frowning, "Even if they wanted to delay my allowance, they wouldn''t dare ignore me. Here''s what you do, go to Psychic Sanctuary No. 8 in person and leave a message. John Smith there goes out daily, ask he to inquire when he''s out."


    "Yes, Commander."


    After giving the orders, Ethan rushed back to his room to continue the game.


    Allowance is allowance, but Ethan knew a huge opportunity was right in front of him, and taking the ''cultivating psychic powers family simulator'' seriously was what mattered most, everything else could wait!


    At the door, Ethan stopped, looked at Lisa who was clearing the table, and said, "Oh, pack up this food."


    Lisa was already prepared with the packaging.


    "Understood, Commander. Same as before, deliver it to the gatekeeper Mr. John."


    "Right."

 Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Nathans Trials

    Ethan got back to his room and noticed the game time was synced up with real time.


    When he clicked on his family tree and selected Nathan, the game interface switched to a new environment, showing everything but the location of the clan. Up in the right corner, it flashed "Map - Mystic Boar Forest."


    The screen was set in a dense forest where Nathan''s animated character appeared, surrounded by a few wild boars.


    The bottom right corner had a big note about Nathan''s actions, saying, "Some wild boars keep wrecking the veggie patch, Nathan''s got skills now and is out for revenge."


    Ethan sped up the game time a bit, but then slowed it down again. A pop-up appeared: "Special Event: Descendant Nathan has encountered the Boar King in battle and got slightly injured. Would you like to use ''Forebearer''s Blessing''?"


    Options included:


    1,Love of the Forebearer


    2,Charge, my children


    ...


    15,Revive my descendant


    "What in the world is this mess?" Ethan scratched his head and quickly checked the options. It seemed like these were powers he could use as a Forebearer by spending ''Spiritual Tribute'' when his descendants faced enemies.


    Right now, he could only use "Love of the Forebearer," which cost 2 Spiritual Tribute points and would slightly heal his descendant. The option "Revive my descendant" was way too expensive and complicated.


    Without hesitation, Ethan spent some Spiritual Tribute to heal his only descendant. "Forebearer to the rescue again!"


    Nathan''s character was visibly grateful. Soon after Ethan sped up the game time, he saw Nathan bowing at the altar again. "Nathan is grateful for the Forebearer''s Blessing. Spiritual Tribute +2."


    Ethan breathed a sigh of relief. Nathan was his only descendant; if he died, it would be game over. "Is this what it feels like to be a Forebearer? Always worried about continuing the bloodline. My grandpa was just like this. I was just in high school, and he was pushing me to be the school tough guy, telling me to find a wife..." S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan chuckled at the memory, then felt a bit melancholy, "Wonder how the family''s doing in the other world?" He shook his head, not wanting to dwell on it.


    He then grabbed a flat bench, took a high-grade Energy Stone, and sat down to cultivate psychic powers while watching the game. Time in the game slowly passed.


    Nathan''s humble abode turned into a stone house, the garden began to sprout, and thanks to his hunting skills, there was more and more dried meat. Nathan even started raising a dozen pigs.


    By the third year, Nathan had advanced to the second level of Foundational Energy. During this time, Ethan gained 4 more Spiritual Tribute points. This kid wasn''t slow at all; Nathan started from scratch, had poor talent and no resources, but he was making the most of his diligent efforts.


    Suddenly, while meditating, Ethan''s eyes snapped open, his gaze brightening. "Nathan''s in town selling animal hides, planning to swap some for money to buy pills that help with cultivating psychic powers, and he''s met a farmer''s daughter. They''ve taken a liking to each other."


    "Smart move, kid! Don''t just like her, marry her and get to the honeymoon!" Ethan wasn''t worried whether she was a farmer''s daughter or a rich girl, as long as Nathan was happy. Ideally, he''d become a baby-making expert on the spot and continue the Blackwood Spiritual Tribute!


    The scene shifted quickly. On the screen, Nathan was holding a girl''s hand, standing in front of the family altar. Both were dressed in red wedding attire. "Unfilial descendant Nathan marries Luna Bennett from the Bennett village today, earnestly requesting the Forebearer''s Blessing!"


    Blessings, lots of blessings! Ethan was overjoyed and immediately found the "Forebearer''s Blessing" on the interface, spending 2 Spiritual Tribute points to use "Love of the Forebearer."


    "Thanks to the Forebearer for making this happen!"


    As Nathan bowed in thanks, the scene quickly turned to night, and Blackwood''s only descendant was having his wedding night. "Today Nathan gets married. Spiritual Tribute +4."


    The house was decorated with festive symbols, clearly setting the stage for a sleepless night. Ethan watched the screen, more excited than if he were the groom himself.


    "Go make babies, my boy, make them fiercely, let the world see the might of the Blackwood!"

 Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Awesome!

    Ethan was totally stoked as he watched the time roll on.


    Nathan and his wife were living the dream, the old-school way with him farming and her weaving. Meanwhile, Nathan was also hustling to level up his psychic powers.


    Year Five:


    Nathan, through sheer grit, broke through to level three of Foundational Energy.


    That same year, Luna was pregnant and gave birth to a boy named Lucas Blackwood!


    "Congrats! Your family just got bigger, Spiritual Tribute +10!"


    "Finally, he''s here!" Ethan couldn''t contain his excitement and took a huge swig of Coke.


    In the game, Nathan was outside the house, dancing with joy, "Forebearer''s magic at work, it''s a boy! The Blackwood line continues!"


    The scene quickly shifted.


    Nathan, holding his newborn, was crying tears of joy in front of the Forebearer altar.


    "Forebearer, check out our family''s chubby little champ, my boy Lucas has the makings of a sage!"


    Rewards were definitely in order!


    "Using ''Forebearer''s Blessing - Love of the Forebearer,'' consuming 4 Spiritual Tribute points."


    In a flash, a radiant light enveloped Nathan and his son.


    "Son, see that? The Forebearer''s shown up again, blessing my boy to be healthy and trouble-free!"


    "Spiritual Tribute +2"


    After the celebration,


    Ethan quickly checked the newborn''s stats.


    Compared to Nathan''s mixed Psychic Constitution, Lucas seemed to have a better start.


    "Wood Psychic Constitution: 56"


    Though it''s still a mixed Psychic Constitution, each type has its strengths, and reaching 100 points means a complete Psychic Constitution. 56 points is pretty decent.


    It''s way better than Nathan''s Metal Psychic Constitution at 38 points.


    "The Blackwoods are on the rise!"


    Then Ethan, feeling good, had Lisa whip up some late-night snacks. After munching down, he continued his all-night gaming session.


    That''s the perk of cultivating psychic powers, you can pull an all-nighter without feeling beat.


    He quietly watched the Blackwoods thrive.


    Since the baby arrived, there were noticeable changes in the Blackwood household in the game.


    Nathan fixed up the house, making it much bigger, and even expanded the farmland.


    It seemed like the game had seasons too, and Ethan could see the fields lying fallow at times. But since Nathan was a psychic power cultivator and a hunter, they weren''t worried about going hungry.


    Before long,A new action on the dashboard caught Ethan''s eye.


    Nathan wiped out all the wild boars in Mystic Boar Forest and snagged the ''Boar Slayer'' trait!


    "Whaaat?"


    What kind of wild trait is that?


    Ethan checked it out.


    [Boar Slayer: Combat power up by 10%, damage to pig-like creatures increased by 200%.]


    "Badass."


    Ethan gave a thumbs up, looking like his descendants were making some serious strides in their niche.


    After adding another member to the family,The little Blackwood homestead was buzzing with life.


    Ethan even saw little Lucas, barely crawling, being taken by Nathan to the altar for a blessing, clearly starting ''em young on that Ancestral Communion thing.


    [Spiritual Tribute +3]


    Next thing,Ethan noticed Luna''s belly was growing again!


    He glanced at the game''s timeline, Year Seven.


    "That''s what I''m talking about! My boys are getting it done!" S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon after,


    [Luna successfully gave birth to a girl, named ''Amelia Blackwood''!]


    [Congrats on the new addition to the Blackwood family, Spiritual Tribute +10]


    Then, the same scene at the altar,


    "Nathan, crying his eyes out, seemed to think he''d let the Forebearer down by not having another boy, ''Please forgive me, Forebearer!''"


    He was holding clueless Lucas, while Luna held the newborn girl, looking pretty down.


    "What''s this? Preferring boys over girls?"


    Ethan frowned, to him, as long as the descendants brought blessings to the family, the gender didn''t matter. Favoring one gender over another was not cool.


    After a moment of thought,


    [Using ''Forebearer''s Blessing - Love of the Forebearer,'' consuming 2 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    But this time, the skill was used only on Amelia, not on anyone else!


    In that moment,


    Nathan seemed to get Ethan''s point, his next prayers were a bit sheepish.


    "Forebearer, calm your wrath, Nathan gets it now, all Blackwood kids are cherished, thanks for blessing Amelia!"


    [Spiritual Tribute +3]


    Seeing this, Ethan''s expression eased a bit. Although he couldn''t talk to the game characters directly, he could make his point known in other ways.


    Last time he used ''Love of the Forebearer'' on everyone, this time just on Amelia, couldn''t be clearer.


    Later, as the family kept going,Ethan checked out Amelia''s stats.


    This kid''s talents were a bit lower, even less than Nathan''s, with just a mere 20 points in Mystic Water Psychic Constitution.


    But no biggie, as long as the family grew, they''d contribute to the family''s efforts, more hands for farming too.


    Ethan then glanced at the top right corner.


    Year eight rolled around, and the Blackwood descendants kept hitting up the altar with their prayers.


    Ethan was getting the hang of this ''Spiritual Tribute'' thing¡ªit seemed to rack up points whenever the kids showed some serious devotion or when something big went down.


    Now, his Spiritual Tribute was sitting pretty at 38 points.


    By this time, Lucas was running all over the place. Only three, but maybe thanks to a steady diet of meat, he was bulkier than most kids his age. Nathan even handed him a wooden sword to start his training early.


    Gotta start ''em young on those psychic powers, though three is hardly the age to get the hang of it.


    Little Amelia, just a year old, wasn''t too keen on training. Instead, she was often seen crawling towards the veggie garden, curiously watching Nathan irrigate the fields.


    Then,Under Ethan''s amazed gaze, Nathan''s wife, fresh from childbirth at the start of the year, was expecting again!


    "Forebearer bless us, unworthy descendant Nathan and wife bow before you, grateful for another son you''ve bestowed upon us!"


    Awesome!


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to shower Nathan with ''Love of the Forebearer.''


    "Thank you, Forebearer, always watching over your unworthy descendant. Rest assured, with your blessing, my wife will surely bear more children to glorify our Blackwood line!"


    [Spiritual Tribute +2]


    Ethan was pretty pleased.


    Look at Nathan''s lineage¡ªmight not be the sharpest tools in the shed, but they sure knew how to keep the family growing, making a Forebearer proud.

 Chapter 6: Chapter 6: Please, spare me

    After the screen cut, something funky popped up in the member action list.


    "Big drought this year, kids multiplying like rabbits, and Mystic Boar Forest''s all out of critters. The kiddos are sick of pork, so he decided to venture further out for some new grub. Planning to hunt big time, stock up for the fam."


    Check out this responsible kid, huh?


    Ethan whipped out the map.


    Soon enough, he spotted Nathan trekking through a place called Silver Ironwood Forest on the map.


    Before long, Ethan saw Nathan in a standoff with a horse on the screen.


    "Nathan battled a mystical Silver Ironwood horse, wounded it, and after a three-day chase, he caught it. But seeing the horse''s pleading eyes, he sensed its humanity and let it go, quietly reaching into his backpack, thinking, ''Better walk away before the blood splatters on me.''"


    "Little did he know, grateful for the human''s gesture with the bow, the Silver Ironwood horse followed Nathan all the way back to Blackwood and became his ride!"


    After snagging a mystical beast.


    Nathan built a stable, and now there''s a horse joyfully galloping around their place.


    And soon after,


    Blackwood got more good news, making Ethan super stoked.


    "Luna gave birth to a boy, named ''Julian Blackwood''!"


    "Congrats to Blackwood for the new addition, earning a Spiritual Tribute +10"


    Three kids now!


    At this rate, Nathan could pop out a basketball team, or heck, a whole class!


    Nathan''s family was all gratitude towards the Forebearer.


    The new kid Julian, he''s got some decent stats.


    Metal Psychic Constitution: 42


    Fire Psychic Constitution: 51


    Especially this little guy, must''ve eaten something wild in the womb, came out with a trait, even yanked out a strand of Nathan''s hair!


    Trait: Sturdy Bones


    "Bigger bones than most kids, strength increased by 5%."


    "Forebearer, you seeing this? My boy Julian''s got some serious muscle, he''ll be great at hauling dung!"


    Thanks on behalf of your son Julian...


    Ethan was thrilled about the family addition. Nathan was clearly hard at work hunting in Silver Ironwood, though it seemed to be crawling with mystical beasts. Once, Nathan even got a minor injury.


    But Ethan quickly hit Nathan with some ''Love of the Forebearer.''


    What surprised Ethan was the ''severe drought'' in the game world lasted a long time, even affecting the fields next to the house. Blackwood''s only daughter, Amelia, was seen clutching the dry soil, crying her eyes out.


    Time quickly moved to year nine.


    The drought hadn''t ended, but Nathan was prepared. His three kids and wife weren''t starving, and the well hadn''t dried up.


    As Ethan watched the family slowly thrive and waited for the tenth year to roll around so he could use the "Divine Gift" from the Mystic Burner,


    He furrowed his brow.


    "Special Event: Bandits"


    "In the drought year, crops failed, many folks turned to banditry. Thirteen thieves hit Blackwood one night. One of them, clueless, tried to steal the Silver Ironwood horse, got kicked to death by it, waking Nathan!"


    In the screen, the night lit up Blackwood, and under Ethan''s gaze, Nathan, machete in hand, burst from his room.


    Yelling at the thieves outside the stable,


    "Get off our property, or don''t blame me for getting rough!"


    In the game, it was Ethan''s first time seeing someone barge into the family''s turf.


    "Looks like farming ain''t all peace and quiet; there''s some real danger lurking around."


    Ethan squinted his eyes, quietly watching how Nathan would handle the situation unfolding in the game.


    Above the heads of the bandits, a message popped up.


    "Hand over all your cash and grub, or we''ll make you regret it!"


    The bandits were feeling bold due to their numbers.


    But their arrogance didn''t last long.


    After ten years of honing his psychic powers, Nathan had reached the fourth level of Foundational Energy. The ''Psychic Arts Manual'' Ethan gave him included combat skills and some basic magical martial arts. Plus, Nathan had been scrapping regularly in Mystic Boar Forest and Silver Ironwood, so his combat prowess was no joke.


    This ragtag group of bandits, hungry and desperate, was no match for Nathan.


    And then,


    Out of the stables charged the Silver Ironwood horse!


    Nathan''s wife, Luna, also showed her fierce side. Usually busy farming and taking care of the kids, she now burst out of the kitchen wielding a kitchen knife, ready to defend her home.


    Even young Lucas, armed with a wooden sword, dashed out of his room, a message appearing above his head, "Come to our house to steal? We''ll beat you to a pulp!"


    "They''ve got a Psychic, stop fighting, mercy, we won''t dare again!"


    As the family charged, along with a horse causing chaos among the bandits,


    The bandits quickly lost the battle and ended up kneeling in front of the Blackwood residence.


    "Today, I''ll spare your lives. But if you dare come back, I''ll break your legs!"


    Nathan bellowed with fierce eyes.


    "Thank you, sir, we won''t dare again!"


    In a moment, the bandits, grateful for their lives, scurried away.


    Watching Nathan''s merciful act, Ethan furrowed his brows deeply. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Clearly, up until now, Nathan had been peacefully developing his family, engaging in combat only with wild animals and mystical beasts.


    These bandits were still human, and Nathan showed a considerable amount of mercy towards his own kind.


    But Ethan felt that Nathan''s decision to let the bandits go was a grave mistake.


    "These bandits, no matter how they found Blackwood, now know there''s enough food here during this severe drought. Even if they don''t dare come back, what if they spread the word to other bandits?"


    Ethan took a deep breath, muttering to himself, "Even if Nathan is strong enough to defeat these ordinary people, he has to leave home to hunt sometimes. The three kids aren''t grown up yet, and Luna is just a bit stronger than average. What if they get attacked?"


    The mouse slowly moved to the "Forebearer''s Protection."


    Ethan found a skill¡ª


    "Forebearer''s Wrath: Attack from the Forebearer''s cards. The more family members, the stronger the skill, the more Spiritual Tribute it consumes."


    "Using ''Forebearer''s Wrath,'' consuming 20 points of Spiritual Tribute!"


    Suddenly,


    The cards of the Forebearer on the altar shone brightly, floated up, and shot out of Blackwood''s gate, tracing a beautiful purple arc in the game''s night sky.


    This time, Ethan discovered he could control the cards!


    "The Forebearer shows his power again!"


    The people of Blackwood immediately knelt down, even the Silver Ironwood horse mimicked Nathan and knelt.


    "What''s this?"


    "Looks like a spirit cards!"


    The bandits turned their heads in surprise, staring at the cards.


    Without a second thought, Ethan controlled the cards, targeting the bandit who ran the farthest.


    Then,


    The cards pierced right through the bandit''s chest!


    "Weren''t we promised no killing? Run!"


    "Help, I don''t want to die."


    "Please, spare me."


    Ethan frowned, still maneuvering the mouse, targeting the bandits daring to flee.

 Chapter 7: Chapter 7: The Mysterious Iron Spear

    Forget it''s just a game, if Ethan himself was in this pickle, he''d make the same call!


    Since these dudes had shady plans for him, he had to nip it in the bud, or else it''s just trouble sprouting back up!


    But Ethan didn''t wipe out all the bandits.


    He only took out the ones bold enough to try and run.


    Only five bandits were left on screen, and Ethan''s focus shifted to Nathan.


    "The Forebearer''s cards has stopped."


    Nathan looked around, seemingly unsure of what to do next.


    But soon enough, he stood up, grabbed the knife he''d just put down, and charged at the bandits.


    "The Forebearer is ticked off, honey, I''ve figured it out."


    "We gotta wipe them out to protect our home!"


    "Thanks for the wisdom, Forebearer!"


    Smart move!


    Ethan really admired this about Nathan; the guy was quick on the uptake. These five bandits were left just for Nathan!


    The Forebearer cards returned to its place.


    Under Ethan''s watchful eye, Nathan, in front of his wife and kids, took out all the bandits and even moved their bodies out of the yard overnight.


    And Lucas, who had just run out with a wooden sword, watched his dad move the bodies with a mix of awe and respect in his young eyes.


    [Your descendants have averted a family crisis, gaining Spiritual Tribute +12]


    [Loot acquired: A small amount of silver, worn clothes, a dung fork...]


    [Watching Nathan eliminate the family''s enemies, the young child seems to grasp something, a strange concept imprinted deep in his memory.]


    [Lucas gains the trait: Killing Potential]


    [Killing Potential: Becomes more ferocious in combat, strength increases by 20%, and insight into attack techniques improves by 5%]


    "Huh?"


    Ethan was taken aback; he hadn''t expected that this bout of violence would solve more than just their immediate problems, and that it would bring more than just loot to Blackwood.


    The biggest gain.


    Turned out to be Lucas, this 4-year-old kid, a natural-born killer, a warrior!


    After that night''s carnage.


    Blackwood returned to its usual peace, of course, Ethan couldn''t see the full picture of what changed deep inside Blackwood''s descendants after killing their enemies.


    He sped up the flow of time again.


    Blackwood continued to develop.


    Blackwood''s stone houses became more refined, and the wooden fences, due to previous thefts, were gradually replaced with stone, forming a sizable courtyard. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They even built a training ground specifically for practicing magical martial arts.


    What surprised Ethan the most.


    Was that Nathan, on a hunting trip in the Silver Ironwood Forest, brought back flat stones and built a small temple in the most conspicuous part of the courtyard to honor the Forebearer''s cards, ensuring the Spiritual Tribute remained bright.


    [Nathan and his descendants built a temple for you, gaining Spiritual Tribute +20!]


    "Such a dutiful kid."


    Ethan touched his chin in satisfaction, then paused, feeling a bit odd about having descendants build a temple for him while he was still alive.


    While Ethan was eagerly waiting, the big festival that comes once every decade finally popped up on the screen!


    Nathan, his wife, their three kids, and even their Ironwood horse, all showed up at the little stone temple to light up the Spiritual Tribute and start the worship!


    "Sorry, Forebearer, for the weak sauce tribute, but thanks to your blessing over the past decade, our family''s been thriving."


    Nathan kept bowing non-stop, then turned to his eldest, Lucas, "Lucas, hurry up and toss the gold and silver dad prepared into the copper furnace for the Forebearer."


    [You''ve received a Tribute Offering: 10 pounds of silver, 1 pound of gold]


    [Wanna take it out?]


    Nah, bro!


    Ethan rolled his eyes in front of his computer. In his time, gold and silver were so last season, even diamonds were just street pebbles.


    Ethan''s sports car hood? Made of pure gold. His villa''s bathtub? Lined with diamonds.


    He clicked no.


    Nathan stared at the Forebearer''s cards, "Huh? No warm Divine Gift from the Forebearer!"


    "Does the Forebearer not dig gold and silver or what?"


    Luna chimed in.


    "Yeah, must be it!" Nathan nodded vigorously. "Forebearer''s too cool for school, ordinary stuff just doesn''t cut it. Lucas, go check the storeroom for something pricey, we gotta please the Forebearer!"


    "Uh?"


    Watching the hustle on the game screen, Ethan just shrugged.


    He wasn''t really in the mood for gifts.


    After all, Blackwood was just getting off the ground, what valuable stuff could they possibly have?


    But he had already prepared this round''s Divine Gift as an investment in Blackwood''s growth. Only if Blackwood got stronger could they possibly have something that caught his eye.


    Soon, Lucas was hauling a bunch of stuff in front of the temple.


    [You''ve received a Tribute Offering: King Boar''s tendons, two pounds of Blackrock ore...]


    [Wanna take it out?]


    A whole bunch of weird items.


    He wasn''t keen, but it was the thought that counted, right? Ethan rummaged through the items, raising an eyebrow.


    "Huh?"


    One item caught his eye, a rusty old spear he remembered seeing Nathan train with when he switched screens.


    [Mysterious Iron Spear (Sealed)]


    The game even recorded the spear''s backstory¡ªit was snagged by Nathan while hunting in the Mystic Boar Forest, from a pile of human bones in the Boar King''s cave!


    "A sealed weapon?"


    Ethan''s expression turned serious. In the world of cultivating psychic powers, anything worth sealing had an extraordinary origin and could be extremely dangerous. Clearly, Nathan''s limited skills hadn''t clued him into the spear''s value.


    "Take out the spear!"


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to pull out the spear, even he was intrigued by it.


    [You chose to take out the Tribute Offering from your descendants¡ªthe Mysterious Iron Spear!]


    In an instant, a rusty spear appeared in front of the Mystic Burner on Ethan''s computer desk, and he could smell the rust coming off it!


    But at the same time, Ethan was drawn to the faint patterns on the spear, inscribed with strange characters, and he suddenly realized that his limited knowledge couldn''t make heads or tails of it.


    He set aside the spear for now.


    Ethan held a brocade box, placing it in front of the copper furnace.


    [You''ve Divine Gifted your descendants¡ª36 various elixirs.]


    [Wanna send it?]

 Chapter 8: Chapter 8: Psychic Sanctuary 12

    Ethan had a stash of 12 Nourishing Pills, a real game-changer for any Iron Will Psychic. These bad boys could cram a year''s worth of cosmic energy absorption into just one day.


    He also had 12 Heavenly Origin Pills on deck, perfect for any Iron Will Psychic looking to detox. Pop one of these, and the next six months of powering up your psychic abilities would be a walk in the park.


    And don''t even get me started on the Heavenly Mechanism Replenishing Pills!


    These last 12 pills were like gold dust in the psychic cultivation game world, and even on modern-day Earth, they were as rare as hen''s teeth. These puppies could potentially jack up someone''s Psychic Constitution for up to three years, luck depending.


    The only cats who knew how to whip up this magic were the folks at Blackwood. After years of tinkering at the Blackwood Pill Manufacturing Company, the record boost was from a dude who amped his Psychic Constitution from a measly 24 points to a whopping 50. And that''s not even counting the other unrecorded boosts.


    Talk about a psychic jackpot!


    Naturally, the stronger the pill, the more your body gets used to it. You only get one shot with a Heavenly Mechanism Replenishing Pill in your lifetime.


    "36 pills, nearly a tenth of my stash," Ethan thought, not sweating it.


    These were just hand-me-downs from his family, totally useless to him now!


    Nathan and his family were over the moon with gratitude, vowing to use the Divine Gift to strengthen the clan.


    [You''ve received a Spiritual Tribute+16]


    Ethan shifted his gaze from the computer screen.


    His hand rested on the mysterious long spear, giving it a gentle stroke, sending a wave of energy across its surface, stirring up the room.


    Soon, a prompt popped up on the screen.


    [Spend 1,000,000 Spiritual Tribute to unseal the ''Mysterious Long Spear''?]


    "???"


    He had barely scraped together 80 points of Spiritual Tribute, and they''re asking for a million? Might as well just rob him!


    But this only convinced Ethan more of the spear''s power.


    He took a deep breath, glanced at the computer clock showing 4 AM.


    "Been gaming all night, huh?"


    Ethan slowly stood up and stretched. Normally, he''d hit the sack, but not tonight. He was still wired, "Looks like I need to step out for a bit."


    Games are cool and all, but real life wasn''t on pause. Plus, over a late-night snack, Lisa had dropped some not-so-great news on him.


    Especially about...


    Ethan placed the long spear into his storage ring, having tested its seal to find it unbreakable.


    Then, he set a detection stone in front of his computer and released a wooden dummy from his spatial ring onto his gaming chair, making sure he could remotely control his computer before finally stepping out of the room.


    "Commander, need me to whip up some breakfast?"


    Just as Ethan closed the door and walked into the living room, Lisa, who was meditating in the hall, opened her eyes and flashed the first smile of the dawn at Ethan.


    "Nah, I''m good." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan returned the smile and then asked, "Hey, is Granny Quinn at Psychic Sanctuary 12 around?"


    "She''s been there the whole time, came back from her retreat two months ago and hasn''t left Psychic Sanctuary since," Lisa said as she watched Ethan put on his shoes, blinking, "Commander, you heading out? Want me to tag along?"


    "Just a quick trip, I''ll be back soon. Get the car ready."


    Ethan instructed as he pulled out his phone to check the computer screen through the monitoring Energy Stone.


    In no time, all the Blackwood folks who got those pills began their intense sessions of cultivating psychic powers, looking like they wouldn''t step outside until they''d eaten all their food.


    Nathan, flipping through the "Iron Will Psychic Powers Handbook," clearly figured out what those pills were all about.


    Almost every member of Blackwood, even the Iron Forest Horse, had popped one of those Heavenly Mechanism Psychic Pills.


    Their talents got a boost, but no major changes just yet.


    Meanwhile, on the member list, aside from Nathan who was at the fourth level of Foundational Energy, Blackwood gained two new Psychics.


    Nathan''s wife, who seemed like she might never become a Psychic, managed to reach the first level of Foundational Energy after taking the pills and following the prenatal training methods from the "Psychic Arts Manual."


    Lucas also became an Iron Will, a bright future ahead for the 5-year-old at Foundational Energy level one!


    The Blackwood members were full of fighting spirit, determined to honor the Forebearer''s gift in the next decade.


    Ethan nodded in satisfaction, then pocketed his old-school phone.


    "Commander seems really happy today," Lisa''s laughter pulled Ethan out of his game thoughts.


    "Whip up a feast for lunch, and I might be even happier."


    Ethan grinned, taking a box from Lisa''s hands and peeking inside¡ªit was a cake.


    Then Ethan drove off, leaving the villa.


    The car journey was short, and as he arrived at Psychic Gear 12, dawn was just breaking. The weather should have been a bit chilly, but there was a warm vibe around Psychic Sanctuary 12.


    After checking his phone again and seeing no special events triggered in the game and that the family was still developing smoothly, he finally knocked on the door of number 12.

 Chapter 9: Chapter 9: Granny Quinn

    "Ding-a-ling!"


    "Granny Quinn, it''s Ethan, came to check on ya!"


    With that shout, the door to Psychic Sanctuary 12 swung open. Unlike Ethan''s place, this sanctuary was like stepping into a furnace¡ªthe heat blasted out the moment the door opened, whipping up Ethan''s jacket and hair.


    An old lady, leaning on a cane and hunched over, appeared before Ethan like a ghost.


    Ethan, used to this fiery welcome, flashed a warm smile, "Granny Quinn, hope I didn''t catch you in the middle of crafting some crazy psychic gear?"


    Granny Quinn, with her white hair and wrinkled face, chuckled warmly, "How could you? An old hag like me? I''m just thrilled to have a young visitor."


    "Come on in, Ethan, let''s have some tea."


    Granny Quinn grabbed Ethan''s hand and led him inside the sanctuary.


    As they entered, the fiery glow dimmed, and everything turned normal with wooden tables and chairs. They sat down, and a pot of hot tea was already on the table.


    Ethan and Granny Quinn chatted about life for a good half hour, mostly Granny asking questions, just like the caring nagging of the elderly.


    But Ethan knew well, Granny Quinn had lived for at least three hundred years, a master psychic gear crafter. Anyone in Psychic Gear needing gear would seek her out.


    "Granny Quinn, I''ve run into a bit of trouble."


    Ethan looked deflated.


    "Oh?"


    Granny Quinn frowned, "Some young punk causing trouble at school? Or is it something at home?"


    "No, nothing like that, you know I stay out of trouble."


    Ethan didn''t beat around the bush. With a flick of his space ring, a long spear appeared in his hand. Granny Quinn''s eyes lit up at the sight of the patterns on the spear. Ethan grinned, "Got this from a buddy, couldn''t make heads or tails of it, thought of you right away." S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "At least it''s a high-grade psychic piece!"


    Granny Quinn took it, and a gust of wind stirred up, the quaint surroundings burst into flames then settled down. After holding the spear for ten seconds, Granny nodded, "Definitely a top-tier psychic weapon, though the sealing technique is so-so. If you trust this old hag, come pick it up the day after tomorrow at dawn."


    "Who else would I trust if not Granny Quinn?"


    After buttering her up for another ten minutes, Ethan left the mysterious spear with her and walked out of Psychic Sanctuary 12.


    He checked his phone; no family crises, so he breathed a sigh of relief and drove off.


    "Yo, Mr. John, wake up, man! I gotta head out for a bit!"


    Reaching the gate, Ethan hollered at the snoozing Mr. John in the guard booth.


    Soon, Mr. John, groggy and bleary-eyed, poked his head out, "Mr. Ethan? Heading out this early?"


    "Yep."


    Ethan sighed, slowly opened his car door, and lifted a cake from the passenger seat, handing it to Mr. John, "Woke up super early today, like 4 AM."


    "Whoa, cake? Look at Mr. Ethan living the high life."


    Mr. John grinned at the cake, "What''s the rush this morning?"


    "Nothing much."


    Ethan grinned, "Just dropped off a sealed weapon at Granny Quinn''s over at Psychic Sanctuary 12, asked her to check it out. Oh, and I forgot to ask when I can pick it up. Mr. John, could you check on that when you do your rounds?"


    "No biggie, I''ll ask her. Whatever you gave her, she''ll get it back to you."


    Mr. John tapped his fingers on the desk, "You didn''t have to rush out for that, man."


    "Oh, it''s just some family drama. The head of our Blackwood family fell in an interstellar battle in outer space. Some elders are seeking revenge, and the new head is a troublesome character¡ªhe cut off my allowance. I might not even have enough money for food soon."


    Ethan sighed deeply, the news delivered by Lisa last night.


    If it weren''t for the need to eat, he wouldn''t have left his desk for a second!


    "What?"


    Mr. John''s eyes widened, "That''s serious, man. You better handle it quick. Mr. Kieran at Psychic Sanctuary 82 knows his stuff, hit up his law office, maybe he can help."


    Looks like even in this world, lawyers are a thing. Ethan was ready to take his family to court.


    He nodded slightly, "Thanks, Mr. John. I''ll check it out. Lisa''s cooking a big lunch, I''ll have her bring you a plate."


    "Hey, sounds good."


    Ethan''s car sped off, and Mr. John waved at him, then yawned and headed towards Psychic Sanctuary 12, banging on the door.


    "Bang, bang, bang!"


    The sound echoed through the villa complex, lights flickering on in several houses.


    "Residents of Psychic Sanctuary 12, good morning! Your friendly neighborhood guard at your service!"

 Chapter 10: Chapter 10: Olivia Blackwood

    Bright and early, Ethan floored it to 160 mph, zooming down the empty streets until he pulled up at a towering skyscraper.


    He hung around up there for a solid two hours before heading back down.


    "Man, looks like I gotta sue somebody."


    Ethan shrugged, kinda shocked that the real-world Blackwood family drama was this intense. Out with the old, in with the new¡ª the new head honcho was playing favorites, funneling his allowance straight to his own kids...


    "Guess I''ll head back and figure it out."


    Glancing at his phone, Ethan noticed the time had really flown by, and the Blackwoods were in the midst of major changes.


    He frowned, pocketing his phone.


    Suddenly, the sky cracked with the sound of breaking air, and he looked up.


    Above the skyscraper, about thirty lawyers in suits were flying on swords, whipping out some high-tech psychic gear.


    From the clouds, Ethan caught snippets of a conversation.


    "Tell the rest of our company, Mr. Kieran orders us to surround Blackwood!"


    "Go tell the governor, the head of Blackwood is suspected of murder... no, conspiring with alien bug tribes."


    "Check if any of our clients are in jail, tell them to get ready. The boss wants to discuss something, don''t ask why. If you do, just say the jail might get deadly soon, we''ve got business to handle."


    "You think this is a raid? Heck no, we''re off to court, we''re a legit law firm!"


    Yeah.


    Looks like they were off to help with the lawsuit.


    With these justice-driven lawyers on his side, getting his allowance back seemed pretty solid.


    Ethan''s worries eased, and he headed home with a relieved smile.


    "Finally, I can chill with the system!"


    ...


    "Welcome back, Commander."


    Back home, the sun was shining bright, and Lisa''s smile was even brighter, "Commander, you could''ve just called, no need to go yourself. Oh, and Mr. Jackson from Psychic Sanctuary 7, Miss Clara from 39, and Mr. Leo from 92 stopped by, wanted to see you."


    "I had to make the trip, or they''d think I was dead."


    Ethan grinned, "I''m off to play some games in my room. Give all the good food to Mr. John, I''ll just make do with some spaghetti. If anyone comes looking for me, just say I''m not home. I owe too many favors already, can''t afford to rack up more. Once things settle down outside, they''ll stop coming."


    "Got it, Commander." Lisa nodded and left.


    Ethan quickly headed to his room and plopped down on the couch, legs crossed.


    After hustling around for five hours, coming home and staring at his computer screen felt like it had been five years.


    In the game "Cultivating Psychic Powers Family Simulator," the Blackwood estate had transformed drastically. What started as a humble cabin now boasted six houses and several other buildings.


    The action list was packed with updates.


    "Luna has successfully given birth to a daughter, named ''Olivia Blackwood''!"


    Now three years old, Olivia was energetically running around the yard.


    Lucas, another of the children, was now ten. Ethan was thrilled because, thanks to some herbal pills improving his talents, Lucas''s Psychic Constitution had reached 62, and his cultivation level had soared to the third layer of Foundational Energy.


    "Psychic Arts Manual: Progress 12%."


    The other two kids were doing well too. Eight-year-old Amelia, despite her lesser talents and even after consuming a special psychic-enhancing pill, hadn''t managed to push any of her Psychic Constitution stats over 50. Yet, she had still reached the first layer of Foundational Energy, especially with a unique trait she possessed.


    "Trait: Plant Affinity"


    "Born with a keen intuition for planting and cultivating plants, significantly increasing success rates."


    Despite a severe drought, perhaps due to Amelia''s presence, the vegetable garden remained unaffected and the plants thrived.


    Then there was Julian, previously the most gifted. His mixed Psychic Constitution had three attributes over 50. Although only six, he had already become a first-layer Psychic.


    Compared to the early days when Nathan was all alone, Blackwood was now bustling with life.


    However, perhaps due to her age, Luna hadn''t become pregnant again.


    That wasn''t much of an issue, though. After all, she had already delivered four kids, a true heroine, and Ethan couldn''t really ask for more. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Ethan moved the mouse over to Nathan''s name in the member list, the screen shifted.


    Ethan frowned.


    In the room, Nathan, who had reached the sixth layer of Foundational Energy after five years of cultivating psychic powers, was now lying in bed with one leg wrapped in bamboo splints and secured with white cloth.


    "Nathan"


    "Status: Severely Injured"


    Despite Ethan''s busy morning, he had kept an eye on the game screen.


    Over the years, Nathan had proven to be one of the most dedicated members of the Blackwood family, frequently traveling to the Silver Iron Forest and bringing back meat while never forgetting his duty to teach the children.


    But life is never smooth sailing for anyone.


    "In the 15th year, Nathan went to Forest Town to sell exotic beast materials. On the way, he saved a child about to be hit by a reckless young noble on horseback. Seeing Nathan''s skills, the young master of Forest Town Heath tried to recruit him."


    "Nathan, citing his need to care for his children, politely declined and thus incurred the wrath of Dexter Heath, who sent an eighth-layer Foundational Energy master to severely injure Nathan."


    "Damn it."


    Ethan clenched his teeth in anger. He had been monitoring the situation when the incident occurred and had used ''Forebearer''s Love'' to save Nathan''s life!


    "Just a close call, and my precious descendant, whom I''ve nurtured for fifteen years, almost died!"

 Chapter 11: Chapter 11: Dexter must die

    Ethan was itching to head over to Forest Town and unleash some ''Forebearer''s Fury''. Meanwhile, back at the screen showing Nathan''s sickbed, all the Blackwood clan members were eyeing Nathan''s injuries, with their thoughts popping up in speech bubbles above their heads.


    Lucas was all fired up, "Time for some payback! Remember five years ago when those raiders hit us? We kicked their butts, Heath included!"


    Luna tried to cool things down, "Ease up, kiddo. I''ve done some digging, and Heath''s got this old-timer with Emerging Abilities who''s been around for over a century. We''re not in their league yet."


    Amelia chimed in, "Mom''s right, now''s not the time to lose our heads. Dad, just focus on getting better."


    Lucas was still riled up, "So we''re just gonna let this slide?"


    Nathan calmed the storm, "Kids, don''t worry about me. Forebearer already took out the big shot who hurt me, so that''s half the revenge done. Revenge is a dish best served cold, and as long as the Blackwood lineage grows strong, we''ll make the Heath folks pay one day."


    Watching the Blackwood family''s exchange, Ethan managed to suppress his own rage.


    Indeed, the ''Forebearer''s Fury'' skill was impressive.


    But Ethan realized when he previously saved Nathan that it could barely take out someone with Foundational Energy level eight, let alone an Emerging Ability master.


    Rushing in would only bring disaster upon the Blackwoods.


    Keeping their power hidden, slowly growing stronger, and then blowing everyone away was the best course of action.


    With that in mind, Ethan activated ''Forebearer''s Blessing'' and used a new skill on the injured Nathan¡ª


    ''Forebearer''s Embrace!''


    Above the Blackwood shrine, a phantom image appeared on the Forebearer''s cards. As the Blackwood members watched in awe, it merged into Nathan''s body, and in no time, Nathan''s legs healed at a visible rate, allowing him to get out of bed and walk.


    "Forebearer''s Embrace used, consuming Spiritual Tribute: 100"


    Compared to the minor healing of ''Forebearer''s Love'', this skill was far more powerful, even healing internal injuries!


    "Forebearer has shown his powers, I''m as good as new!"


    "Thanks to Forebearer for saving my life!"


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, one day Nathan will lead all Blackwoods to avenge today''s disgrace!"


    Seeing his descendants'' fighting spirit, Ethan gave Nathan another dose of ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    Instantly, everyone was overjoyed.


    "Although faced with a crisis, the Blackwood clan will strive harder, feeling your encouragement."


    "Spiritual Tribute +30"


    Ethan felt a deep satisfaction.


    Then, a little red dot in the member list caught his attention.


    Clicking on it¡ª


    "Family Buff: Revenge''s Fury"


    "Training speed increased by 20%, will continue until enough strength is gathered for revenge."


    Such a Buff seemed to appear after a special event.


    "Strive in cultivating psychic powers, fight for revenge, my descendants!"


    Ethan cheered for his descendants in front of the screen.


    He then clicked through the Blackwood members'' statuses to see if the event had triggered any other traits, but unfortunately, there were none.


    However, when he clicked on Lucas,


    Ethan paused for a moment, the screen shifted, and he was now at the Blackwood training ground where Lucas was fiercely cultivating psychic powers, using the basic sword techniques from the ''Psychic Arts Manual''.


    This kid was training intensely and ruthlessly, each sword strike filled with lethal intent, even chopping a deep ''kill'' mark into a stone slab.


    "That''s the spirit."


    Ethan nodded slightly, already imagining how wild it would be when this kid grew up and stormed into Heath''s territory.


    Right now, high above the vast, boundless ocean, a psychic-powered airship was soaring, filled with Psychics operating their special gear.


    They were dressed in unique white outfits, each marked with the ''Federation'' emblem.


    These folks were from the New Age Federal Historical Research Team, tasked with investigating why psychic abilities began to emerge and spread a thousand years ago.


    And... they were also on a quest to uncover histories that had been submerged for tens of millions, perhaps even billions of years.


    "I found it! Down below, I discovered a stone buried deep in the ocean, chronicling the ancient times.


    There might be a vast land beneath where Psychics once lived, or possibly the ruins of a family power too immense to imagine!"


    An excited scout, clutching a large stone, burst through the ocean surface and flew up to the psychic-powered airship.


    In a flash, all the scouts aboard the airship converged around the stone, employing their specialized skills to clear away the algae and debris that obscured the carvings.


    After a full day and night... S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They finally saw the true face of the stone, and everyone exchanged glances.


    "Such a strong aura of menace."


    Faintly visible on the stone were the ancient words¡ª "Dexter must die!"

 Chapter 12: Chapter 12: Beast Affinity

    Under the weight of their grudge, the Blackwood clan was grinding harder than ever to boost their psychic powers.


    Ethan was super focused when he noticed on the screen that Nathan had rallied all the Blackwoods, except 3-year-old Olivia, and they were heading towards the Silver Iron Woods.


    He quickly clicked on Nathan''s icon.


    The screen instantly started tracking the family''s movements.


    "The elixirs given to us by our Forebearer are almost gone, but last time I was in the Silver Iron Woods, I stumbled upon some super tempting fruit trees!"


    "This time, I need all my family to pull together!"


    The family was united in their resolve.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was on the edge of his seat in front of the screen, ready to use his skills if the family encountered any danger.


    The Silver Iron Woods were no Mystic Boar Forest; this place was crawling with strange beasts.


    Even though Nathan had been in and out of the woods, he always stuck to the edges and moved alone, which was way easier.


    But this time, it was a full family expedition, and most of them didn''t have much hunting experience.


    Yet, Ethan didn''t stop them.


    If the Blackwoods wanted to grow, they had to face tough challenges. If they just wanted to wait around the altar for his Divine Gift, they might as well be destroyed.


    ...


    Before long, the family entered the Silver Iron Woods.


    And they encountered their first battle.


    A cat demon with a tail blazing like fireworks and a body covered in golden fur!


    Ethan maneuvered the mouse and clicked on this bizarre cat demon, instantly pulling up its info.


    [Flame-tailed Psychic Cat (Common)]


    [Description: It''s small but super fast, allowing it to survive on the outskirts of the Silver Iron Woods. Watch out for its speed, and... its tail]


    Ethan was surprised; after the resurgence of psychic powers, this planet also had its share of strange beasts, even forming large species.


    But Ethan hadn''t seen this type in his school lessons.


    A quick online search turned up zilch.


    But Ethan knew that common class beasts were mostly within the Iron Will range.


    At that moment.


    The Flame-tailed Psychic Cat was frantically trying to escape Nathan''s pursuit.


    "Swoosh!"


    The sound of an arrow slicing through the air rang out, shot by 6-year-old Julian of the Blackwoods, bending his bow!


    "Meow!"


    The Flame-tailed Psychic Cat narrowly dodged the arrow, turning back to hiss and meow, probably throwing some choice words.


    But it couldn''t curse for long!


    In its path of escape, the Blackwoods had already set a trap.


    Luna and Amelia, the dynamic mother-daughter duo, burst out from between two trees, clutching a massive brown net, and swooped down on the fleeing Flame-tailed Psychic Cat. They were smeared with dirt, probably to mask their scent.


    The cat''s tail flames flared up like crazy, but their net seemed prepped for just this scenario¡ªit wasn''t burning up at all.


    Just as the Flame-tailed Psychic Cat started clawing and biting at the net.


    Lucas stepped up, fingers twisted in some mystical gesture, and the net shimmered with a blue glow, trapping the fiery feline for good!


    "Meow, meow, meow!!!"


    When the whole family circled around, looking down at the trapped Flame-tailed Psychic Cat, the critter''s curses got even dirtier.


    [Captured a common beast¡ªFlame-tailed Psychic Cat. It glares at all the Blackwoods in fury, but after Luna feeds and pets it, it shows a barely noticeable hint of comfort.]


    "Planning to make this Flame-tailed Psychic Cat a house pet?"


    Ethan eyed the cat caged up, raising an eyebrow. Clearly, this cat wasn''t even enough for a snack, but keeping it as a pet to guard the house might not be a bad idea.


    However, the game screen didn''t reveal what the family was thinking.


    They were already gearing up for the next hunt.


    In Ethan''s memory, Nathan had encountered plenty of beasts before, but usually solo, and often the beasts got away. Now, with the family working together, things seemed a lot easier for Nathan. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Before long.


    Ethan watched as the family took on beast after beast in the Silver Iron Woods, mostly smaller ones, as the size of the beasts usually indicated their strength.


    This time they stayed in the Silver Iron Woods for five days.


    [Captured a common beast¡ªShadow Hound. After a beating from Luna, it stuck out its tongue, looking all buttery. But once Luna walked away, it started barking madly again.]


    [Captured a nest of common beasts¡ªMile Pigeons. Luna pulled out a flute, and as the weird tunes played, the Mile Pigeons got all dizzy and confused.]


    [Captured a common beast¡ªAnteater...]


    Huh?Caught that many beasts?


    Ethan scratched his head, watching this unfold. Looks like this family was planning to catch and raise a whole menagerie of beasts, but taming them takes skills, and it all seemed to hinge on Luna.


    "Dang, Luna, you''ve been holding out on me! You secretly learned beast taming?"


    He opened up the profile for Nathan''s wife.


    Ethan suddenly realized.


    [Luna]


    [Level: Foundational Energy, Tier 1]


    [Skills: Qi Gathering, Beast Taming]


    [Trait: Beast Affinity]


    [Can sense the emotions of beasts, making it easier to get close and tame them. Taming success rate increased by 100%!]

 Chapter 13: Chapter 13: Forebearer, bless us

    While Ethan was scratching his head in confusion, the Blackwood clan was chilling around a campfire in the Silver Iron Woods. Under the moonlight, Nathan whipped out an old Forebearer card, lit some incense, and started paying his respects.


    "May the Forebearer bless this journey," Nathan murmured, feeling the power of the Divine Gift that had guided their cultivation. He vowed silently to master the ''Psychic Arts Manual'' and settle old scores with the Heath clan.


    Luna also took a knee, her heart filled with gratitude. After years of taming beasts, she felt the Forebearer''s guidance in every step.


    [Your family benefits from your blessings, gaining the ''Beast Taming Technique'' from the ''Psychic Arts Manual''.]


    [Spiritual Tribute+100!]


    Ethan was stunned. "The ''Psychic Arts Manual'' can do that?" He quickly pulled up the course materials he studied for a whole year at school on his computer.


    And sure enough, he found a bunch of documents.


    [Best Practices for Cultivating Psychic Medicines], [How to Communicate and Build Trust with Psychic Beasts], [Division of Labor and Flow in Pill Making]...


    The ''Psychic Arts Manual'', that''s like middle school textbooks from a past life.


    But in this world, psychic medicines, psychic beasts, and pills are handled by special talents or monopolized by corporations. The planet''s resources have been heavily developed over the past thousand years, leaving no extra resources for ordinary students to practice.


    Only those with D-level psychic abilities or higher have the privilege to travel to other planets for development and cultivation.


    "This knowledge might be useless to me, but for the Blackwood folks, the ''Psychic Arts Manual'' packs a ton of practical knowledge that could really make a difference."


    Ethan gasped, "I''ve been underestimating this basic textbook all along!"


    Turns out, this cultivation manual, a distillation of a thousand years of psychic ability resurgence history of the Federation, is considered a supreme treasure for newbies in the world of psychic powers!


    ... S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Time flies when you''re gaming.


    While Ethan was still geeking out over how the "Psychic Arts Manual" was a game-changer in the virtual world, the Blackwood crew was already hustling through a thick fog.


    Before long, the game screen flashed a massive tree decked out with fiery red fruits!


    Ethan moved his mouse and boom¡ªinfo on the tree popped up.


    [Beast Blood Fruit Tree]


    [This tree, only sprouting in lands swarmed by mystical beasts, is cultivated using the blood of various creatures. The more potent the beast''s blood, the stronger the resulting fruits, packed with mystical powers. Powerful beasts often hog these trees, slaying others to use their blood for breakthroughs!]


    Typical Ethan, he searched up the tree but nada, no info elsewhere.


    But he could feel the tree''s worth. The stronger the beast blood, the more powerful the fruits¡ªmeaning this tree had no real level cap!


    Just as Ethan was sizing up the value of the Beast Blood Fruit Tree, a giant serpent with glowing red eyes suddenly appeared on the tree in the game, its massive horns crackling with lightning as if warning the Blackwoods to back off or become fertilizer for the tree!


    "Shoot, that''s a peak ordinary beast!"


    "Last time I saw it, it wasn''t this fierce!"


    "Let''s bail, Dad, it''s not messing with us yet."


    [Lightning Python (Ordinary Beast)]


    [A powerhouse among ordinary beasts, soon to transform once it sheds its skin.]


    The Blackwoods were ready to retreat, but Ethan spotted not one, but two Lightning Pythons in the tree.


    "Retreat? As if! We''re not backing down!"


    Ethan glanced at his Spiritual Tribute points¡ª180 left.


    "Screw it, I''m burning through all the Spiritual Tribute if I have to, but I''m not giving up on those Beast Blood Fruits!"


    [Using ''Forebearer''s Fury'', consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    In a flash, Ethan''s Forebearer ability card flew out from Nathan''s clothes, charging at the Lightning Python.


    "Forebearer''s powers, activate!" Nathan was pumped. "Yeah, we''ve got the Forebearer''s blessing, don''t fear the snake, let''s take it down!"


    Together, Ethan and the Blackwoods rallied.


    But this time, Ethan realized the limits of ''Forebearer''s Fury''. Against a peak ordinary beast like the Lightning Python, his ability couldn''t one-shot it. These beasts, even at their peak, could hold their own against newbies with Emerging Abilities!


    The Forebearer ability card clashed with the lightning shooting from the python''s horns.


    The Blackwoods tried to help, but Julian''s arrows couldn''t even scratch the python, and the others couldn''t get close enough.


    Before long, Ethan''s once fail-proof ability to instantly take down bandits was overwhelmed by the python''s assault.


    "Dang, it''s that tough?!"


    Ethan gritted his teeth. "Fire two more!"


    He rapidly clicked ''Forebearer''s Fury''.


    The ability card split in two, streaking purple light across the sky as it charged again.


    "Don''t be scared, the Forebearer hasn''t given up on us, and neither will we, his descendants. We''re fighting this to the end!"


    "We''re claiming those mystical fruits, no matter what!"


    Nathan was fierce, rallying Lucas as they charged at the other two smaller snakes.

 Chapter 14: Chapter 14: Beast Blood Fruit tree

    "Let''s battle, my Forebearer cards!"


    Ethan was all fired up in front of his screen, ready to throw down for those Beast Blood Fruits.


    [Forebearer''s Fury]X5!


    Ethan was juggling five Forebearer ability cards in the game, and he got it¡ªthese cards were like having the peak power of Foundational Energy. Clicking on an ability card let him control its path, hit A to attack, and press R for the big move¡ª S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Boom!


    Every time a Forebearer ability card dimmed against the Lightning Python, it meant the energy was almost spent, and it was time to hit R.


    Though this Lightning Python was tough as nails with shocking electric energy,


    it couldn''t withstand the relentless assault of the Forebearer cards.


    When all five cards were spent, the Lightning Python was riddled with wounds.


    "Roar!"


    After the last ability card exploded, the python was totally ticked off, hissing at the Blackwoods, vowing to swallow them whole to soothe its rage.


    "Still acting tough?!!"


    Ethan glared.


    Another ability card popped up right in front of the python. The previously furious python stopped dead in its tracks, intimidated by the card that was only as big as an arm.


    Then, surprisingly human-like, it bowed down to the Forebearer card, its eyes filled with a desperate will to live.


    Meanwhile,


    The Blackwoods weren''t just standing around.


    "Forebearer won, this giant snake''s got nothing on our Forebearer!"


    "Long live Forebearer!"


    As the Blackwoods cheered over the defeated python,


    they had also captured the python''s two offspring in their giant net from earlier hunts.


    [Blackwood descendants felt the might of Forebearer, Spiritual Tribute +30!]


    "Hiss~"


    The python''s eyes were even more defeated.


    At the center of its head, a diamond-shaped crystal filled with lightning arcs emerged.


    [Lightning Python is terrified, begging you to spare its life and its children''s, offering its life core.]


    [Would you like to spend 50 Spiritual Tribute points to contract the Lightning Python as a temple guardian beast?]


    "Hmm?"


    Ethan raised an eyebrow at the message on the screen, this was a first.


    The python''s life core appeared when it touched the card, and it seemed this game still had many features for him to discover!


    "Yes!"


    Ethan clicked ''Yes'' without hesitation, the Spiritual Tribute offered by his clan just enough for him to contract the Lightning Python.


    [You have contracted the Lightning Python as a temple guardian beast; it will guard your temple, protect your ability cards, and convey messages from Forebearer!]


    Above the cards,


    Purple light shone on the python, and a circular icon appeared in the top left corner of the game screen, depicting a python roaring skyward.


    "Check this out, the Lightning Python''s deets just popped up!"


    Ethan was stoked when he saw one feature in particular¡ª


    [Enter the message you wish to convey¡ª]


    "Can I actually chat with the Blackwood descendants?!!"


    Ethan couldn''t wait to give it a whirl.


    He immediately sent a message: "bring back those Beast Blood Fruit trees and start planting them."


    It seemed like the Lightning Python got the memo too. It paused, then started dragging its wounded body, circling around the Blackwoods at the Forebearer card spot.


    Finally, it stopped in front of a totally baffled Nathan and affectionately nuzzled him with its massive head.


    Then, it began circling around the Beast Blood Fruit tree!


    The Blackwoods exchanged puzzled looks.


    "Forebearer tamed this giant snake."


    "Dad, it seems like it''s trying to tell us something."


    "Long live Forebearer!"


    Finally, 8-year-old Amelia, pulling at Nathan''s sleeve, said, "Dad, is Forebearer telling us to take this tree back home to plant?"


    At her words, the python''s head instantly lit up with lightning, nodding vigorously.


    "It''s nodding, it can communicate with Forebearer!"


    Nathan was thrilled, "Let''s pick the fruits first, and take all the spoils of this trip home. This tree is huge; we''ll need a solid plan!"


    Nice!


    Seeing his descendants catching on to his message, Ethan stood up excitedly.


    He had always been limited to expressing himself roughly through ''Forebearer''s Love.''


    But now, with the Lightning Python,He could do so much more!


    ...


    Next, the Blackwoods returned home with their rich spoils.


    The action section on Ethan''s screen was a blur of loot.


    And in the days that followed,


    The Blackwoods began their wild development!


    [Blackwood Year 16, Luna has completely tamed all the mystical beasts, bringing them to ''Mystic Boar Forest'' for breeding, renaming Mystic Boar Forest to¡ª]


    [Mystical Beast Park]


    Since marrying Nathan, Luna had been quietly having kids and doing farm work, but now, her contributions to Blackwood were on par with Nathan''s!


    She quietly developed her skills in beast taming, and even Ethan was amazed.


    Now, the [Mystical Beast Park], with Luna and Nathan frequently entering the Silver Iron Woods, housed over thirty species.


    But after the chickens, ducks, cows, sheep, and the crops, as well as the herbs in the mystical medicine garden weren''t enough for these mystical beasts, Luna was wary of taming any more.


    Yet, these beasts had become Blackwood''s hidden strength!


    They weren''t just being raised; they were also a big help in the development of Blackwood.


    Iron-hoofed cows plowed the fields, Buzzing birds watered them, Hundred-mile pigeons and Anteater beasts handled pest control, expanding Blackwood''s farmlands and saving the people a lot of effort.


    Tracking hounds hunted with Nathan, along with a swift leopard for catching prey, and with Silver Iron horses pulling carts, Nathan always came back from the Silver Iron Woods with a bounty!


    Now 11, Lucas wasn''t just sitting around.


    He was more into martial arts, with a dozen strong mystical beasts as his sparring partners, his combat skills improving daily.


    Amelia continued her interest in plants.


    Inside the Mystical Beast Park, under the protection of mystical beasts, she started a medicinal herb garden.


    The most prominent plant there was the Beast Blood Fruit tree!


    Amelia built a hut right under the tree, monitoring its growth daily. For some reason, this tree, which had been fruitful in the Silver Iron Woods, hadn''t flowered even after a year.


    She drew blood from the mystical beasts daily, just managing to keep the tree alive.


    Instead, under the tree, various herbs began to sprout and thrive robustly.

 Chapter 15: Chapter 15: Grab it quick!

    Julian, the most talented of the Blackwood bunch and only 7 years old, isn''t into the rough and tumble like his big bro. Instead, after meeting a wandering blacksmith, he''s all about crafting gear.


    Nowadays, in the big yard at Blackwood, they''ve set up a simple forge just for Julian to hammer away.


    By his side, a Flame-tail Psychic Cat snagged from the Silver Iron Woods and a Fire-breathing Rage Lizard use their beastly flames to help Julian temper the iron. There''s also an Ice Psychic Fish kept in water, ready to spit out a chunk of solid ice into the trough to cool down the red-hot iron.


    The whole fam is pitching in to boost Blackwood.


    Only little Olivia, at the tender age of two, enjoys her peaceful days. Already holding a pen and scribbling crooked letters on stones, you can hear Olivia''s milky voice, slightly muffled, reading aloud every morning.


    [Blackwood Year 17, Nathan breaks through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy!]


    [After over a decade of hunting, during one hunt, Nathan felt as if he merged with the forest environment. Trait gained: Forest Ranger!]


    [Trait: Forest Ranger]


    [Wood Psychic Constitution slightly enhanced in the forest. Years of hunting experience make him more familiar with the forest, doubling his combat effectiveness there!]


    Even though Nathan''s talents were still lacking after being enhanced by the Psychic Power Pills, after consuming five Beast Blood Fruits and digesting them over two years, he began to break through!


    Especially with three traits, it seems to compensate for Nathan''s lack of innate talent.


    And it''s not just him.


    This year, everyone in Blackwood has leveled up!


    Aside from young Olivia, who''s already writing quite a bit and reading clearly, everyone in Blackwood has advanced a minor realm.


    And their stash of Beast Blood Fruits, even after giving twenty to the Lightning Python, still has plenty left!


    "Things are looking good."


    Ethan has been watching the progress of the Blackwood folks on his screen, a fatherly smile on his face.


    He occasionally deals with bandits and robbers who come to Blackwood during the drought years, encountering only two psychic power cultivators in two years, and using [Forebearer''s Wrath] just once.


    "Wonder when the Lightning Python will wake up."


    The family shrine they built for him has become the best structure in the residence, with the high cards beneath which the Lightning Python is sleeping, its skin splitting as it undergoes a breakthrough!


    This period also prevents Ethan from sending messages to his family.


    Of course, Ethan could wake the Lightning Python, but he''s unsure if disturbing its molting would cause any adverse effects.


    [Blackwood Year 18, after a decade-long drought, the fields around Blackwood remain lush, and Mystic Boar Forest is gradually reviving. More and more people recognize this as a land of prosperity, and despite the terrifying rumors that no bandit who enters Blackwood survives, a large number of bandits have set their sights on this wealthy area!]


    "Dad, someone''s broken into the Psychic Beast Park!"


    In the screen, Amelia, stationed at the Psychic Medicine Garden, rushes home with the psychic beasts, "They started eating everything they saw in the garden, I''ve harvested all the psychic medicine, and they''re heading our way!"


    The Blackwood crew was all gathered up.


    A savvy Homing Pigeon landed on Luna''s shoulder, squawking right into her ear.


    Luna turned to her fam with a grim look, "We got a Psychic in the mix, tougher than any of those troublemakers who''ve messed with us before."


    "Hmph! Let ''em come, they won''t know what hit ''em!"


    Nathan stepped up, standing at the gate with a pair of massive cleavers, looking like a one-man army.


    Behind him, the Blackwood folks were pumped, ready for a fight, with all sorts of bizarre beasts prowling around, keeping an eye out for any intruders.


    A strange wind whipped through the compound, kicking up dust but not even close to shaking off the battle spirit that Blackwood had built up over the years.


    The cards in the Blackwood family shrine were shining bright.


    Nathan raised his cleavers high.


    "May the Forebearer bless us Blackwoods¡ª"


    "To victory in every battle!"


    "Momma mia? This many folks?!!"


    Ethan, chilling in front of the screen, hadn''t been sweating this invasion gig too much. After all, it was just another day, another bunch of wild refugees driven mad by famine¡ªno biggie.


    But this time, Ethan''s face went pale.


    The Blackwood compound was lit up with tons of red dots on the screen¡ªlike, thousands of people!


    Last time, facing a beast nearly at the Emerging Ability stage had Ethan all fired up, but now? Pure jitters, man.


    Thousands of people scattered all over the map.


    The power of his Forebearer cards? Not looking so mighty now. If he had to manage each Forebearer move himself, he''d be busy till Christmas!


    "Even for refugees, isn''t this a bit much?"


    Seeing these folks armed with pitchforks and clubs, with that bloodthirsty look, Ethan''s scalp was tingling.


    He took a deep breath, eyeing the ready and scattered Blackwood kin, his brow furrowed, "It''s all on you guys now."


    What comforted Ethan was this:


    The Blackwoods weren''t scared. They sprang into action at the first chance!


    "Forebearer, as long as one Blackwood stands, no one steps foot in our shrine!"


    Ethan''s ability was already hovering over the shrine.


    Nathan knelt down, feeling the Forebearer''s blessing, banged his head three times against the cards, then stood with his blades outside the Blackwood yard!


    "Sssssss¡ª"


    Beyond Blackwood, there was an open field, and further out, the current beast park!


    As the wind rustled the grass and shook the trees, one by one, ragged refugees sprinted from the beast park.


    These starving refugees seemed blind to Nathan.


    Their eyes were all fixed behind him, where lush fields full of crops stretched out, next to a large fenced area teeming with plump livestock!


    In the center, a little girl with twin ponytails sat on a big rock, book in hand, her voice ringing clear:


    "I have fields aplenty, each blade of grass hard-earned."


    "When foes invade our soil, now only wolves and tigers remain."


    "Why this hardship... why?"


    A cool breeze blew, and Olivia''s crisp little voice cut through the moment''s silence.


    But her innocent tone couldn''t stir any mercy in these crazed refugees.


    "Food, it''s food!"


    "Don''t anyone dare fight me for it, I wanna eat meat, eat meat!"


    "They''ve only got one adult and a kid, all this is ours, no grabbing!"


    Madness, total madness!


    Even starving, the refugees burst forth with incredible speed towards the Blackwood compound.


    But what they met wasn''t food.


    It was¡ª


    "Whoosh!"


    A fierce wind blew as Nathan stepped forward, his twin cleavers swinging out, sending out two slashes of air that cut the leading refugees in half!


    Blood and gore flew!


    At that moment, the charging refugees regained some sense. Nathan''s air slashes carved a wide gash in the ground, like a chasm, stopping the refugees in their tracks! S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan roared,


    "This is my home! You want food, I can give it, but cross this line, and you''re done for!"


    As Nathan''s words fell,


    The loyal Ironwood horse, a longtime companion, burst from the house, pulling a cart loaded with prepared food.


    The Ironwood horse delivered the food just outside the beast park, then quickly bit through the ropes and ran to Nathan''s side.


    "It''s food, thank goodness, finally something to eat."


    "Thanks for the big boss''s generosity!"


    "Grab it quick!"

 Chapter 16: Chapter 16: Forebearers Fury

    Seeing these refugees rush out from the beast park and start grabbing food, Ethan frowned a bit.


    Nathan''s move of giving a stick then a carrot was pretty slick.


    After getting spooked, these refugees got what they wanted and probably wouldn''t dare to make a move again.


    But...


    In the midst of pondering.


    In the game, as the refugees were looting the food, suddenly a group of people appeared in the psychic garden, the Psychics!


    "What are you doing?"


    "We''re so many here, after we eat this meal, what about the next one?!!"


    "Look at their fields, then look at their livestock, if we ration it, it could last a month! And their house might have loads of food stashed, taking over their land, we could even survive a year!"


    Human greed knows no bounds!


    With these words from the Psychic, most of the looting refugees stopped their actions, drooling over the Blackwood''s fields and livestock.


    "Yeah, the big guy''s right!"


    "If he can give us this cart, he might have ten more hidden away."


    "You have so much food, why only give us this little? Why not give us all the livestock?!!"


    The refugees angrily questioned Nathan.


    At this moment, Nathan gripped his machetes tighter.


    Ethan, who was drinking water, almost crushed his cup!


    "Man, seriously?!"


    He slammed the water cup down.


    [Consuming 20 points of Spiritual Tribute, using ''Forebearer''s Fury''!]


    In a flash.


    The Forebearer cards burst into light, charging towards the group of Psychics!


    He realized that these refugees coming to Blackwood must have something fishy going on, related to these Psychics!


    Otherwise, why would Psychics in a disaster year wade into this mess?


    Through the crowd of refugees.


    The Forebearer cards charged at the Psychics, causing the instigating Psychic''s face to change dramatically, "What is this bizarre psychic equipment?"


    But before he could finish.


    "Thump!"


    The cards had pierced through his chest, blood spurted like a fountain, also signaling the refugees to charge towards Blackwood!


    A massive wave of refugees rushed towards Blackwood.


    "Forebearer''s divine might!"


    Seeing the Forebearer enraged, Nathan hesitated no more.


    He closed his eyes and bowed his head, as if feeling the rhythm of the ground, and when the refugees got close, he suddenly looked up, his true energy stirred up the dust around, his twin blades swung, cutting through the air, once again chopping the advancing refugees at the waist.


    He then charged into the battlefield with his blades, showing no mercy, and roared to the sky.


    "I gave you a chance, you forced my Forebearer''s hand!"


    "Wife, kids, today we of the Blackwood clan, must show no mercy."


    "Strike!"


    Nathan hopped on his horse, and wherever he went, nobody was left standing.


    As his words echoed.


    All around the Blackwood settlement, there was a stir.


    Those refugees, already freaked out by Nathan''s fierce fighting, started looking around in panic.


    "Monsters... beasts!"


    "Help, this kid''s gone nuts!"


    "Run for it!"


    These folks were just here to snatch up food, aiming to take over this rich land, but they had no clue...


    Nathan was slashing wildly, the Forebearer cards glowing purple as it chased down those Psychics.


    Other Blackwood folks started showing up on the battlefield from the outskirts!


    Lucas appeared right behind the refugees.


    Sword in hand, he charged, followed by his trained beasts, moving like a graceful dancer through the crowd, easily claiming lives, blood splattering on him without a hint of fear, his eyes blazing with madness!


    "Ah."


    To the west, a giant eagle flew by, Amelia riding atop, looking down at the carnage below, she sighed deeply.


    Then slowly opened the bundle on the eagle''s back, black dust scattering over the crowd, landing on the refugees.


    Soon after, the eagle dumped a black liquid from a bamboo tube it carried.


    Before long. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    These refugees started scratching their reddened skin in discomfort, those touched by the black liquid even had smoke rising from their skin!


    Amelia, having cultivated psychic medicines for years, knew their properties better than anyone at Blackwood!


    And to the east.


    Luna and her son Julian also appeared, surrounded by a host of beasts, mercilessly charging into the crowd.


    This seemingly ordinary farmwoman had a fierceness rare among women.


    Any refugee missed by the beast charge would face her ruthless machete!


    Beside her, young Julian, though still a kid, was no slouch in combat.


    His fire lizard struggled to pull a cart filled with bows and arrows. Every time Julian fired an arrow, the flame-tailed psychic cat would bring him another.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!"


    An arrow every three seconds, Julian, the little blacksmith with no small amount of strength, was like a mobile artillery!


    These refugees didn''t realize.


    Today''s Blackwood had the strength to protect their clan and a fierce resolve!


    One by one, the crazed refugees began to regain their senses, seeing the bodies and blood all around, they stopped in their tracks, kneeling and begging for mercy.


    "Don''t kill me, I was wrong!"


    "Help, I won''t dare again, please spare me!"


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    Julian''s arrow struck down a kneeling refugee.


    "So, the family I''ve raised has become this strong."


    At this moment, Ethan, watching the screen as he controlled the cards to kill twelve Psychics, finally relaxed his tense heart.


    He smiled, a family''s strength wasn''t just in their power, but also in their strong hearts.


    Ethan was glad there were no overly sympathetic saints in Blackwood; they were decisive and efficient!


    Just then.


    "Boom!"


    Ethan frowned as his cards was suddenly shattered by a flying sword.


    Then a black-clad Psychic emerged from the psychic medicine garden, the flying sword that shattered the cards floating beside him!


    "Never thought there''d be a family like yours outside of Forest Town, hahaha!"


    Ethan just frowned.


    [Forebearer''s Fury]X10!

 Chapter 17: Chapter 17: Take down this jerk

    "Oh snap, it''s a top-tier Emerging Ability master!"


    Nathan blurted out, freezing mid-action.


    Feeling the power of this Psychic, the Blackwood crew quickly rallied to Nathan''s side.


    "Oh? What''s this funky ability gear? Splits into ten? Looks kinda magical, pretty cool."


    The Emerging Ability Psychic eyed the ten cards in front of Blackwood with interest.


    "Who are you, dude? Why you messing with my Blackwood?!"


    Nathan, rough around the edges but sharp-minded, could tell this refugee invasion had something to do with the Psychic before him.


    But with the Forebearer''s cards in front, he felt somewhat reassured.


    "Yo, your family''s kinda interesting."


    The Psychic raised an eyebrow, "Refugees from Forest Town, you tell me who I am?"


    "Heath?!?!"


    Nathan gritted his teeth, the only person he could think of was Dexter, with whom he had beef.


    "Smart guy, got it in one."


    The Psychic grinned, not taking the Blackwood folks seriously. In fact, he hadn''t moved yet, just wanted to see what Blackwood had up their sleeve.


    Now it seemed to him that Blackwood was just a big family with some basic beast power, nothing scary, "Coming out this time, my grandson told me there''s a family in these deep woods that killed his Foundational Energy level eight guys. I didn''t believe it at first, but now, looks like it was you guys."


    "Dexter." Nathan''s face darkened, "I''ve never crossed you Heaths, even got seriously hurt by your Heath''s Dexter, why you gotta press us like this?"


    "Pressing you? That''s an overstatement."


    The Psychic dusted off his clothes, looking disdainfully at the Blackwood folks, "With you guys, really not worth my attention. I was just checking your background, curious how a slave like you became a Foundational Energy level seven master in less than twenty years. And your kids, sheesh, more ambitious than mine."


    "Look at your beasts, could fetch a pretty penny. This is really interesting, my useless grandson finally did something that pleases me."


    The Psychic''s mocking tone suddenly turned cold.


    "Now, tell me, what secrets are you hiding? Hand over your treasures, and I might spare your lives!"


    "And this junk cards of yours, you don''t think this useless ability gear can protect you, do you?"


    The Blackwood folks were silent, just glancing at the Forebearer''s cards.


    They had a secret, a mysterious Forebearer!


    But then...


    "I curse your Forebearer''s eighteen generations!"


    Nathan''s eyes blazed red as he suddenly snatched a longbow from Julian, strung it, and poured all his psychic energy into the arrow, the metal bow even creaking with internal stress!


    He didn''t know how the Forebearer existed.


    Nor the shocking secrets of the Forebearer''s cards.


    All he knew was, as a descendant of Blackwood, even in death, he wouldn''t reveal a shred of the Forebearer''s secrets, and he would fight for the Forebearer''s honor!!!


    "Whoosh!"


    The qi-infused arrow whistled violently through the air.


    Symbolizing the resolve of the Blackwood folks!


    As Nathan''s arrow flew, all of Blackwood tightened their grip on their weapons, Lucas even unleashed a sword qi strike.


    But...


    To no avail!


    Nathan''s arrow, powered by nearly all his psychic energy, weakly caught in the hands of Heath''s Elder Psychic, and Lucas''s sword energy couldn''t even break through the opponent''s protective aura!


    "I think it''d be wise for y''all to hand over everything, secrets included."


    Heath''s Elder Psychic looked down on Nathan as he drew his bow again, toying with him like a cat with a mouse, casually blocking the attacks and advancing towards the Blackwood folks.


    As long as these chumps were scared enough, he wasn''t worried about getting the info he wanted!


    ...


    "Not bad, the folks I trained."


    Watching the game, seeing the descendants of Blackwood still standing fearless against an Emerging Ability master, even when drained of all their psychic energy, Ethan felt oddly proud. For a moment, he didn''t see them as just characters in a game, but as real, genuine clan members.


    He even wished these Blackwood folks were his real-life kin. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then.


    His gaze fixed on Heath''s Elder Psychic, and he smirked, "Feeling cocky, huh?"


    The ten cards floating in front of the Blackwood folks finally moved!


    The first one flew towards Heath''s Elder Psychic, who was just about to block.


    Press R, explode!


    "Not good!"


    This time, Heath''s Elder Psychic finally staggered back, hastily using his psychic energy to block. He hadn''t expected these weird cards to have such a trick up their sleeve!


    "Forebearer''s showing off now!"


    Seeing the cards push Heath''s Elder Psychic back, the Blackwood folks'' eyes lit up, their spirits renewed.

 Chapter 18: Chapter 18: Twisted skin

    "Got that kind of power, huh?"


    Heath''s Elder Psychic frowned at another moving cards, snorted coldly, "I want to see what this useless thing can really do to me!"


    This time, Heath''s Elder Psychic used a flying sword to strike!


    "Boom!"


    Ethan, controlling the cards, made them explode again, blasting the flying sword away.


    Then quickly maneuvered two more cards towards Heath''s Elder Psychic, and then, press R!


    "Let''s see how cocky you really are!"


    In the midst of explosions, Heath''s Elder Psychic retreated again!


    A strand of hair got messed up, blocking Heath''s Elder Psychic''s vision, and he grimaced as he brushed it aside, "Only six left, what will you do after they''re gone?"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Ethan, in front of the screen, paid no mind to the small words popping above Heath''s Elder Psychic''s head.


    He kept controlling the cards, pressing R!


    Until the last time, this cards finally blasted open Heath''s Elder Psychic''s psychic energy, sending him flying back!


    Blood trickled from the corner of Heath''s Elder Psychic''s mouth, his clothes in disarray.


    But his face was filled with a mocking smile, "Hahaha, no more, your weird ability gear is gone..."


    But the next moment, his laughter stopped abruptly.


    [Consume 20 points of Spiritual Tribute, use ''Forebearer''s Fury''!]


    Another cards suddenly appeared in front of the Blackwood folks!


    "How come there''s more? Isn''t this over yet?!! I..."


    Heath''s Elder Psychic''s mouth twitched, he stared at the plaque, caught in a dilemma!


    He had just boasted, if he retreated now, he''d probably blush even in his dreams. But if he didn''t retreat... now that he''d been blasted nine times, only half his psychic energy remained, who knew how much more this thing had???


    Ethan whipped out this card not to smack down old man Heath, but to shield the Blackwood descendants.


    Because...


    In the Blackwood ancestral hall, under the Forebearer card, the Thunder Python finally opened its eyes!


    It got even bigger, hogging half the hall, its once dark skin fading to a deep purple with slick, mysterious patterns that looked pretty rad!


    Its horns, post-shedding, bent forward like it was ready to charge.


    "Roar!"


    Waking up, the Thunder Python let out a roar to the sky, not the usual hiss but a beastly bellow!


    Its lightning spread across the floor, reaching ten meters out, the purple arcs so clear even the folks outside the hall could see!


    "What in the world?!"


    If Ethan''s Forebearer card just spooked old Heath a bit.


    Now.


    He was downright terrified!


    He stared in horror towards the Blackwood hall, feeling a crushing presence just from its aura!


    "Run!"


    As cocky as he was coming in, that''s how ragged Heath looked now.


    He didn''t dare take another peek at Blackwood, just bolted towards the mutant garden!


    Didn''t even look back.


    But...


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The sound of trees crashing followed him, getting louder and closer.


    Until he reached the beast-blood fruit tree. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He could smell a foul stench, frozen in fear, he looked down to see purple lightning at his feet, but it didn''t strike.


    Of course, the arc sent a clear message¡ªif he moved, he was a goner!


    His head stiff, he swallowed hard and turned around.


    Then.


    He was overshadowed, smooth scales filled his vision.


    "What is this thing?!"


    Heath''s head shook slightly, and it seemed to take an eternity for him to look up and see what was chasing him.


    A snake.


    A nearly twenty-meter-long, dark purple python!


    On its head stood the card that had just mocked him, now terrifying him!


    Meanwhile.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, was grinding his teeth staring at Heath, who looked like a mouse in front of the Thunder Python!


    He slowly clicked on the Thunder Python''s image.


    Then typed¡ª


    Finish him, make it painful!


    In a flash, the Thunder Python coiled around Heath, zapping him slowly, squeezing tighter!


    "Ah!"


    Gotta say, Heath had some guts, didn''t beg even while running, but when caught...


    "Mercy, mighty mutant beast!"


    "..."


    Ethan glared at Heath, now vein-popping terrified, "Keep up your arrogance, go on!"


    He had been waiting for the Thunder Python to wake up!


    No.


    Now it should be called¡ª


    The Purple Thunder Serpent!


    [Purple Thunder Serpent (Mutant Beast)]


    [Description: Possesses immense strength and innate thunder fire, waiting for its next transformation!]


    After its breakthrough, unlike humans, the Purple Thunder Serpent evolved, reaching the peak of mutant beasts!


    Under its grip, Heath''s bones soon cracked, his blood bursting from his veins, trickling down the smooth skin of the Purple Thunder Serpent, dripping under the beast-blood fruit tree.


    Soon, the once arrogant Heath was nothing but a twisted skin.


    Ethan finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Clicked the Purple Thunder Serpent''s icon again, typed¡ª


    Send his skin to Heath...

 Chapter 19: Chapter 19: Psychic Breath Sword

    "Your clan successfully stopped the refugees from invading."


    "Scored a Spiritual Tribute +300!"


    With the old Heath ancestor gone, the invasion was totally squashed.


    Nope.


    Or should I say, it''s just kicking off!


    In the Blackwood family hall, all the Blackwood descendants gathered, except for Lucas who was outside dealing with the surviving refugees. These folks hadn''t joined the mob storming the Blackwood base, and it seemed like Nathan had some other plans for them.


    At this moment.


    A still-living Psychic was tied up tight, facing the Blackwood crowd and a massive Purple Thunder Serpent, shivering in fear!


    "Useless descendants, making the Forebearer step in himself, please don''t blame us, Forebearer!"


    Nathan, with his family, knelt before the Forebearer''s shrine.


    Ethan, watching from his screen, why would he blame the Blackwoods?


    Their performance this time really pleased Ethan, though he still frowned, "Better check on Heath first, they''ve been a nuisance twice now."


    He clicked on the Purple Thunder Serpent''s icon and typed¡ª


    "Check on Heath."


    In a flash, the temple guardian beast received Ethan''s message, human-like, it bowed towards Ethan''s shrine before addressing the Blackwoods.


    "Sss¡ªhiss¡ª"


    Compared to its previous roars, the serpent now whispered in a low hiss.


    "???"


    Hearing the sound in the game, Ethan scratched his head, weirdly reminded of Voldemort talking to snakes in "Harry Potter," "Am I Voldemort myself?"


    "Is the Forebearer delivering a warning?"


    Nathan immediately understood that the temple guardian beast, the Purple Thunder Serpent, was conveying Ethan''s instructions!


    Luna, at least, was a beast tamer.


    Just by closing her eyes and reflecting for a moment, she clearly understood the message from the serpent, "Forebearer says, let''s handle the Heath trouble!"


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, your children will handle it properly!"


    Nathan got it right away.


    Don''t be fooled by Nathan''s brawny appearance; he''s actually sharp as a tack, quickly starting to interrogate the captured Psychic for precise information.


    This Psychic was a pushover, spilling everything he knew without Nathan even having to press hard.


    Listening to the Psychic''s account.


    Ethan began to ponder.


    Turns out, during the decade-long drought, the Psychic of Forest Town had been helping with relief. But this time, old ancestor Heath deliberately withheld porridge from the starving refugees, luring them to test the Blackwoods, leading to this invasion.


    And Heath, being one of the four major families of Forest, had four Forebearers, all reclusive masters of Emerging Ability, with deep roots.


    "Sir, seeking revenge on Heath is impossible!"


    The Psychic, pale-faced, "The four major families of Forest Town are the foundation of the town. Although they occasionally have minor disputes, they always cooperate to prevent outsiders from seizing their resources. Even the town mayor won''t allow chaos in Forest Town. If you mess with Heath, the mayor will brand you as rebels!"


    "Sss¡ªhiss¡ª"


    The massive head of the Purple Thunder Serpent suddenly appeared in front of the Psychic, nearly scaring him out of his wits, "Don''t... don''t eat me, I''ve told you everything, I can even offer you advice. I..."


    "I''ve turned over a new leaf!"


    Luna knew that the temple guardian beast wasn''t just intimidating the Psychic. She smiled and stepped forward, "Don''t be scared, our Forebearer just wants to know if Forest Town will seek revenge for us killing old ancestor Heath."


    "No, they won''t!"


    The Psychic quickly said, "With old ancestor Heath dead, they wouldn''t dare send anyone. The other three families are probably gloating, they won''t stir up trouble, but they won''t let you into the city to kill either. Heath wouldn''t dare, but be careful, they might not storm in, but without this great serpent''s protection, they''ll move against you!"


    Hearing this, everyone looked solemn.


    ... S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Man, they totally blocked the door."


    Ethan grumbled a bit after getting the lowdown on the Blackwood situation. He cranked up the game''s time flow and told the Blackwood folks to be extra cautious, advising them to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.


    Right after that.


    Ethan started checking out the loot from this round. They wiped out thirteen Psychics this time.


    Usually, the Blackwood crew didn''t have much in the way of high-level psychic gear, but this time, they hit the jackpot with gear scattered everywhere!


    "Got loot, Heath''s old man skin."


    "Got loot, Psychic Breath Sword (psychic gear)"


    "Got loot, Black Storage Ring (psychic gear)"


    "Got loot..."


    "Big thanks to Heath for the startup funds for the family business!"


    Ethan was all smiles watching the game''s progress.


    The family had seriously upgraded their arsenal!


    Before, Nathan was just swinging around a couple of big machetes, but now this dude was sporting a bizarre ancient weapon with spear heads on both ends, striding down the path to the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Silver Ring Yin Hand Double-Headed Snake (mid-grade psychic gear)"


    "Can split in two, connected by a chain. Extracted daily from the mouths of a hundred silver ring snakes, soaked in iron imbued with psychic powers for forty-nine days. From then on, the psychic gear can generate silver ring snake venom, stored on the double spears. Psychic power enters the spears, calling on the snake''s psychic powers!"


    Ethan was a bit jealous looking at Nathan''s psychic gear.


    This type of psychic gear was clearly made using ancient techniques, something pretty rare in Ethan''s world nowadays, where most people used psychic handguns, psychic bombs, psychic mechs... Over the millennia, technology and cultivating psychic powers had slowly merged.


    And Lucas was using the ''Psychic Breath Sword'' he got from old man Heath.


    "Psychic Breath Sword (high-grade psychic gear)"


    "Forged from high-grade psychic breath stones, can harness the psychic powers of heaven and earth into the sword for personal use. This sword possesses psychic powers, forming its own sword-flying technique, usable even by those who haven''t learned the technique, killing invisibly."

 Chapter 20: Chapter 20: The family head has fled

    Ethan had seen what this sword could do.


    With a whoosh, it shattered his cards...


    The other Blackwoods also had psychic gear, but unlike Nathan and Lucas, who loved the thrill of battle, the others had different tasks to attend to.


    Time flew by.


    The Blackwoods didn''t recklessly head to Forest Town looking for trouble. Although Forest Town occasionally sent folks to harass them, they never got close to the Blackwood base without getting decapitated.


    "Blackwood Year 19."


    "Those who invaded the Blackwood base that year, half survived, gifted by Blackwood, they cultivated fields outside Blackwood, gradually forming a village..."


    Nathan had asked him about this.


    It was also Ethan''s idea to spare these people. Killing is always the last resort.


    Blackwood had enough psychic beasts that could summon water with their talents to irrigate the fields, and their dung was the best fertilizer! S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In this year of disaster, the refugees sheltered by Blackwood could farm, raise chickens and ducks, and after paying taxes, they could also save the Blackwood people some farming time. Soon, the food they produced could sustain the family''s psychic beasts!


    Plus...


    These refugees were also a solid workforce.


    By now, outside the Blackwood base, large areas of fertile land had been cultivated. Between the fields, livestock could be seen running joyfully, and the once emaciated refugees were gradually putting on weight, smiles on everyone''s faces.


    "Not only that".


    After scoring a workforce of nearly 500, Blackwood''s base got a major facelift.


    Their old stone-built yard has been swapped out for buildings with blue bricks and white tiles, sprawling over a massive area and looking pretty majestic. You might catch a glimpse of some psychic beasts hopping on the walls or soaring above.


    Even so, villagers kept grinding stones, shaping them up, and laying them down outside Blackwood!


    The once lonely Blackwood.


    Now, it''s kinda shaping up like a big family dynasty, with the area around Blackwood buzzing with activity.


    "Forebearer, check this out, the big tree I planted in the psychic beast garden is blooming!"


    While admiring the evolving Blackwood, a joyful voice from the ancestral hall snapped Ethan out of his thoughts.


    There was Amelia, bouncing into the ancestral hall.


    "Beast Blood Fruit Tree? Is it finally showing some action?!!"


    Ethan was thrilled.


    He quickly clicked on Amelia''s avatar, and the Forebearer''s view followed her perspective to the psychic medicine garden!


    Sure enough.


    The towering Beast Blood Fruit Tree was sprouting bright red flowers!


    "Sweet!"


    After bringing back the Beast Blood Fruit Tree, there had been no movement, and Ethan was worried it might have been a bust, but now he finally saw hope!


    [Beast Blood Fruit Tree]


    [Status: After being watered with the blood of hundreds of human corpses and nourished with Psychic blood, it has absorbed enough nutrients, and the fruits this year will be even more vibrant!]


    "??????"


    After clicking on the Beast Blood Fruit Tree and seeing the status, Ethan was stunned, then looked under the big tree at Amelia, who seemed innocent and was gently touching the fruits with a tender face, "Girl, your killing intent is way too strong, kinda freaky."


    Since that invasion incident, he hadn''t paid much attention to how the Blackwood folks handled corpses.


    Now he got it!


    Hundreds of bodies, all bled by this young lady to nourish the Beast Blood Fruit Tree!


    Ethan couldn''t even think about doing such a thing.


    If he dared to do this in reality, he''d be globally condemned the next day...


    "Hmm... but the results are good."


    Ethan immediately dropped a skill, giving Amelia a shot of ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    "Thanks for the Forebearer''s reward!"


    Feeling the warmth on her body, Amelia instantly knew that the mysterious Forebearer was watching over her, and a broad smile appeared on her face, "Amelia will definitely grow the Beast Blood Fruit Tree bigger... no, Amelia will grow many, many Beast Blood Fruit Trees!"


    "Just don''t do anything too heartless for the sake of growing trees... otherwise, us Blackwoods with our little arms and legs, being seen as demon-possessed psychics, really won''t cover it."


    Ethan wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    Checking the game world''s time, the next decade was almost upon them, he raised an eyebrow, "Granny Quinn hasn''t come knocking yet? Looks like I need to check if my stuff is ready."


    He had already prepared for this Divine Gift!


    Ethan was just getting up when his antique phone rang.


    Call¡ªKieran Law Firm.


    "My family''s business, Uncle Kieran got it done so fast?" Ethan''s eyes lit up, only with the family continuously giving him pocket money could he comfortably play games!


    He answered the call.


    Just about to speak, Ethan was completely stunned.


    "Ethan, I''m afraid I really can''t help this time, your new family head, flew off in a spaceship overnight with all of Blackwood..."


    Ethan was dumbfounded.


    It took him a long while to mutter as if in a dream.


    "Dang, I haven''t even boarded the spaceship yet!"

 Chapter 21: Chapter 21: Forebearer

    "Chill for a sec, I kinda sorted things out for you."


    "Listen, there''s a rumor going around that your family head was blown to bits by a galaxy-destroying cannon in The Radiant Imperial Starfield. I don''t believe it. That guy''s a slick operator, a top-tier big shot. No way he went down that easy. He probably faked his own death."


    "Then, your top brass bolted, claiming revenge or something, but maybe they just cut and run early."


    "Next, your new boss cut off your money. It wasn''t intentional. He was too busy moving assets around and didn''t think about your funds. "


    "Even if he''s taken out, your group will survive. But don''t underestimate him; he took his entire team and all the assets and left quietly without anyone noticing."


    "So, bottom line, your Blackwoods are moving wealth, and you... congrats, you got ghosted by your own fam and turned into a broke joke."


    "Congrats my foot, huh?!"


    "Thanks a bunch, Kieran." Ethan forced a grin.


    "No biggie. Oh, and if you''re strapped for Energy Stones and thinking of selling your villa, hit me up first."


    "Beep beep."


    Ethan was shook!


    He thought today Kieran would send his law firm''s sharks to circle Blackwood, fight a flashy lawsuit.


    Maybe even take out the clueless new head and double his pocket money.


    But who knew it''d spiral into this mess?


    "What the heck??"


    Ethan still couldn''t grasp it, tearfully staring at his once grand home, now truly cut off from cash. In this vast universe, finding his family seemed next to impossible...


    Overnight, he turned into a total brokester, his only asset being everything inside this villa.


    "Knock knock."


    Just then, the door rang. Ethan, face all gloomy, opened up, and not even Lisa''s smile could thaw his numb heart, felt kinda hollow instead.


    Darn new head, bolted and forgot him!


    "Commander, there''s a letter for you at home," Lisa said, noticing Ethan''s mood, and handed him an envelope.


    Ethan tore it open.


    Sender, Mark, that darn new head!


    "Ethan, remember when you beat me up as a kid, said I''d never make a good head, better you than me. I think you had a point. Now you''re the last of the Blackwood blood on Earth, I''m making you the head of the Blackwoods. Please, make our family proud!"


    "Mark, you better hope I never see you again in my life!"


    Definitely premeditated, had to be!


    Ethan took a deep breath, no longer dwelling on it, frowned at Lisa who was still clueless, "What do we do if I go broke, us two?"


    Lisa furrowed her brows, pondered seriously for a while.


    "Commander, we could do this, there are 108 households in Psychic Gear, we could crash one house a day for a meal, scrounge some Energy Stones to get by. Won''t be too often, won''t be too annoying."


    "You''ve got lots of classmates, could crash at their places too."


    As she spoke, her Storage Ring flashed, waving a book in front of Ethan, "Worst comes to worst, I''ve got this secret manual here."


    [Thief''s Secret Techniques]


    Hmm, thoughtful.


    Ethan managed a strained smile, left the house, and headed to Granny Quinn''s place.


    "Knock, knock, knock!"


    The door echoed as Ethan faced it. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This time around, Granny Quinn wasn''t the warm cookie she was last time. She eyed Ethan like she wanted to explode but held it back, "Ethan, here for your stuff? It ain''t ready yet."


    Ethan wasn''t in the mood for chit-chat with the old bird, so he just reached out his hand.


    "Come on, everyone knows everyone around here. Granny Quinn''s skills are legendary, how could it not be ready?" Ethan grinned, "Plus, the gatekeeper Mr. John has been raving about your craftsmanship."


    "You..."


    Granny Quinn''s face turned beet red for a moment, her cane thumping the ground hard, "Don''t think just because you''ve got Mr. John on your side, you can push me around!"


    "That''s a bit much, not trying to threaten, just being cautious. You know I''m careful, Granny, just covering my bases."


    Ethan kept up his smile, though it couldn''t look faker.


    "Hmph!"


    With that, Granny Quinn wasn''t up for more talk. She tossed Ethan a ring and scoffed, "Kid, you used to have the Blackwoods backing you, and that''s why folks in Psychic Gear respected you. But I''ve heard..."


    She paused, watching Ethan turn to leave, and sneered, "Without the Blackwoods, you''re nothing! Remember, the world''s a cold place. When Psychic Gear kicks you out, no one will give you the time of day. Let''s see what you do then!"


    "Bang!"


    Granny Quinn''s door slammed shut.


    Ethan''s face darkened; he knew he''d completely burned bridges with Granny Quinn. No, maybe it was doomed when he handed over that mysterious spear to her.


    Everyone in Psychic Gear knew Granny Quinn''s tech skills were insane, but she was no saint.


    The reason Ethan had talked so long with Granny Quinn was to feel out whether she''d swap his mysterious spear, and well... it didn''t go great, so he had to bring in gatekeeper Mr. John!


    "Dang, no home and now I''ve ticked off a tough old lady!"


    He cursed under his breath.


    Ethan suddenly looked up at the sky, rubbed his face, "Granny Quinn''s right, without the Blackwoods, I''m nothing. But now..."


    "It''s time to hustle!"


    He remembered the struggles of the Blackwood folks in the games.


    He was a Forebearer.


    How could he let his people down?


    "Starting today, I''m gonna be a chief who hustles!"

 Chapter 22: Chapter 22: War AI Bionic Robot

    "Commander, you got knocked around? You good?"


    At the swanky Villa No. 1, Lisa caught sight of Ethan bouncing back home, all pumped up, and couldn''t help but get a bit jittery.


    Ethan was all smiles, "What do you take me for? So what if I''m out of a house and pocket money? Do I look like the kind of dude who just throws in the towel when things get tough?"


    Lisa pondered for a long while before hesitantly replying, "No."


    "..."


    Done with the sad talk, Ethan commanded, "Hit up No. 104, tell Andrew to meet me in two hours."


    Then he hustled back to his room.


    Ethan knew, with Blackwood gone, his only backup was the psychic powers family simulator, his golden ticket!


    Right then, Ethan was all in.


    On his computer, Blackwood''s development was booming, the villagers were gearing up, even spawning a couple of Psychics, and a twenty-man soldier squad formed by the villagers was patrolling the village.


    "Blackwood Year 19, the refugees sheltered by Blackwood have formed a sizable village named Gratitude Village. The villagers are protected by Blackwood and worship it."


    "Spiritual Tribute +200!"


    "What the heck? I was gone just for a bit, and it''s already come this far?"


    Ethan was thrilled, silently praising his past decisions.


    Soon.


    The game scene shifted¡ª


    "Blackwood Year 20, your descendants have prepared the altar to commence the second of the grand decennial ceremonies!"


    "Your descendants have prepared a Tribute Offering for you¡ª"


    "Fifty Tier-One Beast Blood Fruits!" S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "One male and one female Hundred-Mile Pigeon chicks!"


    "Detection: Hundred-Mile Pigeon chicks are live creatures. Would you like to spend 10 Spiritual Tribute points to retrieve them?"


    "Knew it could be done!"


    Ethan''s eyes lit up.


    These Tribute Offerings, all conveyed through the temple guardian beast, were sent by the people of Blackwood.


    Though his real-world family had bolted, Ethan was hardly flustered, because these offerings could still bring him massive benefits, giving him a shot at turning things around!


    "Retrieve!"


    Soon, fifty beast blood fruits appeared next to the Mystic Burner on his desk.


    The fruits were vividly colored, their bloody scent hitting his nose.


    Ethan''s face lit up with joy.


    "Tier-One Beast Blood Fruit"


    "Cultivated with blood and the essence of psychic powers from nature, each fruit contains 50 psychic points, with a human absorption rate of 80%!"


    Awesome fruit!


    Ethan couldn''t help but grin, the psychic powers simulator was smarter than he''d imagined.


    In the game world, psychic abilities weren''t quantified.


    But in the real world, with the help of technology, the psychic energy absorbed during psychic cultivation was quantified. A Psychic at the Foundational Energy level only needed 100 psychic points to break through!


    And each additional level only required 10% more psychic energy.


    The worse the aptitude, the slower the absorption rate of natural psychic energy, but such fruits could directly store psychic energy for gradual digestion.


    Ethan could hardly imagine how much the rich kids would scramble for such divine fruits.


    Then came the Hundred-Mile Pigeons!


    "Chirp chirp..."


    Two chicks in the nest, eyes not yet open, chirping away. Normally, such common psychic beast chicks wouldn''t be worth mentioning.


    But...


    For the present world, these two Hundred-Mile Pigeons were a brand-new species!


    Just take them to a psychic beast scholar, and those freaky scientists lurking in the field would probably break their necks trying to get these little guys, maybe even award Ethan with a ''Psychic Beast Discovery Award''.


    But Ethan had no plans to handle these little ones that way.


    "Stuff''s already here, looks like I won''t have to mooch meals for a while."


    Ethan breathed a sigh of relief.


    So there Ethan was, chilling with a beast blood fruit in hand, when bam! A pop-up appeared on his computer screen.


    "wanna speed up absorbing this beast blood fruit''s powers? It''ll cost ya 1 Spiritual Tribute point per pop."


    Ethan was like, "Dude, what the heck?!"


    His jaw dropped. Speedy absorption? That''s a thing now?


    Absorbing the essence of these fruits into his system was no joke, usually a tough gig.


    In a flash, Ethan realized how wild this feature was!


    With enough Spiritual Tribute points and a stash of these fruits, he could skyrocket his psychic powers in a snap!


    But he held back, clicking ''No''.


    "This little power boost? Ain''t enough to fill a tooth gap."


    He shrugged it off.


    Glancing back at the game screen.


    "Tribute Offering delivered, wanna bless your descendants with a Divine Gift?"


    Ethan jumped up, clearing stuff around him.


    He peeped at the mystical spear in his Storage Ring, unsealed by Granny Quinn, now shining bright.


    But that wasn''t all.


    There was something else in there, a big no-no for regular Psychics in this world!


    After a long chat with Granny Quinn, she agreed to gift it to him in a moment of joy, though things got a bit sour later. But a promise was a promise, and she delivered!


    "Teleport."


    With a click of his mouse, suddenly, a massive object thundered into the room!


    "Delivering your Forebearer''s Divine Gift¡ª"


    "War AI Bionic Robot..."

 Chapter 23: Chapter 23: Blackwoods ace

    "Hisssss¡ªSssss"


    The massive Purple Thunder Solar Python hissed at the Blackwood clan during their ritual, channeling the will of the Forebearer from beneath the sacred spring.


    Ethan was becoming more convinced that he was the real deal, the big bad Voldemort himself...


    Meanwhile, in the game, the Blackwood folks were dropping to their knees in gratitude.


    "The Forebearer has accepted our Tribute Offering," Nathan announced, feeling a surge of pride. "Looks like he''s pleased this time."


    After Nathan finished his homage, he asked the temple guardian beast, "Could you check with the Forebearer if he has any messages for us?"


    Ethan thought for a moment and then typed in the game¡ª


    "Keep pushing, develop the clan well."


    "Hisssss¡ªSssss"


    Watching the Purple Thunder Solar Python let out another Voldemort-esque hiss, Ethan couldn''t help but wonder if the game''s setup really made him the mysterious villain?


    "The Forebearer said he''s pleased," Luna quickly relayed. "He told us to focus on strengthening our family."


    "Forebearer be assured..."


    Nathan was about to continue when he suddenly froze, quickly pulling his family to kneel backward as golden light began to shimmer above the Forebearer''s cards.


    "The Forebearer is showing his powers again!"


    With a loud ''boom'', right in front of the Blackwood ancestral hall''s cards, a massive creature appeared in the courtyard, standing as tall as the stunned Purple Thunder Solar Python, 10 meters high!


    The intense sunlight shone on this giant, its dazzling brilliance making it hard for everyone to keep their eyes open.


    When they finally got a good look at it, they were utterly shocked.


    This creature stood like a human, its body angular and defined, with a smooth metallic sheen on its silver exterior, its veins seemingly exposed, and various parts of its body appeared to be glowing!


    [Basic War AI Bionic Robot]!


    Watching the descendants'' puzzled and shocked gazes, Ethan was even more pleased.


    This thing, in the present world, is called a supernatural mech!


    Inside, it uses biotechnology that allows it to move with human-like agility and operate like human supernatural meridians. Its exterior, however, is pure tech armor, connected at the core by nanotechnology to its flesh.


    Just swallow an Energy Stone, and those stones will continuously power the mech, even actively recharging it!


    This basic mech possesses the peak of Emerging Ability, even capable of going toe-to-toe with a newbie D-level master!


    And such mechs.


    They were initially developed in the U.S. during the resurgence of supernatural powers to combat exotic beasts. After continuous development and updates by the federation, it evolved into this form.


    Similarly, due to its high lethality, it became a prohibited item for ordinary people on Earth!


    But for Grandma Quinn, such contraband is just another tool at her disposal.


    "What the heck is this? Such an intense vibe!"


    "Could this be the real deal of our Forebearer?"


    The Blackwood descendants were totally hyped!


    Just seeing it, they could already feel the power of the War AI Bionic Robot!


    Even the Purple Thunder Solar Python was freaking out a bit, staring at the War AI Bionic Robot like it knew it was no match!


    "The real deal?"


    At his computer, Ethan''s lips curved into a slight smirk.


    Initially, he just wanted to gift the mech to the descendants, teaching them step by step how to operate it.


    But now.


    He realized that the "Family Cultivating Psychic Powers Simulator" had more features and was more user-friendly than he had imagined!


    "Your Divine Gift¡ªBasic War AI Bionic Robot has been delivered!"


    "War AI Bionic Robot control system detected, would you like to establish a connection?"


    "Operating the Basic War AI Bionic Robot will cost 5000 Spiritual Tribute points!"


    "Ding!"


    "Spiritual Tribute points insufficient, War AI Bionic Robot entering autonomous combat mode."


    Meaning.


    He could control the War AI Bionic Robot in battle from outside the game, just like using VR! sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I can literally feel every blade of grass in the game world!"


    Ethan''s eyes widened, the more he played the "Family Cultivating Psychic Powers Simulator," the more capabilities it seemed to develop!


    Holding back his excitement.


    Ethan glanced at his Spiritual Tribute points.


    "From this grand ritual, your descendants felt the power of the Forebearer, Spiritual Tribute points +100!"


    Looking towards the top right corner.


    Spiritual Tribute points¡ª2106.


    He had been accumulating Spiritual Tribute points over the years, but it still wasn''t enough to establish a connection with the War AI Bionic Robot.


    "A long road ahead."


    Ethan wasn''t in a rush, his original idea wasn''t to control the mech directly, but to let this mech become Blackwood''s ace in the hole, especially since Blackwood still had Heath as an enemy, and if not handled properly, the whole of Forest Town could become their enemy.


    That was also why Ethan sent the War AI Bionic Robot over!


    And...


    Besides the elixirs, this was the best thing Ethan could send over right now.

 Chapter 24: Chapter 24: Getting married

    "After Blackwood''s big 20-year celebration..."


    "As Gratitude Village thrived more and more, 15-year-old Lucas started hanging out there a lot. He got a little crush on Karen, the daughter of Thomas, the village chief and a newbie in Foundational Energy. One starry night, they got a bit too cozy on the grass, and well, one thing led to another. Karen got pregnant..."


    "Whoa..."


    Ethan spit his drink all over his screen when he saw the update in the game''s event list.


    He quickly wiped his screen and clicked on Lucas''s profile to see what the eldest Blackwood son had gotten himself into.


    It was a dark and windy night.


    Two figures were wrapped up in each other on the grass, with some pretty obvious text floating above their heads.


    "Karen, you''re so beautiful... your hands are so small, let me see... your eyes are gorgeous too... and your nose is so cute..."


    "Yikes..."


    "..."


    "Dang!"


    Ethan''s face darkened. Who would''ve thought? Lucas, usually just into sword fighting and looking like a madman in battle, had such smooth moves with the ladies?


    He was totally making Karen swoon!


    Ethan thought for a moment, his expression turning mischievous.


    "Using ''Forebearer''s Love'', costing 20 Spiritual Tribute points."


    Suddenly, a purple light shone in the night, hitting Lucas, who was holding the girl''s hand, and he just froze.


    "Yikes! Lucas, what''s this light?" Karen jumped.


    "Huh?"


    Lucas finally snapped out of it and immediately knelt down in the dark, looking guilty as sin, "Forebearer... thanks for the Divine Gift, please don''t tell my dad, he... he''d kill me if he knew I messed up!"


    He wouldn''t dare!


    Ethan glared. Nathan hadn''t had kids in years, and if he tried to stop Lucas, Ethan was ready to let the Purple Thunder Solar Python break Nathan''s legs. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Besides... the deed was done.


    Ethan switched the view, leaving the young couple alone.


    He fast-forwarded the scene, eagerly waiting for the third generation of Blackwoods to make their debut!


    Sure enough.


    The next day, Lucas, knowing he''d been caught, didn''t sleep all night, tossing and turning until dawn.


    He bravely faced his parents and spilled the beans about him and Karen.


    Lucas was immediately dragged to the shrine.


    "Forebearer, please calm down, marriage is the parents'' decision, the matchmaker''s word."


    Nathan knelt on the ground, terrified, "My son Lucas acted without consent, behaving disgracefully towards the daughter of the Brown family, please punish him, Forebearer!"


    Lucas was pale and also knelt down, "Please punish me, Forebearer, I won''t dare again!"


    "Huh?"


    That''s when Ethan finally realized, the game world was a bit old-fashioned.


    Not like the weird stuff he''d seen in his past life, where messing around led to new trends.


    Even in the real world, embryo parenting was becoming trendy.


    "Forebearer, please calm down!"


    In the game, Nathan, seeing no immediate response from the Forebearer, thought the Forebearer was angry. He gritted his teeth, raised a knife, and glared fiercely at his eldest son, "Unfilial son, take off your pants! How did I raise you? How dare you disgrace the Brown family''s daughter, how will I face the Forebearer after I die, or explain to Thomas?"


    "Dad, what are you doing?"


    Lucas, terrified, saw his father raising the knife and panicked, "I... I only have one thing!"


    "Stop!"


    Seeing the scene in the game, Lucas wasn''t the only one panicking, Ethan was too.


    He muttered ''dang'', never expecting Nathan to go so far as to threaten to cut off his son''s dignity!


    Ethan quickly clicked on the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s icon, urgently saving Lucas from a dire fate.


    "Yikes!"


    Lucas clutched his pants tightly, relieved when he saw the temple guardian beast speak up, "Dad, look, the Forebearer''s sending us a sign!"


    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python shook its head at Nathan.


    Nathan finally put down the knife, glaring at Lucas, "The Forebearer spared you, now get on your knees and thank him! And later, follow me to the Brown family with a proper dowry to ask for their daughter''s hand! You''ve embarrassed the Blackwoods enough, you beast!"


    "Thank you, Forebearer, for saving me!"


    Lucas''s sweat soaked the ground.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. That was a close call; his quirky descendant nearly had to learn some bizarre sword techniques to defend his honor.


    As for losing face for the Blackwoods?


    He wasn''t as conservative as Lucas. In fact... he was kind of curious to learn a thing or two from his quirky descendant.


    Soon enough.


    The Blackwoods presented the dowry, and Thomas from the Brown family wasn''t so conservative either. He was actually thrilled about the alliance with the child of a benefactor.


    Finally.


    The screen lit up with festive lights, big red lanterns hung at the door, and the character for ''happiness'' plastered all over the homes in Gratitude Village and on the Blackwoods'' doors and windows.


    The whole village turned up at the Blackwoods'' to celebrate, laying out a grand feast.


    A pair of slightly youthful newlyweds walked up to the ancestral hall to the sound of gongs and drums.


    "First bow to heaven and earth."


    "Second bow to the high hall!"


    "Today Lucas is getting married, in front of the ancestral hall, please have some tea."


    "Spiritual Tribute +30!"


    The second generation of Blackwoods finally had someone getting married, the third generation was about to arrive, and the Blackwoods were truly flourishing!


    "Sweet!"


    Ethan took a big swig of his Coke.


    "The couple bows to each other, entering the bridal chamber!"

 Chapter 25: Chapter 25: Talking business

    Man, Lucas and Karen tying the knot really got the whole Blackwood buzzing with joy. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even the folks over at Gratitude Village were throwing down, happy as heck for the Blackwoods'' big day.


    But the Blackwoods weren''t about to hit pause on moving forward!


    "Blackwood Year 21, Nathan spots a Psychic from Forest Town lurking around Gratitude Village daily, and he knows Forest Town hasn''t forgotten what went down before. Feeling the heat, he hits up Forebearer, asking for some wisdom on what to do next."


    "Don''t stop the hustle."


    Ethan took a deep breath. After the whole Blackwood crew bailed in the real world, he''s taking this game way more seriously now, "Right now, Blackwood''s pretty much getting the cold shoulder from Forest Town. Step one foot towards them, and Heath will probably rally the Forest folks to come at us."


    "I''m not even sure we''d stand a chance in a throwdown."


    Finally, Ethan clicks on the Purple Thunder Solar Python icon and types in a message.


    "Hiss¡ªSss¡ª"


    The temple guardian beast hisses.


    Luna kneels before Nathan, instantly getting the beast''s message, "Forebearer says, tough times push us to level up. As Blackwood folks, we gotta keep pushing forward, always looking for that breakthrough. Heath may block one path, but we''ve got more than one way to roll!"


    Hearing this, Nathan''s eyes light up.


    He bows repeatedly, "Thanks for the enlightenment, Forebearer, I got it!"


    "Babe, round up our crew. We can''t trade with Forest Town or buy their elixirs, but we''ve got a whole Silver Iron Forest behind us! Plus, with the temple guardian beast on our side, we can go deeper than ever and have more folks joining our fight!"


    Soon enough.


    Ethan watches as Nathan rallies all of Blackwood''s current combat power!


    By now, the folks at Blackwood have come a long way.


    Nathan''s been chugging beast blood fruit, hitting Level 8 Foundational Energy. Lucas, even post-wedding, is still grinding hard, reaching Level 5 Foundational Energy.


    Everyone''s been leveling up.


    Especially Julian, the most talented, at thirteen years old and Level 3 Foundational Energy, built like a bull, even bulkier than Nathan, wielding a giant iron hammer, shirtless.


    Amelia''s flying around on a giant eagle, also at Level 3 Foundational Energy.


    Only Olivia, now 6, seems to have a decent Psychic Constitution but hasn''t turned Psychic yet. The family girl, supposed to be cultivating psychic powers, is as weak as ever. Her only plus? She''s getting prettier and smarter by the day.


    She''s got a trait, but it''s a negative one.


    "Weak Constitution"


    Olivia stays out of all the fights, as always, chilling at home with her books, reading poetry, and being the cheer squad.


    Besides the Blackwood folks and their mystical beasts, Gratitude Village also rallied a squad of eighteen!


    Over the past two years, Gratitude Village has seen four Psychics emerge, with the rest being hunters trained for two and a half years. These folks have been key players in building up the village and have been rewarded by Blackwood with beast blood fruit.


    Though Nathan never asked anything of them, they''ve been loyal to Blackwood on the down-low.


    "Hiss¡ªSss¡ª"


    With the Purple Thunder Solar Python slithering out from the Blackwood estate, Nathan, holding the Forebearer cards, leaps onto the beast''s head and raises his right hand high.


    "Let''s roll out!"


    ...


    Watching the Blackwood crew head towards the Silver Iron Forest, Ethan lets out a long sigh.


    Even though Blackwood has been booming lately, even scoring a village and a few hundred villagers working for them, and their buildings getting fancier, Ethan can tell it''s just a facade!


    Gratitude Village wouldn''t stand a chance in a real scrap, even the Psychics, untested in battle, are just for show.


    This trek into the Silver Iron Forest is also a drill, a test to see what they''ve got.


    And to snag a bunch of resources, beef up Blackwood, and break through Forest Town''s blockade!


    Soon enough.


    Ethan watches as the Blackwood folks clash in the Silver Iron Forest. Nathan, already a seasoned hunter, is super cautious, even with a big group. He spends a whole week guiding the villagers in hunting mystical beasts.


    Everything''s going smoothly, with the Purple Thunder Solar Python providing protection, there''s no danger on the outskirts of the Silver Iron Forest.


    Ethan feels a bit more at ease.


    Just then.


    There''s a knock on the door.


    "Commander, Alan''s here."


    Lisa''s voice comes from outside the door.


    Ethan takes another look at the screen, squints his eyes, "With all the descendants in the game working this hard, I, as Forebearer, can''t let Blackwood down!"


    "Lisa, invite Alan in for a sit-down, get some milk tea ready."


    ...


    "Glug¡ª"


    In a cozy living room, Ethan is sitting across from a middle-aged dude who''s a bit on the hefty side. The guy''s thinning ''do barely covers his lumpy scalp, shining a bit too much under the light.


    Right now, this well-known businessman from the villa district, Alan, is sipping on some milk tea.


    Then he frowns, something about the taste seems off... takes another sip.


    "Mr. Ethan, I hear you''re here to talk business," Alan says, his focus more on the milk tea than on Ethan.


    Look at him go.


    Ethan raises an eyebrow. Back in the day, this guy wouldn''t dare speak to him like this, probably got wind of the whole Blackwood crew skipping town.


    "You could say we''re talking business."


    Ethan''s calm demeanor suddenly grabs Andrew''s full attention.

 Chapter 26: Chapter 26: Baili Pigeons

    The greasy middle-aged man''s chubby cheeks quiver as he stares at Ethan, all smiles now, "I knew it! The Blackwood family''s too big to just up and vanish. Must be some strategic move, huh?"


    Having lived two lives, Ethan can tell Alan''s just fishing for info!


    Ethan keeps his cards close to his chest.


    Since Blackwood did skip town, but even on the run, he can still wave the Blackwood flag¡ªafter all, no one really knows what went down!


    He chuckles softly, "Alan, you''re asking too many questions. Can''t a small fry like me do business with you?"


    "Of course, of course!"


    Alan grins, "Please, Mr. Ethan, go on."


    "It''s not about talking, it''s about seeing."


    Ethan tosses a Storage Ring to Alan.


    When Alan catches it, a red fruit appears in his hand. He feels the strange energy within, frowns, then his watch lights up and scans the beast blood fruit.


    His expression freezes, "This... we''ve never seen anything like this on our planet! Each one contains 100 points of strange energy, can be stored and digested in the human body, but... the fruit is full of blood, probably cultivated with fresh blood, kinda illegal, Mr. Ethan."


    "Ah? Illegal? I''m all about following the law, so if it''s illegal, let''s forget it, huh."


    Ethan reaches out smilingly.


    Seeing this, Alan''s mouth twitches. He was hoping to haggle, but Ethan''s not biting!


    "Ha... Mr. Ethan, you''re too serious. It''s a bit, but it''s all above board. I''ve been in business for years, I know how to handle it."


    "That''s good to hear. My folks say this stuff is like candy for Iron Will Psychics. One isn''t much, but a bunch, or even more, and its effects grow. Rich kids eat these, and even the ones with no talent might break through the Emerging Ability phase before they''re even grown."


    Ethan grins, "Alan, how much do you reckon that''s worth?"


    As Ethan lays out the fruit''s benefits and value.


    Alan grips his milk tea tighter, feeling like he''s being played by this young Blackwood chap!


    "Got more?"


    Alan cuts to the chase, knowing there''s no point in dragging this out with Ethan, who''s clearly got the upper hand, "If you trust me, Mr. Ethan, I can find buyers for you. I want a 20% cut."


    "20%?"


    Ethan''s expression cools, he slowly extends his hand forward, "3%, or no deal."


    "15%!"


    "3%, I''ve got more where that came from."


    "10%!"


    ...


    "Alright," so after some tough haggling, Ethan got Alan to settle for a 5% broker''s fee. Alan lets out a wry chuckle, "Mr. Ethan, I''ve dealt with your new head honcho before, thought you''d be just like him. Guess I was wrong. Now, to me, Mark''s nothing but a pig."


    Ethan''s fists clench instantly. He realizes that Mark had been dealing with Alan when the family took off!


    Keeping his cool, Ethan responds, "Oh? He did business with you? That''s news to me." sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''d make a better leader than the new one," Alan shrugs, stuffing the Storage Ring into his pocket, "I''ll sell these twenty pieces for you as a trial run for our partnership. I believe we can make a fortune together."


    "Sounds good."


    As Alan turns to leave, Ethan stops him, "Hold up, Alan, got something else you might wanna see."


    "Oh?"


    Alan raises an eyebrow, growing more suspicious that the Blackwoods hadn''t really fled but found some resource-rich planet to secretly develop. And here''s Ethan, probably plotting something big on the down-low!


    Soon enough.


    Ethan brings out... a bird''s nest from the room!


    Scanning it with his watch, Alan''s expression turns intrigued, "A new species... with abilities?"


    "Yep."


    Ethan knows that look. With interstellar development, new species are dime a dozen, but beasts with abilities are rare in the cosmos.


    "Alan, you understand the value of this. I don''t want you selling it to some freaky beast scientist," Ethan says with a grin, "But make sure it brings in a hefty load of Energy Stones, got it?"


    "Understood."


    Alan snaps out of his initial shock, exhaling deeply, "Mr. Ethan, don''t worry. I won''t let this opportunity slip. Everything will be done in secret, no one will suspect you''re doing business on this planet. And I''ll figure something out for your future Energy Stone expenses."


    "Please, Alan."


    Ethan smiles, ushering Alan out of the house, then breathes a sigh of relief, "Finally can keep myself afloat and get back to gaming!"


    He hurries back to his room, keeping an eye on Blackwood''s progress.


    Outside.


    Alan rubs his face, "Damn, I knew Blackwood hadn''t fled. No wonder they left Ethan behind, the kid''s sharp as a tack, acts like he''s lived centuries, didn''t let slip a thing."


    "All this new stuff, fresher than anything Blackwood''s pharma company ever sold, can tap into new markets, we''re gonna be rolling in it! And those creatures called Baili Pigeons, man... Blackwood''s really about to take off on the sly!""

 Chapter 27: Chapter 27: Marcus

    "Cha-ching! I''m gonna make some bank now!" Ethan thought, his heart racing as he headed back to his room. This was his first time wheeling and dealing, despite having lived two lifetimes. Those seemingly casual chats with Alan had him mentally sweating bullets!


    He had to play it cool, making Alan believe that the mighty Blackwood was still backing him, all while pretending he couldn''t spill any beans about Blackwood. Plus, he had to dangle some juicy profits in front of Alan.


    If he had lost his cool, things could''ve gone south real fast. Alan might''ve figured out he was flying solo and nabbed him on his way to school to grill him about where he got his stuff.


    It was like walking a tightrope without a net!


    But hey, it turned out alright.


    "Wait, what?" Ethan suddenly realized something crucial. "On my way to school? Heck, I ain''t going to school, I''m out here starting my own gig!"


    No more worrying about that stuff.


    He''d handed it off to Alan. As long as there was money to be made, Alan would hustle for him.


    Ethan quickly shifted his focus to gaming!


    No matter what.


    He had to keep tabs on the game''s dynamics. Although Blackwood was still in Iron Will, the stuff they produced had a unique market in the current Iron Will world, especially the beast blood fruits from the beast blood fruit trees, which were his ticket to riches!


    [Nathan, along with Blackwood members and Gratitude Village villagers, went hunting and brought back a ton of loot.]


    [Caught a wild beast: Berserk Tiger]


    [Acquired special ability herb: Gather Energy Grass]


    [Acquired...]


    In the game, Nathan and the Blackwood crew were returning with their prey.


    Ethan watched as the Blackwood base grew stronger.


    He saw that Blackwood could now sustain itself and even had a thriving ecosystem!


    The villagers of Gratitude Village farmed and raised livestock, which supported the current fifty special ability beasts in the beast park, gradually meeting their needs.


    Every day, Amelia drew blood from the beasts, which was now enough to support the growth of first-stage beast blood fruits from the beast blood fruit trees, which bore fruit once every ten years, yielding about 80-100 fruits each time.


    Now, Amelia, after years of research, had started planting another beast blood fruit tree.


    "To have more beast blood fruit trees, we need more people to plant more crops and raise more livestock," Ethan realized.


    He clearly understood the importance of the beast blood fruit trees. Not only could they sell for a good price, but as long as he had enough Spiritual Tribute points, they could even help him break through his current limits!


    Ethan quickly called Nathan over.


    "Please, Forebearer, guide us!"


    Nathan bowed devoutly to the shimmering purple cards, not believing in gods or Buddhas, only in the Forebearer.


    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python hissed,


    Luna quickly translated, "Boss, the Forebearer commands that we need more people. Only then can we plant more fields and use my beast-taming skills to raise more special ability beasts!"


    "Nathan understands, Forebearer is wise!"


    Nathan''s eyes lit up as he knelt before Ethan''s cards, "Wife, I get what the Forebearer means now, he''s not as simple as you said!"


    "Huh?"


    "Huh?"


    Both Luna and Ethan on the screen were momentarily stunned.


    Then Nathan said, "The Forebearer wants more than just fields and special ability beasts! He sees the blockade from Forest Town and knows that once we have more people, we can develop even more prosperously than Forest Town!"


    "That way, we can attract merchants, attract powerful guests, and we... can dominate the region, and soon, completely crush Forest Town!"


    Nathan looked almost crazed, "All hail the Forebearer, long live the Forebearer!"


    "..."


    Ethan just popped a peanut into his mouth, but as he opened wide, it fell right out. He smacked his lips and muttered, "Eh... it''s not totally out of the question."


    The sound of keyboard clacking filled the air.


    The Purple Thunder Python let out a low growl again, and a ''Forebearer''s Love'' hit Nathan, showing Ethan''s appreciation.


    Nathan got moving quickly after that.


    He sent elders from Gratitude Village in all directions. In these times, just having a meal to eat could make countless disaster victims grateful.


    Ethan figured it wouldn''t be long before Gratitude Village saw a population boom.


    Not much later, another piece of good news came from the game!


    "Karen has given birth to a boy after being pregnant for nine months, named Marcus!"


    "Congrats! You''ve earned Spiritual Tribute +10."


    Ethan noticed that as the Blackwood power grew stronger, he was getting more Spiritual Tribute each time!


    A third-generation member of Blackwood was born.


    The whole Gratitude Village threw a huge feast to celebrate, and the entire Blackwood was decked out in lights and decorations. Everyone gathered around Marcus in his cradle, joyful for the new Blackwood member.


    Ethan was joyful too.


    This newborn had a Psychic Constitution better than anyone in Blackwood¡ªthree Psychic Constitutions!


    Though it was still a mixed Psychic Constitution, the speed of cultivating psychic powers was multiple times that of a five-element mixed Psychic Constitution! sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 28: Chapter 28: Ninth-grade pharmacist

    As days went by, Blackwood continued to develop methodically.


    Ethan quietly watched a family grow.


    Then he smiled again.


    "Blackwood, Year 23, Gratitude Village population reaches 1548."


    "Amelia, with a Foundational Energy level four, has been cultivating herbs in the beast park for years, deeply studying ''Iron Will cultivating psychic powers manual'' about ''special methods of psychic medicine and cultivation'', achieving great results. "


    "By a stroke of luck, she got a book ''Thousand Herbs'' from an old doctor in Gratitude Village and made her first medicine powder ''Coagulation Powder''."


    "Amelia has achieved the profession¡ªninth-grade pharmacist!"


    "Moved by her achievement, her Wood Psychic Constitution value reached 60, breaking through to Foundational Energy level five!"


    "A profession? A pharmacist has appeared!"


    Ethan slapped his thigh. In modern times, you hardly see pharmacists around, replaced by petri dishes due to technological advancement. But that''s just one reason; becoming a pharmacist, even more complex than becoming a Dan master, was another.


    It was said that when psychic abilities first resurged, pharmacists had once replaced doctors, powerful enough to revive the dead or kill invisibly!


    He clicked on Amelia''s profile in a rush.


    At that moment, Amelia, in front of a beast blood fruit tree, was joyfully touching a packet of medicine powder, darting around a large copper furnace, "I did it, Forebearer bless, I made it!"


    Only 16, in the prime of her youth, yet Blackwood''s daughters somehow didn''t like interacting with outsiders. Olivia was like that, always reading at home, and so was Amelia.


    She wore a simple black robe, her hair in a ponytail, her exposed skin dirty, not as beautiful as Olivia, but with a simple elegance.


    She spent almost all her time in Blackwood''s medicinal garden, tending to the psychic plants.


    "Amelia (second generation)"


    "Profession: Ninth-grade pharmacist"


    "Level: Foundational Energy level five"


    "Psychic Constitution: Five-element mixed Psychic Constitution"


    "Techniques: Qi absorption technique, Thousand Herbs, Swift Steps"


    "Trait: Plant affinity"


    Ethan was also delighted with Amelia''s growth.


    As Amelia grew, many in Gratitude Village with injuries and illnesses began seeking her medical treatment, gradually boosting her reputation and advancing her pharmacist level.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was really starting to see how crucial Amelia was!


    "Your descendant Amelia has cured ''Steven'' from Gratitude Village of a hidden ailment, and now he can finally get cozy with his wife like normal. Blackwood earns some good karma, Spiritual Tribute +1."


    Besides special events, descendant worship, and births, Ethan found another way to rack up Spiritual Tribute!


    He glanced at his Spiritual Tribute tally.


    Over time, it had ballooned to over 3000 points.


    Soon, he''d be able to control the war AI Bionic Robot! S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    "Year 25 in Blackwood, a ''black iron'' ore vein was discovered in the Silver Iron Woods, just when it was about to be developed, a Gratitude Village Psychic and three guards were killed!"


    Special event!


    "Dang it!"


    When the vein was discovered, Ethan was thrilled.


    Black iron, though a common type of iron, was super resistant to rust and perfect for making weapons and tools in the game world. Ethan had even hashed out plans with Nathan on how to use the black iron, but in a blink, it was snatched away!


    In the Blackwood shrine.


    "Forebearer, cool it, Nathan didn''t guard the black iron ores well, letting folks from Forest Town, led by Gonzalez, snatch it and even got people from Gratitude Village killed. It''s Nathan''s fault, please punish him, Forebearer!"


    "It''s not your fault."


    Ethan had the Purple Thunder Python relay the message.


    He squinted his eyes, "Forest Town folks again?"


    It seemed like Blackwood folks had always run into people from Forest Town, and aside from Heath, other families generally kept the peace with Blackwood.


    But when interests clashed, friction like this was inevitable.


    And this time, for the black iron ores, blood was shed!


    "As Blackwood grows stronger, Forest Town will see us as a thorn in their side, a pain in their neck, and that''s just unavoidable."


    Ethan remained cool as a cucumber, tapping away at his keyboard.


    "Head to the black iron ores, take out four of their guys too, leave the rest of Gonzalez''s folks alive, send them back with a message for their chief to come talk. We might just make a big deal."


    "Talk... business?" With his wife translating, Nathan got the gist of Ethan''s plan, puzzled.


    Then Ethan filled Nathan in on more details, and Nathan''s eyes lit up.


    Soon.


    He walked to the gates of Blackwood, where the relatives of those killed at the black iron ores had already gathered, weeping.


    Nathan looked at the villagers of Gratitude Village.


    "For years, we at Blackwood have sheltered Gratitude Village, and I hope Gratitude Village can always be happy and safe, because we''re all honest, well-meaning folks."


    "But things in this world often go against our wishes, and we can''t predict who might bring disaster or bad news our way."


    "But what I can assure you is, whoever it is, they''ll pay a price they can''t handle!"


    "Maybe today, maybe tomorrow."


    "I, Nathan, promise you, their nightmare..."


    "Has just begun!"

 Chapter 29: Chapter 29: Instant takedown!

    Under Nathan''s leadership, everyone in Gratitude Village felt the power of Blackwood, winning over hearts and boosting their rep big time. They scored a whopping +100 Spiritual Tribute!


    "This dude''s really stepping up his game," Ethan mused, watching Nathan command respect. Behind the scenes, Ethan was the puppet master guiding Blackwood''s growth, but the villagers were clueless about him. Having a leader with solid skills was crucial.


    Over the years, Nathan had grown from a mere hunter to a leader worthy of his tribe in Blackwood, where time flies in the game world.


    Ethan checked the map and spotted thirteen new white dots outside Gratitude Village! As the game evolved, so did the map, showing allies in green and neutrals in white. Enemies, like those from Garcia in Forest Town, were marked in red.


    "Forebearer, the Gonzalez crew from Forest is here!" Nathan rushed to the shrine, tucking Ethan''s spiritual Cards into his pocket for protection, ready to battle with the Forebearer''s blessing.


    Meanwhile, on the road to Blackwood, a group of thirteen, led by the Gonzalez clan leader Brandon and a senior elder, approached in fancy threads. "Can''t believe how fast Blackwood''s grown," Brandon noted, wary yet dismissive of Blackwood''s depth, despite their capability to take down Garcia''s ancestor.


    Brandon was convinced Blackwood was too green to mess with Forest Town, especially since they just started and already had beef with Garcia. He figured Nathan might want to cut a deal over the incident, maybe even co-develop the iron ores.


    But as they reached Blackwood, instead of a warm welcome, they found four coffins and mourning banners at the gate¡ªa chilling sight.


    "Set up with coffins? We''ve been duped! These Blackwood maniacs never wanted to talk business; they''re out for blood!" The Gonzalez folks panicked, realizing Blackwood didn''t care about their rep¡ªno one would dare deal with them after this.


    Even Brandon, who thought he had all angles covered, was shocked by Blackwood''s blunt approach. They weren''t trying to break Forest''s blockade, just luring them in for revenge over an Iron Will and three regular folks.


    "Damn it, split up and run!" Brandon ordered, planning to rally the major families to crush Blackwood once back home.


    As they fled, a massive python appeared, with Nathan standing on top, holding the Forebearer''s Cards and smirking at them disdainfully.


    "Man, you''ve got some nerve!" Ethan watched the screen with a smirk, clearly amused and a bit baffled by the mental state of Gonzalez''s crew at this moment.


    Initially, he had Nathan invite Gonzalez''s folks over just to see what would happen, kind of testing the waters.


    But his real plan was to have Nathan wipe out all of Gonzalez''s people at the iron ores, one batch after another.


    But who would''ve thought... Old Gonzalez''s people were this straightforward? When asked to come, they really showed up!


    "I was planning to lure Gonzalez''s folks to the iron ores and take out a few key players, scare the rest stiff," Ethan shrugged helplessly, "Well, turns out every kind of fool exists."


    He didn''t ponder further and switched the view on the screen.


    The battle had already kicked off!


    Gonzalez''s people didn''t have the guts for a fight and scattered, but they underestimated Blackwood''s combat strength and readiness!


    Gonzalez''s three strongest elders, who had reached the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, were using some freaky fast movement techniques, darting towards the silver iron forest like phantoms.


    With Blackwood''s current combat power, no one could stop him.


    Sure, the Purple Thunder Solar Python was strong, but its speed was a major drawback, and its massive size meant it wasn''t as agile as human Psychics.


    "Forebearer''s Wrath" X5! Ethan didn''t hesitate to use the skill.


    "No one''s getting away!" Five Forebearer cards appeared in front of the elders, instantly charging at them and beginning to self-destruct as they got close.


    Boom! "What in the world is this? Psychic equipment???" The elder, who had lived for 150 years, had never seen such a bizarre thing.


    He could clearly feel there was no psychic energy in the cards, yet their destructive power was shocking!


    It seemed no matter how fast he ran, the cards could block his path.


    "Wow, running pretty fast there," Ethan grinned, the advantage of his skill being that he could use it through the screen.


    As long as the elders were still on the map, he just needed to move his mouse to block their path accurately!


    Soon after, Nathan finally arrived with the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    The beast, now far stronger than before, roared, its bent horns sparking with electricity, forming an electric cage around the elder.


    "Have you lost your minds? Dare to mess with us Gonzalez, and the whole town of Forest will be against you Blackwood, you''ll struggle to move an inch!" the elder, feeling the terrifying presence of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, gritted his teeth, desperately looking for a way out.


    "Sss¡ªshh¡ª" Having communicated with the Purple Thunder Solar Python multiple times, Nathan understood some of its intentions.


    He looked at the elder trapped in the electric cage and scoffed, "My Forebearer is kinda curious, what were you thinking messing with us in the first place?"


    "Just for an Iron Will, three ordinary people?" the elder still couldn''t believe it.


    "Regular folks?" Nathan scoffed, shaking his head. "You''re just like Garcia, huh? Back in the day, they used disaster victims as guinea pigs at Blackwood, and now you Gonzalez folks don''t give a hoot about regular people either! "


    "When did your ancestors stop being regular? Since you''ve forgotten, maybe it''s time to send you to the underworld for a little pow-wow with them!"


    "Spot on!" Ethan cheered, throwing a thumbs up from in front of the screen.


    Seeing Nathan gaining the upper hand, he switched the view.


    Meanwhile, Brandon, the so-called ''strategic'' clan leader, was hightailing it like there was no tomorrow. Man, he was in a real pickle.


    "Whoosh whoosh!" Two arrows zipped past him, fired by an 18-year-old girl perched on a giant eagle, brandishing an iron bow.


    And there he was, a full-grown man, scampering like a frightened mouse from a kid barely at Level 5 Foundational Energy!


    But wait, it gets better. There was also a hefty dude on a tiger, slinging arrows his way.


    "Ha ha ha, Chief Gonzalez? That''s all the courage you''ve got? You''re cracking us up!"


    "Thought you had some tricks up your sleeve coming to our Blackwood, turns out you''re just a sitting duck!"


    "Being clueless is one thing, but seriously, you''re shaking in your boots facing me and my sis, and we''re just Level 5 Psychics?"


    Brandon felt like his head was gonna explode ¨C these kids were driving him nuts!


    But no stopping now; he knew these troublemakers chasing him weren''t just on a wild goose chase ¨C this was another setup by the Blackwood crew!


    "Not even gonna turn around after all that trash talk?" Ethan frowned, eyeing the game interface where another icon popped up under the Purple Thunder Python avatar ¨C a robot!


    Then, he clicked.


    "Whoosh!" "Deploying War AI Bionic Robot!"


    Suddenly, Amelia''s space ring glowed, and a massive mech materialized in the sky!


    The mech, with fireworks shooting from its back and legs to stay airborne, was quite the spectacle. "Flying always guzzles the most juice," Ethan muttered.


    He''d stashed the AI Bionic Robot in the space ring because there was no way Amelia and Julian could catch an early-stage Emerging Ability expert otherwise.


    The War AI Bionic Robot was burning through energy, especially for flying, and though it could recharge, a full power-up took at least half a month. Ethan had hoped to conserve some energy, but it looked like Brandon had finally caught on.


    "What in the world?!!" Brandon felt an ominous pressure from behind and spun around just in time to see the colossal War AI Bionic Robot bearing down on him!


    Then, "Boom!" As the mech''s fireworks ignited, it surged towards Brandon.


    While soaring, its back-mounted guns shifted, and two massive cannons targeted Brandon!


    Even in free-action mode, the War AI Bionic Robot retained basic combat capabilities.


    "Zap!" A brilliant light burst from the cannons, and a purple lightsaber, sharp enough to slice through metal, materialized in the robot''s right hand. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boom!"


    "Oh snap!"


    The laser cannon blasted instantly, and Brandon, eyes bulging, whipped out a copper bell ¨C a relic that had saved his hide more times than he could count. The bell chimed, wrapping him in a protective bubble.


    But a moment later, "Boom!" The laser cannon struck the bell, and the sound it emitted was like a death knell for Brandon!


    The relic that had saved him time and again was now as flimsy as tissue.


    Dust swirled.


    In a flash, the War AI Bionic Robot, wielding the lightsaber, streaked across the sky in the blink of an eye.


    Brandon''s torso, cleaved in two at the waist, plummeted from the dust cloud to the ground.


    His eyes were filled with despair, likely pondering why he ever thought tangling with Blackwood was a smart move...


    "Is this... the power of the Forebearer?" Amelia and Julian, siblings, gazed up at the god-like figure in the sky, completely dumbfounded.


    Instant takedown!

 Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Iron in the Soul

    "Run for it, man, they''re all nuts!"


    On Blackwood turf, a real-life battle royale was going down!


    The remaining eleven Gonzalez folks were booking it in every direction.


    But nowadays, Blackwood''s no small fry!


    As the Blackwood crew grew, they''ve racked up about seventy assorted regular beasts, even including two power beasts.


    And over at Gratitude Village, with its thousand-strong population.


    A hundred strong adults have been hunting with the Blackwood folks, all aiming to beef up and guard Blackwood, including six at the Foundational level!


    "Take ''em out, Miller said whoever offs a Gonzalez gets to guard Blackwood and snag some sweet rewards!"


    "Serious? No one better hog this from me!"


    "Charge, bros!"


    At that moment, twenty strong adults cornered a Gonzalez Psychic, unleashing a barrage with twenty bows.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh¡ª"


    Long after, these twenty adults dug through a pile of arrows to find the Psychic''s body, squabbling over who landed the kill shot.


    It wasn''t until Julian swung back with a hammer, smashing the last Psychic against a wall where he couldn''t be pried off.


    Ethan finally took a sip of water.


    "Congrats, Blackwood has led your forces to defeat the invading enemy."


    "Gain Spiritual Tribute +200!"


    "Counts as an invading enemy, huh?"


    A hefty Spiritual Tribute in the bank, Ethan felt pretty good.


    And in the event log, one entry caught Ethan''s eye!


    "Your descendant Lucas battled a Level 6 Foundational Energy Psychic, striking a deadly blow with minor injuries, gaining deep insights into swordplay."


    "Basic swordplay progress hits 50%, earning the skill, Sword Glow!"


    "Sword Glow: Use light and power in battle to blind your enemy and strike a deadly blow."


    ...


    "What a sneaky revelation."


    Despite the gripes, Ethan had some respect for Lucas. The dude figured out the basic sword moves on his own, hitting 50% proficiency, which is pretty sharp.


    Others barely scratched 20%.


    Then Ethan watched the Blackwood folks clean up the battlefield, scooping up the loot.


    "Scored some loot, power gear: Mystic God Pendant"


    "Scored some loot, technique martial arts: Autumn Wind Step"


    "Scored some loot..."


    Equipment exploded all over the place!


    No wonder folks say war''s the fastest way to wealth.


    Ethan checked out the haul, nothing much he wanted, but it was a big deal for the Blackwood crew.


    "Thought I might stumble upon another epic spear, but looks like that''s a long shot."


    He suddenly remembered that mysterious spear.


    Fiddling with the space ring on his index finger, inside was a spear glowing blue, covered in mysterious runes, quite the standout.


    ...


    "Forebearer, all Gonzalez folks have been wiped out, Amelia''s taken them to nourish the beast blood fruit tree!"


    Nathan reported as usual in the ancestral hall.


    Ethan sped up the game time, letting Blackwood keep growing.


    He pondered a bit.


    The final call was to hold off on developing the iron ores; they just didn''t have the muscle to defend it yet. Coveting more iron ores would just rack up casualties. Better to grow slowly with what they''ve gained.


    As for whether Forest Town would launch a major attack on Blackwood?


    Ethan wasn''t sweating it, just like he wouldn''t dare send the Purple Thunder Python or the War AI Bionic Robot to Forest Town. The four big families of Forest Town didn''t know Blackwood''s real strength and wouldn''t dare come knocking!


    After all, every Psychic that came to Blackwood bit the dust.


    Their families were too big to risk it all, not knowing what the other side had up their sleeve.


    And as time went on, until Blackwood Year 26, Forest Town hadn''t dared invade Blackwood, just kept poking around. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Blackwood Year 26, Gratitude Village hit by a plague, solved by Amelia after discovering it was a revenge act by Forest Town''s Gonzalez. Amelia used her medical skills to cure it."


    "Congrats, Amelia''s efforts in curing the villagers and solving the plague earned you Spiritual Tribute +200!"


    "Amelia gains the trait¡ªMiraculous Healing."


    "Miraculous Healing: Success rate of treating patients increases by 20%!"


    ...


    "Gratitude Village hit by a psycho killer, and 9-year-old Olivia, book in hand, dashed to the crime scene. She pieced together the clues and nailed the perp sent by Forest''s Garcia to mess with folks'' heads."


    "Scored Spiritual Tribute +30!"


    "Olivia gains the trait¡ªKeen Insight."


    "Keen Insight: Keeps her head cooler under pressure."


    Trouble keeps rolling in from Forest Town, but it all just boosts Blackwood''s experience...


    "The young''uns can handle most troubles themselves now."


    Ethan was pretty stoked about that.


    But while watching the Blackwood crew level up, he kept an extra eye on Olivia.


    This Blackwood sickly kid still hadn''t managed to muster any special abilities.


    "Olivia, take care of yourself, no need to stress over family stuff."


    Under the beast blood fruit tree, which had grown another sibling under Amelia''s care, reaching human height. Amelia, busy planting special herbs, saw her sister coming and cracked a smile, "Got a beast blood fruit here for you, sis. Eat it, and you might just break through to Iron Will, get your health back on track."


    Young Olivia stubbornly shook her head, "Can''t do it, sis. I''m following the path of Heaven and Earth, reading the sage''s books. My body is a temple. I heard the modern literary sage thrived on grains alone, and enlightenment came naturally."


    "How many literary types are out there?" Amelia patted her sister''s head, "Sis, we''ve got resources, maybe take the easier path."


    Olivia shook her head again, clearly not ready to give up her quest.


    "Ah? Going for the literary path?"


    Watching the sisters'' exchange pop up in little text bubbles above their heads, Ethan finally got why Olivia hadn''t become a Psychic.


    Turns out the kid wasn''t into cultivating psychic powers or munching on special pills and resources!


    Even he knew about literary types...


    But from what he remembered, in a thousand years of psychic resurgence history, successful literary types were few and far between...


    As for before the psychic resurgence, whether folks like the sage Confucius were real, Ethan couldn''t say.


    But from the sisters'' chat, it seemed literary sages did exist in this game world.


    And Olivia, always a bookworm, aimed to follow that path.


    "Hope she makes it."


    Ethan shrugged. After all, everyone''s got their own gig, and he should respect that.


    Time marched on.


    "In Blackwood, year 27, Nathan chugged a ton of beast blood fruits and stumbled upon a freaky power herb in the Silver Iron Woods. After munching on it, he blasted through to the ninth level of Foundational Energy!"


    "Lucas, rolling deep with the Blackwood crew, raided a black iron ores operated by Forest''s Gonzalez gang, snagging a hefty haul of black iron ore!"


    "Ha, think you can ores under my watch? Hand it over, buddy!"


    Ethan couldn''t help but crack up at the game updates.


    He might''ve ditched mining himself, but that didn''t mean he wasn''t interested in those veins!


    He''d already tipped off Nathan to keep an eye on the ores, letting the folks from Forest Town do the heavy lifting. Sure enough, the Gonzalez crew developed the vein, and although they sent some heavy hitters to guard it, they slipped up now and then.


    Grinning, Ethan watched as Lucas and his squad carted off the ore back to base.


    His phone rang.


    Ethan grabbed it and answered the call.


    "Mr. Ethan, great news, found a buyer for your blood fruits, 3000 Energy Stones."


    Alan''s voice came through, "And if you''re cool with my speed and the price I got, there''s bigger deals ahead. Just a heads-up, you might wanna launder that incoming cash, you know, being a student and all, sudden big bucks might raise eyebrows."


    3000 Energy Stones for just 20 fruits? Ethan was floored by the price!


    These were just 100-point power fruits, usually, a potion offering that much power would barely fetch 20 Energy Stones!


    If he could pull 100 beast blood fruits a day...


    Thinking of the massive sum made Ethan''s heart race!


    But he kept his cool, "Pleased with the deal. As for the Energy Stones... we''ll talk. Just wondering if Alan could score some contraband?"


    "Contraband?"


    Alan paused, then seriously added, "Mr. Ethan, you know, if you''re after a star-destroying cannon, that''ll take some time to get back here."


    "..."


    A star-destroying cannon? Does he think I''m gearing up for a space war???


    Ethan hung up, shot Alan a text, then stepped out. After gaming all day, it was time to grab some grub.


    Glancing around his place, he momentarily couldn''t tell if he was still in the game or back in reality.


    "Man, got way too sucked into the game."


    Ethan shrugged.


    Just as he was pulling a cake from the fridge, he noticed Lisa peeping through the peephole. "Lisa, what''s up?"


    Lisa turned, waving her hand, "Commander, you stir up some trouble?"


    "Huh?"


    Something felt off.


    "Old lady Quinn''s been pacing outside, eyeing our place."


    Ethan''s mouth twitched, "Let her watch."


    Great, wasn''t stalked by classmates at school, now an ancient lady''s camping at my door, probably steamed about something earlier. If old lady Quinn catches me, won''t I be in for a world of hurt?


    Shaking his head, Ethan went back to his room. If anything came up, he''d just call the security guard, Mr. John.


    He''d just sat down and taken a bite of cake when...


    Ding ding dang! Sparks flying, Julian was hammering away!


    "Your descendant Julian, after snagging some black iron ore, kept refining it and had an epiphany while hammering the iron. He crafted his first iron sword using the blood of a mystical beast to unlock the sword''s potential, drawing the power of the universe into the blade."


    "Julian crafted his first power-enhanced gear, earning the title¡ªNinth Grade Power Equipment Craftsman!"


    "Earned trait: Iron in the Soul..."

 Chapter 31: Chapter 31: An idea

    [Julian (Second Gen)]


    [Occupation: Ninth Rank Ability Equipment Craftsman]


    [Level: Foundational Energy Level Five]


    [Psychic Constitution: Mixed Five-Element Psychic Constitution]


    [Techniques: Qi Gathering, Mega Hammer Technique]


    [Traits: Strong Bones, Iron Precision]


    [Iron Precision: When forging metal weapons, speed +100%, proficiency with weapons +100%!]


    ...


    "Third Young Master, did you... did you just craft some psychic gear?!!"


    At Gratitude Village''s blacksmith shop, amidst the heat of the forge, four veteran blacksmiths cheered for Julian.


    "What kind of psychic gear is this supposed to be?"


    If Amelia became a pharmacist by following her own path of cultivating psychic powers, Julian here relied purely on luck. He even disdainfully tossed aside the freshly forged iron sword, "You guys haven''t seen anything truly awesome, but I have!"


    "That thing is all metal, as tall as several buildings. Don''t even talk about Foundational Energy warriors, even Emerging Ability experts can''t scratch its iron. It emits blue light, flies through the sky, is decked out with weapons, can shoot psychic powers from its shoulders, and can even conjure divine swords out of thin air!"


    As Julian spoke to the blacksmiths, his eyes sparkled with envy. He remembered the day the Forebearer unleashed the War AI Bionic Robot, its majestic form instantly taking down Elder Gonzalez!


    That was the day.


    He realized that was the true romance of a real man!


    "My goal isn''t to make this kind of psychic equipment. They''re just for gaining experience in crafting. My real target is crafting those powerful AI Bionic Robots!"


    "Clang!"


    With the hammer''s fall, sparks flew.


    Julian, holding a steel plate with tongs, slowly moved towards the back.


    Behind him, there was actually a wooden model of an AI Bionic Robot!


    Julian, using a black iron plate, slowly placed it on the wooden figure''s shoulder, securing it with chains.


    ...


    "Dreaming of crafting War AI Bionic Robots, huh?"


    Watching Julian chat with the craftsmen in the game, Ethan didn''t quite know what to make of it, just hoping Julian really pulls it off someday.


    And Ethan got it.


    The characters in this game, they all got their own minds, picking their paths as they grow. The four kids of the Blackwood second gen, Lucas is more like Nathan, a solid pick to take over the family reins.


    Loner Amelia went down the path to become a pharmacist, diving deeper into the world of psychic plants, now a legendary healer in Gratitude Village.


    Olivia, dragging her sickly self, chose a tough road. As she''s getting older, her smarts are leveling up, just like that time she cracked a case wide open with ease.


    And Julian, he''s running a shop in Gratitude Village, crafting psychic gear with four blacksmith masters, beefing up the whole crew''s metalwork.


    [Blackwood Year 28.] S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Nathan led Gratitude Village folks and Blackwood youngsters to the Silver Iron Forest, heard a beast roar deep inside. The terrifying presence in the depths warned the Purple Lightning Python protecting humans, to back off or face annihilation!]


    "We can''t go any deeper, the temple guardian beast said the monster king is ticked off!"


    As Luna translated solemnly for the Purple Lightning Python, the crew had to halt their deep dive into the Silver Iron Forest.


    The monster king, now as powerful as a human D-class!


    "Can''t go any further, huh?"


    Ethan let out a long sigh, recalling what the Purple Lightning Python had told the Blackwood folks about the forest.


    Seems like the forest''s monster king cut the Python some slack, so it hadn''t attacked Blackwood''s people. But now, with Blackwood digging too deep too often, they were threatening the monster king''s turf.


    "But that''s enough for now, we''ll just slowly explore the outskirts from here on."


    Ethan didn''t mind.


    These years of growth had boosted Blackwood''s strength up a notch!


    Now, Gratitude Village''s population hit three thousand.


    Just think, even Forest Town only had forty thousand before the disaster, and that''s probably halved by now.


    Take another look at Blackwood''s current digs.


    The whole place spans ten thousand square meters, with pavilions, towers, flying eaves, and blue tiles, all classy yet grand. The ground''s all cobblestone, surrounded by lush greenery and flowers, even the four-meter-high walls are carved with dragons and phoenixes.


    Further out, there''s the psychic beast park, now part of Blackwood''s back hills. Looking into the distance, you can see the thick branches of the beast blood fruit trees standing tall like giants, with psychic beasts occasionally leaping from limb to limb, birds screeching.


    Beyond the psychic beast park is the psychic herb garden, plus some simple houses.


    The old psychic herb garden was inside the beast park, but as another beast blood fruit tree grew, it gradually squeezed out space for the psychic herbs, so Amelia moved the garden.


    Those houses are home to a dozen teens from Gratitude Village, helping to plant herbs, giving Amelia more time to cultivate psychic herbs, and maybe even train a few pharmacists for Gratitude Village.


    And before all of Blackwood, there''s Gratitude Village.


    They''re spread all around Blackwood, like guards protecting the whole place.


    Ethan was still keeping an eye on Blackwood''s progress, feeling a whole lot of pride. Even though they couldn''t push further into the Silver Iron Forest, Blackwood was still growing in an organized fashion.


    In their ranks, they now boasted over a dozen Psychics.


    Especially Julian, that dude, always dreaming about making War AI Bionic Robots, but never slacking off when it came to arming Blackwood!


    He led the Gratitude Village blacksmiths, working day and night to forge gear, even the tailors were hustling.


    Now, Blackwood''s guards were all decked out in chainmail made from black iron, looking mighty fine under the sun. They each wielded a long sword forged from black iron and carried a triple-strength bow made from black iron and beast sinew on their backs.


    With over a hundred guards firing these bows at once, even someone at the Emerging Ability stage would have to think twice about taking all those arrows head-on.


    Just as he was admiring the family''s progress, a notification popped up on the screen¡ª


    [Your descendants have a matter to consult you about.]


    The family cultivating psychic powers simulator game was getting more human-like by the day. Whenever someone from Blackwood needed him at the ancestral hall, time would automatically slow down, and the game would alert him.


    He quickly switched perspectives.


    "Lucas and Olivia, huh?"


    By now, Nathan had reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy and had started a strict retreat, vowing not to emerge until he broke through to Emerging Ability. Amelia and Julian, those workhorses, spent nearly all their time on alchemy and crafting psychic gear, only showing up in Blackwood if there was something they couldn''t handle.


    As for Luna, she was currently taming a psychic beast in the beast park.


    "Hiss¡ªSss¡ª"


    The Purple Lightning Python in the ancestral hall opened its eyes and hissed.


    The siblings quickly knelt before the Forebearer cards, "Greetings, Forebearer!"


    Olivia said, "Forebearer, I have a bold idea I''d like to discuss."


    "Oh? An idea?" Ethan raised an eyebrow. It had been a while since anyone in Blackwood had come to him with their own suggestions.


    He typed into the computer, saying.


    As the temple guardian beast hissed, Olivia continued:


    "Since we can''t continue to develop the Silver Iron Forest, maybe we should shift our focus and start doing business with Forest Town. After all, over the years, we''ve accumulated a large stockpile of beast hides and picked a lot of useless psychic herbs in the Silver Iron Forest, filling up our warehouses."


    "Ah?"


    Lucas''s eyes widened in disbelief, looking at his sister, "Sis, we''ve already tricked them once, Forest Town can''t possibly fall for it again, right?"

 Chapter 32: Chapter 32: Beast Tamer

    "Doing business with Forest Town, huh?" Ethan''s face lit up with interest as he kept tabs on Blackwood''s growth. Olivia had always been a bookworm since she was a kid, and now it seemed that this girl was really something special.


    He quickly typed into the game, encouraging Olivia to continue.


    With the go-ahead, Olivia ignored her shocked brother and began speaking softly, "Forebearer, I know we have blood feuds with the Heath and Gonzalez families of Forest, but that doesn''t mean we can''t trade with the other two families."


    "People are selfish and greedy."


    "They say the four big families of Forest Town are united, but at the end of the day, they''re not one big happy family. I''ve checked, and because of the drought over the years, each of their families is facing troubles, many industries are struggling to continue, especially since they''re afraid of us in Blackwood going on a rampage, they don''t even dare to hunt in the Silver Iron Forest."


    "Moreover, our feud with the Heath and Gonzalez families has nothing to do with them."


    "Our trading terms are valid."


    Listening to Olivia, Ethan took a swig of his Coke and then sent another command to the Purple Lightning Python, signaling Olivia to continue.


    Olivia took a deep breath, "We should try to trade with them, show them our sincerity, this is just the beginning."


    "What will the Heath and Gonzalez families think next?"


    "Their relationship will start to crack irreparably, and the Su and Chen families will gradually realize that we, Blackwood, could replace the Heath and Gonzalez families!"


    "The alliance of Forest Town will crumble on its own, and we will have our revenge!"


    Slap!


    Ethan smacked his thigh; Olivia''s years of reading hadn''t gone to waste. Although she had no combat power, Olivia''s intelligence could match that of someone at the Emerging Ability stage!


    But Olivia''s next words made Ethan twitch.


    "This is all an open strategy, next we can completely step back behind the scenes when the conflicts in Forest Town escalate!"


    "It would be best if we secretly eliminate their heirs and frame others."


    "Without their descendants, they will be utterly desperate, they will fight each other to the death, and we will dominate Forest Town without lifting a finger!"


    "Without the presence of Psychics, chaos and death will descend upon Forest Town, forty thousand civilians will gradually die in this year of drought, and vengeful spirits will take over the city, we will get a lot of corpses to nourish the beast blood fruit trees!"


    ???


    Ethan''s face darkened, sometimes he felt a bit unscrupulous, but now, looking at the text above Olivia''s head, he felt relieved.


    Not just Ethan.


    Even Lucas incredulously looked at his sister, even moving a step away and swallowing hard.


    Next.


    Ethan and Olivia talked in detail for a moment, then continued to check on the family''s development. Schemes are just schemes, but everything needs to be seen in actual operation.


    No matter what kind of cunning plan, it all depends on the premise of strong power.


    It''s been 29 years since the Blackwood clan started their gig, and they''ve built up a self-sustaining village. Lucas is still the head honcho, running the family operations like a boss.


    He''s got a crew of 150 guards, all decked out in thick black iron chainmail and each packing fifteen iron arrows. Seriously, any one of these guys could go head-to-head with a Psychic at the Foundational Energy level.


    Ethan reckons that if all 150 of these dudes fired at once, any newbie Psychic just stepping into the Emerging Ability phase without any fancy defensive tricks would end up looking like a hedgehog. That is, if they don''t manage to dodge.


    Even though Lucas is busy managing the family biz, he hasn''t slacked off on powering up his psychic abilities.


    Lucas (Second Generation)


    Level: Foundational Energy, Level 8


    Skills: Qi Gathering Technique, Autumn Wind Steps, Basic Swordsmanship, Sword Glow


    Traits: Killing Potential


    Gear: Psychic Breath Sword, God Confusing Pendant, Black Iron Beast Blood Set


    That Autumn Wind Step is a slick move he picked up from a scrap with Elder Gonzalez. It''s quick like a gust in fall, but every step packs a deadly punch. And that''s just one of the many skills the Blackwood crew has in their arsenal now, with a whole library of six or seven skill manuals.


    Most of their gear, including the trippy God Confusing Pendant that messes with your head and boosts your psychic powers, came from the Heath and Gonzalez families.


    Now, about that Black Iron Beast Blood Set...


    Julian, after becoming a psychic gear craftsman, has a pretty wild way of making gear, full of randomness. The randomness comes from this dude mixing all sorts of beast heart blood in a big pot and sealing it with magic.


    He calls this mix in the pot the ''Blood Altar''.


    Whenever he needs to make some psychic gear, he tosses the materials in the Blood Altar and lets them soak for 49 days. Then he starts hammering away, crafting gear whose powers even he can''t predict. And all the gear he makes is pretty basic; he calls it ''Destiny Forged Psychic Gear''.


    The Black Iron Beast Blood Set is Julian''s masterpiece, and every member of Blackwood rocks a set! When Lucas wears his set, it shows a dark red hue, including a robe, underarmor, gloves, belt, pants, and boots.


    Its special trick is a chameleon-like blending with the environment, and when powered up with psychic energy, it can summon two blood tigers to attack the enemy.


    Next up are Julian and Amelia.


    Both have reached Level 6 in Foundational Energy. Julian might be obsessed with blacksmithing, but don''t underestimate his strength.


    If you''re wondering who''s the toughest in Blackwood, it''s definitely Julian. All that hammering not only shapes metal but also his physique. He wields two hammers; the smaller one, made entirely of pure black iron and weighing about 50 pounds, he swings with one hand as easily as pointing a finger.


    The big hammer...


    The handle is as tall as a man, and the hammerhead is thicker than Julian''s broad shoulders. Ethan believes that if anyone in the Emerging Ability phase dared to take a direct hit from Julian''s hammer, they''d be smashed into the ground like a nail.


    Of course, using that monster in a fight is out of the question. Julian made it for blacksmithing, and swinging it more than three times would totally wipe him out, let alone hitting anything.


    Amelia, this gal, might be a pharmacist, but she''s way more than just your average healer.


    The "Thousand Herbs Scripture" details the art of potion-making, and whipping up poisons is like the cherry on top in that book.


    So, this one time, some baddies decided to invade.


    They thought they had an easy target when they stumbled into the supernatural garden and saw Amelia, just a lady on her own.


    Ethan caught on but hadn''t yet whipped out his ''Forebearer''s Fury'' to come to the rescue.


    Before he could, a level eight Foundational Energy assassin had already fallen into Amelia''s trap. She had a swarm of purple bees, and getting stung meant slowly losing your strength until all your supernatural powers were drained¡ªtotally kaput.


    As for Nathan, that dude was still cooped up in Blackwood''s secret chamber, been two years without a breakthrough.


    He''s been hoarding his supernatural powers, trying to bust open all his body''s energy points.


    Of course, jumping from Foundational Energy to Emerging Ability ain''t as easy as it sounds. Each major level up is like cracking open the human genetic lock, a complete transformation.


    Before Foundational Energy, you''re just mortal. Reach Emerging Ability, and you can rejuvenate your body, bagging over two hundred years of life, and your Psychic Constitution gets a nice boost too.


    A perfect Emerging Ability is like flipping fate on its head.


    [Luna tamed her spirit beast ''Heavenly Moon Fox'' with beast-contracting skills!]


    [Achieved the profession: Beast Tamer!]


    [Gained trait: Fox Handler]


    [Gained Spiritual Tribute +100!]


    Outta nowhere, the game throws out this great news.


    In the beast garden, there''s Luna, surrounded by creatures, sitting cross-legged with a ghostly white fox appearing around her!


    "Who would''ve thought, Luna, you''re a tough cookie, keeping it real low-key!" Ethan was all lit up, just when he thought Nathan was defying fate.


    Turns out Nathan''s better half has already nailed it!


    [Luna (Nathan''s wife)]


    [Profession: Beast Tamer]


    [Level: Foundational Energy Level 5]


    [Skills: Energy Gathering, Beast Taming]


    [Trait: Fox Handler]


    [Fox Handler: Contracted with the supernatural beast ''Heavenly Moon Fox'' as her spirit beast, sharing its lifespan and magical powers!] S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Being a Beast Tamer is kinda niche.


    In Ethan''s memory, throughout the thousand-year history of supernatural resurgence, Beast Tamers were once top dogs, always drawing various powers from their beasts.


    And now.


    By bonding with a supernatural beast, Luna''s basically got the strength of someone in the Emerging Ability phase. With the Heavenly Moon Fox''s combat prowess, she''s even hit mid-Emerging Ability, making her the strongest in the Blackwood crew!


    She''s even surpassed the two-hundred-year lifespan mark. These beasties live long, and blessed by the moonlight, the Heavenly Moon Fox can live up to a thousand years!


    "Wowza."


    Ethan was amazed and happy to see Blackwood''s daughter-in-law thriving.


    But compared to Luna, Lucas''s wife Karen is just plain Jane.


    Karen''s dad, Thomas, is a Psychic, but Karen''s just a mortal. Even with Blackwood''s resources, she''s only at Foundational Energy level one, pampered and lazy. Since marrying Lucas, she''s put on some weight, but now she''s showing again.


    At least their kid Marcus is doing alright.


    At 8, Marcus has hit Foundational Energy level two. His triple Psychic Constitution makes his psychic power cultivation faster, plus with Blackwood''s current resources and past experiences, he''s well-supported.


    Good thing the kid''s been soaking up the Blackwood vibe since he was little, not picking up his mom''s bad habits. He''s not as hardworking as the other Blackwood members, but he''s doing alright.


    "The next big ritual''s about to kick off."


    Ethan, looking at the screen, was feeling pretty nostalgic.


    He''d only been playing for a bit over a day.


    But in the game world, nearly thirty years had passed, and he''d watched the Blackwood kids grow up.


    Just as he was about to stretch and prep for the upcoming Divine Gift,


    Olivia appeared in the temple on the screen.


    "Forebearer, after a year, Olivia finally gained the trust of the Rodriguez and Martinez families!"

 Chapter 33: Chapter 33: The ceremony begins!

    "Got the trust?" Ethan squinted his eyes; sometimes, setting up a plan also required a lot of time.


    However, playing this game, Ethan was more focused on the development of the Blackwoods.


    With time accelerated, he had no idea what Olivia had done, so he had to ask the Purple Thunder Python.


    With the temple guardian beast making an inquiry, Olivia immediately understood. She respectfully said, "Forebearer, we have our people in Forest Town. I''ve always had them watch the actions of the four major families. Finally, three months ago, I dispatched a maid from the Martinez family who brought news that the young master of the Martinez family had secretly gone to a brothel."


    "So, I had my sister prepare a drug that incites lust, and that night, Garcia Dexter, who once severely injured our father, was also there, drunk to the point of oblivion."


    "I had someone take him to the lustful young master Martinez''s room..."


    Ethan slid off his chair in shock, utterly blown away by the events of that night, too beautiful to imagine.


    "The next day, Dexter woke up and scoured the world for Parker Martinez, vowing to fight him to the death."


    "Later, Parker fled Forest Town, and under my arrangement, he encountered danger and came to our Gratitude Village."


    "The fourth brother of the Martinez family head has been secretly contacting me to save Parker''s life."


    Ethan was full of emotions. He deeply admired Olivia''s step-by-step planning, at least he couldn''t think of such... unique ideas.


    And while Olivia was recounting all this, her face didn''t turn red, and her heart didn''t skip a beat; it seemed she felt that as long as the goal was achieved, the process no longer mattered.


    She was even somewhat dissatisfied with the current outcome.


    "Forebearer, Olivia still miscalculated. I thought Dexter would sober up earlier and kill Parker, after which we could then proactively contact his father. But unexpectedly, Parker is still alive."


    Ethan was speechless, silently typing¡ª


    "Life is unpredictable, just watch as it unfolds."


    As the Purple Thunder Python responded, Olivia''s eyes lit up, "Olivia understands now, Forebearer means we can strike again. While the Martinez family is sending people for a deal, we can have someone take Parker to meet the Martinez family. At the same time, we secretly inform Garcia. Dexter, a man who never forgets a grudge, will not let Parker go!"


    "That... will make things even bigger!"


    "This is the unpredictability of life, a plot within a plot. Even if the Martinez family knows it was us, they have already seen blood. We have become enemies of Garcia just like them, and the enemy of our enemy is our friend!"


    Ethan took a deep breath.


    This second-generation descendant was definitely the most ruthless person he had ever met in his life.


    "Go ahead."


    Ethan had nothing more to say. Olivia had clearly planned everything, and his interference would only backfire.


    His goal was also simple.


    That was to break through Forest Town''s blockade against the Blackwoods and conduct trade!


    If they could completely resolve the two enemies of the Blackwoods and swallow the whole Forest Town, the progress of the Blackwoods would be even more rapid!


    Ethan was checking the map when he noticed that outside Gratitude Village, Lucas was fleeing back to the village with a couple of psychic beasts and a group of battered people.


    Nowadays, Blackwood had five psychic beasts, excluding the one contracted by Luna, leaving four.


    These were all products of the Silver Iron Forest, and with the help of the Purple Thunder Solar Python and Luna''s persistent taming, they had no choice but to submit.


    The Hundred-Eye Demon Spider, the Gale Wing Tiger, the Morning Sun Beast, and the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon were among them.


    At this moment, Lucas was accompanied by the latter two.


    The Morning Sun Beast, a bird-like psychic beast resembling a crane but with red feathers, could turn its demonic energy into fierce fire when flying. It usually helped Julian craft psychic equipment.


    The Eight-Leaf Flower Demon was a floral psychic beast that had gained psychic intelligence over the years and had taken on a beast form.


    It could move with its roots and take root as soon as it touched the ground, injuring people with its flying leaves and bewildering their minds.


    It was also the weakest psychic beast Luna had ever seen... As long as one wasn''t beguiled by it or injured by its eight leaves, even an Iron Will could burn it with a single fire.


    At that moment, outside a house, pink dust fluttered from the blossom of the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon. Unbeknownst to them, the injured inside the house being treated by Amelia were full of sorrow and anger.


    "Garcia Dexter, you killed my people, this enmity is irreconcilable!"


    "If it weren''t for the timely rescue by Young Master Blackwood, we might have also lost our lives."


    "I can''t believe Dexter could be so heartless!"


    Watching the words above the heads of those animated characters in the house, Ethan''s eyebrows raised slightly. He knew Olivia''s plan had succeeded, and even better than expected!


    As Ethan watched with interest, a maid outside pushed the frail Olivia into the room.


    "This is..."


    Of the Martinez family members saved, four were present, led by a middle-aged man known to Ethan as Jerry, the third brother of the Martinez family head, with a cultivation level of nine in Foundational Energy.


    As for Parker... that kid and his father were ambushed and killed by Dexter''s traps on the road.


    Having already met the Martinez family members on the road, Lucas smiled and introduced, "Friends of the Martinez family, this is my younger sister, Olivia."


    After the introductions, Olivia furrowed her brows and said in a serious tone, "Uncle Jerry, I want to ask if your Martinez family has had a longstanding grudge with the Garcias?"


    "A longstanding grudge? Why do you ask, niece Olivia?" Jerry pondered for a moment before responding, "If we''re talking about grudges, there are indeed many. To be honest, you might have heard that the four major families of Forest Town are united against a common enemy, but that''s just an outsider''s perspective. "


    "Twenty years ago, my Martinez family was competing with the Garcias over a stone ores, and both families suffered many casualties. Dexter''s uncle also died in that accident."


    "I thought so," Olivia sighed deeply.


    Seeing Olivia like this, Jerry was even more puzzled. "Why do you sigh, niece?"


    "Not to hide anything from you, when Parker fled to our Blackwood, he mentioned that he was dazed that night and didn''t know what happened. The next day, Dexter was already calling for his head, and Dexter seemed to have the upper hand," Olivia explained.


    "Dexter had the whole town hunting Parker, yet Parker still managed to escape Forest Town. Isn''t that curious?" Jerry''s expression changed. "What are you trying to say?"


    "I''m saying, all this could very well be a trap set by the Garcias!" Olivia looked somewhat relieved.


    "A trap?" Jerry seemed to realize something.


    "Yes, a trap!" Olivia continued passionately, "Over the years, we Blackwoods have had a blood feud with the Garcias, and you know that, Uncle Jerry. But your relationship with the Garcias isn''t good either. So, behind the scenes, the Garcias have been plotting to wipe us out in one fell swoop."


    "They deliberately created the conflict between Dexter and Parker, and intentionally let Parker escape, all for today!"


    "Think about it, Uncle Jerry. If your Martinez people were all killed on their way to Blackwood to pick up Parker, what would the Martinez family think?"


    Jerry finally turned pale.


    "Our Martinez family would think it was your Blackwoods who did it, especially since you had previously... lured Gonzalez''s people to Blackwood and killed them."


    "Exactly," Olivia said, frightened by the thought. "This way, the Garcias could kill your Martinez people and also make your Martinez family resent us. Then, they could incite you to be our enemies!"


    With a bitter smile, Olivia concluded, "If that happens, being enemies with three major families of Forest Town at the same time, our Blackwood would indeed face a great disaster."


    "Man, that''s some cold-blooded strategy!" Jerry gritted his teeth, and even with a broken leg, he struggled to stand up. "I''m heading back now to tell our old man, and make Garcia pay the price!"


    But Olivia shook her head, "Hold up, Uncle Jerry. You think Dexter played you dirty, do you really think they''ll let you get back alive? I bet the road to Forest Town is already crawling with Garcia''s traps."


    Jerry finally cooled down a bit.


    Olivia continued, "You should stay here in Blackwood and get better, Uncle. We''ll keep on with our business dealings in the meantime. As for making Garcia pay, we should play the long game. "


    "After all, this family feud is a matter of life and death. You really need to think about whether it''s worth putting your Martinez and Heath families in such grave danger."


    Jerry sighed deeply, "These days, both Garcia and Gonzalez are saying you Blackwoods are ruthless, really gives one the chills."


    It''s all you, huh!


    Watching the game screen, Ethan felt a bit of admiration.


    At such a young age, Olivia was almost devilishly clever! She had grasped all the details, step by step drawing Garcia and Martinez into a deep pit of hostility, even making Blackwood appear as a benevolent and charitable family in front of Jerry.


    After Olivia was pushed out of the room, Ethan immediately sent some ''Forebearer''s Love'' her way.


    "Thanks for the Forebearer''s blessing!" Olivia''s face was full of smiles, delighted by the Forebearer''s reward, a reward she had received countless times before. She was frail and easily fell ill, often suffering from colds or fevers, and it was always the Forebearer''s grace that cured her ailments.


    Otherwise, Olivia wasn''t even sure if she could have lived to her current age.


    This was also why Olivia dared to pursue the arduous path of scholarly cultivation with her frail body, believing that the Forebearer would protect everyone in the family. The Forebearer had supernatural abilities and cared for her more than her own parents.


    Meanwhile, on the screen.


    Ethan watched as Lucas and the Martinez family discussed business inside the house. Blackwood had a wealth of herbs, exotic beast materials, food, and even young exotic beasts.


    The Martinez family, on the other hand, had various resources and even owned a trading company in the county town.


    It wouldn''t be long before Blackwood gained a massive amount of resources for the family''s development through this deal!


    Before long.


    The deal was sealed, and Jerry was recuperating in Blackwood. As the heavy snow fell, all of Blackwood gathered in the ancestral hall.


    Even Nathan, who had been in seclusion, temporarily broke his meditation, his face covered in stubble. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The once-in-a-decade grand ceremony began!


    [Your family has sent you a massive Tribute Offering!]

 Chapter 34: Chapter 34: Golden Psychic Bath

    [Your descendants offer you a Tribute Offering¡ª]


    [50 Beast Blood Fruits!]


    [Top-grade psychic equipment, the Breath Sword!]


    [A set of Black Iron Beast Blood Armor...]


    Ethan looked at the various Tribute Offerings on the game''s altar. Although he had communicated earlier that he only wanted the Beast Blood Fruits, it seemed the Blackwood descendants really thought these items were being sent to the underworld, sending over their most precious treasures all at once.


    [You choose to take out the Tribute Offering¡ªBeast Blood Fruits.]


    After checking everything, Ethan only took out the Beast Blood Fruits.


    "The new Beast Blood Fruit tree has grown, and it looks like we can harvest again in the next ten years."


    Ethan calculated the harvest; he left half of these Beast Blood Fruits for Blackwood and took half for himself, knowing that the growth of the Blackwood descendants was essential. Only if they were strong enough would he benefit more in the future!


    "Harvest every ten years, I can harvest twice a day, next time 100 pieces each, 30,000, I can get 30,000 Energy Stones a day!"


    Even Ethan drooled over this calculation.


    You know, even as a member of Blackwood, he only gets 300 Energy Stones a month for pocket money!


    Isn''t this a direct flight to wealth?


    While excited, Ethan still kept his cool, even planning what to do in the future.


    Then his gaze returned to the game.


    [For this grand ceremony, do you want to use the ''Forebearer''s Divine Gift''?]


    He rubbed the space ring in his hand.


    He had already prepared the Divine Gift for this occasion!


    Given the current situation in Blackwood, they had already formed their own forces and were self-sufficient, protected by the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the War AI Bionic Robot, seeming very powerful, but it was not enough!


    If the four major families of Forest Town invaded Blackwood, Ethan could at most use his skills to deal with one enemy.


    With a thought, S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    An ancient book covered in dust appeared in his hand.


    [Detecting your Divine Gift¡ª]


    [Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map!]


    [Delivering Divine Gift!]


    "Forebearer Divine Gift has arrived!"


    "Every grand ceremony the Forebearer sends us great stuff, but we descendants can only send some useless things, this... how can we be at peace with this."


    "Thanks to the Forebearer Divine Gift!"


    The family was moved to tears.


    [Your descendants feel valued.]


    [Received Spiritual Tribute +300!]


    "Quick, let''s see what the Forebearer has sent."


    Nathan quickly instructed Lucas to fetch it.


    Lucas was spellbound the moment he opened the ancient book next to the altar''s bronze furnace.


    "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map!"


    ...


    Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map!


    Watching the descendants'' joyful expressions when they received the book, Ethan was not surprised.


    This formation map, a relic from a thousand years ago when psychic abilities resurged in the real world, has enabled Blackwood to develop and grow over the millennium, becoming one of the leading forces in the federation!


    As for how this thing came about?


    Ethan had only heard about it.


    It is said that when psychic abilities resurged a thousand years ago, Blackwood''s Forebearer seemed to have an overnight enlightenment, gaining a wealth of powerful knowledge and leading the entire Blackwood clan to grow from the very beginning.


    This Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map, based on the Forebearer''s cards, can gather the power of all members loyal to Blackwood and protect a piece of land.


    Because of this formation map, Blackwood has turned danger into safety time and again.


    This formation map is only available to the most core direct descendants and is a closely guarded secret of Blackwood.


    But now...


    "Damn it, Mark took everyone and ran off, leaving just me. Do I still care about the Forebearer?"


    Ethan complained, obviously still resentful about being abandoned by all of Blackwood.


    He began to focus on the game.


    Time was maxed out again, Ethan waited for Blackwood to figure out how to use the "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map" while also waiting for the trade between Blackwood and the Martinez family.


    Actually, what Olivia said before was quite right.


    Blackwood had encountered a development bottleneck because they feared the unknown demon king of the Silver Iron Woods, preventing them from developing it, and the direction towards Forest Town was already blocked by the Heath and Gonzalez families.


    It''s not just about not being able to get more resources.


    But...


    Ethan also had a small goal, to dominate the entire Forest Town and become the landlord directly!


    The game world''s time also reached the freezing point, a year of severe drought in winter with no snow, only cold wind and dryness.


    The Martinez family had already been sent back to Forest Town and returned to Gratitude Village within a few days.


    And they brought a lot of resources!


    This time the Martinez family was still led by Jerry, who was trading with Lucas and Olivia, also because Lucas had saved Jerry last time, the Martinez family had enough trust in Blackwood, they even brought resources directly.


    [Your family is trading with the Martinez family.]


    [Acquired a large amount of ''Jinling Grass'']


    [Acquired a large amount of ''Black Glint Essence Stone'']


    [Acquired...]


    Seeing these traded items, Ethan was overjoyed.


    Time flies in the game world, and for the Blackwoods, having the power to protect and develop their family has become crucial over the past thirty years. As the family grew, the importance of resources also increased!


    Amelia''s progress in potion-making had hit a snag. She could only cultivate four types of herbs from the Silver Iron Forest, and from the "Herbal Compendium," only four potions could be made.


    These included a clotting powder for external injuries, a body-strengthening powder for those under level five Iron Will Psychic, a seven-flavor soup to speed up the acquisition of psychic abilities, and a lethal potion that worked on contact with blood.


    The foreign psychic medicines seemed very valuable now.


    If they could get the "Golden Spirit Grass" from the Martinez family, combined with some of Blackwood''s psychic medicines, Amelia could even concoct a "Golden Psychic Bath" that could boost a Psychic''s constitution by 1-8 points¡ªa potent potion easily made from the "Herbal Compendium."


    The Martinez family also owned two ore fields.

 Chapter 35: Chapter 35: Betrayal Unveiled

    One was the Black Gleam Crystal Ores, which produced a significant amount of black stones every five years, forming the foundation of the Martinez family. These black gleam crystals could be used to pave the floor of a training room, enhancing the speed of psychic power cultivation by 50% and aiding in meditation.


    The other was the Moonlight Stone, an energy stone used in forging psychic gear, typically embedded to enhance the power of psychic equipment and save on psychic energy consumption.


    "Hmph, I knew Garcia and Gonzalez were just spouting nonsense. You Blackwoods really keep your word," Jerry said, clearly satisfied with the transaction, as Ethan noticed the text above his head.


    "Rest assured, from now on, you are our partners. The potions your alchemists make and the psychic gear your craftsmen forge can be traded through our family to other towns!"


    Of course, Ethan could see that the Martinez family''s eagerness wasn''t just because the Blackwoods kept their promises. It was because of Amelia and Julian''s presence. Though only ninth rank, they were hot commodities wherever they went.


    As the Martinez family left, the Blackwoods were overjoyed.


    "This is great! Trading with the Martinez family means we can get all sorts of resources. We''ve finally broken the blockade of Forest Town. My Golden Psychic Bath has a future now. Just need to partner up with the Su family, and I can make even more potions!" Amelia seemed only to get this excited about potion-making.


    "The Black Gleam Crystals sold to us by the Martinez family can be used to build a training room that can accommodate a hundred people. I''ll handle this," Julian licked his lips. "And the Moonlight Stones, hand over your psychic gear, and I''ll give them a refresh. Big bro, even your high-grade psychic sword can take a stab at it."


    "Give it a shot, take it. I''m really not used to this psychic breath sword," Lucas grinned.


    "And Julian, remember my 150 sets of Black Iron Beast Blood suits, Black Blood Bows, and Black Blood Knives. Once we have a 150-person Iron Will guard squad, these items will come in handy. I''ve even thought of a name for them¡ªThe Black Blood Hall!"


    "150 sets? Big bro, you''re really greedy. These items will keep me busy refining for years. You better check if we have enough Black Iron ores first."


    "Once we take over the whole of Forest Town, everything will be within our reach," Olivia said lightly from her wheelchair, drawing the attention of her siblings.


    But they had no doubts about their youngest sister''s capabilities.


    Neither did Ethan, watching from his screen.


    Congratulations! Your descendants have acquired a wealth of resources, and they know it was with your approval that Olivia implemented the plan to secure the deal with the Martinez family. They hold you in even higher esteem now.


    [You''ve earned a Spiritual Tribute +100!]


    In the days that followed, the Blackwoods began a bustling period of development. With Lucas''s promise, the guard team, upon becoming Iron Will Psychics, would be granted psychic equipment, and they started intensely cultivating their psychic powers. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Ethan continued to decode the "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map" from his Divine Gift, Lucas began gathering a hundred people from Gratitude Village every day... for tattooing! The ink was made from the blood of the Blackwoods, mixed with various other materials.


    Ethan saw a villager lift his shirt to reveal a beautifully inscribed ''B'' on his chest, followed by another villager who had the same letter inscribed on another part of his body, and some even wanted it on their buttocks.


    It turns out that the first step to completing the "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map" was to mark all those loyal to Blackwood with a symbol made from Blackwood blood. This was to gather everyone''s strength around the Blackwoods in times of crisis.


    The second step was even more complex than the branding. It involved engraving a huge formation map within the range of the big array, which would take years to complete across the entire Blackwood residence.


    Finally, as spring arrived, all the people of Blackwood gathered together, anxiously awaiting in the birthing room. With the cry of a newborn baby, everyone burst into joy.


    [Karen has successfully given birth to a son after ten months, named Daniel!]


    [Congratulations, you''ve earned a Spiritual Tribute +10!]


    Karen, who had always been a bit lazy, didn''t have a child as outstanding as Marcus, even though the child also had a mixed Psychic Constitution of five elements.


    The strongest, the Fire Psychic Constitution, only reached a score of 48.


    However, what surprised Ethan in the game was that.


    Daniel had just been born, and Lucas was holding the child in the room, but he didn''t even glance at Karen, who had just given birth. The other Blackwoods also looked at Karen occasionally, their expressions mocking or even disgusted.


    "Lucas, let me hold the child," Karen pleaded, her eyes red.


    Lucas thought for a moment and then handed the child to Karen, then said coldly, "Karen, I''ve been good to you over the years. But time and again, you''ve taken advantage of our Blackwood resources, even stealing psychic medicines and beast blood fruits from our treasury for your brother and father."


    "After Daniel''s birth, we are no longer husband and wife, and you no longer have any ties with us Blackwoods."


    "Considering our past relationship, from now on you can live in Gratitude Village under my protection, and you can see Marcus and Daniel. I don''t want them to be without a mother. But remember, sparing your lives is already a great mercy. I only hope that you and your Brown family will live quietly and obediently."


    Karen cried out, "Lucas, give me another chance, I will change, I dare not do it again."


    "You''ve already had many chances," said Olivia, caressing the handles of her wheelchair, her face expressionless. "Did you Brown family really think you could get away with these deeds under my watch? But you''ve gone too far. We Blackwoods can accept mediocrity, but we cannot accept betrayal and deceit."


    As she spoke, Olivia looked towards Marcus, who was standing with his head bowed, and said softly, "Nephew, you''ve grown up, and you should know the truth about these matters."


    "Uh-huh," Marcus murmured, choking up, his head still bowed, his eyes red.

 Chapter 36: Chapter 36: Mark of Humiliation

    "Man, what a mess," Ethan sighed heavily, reflecting on the whole debacle with Lucas and Karen.


    Lucas had once confessed at the Forebearer''s shrine, regretting his youthful ignorance in choosing a partner like Karen and lamenting his poor judgment.


    Every family has its own set of challenges, and no one can predict how the people they cherish might change over time.


    However, Lucas handled the situation pretty well, considering the circumstances. Human ambition knows no bounds, and had Lucas allowed the Brown family to run wild, it could have led to unbearable losses.


    Unfortunately, the ones who really got the short end of the stick were Marcus and Daniel, the kids caught in the middle of this mess.


    In the game interface late at night, Marcus, who had been holding back tears all day, was seen cradling Daniel in his arms, weeping under the candlelight before Ethan''s Forebearer shrine.


    "Forebearer, my mother... is a traitor!" he cried out. "From now on, everyone in our family and all our friends in Gratitude Village will know that my brother and I are the children of a traitor."


    No one knows the deep psychological scars a failed parent can leave on their children. The actions of Karen and the Brown family might very well become a shameful mark, forever branded on Marcus and Daniel.


    Bearing immense pain, Marcus acquired a new trait: the Mark of Humiliation. This would make him more self-conscious, reducing his mental state by 10%. To escape this humiliation, he would work harder than anyone else, using his inner shame as a baseline to boost his psychic power cultivation speed by 20%!


    Ethan watched as Marcus acquired these traits and shook his head, unsure of how to comfort him. All he could do was cast a warm light using the ''Forebearer''s Love'' to soothe Marcus. Sensing Ethan''s intentions, the Purple Thunder Python extended its tongue from the darkness. It licked Marcus''s face, offering him a small comfort..


    "Thank you, Forebearer," Marcus whispered.


    In the dark of the night, the fragile soul nestled against the Purple Thunder Python and fell asleep. In the days that followed, Ethan made sure the Blackwood members took extra care of Lucas''s two children.


    As the year passed, the 31st year of Blackwood marked the end of a long drought, with a heavy rain that rejuvenated the earth. "Has this twenty-year drought finally ended?" Ethan breathed a sigh of relief. He had never experienced such a disaster on Earth, only hearing tales of extreme hardship from the refugees of Gratitude Village.


    After the rain, all the villagers ran out of their houses, soaking in the long-awaited rain as if thanking the heavens for finally forgiving their sins, celebrating the much-needed downpour.


    After three years of intense focus, Nathan had an epiphany and successfully unlocked his Emerging Ability, becoming an early-stage Psychic!


    "Ha ha ha, it''s done, Forebearer, your foolish descendant Nathan has finally made it!"


    In the secluded room, Nathan, now 51 and previously showing signs of aging with streaks of white in his hair, had undergone a transformation. Post-breakthrough, his hair turned black again, and the wrinkles on his face smoothed out, making him look like a determined man in his thirties, much more youthful and vibrant than before.


    Even standing next to Lucas, one might mistake them for brothers!


    [Nathan]


    [Stage: Early Emerging Ability]


    [Techniques: Qi Intake Technique, Basic Swordsmanship, Dragon Step]


    [Traits: Determined, Boar Slayer, Forest Hunter]


    The breakthrough to the Emerging Ability stage was truly a metamorphosis, a process known as the ''Hundred Days of Emerging Ability,'' where they cleanse their bodies of impurities to create better conditions for cultivating psychic powers.


    Every limb, every organ, purified. The Iron Will ability resides in the governing and conception vessels, while the Emerging Ability stage works through the meridian pathways!


    Even the Psychic Constitution strengthens during this phase!


    After three years of Emerging Ability cultivation, Nathan''s Psychic Constitution now comprised only the metal, fire, and earth elements, each quality exceeding 60.


    The strength of the Emerging Ability also comes from breaking the physical human limitations.


    They possess more diverse abilities, including ''Insight,'' which allows them to see others'' energy flows and roughly gauge the strength of their abilities. They can also gather ''Spiritual Sense,'' not just sensing their surroundings through their senses but feeling everything in a 360-degree radius without blind spots.


    They can even ''Perceive the Minute,'' seeing the smallest details. Their bodies harbor a ''Pill Fire,'' essential for condensing their psychic energy into a pill, a crucial step for breaking through to the D-level!


    This is why the Heath and Gonzalez families'' Psychics, upon entering Blackwood territory, looked down on these Iron Will Psychics.


    Because these two were practically from different dimensions.


    It''s also why they didn''t hesitate to flee when they encountered the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the War AI Bionic Robot, sensing the formidable power of these beings.


    "We finally have a true Emerging Ability Psychic in Blackwood," Ethan declared, sending Nathan a ''Forebearer''s Love'' without hesitation. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The reason Nathan is considered a true Emerging Ability Psychic in Blackwood, unlike Luna¡ªwho doesn''t count since she''s a Beast Master, having bonded with the Heavenly Moon Fox¡ªis that she''s more akin to a demonic cultivator.


    As Nathan broke through, the people of Blackwood gathered once again to celebrate him!


    However, their celebration was not open to outsiders; only they knew about it.


    After all, only hidden strength is the real trump card.


    "Thanks to the Forebearer for all the help, otherwise, silly me could never have broken through to Emerging Ability. The Divine Gift from the Forebearer has always been aiding me."


    More expressions of deep gratitude followed.


    After the ceremony, Luna looked at her husband joyfully. As time passed, Luna, who had bonded with the Heavenly Moon Fox, seemed to grow more beautiful and even noble, making it hard to believe she was once just an ordinary farmer''s daughter. "Honey, this is great! With your breakthrough, our Blackwood family will be even stronger."


    "Honey, your..." Nathan looked bewilderedly at his wife, "Your strength..."

 Chapter 37: Chapter 37: Blood Fruits Strategy

    Nathan was aware that Luna had bonded with the Heavenly Moon Fox. However, it was only now that he truly felt the overwhelming extent of his wife''s formidable power. Luna''s aura was towering, nearly thirty feet high. In contrast, his own aura was merely two feet high.


    "Beast Mastery..." Luna slowly shared her experiences. Over the years, while Nathan was in seclusion, she didn''t want him to follow her path to Emerging Ability, as everyone''s journey to Emerging Ability was unique.


    After hearing about the wonders of Beast Mastery, Nathan finally understood. Filled with emotion, he exclaimed, "So that''s it, the Beast Mastery passed down by the Forebearer is truly extraordinary." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Saying this, he looked at his increasingly beautiful wife, stood up straighter, his old face blushing slightly, "Honey, there are some things I''d like to discuss back in our room."


    "You old flirt!" Luna playfully scolded, pulling Nathan into their room.


    "..."


    Ethan grimaced as he watched the screen. He quickly switched the view and muttered through gritted teeth, ''If you two keep flaunting your love in front of me, I''ll bury you apart, one in the Antarctic and the other in the Arctic!"


    He took a moment to compose himself.


    Ethan then continued to monitor the game screen, soon focusing on the values on the right side of the screen.


    [Spiritual Tribute: 5121]


    "Finally enough."


    He grinned, having watched the Spiritual Tribute value grow during this period in Blackwood.


    Reaching 5000 was also fulfilling another condition!


    The screen shifted to a cellar behind the Blackwood ancestral hall, where a huge mech was stored!


    He clicked on the War AI Bionic Robot.


    A long-awaited dialog box popped up on the screen.


    [To activate the War AI Bionic Robot operating system, 5000 Spiritual Tribute points are required.]


    [Detected that you have sufficient Spiritual Tribute.]


    [Would you like to establish a connection now? You will be able to control the mech and enter combat mode!]


    He had been waiting for this moment for a long time. He was eager to control the mech, see the first-person view in the game, and fight alongside the game''s clan members!


    He excitedly clicked¡ª


    [Yes!]


    "Mr. Ethan, here are the 3000 Energy Stones from our last deal, and the 500-inch LCD screen you asked for."


    As soon as the operating system was up, Alan had already arrived at Blackwood.


    Talk about perfect timing!


    Ethan collected the items he needed from Alan, who was sipping tea. He tossed him a Storage Ring and remarked, "Alan, those 20 blood fruits from last time were just a start. You handle things efficiently. Now, I''m giving you 80 more to see how you manage."


    "80 fruits?"


    Alan paused, then smiled, "Seems like Blackwood still doubts my capabilities. But alright, Mr. Ethan''s Blood Fruits do have a market. Give me three days, I can sell these 80 fruits."


    "Only three days to sell them?" Ethan asked, frowning in skepticism.


    He had calculated that Blackwood would give him at least 3000 Beast Blood Fruits a month. Selling just 80 in three days, how long would it take to sell them all?


    Seeing Ethan''s expression, Alan was not angry but pleased, which meant Ethan might have a large quantity of Blood Fruits. He quickly said, "Yes, first off, Blood Fruits are a new product, so I need to let buyers know about their effects and benefits. Buyers will introduce more buyers, creating market competition, and eventually, the volume sold will increase, and even the price... might go higher!"


    "So that''s how it works," Ethan said, finally relaxing as he acknowledged his lack of experience in sales.


    When sending Alan off, Ethan asked, "Alan, what about... that thing we agreed on?"


    "No worries, but it''s pricey. I''ve already had it sent over from outside the domain," Alan said with interest.


    "How many Energy Stones?"


    Alan held up two fingers, and seeing that Ethan didn''t mind, he added, "But let me say this upfront, once Mr. Ethan gets that thing, just play around with it, don''t let it be found out, or I really can''t cover for you."


    "Don''t worry." Ethan grinned, "If I get caught, I''ll tell them I didn''t get it from Alan."


    "..."


    Alan decided not to discuss these matters. He glanced at an old lady lingering outside the Blackwood gate, puzzled, "Isn''t that the psychic equipment artisan from number 12? Mr. Ethan, have you gotten yourself into trouble?"


    Ethan nonchalantly said, "Oh, I had her make some psychic equipment before, you know her, right?"


    "That explains it." Alan clearly knew of Grandma Quinn''s ''glorious deeds'', "Did Mr. Ethan make her suffer a loss? She couldn''t get a bargain from your psychic gear?"


    "I got someone to help, she didn''t dare. Look at me, weak and helpless, she only dares to trouble me."


    Ethan waved his hand.


    "No worries, Mr. Ethan, just be at ease, I have my ways."


    Alan then left the room.


    As Ethan closed the door, he faintly heard Alan''s laughter outside.


    "Ah? Psychic Auntie? What are you saying? How could I possibly know Ethan? No no, I don''t know him, right right, it''s none of my business."


    "..."


    Ethan''s facial muscles twitched violently. He thought Alan had a way to calm Grandma Quinn down, turns out this cunning businessman had a way to escape being affected by her, right?


    "Fine then."


    He wasn''t in a hurry, after all, Alan and he were just business partners, no need to get tangled in his troubles. Besides, these days, if you''re not targeted by a few masters, you really can''t claim to be mixing in the outside world!


    ...


    Back in his room, Ethan busied himself setting up the massive 500-inch LCD screen, which now covered an entire wall. This piece of tech was considered a relic in these times and required custom ordering.


    Ethan''s gaming was getting more serious, and a small screen just wouldn''t cut it anymore. A larger screen not only allowed him to see a broader map but also made navigation much easier.


    Especially when...


    **[You have activated the War AI Bionic Robot operating system!]**


    **[Autonomous activation available!]**


    In an instant, Ethan chose to activate it.

 Chapter 38: Chapter 38: Powerhouse Woman

    Suddenly, Ethan felt a moment of disorientation, and his vision appeared in a pitch-black cellar. He couldn''t feel his surroundings, yet he could sense the status of the War AI Bionic Robot!


    It was like being in a school, taking a course on mech operation.


    What was most peculiar was that he had another perspective¡ªthat of the real world¡ªwhere he was also using a mouse and keyboard, shifting views!


    He looked down.


    He could see mechanical arms. With just a thought, Ethan could manipulate the arms to move, then the legs... the whole body!


    Moreover, on the War AI Bionic Robot, he sensed the presence of hidden weapons.


    **[Laser Sword/A]**


    **[Left Arm Laser Cannon/S]**


    **[Right Arm Laser Cannon/D]**


    **[Flight Mode/Q]**


    **[...]**


    "Can it really do this? This is so cool!"


    Ethan suddenly burst out of the cellar, startling Julian who was worshiping in the shrine. This burly man, weighing over 200 pounds, was dumbfounded as he watched the robot take flight, "Forebearer''s showing off his powers, now this is what I call a man''s romance!"


    Not just him, everyone in Blackwood saw the mech soaring!


    Ethan then piloted the mech around the Blackwood residence, breaking through the clouds. Although he couldn''t precisely feel the world''s air or see the people who still looked animated, Ethan''s sensations became more and more vivid.


    He even stood in front of the descendants, observing them as if they were tiny animals, listening to their conversations, watching their astonished expressions¡ªit was increasingly wondrous.


    "It''s like a real world."


    Finally, after using up most of the War AI Bionic Robot''s special abilities, Ethan piloted the mech back to the cellar, his consciousness returning to the real world.


    But what Ethan was really focused on wasn''t just the perspective¡ªafter all, many VR games could achieve that.


    What he truly cared about was that in this way, he could personally operate the War AI Bionic Robot, maximizing its combat capabilities, rather than letting it fight automatically against enemies, firing two laser cannons and activating the lightsaber, wasting energy.


    Soon, the in-game year reached [Blackwood Year 33.]


    After many years of severe drought, the world outside Blackwood was getting better.


    The farmlands of Blackwood could now expand outward, although they couldn''t delve deeper into the Silver Iron Forest. However, Blackwood occasionally hunted on the outskirts of the Silver Iron Forest, and the number of exotic beasts was increasing.


    Yet, Gratitude Village didn''t add any more villagers.


    This was another downside of the drought ending.


    Wasn''t farming in Forest Town better than in a place like Gratitude Village? Especially since Forest Town was also becoming vigilant, starting to help civilians recover their livelihoods, and the Heath and Gonzalez families were spreading rumors that Gratitude Village was a gathering place for demons and monsters.


    At the same time, cracks appeared among the four major families of Forest Town. The dealings between the Martinez family and Blackwood angered the Heath and Gonzalez families, but the Martinez family continued to do as they pleased.


    Over these three years of trade, the Martinez family had already reaped considerable benefits.


    Amelia''s concocted ''Body Fortifying Powder'' and ''Seven-Flavor Soup'' greatly benefited their Psychics. Julian would sell them parts dispersed from ''Black Iron Beast Blood Armor'' every so often, even some exotic beasts, which they could buy from Blackwood, along with various psychic herbs.


    The cooperation between the two families deepened.


    The Martinez family even wanted to form a marriage alliance with Blackwood, but unfortunately... When Nathan and the invincible Martinez family head planned to introduce Amelia to the young master of the Martinez family and cultivate a romantic relationship,


    During a dinner with the young master of the Martinez family, Amelia would ask if he understood psychic medicines? Why not take psychic medicines? Taking pills increases drug resistance, is harmful to the spirit, what do you think about taking potions?


    While shopping, she would ask, what psychic medicine is good to grow in an alley without sunlight? In a noisy market full of dust, what psychic medicine can change the noisy environment?


    You don''t understand psychic medicines, how can you understand me? Will our children be born with defects?


    After just three days, the young master of the Martinez family no longer wanted to see Amelia, even feeling that marrying Amelia would disrupt family harmony.


    Then, the poor young master of the Martinez family was matched with Blackwood''s fourth young lady, Olivia.


    Ah, now the young master of the Martinez family''s spring had come.


    Olivia was extremely beautiful, and the young master of the Martinez family fell in love at first sight. Although Olivia was frail and often ill, she was knowledgeable, gentle, and kind. Everyone who met her felt refreshed.


    The young master Bradley of the Martinez family even had names picked out for their children.


    Olivia even agreed to the marriage with the young master of the Martinez family.


    But before the dowry was settled, three maidservants and a concubine of an elder from the Martinez family, all pregnant with the young master''s children, approached the Bradley, and the news spread throughout Forest Town, infuriating Nathan who immediately refused the marriage.


    Bradley felt utterly disgraced and even more guilty towards Blackwood, breaking the young master''s legs that very day as a grand gesture of apology to Blackwood.


    He dared not mention marriage with Blackwood again.


    "Just with the Martinez family, they thought to marry into our Blackwood? Wishful thinking."


    In the ancestral hall, Olivia proudly reported to Ethan''s Forebearer cards, "Forebearer, Olivia has followed your instructions and cunningly cut off the Martinez family''s intentions."


    "Ha ha ha, right!"


    The once furious Nathan, now all smiles, said, "They''re all flawed goods. Forebearer was right, even in talks of marriage, we prioritize character over background, appearance, and potential."


    Lying in bed, watching a 500-inch screen, Ethan revealed a sinister smile.


    Marriage alliances were really not desirable... Few were based on genuine feelings, mostly just interests, full of deceit and intrigue.


    Ethan didn''t want to bring these things into the family, as they would cause unnecessary trouble.


    Today, what Blackwood really needs is stable development! S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Though they managed to dodge a marriage alliance with the Martinez family,


    Lucas, even after splitting from Karen, had no plans to tie the knot.


    The last person Ethan expected to see was hiding behind a big tree, gazing admiringly at a woman sprinting with a rock in hand. This lady, nearly 6''3" tall, was dressed in a sleeveless top showing off her biceps, even her eight-pack abs were on display, her dark skin glistening with sweat in the blazing summer heat.


    A total powerhouse of a woman.


    Julian, spying from his hideout, drooled.


    "Man, what a buff chick! If she had kids with me, we''d definitely have some real tough sons and warrior princesses."


    "Slurp~"

 Chapter 39: Chapter 39: Olivias wisdom

    "Finally, the kid''s catching on!" After gaining a bit of strength, Julian started blacksmithing.


    As the third young master of Blackwood, countless pretty girls from Gratitude Village had loitered outside his shop on hot days, yet Julian never spared them a glance.


    Ethan had even wondered if Julian was disinterested in continuing the family line and had planned to have Nathan give him a talk. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But now, Ethan finally understood. It wasn''t that Julian wasn''t interested in women; his taste was just different!


    Check out the woman Julian is spying on now, look at those muscular arms, look at that square face¡ªshe looks like a fitness coach!


    [Your descendant Julian, while passing by his home, saw a woman lifting a huge stone, effortlessly pulling up willows, and realized that she was his true match, a couple made in heaven.]


    "Go chase her!" Ethan showed a fatherly smile, "This kid hasn''t interacted with girls much, wait, I''ll send the Purple Thunder Python to give him some tips..."


    "Girl, be my wife!" Before Ethan could figure out how to teach him, he watched Julian jump out from behind a tree, along with the words above his head, his expression gradually solidifying.


    What kind of first meeting is this???


    [Your descendant Julian was once again rejected by Mary, but he became more determined and faced the challenges head-on!]


    [Julian gained the trait: Never Give Up!]


    [With each setback, his insight, combat ability, and vitality increase by 10%.]


    "Holy smokes, that''s a god-tier trait!" While Blackwood''s descendants kept gaining traits, this was the strongest Ethan had seen, with a total attribute increase of 10%!


    Even with the trait, in Ethan''s view, Julian was still a bit of a blockhead in his pursuit of Mary.


    He heard Mary had just moved to Gratitude Village and was building a house, suggesting she share a bed with him, which scared the nearly 6''3" tough woman into pulling out a knife.


    Mistaken for a pervert with peculiar tastes, he remained undeterred, following Mary around 24/7, becoming a qualified protector.


    When Mary went shopping, he used his psychic abilities to carry the vendor and several hundred pounds of groceries back to Mary''s new home...


    "Are you trying to hammer Mary into submission with love?"


    Ethan had already called the people of Blackwood together to talk to Julian.


    But Julian seemed to have his own ideas about pursuit, elevating it to another dimension.


    However, what surprised Ethan was that previously, Luna had a bad relationship with Lucas''s ex-wife, Karen, and didn''t even want to look at her directly. But now, Luna happily went to check out Julian''s potential future wife.


    Nathan only had one comment, "Big hips, good for childbearing."


    As for sisters Amelia and Olivia, they also had a good first impression of Mary.


    In the days that followed, all of Blackwood was busy helping Julian chase his bride-to-be and going about their daily development.


    In the springtime, when Blackwood was full of joy, a major event darkened everyone''s mood, and Ethan''s brow furrowed as he watched the screen.


    On the road to Gratitude Village, Jerry, who had been trading with Blackwood for years, came running for his life with a large group of people...


    About thirty people, with several members of the Martinez family seriously injured.


    "It''s the Gonzalez and Heath families!"


    Jerry looked defeated, but his expression still held deep resentment towards these families, "Over the years, our conflicts with the Garcia family have deepened, but it was always minor skirmishes. Just three days ago, our two elders went to Tranquil City for some business, and they..."


    With a long sigh, Jerry continued, "The two elders competed for a secret treasure and met their demise. We, the Martinez family, hadn''t even received the news yet, but Garcia and Gonzalez knew before us. Without any hesitation, last night..."


    So, life is unpredictable.


    In recent years, the trade between Blackwood and the Martinez family has benefited both immensely. But with the death of the two old ancestors of the Martinez family, they became easy targets in Forest Town.


    Similarly, the business between Blackwood and the Martinez family could no longer continue, as all of the Martinez family''s assets in Forest Town had become part of someone else''s dowry.


    At this time, Garcia and the two families were probably chuckling at home.


    Blackwood of Gratitude Village was once again left isolated and without support!


    "Forebearer, I wonder how the surviving members of the Martinez family should proceed?"


    Inside the ancestral hall.


    Nathan was quite troubled about how to deal with Jerry and his group. After his breakthrough, leading Blackwood had once again fallen on his shoulders, as Lucas was indeed lacking in managing the family.


    "The Martinez family members?"


    Ethan stroked the edge of his keyboard.


    The surviving members of the Martinez family were almost all Psychics, with the strongest being an old ancestor of the Martinez family, in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, and the rest of the thirty-one people were all Iron Will Psychics.


    But don''t think that just because they''ve fallen on hard times, there''s an idea of subduing the Martinez family members.


    Even if the family was destroyed and their assets became someone else''s, the Martinez family was still one of the four major families in Forest Town. How could they possibly submit to Blackwood of Gratitude Village? In a world like cultivating psychic powers, family interests are of utmost importance.


    Now maybe Blackwood has taken in the Martinez family, but what about later?


    Maybe now the Martinez family is immensely grateful to Blackwood, but what about later? Cases of usurping are not uncommon.


    "Forebearer, maybe now is not the time to consider whether or not to take in the Martinez family."


    As Ethan pondered, Olivia''s ethereal voice echoed in the hall.


    "Hmm?"


    Everyone couldn''t help but turn their heads. As time passed, everyone in Blackwood felt Olivia''s wisdom.


    Ethan was also focused, wanting to hear what this smartest descendant had to say.


    Olivia said: "We have always been afraid to go to Forest Town because we feared that the four major families would unite against us, the outsiders. But now the situation is different, one of the four major families is gone, and the Martinez family can become our support."

 Chapter 40: Chapter 40: True courage is in perseverance

    Olivia said:"Moreover, we can go to Forest Town under the guise of helping the Martinez family reclaim their assets for revenge, and by then even the Rodriguez family might not get involved in this matter."


    "People like to fend for themselves, and as long as there is a sufficient reason, the Rodriguez family will not want to lose family power over internal hatred in Forest Town."


    "This is our opportunity, and now we..."


    "Are not without the power to fight!"


    As her voice faded, the ancestral hall fell silent.


    They had been suppressing their hatred for the Heath and Gonzalez families for too long!


    Nathan''s four children still vividly remembered the day their father appeared at the doorstep covered in blood, and the agonizing cries from his sickbed.


    It was the first time they experienced the greatest fear of their lives, even contemplating what would become of their family if Nathan were to die.


    This fear fueled their relentless pursuit of mastery in their skills.


    The Heath and Gonzalez families, who looked down upon the Blackwoods rising from the rural areas, never respected them.


    Elder Garcia from the Gonzalez family once arrogantly visited the Blackwoods, treating everyone there like insects, as if they could do whatever they wanted on this land.


    The Gonzalez family coveted their iron ore, ruthlessly killed their friends, and then, as if nothing had happened, came to their land wanting to discuss business...


    "To hell with the Heath and Gonzalez families, we''ve got to take them down!" Julian burst out angrily.


    "Watch your language!" Nathan glared at his third son, "This is the Forebearer''s shrine, how dare you speak so crudely here? The Forebearer won''t tolerate such vulgar words!"


    "Yes, dad." Julian, fearless of everything except his father''s whip, calmed down.


    Seeing his son settle down, Nathan bowed to Ethan, "Please forgive him, Forebearer, Julian is still a child."


    "Forebearer, at your command, Nathan is ready to wipe out both families!"


    Little did they know.


    Ethan didn''t find Julian''s words crude at all.


    Olivia was right; now was a golden opportunity, otherwise, once the Heath and Gonzalez families acquired the Martinez family''s assets and grew stronger, seeking revenge would be even more challenging!


    Fingers tapping on the keyboard produced a crisp and forceful sound.


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python opened its crimson eyes and roared towards the sky!


    Nathan slowly stood up, looking at his wife and children, seeing the fighting spirit in their eyes, his expression gradually becoming stern.


    "Let''s fight a good fight, don''t disgrace the Forebearer!"


    Soon.


    Nathan led the Blackwoods out of the Forebearer''s shrine to meet with the Martinez family.


    Upon learning that the Blackwoods wanted to avenge the Martinez family, the old patriarch of the Martinez family did not show joy but a solemn expression.


    "The Martinez family appreciates your intentions, but the Heath and Gonzalez families are deeply entrenched; we need to plan carefully," he said, somewhat intimidated.


    Watching the scene, Ethan couldn''t help but roll his eyes, "Big brother, your family is nearly wiped out, and you''re still being so rational, really?"


    The elder Martinez continued:


    "It''s not that I am cowardly, but the strength of the Heath and Gonzalez families is greater than you know. The destruction of my Martinez family has shown me their true power."


    "Garcia has been passed down through generations in the Great Forest, with a five-hundred-year foundation. Just the Emerging Ability elders alone number five."


    "This time, they even have an elder who has emerged from seclusion, at the Transcendent Seed stage!"


    Transcendent Seed!


    The Blackwoods were shocked to find that they were just one step away from reaching the Developing Skill stage, having already attained the Transcendent Seed stage.


    Even so, its formidable power was not something ordinary Emerging Ability Psychics could compare with.


    "Gonzalez is no ordinary family; though they lack such top-tier experts, both their first and second elders are at the peak of Emerging Ability, and despite losing one, six remain, with the clan possessing a protective psychic device!"


    "A psychic device... With one in hand, even those at the peak of Emerging Ability dare to challenge Transcendent Seed!"


    Martinez''s family elder grimaced, "As long as the green hills are there, one need not worry about firewood."


    "To put it bluntly, from what I''ve seen, your Blackwood has just started rising. I heard there''s a beast capable of killing mid-level Emerging Ability, and because neither of our families want to waste our forces on this, allowing our families to be weaker than others, that''s why Gratitude Village has been able to develop peacefully."


    "Psychic cultivating psychic powers, not long in a century, you Blackwoods should recuperate with us, the Martinez family. United by a common enemy, that''s the way. Once their experts are gone, we can return to Forest Town. Why bother fighting day and night?"


    After all, he felt that Blackwood''s foundation was shallow!


    But Nathan just smiled and shook his head at the elder of the Martinez family.


    "Elder, you make sense, but we Blackwoods will not wait any longer!"


    The Blackwoods followed their father and left.


    Lucas burst into laughter, "Hahaha, right, we Blackwoods aren''t fighting for day and night, but for a life-and-death struggle with them!"


    "Damn it!"


    "Third brother, your language is getting dirtier, keep this up and Mary won''t bother with you."


    "What do you know, you a mere potion maker? Mary likes a man with my flavor. I''m going to find her now, tell her I might die soon, maybe... she could bear me a child."


    "Third bro, you''ve gotta clean up your act, man. Don''t be that guy with no class. Keep this up, and Mary won''t give you the time of day, let alone think about marrying you."


    The people of the Martinez family watched as Nathan and his family left, the elder only able to sigh deeply. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    How could he not see the fervor of the Blackwoods?


    He even admired the courage of the Blackwoods.


    But in this world, courage alone is never enough; true courage is in perseverance!

 Chapter 41: Chapter 41: Psychic Battle Lines

    "We can fight, but the losses might be big," Ethan heard from the Martinez family''s intel, who knew their enemies'' strength all too well after being wiped out by those two families. He could see the fighting spirit in the people of Blackwood.


    "Why should I, the Forebearer, be afraid if even our descendants aren''t?" If there''s a fifty percent chance of defeating them, it''s worth a shot!


    Those two families had an elder with the power of a Transcendent Seed realm and a special psychic weapon, but Blackwood''s combat power was nothing to scoff at either. They had the temple guardian beast, the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Ethan had only realized the full extent of the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s power after operating the War AI Bionic Robot. It was definitely one of the top psychic beasts, with strength comparable to the Transcendent Seed!


    As for Developing Skill... surviving under it might be possible, but winning a fight was out of the question. The difference between each major realm was like night and day.


    Next up was the War AI Bionic Robot. Its primary use was for large-scale interstellar wars, but it also had the power to fight against Transcendent Seed realm psychics, especially since Ethan was confident in his ability to control it to victory!


    "Now, what we really lack are Psychics in the Emerging Ability phase, Iron Will Psychics, and a confrontation with those two major families," Ethan frowned.


    At Blackwood, only Nathan and his wife possessed Emerging Ability strength. Over the years, Blackwood still only had four psychic beasts, including the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon, which was the weakest among them.


    As for Iron Will, they were far behind compared to Forest Town. Lucas was the strongest, having reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy through the cultivation of beast blood fruits and various psychic medicines.


    Amelia and her brother Julian were at the seventh level of Foundational Energy, while Olivia... was negligible.


    Among the third generation, 12-year-old Marcus was exceptionally talented but only had the strength of the third peak level. Their current psychic beast academy was decent, with 102 beasts capable of fighting at the Foundational Energy level.


    As for Lucas''s trained guard team of 150 people, only about 12 had become Iron Will... the strongest among them only at the second level of Foundational Energy.


    Ethan was confident about the top-level combat power. But the middle and lower levels... even if the Martinez family was willing to fight alongside Blackwood, they were still likely to be crushed.


    "Is this what the Martinez family elder meant by ''foundation''?" Ethan felt the challenge deeply, and this was just the difference in the number of Psychics.


    The Heath and Gonzalez families had developed for hundreds of years, possessing a large amount of psychic equipment, family formations, and various other means.


    As for blocking Forest Town with the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the War AI Bionic Robot, that was even more unrealistic. Their movements weren''t as flexible as those of psychic abilities, and being surrounded by Forest Town would be a losing battle.


    "I just hope I''m fast enough when the time comes to operate the War AI Bionic Robot and use the ''Forebearer''s Fury'' simultaneously," Ethan squinted his eyes.


    This battle was inevitable no matter what. Blackwood''s current resources were limited, and without extra resources, their growth would be slow, even reaching a limit.


    But Forest Town could only get stronger, and the longer they waited, the more passive they would become.


    "If only we could draw them all to Forest Town once the Forebearer''s psychic formation is ready," Ethan pursed his lips.


    ... sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While Ethan was sizing up the strengths of both sides, the people of Blackwood didn''t rush towards Forest Town immediately. They still maintained enough rationality, clearly understanding the gap between them and Forest Town.


    Yet, none of them were cowards! As soon as the hope for revenge appeared, they could no longer suppress it.


    Perhaps this was the spirit and will that Blackwood had gradually developed over the years.


    That day, everyone in Blackwood seemed to be doing their usual daily activities as if nothing was amiss.


    Olivia sat under the peach tree in the large courtyard of Blackwood, still holding a scroll, seemingly unconcerned about the life-and-death battle Blackwood was about to face.


    However, her grip on the book tightened more and more. "If ignored, Blackwood will slowly die, and sooner or later will be settled by Forest Town. If we lose, I will be the sinner of Blackwood."


    No one knew the burden in the heart of this seemingly calm woman when she proposed a battle in the Forebearer''s temple hall!


    Yet, she had to seize the best opportunity to make the best choice for her family.


    Just like her family and the Forebearer, they did not scorn her for her physical weakness and her inability to fight, but supported her as always!


    While pondering, several maids loyal only to Olivia brought a gloomy young man and a child before her.


    "Auntie," Marcus greeted Olivia with his brother.


    Olivia nodded slightly, "Marcus, the family has to handle a big matter. If something really goes wrong, you take Daniel and run. They will take care of you, but remember, you are always people of Blackwood."


    "Auntie... what happened?" Marcus, though young, also knew that his aunt would not say such words unless there was a truly catastrophic event happening.


    "Nothing much, just a big battle," Olivia waved to the two brothers and patted their heads, "Go on, children. The Forebearer will always protect the children of Blackwood, don''t worry."


    Watching the maids take the two children away, Olivia finally took a deep breath.


    Even with a formidable enemy ahead, she had made arrangements for the worst-case scenario.


    "Let''s hope so."


    In the Psychic Beast Park, Amelia was as usual mixing her psychic medicines.


    She caressed the massive Blood Fruit Tree, watching the psychic medicines she had cultivated day by day in the garden.


    Footsteps sounded behind her.

 Chapter 42: Chapter 42: Battle Preparations

    Fifteen young men and women approached, "If I don''t come back, burn the Blood Fruit Tree and all the psychic medicines in the garden, and go into hiding. But remember, when the two young masters of Blackwood grow up, they will be your masters."


    "Yes, master!"


    Watching the children she had raised nod, Amelia felt somewhat relieved.


    She reluctantly looked at the psychic medicine garden.


    Her life had almost been devoted to these psychic medicines, but some things were more precious than these medicines, her beloved family, her clan!


    Recalling these years.


    Amelia couldn''t help but smile faintly, everyone in Gratitude Village said she was a loner, only liking psychic medicines.


    But those people didn''t know, her interest in herbs and seeds.


    It was because after her father had her, she had already experienced a year of severe drought.


    That year, the vegetables that were finally grown at home withered day by day before her eyes. Her father and mother said, if they couldn''t eat vegetables, her older brother wouldn''t grow tall, and her younger brother would be like a short winter melon.


    So she cried out of fear, it was hard to imagine her brothers turning into winter melons, how terrible would that be?


    As she grew up bit by bit, she wanted to grow the tastiest vegetables, so her family wouldn''t go hungry. Fortunately, her older brother grew taller than her, and her younger brother was like a wild ox, only her sister... her sister had been frail and sickly since childhood.


    So she started growing psychic medicines, wanting her sister to have the best psychic medicines and never get sick again.


    "Olivia still hasn''t taken my medicine."


    Amelia shook her head, took another look at the entire psychic medicine garden, her expression gradually turning grim, "But with no home left, outsiders won''t get to taste these psychic medicines!"


    ...


    "Hey, Mary, your hubby''s here looking for you, open the door!" As dusk fell, Julian had been waiting outside Mary''s door for a long time. He could feel that the woman, as beautiful and robust as a black panther, was leaning against the door, seemingly afraid to barge in. He chuckled, "Mary, I might not have much longer to live."


    The door moved slightly but didn''t open. Julian''s gaze was hazy.


    "The folks in Talin Town have always been bullying our family. I''m definitely going to deal with them. Sister Four is right, the Martinez family was wiped out. If we don''t act, our family will be next."


    "I''ll be honest with you, I really want you to have a houseful of kids with me. They could grow up strong like me and help protect the family."


    "Heh, I know you don''t think much of me. I''m just a brute, shameless all day long, doing nothing but forging."


    "But do you know, when I was little, I knew I had to have weapons because my dad had to go into the dangerous forest to get us meat. He had a kitchen knife, and it got all nicked up in the forest, and he didn''t replace it for two years. My sister had to cut grass, do you know how she did it? With a little knife."


    "I grew up strong, all thanks to their meat and vegetables. Back then, I thought, when I grow up, I must provide them with sturdy iron tools."


    "When I grew up a bit more, I realized that weapons alone weren''t enough. It had to be psychic equipment, powerful psychic equipment, preferably like the Forebearer, fighting like a person. Otherwise, those mongrels outside would ruin our lives in Blackwood. I''d also train my strength, otherwise, if my sister couldn''t fight, it wouldn''t be right if she got bullied." Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Heh, you see, I''m thoughtful..."


    He was about to continue when¡ª


    "Creak¡ª"


    The door opened, and Julian turned his head to see Mary''s face, furrowed brows, probably hadn''t washed her hair or face, not as pretty as yesterday. But Julian was still overjoyed, "Mary, you... you didn''t kick me after opening the door this time!"


    "Have you said enough?"


    Mary seemed to be facing a huge life decision, and after a long time, she kicked Julian''s foot, "Come inside."


    "Huh?"


    Julian was stunned.


    "Come inside and have kids!"


    "Huh?"


    ...


    "Attack!"


    In the Blackwood training grounds, Lucas was practicing with his sword, using the movements to vent the emotions swirling inside him.


    It wasn''t long before he finally stopped cultivating psychic powers and wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    Having reached his current level of skill, he could sense the slightest disturbances nearby.


    He sensed his two sons had arrived.


    "Marcus, Daniel, come here," Lucas said as he sat on the edge of the training grounds, watching his sons approach with their heads bowed in reverence. He didn''t mind; since Karen''s incident, these two had grown closer to their aunt than to him.


    He spoke softly, "I know you blame me, blame me for driving your mother and her family out of our home."


    "Father, no," Marcus said, still looking down, shaking his head.


    Lucas smiled, "I''m sorry I haven''t been a proper father, especially to you, Marcus. I was only fifteen when your mother was pregnant with you, too young to understand right from wrong. If it weren''t for the Forebearer, your grandfather would have disowned me."


    "These years..."


    As he spoke, Lucas''s smile faded, and he frowned, "Time hasn''t helped me become a better father."


    "But now, Marcus, I need your help. If anything happens, you must protect your brother no matter what."


    At this, Marcus finally looked up, a trace of worry crossing his face, "Father, aunt has asked for me, and now you too. Has something happened? I''ve reached the fourth level of Foundational Energy, I can contribute to the family!"


    Lucas''s gaze softened.


    "Just grow strong, and you''ll be the greatest asset to our family. Go now, take Daniel and wait for news."


    Marcus wanted to say more, but Lucas dismissed him.


    There were a thousand things Lucas wanted to say to Marcus, but the words stuck in his throat, his own guilt making it hard to face his sons.

 Chapter 43: Chapter 43: Villages Valor pr Part 1

    These boys, they must be scared of me, right?"


    Lucas''s expression was calm, "If something really happens, Marcus, you must take up your sword, just like I did back then."


    He remembered the day bandits entered Blackwood, back when it was just a small shack and they had to scrounge for food.


    Both his parents had rushed out, and he, too, had naively picked up a sword.


    It was the first time he saw his gentle mother kill a man as if she were slaughtering a chicken.


    Later, his father said that by taking up the sword, he had become a man, capable of protecting his sister and brother.


    Just like now, he could not let their hard-earned family suffer even the slightest harm. Even if it was his wife, any threat to the family had to be completely eradicated at its inception!


    He picked up his sword again, fiercely cultivating psychic powers.


    "If I could be stronger, I could take on more of the family''s burdens!"


    ...


    In the bedroom, Nathan and Luna were snuggled up together, silent for a long time.


    "Honey, after all these years, our family has grown stronger. Have you ever despised me for being a farm girl? Ever thought about marrying some high-class ladies?" Luna looked at Nathan critically.


    "Sure have!" Nathan grinned, "Don''t think just because I''m getting older. Every man dreams of having multiple wives, and since we share the same bed every day, who wouldn''t want a change of pace?"


    Luna was glaring at him.


    Nathan chuckled, "But a thousand, ten thousand pretty girls couldn''t compare to you. Where else could I find such a wonderful woman who could bear me four great kids? Just seeing you makes all other women seem like chaff, and then I don''t feel like it anymore." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You old rascal." Luna rolled her eyes, "You''re just scared I might beat you up, right? After all, I''m stronger than you."


    "Luna, you''re tough," Nathan couldn''t help but laugh, "When I came out of seclusion, I thought I was the main support of the family, but how did you end up being the stronger one?"


    Luna smiled without answering.


    Her smile gradually became proud, yet somewhat bitter. She still remembered those days when she was just a farm girl in the village, when she met Nathan on the street, a strong-looking hunter. He was rough around the edges, but much better than those slick, powdered guys.


    He was honest, kind-hearted, and had a manly charm.


    The days that followed proved how right she was to go against her family''s wishes to marry Nathan.


    After they got married, her husband was incredibly attentive to her, the only downside being that Nathan always felt inferior, saying he was born a slave and a hunter, unable to provide the life she wanted.


    So, he went hunting every day to improve their situation.


    Every time he returned, he was covered in scars, which was heartbreaking to see. Even as their home gradually became wealthier and they had children, she still felt pain seeing her husband covered in scars. If it weren''t for the Forebearer''s blessing, her husband might have...


    Luna didn''t want to think about it.


    But thanks to the Forebearer, although she didn''t have the talent to cultivate psychic powers, the "Psychic Arts Manual" allowed her to find another way.


    She began to interact with chickens, ducks, pigs, and dogs. Wasn''t this the innate talent of a farm girl? Gradually, she could understand the animals'' thoughts.


    Now, she was finally able to stand on her own and face future dangers with her family.


    Even if it meant dying for her family and children!


    "Honey, do we have a chance to win this time?" Luna hugged Nathan tighter.


    Nathan frowned, unsure how to respond, when suddenly a noise came from outside.


    The couple got up.


    "What''s that noise outside?"


    Nathan and Luna dressed quickly and stepped outside, only to see that the young and old of Blackwood had already come out of their houses, looking outside with them.


    It was deep into the night.


    Yet outside Gratitude Village, the lights were bright.


    When the Blackwood folks reached their front door, they saw the villagers of Gratitude Village gathered in front of Blackwood''s gate, each holding a torch, turning the sky a bright red!


    The elderly village chief of Gratitude Village stepped forward. After Thomas Brown was dismissed from his position as village chief due to corruption, the chief had already been replaced by the most beloved elder in Gratitude Village.


    The chief, with his pale face and white hair, looked furious and said:


    "Mr. Nathan, I heard that Blackwood is going to fight a deadly battle with Forest Town. Why were we, the people of Gratitude Village, not informed?"


    Hearing the chief''s question, Nathan was stunned. He remembered the old chief as always being gentle and soft-spoken, rarely so aggressive.


    Just as he was about to say something, the old man continued:


    "For many years of drought, our Gratitude Village, with over three thousand mouths, has been robbed of our food by bandits, chewed on bark, and which family hasn''t lost friends and relatives? If not for Blackwood''s kindness, giving us a place to live and providing us with food and livestock, where would today''s Gratitude Village be?"


    "Now that Blackwood is going to fight a deadly battle in Forest Town for the fate of our clan, without making a sound, where does that leave us, the people of Gratitude Village?"


    "We in Gratitude Village have strong men. If Blackwood is going to war, we have weapons too, and if not, we have kitchen knives and dung forks!"


    Nathan finally understood the villagers of Gratitude Village''s intentions.


    He looked at the villagers in front of Blackwood Manor, torches in hand, a hint of gratitude showing on his face.


    Yet he shook his head at them, raising his voice:


    "Your kindness is appreciated, folks. But our journey to Pine Town is a dangerous one, facing Psychics, a matter of life and death, fighting for the fate of the Blackwood clan. Please, head back home."


    "What a joke!"


    The village elder was not pleased, his eyes wide with anger, "We owe a great debt to the Blackwoods. If my kids knew their benefactor was in such peril and I did nothing, sitting silently, they''d think their old man was heartless and cold, disgraced in death!"

 Chapter 44: Chapter 44: Villages Valor pr Part 2

    With that said,The villagers burst into laughter.


    "The elder''s right, it''s just a measly life. If Mr. Nathan''s heading out, then I, Steven, am going with Mr. Nathan to kick some ass!"


    "Yeah, count me in, I can hunt, I can kill!"


    "When I was starving on the streets, thinking I''d die there, it was Mr. Nathan who fed me. Now I''ve got a house, some good land, and I wake up to the sounds of chickens and ducks. My wife gave me three kids, I''ve lived a full life. Mr. Nathan, it''s time I repay you!"


    Gratitude Village was noisy, but Nathan wasn''t bothered; his eyes were red.


    Just before, his wife had asked if he could win this time, and he was scared, scared that a moment of recklessness could destroy decades of the Blackwood family''s hard work.


    But now...


    He wasn''t afraid!


    Remembering his life, he was just a slave, never imagining he''d see this day.


    But blessed by the Forebearer, he learned to cultivate psychic powers, could hunt in the mountains, fill his belly, no longer under anyone''s thumb.


    He married the best girl in the world, had kids that made him feel his life wasn''t wasted, and two well-behaved grandkids.


    And there was Gratitude Village.


    Their kindness that day, these good villagers ready to face death with him.


    He had a life beyond what most dare dream of, surrounded by people who supported him, what was there to fear?


    At that moment,


    Nathan''s eyes narrowed, he found the feeling he had on his first hunt, facing those fierce beasts!


    "Ha ha ha!"


    "Alright!"


    Nathan raised his arm, "Folks of Gratitude Village, laugh if you will, but I, Nathan, just a country bumpkin, I get scared too. Seeing you all here tonight, shouting your support, I realized I''m really getting old!"


    "To hell with Forest Town!"


    "To hell with the Gonzalezes and Garcias!"


    "Grab your weapons, folks, I''m not looking back. I want their blood to pave our way forward!"


    The stars were bright, the moon clear.


    All of Gratitude Village shouted along with the Blackwoods.


    Their torches almost turned the night bright red.


    The Martinez family, slowly recovering from their injuries, were stunned by the fervor of these ordinary people, enough to scare a Psychic!


    The old patriarch of the Martinez family let out a breath, "Get ready, we''re heading to Pine Town with the Blackwoods!"


    Hearing this,Jerry hesitated, "Grandpa, our Martinez family is so few..."


    But before he could finish, the old patriarch slapped him across the face.


    "Are we, the Martinez family, less spirited than these villagers?"


    Jerry dared not say more.


    The elder of the Martinez family then smiled, looking at the still shouting Blackwoods and the villagers of Gratitude Village, "I take back what I said before, this..."


    "This is the true spirit of the Blackwoods!"


    [Congratulations, Blackwood has earned the loyalty of all the villagers of Gratitude Village, who are willing to die for Blackwood!]


    [Earned Spiritual Tribute +300!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, beloved by the people, has won the faith of the villagers of Gratitude Village, earning the trait: Hope of the Village]


    [When fighting for the family''s power, combat power +20!]


    In front of the screen, Ethan was watching everything about the family.


    He was also fired up, having never considered the villagers of Gratitude Village as a fighting force until now, he realized that Blackwood had already earned the loyalty of the entire village!


    This battle for the family''s fortune was not just Blackwood fighting, but also three thousand villagers!


    "What''s there to fear from Gonzalez and Garcia? Let''s do this, kick their butts!"


    "Ding-dong."


    Caught up in the excitement.


    His phone rang, a message from school asking why he was late, and looking outside, he realized he had been playing the game for two days.


    Just thinking about shutting down, his teacher''s call came.


    "Ethan, has something happened at home? Even so, don''t drop out of school, only by studying hard can you change your life..."


    "Sorry, teacher, please help me drop out, don''t you think it''s a waste of time for someone with my abilities to still be in school? Can''t talk now, busy with big things, I''ll have someone handle the withdrawal procedures later."


    "What nonsense are you talking..."


    The teacher didn''t finish speaking, Ethan had already hung up the phone, and turned off his mobile.


    Screw school.


    As the ancestor of Blackwood, I''m going to lead my family to a glorious battle!


    ...


    Ethan was intently focused on the screen. As time sped up, the once bustling Gratitude Village gradually quieted down. Normally, it was the men who took their families to farm or raised chickens and ducks on the streets.


    But now.


    Only the elderly, women, and children could be seen in the village. Some women were even sharpening knives at their doorsteps, guarding their homes.


    In the entire Blackwood, only a group of maids were guarding the carriages, with the Marcus brothers sitting atop them.


    "Brother, don''t be afraid. The Forebearer has always been protecting us Blackwoods. Our family will surely return safely," Marcus said, patting his brother''s head.


    Suddenly.


    He and Daniel were both startled as they looked towards the direction of the ancestral hall.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion sounded, and a massive object burst from the ground, shining brilliantly under the daylight!


    "This is... the Forebearer showing his powers!"


    Marcus was right!


    Ethan had manifested his powers!


    Now, he was sitting in a room, staring at a 500-inch screen, his eyes white, his expression solemn, his hands on the keyboard and mouse, ready to act.


    [You are now operating the War AI Bionic Robot.]


    [Check, arm function 100%, laser cannon charge 100%, laser sword 100%, war barrier ready to activate...]


    [Psychic power consumption low energy mode activated, psychic power reserve¡ª99%!]


    Ethan had used the War AI Bionic Robot to wander in this world before.


    But this time, it was his very first real combat operation!


    "Open the map!"


    With a click, a map appeared in the top right corner.


    Thousands of small green dots had already appeared around the [Forest Town] map, with Blackwood''s team having gone to Forest Town before him!


    He focused on the location of Gonzalez on the map.


    "It''s you guys!"


    Ethan''s eyes narrowed slightly, the psychic powers on the War AI Bionic Robot activated instantly, and with tail fins, it headed towards Gonzalez!


    The war had not yet started, but the strongest had already moved.


    He planned to use the War AI Bionic Robot to attract the attention of all the experts in the town of Gonzalez for Blackwood! Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the heart of Forest Town.


    In the Garcia hall, masters from the Forest Heath and Gonzalez families were seated.


    The heads of both families were sharing tea, smiles on their faces.

 Chapter 45: Chapter 45: Villages Valor pr Part 3

    The head of the Garcia family said, "Heaven helps our families. The Martinez dared to collaborate with Blackwood, and their retribution has come. They had no idea that among us Garcias, there is an inner disciple in the Heavenly Lake Sect of Tranquil City. With just a little scheme, the Martinez elder made an enemy of the Heavenly Lake Sect and died in Tranquil City!"


    "Ha ha ha!"


    The head of the Gonzalez family laughed loudly; "Thanks to Head Garcia, with the Martinez gone, Blackwood is nothing to worry about! I thought it would take ten years, waiting for Brother Hu''s family elder to break through Developing Skill, or for a Gonzalez to produce a Transcendent Seed, to probe into Blackwood. That rumored peak psychic beast, the great snake, is nothing to worry about!"


    "Who would have thought, Blackwood would also be such reckless folks, coming to our Forest Town to die."


    It turns out these two families had long known about Blackwood''s arrival, they never stopped sending spies to Gratitude Village.


    "This time, with our two families setting up a net in Forest Town, once Blackwood is gone, we can sleep without worries!"


    The head of the Garcia family could hardly hide his joy.


    The development of Blackwood in Gratitude Village was too rapid, even they felt threatened, but now, everything has settled. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Come, let''s drink tea, just waiting for the mountain villagers of Blackwood to fall into our trap, everything they have will be ours!"


    Everyone was just raising their glasses.


    "Boom!"


    A loud boom in Forest Town changed their expressions drastically, spilling the tea in their hands.


    "What''s going on?"


    As they stepped outside.


    The Gonzalez folks were already wide-eyed, in the sky above Forest Town, a monster made of steel was bombarding Gonzalez.


    "Not good, this thing''s energy is strong, it''s twelve yards high, enough to match aTranscendent Seed realm!"


    The head of the Gonzalez family couldn''t believe that Blackwood had such a monster, not daring to think further, he quickly led his family members towards home for rescue, "Head Garcia, go inform your family elder, bring this monster down!"


    "Right!"


    Head Garcia did not dare to delay, he looked solemnly at the war AI Bionic Robot in the sky, telling his clan members, "Go call the elder, didn''t expect Blackwood to have this up their sleeve, they want to distract us. Other clan members be alert, Blackwood might have other tricks!"


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Outside Forest Town, people from the Martinez family and Gratitude Village had already gathered, they had yet to make a move.


    Even if they were to wage war against the two major families of Forest, they knew to scout the town first.


    But they found that Forest Town was full of arrays, both families were well-defended, clearly already aware of their planned attack, waiting for them to fall into the trap.


    Just as they were unsure of what to do.


    "Look, what is that?"


    A villager armed with a scythe, kitchen knife, hoe, machete, and dung fork pointed at the sky above Forest Town, his eyes wide as brass bells.


    The people of Blackwood had already noticed!


    "It''s the Forebearer taking action!"


    "The Forebearer has shown his psychic abilities, he''s controlling the war AI Bionic Robot, he''s helping us in his own way."


    "Ha ha ha, with the Forebearer''s blessing, what do we have to fear?!!"


    The people of Blackwood were overjoyed.


    Over the years, the Forebearer had been with them as they grew, always giving them great courage, and now, after many years, the Forebearer was taking action again, heading towards the most dangerous place!


    "Boys, the Forebearer has made his move, he''s helping us break the traps of Forest Town, get ready, the moment of life and death has come!"


    ...


    "Boom!"


    Piloting the War AI Bionic Robot, Ethan launched the first strike above the skies of the Gonzalez estate in Talin!


    The shoulder-mounted cannon fiercely fired a laser at Gonzalez.


    But at the same time,


    Gonzalez, a family with centuries of heritage, was prepared. As the laser cannon fired, a powerful defensive array appeared over Blackwood, capable of instantly neutralizing a mid-stage Emerging Ability laser cannon. It only caused a crack in the yellow light shield of the Gonzalez defense array, which quickly repaired itself!


    [Second-level array detected.]


    [Detecting psychic wave fluctuations, consuming 5% psychic energy, opponent is recovering psychic energy at a rate of 3 seconds/5%!]


    Ethan closely monitored the detection data.


    This was the advantage of the War AI Bionic Robot; it could monitor the opponent''s energy, allowing him to find the best combat strategy!


    "A second-level array that can withstand a full-force attack from a peak Emerging Ability?"


    Ethan snorted coldly, "Well, I''d like to see how long you can hold out and how many Energy Stones you can burn through!"


    Ethan knew well that such arrays usually required a continuous supply of Energy Stones or some powerful psychic equipment.


    "Boom!"


    He fired the shoulder-mounted laser cannon again!


    [Remaining energy of the laser cannon, 97%.]


    The War AI Bionic Robot had independent energy sources all over its body, and Ethan calmly operated it, bombarding from the sky while maintaining minimal energy consumption.


    Gradually,


    He noticed red dots appearing on the map around him!


    Wherever he looked,


    In the courtyard of the Gonzalez estate, several Psychics were looking up at him in terror, clearly intimidated by the massive form and combat power of the War AI Bionic Robot flying in the sky.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Ethan continued the bombardment.


    Finally,


    "Hmph, I didn''t expect such a rural home to have the means to operate such an AI Bionic Robot,"


    "No wonder you dared to come to the Gonzalez, but coming alone shows not just confidence but also arrogance!"


    Two elderly men accompanied by three Psychics flew on swords, quickly surrounding the War AI Bionic Robot!


    [Detecting enemies¡ª¡ª]


    [Two peak Emerging Ability, one mid-stage Emerging Ability, three early-stage Emerging Ability!]


    [Detecting weapons and equipment¡ª¡ª]


    The eyes of the War AI Bionic Robot flickered with light, its internal AI capable of analyzing everything for Ethan, who was far away in the real world.


    Ethan could even see the opponents'' energy.


    Not only that.


    Ethan in the real world was also clicking his mouse, seeing some information about these enemies.


    All of this was the heritage of the Gonzalez!


    In the center of the two peak Emerging Ability elders, a human-head-sized seal floated.


    [Detecting a primary psychic device, analyzing psychic energy and material structure¡ª¡ª]


    [Space, weight, hardness...]


    Information appeared before his eyes.


    But after the Gonzalez people surrounded the War AI Bionic Robot, they quickly launched an attack!


    The techniques of the Emerging Ability period warriors blasted towards Ethan!


    "Hmph!"


    Ethan was not flustered at all; with a click of the keyboard, the core of the War AI Bionic Robot activated, a pale blue energy shield enveloped his body, blocking all the Emerging Ability period techniques!


    [Using war shield, laser sword, laser cannon!]


    [Combat mode activated!]


    "Emerging Ability period, huh? Psychic devices, huh?"


    Ethan looked at the solemn eyes of the Gonzalez people, his mouth twisting into a grin, "Times have changed!"

 Chapter 46: Chapter 46: The Thunder Sun Python

    "Is the Forebearer really that powerful when it strikes?"


    "Totally!"


    "Long live the Forebearer!"


    At this time, outside the town of Blackwood, the people of Blackwood were still not moving; they were waiting for the right moment.


    But above the town, the War AI Bionic Robot was already engaged in a fierce battle with Gonzalez''s Psychic in the sky!


    Fireworks soared into the sky.


    Swords flew through the air, clashing in an attempt to break through the War AI Bionic Robot''s defenses, while at the same time, the sound of gunfire boomed!


    This was the first time they had seen such a battle.


    However, the people of Blackwood were only spectators from a distance.


    Only Gonzalez''s people knew just how tough and terrifying the War AI Bionic Robot was!


    "What on earth is this thing? It''s all weapons!"


    "Dodge, don''t get stabbed by its sword!"


    "It has no weaknesses; it''s still attacking me from behind!"


    Five Emerging Ability experts were dodging. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They had previously thought that the War AI Bionic Robot could only shoot blue psychic power waves from its shoulders, but then, laser swords appeared on both hands of the War AI Bionic Robot.


    Attempting to sneak attack from behind the War AI Bionic Robot, they discovered that the backplate of the AI Bionic Robot contracted, revealing several dark cannon ports!


    Although these cannon ports did not emit as powerful as the laser cannons, they still possessed fierce attacking power!


    Even the eyes of the War AI Bionic Robot...


    This was truly a mobile artillery platform!


    [Back cannon ports, automatic enemy targeting and shooting, activated!]


    [Shield defense, small-scale defense system, activated!]


    [Spinal armor separation, low-load operation, using skill¡ªBlade Storm!]


    The War AI Bionic Robot was armed from top to bottom.


    At this moment, it was spinning wildly, creating a storm in the sky above the town where Gonzalez was.


    An Emerging Ability mid-stage Psychic didn''t have time to escape and was instantly swept up in the storm formed by the lightsabers, leaving no trace of his body!


    "Damn, really tricky!"


    But Ethan''s eyes showed no joy. Perhaps for these Emerging Ability stage Psychics, the War AI Bionic Robot was an invincible entity, but in reality, Ethan also couldn''t effectively strike.


    Because this thing was originally developed for interstellar wars, to slaughter weaker races, a technology obtained from a tech planet by Earth.


    To actually fight these extremely fast-moving Psychics, it was easy to get bogged down!


    Especially the two Emerging Ability peak experts from Gonzalez used psychic devices.


    That seal, which could enlarge and had formidable attacking power, even the War AI Bionic Robot''s laser swords couldn''t destroy the seal. Especially since that seal could even form a special attack method, splitting into ten seal attacks.


    Ethan had also thought he could kill more of Gonzalez''s people.


    But at that moment, the centuries-old family heritage of Gonzalez seemed to show, as if they had some knowledge of the heritage of the seals.


    The ground-based Psychics were also using seals.


    Metal, wood, water, fire, earth, the five elemental energies kept attacking, and the sky above the town looked like a colorful fireworks display!


    [Psychic power consumption, 20%!]


    Even though Ethan was trying to conserve the War AI Bionic Robot''s psychic power consumption, the rate of consumption was still high.


    "It''s your turn to make a move!"


    Ethan squinted his eyes; he was never fighting alone!


    While controlling the War AI Bionic Robot.


    His vision was also observing the map.


    As he had already tied up Gonzalez''s top combat power, the people of Blackwood also began to move.


    At the town gate of the town.


    "Boom!"


    The ground roared.


    After expanding the map, Ethan clearly saw hundreds of Psychics dressed in Garcia uniforms already appearing on the rooftops of Forest Town. Most notably, each of them carried several long spears on their backs!


    At this moment, the Garcia Psychics were on high alert.


    A giant snake charged from the distant parts of Forest Town, its body darkening under the scorching sun, roaring as it rushed towards the town!


    Yet even as the snake brought with it clouds of dust, the Psychics remained unmoved, clearly not targeting the snake.


    "Peak mutant beast!"


    Suddenly, an elderly figure from the Garcia camp flew out on a flying sword, "I haven''t made a move in two hundred years, but today I will let this monstrous creature see that the old masters of the Garcia clan are not yet feeble!"


    Before he arrived, the snake moved forward, the ground collapsed, and long spears broke through the soil, forming a formation that blocked the snake''s path!


    At the same moment, the snake launched an attack on the Garcia elder.


    Thunder Cage!


    Lightning arcs emitted from the snake, which had once easily trapped mid-stage Emerging Ability experts, and it also spat out thunder flames.


    But the Garcia elder was truly a master of the false pill stage.


    "Mystic Dao of the Spear, the formation turns into soldiers!"


    With a fierce shout, the countless long spears that had blocked the snake''s path suddenly appeared in front of him, instantly forming a giant spear, carrying a powerful spear force, and shot out, breaking through the snake''s thunder flames!


    Even as the snake hastily dodged, the giant spear still slashed through its tough skin.


    "Hiss!"


    It was the first time the snake had been injured since its transformation, and it couldn''t help but howl skyward, sending electric arcs sweeping out in all directions. This time, mixed with scorching flames, even the sun in the sky cast halos on the snake.


    The so-called Thunder Sun Python was never just capable of manipulating thunder and battling humans¡ªit also controlled flames!


    "Such a monstrous creature!"


    The Garcia elder knew well the strength of the Thunder Sun Python and dared not delay any longer, but he also knew that if the Python fought him in Forest Town, it would inevitably bring an irreparable disaster to his clan, so he led the Thunder Sun Python out of the town.


    In an instant, dust and smoke billowed, and the battle site was filled with electric arcs, flames, and spears that broke through the ground at any moment.


    ...

 Chapter 47: Chapter 47: Mystical beasts

    "Neither superior nor inferior, the battle between the temple guardian beast and Elder Garcia could go on forever."


    While fighting with Gonzalez''s top fighters, Ethan frowned as he watched the distant battle between the Purple Lightning Python and Elder Garcia.


    The only difference between an Emerging Ability master and a Foundational Energy master.


    Is that Emerging Ability masters can already harness the extraordinary powers of nature for their own use, fly with swords to some extent, and cast spells. Their abilities are versatile, making it tough to determine a winner among equals.


    "Boom!"


    Though he was observing the distant battle, Ethan didn''t slack in his attack on the Gonzalez base!


    By now, one of the five Emerging Ability masters, a mid-stage, had been killed by him.


    Under the wide-ranging attack of the Blade Storm, the remaining four masters had to temporarily retreat, even the imprint of a basic ability device couldn''t stop it.


    Another cannon blast.


    Ethan completely blasted open Garcia''s defensive array!


    "You ruin my family, and you will pay with your life!"


    Although most of the Gonzalez members had already evacuated, the two elders of the Garcia family, watching their family reduced to ruins, were still uncontrollably furious.


    "Keep him busy, none of those Blackwoods will survive!"


    But no sooner had he spoken than Ethan found an opportunity, firing another laser cannon, killing the weakest Emerging Ability beginner of Gonzalez.


    With another death.


    The attacks from the Gonzalez people grew fiercer, they gradually discovered the drawbacks of the War AI Bionic Robot, taking advantage of its smaller size, they kept moving with Ethan, after all, the laser cannon needed to charge.


    Ethan also understood their tactic, minimizing the operation cost of the mech, using the laser sword and the relatively energy-efficient cannon.


    "The War AI Bionic Robot and the Purple Lightning Python have already held off some of their top fighters, it''s all on you now!"


    ...


    "Is this the true power of Blackwood?" Outside Forest Town, more than thirty members of the Martinez family also joined the battle!


    At the beginning, they held no hope for the fight. After all, Blackwood had only risen to prominence over the past twenty or so years, starting from rural roots with all resources coming from the Silver Iron Forest.


    But the moment the Purple Thunder Solar Python appeared, they were stunned. It was a monstrous creature capable of battling a False Core!


    Not only that. Especially the silver figure soaring above Forest Town, almost single-handedly holding off most of the Gonzalez clan''s Emerging Ability masters, even managing to kill two Emerging Ability Psychics under the joint attack of two peak Emerging Ability devices! Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We truly knew nothing of Blackwood''s real strength," Jerry muttered, rubbing his face. But these two from the Martinez family realized they knew far too little!


    "It''s our turn to strike!" Nathan''s call came from nearby.


    Jerry and the family elder looked to the right, just in time to see Nathan give the order, and the ready and waiting people of Blackwood suddenly rose to their feet.


    However, the armed villagers of Gratitude Village didn''t move immediately. An unexpected figure stood up alone.


    That rarely seen woman from Blackwood, a farmer''s daughter from the countryside, who spoke softly and was usually seen as nothing more than a Level 5 Foundational Energy.


    "May the Forebearer bless Blackwood with invincible might!" With Luna''s fierce shout, a phantom image appeared around her¡ª the Heavenly Moon Fox! This fox was all white, with a crescent moon mark between its eyebrows and a pair of fluffy tails standing tall, as if drawing strength from the heavens.


    "Spiritual beast taming, Mid-Emerging Ability!" The Martinez family elder, experienced and knowledgeable, immediately recognized Luna''s capabilities, which shocked him even more.


    With Luna''s fierce cry, the winds stirred and the trees swayed in the forests outside Forest Town. Suddenly, various mystical beasts appeared!


    "Hundred-Eyed Demon Spider, Gale Wing Tiger, Sun Beast!" Jerry''s face drastically changed. These mystical beasts, known to them as creatures of the Silver Iron Forest! Countless young members and subordinates of the four great families of Forest Town had died at the hands of these beasts, yet they had no way to deal with them.


    Little did they expect, these fearsome beasts had silently become the guardian beasts of Blackwood!


    Not only the few from the Martinez family were incredulous. At that moment, the people of Garcia, who had set up traps all over Forest Town, also showed faces of terror.


    "Quick, the mystical beasts are attacking the city!"


    "Garcia''s Spear Formation, ready!"


    "Damn it, Blackwood, how could they have so many mystical beasts?!"


    As Luna, now in her fox form, charged with over a hundred mystical beasts between heaven and earth, she rushed towards Forest Town amidst dust and smoke.


    On the other side of Forest Town, long spears floated in the air, raining down like a storm towards the beast horde!


    The real battle began at that moment!


    "Kill!" Nathan squinted his eyes. On this battlefield, he had no time to worry about his wife''s safety.


    As the mystical beasts countered the first wave of traps at Forest Town.


    Watching beast after beast fall in pools of blood.


    He led all the people of Gratitude Village in a desperate attack towards Forest Town!


    "Screw it!" Seeing this, the Martinez family elder, his eyes red, flew on his sword, leading the last thirty or so people of the Martinez family into their homeland!


    In the midst of the clashing sounds within Forest Town, a maid from Gratitude Village was pushing Olivia along the deserted streets. Olivia, with an expressionless face, stared ahead at the grand mansion. She slowly raised her head, looking at the sign above the courtyard.


    "Is this the Rodriguez house?" she asked.


    Several guards stationed in front of the Rodriguez house were vigilantly observing their surroundings, ready to question the intentions of the woman in the wheelchair.


    Olivia, however, was already smiling as she said, "Olivia of the Blackwood sisters, here to see the head of the Rodriguez family, to offer the Rodriguez family a way to survive."

 Chapter 48: Chapter 48: Forebearers Charge

    "Phew!"


    A gust of wind blows through as Garcia''s forces surround EthanEmerging Ability. Suddenly, a mid-level Emerging Ability expert from Garcia''s side is cut in half!


    [Energy consumption has reached 56%!]


    [Severe damage to the left arm, shoulder armor laser cannon ability depleted!]


    [Warning, do not use Blade Storm again, it will cause severe damage to the mech!]


    Gonzalez has proven to be more troublesome than Ethan had anticipated! They have all sorts of tricks up their sleeves. Just now, Gonzalez even brought out ten psychic equipment pieces, placing them in a large formation, causing significant damage to Ethan''s War AI Bionic Robot.


    Fortunately, now that the War AI Bionic Robot is heavily damaged, the remaining two peak Emerging Ability experts from Gonzalez are also heavily scarred.


    On the map.


    In Ethan''s view, the Blackwood members are also caught in a fierce battle.


    Luna leads the mystical beasts in the first charge, just to break through the traps of Forest Town. They face Garcia''s ancestral Spear Forest Formation, a formation that links all of Garcia''s members'' abilities, raining down spears like a covering sky.


    In just an instant, a dozen slow-moving mystical beasts are caught off-guard and perish.


    Then, it''s hand-to-hand combat.


    Facing the various traps and formations set up by Garcia and Gonzalez in Forest Town, such as spells, symbols, and psychic equipment... Under the centuries-old family heritage of these two families, Blackwood''s years of nurtured mystical beasts seem so fragile.


    But soon after breaking through the Spear Forest Formation of Forest Town, the villagers of Gratitude Village, led by Nathan, launch their attack!


    The Blackwood guard squad initiates the first wave of attack.


    Although most of them are still ordinary people, years of training and a lot of equipment make them capable of effectively attacking the Iron Will Psychic.


    They stand their ground, bending their bows and setting arrows.


    Forged from black iron, their arrows rain down like a storm, each archer equipped with 15 iron arrows!


    As they fire in unison.


    The nearly thousand villagers of Gratitude Village also show their mettle.


    When there are no more attacks coming out of Forest Town, they quickly rush nearby. Instead of foolishly engaging in close combat with the Psychic, under Julian''s leadership, they take out all their weapons.


    In a flash, there''s a scene of villagers hurling kitchen knives, machetes, and other sharp weapons in the direction of the recent Psychic attack.


    Following that.


    All of Blackwood''s Emerging Ability period Psychics, along with Blackwood''s three mystical beasts, seize the opportunity to charge into Forest Town!


    Ethan can no longer take care of everyone!


    He can only deal with the two peak Emerging Ability opponents.


    While waiting for notifications from the game interface!


    [A villager from Gratitude Village is in critical condition...]


    [One of your family''s mystical beasts is severely injured!]


    [Villager deceased...]


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan, operating the War AI Bionic Robot in his room and monitoring the game interface with his body, clenches his teeth.


    Having played this game for so long.


    He has come to realize that these might very well be real people!


    Lives are being lost right before his eyes, but he knows he must keep his cool at such times. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Spiritual Tribute value: 1342]


    The harsh reality is, even though he has a considerable amount of Spiritual Tribute value, he can''t help everyone. He can only keep an eye on Blackwood''s members to prevent any mishaps!


    [Use skill ''Charge, My Children'', consuming Spiritual Tribute 115!]


    This isn''t the first time Ethan has used this skill, which can increase all attributes of family members by 10%!


    However, the cost of the skill increases as the members'' strength increases.


    Using this skill on an Emerging Ability period expert consumes 50 points, while Iron Will only needs 5 points!


    "It''s Forebearer!"


    "My power has increased!"


    "With Forebearer''s help, I want to see how you die!"


    The Blackwood members who have already broken into Forest Town feel a powerful psychic ability transmitted to them from the Forebearer cards they carry!


    Yes.


    Now, all Blackwood members carry a cards of Ethan, fighting alongside their Forebearer!


    Although... Ethan could use his skills without the cards, fighting with the Forebearer cards has become a fine tradition of Blackwood.


    ...


    "Boom!"


    Inside Garcia, amidst a fierce battle, the elder Martinez, along with the entire Martinez family, broke through Garcia''s protective formation using a secret family technique!


    At that moment.


    The Garcia talisman formation exploded, and Dexter, who had previously sent men to severely injure Nathan, was now looking over the ruins with several Foundational Energy experts.


    "Ha ha ha! Overestimating yourself, the Blackwood kid still wants to avenge his father, not even checking if he''s up to the mark!"


    Within the ruins.


    Lucas could be seen struggling to stand atop the debris, sword in hand. The moment he entered Garcia, he didn''t hesitate to draw his sword and seek out Dexter.


    He had not spent a day without thinking of avenging his father!


    But what he hadn''t expected was that after killing a Foundational Energy level nine Psychic protecting Dexter, and breaking through the encirclement, he couldn''t escape the deep-rooted powers of Garcia, who possessed various kinds of formations!


    "Someone, kill this ignorant fool, a mere country bumpkin thinks he can kill me?"


    Dexter looked coldly at Lucas.


    Facing the charging Psychic, Lucas, despite his severe injuries, remained undaunted.


    He stretched out his left hand, bones gruesomely visible, clutching the Forebearer cards tightly in his embrace, suddenly grinning, making him look like a demon crawling out of hell.


    "Do you think only you have a foundation? Blackwood has one too!!!"


    "What?"


    Dexter''s color changed.


    As Lucas roared, the Forebearer cards he held emitted a white light, and his wounds began to heal at a visible rate!


    [Consume 100 points of Spiritual Tribute, use ''Embrace of the Forebearer'', heal Lucas''s injuries!]


    His injuries healed significantly!


    Lucas, holding his sword and with a grim expression, walked towards Dexter, "Today, I take your head to avenge my father''s near-death!"

 Chapter 49: Chapter 49: Forebearers Cards Part 1

    "Lord of Blackwood, just a country bumpkin, only knows a mundane sword technique and a step technique learned from my Garcia, and dares to act wildly in my Garcia!"


    Inside Garcia.


    Nathan, holding a long knife, was facing the fierce attacks of a mid-stage Emerging Ability expert!


    Though he possessed four traits, as the Emerging Ability expert said, Nathan''s Emerging Ability stage was indeed diluted.


    The techniques he learned were all common, and after reaching Emerging Ability, he hadn''t even managed to learn some spells, not a match for a typical Emerging Ability stage opponent, merely having a unique ability.


    At best, he could only match an early-stage Emerging Ability.


    Now facing a mid-stage Emerging Ability, his original chaotic techniques suddenly became more composed, which made the Garcia Psychic wonder, "Still daring to counterattack, where do you get the courage?"


    Nathan grinned.


    "Courage given by the Forebearer!"


    In an instant.


    The Forebearer cards in Nathan''s embrace floated out, appearing in front of him!


    "What kind of supernatural equipment is this?"


    The mid-stage Emerging Ability expert was stunned.


    This thing looked just like a cards, who would bring a Forebearer''s cards to a deadly fight?


    But then a terrifying scene occurred!


    The Forebearer cards split into ten, each rushing towards him and then exploding!


    Equivalent to the peak of Foundational Energy explosion, even he had to defend against it.


    The same scene also occurred with all the Blackwood descendants!


    Luna was initially struggling against a mid-stage Emerging Ability expert, naturally falling behind.


    But her Forebearer cards suddenly appeared from her embrace, delivering a critical strike to her opponent!


    Julian, wielding a hammer, roamed the battlefield.


    He was a complete brute, charging wherever he found an Iron Will expert equal to him, daring to rush into a crowd of a hundred if no one stronger opposed him.


    The Forebearer cards also appeared beside him, always killing any Iron Will expert trying to ambush him!


    Compared to the family''s battles.


    Amelia was obviously more relaxed, sitting on a giant eagle at the peak of strange beasts, aiming and shooting arrows at the enemy.


    Even with an early-stage Emerging Ability Psychic constantly tracking her from behind, he dared not approach, as Amelia''s poison powder kept drifting backward.


    She was also engaged in a harvesting operation.


    "Hmph, despicable Blackwood scoundrel, you think you can escape?"


    That Emerging Ability Psychic was so anxious he was about to jump, finally using a secret technique to appear in front of Amelia like teleportation.


    But Amelia remained unmoved, quietly drawing her bow and arrow.


    Then.


    Two Forebearer cardss flew out from Amelia''s embrace, launching a deadly attack on the early-stage Emerging Ability Psychic, followed by Amelia''s poison-drenched arrows!


    ...


    On the battlefield, Forebearer cardss rose one after another. The two elder Gonzalezes, locked in combat with the war AI Bionic Robots, quickly caught on to something.


    "Special high-level psychic gear, huh?" One of the Gonzalez elders remarked, still launching attacks towards Ethan, who remained unfazed.


    The appearance of these Forebearer cardss wouldn''t shift the tide of battle. Their side was numerous and skilled, and the scales of victory would inevitably tip in their favor over time!


    "I''ll admit, we underestimated you folks at Blackwood. None of the families in our Forest Town could match you in battle," laughed a Gonzalez elder, trying to rattle Ethan.


    "Too bad, your Blackwood is too foolish, daring to walk into our well-set trap in Forest Town alone. You''re doomed to be wiped out today!"


    On the screen, Ethan remained stoic. He acknowledged that entering Forest Town for a battle was reckless and tough.


    But then...


    He slowly clicked on the map, checking on the only Blackwood family member not yet in combat. "It''s all on you now. If you don''t show up soon, I really won''t last much longer!"


    As his words fell, figures suddenly appeared darting along the rooftops in the houses of Forest Town!


    In the sky above the battlefield, several masters flew on their swords, rushing towards the fray to join Blackwood''s ranks!


    A flying dagger whizzed through the air, and even though a Gonzalez elder dodged in time, he still lost his right arm.


    The elder turned his head to look behind him.


    A middle-aged man in a purple robe retracted the flying dagger that had just severed the arm of the Gonzalez elder. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What are you doing, you scoundrel?!" he exclaimed.


    Watching the scene, Ethan breathed a sigh of relief.


    In the distance, at the Rodriguez household.


    Olivia, pushed by a maid in her wheelchair, wore a relaxed smile.


    Around her, armed members of the Rodriguez family surged forth!


    "The Rodriguez reinforcements have arrived!" someone shouted.


    "Wait, we''ve got backup?" another voice chimed in with surprise.


    "Charge! Let''s wipe these scumbags off the map!" The battle instantly tipped in their favor as the Rodriguez family experts entered the fray.


    The head of the Rodriguez family, a refined middle-aged man dressed in a flowing cloud-patterned robe, appeared beside Nathan.


    He saw a cards explode in front of Nathan''s opponent, a flicker of surprise in his eyes, and without hesitation, joined Nathan in combat against a mid-stage Emerging Ability expert.


    With their combined efforts, the already injured opponent was quickly dispatched.


    "So, you must be Nathan, my brother?" Mark forced a smile.


    "That''s me," Nathan replied, catching his breath. He seemed to have anticipated the Rodriguez family''s intervention and naturally bowed to Mark. "Thanks for the solid backup, Mark."


    "Don''t mention it," Mark replied, his smile twitching. This reluctant assistance was a necessity!


    Before coming to Blackwood, Mark had already received invitations from two other families to join forces against external threats. The Rodriguez family had never wanted to get involved, preferring to avoid any damage to their own.


    But Mark had never expected that as soon as the battle in Forest Town began, Olivia from Blackwood would show up at his doorstep, offering him three choices:


    Stand with the Heath and Gonzalez families against Blackwood, in which case Blackwood would abandon their base and Gratitude Village, leaving behind all resources.


    Align with Blackwood, ensuring the Rodriguez family''s dominance in Forest Town with a powerful ally. Remain onlookers, which would lead everyone to view them as opportunists, likely facing retribution after the battle.


    "Nathan, we can''t let Garcia and Gonzalez escape this time; it would only lead to future troubles," Mark said to a battered Nathan before heading off to assist him.


    As he moved, Mark looked up at the war AI Bionic Robots flying towards the outskirts of Forest Town and the Purple Thunder Python wreaking havoc in the streets, still visibly shaken.

 Chapter 50: Chapter 50: Forebearers Cards Part 2

    "Blackwood... truly formidable," he muttered in fear.


    Initially, despite Blackwood''s attempts over the years to trade with the Rodriguez family, Mark had never taken them seriously. But today''s siege revealed Blackwood''s terrifying strength. Having risen to power in just two or three decades, they now rivaled great families that had taken centuries to establish, even standing up to two families alone.


    This was why, after Olivia gave him three choices, he chose to side with Blackwood. Even if Blackwood lost today, their members could escape, and no one could stop them. What about the next few decades, or even a century later?


    "Master, if we help Blackwood, might they eventually absorb us?" a clan elder asked Mark, his expression grave.


    Mark shook his head. "In just a short time, Blackwood has become this powerful. Previously, Garcia and Gonzalez blocked their progress, suppressing their development. Now that they can access resources, they will reach new heights. As long as we keep to ourselves from now on, we''ll be in the shade of a great tree."


    [Congratulations, you''ve led your clan and its forces to break through the economic blockade of Forest Town, defeating two major families. Your clanspeople are cheering for you!]


    [You''ve earned a Spiritual Tribute +5000!]


    "We won!"


    Ethan finally stopped controlling the war AI Bionic Robot and joyfully waved his fist,


    He had prepared for the worst and hoped for the best in this battle.


    If he had lost, he wouldn''t have just sat around waiting for doom; instead, he planned to take all members of Blackwood and retreat, breaking down and then rebuilding, abandoning the years of accumulation at Gratitude Village. Once the members developed successfully elsewhere, they would return for revenge.


    And the best plan involved the Rodriguez family.


    That was the key to this battle!


    He still remembered the day Olivia went to the Rodriguez family on his orders, offering them three choices, essentially giving the Rodriguez family a way out!


    "This was a total blast!"


    Ethan couldn''t hide his joy.


    As the battle ended, the cleanup of the battlefield began.


    In the event tab, a delightful list appeared.


    [You''ve obtained loot, a basic psychic ability rapid-fire spear.]


    [You''ve obtained a "Pill Scripture" book.]


    [You''ve obtained a "Spear Formation Diagram" book.]


    [...]


    Who says war isn''t the simplest way to accumulate wealth?


    As Blackwood searched, the Heath and Gonzalez families'' psychic scriptures were all seized by Blackwood.


    Not only that.


    [Your clan has occupied two gold mines.]


    [Your clan has occupied a ''Sky Blue Stone Mine''.]


    [Acquired ''Psychic Fish Lake'', discovered ingredients that can enhance human psychic abilities...]


    All sorts of resources dazzled Ethan.


    [Your clan leader has obtained a basic psychic ability device¡ªHeavenly Balance Seal!]


    The basic psychic ability device that had repeatedly troubled Ethan during the fight with the war AI Bionic Robot was now in Nathan''s hands!


    This device, which could enlarge and attack enemies with extreme weight, and even form seals, was something Ethan knew was incredibly powerful. A Psychic in the Emerging Ability phase could use a psychic ability device to jump a minor stage in combat.


    While the harvest was rich.


    Blackwood also had to face severe casualties.


    In Gratitude Village, thousands of civilians were injured or killed. Hundreds of Blackwood''s psychic beasts were also heavily damaged in the first wave of attacks by Garcia''s spear formation, leaving only about twenty.


    Only the weakest of the four psychic beasts, the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon, survived.


    Even Blackwood''s members were not without incidents.


    Even though Ethan did his best to help the Blackwood clanspeople avoid danger, Julian still nearly died in combat, ultimately losing his left arm. The ''Forebearer''s Embrace'' could only heal injuries, but could not regenerate limbs.


    "Once the clan develops, we''ll think of a solution for him."


    ...


    Soon, the scene in the game shifted.


    Everyone had already returned to the Blackwood base with their spoils of war.


    At this moment, Nathan was comforting the deceased villagers of Gratitude Village, promising them that as long as Blackwood existed, it would protect the entire Gratitude Village.


    From this moment on, every newborn child in Gratitude Village would receive guidance from those skilled in cultivating psychic powers, gaining more farmland and resources, and even seeds for psychic-enhancing medicines.


    "Next up, it''s time for Blackwood''s rapid development!" Ethan grinned.


    This war had also touched him deeply.


    He increasingly felt that the descendants in the game were genuinely human, possessing emotions and admirable qualities that even he had to respect. Often, Ethan even thought that if the real-world Blackwood were like the one in the game, he might dedicate himself to the whole of Blackwood.


    Lost in thought.


    [Your descendant Julian has returned with a severed arm, and seeing this, Mary is heartbroken and proposes to Julian!]


    The game lit up again, and the entire village of Gratitude Village came to Blackwood to attend the wedding.


    Not just them.


    The Martinez family, now back in Forest Town, and the head of the Rodriguez family, Mark, also came to the wedding.


    One-armed Julian and Mary, dressed in wedding attire, stepped into the hall of matrimony.


    Then they proceeded to the Forebearer''s shrine.


    "Woah, Forebearer, Julian''s finally married. If I''d known losing an arm would get me Mary, I would''ve chopped mine off a long time ago," Julian cried, his heart aching.


    "..."


    Before, Ethan had been worried that losing an arm would affect Julian''s spirit, but now it seemed...


    [Your descendant''s grand wedding, congratulations, you''ve received a Spiritual Tribute+50!]


    This joyous occasion dispersed the sorrow of the heavy casualties in Gratitude Village.


    A new round of development began for both Blackwood and Gratitude Village.


    [Blackwood Year 34.]


    This year began with Blackwood reaping the benefits from Forest Town, showing early signs of success!


    [Lucas has killed his enemy Dexter, his spirits lifted, and he has now grasped the path of Emerging Ability, beginning his retreat!]


    "The third period of Emerging Ability in Blackwood." S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    However, the only downside seemed to be that after his separation from Karen, Lucas was heartbroken and had no plans to marry.


    "Children will have their own blessings," Ethan thought, not planning to force Lucas into marriage.


    Just pondering this.


    "Forebearer, I''ve done it, I''ve done it again!"


    The game screen suddenly switched to the psychic medicine garden.


    Amelia, holding a tablet, joyfully ran in circles. The previously cold and merciless Amelia, who had used poison arrows to kill enemies in Forest Town, was now like an innocent child back in the psychic medicine garden.


    [Your descendant Amelia, after years of research, has finally developed a new medicine, Golden Psychic Powder!]


    [Golden Psychic Powder (Grade 9 Medicine): Increases 1-8 points of Golden Psychic Constitution.]


    "I''ve finally developed it!"


    Watching this message, Ethan almost jumped on the spot.


    This Grade 9 medicine was simply a miracle drug for beginners, capable of changing a person''s talents.


    Even in the real world, it could fetch a sky-high price!


    It also meant that the talents of Blackwood members would be further enhanced. The biggest beneficiary would be Nathan, whose Golden Psychic Constitution had reached 68 points after the Emerging Ability period. With a bit of luck, he could break through 70!


    "Forebearer, we can now obtain a lot of resources from Forest Town, and I''m ready to develop two new medicines!"


    After bowing to the cards, Amelia began to work on her new medicines.


    Ethan took a quick look.


    Qingfeng Powder, a medicine that helps clear the mind during cultivation, essentially enhancing one''s understanding!


    Heiyu Continuation Paste, a powerful healing medicine, capable of treating internal and external injuries, and even capable of reattaching limbs if they were severed no more than 30 seconds ago.


    "Amelia, you really are my treasure!"


    Ethan''s smile almost reached his ears.


    As long as Amelia increased her efforts in refining, once Blackwood grew stronger and she taught more disciples, Ethan could even start a real-world pharmaceutical company.


    Making a fortune!

 Chapter 51: Chapter 51: The Sky Sect

    However, the surprises for Ethan weren''t just from Amelia.


    Julian, the blacksmith, wasn''t left behind either.


    Though he had lost an arm, it wasn''t a dead end for a Psychic.


    On the day he married Mary, the Rodriguez family gifted him a prosthetic limb, an arm that could be easily maneuvered with psychic power, though it had its drawbacks. The silver limb was somewhat unsightly and couldn''t perform psychic actions, consuming psychic power with every movement.


    But this was enough for Julian to continue crafting psychic equipment!


    [Your descendant Julian has forged a mid-grade psychic equipment set from ''Azure Stone'', ''Heavy Sand'', ''Gale Tiger Bones'', and ''Gale Tiger Inner Alchemy'' using the Black Iron Beast Blood Armor Suit!]


    "Done, hahaha!"


    After crafting his first set of mid-grade psychic equipment, Julian couldn''t wait to report the good news at the shrine, "Forebearer, although we only have one Gale Tiger, as long as I keep working hard to find materials from Emerging Ability period beasts, I can continue to forge mid-grade psychic equipment!"


    Looking at the freshly made set of equipment, Ethan nodded slightly.


    It must be said, if a person has a bit of talent and pursues a hobby, success comes quite easily.


    Julian was just such a person.


    Look how happy the kid is... like he''s gotten married again.


    "Right, and the bodies of the Sunrise Beast, the Hundred-Eyes Demon Spider, and those experts buried under the beast blood fruit trees in Forest Town, soon they''ll be reduced to bones, and I can use them to craft psychic equipment, hahaha!"


    Hearing this, Ethan didn''t find it strange at all, as using human bones to craft psychic equipment was quite normal.


    Soon, Ethan''s attention turned to the armory in Gratitude Village.


    With Blackwood and Gratitude Village acquiring a lot of spoils of war, they were rapidly developing every day.


    In Gratitude Village, there were already over a dozen psychic equipment craftsmen, all Julian''s apprentices.


    He gradually realized that one person crafting psychic equipment was always limited in energy, and began to cultivate a force for Blackwood to craft psychic equipment.


    ...


    "Huh? They''re starting to cultivate psychic fields already?"


    Ethan was surprised as he watched the game screen.


    Originally, Gratitude Village was all farmland, raising livestock as well.


    But after the battle, only a portion of these farms remained, just enough to meet daily needs. The rest of the land had been cleared, and Ethan watched as the villagers of Gratitude Village buried Energy Stones in the ground.


    And some newcomers were drawing formations on the fields!


    Looking at the event bar, Ethan finally understood why.


    [After the great battle, Gratitude Village faced a shortage of labor, and since there was no longer a need to worry about food, Nathan decided to stop farming. He found a method from the spoils of war to plant psychic rice from Gonzalez, and hired a formation master from the county town to cultivate psychic fields.]


    [One acre of psychic field requires ten thousand Energy Stones and can operate for ten years.]


    [Your descendants have used 300,000 Energy Stones to cultivate 30 acres of psychic fields.]


    Nathan had consulted him about this.


    Psychic fields also exist on Earth, producing rice and corn filled with psychic energy, which can enhance physical strength and prolong life!


    Ordinary people live less than a hundred years, but if they regularly eat psychic rice, their lifespan can reach over 120 years.


    It can also slightly increase the speed of cultivating psychic powers.


    This stuff is usually eaten by the wealthy, and it was perfect timing to use the massive amount of Energy Stones obtained from Garcia and Gonzalez to cultivate psychic fields, whether for sale or personal use.


    "Once the family makes more money, it would be great if Gratitude Village was all psychic fields."


    Clearly, thirty acres of psychic fields were not enough for Ethan''s appetite.


    Then Ethan continued to watch the event bar.


    [Gratitude Village''s villager Steven, advanced to the first level of Foundational Energy!]


    [Villager Tate, advanced to the first level of Foundational Energy, your descendant Olivia rewarded him with the ''Body Forging Technique''.]


    [Villager...]


    Meanwhile, in a courtyard in Gratitude Village, Olivia was sitting under a peach tree, with villagers of Gratitude Village lining up in front of her.


    "Miss Fourth, this is this year''s tax silver."


    "Is it from Gonzalez? Last year your family''s Steven was sacrificed in Forest Town, so you don''t need to pay tax silver. Here, your family has two children, go and get a copy of the ''Body Forging Technique''." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thank you, Miss Fourth."


    "Next."


    "Miss Fourth, I''m applying to join the guard squad, I''ve become Iron Will."


    "Application denied, your Liu family only has you left. Here''s what, you go be a coach first, teach the village kids to cultivate psychic powers, with medicinal soup as your salary, which can speed up your cultivating psychic powers. Once you have children, then apply again."


    "Thank you, Miss Fourth."


    "Next..."


    After becoming an Emerging Ability, Nathan had clearly become a strategic master and hardly showed himself, leaving many matters to Olivia.


    But this was normal for the family, as masters always need to stay hidden.


    They often spent their time cultivating psychic powers, while also keeping a trump card for the family.


    However, entrusting the family to Olivia was clearly the right choice.


    Under Olivia''s arrangements, both Gratitude Village and Blackwood could develop so peacefully and steadily, with everything well-planned.


    ...


    [Blackwood 35 Years.]


    [A Daoist from Sky Sect in Tranquil City passed through Gratitude Village and happened to see Marcus, who was training in combat with a beast. Impressed by Marcus, who at 14 was already at the peak of Foundational Energy level five and had mastered marksmanship, he wanted to take him as a disciple.]


    "Sky Sect, huh?"


    Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    In the game world, Forest Town is like a beginner''s village, while Tranquil City is a county town, governing thirteen towns beneath it.


    This world isn''t just about families; there are also sects.

 Chapter 52: Chapter 52: Sect or Family

    Generally speaking, sect powers are stronger than family powers, and they control more resources. Ethan heard that the mayor of Forest Town, even the lord of Tranquil City, all obey the commands of the large sect powers.


    These sect powers are firmly behind the scenes, dominating the entire world, even the imperial court.


    "Forebearer, your unworthy descendant plans to join Sky Sect. At Sky Sect, I will learn more powerful techniques, and once I have achieved something, I will return to serve the family!"


    Marcus rushed to the ancestral hall.


    But as soon as he stepped in.


    Amelia followed right behind, "Hmph! What''s so good about joining a sect? Doesn''t Blackwood have resources, don''t we have techniques? Have you mastered all the techniques and martial arts from Gonzalez and Garcia?"


    "Auntie..."


    Marcus hung his head; in the family, in Gratitude Village, he always felt like people were calling him a traitor to Blackwood, always reminded of his mother''s betrayal of the family.


    Amelia continued, "You don''t know the methods of those sects. Once you join, they''ll tell you that to cultivate psychic powers, you must first sever worldly ties! They''ll use all sorts of methods to make you forget your past identity. You''re young, you might think you won''t believe their nonsense, but what about when you''re actually at Sky Sect?"


    "Ten years, twenty years? Will you still remember that you are a Blackwood?" S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing the stubborn look in Marcus''s eyes, Amelia narrowed her eyes.


    She knelt in front of the ancestral hall, "Forebearer, let me break this unfilial descendant''s legs, then we''ll see how he goes to Sky Sect!"


    Watching the argument on the game screen.


    Ethan fell into thought; what Amelia said was the reality after joining a sect.


    But Ethan also understood Marcus''s current situation. This third-generation descendant had witnessed his mother being expelled from the family, likely harboring some demons. Otherwise, with his talent and the resources provided by Blackwood, he would probably be more than just at the peak of level five.


    The kid was already 14; maybe seeing the outside world would be better. Although the map hadn''t developed the location of Sky Sect, Ethan had heard that within the sect, there were even Nascent Soul elders!


    Going to Sky Sect, Marcus might become stronger than all of Blackwood, and besides, descendants have their own pursuits.


    As a Forebearer, he had no reason to stop him.


    "Go ahead."


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python and typed in some text. In a flash, the Purple Thunder Solar Python opened its eyes and hissed.


    With Ethan''s approval, Amelia didn''t stop him, only scolding Marcus, "You spineless thing, you''ll regret this," before letting it be. Despite the harsh words, the folks from Blackwood still saw Marcus off, with Amelia even giving him a Storage Ring filled with medicines for protection.


    Soon after Marcus left, a cry rang out, "Ahh!!!"


    [Mary gave birth to a son after being pregnant for ten months, and named him Thomas!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute+10!]


    "Damn, this kid looks huge right out of the gate!"


    The newborn cried out as he entered the world!


    At this moment, the people of Blackwood gathered again in the courtyard, with Julian spinning around holding the child!


    Ethan rubbed his hands together. This guy, after getting married, was seriously into it¡ªhis wife got pregnant in just a couple of months.


    Speaking of Mary, this formidable woman was no simple character. After becoming a member of Blackwood, Ethan got her personal information. Mary was only 20 years old this year, yet she had already reached Level 8 Foundational Energy, with a talent of dual Psychic Constitution!


    Their son Thomas also had good potential, almost on par with Marcus, especially considering his size at birth¡ªhe was definitely a mini-Julian!


    Soon, a feast was set up in the scene.


    After the wedding, the people of Forest Town came to Blackwood again to join the feast.


    Mark, the head of the Rodriguez family, seeing the astonishing changes in Blackwood, was even more certain that his initial choice was correct. This time, he brought a piece of jade.


    "Nephew, this jade can nourish children. Keeping it close will ward off all diseases. It''s engraved with the history of our two families, from when we first met, to fighting side by side, to now being as close as brothers!"


    Seeing this, the faces of the Martinez family darkened.


    Jerry gritted his teeth, "Sucking up already? Engraving the jade with the friendship of the two families, they''re grooming this kid to have a good impression of the Rodriguez family from a young age, that old fox!"


    ...


    In the real world, on the ocean surface.


    Two days had passed since the excavation of the underwater ruins began.


    The vastness of the ruins below was astonishing!


    At the same time, various products from unknown eras were gradually being cleaned up by the staff.


    In the history research lab.


    A woman wearing glasses and a white science coat was looking at a piece of jade, her face filled with indescribable joy.


    "This piece of jade was probably a special psychic equipment piece, but due to the passage of time, its psychic powers have long since faded. However, the text engraved on it is very well preserved!"


    "The Great Battle of Forest... The Rodriguez family gave their all to help Blackwood win a great victory... Grandson Thomas has the potential of a great emperor..."


    Orion burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha, as long as I record everything about this family, my discovery will shock the world!"


    Before Ethan realized it, he had been gaming for several days, especially during the takeover of Forest Town, which took up a good chunk of his day.


    Now, he was munching on lunch while scrolling through the news on his phone.


    "Another archaeological site discovered, huh?"


    Ethan looked at the top news story with interest. Discoveries like this were no longer rare; with humanity''s exploration of Earth and outer space, it was already known that human civilization had many epochs.


    As for other news, Ethan wasn''t too interested.


    With human development, there had been both cooperation and conflicts with alien civilizations. He heard that the neighboring magical civilization had relocated from Earth after their psychic powers were depleted, and now, Earth''s top experts were expanding light-years away. Now, they''ve come back making noise.


    And Blackwood Pharmaceuticals... he was currently the only descendant of Earth''s Blackwood.

 Chapter 53: Chapter 53: Anthony and Linda

    "Commander, your teacher called," Lisa''s voice interrupted Ethan''s thoughts.


    Ethan then remembered the call from the school.


    He had been busy with battles and had temporarily blocked his teacher.


    "If you don''t go back to school, your teacher is going to be worried," Lisa said with a smile.


    "The California Hundred Schools Alliance competition is just a week away, and the school''s strongest Transcendent Seed stage expert has already been defeated outside the competition. I heard the opponent is a dark horse from the Second Academy, with a Mutant Thunder Psychic Constitution, truly a favored child of heaven."


    "So what if he lost?"


    Ethan shrugged indifferently. "Besides, what good does it do me to help them win the competition? There''s nothing the school can offer that I care about, let him have his fun."


    Noticing Lisa''s hesitant expression, Ethan chuckled, "Don''t worry about the Energy Stone, Alan owes the family a debt, he''ll send it over. Alright, I''m off to play my game."


    Lisa finally breathed a sigh of relief, watching Ethan''s retreating back, she murmured softly.


    "As long as the Commander doesn''t starve, it''s all good."


    ...


    [Blackwood, Year 37.]


    [Mary carried for ten months and gave birth to twins, named Anthony and Linda!]


    [Earned Spiritual Tribute +20!]


    "Forebearer, my daughter-in-law has given birth again, hahaha, to twins!"


    No sooner had he sat down, Ethan''s eyes were wide with excitement.


    In the shrine hall, young Julian was holding one baby in each arm, both of considerable size.


    "May the Forebearer bless us, Nathan''s family is flourishing, this life is truly blessed. Forebearer, just look at these kids, aren''t they sturdy? They''ll surely be great hunters one day."


    "Head of the family, look at what you''re saying, our family has prospered, no need for hunting anymore."


    "Hunting, we must go hunting! My Blackwood offspring can''t lose my craftsmanship!"


    Above each family member''s head floated tiny words.


    Ethan could see the joy in his family, and he shared in their happiness.


    Unknowingly, what was once just Nathan''s family had now grown into a large clan!


    He also sent out a collective ''Forebearer''s Love'' to the members.


    Amidst the joy,


    Ethan looked at the increasingly prosperous Gratitude Village.


    "First, let''s check the dinner time, see what Blackwood has become."


    He quickly scrolled through the member list.


    Lucas was still in seclusion, seeking a breakthrough in the Emerging Ability phase. Ethan even hoped Lucas''s seclusion would last a bit longer, as the longer the Emerging Ability phase, the better the transformation might be.


    Of course, there were also some naturally gifted individuals who achieved Emerging Ability instantly, and their transformations were impressive, but those were rare cases.


    Amelia and Julian had both reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy, but they planned to teach the disciples they had gathered over the years before going into seclusion again.


    Meanwhile,


    In this member list, Ethan also noticed some new additions, their personal information now included a position!


    [Your family, under Olivia''s planning over the years, has developed a unique family power.]


    Nathan, family head.


    Luna, head of the Psychic Beast Institute, with 30 caretakers.


    Lucas, head of the Black Blood Hall, with 150 family guards.


    Amelia, head of the Psychic Medicine Garden, with 15 apprentices.


    Julian, head of the Forge, with 20 apprentices.


    Olivia, head of Internal Affairs, with 3 deputies, maids... coachmen... drivers...


    "Things are getting more organized."


    In the real world, these family members, some small traders, had no specific positions. When a family has a specific plan, it also means that the family has moved up a level.


    Pleased that Blackwood was on the right track,


    He then saw Olivia in the shrine hall, reporting on the family''s progress.


    "Forebearer, in the year you did not show your psychic abilities, Olivia has taken full control of Forest Town under your trust!"


    Ethan tapped his head.


    Time accelerated to the fastest, one hour in reality is one year in the game world, his descendants had gotten used to his occasional disappearances and displays of psychic abilities.


    "They must think I''m quite mysterious, huh?"


    Ethan thought mischievously.


    Then he patiently listened to Olivia''s report.


    It turned out that after that time, Ethan had a long talk with Olivia, who had shown great wisdom, and Nathan had essentially handed over the management of family affairs to her.


    In the years that followed, after taking over the heritage of the two major families in Forest Town, Olivia began to plan in the town.


    Blackwood did not take over the dozen or so mines in Forest Town.


    Ethan''s plan was to settle in Gratitude Village quietly, developing through Forest Town, mainly staying behind the scenes.


    These mines were entirely managed by the Martinez and Rodriguez families, who developed them, while Blackwood received 50% of the output.


    And with the families of Forest Town, Blackwood had also become secret allies, supporting each other.


    But in reality,


    Both the Rodriguez and Martinez families knew that Blackwood was the true ruler of Forest Town.


    Now, Blackwood was able to earn between 20,000 to 50,000 primary Energy Stones each year, enough for internal consumption.


    "Forebearer, we have also recruited a rune master and an alchemist."


    Olivia said this without a smile, instead frowning, "Both are ninth grade, but seeing our family''s recent rise, they demanded a high price, which the children agreed to. I planned to arrange for apprentices to learn under them, but these two old foxes didn''t teach our apprentices any skills!"


    "The children are prepared to capture them, and if they do not train alchemists and rune masters for us, we will have them killed!"


    "..."


    Watching the text above Olivia''s head, Ethan held his forehead in exasperation.


    "If we really go down this route, what will become of Blackwood? If word gets out, we can forget about attracting any new members."


    Eventually, he let the Purple Thunder Sun Python speak on his behalf. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Forebearer has finally responded to his child!"


    As the Purple Thunder Sun Python, which had healed from its injuries over the years, opened its eyes and hissed, Olivia joyfully said, "Forebearer is indeed far-sighted. I''ll go find the disciples they brought. Not all of them can be old foxes; surely some will be tempted to pledge their loyalty to us!"


    Ethan nodded slightly.


    Nowadays in Blackwood, as long as one doesn''t lack a Psychic Constitution, and with the help of beast blood fruits and medicines concocted by Amelia, one could cultivate an Iron Will master in just three to five years.

 Chapter 54: Chapter 54: Death Coffin Part 1

    In terms of weaponry, the forge owns seven ''Blood Altars'' crafted by Julian, meeting the ''Enchantment'' conditions in forty-nine days.


    After a few days of hammering, a set of beginner psychic ability equipment can be forged.


    This already meets the equipment needs.


    But for further progress, an alchemist is essential.


    Especially for those in the Emerging Ability phase, who, while absorbing psychic abilities from the environment, also need to compress these abilities. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan has been in the Emerging Ability phase for several years now, with slow progress.


    Currently, Blackwood buys pills every year to help Nathan compress his psychic abilities, and those pills are expensive.


    In the future, as more people enter the Emerging Ability phase, having someone capable of concocting these pills becomes crucial.


    Besides,


    Ethan also understands that if Blackwood is to advance further, there are many other issues to handle.


    Especially with Luna.


    When she came to worship at the Forebearer''s temple, Ethan also asked her how to advance, since Luna is one of the most powerful in Blackwood.


    The answer he got was that as a Beast Master, Luna''s path to increasing her strength is different from ordinary people.


    Besides a large amount of psychic abilities, she also needs to evolve her bloodline.


    [Nathan''s wife learned from the Celestial Fox''s bloodline the conditions for its evolution.]


    [Condition one: Demon King Blood Pill]


    [Condition two: Ten Thousand Foxes Worship]


    [Condition three...]


    The various conditions left Ethan dizzy.


    The Demon King Blood Pill is naturally equivalent to the essence of power from a D-level Demon King.


    As for the Ten Thousand Foxes Worship...


    Ethan had no idea what that entailed.


    The same breakthrough applies to the Purple Thunder Sun Python, the guardian beast of the temple.


    This guy also needs a Demon King Blood Pill, as well as to be forged by both heavenly thunder and earthly fire.


    "Ah, what a headache, developing a clan is so difficult."


    Ethan scratched his head.


    But for now, he had no better plan, only to slowly look for any good opportunities.


    While watching over the clan''s development, he pondered how to advance further.


    [Your descendant Amelia, while planting new beast blood fruit trees and breaking open ancient boulders in the psychic medicine garden, discovered an ancient coffin...]


    ...


    "Whoa, why is there a coffin here?"


    "I don''t know, this spot... I was here about thirty years ago, it was just a cave then, and I found some junk."


    "What should we do? Should we open the coffin?"


    As soon as the coffin appeared, Amelia had already gathered all the family members.


    Everyone stared at the coffin, clueless.


    Ethan was also watching everything unfold.


    Unlike everyone else''s confusion, he was more solemn!


    He couldn''t help but stroke the Storage Ring on his index finger, which held the mysterious spear Nathan had retrieved!


    And this spear, which required a million Spiritual Tributes to unlock, was the treasure among the junk Nathan had originally found.


    Only Ethan and Grandma Quinn, who unlocked the spear, knew the value of this spear, and it had even caused a direct fallout between Grandma Quinn and Ethan!


    "This is the old site of Mystic Boar Forest, maybe the commander of the coffin is the same as the commander of the mysterious spear!"


    Initially, Ethan thought it was odd that such a treasure would appear in such a place.


    Now, with the appearance of this coffin, all of Ethan''s doubts were resolved.


    In no time.


    Nathan had already opened the coffin.


    Ethan, who was intently looking to see what was inside the copper coffin, was stunned¡ªit was completely empty!


    "What''s going on?"


    Ethan frowned, puzzled.


    In the crowd, Olivia wheeled herself forward, "Father, there are inscriptions on the coffin!"


    As everyone deciphered them.


    A prompt also appeared on Ethan''s screen!


    [Your clansmen have opened the copper coffin and discovered the epitaph of the tomb owner¡ª]


    [In the eighth year of Celestial Warrior Epoch, in the realm of the Azure Dragon, the gods keep no records.]


    [...During the great battle of the twin emperors, the mountains and rivers shattered, and I was unfortunately severely injured by the aftermath. Even a Supreme being is but an ant. Thus, I returned to my homeland, but alas, as I faced death, the world had changed, and I was left alone.]


    [This coffin contains all my life''s achievements, forming its own universe. Those destined may take them.]


    "It''s been almost forty years, and the opportunity has always been right here at Blackwood."


    Ethan''s eyes widened, wishing he could slap himself. When he first discovered the spear was extraordinary, why didn''t he think of this?


    This was a treasure from the Supreme era!


    Even in the real world, this was something incredible!


    Meanwhile, the people of Blackwood were staring at the inscriptions on the coffin, baffled.


    "We can''t understand it at all, it''s ancient text."


    "The structure inside the coffin is similar to a Storage Ring, this coffin might just form its own universe!"


    "What kind of craftsmanship is this?"


    Seeing that his clansmen couldn''t understand, Ethan immediately realized that it seemed only the game interface could translate it.


    He then instructed the Purple Thunder Celestial Python resting in the ancestral hall to come over.


    "Yikes!" With the appearance of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, the folks at Blackwood were momentarily stunned, but they''ve been around long enough to know that Forebearer is always watching over them, and it seemed Forebearer had also spotted the coffin.


    Quickly, Ethan entered everything he knew from the game interface on the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s profile.


    Nathan bowed repeatedly, "Truly Forebearer, even ancient texts are like the back of your hand!"


    Olivia, clearly more knowledgeable, exclaimed, "Celestial Warrior Epoch Year Eight, Azure Dragon Fairy Realm... Forebearer, I''ve read about it in the classics! Celestial Warrior Epoch Year Eight, from the current era, it''s been ten thousand years.


    The former Azure Dragon Fairy Realm, now in the land of the Southern Barbarians, was rumored to have been destroyed overnight, and no one knows what happened!"


    "This is the Supreme period! The legacy of the world''s top masters, we at Blackwood are really going to strike it rich!" Nathan cried with joy.


    Immediately, the Blackwood folks hurriedly looked for the real way to enter the coffin, and then they discovered that to enter the space of the coffin, one simply had to lie in the coffin and close it.


    Nathan lay down inside.


    [Your descendant Nathan is entering the treasure tool¡ªDeath Coffin!]

 Chapter 55: Chapter 55: Death Coffin Part 2

    "Treasure tool!" Ethan''s eyes lit up. The world''s weapons and equipment are divided into Psychic Equipment, Psychic Devices, Advanced Psychic Equipment, and Psychic Treasure Tools.


    Psychic Treasure Tools are already the most powerful existence in this world, and this particular Psychic Treasure Tool is obviously a special type, forming its own space, no different from a Psychic Sanctuary.


    When Ethan unlocked the mysterious spear, he was already ecstatic to find it was a top-notch advanced psychic equipment.


    He hadn''t expected that the real treasure was the coffin!


    Ethan quickly suppressed his excitement.


    He clicked on Nathan''s profile, following Nathan''s perspective, and entered the scene inside the Death Coffin.


    "Hmm?" Just as he entered the space of the coffin, Ethan frowned.


    In the game screen, he saw a desolate and silent space, covered in fog.


    Looking at the game interface map¡ª


    [Direct Death Space Level One]


    [Introduction: The first layer of relics left by the Supreme Peak Psychic Shen Wuliu, gain recognition of the first layer to enter the second layer!]


    Soon after.


    On the map, he saw several red dots, converging on a bewildered Nathan standing in place.


    It wasn''t long before Ethan could clearly see what those things were.


    Corpses!


    Their eyes were blood-red, and their bodies emitted a bloodthirsty desire, seemingly sensing that Nathan was the only living person on the first layer, they crazily pounced on Nathan, wanting to devour his flesh!


    "Hmph!" As the head of the Blackwood family, how could Nathan be frightened by these dry corpses?


    He snorted coldly, psychic equipment dual spears appeared in his hands, "Dead bodies should just lie nicely in the ground!"


    In an instant, Nathan was fighting with the zombies.


    These zombies were endless, and Ethan could clearly see on the map that those red dots kept appearing continuously.


    "What in the world is this Death Coffin?" Seeing Nathan enter the Death Coffin, the imagined treasures did not appear, but instead endless zombies, Ethan frowned.


    However, it was also Ethan''s first time encountering a treasure tool of this level.


    And it seemed the Death Coffin might recognize its master, and had not acknowledged the identity of the Blackwood people''s Commander, maybe there was something special about it.


    "Maybe you need to clear the levels of the Death Coffin to truly gain its recognition as the master?"


    With a puzzled heart, seeing that Nathan was not in any danger.


    It seemed Nathan could also exit the Death Coffin on his own, Ethan then exited Nathan''s perspective, to see if there was anything unusual about the Death Coffin.


    Sure enough.


    As soon as the game screen appeared in the Psychic Herb Garden, Ethan saw all the Blackwood folks covering their mouths in surprise.


    "So much psychic power!"


    "Did father gain any benefits from entering the ''Death Coffin''?"


    "May the Forebearer bless my Blackwood!"


    Suddenly.


    The psychic powers between heaven and earth were all converging towards the ''Death Coffin''!


    Ethan quickly realized, "The first layer''s zombies aren''t really there; they''re formed by the ''Death Coffin'' absorbing the psychic powers of the universe."


    However, the other uses of the ''Death Coffin'' couldn''t be seen in such a short time.


    Ethan then sped up the passage of time.


    It seemed like two days had passed in the game screen.


    Nathan was still in the coffin, fighting the zombies of the first layer of the ''Death Coffin''!


    Strangely.


    After two days, Nathan''s psychic powers hadn''t diminished at all!


    Even when Nathan got slightly injured, he recovered in no time.


    Looking at Nathan''s personal information:


    [Swordsmanship: 82%]


    [Gale Step: 62%]


    [Dragon Spear Technique: 16%]


    [Lightning Summoning: 12%]


    [Palm Fire: 6%]


    [...]


    "This..."


    Ethan''s eyes widened. He had checked Nathan''s personal information before he entered, and now, all of Nathan''s skills had improved!


    "Does this mean the ''Death Coffin'' provides unlimited psychic powers, continuously heals injuries, and allows Psychics to keep fighting, using it to cultivate psychic powers and martial skills?!!"


    Ethan couldn''t help but be amazed.


    For Psychics, combat experience is crucial. Often, their skills and martial arts progress during battle.


    A Psychic in the early stages of Emerging Ability, if they master a certain martial skill to 100% perfection, might even challenge higher levels.


    The life-and-death cultivation of psychic powers might even lead to breakthroughs through enlightenment.


    "Is this the power of a top-tier psychic treasure?"


    Even Ethan was tempted to use this artifact.


    But Ethan also knew. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It''s best to leave this psychic treasure for Blackwood to use, to enhance their combat experience.


    And...


    Ethan glanced at the Blackwood folks'' skills and martial arts.


    He casually clicked on one of Nathan''s skills, Gale Step!


    [Would you like to learn the skill, Gale Step?]


    [Consume 500 points of Spiritual Tribute to gain all the insights Nathan has learned.]


    He doesn''t even need the ''Death Coffin''!


    This game not only allows him to take treasures out of it, but he can also learn the skills autonomously without consuming Spiritual Tribute points.


    He could even use Spiritual Tribute to gain all the insights of his descendants!


    And the skills and martial arts are divided into ordinary and five levels.


    Ethan is no longer interested in ordinary and yellow-level skills and martial arts.


    "How nice, let the Blackwood folks slowly cultivate psychic powers through the ''Death Coffin''. With this treasure, Blackwood''s development is bound to be rapid."


    While pondering.


    The game screen again provided a prompt that made Ethan''s mouth drop open.


    [Your descendant Nathan, in the first layer of the ''Death Coffin'', continued to fight all the way to the end of the first layer.]


    [The ''Death Coffin'' recognized Nathan as the master of the first layer!]


    [Yellow-level skill imparted¡ªCoffin Corpse Driving Technique]


    [Congratulations, your descendant Nathan has obtained the profession¡ª]


    [Coffin Corpse Driver!]


    The bronze coffin opened.


    Nathan, who walked out of the coffin with black light flashing in his eyes, knelt towards Ethan''s cards under the joyful expressions of the Blackwood folks.


    "Forebearer bless, my child has discovered the secret of the ''Death Coffin'', my Blackwood is going to thrive!"


    When Nathan emerged from the Coffin of Dire Death,


    this seemingly ordinary coffin transformed into a dazzling silver, adorned with mysterious patterns.


    Without Nathan saying much, Ethan could see the information about the Coffin of Dire Death!


    [Coffin of Dire Death]


    [Tier: Supreme Psychic Relic]


    [Unsealed, First Layer!]


    [The first layer''s owner can open the coffin, battling endlessly with the Iron Will zombies inside. The challenger is immortal, with infinite psychic powers.]


    [Coffin Master can use the Coffin Driving Technique to place dead bodies inside the coffin, refining zombies!]

 Chapter 56: Chapter 56: Swordsman

    "Holy smokes!"


    This was just the first layer, yet its powerful features still shocked Ethan.


    It can be said that after acquiring this opportunity, his family began to soar! Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If I need to, I can take out the coffin for use."


    One day in the real world, one year in the game world, he could send it back to Blackwood the same day he took it out!


    "Phew."


    Ethan could even feel his heartbeat at this moment, this was a supreme psychic relic, after all, which could cause a bloodbath in the real world in an instant!


    "Calm down, calm down."


    Suppressing the excitement in his heart, Ethan calmed down.


    Watching Nathan re-enter the Coffin of Dire Death, but this time to challenge the second layer.


    Again, a space without light or sun.


    But this time.


    Nathan faced countless jumping zombies!


    These creatures, stronger than the previous zombies, could even emit black psychic powers, jumping several meters high, each possessing the strength of the Emerging Ability phase.


    He had just entered when he was overwhelmed by these jumping zombies, dying several times in just one minute, forcing him to exit the Coffin of Dire Death.


    "Too terrifying, even a Transcendent Seed phase might not be able to open the second layer''s permissions!"


    Exiting the coffin.


    Nathan was still shaken.


    ...


    After acquiring the Coffin of Dire Death, the people of Blackwood liked to lie in the coffin and play for days, continuously accumulating combat experience.


    [Blackwood Year 39.]


    [Your family has established the ''Forebearer Psychic Array'' at the family residence!]


    "Is this the power of the Forebearer Psychic Array?"


    "Thanks to the Forebearer''s blessing, with the Forebearer Psychic Array, our family has another trump card against enemies!"


    "Even if a Transcendent Seed master invades our home, as long as we gather the power of the whole clan, we can strike and kill in one blow!"


    In the Blackwood ancestral hall, all the clan members gathered together.


    The ground was glowing, mysterious ancient texts appeared on the floor, forming a diagram of the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams.


    At the same time.


    All the clan members'' psychic powers emerged, converging towards Nathan, who was raising his right hand high, forming a sword as dazzling as the sun!


    This sword, gathered the power of all Blackwood clan members.


    "Finally completed."


    Ethan was also delighted with the completion of the Forebearer Psychic Array, and this was just Nathan gathering the clan''s power.


    As long as the psychic array gradually covers the entire Gratitude Village.


    All the people of Gratitude Village can gather their power on the sword, undoubtedly the strongest protective measure for the clan.


    But the surprises of this year were not yet over.


    [Mary carried her child for ten months and gave birth to a boy named Kevin.]


    [Received Spiritual Tribute +10]


    The folks at Blackwood were already kneeling in the shrine, with Julian bowing his head repeatedly while holding the chubby little Kevin.


    "May the Forebearer bless us, I''ve had four kids already, hahaha, and I''m not stopping!"


    Mary rolled her eyes at her husband, "Did you give birth? Or was it my big behind that did the work?"


    "Hahaha!"


    In no time, the Forebearer''s shrine was filled with laughter and joy.


    Ethan couldn''t help but laugh too.


    Speaking of which, Mary, this daughter-in-law of Blackwood, was way better than the previous one, Karen.


    This girl''s personality and physique were both formidable; she was straightforward and blunt, which the folks from Blackwood, being from the wilds themselves, greatly appreciated. Plus, Mary was incredibly hardworking; she started helping out with family chores right after getting married.


    They say women are weak, but Mary was different. When she heard that people from Gratitude Village were robbed by horse bandits while she was still showing her pregnancy, she picked up a double-bladed axe and went to settle the score, capturing a bandit stronghold and handing them over to the authorities in Forest Town.


    Fast forward in time.


    Ethan was already preparing for the grand decennial festival.


    Yet this year, Blackwood continued to bring him new surprises.


    [Your descendant Amelia has successfully concocted the ''Black Jade Continuation Ointment''!]


    "Forebearer, Amelia has finally done it!"


    An ointment that can regenerate limbs!


    This stuff was pitch black, stored in a specially made little gourd.


    "Genius!"


    Ethan sincerely admired, then sent Amelia a ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    Maybe Amelia''s talent for cultivating psychic powers was poor.


    But when it came to understanding medicine, she was a genius among geniuses. Real-life pharmacists were rare, but they existed and had their own prescriptions. However, concocting medicine wasn''t easy even with a prescription.


    It required using one''s own psychic abilities to purify and refine the medicine, a complex process.


    "Thanks for the Forebearer''s gift, Amelia is going into seclusion now, waiting to reach the Emerging Ability stage to try concocting a grade-eight potion!"


    After saying this.


    Amelia in the shrine headed to the training room to seclude herself.


    Following Amelia''s seclusion, Julian also came to the Forebearer''s shrine.


    "Great ancestor, your child is also going into seclusion. Once I have my psychic fire, I''ll try to concoct my arm!"


    Julian showed his teeth in a grin.


    This kid had always wanted to forge a War AI Bionic Robot, but he never quite got the hang of it, especially the biotech involved in War AI Bionic Robots, which was beyond Julian''s understanding. But after his arm was severed and he used a prosthetic, he started thinking differently.


    "So you''re taking the path of mechanical abilities, huh..."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow, but he knew he was just joking. Transforming oneself into a machine, the most crucial part was still the chips and such. However, Julian always had some ideas that were quite surprising.


    Like Julian''s forged equipment... the attributes were very random...


    The same forging technique, two sets of Black Iron Beast Blood Armor, could have two different attributes.


    These siblings had just entered seclusion. Suddenly, at the Blackwood residence, a surge of psychic power shot up into the sky, revealing its force.


    [Your descendant Lucas has successfully broken through the Emerging Ability phase and emerged from seclusion!]


    [After years of seclusion, his Psychic Constitution has transformed, shedding the weakest Earth and Fire Psychic Constitutions.]


    [His basic swordsmanship has reached a divine level. With years of insight, he has integrated the ''Sword Glow'' technique into his swordsmanship, creating the peak ordinary sword technique ''Hundred Shadows Sword Glow''!]


    [Achieved the profession¡ªSwordsman!]

 Chapter 57: Chapter 57: Break the restriction?

    "Damn!" Ethan slammed the table, finally understanding why Lucas had been in seclusion for so many years.


    Turns out the kid was holding back a big move! Coming up with his own sword technique was like founding a whole new school. Although the sword technique he realized was just peak ordinary, when used by Lucas himself, it could likely reach the level of a Yellow-tier technique!


    Looking at Lucas''s Psychic Constitution, his strongest Wood Psychic Constitution had even jumped to 83 points.


    "With the sword as my heart, Forebearer, I have realized it. My son Lucas will henceforth be the sword of Blackwood!"


    Lucas stood upright, standing tall.


    Ethan also felt proud for this eldest son of Blackwood. This kid was never the most talented member of Blackwood.


    However, due to his age, Lucas had experienced more than anyone else and was more diligent than anyone, which is why he always managed to stay at the forefront despite having a five-element Psychic Constitution.


    Even now, 9-year-old Daniel, although very afraid of Lucas, took him as a role model and practiced day and night.


    As for Marcus...


    "What''s that kid up to?"


    Ethan suddenly remembered Marcus, who had gone to Sky Sect to cultivate psychic powers, and couldn''t help but click on Marcus''s avatar.


    Time flies, the once stubborn child had grown up, truly a handsome young man.


    But at this moment...


    He was sitting alone in a cave, meditating. Was there a stele at the cave entrance, a Cliff of Reflection?


    "Huh???"


    Ethan scratched his head. Wasn''t this kid favored by a Taoist master from Sky Sect?


    And now he''s gone to face the wall in reflection?


    He thought maybe Marcus had gone to the wrong place, but at a glance, the map was indeed Sky Sect. This sect was not small, occupying an entire towering mountain, a place of jade towers and fairyland on earth.


    [Marcus (third-generation member)]


    [Realm: Foundational Energy, peak of the sixth layer]


    [Techniques and martial skills: Heaven''s Secret Manual (prohibitions), Basic Swordsmanship,Body Refining Technique, Swift Steps...]


    [Trait: Humiliated Self-Proof]


    Years had passed, and Marcus, who had hoped to advance his studies in Sky Sect, had only moved up a minor realm.


    Confused.


    Ethan opened Marcus''s character history events.


    [Blackwood Year 35, joined Sky Sect.]


    [The same year in September, during a battle between Sky Sect and Black Shell Sect, his master was tragically killed.]


    [Blackwood Year 36, relegated to an outer sect disciple.]


    [Blackwood Year 37, disregarded his own life to retrieve his master''s corpse, killed a disciple of Black Shell Sect, nearly reigniting a major war between the two sects, and was punished to face the Cliff of Reflection for five years.]


    "..."


    Ethan suddenly regretted letting Marcus join the Sky Sect; he might as well have stayed in Blackwood cultivating psychic powers!


    Now, with Marcus part of the Sky Sect, there wasn''t much he could do, especially since the Sky Sect had a competent elder at the helm! S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ah well, everyone chooses their own path, and fate differs for each," Ethan mused. "Marcus, you''re on your own now, buddy."


    Ethan shook his head but still sent a wave of ''Forebearer''s Love'' Marcus''s way.


    Feeling the warmth in his body, Marcus, facing the wall at the Cliff of Reflection, recognized the sensation all too well, and his eyes quickly reddened.


    "Forebearer, are you watching over me from the heavens?"


    "I have no regrets, I''ve never forgotten that I''m part of Blackwood."


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, I will make a name for myself in the Sky Sect and won''t let dad down!"


    Ethan could only sigh and shake his head again.


    But soon, his attention was caught by the techniques and martial skills Marcus was developing.


    "Sky Sect''s secret texts? Are they restricted? I wonder if I could..."


    [Sky Codex]


    [It records twelve techniques and martial arts of the Inner Gate of the Sky Sect, including ''Blood Explosion Technique'', ''Azure Wind Method'', and ''Thunder Drawing Heavenly Scripture''...]


    As Ethan gazed at the various techniques and martial arts in the Sky Sect Codex, his eyes widened.


    Even in the real world, the value of these techniques and martial arts remains high, and for many powers, martial arts are closely guarded secrets.


    Even the original Blackwood.


    Family members had to spend contributions to learn within the family, and Ethan learned what he knew from school.


    But in the game world''s Blackwood.


    What they learned was basically common stuff, though they did get three or four mid-tier techniques from Garcia and Gonzalez, but their power was just mediocre.


    However, in the Sky Sect Codex.


    The power of these techniques and martial arts was truly formidable!


    Ethan had his eyes on three of them.


    Blood Explosion Technique, a method that stimulates the body''s potential, temporarily boosting one''s level by a small realm.


    Thunder Drawing Heavenly Scripture, which involves drawing lightning to oneself and then using the power of heavenly thunder to attack the enemy.


    "Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps"


    Especially this technique, Ethan was quite envious; it was the only mystic-tier technique in the codex!


    It uses steps as a formation, not only moving like a ghost but also creating illusions, each illusion possessing a fraction of the original body''s strength, and at the highest level of mastery, it might even summon a thousand illusions!


    "Even among mystic-tier techniques, this is a powerful one."


    Ethan suddenly laughed, "Though you''re not doing well, Marcus, you really chose the right path!"


    [You have selected the technique and martial art ''Sky Codex'' of descendant Marcus!]


    [Checking now, technique and martial art restrictions: if the learner verbally explains or teaches it to others, and the explanation of the codex is less than a hundred words, they will suffer the penalty of soul annihilation!]


    [Break the restriction?]


    [Cost of Spiritual Tribute points: 5000!]


    [Current Spiritual Tribute points: 7650]


    Ethan quickly calculated that with the increase in Blackwood descendants, even without special events, he could gain thousands of Spiritual Tribute points, and over the years, he had accumulated so much.


    He took a deep breath.


    He pulled out a black stone that recorded techniques and martial arts from his Storage Ring!


    "Hehehe, all mine now!"

 Chapter 58: Chapter 58: Heavenly Principle Expansion

    [The Blackwood Clan''s Decennial Grand Ceremony Begins!]


    [Your Descendants Offer You a Tribute!]


    Finally, the fortieth year at Blackwood has arrived! S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Apart from Marcus, everyone in Blackwood gathered at the ancestral hall.


    Time flies; Nathan and his wife are nearly sixty but look middle-aged. The second generation has matured over the years.


    The third generation, lined up from tallest to shortest, consists of five members. Their youthful vigor and naivety are evident, but they all gaze with reverence at the Forebearer''s memorial Cards, knowing from childhood that the Forebearer, with supernatural powers, has watched over and protected all of Blackwood.


    "Twenty years have flown by since I came here alone and took root!"


    Nathan''s eyes were red with emotion.


    "It was the Forebearer who provided me the means to establish myself and gave Blackwood its land to thrive."


    "We''ve faced natural disasters and droughts, thieves have invaded our homes, but the Forebearer has repeatedly helped us descendants avoid calamity."


    "In the past, the Gonzalez and Heath families looked down on us, calling us uncultured villagers of Blackwood, but it was the Forebearer who showed us that we, his descendants, are second to none."


    "Now, Blackwood is flourishing."


    "With my descendants, I come to pay respects to you, Forebearer!"


    The people of Blackwood bowed repeatedly.


    Ethan, too, was moved; it had been forty years in the game world, just a few days in the real world.


    But it seemed he had also gradually invested his emotions in Blackwood.


    [Your Descendants Offer You a Tribute!]


    [You Receive 100 Beast Blood Fruits!]


    [You Receive 10 Portions of Black Jade Restorative Ointment.]


    [You Receive 30 Portions of Golden Psychic Powder!]


    [You Receive...]


    [Would you like to retrieve them?]


    Looking at the antique bronze furnace beside him.


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to choose ''Yes''!


    Soon.


    The entire room was filled with Tribute Offerings from Blackwood.


    These were exactly what Ethan wanted; he planned to sell all these items to acquire more Energy Stones. He was even ready to approach Andrew to buy the Demon King''s Blood Elixir to enhance Blackwood''s strength!


    [At this Grand Ceremony, would you like to Divine Gift your descendants?]


    Ethan didn''t hesitate.


    A dark stone appeared in his hand.


    This jade stone contained all he had seen of the "Sky Codex" after he had just unlocked the restrictions on Marcus''s techniques.


    He hadn''t learned the "Sky Codex" from Marcus because learning such a profound technique would have cost him no less than a hundred thousand Spiritual Tribute points. But merely copying it required no Spiritual Tribute points.


    And this was his Divine Gift this time.


    With the "Sky Codex," Blackwood would reach new heights!


    [You Divine Gift the ''Sky Codex'' to Your Descendants!]


    Moments later.


    The Grand Ceremony concluded.


    A jade stone appeared on the altar of the ancestral hall.


    "The Forebearer has Divine Gifted!"


    Nathan saw the jade stone, but instead of joy, there was guilt in his eyes. He quickly said to his children and grandchildren, "Quick, bring over the Direct Death Coffin to offer to the Forebearer!"


    "Please, Forebearer, you must accept it. Otherwise, it''s always you who has been contributing to the family, and we, your unworthy descendants, have nothing worthy of your regard. How can we bear this shame?"


    Ethan scratched his head, touched by his descendants'' devotion but found the "Direct Death Coffin" they offered of no use to him. He wasn''t one to pick fights; the coffin could cultivate psychic powers, sure, but it was less hassle just to copy those abilities directly from his descendants using Spiritual Tribute.


    As for the "Corpse Driving Technique" from the coffin, he could replicate that too. But using such techniques in reality? No way. He wouldn''t dare; the National Crisis Management Bureau would be knocking on his door if he started messing with corpses.


    "Shh..." After typing into the Purple Thunder Solar Python chat, the folks at Blackwood finally got Ethan''s point. Nevertheless, the Direct Death Coffin was placed in the ancestral hall, which Nathan said was the most important spot. From now on, it would stay there.


    The crowd quickly opened the jade stone.


    "Dad, it''s a technique, the Sky Codex!" Lucas exclaimed, eyes wide as he saw the twelve martial arts techniques recorded inside, "Eleven yellow-tier techniques, and one mysterious-tier!"


    "Sky Codex?" Olivia was astonished. "That''s exactly where Marcus went¡ªto the Sky Sect. I''ve checked through connections; Sky Sect has menial disciples, outer disciples, inner disciples, and true disciples. His master is an elder, and Marcus is an inner disciple. They cultivate psychic powers using the Sky Codex! But after their disciples cultivate, they place restrictions under their spirits.


    How did our forebearer get his hands on it?"


    "I get it now!" Amelia''s eyes lit up.


    Luna paused, "Get what?"


    "When Marcus went to the Sky Sect, I wanted to break his legs, but Forebearer stopped me. He was the one who supported Marcus going to the Sky Sect!" Amelia slapped her thigh. "Forebearer had planned it all along. He intentionally sent Marcus to the Sky Sect to get their martial arts techniques. Years ago, he had already set up the plan to acquire the Sky Sect techniques!"


    "Shh¡ª" Everyone gasped in awe.


    Olivia looked up at Ethan''s memorial Cards in admiration, "Worthy of Forebearer."


    "..." Watching his clan getting carried away, Ethan was dumbfounded and finally coughed, "You guys are really laying it on thick. I''m blushing here."


    He quickly sped up time, no longer daring to listen to his descendants'' praises. It was all an unexpected windfall that almost made him lose his head.


    [Blackwood, Year 40.]


    It was a peaceful year. Blackwood had basically dominated the entire Forest Town; they had no troubles at all.


    Nathan and Lucas spent most of their time in the coffin, cultivating their martial arts.


    [Your descendants have opened a variety of general stores around Forest Town, named ''Heavenly Principle Hall''.]


    As the family grew, Olivia was no longer satisfied with just the resources of Forest Town.


    The reason for opening stores was simply to expand the family''s business channels. Many families did this, essentially exchanging goods with other towns to develop their clan.


    And each manager of the Heavenly Principle Hall was selected from Gratitude Village for their business acumen and loyalty to Blackwood.

 Chapter 59: Chapter 59: The green color meant allies

    [Blackwood, Year 41, your descendant Julian broke through, entering the early stages of Emerging Ability!]


    [His Psychic Constitution transformed, shedding the Earth Psychic Constitution and retaining only the Metal, Fire, and Wood Psychic Constitutions!]


    Compared to Nathan and Lucas''s transformations, Julian''s was rather ordinary.


    Nathan emerged with a four-foot aura, Lucas with an impressive eight feet, while Julian only had a mere two feet.


    But in Ethan''s view, that wasn''t a big deal.


    Julian was an ability equipment artisan, and every time he crafted ability equipment and gained insight, he would breakthrough.


    That was one of the perks of his profession.


    And just two months after coming out, Mary was expecting again...


    [During Taylor''s 200th birthday celebration in Lantian Town, Olivia was invited by Taylor to join a coalition of seven major families from various towns to campaign against the Silver Iron Forest.]


    "Special event?"


    Ethan furrowed his brows at the mention of this special event.


    He still remembered that a demon king lived in the Silver Iron Forest. The Blackwoods had been developing the area, but the demon king had shown respect only to the Purple Lightning Python, merely warning the Blackwoods away.


    If the demon king decided not to show restraint and attacked the Blackwoods directly... Ethan didn''t even want to think about the disaster that could ensue.


    Thus, over the years, the Blackwoods had never ventured deep into the Silver Iron Forest, only occasionally hunting on its outskirts, and even then, they did so with moderation.


    As Ethan was pondering this.


    Mary had already arrived at the ancestral hall.


    To Ethan''s surprise, Mary, a strong woman who had never cried even during childbirth, now had tears in her eyes and a choked voice.


    "Forebearer, I have no other options but to turn to you."


    "I really don''t want Pete, the Boar Monarch, to be killed..."


    The people of Blackwood gathered in the ancestral hall. Everyone looked at Mary, who for the first time showed a demure daughterly demeanor, with complex expressions.


    "So you mean to say, sister-in-law, that you''ve been an orphan since childhood, abandoned in the Silver Iron Forest, and were raised by the Demon King of the forest until you left at 18 to live among humans?" Lucas said gravely, "No wonder you''re somewhat clueless about many things. Now we understand."


    Julian hugged his wife tenderly, "It''s okay, honey. You didn''t have to keep this a secret; none of us mind where you come from. Even if you popped out of a rock, you''re still my beloved wife."


    "What did you say?" Mary suddenly glared.


    But Julian managed to calm Mary down. She knew well that many people harbored hostility towards mystical beasts. It was only after seeing the peaceful coexistence of mystical beasts and humans in Gratitude Village that she settled down there.


    Yet, she was also afraid that her origins would prevent Blackwood from accepting her. This was actually why she had taken a liking to Julian, the brash and rough man, but had hesitated to accept his courtship.


    "Hahaha, I come from a line of slaves myself," Nathan laughed heartily.


    "My dear daughter-in-law, I''ve spent more time with mystical beasts than with the head of the household," Luna added with a laugh.


    "What are you saying?" Nathan was not pleased this time.


    In an instant, the people of Blackwood burst into laughter, and Mary too broke into a smile.


    Seeing this heartwarming scene in the game, Ethan also felt joyful.


    This was what Mary had come to the Forebearer Hall to say, and Ethan, knowing well that his descendants were not old-fashioned, had gathered everyone together.


    As expected, there was no deviation from what he had in mind.


    After the laughter, Nathan frowned, "So, that means the Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest is practically our in-law. We can''t just ignore this. Olivia, what was the reason behind Taylor from Bluefield Town campaigning against the Demon King?"


    Olivia nodded slightly and explained the situation with the Silver Iron Forest. It turned out that there were three towns near the forest, and the families in these towns were aware of the Demon King''s existence.


    Due to years of severe drought, these towns lacked resources, leading to increased exploitation of the Silver Iron Forest. Gradually, their actions became excessive; they hunted extensively and began to destroy the forest''s environment, eventually angering the Demon King.


    Last year, the Demon King killed hundreds of people from Taylor who were mining in the forest.


    Bluefield Taylor took advantage of the 200th birthday of an old ancestor to invite seven major families to campaign against the Silver Iron Forest, and Blackwood was among them.


    "The seven families have agreed to campaign next year," Olivia said gravely, "including our family. Sister-in-law, I hope you understand, I had to agree at the time, or our shop would have no standing in their towns."


    "I understand," Mary was reasonable.


    "Now, the most important thing is how to resolve this matter," Nathan shook his head, "Although our family''s power has grown over the years, even if Forebearer agrees to help, we can''t compete with the six major families. Daughter-in-law, you just focus on preparing for childbirth, and let us figure out a solution."


    "Thank you all," Mary''s eyes welled up with tears. Having married into Blackwood, she now truly felt how good her family was to her.


    "This is getting tricky," Ethan muttered, rubbing his temples as he watched the dialogue unfold in the game at Blackwood.


    First off, there was no way Blackwood could beat the alliance of six families. Moreover, even if Blackwood did side with the Demon King, if word got out, Blackwood would be toast. Those high and mighty major sects would definitely brand Blackwood as traitors aiding the demon race in harming humanity.


    You see, the Demon King was no ordinary beast anymore!


    Beasts already possessed high intelligence, but the Demon King could actually speak human language and rule over territories.


    Immediately, Ethan commanded the Purple Thunder Solar Python to head towards the Silver Iron Forest. When he checked the map again, the Silver Iron Forest had turned green!


    "Does this mean the Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest knows about Mary marrying into Blackwood? So, the Demon King didn''t attack Blackwood before because he was prepared for Mary to enter human society."


    "Blackwood''s Gratitude Village is undoubtedly the best place for Mary to settle down, and the Demon King can keep an eye on her," Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    Soon, the Purple Thunder Solar Python was on the move in the Silver Iron Forest, and Ethan wasn''t worried about its safety¡ªthe green color meant allies!


    Sure enough.


    S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 60: Chapter 60: Bluefield Taylor

    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python ventured deeper, Ethan saw many psychic beasts!


    These beasts'' nests were right in the center of the Silver Iron Forest, in a valley, seemingly serving the king inside.


    Upon entering the valley, a huge pig came into view, resembling more a mammoth!


    It was covered in black fur, and only its bloated body and pig nose gave away some semblance of a pig. Its four strong legs made one wonder what kind of immense force would be needed to knock it down. Its face was also covered in black fur, making this massive creature seem like a benevolent old man.


    Only the two sharp, thick tusks protruding from its mouth revealed the Demon King''s edge.


    [Boar Monarch Pete]


    [Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest, also the guardian of the forest''s birds, beasts, flowers, and trees!]


    "Little snake, I know you, the snake from the beast blood fruit tree. Captured by the humans of Blackwood, you brought humans into the Silver Iron Forest to hunt psychic beasts."


    The voice of Blackwood''s in-law was deep and ancient.


    "Sssss~"


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python was clearly terrified of the Boar Monarch Pete, its massive body cowering in extreme fear.


    "Don''t be afraid, you haven''t caused too much slaughter. With my warning, you''ve made the Blackwood outside the forest restrain themselves, and for that, you have my gratitude."


    Hearing the Boar Monarch Pete''s forgiveness, the Purple Thunder Solar Python finally relaxed.


    Ethan watched the exchange between the snake and the pig.


    In truth, he didn''t know what the Purple Thunder Solar Python was saying, but he could guess from the Boar Monarch Pete''s words and was amazed at the Demon King''s wisdom¡ªit was his first time encountering such a being.


    Then, through the conversation between the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the Boar Monarch Pete, Ethan brought up the matter of Mary marrying into Blackwood.


    "I am aware of this," the Boar Monarch Pete''s black fur quivered, and Ethan could swear the creature seemed to smile, "Please thank Blackwood for me. They''ve been very kind to my daughter, and her offspring are healthy. If possible, I hope my daughter can bring her spouse and children to visit me."


    "Sssss~" S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python nodded repeatedly.


    Seeing that the Boar Monarch Pete had a favorable impression of Blackwood, Ethan also dropped his reservations and shared the news that the seven major families were planning to attack the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Hmph! Greedy and selfish humans!" The Boar Monarch Pete roared in anger. "What''s this about an attack? They''ve been pushing the limits of the Silver Iron Forest time and again, challenging my patience. Let them come; the Silver Iron Forest will be ready for anything!"


    Ethan frowned, continuing to communicate through the Purple Thunder Solar Python, expressing Blackwood''s desire to have the mystical beasts of the Silver Iron Forest avoid the brunt of the conflict.


    But the Boar Monarch Pete sighed deeply.


    "Thanks to Blackwood for their kindness, but the Silver Iron Forest is not only a habitat for mystical beasts; it is also a sanctuary for trees and pure land. It''s said among humans, ''to put down roots,'' and countless mystical abilities have already taken root here. Our lives are intertwined with the Silver Iron Forest."


    "Even during years of severe drought, we have sustained the vitality of the Silver Iron Forest with our lives. Now, facing another drought, everyone in the Silver Iron Forest is prepared to defend the land of myriad mystical abilities with their lives!"


    Ethan also sighed deeply.


    As he sent the Purple Thunder Solar Python back, his face showed a look of admiration.


    Ethan understood that this was not a matter that could be easily persuaded, just like the outside world''s repeated invasions of Blackwood. Blackwood would also fight to the death for their homeland.


    It wasn''t just about the land; it was about the emotions that generations of families had poured into this land. The purest memories, the laughter and tears, were something that could never be abandoned.


    "This is something we must help with!"


    Suddenly, Ethan narrowed his eyes. Aside from the Boar Monarch Pete being a relative by marriage, he also saw a huge benefit!


    The Boar Monarch Pete''s high regard for Blackwood was evident.


    If Blackwood helped the Boar Monarch Pete through this difficult time, then Blackwood would essentially have the Boar Monarch Pete as an ally by marriage.


    At the same time.


    The previous problem of not being able to mine deep into the Silver Iron Forest would be resolved, and the Silver Iron Forest would become Blackwood''s backyard, which was also more suitable for Blackwood''s cultivation of mystical beasts!


    As for the risks?


    "Hahaha, when has Blackwood not faced risks over the years?" Nathan said with a laugh after sharing his plans through the Purple Thunder Solar Python, "The forebearer is right, with so many benefits, how could my Blackwood not help our in-laws?"


    "Thank you, Forebearer, thank you, father!" Mary cried with joy.


    In the days that followed, Blackwood was busy dealing with the affairs of the Silver Iron Forest and was also developing vigorously.


    Ethan was also pondering solutions.


    And Julian, that kid, after becoming an Emerging Ability, also gave Ethan a bit of a surprise.


    [Your descendant Lucas, after establishing the Black Blood Hall, trained 50 Foundational Energy warriors!]


    [After years of training, they have completely mastered the ''Spear Forest Formation''!]


    Spear Forest Formation.


    That was the formation used by Garcia during the attack on Forest Town. They held long spears, using the spears as a formation, their mystical abilities connected, possessing great lethal power!


    In one wave.


    Nearly eighty percent of Blackwood''s hundred mystical beasts died.


    This shows the formidable power of the spear formation!


    At that moment.


    On the martial arts field of Gratitude Village, fifty young men dressed in black iron beast blood suits, all equipped with mystical ability gear including long bows, quivers, long spears, and waist-mounted long knives, were holding long spears and throwing them towards the distance.


    "Whoosh!"


    As the sound of tearing through the air rose, those long spears carrying mystical abilities formed a net in the sky!


    "50 people are this powerful?" Ethan slightly opened his mouth in awe, "If it were 500 people, or even 5000, what about Bluefield Taylor..."


    Thinking this, Ethan narrowed his eyes.


    "Bluefield Taylor, huh? You''re asking for it!"


    He suddenly had a bold idea in his mind. Having already dominated Forest Town, dominating another town like Bluefield wasn''t really a big deal.


    If they could swallow the entire Tranquil County, that would be even better.

 Chapter 61: Chapter 61: Master Jacob

    Ethan got it.


    Actually, solving this issue wasn''t as troublesome as it seemed.


    He could treat the situation like an unfair brawl. The Boar Monarch Pete was alone and getting ganged up on. But what if the Boar Monarch Pete ignored everyone else and just grabbed the leader, Bluefield Taylor, and gave him a thrashing?


    A beating wouldn''t do much, but what if it turned deadly?


    Unless those major families were truly bound by life and death, having experienced the past events at Forest Town, Ethan didn''t think they were the type to play fair!


    Ethan quickly clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    He informed the folks at Blackwood of the next steps.


    In no time, the descendants of Blackwood sprang into action.


    Time in the game kept ticking.


    [Blackwood Year 42.]


    [This year, the psychic fields have grown to about 40 acres, and it''s another bumper harvest year.]


    [Children in Gratitude Village have been eating psychic rice from a young age, starting to attend schools established by Blackwood to learn culture, martial arts, and physical training.]


    In the scene.


    You could see that Gratitude Village had built a school, from which the clear voices of children reading aloud could be heard.


    In the distance, there was a training ground.


    An experienced Psychic was imparting combat skills to the children.


    Gratitude Village, once a gathering place for disaster victims, was brimming with vitality.


    Ethan could feel it.


    In twenty or thirty years, these children of Gratitude Village would become the strongest pillars of its development.


    However, the powerful figures of Gratitude Village were not training at the training ground as usual.


    Even the Blackwood courtyard was missing the figures of Blackwood experts.


    In the birthing room.


    Mary, who was about to give birth, lay on the bed, surrounded by midwives from Gratitude Village. This was the fourth time these midwives were helping Mary with childbirth, and they were very experienced.


    "The young master really, his wife is about to give birth, and he''s nowhere to be seen."


    The midwife was rambling.


    Mary just smiled faintly, if not for the sweat on her forehead and the noticeable bulge on the bedding, one might not even realize she was about to give birth.


    A trace of worry flashed in her eyes as she looked out the window.


    "It''s all up to you guys now, everyone must be safe!"


    ...


    [Your descendants have entered the Silver Iron Forest!]


    "Have they arrived?"


    Looking at the information in the event column, Ethan clicked on Nathan''s icon and switched the view.


    Outside the Silver Iron Forest.


    Representatives from three nearby towns, totaling seven major families, had gathered together, resting in the woods on the outskirts of the forest, setting up camps to discuss definite strategies.


    "The Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest has lived for nearly a thousand years, we must be cautious!"


    "Equivalent to the mid-stage of Developing Skill, we''ve invited Master Shanzai from the Green Pine Temple, who can match the Demon King in battle. Plus our eight pseudo-dan, the Demon King is surely doomed this time."


    "After the Silver Iron Forest, resources will be divided among our families, and we shall thrive!"


    ...


    This high-level battle attracted experts from various families and clans, with over a hundred people present.


    The Blackwood couple, Nathan and Lucas, along with Julian and several Emerging Ability experts borrowed from the Rodriguez and Martinez families, were also among them, standing conspicuously on the massive body of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Even with such a lineup, these major families still had their complaints.


    They had heard of Blackwood''s exclusive victory over the two major families of Forest Town and thought Blackwood had extraordinary strength. Now, seeing only a Purple Thunder Solar Python impressed them, but many thought Blackwood was hiding its true capabilities. With the great battle imminent, it was not a good time to challenge Blackwood.


    Ethan observed their movements.


    What amused Ethan was.


    He could actually eavesdrop on the conversations of these family forces, their animated characters all displayed subtitles.


    Ethan found it amusing that he could eavesdrop on the conversations of these family powers, their animated characters all displaying small text bubbles, especially on the side of Taylor from Lantian.


    Inside their tent, Taylor''s ancestor, who was over 200 years old but looked merely like a youth, was rumored to have spent ten years of his lifespan to alter his appearance to remain charmingly handsome. This Taylor was also the overlord of Lantian, thanks largely to Ryan, who years ago made sure no one in Lantian dared to defy Taylor.


    At that moment, Ryan was secretly gathering the heads or elders of the other three major families, deep in discussion.


    "Once the Silver Iron Forest is breached, I have already made arrangements with Master Jacob of the Green Pine Temple to claim the corpse of the Forest Demon King," Ryan declared.


    No one objected; they all nodded in agreement.


    Ryan continued, "All seven families have come together, but once the Demon King is dead, how do you all view the distribution of benefits?"


    The others looked at each other.


    Ryan added, "Let me be frank, the reason I called you all here is to discuss this matter. Our seven families have long agreed to develop the Silver Iron Forest together and to distribute the benefits evenly. But exactly how this ''even distribution'' should be implemented is another matter. What do you all think?"


    The other three families were delighted with his words.


    "Senior Ryan speaks wisely. Even if we work together, we should differentiate based on the effort contributed."


    "Exactly, our four families have sent the most experts. Why should we share equally with them? In my opinion, once the Demon King is dead, we should take the most valuable parts!" Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Especially Blackwood, whose experts are all at the early stages of Emerging Ability, some just having broken through. I see them as just making up the numbers, such friends I can do without!"


    The so-called secret discussion quickly lost Ethan''s interest after a while.


    He was scrutinizing these powers'' experts.


    Soon, Ethan''s gaze fixed on a monk.


    This monk sat under a giant tree, quite plump with a shiny bald head marked with a scar from his vows, hardly recognizable as a monk if not for his shaven head. He looked more like a kitchen old-timer who sneaks food all day, greasy from overeating.


    Around his neck hung beads the size of plums, and he wore a beige monk''s robe embroidered with gold threads, holding a golden staff. It was clear that the Green Pine Temple where he resided, known far and wide in Tranquil County, was not short of Spiritual Tribute money.


    [Master Jacob]


    [Abbot of Green Pine Temple, a renowned expert in Tranquil County.]


    Ethan frowned.


    The Boar Monarch Pete of the Silver Iron Forest had a thousand years of cultivation, but facing this abbot, the odds of victory were slim.


    After all, no matter how much gold and silver he wore, his cultivation was of Buddhist teachings, which were especially effective against demonic energies.

 Chapter 62: Chapter 62: A mole among

    Before long, the seven families gathered to discuss the encirclement and eradication of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    The discussion lasted half a day, as the seven major families had already sent experts to thoroughly scout the entire Silver Iron Forest.


    Olivia, seated in a wheelchair, suddenly spoke up. "Elders, with the strength we possess now, why bother with a plan? Why not just march straight into the heart of the Silver Iron Forest and take the Demon King''s head?"


    As soon as she finished speaking, everyone turned to look at Olivia, seeing the young girl in the wheelchair, the fourth beloved daughter of Blackwood, and rumored to be the one managing internal and external affairs for Blackwood. Although there was dissatisfaction, no one dared to openly reprimand her.


    Nathan, seeing this, snorted coldly, "Lucas, take this nonsense-spewing thing out!"


    As Lucas pushed Olivia out of the tent where the discussion was held, Nathan turned to the others with an apologetic smile, "I''m terribly sorry, the young lady is inexperienced and always aiming too high in managing family affairs. Her jest should not be taken seriously."


    Seeing Nathan''s sincerity, the others did not say much.


    This made Taylor Ryan from the Bluefield family frown. He had intended to suggest a direct assault as well. But now that Olivia had voiced his thoughts and Nathan had dismissed them as high-minded nonsense, he found himself unable to speak up, his expression turning sour.


    At that moment, Elder Moore from the Clearfield family chuckled, "We are well aware of all the situations within the Silver Iron Forest."


    "The Demon King resides in the center, with its subordinate beasts guarding all around. Given this, we should attack from all sides to engage the beasts guarding the Demon King."


    "Master Jacob''s Buddhist teachings are boundless, and he surely has the confidence to defeat the Demon King."


    "When the time comes, whether it is the Master aiding us or us aiding the Master, we shall surely succeed!"


    After he finished speaking, Elder Moore looked towards Master Jacob, who was meditating in the distance, "Master, what do you think?"


    "Good," Master Jacob replied with a smile, not taking the Demon King lightly.


    With this strategy set, the seven major families each began their preparations, needing only a single Sky-Piercing Arrow to encircle the Demon King!


    Two days passed.


    The families went their separate ways, each riding towards their designated positions.


    The people of Blackwood did the same, though they were closer to the designated location. However, they did not wait there but headed deeper into the Silver Iron Forest!


    It was everyone''s first time seeing the Boar Monarch Pete, and for a moment, they were stunned.


    After all, no matter how demonic, the appearance of the Boar Monarch Pete was still somewhat frightening...


    Eventually, it was Nathan who burst into hearty laughter, facing the challenge head-on, "Hahaha, this is our kin, impressively... impressively mighty. I am Nathan, Julian''s father!"


    "Father-in-law???"


    The usually cheerful Julian appeared very restrained and a bit bewildered at the moment.


    The Boar Monarch Pete stood up, its massive body even causing the dust on its body to scatter in the air, and it spoke softly, "I never thought I''d have a day to be kin with humans, I''ve heard of you all. This time, Blackwood''s help in dealing with the crisis in the Silver Iron Forest will never be forgotten."


    "Well said, well said! Since he''s family to Blackwood, how could we let outsiders bully him?" Nathan grinned.


    Watching the Boar Monarch Pete and the people of Blackwood talking amicably, Ethan pursed his lips.


    To be honest, when he first discovered that Blackwood''s kin was a pig, and a Demon King at that, he was just as stunned as Julian, who was now gaping in disbelief.


    Looking at Lucas beside him, the young man was scratching his head, blinking continuously and looking around as if questioning his life.


    My brother''s father-in-law... is a pig?


    As the people were discussing.


    In the scene.


    "Whoosh!"


    A Sky-Piercing Arrow shot straight into the sky!


    Everyone looked up, watching the arrow in the sky, the wind rustling through the Silver Iron Forest, a storm was approaching!


    "Kin, we should get busy too," Nathan said sharply.


    The Boar Monarch Pete nodded slightly.


    "May Blackwood''s martial fortune prosper!"


    Ethan was glued to the screen, eyeing the map of the Silver Iron Forest. After Blackwood made it freely explorable, the fog had cleared, and with a simple click, Ethan could view any scene from anywhere on the map. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, white dots from six directions were converging towards the Silver Iron Forest. "The game is on," Ethan muttered, squinting slightly.


    Ever since he found out that the Boar Monarch Pete was actually Blackwood''s in-law, this had all been a setup by Blackwood, a scheme that had already cost them a lot of time. And Ethan knew very well that within this grand scheme, Landon Taylor was doomed to lose years of his family''s legacy right here in the Silver Iron Forest!


    On the map, the essential path leading deep into the Silver Iron Forest was completely undefended. Because...


    "Disaster strikes! Landon Taylor is wiped out!" someone shouted.


    "The Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest appeared; it knew about our seven families'' plan to attack and intercepted Taylor early to defeat us one by one!"


    "Landon Taylor''s people are asking for help. Our elder sent me to see if you guys want to save them?"


    These families had barely reached the midpoint when they stopped in their tracks. On the map, four green dots moved towards the four major families, spreading the news of Landon Taylor''s demise.


    These four green dots represented people from Blackwood and the Moore clan!


    The four families hesitated for a moment, then almost simultaneously sent four Iron Will experts to investigate before reluctantly retreating the way they came. They had to believe it; after all, this was a warning from two allies. Better safe than sorry.


    After all, what would their families do if they died?


    "How did the news leak? Could there be a mole among us?"


    "Either way, all we can do now is wait for more news."


    "What about Master Jacob... Right, when we get back, we''ll say it was Landon Taylor''s mess that disrupted everyone''s plans, and it has nothing to do with us."


    In front of the screen, Ethan cracked a smile.


    Indeed, there were moles, and not just one but two! Otherwise, the allied forces of the seven families would have marched straight in, without such strategic positioning.


    Everything... was under Blackwood''s control!

 Chapter 63: Chapter 63: Blackwoods Rise

    "Boss, we''re back!" At that moment, from the direction of the Silver Iron Forest, they had actually stayed put, not moving an inch. And the two who had returned were messengers for the other two major families!


    "Right." Clan leader Moore, who appeared scholarly and gentle, always had a hint of darkness in his expression. He coldly said to the people of his clan, "This matter is of great peril to the world, and we must keep it under wraps. Do you all understand?"


    "Understood!" Everyone frowned in agreement.


    However, one elder in the clan questioned, "Boss, why harm the Bluefield Taylors? You know our Moore clan has suffered from drought for many years, and we really need the resources from the Silver Iron Forest."


    Clan leader Moore was not annoyed. His composure was indeed rare.


    "A season ago, Lucas from Blackwood came to see me, and he asked me something quite intriguing."


    "Oh?" The crowd was puzzled.


    Clan leader Moore continued, "The young Blackwood asked if we were to venture into the Silver Iron Forest, would there be casualties? And if the elders we''ve spent a century nurturing die because of it, would it be worth it?"


    "That''s..."


    The crowd looked at each other, knowing well that where there is conflict, there is harm. But they were all advanced in years, seeking more resources merely to nurture the future generations of their families.


    "Not worth it. But we have an opportunity, an opportunity to seize a fortune of a centuries-old great family without spending a single soldier!"


    Clan leader Moore sneered, "Do you understand now?"


    "Bluefield Taylor!"


    "Most of their skilled members have died in the Silver Iron Forest, and Bluefield Taylor is very close to our Moore Town. They are like fat meat ready for the taking!"


    "So, the Taylors are like lambs to the slaughter, I see!"


    The many elders of Moore realized this and could hardly contain their joy. Why not rejoice at food that comes without a fight?


    One elder suddenly had a realization, "No wonder that girl from Blackwood dared to propose ideas in front of us. She had planned it all along, suggesting we go straight into the Silver Iron Forest to shut up that old man Ryan! Then, we say we''ll attack the forest from seven directions and spread the news that Taylor is to be annihilated, making all families leave."


    With this statement, the previously skeptical elder looked solemn, "If that''s the case, then we must leave no survivors from Bluefield Taylor, otherwise if this gets out, our Moore will be treated as traitors to humanity. Boss, who will handle the Taylors?"


    "Naturally, it''s Blackwood." Clan leader Moore said casually.


    "Blackwood?"


    The Moore elders all frowned, skepticism in their eyes.


    After all, with all the clans gathered, Blackwood''s little force seemed insignificant.


    But Clan leader Moore just laughed.


    "You don''t think that Blackwood, who I even respect for being able to annihilate two clans with his own power, is overly arrogant, do you? When I spoke with young Lucas, I saw absolute confidence in him!"


    "Absolute confidence?"


    Ethan quietly observed the small text above the head of the Moore family leader, his expression calm.


    Yes.


    Absolute confidence!


    Blackwood was no longer the trembling entity it once was in front of the Heath and Gonzalez families!


    Looking at the map.


    The people of Blackwood had already met with Taylor from Lantian.


    Clicking on Nathan''s avatar.


    The scene had already appeared on the road through the depths of the Silver Iron Forest, with a gentle breeze blowing and the shadows of trees swaying.


    Taylor''s group of sixteen had already stopped in their tracks, all with expressions of shock and suspicion.


    In front of them.


    Nathan, carrying a silver coffin engraved with mysterious patterns, alone blocked the way of Taylor''s people!


    A Forebearer badge floated next to Nathan, shining brightly!


    "Nathan, why are you blocking our way instead of attacking from the southwest with Blackwood?!!"


    Although Ryan did not know why Nathan did this, he already felt something extraordinary.


    Taylor''s people were also on high alert.


    From Nathan, they sensed a murderous aura!


    "Boom!"


    Nathan did not reply, but silently unstrapped the straight-death coffin tied to him, and as the heavy coffin landed on the ground, he stared at Taylor''s people as if looking at the dead.


    "Whoosh!"


    Just then, a breaking sound came from afar!


    "Not good!"


    Ryan''s face changed drastically, and he coldly said, "It''s a trap, release the formation!"


    As he shouted, Taylor''s people all looked up.


    Above them in the sky, a network of long spears formed and fell towards them!


    The Spear Forest Array.


    This was a formation that Blackwood had acquired from Garcia, and now over sixty people in Gratitude Village practiced the Spear Forest Array.


    But the spears in the sky were not just from the Spear Forest Array; there were also long spears and arrows thrown by other Psychics from Gratitude Village.


    Taylor''s people were also formidable.


    An Emerging Ability master had already risen into the air with his sword, using his magical power to block the falling spears.


    However, spears and arrows continued to fall from the sky.


    The magical barrier of the Emerging Ability master soon showed cracks. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was known that those from Blackwood who went out to fight were equipped with weapons forged by the Forge Pavilion, which were quite powerful!


    "How dare you, Nathan, to set a trap to ambush us, Taylor, you''re seeking death!"


    Ryan was furious.


    With a wave of his hand, a peak Emerging Ability member of the Taylor clan understood and unleashed a powerful surge of ability towards Nathan.


    But with a thunderous noise.


    The earth, fragrant with the scent of summer, scattered in mid-air, and the Purple Thunder Solar Python, wielding the power of heavenly thunder and earthly fire, burst forth from the ground.


    With a roar, the Purple Thunder Solar Python blocked the strike from the Emerging Ability master and charged directly at Ryan, the 200-year-old Transcendent Seed stage master of Taylor!


    "Hmph! I''ve long heard that you Blackwood have a special ability beast, and even an AI Bionic Robot?"


    Ryan was undaunted, clearly confident.


    "As you wish."


    Seeing Ryan so arrogant.


    Ethan had already clicked on the War AI Bionic Robot!


    "Boom!"


    As Ethan''s eyes turned white.


    His consciousness appeared in the game world, where the War AI Bionic Robot, already prepared in the Silver Iron Forest, had risen into the air, its weapons erupting as it moved towards Ryan!


    This War AI Bionic Robot, which had even lost an arm in a major battle in Forest Town.


    But after five years, by collecting the fragments of the War AI Bionic Robot and the biotechnology inside the War AI Bionic Robot, its injuries had already healed, although some fragments could not be found, making it look externally old and scarred!


    "Not good!"


    Laser cannon fire roared, and the thunder and fire power of the Purple Thunder Solar Python erupted, but it did not cause Ryan to panic.


    What truly frightened him.


    Was the appearance of the War AI Bionic Robot, and the beasts from all directions rushing towards them!


    These.


    Were all special ability beasts guarding the Silver Iron Forest Pig Demon King, and with the major families having already left, they also surrounded Taylor, creating a deadly situation for Taylor!


    This was the current strength of Blackwood.

 Chapter 64: Chapter 64: Forest Ambush

    Blackwood has formed an alliance with the Boar Monarch Pete, and now owes a debt of gratitude to the Boar Monarch Pete. The exotic beasts of the Silver Iron Forest have long been at Blackwood''s disposal!


    Gathering the full force of the Silver Iron Forest.


    A total of 50 psychic beasts, a power Blackwood dared not dream of before, including four beasts with strength comparable to the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    "Run!"


    Seeing these psychic beasts, Ryan was terrified, "Whoever it is, spread the word, the trip to the Silver Iron Forest is a trap set by Blackwood, they are conspiring with the Demon King, they are traitors to humanity!"


    "Ha ha ha, run? I''d like to see how you run!"


    Nathan finally spoke.


    The arriving psychic beasts were already on the branches, blocking their path of sword flight.


    Taylor, terrified, fled from the Psychic on the ground in all directions.


    But soon.


    Their hopes of escape were shattered!


    "Crack, crack!"


    The ground was moving, Nathan had opened the Death Coffin!


    After acquiring this psychic treasure, Nathan dug up all the bodies buried under the beast blood fruit trees during the great battle of Forest Town.


    These bodies, all driven by the coffin driving technique and refined by the Death Coffin into zombies!


    One by one, dry hands broke through the soil, revealing their dry hair and bark-like faces, crawling out from underground, even with maggots on their bodies.


    Thousands of zombies blocked the way for Taylor and his people to leave!


    The people of Blackwood also joined the battlefield with the psychic beasts, blocking the escape of the strong Taylor.


    Luna transformed into a two-tailed fox, holding the psychic device Tianjun Seal taken from Gonzalez, even capable of fighting against the peak of Emerging Ability.


    "Thunder Leading Scripture!"


    This technique summons heavenly thunder, learned from the Sky Secret Manual by Luna. The heavenly thunder is drawn into the Tianjun Seal, even the peak of Emerging Ability must avoid its edge.


    "Misty Shadow Heavenly Cluster Step!"


    "Hundred Shadow Sword Glow!"


    Lucas fought the enemy, his movements elusive and seemingly illusory.


    His Misty Shadow Heavenly Cluster Step had already been learned in the Death Coffin while continuously cultivating psychic powers, and now it had transformed into ten avatars each possessing a layer of the original body''s strength.


    Hundred Shadow Sword Glow, even more, was a stab of a hundred sword shadows. Under the combination of these two martial arts techniques, the sky was full of sword shadows, both illusory and real, even capable of a fight in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability!


    "Quick, quick, quick, tie him up, I''ll hammer him to death!"


    Only Julian, the kid, seemed a bit out of place, holding a hammer thicker than his body, calling on a tree demon to help tie up a mid-stage Emerging Ability.


    His left arm, originally a powerless prosthesis, had been refined with pill fire after his breakthrough, and now his left arm had become a psychic equipment, easily lifting a thousand pounds!


    With both hands on the hammer, he felt no pressure at all!


    With each hammer, blood plasma burst forth.


    "Thud!"


    The bright spear pierced into Ryan''s abdomen. This man, who loved beauty throughout his life and made Taylor the overlord of Bluetown with his pseudo-dan expertise, saw his eyelids droop as the last breath of life escaped him, with Nathan''s psychic fire burning within his soul.


    This also marked the downfall of Bluetown''s Taylor.


    In this battle, Blackwood suffered no casualties. The villagers from Gratitude Village, who had initially depleted their forces using psychic-equipped weaponry and formations, now headed back to Gratitude Village.


    The elite masters of Blackwood, those above the Emerging Ability stage, cleaned up the battlefield, fully equipped, and headed towards the center of the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Good!"


    Ethan, still engrossed in the game, stood in his home facing the large screen, vigorously slapping his thigh in satisfaction.


    Blackwood, once timid, was now striking hard!


    Compared to the two major families of Bluetown and Forest Town, Blackwood was stronger in every aspect, but now?


    The battle was over in ten minutes!


    Yet, with the joy in his heart,


    Ethan''s expression gradually turned solemn.


    He was already feeling the powerful aura emanating from afar as he controlled the War AI Bionic Robot towards the center of the Silver Iron Forest.


    This signified the intense pressure from the battle between the demon king and the Developing Skill masters!


    The realm of Developing Skill is the true threshold of Psychic powers, hence the existence of the pseudo-dan stage. With their full power, they could turn a kilometer into ash!


    Pseudo-dan was extremely close to Developing Skill.


    But a pseudo-dan master would hardly last a few moves in front of a Developing Skill master!


    It was said that in the entire Tranquil County, aside from those two secretive sects of Tranquil, there were no more than a handful of Developing Skill masters.


    ...


    Soon.


    Ethan had maneuvered the War AI Bionic Robot, along with Blackwood''s masters and numerous psychic beasts, to the central area of the Silver Iron Forest.


    The valley they arrived at had been flattened, resembling a huge iron pot. The dense psychic energy made it difficult for anyone to approach, and the high-level pressure had already weakened their combat abilities.


    The Boar Monarch Pete was dueling with Master Jacob, both floating in the air, creating an aura around them!


    [Warning, psychic output ahead exceeds the robot''s load capacity, do not enter!]


    As soon as it approached, the War AI Bionic Robot issued a warning. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan knew the power of a D-level force; it was not something the War AI Bionic Robot could contend with.


    He frowned, watching the battlefield.


    The true form of the Boar Monarch Pete was that of a Mingtu Yinluo Pig, based on earth psychic and dark energies. Huge spikes emerged all around the valley, causing the ground to seem alive, with these earth spikes moving towards Master Jacob like limbs.


    Especially since these spikes carried a highly corrosive aura, attempting to erode Master Jacob''s protective Buddha light.


    Master Jacob was profoundly skilled in Buddhism.


    His right hand held a golden Zen staff, and his neck beads had fallen into his left hand. Tapping the beads lightly, he chanted scriptures, and behind him appeared a golden-bodied Arhat of the same size as the Boar Monarch Pete. This Arhat could easily crush the earth spikes with his bare hands, and the dark-energized spikes dissipated easily upon contact with their nemesis.


    Instead, huge palm prints appeared on the ground!


    Ethan could see.


    Neither was using their full strength yet, both testing each other with their magical powers, but it was clear that the Boar Monarch Pete was already at a disadvantage!


    "Forebearer, should we go help now?"


    Nathan asked, feeling the aura of the battlefield and shivering.


    "Wait a bit."


    Ethan typed on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    The battle of a mid-stage Developing Skill master was not something that ordinary Emerging Ability stage masters could participate in, even the aftermath could cause injuries. But Ethan was sure that with so many psychic beasts on the scene, equivalent to six pseudo-dan masters, they definitely had the power to defeat Monk Jacob.


    However, it was just a victory; if Monk Jacob decided to flee, no one could stop him, and Blackwood would never have peace again!

 Chapter 65: Chapter 65: Battle of Iron Forest

    Ethan waited, a seasoned hunter biding his time. Half an hour had already passed. Beside him, the psychic beasts and the Blackwood clan members waited anxiously under his command, not daring to breathe.


    "Mercy be upon us," chanted Monk Jacob, his voice echoing through the valley. He floated on a golden lotus in mid-air, his right hand gripping a staff adorned with jingling golden rings. Despite the prolonged battle, he appeared unscathed, only slightly winded. A compassionate smile graced his face.


    "You have caused much suffering, yet the Buddha''s mercy knows no bounds. I implore you, with a thousand years of cultivation, why not join me at Qing Song Temple and cleanse yourself of these sins by embracing the Buddhist teachings? Let us not bring further ruin upon this forest of silver and iron."


    This marked the first time Monk Jacob had spoken during the battle. Now, he spoke of Buddhist teachings, his heart clearly troubled. The plan had been for the seven great families to unite and decisively defeat the Boar Monarch Pete. But half an hour had passed, and there was no sign of reinforcements.


    Though the Boar Monarch Pete was not his equal, Jacob hesitated to risk a fight to the death.


    "Hmph!" The Boar Monarch Pete grunted, his only response.


    Though heavily wounded, it still carried itself with the dignity of a king. With a surge of demonic power, knowing it was no match for Monk Jacob, it unleashed all its remaining strength!


    The valley trembled violently as a frigid wind swept through. Giant stone pillars erupted from the ground around the Boar Monarch Pete, their jagged edges radiating the corrosive power of the wind as they hurtled towards Monk Jacob.


    Bristling with fury, the Boar Monarch Pete launched itself into the air. A demonic shadow unfurled in the cloud-choked sky, its shadowy hand reaching out to seize Monk Jacob.


    "Blinded by ignorance, today the Buddha will not ferry you across; I, in place of the Buddha, will cast you into the eighteen levels of hell, where you shall never be reborn!" Monk Jacob declared, his expression grave.


    He knew this was the Boar Monarch Pete''s final gambit. If he didn''t give his all, his life would hang precariously in the balance. He tossed his Buddhist rosary into the air. The eighteen beads blazed with a brilliant light, forming a radiant circle that dispersed the clouds above¡ªa truly extraordinary psychic tool.


    "Buddhist teachings, the eternal golden pine, the compassionate Vajra, appear!" Monk Jacob roared.


    As his words echoed, his monk''s robe, also a psychic tool, shimmered with golden edges that extended skyward, transforming into golden vines. With astonishing speed, the vines intertwined, forming a radiant golden Arhat Vajra!


    Monk Jacob''s meditation cushion rose into the air, growing larger as it ascended, finally landing in the hands of the Vajra Arhat.


    The Arhat''s roar and the clinking of the rings on the staff reverberated through the valley.


    A deep bell tolled from an unknown location.


    This renowned Master Jacob of Tranquil County was truly extraordinary!


    Master Jacob had played his final card.


    He could almost envision the ignorant Boar Monarch Pete meeting its end at the hands of the Buddha!


    But just then, his expression shifted, morphing into one of alarm.


    "Now!" a distant voice commanded.


    Monk Jacob watched in disbelief as dozens of psychic beasts charged recklessly into the fray, their combined demonic powers raining down on him from afar!


    He even saw...


    "It''s Blackwood, that Purple Thunder Sun Python from the seven great families!"


    "Damn it!" Monk Jacob raged, the realization hitting him like a thunderbolt. He had unwittingly walked into a trap he should have avoided. He had initially hoped to capture a Demon King as a mount or obtain materials for crafting psychic tools, but he had never anticipated being drawn into such a perilous situation!


    But he understood that any words he uttered now would be futile.


    Even with his profound Buddhist teachings, he was no match for these reckless psychic beasts and the Boar Monarch Pete combined.


    "Run!" Monk Jacob swept aside the psychic tools with the Vajra Arhat, his mind set on escape.


    "Boom!" He squinted, his eyes widening in surprise.


    A colossal AI Bionic Robot, flames erupting from its feet and back, was hurtling towards him at an astonishing speed, wielding not a weapon, but...


    A silver coffin?


    [Mech armor engine consumption has reached 100%...120%, the body is about to be damaged!] S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Warning! You have entered the attack domain of a mid-level expert in Developing Skill!]


    [The target is launching an attack on you, detection, please dodge immediately, supernatural power far exceeds the load...]


    "Darn it! Go!"


    Operating the War AI Bionic Robot, feeling the seemingly suppressed supernatural power surrounding him, and the sixteen-foot-wide palm print that Jacob the monk and the golden Arhat behind him had unleashed, Ethan remained remarkably calm!


    He turned his head and spun!


    The War AI Bionic Robot narrowly dodged the attack of the palm print, but the aftershock still managed to shatter the right arm and right leg of the War AI Bionic Robot.


    The War AI Bionic Robot could even see the flesh on its body that had been ripped open!


    [The body is severely damaged, please leave the battlefield immediately for automatic recovery!]


    Ethan ignored the warning.


    He knew that if the corpulent monk didn''t die, Blackwood''s future would be bleak!


    Compared to the lives of the Blackwood clan, this valuable War AI Bionic Robot meant nothing!


    Pushing past the palm print, the roaring sound echoing behind him, Ethan pressed on.


    Monk Jacob launched another palm print towards him.


    But this time.


    Ethan didn''t dodge.


    "It''s up to you now!"


    Ethan, clutching the Death Coffin, could feel the tremors coursing through it as it encountered the Buddhist power!


    On the screen interface, a message flashed:


    [The Death Coffin''s supernatural ability encounters the Buddhist power it detests!]


    From the moment he had arrived on the battlefield, Ethan had seen the game interface''s prompt.


    And he had already planned to use the Death Coffin as his trump card.


    Otherwise, Nathan wouldn''t have entrusted him with this treasure!


    "The distance is enough!"


    Seeing that the War AI Bionic Robot had enough strength to smash the Death Coffin towards Monk Jacob, Ethan didn''t hesitate.


    He hurled the Death Coffin with all his might!


    "What... what is this thing?!!"


    Monk Jacob''s face contorted in horror, a look he had never shown even when facing the full force of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    The silver coffin effortlessly smashed through his Vajra Arhat''s palm print!


    Even...


    As it approached the Vajra Arhat behind him, the Vajra Zen staff couldn''t even budge the silver coffin. The coffin bounced off the staff, and under his desperate gaze, it slowly opened, revealing a dark void that swallowed the entire Vajra Arhat.


    Like a beast from ancient times, it devoured everything in its path with endless greed!


    At that moment, even he, using the Arhat''s golden body, was affected.


    The silver coffin was unleashing its fury on him, the pressure of the top-grade supernatural treasure making it impossible for him to take flight again!


    And at the same time.


    The Boar Monarch Pete, those dozens of supernatural beasts, and all the Blackwood clan''s magical martial arts, were all converging on him!

 Chapter 66: Chapter 66: Divine Transformation

    [Congratulations, your family has helped the Boar Monarch protect his homeland!]


    [You''ve earned Spiritual Tribute+2000!]


    [Seeing you risk your life to control the War AI Bionic Robot against Master Jacob, your family''s admiration for you has greatly increased.]


    [You''ve earned Spiritual Tribute+1000]


    3000 Spiritual Tribute points!


    Ethan disengaged from the War AI Bionic Robot and glanced at the top right corner. The Spiritual Tribute value had once again surpassed 7000. A satisfied smile spread across his face.


    Victory was theirs.


    Once again, he and Blackwood had overcome a crisis together. A mid-level Developing Skill expert had perished, thanks to the combined efforts of Blackwood and the Boar Monarch!


    Who would believe this was the work of a small family from the countryside?


    "The Forefather''s divine might! He knew the Death Coffin could restrain Monk Jacob!"


    "The Forefather is invincible!"


    "If not for the Forefather, that fat monk would have escaped!"


    The Blackwood clan members gazed at Ethan with reverence.


    Only when the battered Boar Monarch approached did their expressions return to normal.


    The Boar Monarch expressed his gratitude. "If not for your family''s help, the Silver Iron Forest might have been destroyed by my own hand. Words cannot express my gratitude. From this day forward, the Silver Iron Forest will be Blackwood''s staunchest ally. You are free to mine here, with the eternal gratitude of the Silver Iron Forest''s myriad demons."


    As soon as he finished speaking, a green glow enveloped the land of the Silver Iron Forest, washing over the Blackwood clan members!


    Instantly, they felt a warmth spread through their bodies, and even their psychic abilities were slightly enhanced!


    [Your descendants are protected by the Silver Iron Forest. The Boar Monarch, guardian of the Silver Iron Forest, has granted Blackwood 50% of its life-giving psychic power!]


    [Congratulations, Blackwood has gained a group trait: Guardians of the Silver Iron Forest!]


    [When Blackwood''s descendants fight in the Silver Iron Forest, those below D-level will have their combat power increased by 50%. When cultivating psychic powers in the Silver Iron Forest, protected by its flora, those below D-level will have their cultivating speed increased by 10%. All exotic beasts of the Silver Iron Forest will feel an affinity towards Blackwood''s descendants.


    Your descendants with a Wooden Psychic Constitution will have their Psychic Constitution increased by 2 points.]


    "Group trait!"


    This was the first time Ethan had seen such a thing. It shone brightly on the member list.


    Such a trait was incredibly powerful.


    A 10% increase in the speed of cultivating psychic powers meant that Blackwood''s training room could be moved to the Silver Iron Forest, since they weren''t far apart!


    And...


    Every descendant born with a Wooden Psychic Constitution receiving an increase of 2 points might seem insignificant, but it meant that even the newborn children of Blackwood would experience a slight increase in their talents!


    "This is huge!"


    Ethan was overjoyed.


    Such a group trait was already incredibly powerful.


    But for now, the most significant benefit was that Blackwood had gained the Silver Iron Forest as an ally and the protection of a mid-level Developing Skill expert, with all the psychic beasts of the entire Silver Iron Forest at Blackwood''s disposal.


    The hidden combat power that Blackwood now possessed was enough to sweep any town in Tranquil City!


    This battle had provided Blackwood with a solid foundation of real combat power.


    The Blackwood clan members quickly cleaned up the battlefield and bid farewell to the Boar Monarch, promising to bring Mary''s descendants to meet their grandfather in a few days.


    ...


    The task was accomplished. The mature descendants of Blackwood were now capable of developing autonomously. Ethan instructed Lisa to roast a chicken as a reward for his efforts.


    The Blackwood clan members were hurrying home.


    "Honey, we won! Hahaha! The Forefather exerted his power and saved the Boar Monarch... I mean, Father-in-law!"


    Julian laughed heartily as he strode towards home.


    But just as he reached the birthing room...


    "Wah¡ª"


    A loud cry rang out, as if adding color to Blackwood''s joyous day!


    [Mary was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a son named Paul!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute+10!] S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hahaha! Forefather, not only did my child save my father-in-law, but he also brought a new child into the family!"


    Julian lifted the baby high. The nearly six-foot-seven-inch tall, strong man was moved to tears.


    "Excellent!"


    One joyous event followed another. Ethan picked up the walkie-talkie. "Lisa, two! I want to eat two roasted chickens!"


    The family was ecstatic.


    Ethan then watched as the Blackwood clan members carried the bodies of the deceased Bluetown Taylor and Master Jacob to the psychic medicine garden, intending to drain their blood to cultivate the beast blood fruit trees.


    There were now three beast blood fruit trees.


    The first transplanted beast blood fruit tree, its branches and leaves becoming more lush, had reached almost one hundred feet tall!


    But now, Ethan wasn''t as interested in the beast blood fruit trees as he once was.


    Beast blood fruit trees could generate income, but the potions Amelia concocted were also incredibly valuable. Most importantly, there was no risk of anyone replicating the potion formulas, because the necessary materials didn''t exist on Earth!


    As Ethan pondered how to utilize the large sum of Energy Stones he had earned, something unexpected occurred.


    Nathan was in the process of draining Master Jacob''s blood, letting it drip onto the largest beast blood fruit tree.


    Suddenly, roots from the beast blood fruit tree burst through the ground and pierced into the body. The roots acted like the mouthparts of a creature, greedily sucking the blood!


    The beast blood fruit tree underwent a mutation.


    Rain began to fall from the sky, and the raindrops, making contact with the lush branches and leaves, produced a mysterious yellow essence!


    [Congratulations, your descendants have cultivated the beast blood fruit tree with the blood of a mid-level Developing Skill expert. The beast blood fruit tree has mutated, absorbed the power of Developing Skill, and begun to advance¡ª¡ª]


    [Eighth grade, blood psychic fruit tree!]


    [The blood psychic fruit tree has developed a faint psychic intelligence. It senses the offerings from Blackwood and its roots will remain within the territory of Blackwood, protecting it with its life!]


    [Blood psychic fruit tree, bears fruit every thirty years.]


    "What the...?"


    Ethan was stunned. This was the first time he had witnessed the transformation of a psychic tree!


    The blood psychic fruit tree swayed its branches, like a child who had been starved for centuries and had finally eaten, conveying its joy.


    "The Forefather has exerted his great power once more, allowing the beast blood fruit tree to transform! The might of the Forefather is almost divine!"


    Witnessing this scene, Nathan immediately took out a Forefather Card and bowed repeatedly in worship.


    Ethan, observing from behind the screen, paid no mind to Nathan''s eccentric behavior.


    He casually picked up the walkie-talkie. "Lisa, three! I want to eat three chickens!"


    "Commander, there are only two chickens."


    Lisa''s helpless voice came through the walkie-talkie.


    "Then roast a duck!"


    Ethan hung up the walkie-talkie, a satisfied smile on his face.

 Chapter 67: Chapter 67: Lone Wolfs Path

    The Blood Beast Fruit Tree had transformed into a Blood Psychic Ability Tree, meaning its fruits would now possess doubled potency! The evolution of plants was a wondrous phenomenon, often requiring years of meticulous growth.


    Even the oldest known tree on Earth was only a sixth-grade, and that tree had already lived for nearly ten thousand years, its existence coinciding with the resurgence of psychic abilities!


    Ethan, filled with a sense of accomplishment, continued to accelerate time, observing Blackwood''s steady growth.


    He glanced at the event column.


    This time''s harvest included a surprising amount of equipment!


    [Your family has defeated 16 experts from Horizon Falls Taylor and obtained a large amount of spoils of war!]


    [Obtained a primary psychic ability device, the Psychic God Xin Sheng Robe!]


    This robe, once worn by Horizon Falls Taylor''s Ryan, now appeared no different from ordinary clothing.


    But its appearance was deceiving. When Ryan had been surrounded by numerous psychic beasts, this robe had allowed him to withstand the full brunt of their attacks before succumbing. Though pierced, the robe could recover in the time it took to drink a cup of tea.


    [Psychic God Xin Sheng Robe]


    [Capable of automatic recovery and autonomous shape-shifting. In times of crisis, the robe protects the wearer, withstanding a full-force strike below the level of a Transcendent Seed. It maintains the wearer''s mental clarity and wards off all ailments!]


    Blackwood had acquired another primary psychic ability device.


    Nathan, recognizing its value, gifted the Psychic God Xin Sheng Robe to Olivia. After all, she was often out and about, frequently encountering danger. On several occasions, Ethan had even used his Forefather position to eliminate assassins targeting her.


    [Obtained primary psychic ability equipment...]


    [Obtained medium-grade psychic ability equipment...]


    [Obtained a yellow-grade technique, the Life Breath Longevity Technique!]


    Of all the acquired techniques, it was the one from the Taylors that truly piqued Ethan''s interest.


    This technique, while faster than standard psychic cultivation techniques and not as potent as the Sky Secret Manual''s technique of converting Qi into essence, possessed a unique advantage: it could slightly extend the lifespan of those who cultivated psychic powers!


    Apart from that, there was nothing particularly noteworthy for Blackwood at the moment.


    [Congratulations, your family has defeated Horizon Falls Taylor.]


    [After days of meticulous planning by your descendant Olivia, in collaboration with Silverwood Moore, they have subdued a family cultivating psychic powers in Horizon Falls Town. They now represent both your families in managing all of Taylor''s industries in Horizon Falls Town!]


    [Obtained a large amount of mineral resources!]


    Ethan quickly opened the map.


    On the map of Forest Town, in the northwest direction, the area marked [Horizon Falls Town] was now awash in green!


    "Forefather, this is incredible! Half of Horizon Falls Town is now under our control! Silverwood Moore occupies forty percent, and the subdued family occupies ten percent!"


    Olivia, seated in the ancestral hall, reported the good news to Ethan.


    Despite wearing a primary psychic ability device that could alter the shape of her clothing at will, she still donned the same Confucian robe as before. Though her frail constitution was a thing of the past thanks to the psychic ability device, she still preferred to use a wheelchair, claiming it was a strategic display of weakness to their enemies.


    "Elder Brother now possesses one top-grade psychic ability equipment, two high-grade psychic ability equipment, and faces no challenge in the early stages of Emerging Ability!"


    "When Second Sister emerges from seclusion, she will be overjoyed. Horizon Falls Town has a medicinal garden, providing us with eight additional types of psychic medicines. Second Sister can finally attempt to concoct the eighth-grade medicine from the ''Thousand Herb Scripture''¡ªthe Heavenly Origin Returning Psychic Powder!"


    "And Third Brother, we now have access to five new types of mineral materials, as well as the vast reserves accumulated by Horizon Falls Taylor over the years. This is enough to sustain our forging pavilion for a decade or two!"


    "We have even gained the loyalty of a ninth-grade pill master!"


    Blackwood''s power had expanded once more!


    With the resources of two towns at their disposal, Blackwood no longer had to worry about supplies for at least twenty years.


    Ethan let out a sigh of contentment.


    They could even refine pills now. With the addition of the greedy pill master, Blackwood now had two pill masters!


    A fruitful year passed in the blink of an eye.


    [Blackwood Year 43.]


    [Your family has had a productive year, with an abundance of resources awaiting utilization.]


    [Your descendant from the Sky Sect, Marcus, has achieved a breakthrough!]


    [After five years of solitary contemplation, he has advanced to the seventh level of Foundational Energy, earning the trait: Silent Lone Wolf!]


    [Regardless of the circumstances, he maintains an impassive demeanor, like a lone wolf. In battle, his strength increases by 10%, and when cultivating psychic powers alone, his speed increases by 10%.]


    Ethan watched as Marcus emerged from his breakthrough, now sporting a beard but more composed than ever. A faint smile touched his lips.


    It seemed this young man had matured greatly during his five years of cultivating psychic powers.


    "Silent Lone Wolf, is it? I like the sound of that."


    Marcus was now twenty-two. With his natural talent, he should have been the pride of Blackwood. But life, in its unpredictable and often cruel way, had other plans for him.


    Not only had Marcus faced countless hardships, but he had also endured solitary reflection, lacking any special abilities and reaching the seventh level of Foundational Energy through sheer willpower.


    This transformation in Marcus''s character, from his previous impulsiveness to a newfound depth of stability and restraint, earned Ethan''s admiration.


    "Life can break you, but it can also forge you anew," Ethan remarked, bestowing upon Marcus the ''Love of the Forefather'' and offering words of encouragement. "May you continue to strive for greatness."


    As Marcus stepped out from his cliff-side retreat, he felt a warm current surge through his body. After five long years, he once again felt the Forefather''s encouragement! sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He knelt on one knee, his reaction no longer as emotionally charged as it had been five years ago. Instead, it was a gesture of quiet respect. "Thank you, Forefather. After five years of reflection, I have come to understand. Perhaps I should never have joined the Sky Sect, but I harbor no regrets."


    "Where I stumble, I shall rise again, ascending step by step to the highest peak!"


    "I will never disappoint the Forefather or my family!"


    With those words, he turned and made his way back towards the Sky Sect, his resolve unwavering.

 Chapter 68: Chapter 68: Immortal Embryo

    How does this sound so familiar?


    But Ethan didn''t care, as long as Marcus didn''t do anything that would harm the family''s interests, Ethan would support Marcus''s decision at this time.


    Among the third generation descendants, only Marcus had such a hard time.


    As for the others...


    Ethan switched the screen.


    At this time, outside Gratitude Village, there was an area enclosed by a huge wall, which is now the special training ground for the children of Gratitude Village!


    These children possessed the bravery inherited from the villagers of Gratitude Village.


    Many children were engaged in intense training, truly a case of fist to flesh.


    The descendants of Blackwood were also cultivating psychic powers on this ground with the village children.


    According to Nathan, the children of Blackwood should grow up with the children of Gratitude Village from a young age so that they could integrate into the village and not indulge in luxury like those spoiled children outside, thus cultivating the temperament of Blackwood''s future generations.


    The children of Blackwood already had enough resources.


    If they wanted to secure a place in Blackwood''s increasingly large influence, they had to gain the recognition of the family and the power circle and integrate into Blackwood''s forces.


    If they had neither talent nor virtue and only knew how to waste family resources and harm the family''s reputation, they should be kicked out of the house to experience the dangers of society.


    Ethan agreed with this view.


    Fortunately, the third generation of Blackwood descendants had received a good education.


    "Especially this kid Daniel."


    Ethan grinned.


    He clicked on Daniel''s avatar, and the game screen changed.


    "Body cultivators, take the energy of heaven and earth, the essence of the sun and the moon, then burst through the meridians, break through the body, endure the pain of the body and skin!"


    "This is the lower realm, the body as tough as vines, resistant to swords and blades!"


    "Energy bursts in the flesh, the body suffers the pain of a thousand needles, this is the upper realm!"


    "The body of hard rock, a hundred pounds of equipment feels like nothing in hand."


    "The five viscera and six entrails resonate, psychic meridians flow at will, this is the ultimate realm, the body becomes a primary psychic equipment!"


    Daniel, only 13, was already a teacher for children on the training ground.


    His face was slightly youthful, as handsome as his older brother Marcus, but his eyes had an indescribable purity and psychic ability, his voice crisp.


    "This method was once the ''Gonzalez Body Cultivation Secret'', also a yellow-grade body technique, now used by everyone in Gratitude Village, you must not waste time, you need to cultivate psychic powers often. Whoever enters the lower realm can get a position in the Black Blood Hall when they come of age."


    Many children below, even two or three years older than Daniel.


    But their expressions when looking at Daniel were full of admiration.


    A slightly older child asked Daniel doubtfully; "Instructor, what realm have you reached?"


    "My aunt won''t let me say."


    Daniel shook his head sincerely, then began to teach the children to cultivate psychic powers.


    Watching this scene, Ethan''s eyes brightened.


    "Daniel has great potential to surpass Marcus."


    He had already opened Daniel''s personal information.


    [Daniel (Third Generation Member)]


    [Realm: Foundational Energy, Sixth Layer Peak] Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Techniques: Shadowy Steps of Heaven, Body Cultivation Decree, Longevity Breathing Technique, Thunder Drawing Scripture]


    [Trait: Childlike Heart]


    Daniel was born with four Psychic Constitutions, not as talented as his brother Marcus, but he had the support of family resources, yet it was still impressive for someone so young to reach the peak of the Sixth Layer of Foundational Energy.


    The key was...


    Talent!


    [Childlike Heart]


    [Innocent and kind, free from distractions, thus when cultivating psychic powers, he is less disturbed by external affairs, more likely to have insights. Technique comprehension increased by 80%, speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 30%!]


    Clearly.


    He was not troubled by the fact that his mother Karen was kicked out of the house, and he had understood the reasons behind it early on.


    The only downside was...


    Ethan flipped through his past event log.


    [At age 3, was tricked by a peer into giving away candy, and cried his heart out.]


    [At age 5, felt pity for an assassin disguised as a beggar, nearly got killed, but was fortunately saved by Forebearer''s magic.]


    [At age 7, received the Heart of Innocence.]


    [At age 9, was told by Nathan that practicing the "Gonzalez Body Strengthening Technique" was painless, but after practicing, he was in so much pain he thought it was his own fault, thus he trained even harder in cultivating psychic powers...]


    [At age 12, was told by Lucas that practicing "Mystic Shadow Steps" in the Straight Death Coffin was easy, so he died for 27 days on the first level before he finally got a glimpse of the method.]


    "Ah, one of Blackwood''s rare fools."


    Ethan massaged his forehead and smiled bitterly, unsure whether Daniel''s personality was a blessing or a curse.


    Then he switched the screen again.


    Julian now had five children, and since the Silver Iron Forest was close to Blackwood, all five kids were there now.


    "Oh, Grandpa, look, I''m flying!"


    "Grandpa, Grandpa, today I''m definitely going to run faster than Uncle Turtle!"


    "Five is bullying people, she knocked my nose crooked... but no worries, Grandpa, I''m tough, I straightened it out myself."


    "..."


    Ethan witnessed a bizarre scene, Julian''s children perfectly inherited the genes of Julian and Mary, each one incredibly strong, almost as if cast from the same mold.


    Even Linda, the little girl, was like a young cheetah.


    Take the eldest, Thomas, for example.


    At just 8 years old, he was already 1.5 meters tall, bare-chested with dark skin, he bent his arm to straighten his bleeding nose, his biceps clearly defined...


    From the other children''s unusual physiques for their age, one could predict how robust they would grow as they aged.


    At this moment, the center of the Silver Iron Forest was like their playground, playing extreme sports with psychic beasts, the main theme being fierce.


    The Pig Demon King, now the overlord of the Silver Iron Forest, watched the children play in front of him with a benevolent smile.


    "Julian and Mary really have a knack for raising such kids."


    Ethan didn''t quite know what to say.


    But he was very reassured, since the Pig Demon King who raised Mary had excellent character, and now Julian''s five children were being raised jointly by the Pig Demon King and Blackwood, it would be strange if anything went wrong.


    He was eating the roasted chicken Lisa had brought into the room.


    While switching screens.


    Ethan''s gaze was suddenly caught by a line of text in the event column, his mouth full of meat curved into a smile as he began clicking the mouse.


    [Your descendant Amelia has broken through the initial stage of Emerging Ability.]


    [Her talents have transformed, a mix of four types of Psychic Constitution!]


    [After nearly five years of insight, she suddenly discovered in the "Thousand Herb Scripture" the method of cultivating psychic powers, finding that ancient pharmacists all used plant spirits within their bodies to become divine infants, cultivating their primordial spirits, thus obtaining the great Dao of medicinal body.]


    [Thus, she obtained the family''s psychic beast ''Eight-Leaf Flower Demon''s'' agreement, casting the ''Eight-Leaf Flower Demon'' within her, coexisting and obtaining the "Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Divine Technique"!]


    [The Eight-Leaf Flower Demon, thus transformed into a Nine-Leaf Dan Embryo!]


    [Trait gained: Immortal Embryo]


    "I..."

 Chapter 69: Chapter 69: Amelias Transformation

    Ethan was wide-eyed and dumbstruck as he watched Amelia, who had just emerged from her seclusion and immediately rushed to the Forebearer''s shrine to kneel and shout, "Blessings of the Forebearer."


    At this moment, Amelia had undergone a transformation. Although she was 38 years old, she looked as young as a little girl, yet her appearance remained unchanged, still dressed in her dirty robes, unkempt and crying profusely.


    "Forebearer, it''s been years since I last offered incense to you. Please don''t blame me," she pleaded.


    Ethan, moved by her devotion, bestowed upon Amelia the ''Love of the Forebearer.''


    With trembling hands, he opened Amelia''s profile.


    [Amelia (Second Generation Descendant)]


    [Profession: Ninth Grade Pharmacist]


    [Realm: Early Stage of Emerging Ability]


    [Techniques: Thousand Herb Scripture, Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique]


    [Traits: Plant Affinity, Immortal Fetus]


    Amelia had transformed not just superficially; the gains from the ''Thousand Herb Scripture'' could even surpass those from the legendary psychic relic, the '' Death Coffin''! After all, Earth had seen the resurgence of psychic abilities for a millennium, even producing immortals.


    Anything related to ''immortal'' was extraordinary!


    He clicked on [Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique] and [Immortal Fetus], finding that the descriptions of the technique and trait were the same, and related to the ''Nine-Leaf Dan Fetus'' formed inside Amelia''s body.


    [Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique, cultivating the Nine-Leaf Dan Fetus, breaking through one realm at a time, can become an Immortal Fetus!]


    [Speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 30%, speed of growing herbs increased by 100%. From now on, the effects of all herbs in the world can be recognized.] S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The summary was concise.


    From Ethan''s understanding of the introduction so far, each time Amelia broke through a major realm, an additional leaf would sprout on the Dan Fetus, enhancing her aptitude each time, ultimately forming an Immortal Fetus.


    Now, Amelia''s Nine-Leaf Dan Fetus had already formed two leaves, changing her aptitude to four Psychic Constitutions.


    Three leaves would change it to three Psychic Constitutions.


    Four leaves, to two Psychic Constitutions.


    And so on.


    With each breakthrough, Amelia''s aptitude would increase, and her strength would also grow due to the enhancement of her aptitude!


    Ethan had never heard of such an abnormal constitution.


    Undoubtedly, as long as Amelia could steadily make breakthroughs, she would one day become an immortal. Even if her current strength was inferior to others, once her aptitude reached two Psychic Constitutions, one Psychic Constitution, or even the stronger Heavenly Psychic Constitution...


    Her strength would double.


    Moreover, her ''Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique'' was also strengthening. It now possessed two levels of techniques, the first being of ordinary grade, and the second of yellow grade.


    If she could break through these levels one by one, Amelia could possess heavenly, or even stronger techniques.


    The most terrifying part was that once broken through, the technique''s progress in cultivating psychic powers would reach 100%, achieving a transcendent level!


    "Abnormal."


    Ethan swallowed, clicking on the ''Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique.''


    A bold idea occurred to him.


    [You have chosen the descendant''s technique, ''Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique''.]


    [Would you like to replicate the technique?]


    [Cost of Spiritual Tribute: 9999999....]


    "???"


    "Even more abnormal."


    Observing the astronomical values of Spiritual Tribute needed, Ethan could no longer gauge the level of techniques contained within the "Heavenly Retribution Herbal God Technique." Nor could he estimate Amelia''s current potential.


    Ethan suppressed the shock and excitement in his heart. He clearly understood that no matter how strong Amelia''s potential was, at present, she was just slightly stronger than someone with an initial Emerging Ability, and a gifted pharmacist at that.


    What needed to be done now was not to fantasize about the future but to focus on the current development. If development couldn''t proceed, everything else was just empty talk!


    Ethan began to accelerate the flow of time. After acquiring a vast amount of resources, and as Blackwood''s strength continued to grow, Blackwood did not become complacent but instead kept these secrets hidden, quietly developing.


    [After consulting with your descendant Olivia, Olivia decided to hide the family''s large stock of Energy Stones, gradually increasing the family''s psychic fields by ten acres each year.]


    [Gratitude Village no longer plants ordinary crops. Amelia gifted the psychic medicinal seeds, which any ordinary person could plant, to the villagers, slowly teaching them how to cultivate.]


    [As every household in Gratitude Village became increasingly prosperous, more and more ordinary residents and those cultivating psychic powers flocked to the village. Incidents of petty theft increased, and there were even cases of people deceiving the villagers of Gratitude Village. The people of Blackwood decided to build walls around Gratitude Village to prevent disturbances from outsiders.]


    "Has the prototype of a city already begun to form?" Ethan mused as he watched.


    In the game screen, the villagers of Gratitude Village, once again numbering 3,000, volunteered to build the city. With the ability to eat psychic rice periodically, the villagers'' strength grew stronger, reaching the level of ordinary martial artists, and lifting a hundred pounds of stone was no longer a problem.


    Under the accelerated time rate, these game characters were engaged in infrastructure construction.


    However, this city was somewhat different, mostly inhabited by the original villagers of Gratitude Village. Each household had a ''B'' tattoo, inked with the blood of Blackwood people, making it clear who truly owed allegiance to Blackwood.


    For those wanting to join Gratitude Village, Blackwood also took measures, screening them carefully. Unless a person was marked with the ''B'' by someone from Blackwood, they could not truly gain Blackwood''s trust.


    [Your descendant Amelia successfully produced the eighth-grade medicinal potion ''Heavenly Origin Psychic Recovery Powder,'' which can restore a significant amount of psychic power for those in the Emerging Ability phase or below!]


    [Your descendant Amelia has successfully advanced to an eighth-grade pharmacist!]


    [Under her years of cultivation, a ninth-grade pharmacist has emerged in the psychic medicinal garden.]


    Soon, Amelia, as usual, came to the shrine to pay her respects. Ethan also sent her a ''Forebearer''s Love.''


    However, this guy becoming an eighth-grade pharmacist so quickly was expected, and indeed, with enough medicinal materials, Amelia could refine all eighth-grade medicinal potions in a short time!


    This was the terrifying aspect of her current talent. Amelia even wanted to see if others could cultivate psychic powers like her using the "Heavenly Retribution Herbal God Technique," but the result was...


    A bolt of heavenly thunder struck from the sky, nearly killing the newly cultivated ninth-grade pharmacist. She dared not try again.


    "Is it a unique existence? But as long as I have enough Spiritual Tribute values, it''s not a problem for me."


    Ethan pondered deeply but still couldn''t clarify the reason. This technique had already surpassed his current understanding.

 Chapter 70: Chapter 70: Chaos Ascending

    [With the increase in resources, the members of Black Blood Hall in Gratitude Village have grown to 300!]


    [The Forge Pavilion has been working overtime and has finally crafted enough black iron beast blood suits, the effects of which rival mid-grade psychic gear.]


    After receiving support from the Silver Iron Forest, the Forge Pavilion and the Psychic Medicine Garden benefited the most!


    The Silver Iron Forest has a plethora of exotic beasts and psychic creatures at Blackwood''s command, and Luna periodically leads teams into the forest to extract blood from these psychic and exotic beasts.


    Julian now owns over twenty ''Blood Altars'' used for soaking equipment.


    The remaining beast blood can support the cultivation of ten beast blood fruit trees!


    When the exotic beasts need to breakthrough, they too can benefit from the beast blood fruit trees¡ªa truly win-win situation.


    [Your descendant Lucas is cultivating psychic powers in the Death Coffin, and his magical martial skills have improved.]


    [Nathan is cultivating psychic powers in the Death Coffin....]


    [Luna is in the Death Coffin...]


    Nathan and his wife, along with Lucas who is deeply engrossed in swordsmanship, often spend time in the Death Coffin cultivating psychic powers, occasionally coaxing Daniel to train in the coffin as well.


    Their cultivation of the ''Sky Codex'' is also progressing.


    However, Blackwood dares not use the magical martial arts from the ''Sky Codex'' outside carelessly, as these are the secret techniques of the Sky Sect and could cause trouble if leaked.


    The villagers of Gratitude Village are still cultivating psychic powers using the magical martial arts obtained from the three annihilated families.


    Their progress is also quite rapid.


    Now, the training hall built by Blackwood has ten units.


    [Blackwood Year 46.]


    [Mary, after being pregnant for ten months, gave birth to twins, named Andrew and Nancy!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute+30!]


    Mary is undoubtedly the most hardworking daughter-in-law in Blackwood, and as the cries of the newborns echoed again in the delivery room, the midwife skillfully handed the two children to Nathan and his wife, filling the people of Blackwood with indescribable joy.


    "Forebearer, look at me, I''ve given birth to two more children, much better than my older brother!" Julian exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement as he looked at the children cradled in his parents'' arms. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas glared at Julian, but was used to his younger brother''s brashness, his face darkening as he scolded, "What kind of talk is that? Do you think just because we''re all grown up, I won''t beat you up?"


    "Ahaha, I''m just happy, really happy today."


    Julian scratched his head.


    Watching the screen showing the joyful family, Ethan spontaneously sent a ''Forebearer''s Love'' to each of them.


    "Their time sure flies."


    Ethan said with a beaming smile.


    Soon, the scene shifted, and Blackwood was hosting a grand feast to celebrate the new births.


    Over the years, Ethan noticed that Blackwood had made many friends, with guests filling the hall.


    The Rodriguez and Martinez families from Forest Town, the Moores from Silverwood Town, the Anderson family supported by Horizon Falls Town, and other major families from nearby towns who had business dealings with Blackwood all brought gifts.


    Just as he was counting Blackwood''s friends, a line of text suddenly appeared in the event column, clashing with the festive atmosphere.


    [Special Event]


    [The two major sects behind Tranquil County Town have reignited their old feud after many years, reaching a point of no return, with a great battle imminent and chaos approaching.]


    "???"


    Ethan was momentarily stunned. He remembered that when Marcus joined the Sky Sect, there were hints of the conflict between the Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Gate, and Marcus''s master had died amidst their disputes. These two factions had been clashing every so often, battling for hundreds of years.


    However, he had always focused on his family''s development and hadn''t realized the chaos outside had escalated to this extent.


    Looking at the game screen.


    They were discussing this very issue at the dinner table!


    Jerry shook his head and sighed, "Ah, the strife between sects, it''s always us families, even the common folk, who suffer."


    The head of the Moore family also looked troubled.


    "I have a friend in the Sky Sect, she shared some insider details with me. Originally, it was the discovery of an ancient stele by the two major sects that revealed there had been an ancient battle around Tranquil County. A Supreme-level master had fallen, leaving behind treasures like a Heavenly Coffin."


    "So, they found the ancient tomb and cast spells that triggered the tomb''s grand formation, causing nearly twenty years of severe drought in Tranquil County and the surrounding areas."


    "They said they were searching for some Heavenly Coffin, but it turned out to be a joke. In that tomb, there was nothing but a fart left by an ancient power with great magical force preserved over the ages."


    "For a joke, they completely disregarded the lives of the common people and us. Now with both sides at war, how are we to stay wise and protect ourselves?"


    Upon hearing this, everyone in Blackwood remained composed, but inside, they were already in turmoil!


    Even Ethan felt the same way!


    "Holy crap?!!"


    In an instant, Ethan understood!


    No wonder Nathan had found that mysterious long spear in the Mystic Boar Forest at the beginning of the drought.


    No wonder the Heavenly Coffin had appeared.


    "That means, they got the location wrong, activated the magic, and it was only then that the mysterious long spear and the Heavenly Coffin in Gratitude Village emerged, eventually coming into our possession at Blackwood."


    Ethan''s scalp tingled.


    But fortunately, both the Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Gate believed that the ancient legends were non-existent, a mere play by the powerful from the past. As long as they kept it under wraps, no one would suspect that the Heavenly Coffin was with Blackwood!


    "Phew..."


    Ethan let out a long sigh of relief.


    He was now grateful for his caution, always having the people of Blackwood keep the secret of the Heavenly Coffin. Otherwise, just a hint of a clue would have the two sects, mocked by the ancient powers, tearing Blackwood apart!


    Soon, the banquet on the game interface was over.


    And the descendants of Blackwood walked worriedly towards the ancestral hall.


    The most pressing matter now was, if the two major sects were to fight, they too would be affected!


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, asking everyone for details.


    Olivia spoke gravely:


    "Forebearer, for a long time, our Tranquil County and the twelve towns have been dominated by these two major sects. Tranquil County is just one of them, and each of the two sects also occupies two other county towns."


    "For many years, Tranquil County has been jointly owned by the two sects, with taxes split evenly. Now with both sides at war, Tranquil County might also fall into their scramble."


    "When that happens, even the county government won''t be able to manage much. Tranquil County will become a land of chaos! We could be ordered around by the two major sects at any time, and we could also be vulnerable to those who fish in troubled waters."


    "Mr. Moore said, their conflict is irreparable. According to the books my son has read, this war could very well last for decades, even a century!"


    Ethan rubbed the mouse.


    He could feel that the days ahead were likely to be anything but peaceful.

 Chapter 71: Chapter 71: Forebearers Wisdom

    In the midst of a great war between two sects, the future was uncertain for everyone.


    Ethan, however, knew clearly that if he wanted Blackwood to survive and even profit from this potential century-long disaster, strength was paramount. Without it, what right did Blackwood have to speak of anything else?


    But the sharp blade of adversity is also a catalyst for progress.


    [In the news of the war between the two sects, your descendants sensed the unknown dangers. To ensure the family''s survival through this disaster, they began to cherish every moment to strengthen their family''s power.]


    [Your family gains the trait: Steadfast Progress]


    [Until the crisis ends, your family members'' speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 10%, their insight increases by 10%, making it easier to seize opportunities to develop the family. The current generation will remember this crisis and permanently enhance the ''Steadfast Progress'' trait by 10%.]


    BUFF!


    Ethan''s tense mood began to ease. After resolving the troubles in Forest Town, the revenge BUFF had already disappeared, and now Blackwood had gained a collective trait once again.


    "Indeed, no matter the challenge, opportunities coexist with it, don''t they?" Ethan mused.


    He suddenly slapped his thigh.


    "Right, if I don''t view this as a danger but as an opportunity, everything changes!" Ethan then focused intently on the screen.


    Indeed, the war between the two sects could plunge Blackwood into unpredictable peril.


    But as Olivia had said before, in such circumstances, the two major sects were busy fighting each other, leaving them no time to attend to other matters. It was for this reason that some forces or individuals could fish in troubled waters and seize advantages.


    Then...


    Why should Blackwood wait to be exploited by others instead of becoming the hunter themselves?


    "My thoughts just cleared up all of a sudden."


    Ethan was about to summon his descendants via the Purple Thunder Solar Python to discuss his realization.


    Just as he clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, he paused.


    His descendants had entered the Forebearer''s shrine.


    As usual, after their bows, Nathan, with a joyful expression, said, "Forebearer, today Daniel emerged from cultivating psychic powers in the Death Coffin. He said he had been constantly attacked by zombies on the first level, but after he took the initiative, the path to the end of the first level became much easier."


    "So he asked me, why can''t our Blackwood take the initiative in the disaster of the war between the two sects?"


    "Forebearer, I don''t know if this foolish child''s words are right or not, please enlighten us!"


    "..."


    Ethan''s smile gradually faded, and he stared numbly at Daniel in the game screen¡ªthe guy with innocent eyes that seemed to scream ''I''m a fool, come deceive me!''


    He was motionless for a long time.


    Nathan in the screen also didn''t receive any response from Ethan, which made him almost urge, ''Forebearer, please speak.''


    "I ended up thinking the same as Daniel, who''s always being deceived in the family?"


    Ethan clenched his teeth and clicked on the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s icon.


    [Good.]


    After entering the text, the people of Blackwood received the response from the Purple Thunder Solar Python and burst into joy.


    "Forebearer agrees, haha!"


    "I told you Daniel isn''t stupid; he can also think of useful methods."


    "Follow me, grandson."


    Ethan clenched his teeth, gripping the flesh of his thigh tightly.


    Stay calm!


    Absolutely must stay calm, no smashing the keyboard!


    Then, looking at the time flow speed on the screen, Ethan felt relieved.


    "It''s okay, why should I doubt myself? Days have passed in the game, and I figured it out quickly."


    "Yes, that''s right, my descendants can think like me, I should be happy, it shows he has grown up."


    "I need to smile!!!"


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    The phone rang, and Ethan answered it, immediately hearing Alan''s joyful voice, "Mr. Ethan, I''ve sold the goods, made a big profit..."


    "Alan, do you think I look like a fool?"


    "Ah? Why would you suddenly ask that?" Alan''s voice faltered, then he said solemnly, "I know I had a bad reputation before, but Mr. Ethan, rest assured, I swear on my life that from the time I started working with Mr. Ethan, I will never take kickbacks." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hahaha."


    Ethan finally showed a smile, "Talking to a smart person is just simple."


    After hanging up the phone, Ethan finally felt at ease.


    ...


    [During the chaos in Forest Town, the Blackwood family, led by Nathan and his wife, decided to secretly eliminate the Lightning Legion. They borrowed a psychic beast, the Wind Shadow Psychic Bird, from the Silver Iron Forest for this mission.]


    Ethan, while sipping on his drink, paid close attention to this special operation. As he delved deeper into the game, he understood that each special operation had its specific reasons¡ªeither a significant threat to Blackwood or an opportunity to gain benefits.


    Although Ethan was always focused on the growth of Blackwood''s power, he was aware of the details of this mission.


    The Lightning Legion, located within Forest County''s Listening Wind Town, had its strongest member only at the mid-stage of Emerging Ability.


    This small sect, supported solely by Emerging Ability, was relatively weak. However, to eliminate the Lightning Legion, Blackwood had prepared for two months and even utilized the connections of the Forest Rodriguez family.


    The reason was that the Lightning Legion was loyal to the Xuanwu Gate, and without thorough preparation and avoiding the eyes and ears of the Xuanwu Gate, Blackwood could face significant troubles.


    The ultimate goal was to obtain the superior psychic equipment within the martial arts hall¡ªthe [Performance Psychic Pearl].


    [Emerging Ability practitioners could engrave techniques on the Psychic Pearl, which others could use to cultivate psychic powers.]


    While this item might seem ordinary, Blackwood went to great lengths because they learned that after decades of experiments, placing the Performance Psychic Pearls in a building similar to the Gratitude Village training room could further accelerate the speed of cultivating psychic powers in the training room!


    By now, Blackwood had already started dismantling those ten training rooms and was combining them into one large training room, preparing to place the Performance Psychic Pearl under the dome.


    Soon, under the cover of a deep night, Nathan and his wife, along with the psychic beast, headed towards the small mountain outside Listening Wind Town where the Lightning Legion was located. In the ancient building complex, the intent to kill surged instantly!


    Luna, holding a primary psychic device and already capable of battling the peak of Emerging Ability, together with the peak Emerging Ability-level Wind Shadow Psychic Bird, which was as elusive as a sparrow, found no match in this small sect.


    The Lightning Legion had only a mid-Emerging Ability stage leader and two early Emerging Ability stage elders.


    The couple from Blackwood, along with their psychic beast, clearly knew exactly where to go and whom to kill. It was a night perfect for a swift and decisive action.


    Ethan intended to switch the screen to check on other descendants, but his hand paused on the mouse.

 Chapter 72: Chapter 72: Nathans Past

    When Ethan saw the people of Blackwood swiftly subdue and capture the leader of the Lightning Legion, dragging him to a cliff miles outside the town, Nathan tightly gripped the man''s neck.


    "What''s going on?" Ethan munched on a melon, noticing the complex emotions in Nathan''s eyes¡ªhatred, relief, and perhaps liberation?


    "Do you remember who I am?" Nathan''s voice was haunting, slightly trembling.


    "My friend, I... I don''t know how I have offended you all. Let''s talk this out. Are you after the Performance Psychic Pearl? Take it, it''s yours. I...


    I have many Energy Stones, I can give you all the valuable things from our martial hall!"


    The leader of the Lightning Legion wasn''t foolish; knowing these people dared to come, he wasn''t concerned about the backing of the Black Shell Sect. He simply begged for mercy, prioritizing his survival.


    "You don''t remember." Nathan sighed deeply. "It''s been forty-nine years. You don''t remember me, but I remember you."


    "Who... who are you?!!" The leader grew more terrified.


    Nathan ignored him, continuing on his own:


    "You, the Lightning Legion, claim to be a reputable sect in this town of Whisper, but in reality, you are utterly vile. Back then, you were at the peak of Foundational Energy, just when you founded the Lightning Legion. Oh, and you had another role¡ªstealing children and selling them as slaves."


    "You..."


    The leader tried to speak, but the veins on his forehead bulged as Nathan''s grip silenced him, and with a casual slap, he disabled the leader''s internal strength!


    "Children with good potential, you would sell to major sects."


    "Those with poor potential, you used as cauldrons!"


    Nathan calmly broke the leader''s limbs.


    "Do you know, when we twelve cauldrons reached the age of twenty, just when you were about to use us to nourish your Gu insects, to save our lives from the hell that was the Lightning Legion, only I managed to escape alive. I still remember my companions yelling for me to run faster!"


    "Run faster... Number 7, you must escape..."


    "I escaped, my companions died, and I could only follow the memories of my childhood to find my former home, only to find my parents'' graves. The thatched cottage was abandoned, only the Forebearer cards remained."


    "When you kidnapped me, I was young, I didn''t remember my own name, you named me Number 7."


    "I know I''m not capable, but I''ve dreamt of your death, of your martial hall''s ruin!"


    Nathan exhaled deeply, and only when Luna placed her hand on his shoulder did Nathan show a reassuring smile to the worried Luna, finally staring coldly at the leader, "Now I''m not called Number 7, the nameless one who once fled with his tail between his legs. I have a name, Nathan. Remember me in your next life, my name is Nathan!"


    "It''s time to let go of the past."


    Nathan truly let go, dropping the leader off the cliff, then borrowing a psychic weapon from Luna, he flew down and bombarded the area until the leader''s flesh mixed with the filthy soil.


    Watching everything on the screen, Ethan felt as if he stood beside Nathan, the cold night wind blowing on him.


    He felt a bitter sweetness in his heart.


    It was his first time learning of Nathan''s tragic past, perhaps the reason Nathan gained the trait ''Strive for Strength'', and why, after acquiring new techniques, he continually changed, seeking a better life.


    Years ago, Blackwood had the power to avenge Nathan.


    But Nathan hadn''t sought revenge, perhaps knowing already that the Lightning Legion had powerful backers, suppressing his hatred for the sake of his family''s development. Even today, it was because the family needed the Performance Psychic Pearl, otherwise Nathan might still not risk acting on personal desires.


    As the booming sounds filled the game screen.


    [Your descendant Nathan has broken free from years of suppressed inner demons, the trait ''Strive for Strength'' has evolved¡ª]


    [Trait: Destined for Greatness!]


    [Your descendant Nathan has advanced¡ª]


    [Mid-stage Emerging Ability!]


    Nathan''s resilience is truly rare.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to lead his family to such prosperity from the countryside during a year of severe drought, armed with nothing but a copy of the "Psychic Arts Manual."


    If it were anyone else, Ethan reckoned he''d have to constantly invoke the ''Forebearer''s Fury.''


    [Trait: Destined for Greatness]


    [Late Bloomer, cultivating psychic powers speed increased by 20%. Due to breaking through mental barriers, an open mind, and enhanced comprehension, mastering mystical arts and martial skills becomes easier!]


    After returning from Listening Wind Town, Nathan was also quick to burn incense and bow in prayer.


    Ethan glanced at his current Spiritual Tribute¡ª


    27650.


    "Still a long way to go."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow, as with more descendants in Blackwood, he could generally gain 3000 Spiritual Tribute annually, sometimes more during special events.


    And he had long coveted the profound technique "Mystic Shadow Celestial Steps" from the "Sky Codex."


    Now, after years of cultivating psychic powers, the most advanced, Lucas, had only reached 28% proficiency.


    "By the time Lucas truly masters this technique to a divine level, it''ll probably take 100,000 Spiritual Tribute points to replicate."


    Ethan pondered how to utilize these Spiritual Tribute points.


    [Your family has built a large training hall, named the Three-Tiered Combat Tower!]


    Following the event log''s prompt.


    There it was.


    In the center of Gratitude Village, a three-tiered spire stood tall. Ethan learned that this combat tower, constructed by a master hired at a high price by Blackwood, had become a major psychic equipment facility. As long as no one dug into the combat tower, the existence of the Performance Psychic Pearl would remain undiscovered.


    The tower could manifest master phantoms, continuously demonstrating mystical arts and martial skills day and night, as long as there were enough Energy Stones, also enhancing the tower''s psychic energy.


    Entry to the first layer required Foundational Energy, and so forth.


    The people of Blackwood immediately transferred the mystical arts and martial skills they had collected over the years, including "Gonzalez''s Body Forging Technique," "Wandering Dragon Steps," and "Breeze Technique," totaling thirty-six arts, into the combat tower using their magical powers.


    As for the people of Blackwood, they now placed even greater emphasis on cultivating psychic powers from the "Sky Codex."


    After dealing with the combat tower, the people of Blackwood gathered together, for them, eliminating the Lightning Legion was just the beginning!


    Olivia, sitting at the head of the family table, said to Nathan, "Father, the matter with the Lightning Legion was handled cleanly, no one suspects us. You used the Sky Sect''s Thunder Summoning Scripture, and now the Black Shell Gate suspects it was the Sky Sect''s doing."


    "Indeed." S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan nodded slightly, his past as fleeting as the wind, and now he stood firm like an ancient tree in the wind, "Let''s drop the matter, and speak no more of it. Our Blackwood is but a small family, and that is our best disguise."


    "Understood, father."


    Olivia took a sip of tea, her voice firm, "We had planned to go to Whisper River Valley, but that must now be canceled."


    Before Nathan could respond.


    Amelia interjected anxiously, "Why? Has something changed? What about the Dayheart Herb?"


    In these days, Blackwood''s scheming wasn''t just about the Lightning Legion.


    The family had developed and conducted business far and wide, making both friends and enemies.


    Now was the time for reckoning.

 Chapter 73: Chapter 73: Amelias Resolve

    Olivia mentioned that Whisper Valley is one of them, and their sect''s residence has a large amount of Tianxin grass.


    This is also the main herb lacking in the new medicine Amelia wants to concoct!


    "Demons with psychic abilities."


    Olivia''s simple words caused a change in the expressions of everyone at Blackwood.


    In this world, there are those with demonic psychic abilities, who often differ from ordinary psychics. In their quest for rapid cultivation of psychic powers, their methods often harm the natural order.


    Some use human blood as a sacrifice, or even use humans as cauldrons to cultivate their psychic powers.


    This is akin to cannibalism, the raw and unrefined kind, similar to eating human brains raw. Such methods of cultivating psychic powers, as Ethan knows, can lead to diseases just like cannibalism does, making them become mad, irritable, bloodthirsty, and greedy.


    They can be considered psychics who are constantly high on drugs.


    "I got the news from the Rodriguez family; the small sect we were interested in was already claimed by others."


    Olivia continued, "The scene retained the unique aura of those with demonic psychic abilities, and their methods were unorthodox. They are extremely cunning, taking advantage of the major sects'' war to achieve their goals and then disappearing without a trace."


    "My Tianxin grass!"


    Amelia knew well that once the Tianxin grass fell into the hands of those with demonic psychic abilities, it would be hard to retrieve, and she immediately felt disheartened.


    Just then.


    A guard from Blackwood''s affiliated Black Blood Hall hurriedly came to report, especially since he was holding a token that made everyone at Blackwood''s expressions suddenly become solemn.


    A token from the Sky Sect!


    Nathan took the token, and a white light entered his mind.


    It was a message left by a master of the Sky Sect within the token.


    In just a moment, Nathan''s eyes narrowed.


    "There''s news about the Tianxin grass."


    ...


    [Special Event]


    [Disaster Caused by Demonic Psychic Abilities]


    [Due to the war between two major sects, the masters of the Sky Sect couldn''t attend to the mundane matters of Tranquil City. Hearing about the chaos caused by those with demonic psychic abilities, the disciples of the sect have descended the mountain to train and sincerely invite masters from all forces to help the Sky Sect eliminate the demons!]


    After receiving the command from the Sky Sect, Nathan went to report at the Forebearer''s shrine.


    Ethan also saw the information.


    "Eliminating demons and defending the path, huh?"


    It''s kind of interesting to talk about it, sects like the Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Sect, each claiming to be reputable and orthodox.


    But look at how many lives are lost when they open ancient tombs?


    The two sects fight every so often, stirring up storms.


    But to say they are bad...


    As soon as the matter of those with demonic psychic abilities harming others came out, they became quite self-aware.


    While pondering, Nathan had already knelt down to worship, "Forebearer, I bid you farewell on this journey. Next year at the grand ceremony, your child can only offer incense to our ancestors from afar!"


    With these words.


    The people of Blackwood were stunned.


    Ethan also frowned, listening to Nathan''s words, it seemed he was going to participate in this mission to eliminate those with demonic psychic abilities. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then small characters appeared above Nathan''s head.


    "The disciples of the Sky Sect have found the location of those with demonic psychic abilities in the Thunderfire Demon Cave! If the temple''s guardian beast is to transform, it needs the heavenly thunder and earthly fire from within the Thunderfire Demon Cave!"


    No wonder Nathan got involved in this matter.


    Ethan was also somewhat tempted.


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python wants to advance to the rank of Demon King, and heavenly thunder and earthly fire are one of the conditions!


    But...


    The location of this mission is very far, not a day''s work. It''s already difficult to eliminate demons, and the disciples of the Sky Sect who come to train are just novices, not even knowing the specific numbers and strengths of those with demonic psychic abilities, making the danger level very high.


    "Enough!" Suddenly, Amelia, who was usually quiet, raised her voice, silencing everyone.


    Feeling everyone''s gaze, Amelia ruffled her messy hair, her dirty face breaking into a smile, her bright white teeth more evident. "Dad, you really shouldn''t go. Big brother is right, over the years, it''s always been you and sister four showing your faces. The families we control in secret only recognize you. If you''re away for too long, chaos will ensue."


    "Mom definitely can''t go either. With your demonic cultivation, it''s just not convenient."


    Glancing at her elder brother, whose expression had softened, Amelia said, "Big brother, you shouldn''t go either."


    "Hmm?" Lucas furrowed his brows.


    "The plans set by sister four involve the Black Blood Hall, and you''re the most familiar with its people. Besides, you can''t expect dad to be running around with the Black Blood Hall, can you?"


    As she finished speaking, she looked towards Julian, who by now was standing tall and proud.


    Amelia rolled her eyes, "Third brother..."


    "You have seven children, they''re not grown up yet. Do you want to come back and have them not recognize you? And the Forge Hall, after all these years, you''re the only psychic equipment craftsman. Everyone at home is waiting for you to produce top-quality psychic equipment."


    Her words hit Julian right where it hurt.


    All eyes were on Amelia.


    "Second sister, are you going?" Olivia looked troubled. Everyone in the family was volunteering, yet she, with no cultivation, could only watch helplessly as her family faced danger.


    Whenever this happened, she questioned whether the path she had chosen was the right one.


    "What? You look down on your second sister?"


    Amelia joked, her usually carefree face suddenly turning serious as she looked at her many relatives. "I''m the most suitable one to go. I can''t make medicines anymore. My psychic medicine garden has fifteen apprentices who can prepare ordinary potions, and I''ve raised a ninth-grade pharmacist from childhood, which is enough to meet the family''s needs."


    "Amelia..."


    Nathan wanted to persuade her.


    But Amelia cut him off, "Father, you know, I''m not as capable as you, but with potions and some new skills I''ve acquired recently, surviving won''t be a problem."


    "In terms of intelligence, I''m not as good as you all... except for the third brother. But having experienced so much over the years, I understand how to deal with outsiders."


    "Especially being a woman, outsiders will underestimate me, which is the best disguise."


    "Besides..."


    "I''m not foolish. My goal is to find the demon cave and investigate the situation with the heavenly thunder and earthly fire, not to court death. If I encounter danger, won''t I run? Those demon-possessed psychics even stole my Tianxin grass, I have to avenge that too!"


    With sound reasoning, the people of Blackwood were left speechless.


    Amelia then bowed deeply to the Forebearer''s cards, her voice firm:


    "Please, Forebearer, allow your child to undertake this great task!"


    [Good.]


    Ethan silently clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, Amelia had convinced him.

 Chapter 74: Chapter 74: Magic Little Pill

    As the year drew to a close, with the grand festival of Blackwood on the horizon, Amelia braced against the chilly wind. Dressed in her everyday attire, she walked to the entrance of Gratitude Village, accompanied by four psychic beasts borrowed from the Silver Iron Forest. From her bosom, she retrieved the Forebearer cards.


    Turning to her family who had escorted her to the village entrance, she smiled reassuringly, "Don''t worry, I''m taking the Forebearer with me. Whether it''s the Sky Sect or demon-possessed psychics, with the Forebearer''s blessing, I''m not heading to my doom. I''ll let them know that in Tranquil County, there''s a Blackwood."


    "Blackwood has a daughter, Amelia!"


    At her words, the people of Blackwood laughed.


    "Well said!" Nathan squinted his eyes, "Amelia, there will be people from various major forces of Tranquil County on this journey. Don''t be afraid of trouble, and if any arises, just send a letter back."


    "Dad, I''m forty-two, not a child," Amelia said with a wry smile.


    Then, under the watchful eyes of her family, she slowly turned and headed towards Tranquil County, waving her hand. Under the lingering glow of the setting sun, her usually dirt-stained clothes from working in the psychic medicine garden, along with her slender figure, shone like a radiant fairy.


    ...


    Amelia left Gratitude Village half a month ago.


    Sitting in his room, Ethan took a deep breath.


    He could feel that with the two major wars, Tranquil County was becoming more chaotic, which was why the usually cautious Nathan dared to venture into the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Everyone in Blackwood knew.


    Only by continuously becoming stronger and rapidly enhancing the family''s power could they prevent the family from being affected by the two major wars!


    "As the Forebearer, it''s time for me to exert some effort."


    While keeping an eye on the progress in the game, and seeing that there was only one day left until the 50-year grand ceremony of Blackwood, Ethan let the game world''s time run as usual.


    He dialed Alan''s phone.


    "Alan, can you come to my house within an hour? This time I''ll give you 200 blood fruits and some new stuff, but I hope you can bring what I want."


    Shortly after.


    Just five minutes later, the doorbell at home rang.


    After walking out of the room and opening the front door, Ethan saw Alan''s panting face, "200 pieces? Quick, a customer wants them! And new stuff, it can''t be worse than blood fruits, right? My customers are very picky."


    "Don''t rush. Come in and have some milk tea first."


    Ethan shook his head and smiled, what does ''very picky'' mean?


    He could tell that Alan''s clients must really like the blood fruits.


    But in reality, beast blood fruits are nothing special in Blackwood!


    After bringing Alan into the house and giving him some milk tea, Ethan extended his hand towards Alan, "Let me see what I want first."


    "Ouch, my Mr. Ethan, I must say first, I did get the stuff. But please don''t misuse it, if you want to prank a classmate or something, just tell me. If you want to deal with the psychic old lady, once we''ve earned enough Energy Stones, dealing with her wouldn''t take a minute, right?"


    While Alan was still talking, he took out the Storage Ring and threw it to Ethan.


    Ignoring Alan''s advice.


    Ethan glanced at the items in the Storage Ring and frowned, "Only two?"


    "Yes, two." Alan shrugged, "These things are not easy to get, and where could I find more for you in such a short time? I got these from an extremist organization for you."


    "How many more can you get?"


    Ethan also felt he was being presumptuous, it was already not simple for Alan to get contraband, yet he still wanted more.


    Alan thought for a moment, "I''ll make some more contacts, as you know, the kind of stuff you want can''t be guaranteed. But I''m sure, the amount I get next time won''t be less than this time."


    "Good."


    Ethan wasn''t demanding, he smiled and said, "Drink your milk tea first, Alan, I''ll go to the room to get your stuff."


    Saying this, Ethan entered the room.


    He quickly accelerated the game''s flow of time.


    In the game.


    The descendants of Blackwood gathered in the Forebearer''s shrine, kneeling before his cards. The Mystic Burner in front of the altar was already prepared with their Tribute Offering for this trip!


    [Blackwood 50 years, the grand ceremony that happens every ten years begins!]


    [Your descendants offer you a Tribute Offering----]


    [First-order beast blood fruits, 200 pieces!]


    [Gold psychic powder, 20 portions!]


    [Penis Enhancement Pills, 10 portions!]


    [You choose to take out!]


    Soon, the Tribute Offering appeared on Ethan''s table.


    Ethan didn''t delay.


    He directly placed the Storage Ring in the copper furnace, and the Storage Ring made a clinking sound.


    [Detected that you are using a Divine Gift on your descendants, granting----]


    [Celestial Star Psychic Seeker x2!]


    After transferring the items.


    Ethan immediately left the room, as Alan was still waiting outside!


    ...


    "Is this a potion from Mr. Ethan?" Alan blinked, "A new product from Blackwood Group?"


    "Yes."


    Ethan pointed to the golden psychic enhancer, "It boosts your Psychic Constitution by 1-8 points."


    "What?!!"


    Alan''s eyes widened in disbelief. If it weren''t for the fact that he was dealing with Ethan and knowing that Blackwood had previously released incredible potions, he would hardly believe it was true. "Are there any side effects? Is it as miraculous as your family''s Destiny Psychic Enhancement Pills?"


    He was well aware of the Destiny Psychic Enhancement Pills from Blackwood; such pills were incredibly hard to come by in the market.


    And this golden psychic enhancer, although not as potent as the Destiny Psychic Enhancement Pills, was still considered miraculous!


    "1-8 points, specifically targeting the golden psychic constitution," he could imagine how crazy the wealthy young masters with such psychic constitutions would go for it.


    "Yes, there are no side effects. I''m giving you twenty doses, hoping you can sell them for a good price."


    Ethan was very pleased with Alan''s reaction at the moment; the bigger the reaction, the harder Alan could sell.


    "Twenty doses?" Alan was delighted again, "And the remaining ten doses..."


    "Penis Enhancement Pills."


    Seeing the expectant look in Alan''s eyes, Ethan gestured in the air with his hand.


    His expression was somewhat mischievous as he gestured with his hands, starting with a size of about one centimeter, and under Alan''s shocked gaze, the size kept increasing... then the diameter...


    "This kind of effect, and it''s permanent, with no side effects. I think, Alan, you must have friends who need this, right?" Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 75: Chapter 75: Marcuss Emergence Part 1

    Upon hearing Ethan''s words, Alan swallowed nervously and then hesitated before asking with a serious tone, "Mr. Ethan, I want to ask, if I have a friend... oh, I really do have a friend who can''t last much longer, could using it possibly..."


    "Yes, it could extend it by that much," Ethan replied, stretching out three fingers.


    Alan''s eyes nearly popped out of his head, "Three hours???"


    "What are you thinking? Three hours, and even a bull would have plowed the field to ruin!" Ethan''s facial muscles twitched, "At least three minutes."


    "That''ll do, I guess."


    Alan looked a bit disappointed, but soon smiled again, "Mr. Ethan, I guarantee it will sell well."


    Ethan nodded slightly, "In the future, we will have many collaborations. But as you know, my family isn''t suited for public appearances, so I hope to establish a company under your name. This will solve my Energy Stone storage issues and tax matters, and with your connections, it should be feasible."


    "I''ll give you an additional 3%."


    As Ethan stretched out three fingers again, any momentary hesitation in Alan disappeared.


    Ethan continued, "After this, the company''s daily expenses will be deducted from the books. Oh, and here''s a list I''ve given you, I hope you can help me find these items through the company."


    Alan took a long strip of paper.


    He frowned again, "Elixirs, martial arts techniques, talismans, war AI Bionic Robots... and they''re all quite rare."


    But Alan didn''t dare ask too much, after all, these were items requested by the powerful Blackwood. He even suspected that Blackwood had secretly left Earth to find a new habitable planet and build a new world.


    "Can you manage it?" Ethan asked.


    Alan came back to his senses and pondered for a moment, "The items Mr. Ethan wants, I think we need to start from ancient civilizations. In that case, I have many friends who study ancient epochs."


    "I even have friends in the deep sea, and even on extraterrestrial planets, digging up relics from past epochs. I''ll see if I can get these level of items, but it might take a long time."


    "Thank you," Ethan nodded slightly.


    He knew that the rapid development of this world, with the resurgence of millennium-old abilities, was still due to the unearthed relics of ancient civilizations.


    As Ethan was seeing Alan off.


    Alan suddenly called out to Ethan, "Mr. Ethan, when I was in your villa area, I saw your teacher. He seemed to be asking the gatekeeper Mr. John to find you. He was asking you to participate in a school competition, I found out that the opponent seems to be a Transcendent Seed..."


    "They''ve chased me to my doorstep?"


    Ethan rolled his eyes, "Tell him to stop bothering me, will helping not suffice?"


    Alan grinned, "Right, with the realm of Transcendent Seed, it shouldn''t be a problem for Mr. Ethan to intervene."


    "Who said I was going to take action? I don''t even want to leave my house."


    Ethan shrugged, "In that case, Alan, do me a favor. Before the competition starts, capture that Transcendent Seed, and release him after the competition is over."


    "..."


    Speechless, Alan left Psychic Gear Villa No. 1, suddenly feeling that he was still quite upright and honest.


    ...


    [Blackwood''s 50th Grand Festival Concludes!]


    [Congratulations! Your descendants have gathered together, receiving your Divine Gift with gratitude.]


    [You''ve earned +300 Spiritual Tribute!]


    Looking at the nearly 30,000 Spiritual Tribute points on his account, Ethan estimated that if he continued to help develop Blackwood, he might see some returns in about twenty more years of game time.


    Of course, that''s if he doesn''t spend a lot of Spiritual Tribute points in the meantime.


    [Special Event]


    [Lucas, with the Black Blood Hall, stealthily moves at midnight, preparing to intercept the ''Heavy Sand'' minerals escorted by Silverwood Wilson, alongside Qingping Moore.]


    Right after the grand festival, Blackwood was already in action. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Silverwood Wilson, Ethan had learned about him, was Moore''s longtime enemy. Now, Moore, who had once helped save the Silver Iron Forest for Blackwood, had become an ally of Blackwood, with frequent collaborations.


    Now, even the cautious Silverwood Moore family was seizing opportunities in these chaotic times.


    "Even the cautious Silverwood Moore is fishing in troubled waters now?" Ethan felt the chaos of Tranquil County more than ever.


    Fortunately, he had just sent some items to Blackwood, which could also lend some strength to them.


    In the game.


    Gratitude Village hadn''t encountered any trouble yet, still consuming the resources previously obtained, and the cooperation between Lucas and Moore was going smoothly.


    Ethan decided to check on his two descendants abroad.


    Amelia had already reached the assembly point of the Sky Sect, gathering in Listening Wind Town where Nathan had once destroyed the Lightning Legion. Currently, there were over fifty people, not yet in action, but waiting for more to join the demon-removal team.


    Amelia''s character was also one of not causing trouble, acting low-key, and she was quite safe at the moment.


    Ethan then clicked on Marcus''s avatar.


    Map transition.


    [Sky Sect]


    The scene appeared inside a cave, especially where a milky, dense pool filled with psychic energy made it clear that this was no ordinary place, filling the entire cave with thick fog.


    And Marcus, who had left the Cliff of Reflection just seven years ago.


    Now, he was meditating mid-air above the psychic pool!


    Opening his past experiences, Ethan learned that Marcus had been living as an outer disciple in the Sky Sect for these seven years, unremarkably, but never stopped cultivating psychic powers.


    He had been waiting, waiting to reach the peak of Foundational Energy.


    Then he could inherit the psychic pool left by his master, break through to Emerging Ability, and make a stunning debut!


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly.


    A burst of energy exploded beneath Marcus, causing the psychic fluid in the pool to scatter, and all the psychic energy in the cave entered Marcus''s body.


    He opened his eyes, flames bursting forth!


    Especially from within him, the alchemical fire emerged from his body.


    Raging flames burst around him, completely evaporating the psychic pool, leaving only fierce flames in the cave!


    Emerging Ability, achieved!


    "Twelve years."


    Marcus whispered softly, "Twelve years since the master died. I came here as a youth, and now I''m nearly thirty."


    "Coinciding with the great war between the two sects."


    His voice gradually became colder, his gaze piercing, "Today, I emerge with the body of the Nine Psychic Fires, re-enter the inner door, and reclaim everything of my master. I want everyone in the Sky Sect to know, Blackwood has a son--"


    "Marcus!"

 Chapter 76: Chapter 76: Marcuss Emergence Part 2

    Marcus walked towards the grand halls of the Sky Sect''s temple. Despite having broken through to the Emerging Ability stage, his joy was not apparent on his face. His handsome features remained as calm as if the past twelve years had never happened, resembling a gentle and steady orchid.


    "Truly worthy of being my descendant, even more composed than Lucas. He takes after me," Ethan felt immensely comforted. It was he who had agreed to let Marcus venture into the Sky Sect, and had watched as Marcus faced setbacks time and again.


    Now, at last, he had weathered the storm and saw the light of day!


    [You have used ''Forebearer''s Love'' on Marcus, consuming 20 points of Spiritual Tribute!]


    Ethan did not hesitate to use the level 2 skill.


    "Forebearer!"


    After many years, receiving the grace of the ancient ancestor again, the usually composed Marcus couldn''t help but feel a lump in his throat. He took out the Forebearer cards from his chest and knelt before it,


    "Seven years of arduous cultivation of psychic powers, not only did I break through with the help of my master''s psychic pool, but once I break through the Developing Skill, I will find a way to lift the sect''s restrictions!"


    "The ''Sky Codex'' that has been passed down through the Sky Sect for thousands of years will be used for our Blackwood!"


    Hearing this, Ethan''s expression became even gentler.


    He remembered when Marcus had insisted on coming to the Sky Sect, Amelia was worried that Marcus would forget his original intentions, but Marcus had never changed!


    It was just...


    "My child, I have already obtained the ''Sky Codex'', your intentions... you have my appreciation."


    Ethan warmed his heart once more.


    Soon, he saw Marcus rise.


    As time flowed, Marcus had arrived outside a magnificent palace.


    Here, many disciples dressed like Marcus in white robes stood in a square formation, surrounding a spacious square arena that protruded outwards, with a light screen rising straight into the sky at the edge.


    Inside, eight Psychics were fighting, with elders judging beside them.


    [The Sky Sect is holding its once-in-a-decade outer gate martial contest, to allow elders to assess the disciples'' potential and take them as apprentices!]


    "What is he doing here?"


    Ethan furrowed his brows, thinking of Marcus''s master''s tragic death outside and Marcus''s own oppressive experiences upon returning to the sect, Ethan''s mouse quietly moved to the position of the Forebearer cards.


    "Twelve years of cultivating the heart, even Patrick Star would have his edges worn down, Marcus is likely not to act impulsively."


    Watching Marcus''s still calm eyes, Ethan chose to trust his descendant this time.


    But just to be safe, he was always ready to use the Forebearer cards.


    "Go ahead, your ancestor is still strong!"


    ...


    Marcus gently touched the Forebearer cards in his chest.


    In such a situation, and with what he was planning to do, only the Forebearer could soothe his tense emotions.


    Then.


    Marcus looked around, at this Sky Sect martial contest, the sect leader sat in front of the grand hall, surrounded by elders.


    The scene was bustling, but he seemed out of place.


    He suddenly remembered the day thirteen years ago when his master had brought him to the Sky Sect, his master had been very kind to him, almost teaching him everything he knew. Although entering the Sky Sect, his three Psychic Constitution talents were only considered mediocre, his master had said that with his temperament, he was most suited to inherit the Nine Psychic Strange Fires.


    A person''s talent can change, but their nature is fundamental.


    Only now did Marcus understand, perhaps at that time his master already knew that the battle with the Xuanwu Gate was a fight with no survival.


    "My master was right."


    "I carry the blood of Blackwood, and as long as I live, I am a person of the Blackwood clan."


    "I have received my master''s teachings, and I should protect my master''s legacy, those who want to destroy my master''s teachings--"


    "Kill!!!"


    All the previous words were murmurs, until the word ''kill'' was shouted out fiercely by Marcus!


    His father had given him the psychic flying sword thirteen years ago.


    Under everyone''s sidelong glances.


    The psychic flying sword flew straight towards an Emerging Ability early stage Psychic watching the contest at the edge of the arena.


    In that instant.


    Nine palm-sized golden lotuses of flame appeared around him, the raging fire howling, making the air within ten meters intensely hot.


    "Who is this madman? Daring to fight in front of the sect leader and elders, has he lost his mind?!"


    "I know him, he''s Marcus, a disciple brought back by Elder Huolin over a decade ago. The person he''s targeting seems to be his best friend and also an inner disciple, Silas."


    "I heard that Marcus was able to bring back Elder Huolin''s body thanks to information provided by Silas. This is a clear case of repaying kindness with enmity."


    "Hey, where are you going... What? To help Silas make a good impression in front of the sect leader? You better wake up, do you think Marcus could have walked ten meters if the sect leader hadn''t stopped him?"


    A bizarre scene unfolded.


    The Sky Sect''s extremely important sect competition was disrupted by Marcus, yet no one dared to block his way, a situation unprecedented in the over ten thousand years since the Sky Sect was established!


    Marcus was already clashing with Silas.


    Silas was extraordinary, likely having been stuck in the early stages of Emerging Ability for many years, his techniques dazzling to behold.


    He must have practiced the AI Bionic Robot technique, using a formation of twelve bronze figures from his Storage Ring, then invoking heavenly thunder with the ''Thunder Seal '' previously enhanced by Blackwood''s psychic powers.


    Twelve bolts of heavenly thunder struck the bronze figures, directing the thunderous assault at Marcus.


    But that was not all.


    A hundred flying swords emerged from the Storage Ring, gathering above Marcus''s head to form a giant sword that plummeted down, its blade aiming straight for him.


    Silas launched his killing move without a word, likely aware of the peculiar circumstances of Marcus''s unrestrained behavior and the lack of rescue, knowing this battle was a matter of life and death, and that Marcus had to die quickly! sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    "Amazing."


    Ethan commented calmly, praising Silas who was battling Marcus.


    In the scene displayed.


    The heavenly thunder channeled through the twelve bronze figures was already blasting towards Marcus. Logically, the power of heavenly thunder should be a level above that of fire, and the game''s graphics confirmed this as the fireworks bursting from Marcus could not devour the lightning. The thunderbolts surged towards Marcus from the ground formation.


    It seemed to have paralyzed Marcus.


    The blade above him also rushed down at high speed, and Marcus could only become a target.


    But Silas, who was clearly about to kill Marcus, suddenly widened his eyes as if he had seen the King of Hell!


    The heavenly thunder passed through Marcus''s body, only causing a flame pattern to burst forth. The sky-blade cleaved Marcus in two, yet there was no scene of blood and flesh flying.


    The blade then dispersed into hundreds of pieces, weaving through Marcus''s body with a clinking sound.


    The fireworks on Marcus''s body scattered even more, but those flames quickly reformed into Marcus''s body.


    At that moment, Marcus was the embodiment of fireworks!

 Chapter 77: Chapter 77: Marcuss Emergence Part 3

    Especially...


    Ethan was rummaging through the event log for Marcus''s breakthrough notifications.


    [Your descendant bathed in the Heavenly Pool''s Psychic Spring, harnessing this Emerging Ability, leaving only the Golden Fire Psychic Constitution!]


    [Heavenly Pool''s Psychic Spring: As the Fire Scale Elder''s life reaches its limit, a century''s worth of heavenly treasures have gathered to form this psychic fluid. When the time comes to break through the Emerging Ability, this fluid will cleanse the marrow and wash away the vast impurities within the body''s energy sea!]


    [Marcus''s Golden Fire Psychic Constitution, breakthrough at 85 points!]


    At 29 years old, possessing a highly complete dual Psychic Constitution, he is already a rare genius, and breaking through to Developing Skill before his life''s end is unquestionable!


    [Your descendant Marcus has acquired a psychic item, the Nine Psychic Strange Fires, integrating it within himself, his body like flames. The Lotus Fire never extinguishes, his physical body never perishes!]


    [Nine Psychic Strange Fires: Nine paths of Lotus Fire, which can be nurtured by psychic abilities, forged with the abilities of Developing Skill.]


    This psychic item alone is comparable to the finest psychic instruments, and it directly coexists with Marcus.


    Given the chance, Marcus might even break through to the Competent realm.


    This is also why Marcus dared to act recklessly at the Martial Arts Conference!


    Not only that.


    Marcus made a deliberate show for everyone in the Sky Sect, letting them know that he, Marcus, is now the treasure of the Sky Sect!


    He was also showing it to Silas''s master.


    Only by killing Silas on the spot would those old men, who would love nothing more than to pamper Marcus, be wary of Silas''s master!


    It''s not just about whether Silas''s master would move against him for his disciple''s sake, Marcus suspects that if he tripped on the street, they might blame Silas''s master.


    As expected.


    Amidst the pleas of many elders, Master Zhenyang glanced at Silas''s master, "Elder Logan, what do you think? Should we kill this boy?"


    Elder Logan, middle-aged and seemingly honest and simple, forced a smile, "Sect Master, that must not be done, alas, my disciple has become a scourge, but Marcus cleaning up for me is actually a blessing."


    "Hmph, no matter his motives, committing murder in public is a heinous crime, how can our sect forgive him?"


    Master Zhenyang snorted coldly, his gaze icy as he looked at Marcus.


    "Though death is unavoidable, a lesser punishment cannot be escaped, I sentence you to reflect at the Cliff of Contemplation."


    "Five days!"


    [Your descendant Marcus has been recognized by the Sky Sect and has been granted the status of a true disciple!]


    "Has this kid, who was bullied for twelve years, become so meticulous?" Ethan felt a pang of emotion as he watched Marcus, who had been punished to face the wall in contemplation for five days, carefully setting up an altar inside the contemplation cliff and gently cards his tablet on it.


    He still remembered everything from before.


    When Marcus was driven out of his home by his mother, he cried all night in his ancestral hall. Every so often, Marcus would come to his ancestral hall to cry, even on the day he was taken away by the Fire Scale Taoist.


    Looking at Marcus now, in the grand hall of the Sky Sect, daring to draw his sword in front of hundreds of masters, his madness was evident.


    He was like a true lone wolf, exploding in silence!


    "Forebearer."


    With the cards set up, Marcus finally showed a smile, his eyes reddening, "My child has done it. Now that I have a place in the Sky Sect and have received the master''s teachings, I am like the master in the sect, adding another helping hand to our Blackwood!"


    The thought was good.


    But Ethan never really considered the Sky Sect a trump card, not even a friend. When Marcus was lonely, he made no mistakes and was sentenced to five years of facing the wall. Now that Marcus has shown his potential, even committing a major fault, he was only punished for five days.


    In the end, it''s all about interests, and all feelings between powers are false. But if the feelings towards one''s own people are also false, then... honestly, Ethan really dislikes this facade.


    However, seeing the growth of his descendants, Ethan was already at peace. He only hoped that Marcus would not be blinded by momentary adulation. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He then switched the screen to Gratitude Village, bringing back the news about Marcus.


    The people of Blackwood were also happy for Marcus.


    Then, while observing Amelia, Ethan frowned.


    [Your descendant Amelia, following the team of Sky Sect disciples, has found the Thunderfire Demon Cave!]


    Ethan immediately clicked on the map of the [Thunderfire Demon Cave].


    It''s called a demon cave.


    But it''s not much different from a normal city, except that while the weather outside is clear, the Thunderfire Demon Cave is covered with dark clouds, with skeletons scattered around the cave, not a blade of grass growing, and the ruins covered with moss.


    Ethan clearly saw the demon-hunting team of a hundred people already assembled, all frowning and wrinkling their noses, presumably due to a foul smell coming from inside the cave.


    It was calm just a moment ago.


    But as two Emerging Ability swordsmen wanted to take to the air, holding compass-like ability equipment to scout for information, a female cultivator with red silk on her sleeve was drawn into the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared as if there were dragons in the dark clouds. Ghostly fires rose from the ground around the cave.


    They had no choice but to retreat.


    After several more attempts, the assembled hundred people retreated, no longer wasting their efforts.


    Amelia had been slacking off in the team all along, occasionally looking at some unfamiliar herbs on the grass near the cave, clearly finding these unfamiliar herbs easier to deal with than the strangers.


    "Forebearer, looks like we''re going to be here for a long time."


    Amelia took out her token, giving a wry smile.

 Chapter 78: Chapter 78: Dragon Tiger Gate

    [The demon-hunting team encountered difficulties. The demon lair, arranged over countless years, was filled with leftover formations and demonic barriers. Every plant and tree here was fraught with danger. ]


    [Amelia, your descendant, speculated that eradicating the demonically possessed and finding the entrance at the bottom of the lair would be a task for a Developing Skill master, taking years to accomplish.]


    [Disciples of the Sky Sect are urgently inviting masters of formations, masters of talisman scripts, and assistance from various temples.]


    Seeing this, Ethan was not surprised.


    In the world of Psychic abilities, Emerging Ability was just beginning. Sensing the anomalies of the world, using spells, and flying through the air.


    But once a power possessed a Developing Skill master, that was a different story.


    Their methods were numerous.


    If the Boar Monarchof the Silver Iron Forest hadn''t insisted on guarding the Silver Iron Forest, Monk Jacob probably wouldn''t dare to touch a speck of dirt in the Silver Iron Forest.


    As for human races with Developing Skill powers... they were even tougher to deal with.


    They had thousands of years of heritage, not something ordinary small powers could compare with. Who knows what kind of formations or psychic objects were hidden within their territories?


    Thus, the two major sects had been battling for a century.


    Just as Ethan was considering having Amelia return and leading people to the demon lair himself.


    A message on the screen made Ethan pause.


    [Your family''s properties in Forest Town are under attack!]


    [Special Event]


    [From Jubilee County''s Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, leading three towns and six families of double sects from Jubilee County, they have come to Tranquil County to plunder resources, with your Forest Town and Redleaf Town bearing the brunt!]


    Ethan narrowed his eyes and casually asked Lisa to get a fridge full of milk tea.


    "Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, huh? Gratitude Village grand stage, bring it on if you dare!"


    ...


    The perspective switches to Blackwood''s base.


    He quickly relayed the message to the people of Blackwood.


    In the ancestral hall, the people of Blackwood were fully equipped.


    Olivia looked guilty, "Forebearer, it''s Olivia''s negligence that we didn''t receive the news of Jubilee County''s attack, and you had to use great magic to divine good and bad omens."


    Ethan gave Olivia a ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    This wasn''t Olivia''s fault. In these chaotic times, how could Blackwood have enough power to monitor Jubilee County?


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    [If they dare come, let them come without return!]


    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python conveyed the order.


    The people of Blackwood felt as if they had found their backbone.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    Immediately, everyone in Blackwood, young and old, took a Forebearer cards into their arms within the ancestral hall, boldly preparing to handle the upcoming trouble.


    Olivia was also prepared, having the villagers of Gratitude Village dig cellars.


    In such situations, the elderly, women, and children all hid.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, wasn''t too nervous.


    Because after Blackwood was ready, as time sped up to midnight, the shadows in Gratitude Village began to bustle, and the game lit up with a reminder again.


    [Jubilee County enters Tranquil County city, splitting up with purpose!]


    [Dragon Tiger Gate is approaching Gratitude Village!]


    [They have long known that this village is not simple, fully aware that Blackwood once single-handedly destroyed two major families. Although they also heard the exact intelligence, knowing that Blackwood won a great victory by despicably persuading the Rodriguez family, Dragon Tiger Gate still decided to go all out and fight a beautiful battle in front of their companions from Jubilee County!]


    Ethan took a big sip of Coke.


    "The news is outdated, brother."


    "Our family is already prepared to face Developing Skill."


    In the game screen, the Forebearer cards was jumping, its purple light even more intense than before, and even dark shadows emerged behind the Forebearer cards, furiously punching!


    ...


    Gratitude Village was exceptionally quiet at night. Above the night sky, clouds drifted by, faintly revealing the figures of two swordsmen floating in the air. These were the Dragon and Tiger brothers from the Dragon Tiger Gate. Both brothers were strikingly similar, with robust physiques and rugged faces.


    Wild Dragon, his face adorned with a twisting beard, listened to the chirping of insects in the forests surrounding Gratitude Village. He watched the sparse smoke rising from the chimneys into the night sky, feeling increasingly confident in their plan.


    Yet, he remained cautious, waiting a long time until he saw the night watchmen of Gratitude Village making their rounds and the lights in the houses gradually going out. Still, he felt it wasn''t secure enough.


    "Too wealthy, Dragon bro, can you believe this is a family power that has only risen in the past fifty years?" Wild Tiger drooled as he looked down at the psychic fields of Blackwood shimmering in the night below. "They all seem to be asleep; let''s finish them off quickly! Once we reap the rewards and accumulate wealth, we can even buy elixirs to try and break through to the Developing Skill stage!"


    "Wait a bit longer," Wild Dragon was still doubtful. "Gratitude Village is too wary of outsiders. We came a month early to scout, and still, no one has been able to enter the inner parts of Blackwood in Gratitude Village. We don''t have complete information on them yet."


    "What''s there to know?" Wild Tiger raised an eyebrow. "If you ask me, we''ve already seen through them! Isn''t it just that they''ve wiped out two families and made a fortune? Let me detail it for you, their city has a large formation arranged by a ninth-grade formation master. Their Black Blood Hall has the spear Forest Formation, all made up of Iron Will..."


    Wild Tiger had almost memorized all the intelligence on Blackwood!


    "By night, they have no idea we''re coming," Wild Tiger continued. "With our strength, we can prevent them from even activating their formations, especially since Blackwood only has one Purple Thunder Sun Python left with the strength of a false core.


    Hehe, Dragon bro, both of us are at the false core stage, and after a hundred years of cooperation, our strength has long surpassed ordinary false core Psychics."


    "In my opinion, Dragon bro, you''re just being too cautious."


    Hearing this, Wild Dragon turned a deaf ear. It was his caution that had gradually led the Dragon Tiger Gate from a minor sect to its current status!


    Finally, during the night, Wild Dragon''s eyes lit up!


    In the innermost part of Gratitude Village''s vast territory, outside the Blackwood compound adorned with pavilions and towers, a robust young Psychic emerged from the martial arts tower of Blackwood, washing off his sweat in a pool.


    Especially in the main bedroom of the Blackwood compound, a man emerged. If not Nathan, then who?


    Wild Dragon clearly remembered Nathan''s appearance from the intelligence!


    Then, he saw Nathan entering a rather mysterious house.


    "Boom!" A sound of a bronze bell colliding rang out, seemingly adding color to the quiet night.


    Immediately afterward, tiny psychic lights, centered on Blackwood, spread out towards the entire Gratitude Village.


    "Hahaha, Little Tiger, did you see?" Wild Dragon joyfully patted his brother''s shoulder, pointing at the psychic lights covering a large area in the sky and nearby Gratitude Village, laughing, "It''s been too long since we''ve attacked a power; you almost forgot, they''re still very cautious even in the deep of night!"


    "This is a psychic device used by Blackwood to sense if there are outsiders. I guess it''s a top-grade psychic device. They are most cautious when they haven''t activated this psychic device because all their defenses might still be up."


    "Once they activate it, they actually lower their guard." sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "As long as we strike like lightning, giving them no time to react, that''s the safest method!"


    Looking at his delighted big brother, Wild Tiger was finally convinced, "You truly are the big brother."


    Wild Dragon slightly opened his mouth, inhaling the cold air under the moonlight in the high night sky.


    Tonight was truly wonderful, softening even his voice.


    "This Blackwood, capable of elevating our Dragon Tiger Gate, also deserves to be buried in the dust of history."

 Chapter 79: Chapter 79: Dragon-Tiger Fall

    "Dang! Finally decided to come in, huh?" Ethan watched the little figures enter the village on his screen, his mouth twitching slightly.


    Under the accelerated time, he was almost done with his second bubble tea, and only then did the Dragon-Tiger brothers issue the command to attack.


    He could even see the Dragon-Tiger brothers'' exchange clearly through the screen.


    Soon enough, the Dragon-Tiger brothers, along with more than two hundred of their disciples, burst into Blackwood in the dead of night. They charged precisely into the location of Blackwood''s top experts, as identified from the intelligence.


    The Dragon-Tiger brothers stormed directly into the ancestral hall, attempting to assassinate the strongest Purple Thunder Celestial Python of Blackwood. A dozen dazzling flying swords erupted with powerful psychic abilities!


    Then...


    [The Purple Thunder Celestial Python stood in front of the ancestral hall, launching the first attack, and the Dragon-Tiger brothers immediately sensed trouble.]


    [Your descendant Lucas, leading three hundred members of the Black Blood Hall, emerged from the cellar, forming a spear formation with Luna, instantly killing 58 members of the Dragon-Tiger sect. Lucas is now asking you if you should spare the remaining 42 lives?]


    [Your descendant Julian, along with eight others from Blackwood and the remaining Psychics of Gratitude Village, formed a ''Gathering Psychic Trap Formation'' with nearly two hundred psychic weapons, blocking all escape routes within Gratitude Village. Julian is asking you if you should gradually trap everyone?]


    [Inside Gratitude Village, the eighth-grade Blood Psychic Fruit Tree sensed danger, its roots breaking through the soil and dancing in the night! It could feel the hostility of the opponents, asking your Forebearer''s cards if it could feast on the blood of the living tonight?]


    "What the heck???" Ethan was also stunned for a moment, knowing that the Dragon-Tiger sect could not pose a threat.


    But... the attack of the Dragon-Tiger sect had just begun and was already over! Only the torches lit within Gratitude Village illuminated the Dragon-Tiger brothers, now sweating profusely and trapped.


    "Impossible... How could this be???" Wild Dragon gritted his teeth, looking at the situation before him. With all the experts of Gratitude Village and Blackwood appearing, he knew that even if he had been cautious, it was all an illusion shown by Blackwood!


    Moreover, the lower-level strength of Blackwood far exceeded his intelligence. Also... Nathan, Luna, and twelve psychic beasts had surrounded them in the sky, while the Purple Thunder Celestial Python Tiger attacked with thunder on the ground.


    "Tiger, let''s run, as long as we live, the Dragon-Tiger sect won''t perish!" Ethan, in front of the screen, immediately realized the Dragon-Tiger brothers'' thoughts.


    Honestly... Blackwood''s current strength, without the repaired War AI Bionic Robot and without the help of the Silver Iron Forest, might not be able to stop the escape of two Transcendent Seed stage experts.


    But... "Thinking of escaping?!!" Ethan''s mouse moved to the clan''s skill on the game-- [Forebearer''s Wrath, skill level Lv.1, has reached the 50-year family development condition.]


    [Would you like to spend 5000 Spiritual Tribute points to advance the skill?]


    This skill was also one of Ethan''s main offensive methods. It had already advanced when it reached 50 years.


    It was also the reason he dared to let Blackwood actively attack the outside world in the chaotic era, although Blackwood had always been very stable.


    Today, finally, it was time to use it! "Advance!" Ethan clicked ''Yes'' without hesitation. In an instant...


    In the entire Gratitude Village, something stirred in the arms of all Blackwood descendants, and the brilliant purple light was particularly bright in the night!


    "Hey? It moved, it moved, the Forebearer''s cards moved!"


    "Forebearer has shown his psychic abilities again, he has always been fighting alongside us!" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Dad was right, the Forebearer''s Cards can fly on its own. This is our mysterious, brave, and invincible Forebearer!"


    "..."


    The people of Blackwood were ecstatic, especially Julian''s seven robust children, who looked somewhat naive as they stared intently at the sky, their eyes filled with fervor as if they had encountered a true deity.


    [Your skill ''Forebearer''s Wrath'' is advancing to ----]


    [Forebearer''s Raging Wrath!]


    [Using the skill ''Ancestor''s Raging Wrath'', consuming 500 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    "My Spiritual Tribute points!"


    Ethan felt a pang of pain; after all, the skill ''Forebearer''s Love'' had already advanced.


    It had become ''Forebearer''s Warmth'', but the advancement only cost Ethan 500 Spiritual Tribute points, and using it only cost 20.


    As expected, advancing an attack skill really hurts!


    "You owe me Spiritual Tribute points!"


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to click on the Dragon-Tiger Brothers on the screen, and with a small dot pulsating on the Dragon-Tiger Brothers, all the floating Forebearer cards burst into light, leaping into the night sky one by one!


    "What is that?"


    The Dragon-Tiger Brothers, who were already hastily fleeing from the Blackwood people''s attack, changed their expressions as they looked at the Forebearer cards surrounding them in the sky, a hint of panic in their demeanor. Wild Dragon exclaimed, "These aren''t ordinary cards; these are Blackwood''s special psychic items, each possessing the peak power of Emerging Ability!"


    They wanted to escape.


    But these dozen or so Forebearer cards seemed to have eyes, crazily tracking their location, and even invisibility spells couldn''t help them escape!


    Especially since the Forebearer cards, originally ordinary items, now possessed the hardness of top-tier psychic equipment, making them difficult to destroy even with false pills!


    "What kind of psychic equipment is this?!!"


    "Not good! What is this thing?!!"


    The Dragon-Tiger Brothers revealed their trump cards, desperately resisting the cards, but their livers and gallbladders trembled again.


    Within this psychic equipment, a shadowy figure shrouded in black mist emerged, leaping up and punching towards them.


    In just one minute of resistance.


    They even figured out the pattern, Wild Dragon shouted, "Tiger, be careful, this thing manifests a shadow every four finger snaps, swinging fifteen punches, each with the mid-stage power of Emerging Ability!"


    To hell with Blackwood''s demise, Wild Dragon realized at this moment that Blackwood was a den of demons!


    ...


    Five minutes later.


    The Dragon-Tiger Brothers, who had come from Jubilee County and even managed to escape after twenty moves under a Developing Skill Psychic, had fallen from the sky.


    [Under the prolonged tracking of the Forebearer cards, even using their boiling blood combination technique, the Dragon-Tiger Brothers were still unable to destroy the Forebearer plaques.]


    [Eventually, Wild Tiger was pierced through the chest by a Forebearer cards, and a dozen shadowy figures pummeled him into a pulp. Wild Dragon was surrounded by the people of Blackwood who arrived, his body disabled by Nathan, and captured by Blackwood.]

 Chapter 80: Chapter 80: Sex education cannot be delayed

    Nathan was utterly shocked as he gazed at the Forebearer cards floating in the sky, kneeling down with his descendants to worship it. This scene, witnessed by Wild Dragon who was trapped in psychic gear, left him weak and delirious. "So it was you who had the Forebearer? These Forebearer cards are manipulated by the powerful... then I, I am not wronged in losing."


    He knew that if the Blackwood people dared to utter ''Forebearer'' in his presence, there was no chance they would let him live. He thought of ending his own life to avoid further torment.


    But then, he saw the Blackwood temple guardian beast roar, and Nathan instantly understood something, saying coldly, "Wild Dragon, tell us everything you know."


    "Kill me," Wild Dragon scoffed with disdain.


    But his laughter soon faded as Nathan coldly snorted, "You could choose to say nothing and die clean. But think about it, if you can come to my Blackwood, we can just as easily go to your Dragon Tiger Gate. You wouldn''t want your disciples wiped out, would you?"


    Wild Dragon then relented, "I can tell you what I know, but you have to promise me one thing--send a message to let the disciples of Dragon Tiger Gate escape."


    "Agreed."


    Soon, the Blackwood people had extracted useful information from Wild Dragon and left him to be drained dry by the blood psychic fruit tree. Afterwards, Nathan threw Wild Dragon''s body into the Coffin of Eternal Death for refinement. It was all about being thrifty.


    After cleaning up the battlefield, the Blackwood people gathered at the Forebearer shrine, the hall filled with the smoke of Spiritual Tribute.


    "Forebearer, your child is useless. If not for the Forebearer''s intervention, the Dragon Tiger brothers would have escaped," Nathan repeatedly kowtowed.


    [You used ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' on descendant Nathan, consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute.]


    Ethan casually bestowed a skill on Nathan.


    Actually, it wasn''t really Nathan''s fault. The Dragon Tiger brothers were as formidable as rumored, stronger than any Transcendent Seed encountered by Blackwood before.


    If not for ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury,'' it might not have been possible to capture them.


    "This skill is really powerful!"


    Ethan was still a bit excited after checking the skill. This move was more convenient than at level one, not requiring any mouse control.


    A single click, auto-tracking, the enemy doesn''t die, the skill doesn''t end!


    And the most terrifying part was...


    During the use of the skill, all cards would increase the skill-using cards by +1, equivalent to having an additional Emerging Ability master''s combat power!


    "It''s totally worth it."


    Ethan suddenly felt that the 5000 Spiritual Tribute was very cost-effective.


    This special event also allowed the Spiritual Tribute to regenerate quickly!


    [You led the family in defending the Rooting Grounds, displaying divine powers that all of Blackwood witnessed.]


    [You gained 3000 Spiritual Tribute.]


    Ethan was reassured.


    The family members had already begun reporting the information extracted from Wild Dragon.


    "Forebearer, this time at Jubilee County, ten forces came, and the weakest among the remaining nine forces each had two Emerging Ability masters. They were ordered by an elder of the Black Shell Gate to plunder a large amount of Energy Stone," Nathan reported.


    Amelia pondered, "The original goal of Dragon Tiger Gate was to first annihilate our Gratitude Village, then Forest Town. In less than a month, Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will likely hear of the annihilation of Dragon Tiger Gate. We have a month to prepare. As long as Developing Skill does not appear, backed by the Silver Iron Forest, we need not fear."


    "But now..."


    She smiled, "Father, you said you would help send a message to Dragon Tiger Gate, and we should do what we promised. But once they escape, we can still kill them. The resources of Dragon Tiger Gate are also very important to us."


    Listening to the descendants discuss how to survive and seek development in this chaos.


    Ethan knew the truly important things were not these.


    He clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Letting the Purple Thunder Solar Python emit a ''hiss.''


    In an instant. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    All the Blackwood descendants turned their heads to listen to the Forebearer''s teachings.


    Julian''s grown children might not know the art of beast control, but they still looked on with admiration.


    Thomas scratched his head, nudging Daniel with his elbow, "Second brother, what did Forebearer say?"


    Daniel, with a naive face, replied, "Forebearer told you to plant the seeds of life."


    "Ah???"


    Thomas''s mouth twitched.


    Only Daniel still looked puzzled as he turned to Luna and asked, "Grandma, don''t we have many psychic fields at home? We have enough food, so why do we still need to plant the seeds of life?"


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 51]


    Watching the time in the game, then looking at Daniel who is now 21 years old, Ethan''s mouth twitched slightly.


    The people of Blackwood were also stunned.


    Daniel was good in every aspect, but his ''innocent heart'' trait meant he rarely went out, either cultivating psychic powers or being thrown into the Coffin of Eternal Death for training.


    At a young age, he had already reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy and was about to retreat for a breakthrough!


    Among Julian''s seven sons, even 9-year-old Paul knew about the birds and the bees. Daniel, however, was clueless.


    "Sex education cannot be delayed."


    Ethan stroked his chin, pondering whether to replicate the scene of a little movie on the Energy Stone, to benefit the descendants at the next grand ceremony, and let the Blackwood descendants bravely venture into the Western regions.


    Soon, Nathan and Lucas pulled Daniel aside, whispering something to him.


    Daniel looked baffled, nodding solemnly and seriously...


    Ethan suddenly wished Daniel could be a bit more cunning, now somewhat worried about Daniel''s future problems.


    Meanwhile, Julian had already started gathering his five sons.


    "As someone who''s been through it, let me teach you how to find a wife. It''s simple. See a girl you like, squat at her doorstep for a few days, don''t be shy. We''re not afraid of battling powerful enemies, why fear entangling with women?"


    Julian even lifted his head proudly, "Once they get used to your presence, tell them you might die tomorrow. That will overflow their sympathy..."


    "Ah!!!"


    Before he could finish.


    Julian''s ear was already pinched, and Mary glared at the screaming Julian with a dark face, "Are you trying to die? Okay then, so that was your method back then, you''re not sleeping in bed this month!"


    "Wife... I definitely didn''t, I''m teaching the kids, really, I''m sincere with you! Besides, back then it was you who let me into the house!"


    "You dare bring that up?"


    For a moment, all of Blackwood watched the couple''s playful fight, laughter filling the hall.

 Chapter 81: Chapter 81: Might have been destroyed

    Ethan, as the Forebearer, was deeply concerned about the prosperity of his family, and seeing Nathan and his wife also pushing for marriages, he finally felt relieved.


    Moreover, with the emergence of the ''Forebearer''s Roaring Rage''.


    He understood even more the importance of Blackwood''s progeny. Currently, the dozen or so members could fend off two Transcendent Seed with their cards, and if there were a hundred...


    Instantly defeating Transcendent Seed and looking down on Developing Skill was no longer a dream!


    Not only that.


    Ethan had calculated that now, including his wife, the family had 16 members, which could increase his Spiritual Tribute by 4000 every year.


    Now, his consumption of Spiritual Tribute points was increasing.


    Creating offspring was urgent!


    After pushing for marriages.


    Ethan began to check the profits from this major battle, guessing that Olivia''s dispatch of troops across counties to snatch the Dragon Tiger Gate would bring many benefits, but due to the distance, their psychic mines and medicinal fields could not be harvested.


    The people from Dragon Tiger Gate didn''t have much that the Blackwood people valued; their weapons were all psychic equipment.


    However, their techniques still surprised Ethan.


    "Good stuff!"


    [Yellow Tier Technique: Lifeblood Drawing Technique]


    [The closer the bloodline, the more powerful it becomes, the deeper the practice, the stronger the power!]


    "So the Dragon Tiger brothers were practicing this technique, haha, you guys are really Blackwood''s lucky stars!"


    Just now, during the cards battle, Ethan could feel it.


    Those Dragon Tiger brothers, using some unknown technique, created a blood-boiling combo move, almost shattering one of his Forebearer cards!


    And they were only two people.


    Blackwood... with nine children, Julian''s seven children had the closest bloodlines, practicing this technique together would be immensely powerful!


    Julian also passed this technique to his children for cultivating psychic powers, and Daniel also practiced it.


    Even Marcus, far away in Sky Sect, received a copy.


    At this time.


    Sky Sect. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Marcus was already a direct disciple.


    In his courtyard, outer disciples served him, and inner disciples ran errands for him.


    At this moment, he received a thick stack of family letters.


    Only in the dead of night did Marcus dare to open the family letters to check.


    Seeing his family''s concern, Marcus''s eyes moistened.


    He had already known about the invasion of Blackwood by the Dragon Tiger Gate, and had even left the sect to return home that day, but on the way, he received news of the mysterious disappearance of the entire Dragon Tiger Gate, so he gave up.


    And now...


    Inside the family letter, not a word about the difficulties at home, just telling him to study peacefully at Sky Sect, that Blackwood would always be his strongest support.


    Even his father, in the letter, told him not to come back if it wasn''t necessary.


    How could Marcus not know that his father was afraid he would be ambushed by the Xuanwu Gate on his way back!


    Inside the family letter, there was also the technique of Lifeblood Drawing.


    Besides that.


    It was a letter from his third uncle, saying how easy it was to deceive women, telling him to quickly get married and have children, if he really couldn''t catch up with a wife, just say he was dying tomorrow... such nonsense, probably all his brothers had heard about it, who knows which fool would believe it.


    That night, Marcus experienced the effects of psychic wine for the first time, getting utterly drunk and vomiting profusely.


    "Forebearer, grandparents, dad, and my aunts and uncles, Marcus will return. The Sky Sect isn''t my true home; they only value my talents, which I understand."


    "But it''s only in the Sky Sect that I can secretly learn everything and bring it back to our family. In these chaotic times, I must also make use of the Sky Sect to avert disaster for our Blackwood family."


    "Child... may the Forebearer bless..."


    In the splendidly decorated room, Marcus looked around at the many precious items. Yet, he felt that the family letter he held while sleeping was more valuable than the entire Sky Sect¡ªit was indeed the most peaceful night he had ever had.


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 52]


    Another New Year has arrived.


    Ethan''s push for marriage indeed had its effects!


    Among Julian''s seven children, Thomas, now 17, truly resembled his father. Not just in stature¡ªas all of Julian''s lineage were robust, the women included¡ªbut in temperament as well, each vividly mirroring their parents.


    Thomas took his father Julian''s words to heart.


    [Your third-generation descendant Thomas fell in love at first sight with a beautiful woman in the village and impulsively asked her to bear his child, resulting in a slap. He was also reported to Blackwood, where Olivia punished him with three lashes and made him kneel before the Forebearer for seven days.]


    [Thomas, undeterred, professed his love again, claiming he would die the next day and begged the woman to take him into her room, only to be beaten again and suspended in the village for three days as punishment.]


    [In October, Thomas reached the seventh level of Foundational Energy.]


    [While the Martinez family was troubled by the Jubilee, they joined forces with the Black Blood Hall to assist the Martinez family, defending against enemies together.


    During this time, pursued by an early-stage master of Emerging Ability, Thomas and Dorothy Martinez faced life and death together, ultimately saved by the grace of the Forebearer''s Cards, during which their affection for each other grew.]


    [In November, Blackwood proposed a marriage alliance to the Martinez family.]


    "Finally, someone from the third generation is making us proud!"


    Ethan was so excited he jumped on the spot!


    No wonder he was anxious.


    Marcus, now 31 from the third generation, showed no signs of settling down. Despite the Sky Sect having many women as beautiful as celestial beings, Marcus didn''t spare them a glance, and if it weren''t for the fact that Marcus didn''t even look much at handsome men, Ethan might have misunderstood!


    Daniel listened but was naturally shy and reserved, rarely mingling with outsiders. Some women, attracted by Daniel''s status and looks, threw themselves at him, but were they really the kind you''d want?


    Before long.


    The scene was festively decorated, and even amidst the chaos outside, Blackwood still led a procession to Forest Town for the wedding.


    The Martinez family was even more eager than Blackwood, as their family had nearly been wiped out once and could only stabilize their footing in Forest Town because of Blackwood''s righteousness.


    Now, with the two families united by marriage, a perfect match of a golden boy and a jade girl, the Martinez family was so thrilled they nearly changed their surname to Blackwood on the spot.


    At the wedding feast.


    Jerry, who had formed a bond with Blackwood, now had white hair and was the current head of the Martinez family, as well as Dorothy''s grandfather.


    It was supposed to be a joyous occasion, yet he looked worried. Taking advantage of the banquet, he said to Nathan.


    "The people from Jubilee County are becoming more rampant. Our Martinez family''s mines outside Forest Town have been completely monopolized by them, and their greed is only growing. Our Martinez family... I fear we may not last much longer."


    Beside him, the head of the Rodriguez family also shook his head and sighed, "My Rodriguez family is in the same boat. Just a few months ago, they even sent two Transcendent Seed masters to disturb us at night. "


    "Our Rodriguez family''s great formation was severely damaged. If not for another ace up our sleeve, the Rodriguez family might have been destroyed by my own hands, Ronald."

 Chapter 82: Chapter 82: George

    Nathan squinted his eyes slightly. He knew these two families must have had their reasons; otherwise, they wouldn''t be lamenting in front of him. He chuckled and said, "Speak plainly, we''ve known each other for years, and we know each other inside out. We''ve faced adversaries together; there''s no need for secrecy. You know my nature."


    "Alright, since you put it that way, I won''t hold back!" Jerry clenched his teeth and said, "I want the Martinez legacy to continue, Nathan. I don''t care about Forest Town anymore; its foundation and heritage are almost destroyed. I want to take my people and leave Tranquil County!"


    Nathan''s frown deepened as he turned to look at Mark.


    Mark gave a bitter smile, "Same for me."


    "You''re leaving?!" Nathan was taken aback. He thought they needed something from him but didn''t expect such news. His eyes widened as he exclaimed, "Can you really abandon the family business of many years?"


    "What else can we do? Wait for our demise?" Jerry downed a pot of wine in one gulp. "We can start over if we lose our property, but if we die, that''s the end. After we leave, Blackwood must be cautious. Everything we leave behind, and all of Forest, will belong to Blackwood. I hope Blackwood will take good care of the people of Forest.


    This place isn''t our root; it''s theirs."


    Hearing this, Nathan saw their determination and had no words to persuade them otherwise. Now that his old friends were leaving, he could only focus on his grandson''s wedding to distract himself.


    At the wedding banquet, Thomas, who was only as tall as Dorothy''s chest and wore a red veil, suddenly burst into tears.


    The people of Blackwood frowned, wondering why a man was crying like this.


    This towering man, looking pitifully aggrieved, shouted at his brothers and sisters, "Old man is really no good, don''t believe him, you''ll just follow in my footsteps!"


    "He also said that if you pester a girl and tell her you''re going to die tomorrow, you can win her over."


    "It''s all lies, I''ve suffered so much this past year..."


    "Finally, I met Dorothy!"


    Julian, who was sitting in the distance, seemed to be laughing, but now his face gradually darkened, and he held his wine, unsure whether to drink it or put the glass down.


    Finally, under the gaze of everyone at the banquet, he gritted his teeth and glared at the newlywed Thomas.


    "Stop talking, don''t fucking make me beat you on such a happy day!"


    The banquet erupted in laughter.


    Hearing her husband''s complaints, Dorothy lifted her veil, revealing a face as delicate as a snow lotus, and then fiercely pinched Thomas''s ear, "What did you say? You dare to flirt with other girls?"


    "Ah!" Thomas grimaced, "No, that was the old man deceiving me, I definitely haven''t now!"


    The laughter filled the faces of everyone at Blackwood and the banquet guests.


    Ethan, watching everything from behind the screen, saw the words ''The couple bows to each other, entering the bridal chamber'' light up, and his smile almost reached his ears.


    "Congratulations, your descendant Thomas has married Dorothy!"


    "Spiritual Tribute+100!"


    And as the newlyweds entered the bridal chamber, the candlelight inside mingled with the moonlight outside.


    "Your descendant Thomas enjoys his wedding night, proving that ''seven times in one night'' is not just a legend, surpassing the battles Thomas and Dorothy fought in Forest Town."


    "At the crow of the rooster, Dorothy, the third-generation daughter-in-law of Blackwood, is carrying the Blackwood seed!"


    "Real man indeed!" Ethan was ecstatic, as the ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' was launched, piercing through the roof tiles directly into Thomas''s room. Soon after, noises from inside startled the birds that had just perched on the trees outside.


    The young couple quickly got dressed and started serving tea around Blackwood. Earlier, at the Forebearer''s shrine, after Nathan and his wife had offered incense to their ancestor, they had just received tea from their grandson and his wife. Nathan, with a big smile on his face, paused for a moment before turning to Luna, "Daughter-in-law, our daughter-in-law... is pregnant!"


    "What?" Both Thomas and his wife were stunned.


    Having reached the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, one could see the vitality and blood of others, not to mention Nathan who was nearing the peak of his powers!


    "So, it seems I''m going to be a great-grandmother," Luna said, her face lighting up with joy. She quickly knelt before the Forebearer''s cards, "Forebearer bless us, may our Blackwood family see four generations under one roof."


    Afterward, the newlyweds were taken around by Nathan and his wife.


    Especially when they reached the Silver Iron Forest and first encountered the Boar Monarch Pete, the new bride of Blackwood was so shocked that she couldn''t adapt to the fact that her husband''s family had a demon king, who now could dominate the region and was also her husband''s maternal grandfather!


    "Hahaha, I''m a grandfather now! Who would have thought that I would enjoy the blessing of having many children and grandchildren." The Boar Monarch Pete of the Silver Iron Forest had been waking up laughing in his sleep for nearly twenty years since he had the Blackwood family as relatives.


    Being a king of demons is very lonely. Despite the many exotic beasts in the Silver Iron Forest, none dare to misbehave due to bloodline suppression. Only the seven grandchildren from Blackwood could make this lonely old demon king smile every day, a feeling of openness he hadn''t experienced in hundreds of years.


    He never tired of these children and even wished for more, hoping to fill his valley with them.


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 53]


    [The two major families of Forest Town had been planning for a long time and quietly left their hometown with their clans. As they left, the heads of the two families looked back step by step, under the watchful eyes of everyone in Blackwood.


    Jerry earnestly requested Blackwood to take good care of his granddaughter Dorothy and the unborn grandchild, gifting them top-grade psychic ability equipment¡ªHeavenly Heart Jade Pendant.]


    [Blackwood reciprocated by gifting the Martinez family 30 sets of Black Iron Beast Blood Armor, wishing the Martinez family success in their endeavors abroad.]


    [Congratulations, your family has successfully taken control of Forest Town!]


    [You have gained +1000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    The people of Forest Town eventually left, just as they had said at the wedding, decisively. With this, Blackwood became the only major family in the vicinity of Forest Town.


    This also meant that if people from Jubilee County continued to invade Forest Town, Blackwood would be the only target!


    Yet another few months passed in this year.


    Blackwood was even prepared to clash with the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, but Forest Town did not encounter any major invasions. Only some petty thieves from Jubilee County tried their luck.


    Until... S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Dorothy gave birth to a son after ten months, naming him George!]


    [Congratulations, you have gained +50 Spiritual Tribute!]


    [The child, born with the enlightened heart of a Demon King during pregnancy, has a Developing Skill that is gentle, protected by the power of the first layer of the Straight Death Coffin led by Nathan and his wife, and illuminated by the power of the blood pills accumulated over many years from the eighth-grade blood psychic fruit tree.


    The child, not yet born, coincidentally received a sword intent realized by Lucas, gaining a special trait¡ª]


    [Pure Psychic Body!]


    [No threshold before Developing Skill, speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 100%!]


    "Wah~"


    Inside the delivery room, the midwife, who had delivered for Blackwood at the age of thirty and was now nearly sixty, trembled as she handed the child to Nathan and his wife, even she could feel the extraordinariness of the child, murmuring, "Master, madam, our family''s child..."


    "Great-grandson George, he has the talent of a celestial being!" The people of Blackwood rejoiced, as they could all see the natural phenomena that occurred at George''s birth, with psychic abilities gathering around!


    Ethan, in front of the screen, also suddenly stood up, excitedly staring at the child in the game.

 Chapter 83: Chapter 83: Forebearers Gift

    "Blackwood has finally produced a prodigy!" Even Ethan couldn''t help but envy the kid''s luck.


    He remembered because she was a daughter of the Martinez family, with a Foundational Energy of level five, and given the decline of the Martinez lineage, Dorothy had always fought alongside her family.


    Over the years, she had accumulated many hidden injuries, and six months into her pregnancy, she nearly lost the child.


    It was only through the concerted efforts of many in Blackwood using magical powers to activate the ''Death Coffin'' to save the fetus, and Ethan''s use of the ''Forebearer''s Embrace'' technique, that the child was saved.


    Moreover, George was incredibly lucky. The Boar Monarch had a breakthrough in his state of mind, and Lucas had an epiphany; he arrived just in time. Especially notable was his Psychic Constitution; born with three Psychic Constitutions, and these were not ordinary. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Apart from the usual dual Psychic Constitutions of metal and wood reaching a natural score of 60, he also possessed a wind Psychic Constitution, reaching an impressive 78 points!


    "Awesome!" Everyone in Blackwood rejoiced at George''s birth. Especially the Boar Monarch of the Silver Iron Forest, who was so happy that he carried the child and jumped around the valley for a long time.


    Julian and his wife, along with their seven children, were used to such occurrences, but it scared Dorothy into a cold sweat.


    This news even reached Amelia and Marcus who were away.


    [Blackwood''s hundred-mile pigeon delivered a letter, Amelia paying respects outside the Thunderfire Demon Cave.]


    Following the event tab, Ethan once again saw the scene of the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    This place of demonic ability users was riddled with holes, clearly the result of Psychic attacks.


    Moreover, at the site of the cave, over 500 Psychics had gathered, all demon slayers from Tranquil County and the surrounding counties.


    At that moment, Amelia was still dressed simply, her hair unkempt. However, outside the room where Amelia was, there were injured people waiting for rescue.


    Despite Amelia always being at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, Ethan occasionally checked on her current situation; this kid... now had a not-so-simple identity!


    Flipping through the character history tab.


    [Blackwood Year 49, Amelia arrived at the Demon Cave.]


    [Blackwood Year 50, unremarkably.]


    [Year 51, Amelia began to save the dying and help the injured, becoming a famous pharmacist in the demon slaying team, due to her trait ''Miraculous Medic'', always managing to save her companions.]


    [Year 52, a demon with severe injuries among those with demonic abilities took a risk to enter the demon slaying team to seek Amelia''s help. She wrote back to Blackwood, Olivia gave her an idea, from then on Amelia saved demon slaying team members by day, and demonic ability users by night, her medical skills becoming increasingly profound.]


    [For saving lives, she received a reward, a junior psychic equipment, Shadowless Pin.]


    [Received a reward, Heavenly Heart Grass.]


    [Received a reward, ordinary technique, Heavenly Mystery Circling Step.]


    [Received...]


    [As she continued to treat and save people, and came into contact with more toxic herbs within the Demon Cave, her trait ''Miraculous Medic'', transformed into¡ª]


    [Great Doctor Without Borders: Becoming increasingly intuitive about the properties of unfamiliar herbs, medical skills increased by 100%, poison skills increased by 100%.]


    If one were to say who gained the most during the years of the great wars. It was not Marcus, who became a direct disciple in the Sky Sect, but Amelia! She thrived by adapting to both sides, reaping substantial benefits. Even to the extent that...


    [Blackwood Year 53, Amelia concocted hundreds of medicines, refined hundreds of poisons, gained insights, and with the integration of medicine and poison into her body, she absorbed the earth''s herbs and the land''s profound energy to correct her body, breaking through the mid-stage of Emerging Ability!]


    And not just that. At this moment, Amelia was kneeling before Ethan''s cards, her face innocent, devoid of the previous scheming and caution, just like the child who happily touched the beast blood fruit under the beast blood fruit tree, "Forebearer, the child has learned, the child has a remarkably talented grand-nephew, with George, Blackwood has a continuation of a thousand years."


    "Hehe."


    Ethan''s mouth twitched slightly as he began to understand why there were more and more Psychics around the edge of the Demon Cave, and why there were hardly any casualties. "The trait ''Boundless Healer'', truly a Boundless Healer."


    "It''s just like something Olivia would come up with."


    Seeing the current situation, Ethan felt relieved about Amelia''s condition and then turned his attention to the Sky Sect.


    A location appeared on the map.


    [Sky Temple]


    Upon closer inspection, it seemed that only the successive leaders of the Sky Sect could enter this place, a Psychic Sanctuary shrouded in darkness yet dotted with stars like the dark universe itself.


    Marcus and Sect Leader Wesley were sitting in meditation facing each other.


    Sect Leader Wesley, seeing Marcus mastering the sect''s secret techniques more profoundly, furrowed his brows and asked, "Marcus, I heard you received another family letter today?"


    Marcus slowly opened his eyes.


    His expression calm, he said, "Yes, I burned it. Marcus has already severed worldly ties; it''s just people from Blackwood trying to climb the social ladder, no need to bother with them."


    "That''s very good."


    Sect Leader Wesley nodded slightly, no longer doubtful, "I heard you often carry the Forebearer cards?"


    "Yes."


    Marcus, unflappable, silently took out the Forebearer Cards from his bosom and casually shattered it, "Always with me, it''s also a part of severing worldly ties. Now, even looking at the Forebearer cards, Marcus no longer reminisces about mundane days. If you find it displeasing, I can destroy it."


    "Huh." Sect Leader Wesley finally breathed a sigh of relief, smiling, "That''s very good, my disciple. You must know, for cultivators, the blink of an eye is like a year, and only by severing worldly ties can one cultivate psychic powers¡ªthis is the true principle of the Great Path!"


    "Marcus understands."


    When night fell.


    Marcus returned to his sleeping quarters, cautiously sensing his surroundings to ensure there were no other presences before entering his room. He slowly lifted his bed, unlocked thirty-six talismans, and revealed a large stack of cards inside, picking one out to burn incense and kneel before.


    "How dare Old Thief Wesley disturb my true heart?"


    "Please rest assured, Forebearer, he recognizes me as his disciple, but I have never called him ''master''."


    "In my years at Sky, the elders have already respected me as the next Sect Leader. Last year, when Jubilee County tried to invade our family''s residence, I dispatched three loyal inner disciples to divert them."


    "This time, hearing that the third brother Thomas has a son, the gift I sent will arrive by the full moon, serving as a safeguard for our Blackwood in this great war between two sects!"

 Chapter 84: Chapter 84: Julians Forge

    "Good, good kid!"


    Ethan''s face was full of approval for Marcus.


    Every time he opened the Sky Sect area before, he saw Taoist Wesley brainwashing Marcus with all that nonsense about ruthless love and cutting off worldly desires, almost like a cult member.


    Fortunately, Marcus, after years of silence, had not forgotten his original intentions.


    Looking back at Marcus''s past experiences, indeed, a few days ago, he had sent a loyal disciple to deliver a treasure.


    Soon.


    As time sped up.


    The full moon celebration for Blackwood''s newborn, George, also arrived.


    However, this full moon celebration was not as lively as before. The two major families of Forest Town used to bring their direct descendants to the banquet to look for marriage opportunities, usually bringing dozens of people, but now they had left Forest Town.


    Moore, far away in Silverwood Town, and other friends of Blackwood who had business dealings, only sent a few somewhat important figures.


    This was already giving enough face to Blackwood, as their clan members were risking being ambushed and robbed at any time.


    Just waiting for the banquet to end.


    A group of people from Gratitude Village entered Blackwood, making a grand entrance with about a hundred people, among them the strongest being Developing Skill!


    Among those people, there was one Ethan still remembered.


    [Declan]


    [Mayor of Forest Town, ignored the twenty-year drought, indulged in luxury behind closed doors. During the great battle of Forest, he stayed out of it, waiting for things to settle before stepping forward. Both sects caused disasters, Jubilee County invaded, people were displaced, yet he entertained experts from Jubilee County.]


    This man had the appearance of a ''gentle, respectful, frugal, and yielding'' gentleman, which left a good impression at first glance.


    But in Ethan''s view, whether it was for self-preservation or not.


    Just this bird sitting in the mayor''s position, so incompetent and opportunistic, he didn''t deserve the title ''human''.


    Watching the newcomers.


    Ethan''s hand was already on the mouse, ready to activate the Forebearer cards at any moment, he even glanced at the last major offering sent to the Forebearer shrine¡ªthe Celestial Star Seeker.


    Those were two humanoid AI Bionic Robots, expressionless, standing in the Forebearer shrine with closed eyes for over three years, already covered in dust!


    Developing Skill?


    The Developing Skill coming to Blackwood, Ethan was not afraid at all!


    ...


    As for Declan bringing people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, the people of Blackwood were also very nervous, and in an instant, the whole of Blackwood was on alert.


    But the old man from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, with Developing Skill and a youthful face, occasionally raised his eyebrows lightly, then furrowed them, looking very complex.


    Not yet at Gratitude Village.


    He spotted the blood psychic fruit tree that had grown to nearly 40 feet!


    This thing had already borne fruit, with specks of psychic power, and its branches swayed.


    "An eighth-grade psychic tree, already possessing psychic intelligence, a newly born demon plant, if given enough resources for hundreds of years, it could become seventh-grade, if only Developing Skill."


    Just as he had a crooked thought.


    Dennis stepped on the ground, already sensing a formation in the earth, his Developing Skill spirit entered the void, and he sensed that the entire Blackwood, even Gratitude Village, was enveloped by a large formation, this formation made his Developing Skill abdomen tremble slightly. He could no longer probe this formation deeply, only feeling danger.


    "This... How could such a small family have such a formation?"


    Dennis squinted his eyes, continuing to follow Declan inside.


    Within a walled compound, there were children cultivating psychic powers, and he recognized from the intelligence the one leading the children. His name was Daniel, also mentioned in the intelligence as a breakthrough point for invading Blackwood, a rare fool.


    But...


    He practiced a technique of observing fate through qi, although only learning the basics, even the elders of the Black Shell Sect came to ask him about the future. He was also adept at calculating celestial fortunes, sacrificing his lifespan to secure a place for Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    Now, however, he could see that this child Daniel had a fate and opportunity like white stone, like the legendary golden boy and jade girl, pure and untainted, naturally suited for cultivating psychic powers, such a person... was extraordinary, if killed, endless troubles would follow!


    "Sss~"


    Dennis took a sharp breath.


    Moving forward, I came upon the Blackwood Hall of Black Blood. This year, they already had five hundred members, all clad in black iron beast blood armor, trained in the ways of the military. If I wasn''t mistaken, they were all armed, and each one of them carried a fierce vitality... Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although their highest cultivation was only at the seventh layer of Foundational Energy, facing them in battle would mean preparing to confront a group of battle-hardened warriors.


    I even saw a ''B'' phantom image floating above these people. For Blackwood, they seemed ready to disregard everything.


    I was just surprised at how fanatical a group of ordinary people could be.


    Then I saw seven black bears... oh no, those were people.


    The seven kids of Blackwood Julian!


    Among them, regardless of gender, their aura was not as strong as Daniel''s, but their vital energies were connected, their destinies intertwined, each possessing the potential for a Transcendent Seed. If resources were available, there was hope for Developing Skill!


    "A family of eight with Transcendent Seed realms, capable of contending with Developing Skill."


    Dennis swallowed hard.


    "Clang!"


    Just then, the sound of iron forging rang out, and before he knew it, he had followed Declan to the front of the Gratitude Village Forge. The intense heat of the atmosphere was evident, with craftsmen at work.


    On the second floor, a man with a tiger''s back and bear''s waist, his face full of curly beards, stood by the window. This man, bare-chested, revealed a left arm that had become a top-grade psychic ability prosthetic limb, staring intently at him without any fear, clearly aware of his identity.


    Beside him stood a robust woman, her face square and kind, yet not lacking the spirit of a heroine.


    "Julian, the father of those bears? And that woman, nearing Emerging Ability, harboring the Demon King Pill, aspiring to soar to the heavens."


    Dennis just glanced and turned his head as if nothing had happened.


    But inside, he was profoundly shaken!


    "A natural psychic equipment master, his aura compared to the elders of the Qi Sect I met in the county town, is not in the least inferior."


    He saw Julian''s hammer formed from his aura!


    Approaching the Blackwood family home, he could even feel Julian''s hammer, clanging away at the forge, crafting weapons he himself wouldn''t dare to covet!


    Finally, a voice interrupted Dennis''s thoughts.


    A woman approached.


    Her beauty seemed to gather the favor of heaven and earth, her body possessed a psychic ability device that was gentle, yet her complexion was pale, only able to be pushed by a maid.


    "Blackwood Olivia, I have heard of Mr. Dennis, the master of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion. Olivia has long heard that Mr. Dennis is a great power of Jubilee, with Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion''s eyes and ears spread across many counties. Now that I see you, sir, you must possess the wisdom of a sage."


    Her words were like a gentle spring rain.


    But Dennis remained silent for a long time. Olivia''s aura was as weak as that of a dying person. But that slight aura, like a demon looking at people, he always felt that he was about to be torn apart by Olivia!


    Above this woman''s aura, there were dense heavenly thunders, a struggle between man and heaven, this was the cultivation of a method that wrested the creation of heaven and earth, making her aura so faint!


    "Sir?" Olivia asked again.


    "Oh, oh."


    In an instant, Dennis dared not neglect her in the slightest, changing his usual demeanor upon arrival, somewhat softly spoken and restrained, he actually bowed to Olivia, "Miss is too kind, if I''m not mistaken, you must be Olivia, the fourth daughter of Blackwood?"


    "Known by Mr. Dennis, Olivia is fortunate." Olivia was polite and gracious.

 Chapter 85: Chapter 85: Denniss Fear

    Dennis''s palms were sweaty as he felt the malevolent aura above Olivia''s head drawing closer as she became more gentle.


    "How strange, this woman is like a plague."


    Dennis was on high alert, not daring to stay any longer in Olivia''s presence. He always felt a sense of danger, but just before leaving, he couldn''t help but say to Olivia, "Niece Olivia, your literary talent has arrived. You observe the heavens and earth, all things, and the joys and sorrows of many families, perhaps gaining some insights."


    After saying this, he quickly led his people towards the venue of the full moon feast, not daring to linger any longer.


    Beside him, Declan saw Dennis''s demeanor and couldn''t help but laugh, "Master Dennis, even when facing enemies, treats them with such gentleness, haha, if Forest Town were to be incorporated into Jubilee County, it would indeed be a blessing for Forest Town!"


    But no sooner had he spoken than his expression changed.


    Dennis stared at him lightly, "Are you trying to guess my thoughts?"


    "I..."


    Before Declan could explain himself, sweating profusely, Dennis had already hurriedly left with his people. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Meanwhile, Olivia was still standing there, frowning as she watched Dennis''s retreating figure, "He sees my dilemma, does he think the same as I do? Is this to please me, Blackwood?"


    She quietly took out the Forebearer Cards, murmuring, "Forebearer, should this man be kept?"


    ...


    The full moon feast was crowded, including elders from Gratitude Village.


    As Dennis arrived with his people, everyone fell silent.


    Nathan and his wife were still in the main hall, and upon learning of Dennis''s arrival, showed no respect.


    "Hmph!"


    Seeing the arrogance of the Blackwoods, Declan squinted and said, "Master Dennis, I am also a town leader, and if the Blackwood couple won''t show respect, then I need not show it either. Please wait, Master Dennis, I will go..."


    Before he could finish.


    Dennis, ignoring everything, shouted towards the main hall with a smile, "I am Dennis, the owner of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion! Passing by, I heard that the Blackwoods have a new blessed child, so I shamelessly came to visit and make some friends."


    "Here are three gifts, wishing the Blackwood family prosperity and a smooth path for the blessed child!"


    With these words.


    Everyone at the full moon feast was stunned; they thought Dennis had come to cause trouble or to intimidate, but he was just there to give gifts!


    Meanwhile, outside.


    Hidden in the Forebearer shrine, Lucas, who had placed two Sky Star Psychic Ability AI Bionic Robots at the entrance and was ready to activate the treasures given by the Forebearer at any moment, was even more vigilant to prevent any mishaps.


    Julian and his wife had already taken out the psychic equipment to summon the Silver Iron Forest, where the Boar Monarch Pete and psychic beasts had already gathered at the edge, ready to assist and bury the enemy with a single sound of the suona!


    Daniel and the Seven Warriors were ready for battle, prepared to activate the great formation!


    But they had originally thought Dennis was bringing some bloody gift.


    They even prepared for gifts like human heads or murderous spells.


    But unexpectedly.


    "This is the first gift, wishing that between my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and Blackwood, there are no such opportunistic, talentless scoundrels!"


    Dennis''s voice echoed around Blackwood.


    At the full moon feast, a head fell.


    It was the head of Declan from Forest Town, beheaded by Dennis with a single palm strike, his eyes still filled with confusion and disbelief.


    "This second gift, the sword of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, whoever receives this sword, the people of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will consider them a friend, not an enemy!"


    As Dennis smiled and lightly waved, a long sword at his waist floated up, its blade engraved with a nine-story building under the psychic power.


    "This third gift."


    "A sand table map, Jubilee''s three gates are about to completely occupy Forest, Horizon Falls, and Silverwood towns, all attack plans are included!"


    As he finished speaking, the wind stirred around him!


    Above Dennis, a psychic diagram was drawn, showing the three gates'' attack routes on Tranquil County, visible to everyone''s eyes!


    His face was all smiles, full of confidence.


    But no one knew the turmoil he was facing!


    In the grand hall of Blackwood, Nathan and his wife presided with an air of terrifying authority. Dennis glimpsed something formidable¡ªa rock that seemed unbreakable, atop which a fox demon snarled menacingly.


    And then there was the newborn...


    Barely a month old, yet already exhibiting Developing Skill!


    To be enemies with Blackwood meant being prepared to annihilate them completely, or else face a future fraught with peril.


    Just moments ago,


    He had also seen his own aura, which had been on a steady rise, suddenly plummet, nearly costing him his life...


    "Blackwood... what kind of cursed place is this?"


    Dennis watched as the couple emerged from the hall, holding their child, and managed a strained smile.


    Surrounded by crowds, with red lanterns and streamers everywhere,


    He felt no joy, only a longing to return to his pavilion and resume his role as its master.


    "Boss, are we just leaving like this?"


    After a long conversation in the inner hall at the Blackwood full moon feast, Dennis and his wife Nathan had just left. In the sky, a psychic-powered flying craft carried Dennis at the prow, who dared not look back at the seemingly ordinary little mountain village below.


    His subordinate couldn''t help but wonder. Their boss, Dennis, was extraordinary in his actions; every battle usually ended with a massive haul of resources, or a bloody cleansing on the spot. It was rare for them to leave empty-handed like this.


    Standing against the wind, Dennis exuded an aura of a sage, "The way of survival for Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is to make friends all over the world. The people of Blackwood are wise to the times; they are now willing to serve our Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion."


    "So that''s it, our boss truly has unmatched wisdom!"


    Hearing this, Dennis''s silhouette seemed even more imposing to his subordinates. He continued, "Send the word down, inform all the families in Jubilee County about this trip. Blackwood is no longer a threat, and the matter of the Dragon Tiger Gate''s destruction will no longer be pursued. Blackwood will offer up... one hundred thousand primary Energy Stones every year."


    His subordinate was stunned again, "One hundred thousand primary Energy Stones? Boss, the tributes from other families have never been this low."


    "..."


    Where could his subordinates see Dennis''s expression?


    At that moment, he was sweating profusely, far from the transcendent and detached appearance seen from his silhouette, gritting his teeth, only managing to keep his voice calm and light, "It''s just a small favor for my appreciation, next year it will be two hundred thousand."


    "Our boss''s wisdom is unparalleled in the world!"


    The massive psychic-powered craft flew faster and faster.


    But everything Dennis encountered in Blackwood, and when he met Lucas of Blackwood, the hundred-meter-tall azure blade above his head was still vivid in his mind. And that deep within Blackwood, the Forebearer''s shrine where dragons and phoenixes sang together, such celestial and strange phenomena were unseen even in the Xuanwu Gate.


    There were two unknowable beings inside; he merely wanted to peek, but in an instant, it cost him ten years of his life.


    Having toured around Blackwood, he lost twenty years of his life!


    And those two AI Bionic Robots brought by Lucas, each one was a freak capable of taking his life.


    As the psychic-powered craft soared through the high sky and clouds, like encountering wild waves, Dennis watched as his energy increased after leaving Blackwood, and finally, he smiled.


    "Let the world''s storms and disasters come; they will always be just a step away from me!"

 Chapter 86: Chapter 86: Energy Stone Pact

    [Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion''s leader Dennis entered Blackwood and felt a warm, instant connection with the members there.]


    [He had a detailed conversation with Nathan and his wife, expressing his willingness to form an alliance with Blackwood, considering each other as allies in life and death. He generously offered to pay 100,000 Energy Stones annually to the Black Shell Gate on behalf of Blackwood.]


    [Congratulations! Your family has successfully resolved the crisis from Jubilee County, earning +1000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    "Was Dennis actually telling the truth?"


    Watching Dennis''s flying vessel speed away, Ethan finally released the mouse button he had been holding over the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Even a D-level master has some skills.


    He thought Dennis was just playing along with Blackwood to fend off the threats from the Celestial Star Seekers and the Boar Monarch Pete, but he didn''t expect a pop-up on the game interface indicating that the crisis troubling Blackwood from Jubilee County had indeed been resolved!


    Pondering the reasons.


    Ethan paused, a notification appeared in the event column.


    [Your descendant Marcus has secretly sent a medium-grade psychic device¡ªthe Eight Directions Array Plate!]


    [Eight Directions Array Plate: Can be activated by mana and Energy Stones, harnessing the Earth''s power to protect a region.]


    "Hmm? Was this the trump card Marcus was planning to bring back to the family?"


    A flicker of joy passed through Ethan''s eyes.


    Blackwood had plenty of psychic equipment, and Julian could even make medium-grade psychic equipment himself. But there were only two psychic devices, and those were the lowest grade: the ''Thousand Jun Seal'' used in rotation within the family and the ''Psychic God Xin Life Robe'' protecting Olivia.


    At that time, Monk Jacob also had two psychic devices, but they could only be activated by Buddhist power.


    Julian had been trying to melt those two devices for who knows how many years.


    But with the strength of the people in Blackwood, they couldn''t melt it with alchemical fire. Boar Monarch Pete had tried, but its demonic fire was repelled as soon as it touched the Buddhist psychic devices.


    A medium-grade psychic device could now become the treasure of Blackwood!


    "Very good, very good!"


    Nathan, holding the array plate, was overjoyed, "Our grandson Marcus has learned to bring gifts to his elders, the child has truly grown up."


    He and Luna were both smiling broadly; they didn''t care whether the device Marcus sent was a medium-grade psychic device or not. Even the lowest grade of psychic equipment could delight these two elders, who were over seventy years old.


    The others felt the same, filling the room with warmth.


    ...


    In the days that followed.


    With the backing of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and the presence of the Silver Iron Forest, Jubilee County''s attacks hardly damaged Blackwood, and Gratitude Village became the most stable place in the entire Tranquil County.


    As for the Sky Sect, that was even less of a problem. Marcus was a true disciple of the Sky Sect, and even if he couldn''t bring the news back to Blackwood.


    Ethan could still get updates through Marcus''s images.


    [In the 54th year of Blackwood, Julian''s seven kids, while cultivating the psychic powers of the ''Lifeblood Drawing Technique'', made some progress. The seven began to travel around Tranquil County under the Blackwood Commerce Hall ''Heaven''s Principle Hall'', often performing acts of chivalry, earning the honorable title ''The Seven kids of Blackwood''!]


    [Trait gained: United Effort]


    [When fighting together, strength increases by 10%]


    [Your descendants have gained some fame, earning +100 Spiritual Tribute]


    "These seven little guys have achieved something as well."


    Ethan was relieved for them; although the youngest of the seven was only eight years old, all had inherited the chivalrous spirit of Julian and Mary.


    [That same year, Nathan ventured alone into the second layer of the Death Coffin, dying nearly ten thousand times, gained insight, and secluded himself to break through the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    [Daniel, nearing the peak of Foundational Energy, began his seclusion to break through to Emerging Ability!]


    [Blackwood Year 55.]


    [Your descendant Lucas, after years of fighting alongside the family, obtained over a hundred enemy swords and mastered more than ten sword techniques. His swordsmanship matured in the Death Coffin, and he began his seclusion, vowing not to leave unless a major event occurs, aiming for the Transcendent Seed stage!]


    ...


    After securing the friendship of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, the masters gradually went into seclusion. Mary, who had been producing for many years, also recovered her health and was ready to break through at any moment. The only one still struggling in the early stages of Emerging Ability was Julian!


    Just clicked on Julian''s avatar. Inside the forging pavilion, fireworks were blazing, and Julian, despite being scorched red by the hot air, continued to forge tirelessly.


    [After years of forging, Julian gradually realized a certain hammering technique, but he also faced constraints that prevented him from forging ironware as sturdy as the Forebearer''s ''War AI Bionic Robot'', nor could he forge a left arm that satisfied him.] sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [The trait ''Never Admit Defeat'' keeps him from giving up until he hits the south wall!]


    "Just a little more, and I can become an eighth-grade psychic equipment master. Superior psychic equipment, top-grade psychic equipment, I could make them with ease!"


    Julian looked like a madman, and although he was usually carefree, he took the crafting of psychic equipment very seriously.


    "Keep it up, Julian."


    Ethan knew that people obsessed with a profession were usually like this; their love for their profession was as fervent as that of a believer, and they were true craftsmen.


    Now, at Blackwood, it wasn''t Olivia but Thomas who was in charge of the family business.


    Don''t think Julian''s children are all brutes; brutes aren''t stupid, especially with Luna watching over them, Blackwood''s development was also thriving for the time being.


    As for Olivia...


    At 40, Olivia was even more charming, her hair up in a bun, dressed in a white gown, sitting in a wheelchair like a falling white lotus, pushed by Blackwood''s maidservant.


    Ever since Blackwood was out of trouble, Olivia had already started traveling and had not returned home for two years.


    The maidservants following her, all in their thirties or forties, each carried weapons.


    Occasionally, when in the woods, there were masters moving through the shadows to protect them.


    "Miss Four, if we go out again, we''ll be out of Tranquil County," a maidservant reminded.


    Olivia smiled, "What? Is Tranquil County our prison?"


    The maidservant shook her head repeatedly, "It''s just that once we leave Tranquil County, we''ll be out of our family''s territory."


    "You still say it''s not a prison?" Olivia''s smile deepened, "You think it''s not a prison, but you''re unwilling to step out of Tranquil, in reality, you''re already staying inside a prison. In fact, the world is vast, there''s nowhere you can''t go, nothing you can''t do. Only if you''re not afraid, can you break out."


    "Miss Four is divine, I don''t understand," the maidservant still shook her head.


    Olivia didn''t say much more, leading Blackwood''s maidservant out of Tranquil County.


    Only Ethan, in front of the screen, widened his eyes.


    "Holy smokes!"


    With a shout, Ethan almost knocked over the milk tea next to him, "Is it really happening???"

 Chapter 87: Chapter 87: Generational Challenges Part 1

    Ethan remembered Olivia wasn''t unable to cultivate; no matter how poor her talent, she still had a five-element mixed Psychic Constitution. But she had always wanted to cultivate the literary path, to read all the books in the world!


    And now...


    [Your descendant Olivia, already sufficiently knowledgeable. With guidance from Dennis of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, she began to step out of Blackwood''s comfort zone, observing the world''s myriad things, watching the joys and sorrows of humanity.]


    [Over the years, gathering the works of saints and talented mortals from all over the world, she has already written ''The World Scripture'', divided into nine chapters, totaling ninety-nine thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine¡ªthe ultimate number.]


    [Your descendant is now enlightening herself and writing, ''The World Scripture'' first chapter¡ª]


    [''The Common People'']


    [Your descendant Olivia, her calamity is near!]


    Ethan gasped.


    The game''s prompt came out, and Ethan took a cold breath.


    Although he didn''t know much about literary cultivation, he knew a little, and Olivia... it seemed she had been plotting something significant all along!


    People in literary cultivation usually study the books of saints or the righteous poetry.


    But Olivia?


    She directly created her own chapter using the world''s writings, no wonder she hadn''t been able to cultivate the literary path all these years!


    She was directly practicing to provoke a heavenly calamity...


    Ethan scratched his head, never expecting that in just a few years, his descendant would have angered the heavens.


    [Blackwood, Year 58]


    [Daniel Emerges, Breaking Through the Emerging Ability Phase!]


    [During Thomas''s tenure as one of the seven kids of Blackwood, he convinced everyone in Gratitude Village to become warriors. The entire village, with over four thousand people, trained in martial arts daily, clamoring to take up arms and dominate Tranquil County, creating a chaotic and smoky atmosphere.]


    [Upon seeing Daniel emerge, Luna took the opportunity to take her seven descendants to the Forebearer Shrine for a severe beating, releasing three years of pent-up frustration. Afterwards, she temporarily handed over the position of family head to Daniel.]


    "Finally, a sane person has emerged!"


    Seeing Daniel emerge, and with a Dual Psychic Constitution no less, Ethan actually breathed a sigh of relief.


    With all the Blackwood experts in seclusion, Julian and these seven kids had been a real handful for him and Luna.


    These guys weren''t dumb, that''s for sure, but they were definitely not cut out to be family heads, at least not at this time!


    Their brains, it seemed, were probably as developed as their muscles. The all-out militarization was Thomas''s idea, and everyone else had their own plans, all aimed at bolstering Blackwood''s military power!


    Just look at the previous incidents... S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendant Anthony recruited a large number of followers, most of whom Luna found to be ulterior-motivated and had them all killed.]


    [Your descendant Linda coveted a family treasure and attempted to emulate her great-aunt''s plan for a night raid, nearly plunging Blackwood into chaos during a turbulent era. Luna dragged her to the Forebearer Shrine for a severe beating, finally calming her down.]


    [Your descendant Kevin, while wandering the world, saved a woman who then favored him, leading to a marriage proposal...]


    Hmm... Kevin truly is a Blackwood descendant!


    "Indeed, brutes are not suited to be family heads."


    Ethan, looking at Daniel now seated in the family head''s position, felt much better, murmuring, "All the experts are in seclusion, and this is a critical period for the family''s development, just waiting for the experts to emerge and soar. These few brats always thinking about showing off their muscles, it''s better to have the simple-minded Daniel in charge, he won''t cause trouble."


    Looking at the scene.


    Daniel and Luna sat in the main and deputy positions, with the seven kids of Blackwood at the deputy seats. Thomas''s wife Dorothy was applying medicine to the freshly beaten Thomas and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.


    Now 5-year-old George, unlike the burly seven kids of Blackwood, resembled more his mother Dorothy. Despite his young age, he already had the graceful demeanor of a jade-like young master, and he immediately jumped into Thomas''s arms.


    "So I''m not the family head, so what?"


    Thomas, stroking George''s head, complained with a hint of grievance, "Was it necessary to beat me so hard? Grandpa never hit us like this."


    "It''s because your grandpa spoiled you, turning you all into reckless bears!"


    Mentioning this made Luna furious.


    With so many children and grandchildren in the Blackwood family, her own children gave her peace of mind, with those in seclusion doing so, the blacksmiths forging, and Amelia in the Thunderfire Abyss continuously bringing good news. Even Olivia, who had no cultivation, managed to send back a million Energy Stones recently.


    Look at Lucas''s two children, Marcus turned out well, a proud member of the Sky Sect. Daniel was incredibly obedient and wise, very much like Nathan.


    And then look at these seven...


    She had never been as worried in her life as she had been these past two or three years, despite having a lifespan of a thousand years, she had grown more than a dozen white hairs during these days.


    "Grandma..."


    Thomas wanted to say more, but little George lifted his head and said in a babyish voice, "Daddy, stop talking, if you''re not obedient, not only will Great Grandma beat you, but I''ll also tattle to Great Grandpa, and he''ll beat you too."


    "Ah, such a good great-grandson, come, let Great Grandma pat you."


    "George is not a puppy."


    George pouted but still walked towards his great-grandma.


    Thomas immediately became unhappy, his face swollen and in pain, he gritted his teeth and said fiercely, "Alright, you little rascal, daring to threaten your dad..."


    "Why are you being harsh with the child?" Dorothy immediately disapproved, "If you keep scolding George, don''t even think about coming to bed tonight!"


    "Blah blah blah."


    George, sitting in Luna''s lap, stuck his tongue out at his father, infuriating Thomas until his face turned dark.


    The Blackwood family, with their seven kids and the little prodigy among them, sure is a lively bunch.

 Chapter 88: Chapter 88: Generational Challenges Part 2

    As the commotion settled, Daniel cleared his throat, glanced at everyone, and casually mentioned, "Now, it''s time to arrange Kevin''s wedding. I''ve checked the timing, and he can get married next month. "


    "Thomas has also reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy. I''ll have someone from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion bring over some elixirs so you can go into seclusion and break through."


    As soon as Daniel spoke, everyone turned their attention to him, nodding repeatedly.


    Having just taken over as the family head, Daniel still had an innocent look on his face.


    "Actually, our family really shouldn''t be causing trouble outside anymore. Whether it''s our father or our uncles and aunts, if they''re not in seclusion, they''re out and about. "


    "Our family has few Emerging Ability masters, and with the world in such chaos, we should rely on Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and Sky Sect to recuperate and thrive in these troubled times."


    At these words, everyone looked sideways.


    Especially Thomas, who had once tricked Daniel out of his candy as a child!


    Daniel didn''t care about the gazes of others and continued with an oblivious expression, "Also, the Black Blood Hall. Thomas has expanded it to 500 members, almost all above the third level of Foundational Energy. "


    "We can''t let them idle around. Send them to Forest Town to take over the mines there and let the new town mayor know that Forest Town belongs to us now."


    "Grandma, and your beast academy. Aren''t there Wind Spirit Eagles in the Silver Iron Forest? Could you trouble yourself to find 500 of them, the kind Auntie used to ride? "


    "With Black Blood Hall coordinating from the skies with the Spear Forest Formation, they will be even stronger."


    "Recently, our connection with Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion has been getting tighter, and Elder Dennis is trustworthy. We at Blackwood want to take advantage of the chaos to dominate Tranquil, but we''re already stretched thin in terms of intelligence. So, I''d like to invite Elder Dennis over, hoping he could send someone to guide us."


    Everyone at Blackwood was utterly stunned by his words!


    Thomas, in disbelief, stood up, walked over to Daniel, and grabbed his head to mess it up, "Speak, who are you? Who has taken over my second brother?!!"


    "Stop it."


    Daniel, unconcerned, shrugged off Thomas''s hand and continued:


    "Actually, our family already qualifies to become a Developing Skill family, but we lack a solid foundation. Once grandfather emerges from the Direct Death Coffin, and our father and uncles and aunts all return, I believe we will have enough upper-level strength."


    "What we need to do now is to enrich our family''s foundation and prepare for the future."


    Saying this, Daniel looked somewhat worriedly at the third generation of Blackwoods, "When you guys are free, go check on Uncle Three. He''s been crafting psychic equipment for three years now, and if this continues, even the Emerging Ability phase won''t hold up."


    At this, the third generation of Blackwoods finally stopped their frolicking.


    "We understand."


    ...


    "The family is finally on the right track!" Ethan wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.


    Daniel continued to discuss the family''s affairs in an organized manner, and Ethan wasn''t surprised at all!


    Although Daniel was naive and made silly mistakes as a child, even lacking understanding of matters between men and women, this didn''t mean he was truly foolish.


    A naive heart simply signifies purity and kindness, and also indicates a strong ability to perceive, otherwise, he wouldn''t have mastered most of the martial arts techniques from the ''Sky Codex'' to a very high level in the Coffin of Eternal Death!


    Moreover... Because Lucas rarely paid attention to his children, this kid was raised by Olivia from a young age.


    With such perceptiveness, even learning a little from Olivia meant he was extremely clever.


    It''s this appearance, and his always somewhat confused eyes, that are highly deceptive...


    He seems born to play the fool to catch the wise.


    Even more so, Daniel did better than Nathan and Lucas, more outstanding!


    He had Nathan''s steadiness, Lucas''s decisiveness, and Olivia''s big-picture perspective!


    "It''s you, from now on you''re the one who''ll do this, don''t even think about running away!" Ethan rubbed his hands, deciding then and there who would take over as the head of the family.


    Seeing the Blackwood family finally sort out the chaos caused by the second generation of Blackwoods, Ethan felt at ease, finally having time to consider his own matters.


    Then, he looked at the Spiritual Tribute value in the upper right corner of the game¡ª 113654!


    "The Spiritual Tribute value is enough." Ethan excitedly clicked on the martial arts techniques of Lucas and Marcus.


    [You have chosen Marcus''s technique, the Profound Grade skill ''Shadowy Sky Steps''.]


    [Detected that the skill progress has reached 90%, consuming 90000 Spiritual Tribute value!]


    [You have chosen Lucas''s Yellow Grade sword technique, ''Hundred Shadows Sword Glow''.]


    [Detected that the skill progress has reached 100%, consuming 20000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    [Would you like to learn?]


    In an instant.


    Ethan felt his mind clear, the memories and understanding of these two techniques flooding into his mind like a tide!


    Bright text appeared on the screen.


    [Congratulations, you have spent 110000 Spiritual Tribute points to learn the techniques ''Shadowy Sky Steps'' and ''Hundred Shadows Sword Glow''!]


    Ethan felt an indescribable mystery, he had heard of ''instant enlightenment'', perhaps this was it.


    As he learned the techniques.


    Even the avatar of the Forebearer appeared in the game interface!


    His personal information also came into view.


    [Ethan]


    [Stage: Transcendent Seed Period]


    [Psychic Constitution: Yin-Yang]


    [Techniques: Shadowy Sky Steps, Hundred Shadows Sword Glow, Yin-Yang Diagram]


    [Trait: Twin Fish Harmony Seal]


    Transcendent Seed, that was his stage!


    After all, he was a direct descendant of the Blackwood family, able to consume the heaven-defying ''Destiny Altering Ability Pill'', enjoying the most precious resources every month.


    Even a dog could train deeply with such resources!


    The students at school thought he was of ordinary talent because they were using their heads as urine bags!


    Otherwise.


    In places like Psychic Gear, even with his complicated identity, those uncles and aunts wouldn''t look at him differently.


    He wouldn''t deserve to live in the first house at the end of the road!


    The teachers at school wouldn''t be begging him to compete in competitions either!


    And... Anyway, he had never seen anyone with better talent than himself.


    Glancing at Daniel in the game, who was playing the fool to catch the wise, Ethan felt a bit envious.


    He also had the ability to play the fool to catch the wise, but he didn''t have the opportunity... S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''ll break through the Developing Skill when I''m free." Ethan grinned, looking at another skill in the game¡ª


    [Forebearer Moment]


    [Use skill, the soul of the Forebearer enters the game world, cannot be attacked, cannot be selected, consumes 1000 Spiritual Tribute points per year, the ratio of real-world time to game-world time remains the same!]

 Chapter 89: Chapter 89: Grandma, wheres my baby?

    Ethan had mastered several skills over these days.


    [Forebearer Moment]


    According to the detailed description, it''s when his soul enters the game, manifesting in a special form, akin to entering a training room in the real world where time flows faster.


    For breakthroughs that could take years, even decades, this skill couldn''t be more suitable!


    "Let''s hold off for now, my Spiritual Tribute points are running low, and with the chaos in Blackwood, there''s no rush in these next few days."


    Ethan resisted the urge to break through in the game world.


    After all, with the big shots of Psychic Gear protecting him and Andrew handling the business, he was in no danger unless aliens invaded!


    The 60th Great Festival of Blackwood was just around the corner.


    During this time, quite a few good things happened.


    [Your descendant Anthony, seeing his brother marry and start a family, was inspired to marry Amanda, a renowned beauty from Gratitude Village.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +10]


    [Linda asked the family head Daniel to set up a contest to choose a son-in-law, and Brian, a level eight Psychic from Gratitude Village, won her heart.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +10]


    [Your descendant Kevin fell in love with Janet, a wealthy heiress he saved. Although initially rejected by Janet''s Lopez family, persistent efforts paid off when family head Daniel invited Dennis from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, and the Lopez family head was finally moved by Kevin''s sincerity, agreeing to their marriage.]


    [Spiritual Tribute...]


    These kids were indeed rash, but their daring spirit also made it easier for them to establish families and businesses.


    Ethan could imagine that soon, the descendants of Blackwood would flourish like bamboo shoots after a rain.


    As for Marcus and Daniel... they still hadn''t met their soulmates.


    But that seemed to be hereditary. When Luna asked their father Lucas about this during his retreat, Lucas merely brushed it off with a few words, showing no interest.


    Nathan even came out of retreat for nearly a month to investigate whether Daniel had any peculiar habits or health issues.


    In the end, it turned out that this grandson was a competent family head and wasn''t troubled by any issues; he just wanted a future wife who would be gentle like his grandmother, sensible like his second aunt, highly capable, and as intelligent as his youngest aunt...


    Knowing his grandson''s wishes, Nathan went back to his coffin with a dark face, thinking this grandson might end up alone for life.


    This worried Luna so much that her hair turned a few shades whiter, and she spent days praying at the Forebearer shrine for Ethan.


    "Pray for the Forebearer''s mighty power to bless my grandson MarcusDaniel to marry and have children soon, to strengthen our Blackwood family."


    "???"


    Ethan''s hand rested on the head of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, and he was stunned for a long time, not knowing how to help them marry and have children. Maybe he could drop a few silicone dolls during the festival.


    Soon, at this year''s Great Festival, the Blackwood ancestral hall was packed to the brim.


    [Blackwood celebrates its 60th year with the decennial grand ceremony!]


    [Your descendants offer you a sacrifice, the Blood Psychic Fruit...]


    [You bestow upon your descendants the Divine Gift¡ª12 Miracle Psychic Pills.]


    "Forebearer Divine Gift, my descendants, quickly kneel before the Forebearer!"


    Even though Nathan was very familiar with such ceremonies, he was still immensely excited. Anything given by the Forebearer, even if it were mere scraps, was treasured beyond measure.


    He then led his descendants in successive kneelings, "Rest assured, Forebearer, the progeny of Blackwood are extraordinary, truly the cream of the crop."


    "Marcus has entered seclusion in the Sky Temple. Daniel has managed the family affairs impeccably. The seven sons of Blackwood are all heroes, and the women are just as formidable!"


    "..."


    Ethan was well aware of all these matters, but Nathan still proudly recounted them in front of the children.


    At that moment, he resembled an elder during Qingming Festival, meticulously recounting to the Forebearer at the ancestral temple in his hometown village.


    Everyone looked devout.


    However, this year''s grand ceremony was different from the past.


    The seven sons of Blackwood were present, but their wives were excluded.


    No other reason, but as the family grew stronger and the sons displayed their father''s traits, Kevin and Anthony, still immature, had wives who were already pregnant, and it was uncertain how many children they would have. Moreover, with the elders of Blackwood needing to cultivate psychic powers, there was no time to educate, leaving the future dispositions of these children uncertain.


    During this grand ceremony, Ethan had already instructed Daniel to establish family rules.


    After Nathan finished the sacrificial speech, he held up a scroll.


    "Blackwood family rules, please, Forebearer, review them!"


    "First, those not recognized by the Forebearer are outsiders and may not enter the Forebearer''s temple."


    "Second, the descendants of Blackwood must not reveal family secrets to outsiders, violators will be expelled from the family!"


    "Third, descendants who indulge in luxury and idleness, not striving for improvement, shall not enter the Forebearer''s temple."


    "Fourth..."


    After laying down these rules, Nathan asked Ethan to review them.


    Ethan looked on seriously.


    He clearly understood that as the family grew larger, strict rules were necessary to prevent chaos!


    Once the grand ceremony was concluded, Blackwood had new rules.


    Nathan and Lucas and others continued to go into seclusion. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    [The 60th Grand Festival of Blackwood has concluded.]


    [In the same year, Amanda was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a son, Larry.]


    [Janet was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a daughter, Amy.]


    [Congratulations, your descendant Linda was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a son, Justin...]


    [...]


    "Holy smokes, they sure can pop them out!"


    The year hadn''t even ended, and Ethan was already so excited that he stood up from his chair.


    Especially since the event log also included prompts about family development.


    [Your descendant Paul, now eighteen, seeing his siblings married, is quite anxious. Thus, he found Laura, a childhood friend from Gratitude Village, and after some discussions about the bedroom secrets taught by his siblings...]


    [With love blossoming, Paul brought Laura to meet his parents and grandparents, openly declaring his intention to sleep with Laura. Luna thought it was a child''s play and casually agreed. Paul, daring as he is, decided to seal their lifelong commitment that night in the cattle shed.]


    "That''s the fifth pair."


    Ethan was a bit dazed.


    Previously, there was a pressing need to have children, but now... one after another, he couldn''t even remember who was who.


    And it wasn''t just Ethan who was confused at Blackwood.


    Luna sat in front of the hall.


    Once a fierce woman who fought alongside her husband with a knife in hand, the strongest woman behind Blackwood, now seemed a bit lost and pained. She held a chubby boy in her left arm, another chubby baby in her right, and in front of her, a wooden pushcart.


    The three babies formed a choir.


    Previously, when she took care of the children one by one with help, watching them cry was a joy, but now...


    "You, Amanda, come take Larry to Linda, let her take the baby to his grandfather."


    The woman shoveling manure on the side wiped the sweat from her forehead, "Grandma, I''m not Amanda, I... I''m Janet, my husband is Kevin!"


    "Grandma, I''m Amanda! This is my child, Larry."


    "Grandma, where''s my baby? I can''t tell which one is mine."


    Just a month after giving birth, Linda, clad in black iron beast blood armor, was lifting up each baby''s diaper to check.


    The scene was extremely chaotic.

 Chapter 90: Chapter 90: A special profession

    Luna, her face etched with despair, ignored the cries of her daughters-in-law and granddaughters behind her. She set down her child and walked straight to the closed sanctuary, violently pulling shut the stone door next to Nathan''s Psychic Sanctuary.


    Inside, Nathan, who was in deep meditation, heard the noise and asked, "My dear, why have you come to meditate too? Aren''t you a demon cultivator currently seeking opportunities?"


    "What kind of good days have I lived before?" Luna muttered something Nathan couldn''t understand, then smiled broadly, "Head of the household, it''s so peaceful in the human world now, truly wonderful."


    ...


    "Ha ha ha! My Blackwood is finally going to grow strong, these kids are truly amazing!" Ethan was overjoyed, naturally unable to feel Luna''s pain.


    As long as he wasn''t the one taking care of the kids, they were definitely adorable.


    He was now keenly aware of the terrifying speed of population growth when it reached a certain number and was unchecked.


    "Wait until Paul, Andrew, and Nancy start having kids, tsk tsk."


    Ethan felt that by then, the family would be even stronger.


    Soon, it was the second year.


    [Blackwood Year 61.]


    [Your descendant Paul has married Laura.]


    [Received Spiritual Tribute +10]


    As the children''s marriages became more frequent, the people of Blackwood grew accustomed to it. The elders would temporarily come out of their meditations to drink the tea offered by the younger generation, then return to their seclusion.


    And Laura was showing her pregnancy. Luna, coming out of seclusion, just glanced at Laura''s swollen belly and her face changed dramatically. She only drank half her tea before hurriedly returning to the Psychic Sanctuary and shutting the stone door.


    [Your daughter-in-law Mary has broken through and reached the Emerging Ability stage!]


    That year, Blackwood gained another person in the Emerging Ability stage, and Mary, the female knight, joyfully came out.


    She helped take care of the family for a couple of days.


    Initially, she was elated, telling everyone about becoming a grandmother, but later her face turned dark and she ran back to meditate.


    [Your daughter-in-law Mary, containing the Beast King Pill, vows not to leave seclusion until she reaches the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    "My daughters-in-law in Blackwood, have they all been working so hard?" Ethan felt deeply gratified.


    One piece of good news followed another this year.


    Especially Julian!


    This guy, who had been forging for several years, finally stopped swinging his hammer madly in the forge and collapsed on the ground, gasping for breath.


    [You used ''Forebearer''s Warmth'', consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    "Thanks to Forebearer''s Divine Gift, Forebearer, my child has succeeded, ha ha ha, an eighth-grade psychic equipment master!"


    Julian laughed and then cried.


    After many years of forging, who knew how many times he wanted to give up?


    He suddenly realized, he was like an iron tree, all his perseverance and effort were waiting to bear fruit today!


    "Forebearer, look at my hands, look at this AI Bionic Robot, woo~"


    Following the direction Julian pointed.


    Ethan saw his silver prosthetic limb, and standing still nearly two meters tall, its eyes flashing golden light... a copper-colored AI Bionic Robot!


    [Your descendant, after years of forging, never admitting defeat, blacksmith profession, advanced to¡ª¡ª]


    [Eighth-grade Psychic Puppeteer Blacksmith!]


    The second generation at Blackwood was the craziest yet.


    You could even say they were the craziest people Ethan had ever seen.


    Lucas was killing people at a young age, and with only mediocre skills, he dared to enter the Garcia stronghold alone and killed Dexter. He even created his own martial arts techniques, already possessing the qualifications of a swordsmanship grandmaster.


    Amelia practiced both medicine and poison, directly achieving a celestial fetus.


    Olivia simply refused to cultivate psychic powers, instead achieving enlightenment and writing major literary works on her own.


    And then there was Julian, the third child...


    He was the most talented, hopelessly addicted to blacksmithing, his cultivation progress far behind others, but now it was finally time for his fervor to bear fruit!


    [Psychic Puppeteer]


    [Transforming zombies with the Straight Death Coffin, combined with the forging methods of Energy Stones and Storage Rings, and the craftsmanship of AI Bionic Robots, this is a special profession.]


    Ethan had never seen such a profession in the real world!


    Ethan even hesitated to say whether this technology was superior or inferior to that of war AI Bionic Robots because... Julian was only at the eighth rank now, what about the seventh, sixth, or even later ranks?


    But this was also an extremely difficult path.


    After all, Julian was like walking on a road no one else had crossed, groping his way forward.


    "Forebearer, look!"


    As Julian presented the Ethan tablet, it floated up, and Julian, like a child showing off to an adult, excitedly introduced the psychic puppet.


    "My child knows he can''t manufacture the renewable flesh inside a war AI Bionic Robot, but he thought of the zombies in the Straight Death Coffin!"


    Julian lifted the copper-colored AI Bionic Robot mask, reminiscent of an ancient heavy cavalry warrior, revealing a zombie inside that looked somewhat familiar...


    Wasn''t this the mummified corpse of Wild Dragon from the Dragon and Tiger brothers?


    "This guy was a Transcendent Seed in life, drained of blood, lost his psychic abilities, but his body''s strength still reached the peak of Foundational Energy. With a special kind of eerie silk, the zombie can manipulate the outer armor!"


    Then Julian tapped the armor, and in a flash.


    The armor sci-fi-like expanded.


    From two meters tall, the psychic puppet grew to five meters, brimming with a sense of power!


    Another tap, and the formations on its body activated, returning it to its original size.


    "The materials on its body, made by smashing Sumi stones used in Storage Rings and primarily using celestial iron from Garcia mines, reach up to the eighth rank!"


    "And..."


    Julian, like a mad scientist, frantically introduced, his whole body trembling.


    "My child has forged movable top-grade psychic equipment!"


    He shouted out loud, and Julian, happy and splendid, fainted.


    Scared, Ethan quickly sent him a ''Forebearer''s Warmth''. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Genius... no."


    Ethan shook his head, his eyes filled with awe, genius was no longer enough to describe this muscular man.


    [Your descendant Julian, through an unyielding spirit, has forged top-grade psychic equipment after years of forging, achieving the eighth rank psychic puppet.]


    [Breakthrough, mid-stage Emerging Ability!]


    [Trait acquired: Ancestor of Psychic Puppets]


    [When using psychic puppet equipment, combat power increases by 20%. Knowledge of psychic abilities and AI Bionic Robots significantly enhanced.]


    "Awesome."


    Even after Julian was revived by the pharmacist of the psychic medicine garden, drank medicine to recover his body, and continued blacksmithing, Ethan was still incredibly shocked.


    He had witnessed the birth of a special profession.

 Chapter 91: Chapter 91: Valley Victory

    In Ethan''s view, this generation wasn''t the main stage for the family''s second generation; even when they were not at home, they had already become the foundation of the family. Only the elders and Daniel knew about Julian''s cultivation of psychic puppetry.


    The third generation was prominently displayed in the Blackwood family.


    "May the Forebearer bless, my seven sons of Blackwood, victorious in battle, vanquish all foes!"


    "Form the array!"


    In a valley, the seven sons of Blackwood leapt up, pulling out the Forebearer''s cards from their bosoms and tossing it into the sky.


    They surrounded a dozen people with the Seven Stars Array, and under the connection of psychic powers, seven massive psychic-powered equipments in the array obliterated the enemies.


    This was their years of cultivating the "Lifeblood Drawing Technique," where the seven acted as one in the array.


    They even had their exclusive POSS.


    "..."


    Let''s not mention it; it was the seven black bears that were embarrassing, but Ethan, watching the screen, was the one who felt awkward.


    In the distance.


    Daniel, holding the position of family head, stood on the mountain, not embarrassed by the scene at all, looking like a dazed fool.


    Beside him was Holden Moore, who had been collaborating with the Blackwoods for years, ambushing Taylor from Bluefield in the Silver Iron Forest.


    At that moment.


    This middle-aged man, with a few strands of white hair but still handsome and scholarly, twitched his mouth upon seeing the operation of the Blackwood seven sons, "Daniel, your seven brothers, they really are... truly... heroic."


    "Thank you for the compliment, Grandpa Holden."


    Daniel nodded blankly, "Is it over on your side?"


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    Holden looked up, and in the distance, a psychic power floated up, "It''s over, the harvest is as usual, half for each of our families."


    Ethan, in front of the screen, looked at the small text above their heads.


    A prompt appeared in the event column.


    [Blackwood Year 63]


    [Your descendant Daniel has been interacting with the Moore of Silverwood for years. Silverwood Moore has allied with the Sky Sect, under the control of the Rodriguez family affiliated with Sky Sect. Blackwood has allied with the Xuanwu Sect affiliated Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.]


    [Congratulations, your family has once again cooperated with Silverwood Moore to intercept the outer disciple team of Sky Sect returning from Yangqing County with trophies.]


    [Special event reward received: Spiritual Tribute, +200]


    Two years had passed in the game.


    Daniel was becoming clearer on how to be a family head, now a 33-year-old middle-aged man, yet still youthful, making him seem inexperienced at first glance.


    Among the Blackwood seven sons, Thomas and Anthony had already broken through to Emerging Ability.


    The other five were between the seventh layer of Foundational Energy and its peak.


    Two years had not stripped them of their youthful naivety. Now in the family, the seven sons of Blackwood were utterly obedient to Daniel.


    "Grandpa Holden was wrong," Daniel shook his head slightly.


    Hearing this.


    A hint of wariness flashed in Holden''s eyes, "Did Blackwood ask for too little? Indeed, Blackwood contributed more this time."


    After others in Blackwood rarely appeared, he had been collaborating with Daniel over the years, intercepting other forces together, obtaining resources, and developing together, which was also their way of survival in these chaotic times.


    At first, he was somewhat dissatisfied, complaining that Blackwood had sent such a young lad, wouldn''t that hold him back?


    But later, he gradually realized.


    This young man was much more terrifying than Nathan he had dealt with before! Nathan was steady, honest, and responsible.


    Daniel was different.


    This guy was very straightforward; he only recognized one dead principle: Blackwood must not suffer losses. For this, he could go to any lengths, fight for anything!


    Holden even saw that Daniel, to extract information from an enemy, could still maintain his current expression, slowly hoist the opponent up, gradually roast the opponent''s flesh, and feed it into the opponent''s mouth.


    "No, Grandpa Holden, last time we cooperated, you lost people, this time Blackwood will not take the harvest," Daniel said innocently.


    "Hmm?"


    Holden became even more cautious, "Daniel, don''t be polite, Moore and Blackwood have been life-and-death allies for many years, I, Holden, cannot accept this batch of resources."


    Daniel said no more, "Then it won''t be given."


    "..."


    Holden''s facial muscles twitched suddenly, feeling as if Daniel''s straightforwardness left no room for refusal, almost as if he should just accept it outright!


    Sure enough, Daniel said, "Grandfather Holden has been loyal to the Rodriguez family, but how much do you really know about them?"


    "You..."


    Holden''s eyes gradually widened, and he swallowed, "What are you going to do?!" S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Years ago, my elder brother was under the tutelage of the Fire Scale Taoist at Sky Sect, a core disciple who received great kindness from him. Unfortunately, there was a direct descendant of the Rodriguez family in Sky Sect named Silas, who nearly caused my brother''s death, and for twelve years he was obliterated from memory."


    Daniel let out a long breath, "I thought that was the end of it, but the Rodriguez family harbored a grudge, repeatedly opposing my brother. I, from Blackwood, had no choice but to send the entire Rodriguez family to their demise."


    "This..."


    Holden panicked, his back drenched in sweat in a short time. Having reached the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, he hadn''t felt this nervous in a long time. After hesitating for a moment, he finally said, "Lord Blackwood, the Rodriguez family has an ancestor with Developing Skill!"


    "Daniel knows."


    "Lord Blackwood, does your family elder know about this?!"


    "I''ve asked the family elders, they all know."


    "I... ah, in recent years, my Moore family has also been troubled by many problems, let me think about this significant matter..."


    "Grandfather Holden is a life-and-death friend of mine in Blackwood. If you don''t want to go, then forget it, Daniel will leave."


    "Wait, our Moore and Blackwood are inseparable, what concerns Blackwood concerns Moore too, I''m in!"


    Holden deflated like he was truly frightened. Daniel dared to tell him such a life-and-death matter so boldly. If he refused, would someone like Daniel let him leave with the information???


    "Daniel will remember this favor, Grandfather Holden, let''s go home together."


    Watching Daniel''s retreating figure, Holden weakly followed by sword.


    He let out a long breath, "I should have just accepted it earlier."

 Chapter 92: Chapter 92: Psychic Sanctuary

    Ethan had been watching Daniel''s screen intently. Soon, the scene shifted back to Gratitude Village.


    The village remained as peaceful as ever, with men and women working the fields, crows flying into the woods, and few travelers passing by. It was a picturesque rural scene, now surrounded by an abundance of psychic abilities.


    The Blackwood estate at the end of the village had grown even more magnificent, with pavilions and terraces, and villagers from Gratitude occasionally entering, especially the martial arts tower which now saw the most visitors. However, compared to before, Blackwood now had strict rules in place.


    The Black Blood Hall, with its 500 members, still clad in armor, had its weakest members at the fourth level of Foundational Energy, with a hundred of them soaring in the sky on giant eagles, monitoring the vicinity of Gratitude Village.


    In the Silver Iron Forest, the animals were not afraid of humans, occasionally coming to Gratitude Village to be fed by the villagers or to fertilize the psychic fields, creating a harmonious environment.


    Inside the Blackwood estate, a dozen maids and as many wet nurses were taking care of children. The changes over the past two years had been significant.


    Ethan checked the event log:


    [In the 61st year of Blackwood, Laura gave birth to a daughter named Melissa after being pregnant for ten months.]


    [15-year-old Andrew and Miss Skylar Moore fell in love and got engaged, with plans to marry in three years.]


    [In the 62nd year of Blackwood, Dorothy gave birth to a son named Riley after being pregnant for ten months.]


    [...]


    [Fourth generation descendants of Blackwood: Nine members!]


    In just three years, nine descendants were born, and in just three hours, Ethan became most familiar with young George.


    Meanwhile, Daniel had already taken Holden inside for a detailed discussion. Soon after, a special event occurred:


    [In the 62nd year of Blackwood, your descendant Marcus made a breakthrough to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability at the Sky Sect Palace!]


    [The master of the deceased Silas, Mason, feeling increasingly threatened by Marcus, hired a Transcendent Seed assassin from the county town to kill Marcus during a sect mission, but he was saved by your skill ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury''!]


    [Marcus reported to the sect master Wesley, who dismissed the accusations as baseless and warned against reckless actions.]


    [Special Event]


    [To eliminate the lingering threat from Silas''s death, Marcus decided to ask Elder Dylan and twelve inner disciples to eradicate the Rodriguez family and remove Mason''s influence outside the Sky Sect.]


    [You decide...]


    "I decide? I decide to take him down!" Ethan exclaimed, his eyes wide with determination. Marcus was the most precious of the third-generation descendants, and just an hour ago, he had almost lost him due to a slow reaction.


    Although Marcus had no intention of involving the family and even kept silent in his letters, fearing that Blackwood might act rashly and bring disaster upon themselves, look at what a good kid he was!


    This was the decision he and the family had made after much consideration. No matter where you are, as an important part of Blackwood, don''t try to handle everything on your own!


    Ethan moved his mouse over to the skill option.


    [Fight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Remaining Spiritual Tribute points¡ª38,650.]


    "We''re Blackwood; why should we fear a mere D-level? Kid, your family is your biggest support!"


    [Green Garden County¡¤Mount Five Peaks]


    Ethan opened the map and saw the location of Blackwood''s adversaries. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Rodriguez family''s Mount Five Peaks appeared to be a mountain peak sliced in half, with its residence at the summit adorned with splendid buildings, a significant site for the family''s growth and prosperity.


    At this time, Blackwood was already preparing to attack the Rodriguez family.


    After receiving intelligence from Qingping Moore and Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, Ethan was also observing the entire Mount Five Peaks to gather more useful information.


    The details on the map became complete as Ethan observed.


    [Rodriguez family has thrived for 722 years.]


    [Family members: 3286]


    [Founding ancestor with Developing Skill, name: Liam, lifespan: 342 years]


    [Emerging Ability experts: 121, including 4 at the Transcendent Seed stage, 13 at the peak of Emerging Ability...]


    [Family''s grand formations¡ªFive Unique Psychic Traps, Hundred Psychic Bluebird Totem...]


    "Is a Developing Skill family that has only risen in the last century already so deeply rooted?" Ethan looked solemn.


    A Developing Skill family is truly considered a house of cultivating psychic powers, with D-level members having a lifespan of 500 years and formidable strength, allowing their family to possess vast resources.


    A family survives for 500 years, basically undergoing a qualitative change.


    That is, facing the newly risen Rodriguez family, if it were an ancient Developing Skill family, Ethan wouldn''t dare boast about annihilating them.


    Before this.


    Ethan had learned about an old Developing Skill family existing for over two thousand years, with dual Developing Skills, a family membership exceeding 120,000, nearly twenty at the Transcendent Seed stage alone, and always on the verge of achieving triple Developing Skills.


    Such Developing Skill families often possess a strong foundation, with descendants spread throughout the entire Cloudview County, even those in the Competent stage must show respect.


    After all, with the full strength of the family and numerous resources, and being ancient, who doesn''t have some formidable friends outside? Blackwood is the best example, with a Developing Skill in-law during their Emerging Ability phase, Marcus is a direct disciple of the Sky Sect. A family of a thousand years, potentially reaching over a million descendants, who knows what such a family hides.


    "Over three thousand family members, I wonder when Blackwood will reach this stage."


    Ethan looked forward with anticipation.


    He then shifted his gaze towards the Blackwood residence.


    At this time, the family members had also temporarily ended their seclusion.


    ...


    [Silver Iron Forest]


    Deep within Blackwood lies the Psychic Sanctuary, part of the Silver Iron Forest domain. Here, the disciples of Blackwood engage in cultivating psychic powers, aided by the group trait ''Guardians of the Silver Iron Forest,'' which boosts their cultivation speed by 10%!


    They had long sensed this, and the important members of Blackwood chose this place for their secluded cultivation, laying out the Psychic Sanctuary with precious Energy Stones.


    Beneath the ground, millions of basic Energy Stones and tens of thousands of intermediate Energy Stones were deeply buried.


    As time passed.


    Inside Gratitude Village, the Blackwood estate openly served as the living quarters for Blackwood. However, over the years, important items such as the ancestral hall where Blackwood worshipped their Forebearer, the psychic treasure ''Direct Death Coffin,'' and the eighth-grade blood psychic fruit trees were gradually moved to the Psychic Sanctuary in the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Boom!"


    After nearly ten years of seclusion, Nathan stepped out of the Psychic Sanctuary. He breathed in the fresh air outside the Psychic Sanctuary before opening his eyes.

 Chapter 93: Chapter 93: Fox Master Ascends

    This elder, who had led Blackwood for over fifty years, appeared middle-aged but was actually eighty years old. Time had deepened his eyes, giving him an ethereal aura that made him seem like a majestic mountain.


    "Being in seclusion felt like the blink of an eye."


    Watching the words above Nathan''s head, Ethan slowly opened his historical information to see Nathan''s gains.


    [Blackwood Year 55, amidst his seclusion, he reminisced about the days of struggle within his family, wrestling with wild boars, wandering in the forest, and the killings over the past fifty-plus years, his traits undergoing some transformation.]


    [Year 58, watching his descendants grow, Nathan gradually realized that the days of constant fighting would become the past, and what he needed now was to gain greater strength to protect his descendants.]


    [Year 61, after a grand ceremony and witnessing the emergence of the fourth generation, he finally understood the significance of being the first-generation family head, his traits changed¡ª]


    [Traits: Wild Boar Slayer, Forest Huntsman transformed into¡ª]


    [Family Guardian!]


    [When battling enemies, all attributes increase by 100%, and when the family is cultivating psychic powers, the speed of cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%!] Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Year 63, Nathan had an epiphany, ready to break through the peak of Emerging Ability.]


    "Truly a man who could slaughter his way through Mystic Boar Forest."


    Ethan gave Nathan a thumbs up.


    Nathan knocked on Luna''s Psychic Sanctuary, shouting, "Wife, it''s time to come out. You''ve been in seclusion without the kids for years now, and frankly, you''ve been quite the irresponsible grandma."


    It wasn''t long before Luna''s voice, filled with dissatisfaction, echoed from the Psychic Sanctuary. "Irresponsible? Those kids breed faster than rabbits. I can''t even tell who''s who anymore. You know, as the head of the family, you should understand that we''re getting old. It''s not possible to be close with every child."


    The Psychic Sanctuary opened, and Luna appeared, looking younger than ever. The white hair she had grown over the past few years from raising children had turned black again.


    Especially outside her Psychic Sanctuary, where it was now filled with fox dens. The foxes, upon seeing Luna, bowed as if they were in the presence of a deity.


    Nathan understood Luna''s words. It wasn''t just Luna; as he aged, he too felt a growing distance from the newer generations of their descendants.


    He didn''t dwell on the closeness between the couple and their great-grandson, instead, he pointed to the thousands of foxes outside Luna''s Psychic Sanctuary and blinked, "Wife, these foxes outside your Psychic Sanctuary..."


    "Head of the family, let''s see which one of us breaks through in Developing Skill first," Luna said with a smile, her eyes curving downwards.


    "Come on, aside from the fox inside you, your main body hasn''t even reached the peak of Foundational Energy yet," Nathan rolled his eyes.


    But Ethan, observing their conversation, didn''t feel the same way. He clicked on Luna''s profile.


    [Blackwood Year 61, a fox sensed the presence of the Fox Master and came to worship.]


    [100 foxes came to worship...]


    [Luna gradually meets the conditions of the Fox Master.]


    [Progress of Ten Thousand Foxes Worshiping¡ª13%]


    Luna had found a way to break through by becoming a Fox Master. As more and more foxes came to worship, and once she met the condition of possessing a Demon King''s Blood Pill, Luna''s life-bound psychic beast could transform into a Demon King!


    All that was missing now was the Demon King''s Blood Pill.


    However, she didn''t discuss it further with Nathan, planning to surprise him.


    Soon after, the couple walked towards a clearing near the Silver Iron Forest. The ground there was covered with sword marks, and iron swords encircled the area. The wind passing through would carry the sound of the swords'' hum.


    Outside the sword formation, both could feel the sharp sword energy emanating from deep within.


    "Lucas''s sword intent..." Nathan''s face lit up with a smile, "Good, good, good. This child has a heavy heart for killing, but after nearly ten years of seclusion and sword cultivation, there''s no longer such violent murderous intent in this sword intent. That''s a good thing."


    Over the years, Nathan was comforted by Lucas''s growth and his filial piety. He still remembered how the boy had ventured alone into Garcia to avenge him. But as the enemies of Blackwood grew, so did Lucas''s intent to kill.


    Now, it seemed, a weight had been lifted from his heart.


    "Dad, Mom!"


    A breeze passed, and Lucas appeared before his parents. Though nearly sixty, he still looked youthful, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes. Now, there was more tranquility in his gaze. However, as he bowed in greeting, his eyes occasionally darted elsewhere, sharp as a sword blade, and a leaf was cut through by the wind.


    [After years of seclusion cultivating psychic powers and practicing over ten sword techniques, Lucas began to abandon his previous sword techniques, focusing on basic swordsmanship.]


    [He began to understand that a sword is not only about killing moves or blinding Sword Glow; swordsmanship should be simple.]


    [After observing hundreds of swords for nearly a decade, Lucas realized that a long sword must have psychic abilities to be wielded as if it were part of one''s own body.]


    [His profession transformed, from a swordsman to¡ª]


    [Sword Sect!]


    [Interacting with the sword, holding the sword, his psychic power and combat power increase by 100%!]


    In Ethan''s view, Lucas becoming a Sword Sect was a natural progression.


    On Earth too, equivalent to a master of swordsmanship, each individual has a unique understanding of sword techniques, with the most significant feature being the creation of their own sword technique.


    As these three emerged from seclusion, Julian''s wife Mary also broke through her own barriers.


    From a distance, in Gratitude Village, Julian arrived with eight descendants of the Blackwood family.


    His left arm, a shiny silver prosthetic, was particularly eye-catching. After he finished crafting the psychic puppet, he lost the fervor he once had in the forge and returned to his carefree self.


    Just look at the laid-back nature of the Blackwood sons; you can tell exactly who they got it from.


    "Dad, Mom, big brother, sister-in-law, haha, come check out my arm. Losing an arm has its perks!"


    "Now our family won''t ever have to worry about missing arms or legs again!"

 Chapter 94: Chapter 94: Psychic Nanny

    Everyone unconsciously ignored Julian''s nonsensical remarks. Daniel, the current head of the family, walked up to the elders and bowed. Having been the head for several years, he now felt a sense of relief seeing the family elders taking charge again.


    "Daniel, you''ve done well as the head these past years, but remember, never neglect cultivating psychic powers," Nathan patted his grandson''s arm. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The others also looked at Daniel with smiles on their faces. Over the years, while they were secluded and cultivating psychic powers, Daniel had always managed to use the family''s influence and his own ventures to procure the necessities they needed.


    "I''ll keep that in mind," Daniel nodded repeatedly.


    This time, even Lucas looked at his second son with new respect, touching Daniel''s head, "Son, you''ve grown up, just like me."


    A simple sentence brought tears to Daniel''s eyes. Growing up, he had spent more time with anyone else than with his father, once thinking his father disliked him because of his mother''s issues.


    But as he grew older, his aunt told him it was because his father felt guilty. As Daniel grew further, he understood. Perhaps since the day his mother was driven out of the house, the one who suffered the most was his father.


    From that day on, his father never sought another woman. Every time his father looked at them, it was as if he saw their mother, awakening past memories, and he could only keep cultivating psychic powers and practicing swordsmanship relentlessly.


    "Dad, I''m already thirty-four," Daniel said, showing a rare childlike side after becoming the head of the family.


    "Hahaha!" Lucas suddenly burst into laughter, "Even if you were three hundred and four, you would still be my good son!"


    Daniel watched his father, who stood as straight as a sword, with a goofy smile.


    Past grievances dissipated in the laughter between father and son. The Blackwood family, witnessing this, all showed warm smiles.


    ...


    Soon, the group arrived at the location of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    Now, the Boar Monarch Pete seemed to have grown even bigger.


    Julian''s lineage, the fourth generation, was being led by the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest, circling around the Boar Monarch Pete.


    It must be said, the Boar Monarch Pete was really good at taking care of kids; whenever the children cried, the psychic beasts always managed to make them laugh.


    He was practically Blackwood''s best nanny.


    Occasionally, he would feed the children raw meat, after all, the third generation of Blackwood''s children were raised on raw meat, each as robust as a black bear.


    "Grandpa! No, don''t let the psychic beasts take my brother up into the sky, what if he falls?"


    "You, yes you, the big rooster, what are you doing? Are you feeding my sister milk? What? Spiders can feed, why can''t you? Spiders have milk, you don''t, you''re still just a male!"


    "Please, Grandpa, that giant toad swallowed my brother, nurturing the body isn''t supposed to be like this, I''m scared."


    "..."


    Just as they arrived at the Silver Iron Forest Valley.


    The people of Blackwood saw George, the eldest of the fourth generation, frantically running around, while the psychic beasts around the Boar Monarch Pete were taking care of the children, they seemed to have their own way of doing things.


    But it seemed like the people of Blackwood were used to it.


    The Boar Monarch Pete lowered his head and said softly, "George, weren''t you also brought up this way by Grandpa?"


    "..."


    Little George was on the verge of tears; indeed, he was raised this way, but only those who have experienced storms understand the desire to shelter others from bad weather.


    He really didn''t understand how his dad and six uncles had managed back then.


    Anyway, once he knew a bit about things, he realized that raw meat wasn''t tasty, being eaten by psychic beasts was a bit terrifying, there was also the risk of being dissolved, falling from the sky was unpleasant, breaking a leg hurt, he had counted, since he could remember, his bones had broken 26 times.


    Nowadays, George was extremely worried about his younger brothers and sisters, spending all day with Grandpa, fearing that the siblings would be played too rough.


    "Ha ha ha, my dear in-law, it''s been many years since we''ve seen each other!"


    A deep voice made George very happy, he turned around and saw his family members, "Great-grandfather, great-grandmother, grandpa, you''re out of seclusion?!!"


    It had been too long since he had seen these elders in his family.


    Then he went one by one to greet his family members, letting the elders take turns patting his head.


    Just as he was about to complain to his great-grandparents about a sister who was carried away by a monkey jumping in the trees and suddenly disappeared, his little face fell.


    Nathan looked on contentedly at the fourth generation children playing with the psychic beasts.


    "Thanks to you, old in-law, our whole family is busy, these kids are being raised by you, they''re all quite happy and growing up strong."


    "..."


    As George stood petrified, observing the satisfied expressions of the elders, he found himself confused. "Am I being too sensitive? Or is it truly the right way to raise the children of Blackwood like this? But isn''t this... dangerously reckless?"


    Meanwhile, Nathan had approached the Boar Monarch Pete and shared Marcus''s current predicament.


    The Boar Monarch Pete was furious, "I looked after that boy Marcus for two years. I''ve always told you, the Sky Sect is no good place. Marcus should never have gone there. Now, someone from the Sky Sect''s elders has even sent assassins after him. That elder is audaciously bold!"


    "Are we going to wipe out the Rodriguez family this time? My dear friend, allow me some time to prepare. With the exotic beasts from the Silver Iron Forest, crushing the newly rising Developing Skill family will be a breeze!"


    "Hold your horses, my friend," Nathan interjected, stopping Pete from summoning the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest. "This time, we hope you can help us by looking after our family''s enterprises while all the Blackwood experts are mobilized."


    Pete was about to say more.


    Nathan continued, "After all, the Rodriguez family is just a pawn of the Sky Sect elders. Deploying the Silver Iron Forest would create too much of a spectacle. If you go, your demon aura will linger, and if the Sky Sect accuses you of bringing calamity to humanity, it would escalate the situation."


    Pete then relented, nodding in agreement, "That makes sense. Go ahead, with me here, no one will dare to touch my great-grandchildren!"


    "By the way, do you need any exotic beasts?"


    Nathan shook his head, "Thanks for the offer, my friend, but the Rodriguez family is manageable. Blackwood is no longer as isolated and vulnerable as it once was!"

 Chapter 95: Chapter 95: Fatal Pharmacist

    Ethan''s screen switched to this location. The folks from Blackwood were on their way to Green Garden County. The Rodriguez family, after all, came from a lineage of Developing Skills. Although confident, they still needed extensive preparation.


    The place, once a hellish demon cave, now surprisingly harmonious, had been cleared to reveal an entrance under a large peach tree, with eerie ghostly fires flickering within. Far off, Psychics from various regions had set up camp, which had grown into a town complete with strategic formations.


    "It''s been nearly eighteen years," Ethan muttered, his lips twitching. Over the years, he had kept an eye on Amelia and understood the situation well. A glance at the map clarified everything. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Thunderfire Demon Cave]


    [In Tranquil County, demonically possessed psychics are causing trouble. The Sky Sect has taken the initiative to send people to the Thunderfire Demon Cave to eradicate these beings. As time passed, the Psychics discovered that the formations above the cave were not simple, and even those of D-level could not easily break them.]


    [They gradually realized that this cave was a gathering place for demonically possessed psychics in the entire Cloudview County. Over five thousand years, these beings had congregated, forming an underworld. The cave''s natural formations harnessed the collective resentment of Cloudview County''s human population for their own use.]


    [Knowing they were outmatched, the Sky Sect had, over the past seventeen years, gathered righteous Psychics from around Cloudview County to guard the cave, yet dared not enter, to prevent the demonically possessed from harming the world. Over time, the Psychics above the Thunderfire Demon Cave formed alliances, creating the Demon Subduing Alliance.]


    "This situation is getting out of hand," Ethan said helplessly, waving his hand. The Sky Sect had initially only intended to remove ordinary demonically possessed psychics, but had unwittingly stirred up a much bigger issue.


    Meanwhile, in the dead of night, Amelia, who had been away from home for many years, was in a grass hut on a mountain outside the Demon Subduing Alliance, preparing herbs to treat a demonically possessed psychic...


    The possessed psychic looked no different from a regular Psychic, except for the red eyes and mysterious black markings on his face.


    "Thank you, sir. I was severely injured by those despicable old Taoists from the Demon Subduing Sect in this battle. Without you, sir, it might have taken me over a decade to recover."


    The demonically possessed psychic smiled at Amelia, but his dark energy surged violently, his gaze turning fierce!


    Amelia, now 56 years old yet showing no signs of aging, casually waved her hand, her eyelids drooping as if she could never muster any energy. "You demonically possessed psychics are all the same, always pulling this stunt after being treated."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the murderous intent vanished from the possessed psychic, his face twisted in agony as he retracted his dark energy, remaining silent.


    Vines had unknowingly entwined around the possessed psychic.


    "Sir, I..." The possessed psychic''s face was filled with remorse, clearly feeling the poison Amelia had silently administered during the treatment. Even with his Developing Skill level, he was doomed by these mysterious vines.


    Amelia didn''t even glance at him. "That''s enough, no need to apologize. I''ve seen this too many times. The poison will dissipate if you circulate your energy for half a month. Leave the payment and remember, you owe me a favor, and I can call it in anytime."


    "Understood..."


    The possessed psychic watched the vines disappear and finally breathed a sigh of relief, leaving a bag of demonic herbs from the cave and walking out the door.


    Amelia soon heard the voices of the possessed psychic and his companions outside.


    "Damn it, why are you laughing? Did you know Amelia had that trick up her sleeve?"


    "You didn''t ask. If you had asked earlier, I would have definitely told you we''ve all been through it."


    "What if I don''t repay the favor?"


    "Those of us in the demon cave who owe Mr. Amelia a favor? There aren''t a thousand, there are at least eight hundred. What do you think?"


    "..."


    Shortly after, three demonically transformed psychics entered the grass hut and bowed respectfully to Amelia. "Reporting, sir, as per your instructions, we have sent the Purple Thunder Solar Python deep into the Thunderfire Demon Cave for the tempering of heavenly thunder and earthly fire. Now, the Purple Thunder Solar Python has entered the volcano''s mouth and is undergoing transformation."


    "Thank you," Amelia waved her hand, dismissing the three demonically transformed psychics.


    She then took out the Forebearer cards, her face full of grievance, "Forebearer, Amelia misses home. Amelia has missed the grand ceremony twice now, please don''t be angry, elder."


    Seeing this, [You have used ''Forebearer''s Warmth'', consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    Feeling the warmth in her body, the fatigue of the day vanished instantly, and Amelia was revitalized. "Forebearer, you have shown your psychic powers again, wonderful!"


    Watching Amelia kneel in ecstatic worship, just as she had every time she received warmth before, and start talking about the recent days in front of the Forebearer cards, Ethan couldn''t help but smile.


    In this realm, Amelia was truly thriving, growing rapidly!


    She was also the greatest contributor to her family, even managing to meet the conditions for the transformation of the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    [Blackwood Year 55, Amelia saved countless lives, earning a reputation in the Thunderfire Demon Cave among demonically transformed psychics and the Demon Subduing Alliance as the ''Fatal Pharmacist''.]


    [Year 57, she concocted an eighth-grade medicine¡ªBoundary Breaker Powder, increasing the probability of an Iron Will Psychic breaking through to the Emerging Ability stage by ten percent!]


    [Year 61, Amelia figured out the situation in the demon cave, using the demon cave Psychic''s human relations as leverage, she had the demonically transformed psychics take the Purple Thunder Solar Python deep into the Thunderfire Demon Cave for a heavenly thunder and earthly fire bath!]


    Now, the hard-working Purple Thunder Solar Python of Blackwood was also beginning its transformation, just one Demon King Blood Pill away!


    "Forebearer, I''ve heard there''s trouble at home, please rest assured, at your command, Amelia will flatten the Rodriguez family!"


    Amelia''s voice suddenly turned fierce.


    Even far from home, Amelia still knew the affairs of her family, and no one could touch her home, not even the Sky Sect!

 Chapter 96: Chapter 96: Strongest support

    The scene appears at [Cloudview County City¡¤Southeast Corner School].


    In the largest city of Cloudview County, there is a school that teaches impoverished children to read and write.


    At this moment, in the simple school, the children''s tender voices recite loudly.


    The teacher is none other than Olivia, seated in a wheelchair!


    Olivia is now 48 years old. Once a beauty as pristine as a snow lotus, even the psychic medicines from Blackwood couldn''t prevent her from aging terribly.


    But now...


    After years away from home, she suddenly began to age rapidly, wrinkles appearing on her face, her hair dry and white hairs growing along the vines of time. Somehow, her eyes were also covered with a white cloth.


    [In the 55th year of Blackwood, Olivia had seen all the beautiful sights of Cloudview County.]


    [In Cloudview County, using the experts she brought from her family, she established an assassin organization named ''Dawn'', to amass wealth and send it back to her family.]


    [In the 56th year, Olivia became a zither player, playing in teahouses.]


    [In the 57th year, Olivia became a vegetable-selling farmwoman.]


    [In the 58th year, Olivia became a...]


    [In the 62nd year, a calamity from heaven tormented her soul, rendering her blind.]


    These students had just left the school.


    "Cough, cough!"


    Olivia coughed, her handkerchief covered in a frightening shade of blood.


    "Fourth Miss!" In this small school, a dozen maids appeared, the leader full of concern upon seeing Olivia''s condition.


    Olivia shook her head.


    "It''s nothing serious. How is everything at home?" S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The maid replied, "We checked; Young Master Marcus was assassinated, currently leading the Developing Skill mid-term elders to eliminate the Rodriguez family. But it seems Young Master Marcus has fallen into a trap set by the Rodriguez family."


    "Fortunately, the family''s experts have already gone to rescue him. Fourth Miss, should we deploy the forces of Dawn to annihilate the Rodriguez family?"


    Olivia''s expression remained unchanged, simply dismissing the maids.


    She slowly pulled out the Forebearer cards.


    The next moment.


    On the screen, Ethan saw a pop-up in the game.


    [Your descendant Olivia is reporting to you all the intelligence on the Rodriguez family, including the distribution of traps...]


    [Your descendant Olivia has sent you intelligence, stating that within two months, Dawn''s assassins will be ready to die for the family.]


    [Your descendant Amelia has sent you intelligence, and she is asking if you need assistance from the Thunderfire Demon Cave.]


    Seeing the messages from Amelia and Olivia coming through various channels, a smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    He suddenly felt the charm of his family.


    Amelia and Olivia, both far from home, face daily demonic attacks due to Amelia''s poor communication skills, previously only interacting with plants, but now she adeptly handles threats from all sides.


    Olivia, already struggling against the calamities bestowed by the heavens, even with his use of ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' and ''Forebearer''s Embrace'' to sustain her life, appears close to her end, yet with her frail body, she has established a powerful organization.


    They both contribute to the family in their own ways!


    No matter where or when!


    "I have received your sentiments, and though you are not here, as Forebearer, I will take your place and win this battle, Blackwood is invincible!"


    Ethan, more focused than ever, suddenly sat up from his bed, even the roasted duck beside him no longer seemed appetizing as he stared intently at the giant 500-inch screen.


    ...


    "Goo-goo!"


    Above the clouds, a line of thirteen black-clad figures flew on their swords, but a bird''s call from afar halted the leader, a handsome young man, who waved his hand to stop his companions.


    The Bai Li Dove, known for traveling thousands of miles a day to find people by their qi, landed in the young man''s hand. Who else could it be but Marcus?


    "Marcus, how did this mystical beast come to find you?" An elderly man beside Marcus expressed his surprise.


    Marcus''s expression was complex, "Elder Dylan, this is our clan''s Bai Li Dove, capable of traveling thousands of miles a day to find people by their qi, it must be carrying a message from our clan."


    "Oh."


    Elder Dylan was not surprised, as Marcus was a favored son of heaven, deeply versed in the true teachings of the Sky Sect, and expected to reach the peak of Emerging Ability within ten years, especially gifted with nine unique abilities and fire, with no Transcendent Seed at his breakthrough.


    The next sect leader would undoubtedly be Marcus.


    It was only natural for a small family like Blackwood to aspire to connect with him, a mere delusion.


    But he still used his psychic powers to check what message Blackwood had sent.


    A moment later, Elder Dylan''s face showed a playful expression, "Marcus, your clan members are quite interesting."


    If it weren''t for the fear of creating friction with Marcus, Elder Dylan might have burst out laughing.


    Blackwood actually sent a message saying, let Marcus do whatever he wants to do, remembering that he has Blackwood behind him?


    What is Blackwood?


    A mere upstart from the wilderness, established only sixty years ago, a family of just over twenty descendants?


    A clown indeed.


    "It is interesting."


    Marcus replied unemotionally, noticing the mockery in Elder Dylan''s expression and the disdain in his words.


    He then released the Bai Li Dove, glanced at Elder Dylan, and moved forward.


    His gaze flickered subtly.


    "I didn''t send the message, how did my family know about my predicament? Is Forebearer watching over me?"


    "This letter is from Daniel, and he''s gradually mastering Aunt Si''s exquisite methods. He should know that all incoming letters can''t escape the elders'' eyes, so he usually doesn''t say everything outright, implying a deeper meaning, which means..."


    "The family has sent me help!"


    Marcus pondered the meaning of the message, touching the Forebearer cards in his pocket, suddenly feeling immensely reassured.


    He always knew, the family was his strongest support!


    ...


    "Interesting? It''ll be even more interesting when you meet us."


    Ethan glanced at the text above their heads and didn''t pay much more attention to it. He felt somewhat relieved; Marcus was right to keep a low profile.


    After all, Marcus was in the Sky Sect, akin to being undercover, with the qualifications to be a boss. Every move he made was under scrutiny, and the pressure he faced daily was certainly no less than what Amelia and Olivia had to endure.

 Chapter 97: Chapter 97: I gave you a chance

    Seeing Marcus and the Sky Sect approaching, Ethan''s gaze shifted towards the Blackwood group.


    At this moment, they had entered Mount Five Peaks!


    In Mount Five Peaks, much like Blackwood''s Gratitude Village, it had already become a town in its own right. The Rodriguez family had over three thousand descendants, and together with the Rodriguez family''s vassals, the entire Mount Five Peaks housed over twenty thousand people.


    Nathan and his wife headed straight into Mount Five Peaks, and as soon as they approached, they triggered the Rodriguez family''s formation. It seemed they also had a method similar to the Blackwood people, who tattooed markings on their own to identify each other.


    The couple quickly stated their purpose, openly seeking to negotiate with the Rodriguez family, and were soon taken inside Mount Five Peaks.


    As for the others, they were outside the great formation of Mount Five Peaks that sensed enemies.


    "The formation is of the eighth rank, a bit troublesome."


    Julian grinned, seeing the entire Mount Five Peaks protected by the mysterious yellow energy, with various formation symbols emerging on the ground of Mount Five Peaks, forming a huge circular formation diagram.


    Suddenly, a formation disk appeared in his hand, within which a spherical bead moved across various mysterious scripts, eventually settling on one spot, "But no big deal, we should make it in time."


    [Your descendant Julian is using the top-grade psychic equipment ''Formation Annihilation Psychic Disk'' to locate the formation core and break the eighth-rank formation ''Five Peaks Protective Clan Formation''!]


    [Formation Annihilation Psychic Disk]


    [Specialized in breaking formations, the Formation Annihilation Psychic Disk will issue a warning when encountering a formation!]


    "It was Amelia who made the effort."


    Ethan grinned; this thing wasn''t originally owned by the family, but Amelia had been managing the Thunderfire Demon Cave for over a decade. Due to the various formations previously present in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, there were also many formation masters there, and this item was a reward Amelia received after saving an eighth-rank formation master.


    Moreover, the people of Blackwood could also slightly feel the presence of formations outside the Rodriguez family.


    Reaching the Emerging Ability stage, most Psychics actually have some knowledge of formations, alchemy, and talismans. However, mastering these items requires a vast reserve of knowledge, and to refine them further also requires talent and years of accumulation.


    This also presents a problem, an Iron Will Psychic wanting to become a psychic equipment craftsman might not succeed in forging psychic equipment because there''s no time to cultivate psychic powers, unable to break through, and might die.


    For instance, a D-level Psychic might not necessarily become a seventh-rank psychic equipment craftsman, but a seventh-rank psychic equipment craftsman is definitely a D-level Psychic!


    They are often beings of exceptional talent. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Julian just happens to be such a gifted individual. While crafting psychic equipment, he also needs the support of formations, and he is also a ninth-rank formation master!


    "Just waiting for you guys to break through the formation."


    Ethan, seeing Julian breaking the formation, then shifted his gaze to Nathan and his wife.


    After all, Ethan certainly didn''t want the previous incidents of leading people to Blackwood to kill, to fall upon his own people.


    ...


    [Rodriguez Family Estate]


    The scene shifts to the grand estate of the Rodriguez family, a lineage that has lasted over seven hundred years. Under the guidance of the Rodriguez family members, Nathan and his wife were led into the grand hall of the estate to meet with Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family.


    Observing the atmosphere in the hall, Nathan, and through him Ethan, gathered intelligence on the Rodriguez family. The head of the family, Landon, was at the Transcendent Seed stage.


    There was also an elder at the Transcendent Seed stage, one person at the peak of the Emerging Ability stage, three Emerging Ability experts, and several younger members of the Rodriguez family.


    After introductions and some small talk, Nathan, sitting next to the main seat, got straight to the point with a sigh, "Ah, Brother Landon, I have come to apologize."


    "Apologize?" Landon was momentarily taken aback.


    "Yes," Nathan replied with a bitter smile. "Years ago, my grandson Marcus had a feud with your family''s Silas. Young people are hot-blooded, and their fights can get out of hand. But if we clear this up, it can be resolved. "


    "Silas was at fault first, and my grandson was also wrong to kill. How about this: 500,000 Energy Stones, and we settle this matter. You promise on behalf of the Rodriguez family not to interfere with my grandson anymore. What do you say?"


    "What do you mean?" Despite being over a hundred years old, Landon remained composed, continuing to sip his tea.


    Moreover, the Rodriguez family was currently setting traps to kill Marcus. The arrival of the Blackwood family at the Rodriguez estate was suspicious!


    Now he was even more puzzled; his intelligence had not indicated that the Blackwood family would come, and he did not believe this was a coincidence.


    "At this moment, my family''s Marcus is coming here with Elder Dylan from the Sky Sect," Nathan continued, not mincing his words. Knowing the ways of the world at his age, he understood that some things did not need to be hidden.


    "Elder Dylan, at the mid-stage of Developing Skill, would not find it difficult to kill your family''s ancestor who has just entered the Developing Skill stage."


    Seeing Landon frowning, Nathan slowly picked up his teacup and drank leisurely, "I know even more. The assassination attempt on my Marcus was actually orchestrated by Elder Felix of the Sky Sect, who hired your Rodriguez family to find the assassin."


    Landon''s expression grew even darker.


    Nathan continued, "It''s really interesting, this Sky Sect. The leader, Wesley, knew about Marcus being assassinated but turned a deaf ear, unwilling to kill Elder Felix, who is at the peak of Developing Skill within the sect.


    Such negligence has now led Elder Felix to suspect that my grandson is coming to eliminate your Rodriguez family, so he has set traps in advance at your place¡ªa classic case of waiting for the rabbit."


    These simple words caused Landon''s face to lose color!


    "In the eyes of the Sky Sect, we are all but ants. Why sacrifice the lives of your Rodriguez family for some past events and for an Elder Felix?"


    At that moment, Landon was sweating profusely.


    Nathan was speaking of past events.


    But Landon understood the deeper meaning, which was to tell him that all the dealings of his Rodriguez family and Elder Felix had not escaped the eyes of Blackwood.


    And that Blackwood''s visit this time was not about so-called ''apologies,'' but rather to offer his Rodriguez family a way out.


    Even...


    All the traps set by his Rodriguez family and Elder Felix were under the watchful eyes of Blackwood.


    But...


    How could this be possible?!


    He stared intently at Nathan and his wife. This guy was merely at the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, with an ordinary aura. According to the intelligence Landon knew, the Blackwood from Forest Town in Tranquil County was just a small family that had risen over sixty years, with their strongest being a Purple Thunder Solar Python and an AI Bionic Robot comparable to the Transcendent Seed stage.


    The most astonishing feat this family had achieved was merely eradicating the Dragon Tiger Gate and becoming a subordinate of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion...


    Suddenly, Landon seemed to understand, his expression easing, even letting out a long breath.


    He stared at Nathan with amusement and suddenly burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha, Nathan, you''re ridiculous! The person behind you is from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, that charlatan Dennis from Jubilee County? So that''s how you knew all this?"


    "Did you bring people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion here secretly? Thinking my Rodriguez family, which has only been a Developing Skill family for a mere hundred years, could be deceived?"


    "Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous!"


    "Do you really think that with the backing of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, you can oppress me, Landon, inside my own Rodriguez family? Do you really think you hold the winning cards?!"


    Suddenly, all the powerhouses in the hall summoned their psychic equipment!


    They looked at the couple as if they were fools.


    "Boom!"


    A loud noise came from outside Mount Five Peaks, striking the Rodriguez family''s grand formation.


    The sound was like thunder, shaking the earth and mountains.


    Seeing Landon''s triumphant laughter, Nathan stood up along with Luna, who had been sitting silently beside him.


    Frowning, he summoned the basic psychic device, the Thousand Jun Seal.


    "Landon, I gave you a chance."

 Chapter 98: Chapter 98:Talisman Masters Fury

    Ethan heard the rumbling outside the Rodriguez family town and had already switched the screen, knowing that Nathan and his wife could handle the trouble they were facing.


    On the screen, above the clouds of Mount Five Peaks, Elder Dylan of the Sky Sect''s robes fluttered without wind, and thousands of talisman seals burning behind him made it seem as though the sunset had arrived even under the bright sun.


    At this moment, Elder Dylan looked like a phoenix spreading its wings! With a wave of his hand, he unleashed thousands of talisman seals, their power so immense that Marcus and others, merely feeling the aura, hurriedly kept their distance.


    In the Rodriguez family town, the Rodriguez family members all looked up to the sky, feeling the mid-stage Developing Skill pressure from Elder Dylan above, and the talisman seals that looked like fiery clouds, their faces filled with shock and despair.


    Ethan clicked on Elder Dylan''s avatar.


    [Sky Sect Elder ¡¤ Dylan]


    [Seventh Grade Talisman Master]


    "Still a Seventh Grade Talisman Master? If you started a company on Earth, you''d make a fortune!" Ethan couldn''t help but praise as he watched the spirited Elder Dylan on the screen.


    In this world, no matter what special profession, it should not be underestimated.


    The profession of a talisman master, their mode of attack is more violent and direct. Simply put, they imprint martial arts and spells on talismans, which can be activated with just a tiny bit of magical power.


    Theoretically, as long as they have enough materials and time to prepare, talisman masters could even handle many more experts of the same realm!


    "No wonder this Elder Dylan is so arrogant, bombarding with talismans without any preparation."


    But Ethan still shook his head, remembering the intelligence Amelia and Olivia had sent back. Marcus had been tricked, and all their actions had not escaped the eyes of Sky Sect Elder Felix.


    As expected.


    As the talismans neared the Rodriguez family town, in Ethan''s view, the people of the Rodriguez family in the town scrambled like ants encountering heavenly fire under the hundreds of talismans falling from the sky.


    Above their heads, small words appeared.


    "A Class extermination is here, someone help!"


    "Forebearer, come out, our clan depends on you now!"


    "Where is the clan leader? Quickly report to the Forebearer!"


    "..."


    Check it out, even the Developing Skill clan has a fine tradition of calling it the Forebearer.


    Ethan suddenly stood tall and proud, his expression even a bit arrogant, remembering the several times they were invaded at the Blackwood residence. The descendants of Blackwood were not as timid as those of the Rodriguez family; the people of Blackwood didn''t run, they picked up their weapons and fought the enemy!


    However, the panic of the Rodriguez family was obviously unnecessary.


    Amelia and Olivia''s intelligence was not wrong!


    Suddenly.


    "Screech!"


    A sharp bird cry echoed continuously, around the Rodriguez house, nine totems each 27 meters tall and engraved with giant birds rose from nine directions!


    In an instant, in the town of the Rodriguez house, a hundred huge green psychic bird shadows appeared, blocking the hundreds of eighth-grade talismans issued by Elder Dylan.


    The next moment, three psychic devices appeared out of nowhere, floating in the air, consisting of a psychic gourd, a psychic halberd, and a red silk ribbon, blocking Elder Dylan''s path in a pincer move, with two men and one woman from Developing Skill appearing!


    Elder Dylan''s face changed drastically, and another great formation began at the Rodriguez house.


    Five Transcendent Seed stage Psychics seemed to be prepared, appearing from around five high mountains outside the town of the Rodriguez house.


    Although these five had lower cultivation levels, they cut their palms, and just a bit of blood floating up formed a blood-red sky curtain, trapping these four Developing Skill masters within, clearly creating a separate battlefield for them.


    At the same time, the Emerging Ability powerhouses of the Rodriguez family rode their swords, surrounding Marcus and many disciples of the Sky Sect from all directions!


    ...


    The information previously reported to the Forebearer cards by Olivia came into view.


    [Sky Sect Elder Felix is cunning and deep in planning.]


    [That day, at the Sky Sect martial arts conference, he saw Marcus kill someone in public and already saw that Marcus was vengeful. Therefore, he specifically had the Rodriguez family go to Cloudview County to invite an assassin to kill Marcus, and then leaked a trace of clues.]


    [The narrow-minded Marcus will surely harbor hatred and will eventually come to the Rodriguez family to exterminate them in revenge.]


    [He had someone from another county invite the famous ''Trinity Assassin'' from the Killing Hall, with the nine unique fires in Marcus''s body as a reward, setting an ambush early at the Rodriguez house.]


    [This could avenge his disciple, eliminate Marcus, a vengeful competitor for the next sect master, and since Marcus brought trouble on himself, it has nothing to do with him.]


    "Sky Sect Elder Felix, he really is a big shot."


    Ethan, looking at the previous information, couldn''t help but sigh deeply, Elder Felix really had everything planned out, sitting in Sky Sect and already leading Marcus step by step into the trap.


    Looking at the screen again, Elder Dylan, who was just now spirited and impressive, is now in the blood curtain fighting with three Developing Skill opponents.


    The Trinity Assassins, probably also veterans of many years of cooperation, one mid-stage Developing Skill and two early-stage Developing Skills, used a combination technique similar to the earlier Dragon and Tiger brothers. However, Elder Dylan is no ordinary person and holds his own.


    [Elder Dylan, caught in the encirclement of the Trinity Assassins, is trapped by the Rodriguez family''s Hundred Unique Ability Bluebird Totem Array and the Five Extreme Unique Ability Array, unable to escape!]


    Soon, Marcus in the sky, along with 11 fellow sect brothers, were surrounded layer by layer.


    "Phew!"


    With a gust of wind, a figure emerged from the ground within the Rodriguez family town, the first to appear in front of the Sky Sect disciples! S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This person is the Developing Skill ancestor of the Rodriguez family¡ª


    Gideon!


    Facing the pressure of this Developing Skill ancestor, the Sky Sect disciples, true to their heritage as disciples of a great sect, showed no fear despite the Developing Skill aura emanating from Gideon.


    In this moment of crisis, they gritted their teeth and deployed their unique ability equipment, warily watching the hundreds of Rodriguez family Emerging Ability experts gradually surrounding them, looking for a sliver of a chance to survive.


    Ethan''s hand was tightly on the mouse.

 Chapter 99: Chapter 99: Your life, belongs to me now

    Ethan watched the Blackwood clan fight time and again, and he gradually realized that the people in this game world were truly insane. In life-and-death struggles, many didn''t even utter half a sentence, not a single curse word, just straight into action!


    Just meeting meant unleashing killer moves.


    Look at Gideon in the game, who merely glanced at Marcus and other disciples of the Sky Sect, and had already slapped out a casual palm strike, forcing Marcus and other sect disciples to defend with all their might.


    Then, a giant water dragon appeared out of nowhere, soaring through the sky!


    But Gideon''s actions also paused; he furrowed his brows, looking towards the direction of the Rodriguez family estate.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous roar, dust and smoke everywhere, Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family who had just been talking with the Nathan couple, emerged with his clan members from the Rodriguez family hall!


    In the center of the Rodriguez family estate, the grand hall turned into ruins.


    Four gigantic King Kong AI Bionic Robots appeared through the dust and smoke to the Rodriguez family''s sight.


    The Nathan couple stood on the shoulders of the foremost ascending War AI Bionic Robot!


    The three ground AI Bionic Robots moved somewhat slowly, unable to hover, charging straightforwardly.


    Those three AI Bionic Robots, if not crafted by Julian''s psychic abilities, what else could they be?!!


    [Eighth Grade Psychic Puppet Number One, with Master Jacob''s zombie as the core, made from eighth-grade thousand-catty psychic iron, strength defense up to the Transcendent Seed stage!]


    [Eighth Grade AI Bionic Robot Number Two and Three, with the Dragon and Tiger brothers'' zombies as the core... strength can reach the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    Ethan couldn''t help but praise Julian''s genius.


    However, these three imitations of the War AI Bionic Robot had many areas where they were inferior to the War AI Bionic Robot.


    They couldn''t achieve 360-degree attack angles without blind spots, nor could they move their psychic abilities freely, and they lacked an intelligence brain. The Energy Stones piled inside them made their movements consume a lot of energy. The flying stiffness inside them didn''t allow them to fly quickly; they were somewhat sluggish when hovering.


    But these three AI Bionic Robots were still powerful enough for combat!


    And at that moment on the battlefield.


    "Grandpa, Grandma!"


    Seeing the Nathan couple on the War AI Bionic Robot, Marcus, who was surrounded, had his eyes red with emotion. Although he had guessed from the family letters that his clan would come to the rescue, seeing them in person, he still couldn''t suppress the excitement in his heart.


    The Nathan couple just smiled at their grandson.


    Just then.


    Landon, who had just been talking with the Nathan couple in the hall, had already reached the side of the Rodriguez family''s ancestor. Although he had just scorned them limitlessly in the hall, the appearance of Blackwood''s three AI Bionic Robots had indeed given him a shock!


    He immediately reported to Gideon: "Great-grandfather, be careful, the information Elder Felix gave us was wrong! Not only did Elder Dylan and the Sky Sect disciples come, but Blackwood..."


    "Has brought people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion with them!"


    "Oh?"


    Gideon, with his brows furrowed, used his Developing Skill to probe all around, but he didn''t sense the presence of any experts from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, only a few unfamiliar, yet not frightening, auras within the Rodriguez family residence.


    He glanced at the Nathan couple and simply said, "Dennis, those in Jubilee County pretend to be gods and ghosts, but are actually as timid as mice. Let''s see if he dares to show himself today."


    With a mere wave of his hand, Gideon commanded the water dragon behind him to attack Marcus, paying no heed to Nathan and his wife. He was confident that if Dennis dared to show up, he would ensure his adversary''s downfall, especially since this was Rodriguez territory!


    But at that moment, Gideon''s expression finally changed. The massive water dragon, roaring towards Marcus, suddenly turned around to shield itself!


    It wasn''t them¡ªNathan and his wife had easily broken through his casual Developing Skill attack. Instead, two AI Bionic Robots appeared beside them! These robots, looking like ordinary humans but with expressionless faces and dusty bodies, opened their eyes as Nathan and his wife channeled psychic powers into them.


    They stared directly at Gideon, their bodies radiating a threatening aura without any psychic powers.


    "What... what is this?!!" Gideon was certain that these two beings possessed a combat prowess equal to the Developing Skill, and were potentially lethal!


    Just as he thought to use the water dragon to block the robots, he was taken aback once more. The AI Bionic Robots had no intention of fighting him; instead, they rushed towards Elder Dylan in the distance, clearly aiming to rescue him.


    As everyone was puzzled, a gust of wind blew.


    All eyes turned to the people of Blackwood, whose Forebearer badges began to emit a purple glow from their chests, rising into the air. In front of Gideon, these badges gathered to form a massive, five-meter-tall emblem, mysterious and sacred, engraved with the word¡ªBlackwood!


    "The Forebearer is showing its psychic powers!"


    "This... this is really showing psychic powers!"


    "Is this the enigmatic Forebearer of mine???" sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Gideon''s ears twitched, his psychic sense scanning the Rodriguez estate, faintly catching several rough voices excitedly nearing madness.


    But he had no time to attend to other matters now.


    He stared intently at the huge emblem in front of him. The emblem''s psychic powers flared like burning flames, causing black smoke to rise continuously, which gradually in front of the emblem...


    Formed into a human shape! Despite being at the Transcendent Seed stage, this figure formed from black mist posed a significant threat. Seemingly delighted by his arrival, he didn''t even glance at Gideon, who was only at the initial stage of Developing Skill.


    Instead, he spread his arms wide, looking up at the sky as if he were enjoying breathing the air and embracing the world.


    His presence seemed to bring an unparalleled calm to the entire Rodriguez estate.


    Nathan and his wife, along with Marcus, who was surrounded, trembled as they looked at the figure enveloped in black mist, their eyes red, nearly kneeling as if in the presence of a supreme deity.


    As the rubble from the recently destroyed hall fell again with a noise, the figure slowly turned, a cold glint flashing across his eyes as he stared at Gideon. His hoarse voice was calm, yet it sent shivers down the spine of everyone present.


    "Your life, belongs to me now."

 Chapter 100: Chapter 100: Forebearer Descends part 1

    I felt it, felt the essence of this world.


    I saw them, my dear descendants, united and fighting against all enemies for the sake of our family...


    Ethan greedily breathed in the air around him.


    Even in the sky, with the war AI Bionic Robot behind him and the Nathan couple standing on its shoulders, and in front of him a crowd of about a hundred Rodriguez family members flying around Marcus and a dozen from the Sky Sect.


    Yet, Ethan didn''t feel crowded at all.


    He wanted to imprint the faces of everyone from Blackwood in his heart, experiencing them in the world and in the game are two different things. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Here, the psychic abilities were filled with a murderous intent due to the great war. The ground fires ignited by Elder Dylan''s talismans filled the air with smoke, like entering a kitchen burning firewood.


    But Ethan was still greedy, deeply feeling that this air was sweeter than that of the real world!


    He believed that beyond this world, it must be filled with the songs of birds and the fragrance of flowers. If he could return to the Blackwood base, that would be even better. He wanted to meet the Boar Monarch Pete and see how the fourth generation of Blackwood children drove the strong Luna mad.


    He wanted to use a clean towel to wipe Amelia''s always dirty face, urging this family-devoted child to take better care of herself. He wanted to tell Olivia, who seemed fragile but was more stubborn than Julian, that if she couldn''t continue on the literary path, it wasn''t necessary; the Forebearer would protect her.


    Even the Nathan couple in front of him, he wanted to talk to these two about how much he wanted to strangle them when they flaunted their love in front of him.


    And Lucas... Marcus... Daniel...


    And give the second generation of Blackwoods a beating for always pulling those embarrassing poses that made him cringe even through the screen.


    "Eh."


    Ethan let out a long sigh, regretting that his time was really running short.


    He could only do his best, in this brief time, to eliminate all threats for his family!


    [Using skill¡ª¡ª]


    [Fight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Unranked skill, family development condition of 50 years achieved, available game world time: 5 minutes!]


    [For every additional family member, time increases by one second!]


    [Detected player at Transcendent Seed stage, consuming Spiritual Tribute value per minute: 1000!]


    [Current available time countdown¡ª¡ª]


    [5:23]


    ...


    "What... what are you exactly?!"


    When Gideon learned from his grandson that people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion might be coming, he didn''t panic. But now, although his face remained expressionless, his heart was already in turmoil, otherwise, he wouldn''t waste words with this mysterious figure who suddenly appeared!


    Coming out of a cards? That was unheard of.


    And this person, shrouded in mist, was merely at the Transcendent Seed stage, yet Gideon could only sense his realm and not how high his energy was. He only felt waves of threat, a sense of crisis that numbed him from head to toe!


    But the mist in front of him did not respond, seemingly intoxicated.


    "Hmph, playing tricks and pretending to be a god!"


    Gideon didn''t want to admit he was panicking. He thought of that nauseating fortune-teller from Jubilee County. In his youth, he had been tricked by Dennis, who was in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, using such deceptive methods, which made the entire Rodriguez family remember Dennis, that old thief.


    He suddenly narrowed his eyes, his hands forming seals, and the aura of the water dragon in the air became more solid, roaring towards the mist in front of him!


    Then he moved the seals again.


    Rodriguez family''s secret technique, Instant Movement, forced Gideon to be extremely solemn. The Developing Skill mana formed a raging river in mid-air, the several tens of meters long water dragon becoming several times more powerful, within which soldiers formed from the water Psychic Constitution, wielding swords and spears, charged forward.


    The dark mist formed by Ethan in front of him, and the five-meter-tall cards behind him, seemed so fragile under this river''s power.


    But...


    "Indeed, the gap between Developing Skill realm and Transcendent Seed stage is insurmountable, but..."


    Ethan suddenly raised his head, his eyes flashing brilliantly, with the Twin Fish Harmony Seal swirling within.


    The grand and destructive Developing Skill attack, which seemed poised to destroy everything, came to an abrupt halt in front of Ethan!


    He slowly extended his hand.


    In the space before him, a silver spearhead appeared, followed by a spear shaft engraved with various patterns!


    It seemed to sense a crisis coming from afar.


    The patterns on the spear shaft flowed with white light, slowly brightening, and like an emperor descending, it suppressed Gideon''s mana. The great river in mid-air, now a hundred meters long water dragon, faced its nemesis and returned to its origin.


    In an instant, the disintegrated water mana turned into a torrential downpour over the Rodriguez family''s residence!


    Everyone watched this scene in horror.


    Even Elder Dylan, who was still in the midst of a blood-soaked battle far away, and the Three Talents assassin from another county town, instinctively stopped their movements, staring in astonishment at the brightly shining long spear, their eyes filled with caution and a bit of... greed!


    "High-level psychic ability equipment, that''s the aura of high-level psychic ability equipment!"


    "And it''s not just any ordinary high-level psychic ability equipment, it can... suppress and decipher psychic powers!"


    "That figure emerging from the cards, what kind of creature is it?!!"


    ...


    Holding the long spear, Ethan felt an immense power surge through him!


    "Sing!"


    After breaking Gideon''s magical powers, the spear''s body trembled. It seemed angry, outraged at the audacity of the weak creatures before it, daring to challenge the dignity of a top-tier psychic weapon! It was as if urging Ethan to end the life of the disrespectful.


    [Celestial Axis Breaker Spear]


    [Top-Tier Advanced Psychic Weapon]


    [Psychic Spear Protection, under the spear tip, all magic can be broken. With this advanced psychic weapon as the core, the Celestial Axis Spear Formation can suppress all things under heaven!]


    This was the mysterious long spear found by Nathan above the deeply buried Mystic Boar Forest, a top-tier advanced psychic weapon! Even after countless years, the restrictions on this spear required a million Spiritual Tribute points to unlock.


    With the power of a top-tier advanced psychic weapon, combined with the characteristics of the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear, it could continuously suppress the Mystic Boar Forest, unknown to outsiders.


    This was also why Ethan, with only a Transcendent Seed stage realm, dared to enter the game world using the skill [Fight, dear Forebearer!] and face a D-level challenge.


    It was also the reason he had never feared that Marcus would encounter trouble at the Sky Sect!


    If it were just about Developing Skill, with the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear, there was nothing to fear.


    Just the magical power from the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear entering his body had already made his strength comparable to the peak of Developing Skill!


    As for Competent? Ethan dared not try, although the spear''s power could suppress the opponent''s magic, a Competent''s physical strength was already at its peak.


    In everyone''s gaze, he, shrouded in this dark mist, holding the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear, shot towards Gideon like a meteor, carrying a terrifying oppressive force.


    Meanwhile,


    Gideon also launched attacks towards Ethan continuously, but no matter how powerful Gideon''s Developing Skill magic was, and no matter what tricks he had up his sleeve, he couldn''t even touch Ethan''s true form. He could only watch in panic as his magic was dismantled inch by inch by the spear.


    "Puff!"


    A streak of blood trailed down from the sky, dripping down the spearhead. Ethan placed his hand on Gideon''s face, black flames crawled over Gideon''s body, entering through his orifices, destroying Gideon''s body and soul, leaving no chance for survival.


    Instant kill!


    "Is this the strength of our Forebearer?!!"


    "No, I can feel it, this isn''t the Forebearer''s true form, otherwise, why would it be a black mist? It must be just a minor part of the Forebearer''s soul!"


    "Hisss~ With such a Forebearer, what more could his descendants ask for?"

 Chapter 101: Chapter 101: Forebearer Descends part 2

    The descendants of Blackwood were as if possessed, finally sensing a hint of the divine might of the mysterious Forebearer!


    On the other hand, the Rodriguez family was in utter despair. Especially Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family, who watched helplessly as his great-grandfather fell from the sky.


    He still remembered the choice given to him by the Blackwood couple, Nathan and his wife, in the hall; he thought Blackwood''s trump card was the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    He guessed wrong and chose poorly!


    As he watched the Forebearer of Blackwood charging towards him, he closed his eyes, expecting death to come at any moment.


    But instead, Ethan passed by him. His target was not Landon, a mere Transcendent Seed stage; such men were left to the family''s younger generation, and as a family head, this man had other values.


    His target was...


    "Run!"


    "Split up and run, he has top-tier advanced psychic equipment, we''re no match for him even if we unite! How could such a miraculous piece of advanced psychic equipment appear in such a humble rural area?!"


    "Brother, sister, you go first, I''ll hold him off, see you in the next life!"


    The human assassin from the trio of heaven, earth, and man was also deeply loyal and righteous. He held a long spear and did not flee with the others. Instead, he faced Ethan directly. The fleeing one was Elder Dylan!


    "Damn it!"


    Dylan watched as the mysterious man who was getting closer knocked the human assassin''s spear flying with one shot and impaled him. He cursed under his breath.


    He had helped Marcus, hoping to wait until Marcus became the sect master so he could gain enough resources to break through the peak of Developing Skill.


    If managed properly, he could even control the future sect master. But now, he realized he was terribly wrong!


    Blackwood was not the mere Emerging Ability family they thought it was!


    Look at the people of Blackwood, all cards on the table.


    Various AI Bionic Robots, two with the power of early Developing Skill, that mysterious person, and the top-tier advanced psychic equipment...


    Such a family, let alone him, this level of strength was enough to catch the eye of the Sky Sect, which only had one junior advanced psychic equipment, a treasure of the sect!


    Especially...


    "Pfft!"


    While fleeing, Elder Dylan spat out a mouthful of blood, "Madmen, a whole family of madmen!" His face pale, he cursed again.


    The people of Blackwood had long considered him a target too.


    Just now, during his battle with the assassin of the trio of heaven, earth, and man, when the two Developing Skill AI Bionic Robots appeared, he was initially pleased, but he didn''t expect that one of the AI Bionic Robots, when it got close to him, took the opportunity to strike him too!


    Elder Dylan had strategized all his life, but now, within a single day, he had fallen into two traps.


    One was Elder Felix''s trap, setting up an ambush to kill him, which was still okay; he was confident he could escape, and after Marcus''s death, he could switch allegiance to Elder Felix.


    But the second trap...


    It was Blackwood''s trap, clearly intending to wipe everyone out, including him!


    "Escape, this vengeance must be avenged, the sect master and the supreme elder will definitely be interested in the top-tier advanced psychic equipment."


    Elder Dylan looked coldly at the mysterious figure behind him and at Marcus, who had already joined Blackwood and was now turning against his own sect brothers. "Indeed, these family scions can never truly be tamed!"


    "Though that mysterious person possesses top-tier psychic ability equipment, he can''t fully control the power of the Developing Skill. He can''t catch up to me; this is a problem of Blackwood''s own making."


    Dylan had never run so fast, empowered by more than a dozen talismanic scripts entering his body.


    But suddenly, his expression changed again.


    The mysterious man behind him seemed not to care at all about his escape, remaining calm and indifferent. "Close the gates, release the blood ability fruit trees!"


    As he spoke, Elder Dylan looked in horror toward the center of the Rodriguez family residence.


    There, Blackwood Lucas, with the power of the Sword Sect, was furiously slaughtering the Rodriguez family members with a hundred flying swords, charging toward the center of their home.


    He held a scroll, which he threw into the air.


    In an instant, roots burst forth from the scroll, clawing their way out, followed by a massive tree nearly sixty feet tall that appeared before everyone''s eyes. This bizarre tree seemed to be dancing, especially its roots, thick trunk, and branches, all densely covered with runes.


    As it danced madly in the center of the Rodriguez home, the talismanic symbols on his body burst forth in brilliant light, the roots spreading throughout the entire Rodriguez residence, and a disc above its head gradually enlarging¡ªthe Eight Directions Array that Marcus had once sent back to his family!


    "Phew,"


    Looking at the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree and the appearance of the Eight Directions Array, under their combined effect, an array of formations enveloped the entire Rodriguez residence, allowing Ethan to breathe a sigh of relief.


    [You are using ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'', consuming 500 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    Behind him, the massive Forebearer cards transformed into over a dozen cards, blocking Elder Dylan who was trying to break through the formation''s restrictions!


    Ethan charged towards Elder Dylan once again.


    There was one thing Elder Dylan really guessed right. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Blackwood''s visit to the Rodriguez family was a trap within a trap!


    Neither Ethan nor anyone in Blackwood ever intended to let go of the Heaven-Earth-Man Assassin or the Sky Sect experts brought by Marcus because...


    "The Heavenly Moon Fox on Luna and the Purple Thunder Solar Python want to break through to become Demon Kings, and the quickest way is to obtain the Demon King Blood Pill. A D-level expert''s Developing Skill should also suffice as a substitute!"


    "After all, the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree became a rank eight by the same means before."


    Ethan narrowed his eyes, revealing the true purpose of his risky venture with all of Blackwood.


    Otherwise, Ethan wouldn''t have come out at all; he could have simply paid a hefty sum for the services of the people from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    In view,


    The roots of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree had already taken hold across the entire Rodriguez family''s territory. The ordinary people and Iron Will experts of the Rodriguez family had virtually become supplements for the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, and even Ethan could feel the tree''s joyous thrills!


    And Lucas was no slouch either, leaping directly onto the top of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, dropping millions of Energy Stones to maintain the tree''s psychic abilities and activate the array.


    Looking at the various engravings on it and the array plate above it, this was the key to Blackwood trapping everyone present after receiving the intelligence, allowing no one to escape.


    Because... this thing almost carried half of Blackwood''s foundation!


    Just as Ethan had known before, a psychic tree of this sort is a truly unique existence. When the Dragon-Tiger Brothers invaded Blackwood, the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree hadn''t even shown its full capabilities!


    [Year 43 of Blackwood, the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree absorbs blood daily, its roots spreading to a hundred meters.]


    [Year 44, Blackwood begins to engrave arrays on its roots.]


    [Year 47, the Psychic Energy Gathering Array is fully engraved.]


    [Year 48, its roots spread to a kilometer...]


    [Engraving the Evil-Banishing Array... Engraving the Thousand Swords Killing Array... Engraving the Forebearer Psychic Array... Engraving...]


    [Year 60, the roots extend ten thousand meters!]


    Blackwood rarely saw arrays because the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree itself was the embodiment of Blackwood''s arrays, wherever it was located, that was where Blackwood''s accumulated arrays were!


    Blackwood, with years of development, was not only a family under the protection of the Forebearer cards.


    The people of Blackwood were born from the Direct Death Coffin and grew up on the bloody roots of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree!

 Chapter 102: Chapter 102: Forebearer Descends part 3

    "Kill!" The Blood Psychic Fruit Tree summoned a hundred magical formations, each powered by a mid-grade psychic device from all directions. Its profound yellow magical power trapped an area nearly 12 miles wide. From beneath the ground, eight ancient stone gates emerged, their appearance majestic.


    The Developing Skill realm also utilized psychic devices, and the eight formations used in this device were comparable to the power of a seventh-grade formation master. Even Elder Dylan couldn''t break the formations with his talismans in a short time. He was being relentlessly pursued by Ethan.


    After the appearance of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, the people of Blackwood demonstrated to the Rodriguez family, who hailed from the humble town of Forest, the formidable strength of a seemingly ordinary rural household.


    "People of Blackwood are demonically possessed psychics!" they exclaimed.


    "Kill him, kill Nathan, he''s controlling that coffin!"


    "We can''t get close, he''s surrounded by zombies, and that coffin is no ordinary item, just like that mysterious person''s high-grade psychic equipment, it''s impenetrable!"


    Nathan, shrouded in dark energy, handed the basic psychic device, the Heavy Seal, to Luna. The Direct Death Coffin emerged from the Storage Ring! Over the years, Blackwood had slain countless enemies, nourishing the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree with their corpses, which were then refined in the Direct Death Coffin.


    Zombies possessed Foundational Energy. Flying zombies were akin to those with Emerging Abilities, capable of aerial movement and killing with deathly energy!


    And this was merely the power obtained from unlocking the first seal of the Direct Death Coffin!


    No one knew the true power of the Direct Death Coffin.


    After countless zombies surged out of the coffin, Nathan, carrying the silver coffin, chased after a Rodriguez family elder at the peak of the Transcendent Seed stage, using it in a straightforward and rustic manner.


    Luna, though only possessing mid-stage psychic beast power, seemed to have recently received some legacy. Fox shadows emerged from her, fighting with the Heavy Seal and two pieces of psychic equipment Amelia had sent back, against another Transcendent Seed stage opponent.


    Lucas, the eldest son of Blackwood, surprised Ethan the most. Originally commanding a hundred swords to guard near the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, he had to coldly snort when an opponent at the peak of Emerging Ability attacked. Swords floated around him within a hundred meters, and in an instant, thousands of swords were launched!


    As for Julian...


    This guy used to be a drag on the people of Blackwood during battles. But having acquired the profession of a psychic puppet smith and crafted high-grade psychic equipment for his arms, he had completely transformed!


    No wonder Julian had been bragging about his arms these days.


    With a loud laugh, his arm, just like the psychic puppet he had created before, began to change shape. A massive armor enveloped his body, allowing him to control an eight-meter-tall psychic puppet, as if piloting a mech!


    His body possessed the strength of an eighth-grade psychic puppet but was more lively than a psychic puppet, wielding a massive hammer measured in tons, truly a reaper on the battlefield.


    Julian''s wife, Mary, was no less extraordinary. A dazzling blood pearl emerged on her, boosting her from the initial stage of Emerging Ability to the peak of Emerging Ability. That was the Demon King Blood Pill given to her beloved daughter Mary by the Boar Monarch Pete!


    Looking at the third generation of nine people in Blackwood who interacted with outsiders...


    Only Marcus transformed into flames, fighting enemies with nine fire lotuses around him.


    Daniel and the second generation of Blackwoods, being slightly weaker, slowly approached the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, picking up the mid-grade psychic equipment longbow crafted by Julian and firing wildly.


    Their eyes glanced towards the Forebearer chasing after Developing Skill in the sky and the elders showing their divine powers on the battlefield, their faces full of admiration.


    "My God, does our family have so many secrets?"


    "I thought that coffin was just for training, but grandpa has released so many zombies from it... I finally understand why we''ve been told to bring back the bodies of our enemies all these years!"


    "Hey, number eight, what are you doing? Why are you gesturing with a knife at yourself?"


    "I''m thinking about where to cut. After that, I''ll ask dad to fit me with that kind of psychic equipment too."


    "We''ve taken beatings over the years, and it''s not unjust at all. Look at grandma and mom, they''ve started helping uncle chase after those at the Transcendent Seed stage."


    "I''ve decided, I want to train with the sword... Why? I want to launch thousands of swords like uncle, damn that''s cool!"


    "..."


    Only Daniel was quietly observing the devastated Rodriguez household, contemplating the shortcomings of this emerging Developing Skill family. He summarized the experiences, preparing to address the weaknesses he observed in the Rodriguez family to strengthen Blackwood further.


    "Psychic devices are crucial. If they had powerful clan-protecting psychic devices, this wouldn''t have happened."


    "The personnel are too scattered. If all the clan members in the territory united, with the enhancement of formations, they could have put up a fight against Developing Skill. Actually, Thomas''s plan to arm all members wasn''t bad, especially since we''ll have plenty of resources after this."


    "It seems that our Blackwood''s trump cards are still too few. If we had ten more direct-death coffins like psychic treasures, we would be safer."


    In the distance, Marcus, although touched by his family''s rescue efforts, was puzzled and slightly embarrassed when he discovered that everyone was using the Sky Sect techniques.


    He had struggled for years in the Sky Sect, waiting to reach Class D and bring back the Sky Sect techniques to strengthen his family. Now...


    "It must have been the Forebearer''s doing, right?"


    When Marcus thought of this, the embarrassment in his heart vanished. Looking at the mysterious figure of the Forebearer fighting in the sky, he was full of admiration, "This is my Marcus''s Forebearer. Not to mention acquiring the Sky Sect''s techniques, even annihilating the Sky Sect would be considered normal!"


    ...


    Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Step.


    Hundred Shadow Sword Glow.


    In the sky, Ethan also used his magical martial skills. In an instant, the Developing Skill power he obtained from the celestial psychic spear caused his shadow to split into thousands in the air, and the original hundred sword shadows turned into long spears, about ten thousand in total!


    These spear shadows targeted the Earth-class assassin among the Heaven, Earth, and Man trio.


    However, Ethan still held back, only shattering the protective psychic energy around the woman''s body.


    Then he pierced through her skull and burned her soul, wanting her complete corpse to turn into a zombie, a psychic puppet!


    "Fellow Daoist, you can''t catch up with me anyway."


    The Heaven-class assassin from the trio, unlike his sister and brother, wasn''t as loyal. However, his movements were quite strange, even comparable to Elder Dylan using a dozen talismans for swift movement. For a moment, Ethan couldn''t catch him.


    At this moment, the man gritted his teeth and negotiated with Ethan, "But I can catch up with Dylan. Now, this thief wants to break the formation and escape, which isn''t good for either of us. How about we make a deal? "


    "If you swear to let me go, I''ll help you catch him and kill him. I can also swear to withdraw the memories of today and from then on, forget each other in the vast crowd, how about that?"


    S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 103: Chapter 103: Hidden Ability Blueprint

    Upon hearing this, Elder Dylan was furious, his heart clogged with frustration as he released ten more precious talismans, continuing to bombard the magical formation and running even faster. Ethan, however, turned a deaf ear. He furrowed his brows and stared at the blue screen in front of him¡ª


    [Remaining Time: 1:45]


    Time was running out.


    But he also realized his shortcomings; indeed, just as the top-tier assassin had said, continuing the chase was futile!


    He suddenly stopped in his tracks, calmly watching the top-tier assassin and Elder Dylan fleeing in the opposite direction.


    In an instant.


    As Ethan closed his eyes, everyone in the town of Rodriguez felt a majestic aura, one that was urgently contradictory!


    It contained an extremely sinister aura of death, yet also the vigorous vitality of the rising sun.


    Especially the two in the middle stage of Developing Skill, who felt it most profoundly, targeted by the aura emanating from Ethan''s body¡ªa supreme pressure that made their Psychic Constitution tremble!


    They looked towards Ethan in horror.


    A Twin Fish Harmony Seal emerged from beneath Ethan''s feet, with profound darkness on the left and intense light on the right!


    Under the power of Developing Skill, the Twin Fish Harmony Seal formed a vast domain, covering the sky trapped by the eight-directional formation, enveloping the two!


    "What is this?!!"


    Elder Dylan stared at the spinning Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the mysterious figure in the center shrouded in black mist.


    Then...


    His expression gradually became vacant, his head stiffly lowered, looking at his abdomen, overshadowed by darkness.


    That silver, top-quality psychic weapon had pierced right through him.


    Ethan appeared before him!


    Instant kill!


    Elder Dylan was bewildered; he didn''t even know how Ethan had appeared, nor what high-level power Ethan had used.


    "Light and shadow interact, two sides of the same coin, no fixed direction, within my Twin Fish Harmony Seal, I am omnipresent."


    This was his life''s method of cultivating psychic powers!


    [Twin Fish Harmony Seal , First Layer, Heaven and Earth]


    Ethan slowly withdrew the long spear, no longer caring about the dead Elder Dylan.


    He slowly glanced towards the top-tier assassin with a deathly pale face.


    In just a blink, he was already in front of him, staring into his eyes full of despair.


    Ethan smiled.


    "Weren''t you going to trade with me? The conditions of the trade just now aren''t valid, try another."


    "I..."


    The formidable top-tier assassin, at the middle stage of Developing Skill, was already trembling with fear, looking at Elder Dylan still falling to the ground, unable to utter half a word.


    Ethan regretfully said, "It seems your value isn''t high either."


    With those words, he casually plunged the psychic spear of Tian Shu Town into the chest of the top-tier assassin, the psychic fire burning his soul.


    Ethan took a deep breath, retracting the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the psychic spear of Tian Shu Town back into his body.


    He quietly watched his descendants still fighting the enemy.


    A gentle smile appeared on his face.


    "Until next time, I hope I can exist a bit longer next time, to take a good look at this world."


    As Ethan''s body slowly disappeared, merging into the Forebearer''s position.


    All the descendants of Blackwood looked up in the direction where the Forebearer had vanished, their eyes moist.


    Nathan led the cry.


    "May the Forebearer bless us!"


    Thomas, on the blood psychic fruit tree, wept bitterly, "Farewell, Forebearer!"


    In just a moment.


    He trembled under the scrutinizing gaze of his elders and siblings, ready to clean house...


    ...


    Just moments ago, Ethan was battling at the Rodriguez residence. Now, he''s back in his familiar room. Although he only spent less than five minutes in the game world, he felt an inexplicable sense of being worlds apart, his emotions complex and tangled.


    He felt a profound sense of loss, like an elderly man who could only stay at home and receive phone calls to catch up on his children''s lives, unable to join them in their struggles.


    He longed to meet again, to gather with these descendants he had never lived with, to chat about everything under the sun and discuss life''s significant matters.


    Ideally, he''d share a meal with them, perhaps offering each a cup of milk tea.


    Sometimes, it seems, relationships form in just such a way¡ªnever having met, yet already deeply connected by emotions, like an invisible thread stretching across space and time, linking them together.


    "Ah, it''s like a real world, my descendants, even if they are characters in a game world, they are real to me," Ethan sighed deeply.


    Suppressing the urge to dive back into the game world, his eyes suddenly widened in shock.


    Seeing the "Rest in Peace, Forebearer" above Thomas''s head in the game almost drove him to go back and give the kid a piece of his mind.


    "That little rascal, I''ll remember this, Forebearer here is waiting for the next time I come over!"


    Thomas interrupted.


    Ethan snapped back to reality. As for returning, that was a matter for later. What he needed to do now was to focus on the battlefield.


    After all the Developing Skill masters were killed, the Rodriguez family was beyond redemption.


    With Nathan crushing a Transcendent Seed stage enemy with a coffin, the battle had completely turned one-sided.


    The town of the Rodriguez family, with over twenty thousand people, couldn''t withstand the mass attack of the blood ability fruit trees, along with the zombies and flying zombies. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The potions Amelia sent back also allowed the people of Blackwood to maintain the recovery of their abilities.


    [You have used ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'', consuming 500 Spiritual Tribute.]


    Although he had returned.


    Ethan was still fighting, slaying enemies under the control of the Forebearer cards!


    "Landon, you''re on the wrong side."


    Half a day later, the town of the Rodriguez family had turned into ruins, all the corpses of the Rodriguez family were collected back into the Coffin of Direct Death, and the blood ability fruit trees were returned to that picturesque blueprint¡ª


    [Premium Ability Equipment: Hidden Ability Blueprint]


    [Contains ability beasts, treasures, harboring the peak abilities of Emerging Ability, nurturing the entities within the painting]

 Chapter 104: Chapter 104: Directly striking it rich!

    The people of Blackwood stood before Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family, who was already bound by chains that sealed his magical powers.


    "Ah."


    As the head of the family, even as he watched the downfall of the Rodriguez family and seven hundred years of legacy destroyed in an instant, he did not curse or even show regret for his own wrong decisions. Instead, he let out a long sigh that spoke volumes of his weariness.


    He understood Nathan''s purpose for leaving him alive and said with a bitter smile, "Mr. Nathan, I will tell you everything about the Rodriguez family''s remaining techniques, martial skills, and the locations of our treasuries. But you must promise me one condition."


    "The children of the Rodriguez family in this town are innocent; they know no better. Let them go."


    "And the branches of my family in other towns and cities, they are unaware of this matter."


    Nathan, hearing this, looked towards the corner of Blackwood where the young children were.


    They had been planning for two months and were fully prepared. They were responsible for annihilating the Rodriguez family and Elder Dylan''s group, while Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and the serene Moore were tasked with eliminating any future threats.


    He frowned, "I''m sorry, Mr. Landon, but your branches in other towns and cities are already finished. As for these children... I will not harm them. I will use magic to extract their memories. As for their future, it depends on whether they can survive on their own."


    "Ah, that''s for the best."


    Watching this scene, Ethan had nothing to say. Although Nathan was fierce towards his enemies, he ultimately had a compassionate side.


    Moreover... killing children, no matter who''s faced with such a decision, would feel a pang of conscience. It''s a dilemma no one wants to face. For Ethan, whether it was a moment of compassion or a decision to eliminate future threats by killing them, it would be an incredibly tough choice.


    However, Ethan still respected Nathan''s decision, even if these children grew up seeking revenge.


    Isn''t that just the way of the world?


    But just as Nathan finished speaking, Ethan swallowed hard as a new message appeared in his event log.


    As Landon revealed the valuable secrets of the Rodriguez family.


    [Your descendant Olivia, knowing well the kindness of her family, suspected that the Rodriguez family might use their secret techniques and valuables to negotiate, causing her father Nathan to hesitate and ultimately spare the children out of compassion.]


    [To eliminate future threats, she has issued an order, and Dawn assassins are already on their way to the Rodriguez family residence.]


    "..."


    Ethan was momentarily speechless. This girl had always been sharp, not only thoroughly understanding the intelligence on enemies but even anticipating the thoughts of her own family members. Yet, he also felt a certain heaviness for Olivia.


    That''s just how it was in Blackwood. Often, people like Nathan would feel compassion, and sometimes they showed kindness, because that''s just human nature. Whenever such moments arose, Olivia would make choices in the shadows that were starkly different and most beneficial for the family.


    Some aimed to be virtuous, standing in the sunlight, while others bore burdens in the shadows.


    Olivia always stood in the darkest backstage, doing the dirtiest work, unnoticed.


    Perhaps, the deep calamities she now bore in her heart, which delayed her becoming a scholar of the literary path, were also due to the heavy sins she carried.


    Soon after, the people of Blackwood obtained their spoils of war and headed back to Blackwood. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Congratulations, your family has completed the special event¡ªElimination of Elder Felix''s minions]


    [You have gained 10,000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    [In this battle, you demonstrated divine prowess, instantly defeating a Developing Skill master with the mysterious posture of controlling the Yin-Yang diagram, earning praises from your descendants as if you were a deity!]


    [You have gained 5,000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    "A total of 15,000 Spiritual Tribute points from one battle," Ethan noted, a smile spreading across his face.


    However, Ethan felt a pang of regret as another message appeared.


    [Your two Celestial Seekers have been destroyed.]


    [Celestial Seeker: A body possessing the power of Developing Skill, impervious to pain and soul attacks. Upon activation, it detects the scent and sight of its target, designating the opponent as an enemy to be relentlessly pursued until the mission is completed, after which the Celestial Seeker becomes ineffective.]


    This device was the AI Bionic Robot he had once sent to Blackwood, also brought back by Alan from an extremist organization. It had been developed long ago, responsible for the deaths of many important figures, thus becoming a banned item.


    But no worries, Alan, with his vast connections, could probably get more, though they were quite expensive.


    Yet, the gains from this time far outweighed the costs!


    [Your family has obtained a seventh-grade formation blueprint¡ªthe Hundred Abilities Azure Bird Totem Formation, and nine supreme totem ability equipments, the Azure Bird Totem Pillars!]


    [Your family has obtained low-level ability devices, the Wind-Fire Halberd, the Heaven Sand Gourd, the Prison Life Red Cloud Silk, the Great River Dragon General Diagram, and the Formation Symbol Ability Pen!]


    [You have gained eighth-grade medicinal herbs...]


    War is always the best way to accumulate wealth!


    After this battle, Ethan could feel that Blackwood was on the brink of a revolutionary change!


    A seventh-grade formation had the power to resist masters of the Developing Skill realm.


    And as for ability devices, those were things only D-level masters were qualified to possess. A single low-level ability device could allow someone in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability to fight against someone in the Transcendent Seed stage, and these devices could only truly unleash their power in the hands of those in the Developing Skill realm.


    Originally, Elder Gonzalez had kept a low-level ability device very securely, using it as a treasure to stabilize his clan.


    Five low-level ability devices were akin to adding five Transcendent Seed stage masters to Blackwood!


    There were also various pills, ability herbs, ability items, and that found under the peach tree, filling a Storage Ring with Energy Stones, various ores...


    "Directly striking it rich!"

 Chapter 105: Chapter 105: He... was kidnapped!

    As time sped up, the people of Blackwood had returned to their clan, where everything was well. The group squeezed into the Forebearer''s shrine.


    Marcus, a child who hadn''t been home for many years, looked around at the unfamiliar surroundings of his family''s estate, his eyes misty with tears that he had always held back while at the Sky Sect.


    Kneeling before the Forebearer cards, he was overwhelmed by the ceremonial feeling that he remembered from his time in the clan. Remembering the past, he couldn''t help but cry on the spot, just like the child who had cried in the Forebearer''s shrine years ago.


    "Forebearer, your child..." he began.


    "I''m back!"


    After the great battle, as usual, Nathan, like an old man guarding a temple in the village, sang praises and the family''s devotion grew even stronger.


    Once it was all over, Lucas looked at Marcus, now grown up, and took a deep breath, hesitating. He wanted to pat Marcus on the shoulder but withdrew his hand, saying emotionlessly, "Now that you''re back, don''t go back to the Sky Sect." S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Daniel also advised his brother, "Yeah, big brother. This time you brought out more than a dozen disciples from the Sky Sect, including Elder Dylan. Now they''re all dead, and the Rodriguez family has been destroyed. "


    "If you go back, they''ll definitely be suspicious. Stay here. What does it matter if the Sky Sect finds out? We now have the support of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, and Forest Town is under the jurisdiction of the Xuanwu Gate!"


    "You''re right," Nathan said, satisfied, looking at Marcus. "Grandson, the Sky Sect may be large, but our Blackwood heritage is not to be taken lightly. Under the protection of the Forebearer, one day the Sky Sect will have to bow down to us."


    But no matter how they tried to persuade him, Marcus stubbornly shook his head. "I must return to the Sky Sect."


    "What nonsense are you talking about?!" Lucas burst out in anger, his hand raised to slap Marcus, but looking into Marcus''s defiant eyes and thinking about the years of estrangement, he couldn''t bring himself to do it.


    Grinding his teeth, yet unable to hide the pain in his eyes, he said, "In your eyes, is my Blackwood really inferior to the Sky Sect? Is the status of a direct disciple really worth your concern?"


    Marcus knelt before his elders, his tone firm. "I must return to the Sky Sect. I will always know that this is my root, Marcus''s safest home. But Marcus has already caused enough trouble for the family. Even if it means death, I won''t bring the troubles of the Sky Sect back home to endanger the family!"


    "I am a man, and I will always remember the day when the adults of Blackwood fought towards Forest Town. We didn''t know if we would win that battle. Daniel and I waited at home, and I kept thinking about what my aunt and father told me. What would Daniel and I do if everyone didn''t come back?"


    "From that day on, I didn''t want to wait anymore, nor did I want to bear the burden that my mother bore."


    Listening to Marcus''s words, the people of Blackwood sighed deeply. They all understood that both Marcus and Daniel were deeply troubled by the events of that year.


    Marcus clenched his fists, his expression resolute. "As long as I am a son of Blackwood, I will not hide like a coward. I will face all difficulties just like my grandparents, my father, my second aunt, and my fourth aunt!"


    "I also have a goal. I told the Forebearer that I want to be the sky of the Sky Sect. "


    "I want to return to the clan with honor and achievements. "


    "I want to make a career that will make my family proud. "


    "I want to tell the people of Gratitude Village that I, Marcus, am worthy of being a son of Blackwood!"


    No longer trying to persuade him, they looked at the boy with only admiration and pride in their eyes. This was their son of Blackwood!


    Only Julian scratched his head, wondering if the child had forgotten to praise him. "I heard that Uncle Three has been forging for decades without giving up. I can endure for decades, even a hundred years!"


    "My elders, let me go," Julian said, standing tall and proud, his chin held high.


    "Hmph! If you want to go, then go!" Lucas snorted coldly and turned away.


    Nathan shook his head with a smile, helping Marcus up, though worry still lingered in his eyes, "Marcus, do you have an explanation for returning to the Sky Sect?"


    "Yes," Marcus nodded, his lips pursed as he watched his father walk away.


    Nathan saw the thoughts crossing Marcus''s mind, "Your father is like that when he speaks; don''t hold it against him."


    "I understand," Marcus replied.


    Moments later, under the watchful eyes of his family, Marcus set off again towards the Sky Sect.


    Suddenly, Lucas appeared among the crowd, watching the firm back of his son. His eyes reddened, but he couldn''t suppress a smile, prouder than even when he had mastered his swordsmanship.


    "Marcus has grown up, just like me."


    ...


    Ethan could tell that Lucas cared about Marcus, but unfortunately, Lucas was never good at expressing himself. However, Blackwood really didn''t need to worry about Marcus''s safety because someone had already thought of a plan!


    Ethan stared intently at the screen. Time sped up to the maximum, and just as Marcus had left Blackwood and hadn''t yet left the boundaries of Tranquil County, he... was kidnapped!


    Assassins from Cloudview County had come, knocking him out halfway and taking him away, passing through Mount Five Peaks Rodriguez Town.


    When Marcus woke up briefly, he caught a glimpse of Rodriguez Town, where over a dozen demonically possessed psychics were bombarding everything, the land was withered, and demonic energy filled the air.


    Before he could understand what was happening, he was knocked out again and sold to the demonically possessed psychics.


    When he woke up again, Marcus was inside a straw hut in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, surrounded by demonically possessed psychics. He saw...


    "Aunt Amelia???" Marcus, bound by ropes that suppressed his magical powers, opened his eyes.


    The whole ordeal had left him bewildered, and seeing Amelia squatting in front of him with a smile, looking just like she did when he was a child, felt like a dream.


    Amelia waved her hand, and the bloodthirsty, crazed demonically possessed psychics, whom Marcus knew to be utterly evil, respectfully bowed and then walked out of the hut.


    While Marcus was still pondering whether his aunt had secretly become a demon lord, Amelia''s hand, just like when he was a child, touched his head, and Marcus finally came to his senses, though he was still utterly confused.


    "Aunt, where is this? What happened? These demonically possessed psychics..."


    Amelia shook her head, "Don''t ask anything, just listen to your aunt." As she spoke, Amelia opened a thumb-sized porcelain bottle, pinched Marcus''s mouth open, and poured a purple liquid into it.


    In an instant, Marcus''s already bewildered eyes whitened, and his consciousness began to emerge during the time he and Elder Dylan attacked Mount Five Peaks Rodriguez family.


    Amelia''s voice, as if bewitching, whispered in his ear. "Because you were assassinated by a hitman, after many searches for the assassin, it was discovered that Elder Felix had asked the Rodriguez family to send the hitman, so in a fit of rage, you tried every means to remove Elder Felix''s minions."


    "Is that right?"


    Marcus nodded unconsciously, "Yes, that''s right."


    "That was a room, Elder Dylan took you to meet the hitman from the county town, there were beauties, a table, and psychic tea in the room... you discussed with the hitman about wiping out the Rodriguez family, is that right?"


    In this unconscious state, Marcus''s mind, according to Amelia''s words, actually conjured up precise images!


    "Yes."


    "Do you remember what you talked about? The hitman asked you for a price, their eyes were cold, greedy, and cunning..."


    "I remember now, it was like that."


    "..."

 Chapter 106: Chapter 106: Two more were born!

    "You led the sect''s Elder Dylan and assassins to attack the Rodriguez family, only to find that they were well-prepared. In a critical moment, a group of demon-possessed psychics suddenly appeared and saved you, but then they turned around and, with the assassins you had bribed, killed your sect disciples."


    "The assassins sold you to the demon-possessed psychics, who had long had their eyes on your talents. You were taken to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where they planned to sell you to a powerful figure deep within the cave for a possession ritual... Along the way, you were rescued by a righteous warrior from the Demon-Slaying Alliance... and then..."


    Amelia saw Marcus nodding repeatedly, her excitement growing as she jumped up and down on the spot.


    "Then, that so-called righteous warrior developed evil intentions halfway through, and you were sold again, this time to a female demon-possessed psychic who practices the art of cultivating psychic powers through dual cultivation, and the demon-possessed psychics wanted to use you for breeding!"


    ...


    Ten minutes later.


    Four female demon-possessed psychics took Marcus away, and the tightly bound Marcus opened his eyes to clearly see his situation.


    He was expressionless.


    But inside, he had already understood everything¡ªit was just for breeding! Reflecting on his journey to the Rodriguez family, being sold multiple times, he now could only wait to use his useful body to escape from the Thunderfire Demon Cave and plan his next move.


    With this thought, Marcus clenched his teeth, resignedly closed his eyes, and muttered to himself that such is life, and one must accept it.


    Look at what they call ''the silent lone wolf''? This kid was still thinking about turning the tables.


    ...


    Watching the game scenario Marcus was in, Ethan vigorously rubbed his face, speechless for a long time.


    Soon, two elders from the Sky Sect arrived.


    Shouting ''How dare these demon-possessed psychics capture a true disciple of my Sky Sect,'' they rescued Marcus.


    [Your descendant Marcus has returned to the sect, and upon being questioned by Daoist Wesley about the cause of the events, he explained everything without showing any signs of lying. The Supreme Elder Competent, who came out of his spiritual retreat, also sensed nothing unusual. ]


    [People were sent to the Rodriguez family at Mount Five Peaks and saw the demonic energy swirling; Cloudview County also reported that the timing of the assassins'' arrival was just right, as was the situation at the demon cave.]


    [Because Marcus took the sect''s elder and disciples out to kill without permission, Daoist Wesley was furious and punished him, forbidding him from leaving the sect for fifty years and ordering him to face the wall at the Cliff of Reflection for ten days!]


    [Daoist Wesley, knowing about Elder Felix''s attempt to assassinate Marcus, was unmoved, only giving a meaningful glance at the two, seeing Elder Felix kneeling and begging for mercy but with a fleeting cold look in his eyes, merely smiled slightly and sentenced him to twenty years of reflection in the dungeon.]


    Two days later.


    During his seclusion, Marcus suddenly had a realization, and memories flooded into his mind.


    "?????"


    His expression gradually became complex, filled with relief, admiration, gratitude, and a bit of inexplicable shame, finally letting out a roar suppressed in his heart alone in the Cliff of Reflection, "Ah!!!"


    Moments later, he numbly smiled, "It''s just like Aunt Four, thinking of everything. Those assassins must have been sent by Aunt Four. I heard Aunt Four had arrived in Cloudview County, but I didn''t expect her to have gained such power. Did she break through her literary cultivation?"


    "Such a boring thing, Aunt Four definitely wouldn''t do it. The demon cave''s Psychic was used by Aunt Two, and when I left the family to join the Sky Sect, Aunt Two was the one who scolded me. Her vengefulness is really strong."


    "At this age, still so childish."


    After saying this, Marcus just showed an indifferent face, it was just a small matter. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Until a few days later, while cultivating psychic powers at night, he suddenly opened his eyes wide.


    Then skillfully pulled out the Forebearer cards, knelt down with a thump, his words full of grievance and sorrow.


    "Forebearer, your child... your child... please manage Aunt Two!"


    ...


    "Yep, the kid''s safety is no issue now. Amelia and Olivia didn''t let me down, they''ve handled everything flawlessly." Clearly, he knew that Amelia and Olivia had already sent people ahead of time to take care of the post-battle cleanup.


    Seeing Marcus tattling, Ethan quickly switched the screen, adopting a ''don''t ask me, I can''t manage it, nor do I want to, you''re just out of luck'' demeanor. He chuckled to himself.


    Ethan then switched the view to Blackwood, where, after acquiring a wealth of resources, the family began its vigorous development once again.


    [Your descendant Nathan has entered the Coffin of Absolute Death, this time armed with three primary psychic ability devices, vowing to break through the second layer of the Coffin''s limits!]


    [Luna took two Developing Skills, trying to see if they could replace the Demon King''s Blood Elixir. Around her Psychic Sanctuary, two thousand foxes gathered.]


    [In the great battle at the Rodriguez family, Lucas obtained nearly two hundred enemy swords, which he planted near the land of cultivating psychic powers, calling it¡ªSword Tomb.]


    [Cultivating psychic powers near the Sword Tomb, swordsmanship comprehension increased by 10%!]


    Soon, the game time changed again.


    [Blackwood Year 64]


    [Your family members have increased by 2.]


    Two more were born! A smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    He glanced at the family member list in the top right corner.


    [Fourth generation family members: 11]


    However, Ethan rarely paid attention to new members anymore, especially since Julian''s lineage had too many children.


    Not just him, even the couple Nathan felt distant from descendants three generations removed, unless they were truly outstanding members.


    That would be Blackwood''s pride, George.


    Not only was the guy smart and hardworking, but he was even busier than the family head, Daniel.


    Every day, he had to look after his ten younger siblings, rush to the teacher in Gratitude Village to learn cultural and music theory lessons, meditate to absorb the essence of the sun and moon, and practice martial arts... a true master of time management.


    However, it was expected that not all members could be attended to.


    As the years passed, the people of Blackwood, having seen how other families operated, understood that their descendants would continue to increase¡ªa natural result of human reproduction and also key to the family''s strength!


    Sufficient continuation of the bloodline allowed them to confidently delegate business outside their family''s territory to their descendants.


    And since the talents of descendants varied, having more descendants increased the chances of producing exceptionally talented offspring.


    This is also why large families often have thousands, if not more, members.


    The increase in offspring also signifies the true growth of Blackwood.


    And it begins to move into the next phase!

 Chapter 107: Chapter 107: To be the leader or to be the tail

    "By the time the fourth generation grows up, we''ll be able to gradually take control of Tranquil


    County,"


    Ethan said with a slight smile. Blackwood had always been unable to move beyond Forest Town, simply because even if they controlled other areas, there were no personnel to guard them.


    He restrained his thoughts and then shifted his focus to the family head, Daniel.


    [Your descendant Daniel is currently watering the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree. It is digesting a large amount of blood, its roots are spreading and expanding, and it is beginning to undergo some changes. This will be a lengthy process.]


    [The formation obtained from the Rodriguez family is searching for materials to imprint onto the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.]


    [Julian is forging more psychic puppets...]


    [A large amount of herbs has been delivered to your descendant Amelia. She is happily spinning around, knowing it must be a reward from the Forebearer, and is expressing her gratitude to you.]


    Under Daniel''s leadership, Blackwood''s development was well-organized.


    Moreover, Blackwood now essentially had no external enemies. Although the two major wars were still ongoing, things in Tranquil County were gradually quieting down, and this was clearly recorded in the special events section.


    [As the two major wars continue, the resources of Tranquil County are gradually being divided up by the forces of Xuanwu Gate and Sky Sect, with all forces choosing sides.]


    [Because Sky Sect has lost two Developing Skill elders in succession, they have begun to shrink back in defense.]


    "With this, the previously chaotic Tranquil County has actually become worthless. Forest Town was originally just a rural area, and it''s unlikely that the fighting will reach here. I might as well break through," Ethan licked his lips.


    Class D!


    He had been wanting to break through for a while, and this time, during the great battle at the Rodriguez family, he seemed to have become a bit obsessed with the power.


    Moreover, without breaking through, there was nothing else for him to do but watch Blackwood slowly digest what it had gained.


    [You are using the Forebearer moment¡ª]


    [Detected that you are in the Transcendent Seed stage, consuming 1000 points of Spiritual Tribute per year!]


    [Would you like to enter?]


    Ethan clicked yes without hesitation!


    The next moment.


    His eyes turned white, and his consciousness fell into chaos...


    "Oh, here we go again!"


    Stepping back into the game world, a hint of nostalgia flashed across Ethan''s face. It had only been an hour since his last visit, yet it felt like ages had passed.


    And this time, it was different.


    Last time he was just a swirl of black mist, seeing nothing but black mist around him. But now... he was solid!


    He finally felt the fresh air of this world, the psychic powers that dwarfed those of Earth by multiples, and the very real people.


    Even... the big guy in front of him.


    This dude was about six and a half feet tall, built like a bull, with dark red armor clanking crisply as he moved. Seemingly with nothing better to do, he was striding along, casually picking his nose!


    Ethan recognized this guy, Thomas, a fool who spoke without thinking.


    Just as Ethan was about to swing a punch at him, he froze.


    Thomas''s body passed right through his.


    "Can''t select, can''t attack. Thomas is in the Emerging Ability phase, he can sense spirits at the very least, which means I''m not even considered a psychic entity here, just existing within a specific range of this world, absorbing psychic powers to break through?"


    Ethan suddenly understood why entering the world for combat cost so many Spiritual Tribute points every five minutes.


    And why existing in this world cost only a thousand a year.


    Even so.


    Ethan looked off into the distance, within a ten-thousand-meter radius of the Forebearer''s shrine, a circle formed, and he felt he couldn''t step outside it.


    "There''s a reason it''s cheap."


    Ethan didn''t mind.


    He took a deep breath and simply sat down next to the blood psychic fruit tree to meditate, confirming his suspicions. When he had previously arrived as a misty figure, the blood psychic fruit tree had been the most excited, seemingly having some sort of pact with his cards. Now, however, there was no response from the tree.


    "I exist in this world for a year, and only an hour passes outside, my skills are already defying the heavens, no need to fret over it anymore."


    Ethan stopped pondering.


    And in a moment, he began to meditate for a breakthrough.


    ...


    Breaking through to Emerging Ability is the easiest step.


    As long as one''s Psychic Constitution reaches over 60 points, they can accommodate enough extraterrestrial abilities to forcefully open the body''s acupoints.


    Transforming the internal energy into a sea of qi, obtaining the Dan Fire, and beginning the process of purifying the body''s impurities and undergoing a transformation in aptitude.


    Even discarding the fragile and excess Psychic Constitution.


    The reason why the previous members of Blackwood, despite their mediocre talents, could break through one by one to Emerging Ability, was because they consumed Ethan''s ''Heavenly Mechanism Supplement Ability Pill''.


    Which essentially served as a ticket to the breakthrough of Emerging Ability. Otherwise, it wouldn''t be called a divine medicine in the real world.


    The duration of the breakthrough is long because they need to gather enough extraterrestrial abilities in their Psychic Constitution to strive for the best possible realm, a process that is complex and even requires repeated deductions.


    The stages that follow are like crossing a chasm!


    From the early stages of Emerging Ability to the peak, it involves condensing the internal sea of qi into a Dan pellet, while the psychic abilities also become more solid and powerful. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After becoming a Dan pellet, it is refined with the Dan Fire, marking the Transcendent Seed stage.


    During this period, the Developing Skill being tempered also varies in strength.


    This process involves engraving a certain technique or martial skill onto the Developing Skill. The more completely it is engraved, the stronger the technique or martial skill, and the higher the quality of the Developing Skill formed. It is divided into three grades of Dan pellets: heaven, earth, and man.


    These different grades of Dan pellets relate to how much extraterrestrial ability the Developing Skill can store, the speed of absorbing extraterrestrial abilities, the speed of casting techniques, and other innate conditions.


    The stronger the Dan Fire formed by the Psychic Constitution, the easier it is to refine the Developing Skill.


    Ethan also heard that during the refining of Developing Skill, if one has an epiphany about the universe, the Developing Skill can even surpass the three grades and advance further!


    Like Elder Dylan before, his Developing Skill was of the earth grade, hence he could single-handedly match three individuals with Developing Skills and still manage effortlessly.


    At this moment, Ethan is in the process of refining at the Transcendent Seed stage!


    Within his body, flames blaze fiercely, and the Twin Fish Harmony Seal has become his meditation mat.


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal, this is his strongest technique, far more powerful than the Shadowy Heavenly Cluster Steps, and it is also the technique he intends to engrave on the Transcendent Seed stage.


    Ethan is ambitious and still young. If he cannot engrave the Twin Fish Harmony Seal technique before the end of his life, then he might as well spend a year engraving a worthless technique and resign himself to mediocrity for life.


    To be the leader or to be the tail, that is his philosophy in life.


    Otherwise, he would have already broken through the Developing Skill.

 Chapter 108: Chapter 108: Forebearers Grace

    As Ethan refined his skills, the area around the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree became a hub of gathered psychic energies, drawn by the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, coinciding with his breakthrough in Developing Skill.


    In just one year,


    The psychic energies grew more formidable.


    And such events did not escape the eyes of the people of Blackwood.


    11-year-old George, holding another child of his uncle, ran to where Daniel was handling family affairs, his face alight with joy, "Uncle, the Forebearer has shown psychic abilities!"


    "What?!!"


    Daniel was overjoyed, having previously consulted the Forebearer in times of indecision, though the Forebearer had not responded to him for a year, "Quick, take me to see!"


    Soon, Daniel followed George to the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.


    The tree''s canopy towered sky-high, and the people of Blackwood, who had been in seclusion, had already emerged, gathering together, all eyes filled with surprise and delight.


    Because...


    The psychic energies at the site of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, glowing faintly, had almost solidified!


    They remembered the Twin Fish Harmony Seal used previously by the Forebearer, an aura full of contradictions, profound darkness on the left, intense light on the right, forming its own cosmos.


    And now.


    The psychic energies of the Five Elements converged, and to those with the Emerging Ability to see, a pentagram formed by the Five Elements'' light columns enveloped the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, with the interactions of the Five Elements becoming increasingly apparent.


    Everyone in Blackwood could feel it.


    Cultivating psychic powers here would yield twice the result with half the effort!


    "I understand now!"


    Nathan exclaimed, startling everyone, his eyes wild with excitement as he grabbed Daniel''s shoulders, "Daniel, you came to me a few months ago, unable to contact the Forebearer, right?"


    "Uh, it''s been a year."


    Daniel nodded, still dazed.


    "The Forebearer is right here!"


    Nathan stared at the space above the light columns, his eyes red, "I understand now, that above must be the legendary Ability Realm. The Forebearer is an Ability Master; last time he descended with a strand of his soul, he couldn''t stay long."


    "He saw that we couldn''t defeat the Rodriguez family with our own strength, and we also lack Developing Skill, so he specifically found a way from the Ability Realm to communicate with us, transmitting his understanding of the Five Elements to us, aiding us in cultivating psychic powers!"


    "So that''s why we couldn''t feel the presence of the Forebearer from his shrine."


    With these words, all of Blackwood fell silent.


    Tears welled up in the eyes of the people of Blackwood, now it all made sense, no wonder there were such celestial phenomena in Blackwood, with this explanation, they understood.


    "Forebearer!"


    "The unworthy descendants have worried you, Elder. We will definitely not fail your expectations and will strive in cultivating psychic powers!"


    In a moment, Nathan led the people of Blackwood to take out their Forebearer cards and sit down in positions that matched their Psychic Constitution to cultivate psychic powers. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Ethan''s eyes drooped as he watched the Blackwood clanspeople one by one sit down to meditate around him, each placing his cards in front of them, their devotion unmistakable.


    The family had already disturbed him when they arrived.


    Nathan''s shout, "The Forebearer is right here!" had given him quite the start.


    Turns out...


    "What on earth are you imagining?" Ethan couldn''t help but laugh and cry at the same time, somewhat admiring Nathan''s wild train of thought.


    But Ethan was also somewhat pleased; when he came, he would occasionally check on his descendants, and now that everyone was gathered, it gave him a sense of familial joy.


    lthough having so many people meditating in seclusion was somewhat novel, it wasn''t unacceptable. Cards were placed on the ground, and a group of people meditated with their eyes closed¡ªit was slightly eerie, yet harmless.


    Especially when a translucent light blue notification appeared, just like a pop-up in a game.


    [Your descendants have felt the grace you brought from the Ability Realm, moved to tears by your efforts.]


    [Congratulations, you''ve earned Spiritual Tribute+2000!]


    [Blackwood gains the group trait: Forebearer''s Grace]


    [In order to live up to your expectations, your clanspeople, attracted by the psychic powers you''ve gathered, increase their speed of cultivating psychic powers by 20% and their insight by 10%!]


    The moment the notification appeared.


    Ethan suddenly felt a clarity of mind, even the alchemical fire he was refining burned fiercer!


    "Hmm???"


    His eyes brightened, "What''s this good news?"


    In this world, even as a virtual existence, it seemed he could still be judged, after all, he was Blackwood''s Forebearer!


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 65, you have inscribed the '' Twin Fish Harmony Seal First Layer: Heaven, Earth, and Humanity'' on the Transcendent Seed stage, progress reaching 10%]


    [At the same time, you are also comprehending the second layer, the Five Elements of Heaven and Earth. Observing the fifth generation descendants'' mixed Psychic Constitution cultivating psychic powers.]


    [You discover their Psychic Constitution of water and fire are incompatible, leading to an understanding of the mutual generation of the Five Elements, progress 5%!]


    As the second year of cultivating psychic powers passed, Ethan opened his eyes again, a trace of joy crossing his face.


    He found that having these descendants around him cultivating psychic powers brought more benefits than he had imagined.


    In this center, he could feel the ways his descendants'' Psychic Constitutions were cultivating psychic powers, and what his Twin Fish Psychic Constitution, cultivating the second layer, most lacked was an understanding of the Five Elements!


    Now he was also slowly finding the method.


    He was growing along with his descendants.


    [Your descendant Nathan observes the mutual generation and overcoming of the Five Elements, suddenly gains insight, his Metal-Wood Psychic Constitution begins to generate, the psychic powers in his body''s energy sea condense, breaking through to the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    "Hahaha, Forebearer, Nathan has done it!"


    "Emerging Ability peak, I thought it would take ten years, but in just one year, he has already made the breakthrough, Forebearer truly has extraordinary powers!"


    Ethan slightly opened his eyes, also delighted for Nathan.


    Soon, he closed his eyes again.

 Chapter 109: Chapter 109: The Straight Death Pill!

    [Blackwood Year 67]


    [Your descendants harmonize with the five elements... Progress of the cosmic elements is at 15%!]


    [Your descendants are together cultivating psychic powers, amassing a great amount of psychic abilities, gathered by your elemental psychic powers, enhancing the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 5%, forging the first layer of the technique, reaching a progress of 20%]


    As the forging progresses, Ethan becomes increasingly skilled.


    The people of Blackwood also continuously cultivate psychic powers near him, with Nathan even moving the Coffin of Eternal Death over, simply lying in the coffin to cultivate psychic powers.


    With all the Forebearer Cards laid out on the ground... it looks quite eerie.


    Daniel is busy with important matters every day, coming and going repeatedly.


    The others are mostly the same.


    Especially Julian.


    He moved his forge over, and to avoid disturbing others cultivating psychic powers, had the blood ability fruit trees create a soundproofing array around him. As soon as Ethan opens his eyes, he can see him swinging his large hammer, sparks flying everywhere.


    As time goes on.


    Ethan also sees the splendid buildings rising throughout Blackwood.


    Rain and snow fall from the sky, the sun rises and sets, and although it seems like Blackwood''s descendants exist in another dimension, everyone is still experiencing the changes in weather.


    The blood ability fruit trees grow taller each year, just like the children of Blackwood growing up.


    Everything about Blackwood comes into his view, and he actually starts to watch it all without closing his eyes!


    [You are observing the cosmic elements, which are closely related to the operation of all things. You realize that humans can establish earth, control metal and fire, humans and plants all grow, the four seasons affect humans...]


    [You begin to merge with the cosmic elements!]


    [Blackwood Year 70, the Grand Ritual begins!]


    This year''s Grand Ritual, everyone in Blackwood worships right where they are, offering the same Tribute Offering.


    He still clicked ''Yes''.


    As the Grand Ritual ends.


    He closes his eyes.


    The speed of Developing Skill is faster than ever before.


    Even the second layer of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal of the cosmic elements begins to be engraved onto the Developing Skill!


    [Congratulations, you have an epiphany!]


    [You have comprehended the cosmic elements, under which humans exist and are influenced by, and can also control the power of the cosmic elements. You feel the power of the cosmic elements!]


    [Your engraving of heaven and earth among humans is complete, your cosmic elements are beginning to be engraved.]


    This year''s Grand Ritual, the offering from Blackwood''s descendants, is not just the Tribute Offering.


    He feels it, his Developing Skill¡­


    Is unprecedented!


    ...


    [Blackwood, Year 79]


    The sky was clear and bright, and the blood psychic fruit trees had reached a height of about 98 feet, with their sturdy branches hosting various psychic beasts from the Silver Iron Forest leaping about.


    As the roots of the blood psychic fruit trees spread further, the Silver Iron Forest and Blackwood had become indistinguishable, even allowing the Boar Monarch Pete to shrink down and enter Blackwood.


    Beneath the trees, numerous Blackwood clanspeople were sitting in meditation, cultivating their psychic powers by absorbing the spiritual energies of heaven and earth.


    A wall had been erected around the area, inscribed with magical formations, making this place Blackwood''s top secret during this period.


    But they hadn''t noticed.


    Their Forebearer, weathered by time, had a numb expression on his face.


    "Fifteen years, heaven knows how I''ve made it through. If it weren''t for my descendants around me, I would have gone mad!" Ethan vigorously rubbed his head, clueless about how those who secluded themselves for centuries managed it.


    He missed the days of playing games in front of a computer screen and longed for the braised pork Lisa made, even though only 15 hours had passed on Earth, he still felt overwhelmingly lonely.


    Ethan stretched lazily.


    The fire still burned within him, and he estimated that it might take a few more years to completely master the engraving of the Developing Skill technique.


    Just then.


    A voice sounded beside him, and the Straight Death Coffin suddenly opened, with a disheveled Nathan crawling out.


    Nathan, now 99 years old, still had the honest and simple demeanor of a middle-aged man, though the years had made him appear more composed. Yet at this moment, he seemed almost mad, laughing uncontrollably, waking up the others who were in deep meditation.


    "Ha ha ha, Forebearer, Nathan has done it! The second layer of the Straight Death Coffin, after dying over and over, I''ve finally cracked it!"


    "What?!!" Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As everyone joyfully gathered around Nathan, Ethan also joined in the excitement.


    He was extremely delighted; the Straight Death Coffin was undoubtedly one of Blackwood''s most precious treasures. Just the first layer alone had the ability to refine zombies and flying zombies, allowing Blackwood''s descendants to reach high levels of martial and psychic prowess without years of cultivating psychic powers.


    Over the years, Ethan had watched one Blackwood descendant after another lie down in it, each emerging with enhanced combat abilities.


    Then, a pale blue screen appeared in front of the Straight Death Coffin.


    Entering the game world in "Forebearer Mode," it was a complete VR god-like perspective.


    [Your descendant Nathan has reached the end of the second layer of the Straight Death Coffin.]


    [He has obtained the identity of the second layer''s coffin master!]


    [He has received a legacy left by the previous coffin master¡ª]


    [The Straight Death Pill!]


    "Damn it."


    Ethan''s facial muscles twitched violently, watching Nathan interacting with his relatives, Ethan felt envious, "If I had known about the legacy in the second layer of the Straight Death Coffin, why did I bother painstakingly forging the Developing Skill?!!"


    [Inheritance of the Direct Death Developing Skill]


    [Upon becoming the inheritor, the Coffin of Heaven will continuously nurture his False Core stage, independently forming a superb Developing Skill. The Direct Death Developing Skill, imbued with divine powers of fate, allows for three lives within one Developing Skill. ]


    [In one''s lifetime, three Developing Skill cores can be formed, two of which can be stored elsewhere. As long as the Developing Skill remains, one can reconstruct their body and be reborn!]


    [Contains a profound-grade technique¡ªSoul Hooking Calamity Formation]


    [Used to harness the souls of the deceased, forming arrays with this method to command and battle with the souls of the dead.]


    This means that Nathan doesn''t have to do anything; he just needs to lie in the coffin and wait for its nurturing warmth to be fed into possessing a miraculous, superb Developing Skill!


    Nathan instantly became the strongest combatant in Blackwood, possessing three lives!

 Chapter 110: Chapter 110: Heroic Tyrant

    "Well, Blackwood is about to see a Developing Skill emerge," Ethan grinned. It was just a moment of envy, after all. After fifteen years of cultivating psychic powers and crafting pills, his Developing Skill was stronger than any heavenly Developing Skill!


    After the excitement among the clan members subsided, Daniel smiled and said, "That''s great, Grandpa. Once you achieve Developing Skill, our family will truly become a Developing Skill lineage."


    Ethan looked towards Daniel, who was now 49 years old. Time really was a butcher''s knife; he still remembered when Daniel was just an innocent little kid, repeatedly tricked by others, his naive heart making him a fool for a long time. Even when he took over as the family head, he was a young and talented leader, yet his intellectual growth never changed his simple and pure gaze.


    But now, Daniel, burdened with responsibilities, had gradually neglected cultivating psychic powers. Even the celestial phenomena caused by Ethan''s breakthrough to Developing Skill had only advanced him to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability in the past few years.


    Time had stripped away his naive expression, replacing it with a calm as still as an ancient well. The once youthful face had matured, sporting a long goatee and many more wrinkles, with strands of silver threading through his neatly tied long hair.


    He looked even older than Nathan and Luna, who were nearly a century old. This kid, laboring day in and day out for Blackwood, seemed to bear all the white hairs and wrinkles for everyone in Blackwood.


    Upon accessing Daniel''s historical information, Ethan saw the hard work he had put in over the past fifteen years.


    [In the 65th year of Blackwood, Daniel completed the distribution of substantial resources brought from the Rodriguez family, with plans well set for assimilation.]


    [The formidable strength owned by the family no longer satisfied him; he knew that to elevate his family to a lofty status, he had to do more to not let down the expectations and trust of his elders.]


    [Desire crept into his heart, gradually filling it with schemes and plots, and he no longer harbored mercy in the face of slaughter.]


    [The trait ''Innocent Heart'' began to deteriorate, acquiring a new trait¡ª]


    [Ambitious.]


    [Acquired Trait: Heroic Tyrant.]


    Power can indeed change a person. Daniel''s Innocent Heart allowed him high comprehension skills but also led him to another extreme.


    "From an Innocent Heart to a Heroic Tyrant," Ethan sighed deeply. Everyone was busy cultivating psychic powers, and all the family''s pressures were placed on Daniel''s shoulders.


    Perhaps if Daniel had not become the family head, things might have been different. He might have been happier, growing up carefree in Blackwood, continuing to be naive all his life, not engaging in conflicts or paying attention to any schemes.


    Moreover, as everyone in Blackwood went into seclusion, Daniel had almost no time to rest.


    [Black Blood Hall Members: 500, strongest at the initial stage of Emerging Ability, weakest at the fifth level of Foundational Energy.]


    [Psychic Medicine Garden: Three 9th-grade pharmacists, 100 apprentices. Cultivating 21 types of 8th-grade psychic medicines, over 100 types of 9th-grade psychic medicines.]


    [Psychic Beast Institute: 200 caretakers, 2 beast tamers.]


    [Pill Crafting Pavilion: 4 pill masters, 50 apprentices.]


    [Scripture Pavilion: 5 formation masters, 7 talisman masters, 1 musician...]


    [...]


    In the Blackwood family, Daniel holds sway over all internal powers, except for the Forge, which is still dominated by Julian. Over the past fifteen years, he has shaped Blackwood into a qualified Emerging Ability family, enriching every aspect of the family''s foundation.


    "Daniel."


    Nowadays, Luna looks even younger. Even her loose black robe cannot hide her graceful figure. Standing next to Nathan, she looks like a case of an old man with a much younger wife. She patted her grandson''s head, her heart aching as she looked at him, "Let''s not be the head of the family anymore, let George do it."


    Lucas, carrying a sword case on his back, also felt sorry for the child and nodded, "Yes, Daniel, you''ve been the head of the family for many years, it''s time for you to step down. George can handle it on his own."


    How could he, as a father, not feel heartache?


    Look at Lucas, who has been practicing swordsmanship for many years, he too seems to be getting younger, at the peak of Emerging Ability, youthful in appearance. Standing next to his second son Daniel, it''s hard to tell who is the father and who is the son.


    These words, heard by George, made his eyes widen in shock.


    This boy is truly handsome, a real beauty, with a flute tucked at his waist, clearly a man of elegance.


    Over the years, the children of Blackwood have been growing in number and maturing, but 26-year-old George remains the undisputed first of the fourth generation of Blackwood.


    With his own strength, not only has he suppressed the heads of the fourth generation of Blackwood descendants, but also all the young talents of Tranquil County. It''s just that this young man, although talkative, naturally prefers solitude and is not known to outsiders.


    Hearing his great-grandmother and great-grandfather suggest he take over as head of the family, he almost ran away from home.


    "No, don''t make me the head of the family!"


    George clenched his teeth, "I... I can''t do it! To be honest, I''m a scoundrel, I like to rob houses, the notorious flower thief mentioned everywhere is me, I even have peculiar habits, I... I have homosexual tendencies! If I become the head of the family, our Blackwood''s reputation will be ruined!"


    "Yes, that''s right, after becoming the head of the family, I would use my power to oppress others. Hahaha, I''ve had my eye on a little princess from a Developing Skill family for a while now, once I''m the head, that poor girl will suffer." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After bursting into laughter, George saw that the elders still had smiles on their faces, and his own smile gradually faded. "My old illness has flared up again," he said.


    With that, he closed his eyes and dramatically lay down on the ground, pretending to be dead. Unfortunately, none of his elders paid any attention to his antics.


    Daniel laughed and said, "Grandparents, father, I won''t be at ease handing over the family affairs to the younger generation until there''s a suitable candidate in the family."


    Hearing this, the others didn''t persuade him further.

 Chapter 111: Chapter 111: Elder Brother Killer

    "Oh, the great-grandfather is taking the great-grandson out for some fun." A joyful voice rang out, looking into the distance, only to see a pig the size of a person, carrying a 1-year-old child running around wildly, becoming more and more joyful.


    "In a few more years, the special ability pool that the great-grandfather is casting in the Silver Iron Forest will be ready, then my children will be able to grow up fast, ahahaha!" S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Who else could it be but the Boar Monarch Pete? As for the child...


    Ethan glanced at the family member list.


    [Fourth Generation Descendants: George, Larry, Justin.....]


    [Total number of people: 36]


    [Fifth Generation Members: 1 person]


    Fifteen years have passed, and the fourth generation members have gradually grown up, some even getting married and having children.


    The family is developing, and in twenty to thirty years, there will be a new generation.


    The talents of these children vary, but under the protection of the Blackwoods, they are all growing up healthy, yet few have experienced any major trials and tribulations, and even those with special traits are rare.


    Even George, the most outstanding, who reached the Emerging Ability phase at the age of 26, cannot compare with the rich life experiences of the previous three generations.


    It is clearly not prudent to let a fourth-generation member be the head of the family.


    Soon after everyone congratulated Nathan, they went back to their own business.


    Then George stood up.


    Under Ethan''s gaze, this kid walked to a corner, patted his chest, "Dodged a bullet, I''m busy enough, and now they want me to be the head of the family..."


    After speaking.


    George rolled his eyes, pulled out a black cloth from his Storage Ring, covered his face, and his eyes narrowed, his laughter gradually becoming unrestrained.


    "How would I have time to do what I want to do?"


    Dressed in black, George flew away on his sword.


    "?????"


    Ethan''s mouth twitched, remembering what George had just said about having tendencies like burglary and stealing fragrances, previously thinking the kid was just making excuses, but now...


    "My descendant George, couldn''t really be a weirdo, could he?"


    ...


    Seeing George transform into a creature of the night and leave home, Ethan quickly opened George''s historical events panel, fearing another disgrace to the family''s reputation.


    [At 12, George reached the sixth level of Foundational Energy, attended school, and developed a passion for music theory.]


    [At 15, while helping his uncles and aunts with their children, he became increasingly serious and responsible. Since the parents were not good at childcare, over the years he became a father figure to his siblings, earning the trait: Nagging Big Brother]


    [Always nagging, he corrected his younger siblings'' mistakes. When his siblings faced danger, his combat power increased by 50%.]


    [At 18, with strong family support, he received a wealth of resources for cultivating psychic powers. Since his second uncle managed the family business, only outstanding descendants received more resources. He distributed most of his resources to his younger siblings, receiving the least for himself.


    Yet, he still reached the peak of Foundational Energy through his exceptional talent and began seclusion.]


    [At 21, George emerged from seclusion. Despite family reasons making him sound like a nagging old man, his siblings were always wary of his lectures. In reality, he was a person who cherished tranquility, loved quiet music theory, and under the tutelage of a librarian musician, he gained the profession¡ª]


    [Pianist]


    [At 25, still caring for his grown siblings and gradually getting involved in the family business, he received a reward from his second uncle, a primary psychic device: Dragon of the Great River Map]


    "??? There''s no scandalous event, and his profession is quite elegant."


    Ethan scratched his head. From the historical events, although George had never encountered anything unusual from childhood to adulthood and had always been proper, Ethan really couldn''t figure out why this kid would go out masked.


    [Forebearer Moment]The most troublesome thing is that he can''t see everything that happens to his descendants.


    No wonder Ethan was worried about this.


    For fifteen years, his descendants had indeed produced a deviant.


    [Fourth Generation Member¡¤William (Father: Anthony)]


    [Age 8, hid from his family, found the family''s exotic beasts cute, and strangled them to death. Acquired trait: Born Bad Seed]


    [His intelligence was unusual, and he was meticulous in his actions. His talent would grow with age, and his evil deeds would enhance it. He would also more easily acquire traits and opportunities.]


    [Age 9, he became increasingly obsessed with the thrill of killing exotic beasts, and to prevent his family from discovering his odd behavior, he slowly learned how to hide himself.]


    [Age 11, over two years, he only killed a few cute creatures, but he could no longer restrain his desires and was no longer satisfied with killing exotic beasts. He began to plan murders, using the opportunity of attending the Silverwood Moore birthday feast with his family to drown a girl of the same age as Silverwood Moore, and no one suspected his actions. Acquired trait: Thrill of Killing.]


    [After each murder, he would gain a certain degree of enhancement.]


    [Age 13, he watched his brother George become increasingly favored, and he was jealous and envious. In just a few hours, he had thought of twelve ways to kill his brother, but when he saw George tenderly wiping his wounds and anxiously searching for psychic medicine for him during a planned injury, he ultimately dismissed the idea of killing his brother.]


    [Age 15, he could no longer suppress the malice in his heart, and just as he was about to strike at other family members again, Olivia from faraway Cloudview County discovered his secret, leading to his imprisonment by the family. Under the disappointed gazes of his family, and seeing the pained expression on his brother George, he cried for the first time in the lonely dungeon, repenting.


    Acquired trait: Brother''s Warning]


    [He finally understood that he could not kill his own family, only outsiders. He set George as his goal, not wanting to disappoint his brother again, hoping to be forgiven by his brother and family, and his speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 10%.]


    [Age 18, through three years of planning, even from the dungeon, he was able to obtain resources brought by George, breaking through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy. One night, after two years of planning, he escaped from the dungeon and left the family.]


    This is the deviant of the Blackwood family.


    His talents were sharp, no less than George''s, and William''s appearance was as innocent as Daniel''s back in the day. Ethan had seen this young man several times but had never noticed anything unusual.


    The latest news...


    Ethan clicked on a family member''s profile.


    [19-year-old William entered Cloudview County and became a schoolteacher. A legend of the ''Elder Brother Killer'' emerged in the city of Cloudview County, where any elder brother who was unkind to his younger siblings would be killed.]


    [Age 20, due to his extraordinary talents, reached the peak of Foundational Energy, and became a son-in-law in a Developing Skill family...]


    "Condolences to that Developing Skill family."

 Chapter 112: Chapter 112: All Swords Return to the Sect!

    Ethan wore a peculiar expression; George probably never knew that he had almost died at William''s hands. Although William was a bit twisted, Ethan still found some aspects of him admirable.


    No matter how wicked he was, one couldn''t help but respect his intelligence. He had committed so many misdeeds within the family, and yet, no one in the Moore family suspected him of murder. Only Olivia could really handle William.


    As for the other descendants, none were particularly impressive, nor were they twisted. They were all diligently cultivating psychic powers, following Daniel and George''s orders.


    "Well, even if it involves burglary or stealing treasures, that''s still better than William." Thinking of William, Ethan suddenly felt that George''s nocturnal adventures in black were not so bad after all.


    ...


    Soon, the 80-year Blackwood grand ceremony passed, with the same Tribute Offering. Now, Blackwood had six beast blood fruit trees, offering up 300 blood fruits. Ethan guessed that his room was now filled with a massive amount of resources. And this time, there was something special!


    The blood ability fruit tree had finally bloomed and bore fruit, producing fruits that were larger than before. There were 50 in total, each the size of a fist, emitting a deep red color yet exceptionally sweet.


    [Eighth Grade Psychic Medicine: Blood Ability Fruit]


    [Each fruit contains 1500 points of psychic ability, with a slight chance of increasing Psychic Constitution by 1 point upon consumption.]


    "Divine!" Ethan grinned, the blood ability fruit tree had finally bloomed, and the fruits it produced were incredibly powerful¡ªthat was the 1 point of Psychic Constitution!


    Whether it was Ethan''s ''Heavenly Mechanism Psychic Ability Pill'' or Amelia''s ''Golden Psychic Ability Powder'', and the subsequently developed ''Water Psychic Ability Dew'', ''Earth Psychic Ability Pill'', ''Wood Psychic Ability Powder'', or ''Fire Psychic Ability Liquid'', one could only consume one in their lifetime.


    But the blood ability fruit could be consumed indefinitely!


    That meant, as long as there were enough blood ability fruits, even if the chances of enhancing Psychic Constitution were slim, one could potentially max out a person''s Psychic Constitution. Of course, such luxury was beyond Ethan''s wildest dreams.


    Time flies.


    At this moment, Ethan''s Developing Skill was nearly fully mastered.


    [Blackwood, Year 83]


    Ethan had started to move around, waiting for the Developing Skill inside him to slowly complete. The number of children in Blackwood was increasing. The sons of Blackwood, those guys, had a fertility that was rare in the world, and their children also inherited their penchant for procreation, starting to take wives as they came of age.


    However, their marrying was also due to Daniel''s urging, because Daniel felt that only with enough members could they meet the conditions to establish branches of the Blackwood lineage in various towns across Silverwood County.


    The most delighted was the Boar Monarch Pete. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He would carry the children around Blackwood and the Silver Iron Forest every day.


    "Where''s the Boar Monarch Pete today?"


    Ethan frowned, it had been nearly 20 years, and the one he saw most was the Boar Monarch Pete. This famous demon king, day in and day out, was either transporting children or on the way to transport them.


    But after all, he was a demon king, and he was busy after frequent visits to Blackwood. It seemed he was casting a psychic pool in the Silver Iron Forest that would allow Blackwood''s children to bathe in it from a young age, thus growing in stature and strength...


    It seems he was truly dissatisfied with the gradually smaller statures of the descendants of the Blackwood sons, this old pig always liked big and mighty kids.


    As he pondered, a dark aura burst forth beside him, coming from the Straight Death Coffin.


    On the Straight Death Coffin, he could feel that Nathan, because of the inheritance of the Heavenly Pill, was also about to complete his psychic pill.


    "Ying! Ying! Ying!"


    While strolling around Blackwood, admiring the now splendid buildings and ten-meter-high city walls, and the Gratitude Village villagers tending to the psychic fields, rejoicing in the family''s growth, a series of sharp cries came from the Silver Iron Forest.


    All of Blackwood looked towards the direction of the Silver Iron Forest, and Ethan also glanced sideways.


    In the sky, a three-tailed fox apparition appeared, a phenomenon between heaven and earth!


    Ethan''s face lit up with joy, and he hurried to watch.


    From a distance.


    He saw a dense circle of foxes, worshipping!


    And in the center was Nathan''s wife, Luna!


    Now Luna was even more enchanting, with three fox tails about two meters long appearing behind her, swaying like the plumes of a peacock. Luna was forming hand seals, making her final breakthrough, and anyone who saw her from afar could feel her allure!


    "Ah?"


    Ethan looked towards the area with the blood psychic fruit trees. Nathan was still lying in the Straight Death Coffin, and at this moment, he could feel how happy Nathan''s future days would be.


    "The body of a fox demon... the fortune of King Zhou, enjoyed by you, kid." Ethan was extremely envious.


    [Your daughter-in-law Luna, unable to absorb Developing Skill, has instead refined it with the unique Wanhu psychic fire!]


    [Wanhu worship condition has been met.]


    [Developing Skill replaces the Demon King''s blood pill!]


    [Absorption of the jungle''s essence is complete!]


    [Her virginity has been broken...]


    [The Heavenly Moon Fox on her is transforming into a Demon King¡ª]


    [Moon Shadow Psychic Beast!]


    While blessing Luna and Nathan''s future happy life, Ethan went back to meditate. He glanced at his own Developing Skill, which wouldn''t take many days for him to break through as well, and Blackwood was about to experience a major surge in upper-level power!


    And with the family''s centennial approaching, his skills would also advance to the next stage.


    As he pondered what to give to Blackwood upon his return.


    "Yin!"


    The sound of sword chanting rang out, and several descendants using swords were also meditating beside Ethan, cultivating psychic powers. Their swords, influenced by the sword chant coming from the Silver Iron Forest, floated up, their tips pointing towards the Sword Tomb!


    "This is..."


    A sword shadow appeared above the Silver Iron Forest!


    In the Blackwood residence, all the swords were levitating, their tips pointing towards the Sword Tomb, as if worshipping the King of Swords!


    [Your descendant Lucas, after many years of cultivating psychic powers and sword intent, has achieved something extraordinary!]


    [Accompanied by the sword for fifty years, from professional sword sect, transformed into¡ª]


    [Sword King!]


    [He has obtained a sword intent¡ª]


    [All Swords Return to the Sect!]

 Chapter 113: Chapter 113: Olivias life is nearing its end

    [Your descendant, still in the Transcendent Seed stage, has already forged his sword into a pill!]


    [His body is like a sword, and the pill is also like a sword, integrating the swords he has acquired over the years into his body to form the sword body, gaining the trait¡ª]


    [Thousand Swords Forged Body!]


    [His body is like a primary psychic device, using pill fire to melt swords, and the more swords and sword energy he melts, the closer he gets to a Body of Ten Thousand Swords!]


    "...Freak."


    Returning to the Silver Iron Forest, seeing thousands of long swords swirling around Lucas, these two words were Ethan''s most heartfelt praise.


    The second generation of the Blackwood siblings, each more extraordinary than the last.


    Look at Lucas, still in the Transcendent Seed stage.


    But...


    With a thousand swords merged into his body, and the physique of a primary psychic device, he already possesses the strength to wrestle with D-level abilities. How strong he would be if he reached D-level, Ethan couldn''t even guess.


    As far as he knew, there was a big shot on Earth five hundred years ago.


    That person''s parents seemed to have found a legacy, which they implanted in him, giving the child a natural sword body, a Tomb of Swords physique, and from then on, he soared to great heights, and to this day, the legend of the Sword People is still told on Earth.


    "How are Amelia, Olivia, and Marcus doing lately?"


    Ethan muttered, lately he could only get news of them through the mouths of the Blackwood folks around him, years had passed, and he was unable to observe them.


    Although their abilities were definitely among the top in Blackwood, time had also gradually taught them how to survive and deal with crises. But as a Forebearer, Ethan was always worried.


    "I''m still a young man, I don''t even have kids, why am I acting so old and decrepit? Young people should be full of energy."


    Ethan shook his head.


    Then, with his hands behind his back, he walked, shaking his head with each step, sighing with each step, his demeanor filled with kindness, his silhouette like a weary old song, deep and moving.


    He wanted to see his descendants, even if it was just animated characters in a game screen, but now he could only follow the developments of his beloved descendants through the blue panel in front of him, wondering if they were in any crisis.


    [In the 70th year of Blackwood, your descendant Amelia consumed a large amount of herbs, breaking through to the peak of Emerging Ability, and began to condense her pills.]


    [In the 73rd year, the largest battle in history occurred between Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Subduing Alliance, which was her busiest year, and she met the true ruler of Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Blood Sea Demon Lord.]


    [The Blood Sea Demon Lord, a demon who had been sealed for many years, heard of Amelia''s compassionate healer''s heart, knowing that this strange ultimate poison doctor was different from other righteous Psychics, thus he agreed to meet her.]


    [Seeing Amelia''s extraordinary talent, he decided to nurture her carefully, hoping to use her one day to break out of the demon cave, and Amelia became the Holy Maiden of the Demon Cave.] S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [In the 78th year, due to her superb medical skills, approaching the seventh rank, and even mastering the skills of a seventh-rank pharmacist, her potions could heal D-level injuries and pose a threat to Developing Skills, making her one of the twelve elders of the Demon Subduing Alliance.]


    [In the 82nd year, under Amelia''s secret negotiations, both sides finally ceased hostilities. They secretly agreed that Thunderfire Demon Cave would no longer engage in large-scale slaughter, and both sides must occasionally engage in small battles. ]


    [The Demon Subduing Alliance would gradually become a sect force, and Thunderfire Demon Cave would occasionally send some damned demons to the Alliance.]


    Nothing too special happened.


    Originally righteous people going to subdue demons, with the prolonged battle with Thunderfire Demon Cave, it seemed like their original intentions had deteriorated...


    They seemed to realize that if the demon cave was gone, they would also lose their reason for existence, and the power controlled by the big shots would also vanish into thin air.


    When Ethan saw this operation, he couldn''t help but think of the road next to his house...


    Every time Ethan saw Amelia''s messages, he couldn''t help but tease, "The family just asked you to check out the situation with the thunder and underground fire, yet you became a saint... And that''s not enough, you even became an elder???"


    Ethan was impressed; this girl looked demure, but her actions always surprised him.


    He then checked on Olivia''s information. This girl, although she controlled an assassin organization with the power she brought from her family, was still a mortal in the marketplace.


    Almost periodically, she would try out other professions, which had become her routine; now, she had opened a tea house specializing in debt collection.


    [Your descendant Olivia, her life is nearing its end.]


    A couple of years ago, Blackwood spent millions of Energy Stones to buy Olivia life-extending elixirs, but ultimately they couldn''t delay the problems of her mortal lifespan and the heavenly tribulation she was enduring.


    And then there was Marcus. Initially leading people out to exterminate the Rodriguez family, but the punishment seemed more like a reward.


    [52 years old, nine unique psychic fires, lotus fire release, acquired the technique, Heavenly Fire Lotus.]


    [54 years old, broke through the peak of Emerging Ability inside the Fire Pool controlled by the Sky Sect.]


    [Received the Sky Sect''s profound-level sect-defining secret technique, Sky Profound Technique, taught by the Supreme Elder Warren Taoist.]


    [To this day.]


    [Warren Taoist is currently in the Sky Hall, assisting Marcus with the nine unique psychic fires to forge the Developing Skill, not breaking through until the heavenly pill is perfected.]


    From this information alone, Ethan could see the dedicated cultivation Sky Sect was providing Marcus, clearly sparing no effort.


    The levels of profound techniques and martial arts vary, and the secret techniques of the Sky Sect are of the highest grade, much more powerful than the "Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps."

 Chapter 114: Chapter 114: The Primordial Blood Tree

    Another day passed, and Ethan had roamed all over Blackwood, witnessing its development firsthand.


    Now, in the depths of winter, he sat cross-legged once again beneath the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.


    "Twenty years, and I''ve finally made it," he thought. Inside him, the flames that had fueled his power were slowly extinguishing. Looking inward, Ethan could clearly see the intricate patterns on his Developing Skill.


    Only one step remained.


    Ethan exhaled deeply, stretching out his hand as winter snowflakes drifted through his palm.


    Nearby, the children of Blackwood, bundled up in thick coats with their cheeks red from the cold, played around the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.


    They grew up happy and protected under the watchful eyes of their forebearers and the Boar Monarch Pete, feeling the psychic powers bestowed from ''above''.


    In the past, the Boar Monarch Pete often brought noise and chaos with the children, which Ethan found unexpectedly disruptive. But now, as he prepared to leave, he found these moments endearing.


    [Your Developing Skill, fully imprinted!]


    As the final pattern was etched onto the Developing Skill by the psychic fire, Ethan''s aura surged powerfully!


    [Congratulations, you have successfully forged the Divine Pill!]


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal reappeared, spinning beneath him, with the Five Elements psychic powers forming its perimeter. The scope of his Twin Fish Harmony Seal expanded, eventually enveloping all of Blackwood!


    It was a pity, though.


    After twenty years of effort and forging the Developing Skill, Ethan''s immense talent went largely unnoticed, just as few had known the true extent of his capabilities before.


    "It''s time to leave."


    Ethan reached out, feeling the winter of Blackwood one last time. He took one final look at Blackwood, only to see the snow turning a deep red.


    Looking up, he saw the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree undergoing a transformation, its vital essence dyeing the entire Blackwood, affecting the sky above!


    [With your card position contract, the family''s sacred tree, after absorbing the blood of tens of thousands and devouring the power of the Developing Skill, under the influence of your Twin Fish and Five Elements, sensing the cosmic forces for twenty years, has finally undergone a new transformation!]


    [A Seventh-Grade Primordial Blood Tree!]


    [It has awakened its spirit, recognizing any child of Blackwood after years of companionship, and now, it will reciprocate¡ª]


    At that moment, not only was Ethan looking up at the sky, but the entire population of Blackwood and Gratitude Village were also witnessing this extraordinary phenomenon.


    Initially, they were frightened by the blood-red snowflakes, which seemed quite eerie. However, once they realized that the blood snow was harmless and actually beneficial, they stepped outside in amazement.


    People spread their hands to catch the snowflakes.


    Bizarre and eerie, yet the blood snow made the harsh winter feel incredibly warm, and extraordinary events began to unfold among them.


    Some even began to breakthrough on the spot!


    [The Primordial Blood Tree, after years of accumulating excess blood essence, will transform it into psychic power, merging it into the clouds to become snowflakes. All who bathe in it will receive the psychic power gifts of the Primordial Blood Tree!]


    [All descendants of Blackwood, protected by the Primordial Blood Tree, gain a collective trait¡ª]


    [Primordial Clan!]


    [Wherever the roots of the Primordial Blood Tree spread, the descendants of Blackwood will forever enjoy its protection, with a 10% increase in the speed of cultivating psychic powers!]


    [The power of the Five Elements, fundamental forces that govern the universe''s trajectory, will reveal parts of destiny. The Primordial Blood Tree can sense the talents of any Blackwood descendant, foreseeing moments of their future destinies, making the best choices for them.]


    At this moment, the Primordial Blood Tree had truly become a divine tree!


    Ethan''s face lit up with joy. He hadn''t expected that the blood tree he had nurtured for years would give him such a surprise upon his departure from this world. It was a testament to the years of hard work at Blackwood, dealing with demonically possessed psychics, feeding the tree with blood, drop by drop.


    Soon, the people of Blackwood gathered around, floating in the air, astonished as a gigantic human face gradually emerged from the massive trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree. It was the face of an old man, entirely formed from bark, lifelike in every detail.


    "Forebearer... has shown his psychic powers again?!"


    "Nonsense, that''s the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree developing sentience! But you could also say it''s the Forebearer showing his powers¡ªI can feel the Forebearer''s elemental forces in it!"


    "What? Good heavens, its eyeballs moved... huh? Staring at me? My bad!" Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The older generation at Blackwood, however, smiled broadly. They had long noticed the oddities of the Primordial Blood Tree, and its breakthrough was within reason.


    Unexpectedly, after surveying the crowd at Blackwood, the Primordial Blood Tree spoke in an ancient, somewhat heavy voice, "I can hear."


    Sensing the depth in the tree''s tone, they all sobered up, and Thomas dared not act rashly.


    More blood-red snowflakes fell from the sky, landing on the hair and shoulders of the people of Blackwood. The entire place, as if stained red, was filled with a bloody, sweet scent. They felt today''s wind was unusually cold.


    The eyes of the Primordial Blood Tree then turned towards the sky beyond Blackwood. "I can see."


    Everyone followed the gaze of the Primordial Blood Tree''s eyes to see George, dressed in his night suit, returning on his sword. He seemed utterly oblivious to the strange phenomena at home and unconcerned about what was happening at Blackwood.


    He was wailing loudly, yet his voice never reached Blackwood.


    The Primordial Blood Tree closed its eyes. "Next year''s earth should be as red as today''s snow. May Blackwood slaughter millions."


    Its words were as bloody as the sky above Blackwood today.


    Today at Blackwood was supposed to be filled with joy.


    Whenever someone made a breakthrough, the clan would gather together, bubbling with excitement.


    There would be a pet pig, much like a family member, running around with the Blackwood children, promising them that next year he would forge a psychic pool in the Silver Iron Forest to help them grow quickly.


    For twenty years, the laughter of old pig Pete and the children had been a noisy but welcome presence for Ethan.


    However, today, as the Primordial Blood Tree underwent its transformation, there was no sign of the old pig Pete, nor were there any sounds of children''s laughter.

 Chapter 115: Chapter 115: Psychic Springs Part 1

    Once warmed by the red snow, Blackwood was gradually growing colder. The people of Blackwood seemed to have become mere mortals again, shivering in the biting winds of the harsh winter days.


    Luna clung to Nathan''s arm, her eyes moistening uncontrollably as she watched George battling the snowstorm, rushing back to the family.


    As Luna buried her head in her husband''s chest, she could feel his heartbeat pause for a moment, then his muscles slowly tensing, her only way to keep Nathan calm.


    Lucas and Daniel, father and son, stood side by side, their brows furrowed tightly as they watched George return. The air around them seemed to freeze.


    Until we reach where Julian and his wife were.


    Mary''s eyes flickered with fear, shaking her head in disbelief as her body began to sway, falling from the sky. But Julian did not catch his wife, despite the vivid red scenery around them.


    In Julian''s eyes, however, it was as if dark clouds were overhead, the world had lost its color, and the fire of his blacksmithing abilities blazed fiercely, lighting up the world.


    Yet, the fire on him brought no warmth to the people of Blackwood; the winter felt even colder.


    "It''s not like this, it can''t be like this," Thomas''s eyes were bloodshot, his veins bulging as he faced the reality before him, yet subconsciously refusing to believe it.


    At this moment, the second generation of the Blackwood family was not as talkative as before.Each of them stared blankly in the direction of George.


    That child.


    In a black robe.


    Crossing the distinct boundary between Blackwood and the outside world, he carried a massive object that kept him from standing straight, blood dripping from where he had flown back.


    He couldn''t afford to care much, only fiercely shouting for the family''s doctor to come out, for the elders to go to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, to call back the highly skilled grandmother, shouting for the elders to fetch the elixirs.


    Anyone could see his hysteria, the madness and despair of this moment etched deep into everyone''s hearts.


    A scream erupted from someone.


    Ethan felt the chill of this winter, unable to tell if it was snowing or raining blood from the sky. But this year, like all seasons for the descendants of Blackwood, was surely devoid of warmth.


    He and the Primordial Blood Tree closed their eyes, teeth clenched.


    They all saw it, George in black returning from outside, carrying back the corpse of the Boar Monarch Pete!


    They also heard it, George''s voice hoarse with exertion.


    And they saw even more.


    The Primordial Blood Tree not only glimpsed the land of the coming year as snowy as today, but it also saw a trace of the past.


    The red snow falling from the sky, endowed with special abilities by the Primordial Blood Tree, also allowed the people of Blackwood to see everything.


    The Boar Monarch Pete, who rarely stepped out of the Silver Iron Forest, entered Blackwood and then, over the course of this year, repeatedly ventured into the outside world to find special items for the children of Blackwood, bringing them home time and again, personally crafting a pool of special abilities for the children.


    It eagerly anticipated the children born to Blackwood in the future, hoping they would grow up faster and taller than the second generation of Blackwoods.


    This was also his last time stepping out of the Silver Iron Forest, his last time coming home.


    In the heart of the Silver Iron Forest, a massive pit was excavated, within which a dan fire burned fiercely. All the psychic beasts of the Silver Iron Forest gathered here, witnessing the fall of a legendary demon king, turning to dust.


    Julian''s lineage knelt towards the soon-to-be-completed tomb.


    Mary had awakened from her coma, yet unable to accept reality, she fainted several times.


    The second generation of Blackwoods, who had never shed a tear even when limbs were lost, now wept like despairing children.


    The grown descendants were sobbing uncontrollably. Even the younger ones understood they might never see the Boar Monarch Pete again.


    "Great-grandma, what happened to Grandpa?" asked a two-year-old child, tugging at Mary''s sleeve. A sense of inexplicable loss suddenly filled his heart; he couldn''t understand why everyone was crying just because Grandpa had fallen asleep.


    Yet, there was also a sense of loss he couldn''t grasp, a sadness creeping from the soil of the Silver Iron Forest into his heart, as he sobbed along with the adults.


    Luna gently stroked the child''s head, "Your grandpa... he''s very tired. He''s going to sleep for a very, very long time."


    Ethan, who had already made a breakthrough, did not return.


    He saw everything. Although he had never met the Boar Monarch Pete, since the Boar Monarch Pete became related to Blackwood, he had always paid attention to the Boar Monarch Pete playing with the children.


    Generation after generation, the Boar Monarch Pete cherished the children more than Blackwood''s elders did.


    Nathan and Luna, due to their age, had grown distant from the children, but not the Boar Monarch Pete. It remembered every child''s name.


    It also remembered what each child liked and wanted.


    He looked into the distance.


    There lay a psychic pool. For this very pool, the Boar Monarch Pete had spent almost all his life''s savings, and ultimately... his life.


    When the Boar Monarch Pete was buried, the people of Blackwood found a Storage Ring in his mouth, containing some rare psychic materials.


    Inside that Storage Ring were also materials needed for the construction of a building called the ''Heaven and Earth Psychic Pool.''


    The death of the Boar Monarch Pete did not prompt a game notification; he was not a blood relative of Blackwood.


    But to Ethan, as well as everyone in Blackwood, the Boar Monarch Pete was considered a member of the family.


    "I don''t know, on my way back I saw Grandpa, and he was covered in wounds, all bloody," George knelt at the grave, still stained with the blood of the Boar Monarch Pete, yet the desperate cries he had when he brought back the Boar Monarch Pete were long gone.


    Instead, there was a numbness that came after extreme sorrow; he had exhausted all his psychic powers carrying the corpse of the Boar Monarch Pete back. Now, he looked pale and weak, unaware of his own frailty.


    He just numbly stared ahead, subconsciously answering his uncle''s questions, "When Grandpa came back, he was in the jungle outside Forest Town, he had lost his psychic powers, crashing through the jungle. "


    "So many people were shouting to eliminate the demon, and many psychics surrounded Grandpa, he killed so many people, and he kept charging towards home."


    "I carried Grandpa back, and Grandpa said..."


    "Take him home."


    "He wanted to see his children one last time, that would make his life worthwhile."


    "But."


    As he spoke, George''s expression seemed to cry and laugh at the same time, but more than anything, it was filled with endless guilt, "He didn''t deserve this! I don''t want any psychic springs, I want Grandpa back! We already have plenty of resources, we can''t even use up all the good stuff, he didn''t need to get us more."


    "It''s all my fault, if... if I could have flown faster, Grandpa definitely could have been saved, right?"


    S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 116: Chapter 116: Psychic Springs Part 2

    Daniel furrowed his brows and simply shook his head. He didn''t want to tell George that when Grandpa Pete returned, his spirit was already nearly exhausted. By the time he met George, his spirit was probably at its last moments.


    Soon after, Daniel stopped concerning himself with George and the younger generation''s grief.


    As the head of the family, his responsibility told him that he must maintain enough rationality to handle this matter.


    He had a nagging feeling that something was amiss and immediately went to his father and grandparents, who were still calm. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas''s eyes were fixed on the ceremonial fire in the tomb, a method of dignified end for Class D entities, otherwise their bodies would be stolen.


    He had long been able to suppress the anger in his heart, but his expression was unusually cold. Feeling Daniel''s approach, he had only three words to say, "Who did it?"


    Years ago, the Boar Monarch Pete had already started planning to build this ''Heavenly and Earthly Ability Pool'', and the people of Blackwood knew about it, even providing considerable help. Lucas had also gone out with the Boar Monarch Pete a couple of times. But this time...


    Daniel let out a long breath, "All the intelligence forces of Blackwood have returned. The current intelligence only knows that Grandpa Pete went to the Golden Dou Forest outside Tranquil County. There were no signs of battle where Grandpa Pete had been, and none of the forces hostile to Blackwood had any experts traveling."


    "My child has already asked Mr. Dennis to come, and messages have been sent to the fourth aunt and second aunt," Daniel continued.


    Nathan, standing by, watched the children in front of the grave, overwhelmed with grief. He slowly closed his eyes; he had never imagined this day would come. The sudden cause of the Boar Monarch Pete''s death was also unbearable for him. He couldn''t even imagine the pain these children of his family would have to endure.


    "Find the murderer, no matter who it is."


    "Yes, Grandfather," Daniel nodded slightly, turned to leave to take care of things, but looked back at the Boar Monarch Pete''s grave one last time.


    In that moment, he suddenly remembered the words of the Primordial Blood Tree, "Next year''s earth should be as red as today''s snow."


    He could only sigh deeply. Daniel understood that the prediction of the Primordial Blood Tree was probably correct.


    Once they found out who was responsible, they would face the full wrath of Blackwood, because from the third generation onwards, every person in Blackwood had grown up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    The relationship between the Boar Monarch Pete and the children of Blackwood was closer than any of their elders.


    No matter the cost, no matter who the opponent was, or how long it took, the descendants of Blackwood would avenge this.


    Suddenly, Daniel''s hair turned a bit whiter. The sky of Blackwood continued to snow red.


    In this blood-filled winter day, the fire burning the body of the Boar Monarch Pete grew hotter, just like the raging fury of the people of Blackwood.


    Ethan watched quietly all along. The greatest hope of the Boar Monarch Pete was to fill the valley with Blackwood''s children, to have endless descendants.


    He couldn''t do it anymore.


    But Blackwood would always remember, deep in the Silver Iron Forest, there was a demon king, their in-law, who had accompanied Blackwood through a long period of time.


    Blackwood''s children would also remember, they had a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and even a great-great-grandfather who once carried them around, and even future children would remember, Blackwood had an ancestor who was a pig demon, also one of the most important family members of Blackwood.


    "Phew."


    Ethan let out a long breath, and after the funeral, he bowed deeply towards the grave of the Boar Monarch Pete. As his body gradually became ethereal, his tone was firm, "You will always be a member of the family, the children will carry on with the memories of your existence, grow into the eagles and tigers you liked, and become the proud descendants of Blackwood."


    As Ethan''s figure returned to reality, the fire in the grave of the Boar Monarch Pete flared up in the deep night.


    [Forebearer Moment, Over!]


    [Spiritual Tribute Spent: 20000!]


    In a daze, Ethan found himself back in the familiar room, next to the Mystic Burner in front of the 500-inch screen, already filled with Tribute Offerings from two major ceremonies.


    Ethan was still lying in bed, pillow behind his back, legs bent, a keyboard resting on his stomach, and a mouse by his side.


    He seemed stunned, stiffly glancing over to check the time.


    20 years in the game world, not even a full day in reality.


    But he knew clearly that these 20 years, like a ghostly ability, cultivating psychic powers, were real. The divine pills inside him still shone brightly, engraved with a Twin Fish Harmony Seal and dual-layer techniques.


    Also, the joys and sorrows he had shared with his clan over the years were real.


    Finally, he came to his senses.


    On the screen, everything at the Blackwood residence was displayed¡ªthe descendants of Blackwood still kneeling at the tomb of the Boar Monarch Pete, the red snow of Blackwood still falling, landing on the shoulders of these animated characters, yet never as real as in the game world.


    A popup appeared.


    [Special Event: The Sacrifice of the Boar Monarch Pete]


    [The Boar Monarch Pete, who has looked after the third, fourth, and fifth generations of Blackwood, has been sacrificed. Your family is furious, secretly resolving to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete at any cost!]


    [Sadness spreads, the fury for revenge burns. Your family gains the group trait¡ª]


    [Year of the Red Snow!]


    [Your descendants will strive harder in cultivating psychic powers, constantly influenced by towering fury, increasing the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 30% until the revenge is complete. The possibility of mental state changes increases, which could be negative or positive.]


    [Your descendants will forever remember this day, alerting future generations, singing of this event, permanently increasing the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 5% for future generations.]


    If it were before, Ethan would have been delighted by the emergence of a group trait, but now...


    For twenty years, Ethan had watched the Boar Monarch Pete carrying children back and forth beside him, even getting used to the Boar Monarch Pete''s noise. Not to mention the anger of the Blackwood people, there was also an unquenchable fire in his heart!


    He seemed to have grown wolf-like sharp fangs, wanting to tear apart an unknown enemy.


    But the years had also made Ethan more composed.


    He took a deep breath and dialed the phone, "Hello, Alan, can you get a nuclear bomb?"


    "Ah? Are you planning a rebellion?"

 Chapter 117: Chapter 117: A Marriage Alliance

    Ethan watched the screen, having already arranged for Lisa to deliver gourmet food at the scheduled time. Now, looking at the barbecue beside him, he really wasn''t in the mood to eat.


    The Hundred-Mile Pigeons of Blackwood sliced through the sky, spreading messages in all directions.


    Soon, the scene shifted to where Olivia was.


    It had been twenty years since Ethan had last seen Olivia.


    Seeing her again, Ethan felt a pang of heartache. The woman was 68, merely mortal, inevitably nearing her end.


    She aged more easily than most elderly women, her sparse white hair like dry grass, her body skeletal, her skin so loose it seemed it might fall off her body.


    Sitting in a wheelchair, her breath was faint, only her cloudy eyes looking up at the sky in the courtyard.


    Ethan sent her a ''Forebearer''s Warmth''.


    Feeling the sudden surge of psychic power within her, Olivia, like a withered plant rekindled with life, spoke in a hoarse and weak voice, yet could not hide her excitement, "Forebearer... cough, cough, cough, after so many years, Olivia... feels your presence again."


    Just speaking a little made Olivia cough incessantly. An AI Bionic Robot sent by the family was wiping the blood from the corners of her mouth with a handkerchief. Despite her disheveled state, she was still smiling, "Forebearer, don''t worry, my child, the path of literature shall be fulfilled!"


    Hearing this, Ethan still didn''t look relieved.


    He knew Olivia well; she had always been like this. Even when sending messages home, she would say she was fine, but no one believed her. Olivia was the type who silently endured, not wanting her family to bear the burden of her suffering.


    Even if she fell and bled profusely, she would message home, telling her family she was well, had eaten well, letting her family breathe a sigh of relief, but perhaps it was all just her own fabrication.


    "The family matters, my child already knows."


    Olivia''s smile faded, perhaps the years had made her see many things more clearly. There was no trace of sadness in her eyes, only a cold sharpness, "Dawn is already investigating. Now that your child has some power, perhaps we can find some clues."


    "My child has also seen that someone wants to destroy my Blackwood. Let them see whose path is higher!"


    "A thousand of Dawn''s intelligence agents are already gathering in the Golden Battle Forest."


    Ethan nodded slightly and drew the characters for ''be well'' in front of Olivia with a plaque.


    ...


    Over at Marcus''s side, Ethan had also checked in, but ultimately Blackwood didn''t send Marcus any messages.


    The guy was in seclusion, with the Nine Nether Daoist aiding him in forging the Heavenly Pill, so Ethan didn''t disturb him.


    Soon, the scene shifted to the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Time hadn''t left any marks on Amelia''s face. Everyone in Blackwood was slowly changing, except for Amelia, who remained just as she had been years ago.


    She only showed spirit when concocting medicines, saving people, gardening, or interacting with her family. It was night at that moment.


    Amelia sat deep within the Thunderfire Demon Cave, right where the heavenly thunder and earth fire were located.


    Lava flowed, and thunder, coming from nowhere, pierced through the soil and struck the molten rock, turning the entire river of magma into a spectacle of flashing lightning.


    Beneath the waterfall-like flow of magma, the Blackwood''s temple guardian beast, the Purple Thunder Solar Python, was shedding its skin!


    The newly shed body was pitch black, and its head began to change, sprouting two slightly soft reversed horns, with long, lightning-fire flickering tendrils at the corners of its mouth.


    Especially notable was its back, which, though serpentine, had grown armor resembling that of a crocodile''s back. Soon, it would transform into a dragon.


    Ethan sent Amelia a burst of warmth, and the girl instantly tensed up, pulling out a Forebearer cards, spinning around joyfully on the spot, "The Forebearer has finally shown his supernatural abilities, Amelia can listen to the ancient ancestral melodies again!"


    It took a while for Amelia to calm down.


    "Don''t worry, Forebearer, although Uncle Old Pig at home isn''t very familiar with Amelia, I know the children all consider him family. Forebearer coming to see the child proves that Forebearer also regards him as family, and so he is family to the child too."


    "The demonically possessed have many tricks, and the child has already ordered them to investigate. The Demon Subduing Sect has an observatory with six skilled old Daoists who can also trace the slightest clues."


    After saying this, Amelia knelt expectantly in front of the Forebearer cards, hands pressed together under her chin, her dirty little face staring at the cards, full of hope.


    Ethan sent her another burst of warmth.


    Amelia suddenly got up, bouncing around.


    Ethan, rubbing his face helplessly, thought to himself... this guy... she''s 76 years old. She doesn''t look at all like a demon cult''s holy maiden or elder.


    Back at the Blackwood residence, they had summoned all the external forces under their control to investigate the matter.


    Among them, Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, with whom Blackwood had forged the deepest ties, was also present, with Dennis himself attending.


    Over the years, it was unclear just how much trust Blackwood and Dennis had built. Nathan and his wife even took this old friend to the tomb of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    "Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is one of the top intelligence agencies in Jubilee County. I think with my clairvoyance, we might uncover something," Dennis said, exhaling deeply and hesitating for a moment. "But Mr. Nathan, are you sure you want to continue this investigation?"


    Upon hearing this, Nathan frowned. "What do you mean, Mr. Dennis?"


    "It''s not that I want to stop Blackwood from seeking revenge," Dennis sighed. "Actually, when I received the message, I had my suspicions. And I figured out that it wouldn''t be hard to investigate further."


    "Over the years, although Blackwood doesn''t have the heritage of a Developing Skill family,Silverwood County has gradually recognized your dominion as the overlord of Blackwood. After all, those who have opposed you have all disappeared from this world."


    "Though it hasn''t been rumored, after many years of investigation by various forces, anyone with a bit of sense could guess that the Silver Iron Forest is your Blackwood''s backbone, not my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion. Honestly, although we''re close, Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is also a power in its own right and can''t possibly handle so many things for Blackwood."


    "Do you think it''s normal that now the Silver Iron Forest Boar Monarch Pete is dead, and your trump card is gone?"


    Nathan wasn''t surprised; he had thought of this too but remained silent. He knew all too well that Dennis could never fully understand the deep bond between Blackwood and the Boar Monarch Pete.


    Seeing Nathan''s lack of response, Dennis continued, "Then Mr. Dennis, you need to think carefully. After the investigation, Blackwood might face a power or person with the capability to kill someone with mid-stage Developing Skill Psychic powers."


    "And the troubles you face might increase. After all, I''ve also heard the intelligence that the wounds on the Boar Monarch Pete were deliberately inflicted. Otherwise, wouldn''t it have been easier for the enemy to destroy the body and erase all traces? Every item on the Boar Monarch Pete is a treasure."


    "That means, this powerful opponent deliberately left clues, not valuing the body of the Boar Monarch Pete, just waiting for Blackwood to react angrily, with schemes and plots within."


    "Have you, Blackwood, really thought about entering this game?"


    Nathan still did not respond. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But as the cold night wind blew, Dennis, looking at Nathan''s firm silhouette and clenched fists, understood Nathan''s decision.


    Bathed in moonlight, the thirty-meter-tall tree at Blackwood shone a bloody red, reflecting the remnants of the moonlight.


    Dennis could only chuckle bitterly, "I do envy the courage and decisiveness of you people from Blackwood."


    He calculated with his fingers.


    Suddenly, with interest, he said to Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, Sister Luna, now that Blackwood is in imminent danger, my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is not cowardly either. "


    "I have a female disciple, my adopted daughter, who is exceptionally talented and in the prime of her youth. I wonder if your Blackwood would consider forming a marriage alliance with my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion?"

 Chapter 118: Chapter 118: Born Bad

    "Is it not hard to investigate?"


    Ethan took a deep breath, his expression gradually returning to normal, transitioning from initial sadness to contemplation. He seemed to have a hunch about something.


    Perhaps Blackwood had indeed fallen into some kind of trap; otherwise, it wouldn''t make sense that the Boar Monarch Pete had been safe on his travels for years, only to not survive this one time.


    Dennis was spot on.


    After so many years of development, although Blackwood had never boasted about it publicly, the various powers were not fools; they couldn''t have failed to notice Blackwood''s growth.


    After all... Daniel''s ambitions were growing, and in Tranquil County, Blackwood was invincible because its enemies had been secretly wiped clean by Blackwood.


    But Blackwood thought it was well-hidden, yet it was as obvious as hiding a leaf in the forest.


    Anyone might think of clearing out Blackwood, this sneaky enemy, to devour this big piece of fat.


    Just as Ethan was pondering.


    Nathan and Dennis had already left.


    In the crimson night, at the entrance of the Boar Monarch Pete''s tomb, a figure caught his eye.


    Ethan frowned, "Why is he here?"


    It was a young man.


    William, the Blackwood renegade, was the only traitor of Blackwood, which made Ethan wary, fearing he might impulsively kill a few siblings for fun, always ready to purge his own ranks.


    After all, this guy... Despite Blackwood''s tight security, he had managed to silently enter the home and reach the tomb, showing his skill.


    Unexpectedly.


    This time William did nothing out of line but stood dazedly in front of the Boar Monarch Pete''s tomb for a long time, then suddenly knelt down. His nature was supposed to be cold and numb, yet there was a hint of sorrow in his eyes as he continuously kowtowed.


    "Granduncle, William is back! Please forgive William for not being able to see you one last time."


    "Does this kid really have such a side?"


    Watching the small text above William''s head, Ethan was also stunned, especially when he saw his historical event column.


    [Blackwood Year 83, hearing of the death of the granduncle who had raised him, William was devastated and killed his unfaithful wife that night, fleeing to Cloudview County. Gained Trait: Wife Slayer]


    [Attack damage against wife increased by 200%]


    It had to be said, his [Born Bad] trait was incredibly strong, causing emotional fluctuations and gaining another trait.


    [Kneeling before the granduncle''s grave, William was overwhelmed with emotions. Only two people in his life could stir his heartstrings: the granduncle who raised him and the elder brother who always nagged him. Now one is dead, and his malice grows, gaining Trait: Avenger]


    [He is like a honey badger and viper combined, lurking in the darkness, never resting until his enemies are dead!]


    "Even if he''s twisted, he''s still family."


    Ethan murmured, as long as this guy didn''t kill his siblings, it was somewhat acceptable, especially since the people he recently killed weren''t exactly saints.


    Treat him like an outsider.


    William continued to bow.


    Footsteps sounded behind him, causing his expression to change. Seeing the newcomer, his initially defensive demeanor suddenly turned joyful, "Big brother!"


    But before he could finish.


    All he saw was his big brother''s flying sword, his brother no longer as gentle as before, his face pale, actually threatening him!


    "Beast."


    "Are you here to rob the tomb? You won''t even spare Granduncle, will you?"


    This startled William, who waved his hands frantically, "Big brother, aren''t you the one who wears black and goes tomb raiding every day?"


    ...


    George retracted his flying sword. Looking at his younger brother, who seemed indifferent to life and death, he felt a pang of guilt. William had been sickly since childhood, and George, as the elder brother, felt he had failed to take care of him properly.


    "Why have you come back? You killed someone in Qingping Moore, and two villagers from Gratitude Village died by your hand. The elders will not let you off," George said as his Storage Ring flickered, revealing a zither table, an ancient zither, and a Mystic Burner.


    He slowly picked up the ancient zither and walked to the front of the ancestral tomb. The tombstone, a full ten feet high, barely contained the contributions of the ancestor to the Blackwood family, yet it lacked a statue. He didn''t want his younger siblings, nieces, and nephews to forget the ancestor''s face in the years to come.


    In an instant, his formidable psychic power surged, and stones beside the tomb rose from the ground. He gently tapped the premium psychic-powered Yunxi ancient zither, and as the music started, a side panel opened, revealing tools like a grave-digging shovel, chisel, and pickaxe...


    He levitated, using his psychic power to sculpt a statue. Soon, the outline of the Boar Monarch Pete was formed, and he picked up a chisel to carve the details.


    "Big brother, let me help you," William said, also rising into the air. When he left, he was at the seventh level of Foundational Energy, but now he had reached the realm of Emerging Ability!


    Holding a dagger, he began to carve. In the gloomy night, the two brothers were like children again, playing in the mud in front of their grandfather. But this time, there was no rough laughter from their grandfather, nor could they hear his encouraging praises.


    "I heard about grandfather''s death when I was in Cloudview County, and I know I did wrong. Both you and grandfather must be disappointed in me," William said, tightly clutching the dagger, his eyes misty as he tried to smile.


    "I''m sorry, big brother, and I''m sorry to grandfather. I really don''t know what came over me. I know many things I did were wrong, and I tried to control it..."


    "After killing, I was also at a loss. I told myself I couldn''t go on, but I still did," he continued.


    George remained silent.


    "I thought I was sick, so I went to see Great Aunt," William said with a laugh that held tears. "I really hoped it was just an illness, that Great Aunt could cure me. But she said I wasn''t sick, just purely bad."


    "When I heard of grandfather''s death, I even laughed. Because, I realized that here," he pointed to his heart, "it could still feel pain." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    George looked at his brother, tears streaking down William''s cheeks. It was the first time he had seen William cry like this.

 Chapter 119: Chapter 119: Will of the Boar Monarch Pete

    William wiped away his tears, revealing a handsome smile as if he hadn''t said anything just moments ago, his face beaming with joy.


    "I was supposed to be the son-in-law of the Jones family in Cloudview County, blessed with immense wealth and power, where even murder could be handled by others. But I had to come back; I couldn''t see my great-grandfather for the last time, but at least I need to know who the murderer is."


    The cold winter wind grew even more fierce.


    Snow began to fall from the sky, and stone chips knocked from the statue of the Boar Monarch Pete floated down with the snowflakes, adding to the gloom of the icy day.


    George felt a hint of warmth as he took a deep breath, gritting his teeth as he looked at his brother, "What are you doing?! Is that how great-grandfather''s eyes looked? The tuft of hair on top of his head is completely covering his eyes, you..."


    "Ah? Got it, stop yelling, stop yelling!"


    William''s face showed hurt, but as he turned back to his carving, he smiled happily, enduring another lecture from his brother.


    Until the moon hid itself away.


    The statue of the Boar Monarch Pete, completed with the combined efforts of the brothers, looked lifelike, just as it had in days past, lying on the ground watching children play deep in the Silver Iron Woods.


    George sat by the guqin table, the ancient strings of the guqin lightly vibrating, the melodious sound echoing from the Silver Iron Woods, reaching all of Blackwood, falling into everyone''s ears.


    William stood quietly behind his brother.


    The moon was gone, but William knew that soon, like his brother''s guqin music, the daylight would illuminate all of Blackwood.


    ...


    [Due to the death of the Boar Monarch Pete, George was heartbroken. With his brother William returning home, although he couldn''t understand his brother''s actions, he felt a human connection, and was slightly moved.]


    [He suddenly realized the impermanence of life, and the constancy of human nature. Years of guqin skills broke through to a great achievement, gaining a hint of the essence of the guqin, acquiring the trait¡ªHeart Sound as Guqin]


    [The heart''s intent and the guqin''s sound merged, using the guqin music to enhance attack power by 10%]


    Ethan watched the scene.


    The two brothers under the moonlight, so serene, formed the most beautiful picture in the world, listening to the guqin music that appeared in the game, Ethan also quieted down a lot.


    This guqin music, melodious, as if celestial music echoed throughout Blackwood.


    In the residence of Blackwood.


    Everyone gathered in the ancestral hall, under Ethan''s cards, the plaque of the Boar Monarch Pete had been placed.


    Julian held his wife Mary, who by now had no more tears, because¡ª


    Outside the Forebearer''s ancestral hall, there was a line of text, left by the passing of the Forebearer''s Cards through the sky, a display of psychic power!


    [The sad ones should be the enemies]


    Right, why be sad?


    "Intelligence says, the Boar Monarch Pete charged back, killing anyone who stood in his way."


    Lucas, with his sword sheath on his back, came forward, seeing his brother and sister-in-law so grief-stricken for the first time, he too was filled with rage. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing the body of the Boar Monarch Pete, he remembered the first time he met the Boar Monarch Pete, the initial confusion, and eventually, the respect he had for him, "Younger brother, sister-in-law, we don''t have time to grieve for the Boar Monarch Pete''s death."


    "When facing Monk Jacob back then, the Boar Monarch Pete didn''t back down a step, and when our family faced difficulties, he thought of leading all the beasts of the Silver Iron Woods. Now it''s our turn, carrying the will of the Boar Monarch Pete to charge forward, we should make the unknown enemies feel the pain of Blackwood now."


    In the distance, under George''s guqin music.


    Julian and his wife looked at their elder brother, seeing the psychic power left by the Forebearer, they nodded slightly.


    Lucas knew he had said enough, he quietly retreated into the darkness, the sword in his sheath humming, he was like a sword hidden in the darkness, ready to strike at the enemies of Blackwood.


    The couple huddled together, warming each other in the cold, dark night.


    In Mary''s hand appeared a bead striped in yellow and black, shimmering with light. Her expression was sorrowful, but recalling her brother''s words, she gradually calmed down. "Julian."


    "Mm." Julian, who spent his days forging and was rough with all things, now held his wife delicately, as if cradling a doll that might break at any moment, his tenderness fully displayed. It was the only way he could accompany his wife.


    Mary said, "I grew up following Boar Monarch Pete around since I was little. The first time I met people, I felt like an outsider, afraid to blend in with humans. It was Boar Monarch Pete who told me that it should be them I feared, not myself. ''Boar Monarch Pete''s daughter should fear nothing; I will always have your back.''"


    "From now on, he can''t protect me anymore. Without Boar Monarch Pete, will you end up like Steven from the village, beating your wife?"


    "I will." Julian grinned, but under the candlelight in the ancestral hall, it somehow seemed warm. "If you don''t eat well, drink well, and stay by my side forever, I''ll have to beat you. It hurts me more than it hurts you, so to make it easier, I might as well beat myself to death."


    After so many years of marriage, this was still the first time Mary heard such cheesy words from her husband. If it had been earlier, she would have suspected him of infidelity. But now, Mary pressed tightly into Julian''s embrace. "Then I have nothing to fear. Boar Monarch Pete died, and everything Forebearer and my brother said was right. Boar Monarch Pete always charged forward and died a hero."


    "I shouldn''t be sad, nor should I fear the days without Boar Monarch Pete. If I were to die, Boar Monarch Pete would have the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest avenge me."


    "Now..." Mary took a deep breath and slowly popped the bead into her mouth¡ªit was the blood pill of the Boar Monarch Pete. Her eyes flickered red, "It''s my turn to fight fiercely for Boar Monarch Pete. I will carry on his will and avenge him. I will protect our children just like he did."


    In an instant, Mary''s psychic powers surged!


    Julian still held his wife tightly, his gaze lost on the spiritual tablet of the Boar Monarch Pete. "Father-in-law, rest in peace. I won''t let anyone bully Mary or our children. I will bring back the heads of our enemies and make a blood oath to you."


    [Your daughter-in-law Mary has swallowed the second Demon King''s blood pill. The blood pill of the former ruler of the Silver Iron Forest is merging with the new one.]


    [Trait gained: Will of the Boar Monarch Pete]


    [She will inherit part of the Boar Monarch Pete''s power.]


    [Trait gained: Lord of the Silver Iron Forest]


    [With the blood pills of two generations of Demon Kings merging, her bloodline is transforming, and her presence will suppress all creatures of the Silver Iron Forest!]


    Seeing the couple, Ethan finally felt at ease.


    His greatest fear was that Mary would despair, for there was no greater sorrow than hers, yet Mary proved herself a heroine of Blackwood.


    Outside the ancestral hall.


    The second generation of Blackwoods stood before the Primordial Blood Tree. Since their birth, Ethan had never seen them so quiet. They too saw the psychic powers Ethan left behind and heard George''s music.


    Behind them, their numerous descendants.


    Each one had grown up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete, and not one of them hadn''t broken a limb in play¡ªperhaps that''s why their grief was profound.


    "The Divine Tree."


    In the deep night, they stood under the shadow of the Blood Tree, the distant candlelight casting each of them in a blood-red glow.


    The eldest, Thomas, looked resolute, a far cry from his former self, who might have been likened to a dumb, clumsy black bear.


    But at this moment.


    Like all the children who grew up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete, he was like a lion awakened from a deep slumber, fierce and wild!


    "You said, next year the land will be dyed red, please tell us."


    "Where should we go from here, and whose blood should stain the earth?"


    At these words.


    As the crimson leaves of the Primordial Blood Tree trembled, it opened its calm yet bloody eyes.

 Chapter 120: Chapter 120: Boar Monarch Petes Legacy

    [Primordial Blood Tree]


    [Rank:Seventh Grade]


    [Abilities:Fruit Bearing,Omens,Blood Realm Formation...]


    Ethan was also observing the Primordial Blood Tree.Due to the issues with the Boar Monarch Pete,he hadn''t had the time to check on the growth of this blood tree.


    [Fruit Bearing:Blooms and bears fruit every hundred years.All blood trees in Blackwood are its offspring.The Primordial Fruits it bears,twenty in total,significantly enhance psychic abilities and randomly increase Psychic Constitution values.] Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Omens:Can reveal a strand of fate of Blackwood''s descendants,limited to one-time use.If the power of omens is used again,it will consume a great amount of blood energy and the cost will be in lifespan.]


    [Blood Realm Formation:Possesses the power of a seventh-grade magical formation.]


    The Primordial Blood Tree surveyed the second generation of Blackwoods,listening to Thomas''s words.


    Its eyes turned towards the Forebearer''s shrine.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree is asking if you would like to respond.]


    [Yes]


    Ethan made his choice without hesitation.


    Response received.


    The voice of the Primordial Blood Tree was deep.


    "United as seven,perhaps you should head to the Pine Temple,where there is a bronze bell.Ring it."


    The seven looked at each other,then bowed towards the Primordial Blood Tree.


    They glanced back at the many descendants behind them,without a word,knowing that these younger ones should understand.


    If such matters arise and the younger generation cannot be inspired to move forward and strive in cultivating psychic powers,then it would truly be questionable if they were of their lineage.


    After speaking a few words to the younger ones,they left home.


    Subsequently,one by one,the younger ones stepped forward.


    Their eyes were red,showing a defiance like that of mystical beasts,though they had never experienced hardships.The education from Boar Monarch Pete from their childhood had already influenced them.


    They too were asking the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Primordial Blood Tree could clearly see that the days to come would be soaked in blood,so they hoped that some of this blood on the land would be from their enemies they had slain,perhaps the only thing they could do for Boar Monarch Pete.


    Let Boar Monarch Pete know,these descendants had never lost face for him,nor for the family,and the Forebearer!


    Their anger should be like a spark that sets the prairie ablaze!


    "Larry,have you thought it through?"


    "I have thought it through!"


    "Then you should head to the swampy jungles in the nearby barbaric lands to the south.I see it,I hear it,your body is bleeding,you are in agony."


    "I,Justin,have also thought it through!"


    "Deep Heart Lake...perhaps you may never return."


    "Jessica!"


    "Go,marry into the Jones family of Cloudview County under a concealed identity,you will kill your husband."


    "..."


    The descendants of Blackwood,each one of them,were embracing the future foretold by the Primordial Blood Tree¡ªa future fraught with danger.Yet,they chose to face it head-on,with not a single one backing down.Ethan watched quietly.


    On this day,these Blackwood descendants,who had never faced hardship before,grew up overnight.They became fearless,truly embodying the form that the Boar Monarch Pete had hoped for.


    Perhaps they didn''t inherit the bloodline of the Boar Monarch Pete,but each one of them carried his memories and will¡ªjust as they had learned to stand up again after falling as children,or how they straightened their own noses after being broken by siblings.


    That night.


    Nathan and Luna stood in the Forebearer''s shrine.


    They handed over the Forebearer Cards to the children,watching as the kids tucked the Cards into their chests,bid farewell to their families,and stepped out the door.


    The future might claim their lives on their quest for power,but the couple was still content.


    Nathan bowed towards the plaque of the Boar Monarch Pete,"Boar Monarch Pete,you see,none of my Blackwood children are weaklings.You once hoped that my children would fill the Silver Iron Forest,and that day will come.Until then..."


    "The children of Blackwood will carry endless glory,marking the Silver Iron Forest,right in front of your grave."


    "I swear to you,down in the netherworld,you can proudly boast to anyone that these kids were raised by you."


    Then.


    He knelt before the Forebearer''s Cards,"Forebearer,your children will not disappoint you either.They are carrying all of Blackwood forward,striving towards the future!Any enemy will bleed beneath the feet of my Blackwood!"


    That night.


    The wives and sons-in-law of these children stood outside the home,watching as their husbands and wives departed,tears in their eyes.They had tried to stop them before,but no longer,because the departing clan members had spoken of a benevolent elder in the Silver Iron Forest who wished them to be eagles,to be hunting dogs.


    They should be even stronger.To be Jiaolong,to be fierce tigers,they are the proud people of Blackwood,and even if they can''t become qualified husbands and wives,please forgive their pride,for they are children raised on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete!


    ...


    [Your descendant,the second generation of Blackwoods,is heading to the Pine Temple.]


    [Larry is heading to the Swamp Forest.]


    [Justin is heading to the Deepheart Lake.]


    [...]


    One by one,these notifications caught Ethan''s eye,and he finally laughed heartily.


    On the map,the descendants of Blackwood were like buds about to bloom,flourishing in all directions beyond Blackwood.


    The years of effort by the Boar Monarch Pete were not in vain.The children of Blackwood,carrying the will of the Boar Monarch Pete,were spreading out.They did not disappoint the Boar Monarch Pete!


    Before.


    It was the Boar Monarch Pete who carried the children everywhere,but now,the children of Blackwood,bearing the hatred and beliefs of the Boar Monarch Pete,were also running beyond Blackwood.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan let out a long breath.


    As time accelerated,the lingering sound of George''s piano,and the first light of Dawn began to dispel the darkness,illuminating all of Blackwood,making it thrive.


    Suddenly,Blackwood quieted down,like a suppressed volcano,or a hidden blade,ready to reveal its sharp edge at any moment.

 Chapter 121: Chapter 121: The sad ones should be the enemies

    Mr. Dennis from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion has also settled down in Blackwood. He stands at the pinnacle of Blackwood''s architecture, looking over everything in Blackwood, from the people''s sorrow to their silence, and then to the descendants leaving their homes one by one. Dennis felt a chill run down his spine.


    As the phrase "The sad ones should be the enemies" suddenly appeared, a dragon seemed to burst forth from the soil of Blackwood. "I thought the great war between the two clans would slowly end, and Cloudview County would be peaceful again. But... everything has just begun, who knows which scoundrel has stirred up such a disaster."


    With a long sigh, something flew towards him from afar. Dennis caught the paper crane, and a white light flowed into his brain. He squinted his eyes, hesitating. The paper crane turned to ash in his hand. He then took a deep breath, seemingly making up his mind, before flying towards the great hall of Blackwood.


    Inside the great hall, he saw Mr. Nathan and his wife, Luna. Although Daniel is the head of the Blackwood family, Dennis knew clearly that Nathan might not be as cunning as Daniel, nor as ambitious, but Nathan was truly the rock of Blackwood.


    Even now... his technique of reading energies could no longer discern Nathan''s details, a mummy completely obscured his vision.


    "Mr. Nathan, Sister Luna," Dennis took a deep breath, then sighed deeply. At this moment, he no longer hesitated. He took out an Energy Stone and threw some memories towards Nathan, with a bitter smile, "Mr. Nathan, let''s forget about this matter."


    Mr. and Mrs. Nathan quietly took the Energy Stone, then shook their heads at Dennis, waiting in silence. Dennis no longer persuaded them and quietly sat down, calling a maid to pour him some tea.


    He knew that from the moment he shared everything he knew with Blackwood, he was in the same boat as Blackwood.


    He had always been cautious and used schemes throughout his life.


    But this time, he wanted to gamble.


    He couldn''t see the future, but he believed in everything he saw in Blackwood.


    He believed that Blackwood would fight for the spirit of a demon king and believed in the eagles flying out of Blackwood''s gates.


    Soon, a mist drifted in from outside Blackwood, turning into a human figure. This person was dressed in black, wearing a hat, and exuded a chilling murderous aura.


    When he landed in Blackwood, Dennis was startled. He remembered a group of assassins that had suddenly appeared in Cloudview County in recent years. No one knew who their leader was, only that they recruited miserable children from the poor and trained them bit by bit.


    They hid within the common folk, with eyes and ears spread across all places in Cloudview County. Perhaps the beggar seen on the street was one of them.


    They also recruited experts, always watching the major forces. They liked to gently guide those oppressed experts. If someone was being hunted, they would find ways to rescue them. If someone was in mortal danger, their people would appear before the dying person soon, to provide aid.


    Those who harbored hatred and had to hide among the common folk were also found by them, promising to help them seek revenge at all costs.


    These sufferers would soon join them, and this assassin organization grew like a snowball rolling down a hill. Its name was Dawn. But those who encountered Dawn usually never saw Dawn again.


    The assassin came in, glanced at Dennis, making him sweat profusely and quickly lower his head to drink tea. "One of us," Nathan nodded at the man in black, then touched the Forebearer''s Cards placed next to the main seat.


    Seeing the tablet, the assassin nodded, knelt on one knee towards the tablet, and with a flash of his Storage Ring, threw an Energy Stone to Nathan, "The message from Dawn has been delivered. If there are no orders, I''ll be busy."


    Nathan simply waved his hand, and the assassin turned into smoke and left.


    "Mr. Nathan."


    Dennis was about to say something but quickly silenced himself, suppressing the surge of his psychic powers as he sensed... a familiar demon-possessed psychic!


    An old man arrived at Blackwood, riding the clouds in the sky, landing on the ground, he picked up a wooden gourd, poured liquor into his mouth, and staggered into the great hall. His body reeked of alcohol, his nose particularly red and swollen, his small frame seeming like it could topple at any moment. Finally, he belched loudly, his eyes bleary but playfully staring at Dennis.


    Dennis, feeling helpless, sniffed, quickly looking around, picked up a teacup and wiped away the tea leaves with the lid, sipping the tea quietly.


    Yet, even trying to keep such a low profile.


    The drunken old man still approached him, a wave of alcohol fumes hitting Dennis''s nose, making his expression turn sour. Worst of all, the drunkard patted his shoulder, causing tea to drip onto his clothes.


    "Yo, isn''t this the old shaman from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion? Tsk tsk, you were so proud back in the day, unbeaten across Jubilee County, none in Cloudview County could match you, and what were you ranting about? Oh, right, looking down on everyone from the clouds."


    "Tsk tsk, it''s been a hundred years since we last met, and you''re still at the Developing Skill mid-stage, no progress? Oh dear, is your lifespan nearing its end?"


    There, all secrets laid bare. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He gritted his teeth in frustration, "Drunken Fool, don''t push it! If this weren''t Blackwood, do you believe I..."


    Drunken Fool rolled his eyes, his fingernails caked with dirt, pointing at Dennis, "This kind of old slick, he''s one of us?"


    One of us???


    Hmm???


    Dennis stared at Mr. Nathan and his wife, blinking rapidly, as if to say, buying off is one thing, but insiders? Collaborating with such notorious villains, aren''t you afraid of dying?


    But unexpectedly.


    Mr. Nathan nodded, quickly stood up and bowed, then touched the Cards beside him, "Elder, did you bring something?"


    Drunken Fool glanced at the plaque, which only had the character ''B'' on it, correct, it felt right.


    He looked a bit more respectful, suddenly gulping down some liquor.


    "Of course, I brought it. I reckon you and your wife must have received quite a bit of news too, let''s lay it all out. This matter has really blown up, we''ll need six diviners to figure it out."


    Mr. Nathan didn''t hesitate, his Storage Ring flickered.


    Dennis looked up, watching as several Energy Stones floated up, shimmering with various lights, his previously distressed expression suddenly becoming intrigued.


    For the first time, he felt like swearing.


    One assassin, one demon-possessed psychic bringing news was one thing, but he was the first to bring the news. But now...


    You Blackwoods have kept deep secrets, how many friends have you secretly made over the years???


    Seemingly heartbroken, he sighed deeply, no longer caring about Drunken Fool, just drinking his tea on his own.

 Chapter 122: Chapter 122: Blackwoods Dilemma

    Over the years, Blackwood had made countless friends. Among them were folks like the Moore family, who had been dirtying their hands with Blackwood in plundering two powerful factions to strengthen their own family.


    Then there were allies like the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, who slowly discovered the immense benefits of Blackwood''s unique Beast Blood Fruit and five kinds of talent-enhancing potions for their descendants. And like the Silver Iron Woods, some had faced disasters but received Blackwood''s grace.


    They all went out of their way to gather intelligence for Blackwood.


    Floating in the hall were a dozen Energy Stones carrying intelligence information, including news about the assassination of the Boar Monarch Pete, catching the eyes of Nathan and his wife, Dennis, and Drunken Fool.


    As the whole picture became clear, Nathan tried to remain calm, but the throbbing veins on his forehead betrayed the turmoil inside him.


    At that moment, Ethan, who was drinking water in front of the screen, bit his glass into pieces.


    [Your family has obtained intelligence, triggering a special event: Elder Felix''s Revenge.]


    [Twenty years ago, Marcus, along with Elder Dylan, annihilated the Rodriguez family, causing Elder Felix to lose his minions, and his other powers were divided up while he was imprisoned for twenty years.]


    [Over these twenty years, he has been investigating the incident, and despite Blackwood''s flawless handling, there are no secrets that time doesn''t reveal. From Moore, who had a share in dividing the Rodriguez family''s power, he found out that Blackwood was the mastermind behind the annihilation of the Rodriguez family.]


    [Elder Felix, instead of striking out, went to the Azure Cloud Pavilion to seek his century-old companion, Elizabeth, to plot his revenge. He traveled to a secret realm, met with Elizabeth from the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and revealed everything, but was spotted by the Boar Monarch Pete who was gathering materials in the secret realm.]


    The intelligence wasn''t just in text.


    In a piece of intelligence sent by a major sect, there was also a video clip.


    In the clouds, Elder Felix and a stunningly beautiful woman were chasing an Boar Monarch Pete!


    Despite having the peak power of Developing Skill, Elder Felix did not use his full strength, merely toying with the chase.


    Elizabeth, in the intermediate stage of Developing Skill, dressed in a red palace gown, her face exquisitely beautiful, struck fiercely, her phoenix embodiment swinging a hundred-meter blade shadow, slashing repeatedly.


    The Boar Monarch Pete didn''t fight back at all; everyone could see his stubbornness as he desperately fled towards Blackwood.


    They also realized that the Boar Monarch Pete knew he couldn''t escape; he had put all his psychic power into flying speed. If he had chosen to defend, he might have had more chances to survive, but he was still fleeing. He was trying to bring the message back to Blackwood!


    It was a brutal long-distance chase, and no one knew how many cuts the Boar Monarch Pete had endured, nor did they know under Elizabeth''s slashing, what kind of belief the Boar Monarch Pete held to reach Tranquil County.


    In the end, it was Elder Felix who stopped Elizabeth, allowing the crazily burning soul of the dying Boar Monarch Pete, with only a half-life left and certain death, to fall in the forests of Forest Town.


    "So the Boar Monarch Pete''s death, the game''s alert of a special event indicated it was a sacrifice, not a disaster."


    Ethan wiped the glass shards from his mouth, the room''s contents swirling around due to his unconscious psychic power.


    So, when the Boar Monarch Pete met George, he was actually already dead, it was his last willpower that let him utter the words ''take him home.''


    He wasn''t trying to get one last look at the kids; he was trying to tell the people of Blackwood that their enemy was coming!


    Disaster was imminent!


    "Elizabeth... no matter who you are from the Azure Cloud Pavilion, I will take Blackwood''s children to find you."


    ...


    "Felix, Elizabeth, Azure Cloud Pavilion!" Nathan squinted his eyes, muttering these words like a beast growling through clenched teeth. Then, he destroyed those Energy Stones. Dennis, standing nearby, no longer wanted to mess around with Drunken Fool; he was on high alert. "Azure Cloud Cloud Pavilion. Mr. Nathan, Luna, this is...


    well."


    With just a sigh, he knew that more words were useless; Blackwood wasn''t going to let this slide.


    Drunken Fool seemed to sober up instantly, "Do you guys know what''s most important about an era?" As everyone looked at him, Drunken Fool murmured, "Memories."


    "Azure Cloud Pavilion represents the memories of Cloudview County. Before it was called Cloudview County, this place was known as the Azure Cloud Mountains during a previous era."


    "In those war-torn years, Azure Cloud Pavilion was established, even becoming the last remaining force. The survivors from the Azure Cloud Mountains all gathered at Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "After the wars, those survivors from Azure Cloud Pavilion stepped out of the mountains, proliferated, and thus Cloudview County was born, along with its 24 major counties today."


    "The original heritage of this era began with Azure Cloud Pavilion and was born because of it."


    "Generation after generation, the masters of Azure Cloud Pavilion fell one by one, and the strongest among them were only at level D. But let me tell you a fact, it''s easy to kill someone in the Developing Skill stage, but fighting against an era... that''s tough."


    Drunken Fool bowed slightly, "I''ll take my leave now. How Blackwood chooses to act is up to them."


    After saying this, he vanished into the clouds.


    "Mr. Nathan, Elizabeth... she''s off-limits."


    Dennis sat back down, fumbling with his cup, "That Felix, he planned this all along. He intentionally let the Demon King return. He wanted to provoke Blackwood into making a move on Elizabeth. If you strike at Elizabeth, then you''re striking at Cloudview County."


    "For years, the ancient powers of Cloudview County have had an agreement. No matter how Azure Cloud Pavilion changes, as long as it doesn''t violate basic human decency, anyone who opposes Azure Cloud Pavilion is opposing the entire Cloudview County."


    "And your family''s Demon King..."


    Dennis didn''t want to say more.


    But both Ethan and the Nathans understood that in the eyes of the world, demons could be killed or enslaved; this wasn''t against human decency, even if the Boar Monarch Pete was a relative of Blackwood!


    Even if someone from Azure Cloud Pavilion ''accidentally'' killed someone, as long as it didn''t cause public outrage, they could minimize the incident!


    No matter how desolate, Azure Cloud Pavilion still represented memory and heritage, and countless powers and families would serve Azure Cloud Pavilion for the sake of reputation.


    They all remained silent, even knowing that using assassination tactics on Elizabeth would be futile.


    In fact, all of this was no longer a conspiracy, but a blatant scheme by Elder Felix, the old fox!


    He must have already calculated that Blackwood, in a fit of rage, would make a foolish move, and he had all the countermeasures ready.


    24 counties, no need for a Competent to take action, Blackwood would become a thing of the past.


    "Ha ha ha, what a concept of human decency, what an Azure Cloud Pavilion, what a cunning Elder Felix!" Nathan suddenly laughed, for the first time in over a hundred years, he laughed so wildly.


    Seeing Nathan''s unusual behavior, Dennis''s color changed.


    "Mr. Nathan..." S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He seemed to have a premonition of what Nathan was about to do.


    From the moment he knew Blackwood, he had witnessed the growth of this family step by step, and watched them face their enemies fearlessly.

 Chapter 123: Chapter 123: Secrets Unveiled Part 1

    "Mr. Dennis, thanks for looking after Blackwood all these years. Without you, we would have faced endless troubles, maybe even at odds with Jubilee County by now. On behalf of Blackwood, I''m deeply grateful." Nathan bowed slightly to Dennis.


    "Mr. Nathan, you''re too kind. We''ve been through life and death together," Dennis sighed deeply, seemingly out of nowhere.


    "Since we''re brothers in arms, no thanks are needed." Nathan smiled, his anger from old grievances gone. He pulled out two rank-eight blood psychic fruits and various herbal powders from his pocket, handing them to Dennis.


    Even a beginner psychic device was among the gifts.


    "Mr. Nathan, what''s this?" Dennis asked, puzzled.


    "It''s a betrothal gift. Didn''t you say you wanted to tie the knot with Blackwood? My family has a young child, just a baby. He could easily hide away at Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion under a different name. You can decide later if this arrangement suits you," Nathan explained softly.


    "Does Mr. Dennis perhaps disdain Blackwood?"


    In a moment, Dennis''s eyes reddened, perhaps from years of friendship mixed with ulterior motives. Maybe for profit, he might make selfish choices. But he couldn''t deny his respect for the people of Blackwood.


    He looked up to the sky and sighed, "What kind of man do you take me for, Mr. Nathan? Everyone says I''m a lowlife, cunning and deceitful, but your Blackwood... it''s worth being capricious for once. I''ll accept this marriage proposal!"


    That day, Dennis left with a child in his arms, not even knowing which Blackwood youngster it was. A group of Blackwood daughters-in-law cried as they handed the child over to him.


    As he flew away on his sword, carefully shielding the child with his psychic power, he laughed when the baby in his arms cried loudly, "Little Nicholas, huh? Must be one of your family''s seven bears who named you. Don''t be scared, from now on you''re my kin, and I at Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will find you the prettiest bride, alright?"


    The baby cried louder, distressed by the unfamiliar surroundings.


    ...


    Nathan and his wife chatted leisurely for a long time. Soon, they headed to the Forebearer''s temple with the Blackwood family descendants. They all knelt before Ethan''s Forebearer Cards.


    Even the rebellious William came along with George. This was the first time this quirky kid had visited the family temple built in the Silver Ironwood Forest, and his first encounter with the "Death Coffin" and various Blackwood secrets, which dazzled him momentarily.


    As everyone entered, the Forebearer Cards shone brightly. "Huh? Is that a psychic device?" William stared blankly at the Cards.


    George glared at his brother and gestured for him to be quiet. He dared to bring William here because their great-grandparents didn''t recognize William. Their great-grandfather was even more of a mystery.


    It was said that in his early years, he killed his wife and ate children daily. Whenever sword light shone in the depths of the Silver Ironwood Forest, another child was devoured by their great-grandfather. George knew these stories were exaggerated; a child would last at least three days.


    As for their grandfather, Julian, he was known to have seen him as a child. Julian was said to forge iron all day, fierce, with a silver arm¡ªrumored to have been chopped off by their great-grandfather. Unable to defeat him, Julian vented his frustration through his blacksmithing.


    "George, what are you looking at?"


    Noticing George''s gaze, Lucas turned his head. Despite years of sword training, he tried to appear gentle, but his slightly messy hair and the cold look in his eyes, which seemed to merge with his sword, still frightened George.


    George tried to keep a well-behaved appearance. "Nothing, nothing, great-grandfather truly is... a divine being."


    Lucas frowned. "Flattery is unnecessary; do not continue this in the future."


    "Yes, great-grandfather, George won''t dare again!" George quickly turned his head and pushed down William''s head, who was still staring at Lucas. The two brothers knelt before the Forebearer''s tablet.


    Only Daniel took an extra look at William. Although William had grown a lot, Daniel still faintly remembered his madness but chose to ignore it, thinking to himself, "These foolish boys, still not grown up, thinking they can hide their cultivation levels with secret techniques."


    At the forefront, Nathan, seeing all the family members had arrived, bowed deeply. "Forebearer, your child understands what the divine tree said, next year the land must be dyed red in Cloudview County. Forebearer, this time, your child must be unfilial!"


    In front of the screen, Ethan had already recovered from the anger of the Pig Demon King''s death and the anxiety of the Blackwoods facing a powerful enemy.


    He took a deep breath, and though the Purple Thunder Solar Python was not present, he still had a way to express warmth.


    "Forebearer sends warmth, one hair per person!"


    The Forebearer''s Cards transformed into psychic power, inscribing a word in front of the Blackwood people.


    [Approved!]


    If the descendants of Blackwood were all cowards, that would be the greatest unfilial act!


    He was relieved, the descendants all had courage!


    ...


    Half a month later.


    Inside the screen.


    The people of Blackwood once again emerged from the Forebearer Hall, this time taking with them all the precious things inside.


    Their eyes no longer held the sorrow of half a month ago, only suppressed anger and fearlessness towards the future.


    "The sacred tree, sorry to trouble you."


    Nathan, holding top-notch psychic gear, approached the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Primordial Blood Tree opened its crimson eyes, somewhat reluctantly.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree is used to rooting in Blackwood. It feels this will be a long separation and is asking if it can stay alone at the family residence to guard everything. It is willing to give its life for this.]


    "What time is it now? You''re such an old tree, stop being homesick."


    Ethan unhesitatingly chose ''No''.


    After the denial.


    The word ''approved'' appeared above the Primordial Blood Tree''s head, learned from who knows where, making it look very imposing.


    Then came the Psychic Sanctuary of the Silver Iron Woods, which were directly taken back into the Storage Ring.


    Dozens of psychic beasts from the Silver Iron Woods gathered under Mary''s Demon King Blood Pill.


    About a hundred psychic beasts, including four peak psychic beasts, were each taken into the psychic gear map. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, the psychic gear map had become an ancient scroll, depicting an ancient sky-reaching tree filled with psychic beasts on its branches, which were dynamically moving around, causing the branches and leaves of the Primordial Blood Tree to shake irritably.


    Everything within the family that reached grade eight or above was taken into everyone''s possession.


    George and William followed along.


    William was somewhat better, his mouth agape as he watched the elders take things away.


    George was different, nagging the elders all the way, not afraid of them getting angry now.


    "Ah? Grandpa, I''ve never been able to enter your forging hall, only now do I know what''s inside."


    George gritted his teeth, "Grandpa, thirty grade eight psychic puppets, equivalent to thirty Emerging Ability peaks. And there, six Transcendent Seed stage strength psychic puppets. My God, isn''t that the legendary Forebearer-gifted War AI Bionic Robot? How come it has a Developing Skill aura?"


    "Didn''t you tell me back then? You said our family wasn''t strong enough, never to provoke others, and to take good care of my younger siblings, right?"


    "I really believed it, poor me, I''ve worked hard all my life, painstakingly keeping my siblings from causing trouble, afraid they''d provoke someone else. I got scolded by the neighboring Developing Skill family''s Foundational Energy eighth layer, and I didn''t even talk back, all because I was afraid our family couldn''t handle it?"


    "With this strength, what am I still afraid of? Grandpa, you''ve kept me in the dark for so long!"

 Chapter 124: Chapter 124: Secrets Unveiled Part 2

    Listening to his grandson''s chatter, Julian pretended not to hear anything, silently retracting his psychic puppet back into his Storage Ring. Meanwhile, he casually kicked George into the wall. The kid was alright, but boy, could he talk your ear off.


    Finally freeing himself from the wall, George walked over to Lucas. He wasn''t worried about Lucas eating kids anymore.


    He watched as the old man opened hundreds of small magic arrays from a cellar, revealing treasures that dazzled the eyes.


    "Basic psychic tools... eight? Medium psychic tools, two? I thought our family only had one medium psychic tool array for protection?" George was dumbfounded.


    Lucas, still aiming to leave a good impression on the younger generation, tossed a medium psychic tool that shimmered like pearls. "Oh, you mean this Harmony Bead? Your uncle brought it back again, it''s decent."


    Indeed, it was decent.


    Lucas then opened a large array within the hundreds of small ones, unleashing a torrent of psychic energy as two items caught everyone''s eye.


    "High-grade psychic tools... top-grade psychic tools?!!"


    George suddenly felt a pang in his heart, his expression quickly turning to one of distress, helplessness, and despair. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas frowned slightly, "It''s just that you youngsters aren''t ready to know too many secrets yet. Psychic tools have become the treasured protectors of the Emerging Ability families, and we too must avoid the covetous gaze of outsiders. This high-grade psychic tool was sent back by your great-aunt, and the top-grade one by your second great-aunt."


    "...Oh." George was numb.


    If he didn''t know better about his great-grandfather''s temper, which was even fiercer than his grandfather''s, he''d probably have a few complaints.


    When it was time to complain to his great-grandparents.


    The great-grandparents were sorting through various psychic items, elixirs, herbs, potions, array diagrams, techniques...


    "Five Xuan-level martial arts techniques, I thought our family only had two Xuan-level techniques, one Shadowy Steps and one Rain-to-Soldiers from the Rodriguez family."


    George scratched his head vigorously, "And these elixirs, seventh-grade Boundary Breaking Pills that can help D-level breakthroughs to higher realms, there are three of them! And these potions, two types of seventh-grade potions. Herbs... why are there so many seventh-grade natural treasures?"


    "Why... why didn''t I know our family was this wealthy???"


    George was in tears, others might be thrilled by sudden wealth, but all he felt was sorrow.


    He even suspected that his family was richer than the legendary Sky Sect.


    Yet he had always thought that his family was poor, only having the potions sent back by his second great-aunt and the blood psychic fruit trees that bore 50 fruits every ten years, along with the natural treasures from the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Hmm?"


    Nathan noticed his great-grandson crying and paused, "You didn''t know?"


    "Kid, our family has always been wealthy."


    Then looking at Daniel, who was glancing around, "Second grandson, didn''t you tell George?"


    "Cough, cough." Daniel coughed lightly, "Grandma, Grandpa, you''ve always taught us since we were young that our family''s children should be raised frugally. George having a Great River Dragon Diagram in his early Emerging Ability stage is already quite good. My seven younger siblings have also been raised this way."


    "That''s the idea."


    Nathan shook his head and smiled, "Kid, it''s alright. When your great-grandfather was your age, he was still slaughtering pigs in the mountains. Your elders were also struggling for the family at your age. Just work hard, and you''ll have it too."


    "..."


    Watching the elders busily packing up things again, George pursed his lips, walked to the corner, faced the wall, buried his head in his left forearm, and furiously pounded the wall with his right arm, "I''m such an idiot, the biggest idiot in the family!"


    Seeing George''s behavior, William became anxious, "Big brother, why... why are you crying so heartbrokenly?"


    George cried even louder, reaching a state of silent despair.


    "William, you don''t understand! I always... always thought our family was poor, so I started tomb raiding when I was twelve. I heard from Grandpa Steven in the village that tomb raiders have the most Energy Stones!"


    George pounded the wall even harder, "If I had known our family was this wealthy, not lacking in special abilities or heavenly treasures, why would I have bothered working so hard? The key is... over the years, the best thing I''ve stolen is just some special equipment!"


    "In the tomb passages, it''s really dark. The ghosts and zombies there are really terrifying."


    "..."


    Listening to his big brother''s grievous complaints, William felt pity and decided to comfort him, "Big brother, you don''t have to be sad, you could have asked me."


    "Huh?" George suddenly turned his head, looking at William with tear-stained cheeks, gritting his teeth, "They told you, but not me?"


    "No, I figured it out myself, I''m not stupid."


    "...Get lost, ah!!!"


    That day at the Blackwood residence, there was one more heartbroken person.


    George finally understood why the family didn''t give resources to his younger siblings unless he did something significant to earn rewards. It turns out... this was a special educational method by the family, rewarding those who work hard enough.


    He foolishly went tomb raiding, foolishly giving all the resources to his younger siblings.


    No wonder the elders in the family didn''t make a fuss when their children had no resources, but instead always encouraged his siblings to venture out. Every time he brought resources, those elders would send them back and scold him, and he had to sneak them like a thief.


    "Sigh."


    Listening to George''s tragic screams outside, Daniel let out a long sigh, yet filled with relief and comfort, "Back in the day, everyone called me a fool, and I was known as the biggest fool in the family. Now, my youth has passed, but there''s someone to follow in my footsteps."


    Hearing this, Julian, with his silver arms, gave a thumbs up, his expression serious and shining brightly:


    "The new waves push the old waves forward."


    "..."


    "???"


    In front of the screen, Ethan was also baffled. Twenty years had passed, and it was his first time seeing the true depth of the Blackwoods.


    After all, the Blackwood descendants came and went, and he couldn''t leave the house, mostly cultivating psychic powers.


    Then he opened the game history to see.


    [Blackwood Year 72, your descendant Amelia received the Demon King''s reward, obtained the top-grade special ability device Sky-Annihilating Needle, and sent it back to the family to worship the Forebearer.]


    [Blackwood Year 76, your descendant Olivia sent Dawn assassins to assassinate a Developing Skill realm expert, obtained the high-grade special ability device Sky Fire Returning Wheel, and sent it back to the family to worship the Forebearer.]


    [Blackwood Year 77, your descendant Olivia sent assassins home, gathered millions of Energy Stones, and purchased three seventh-grade special ability pills at the auction...]

 Chapter 125: Chapter 125: Secrets Unveiled Part 3

    They were moving silently, already enriching the family''s foundation through various means. Plus, it was a chaotic year, making it easier to acquire resources, no wonder they say war is the best time to make a fortune.


    Ethan let out a long sigh.


    Looking at his family members, they had already emptied the house of valuables. Gratitude Village and the Blackwood residence were left with only the dense psychic energy.


    Then they moved to the darker areas of the Blackwood residence.


    Silverwood Moore,Horizon Falls Anderson, and friends of Blackwood over the years had all arrived.


    In front of them were Blackwood''s children, not yet twelve years old.


    Nathan gave each child a Storage Ring.


    He stared solemnly at the friends of Blackwood, bowed deeply, and expressed his gratitude: "Ladies and gentlemen, these children are now in your care. For this, Nathan and our clan are deeply grateful. In the future, Blackwood will repay your kindness."


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Holden Moore, the head of the Silverwood family and Blackwood''s closest friend, even a relative by marriage, laughed loudly, hiding his worry, "Although I don''t know what troubles Blackwood has encountered, rest assured, Mr. Nathan, our two families have been as close as brothers!"


    "Moreover, over the years, the secrets that our two families have kept from outsiders are countless."


    "For these reasons, I, Holden, will not sell out Blackwood''s children!"


    With these words, the other leaders echoed in agreement.


    "Indeed, it''s clear that Blackwood is about to undertake a tremendously risky venture. If you need anything, just ask!"


    "Let me say this upfront, my Horizon Falls Anderson owes what I have today to Blackwood. Today''s matter is a secret, and Blackwood''s children are my family''s greatest secret. Whoever dares to spill the beans will be an enemy of my Anderson family!"


    "Ah, it seems my temple will have another meat-eating monk. May Buddha forgive me."


    "..."


    As everyone spoke one by one, Nathan, along with the Blackwood clan, bowed deeply. "Such kindness, the Blackwood clan will remember," he said. Soon, the children were led away. Some of the younger ones didn''t understand why and were still crying, but Nathan believed that when they grew up, they would understand everything.


    Some of the older children, already aware of the situation, showed defiance. As they left, they told the elders not to worry, to confidently seek revenge for the Boar Monarch Pete, and that when they grew up, they too would contribute to the family.


    After saying goodbye to the children, Nathan and his wife felt a sense of loss. Due to their age, they had rarely paid attention to the fourth and fifth generations of Blackwoods. Luna was even more confused by these children whose names she couldn''t keep straight.


    Now, however, they were filled with satisfaction. The children of Blackwood were indeed Blackwood''s children; they should flourish everywhere, leaving their eternal stories on this land.


    As the children left, everyone gathered in the center of Gratitude Village. The daughters-in-law and sons-in-law of two generations of Blackwoods had already assembled, tears streaming down their faces.


    Half a month ago, the Boar Monarch Pete had died, and their husbands and wives had resolutely left their homes. Today, the family was dispersed. There would no longer be laughter and arguments over which child belonged to whom at Blackwood. The familiar pet pig would no longer come from the Silver Iron Forest to help them care for the children, and Blackwood''s mystical beasts had disappeared.


    The Forge would no longer hear Julian''s incessant hammering through the night, nor would there occasionally be sword shadows breaking through the air from the direction of the Silver Iron Forest. The family residence would no longer see strange foxes running in. Their odd grandfather and great-grandfather would no longer climb out of their coffins, bringing back foul-smelling corpses.


    "What''s there to cry about?" Luna angrily said for the first time in front of the younger generation, "We have important things to do, we''re not going to die. There will be a day when we reunite."


    Dorothy, Thomas''s wife, was fierce. Biting her lip, she said, "Grandpa, Grandma, where are you going? I... I can go too. I''m at least at the Emerging Ability stage."


    "Go home. The Martinez family is doing well now," Nathan smiled at his granddaughter-in-law. "This time, we Blackwoods are not fighting against a single noble family or sect. We are fighting against the memory of the entire Cloudview County."


    "Right," Julian and his wife, holding a stack of Forebearer Cards, handed them to these younger wives and husbands. "Remember, the Forebearer will always protect you. We don''t know when we''ll be back, if..." Julian hesitated, struggling to continue.


    Mary crisply said, "If you can''t wait, then feel free to seek other alliances. We left the divorce papers when the kids left. You''re still young, and however you choose, Blackwood won''t blame you."


    "We at Blackwood will always see you as children of our family, remembering the good you''ve done for us. If you can''t stand the loneliness and want to get married, I, on behalf of the children, will send the betrothal gifts and dowry when the time is right."


    "Mom!" S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grandma!"


    "We''re not leaving!"


    With these words, everyone''s eyes were red with emotion. They realized that the family was truly ready to fight to the end.


    "Get out! Stay at home and wait to die? Remember, the moment you leave Blackwood, if anyone asks, you''re no longer one of us!" Lucas squinted his eyes and swept his sword out.


    Under the fierce sword energy, everyone left by carriage, continuously looking back.


    As the carriages departed, the villagers of Gratitude Village, nearly ten thousand in number, all knelt down, watching the Blackwood family expel their own. How could they not understand the choices made by the people of Blackwood?


    Nathan had tried to persuade them, but the village chief still led the villagers in kneeling, their eyes brimming with tears.


    In Gratitude Village, generation after generation of Blackwood, who should have been high and mighty, never oppressed the villagers. Occasionally, if there was an issue, it was swiftly dealt with by Blackwood. Under Blackwood''s grace, they learned skills, and the young ladies and gentlemen of Blackwood, who had good things to eat, would even share with familiar villagers on the streets.


    Many villagers had even helped Blackwood raise their children.


    "After we leave, the people from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will take Gratitude Village under their wing. If anyone tries to harm Gratitude Village, a long sword planted at the village entrance will be their answer."


    Daniel helped the village chief up, looking at his aged face still crying profusely, he smiled, "Grandpa Chief, we leave Gratitude Village in your hands. I hope when we return, I can see that Gratitude Village has its own special ability veins, our forge has a group of special ability equipment masters, and there are special ability medicine gardens, alchemy rooms, and libraries..."


    "Blackwood''s wish is to control Forest Town, and even the whole of Tranquil City!"


    The village chief clenched his teeth, "I know, over the years we''ve been dragging the masters'' legs. Please rest assured, when you return, the children of Gratitude Village will not disappoint Blackwood. Blackwood''s goals are Gratitude Village''s goals!"


    "Right!"


    "Big Master Nathan, just wait, my child will be working in the special ability equipment forge next year!"


    "When my son reaches the Emerging Ability stage, whatever Master Daniel wants to do, I''ll have my son take the lead!"


    "All members of the Black Blood Hall, along with all the villagers of Gratitude Village, respectfully see off the masters and ladies¡ª"


    "May Blackwood shine for generations!"


    A thousand giant eagles soared into the sky, and the Psychic of the Black Blood Hall soared at the village entrance.


    In their eyes.


    These familiar people of Blackwood, riding their swords into the sky, just as they had fearlessly rushed out when Gratitude Village faced threats in the past.


    They could break through the clouds.


    They could break through the darkness.


    And one day in the future, they would return in the same way, under the sunlight, with endless glory!

 Chapter 126: Chapter 126: Azure Cloud Betrayal

    Ethan was sitting on the bed, staring at the game interface with a look of madness following his anger. The family had temporarily abandoned their residence in Forest Town, which had been developed over nearly a century.


    At that time, Nathan''s idea was to take the entire Blackwood family out for revenge. Getting involved with the Azure Cloud Pavilion meant that their residence became an obvious target. No matter the protective spells, once Blackwood was surrounded, it truly became a sitting duck.


    Of course, abandoning the residence had its downsides; resources couldn''t be produced, and the wealth accumulated by Blackwood over the years couldn''t be rapidly developed.


    Ethan knew very well that the best way to handle this situation was similar to how they dealt with Nathan''s severe injury years ago¡ªturn a blind eye now and plan revenge over centuries, letting Elizabeth and old Felix die off could also be an option.


    Under his leadership, Blackwood, with resources from two worlds, was bound to thrive.


    But... S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The fake Forebearer endured humiliation for the greater good, while the real Forebearer could feel the sincere emotions of his descendants. For the important people in his family, if he couldn''t exact an unbearable revenge on the opponent, he swore he wouldn''t rest!


    To hell with the resources.


    To hell with the memories of Cloudview County.


    To hell with the Spiritual Tribute and Energy Stones.


    Those bastards had messed with a family full of vigor and a Forebearer with authority overhead!


    ...


    Soon, Ethan opened the map.


    [Cloudview County]


    The descendants of Blackwood were scattered everywhere, flourishing in various places.


    The only group gathered was slowly heading towards [Cloudview County].


    [Your descendant Nathan, along with others, is heading to Cloudview County incognito, always ready to receive any information on Elizabeth from Azure Cloud Pavilion being alone, to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete!]


    Even in their quest for revenge, the people of Blackwood were not reckless.


    They were waiting for the perfect moment and were prepared for the worst.


    But the first wave of Blackwood''s retaliation had already begun.


    Ethan zoomed in on the map, clicking on the two closest white dots near Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    [Azure Cloud Pavilion Back Mountain¡¤Ancestral Burial Site]


    Two game characters were seen under a large mountain, one holding a disc, looking at the inner sphere to find direction.


    "Big brother, are you sure you want to dig up the ancestral graves of Azure Cloud Pavilion''s forefathers?"


    The exceptional psychic equipment that Blackwood had used to break the Rodriguez family''s formation, the Array-Destroying Mystic Ability Disc, had somehow ended up in William''s hands, which was also why he could easily enter Blackwood.


    George looked serious, "Yes, otherwise I wouldn''t be able to exert any strength in the early stages of my Emerging Ability. There must be many treasures in the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s ancestral graves."


    "Once I hide them all, let the elders see the wealth I''ve accumulated. That''ll show them, huh!"


    William didn''t stop him, knowing his big brother was definitely a bit off, "Alright, I''ll find the path first, but be careful, big brother."


    Hearing this.


    George frowned, "Aren''t you digging with me?"


    "For some reason, whenever big brother walks in front of me, I always feel like stabbing him in the lower back."


    William grinned, "Besides, I have my own things to do."


    He looked towards the inner gates of Qingyun.


    After parting with George, he walked to a distant part of Qingyun Gate, soared into the sky with his sword, took out a thumb-sized porcelain bottle, and poured the blue liquid inside into his mouth. His psychic abilities erupted instantly!


    "Boom!"


    In an instant, a blood mist spread around him, his body riddled with holes, tilting as he fell towards the direction of Qingyun Gate, barely alive.


    But his eyes were white, and he was still muttering.


    "I am a Blackwood traitor, I know where the people of Blackwood are, they are scattered, to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete..."


    "Blackwood is so unfair, I''ve been bullied since I was a child, enduring endless humiliation. From old to young, all Blackwoods are my enemies, my hatred grew during the days they imprisoned me, not killing them all would not quench my resentment..."


    "The people of Blackwood are very cunning, I know valuable information, the assassin organization Dawn in Cloudview County, is Blackwood''s force. Besides that, Blackwood has no other trump cards."


    "If big brother wants to kill me, please ask Azure Cloud Pavilion to help me take revenge..."


    A flood of memories entered his mind.


    "Bang!"


    With a loud explosion, a dying young man smashed into the ground in front of Qingyun Gate, creating a deep pit and stirring up dust, finally catching the attention of the guards at Qingyun Gate.


    ...


    George was busy digging up the first ancestral grave at Azure Cloud Pavilion, getting the hang of grave robbing.


    [Warning, William is critically injured and near death, please use your skills to heal him immediately.]


    [Your descendant William drank the soul-cleansing liquid he got from Amelia, and even as he was dying, he still hypnotized himself. He was taken back by the guards of Azure Cloud Pavilion, and a master of Emerging Ability used his powers to sustain William''s life...]


    Ethan gasped at the brothers'' antics; no wonder they ended up together.


    George was digging up graves, and William was not only ruthless when it came to killing others, but he was also harsh on himself. That self-destruction move he pulled could have easily been the end of him, not to mention crashing into the ground while critically injured.


    Ethan didn''t bother to keep tabs on them after that.


    George was safe enough digging graves. As for William, given his tactics, Ethan figured the guy''s most likely cause of death would be his own reckless actions. Since he dared to infiltrate Azure Cloud Pavilion like that, he must have been pretty confident about his undercover work.


    The scene shifted.


    As time sped up.


    The older generation of Blackwood had already arrived at a small courtyard.


    [Cloudview County¡¤Benevolent Tea House]


    It was a small room, and as soon as Nathan and his wife, along with the brothers Lucas and Julian, and Daniel walked in, they saw Olivia.


    In an instant, three generations of five people had tears in their eyes.


    The Olivia they saw was a far cry from the charming woman who had left home.

 Chapter 127: Chapter 127: Frenzied Blood Demon

    "Olivia, let''s not pursue this path of scholarly cultivation anymore!" Luna hurriedly walked up to Olivia, intending to embrace her, but Olivia''s body seemed as fragile as a skeleton that might shatter upon touch. She feared that a little too much force might break Olivia apart.


    The whole family gathered around Olivia.


    Yet Olivia still wore a smile.


    With the family reunited.


    "Huh?" Ethan let out a light exclamation, a hint of joy beginning to creep into his eyebrows.


    Olivia''s current state was indeed pitiful, but compared to last time, she had become younger. Last time she was practically one foot in the grave, now she was just on the brink of decay.


    [Your descendant Olivia is battling against a heavenly tribulation, her life is nearing its end!]


    "That''s not right, why is the description still the same?" Ethan frowned, checking again, and when he opened Olivia''s information, he noticed something different.


    Still a mortal body.


    But now there were two additional techniques or martial arts skills¡ª


    [Heavenly Scripture¡¤Commoners: Contains a trace of the world''s laws, can borrow life from the common people]


    [Heavenly Scripture¡¤Four Seasons: Borrow power from the four seasons]


    It seemed that opening Olivia''s information triggered an event.


    [Your descendant Olivia is borrowing life from millions in Cloudview County to withstand the heavenly tribulation]


    "So that''s it." Ethan suddenly understood. The path of a scholarly Psychic like Olivia was beyond his comprehension, especially for someone like her, who was even more mystical than fortune-tellers like Dennis, always pursuing some profound cosmic rule rather than mere power.


    Afterward.


    Ethan saw the Blackwoods gathered together, discussing plans for revenge, just like they had back in the days at Gratitude Village.


    Only now, they had all grown more mature and powerful.


    First, they placed the Forebearer''s Cards at the front hall, and everyone bowed respectfully.


    Ethan gave them a warm nod.


    "Indeed, even though we''ve left the Forebearer''s shrine, the Forebearer is still blessing us from the heavens." Nathan''s eyes brimmed with tears.


    Soon, they began discussing their future plans in front of the tablet.


    Olivia took over the conversation with a raspy voice, "Elizabeth already knows that all of us Blackwoods disappeared overnight. She and Elder Felix are hiding out in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, seemingly in fear."


    "They say these sect folks are all about the path, cutting off worldly ties."


    "I want to see just how lightly they regard these worldly ties."


    Hearing this, everyone turned to look at Olivia. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her gaze was calm, unfazed.


    At this moment, all the Blackwoods narrowed their eyes, listening intently to Olivia''s plan.


    If it had been before, they might have resisted Olivia''s plans, as they were... too inhumane.


    But now...


    [Special Event]


    [After deliberation by your descendants, they have decided to annihilate Elizabeth''s entire clan!]


    Ten clans!


    Time had not made Olivia kinder; on the contrary, she had become more indifferent to the lives of others.


    The matter with the Boar Monarch Pete had also caused the Blackwoods to temporarily bury their kindness, even Nathan, who was normally compassionate, did not refuse this time!


    He handed over all command of the family''s revenge to Olivia.


    Because he knew, there are times when it''s more appropriate for certain people to wield power.


    But Olivia did not act immediately.


    She held the Forebearer''s tablet.


    Propelled by an AI Bionic Robot, she moved to the courtyard, watching the winter snow melt away and spring arrive, with birds singing and flowers fragrant.


    "Forebearer, rest assured, even without our family''s stronghold, Olivia will not let the family''s development be delayed. I heard that the family''s blood ability fruit trees have become divine trees, and they say that starting next year, the land of Cloudview County will be filled with blood, and they were right."


    Olivia''s voice was haunting.


    "They say the Azure Cloud Pavilion is the memory of Cloudview County, then we Blackwoods will make the people of Cloudview County remember the Azure Cloud Pavilion with fear in the days to come!"


    Thunder rumbled in the sky, as if even the heavens could sense the murderous intent in the words of this dying old woman.


    Olivia remained unafraid.


    Then, in the courtyard of this teahouse, birds flew out towards all directions of Cloudview County, those directions where the Blackwood descendants were located.


    Ethan, watching from the screen, seemed to understand Olivia''s intention.


    The people of Cloudview County regard the Azure Cloud Pavilion as the orthodox authority, so... what if they were all struck with fear?


    He seemed to see it.


    Under Olivia''s leadership, the entire Cloudview County seemed about to be engulfed by a plague, a plague called fear.


    ...


    [Blackwood 84 Years]


    As the descendants of Blackwood began to scatter, each of them growing, Ethan found his mouse almost smoking from the rapid movements, making him the busiest Forebearer in all of Blackwood!


    The Primordial Blood Tree sent the Blackwood descendants scattering towards their destinies, each facing their own dangers.


    [Your descendants, the second generation of Blackwoods, rang a copper bell located above a dried well at the Pine Temple. However, when nothing happened, Thomas, infuriated, thought the Primordial Blood Tree was deceiving him and split the bell with a halberd, breaking the seal inside the well!]


    [The second generation of Blackwoods is now entering¡ªFrenzied Blood Demon Realm!]


    [Upon entering, they encountered the Lord of Frenzied Blood, sealed by the Pine Temple twenty thousand years ago. Drowned in a blood altar as a child, it had become a path of external demons, an immortal existence.


    Your descendants, the second generation of Blackwoods, battled the demon lord for seven days and nights with diminished psychic powers and dwindling physical strength, killing the opponent ten thousand times.]


    "Long live the Forebearer!"


    With Ethan''s use of ''Forebearer''s Roaring Fury,'' the second generation of Blackwoods finally got a chance to breathe, sealing the Lord of Frenzied Blood into a psychic equipment.


    "What in the world is that thing?"


    Ethan ignored the grateful and admiring looks the second generation of Blackwoods gave towards the Forebearer''s tablet, still somewhat shaken.


    That Lord of Frenzied Blood was no ordinary creature; smashing it into pieces, it would grow flesh buds and reassemble its body. Burning it to ashes with psychic fire, it would reappear as if nothing had happened, especially if it were at its peak...


    [With your help, your descendants have sealed the Lord of Frenzied Blood!]


    [After battling for seven days and nights, their bodies were stained with the demon lord''s blood. Within the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm, they found a blood pool where the demonic energy of the demon lord had gradually dissipated into the world over twenty thousand years, along with the broken pieces of a high-level psychic equipment ''Blood-Drinking Mad Blade.'']


    [Your descendants are asking if they can jump into the blood pool for a soak? They sensed a sweet aroma.]

 Chapter 128: Chapter 128: Swamp Walker

    Ethan hesitated for a moment, his heart was truly enormous. The demonic energy from the Demon Lord of yesteryears had transformed into a blood pool, and it had been accumulating for twenty thousand years. Who knows if it was still within its shelf life? What would happen if one were to lie down in it?


    While Ethan was pondering this, the second generation of Blackwoods knelt before his cards. It was the first time Ethan had seen these seven guys look so serious. In the past, they might have even posed with his cards pretending to transform into Ultraman.


    "Forebearer, Thomas thinks it''s worth a try."


    "I feel the same."


    "The child feels an irresistible temptation; just a dip could greatly enhance our powers. The child also knows the risks of becoming demonized."


    The words exchanged among them were serious.


    But what truly moved Ethan was something Kevin said.


    "The child is not afraid of becoming demonized. We know about the situation at our second aunt''s place. There are many demons there, and isn''t that more interesting than those so-called righteous sects? At least, the demons didn''t kill Grandpa Pig Pete."


    "Big brother joined the Sky Sect, and for decades, the Sky Sect kept telling him to sever worldly ties, but big brother considered their words nonsense. My seven brothers can do the same, so what if we become demonized? Besides..."


    "Mr. Dennis from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion predicted for us seven brothers that we are inherently stubborn and of mediocre talent. We are not like our grandparents, not like our four elders, nor like our eldest and second brothers. If there''s no opportunity in this lifetime, even dying wouldn''t get us past the Transcendent Seed stage."


    "The child doesn''t want to stay in the Transcendent Seed stage; the child wants to challenge the Azure Cloud Pavilion. If anyone dares to say no, then we, the second generation of Blackwoods, will slap them hard!"


    The seven of them stared intently at the cards.


    Thomas''s eyes were bloodshot, "Forebearer, this is the only chance for us seven brothers to personally avenge Grandpa Pig Pete!"


    That was the truth.


    For the sake of revenge, what harm was there in becoming demonized?


    Seeing the stubborn expressions on the faces of the second generation of Blackwoods, Ethan suddenly realized that despite their decades of age, having been childish all their lives, it was finally time for them to grow up.


    Ethan sighed deeply and finally drew a ''yes'' in front of the seven brothers with the Forebearer Cards.


    Watching the seven brothers walk towards the blood pool and resolutely soak in it, Ethan squinted his eyes.


    "Just soak, fear nothing. We''re going to erase the memories of the entire Cloudview County, are we still afraid of a demon emerging from our home?"


    "Soak vigorously!"


    As he spoke, Ethan''s voice became ethereal and distant, "If Boar Monarch Pete were still here, he would definitely say the same, let you guys soak well and grow up fast, right?"


    ...


    As the seven brothers entered the blood pool, Ethan began to wait for the expected developments. The current Blackwood clan members were numerous:


    - Fourth generation: 32 people


    - Fifth generation: 6 people


    - Total members: 52 people


    This count didn''t even include their spouses or sons-in-law. Ethan had to keep an eye on their situations at all times.


    [Your descendant Larry has entered the Swamp Forest. Under the protection of her parents and the care of her elder brother, she, who was once frail, encountered bloodshed for the first time. She fought against exotic beasts and struggled against the ever-changing weather, barely surviving the poisonous miasma of the Swamp Forest time and again.]


    [As you repeatedly healed her with ''Forebearer''s Embrace,'' her physique grew stronger, and she gradually mastered the ''Beast Mastery'' passed down from her great-grandmother, the ''Medical Compendium'' from her second great-aunt, and various family techniques and martial skills, becoming increasingly adept at surviving in the Swamp Forest.]


    [Trait gained¡ªSwamp Walker!]


    [Moving effortlessly through the swamp, she will become the most graceful psychic in the marsh.]


    In the scene, a pretty girl dressed in animal skins and barefoot stood on a protruding rock in the middle of the swamp, her eyes, wild as a beast''s, scanning her surroundings for opportunities, much like a crocodile.


    She gripped her spear tightly, leaped forward, and plunged it into the head of the beast leader, severing the crocodile''s head. Holding the crocodile''s head aloft, she roared skyward, surveying the surrounding crocodiles, "Submit, or..."


    "Die!!!"


    [Your descendant Larry has gained the submission of the Swamp Crocodiles.] Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Trait gained: Crocodile Queen]


    [All crocodiles in the Swamp Forest will feel intimidated by her and gradually submit.]


    Standing on the back of a crocodile, Larry headed towards a distant area rich in psychic energy, clutching the Forebearer Cards in her arms, she felt reassured, "With the Forebearer''s blessing, I fear nothing. Next, it''s time to face that psychic crocodile."


    ...


    It was a vast lake shimmering with sparkling waves, yet eerily, at the center of this lake, the water was completely still, without a single ripple. A bird flying over it seemed to be crushed by an invisible force, plummeting rapidly into the lake''s depths.


    That was the true Deepheart Lake.


    During a calm moment at Deepheart Lake,


    "Splash!"


    Suddenly, a man burst forth from the surface of the lake, bare-skinned and riding a flying sword, hovering as if weighed down by a heavy burden, his waist bent, dripping with a mix of water and sweat.


    Forebearer Cards emerged from his Storage Ring, floating beside him. He managed a weak smile towards the Cards.


    "Forebearer, I''ve seen it, there''s treasure in Deepheart Lake!"


    "It''s a turtle shell covered in runes. The Divine Tree was right; the immense pressure in Deepheart Lake is all because of that shell."


    "It''s noticed me, it seems to be telling me, ''If you can carry me ashore, I will acknowledge you as my master!''"


    Watching the excited Justin on the screen, Ethan couldn''t muster any enthusiasm. Each ''Embrace of the Forebearer'' cost 100 Spiritual Tributes, capable of healing the severe injuries of an Iron Will Psychic.


    He had already saved this grandson from the brink of death nearly fifty times.

 Chapter 129: Chapter 129: I dont want to hear Lopez again

    It seemed Justin had inherited the typical Blackwood stubbornness, setting his sights on a goal and stopping at nothing to achieve it.


    But it wasn''t without its rewards.


    [Your descendant Justin, after nearly fifty near-death experiences, has gained the trait: Numbness of the Reaper]


    [The chances of escaping death have greatly increased, each near-death experience grants a slight increase in strength, and the probability of gaining traits slightly increases.]


    [Your descendant has survived death multiple times, breaking through the seventh layer of Foundational Energy.]


    [Gained trait: Walking with Death]


    [He has gradually grown fond of the feeling of nearly dying, and his luck increases when he courts death.]


    "..." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan rubbed his temples, suspecting that in the trait ''Numbness of the Reaper,'' the Reaper was probably referring to himself.


    Fortunately, with these stacked traits, it seemed he wouldn''t need to save the boy as often.


    Sure enough.


    A couple of days later.


    Ethan saw Justin, a young man about 5 feet 7 inches tall, emerging from the lake carrying a turtle shell about 4 feet 11 inches long.


    [Your descendant has acquired a special ability item¡ªHeavenly Heavy Turtle Shell]


    [Symbiotic with the turtle shell, capable of releasing a pressure several times greater than his physical strength, and can withstand attacks several times his body strength.]


    Ethan felt relieved; with such a special ability item, the boy''s chances of survival when courting death had increased again.


    ...


    Over the past year, the fourth generation of Blackwood, always under George''s protection, finally left the eagle''s nest, making a name for themselves across Cloudview County. They''ve adapted to solitude and embraced growth, much like fledglings spreading their wings for the first time.


    The Primordial Blood Tree, revered by the Blackwood clan as a divine entity, stands testament to their legacy. Yet, the lands of omen where the Blackwood descendants roam are fraught with peril. Ethan''s most frequently used skill these days is ''Embrace of the Forebearer.''


    The only one who never needed Ethan to use this skill, the one who always gave him peace of mind, was...


    [Cloudview County¡¤Jones]


    Atop a high mountain, majestic buildings stretch under a haze of psychic energy. Ethan''s memories of this place are vivid, especially of William, who had been a son-in-law in Jones, murdered his wife here, and fled to the Thunderfire Demon Cave to seek refuge with Amelia.


    It seems fate has intertwined Jones and Blackwood after all.


    In a courtyard, a stunningly beautiful woman, fox-like in her allure, pours tea in scant attire. Beside her, a very honest-looking young man.


    [Your descendant Jessica, hiding her true identity, entered Jones as a maid, puzzled by the divine tree''s prophecy of killing her husband. One day, a direct elder of Jones noticed Jessica''s beauty and decided to betroth her to his son, Jack.]


    [Discovering her father-in-law''s sinister plans, she called upon an expert from Dawn, killed the father-in-law, and later married Jack. Amidst the treachery of a great family and the troubles caused by her beauty, she gained the trait: Fatal Beauty.]


    [Her beauty is her most dangerous weapon, always managing to eliminate enemies with her growing wisdom and means beyond violence. Her chances of romantic encounters increased.]


    "Jessica, I... I think..."


    Jack, facing his wife, blushed, hesitating to speak his mind.


    But from the desire in Jack''s eyes, Jessica understood what her husband wanted. She covered her mouth with a coy laugh, her voice soft, "Didn''t we agree? Once you become the head of the family, I''ll give you everything you want."


    "Jessica, how can I become the head of the family? My father is gone, I... I''m not qualified."


    Jessica looked serious, "I want my husband to be the most capable and respected man in town. They say you''re not worthy, but I can see the potential in you."


    "I''ll help you!"


    As they spoke, a carrier pigeon arrived. Jessica caught it under her husband''s gaze, accustomed to such scenes.


    Glancing at the chaotic, almost nonsensical words in the letter.


    Jessica''s lips parted slightly.


    [The operation begins, take your husband and Jones'' servants, and kill the descendants of the Elizabeth family branch.]


    [Location, Peaceful County, Green Poplar Town Lopez.]


    "I want to go to Peaceful County, Green Poplar Town. I hear the scenery is beautiful there."


    Jessica didn''t even glance at her husband as she stroked the Cards in her arms.


    With her husband''s agreement.


    She looked into the distance.


    "Jack, what color do you think the snow will be this year?"


    Jack paused, "Isn''t snow always white?"


    Jessica shook her head; she had seen red snow before and never wanted to see it again. But she wanted to go to Green Poplar Town, to see the blood-stained earth, which would surely be more beautiful than red snow, ideally hearing Elizabeth''s anguished cries from the Azure Cloud Pavilion in the distance.


    Ethan watched as each child, under the influence of the Primordial Blood Tree, cultivated psychic powers in specific areas, growing wildly.


    Without exception, they all developed a wildly fierce nature over the year, with various traits infiltrating their bodies.


    Ethan called the fourth generation the wildest yet.


    If the first three generations were endowed with courage by his Forebearer Cards, then the fourth generation, thanks to the old boar, possessed a fearless madness.


    And now, this madness was descending like a cleaver upon their enemies.


    ...


    [Green Poplar Town ¡¤ Lopez Estate]


    This branch of the Green Poplar Town, with a two-hundred-year heritage, emitted its final dull chant.


    The gates of the Lopez estate opened.


    Blood-stained guards and servants were escorting the eighth young master and his grandmother of the Jones direct line out.


    The guards and servants, with fleeting glances at the grandmother, quickly lowered their heads.


    This girl, who rose from a maid to become the grandmother of the Jones'' eighth young master, always became an indispensable figure in the dreams of men and some women.


    "Hmph, the audacious rural home dares to covet our Jones'' woman? Using Azure Cloud Pavilion to scare me, disturbing my good mood."


    Jack spat on the ground, and no matter how naive and honest he was, he was still of the Jones direct line.


    "The young master is right."


    An aged servant at the peak of Emerging Ability chuckled while stroking his beard, "Lopez is nothing, even if Azure Cloud Pavilion has an old Lopez ancestor, they are ultimately detached from worldly affairs and pose no threat."


    Jessica nodded slightly, returning with Jack to Cloudview County. Before leaving, she paused, looking at the servant, "Make it clean, the next time I come to Green Poplar Town, I don''t want to hear ''Lopez'' again."


    "Yes, young madam."


    The servant bowed deeply, watching Jessica''s departing figure, he stroked his beard and sighed, "Such a demoness, if old Jones mishandles this, he''s truly bewitched."


    He faintly felt that ever since this grandmother entered their family, the branch they controlled was gradually growing stronger with time. Regrettably, what made everything savagely grow was not Jack, but this maid-born, clean-background young grandmother.


    As his words fell, blood flowed out from the Lopez estate gates, endlessly streaming through the gutters.

 Chapter 130: Chapter 130: Lopez Clearance Plan, completed

    On the same day, in differt places, extraordinary evts unfolded!


    [Special Evt¡ªThe Lopez Purge Plan]


    Your descdant Larry, emerging from the swampy jungles, received the family''s command! Leading thousands of crocodiles, various wolves, tigers, leopards, and countless birds and beasts, she headed to a village where a disciple of Elizabeth was born!


    Your descdant Justin, clad in heavy turtle shell armor, received orders to head to a Lopez mine vein!


    Olivia, commanding Dawn assassins, divided into twelve teams, ready to start exterminating various Lopez branches at dawn!


    Amelia ordered the demons of Thunderfire Demon Cave to emerge...


    A bloody purge was siltly underway.


    Like a widespread unknown plague, it was budding, carrying the towering rage of Blackwood, manipulated by Olivia, and began to spread.


    [Cloudview County]


    As dawn broke, a group of odd figures walked through the morning mist.


    There was a burly middle-aged man at the forefront, his honest and simple face bearing an expression as solid as rock, marked by the years, dressed in simple cloth clothes.


    Most notably, he was leading a rope tighted a something in front of him, and carrying something covered with a cloth on his back, which looked like a huge coffin.


    Beside him was a slightly petite woman, extremely chanting yet possessing a rustic simplicity, her hair done up in a style only old ladies would wear, adorned with antique jewelry, and dressed in a simple, loose peasant skirt.


    Following them were four people.


    A young man in a black robe, extremely handsome, with locks of hair framing his face, his sharp gaze barely concealed. His hands, hidd in his sleeves, swung as the black box behind him clinked with the sound of metal clashing, as if something inside was fighting for dominance.


    A muscular man, bare-chested, his muscles bulging, walked barefoot, wearing only shorts torn at the knees. His eyebrows, hair, and beard seemed to have be burned off, giving him a fierce look, especially with his silver left arm, clearly not to be trifled with.


    Yet this fierce man was pushing an old woman in a wheelchair, his careful demeanor somewhat amusing.


    Beside them, there was a woman with a ponytail, tall, wearing clanking armor. The front of her armor was carved with a ferocious boar''s head with sharp fangs, and at her waist hung a large ghost-headed saber, like a geral.


    In this thick fog, any passerby who countered them fled as if they had se a ghost.


    Just th, they halted their journey as a woman emerged from the mist ahead. She was dressed in a disheveled Taoist robe, her long hair a tangled mess, revealing a dirty little face.


    Th the group moved forward again, silt, just smiling slightly as they watched the Taoist-robed woman quietly join their ranks.


    On the streets of Cloudview County, they seemed to emerge from the mist and disappear back into it.


    Gerations later, the early descdants of Blackwood finally began to gather.


    For some reason, at this momt, their minds simultaneously recalled the wild lands outside the Silver Iron Forest of old.


    Like today''s George, carrying Forebearer Cards, they faced crises together. They drove off bandits together, vtured into the Silver Iron Forest together, and with the hope of their family, they charged into Forest Town.


    Now, each of them had aged, expericed the passage of time, and the various phases of life. Time had imposed the trials they had to dure, changing their youthful hearts, but what it could never change was the courage they had wh they stood together¡ªa courage called family.


    Until, taking advantage of the morning mist, they reached the outskirts of a high mountain, before a stone monumt¡ªLopez.


    "Who goes there?!!"


    As they first stepped in front of the Lopez mountain gate, the Blackwood descdants looked up at the sprawling buildings atop the mountain, and the guards at the gate were already on high alert.


    No one responded.


    The guard saw it.


    A card rose slowly from the bosom of the middle-aged man at the front, replacing the sun that should have ris this morning!


    The disheveled woman casually threw a gourd, and from it emerged a giant black serpt, ts of meters long, with its soft horns trembling, flashing with the power of thunder and fire!


    It glared with blood-red eyes, oped its huge mouth, revealing its fierce and unev fangs, and roared at them!


    ???¦¥?¦Ñ¦´?.?¦¨?


    That was also the last sce the guard saw in his life.


    "Roar!!!"


    Watching the family''s guardian beast break through from the demon cave and charge up Lopez, Nathan unlocked the Direct Death Coffin, leaped into the sky, and as the coffin oped, zombies screamed and rushed out, activating the great Lopez formation.


    Nathan looked at the card in front of him, his family also staring at him.


    The corners of his mouth lifted slightly.


    "Leave behind!"


    ...


    [Your family, the first and second gerations, collectively wt to Lopez in Cloudview County.]


    [Half an hour later, they left Lopez, bringing back a large amount of spoils of war.]


    [After this battle, they siltly dispersed.]


    Ethan also saw the terrifying strgth of the first two gerations of Blackwood, and ev he was a bit thrilled.


    "Holy smokes."


    Ethan wiped the cold sweat from his forehead; it was a total crush. What half an hour? That was just collecting spoils!


    The strongest in Lopez, merely a beginner in Developing Skill, didn''t ev have a chance to fight back. Under the evolved Purple Thunder Solar Python, their clan''s protective formation was like paper!


    He saw countless zombies crawling out of Nathan''s Direct Death Coffin, and ghosts appearing from Nathan''s formation.


    Luna, with her demonic fox form, left the people of Lopez standing dumbly waiting for their demise.


    Lucas''s sword, Amelia''s vines that almost covered the Lopez base, Julian controlling the war AI Bionic Robot he had crafted over and over, and...


    Olivia, who could manipulate the seasons at will!


    Ev Mary, with her False Core stage power, could summon a wisp of the remnant soul of two gerations of demonic kings to form a magical body!


    "Have they all become this strong?"


    Ethan remembered the battle at the Rodriguez family''s place; if it were the currt Blackwood going there, it would be a crush!


    He had be ready to descd into the game world again to help his descdants fight, but this Spiritual Tribute was saved.


    Not to mtion not asking for his help, ev the Primordial Blood Tree wasn''t summoned in this battle. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, Blackwood, in his twty years of secluded cultivation, already had the strgth to crush any ordinary Developing Skill family!


    And that too, without ev going all out!


    [Congratulations, special evt¡ªLopez Clearance Plan, completed.]


    [You have earned ,000 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    [Your descdant Olivia is sding a major gift to Elizabeth at the Azure Cloud Pavilion¡ªthe heads of Lopez people.]


    "Good! Elizabeth, this is just the first account!"


    Witnessing such slaughter, Ethan instead showed a satisfied expression.


    He couldn''t forget the cold, ruthless look on Elizabeth''s face wh he saw the old pig being tortured in the Energy Stone at Blackwood while gathering intelligce!


    He believed that the people of Blackwood would never forget that image over time, their hatred only accumulating as time passed.


    Now was the time to vt their fury!


    He took a deep breath.

 Chapter 131: Chapter 131: The presence of death!

    Ethan switched the view to the Azure Cloud Pavilion,curious to see if Elizabeth had truly severed her earthly ties.He glanced at the member list and saw William''s avatar.


    "Through William,the map of Azure Cloud Pavilion must have be unlocked."


    Ethan grinned.William was indeed a bit twisted,but this time the kid did well,fighting for the family. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan believed that with William''s twisted intelligce,his undercover operation must be a success,maybe ev climbing the ranks within the Azure Cloud Pavilion...


    "Huh???"


    The view shifted to William''s perspective.


    Ethan''s smile twitched.


    He saw it.


    In the cter of the Azure Cloud Pavilion,hanging from a pillar,was a black iron cage.Below,on the bluestone pavemt,disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion walked back and forth,occasionally glancing up at the cage as if watching a monkey.


    Inside the cage.


    William''s hands tightly gripped the iron bars,his face almost squeezed betwe two bars,his lower lip protruding in distress.


    Above his head,a few words appeared.


    "Let me out!!!"


    Ethan:"..."


    ...


    [In the year 84 at Blackwood,a series of mysterious disappearances among the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion led to a grim discovery behind the mountains¡ªthree disciples were found buried alive.The head of the Pavilion decided to make an example of William by having him recite scriptures in public daily,hoping to reform him.]


    [Your descdant William has acquired the trait:The Pretder]


    Half a year of scriptures did nothing to soft his twisted heart.He memorized the s and pretded to heed the master''s teachings,but his resolve only grew stronger.


    "Are you freaking kidding me?"Ethan was speechless,holding his forehead in frustration."Great,just great.The more we try to''educate''him,the more of a psycho he becomes.Now he''s ev more set on murder."


    Ethan had hoped that being a George would gradually change his deranged descdant for the better,and indeed,William had not committed any heinous acts for months and had ev started working undercover for the family.


    But now...this descdant,surpassing ev George in talt,seemed utterly hopeless.


    Ignoring William,Ethan shifted his view,observing various locations within the Azure Cloud Pavilion.As an ancit sect with many disciples and secret spots for cultivating psychic powers,it was rich in heritage.


    Some areas,thanks to William''s investigations,provided Ethan,the Forebearer,with valuable information.


    [Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Twelve Guardian Towers]


    [The Pavilion has be a place of passing down skills from Compett and Developing Skill elders for gerations,suring the legacy of the Azure Cloud Pavilion does not fade.]


    "Could such a sect lack Compett members?"Ethan squinted,considering the information known to Blackwood.It was said that the Pavilion only had Developing Skill elders,but with a history spanning thousands of years,including the sect leader,there were sev Developing Skill members.


    This level of expertise was almost on par with the Sky Sect and the Black Shell Gate.


    The more Ethan delved into the situation at the Azure Cloud Pavilion,the more he realized the depth of its hidd strgth.Ev without trying hard,he could sse that the Pavilion was concealing its true capabilities. ?¡Ì¨N¦®§®??§Á.?§°?


    Just th...


    "Boom!"


    A disciple in a cloud-patterned robe,riding a crane,hurriedly descded from the sky into the sect,his face filled with terror.He had lost control of the crane,and both he and the bird tumbled to the g upon landing.


    The disciple,ignoring the crane''s mournful cries,stumbled towards the main hall.


    "Master,Elders!It''s...it''s terrible!"


    "Something horrifying is happing at the base of Azure Cloud Mountain!"


    At that momt...


    In the main hall,the back mountains,the Twelve Guardian Towers,and ev beath the Pavilion,all the Psychics oped their eyes.


    They all heard the disciple''s terrified shouts,and...


    They also ssed the thick sct of blood coming from below Azure Cloud Mountain!


    Sitting on a lotus platform,the Pavilion''s leader,Master Yixian,calculated the situation with a cold gaze,observing the patterns in the hall before sighing deeply,"A great disaster is upon us,but why?"


    As he spoke...


    In one of the towers,a stunning woman sitting opposite Elder Felix oped her beautiful eyes.In an instant,her eyes turned blood-red,and she leaped up,her phoix form emerging and breaking through the top of the tower in a burst.


    She felt it¡ªa blood connection,no matter how faint,all converging outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    And...


    The presce of death!


    In the cter of the Pavilion,William,who was gripping the iron bars and putting on a pitiful act,slowly lifted his head,watching the fiery figure rushing out.He raised an eyebrow,also ssing the blood sct from below Azure Cloud Mountain,sweet and overwhelming.


    "Tsk tsk,must be the work of Great Auntie.Truly a divine figure in my eyes."


    ...


    Ethan stared at the scre,his eyes wide with horror.Below Azure Cloud Mountain,the air was thick with a dark,sinister mist formed from the mingling of blood and the dark restmt of the dead.Within just a few minutes,the sky in the distance had turned a dark crimson due to these malevolt ergies.


    At the base of the mountain,a chilling sight unfolded¡ªa tower built tirely of human heads!For Ethan,the image on the scre was already terrifying.The tower,several feet high,was composed of heads all froz in expressions of terror.


    But for the disciples gathered at the Azure Cloud Pavilion,this sight could very well become a deep-seated phobia,haunting them for a long time to come.


    They saw it.


    Outside this gruesome tower,as the wind blew,the hair on these severed heads fluttered in the breeze.Most of the hair was still,dripping with blood.The eyes in all the skulls retained the horrified expressions of their final momts,many filled with confusion,as if they couldn''t understand why disaster had befall them ev in death.


    Because of this,the heads on the tower seemed to look in every direction,as if emitting an dless stream of restmt.


    Blood,not yet dried,trickled down from the gaps betwe the heads at the base of the tower,slowly flowing towards the gate of Azure Cloud Mountain.


    Some Psychics,using their techniques,witnessed an ev more terrifying sce!

 Chapter 132: Chapter 132: Elder Felix, do you have an explanation for this?

    Outside the mountain gate, spectral figures in pairs and groups, headless and stiff, wandered towards the crowd. They were seeking the missing parts of their bodies to continue their cycle of reincarnation.


    Fear spread among the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, who were unaware of the sinister forces at play or who could have constructed such a malevolt spectacle outside their pavilion.


    The foul wind that blew ev caused some of the more faint-hearted disciples to faint, a wind that carried a deathly aura capable of shattering the psyche!


    Following this, many elders from the Azure Cloud Pavilion arrived. Among them, a stunning woman in red, Elizabeth, appeared numb as she stood before the spectacle, lost in a daze. However, at this momt, no one paid atttion to Elizabeth''s unusual behavior.


    Their brows furrowed as they looked towards the sky above the spectacle, where at the very top, a human head held an Energy Stone in its mouth. As more disciples gathered, the Energy Stone began to glow, revealing a sce to all prest.


    They saw in the vision a Boar Monarch Pete, once gtle and playful in a valley with childr who naively called him ''Old Pig Pete'' and ''Great Grandpa''. Despite their inability to understand how a Boar Monarch Pete could harmonize so well with childr, they could feel the warmth of the sce.


    But th, the sce shifted to show the Boar Monarch Pete''s grave and the childr''s mourning in that same valley.


    The vision changed again.


    Felix, an elder from the Sky Sect, along with Elizabeth from the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Phoix Hall, were se chasing after the Boar Monarch Pete. They pursued him like a cat after a mouse, with Elizabeth reltlessly slashing at the Boar Monarch Pete.


    It was a long and dehumanizing chase marked by brutality. Steph, the aged and verable leader of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, with his hair and youthful face, stroked his beard and sighed as he watched the sce.


    Looking at the petrified Elizabeth on the g and th back at the vision, he realized everything. He understood why, upon leaving, he had forese a great disaster approaching.


    "The Pavilion Master, this..." an elder who had also witnessed the tire evt frowned and said, "It''s a humanity-destroying act. Just for a Boar Monarch Pete, building such a grand structure in our Azure Cloud Pavilion is akin to walking the path of demons."


    "Our Azure Cloud Pavilion, no matter what, is a major power with a heritage of over a hundred thousand years. Anyone who provokes us so blatantly in front of our pavilion is seriously underestimating us."


    "Perhaps... we should handle this mundane matter by discussing it with the other party. I don''t want to get involved."


    "It''s common for grudges to lead to more grudges, but this family has gone too far."


    The elders spoke one after another, each with their own opinions.


    Steph remained deep in thought, glancing at Elder Felix from the Sky Sect, who was avoiding eye contact. His voice was somber, "Elder Felix, do you have an explanation for this?"


    "Pavilion Master."


    Elder Felix was also heavily burded. He had thought that after killing the pig Boar Monarch Pete, it would drive the people of Blackwood mad. He had ev stayed in Forest Town with Elizabeth, waiting for Blackwood''s people to attack her, after which he could escape with his partner.


    He expected that the news of Elizabeth being attacked and the backlash from the tire Cloudview County against Blackwood would follow, and he wouldn''t ev need to lift a finger!


    But unexpectedly, Blackwood''s people did not react at all. In a very short time, they abandoned their Blackwood residce and disappeared completely!


    Over the past year, he had no idea what Blackwood''s people were up to.


    ???¦¥????.???


    He had set a trap, but Blackwood''s people had no inttion of falling into it; instead, they completely overturned his chessboard!


    Now, he glanced at the grand structure and at the stupefied Elizabeth, ev his heart trembling. He hadn''t expected Blackwood''s people to be so ruthless, nor had he expected their decisivess in such a gocidal act, something no ordinary power could do!


    He suddly realized that ev after years of sding people to gather intelligce on Marcus and Blackwood, he had still vastly underestimated Blackwood''s power and strgth.


    They were not just a simple developing skill family!


    "I''m asking you a question." Steph, at the mid-stage of Developing Skill, looked at the distracted Felix, his tone calm, showing no regard for Felix, who was at the peak of Developing Skill, "For these two hundred years, as an elder of the Sky Sect, you have repeatedly used Elizabeth and exploited the reputation of our Azure Cloud Pavilion for your own ds."


    With that, he sighed deeply, "It''s also my fault, considering your idtity in the Sky Sect and your special relationship as cultivation partners, I''ve be reluctant to interve."


    "But now, you think you''re so clever, but you''ve led our Azure Cloud Pavilion elders into such a disaster."


    Upon hearing this, Elder Felix''s expression changed, "Pavilion Master, what do you mean by these words?"


    "You''ve brought this upon yourself."


    Steph exhaled deeply, "Arrest him."


    "Yes!"


    As Steph''s words fell, four or five elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion moved instantly, and a gold bowl from the Sky Sect, a piece of primary advanced psychic equipmt, easily captured the fleeing Elder Felix. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Elder Felix''s face changed dramatically, "Pavilion Master, I am an elder of the Sky Sect, this matter has nothing to do with me, and besides, it was Elizabeth who killed the Boar Monarch Pete, not me! Arresting me is hardly fair, is it?"


    "Don''t use the Sky Sect to pressure me, you are nothing."


    Steph shook his head and waved his hand, "Arrest Elizabeth as well, this woman has be cultivating psychic powers for over three hundred years, her heart is not pure, and today she will be locked up with Felix until I discuss matters with Blackwood''s people and decide what to do next."


    "Yes!"


    The elders furrowed their brows, somewhat puzzled. Although Blackwood''s strgth was formidable, capable of annihilating the Lopez family overnight, it still didn''t seem worth it for the Azure Cloud Pavilion to bow down for this reason, let alone offd the Sky Sect by arresting Elizabeth and Elder Felix.


    As Steph watched the two being tak away, he shook his head and turned to walk to the cter of the Sky Sect, his right hand calculating.


    Just as he walked under William''s cage and floated up to look at William''s confused gaze, Steph heard a heart-wrching scream behind him.


    "Ah!!!"


    It was Elizabeth''s cry of despair.


    Steph shook his head, "Disaster."

 Chapter 133: Chapter 133: He had foreseen it; he couldnt stop this disaster.

    "Huh?"


    Watching the leader of the Azure Cloud Pavilion arrest that couple, Ethan was stunned. He had thought that a sect with over a hundred thousand years of heritage like the Azure Cloud Pavilion would be furious at the Blackwoods'' provocation, but he didn''t expect the Pavilion''s leader to be so reasonable!


    It wasn''t just Ethan.


    Ev Olivia, who was watching everything happing at the Azure Cloud Pavilion through images st back to her in Cloudview County, was tak aback. She quickly breathed a sigh of relief, but this didn''t make her lower her guard.


    Instead, she furrowed her brows ev more, "Such a ssible leader."


    She th waved her hand, signaling someone to come over, "Go, find out if there''s anyone in this world still connected to Sky Sect Felix, and eliminate all his frids and relatives."


    "Yes, leader!"


    A dark shadow floated up from the g and disappeared.


    ...


    "He must have forese something. Places like the Azure Cloud Pavilion, their leaders have strong cards to play, no wonder they have lasted till now."


    Watching the scre, Ethan also realized that Steph''s actions were unexpected.


    But at least for now, this seemed like a guinely reasonable person.


    "We still need to keep an eye on him, otherwise, who knows what weird things might happ."


    In the image.


    Steph was now face to face with William, who was still pretding to be clueless, "Leader, what''s happing outside? Why did all the brothers rush out?"


    "..."


    Steph was silt for a long time, finally saying something that made William''s face change, "Did you think you could fool me for long with your soul-cleansing liquid?"


    William was dumbfounded.


    [Your descdant William is on the verge of a breakdown.]


    "..."


    Ethan twitched the corner of his mouth, finally getting it. This Steph probably had the same fortune-telling skills as Dnis from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, and was ev more formidable.


    William stood before Steph, as if stripped bare.


    Above Steph''s head appeared a line of .


    The master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion sighed deeply, "There are bad seeds in the world, my child. From the momt you tered the Azure Cloud Pavilion, I knew you harbored ill inttions. Yet, I spared your life, also giving the Azure Cloud Pavilion a chance to survive."


    William finally snapped out of his shock, but he didn''t understand Steph''s words and dropped the act, "Old man, what are you playing at? I don''t understand."


    "You will," Steph said slowly, oping the cage, "Go back and tell your elders at Blackwood that the disaster has only just begun. It''s not just your disaster, but also ours at the Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    William rubbed his head irritably, "What do you mean? I''ve be exposed, you should have killed me!"


    Steph remained calm, "It''s my time to die."


    "Huh???"


    §®??¦®§®¦Ñ??.?¦¨?


    Not only was William stunned, but Ethan watching the sce was too.


    Steph still looked indiffert to life or death, still smiling, "Don''t think I just had Elizabeth and Felix locked up. If I wanted them dead, that would be impossible."


    "The Azure Cloud Pavilion is no longer what it once was. The once great pavilion sheltered psychic abilities during times of chaos, accumulating great merit over a hundred thousand years, allowing it to survive to this day."


    "Now, the elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, blinded by greed, exhaust all means to restore its former glory."


    "That''s why there''s the union of Elizabeth and Sky Sect''s Felix. You think the Azure Cloud Pavilion is above it all?"


    "No, inside, it''s filled with forces from Sky Sect, the Black Shell Gate, and ev the tire Cloudview County. The Azure Cloud Pavilion has long be a microcosm of the tire Cloudview County."


    "Do you believe they''ve already walked out of their cells?"


    "And me, haha, I''m tired, I also want to live. Tonight, I will leave the Azure Cloud Pavilion with some of my disciples."


    Watching William walk out of the cage.


    Steph waved his hand, "Go on, tell your elders to stop fighting. If you want to kill the elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, you''re opposing the tire Cloudview County. They''ve be corrupt for many years, it''s better to leave Cloudview County as soon as possible."


    "By the way."


    Watching William walk away with his hands behind his head and swagger in his step, Steph shouted, "Be careful of the Sky Sect at Blackwood, think about why Felix was only locked up for twty years, while your Blackwood''s Marcus was confined for fifty?"


    His words fell.


    He had already walked back to the main hall, packing up with two elders and dozs of disciples, and took to the skies that night.


    Steph stood above the clouds.


    He looked down at the Azure Cloud Pavilion on the g, brightly lit, filled with psychic ergy, worthy of a sect that had survived for over a hundred thousand years, and also the memory of the tire Cloudview County. But the higher it rises, the easier it is to lose its nature.


    He still remembered the Azure Cloud Pavilion of old, all members devoted to the path.


    But now...


    "Without destruction, there can be no construction; ruin brings rebirth."


    Steph''s gaze was profound, as if containing a brilliant galaxy, "Cloudview County also needs a thorough reshuffling. I hope you at Blackwood can achieve it."


    He took a deep breath and soared into the clouds, a trickle of fresh blood running from the corner of his mouth. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had forese it; he couldn''t stop this disaster.


    And Blackwood...


    They were a group of thoroughly raged beasts. Despite years of cultivating psychic powers and the Six Lines of Divine Calculation, he couldn''t fully predict the specific locations of the people of Blackwood.


    He only knew that these beasts were spread across Cloudview County, like a great tree spreading its vines, guiding their way.


    A fog protected all descdants of Blackwood.


    He couldn''t see through the descdants of Blackwood, nor could he see through Blackwood''s future.


    But he knew, what you can''t see through is always the most dangerous.


    Steph wiped the blood from his mouth, and despite having spt fifty years of his life, he still wore a smile.

 Chapter 134: Chapter 134: We can be more cruel than you

    In Cloudview County, Olivia was stargazing at night. She had be relaxed, but th she noticed a dark mist swirling in the distance. Shaking her head, she soon saw William escaping from the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    As soon as he laid eyes on the legdary Great Aunt, he was filled with admiration, "Great Aunt, I finally get to see you in person. You are a role model for our geration..."


    Before he could finish, a cage fell from the sky, trapping William again, leaving him utterly baffled. He clung to the bars of the cage, sticking his head out just like he did at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, "Great Aunt, what are you doing?"


    Well, the only good thing was that his feet touched the g, so he wasn''t swaying.


    Olivia ignored William and asked herself, "Did you see the capital at the Azure Cloud Pavilion?" S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I did," William replied. "The Pavilion Master caught that couple, but he also took off himself, said something mysterious. In short, we still have to deal with the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and ev the whole Cloudview County."


    "Right, and there''s the Sky Sect..."


    Olivia waved her hand, and although William''s mouth moved in the cage, his voice couldn''t be heard.


    She pulled out the Forebearer Cards from her pocket.


    Olivia sighed deeply, "Forebearer, your child is useless, I couldn''t resolve this matter easily."


    On the scre, Ethan was manipulating the Forebearer Cards, writing down the words ''no worries''.


    His expression didn''t change much.


    Originally, Ethan and Olivia''s plan was to use Lopez''s capital, along with the old pig''s murder, to reason with the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Indeed, they made their point, and Steph was very cooperative, but...


    That''s just how things are, disappointing. Steph seemed to have predicted that it was unstoppable, and he didn''t ev want to try to hand over the couple.


    The situation in the whole Cloudview County and the Azure Cloud Pavilion was more complicated than they expected. All the forces and sects in Cloudview County seemed to have already formed a closely-knit yet cautious group a the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    And now, because of the establishmt of the capital, Blackwood had become an outlier among them.


    This contradiction was going to grow.


    Ethan took a deep breath.


    His eyes were filled with danger.


    He seemed to understand that the signs from the Primordial Blood Tree were very accurate, so accurate that his attempts with Olivia to change the future did not alter its course.


    "If we must bring about slaughter, th so be it."


    [Initiate Plan B]


    Ethan manipulated the Cards, leaving a supernatural ability in front of Olivia.


    Seeing this, Olivia bowed respectfully, "Yes, Forebearer!"


    As Olivia moved, pigeons flew in all directions.


    That night, all the descdants of Blackwood received a letter from the family.


    They looked up, already aware of the capital''s situation. That night, the people of Blackwood all smiled, some ev wished they could personally visit the Azure Cloud Pavilion to see what the capital was like.


    Th they laughed, tears mingling with their smiles.


    In that letter, Olivia had left a supernatural power.


    They saw it, they saw Elizabeth frantically searching for descdants'' heads in the capital at night!


    Following that.


    The tire Good People Tea House was deserted, leaving only William dryly waiting in the cage.


    Wh dawn came.


    He emerged from the cage with a face full of grievances, "Why? Why didn''t you include me?"


    He was furiously pounding the g.


    Suddly, a Forebearer Card floated up from his chest, and a warm light fell on him.


    William was overjoyed, jumping up from the g and tightly hugging the Forebearer Card.


    ?¡Ì?¦®?§²£¤?.?¦¨§®


    "Big brother was right, only Forebearer truly cares about us descdants, Forebearer really didn''t abandon me!"


    "Let''s go, Forebearer, I''ve learned some new tricks rectly. On the way back, someone dared to glare at me, let''s go find him!"


    The Forebearer Card suddly lost its luster.


    On the scre.


    [You have canceled the skill ''Forebearer''s Warmth'']


    "..."


    Ethan switched his perspective to another descdant and sped up the time.


    He knew that from this momt on, the real test for Blackwood was about to begin.


    ...


    Inside the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    As Pavilion Master Steph fled with two elders and numerous disciples, a new elder took his place on the Pavilion Master''s lotus seat.


    "Sd a message, Forest Blackwood has built a capital outside our Azure Cloud Pavilion, attempting to kill our Pavilion elders. Find any of Blackwood''s descdants, show no mercy."


    Just as the disciples were about to leave.


    The new Pavilion Master stopped them, adding, "The former Pavilion Master Steph, he stole treasures from our Azure Cloud Pavilion. Reward anyone who finds him."


    "Yes!"


    As the disciples departed.


    The new Pavilion Master looked a at everyone, "Where is Elder Elizabeth?"


    "She''s... outside. She was released last night and has be searching through the capital all night, no one knows what she''s looking for."


    In the dead of night.


    Elizabeth''s eyes were bloodshot, tears streaming down her face. The capital was already in ruins, but she continued to search frantically, her beautiful face marred by messy hair and continuous cold sweat, strands sticking to her face, making her look like a madwoman, muttering as if in a trance.


    "My child, where is my child?"


    "My grandson... my grandson!"


    "Damn Blackwood, I will have my revge, revge!"


    "Where are they? I''ll take you home, back to our old home. I''ll build you the finest graves and leave your favorite things as Tribute Offerings..."


    Inside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, disciples were sding messages in all directions.


    Under the cover of night, Elizabeth continued her search in the crowded capital, but there were too many heads, some already unrecognizable, mangled beyond recognition. She couldn''t find them; her body was covered in the blood of the Lopez people, and with her twisted face, she looked like a ghoul crawling out of hell, no matter how beautiful she once was.


    Finally.


    She found it, the severed head of her younger son from her youth!


    "My child, mother has found you, haha, mother has found you!"


    She laughed madly under the moonlight, holding the head with its eyes wide op in horror, "Mother will take you home, find your body, and you will be whole again..."


    Th...


    "Boom!"


    The head exploded right before her eyes.


    Elizabeth''s initially joyful expression gradually froze, her expression becoming lifeless, like a soulless puppet, still holding the head, her body trembling slightly.


    The face of her younger son laughing in her arms as a child, the sces of her playing with her child, all appeared before her eyes, th shattered bit by bit.


    An old woman''s voice faintly echoed in her ear¡ª


    "Do you feel the pain of losing a loved one? We can be more cruel than you."


    This malicious voice echoed incessantly in Elizabeth''s ears.

 Chapter 135: Chapter 135: Asking you if it could be further modified?

    From a distance, Felix watched everything unfold, his body trembling. Ev though he had be released as expected, fear still gripped him. The ruthless tactics of the Blackwood clan were on full display!


    Previously, Felix had only thought about annihilating Blackwood, but now... he realized that the people of Blackwood were far stronger and more merciless than he had imagined.


    They were ev willing to abandon the family business that had be built up over nearly a ctury, now adopting a stance of having nothing to lose.


    He could ev feel that the Blackwoods were lurking in the dark corners a him, ready to make him pay an irreversible price.


    Elder Felix couldn''t dy it¡ªhe regretted it. He realized that he had made the most foolish decision of his life by killing the Boar Monarch Pete of Blackwood.


    He took a deep breath and slowly walked forward, embracing Elizabeth. She was his partner, promised to him two hundred years ago by the Azure Cloud Pavilion and Sky Sect to foster fridly relations.


    With Elizabeth, he had ris to his currt status. Only he knew how innoct Elizabeth was; ev three hundred years of cultivating psychic powers at the sect hadn''t matured her mind.


    "Elizabeth, it''s okay, I''ll always be by your side. We can continue to cultivate our psychic powers to Compett level, or ev higher. Over the years, we''ve practiced the dual cultivation techniques and searched for medicines and potions to increase our chances of having childr..."


    Before he could finish, Elizabeth broke free from his embrace, her face twisted into a mad smile as she pulled a piece of flesh from her mouth¡ªit was from their son''s head, which had exploded just momts ago.


    "Felix, look, which part of our child is this? It''s all your fault. If you hadn''t st me after that pig, this wouldn''t have happed."


    "It''s okay, Elizabeth, we will have our revge, definitely!" Elder Felix quickly embraced her again, squinting into the distance, feeling a chill as he ssed Elizabeth''s appart mtal breakdown.


    But he knew all too well that Blackwood had already set their sights on him. Only by facing this together with Elizabeth could he be safer.


    Under the moonlight, the couple shared a tder momt, marred only by the gruesome spectacle behind them...


    ...


    [Special Evt]


    [Your family has erected a notorious monumt at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and this news has spread throughout Cloudview County. The people of Cloudview County are now called upon to hunt down the descdants of Blackwood, making the Blackwood members public emies, rowned far and wide.]


    [Congratulations, your family has acquired the trait¡ªOutlaw Dynasty]


    [Most forces in Cloudview County admire the courage of Blackwood and are always ready to ''play'' by killing a member of Blackwood. Your family members have become outlaws in Cloudview County, with a popularity and favorability rating of -99%, escape speed increased by 0%, and combat power increased by 5% wh fighting desperately.]


    "What kind of congratulations is that?"


    Ethan scoffed at the notification on the scre.


    However, Blackwood had already resolved to become outlaws wh they left the monumt at the doorstep of the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    For this, Blackwood had ev conducted various experimts.


    That is, having Cards on them, ev a Psychic with fortune-telling abilities couldn''t locate the descdants of Blackwood.


    The dispersed members of Blackwood.


    They were as free as the vast sky, able to soar anywhere.


    Ethan ev found that this way of living as outlaws allowed the individual members of the Blackwood family to develop faster than farming at their family base, the only hassle being that he occasionally had to use his skills to protect the descdants of Blackwood.


    As for the Blackwood base...


    Ethan switched views to check on it; it was still developing. The Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion had tak charge of the Blackwood base but had handed over the authority to the people of Gratitude Village. The Azure Cloud Pavilion ev wt to the Blackwood base, and Dnis had only one word for them. §®??§¦?§²??.???


    That was ''Scram''.


    After all, they had the support of the mysterious Xuanwu Gate.


    The tire Cloudview County was searching for the people of Blackwood.


    Time in the game passed bit by bit.


    In Ethan''s view, it was just a few short hours.


    [Blackwood 89 Years]


    In these years of fleeing, the first two gerations of Blackwoods basically had no trouble.


    After leaving the family residce and wandering a, they ev got... high? sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descdant Nathan, with his wife Luna, wt to the South Sea. For decades in the family, in front of their descdants, they were shy and rarely affectionate. Now finally free from the annoyance of their descdants, they are affectionate all day long. Nathan took out the Forebearer Cards, asking Forebearer to look at their happy times.]


    [Trait: Shy Momts]


    [Away from descdants, affection +0%, dual cultivation speed +5%]


    "Are you torturing me through the scre?" Ethan gritted his teeth, fiercely sding ''Forebearer''s warmth'' to the old couple sitting by the coast looking at the sea.


    [Your descdant Lucas is wandering the world, finally able to fulfill his youthful dream of traveling the world with his sword. He began to hide his cultivation and challge sword cultivators everywhere, his swordsmanship growing day by day, and the number of swords in his scabbard increasing.]


    [His reputation is growing day by day, known in the martial world as ''Sword Stealing Demon'', wherever he goes, sword cultivators hide their treasured swords.]


    "That''s more dect."


    Ethan was very satisfied, this kid always thinking about cultivating psychic powers, much more dect than his shameless parts.


    [The Julian couple, led by Amelia, wt to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where the natural thunder and fire are natural forging tools. Julian is preparing to break through to a sevth-grade artisan.]


    [He took out the War AI Bionic Robot, asking you if it could be further modified?]


    Ethan watched Julian continuously kneeling towards the Cards.


    Actually, he had already had Andrew prepare the Intermediate War AI Bionic Robot, and with the next grand ritual, getting a few million basic Energy Stones from Blackwood to buy the Intermediate War AI Bionic Robot would be no problem at all.


    This basic War AI Bionic Robot, letting Julian play with it was no big deal.


    He clicked on the temple guardian beast''s avatar.


    At this time, the temple guardian beast was no longer the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    With the hancemt of thunder and fire, it had previously tried to absorb Developing Skill, to no avail, but fortunately, Amelia gradually became capable and found a Boar Monarch Pete blood pill for the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    As he typed.


    A giant serpt appeared in front of Julian, becoming the Boar Monarch Pete''s temple guardian beast, now able to speak human language through its psychic powers!


    Its crimson gaze fixed on Julian, "The Commander has responded to me, go ahead and use it."

 Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Dirty tactician

    "Thanks, Forebearer, Julian will definitely make the War AI Bionic Robot into a more powerful sevth-grade psychic puppet!" Julian, brimming with excitemt, picked up a hammer and hoisted the huge War AI Bionic Robot, running towards the Thunderfire area.


    As for Mary, this daughter-in-law of Blackwood, she became ev more diligt in cultivating her psychic powers, always ready to seek revge.


    Ethan still remembered the joy on her face wh she saw Elizabeth in distress.


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, there were two others.


    [Your descdant Amelia is in retreat with the help of the demon king, beginning to attempt the creation of real sevth-grade potions!]


    [Your descdant Daniel has tered the Thunderfire Demon Cave, becoming Amelia''s military advisor, responsible for managing her forces in the Demon Subduing Alliance and the Thunderfire Demon Cave during her retreat.]


    [He slowly realized the chaos and vastness of the place where his aunt was, discovering that she actually had many forces under her control. This place was simply the best paradise for him to show his prowess. His ambitious ambition expanded again, determined to help his aunt''s forces!]


    [Trait ''Ambitious'' transformed into¡ª''Dirty tactician'']


    [He thought daily of various ways to control people''s hearts, charisma +0%, popularity -30%]


    They were all doing very well.


    Especially pleasing to Ethan was that Olivia was getting younger, evolving from a decrepit old lady into a hunched old woman!


    After Dawn''s assassins withdrew from Cloudview County.


    She actually appeared in Jones, staying by Jessica''s side, becoming Jessica''s housekeeper. Jessica would command Olivia to serve tea and water during the day, but at night, she had to kneel in front of Olivia and apologize frantically.


    However, since Olivia arrived in Jones, Jessica''s days were getting better and better.


    Her husband Jack''s path to becoming the next family head was becoming smoother, and those who mocked Jack would mysteriously disappear. Jack''s luck was on the rise; he could find top-notch psychic equipmt ev after falling off a cliff, and he could unearth mysterious techniques from a roadside vdor.


    No one knew why, but the people of Jones felt that Jack was like a rising star.


    That night.


    Olivia took an Energy Stone from a maid''s hand in the darkness.


    She took out the Forebearer Cards and knelt down. "Forebearer, your child has discovered the whereabouts of Felix and Elizabeth. They are in the Valley of Healers, hoping to conceive a new child through dual cultivation and secret medicines. Your child will ld a hand."


    "But now, your child is ready to let Cloudview County feel the fear that Blackwood brings them."


    Ethan nodded slightly in front of the scre.


    He knew that all Blackwoods, though seemingly happy wandering outside, were waiting for a momt, a momt for Blackwood to fully seek justice.


    No matter what faced Elizabeth, or the damn Azure Cloud Pavilion, or ev the tire Cloudview County!


    A gleam flashed in his eyes as he manipulated the Forebearer Cards.


    [Initiate Plan B, all units move!]


    As his words fell, he connected a call, and Alan''s voice came from the old phone, "Mr. Ethan, the stuff you wanted has arrived, it cost a lot of Energy Stones, we need to settle the accounts properly!"


    ...


    In the living room, after many days, Ethan meets Alan again.


    While sipping on milk tea, Alan stares at the young man in front of him, puzzled. Although he doesn''t know what''s changed, he can feel that Mr. Ethan from a few days ago seems differt.


    ???¦¥??£¤§Á.§³??


    The former Mr. Ethan, although a clever and cautious fox, now carries an added air of maturity and steadiness.


    In his eyes, there''s a hint of the weariness that only comes with age, and ev a touch of the aura of a leader, making Alan treat him with increased respect.


    "Mr. Ethan, the price for the various drugs you gave me previously doesn''t cover what I''ve brought back for you," Alan casually mtions.


    "But that pis hancemt pill you have, it really sells well."


    As he speaks, he tosses a Storage Ring to Ethan. "About that Sarmat nuclear missile you mtioned, I really couldn''t find one. But I got you some new stuff that should be fine for dealing with the average Compett, though that psychic old lady, maybe not. Oh, and there are four C7-type Star Seekers."


    Ethan glances at the Storage Ring and sees a ghost head badge inside. He takes it out, puzzled, "What''s this?"


    "Oh, because we''ve bought contraband from them multiple times, they think my boss behind the sces has pottial, possibly becoming a top-level criminal."


    Alan gives a wry smile, "They said they hope you''ll join them, become a member of the family."


    Ethan, feeling somewhat appreciated by a strange group, ignores it and tosses another Storage Ring to Alan. "This time, I''m only giving you t beast blood fruits. Take these to auction; those rich kids who get a taste will probably be crying out to buy them."


    Alan frowns, but Ethan''s next words cheer him up. "These t are ev higher grade than the ones before, with 00 points of psychic power and a chance to increase Psychic Constitution by point. Needless to say, they''re valuable."


    "Besides, there are 50 doses each of drugs that hance various Five Elemts Psychic Constitutions. Pis hancemt pills, 500 doses."


    "And for helping during the Emerging Ability phase to break through Psychic, a 5% chance to remove mixed Psychic Constitution with ''Psychic Cleansing Scatter'', 30 doses!"


    Alan suddly leans forward on the table, looking earnestly at Ethan. "Mr. Ethan, from today onwards, I officially join this revolutionary organization. I''ll do my best to find powerful weapons for you!"


    After bidding farewell to Alan, Ethan returned to his room and casually tossed the Storage Ring, th turned his atttion to the scre.


    [Blackwood 90 Years]


    On this day, the tire Blackwood was in action again, marking the first time the Great Festival of Blackwood was postponed. Under the scrutiny of Cloudview County, the Baili Pigeons of Blackwood could no longer serve as a means of communication, but that didn''t matter to Ethan, who still had his Cards.


    The descdants of Blackwood emerged from swamps, forests, continuous mountains, or the streets of the city. Once naive in front of the Primordial Blood Tree, they followed the signs of the Primordial Blood Tree to their destined places. Over these sev years, they had expericed various challges and no longer needed guidance.


    The siege by Cloudview County did not trouble them; instead, it served as a catalyst for their growth. The only downside was... S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No new offspring have be born," Ethan said, supporting his forehead with his hand.


    Wh stationed in Blackwood, the childr were safe and joyful. Each year, Ethan''s biggest concern was that they would go looking for spouses and have childr, to the point where Luna was scared. But now, they simply had no time to deal with romantic relationships, being either in battle or on their way to one.


    This also led to another problem. From the Emerging Ability period, the likelihood of having childr decreased, and the stronger they became, the lower the probability.


    However, it didn''t matter.


    Ethan trusted the task of propagation to the fifth geration of members.


    [Gratitude Village Town ¡¤ Blackwood]


    Today, the Blackwood station, developed over many years by the villagers of Gratitude Village, had become a town. At this momt, in the Blackwood compound, Dnis was playing with a child. Drunk Fool had once said Dnis''s time was near, and now the old man indeed seemed much older.


    The child was Nicholas, whom Dnis had be tasked to take care of. Nearby, a young woman was gtly watching young Nicholas swing.


    "Grandpa Dnis, you said my family members are all heroes. Why hav''t they come back to find me yet?" the adorable child asked with innoct wide eyes.


    "They all have things to keep them busy," Dnis replied dismissively, turning away with a long sigh.


    It wasn''t until the people of Blackwood left and constructed the Azure Cloud Pavilion, displaying the gruesome spectacle of the Lopez family''s heads and bodies, that he truly realized just how deranged Blackwood was.

 Chapter 137: Chapter 137: what kind of guys did you bring out?

    Nowadays, Blackwood has completely turned against Cloudview County. In every village and town within the county, you can spot wanted posters for members of Blackwood.


    The major sects and families have long-standing missions to capture anyone from Blackwood.


    Killing a member of the Blackwood bloodline could ev earn someone a piece of top-tier psychic gear. As for taking out descdants from the first two gerations of Blackwood, that''s a guaranteed bounty of psychic weapons.


    Many young talts in Cloudview County see capturing Blackwood members as a rite of passage and a way to gain glory.


    "Dnis always says they''re busy," Nicholas glanced at the woman beside him. "Sister Hel, can you tell me what my family is like?"


    With Dnis nodding in approval, Hel walked over to Nicholas, gtly touching the young boy''s head. "Your family, they are the most terrifying and feared people throughout Cloudview County."


    "Your great-grandfather carried a coffin on his back, where all his emies would evtually find their resting place. Your great-grandmother was the most beautiful woman in the world, a three-tailed fox spirit, the greatest protector of your family."


    "Your four great-great-grandparts include Lucas, the foremost swordsman of the Azure Skies, the saint of flora, the ancestor of psychic puppetry Julian, and the elusive master of the Corpse Landscape, Lord Dawn."


    "And th there are your fearless grandparts..."


    Listing to the titles of his family elders, young Nicholas''s eyes filled with admiration and anticipation.


    Dnis squatted in front of Nicholas. "Child, do you rest them for leaving you?"


    Nicholas shook his head, spreading his arms wide, earnestly saying, "Heroes like them have big, important things to do, much bigger than the sandcastles I build."


    Soon after, Nicholas jumped up excitedly. "Oh! My ancestors and many elders are all great heroes, and I am too!"


    Watching the child''s innoct excitemt, Dnis sighed. "Hel, have you received any rect news about Blackwood?"


    Hel replied, "The latest news came two months ago. The second geration of Blackwood emerged from the Pine Temple, slaughtering all the monks who had tried to capture them. It seems..."


    "It seems what?"


    "It seems... the second geration of Blackwood has be possessed. They were sured by other forces, but wh Swordsman Lucas appeared and joined forces with them, they fought off three Developing Skills. With a single motion of Lucas''s sword case, he beheaded a Developing Skill and escaped with the others from Blackwood, disappearing once again. "


    "Now, many forces have quietly withdrawn their missions to hunt down Blackwood, terrified by the mere mtion of them."


    "Ha ha ha, excellt!" Dnis was overjoyed, and immediately gathered several frids of Blackwood for a three-day and three-night celebration in the Blackwood estate, recounting the deeds of Blackwood people in Cloudview County over the past sev years.


    Such as Blackwood Larry, who with the beasts of the Swamp Jungle, annihilated an oblivious Emerging Ability family.


    William, the rebellious son of Blackwood, sneaked into the Black Shell Gate and beheaded a once-in-a-millnium gius, hanging his head at the main gate before leaving unscathed.


    And Jeffrey, a rare beauty of Blackwood, a veteran of love affairs, who seduced an tire geration of wom from a Developing Skill family, plundering nearly half of the family''s ctury-old wealth, reportedly not ev sparing the family head''s chamber pot.


    The demonically possessed in the Thunderfire Demon Cave? They''re no longer anyone''s concern. Now, Cloudview County has only one public emy...


    ?¡Ì¨N?§®¦Ñ??.???


    Seeing that Blackwood''s frids were still loyal, allowing several of Blackwood''s descdants to live a stable life, Ethan was very relieved. "I hope the fifth geration grows up quickly and settles down to marry and have childr," he murmured softly.


    Ethan switched the scre view.


    The landscape of corpses from years ago was just the beginning. Both Ethan and the people of Blackwood had to admit that it was merely a way to vt, and at that time, they simply didn''t have the strgth to make an effective counterattack.


    They also had to admit that leaving their family stronghold was a necessity.


    Ethan wasn''t ev sure if he could face a peak Developing Skill oppont if he were to return.


    Blackwood had developed too quickly, they were too weak.


    But now...


    Sev years had passed, and they had found a new of opportunities!


    And... Ethan had saved all the beast blood fruits, and the family was ready with many elixirs he needed. Over these sev years, his many descdants outside had completed special evts almost every year, each starting with at least 00 points of Spiritual Tribute. He had ough Spiritual Tribute!


    "It''s time to really teach Cloudview County a lesson," Ethan exhaled deeply.


    Looking at the game scre, it was the back hill of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, just like that day, with snow drifting from the sky, a beautiful sce.


    A scruffy guy emerged from the g.


    He took out a knife, shaved the stubble off his face cleanly, th reached out to catch the snowflakes from the sky, his blurry eyes flashing with a sharp light, "The snow this winter, is ."


    George!


    This fourth geration of Blackwood... had be tomb raiding for sev years!


    Just as Ethan was about to issue commands using Cards, wisps of an old man''s soul emerged from behind George.


    These souls gradually took human form, looking in the direction of the Azure Cloud Pavilion with a hint of reminiscce, starting to whisper in front of the tomb, gathering like the Sunset Red Army group in front of a plaza speaker.


    "Ah, thirte thousand years, the sea has changed into mulberry fields, things are not what they used to be. Who would have thought, Azure Cloud Pavilion only has a few strands of luck left, how sad, how lamtable." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Azure Cloud rose up ninety thousand feet, this is the legacy of Azure Cloud, now it''s plummeting ninety thousand feet."


    "The old man has calculated, alas, now only a little bit of soul remains, my Azure Cloud Pavilion still has one true transmission left, named Steph. Hmph, a cowardly lot, they abandoned the Azure Cloud''s hundred thousand years of family business and fled!"


    "..."


    Watching these twty-three old m, Ethan was baffled for a long time before shaking his head, "Huh???"


    "What was supposed to be a tomb raid, what kind of guys did you bring out???"

 Chapter 138: Chapter 138: She was pregnant!

    [Your descdant George has be determined to become the King of Tomb Raiders. For sev years, he has plundered the tombs of the ancestors at Azure Cloud Pavilion, yet he found nothing of value, only countering various traps.]


    [Sighing at the miserliness and lack of filial piety among the disciples of Azure Cloud Pavilion, he finally oped a grand door in the last of the tombs, only to find twty-three old m floating mid-air with their eyes wide op, leaving everyone dumbfounded.]


    [From communicating with these lingering spirits, it was learned that Azure Cloud Pavilion had a legacy.


    Those nearing the d of the Compett phase would ter deep into the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s tomb to practice the Six R Divine Calculation, shielded by the ancit Azure Cloud Pavilion formations from heavly secrets, allowing their spirits to escape reincarnation, waiting for a descdant to ascd and extd the lifespan of their ancestors.]


    [Upon learning of the currt state of Azure Cloud Pavilion and the great trouble it now faced, the ancestors decided to break and th rebuild Azure Cloud Pavilion, taking George as their disciple.]


    [With the help of the old predecessors in cultivating psychic powers, George cleansed his other Psychic Constitutions, retaining only the Single Wind Psychic Constitution, breaking through to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, nearing the peak of Emerging Ability! He gained the trait¡ªSon of Azure Cloud.]


    [With many old predecessors guiding him, his speed in cultivating psychic powers increased, as did his opportunities.]


    "..."


    Ethan stood agape.


    They say ignorance is bliss, and after years of fruitless tomb raiding, George finally unearthed twty-three old m...


    Especially wh looking at George''s information panel.


    A technique caught Ethan''s eye, the Earth-level technique "Azure Cloud Unfall," a coveted skill ev among those in the Compett phase!


    As for the Six R Divine Calculation of Azure Cloud Pavilion, that was truly the authtic teaching of Azure Cloud, though for some reason, these old timers hadn''t passed it on to George.


    Ev so, it was a great opportunity, whether it was Sky Sect or the Xuanwu Gate, those cultivating psychic powers only had techniques of the Xuan level.


    It seemed Azure Cloud had it, but rumors said only the sect leader''s lineage could cultivate psychic powers, and after Steph fled, he became a target for capture, because he took the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s ancestral Earth-level technique with him!


    "Our Blackwood can finally cultivate Earth-level techniques, we''ve won at the transfer station."


    Ethan noted down this technique, planning to distribute it to everyone in Blackwood during the grand ceremony.


    He also arranged George''s next mission, but with these ancit relics a, Ethan increased the difficulty of the task.


    Suddly, George felt the Cards in his pocket stir!


    "After so many years of tomb raiding, the Forebearer is finally showing its powers!"


    George hurriedly invited the old m back into his body, eagerly bowing to the rising Forebearer Cards, "Forebearer, your child has truly unearthed their ancestors, souls and all."


    "Your child has avged Grandpa Pete!"


    "Now that the predecessors have officially made your child the legitimate head of Azure Cloud Pavilion, all we have to do is drive everyone out of Azure Cloud Pavilion, and it will be ours!"


    "..."


    Ethan was speechless, feeling like the poor kid had be played. If they wiped out everyone from Azure Cloud Pavilion, what was the point of sealing those twty-three old geezers?


    But Ethan did glean some intel¡ªthat the twty-three old monsters were likely in a state of lingering souls, unable to take action themselves. Their main utility was aiding George in cultivating psychic powers.


    There was a silver lining, though. Blackwood had snagged a technique, "Azure Cloud Unfall," for free. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    §®??¦®???§Á.???


    Ethan didn''t dwell on these thoughts for long and quickly boosted George with a new skill set.


    Using the Forebearer Cards, he issued a command¡ª


    [At the foot of Azure Cloud Mountain, in front of the mundane Azure Cloud Martial Hall, Ancestral Communion!]


    Seeing the words appear mid-air, George quickly bowed. Over the years, their descdants occasionally received tasks, and he had learned some family news from the Forebearer''s Cards.


    He knew that wh a task arrived, it was time for family members to shed blood!


    And this time...


    The Tribute Offering that the Forebearer demanded was the blood of Cloudview County, just like the red snow that had once fall over Blackwood, only now the blood was to stain the earth.


    "My child understands!"


    George bowed deeply, tucking the Cards into his chest, and headed down towards Azure Cloud Mountain.


    Meanwhile, descdants of Blackwood across Cloudview County also received their orders.


    They all paused in their activities, looking at the Forebearer Cards before them.


    Th, without hesitation, they accepted the orders.


    Heading to specific locations.


    They all knew this was a mad bloodbath, ev more brutal than the Lopez Purge sev years ago. Because this time, they wer''t just fighting Lopez¡ªthey were up against the tire Cloudview County!


    On this day, as snow blanketed all of Cloudview County, Blackwood folks instinctively placed their Forebearer Cards at their doorsteps, staring down their opponts across the way...


    ...


    [Valley of Healers]


    It was a valley filled with the chirping of birds and the fragrance of flowers, where ev in the harsh winter, the heavy snow couldn''t petrate the magical barrier protecting the Valley of Healers.


    Supernatural ergies lingered in the air, and from miles away, one could smell the medicinal scts wafting from within.


    In this beautiful valley, so out of place in the snowy winter, a powerful protective array had be activated.


    Because outside... a group of odd folks had appeared, nonchalantly setting up an altar in front of the Valley of Healers, placing a large bronze furnace there¡ªit was a ritual for Ancestral Communion!


    The pharmacists and alchemists of the Valley of Healers gathered, many taking to the skies on their swords. This force, dedicated to aiding the world, was ev more formidable than the Rodriguez family that Blackwood had once faced. Yet, ev so, they watched the overwhelming dark ergies outside and the swords soaring into the sky with great apprehsion.


    Suddly, a path was cleared through the crowd of the Valley of Healers.


    The valley''s leader was an extremely beautiful woman, dressed in a long gown, ethereal as a fairy, known in the martial world as the Miraculous Medic. Behind her were Elder Felix from the Sky Sect, and Elizabeth!


    Something had happed to Elizabeth¡ªher hair had turned half , yet her face remained unchanged.


    And there was something unusual¡ª


    She was pregnant!

 Chapter 139: Chapter 139: Demonic Possessor

    "Blackwood!" Seeing eight people outside the Valley of Healers, Elder Felix''s face turned pale. He had been hiding his tracks with Elizabeth, but somehow the Blackwood folks had still found them and blocked their way out!


    "Felix, kill them, go kill them, avenge my children!"


    At the sight of the Blackwood group, pregnant Elizabeth seemed to lose it, pointing at the people outside, her supernatural powers erupting, a phoenix aura manifesting around her.


    But Elder Felix didn''t move; his gaze darted around, fear evident in his eyes.


    For seven years, Cloudview County hadn''t stopped searching for Blackwood, with Sky Sect lending a hand, but... to no avail. Instead, those seeking Blackwood had suffered heavy losses.


    And now, these maniacs had shown up!


    Valley of Healers'' leader Carolyn slowly stepped forward, staring at the Blackwood group outside, and sighed deeply, her expression one of sorrow for the world, "Folks, I know the buzz around Blackwood, why keep this grudge going? Back in the day, Lopez''s people were wiped out, your grudge should be settled by now, when will this cycle of vengeance end?"


    "Get out of here, you''re not breaking into my Valley of Healers. Now that you''ve shown up, other allies will come too, consider this my good deed for the day."


    The Blackwood visitors were none other than Lucas, who two months ago had mastered the Thousand Swords Skill, and the third generation of Blackwoods he''d brought back!


    A group of eight.


    "Playing the saint, huh?"


    Ethan squinted, cursing for the first time today, then moved his mouse over a skill. If this were in-game and not just on the screen, he''d be up in arms without a word, spear blazing.


    In the scene, the Blackwood group ignored Carolyn.


    If it had been the old third-generation Blackwoods, they probably couldn''t have held back and would have unleashed a lifetime''s worth of insults.


    But now...


    They simply ignored her, quietly arranging Forebearer Cards in front of the altar, placing the Boar Monarch Pete''s Cards under Ethan''s Cards.


    Their bodies, bull-like, were etched with black demonic patterns, even spreading across their faces, with demonic energy slowly rising into the sky, causing the clouds above to thicken with dark energy.


    Each one carried a massive weapon¡ªhalberds, swords, hammers, spears, meteor hammers, columns, maces¡ªall previously used weapons also engraved with demonic patterns.


    [Frenzied Blood Demon Realm, soaked in the blood pool for seven years, your descendants, the third generation of Blackwoods, united in heart, all seven received the peak inheritance of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, breaking through the Transcendent Seed stage together!]


    [Inherited the primary and advanced supernatural equipment of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, fragments of the Blood-Drinking Mad Blade, which merged into the weapons of the seven sons. Their weapons became their life-bound supernatural weapons, reaching the high grade of supernatural weapons.]


    [Acquired the innate technique of the Blood-Drinking Demon Lord, the earth-level ''Undying Demon Technique'', constantly absorbing supernatural energy from the environment, injuries heal in the blink of an eye, refining to the point of resurrection from a drop of blood.]


    [Acquired trait: Demonic Possessor]


    [Inherited the madness, bloodlust, and brutality of the Lord of Frenzied Blood]


    [Acquired trait: Symbiotic]


    [Each of the seven inherited the undying power of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, divided and passed down, only gaining the ability to recover quickly, their supernatural powers never depleting, the battle never ceasing. As long as one lives, all seven endure.] S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This is the current state of the third generation of Blackwoods, possessing all the inheritance of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, which is why two months ago, they were able to hold out against three Developing Skills until Lucas came to their rescue!


    Indeed, mastering the Developing Skill is a formidable challenge for those at the Transcendent Seed stage, but what if one doesn''t perish and possesses both a high-grade mystical technique and superior psychic weapons?


    Moreover, the potential of the third generation of Blackwoods might even surpass that of the Lord of Frenzied Blood. The demon lord alone, once sealed, is finished. But the seven descendants, scattered in seven places, can self-destruct and resurrect where their brothers are located.


    Even as these seven turn into demonically possessed psychics, a trace of clarity remains in their eyes¡ªperhaps a benefit of sharing the demonic nature of the Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    They set up the altar.


    Under the watchful eyes of everyone in the Valley of Healers, led by Lucas, they knelt towards the Cards.


    Lucas unlocked his sword case, letting dust swirl up from the ground. He and the third generation of Blackwoods each placed three sticks of incense for the Forebearer and one for the old pig Pete. Unlike Nathan, Lucas didn''t recite any sacrificial words.


    "Forebearer, here are only your son and these seven demon-touched nephews. Please bless us, may the Blackwood descendants triumph and avenge the old pig Pete! Your son will surely bring back the enemy''s head for you!"


    As the eight Blackwoods knelt in worship, the people of the Valley of Healers looked on with faces filled with shock and a bit of... shame!


    "You Blackwoods!" Carolyn couldn''t contain her anger. A celestial lotus floated up, furious at those worshipping without regard for the Valley of Healers, "I am naturally kind-hearted, yet you disregard me and persist in your delusion? Do you really think the Valley of Healers is afraid of you Blackwoods?"


    Lucas seemed not to hear her.


    He simply patted the sword case, and in an instant, swords like fountains shot towards the sky from the case, their ringing almost drowning out all other sounds in the Valley of Healers, the swords still soaring!


    These swords, like rainbows shimmering with the light of silver and iron, formed a rainbow bridge between the altar and the Valley of Healers!


    Lucas, leading the third generation of Blackwoods, slowly rose, casually picked up the Forebearer Cards, his eyes gleaming with Sword Glow, and looked towards the crowded Valley of Healers.


    He tucked the Forebearer Cards into his chest, kicked off with his right foot, and charged with a thousand swords towards the Valley of Healers!


    "May the ancestor bless me to slaughter the Valley of Healers!"

 Chapter 140: Chapter 140: Now showing its sharp claws

    [Your descendant Lucas has been journeying as a swordsman for seven years, battling swordsmen alone with equal skill, and his mastery of the All Swords Return to the Sect technique has grown more proficient. He has achieved a breakthrough with the Hundred Shadows Sword Glow, creating a new sword technique¡ªSword Traveling a Hundred Miles!]


    [He has acquired two thousand swords, and has fused five hundred into his body, making his sword body even more robust.]


    [Over the years, Lucas has been cultivating psychic powers and has now become a Sword Pill!]


    At this moment, Lucas, carrying ten thousand swords in the sky.


    His sword case, crafted by Julian, is nothing but top-notch psychic equipment, capable of holding countless swords, similar to a Storage Ring, and also possesses the ability to nurture swords.


    The protective great array of the Valley of Healers has been activated, named the Hundred Flowers Array, a seventh-grade magical formation, currently being bombarded by ten thousand swords.


    Lucas simply stands quietly beside the sword rainbow that rushes like a Wild Dragon.


    Over the years, he hasn''t made many moves, but he is known as the number one swordsman of Azure Cloud, which shows his strength. In the realm of Developing Skill, his body has even reached the level of a primary psychic device, and controlling swords no longer requires any psychic power.


    He is on par with the mid-stage of Developing Skill!


    The third generation of Blackwood also shows no signs of weakness.


    "Ah!!!"


    They roar together, rising into the sky with demonic energy, standing high above the Valley of Healers from seven directions, crazily attacking with their top-grade psychic devices tainted with demonic energy.


    They even threw out a formation disk.


    That was the Eight Directions Formation Disk given to them by Marcus, with the Xuanhuang magical formation rising, the Eight Directions Formation Doors sprouting from the ground, surrounding the entire Valley of Healers!


    Faced with these eight from Blackwood, the Valley of Healers did not strike back.


    The previously fierce Carolyn was now without her earlier toughness.


    Because...


    Elder Felix had been staying in the Valley of Healers for seven years, and the Valley of Healers had not exposed their whereabouts for seven years, but... when enemies came to the Valley of Healers, Elder Felix, without saying a word, holding the frenzied Elizabeth, as the Blackwood Eight Directions Formation Disk opened...


    Ran away?!!


    "Felix, what are you doing?!!"


    Carolyn looked in disbelief at the two people who were already escaping on a psychic shuttle, shaped like a small boat, using a talisman, with Elizabeth still baring her teeth and claws, wanting to rush down.


    She didn''t understand.


    She dared to confront these seven years of terrifying rumors, crazier than demonic psychics, the eight from Blackwood, entirely because of the presence of Felix and Elizabeth.


    Felix at the peak of Developing Skill, and Elizabeth, even though pregnant, was at the mid-stage of Developing Skill, along with a mid-stage and an early-stage Developing Skill master from the Valley of Healers, could completely crush the so-called number one swordsman of Azure Cloud!


    With such an advantage, they actually ran away?!!


    Elder Felix zipped away without looking back, and soon he was out of sight. Meanwhile, Carolyn began to sweat profusely from her forehead. She saw the Cards that the people of Blackwood had just worshipped starting to rise into the air. From eight, they multiplied into forty, and began to fiercely attack the protective formation.


    "Forebearer''s wrath, times five!" Carolyn swallowed hard.


    "Gulp."


    She swallowed again, regretting her actions too late. Now, all she could do was grit her teeth and prepare the people of the Valley of Healers for battle.


    Standing on a lotus platform beside her, Carolyn looked through the formation with a feigned calmness at Lucas, who was still bombarding the formation with thousands of swords.


    "Sword King, my Valley of Healers has aided the world, countless owe us favors. We only helped Felix and Elizabeth out of kindness, why must you persist in opposing us?"


    Carolyn''s voice was filled with sorrow and compassion. "Now that Felix and Elizabeth have left, we in the Valley of Healers wish no longer to be involved in these worldly troubles. Just leave us be."


    It was a mix of threats and face-saving words.


    But...


    These words might have worked on kind folks like the Nathans or George, but to Lucas...


    Lucas found it laughable. From a young age, he trained in the sword, and as a young man, he vowed to be the sword of Blackwood, known in Cloudview County as the foremost Azure Cloud Sword.


    No.


    Lucas scoffed at such vain titles. He knew his role was to be the sharp sword at Blackwood''s gate, discerning exactly whom to cut down!


    He didn''t even spare Carolyn a glance, only looking briefly at the third generation of Blackwood, noticing their gaze following the direction in which Elder Felix and Elizabeth had left. He shouted angrily, "Don''t bother with them, someone will take care of it! The task Forebearer and your four aunts have given us is¡ª"


    "To stain the whole Cloudview County with the blood of these hypocrites from the Valley of Healers!"


    The third generation of Blackwood snapped back to reality.


    Their eyes gleamed with a bloodthirsty madness as they responded in unison, "Yes."


    They understood. They just wanted to see how desperate Elizabeth, who had killed their grandfather, was, and how much Elder Felix regretted his actions!


    "Crazies, you Blackwood crazies!!!" Carolyn finally screamed, her face contorted with rage, but even that couldn''t hide the panic in her eyes.


    She regretted it. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If she had known it would come to this, she would have handed over Felix and Elizabeth, that cowardly couple, much earlier. She shouldn''t have spent the last seven years helping them conceive by all means possible!


    "Put me down, let me kill those Blackwood folks, I need to avenge Lopez, I want revenge!" Elizabeth''s eyes were bloodshot as she struggled to break free from Felix''s embrace, eager to rush back to the Valley of Healers and take down those eight from Blackwood.


    Felix, gritting his teeth with fear still evident in his eyes, gently said, "Elizabeth, calm down. If they knew our strength, do you think they''d only send Lucas and those seven indestructible demons? Think about it, they''ve already got our intel. We should head back to Azure Cloud Pavilion, or better yet, come with me to Sky Sect!"


    "With the Competent Elder protecting us, they wouldn''t dare come."


    The old Felix saw Blackwood as mere ants, destroying Blackwood was a means to ruin Marcus. But now, all he had left was fear. Even while cultivating psychic powers, the thought of Blackwood became his inner demon, hindering his progress over these seven years, even causing some regression.


    Especially over these years, he kept hearing news about Blackwood.


    Every force that tried to deal with Blackwood was destroyed.


    Talent after talent emerged from Blackwood. Blackwood wasn''t a sick cat; the impoverished rural area of Forest Town had always been a cage, imprisoning a sleeping lion, which was now showing its sharp claws!


    Marcus was exceptionally talented, possessing the nine unique psychic fires, but compared to the emerging masters of Blackwood like Sword King Lucas, the Saint of Flora, the Ancestor of Psychic Puppets, or the Lord of Dawn, Marcus was just average!


    He even feared returning to Sky Sect, worried that Daoist Wesley, who used him as a pawn, might discard him at any moment!


    Every so often, his inner demons grew stronger, to the point where now, all he wanted to do was flee, unsure of the incredible depths this twisted family might possess.

 Chapter 141: Chapter 141: Why? Why kill us?!

    "You''re a complete and utter failure!" Elizabeth screamed as she turned around and started hitting Felix.


    "Didn''t you tell me to chase that Boar Monarch Pete back then? Why are you only thinking about running away now?!! "


    "You''re still the same loser from over two hundred years ago, always hiding behind me, and now you want to hide behind your Sky Sect elders?!!"


    "I... I am a failure, Elizabeth, I did it all for you!"


    Felix clenched his jaw, his muscles tight as if he was reliving the days when everyone called him a pretty boy. He even thought about killing Elizabeth to stop her from dragging him down, but then he glanced at her swollen belly and took a deep breath instead.


    He knew he was truly done for, unable to rid himself of his inner demons, and realized that only their unborn child might represent hope for his future.


    Just then, Felix''s expression changed as Elizabeth looked ahead at the flying ship, her eyes turning blood red.


    Suddenly, a gourd appeared in front of them, and beneath it was a drunken old man with tattered cloth shoes, his black toenails peeking out.


    "Yo ho? Isn''t this Elder Felix from Sky Sect and Elder Elizabeth from Azure Cloud Pavilion? You weren''t this pathetic when you were chasing me back in the day. What happened? Fallen on hard times?"


    It was Drunken Fool from Thunderfire Demon Cave, who had gotten a jar of thousand-year-old fine wine from Nathan and was happily drinking it, blocking their path with his drunken gaze.


    One hand poured wine into his mouth while the other tapped a broken bowl tied to his waist, complete with a set of shabby chopsticks, a perfect beggar''s outfit.


    Yet these items were shining with golden light, rising into the air, and the golden chopsticks struck the golden bowl, producing a clear sound that echoed through the heavens, instantly trapping Felix and Elizabeth within a square golden barrier!


    "Top-grade psychic weapon, the Golden Source God Bowl, and the Universe Psychic Pivot Chopsticks. Drunken Fool, have you received the legacy of the Divine Beggar?!!"


    Elder Felix looked distressed. Back in Cloudview County, there was a Divine Beggar at the peak of Developing Skill, nearly breaking through to Competent, using these very psychic weapons, and no one within Developing Skill could escape them!


    But what truly frightened him was not Drunken Fool; he was afraid that Drunken Fool was working for Blackwood!


    Elder Felix trembled nervously, looking around.


    "Sharp eyes."


    Drunken Fool grinned, "Now guess why I''m stopping you?"


    But before Drunken Fool could finish, he rolled his eyes.


    Someone was approaching from afar, riding the clouds alone.


    Carrying a large coffin covered with a white cloth, who else could it be but Nathan?


    Drunken Fool grumbled, "The only interesting folks in Blackwood are the saint and that traitor William. Everyone else, from the old to the young, is just so dull. Why do you have to be so ruthlessly efficient? Doesn''t even let me have a little fun with these two mutts."


    "Blackwood people!"


    Seeing Nathan, Elizabeth lost it again. She had received the news about the day Lopez was rushed in, and in that scene, it was Nathan who had commanded the Blackwood folks to execute the kill order!


    "Felix, kill this bastard! Go kill him for me, avenge Lopez!" Elizabeth, in her phoenix form, despite being pregnant, still dragged Felix forward.


    But...


    Felix was sweating bullets, his worst fear had come to pass!


    Nathan just glanced at the couple nonchalantly, then, scratching his head in his usual honest and straightforward manner, he awkwardly responded to Drunken Fool, "Elder, enemies meet with particularly red eyes. Next time you bring some good wine, it''ll be more interesting."


    "Well said!" Drunken Fool''s eyes lit up.


    "Then, elder, help me hold back this Elder Felix."


    "Sure thing."


    Drunken Fool took another swig of his drink, but this time he didn''t swallow it. Instead, he sprayed it towards Elder Felix in the distance, and after spraying, he complained, "Ah, what a waste of good wine."


    Despite his words, Drunken Fool, at the peak of his Developing Skill, turned the sprayed wine into nine roaring dragons that charged at Elder Felix! §®??!§¦??@??


    The two were already battling elsewhere.


    Drunken Fool even had the leisure to look back at the phoenix form Elizabeth, who had already launched an attack, and Nathan, who was unhurriedly unwrapping a white cloth, "Lord Blackwood, can you handle it? That''s a mid-stage Developing Skill."


    Ethan was also watching all this. Over the years, Nathan and Luna had been inseparable, not neglecting to cultivate their psychic powers, but upgrading to a D-level wasn''t that easy.


    But...


    "No, can''t beat her."


    Nathan honestly replied, watching the phoenix shadow approaching, he slowly opened the coffin, his gaze and voice both cold, "But I have the protection of the Forebearer, and..."


    The attacking Elizabeth suddenly froze in her psychic powers.


    Under Nathan''s feet, a magic circle rose, and an endless death aura filled the air, as ghosts climbed out from the circle!


    It was the inheritance of the Direct Death Coffin, the Soul Hooking Calamity Formation!


    He could see.


    See the terror in Elizabeth''s eyes, and the momentary pause in her gaze.


    Those ghosts of the dead...


    "I fight with the souls of those Lopez took with him!"


    Nathan''s voice was deep with a chilling undertone, like a death god from the underworld, his eyes filled with satisfaction, an Energy Stone floating in the air, recording this moment, "Elizabeth, you killed our Blackwood kin. And now, we Blackwood have slain your entire clan."


    "You might not know what happened that day, but I can tell you, the Lopez folks didn''t even know why we stormed into their house, why we had to be so cruel. "


    "Do you know the old ancestor of Lopez? Right, I checked later, it was your second son. "


    "Do you know how he questioned me when he saw the Lopez family destroyed?"


    "He said, ''Lopez and us have no grudges, why did we commit such slaughter?''"


    At the Rodriguez house, Nathan couldn''t even bear to kill the children.


    Now.


    His words, like the most ruthless reaper from the underworld, watching Elizabeth become increasingly terrified and panicked, brought him an indescribable pleasure, "I couldn''t answer, maybe you can explain to them. By the way, we Blackwoods are still kind, at least we didn''t torture them all the way, they died cleanly."


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    More and more souls of the Lopez people gathered, moving towards Elizabeth from the formation, their claws outstretched, like spirits coming to claim lives.


    "Why? Why kill us?!!"


    "Help! You are the Forebearer, our Forebearer at the Azure Cloud Pavilion! Tell me, why did they want to kill me? Bring me back to life, Forebearer!"


    "How did I die? It''s so dark here, I''m so scared." S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "..."


    The demonic voices of the dead broke into Elizabeth''s ears one by one.


    During the Lopez massacre, Nathan had already used the Heavenly Coffin technique to detain the souls of the Lopez people. That day, at the corpse scene, he had placed the souls of others, and these... were reserved for today!


    Elizabeth trembled all over, desperately covering her ears, watching the souls of the Lopez people approaching, her second son leading the way, reaching out to her, she finally went mad.


    "No! It''s not my fault, don''t come for me!"


    Beneath the crazed Elizabeth, conspicuous blood slid from the red shoes, dripping drop by drop towards the ground.

 Chapter 142: Chapter 142: With great power comes great responsibility.

    "If only I knew then what I know now."


    The spirits rushed towards Elizabeth, the renowned Elder Elizabeth, whose expression twisted due to past accusations from her family.


    From terrified disbelief to uncontrollable fear, she finally went mad and slaughtered the remaining spirits of the Lopez clan.


    A flicker of pity crossed Nathan''s eyes, quickly concealed.


    He silently shouldered the Coffin of Eternal Rest. Having become the second layer''s coffin master, this object had long become one with him.


    To outsiders, the Coffin of Eternal Rest was merely a mid-grade psychic artifact.


    Taking advantage of Elizabeth''s distracted mind, Nathan, gripping the coffin, viciously smashed it towards Elizabeth''s belly!


    In the distance, Elder Felix, engaged in a fierce battle with Drunken Fool, was surrounded by swirling maple leaves, clearly no ordinary matter, exchanging blows evenly.


    Seeing Nathan, seemingly a simpleton, strike at his partner''s swollen belly, his eyes bulged with rage, "Nathan! You''ll not die a good death!!!"


    That was his future, and the hope of all his life''s legacy!!!


    ...


    In Ethan''s mind, Nathan had always been the kindest member of the Blackwood family. Otherwise, Blackwood wouldn''t have garnered so many trustworthy friends over the years.


    Yet now, Ethan was witnessing Nathan''s ruthlessness and madness. He saw Nathan''s coffin swung towards a pregnant woman''s belly! Perhaps the Blackwood family''s elder, kind for over a century, had harbored enough rage over the years.


    The scene abruptly stopped. Ethan clicked on Olivia''s avatar.


    [Your descendant Olivia has set up an altar in front of Azure Cloud Pavilion, asking for your blessing!]


    That day, Blackwood faced more than just their enemies, Felix and Elizabeth! The price to be paid was no longer just by the murderers but also by those who abetted them.


    It was they who forced the Blackwood family to leave their home of nearly a hundred years, to make the world their home.


    The scene shifted.


    In front of the lofty gates of Azure Cloud Pavilion, where Olivia once built a gruesome display of Lopez family corpses, a bent old woman sat in a wheelchair, guarded only by an AI Bionic Robot resembling a maid.


    Before her, the many elders of Azure Cloud Pavilion, as well as countless disciples moving on flying swords, faced what seemed like a harmless old lady.


    Yet, the entire Azure Cloud Pavilion''s protective array opened without hesitation, and the gold bowls used to subdue Felix and Elizabeth with beginner and advanced psychic equipment were already suspended high above.


    The entire Azure Cloud Pavilion fell into a suppressed silence.


    Everyone''s wary gaze was fixed on the old lady who struggled to stand, her trembling hands lighting a Spiritual Tribute and placing it on the Mystic Burner, looking like she might collapse from exhaustion at any moment.


    Yet, the people of Azure Cloud Pavilion still did not feel they had lost face.


    They had reason to be afraid, for this old woman was the master of Dawn, and for many years, the only time anyone in Cloudview County had seen her true face was the day Lopez was destroyed!


    Also, because of her presence, no one had been able to find where the Blackwood people were hiding. In these seven years, she silently annihilated two Developing Skill families, leaving no survivors wherever the Dawn assassins went.


    To exterminate one of the Developing Skill families, this seemingly kind old woman used every trick in the book, plunging her rival''s family into a storm of power struggles.


    Over two years, plagues, ghostly night walks, and flash floods followed them like shadows... she stopped at nothing, and by the time the Dawn assassins covered the walls of that great family, it was already too late.


    And now, here she was, alone in front of Azure Cloud Pavilion, a sight more terrifying than any other!


    Whenever there was the slightest disturbance outside Azure Cloud Pavilion, those masters flying on their swords felt that a great terror was lurking outside.


    The winter wind blew through.


    Snowflakes mixed with the white smoke rising from the Spiritual Tribute in the Mystic Burner, the Forebearer''s Cards, and the pig Pete demon king''s Cards endured the frost.


    Olivia tightened her coat, breathed warm air onto her wrinkled hands, then stiffly knelt before the Cards, bowing in worship.


    In a low murmur, she said, "Forebearer, Uncle Pig Pete, there are so many of them, it''s quite frightening."


    "..."


    Ethan quietly sipped his bubble tea. Scary, right? Even Ethan was spooked!


    The Azure Cloud Pavilion was bustling with at least ten thousand people. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia had arrived at the Azure Cloud Pavilion on her own, with nothing but an AI Bionic Robot by her side. Dawn''s assassins had already been dispatched elsewhere.


    But from what it looked like, the people at the Azure Cloud Pavilion were pretty scared too...


    Among the descendants, Justin had a penchant for courting disaster, but Ethan hoped that Justin would never follow in Olivia''s footsteps.


    After the ceremony.


    Olivia finally settled back into her wheelchair. She looked at the top five Developing Skills in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, especially the central figure, an elderly man with a broad back and a bear-like stature, dressed in a long robe that added to his imposing presence. This man was the new Pavilion Master, Frank.


    Frank caught Olivia''s gaze. Staring into Olivia''s cloudy eyes from afar, he felt a chill run through him.


    "Greetings to the seniors of Azure Cloud Pavilion," Olivia''s voice was calm, barely louder than the howling wind and snow, yet it clearly reached the ears of everyone at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, "Do you know what kind of family my Blackwood is?"


    The crowd at the Azure Cloud Pavilion furrowed their brows.


    They hadn''t known before; they only knew that Blackwood was supposedly a rural home in Cloudview County, deluding themselves with dreams of lasting for thousands of years on their meager land, proud of their minor abilities.


    But that wasn''t the case.


    Over these seven years, they had come to understand that the people of Blackwood harbored all the evils of the world, showing utter indifference to life, using forbidden and sinister methods, engaging in practices that outraged both gods and men, deserving of universal condemnation!


    "My Blackwood is a great benevolent house. In the twenty years of severe drought in the counties, my Blackwood sustained thousands, tens of thousands."


    "In the years when the Sky Sect and the Black Tortoise Sect were at war for decades, my Blackwood wandered everywhere, sheltering over a million common folk."


    "My father used to say, ''With great power comes great responsibility.'' He said that once my Blackwood gains control over the Great Forest and even the Great Clear powers, we should accumulate good deeds for the people, leaving behind a legacy of a hundred generations, accumulating virtues for my Blackwood."


    "My elder brother once said, his sword is the Blackwood sword, a sword that cuts down all enemies, but also protects millions. I have a second sister, whom I admire the most. She is a saint of medicine. Under her, there were dozens of doctors, extending to hundreds."


    "Later, all the doctors in the Great Forest Town came from my Blackwood. They went to various towns and counties, healing hundreds of thousands."

 Chapter 143: Chapter 143: Be careful

    Olivia was discussing the charitable acts of the Blackwood family, which left the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion exchanging puzzled looks.


    Frank scoffed coldly, interrupting Olivia, "The great leader of Dawn comes to our Azure Cloud Pavilion to speak of these deeds? The Blackwoods have done good, but which clan or family under the heavens hasn''t?"


    Olivia ignored Frank''s remark. She detailed the benevolent deeds of the Blackwoods and then said, "The Blackwoods should be a family of great virtue, which is why I left and have not returned for a long time. I have committed many wrongs in my life, probably too many to contribute any virtue to my family."


    "At that time, I felt that I should die outside, to avoid bringing calamity to my family that has accumulated great virtue over a century."


    "But then..." Olivia sighed deeply, "Old Pig Pete died."


    "It turns out my father was always wrong; great kindness does not receive good rewards. People like you, who are high and mighty, seem like gods. The Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Gate commit atrocities without retribution.


    Old Pig Pete never committed great atrocities in his life, only killing a hundred Psychics who invaded the Silver Iron Forest, yet he was tortured to death by Elder Elizabeth of your Azure Cloud Pavilion." S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Actually, when Lord Stephen left, you released Elizabeth and Elder Felix, and I was relieved."


    "This has taught the people of Blackwood a lesson. What kind of Heaven? It''s blind. We Blackwoods will be the heaven of Cloudview County."


    "Spring is coming."


    Olivia''s voice was calm, causing a change in the expressions of everyone at the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    What audacity!


    "Boom!"


    Thunder exploded.


    With a casual wave of her hand, Olivia changed the seasons; the ice and snow melted, dead branches bloomed, and a light rain fell!


    Frank exclaimed in shock, "Wenxiu? Words become laws, what kind of Wenxiu is this?!"


    This was a heavenly tribulation suppressed by some unknown force of the literary path, ready to descend whenever Olivia wished.


    His words had barely finished when a Psychic flew in on a sword from outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, not caring about the sudden spring weather, and hurriedly brought news: "Bad news, Lord! At the foot of our mountain, a man named George has set up an altar and then stormed into our martial hall, slaughtering our disciples!"


    "What?!"


    The elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion were furious.


    Then, paper cranes, Energy Stones, and other items arrived one after another with more news.


    "Lord, it''s the Valley of Healers! The Sword King with the third generation of Blackwoods, those seven demons, are attacking the Valley of Healers, asking for our support!"


    "Crystal River County''s Hernandez family is asking for help! The ancestor of the psychic puppets, with dozens of psychic puppets and many zombies, has invaded!"


    "The enchantress Luna and Mary, along with the Beast King Larry, are leading thousands of beasts to attack the Hundred Tools Sect, Lord, they are asking for help from the nearest Sky Sect!"


    "Pale River County..."


    One piece of news after another reached the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Frank was overwhelmed, looking at the changing weather and the old lady sitting calmly in her wheelchair, feeling the sweat on his back.


    In an instant, he realized the significance of the Blackwood''s targets.


    Valley of Healers, the Hernandez family, and the Hundred Tools Sect... these places are where the Azure Cloud Pavilion can provide rapid support.


    They are also located far from the powerful sects and noble families, and even for a Developing Skill expert, it would take half a day to provide support.


    Now is the best time to send disciples to support these areas and deal a heavy blow to the Blackwood family.


    However, he is well aware that this is a targeted operation against the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    If the Azure Cloud Pavilion does not provide support, their reputation will be severely damaged.


    If the Azure Cloud Pavilion does go to provide support... it won''t just be a matter of losing face.


    With Olivia''s heavenly tribulation descending, that''s the power of Competence, and the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s protective great formation would be as good as non-existent. The entire Azure Cloud Mountain would suffer the baptism of the thunder tribulation!


    He is even afraid now that this reckless and malicious woman might rush into the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    Frank glares angrily at Olivia. Olivia grips the handles of her wheelchair, her head held high and eyes squinting towards the high and mighty Psychics of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, revealing a gentle smile.


    "You can''t go anywhere."


    "After today, the reputation of the Azure Cloud Pavilion will be in ruins, and my Blackwood will be the sky of this Cloudview County. Everyone will know that it was the Azure Cloud Pavilion that brought disaster to the entire Cloudview County just to save one Elizabeth."


    "But don''t worry, elders, I, Olivia, cherish my life, and you cherish yours too. Today is not the day for the Azure Cloud Pavilion to perish."


    "In the past, you Azure Cloud Pavilion watched as Elizabeth caused trouble; today, you should watch as my Blackwood causes trouble."


    "In the past, you protected Elizabeth, but whether it''s today or in the future, in front of us Blackwoods, none of you can protect her."


    "This is the price you have to pay."


    Upon hearing this, Frank furiously destroys all the intelligence reports. Suddenly, he is no longer angry. He looks up to the sky, inhaling the fragrance of flowers that permeates the air as the seasons change around Olivia, and he sighs deeply.


    "I''m old, it''s time to step down as the sect leader."


    Upon hearing this, the elders behind him frown deeply and take a step back. Their eyes flicker; they feel it. From today onwards, the Azure Cloud Pavilion can no longer hold itself above others. The fear brought by Blackwood slowly creeps into their hearts.


    [Olivia''s celestial tribulation is imminent, with the power of all four seasons manifesting. Such an act challenges the very laws of nature, and the heavens are furious!]


    "Phew, lucky for us the elders at the Azure Cloud Pavilion are too fond of their own lives."


    Watching the scene unfold from winter to spring within the bounds of Azure Cloud Mountain, even the Sky Sect from top to bottom stepped back at the sight of the celestial thunder, Ethan finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    For seven years, he and Olivia had been plotting!


    This entire operation was premeditated, meticulously planned in every aspect.


    One of its purposes.


    Was to bring the Azure Cloud Pavilion to its knees, to tarnish its reputation. What use are memories of Cloudview County, rotten memories, memories of cowardice? Are they even memories at all?


    This is the price that the Azure Cloud Pavilion has to pay now!


    Olivia, alone, used her impending tribulation as leverage, intimidating the entire Azure Cloud Pavilion so much that the Developing Skill elders didn''t dare step outside their temple gates!


    "Forebearer, there are still more traces of Developing Skill within the Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    Olivia continued to stare emotionlessly at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, gently stroking her cards and whispering softly.


    Meanwhile, the Psychics of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had previously soared through the skies on their swords, now hid back inside under the orders of their leader, Frank, and were constantly on alert for Olivia. With the situation as it was, if Olivia took even one step forward, the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion would scatter to the winds.


    [Be careful.]


    Ethan left these two words on the cards.


    "Yes, Forebearer, if they act rashly, the child is not foolish; fleeing is the option."


    Olivia merely smiled lightly.


    [Forebearer sends warmth x2]

 Chapter 144: Chapter 144: Blackwoods Rising

    On this day, 90 years after Blackwood was founded, for the entire Cloudview County, it was truly like a harsh winter storm.


    At the foot of Azure Cloud Mountain, the town of Azure Cloud, a land of prosperity where the people were skilled in martial arts, countless young talents from across Cloudview County hoped to catch the eye of the legendary Azure Cloud Pavilion and become its disciples.


    [Azure Cloud Martial Hall]


    Amidst the heavy snowfall, young talents from twenty-four counties of Cloudview County, none older than 50, gathered here at the prime of their youth for a martial contest.


    The victor would be personally mentored by an elder of the Azure Cloud Pavilion. Even those within the top ten could leap directly into becoming inner disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    After several rounds, it was time for the final showdown on the platform. It was a thrilling moment indeed.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Boom!"


    George, still scruffy even after shaving his beard, dropped from the sky, stirring up dust and drawing the attention of the thousands gathered.


    Scanning the crowd, George, who had been digging graves for the past seven years, was somewhat unaccustomed to seeing so many people. "Ten breaths, those unrelated to Azure Cloud Martial Hall leave immediately. You won''t find a future at Azure Cloud Pavilion, because Azure Cloud Pavilion has no future itself."


    His words were like hot oil, setting off a frenzy within the Azure Cloud Martial Hall.


    There were curses, some who sensed something amiss and left, and others who immediately surrounded George.


    Unmoved, George silently took out his Cloud Tide Zither, with the image of the Great River Dragon appearing behind him.


    More people fled the hall.


    He quietly watched the crowd around him, the noise no longer reaching his ears as he solemnly set up an altar and lit incense.


    When the people of Azure Cloud Martial Hall saw the character "B" and the name of the Pig Demon King on the cards, their faces turned pale!


    George remained respectful and bowed solemnly.


    Years ago, when he was still a child, his grandfather had told him that one day, with his talents, he would stand proud among his peers, and his grandfather would watch him become the greatest genius of Tranquil County.


    At that time, he didn''t take these words to heart. More than being a genius, he was concerned about whether his younger siblings would survive the play of the psychic beasts in the Silver Iron Forest. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Being a genius didn''t really matter to him; the safety of his siblings was paramount.


    And now...


    "Ten breaths have passed."


    In an instant, there were cries of agony!


    From the Great River Dragon image, the techniques once used by the Rodriguez family''s ancestors emerged, with dragons and shrimp soldiers and crab generals wreaking havoc!


    Twenty-three elders appeared behind George, entering the bodies of the dragons, shrimp soldiers, and crab generals to help George fight. Even as mere spirits, these elders had once been above the Competent level. The Azure Cloud Martial Hall, merely a local site revered as a sacred place for cultivating psychic powers, had no experts at the Transcendent Seed stage who could match them. ?¦Ö!¡é?¦Ô??¡Ì@§Ö!-§ã§à?!¦Ó&?§á¦Ó-?


    George played his zither.


    The music sounded, and the zither strings slashed across the necks of the so-called prodigies!


    Clouds fell from the sky, trapping the entire Azure Cloud Martial Hall.


    This was the Earth-level technique "Azure Cloud Unfallen," trapping enemies with the power of Azure Cloud!


    For half an hour, except for George, there were no survivors in the Azure Cloud Martial Hall. The zither strings returned to the Cloud Tide Zither, and George played the final note.


    Then he packed up the Great River Dragon image, held his ancient zither, and set up the altar again on the martial platform amidst the corpses, lighting incense and kneeling once more.


    "Grandfather, do you see?"


    "Your grandson is truly a prodigy, not just in Tranquil County, but also the greatest in the whole Cloudview County!"


    "From today onwards, everyone will know your grandson, and know that he is your great-grandson."


    George bowed deeply, his forehead hitting the platform.


    It seemed he wanted to knock all regrets back into the world of the living.


    Meanwhile, around the Azure Cloud Pavilion, many descendants of the Blackwood family, like George, were also completing their missions. Many had started to loot the spoils of war, sorting through useless pills and precious materials, placing them in front of the altar. Ethan was also receiving various updates.


    [Your descendant Julian, leading a group of mutants and zombies, attacked the Hernandez family and discovered that the strongest members of the Hernandez family were only at the Transcendent Seed stage. Olivia''s claim that the Hernandez family might have a Developing Skill expert was completely false.


    He deeply suspects that his younger sister spread this false information out of spite, and while besieging the Hernandez family, he was hopping mad and requested to be sent to a more dangerous location.]


    Julian, the fierce man, was seen kneeling and lamenting, "Forebearer, this is too much, how can a sister bully her brother like this? I..."


    [Proceed to the Valley of Healers for support.]


    Ethan immediately blocked the screen, not because he had no other tasks for him, but because he was too far away.


    [Luna, Mary, and the fourth-generation descendant Larry, together attacked the Hundred Tools Sect. Countless beasts from the Silver Iron Forest and the Swamp Jungle emerged, completely surrounding the Hundred Tools Sect.


    The elder of the Hundred Tools Sect, Scott, activated the sect''s protective array, swearing to defend the Hundred Tools Sect to the death, and furiously hurled the secret ''Hundred Tools Manual'' at Luna.]


    [Under Luna''s demand, Scott, along with the sect''s disciples, took a blood oath never to oppose the Blackwood family, sent two eighth-grade mutant equipment masters to Gratitude Village as technical advisors, and handed over a medium-grade mutant device, after which Luna ceased her assault.]


    [Following Scott''s suggestion, Luna learned that the neighboring Mystic Guild, which had long oppressed the Hundred Tools Sect, was closely linked with the Azure Cloud Pavilion. The Blackwood folks asked you whether they should immediately join forces secretly with Scott and three Transcendent Seed stage members of the Hundred Tools Sect to attack the Mystic Guild...]


    Scott, a fierce man with bulging muscles and fiery red hair, looked puzzled as he watched the three fierce women of Blackwood still kneeling before the previously arranged Cards, but he refrained from commenting further.


    Only urging, "What do you say? I''m truly scared of you Blackwoods now. Besides, the reason we posted your wanted posters was because we couldn''t defy the Azure Cloud Pavilion. We never ordered anyone to hunt down the Blackwoods."


    "Now, if we take down the Mystic Guild together, you''ll have leverage over my Hundred Tools Sect, and I can rest easy."

 Chapter 145: Chapter 145: Proceed with Divine Gift?

    Until Cards gestured a [good]sign in front of Luna, she turned back and nodded slightly, "This time, my Blackwood clan has contributed significantly, so we''ll pick first and take seventy percent. You, Hundred Tools Sect, will take thirty percent. From now on, Hundred Tools Sect is a friend of Blackwood."


    "If it''s a trap..."


    Scott''s mouth twitched, "Buddy, this Azure Cloud Pavilion has yet to send any masters to rescue, and with so many experts in your Blackwood, seeing only the three of you has already put my Hundred Tools Sect in jeopardy of life and death."


    "Moreover, every one of you from Blackwood is a desperado. If you fall into our trap, wouldn''t your family''s monsters ensure my entire clan is wiped out? Even I, Scott, know better than to make that choice."


    Luna nodded slightly again.


    The group headed towards the Mystic Guild, and Scott hesitated before asking, "Why still give us thirty percent?"


    Luna replied, "Even the most wicked, my Blackwood has its principles. Blackwood never shortchanges a friend."


    "Never shortchanges a friend, huh?"


    Scott paused, looking at the figures of the notorious Blackwood clan, more infamous than demons over the past seven years, and grinned, "Then I, Scott, really didn''t stand on the wrong side this time. Damn that Azure Cloud Pavilion, treating our Hundred Tools Sect like dogs!"


    He glared at the three disciples behind him, all bulging with muscles and whispering among themselves, "If you dare whisper again that I''m a coward, I''ll hammer you three traitors into psychic gear!"


    "..."


    Seeing these four, moving slowly and dressed in beast skins, showing off their wheat-colored skin, Larry frowned, "Elders, we should hurry. We''ve already wasted a lot of time, and my Blackwood has urgent matters to attend to."


    "Hey!"


    ...


    What a harmonious achievement indeed. But this was also thanks to Ethan and Olivia''s conspiracy.


    They even calculated the timing to deal with the enemies, as well as the intervals at which other enemies besides the Azure Cloud Pavilion might come to support.


    Half a day''s time was enough for Blackwood to seek advantages and avoid disadvantages. Of course, this was under the assumption that the Competent masters still followed their old rules and did not make a move against Blackwood. If Competent really came, Ethan was not afraid!


    [Your descendant Amelia, carrying the Primordial Blood Tree, the Temple Guardian Beast, and two Developing Skill members from Thunderfire Demon Cave, stormed Mystic Isle. In one hour, they annihilated the members of Mystic Isle, and the Primordial Blood Tree drank their fresh blood, conveying supreme respect to you!]


    [Your descendants Justin, Jeffrey, Jessica, along with a hundred masters from Dawn, headed to Silvercrest Mountain!]


    [Your descendant...]


    This time, with the Azure Cloud Pavilion at the center, disaster was descending!


    [Your descendant William entered the Azure Cloud Pavilion, taking advantage of everyone''s focus on Olivia outside the mountain, and secretly slaughtered a 52-year-old genius at the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, holding Forebearer Cards, asking you to praise him.]


    "..."


    Ethan quickly opened the screen, watching William holding a dagger, his face covered in blood, excitedly staring at the corpse with the Forebearer Cards, his facial muscles twitched, "You little rascal, you took action too?"


    This operation, he hadn''t brought William along, nor did he know how this guy had learned the family''s secret actions.


    After all... William, this unfilial descendant was too unstable, and it would really be bad if he accidentally caused some trouble.


    But he never expected that this kid had sneaked back to the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Seeing William had exerted effort, Ethan casually gave William a ''Forebearer sends warmth X1'', making William excitedly spin around.


    Watching the Blackwood descendants complete their slaughter missions at twelve locations, Ethan knew, from this day on, the whole Cloudview County should have a realization!


    Azure Cloud Pavilion was no longer the savior from tens of thousands of years ago.


    And the people of Blackwood, just like ghostly abilities, could annihilate any force in front of Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    They should remember, this day Blackwood brought fear to Cloudview County.


    But...


    This was still far from enough; this was just a part of Blackwood''s revenge plan! S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He began to scroll the mouse, clicking on the portraits of Blackwood''s descendants one by one.


    At this moment, Cards floated up in front of them!


    Everyone knelt at the altar, beginning the grand ceremony that was once only held at the family''s residence.


    [Blackwood Year 90, the decennial grand ceremony begins!]


    [Your descendants are offering you a Tribute Offering¡ª¡ª]


    [Hundred Ability Pills X10]


    [Red Lychee Fruit X5]


    [Vitality Azure Cloud Pill...]


    Each kind of pill and heavenly material and earthly treasure, their sole purpose, was to increase supernatural abilities!


    Ethan watched the room filled with heavenly materials and earthly treasures and pills that increased supernatural abilities.


    He frantically clicked the mouse.


    [Would you like to consume 50 points of Spiritual Tribute to immediately assimilate the supernatural power of a Hundred Ability Pill?]


    [Yes!]


    [Congratulations, you have gained 50 points of supernatural ability.]


    As Ethan clicked, he could clearly feel his body growing stronger!


    At the same time.


    The Blackwood descendants withdrew from the altar, withdrew the Spiritual Tribute.


    They all headed towards the direction of the Valley of Healers, rushing forward!


    As Blackwood made their move again, their location became known to all! Every ancient power in Cloudview County, with histories spanning over a hundred thousand years, had disciples reporting in.


    "The Saint of Flora from Blackwood, wielding a seventh-grade demonic tree, is wreaking havoc in Mystic, and Mystic Isle has requested assistance from our Emerald Phoenix Peak!" discover-MVLeMpYr-novels


    "News from Azure Cloud Pavilion: the mortal leader of Dawn possesses the power of literary cultivation and is currently undergoing a breakthrough, summoning a thunder tribulation that suppresses Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "Our Mystic Guild, a subordinate power of Heavenly Palace, is besieged by the witch of Blackwood. We request the Palace Master to order a siege against the Blackwood scourge!"


    "..."


    As the people of Blackwood headed towards the Valley of Healers, Cloudview County was like a powder keg ignited by Blackwood''s swift and decisive havoc.


    Without exception, all major powers in Cloudview County sent forces to besiege them.


    Even...


    The Competent period!


    These ancient demons, living up to two thousand years, one by one opened their eyes from seclusion, their spirits leaving their bodies to roam the heavens and earth.


    ...


    In the room.


    Ethan was still tapping on the screen, each tap causing the heavenly treasures and elixirs displayed in his home to gradually disappear!


    This was a feature Ethan had since the start of the game, allowing him to quickly assimilate the power of the medicines.


    Previously, during the False Core stage, only a small amount of heavenly treasures and elixirs caught his eye.


    But now...


    Both he and Olivia knew that Blackwood''s current actions would also encounter sieges from all over.


    What Blackwood would face was the pressure coming from the entire Cloudview County.


    Even from the Competent period!


    [You are assimilating the power of the Beast Blood Fruit, gaining 100 points of psychic ability, consuming 100 points of Spiritual Tribute!]


    Feeling the strength in his body.


    He also took the opportunity to pass this ''Divine Gift'' to Julian, who was closest to the Valley of Healers.


    [Your Divine Gift detected, containing the jade slip of the earth-level technique ''Azure Cloud Unfalling''!]


    [Proceed with Divine Gift?]


    "Yes!"


    [You are initiating Divine GiftC7 model celestial seeker X4!]

 Chapter 146: Chapter 146: My child... has turned into a demon!

    As Ethan kept busy, the game world''s visuals showed the Blackwood folks quickly gathering under Forebearer and Olivia''s plan. They had to seize the moment, or else experts from major powers would besiege them, and they might also lose the chance to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete themselves!


    [Valley of Healers]


    It must be said that the Valley of Healers was no ordinary place, protected by the mid-grade psychic device "White Lotus of Heaven''s Pond" and the seventh-grade magical formation "Hundred Flowers Formation."


    Although Lucas was a sword body, he was only at the early stage of Developing Skill, with formidable physical strength and extraordinary sword intent, he couldn''t break through the defenses of the Valley of Healers just yet.


    The third generation of Blackwoods could withstand attacks, but only with the power of the Transcendent Seed stage, and even struggled to activate top-grade psychic devices.


    On their own, without a month-long siege or waiting for the Valley of Healers'' Energy Stone to deplete, it was impossible for them to break in.


    Carolyn even showed a smile, just waiting for the major powers to come and capture all the Blackwood people in one fell swoop.


    But such luck lasted no more than half an hour.


    In the distance, a bald, muscular man with iron arms descended from the sky, dropping dozens of AI Bionic Robots, among which the mecha spewing tail flames as it rose was particularly terrifying!


    "Ha ha ha, great! Big brother, and my seven little bunnies, take a break, I''ve been stuck in that Hernandez family for half a day, and it was suffocating!"


    As soon as Julian arrived, he wielded a human-sized iron hammer and smashed fiercely.


    enjoy-at-MVLeMpYr.com


    Then there was a giant sky-reaching tree, on which stood a woman covered in vines, her gentle voice audible, "Big brother, third brother, killing is fine, just don''t destroy the psychic medicines in the Valley of Healers, I have great use for them."


    Following that, countless exotic beasts arrived!


    George came with twenty-three residual souls.


    Assassins from Dawn came from all directions, along with the descendants of Blackwood''s fourth generation!


    Even William rushed over, this guy had killed someone in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and when Olivia left, he was chased, holding up the head of a once-in-a-millennium genius from the Azure Cloud Pavilion, knocking on the Pavilion''s magical formation, asking his idol, Great Aunt, to take her away.


    Carolyn looked up blankly.


    The shadow of Blackwood completely enveloped the entire Valley of Healers.


    She thought standing with Sky Sect and Azure Cloud Pavilion put her next to the victors. She thought her contributions to the real powerhouses would bring rich rewards. She thought standing on the side of justice in Cloudview County would bring her ultimate victory and both fame and fortune.


    Unfortunately, her luck was not on her side.


    When the Blackwood people overwhelmed the magical formation of the Valley of Healers, she saw the ferocious faces of the Blackwood people.


    She still thought she was righteous and roared,


    "Don''t be afraid! Evil cannot overcome good, Valley of Healers stands, get ready, let''s fight them!"


    Ten minutes later.


    No corpses were seen inside the Valley of Healers, only Blackwood people, and those nailed to the wall in a spread-eagled position by Blackwood''s psychic devices, unable to move. Carolyn''s eyes no longer saw any brilliance, as if she had lost her soul.


    She saw it.


    A blood-red crowned blood tree appeared in the Valley of Healers, its roots piercing through each psychic ability in the Valley. She saw countless zombies and numerous mad exotic beasts, these beasts and demons tearing at the people of the Valley of Healers, the zombies slowly dragging the dried corpses into a silver coffin.


    From the silver coffin emerged a demon shrouded in dark aura, yet devoid of any intellect. This demon and the demonic tree of Blackwood nearly came to blows over a dispute for blood, and Carolyn observed the demon growing stronger, advancing from Foundational Energy to the Transcendent Seed stage.


    "Demons, all of them!" Carolyn murmured to herself. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She saw these heartless fiends gathered together, showing no remorse for their previous slaughter, putting on a pretense right before her eyes.


    The first four generations of Blackwood gathered together, building an altar and kneeling before cards marked with a ''B'', chanting, "Bless us, Forebearer."


    The murky eyes of the seven demons of the Iron Gate flickered with a moment of clarity as they knelt before the first two generations of Blackwood.


    "My child... has turned into a demon!"


    "If we ever lose our minds one day, Grandpa must throw us into the coffin and let Dad and Mom beat us until we come to our senses."


    "Don''t worry, Mom, as long as we have blood to drink, we''ll be fine. I believe we can keep our sanity."


    "Yes, we have memories. For some reason, just looking back on our days in Gratitude Village helps suppress the demonic thoughts."


    The seven demons revealed naive smiles.


    Carolyn couldn''t understand; these demons deserved to be exterminated for their lack of humanity!


    But little did she know, it was those she previously thought had humanity who were committing the most inhumane acts, forcing the third generation of Blackwood to choose to lose their humanity, now struggling to maintain what humanity they should have.


    "Dad, Uncle, Uncle!" The children of the fourth generation of Blackwood knelt before the third generation, tears streaming down their faces even though they had long known about their descent into demonhood. They deeply understood that their forebears, like them, had endured unspeakable trials.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s signs were never just a trial.


    Whenever they had free time, they would reminisce about Forest Town and Gratitude Village. There, they had fields of special abilities, good-hearted villagers, and family gatherings.


    In that place, they could freely enter any villager''s home for a meal, spar with peers using wooden swords, every day filled with laughter and joy.


    Sometimes, they even took pride in being from Blackwood, which had led the entire Gratitude Village to its current prosperity. At least in Gratitude Village, they were born into endless glory.


    But now, having left the village and Forest Town, they no longer saw those familiar faces, and were often separated from their families.


    They had to fight fierce beasts and contend with nature, only then realizing how much deception existed in the world. Who wouldn''t want to live naively? Shedding naivety and immaturity, slowly becoming mature and strong, was never easy.


    Growing up was so painful; they felt like naked mortals running through a thorny forest, far more painful than falling off their grandfather''s back.

 Chapter 147: Chapter 147: Let me out

    The children of the fourth generation felt the pain of growing up for the first time.


    Their seven ancestors, who in their day could even enforce absurd rules like ''no relieving oneself in the outhouse'', should have been more childish than them.


    Now, they should be raising their voices, questioning loudly why they were crying and whining here, and ideally, kicking them so hard against the wall they couldn''t be scraped off.


    For the first time.


    They began to miss this feeling.


    But now.


    The third generation of Blackwoods just stood quietly, their faces covered in demonic tattoos, their eyes blood-red.


    Their forebears had finally become the responsible, mature figures they had hoped for in their childhood, not cursing or noisy, but quiet. Sometimes, the things hoped for in childhood turn out to be truly naive; their forebears had endured much more.


    "Dad, uncle, uncle!"


    The children of the fourth generation called out again, and this time the third generation of Blackwoods managed a strained smile.


    Olivia seemed to notice the children''s plight; with a gentle wave of her hand, the children were up. Olivia smiled and said, "Alright, with your great-aunt here, they''ll be fine."


    "Mm!"


    Everyone nodded slightly.


    "You demons, you are all demons!!!"


    The pinned Medicine Fairy finally shouted out loud; she realized that these Blackwood people never cared whether their family was possessed or not, they only cared about whether they could invade peaceful places like the Valley of Healers and kill her good disciples!


    In the midst of her howling, he saw a glint in Lucas''s eyes in the distance, and the sword in front of him growing larger.


    Then came endless pain.


    "Ah!!!"


    Lucas was literally flaying her with his sword!


    No one paid attention to Carolyn''s screams; the Blackwoods gathered together, still remembering the Forebearer''s words¡ªthe sad should be the enemy, the pained should also be the enemy, not them.


    They looked towards the distance, where Nathan, Elder Felix, and Elizabeth had fought before.


    "I came back because I felt your presence."


    As the head of the family, Nathan looked calmly towards the distance, "Amelia, thanks for bringing Drunken Fool here, he''s very strong."


    Amelia nodded slightly, "Even in a demon''s den, Drunken Fool is a top expert."


    A cold light flashed in Thomas''s red eyes among the seven children, "Grandfather, are they... still alive?"


    With this statement.


    All eyes were on him.


    They knew that as long as Olivia was willing, with the presence of the Forebearer and the current strength and control of the Blackwoods, eliminating Felix and Elizabeth without drawing attention would be a piece of cake!


    But they were still gathered here because they wanted to avenge together, to fully repay the pain Blackwood had experienced!


    "They''re still alive."


    Nathan said with a smile, voicing everyone''s hopes.


    They hoped their enemies were alive; if they died easily, that would be a great disrespect to the demon king!


    The coffin of the direct death soared into the sky, gradually enlarging, becoming big enough to hold all the Blackwoods.


    Nathan led his family onto the coffin, soaring into the sky.


    It seemed as if the Blackwoods were bringing a coffin to their enemies on a cloud; the enemies would be forever trampled under the feet of the Blackwoods, their bodies tormented endlessly in a dark, sunless space.


    "Ah!!" Inside the golden transparent barrier, Elder Felix was battered and disheveled, driven to madness. Before this, he could summon thousands of maple leaves with his Developing Skill, each leaf capable of slaying those at the peak of Emerging Ability!


    But his once-prideful secret technique was now nothing but a delusion against Drunken Fool.


    Drunken Fool took a swig of his drink and kicked out, his dirt-caked shoe flying off and leaving another print on Elder Felix''s face, "You know, if you were really at your peak, with your strength and that mystical ''Dance of the Whirling Leaves'' fused into your body, you could actually fight me for days."


    This only drove Elder Felix further into madness. Behind him, his spiritual manifestation, a maple tree, was riddled with holes yet still swayed its branches, striking at Drunken Fool.


    "Scum, you scum ruined my hopes!" Felix''s fingers turned into silver claws, instantly reaching Drunken Fool''s side, but Drunken Fool had already vanished from the spot, slowly putting on his shoe.


    Drunken Fool frowned. Not only had Felix become mad, but Elizabeth was even crazier... Remembering his recent clash with Nathan, even he, a demonically possessed ability user, felt a chill.


    In his memory, though he had only met Nathan a few times, he could tell Nathan was a genuinely kind and polite man, like a cultured, mature farmer.


    But that guy, he was really ruthless.


    Drunken Fool glanced at the distance; Elizabeth was still alive, sitting on a shuttle, her hair disheveled, her lower dress stained with blood. Her hands and face were covered in blood, especially... she was holding a bloody lump in her arms, crying and laughing, trembling all over, shouting, "My child, my child, the Lopez have someone again!"


    This was Nathan''s handiwork, a coffin that had forced Elizabeth''s child out, making Drunken Fool, a two-hundred-year-old demonically possessed ability user, think Nathan was more suited to be a demon.


    A single strike had driven two people mad, the only difference being one was real, the other fake.


    "Let me out, I want to find Nathan, I want to find the Blackwood people!" Felix was howling, the leaves on the maple tree turning the sky golden.


    MVLeMpYr-unofficial-chapter


    "Do you really want to find the Blackwood people, Felix? I know you." Drunken Fool laughed, making Elder Felix''s face change color, "Time hasn''t made you a warrior; it''s made you more dependent on the petty schemes of women. You''re the type who will never go mad."


    His voice was haunting.


    "You''re the type who likes to hide behind others. When you were young, you hid behind the poor woman Elizabeth, and when you got old, you hid behind the Sky Sect."


    "Even when planning to assassinate Blackwood Marcus, you hid behind the unfortunate Rodriguez family. Even these years, though you''re at the peak of Developing Skill, you dare not face Blackwood directly, still hiding with your partner in the Valley of Healers." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Drunken Fool''s words seemed to stab at Elder Felix''s heart, and even the mad Elizabeth''s eyes flickered with a moment of clarity as he continued; "You''re pretending to be mad in front of me, you coward, where else do you think you can hide?"


    During this speech, he felt the Energy Stone in his crotch move, he raised an eyebrow, and suddenly opened the barrier of the premium ability device, spreading his hands, "Go on then, you wanted to escape, right? Oh, and don''t think about running back to the Azure Cloud Pavilion. If they really could save you, they would have sent someone from such a close distance by now."

 Chapter 148: Chapter 148: He was a warrior, and you, you are a coward

    Watching him start drinking again, it seemed like he really let the Drunken Fool go. Felix wanted to roar to the heavens; he had been thoroughly seen through by this demon-possessed psychic!


    He was really feigning madness, even thinking of using his Developing Skill to scare the Drunken Fool, but now...


    Looking at the opened magic circle, it seemed like he saw a gateway! S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For some reason.


    It looked to him like the chilling Bridge of Helplessness, the gateway to the underworld.


    "Let''s go, you still want to drink my booze?" your-MVLeMpYr-source


    Ferrywoman... no, it was Lord Ferrywoman waving at him!


    For the first time, he resisted the urge to flee.


    Then he boarded the flying shuttle, that basic psychic device, not bothering about the crazy old lady behind him, and piloted the psychic shuttle towards Sky Sect!


    "Ancestor, only the Ancestor can protect me, Blackwood wouldn''t dare go to Sky Sect!"


    ...


    Elder Felix had just escaped with Elizabeth when the silver coffin arrived right behind them. The people of Blackwood calmly watched the direction of Elder Felix''s escape, but they couldn''t hide the hatred and fury in their eyes.


    "Holy Maiden, head of the Blackwood family."


    Drunken Fool bowed to the people of Blackwood, something he definitely wouldn''t have done before; he wouldn''t even bow to a Holy Maiden. But facing a man who could swing a coffin at a pregnant woman''s belly, and the family led by such a man, was enough to make him show respect.


    Especially...


    Beside the coffin, William, who seemed to enjoy killing people for fun, was holding a pole covered with human skins, which, with his experience in skinning, were clearly taken from living people, three Developing Skills, a group at the False Core stage.


    Looking above the coffin, strands of silk were wrapped around the skinned Psychics, who were still alive, wailing in agony.


    "They''re still alive?" Amelia casually asked.


    "Let go, they''re escaping towards Sky Sect, their psychic powers beaten down to barely a tenth, their realm dropped to the early stages of Developing Skill."


    Drunken Fool couldn''t help but glance at Blackwood''s handiwork, he seemed to have learned to restrain the urge to imitate, he frowned and said: "You really want to go to Sky Sect? Now all the sects and clans won''t let you off, especially those Competent forces."


    "You Blackwoods have gained such strength in just a century, once you rise again, the major forces of Azure Cloud will be even more eager to destroy you, Blackwood. It''s no longer just about your feud with that couple."


    "The resources here are limited, the rise of a powerful family is like taking away their livelihood."


    "If I were you."


    Drunken Fool said with a bitter smile: "Having taken your revenge, you might as well leave Cloudview County. I guarantee, the sects and clans have already started to surround your location, heading to Sky Sect is like tying your own noose."


    Nathan shook his head, bowed to Drunken Fool, "Thank you for the warning, senior. This time your help was invaluable, Blackwood will remember this. From here on, we Blackwood dare not trouble you further."


    "You''re... still going?!!"


    Drunken Fool stared wide-eyed.


    Although Blackwood hadn''t said much, only asking him to stop Felix and Elizabeth and to let people go, he could see that the Blackwoods were intentionally heading towards Sky Sect.


    He still didn''t know where Blackwood got the courage to actively head towards Sky Sect.


    In the midst of conversation.


    The people of Blackwood had already bowed to him, the silver coffin chasing into the distance!


    "Crazier than us damned demons in this hellhole!"


    Drunken Fool took a swig of booze, watching the direction Blackwood''s people were heading, unable to express his admiration, he followed them.


    ...


    "Run, we must run back!"


    On the shuttle, Elder Felix''s face was pale with sheer terror. He vaguely understood why Drunken Fool had let him go, but he had no choice!


    A ghostly voice echoed from behind.


    "Drunken Fool wasn''t wrong about you, you still want to run." Elizabeth seemed to regain a moment of clarity, but quickly reverted to madness, lifting a lump of rotten flesh, her face bloodied and bearing a horrific smile, "Look Felix, the child is calling for mommy, haha, we have a child now!"


    Felix gritted his teeth, but he had no time to deal with this madwoman.


    Suddenly, his expression drastically changed.


    Above the clouds, a sound like a great bell, filled with resentment!


    "When you chased my Blackwood in-law, did he run like this too?"


    He saw him¡ªNathan!


    That bastard who smashed all his hopes into a lump of rotten flesh with a coffin, was chasing after him!


    Nathan''s psychic coffin was even faster than his shuttle.


    "Seven years, Elizabeth felt the pain of a relative''s death, do you know why we Blackwoods left you alive for seven years?"


    Nathan slowly drew a large ghost-headed saber, his voice as grim as Yama, "Because only she felt it, while you, the mastermind behind it all, hardly felt it, unfortunately, your family is all dead. Hearing you want another child, we waited seven years, you should feel the pain my children felt losing their relatives."


    "Do you feel it?"


    Hearing this, Elder Felix''s eyes bulged in fury, he finally understood.


    Seven years ago at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, he thought the Blackwood''s revenge had ended with the display of the Lopez family''s decapitated bodies, but... that was just the beginning!


    For these seven years, they had been waiting for this day, waiting for Elizabeth to give birth, waiting to pin their hopes on this unborn child.


    The Blackwoods intended to destroy not just their lives, but their souls!


    And now...


    "Run with all your might, just like the Boar Monarch Pete ran back then!"


    Nathan''s face was ferocious, he exhausted his psychic power, pouring it into the ghost-headed saber, and a huge saber shadow slashed towards the psychic shuttle!


    Amidst the sound of breaking air, Nathan''s roar echoed, "Only you would slaughter mercilessly! Now, you coward who only knows how to run, and that madwoman beside you, remember, remember how you chased the Boar Monarch Pete that day!!!"


    "Beasts, Blackwood beasts!"


    Elder Felix, his liver and gallbladder split with rage, cursed loudly, his Developing Skill began to burn, frantically driving the psychic shuttle to fly rapidly.


    He really remembered.


    He remembered that day, the pig demon king, like them today, was battered and chased towards Forest Town.


    He felt it.


    The desire to live, the desire to return to the Sky Sect!


    But...


    "Boom!!!"


    The huge saber shadow struck the psychic shield Elder Felix had erected in an instant, the tremendous force pushing the psychic shuttle to accelerate forward, and in that moment, Elder Felix actually felt fortunate, fortunate that he was running faster!


    Looking ahead where the psychic shuttle was heading, Nathan, standing on the Straight Death Coffin, squinted his eyes and shook his head,


    "Pity, you''re not the Boar Monarch Pete , you don''t deserve it. When the Boar Monarch Pete came back, it wasn''t to flee for his life, he came to bring news back to our Blackwood. For that, he didn''t even defend, he used all his psychic power to escape."


    "He was a warrior, and you, you are a coward."

 Chapter 149: Chapter 149: What has happened to the sect?

    "Damn it, damn it!!!" Felix, while escaping with Elizabeth, was growling lowly.


    Drunken Fool had let him go, but it turned out there was never a way out for him¡ªit was just an opportunity for the Blackwoods to slaughter him! Maybe he shouldn''t have run; Drunken Fool would have let him die swiftly. But...


    "I don''t want to die!" discover-stories-on-MVLeMpYr


    Behind him came the shadow of a blade; he no longer wanted to see who was striking at him. Drunken Fool was right; he wasn''t the type to go mad¡ªhe was a coward, seizing any chance to survive!


    It was Luna.


    She, in her fox form, swung her blade down with all her might, a strike that poured out the empathy of an elder. She could feel it¡ªperhaps when the Boar Monarch Pete died, he must have worried whether the children would be saddened by it.


    Lucas and Amelia''s powers followed one after another, their blades were the guardians'' rage, because of these two scoundrels, the peaceful days of the Blackwoods had come to this fragmentation!


    Olivia, despite her old age, still maintained her graceful demeanor. With a single word, ''the masses,'' she shattered Felix''s shield.


    She seemed to be sneering.


    Mocking the coward and the madwoman ahead for their reckless actions, mocking their regret after fantasizing about overthrowing the Blackwoods and killing their people!


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Julian had become an AI Bionic Robot, and on his shoulders stood Mary, her eyes blood-red, her body veined with rage. Julian was laughing wildly, "Why run? Face us, you mongrel!"


    His massive fist struck, hitting Felix and Elizabeth on their backs, stripping them of any means to escape. Punch after punch, the two still tried to resist with their powers, Felix holding Elizabeth as they fled!


    But where did they have enough power left? Mary, in her frenzy, was chopping at them with the long blade left by the Boar Monarch Pete.


    It was chopping their backs to a bloody mess.


    Then, looking at their wounded bodies, Mary seemed to lose all her strength and collapsed crying on Julian''s shoulder.


    This was the cathartic weeping of children avenging their parents.


    Then, the third generation of Blackwoods and their offspring leaped up, madly pursuing them.


    Seven years. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seven years of anger and hatred, seven years of dangers encountered in their wanderings, seven years of growth, all unleashed at this moment.


    They had truly gone mad.


    These children, who had grown up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete, came with past resentments, unknown what feelings they harbored at the moment. They only knew that when the Boar Monarch Pete returned that day, his body was beyond recognition, and all this should be returned in full.


    No, it should be returned a hundredfold, a thousandfold!


    They would no longer be smashed to a bloody mess on anyone''s back, nor did they need to be carried by anyone anymore, nor did they need the elders to teach them the great truths of life bit by bit, nor did they need to cry out when alone.


    Because.


    Once in the Silver Iron Forest, there was a pig that had accompanied them through their childhood.


    And now they had grown up, weathered from all sides in Cloudview County, facing the enemy with the stories they had shared with the Boar Monarch Pete , avenging the Boar Monarch Pete!


    In an instant.


    The entire sky was filled with the children''s screams of killing, just as they had learned from the intelligence reports, gradually torturing these two once proud D-rank individuals!


    The many elders of the Blackwoods came to their senses, standing on the Coffin of Straight Death, watching the children''s frenzied slaughter.


    At this moment, in Ethan''s room, there were no longer any heavenly treasures or elixirs visible. He watched calmly as the children on the screen carried out the most brutal revenge.


    As the scene rapidly progressed, it seemed like a cloud in the game transformed into the shape of an Boar Monarch Pete, seemingly content with the children''s growth, as if to say that everything he had invested was worthwhile. He had a group of children who were fiercer and more loyal than any psychic beast.


    Meanwhile, in Sky Sect, within the Sky Hall, Marcus was experiencing a surge in his psychic powers under the guidance of Daoist Warren, who had been helping Marcus break through to the Developing Skill level.


    Daoist Warren wiped the sweat from his forehead, looking up proudly as he witnessed Marcus''s extraordinary abilities. Inside the Sky Hall, which originally looked like a magical river of stars, it now seemed as though nine suns had risen. These were Marcus''s nine unique psychic fires!


    The nine fire lotuses gradually grew larger and bloomed, and Marcus, sitting in the center, appeared like a Fire God incarnate. His flames soared within the Sky Hall, forming a column of fierce fire. The intense heat would have required any ordinary Developing Skill practitioner to defend themselves with their psychic powers immediately.


    The fiery air wave spread throughout the entire Sky Hall.


    "Ha ha ha, at 69 years old, in the early stages of Developing Skill, possessing the heavenly elixir, and with the Sky Sect''s secret techniques¡ªSky Mystic Abyss Art, Shadowy Heaven Steps, and Thunder Leading Heavenly Script¡ªthese three profound techniques, it was not in vain that I spent two hundred years of effort helping you grow to this point over the last twenty-eight years!" Daoist Warren looked at Marcus, a D-level practitioner, with extreme excitement.


    In Cloudview County, breaking through to Emerging Ability before the age of 50 was considered genius. But Marcus? He broke through Emerging Ability before he was even thirty.


    Not only that, he possessed the unique item, the nine psychic fires, coveted even by D-level practitioners, which could potentially reach the height of a sixth rank if it continued to grow.


    Moreover, Marcus''s temperament was extremely resilient, and he had experienced things far beyond ordinary people. Now, it seemed that Marcus had indeed lived up to Daoist Warren''s expectations.


    At 69 years old, a D-level practitioner with nine psychic fires, Marcus was destined to break through to Competent before his life ended. This also meant that for the next two thousand years, Sky Sect would be safe and sound!


    Daoist Warren even planned to pass on all his knowledge to Marcus when his life was nearing its end. Marcus might even break through to B-level, leading Sky Sect to new heights!


    "Phew." Seeing Marcus still stabilizing his cultivation, showing a slightly pained expression, Daoist Warren, with a face full of joy and anticipation, walked out of the Sky Hall.


    But as soon as he stepped outside, he saw a disciple who had been waiting there. Normally, no one would wait outside the Sky Hall without urgent matters.


    "What has happened to the sect?" Daoist Warren asked.


    The disciple hurriedly reported the events that had occurred outside while Daoist Warren was busy cultivating Marcus over the past twenty-some years.


    Starting from the killing of the Blackwood Boar Monarch Pete seven years ago, to the entire Blackwood clan fleeing Forest Town to live incognito, to the construction of a human head corpse landscape outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and finally to today''s rampant slaughter, people everywhere were seeking help from Sky Sect.


    "Supreme Elder, in twelve places, rivers of blood have flowed, including many major families, with an estimated death toll exceeding three hundred thousand."


    The disciple''s eyes flashed with terror, "In these seven years, the Blackwood''s slaughter has already claimed nearly two million lives."

 Chapter 150: Chapter 150: You think youre clever?

    Warren Daoist''s eyebrows were tightly furrowed, and he remained silent for a long time. A flash of anger crossed his eyes as he glanced at the Sky Hall behind him, his neck even stiffening. Clenching his teeth, his spirit left his body, flying towards the distance, his anger intensifying, before finally returning to his physical form.


    He took a deep breath, his face visibly angry. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Where''s the sect leader?"


    "In... in the great hall."


    Upon learning that Daoist Wesley was in the great hall, a sharp look flashed in Warren Daoist''s eyes as he transformed into a wisp of smoke.


    When he reappeared, he was already in the spacious great hall.


    There, on the steps, Daoist Wesley looked solemn, his right hand gripping the armrest of the sect leader''s throne, his fist clenched as if grappling with a difficult issue.


    Seeing Warren Daoist appear, Daoist Wesley''s expression changed, and he quickly stood up to bow, "Disciple greets Master, congratulations on your emergence from seclusion, Marcus must have already been..."


    But before he could finish,


    Warren Daoist had already appeared in front of him.


    "Snap!"


    A crisp sound echoed in the hall, Daoist Wesley''s hair disheveled, his originally straight head now slapped to one side by Warren Daoist, his eyes vacant. With a kick, Warren Daoist sent him crashing into a pillar, blood seeping from the corner of his mouth.


    Only then did Warren Daoist take his seat on the sect leader''s throne, his gaze coldly fixed on Daoist Wesley as he struggled to his feet, "I was in seclusion for twenty-eight years, and this is what you''ve done."


    "Disciple admits his fault."


    Daoist Wesley quickly bowed again, "Disciple..."


    Warren Daoist coldly said, "What else can you do? Your skill is manipulating your authority, keeping Marcus from leaving the sect for fifty years, and you specifically locked up that useless Felix for twenty years?"


    "Disciple..."


    "You think you''re clever? Felix, imprisoned in the dungeon for twenty years, being the sneaky rat he is, will surely seek revenge. He will destroy the Blackwood family, your sinister plan."


    Daoist Wesley looked at his angry master, finally gritting his teeth and lifting his head, "Master, wasn''t it all for the sect? Marcus possesses a rare talent with the Nine Unique Fires, a prodigy, but I also know the Blackwoods, anyone of them puts family first! As long as Blackwood exists, Marcus will never truly belong to the Sky Sect!"


    "Disciple also knows Felix, he''s just a sneaky rat, always plotting from behind, nothing can be traced back to our Sky Sect. Then, Marcus, alone and without ties, would have his worldly connections severed."


    "But, disciple didn''t expect..."


    Seeing the regret in Daoist Wesley''s eyes, Warren Daoist understood.


    Everything was for the sect, as the sect leader, dirty deeds done thoroughly, done to the extreme.


    Warren Daoist sighed deeply, suddenly understanding his disciple''s thoughts, but...


    Unexpectedly, the Blackwoods had such strength, such determination.


    This small family in Forest Town, after the death of the demon king, went mad, wanting to drag the entire Cloudview County down with them.


    Daoist Wesley''s decision was a mistake, it was already too late.


    "How could there be such a family in the world."


    When he heard the news from his disciple this year, even he was scared!


    He had thought Marcus was a prodigy, but for the Blackwoods, Marcus''s talent was probably just mediocre.


    Nathan and his wife, coming from humble beginnings, had honed their skills to perfection over a hundred years. Nathan''s martial arts were unparalleled, and it was said his skills were divine. Luna, with her fox spirit, had reached the mid-stage of skill development...


    The four of the second generation of Blackwoods, each extraordinary, Sword King Lucas was the number one swordsman of Azure Cloud, born with a sword body. Amelia, known as the Saintess of Flora in Azure Cloud, her techniques unmatched in her realm. Julian was a genius in psychic power equipment and AI bionic robotics, crafting psychic automatons with boundless creativity.


    News of Olivia also came through, single-handedly suppressing the entire Azure Cloud Pavilion, her literary skills manipulating the laws of nature and seasons, with a thunder tribulation approaching, if she could survive it, she would leap through the dragon gate, straight into Competence!


    Even the younger George, had within a day at the Azure Cloud Martial Hall, slaughtered the prodigies of twenty-four counties, what an extraordinary talent?


    Madman William, Beast King Larry, desperado Justin...


    One name after another, almost too overwhelming to bear.


    The Daoist of the Netherworld took a deep breath and suddenly said expressionlessly, "I have just used my soul to probe, and the Blackwoods are already on their way."


    "Master!"


    Daoist Wesley looked at the Netherworld Daoist, who seemed to have aged suddenly. Clenching his teeth, he said, "Marcus has not yet finished his retreat. As long as we kill all the Blackwoods, and let Marcus focus solely on his cultivation in the future, nothing will change. Moreover, masters from all major forces have already arrived.


    The Blackwoods are arrogant and will bring about their own destruction!"


    Before he could finish speaking.


    Both the Netherworld Daoist and Daoist Wesley frowned.


    Suddenly, a booming and murderous noise came from above the entire Sky Sect.


    "Wesley, you old thief, come out!"


    "Pay with your life!"


    Following an unknown roar.


    "Boom!"


    Outside the great hall, dust and smoke rose, and two blurred figures smashed into the Sky Sect.


    Elder Felix raised his hand.


    "Netherworld Ancestor, save... save your disciple!"


    The Daoist of the Ninth Abyss, WesleyDaoist, along with all the disciples of the Sky Sect, stood tall and proud.


    They gazed bewilderedly at the silver coffin that had appeared outside the already activated magical formation.


    Above the coffin, eerily empty of any person, stood the Cards at the forefront, looking so insignificant. Yet, the blood-stained ''B'' on it was strikingly conspicuous in the silvery surroundings!


    Above, like a spiderweb, an array of psychic equipment hung, from which dangled hundreds of flayed individuals.


    Their eyes gouged out, the icy snow and cold wind mercilessly lashed against their exposed flesh, and no one dared to imagine the intense agony they were enduring.


    Pieces of human skin were stitched together like sails by threads. Names were inscribed all over it, though nearly all had been slashed with sword marks. MVLeMpYr-official-text


    Among them, the names Felix and Elizabeth were particularly noticeable, also crossed out, leaving only one name untouched¡ª


    Wesley Daoist!


    Such a horrifying scene made some of the less experienced disciples of the Sky Sect tremble all over. Even the seasoned disciples shuddered at the sight.


    They had never seen anyone dare to provoke the Sky Sect in such a manner!

 Chapter 151: Chapter 151: Thats not something you can say lightly

    "Who''s got the guts to knock down that coffin with the fancy gadget in their mouth?" That''s Carolyn from the Valley of Healers, one of the top ten beauties of Cloudview County. I''d recognize her even without her skin. Who''s with me to help her out?"


    "Damn! Can''t you see Blackwood is out for revenge?!!"


    The disciples of the Sky Sect could feel it¡ªthe dead of winter was upon them!


    In front of the great hall, Daoist Warren and his disciple, Daoist Wesley, were too preoccupied to pay attention to Elizabeth and Elder Felix, who lay at the doorstep. The couple had been slashed so badly at the back that their flesh was flayed open, revealing their innards¡ªa mere superficial wound compared to the real horror.


    Their souls had been burnt to a mere thread of life, driving them to madness, making living worse than death.


    "Follow me to meet the people of Blackwood."


    For some reason, Daoist Warren seemed unusually calm as he ascended into the clouds.


    Daoist Wesley''s eyes flickered with a hint of terror, but after glancing at his fellow disciples still screaming for help, he took a deep breath and followed Daoist Warren to the coffin of eternal death.


    But...


    The people of Blackwood were nowhere to be seen!


    Daoist Warren furrowed his brows. When he had emerged from seclusion, he had used his Competent ability to survey the world and had clearly seen the people of Blackwood arriving. But now, he couldn''t sense their presence at all!


    The coffin of eternal death stood solitary like a lone sail.


    Instead...


    "Greetings, Elder Warren. Three hundred years ago, I benefited greatly from your teachings!"


    "Where are the culprits from Blackwood? Why are they not showing themselves?"


    "Ha ha ha, to think that in pursuit of mere Blackwood, I would meet an old friend unseen for a millennium. How are you all doing?"


    At Sky Sect, masters from all directions have arrived, and in an instant, the disciples of Sky Sect were wide-eyed with astonishment. These were the renowned masters of Cloudview County!


    Daoist Warren looked around and sighed imperceptibly before bowing to the crowd, "Fellow Daoist Gary, Master Williams, Abbot David."


    As Daoist Warren greeted each one, Daoist Wesley was overjoyed. He knew these people; even if he hadn''t met them personally, their images still existed in his intelligence reports. This was a compulsory course for the leaders of various sects and clans because these individuals were the heavens of Cloudview County!


    In the whole of Cloudview County, there were only twelve known Competent masters, and now, three of them had come for Blackwood!


    Gary, who looked as adorable as a little girl but was actually the senior elder of Emerald Phoenix Peak, was dressed in a green robe, revealing smooth calves and wearing green cloth shoes that showed her clean feet. Her hair was tied in twin ponytails, and her face was impeccably carved, evoking a sense of pity at first glance.


    The middle-aged man, rugged yet majestic, was Donald, the only Competent patriarch in Cloudview County from the Williams family.


    Master Abbot David, the head of all Buddhist sects in Cloudview County, had kind and compassionate eyes. His monk''s robe was extremely worn, revealing a pair of black feet, and he was chanting Buddhist scriptures at the moment. One could tell he was a monk who had recited millions of Buddhist scriptures and traveled millions of miles.


    Moreover, around thirty Developing Skill masters from various sects and clans had gathered. It seemed that the top thirty percent of Cloudview County''s Psychics had assembled!


    "Blackwood truly brought disaster upon itself!" Daoist Wesley said quietly, his lips curling slightly. The fear he had felt when he walked out of the grand hall with his master had vanished, and he even felt like finding a secluded place to laugh wildly.


    However, after Daoist Warren and the other masters finished their greetings, his expression changed when he heard what was said next.


    "Fellow Daoists, please return. The people from Blackwood have come seeking revenge; this is a matter of enmity between Sky Sect and Blackwood, and we need not trouble you to go to such lengths," Daoist Warren said coldly, issuing an order for the guests to leave.


    "That''s not something you can say lightly."


    Donald smiled, "Blackwood has been reckless at Azure Cloud Pavilion, insulting all of us in Cloudview County. Ten thousand years ago, my Williams family received help from Azure Cloud Pavilion, allowing us to continue our legacy. If Blackwood is an enemy of Azure Cloud Pavilion, then they are an enemy of my Williams family."


    Hearing this, Abbot David brought his palms together, "Amitabha, Blackwood has committed too many killings. Our Buddha said we should not stand by idly,"


    Gary showed her small silver teeth, "Then Blackwood cannot remain in Cloudview County. Even if other Daoists do not come, having us here is enough. Consider it as if I, Gary, have come out of hundreds of years of seclusion just to relax. Moreover, Carolyn of the Hundred Flowers Valley is my disciple, and Blackwood has already created karma with my Emerald Phoenix Peak."


    Outside Sky Sect, the thirty-plus Developing Skill individuals were silent in the presence of these four Competent masters¡ªthey had no place to interject.


    As Donald glanced over them, everyone echoed in agreement. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Elder Warren, with such a demon emerging in Cloudview County, it is time for us Psychics to unite and exorcise the demon to protect the path!"


    "Yes, the affairs of Sky Sect are also the affairs of us Psychics!"


    "Until Blackwood is eradicated, we cannot rest easy!"


    "..."


    Hearing these words, Daoist Warren simply shook his head without saying much, as he saw his disciple laughing. How could he not know that the so-called exorcism and guarding the path were all pretenses!


    chapter-source-MvLeMpYr


    At his level, he generally stayed out of worldly affairs. Moreover, above the Competent level, Psychics have an unspoken agreement not to interfere in the feuds of the younger generations, not to bully the weak, and not to intervene unless there is a catastrophe that could lead to the annihilation of a sect.


    But today, these old timers had all emerged from seclusion, talking about exorcism and guarding the path?


    If they truly had this intention, why were they not seen at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where demonically possessed Psychics gather?


    It''s simply because they fear the Demon Lord sealed within. Such events of clan annihilation are not uncommon; the Blackwood have killed nearly two million, but those were all Psychics.


    His own Sky Sect has fought with the Xuanwu Gate in recent years, causing the deaths of no less than a million ordinary people.


    As for the Blackwoods, the real reason they want to eliminate them is simply because they see the exceptional talents of the Blackwood clan and fear that they will become too powerful in the future!

 Chapter 152: Chapter 152: Truly worthy of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal!

    "Thanks to all the seniors for their help, Cloudview County is clear and bright with you folks around," Wesley said, bowing deeply with genuine eyes.


    "Now that the Blackwood folks are out of sight, with the help of the seniors and fellow Daoists, I''ll mobilize the disciples of Sky Sect to scour the entire Cloudview County to find where these Blackwood folks are hiding!"


    The Competent ones nodded slightly without much conversation, while other Developing Skill masters eagerly agreed to gather the forces of Cloudview County for a thorough search of the Blackwood people.


    But Gary suddenly pouted, slightly confused, "Where is Daoist Warren going? Why not summon the Competent with us, form a square formation to prevent the Blackwood people from escaping?"


    Daoist Warren , already turning away and heading back inside the sect, didn''t turn back, only leaving behind the sound of hearty laughter. "Hahaha, please feel free, my fellow Daoists! I have an old feud with that old geezer from the Black Shell Sect. If I make a move today, he''ll surely come after me. At my age, I''ve become cautious, please bear with me."


    As Daoist Warren sat back inside the grand hall like a phantom, he smiled slightly, "That turtle Daoist from Black Shell and I have been at odds for a thousand years, neither of us yielding to the other. It''s good he didn''t join this fray today. When winter comes, I should bring a jug of wine and share a drink with that old thief."


    Everyone frowned as they watched Daoist Warren''s retreating figure. But in a moment, within the grand hall of Sky Sect, Daoist Warren''s voice echoed, and the disciples looked respectfully towards the grand hall as the long-sealed sixth-grade protective formation of Sky Sect rose, with dragons soaring in the sky.


    "Sky Sect is a place apart from the world, my Competent spirit wanders, Black Shell Sect harbors wild ambitions. Today the sect is closed, guarding against an attack from Black Shell Sect. Disciples are not to leave, focus on protecting the sect, be vigilant of external enemies. Those who disobey will be expelled from the sect!"


    The disciples of Sky Sect looked at each other, then all turned their eyes towards Daoist Wesley outside the formation.


    Seeing these unusual looks, Wesley, locked out of the formation, flashed a look of confusion, "Expelled from the sect... Master, what did I do wrong? Isn''t everything I do for the sake of the sect?"


    He was outside the formation now! Ever since Daoist Warren brought him out, he had felt it¡ªhis master was going to hand him over to Blackwood!


    "Om Mani Padme Hum, it seems Daoist Warren already has a plan," Abbot David said, bringing his palms together, though a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes.


    "Ha!" Donald scoffed, "Daoist Warren really thinks highly of himself, above the mundane world."


    As they mocked and vented their anger at being rejected by Sky Sect, a Developing Skill master''s expression suddenly changed. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Look, that coffin..."


    Everyone looked over. On the silver coffin, under Wesley''s name on the Blackwood hit list, it seemed someone was about to add a name¡ª


    Donald. Gary. The fake monk...


    "Om Mani Padme Hum, such trickery, the tactics of heretics," Abbot David squinted at the words ''fake monk,'' his purity disturbed.


    only-found-at-MVLeMpYr


    As each name was written on the human skin, a mist gradually formed above it. A bright silver spear appeared, its pressure dispersing the clouds, its blade piercing the sky.


    A card, rising from the coffin, grew to the height of a man, its ''B'' glowing brightly. Below in the black mist, a yin-yang symbol formed, slowly rotating, encompassing a ten-mile radius, with five beams of light corresponding to the five elements forming a pentagram in the sky.


    The humanoid black mist remained silent, the spear tip flashing coldly.


    "Whoa!"


    Ethan, with his mastery of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the spell "Heaven and Earth Among Us," could move effortlessly between the two sides of the diagram.


    He had been waiting in front of the screen for this moment!


    In an instant.


    It wasn''t until he took down a Developing Skill with a single shot that the pale blue screen of the game appeared before his eyes.


    [Use Skill¡ªFight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Detected: You currently possess mid-stage Developing Skill strength, consuming 15,000 Spiritual Tribute points per minute!]


    [Current Spiritual Tribute points¡ª105,200!]


    He drew his Celestial Pivot Psychic Rifle, already vanished from the spot, while the mid-stage Developing Skill Psychic still looked bewildered, incredulously staring at his own abdomen, not understanding why he couldn''t even react before the mysterious figure appeared before him.


    In front of that long rifle shimmering with silver light, he had instantly released a psychic shield, yet it was as flimsy as paper?


    ...


    Instant kill!


    "Truly worthy of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal !"


    Vanishing in an instant, Ethan looked at the Celestial Pivot Psychic Rifle in his hand.


    Only he and the people of Blackwood knew that they had already planned everything!


    The clan''s visit to the Sky Sect was merely a bait. Ethan and Olivia both understood that Blackwood, having developed over ninety years to the point of acting recklessly in Cloudview County, even a Competent master wouldn''t allow Blackwood to continue existing, eager to eliminate these geniuses swiftly!


    So.


    Only the death coffin came, others had already hidden, and Blackwood''s real trump card was Ethan!


    "Phew!"


    In the Yin-Yang fish diagram, he could almost teleport, and in an instant, another Developing Skill master died by Ethan''s Celestial Pivot Psychic Rifle.


    Now, he was no longer the person he used to be.


    These seven years, the people of Blackwood had been fugitives, and this time, the twelve massacres at Blackwood were also part of the plan.


    Apart from avenging the constant pursuit and killing of Blackwood, another purpose was to obtain a large amount of elixirs and heavenly materials and treasures!


    So, the people of Blackwood sacrificed elixirs and heavenly materials and treasures at the same time.


    It was to give Ethan even greater strength.


    And now.


    Ethan was confident, invincible within Developing Skill!


    Those who pursue the quality of third-grade Developing Skill do so because higher quality Developing Skills grant stronger psychic powers, allowing them to accumulate more psychic power, making it easier to advance to C-level in the future. And his Developing Skill was top-notch!

 Chapter 153: Chapter 153: I need a chance!

    "Back off!"


    A stern shout rang out. Ethan teleported again, aiming to take down a top-tier Developing Skill expert, even catching a glimpse of the terror in his opponent''s eyes. But in an instant, Ethan vanished from the spot.


    Where he had just been, a semi-transparent golden bell illusion now enveloped the Developing Skill expert. At the same time, Abbot David appeared in front of the man. The monk, with his kind and gentle eyes, furrowed his brows, vigilantly scanning the surroundings.


    Faced with Abbot David, Ethan had no choice but to retreat!


    "He''s truly Competent, a chasm-like presence."


    Feeling the threat from Abbot David''s use of his powers, Ethan instantly sensed a massive danger and decisively pulled back.


    He even realized that even while using ''Heaven and Earth Among Men'' within the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, constantly shifting positions within a six-mile radius, these three Competent masters could sense him and were always ready to deliver a lethal blow! always-on-MvLeMpYr


    A Competent master''s spiritual sense could reach thousands of miles, almost as if equipped with radar. Within the reach of their spiritual sense, they could freely manipulate the natural energies of the world, possessing nearly limitless powers.


    Ethan was sure that even though he was invincible at the Developing Skill level, he couldn''t withstand a hit from a Competent phase master¡ªafter all, even a Developing Skill couldn''t survive a missile strike!


    In less than a second, they could mobilize the natural energies to attack him, fortunately, his ''Heaven and Earth Among Men'' was a teleportation ability.


    But that wasn''t the scariest part.


    The most terrifying aspect of the Competent was that if they charged up their techniques, their martial skills would grow increasingly stronger. If they were to charge up for three months...


    "I need a chance!"


    Even while rapidly teleporting, Ethan maintained enough clarity not to attack the Competent masters. He knew all too well that getting too close to a Competent could mean that even the residual waves from their burst of power could injure him.


    He was waiting for an opportunity to inflict a fatal wound on these nearly invincible beings.


    Otherwise, even if he truly had a nuclear weapon like the Tsar Bomba, it might not explode before these three experienced Competent masters had already fled!


    Thus, the outcome of this operation would be greatly diminished!


    In just thirty seconds, with Ethan''s arrival and his elimination of a fourth Developing Skill Psychic, the scene was already in shambles.


    The three Competent masters and numerous Developing Skill Psychics unleashed their powers, causing the ground outside the Sky Sect to sink from the impact, with rocks tumbling and dust flying. Soon, the entire sky would be covered in dust.


    Sky Sect managed to dodge a bullet by activating their protective array early, preserving the mountain gate atop the cliff. But now, it looked more precarious than ever...


    "Dammit!" Donald couldn''t help but curse within the yin-yang fish diagram.


    In the sky, a golden dragon illusion appeared, manipulating the natural forces and summoning hundreds of celestial fires. But... it was like an elephant swatting flies. Even though they had located Ethan, they couldn''t hit him.


    Not just him.


    Abbot David chanted Buddhist sutras, his golden Buddha body influencing minds, potentially converting those in the Emerging Ability phase directly to Buddhism. But the black mist was still darting around within the yin-yang fish diagram.


    "Pop!" Another crisp sound rang out as another Developing Skill master was killed.


    "Amitabha, fellow practitioners, this Blackwood demon wields a weapon that can break all spells! And that silver coffin, it protects his mind," Abbot David suddenly seemed troubled.


    "Top-tier psychic equipment!" Gary stared at Ethan''s spear, knowing that Abbot David and Donald hadn''t given their all. More than their worries, Gary was greedy, "What are you still considering?"


    "No matter how Blackwood obtained this top-tier psychic equipment, whether they are a branch of some major family from elsewhere, or whatever backing they have, our situation with Blackwood has reached this point. Where is the chance for redemption?"


    "This man''s origins are unclear, kill him and then plan the rest!" With these words, Abbot David and Donald both nodded.


    In an instant, these individuals unleashed their powers, each revealing some of their trump cards!


    "Looks like I''m really being pushed to the limit here," Ethan noted calmly as the psychic powers of his opponents grew more formidable, converging within the entire win Fish Harmony Seal.


    He continued to dodge using the ''Heaven and Earth'' technique and utilized the power of the ''Five Elements'' to trap several Developing Skill experts in a Five Elements Star Formation, taking out another unlucky master in the process.


    It seemed he was running circles around the three Competent masters, but Ethan was well aware that he was nothing but an ant in front of them!


    The trio of Competents started to coordinate their efforts. "Golden Dragon Descends, the spell is cast!" Donald''s voice fell, and the golden dragon he had been controlling in an attempt to kill Ethan roared in the sky. Its scales dispersed, surrounding the win Fish Harmony Seal and gradually forming a wall, trapping the entire area in a dazzling golden light. The space was shrinking rapidly!


    Even Ethan''s Yin-Yang fish diagram was contracting, and his Five Elements vanished. Fortunately, those Developing Skill experts were trapped as well!


    "May Buddha vanquish the demon!" Abbot David, his muscles bulging, tore through his monk''s robes, revealing his bronze skin covered in bulging veins.


    "Boom!" With a sound of an air explosion, he suddenly appeared at Ethan''s next teleportation spot, throwing a punch.


    "Spit!" Even though Ethan vanished in an instant to another location, he was still hit by the residual force of the rapid punch, coughing up blood!


    He dared not hesitate any longer, "Boom!" As expected, upon teleporting again, the now golden-eyed Abbot David appeared once more at his location!


    "This is insane, his speed matches my teleportation!" Ignoring his injuries, Ethan cursed under his breath, not daring to slack off. He focused intensely, knowing that as the space for movement shrank, Abbot David''s pursuit would leave him with even less room to survive! S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And moreover...


    In just a short time, he had already used up a third of his psychic power!

 Chapter 154: Chapter 154: The arrival of a new era

    "Looks like there''s no way out, huh?" Gary let out a very healing and cute laugh. A woman, from nowhere, was sitting on the head of a mystical bird, leisurely swinging her feet under her long robes, gathering her strength for an attack!


    When she strikes, her powerful psychic abilities might just cover the entire Twin Fish Harmony Seal, leaving him no escape.


    At this moment, not only was Ethan extremely solemn, but also the many Developing Skill Psychics trapped with him were like lost souls, staring at the techniques of the three Competent masters, almost scared out of their wits!


    "What do you three seniors mean by this?!!"


    "We''re still in here!"


    "Doing this, how are you any different from the demon-possessed psychics? If we are killed, how will the world speak of you?!!"


    "..."


    They realized then, these three Competents intended to kill them all!


    Under Gary''s mystical bird''s gathering strike, they all couldn''t escape a fate of turning to ash!


    "Amitabha Buddha."


    Abbot David paused for a moment, then continued to pursue Ethan, with booming sounds following, but Ethan dodged again, causing the attack to hit another Developing Skill Psychic instead.


    And then... the next one!


    Previously, Abbot David would use techniques to protect them, but after Gary spoke those words, what about karma, what about compassion? Those deceiving words couldn''t be paler.


    The space covered by golden scales visibly narrowed at a rapid pace, Abbot David''s speed increased, making it even harder for him to escape, and in the sky, Gary''s imposing pressure grew stronger.


    Having lived a privileged life for many years, Ethan had never encountered such a crisis.


    But at this moment, he laughed.


    He couldn''t help but think of the Blackwood descendants who, over these seven years, had fought desperately time and again, facing life and death crises.


    People as good as Nathan, who had set aside their compassion to fight.


    Amelia, risking being discovered, participated in this great battle. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia, outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, faced thousands of Psychics, unafraid of the dangers of thunder tribulation possibly falling.


    And now.


    It was time for him, the Forebearer, to fight desperately!


    A cold light flashed in his eyes, and in this space confined by golden scales, a hint of green appeared.


    "You think you''ve trapped me, but you''ve actually trapped yourselves!"


    ...


    "What the heck is that?!!"


    Abbot David, who had been sensing Ethan''s teleportation direction and was ready to attack, suddenly froze in his tracks.


    At that moment, Gary, who was manipulating the golden scales to compress space and was ready to unleash a powerful strike from above that could obliterate everything within a six-mile radius, also changed his expression.


    Ethan, who was in the midst of teleporting, had suddenly hoisted a massive object. NovelFire-unofficial-text


    It looked like a huge green pointed cylinder!


    "Boom!"


    Ethan''s body was ablaze with alchemical fire, quickly heating the object until it was glowing red.


    The three Competents simultaneously sensed that the seemingly ordinary object was bursting with tremendous energy!


    Without a second thought, they fled!


    "Both of you, run! That monster is carrying something too big, we can''t use our distance-nullifying techniques on it!" Donald shouted.


    Hearing this, Ethan squinted his eyes.


    They were right; carrying a missile, Ethan could only teleport a little over a mile.


    But...


    The often-overlooked Coffin of Death opened!


    Hands, like blooming flowers, extended from the opened coffin.


    Among them, six figures enveloped in demonic aura formed a flesh wall to block Abbot David''s path, but he easily shattered them into ash, although this also delayed him for at least 0.01 seconds!


    Then there was a mummy, its eyes blazing with black fire, blood flowing over its body.


    This was the Lord of Frenzied Blood, brought from the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm by the third generation of the Blackwoods. It had lost its mind, no different from a zombie. And Nathan was just the master of the Coffin of Death, the coffin''s corpse driver!


    The blood of those thirty-some Developing Skill Psychics was completely absorbed by the Coffin of Death, entering the body of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, allowing it to unleash the peak of Developing Skill psychic powers in that moment. It charged at Donald, who was attempting to retract his golden scales, and then...


    It exploded!


    The last one was Nathan; he grabbed the coffin lid and charged into the sky, directly facing Gary!


    Ethan even teleported to kick Nathan, giving him a boost!


    Bringing the Coffin of Death was always planned, and now, it was time to unleash its bizarre effects!


    Meanwhile, Ethan''s alchemical fire was burning, and a smile appeared on his lips.


    His body slowly faded from the spot.


    Today, he was emulating Zhuge Liang''s borrowing of the eastern wind!


    "Boom!"


    As the light flared up, the sky and earth changed colors, and everyone in Cloudview County saw a mushroom cloud rising in the direction of the Sky Sect.


    "Boom!"


    The ground trembled!


    On this day, everyone in Cloudview County was looking in terror towards the direction of the Sky Sect. Cloudview County had never seen such a bright day.


    In this snowy winter, a fireball hotter and brighter than the sun rose into the sky.


    They saw a wave of air sweeping around, followed by an even stronger surge spreading out.


    A mushroom cloud rose rapidly from the ground, then slowed down, covering the sky!


    "What is that... what is that?"


    On the streets of Cloudview County.


    Stephen, who had once left the Azure Cloud Pavilion, was levitating, calculating with his fingers. He looked down at the astonished people, then raised his head to look around. He could sense that at this moment, many masters, just like him, had risen into the air, looking towards where the Sky Sect was located.


    They must be guessing what happened at the Sky Sect, but they didn''t know that there was a family fighting with the Sky Sect, battling with masters coming from all directions of Cloudview County.


    A flicker of relief passed through his eyes, grateful that on the day the landscape of human heads and bodies was built, he had already left the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    That mushroom cloud signified.


    "The arrival of a new era."


    "Just wanting to pioneer an era is fraught with difficulties, just like thirteen thousand years ago when this land was destroyed and brought back to life by the Azure Cloud Pavilion."

 Chapter 155: Chapter 155: If only these were my disciples...

    [Hundred Tools Sect]


    The Hundred Tools Sect has allied with Blackwood, and together they''ve taken down Mystic Guild''s Scott, who soared into the sky. He looked at the mushroom cloud with a face full of joy.


    "Blackwood has gone to the Sky Sect, maybe they''ve already wiped them out, haha, I definitely made the right choice!"


    As soon as he finished speaking, a disciple said, "Elder, what if a Competent master gathers strength and wipes out Blackwood?"


    "Shut your trap, don''t mess with my focus! Blackwood is a worthy ally!"


    Scott gritted his teeth, glaring so fiercely that the disciple quickly lowered his head.


    [Azure Cloud Pavilion]


    Originally suppressed by Olivia to the point where they dared not move, the sect members all looked towards the direction of the Sky Sect. At this moment, the Developing Skill masters within their ranks gathered, revealing that there were actually over a dozen of them¡ªAzure Cloud Pavilion had always been hiding their true strength!


    Inside the grand hall of Azure Cloud Pavilion, the sect leader''s command had been set down, and Frank, preparing to flee back to his family to live out his days as an elder, furrowed his brows, "Azure Cloud Pavilion is done for. Thirteen thousand years, alas, who knows who the next Pavilion Master will be."


    He ran off without looking back, just like Stephen did.


    "Smart folks like Stephen have fled; who knows what will happen next. It''s too risky."


    "After I get back, I''ll immediately have my family sever all ties with Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    [Gratitude Village]


    "Grandpa Dennis, what''s happening over there?"


    Above the clouds, Nicholas pointed in the direction of the mushroom cloud rising from the Sky Sect, right after the earthquake, and Grandpa Dennis took him up to the sky to see.


    "Sky Sect?"


    Dennis stared in the direction of the Sky Sect for a long time, then suddenly burst into laughter, lifting Nicholas into his arms, "Hahaha, Nicholas, a new era for Cloudview County has begun, and this era belongs to Blackwood!"


    Yes.


    This era belongs to Blackwood!


    Inside the Sky Sect. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, all the disciples and the Supreme Elder are using their psychic powers to maintain the Sixth Grade Protective Formation, a formation that hasn''t been activated for thousands of years. It is now being assaulted by extreme high temperatures and powerful explosive shockwaves, melting and shattering!


    Even though measures were already in place to block the intense light and sound, some of the less skilled disciples still suffered, bleeding from all orifices in the moment of the explosion. They saw only a bright light; the world appeared pale, and the sonic boom left them unable to hear anything.


    Only the Warren Daoist and some D-level elders could keep their eyes open!


    As the huge green pointed cylinder exploded, transitioning from white light to firelight.


    He saw it.


    Ethan, holding the missile, was disintegrating, followed by the Blackwoods emerging from the Coffin of Direct Death... This explosion was a force capable of threatening the lives of Competent masters!


    "Is that a hidden weapon... or a one-time psychic equipment?"


    Warren Daoist swallowed hard, glancing at the Sixth Grade Formation of the sect being impacted, spiderweb-like cracks emerging.


    While using his psychic power to repair the formation, a smile appeared on Warren Daoist''s face.


    He was feeling fortunate!


    If he had really chosen to go against his conscience and stand with the disciples and the three Competents, he might have had to face all this!


    "After today, Azure Cloud Pavilion will become a thing of the past, Blackwood oh Blackwood, wanting to replace Azure Cloud Pavilion is not so easy."


    Warren Daoist murmured softly, then he looked at the sect that was now suspended in the air, and the mountain peak still crumbling and rolling down stones from about thirty feet high, as well as the sea of fire on the ground.


    "Blackwood... formidable."


    Warren Daoist sighed deeply, he saw it.


    In the sky above the sea of fire, the first coffin was still floating.


    On the ground, figures were soaring above the sea of fire!


    They were the Lord of Frenzied Blood, the third generation of Blackwoods, including Nathan. Their figures emerged from the dark, breaking through the sea of fire, entering Warren Daoist''s sight.


    "Men who cannot be killed."


    Warren Daoist exhaled deeply, having witnessed the bravery of these few Blackwoods during the explosion. With their flesh and blood, they desperately blocked the three Competents, but now, they reappeared in the world.


    They were not only unafraid of death, their cultivation in front of Competents was like ants, yet they were fearless, which is truly terrifying!


    Then.


    Above the clouds shrouded in white mist, one after another, Blackwoods appeared!


    The three-tailed fox demon Luna.


    Sword King Lucas, a giant red-crowned tree taller than today''s Sky Sect, a giant serpent wrapped around the trunk flashing with lightning.


    A woman entwined with vines standing on the branches, the Julian couple cuddling on a silver AI Bionic Robot, Olivia flying in the sky in a wheelchair...


    The first two generations of Blackwoods were not surprised by such a scene.


    They seemed to control everything.


    No.


    Not because of this confidence, but because of the Cards in their hands, the Cards that could make a mysterious person appear like fog.


    The scenes just now were vivid in their minds, the Yin-Yang fish diagram, teleportation, the five elements of heaven and earth... and that weapon that could destroy everything.


    Their confidence came from that Cards, and also from their most sincere belief!


    Following that.


    Information indicated that the fourth generation descendants of Blackwood were coming from all directions, compared to the composure of the Blackwood elders, the fourth generation was more excited, seemingly witnessing such mighty power for the first time!


    When the Daoist from the Nine Shadows first laid eyes on the young elites of Blackwood mentioned in the reports, a flicker of envy passed through his gaze.


    The Sky Sect had its share of promising youths, but compared to the Blackwood progeny, they seemed somewhat lacking. It wasn''t a matter of talent, but rather... their vision, their temperament! check-out-NovelFire


    These were merely Emerging Abilities, and yet a few among them possessed Iron Wills. Facing the current scene, they showed no fear whatsoever. In their eyes, there was only a murderous intent, as if facing a Competent was no big deal at all.


    This was a family that had tread a path stained with blood, built upon a foundation of corpses. Any one of them, placed in any other faction, could extend its influence for a hundred, even a thousand years!


    "If only these were my disciples..." the Nine Shadows Daoist murmured, then turned his head to glance at the panic-stricken disciples of the Sky Sect.


    Looking back at the protective great formation outside the sect, spared by the people of Blackwood, only to see Daoist Wesley, who had been left with only his upper body, dragging his intestines in front of the sect gate, he shook his head and sighed.

 Chapter 156: Chapter 156: Bloodstained Household!

    Surrounded by the Blackwood descendants, a card appeared beside each of them. Perhaps this was the source of their strength and courage. At that moment, Daoist Warren frowned.


    Nathan, bare-chested, emerged from a sea of flames and landed at the entrance of the Sky Sect. Luna quickly draped a robe over him.


    The Blackwood descendants gathered around the vast Sky Sect, ready to make their move. Nathan slung a silver coffin on his back and stepped towards the front of the Sky Sect.


    "Save me, master, save me..." Daoist Wesley was still crawling, but before he could finish, Nathan had already grabbed him by the hair, lifting him up as his intestines spilled out. In front of everyone''s eyes, Nathan extracted the soul of the wailing Daoist Wesley and threw it into a dark fire array at his feet.


    Nathan and his wife stood tall, looking up at Daoist Warren and the many elders of the Sky Sect floating above, and he smiled.


    "Nathan, along with the descendants of Blackwood, greets Elder Warren!"


    "All of Blackwood greets Elder Warren!"


    The members of Blackwood were polite, albeit slightly imposing.


    "Elder, this is not the place to talk outside the Sky Sect. Why not let us come in and discuss this with you?" Nathan proposed.


    Daoist Warren glanced at the cards floating beside the members of Blackwood, then at a little girl chained next to Olivia, suppressed by various symbols and psychic tools. That was Gary!


    When Ethan was trapped, Gary, who was gathering his strength, was blocked by Nathan with a coffin board. Now, Gary was severely injured and hanging by a thread.


    Daoist Warren exhaled deeply. He knew that since the weapon had exploded outside the Sky Sect, with three Competents escaping and one captured, the situation had changed.


    No power would want to provoke Blackwood lightly unless they were absolutely sure. Otherwise, these madmen would surely cause another disaster like the one they had caused today in Cloudview County.


    Perhaps the best choice for him now was to step out of the Sky Sect and kill the people of Blackwood, but...


    "Boom!"


    Thunder shook the heavens, and pressure descended. He glanced at Olivia, the wheelchair-bound Lord of Dawn, who was again invoking a heavenly wrath.


    Blackwood still had cards up their sleeve!


    This family was like an abyss; no one knew what terrifying things might emerge from this bottomless black hole.


    And such fear would spread throughout Cloudview County following today''s explosion outside the Sky Sect.


    What Azure Cloud Pavilion?


    It could no longer compare to the fear that Blackwood brought to the world.


    What Competent period?


    At least Daoist Warren did not want that powerful weapon, with its wide attack range, to fall on the head of the Sky Sect.


    "Please come in."


    Daoist Warren forced a smile, revealing an awkward grin. He had a feeling that if he dared to say no, the people of Blackwood would not hesitate to storm into his Sky Sect.


    Nathan, holding Luna''s hand tightly, walked into the Sky Sect.


    He swallowed hard as he looked at the disciples gathered from all directions, the many Developing Skills, and Daoist Warren, a Competent in front of them.


    He whispered to Luna, "Wife, Olivia told us to come and talk to Daoist Warren. If anything happens, you take the kids and run first. I''ll hold them off."


    Luna gripped his hand tighter, "Husband, we have to trust Olivia, and besides, Forebearer said it''s going to be alright. Don''t be scared, we have Forebearer."


    "Forebearer bless!"


    [Skill use complete!]


    [Congratulations! With your family''s cunning and brave coordination, you''ve annihilated over two million psychics from Cloudview County, killed 36 Developing Skill Psychics, and captured one Competent Psychic!]


    [You''ve obtained a plethora of spoils of war.]


    [7 complete Developing Skill Psychic bodies, 17 psychic devices. Various fragments of Developing Skill Psychics, +1 Competent thigh fragment, various fragments of psychic devices...]


    [Seeing the Forebearer valiantly struggle, your family members express their utmost respect, earning a Spiritual Tribute value of 20,000!]


    *Sigh*


    In the room, facing the screen, Ethan numbly manipulated the computer mouse until he saw Nathan enter the Sky Sect, which slightly eased his pale complexion.


    This was his second entry into the game world, and this time he died!


    Although it didn''t affect the real-world him, the instant pain and fear were still vivid in Ethan''s memory.


    "It''s no big deal, just died once."


    Ethan rubbed his face, watching the Blackwood descendants surrounding the Sky Sect on the screen, the still-rising mushroom cloud, and... Olivia controlling the little girl beside her.


    A smile finally appeared on his face, "I won!"


    He clearly saw the last scene of the missile explosion, which he ignited with a fire pill.


    He watched Abbot David struggle to escape, his muscles bulging impressively. The old monk, truly a Competent and a rare body cultivator, managed to punch Donald''s golden scale barrier while escaping, just as Ethan had predicted. The trap set by the three Competent ones ended up backfiring on them!


    That Donald, momentarily resisted by the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s self-destruction, his golden scales likely his life-bound psychic device. Abbot David''s punch also made Donald curse loudly.


    Eventually, Donald used a talisman to disappear from the spot.


    Not bad for a Competent expert, despite Ethan''s best efforts, he couldn''t keep the two of them.


    The only one left...


    Ethan glanced at the little girl controlled by Olivia.


    "Gary!"


    Ethan grinned, in that battle, Gary was undoubtedly the most unlucky.


    She was just giving up on charging up, right when she was hit by the backlash, Nathan''s coffin lid blocked her path momentarily, and she also endured the brunt of the nuclear strike!


    Clicking on Gary, Ethan saw her important information.


    [Gary]


    [Stage: Early Competent] read-only-on-NovelFire


    [Status: Severely injured, Competent greatly damaged, suppressed]


    "She''s still not dead, typical of a Competent."


    Ethan exhaled deeply, only then realizing how hard it is to kill a Competent. But now, with Gary''s recovery suppressed, she might as well be dead.


    If it weren''t for the family having a big use for her, she would have been burned as a Competent by now.


    Soon, a series of pop-ups appeared before Ethan, also signifying the victory of this battle!


    [Special Event¡ªThe family''s brave counterattack.]


    [Your family has lain low for seven years, slaughtering those opposing the Blackwoods, killing over two million, suppressing Azure Cloud Pavilion, setting traps outside Sky Sect to annihilate thirty-two Developing Skill experts, repelling two, and capturing one Competent expert.] sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Congratulations, your family has established a formidable reputation in Cloudview County, the trait ''Doomed Household'' has evolved into¡ªBloodstained Household!]


    [People across Cloudview County saw the rising mushroom clouds, news of Blackwood''s great victory spread, instilling fear in the hearts of Cloudview County''s people. Original amplification changed, family members gain +20% intimidation, -50% popularity, +8% desperate fighting strength.]


    "..."

 Chapter 157: Chapter 157: Thunderfire Raging Python

    Ethan was momentarily stunned. The Blackwood family''s popularity had shot up from -99%, making them public enemy number one, to 50%. This meant that even though they had captured Competent, they still had plenty of enemies in Cloudview County.


    "They might fear Blackwood''s might, but that doesn''t stop them from playing both sides," he mused.


    "That means Blackwood is still in deep water, and we''re out of missiles. Even if we had any left, Competent wouldn''t fall for the same trick again," Ethan frowned.


    Soon, another pop-up appeared.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Sacrifice of the Boar Monarch Pete, Completed!]


    [Group Trait ''Year of the Crimson Snow'' has evolved into¡ª''Year of Bloodstained Snow''!]


    [Your descendants will forever remember the ''Year of the Crimson Snow'', boosting their psychic power cultivation speed by 5%. As long as they are on the lands of Cloudview County, they will honor the family''s valor today, and the Spiritual Tribute value during worship increases by 20%.]


    [You''ve earned +20000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    A smile crept across Ethan''s face.


    He had figured it out; each Iron Will descendant of the family contributed about 300 points of Spiritual Tribute annually. During the Emerging Ability phase, it was about 1000 points, and at D-level, around 3000 points.


    Using all the accumulated Spiritual Tribute for cultivating psychic powers, plus the rewards from entering the game world, meant that only the awarded Spiritual Tribute remained.


    An increase in Spiritual Tribute was a significant boon for him.


    Meanwhile, Ethan glanced at the Blackwood descendants surrounding the Sky Sect.


    After their continuous revenge, they had lost the initial anger and resentment.


    After a bout of loud crying, they had come to terms with their emotions.


    The emergence of the ''Year of Bloodstained Snow'' trait also meant they had moved on from the grief of the Boar Monarch Pete''s death. Hatred can drive a person''s growth, but continuous, unending hatred only leads to madness.


    The past is gone with the wind, and with their enemy dead, Blackwood would proceed with respect for the old pig on their future path.


    Just as Ethan felt reassured by this,


    A sudden pop-up appeared.


    [Your descendant Nathan and the Daoist of the Warren are getting along famously, and the feud between Blackwood and Sky Sect has dissolved. At Luna''s friendly suggestion, the Daoist of the Warren happily decides that once Marcus emerges from seclusion, he can inherit the position of Sect Master!]


    [Your descendant Marcus, after many years in hiding within the Sky Sect, aspires to climb to the highest ranks. Unbeknownst to him, with the family''s help, he has acquired a new identity¡ªSect Master of the Sky Sect!] S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ah?" Ethan blinked, clicking on Nathan''s icon.


    Indeed, inside the Sky Sect, Nathan and his wife were laughing and chatting with the Daoist of the Warren, who easily agreed to hand over the position of Sect Master to Marcus, still in seclusion.


    Ethan had no idea what Marcus would feel when he came out of seclusion.


    Soon, the Daoist of the Warren escorted Nathan and his wife out of the sect.


    As they passed outside the grand hall, the trio stopped in their tracks.


    Two bloody figures caught their eye.


    It was Elizabeth and Felix, pursued by Blackwood.


    But now...


    Elizabeth had completely lost her mind, tearing into Felix''s flesh bite by bite, laughing foolishly as she did, "Eating you, eating you will bring back my child!"


    "Coward! I can''t believe I was such a fool for you!"


    "Ha ha ha, Felix, we''re going to have another child."


    Luna was about to pull Nathan away, intending to let the crazed Elizabeth continue her painful existence.


    However, Nathan shook his head, decisively beheaded her and Felix, and placed their heads back into the Storage Ring, sighing deeply.


    "Let it be, she was just being used. Let her enter the cycle of reincarnation early."


    The Warren Daoist looked at Nathan appreciatively. From the intelligence he had gathered, all he knew were the brutal deeds of the Blackwood people.


    Yet, after talking with Nathan, he could see that this head of the Blackwood family was fundamentally a man of deep loyalty and good intentions.


    experience-NovelFire-content


    He pondered for a moment and asked, "Head of the Blackwood family, what about Wesley..."


    "He''s dead," Nathan replied, slightly squinting his eyes as he told a lie. Only he knew that Wesley Daoist''s soul, thrown into the formation by him, would never enter the cycle of reincarnation. For the past seven years, the souls of the deceased in Cloudview County had been tormenting Wesley Daoist''s soul incessantly!


    "That''s good, that''s good," sighed the Warren Daoist.


    After Nathan and his wife left the Sky Sect, the Blackwood folks no longer lingered. They gathered together, bowing before Ethan''s Cards.


    Watching the screen as successive words of praise from his descendants appeared, Ethan stood tall and proud. His descendants were also filled with pride.


    They vividly remembered how perilous the past seven years had been in Cloudview County, with the entire county hunting them down, always on alert.


    Now, thirty percent of the top fighters outside the Sky Sect had been killed, two Competents had fled with serious injuries, and one Competent had been captured.


    From now on, anyone in Cloudview County thinking of targeting the Blackwoods would have to consider whether they had the strength to do so!


    Those forces that had once pursued the Blackwoods would now live in the shadow of the Blackwoods, constantly vigilant about when the Blackwoods might strike.


    Even Ethan could guess that by now, quite a few forces were probably fleeing Cloudview County, taking their families and leaving their homes, or seeking protection from more powerful forces.


    "Forebearer, I believe it''s not yet time to return to our family base," Olivia''s words appeared above the heads of the clan members, standing out amidst the words of praise.


    The Blackwood people suddenly fell silent, all eyes turning to Olivia, whose behind-the-scenes help had kept the family safe over these seven years.


    Ethan clicked on the top-left corner icon of the temple guardian beast.


    [Thunderfire Raging Python]


    [Please enter your message.]


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Purple Thunder Solar Python had already completed its transformation.


    In this operation, it was also because of the presence of the demon king, the Thunderfire Raging Python, that Blackwood easily broke through a Developing Skill force''s protective great formation.


    As Ethan typed, the deep voice of the Thunderfire Raging Python sounded, "Commander, let''s hear your thoughts."


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Olivia nodded slightly, "Forebearer, you''ve severely injured Abbot David and Donald, and they will not let this go! There are known to be twelve Competent masters in Cloudview County. If we return to our base, they will have an opportunity to strike."


    Hearing this, Ethan nodded slightly, and the Blackwood clan members all frowned, clearly aware that this great battle had not truly allowed Blackwood to rest easy.


    He typed, letting Olivia continue speaking.

 Chapter 158: Chapter 158: Williams Offering

    Olivia said, "We need to spread out. Only by taking control of the entire Cloudview County can we truly be safe. Now that Marcus is about to emerge from his seclusion, he''ll be the head of the Sky Sect. With Daniel''s help, it''s time for my sister to slowly take control of the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Subduing Alliance."


    "Our parents are still turning many bodies into zombies, especially the bodies of competent fighters like Gary, which can become our family''s trump card. The blood of many masters can slowly revive the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and our family''s sacred tree can grow stronger."


    "We also have many friends, like the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and the Hundred Tools Sect, along with many families from the Forest... What we need to do now is wait and gather more and more strength, and then..."


    "Make ourselves invincible throughout Cloudview County!"


    This time, even Nathan didn''t object, and a glint of longing flashed in the eyes of the Blackwood clan members.


    After years of drifting, they all waited to return home. Olivia was right; the only way home was to carve a bloody path!


    "The Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will help us manage our family affairs. Our family''s fifth-generation descendant, Nicholas, is already eight years old. We''ll have someone send the child back to our family''s residence."


    "We can slowly gather resources. As long as we don''t show ourselves, no one dares to touch the younger members of the Blackwood family."


    It was all Olivia.


    Ethan couldn''t help but smile affectionately at Olivia, who looked like an old lady. With her around, Ethan always felt at ease, and his mind seemed less burdened.


    Olivia continued to make arrangements for the younger Blackwoods.


    "Jessica, you are the eighth lady of the Jones family in Cloudview County. You''ve done well in the Jones family over the years. Next, you need to help your husband ascend to the position of family head."


    "Larry, you control the exotic beasts in the Swamp Forest. I hear there are two demon kings dividing the territory there. Take them down, and the Swamp Forest will become a power base for our family."


    "Justin, I know you like seeking thrills. Go to the Black Tortoise Gate as a member of the Blackwood family, defeat all the geniuses there, and ask the Black Tortoise Gate to take you as a direct disciple."


    Listening to their great-aunt assign tasks one by one, George quietly stepped back, turned around, and sneakily prepared to slip away.


    "Where are you going?"


    Olivia called George back and whispered something in his ear.


    Soon.


    The Blackwoods again bowed to Ethan''s Cards, each taking one, and scattered into the sky, leaving only the Sky Sect still rising and spreading smoke around.


    One could imagine that for a long time to come, the Sky Sect would be radiating...


    Stepping outside would require the protection of psychic powers.


    William looked bewildered as his relatives decisively left, only the table where the Cards had just been placed indicating the traces left by his family.


    "Hey, great-aunt! You haven''t assigned me a task yet. I can do anything, really! I could even be a pretty boy like Jeffrey!"


    No response, and the cards weren''t flashy either. Suddenly, a noise from behind startled William, and two daggers shot out from his sleeves as he swiftly turned to face the rear.


    His daggers were quickly caught between fingers. Seeing who had made the noise, William froze, "Drunken Fool? What happened to you?"


    Over the years, while on his killing sprees, William had occasionally encountered Drunken Fool, the old drunkard who always wanted to learn a few of his lethal techniques.


    Now, Drunken Fool looked a bit shabby, his clothes torn and ragged, holding a bowl and chopsticks, with both shoes split at the middle of the foot, limping and blood-stained.


    Drunken Fool remained silent for a moment, unable to say that he had been injured by the residual effects of a mysterious weapon used by someone from Blackwood, almost killed in the chaos by Abbot David who was fleeing.


    In the distance. Your source is mvl|em|pyr.


    George walked slowly forward, head down and dejected, with twenty-three old men, moaning like a widow, "Ah! I wanted to go tomb raiding, to play the piano in the legendary brothels, not to go to Azure Cloud Pavilion!"


    Perhaps because he had always taken care of his younger siblings, he too wanted to experience what freedom felt like, but his great-aunt had bluntly shattered his dreams.


    The twenty-three old men were still laughing.


    "George, your great-aunt is a bit hot-tempered, but she''s really sharp-eyed."


    "Ha ha ha, she wants to make you the master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, our future is secured!"


    "I always thought Blackwood was reasonable, I was really worried they''d ruin Azure Cloud Pavilion, but your great-aunt is actually quite nice." S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The twenty-three old men chattered away, while George was speechless and choked up.


    How could they know what those outside really thought of his great-aunt?


    He had wanted to refuse, to wander the world like his great-grandfather, living freely. But his great-aunt had quietly told him, if he didn''t want to, then she would take all twenty-three of his old men to replenish the souls in the ancestral tomb...


    "Do we really have to leave our hometown behind?" Ethan sighed deeply. Indeed, their recent rampage in Cloudview County had shocked the world, but the county itself was fraught with danger.


    In the past, his family fought for revenge, but now, they were battling for the allure of returning home.


    Ethan also saw that the fourth generation of Blackwoods, at the time of separation, each returned to their family''s base, kneeling before the tomb of the demon king in the back mountains, recounting their stories over the years, and then departing one by one.


    It was clear that as their enemies were vanquished, they also let go of the hatred in their hearts.


    Ethan was relieved by this.


    As the Forebearer, he hoped each of his descendants could live happily. If it weren''t absolutely necessary, no one enjoyed fighting and killing, after all, his descendants were all good, kind people...


    [Special Event¡ªWilliam''s Offering]


    [Your descendant William, not sensing your presence, thinks it''s because he hasn''t killed enough people recently, disappointing the Forebearer. He decides to take Drunken Fool to Emerald Phoenix Peak, watering the Cards daily with the blood of his enemies to win your favor.]


    "You really have to pull this weird special event while I''m getting sentimental, huh?" Ethan grimaced, promptly switching his computer screen back to the Blackwood residence.

 Chapter 159: Chapter 159: Greenhouse Flower

    [Blackwood Residence]


    "Not bad."


    Ethan''s mood finally eased as he observed the development of Blackwood. Over the years, the residence had not slowed down in progress despite Blackwood''s absence.


    Gratitude Village still formed a semicircle, neatly encircling the residence together with the Silver Iron Forest.


    mv,le mpyr com story


    Now, the area was filled with fields of special abilities. Over the years, Blackwood had provided Dennis with numerous Energy Stones.


    Dennis, a man of his word, had used all these stones to procure various items for Blackwood.


    The entire residence was brimming with powerful abilities.


    At this moment, Dennis was standing in the center of the courtyard, accompanied by the six children of Blackwood''s fifth generation.


    The Primordial Blood Tree had returned to the Blackwood Residence overnight!


    [The Primordial Blood Tree, nostalgic, had refused Amelia''s daily offer of ten corpses for tasting at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, requesting Nathan to send it back to the family residence. Overnight, its roots had spread ten miles beneath the family''s land.]


    "Grandpa Dennis, come look! I peed here yesterday, and today a huge tree has grown!"


    "..."


    Dennis was very familiar with this tree!


    He had seen it during his first visit to Blackwood, back when it was a blood ability fruit tree. Now... he had heard rumors that at least a million lives lay beneath its roots.


    Everything was unfolding just as he had predicted years ago; the tree could reach at least the sixth rank, but he hadn''t expected it to happen so quickly.


    While Nicholas was delighted that his urine had sprouted a towering tree, Dennis was deep in thought.


    The tree swayed, and the Primordial Blood Tree revealed an ancient face with crimson eyes!


    "Ah! A monster!"


    Nicholas clung tightly to Dennis''s leg in fright.


    "Family''s fifth generation child, Nicholas."


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s eyes flashed with blood, and it sighed, "I see, you are a coward. Perhaps sending you to the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion was a mistake. Overprotection will only lead to your downfall. However, you will be a kind family head."


    "Nicholas is not a coward, not!"


    The frightened child, with tears in his eyes, looked defiant.


    This made Dennis furrow his brow, "Divine Tree, what do you mean by that? I, Dennis, assure you, Nicholas has grown up listening to the stories of his elders. He will not disgrace Blackwood!"


    The Primordial Blood Tree paid no heed.


    It turned its gaze to the other somewhat fearful children.


    "Matthew, you grew up in Moore, and you are Moore''s future. One day, you will return there."


    "Donna, the Fist of the Hundred sect has made your life miserable from the start. I only see your future."


    As the Primordial Blood Tree''s eyes fixed on Dennis while addressing the girl among Blackwood''s six children, it said, "Tell your story to this friend, he will take you back to the Fist of the Hundred sect, where justice will be served."


    As the girl with braided hair recounted her story of being tormented at the Fist of the Hundred sect, being pricked with needles by her nursemaid and called a ''Blackwood bastard'' daily,


    Dennis calculated quickly, then picked up Donna, "Don''t be afraid, you''re not some bastard. Your Grandpa Dennis will take care of the Fist of the Hundred sect for you."


    Little Donna pursed her lips, not understanding what ''taking care of'' meant, only knowing it was something bad. She shook her head, "No, Grandpa, the sect leader is kind to me, it''s just the nursemaid..."


    Dennis listened quietly.


    With his calculations, he had figured out the misunderstanding. Donna''s nursemaid, misled to believe Donna was the illegitimate daughter of the sect leader of Baiquan, acted under the sect leader''s wife''s orders, harboring malice and even nearly drowning her. Young Donna dared not speak to outsiders about it.


    He took a deep breath before leaving with Donna, frowning at the Primordial Blood Tree, "Divine Tree, you can predict the future, can you see through me?"


    A cool breeze blew.


    The Primordial Blood Tree stared at Dennis''s aged face and white hair, pausing long before uttering two words, "Ten years."


    "Thank you."


    Dennis, relieved, laughed heartily as he carried Donna away, softly saying to the frightened girl, "Child, Grandpa Dennis will take you to seek revenge."


    Primordial Blood Tree then turned its gaze to the remaining three children.


    "Edward, the eldest son of the fifth generation, you will not sit on the throne of this family, but I see you ascending to a lofty throne."


    "A throne?"


    Edward, a twelve-year-old boy with an ordinary appearance, fell into deep thought. "Divine Tree, I''ve heard your stories, but I do not wish to ascend to any throne. I want to be like the Sword King, my great-grandfather, and conquer with my sword."


    The Primordial Blood Tree paid no heed to the boy''s dreams. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Charles, Christopher, you siblings returned from the temple, now ten years old. Years of burning incense and worshiping Buddha have not diminished your Buddhist nature. You should head to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, start your journey today."


    "Amitabha."


    A little monk and a little nun.


    Watching the two set off on their own, Ethan clicked his mouse. Initially, Blackwood had sent them to the temple because they were facing the entire Forest Town, and he hadn''t expected them to turn out as Buddhist disciples.


    However, the Primordial Blood Tree, not only capable of omens, had always provided favorable prophecies for the Blackwood children.


    Of this fifth generation''s six,Only Nicholas and Donna had distinctive traits, and neither were particularly favorable.


    [Your descendant Nicholas has been pampered at the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion for seven years, receiving a child bride ''Helen'' and reaching the second layer of Foundational Energy. Dennis, alone for three hundred years, has doted excessively on little Nicholas, who grew up spoiled and acquired the trait¡ªGreenhouse Flower.]


    [His starting point is high, yet he is sensitive and fragile, unable to withstand the trials of life. The opportunities gifted by his elders significantly increase, but his speed in cultivating psychic powers decreases by 10%.]

 Chapter 160: Chapter 160: The Great Sect War has ended!

    [Your descendant Donna, despite being tormented from a young age, still diligently cultivates psychic powers at the Fist of the Hundred Sect, enduring silently and striving for progress. At just 9 years old, she has already reached the third layer of Foundational Energy. She has acquired the trait¡ªStriving Victim.]


    [Years of torment have made her more self-conscious and fearful of others'' bullying. She hesitates in everything she does. Her speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%, but her combat power decreases by 10%.]


    "Eh."


    Ethan sighed deeply, recognizing how crucial a child''s upbringing is. If Boar Monarch Pete were still around, perhaps the Blackwood elders could have raised them better.


    Join us at m|v|le|mp|y|r now.


    One child had it too easy, the other too harsh; both ended up with their issues. Ethan could only hope that the future would bring changes. Nicholas wasn''t much of a concern; worst case, he could be sent to the Thunderfire Demon Cave or Dawn to experience real life.


    But Donna, this child had been tormented for years, yet when Dennis wanted to seek revenge, she still spoke in favor of the Fist of the Hundred Sect, showing her inherently good nature.


    Glancing once more at the well-developed residence,


    Ethan sped up time.


    Soon, spring turned to autumn.


    [Blackwood Year 92]


    [Special Event¡ªThe Great Sect War has ended!]


    [The leader of Sky Sect, Wesley Daoist, has passed away. Black Tortoise''s elder, Leo, along with the sect leader Turtle Daoist, paid their respects together. The two thousand-year-old elders had a grand drink, and years of enmity between the two sects dissolved into nothing.]


    After watching the screen for two hours,The entire Cloudview County, after the chaos caused by Blackwood two years ago, miraculously calmed down.


    Apart from the nuclear radiation that filled Sky Sect, it was as if nothing had happened. All sects and clans had withdrawn their bounties on the Blackwoods.


    Two years had passed, and the Blackwoods were no longer pursued, even... the two great sects that had fought for decades were now showing mutual respect.


    The days when Blackwood built landscapes of human corpses, when Blackwood fiercely cut down twelve forces, and when they fought the top masters of Sky Sect in the great battle of Cloudview County, became the least spoken of by the people of Cloudview County.


    With Dennis''s help, the descendants of the fifth generation of Blackwoods were slowly growing up. The elders who were scattered abroad occasionally sent back treasures, rapidly developing the family''s residence.


    World peace?


    No!


    Ethan''s fingers tapped continuously beside the bed, and on the screen, a new message appeared.


    [Your descendant Daniel, in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, has once again taken control of a faction of the Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors, the strongest being at the peak of Emerging Ability. Your family now controls twelve factions of the Celestial Warriors. Daniel joyfully sends you this message, slowly growing fond of the feeling of power, hoping for your blessing for smooth sailing.]


    [Your descendant Larry, in the swamp jungle, has once again acquired a mutant beast ''Ancient Giant Chicken''. The two demon kings occupying the swamp are becoming increasingly wary of her. She decides to leave the swamp jungle with her mutant beast and head to the Golden Battle Forest. On the way, her mount finds an Orion fruit, and she breaks through to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability!]


    [Your descendant Justin, standing on the platform of the Black Tortoise''s decennial competition, looks at the 49-year-old youth at the peak of Emerging Ability on the stage, then at his own near mid-stage Emerging Ability strength, feeling he hasn''t courted death enough. He decides to bide his time, court death for another ten years, and then explode across the entire Black Tortoise.


    He acquires the trait¡ªNever Say Die.]


    [He begins to obsess over the thrill of near-death experiences, slightly increasing his chances during such moments.]


    [...]


    All the descendants of Blackwood are well aware that although things seem calm, there are dangerous undercurrents brewing!


    He slowly opened the large map of Cloudview County.


    Most of it... was marked with hostile red dots!


    [Your descendants swear to you that one day, they will return to their homeland in broad daylight!]


    The calmer it is, the more terrifying it becomes.


    Ethan doesn''t believe that the entirety of Cloudview County has truly accepted the presence of Blackwood, even if they were to target Blackwood to curb its growth, Ethan wouldn''t be so worried, because that would be normal.


    He even asked the Primordial Blood Tree, but the Primordial Blood Tree said that it wasn''t really that powerful; it was just at a breakthrough moment, able to see more of the future.


    The more he thought about it, the more vigilant Ethan felt.


    Especially those little red dots on the map, they were so striking.


    He wished he could turn all these red dots green, or white.


    Just as he was pondering this.


    A pop-up from Olivia appeared.


    [Your descendant Olivia requests a consultation with you, Thunderfire Raging Python.]


    Ethan felt inexplicably reassured and clicked on Olivia''s avatar.


    Nowadays, Olivia was in the Divine Mountain, leisurely observing the mountains, rivers, and lakes. In just two short years, she seemed a bit younger, while others aged, Olivia was aging in reverse.


    Her organization, Dawn, spread throughout Cloudview County, could relay messages for the family, and Thunderfire Raging Python stayed by her side.


    A burst of ancestral love came to Olivia.


    Forebearer Cards surfaced, and Olivia knew the Forebearer had shown his powers.


    Olivia quickly knelt, "Child disturbs Forebearer, please forgive me."


    As Ethan typed the text for Olivia to discuss matters, Thunderfire Raging Python''s voice was deep and resonant, making Ethan miss the times when this big beast hissed, making him feel less like Voldemort now.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    Olivia''s aged face showed a hint of suspicion, "Forebearer, these past two years have been too quiet. Child can faintly feel that the two Competents who escaped two years ago will not just let things be. Child sent people to check, and their families are as usual, as if the Competent ancestor had never appeared outside the Sky Sect, nor ever failed."


    "They haven''t left, haven''t formed alliances, they know our family can''t tolerate sand in our eyes, there should still be actions."


    Thinking along the same lines!


    Ethan took a deep breath, if it were just him, he might think he was being a bit paranoid. But Ethan, he absolutely trusts Olivia''s intuition!


    "Everyone says it''s the era of my Blackwood, but Forebearer, child does not wish it so. The tree that stands out in the forest is the first to be destroyed, those people will think, why could Blackwood rise in a century? Without some earth-shattering secret, how could it be?"


    "Just so, our Blackwood does have many secrets."


    Ethan nodded slightly.


    Olivia was right, the secrets of Blackwood weren''t just him.


    There were also the Direct Death Coffin, Lord of Frenzied Blood, Primordial Blood Tree... any of which were coveted. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now some secrets were already in front of others, Blackwood was like a big piece of fat meat, countless families wanted to slowly uncover the secrets of Blackwood, to devour Blackwood.


    "Child believes, they are lying in wait, waiting for a chance to strike a fatal blow to my Blackwood!"


    This time, Ethan and Olivia talked for a very long time.


    But now the problem is, Blackwood is now in the shadows, with major forces led by Donald, Abbot David, also in the shadows!


    Even though they tricked them once at Sky Sect, Ethan still dared not relax at all.


    In fact, they are very frightening.


    Frightening enough to flee at the slightest hint of something wrong, to kill those Developing Skills without hesitation, and to abandon Gary without hesitation.


    That day, Dawn''s assassins conveyed messages to the descendants of Blackwood throughout Cloudview County, without exception, all to keep the descendants of Blackwood vigilant.


    Ethan could feel it.


    In the bright appearance of Blackwood today, there were still dark clouds.


    The war is far from over, only this time, the enemies of Blackwood are fewer, and this time, it''s the peak struggle of Azure Cloud!


    At the end of the conversation, Ethan and Olivia both laughed.


    Hasn''t the family always struggled up this way over the past century?


    Only this time, the enemy is stronger, more troublesome.

 Chapter 161: Chapter 161: Greetings, Commander!

    After discussing with Olivia, Ethan also set the future policy. They knew a confrontation was inevitable! And what better place for this showdown than at the Blackwood stronghold.


    Ethan was well aware that places like the Sky Sect could partially neutralize the impact of a nuclear bomb with their sixth-grade magic formations. Inside their sect, there were also formidable attack formations.


    According to the Warren Daoist, in the whole of Cloudview County, the Black Tortoise''s defensive formation was the strongest, having once withstood the full force of a Competent master''s three-month buildup... its power was comparable to the nuclear bombs Ethan had.


    After some thought, Ethan made a call, "Hey, Alan? I need more nukes."


    There was a long pause, and it seemed like the news was turned on at the other end, and an AI voice chimed in.


    [Commander, there have been no nuclear explosions on Earth these past few days, just an antimatter bomb with a 0.5 gram yield deployed at sea.]


    "..."


    Ethan''s face darkened.


    Then came Alan''s laughter.


    "Ahaha, Mr. Ethan, look at this, I''ve become the old uncle selling nukes. Let me think of a way for you; there are only so many people who can handle this stuff now, gotta look around."


    "Thanks."


    Ethan was polite, "By the way, I just heard about the antimatter bomb..."


    "..."


    When Alan hung up, Ethan thought he heard Alan cursing at the AI.


    With Alan''s help, Ethan breathed a sigh of relief. The current strength of Blackwood was still lacking, and nuclear bombs were crucial, but if they could get an antimatter bomb, that would be even better.


    Just after hanging up, Ethan saw a pop-up notification and quickly adjusted the time rate. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendant Nathan heard that the family needed a formation master to inscribe formations, so he returned, bringing with him 18 loyal Psychics from places like Dawn, Thunderfire Demon Cave, Sky Sect, and the Demon Subduing Alliance, including two eighth-grade and sixteen ninth-grade formation masters!]


    To avoid drawing attention, Nathan had returned secretly.


    Soon, Nathan met with Dennis. Because Charles and Christopher were at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, only four of the fifth generation children were present. Nathan gave each of them a piece of psychic equipment. These children, having grown up listening to the stories of the Blackwood elders, saw their great-grandfather as if he were a deity.


    "Mr. Nathan, I''ve long heard of the great deeds you''ve accomplished outside, hahaha, truly heartening!" Dennis had already sighed with emotion, remembering when he first came to Blackwood with the intention of bringing it down.


    But now, Blackwood was beyond reach.


    "Mr. Dennis is too kind. It was a necessity, and even now, we are still hiding like rats in the streets," Nathan shook his head and smiled, then gratefully said, "Let''s not talk about that. I owe a lot to Mr. Dennis over the years, and I''ve thanked him on behalf of the children."


    He stood up and bowed to Dennis.


    "No, no, no!" Dennis quickly helped Nathan up, "Honestly, I helped Blackwood with my own agenda, it was a big gamble, and winning it meant that my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion could soar to the heavens."


    That was indeed the truth, Nathan laughed, "Regardless, Mr. Dennis has been a great benefactor to Blackwood. I hear Mr. Dennis has encountered some trouble."


    "What trouble could I possibly have?"


    Dennis''s eyes darted around.


    "Your lifespan, Mr. Dennis. The technique you practice predicts life expectancy, and now you have only eight years left."


    Seeing Dennis''s bitter smile, Nathan continued, "Mr. Dennis, rest assured, we Blackwood folks are not ungrateful. Over the years, we''ve indeed found some heavenly treasures. These three items can extend your life by twelve years."


    Two pills and a fruit appeared in Nathan''s hand, but Dennis still smiled bitterly, "Thank you, Mr. Nathan, but there''s no need. I recently met Stephen, the former head of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and he told me my life was short, just like the divine tree of Blackwood. It''s fate, and fate cannot be defied."


    "This..."


    Nathan was taken aback, encountering these psychics who all seemed to believe in destiny.


    "Let''s not talk about that," Dennis said with a smile. "Mr. Nathan, how long do you plan to stay this time?"


    "It''s uncertain. My wife has left me, and I might as well go home to cultivate psychic powers and look after the family."


    "Huh?"


    Dennis''s eyes widened in surprise. "Mr. Nathan, please tell me more."


    Seeing Dennis''s eager eyes, Nathan casually said, "At my age, what are you expecting? My wife found a secret spot, perfect for cultivating psychic powers."


    "I see."


    Dennis nodded slightly.


    Unbeknownst to them, Ethan in front of the screen had already started frantically searching the family event tab, worried about any issues that might arise with Nathan, this year''s best couple.


    [Family Power Dawn has found a secret realm of the Heavenly Fox! Inside, there are demonic clan heritage techniques. Luna has gone to cultivate psychic powers, hoping to break through to the peak of the demon king realm!]


    "That scared me."


    Ethan rolled his eyes and quickly sped up time.


    Nathan returned to the Ironwood Forest as usual.


    But with all the beasts of the Ironwood Forest now following the man known as the Beast King Larry on adventures, the place had been renamed.


    [Blackwood Secret Realm]


    Upon arrival, Nathan found a cool spot and lay down in a coffin, covering it...


    In an instant.


    Ethan followed the scene into the space of the Death Coffin.


    This space was different from what Ethan had seen before!


    The first two layers of the Death Coffin were filled with countless zombies and flying corpses, at the levels of Foundational Energy and Emerging Ability. The third layer was a vast expanse of white.


    [Third Layer of the Death Coffin]


    [Every kilometer forward, there is a dense psychic pressure, and at the end, the pressure reaches Competent.]


    Enjoy tales on m-vle-mp _yr.


    The first two layers were for cultivating combat experience, and the third layer was for psychic abilities!


    Seeing the scene inside, a smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    Inside, there was the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and... 12 corpses, all of whom had been at least at the Developing Skill level in life.


    And what delighted Ethan was seeing an old friend¡ª


    Gary!

 Chapter 162: Chapter 162: Who is Betty Martin?

    As Nathan entered, Gary, still in his original for, opened his blood-red eyes and knelt on one knee, speaking human language.


    "Greetings, Commander!"


    "Truly a legacy left by the Supreme era!"


    Once high and mighty, attempting to annihilate the Blackwoods, Gary became a zombie!


    [Your descendant Nathan has been collecting the corpses of enemies for years, now refining them through ''Celestial Coffin Corpse Driving Technique'' and ''Soul-Calling Calamity Formation''.]


    [He has taken control of Gary''s zombie. After capturing both his soul and body, Gary is left with only the strength of a D-level body. Zombie King achieved!]


    [Through the ''Celestial Coffin Corpse Driving Technique'', your descendant Nathan is working to make Gary even stronger. Using Tribute Offering, hearts of the deceased x1 million, Psychic skeletons x200,000, souls of the Psychic...]


    Zombie King is a Developing Skill, while Celestial Zombie is Competent!


    Nathan has always only refined zombies and flying zombies, as refining higher-level Zombie Kings or Celestial Zombies requires various materials and extremely intricate methods.


    After two years of refining, today''s Gary has finally gained a nascent intelligence, serving the Blackwoods!


    "Another ace up our sleeve."


    Ethan could hardly suppress his laughter, feeling immensely moved by the terrifying legacy of the ''Death Celestial Coffin'' after Nathan took control of Gary.


    He could already sense that if the zombies from the ''Death Celestial Coffin'' and the souls collected over the years were to appear in the world, the enemies of the Blackwoods would hardly sleep well.


    As Nathan continues to refine zombies and spirits, his supernatural abilities are also growing day by day. It won''t be many years before he breaks through the mid-stage of Developing Skill.


    ...


    Delighted about Gary being controlled, Ethan blinked.


    "What''s going on?"


    Suddenly, a pop-up appeared on the screen.


    [Congratulations, Betty Martin has given birth to a son for the Blackwoods, he has not yet been named by the family elders, please bring the child to the ancestral hall to name him soon.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +3]


    "Which little rascal secretly had a child without telling me???"


    Ethan scratched his head frantically. Over the years, the Blackwood descendants have been busy growing and strengthening, and even the most charming Jeffrey, despite his flirtations, was always discreet, using fish bladders... It''s been a long time since anyone in the family got married, so where did this child come from?


    And who is Betty Martin???


    Ethan didn''t know whether to be happy about the birth of the newborn or angry about it.


    He searched the entire family residence, clicking on the profiles of Blackwood members, but couldn''t see anyone around. Since the guy didn''t even have a name, he couldn''t even search the member list, and Betty, who wasn''t married, was unclickable!


    "Ah? Where did this child come from?"


    This completely baffled Ethan.


    That day, the adult descendants of the Blackwoods scattered across Cloudview County all looked up, bewildered as Forebearer Cards floated by, tracing a question through the air. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Do you know Betty Martin?]


    [Have you had a baby recently?]


    Luna was so scared she almost came out of the Sky Fox Secret Realm to ask Nathan for clarity. Julian, who was forging in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, frantically explained to Mary.


    It took half a month before Olivia''s message arrived, her intelligence network in full operation.


    "Forebearer, there aren''t many people with the surname Martin in Cloudview County."


    Olivia rarely showed difficulty, "I don''t know how Edward got involved with such a dignitary."


    As Olivia elaborated in detail.


    A pop-up appeared on the screen.


    [Special Event¡ªDescendant Stranded Abroad]


    [In the year 91 of Blackwood, your descendant Edward, aged 13, while purchasing goods for Gratitude Village at an auction in Tranquil County, meets Betty, the young princess of the Duke''s Mansion''s estate. Edward, carrying the air of a wanderer and looking up to Lucas as his role model, though ordinary in appearance, is greatly favored by Betty.]


    [Betty, aged 15, is in the bloom of youth when she bids farewell to Edward the night before returning to the lord''s estate. That night, in the inn, the candlelight flickers behind thin curtains, and shadows dance behind beaded screens. The sounds of nightingales fill the room, and the shy moon hides behind clouds.


    After this night, the young lovers part ways, with Betty returning to the lord''s estate with her guard, promising to be together when they grow older.]


    [In the year 92 of Blackwood, no one knows that Betty has given birth to a son. The Duke''s Mansion, furious and unable to get Betty to reveal the father''s identity, confines her. Betty threatens suicide, and the child survives.]


    "..."


    Ethan fell silent, always proud of his descendants'' strength.


    He was just about to suggest that Olivia formally ask for Betty''s hand in marriage.


    Then Olivia said, "Forebearer, this matter is intriguing. The Duke''s Mansion''s estate kept the birth of the child secret, surely there must be another reason. That girl Betty dared not tell the Duke''s Mansion''s estate that the father of her child is one of us Blackwoods. But I believe, the Duke''s Mansion Michael probably already knows."


    Hearing this, Ethan frowned.


    He searched for the Duke''s Mansion''s estate on the map and gathered information. Dive into stories on ,mpyr.


    The Duke''s Mansion''s estate, also the guardian of the southern barbarian lands. When it was called Cloudview County, the Duke''s Mansion''s estate was already there, different from those controlled by sects like county and town chiefs. Most of Cloudview County''s taxes go to the Duke''s Mansion''s estate and are protected by the dynasty.


    They are very special, having ignored the affairs of Cloudview County for tens of thousands of years, living off the land without contributing...


    The only time they took action was tens of thousands of years ago when a Competent family foolishly challenged the Duke''s Mansion''s estate, and in one night, the Grim Reaper wrote their family history.


    Regardless of the strength of the Duke''s Mansion''s estate, at 13, getting a 15-year-old girl pregnant, the Blackwoods are definitely at fault here.


    Ethan relayed the situation to Nathan.


    After a moment.


    Nathan was so angry he practically jumped out of his coffin.

 Chapter 163: Chapter 163: Twenty years, huh?

    The Blackwood faily''s descendants, along with Nathan, arrived at the family shrine. Charles and Christopher were still in Thunderfire Demon Cave practicing Buddhism.


    As for Matthew, he had gone back to Moore, where he had grown up and was now collaborating with the head of the Moore family, Holden, who was nearing the end of his life.


    Nathan discussed with Holden the possibility of Matthew marrying into the Moore family to ensure the continuation of the Blackwood lineage, even if it meant becoming a branch family.


    Nathan, with a stern face, confronted Edward, who had been summoned along with his siblings by their great-grandfather, expecting some family matters to be discussed.


    However, Nathan''s questioning left Edward stunned, taking a while to respond, "Great-grandfather, I... I know I was wrong, but Uncle William took me out recently, and I swear I didn''t join him in any wrongdoing. I ran away!"


    Nathan''s expression darkened even more as he gripped his iron staff tighter, "Do you remember Betty? She bore you a child." At this revelation, Nicholas and Donna looked incredulously at their older brother, filled with shock and confusion.


    "Big brother, was what you said before true?"


    "What''s going on? I became an aunt at just eleven?"


    Edward, looking completely dazed and his muscles tensing as if time had slowed down, finally came to his senses and faced his furious great-grandfather, "I... I''m a father?"


    Seeing his great-grandson in such a state, Nathan sighed deeply, "At a time when our family is surrounded by enemies, you''ve committed such a foolish act. Do you know who she is? She''s Betty, the young princess of the Duke''s Mansion! What kind of place do you think the Duke''s Mansion is? "


    "Even if she wasn''t the Duke''s daughter, as a descendant of the Blackwoods, you should not forget moral principles. Have you thought about how this will affect Betty, who is so young and now pregnant, and how she will face society?"


    After speaking, Nathan bowed deeply to the ancestral tablets, "Please, Forebearer, punish me for not disciplining my descendants properly and causing such a disaster."


    "No! It''s not great-grandfather''s fault!" Edward quickly kowtowed, "Betty and I truly love each other, and I am willing to take responsibility!"


    Nathan and Ethan, watching from the screen, stared at Edward. Whether they truly loved each other was known only to the heavens, but it was clear that Edward had been led astray by desire.


    Despite the strict family discipline and repeated warnings, youthful impulsiveness, especially regarding romantic entanglements, was hard to control.


    After a moment of thought, the ancestral tablets in the Forebearer''s shrine rose.


    [Propose Marriage]


    The deed was done, and now they had to follow the old rules...


    always on m|vl|e|mp|y|r


    The Duke''s Mansion was formidable, but if truly angered, it wouldn''t be a big deal. At worst, the young ones could hide deep in the mountains with their elders.


    Meanwhile, Olivia was tasked with figuring out a way to secretly bring back the family''s daughters-in-law and children.


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Seeing the command from the Forebearer, Nathan quickly nodded. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Within half a day, Nathan had enlisted Dennis''s help. Upon hearing the news, Dennis, after a long pause and considering Edward''s unremarkable appearance and mediocre talents, smiled at Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, after all, she is the Duke''s young princess. I''ll do my best."


    "Thank you, Mr. Dennis."


    Soon, Dennis, carrying a high-quality psychic device, a million Energy Stones, and a plethora of heavenly materials, headed to the Duke''s Mansion. Then...


    After accelerating time, the scene shifted to the outskirts of the Duke''s Mansion, which was quite imposing, with two Emerging Ability guards at the gate. After explaining their purpose, Dennis and a very nervous Edward were led inside by an imposing general.


    D-level!


    Ethan followed their perspective into the Duke''s Mansion and was already preparing his skills.


    Soon, he saw the most prestigious person in the entire Cloudview County, a portly middle-aged man in a black python robe, exuding a powerful aura as he walked.


    Entering the hall, Dennis and Edward stood up.


    Duke Michael glanced emotionlessly at Edward, "A Blackwood child? Did you impregnate my daughter?"


    "..."


    Edward was trembling with nerves until Dennis nudged him, prompting him to quickly respond, "Yes. Can I... can I see Betty and our child?"


    "Oh, you come now!" Duke Michael scoffed, slowly settling back into his seat. He picked up his teacup, brushed off some tea leaves, blew on the steam, and took a sip before speaking, "Do you know how old I am this year?"


    Edward shook his head, not daring to speak, sensing that Michael, though appearing calm, was likely very irritated behind this facade.


    "Seven hundred and twenty-nine years old," Michael said evenly.


    "Do you also know how many children I have in my line? Six. Four of my children have lived out their lifespans, leaving only a son and a daughter. Guess how much effort it took me to conceive Betty? She is in my palace, cherished above all. You''re quite something, a D-level guard couldn''t keep you from causing trouble with my daughter."


    "I''ve heard your great-grandfather Nathan was most concerned with family reputation, and everyone in Gratitude Village speaks well of him. How did they produce a rebel like you?" he continued, taking another sip of his tea.


    Looking at the bowed head of Edward and the trembling Dennis, Michael suddenly smiled, "I know young people are impulsive, and I''m not some old fuddy-duddy. You Blackwoods, and you young man, if you achieve something, Betty will certainly not marry a mediocrity."


    "I''ll give you twenty years. Your uncle George once killed all the talents at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion. In twenty years, the same Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion will gather heroes from all over, even from other counties. If you can''t defeat these prodigies, I will have done all I can, and I''ll send you a wedding invitation."


    "Understood, I''ll take the child and go back to report," Dennis quickly pulled Edward away.


    Ethan, watching this unfold in the empty hall, saw Michael begin to smash things in anger, cursing, "Ah! Scoundrel, ruining my Betty, damn fool, bastard!"


    Ethan was momentarily speechless, empathizing¡ªif Nathan had a daughter at his old age and someone treated her that way, he''d probably be crazier than Michael.


    "Twenty years, huh?" He glanced at Edward''s potential, his lips curling slightly, "If you really just want someone worthy of Betty, why wait twenty years? Wouldn''t now be better?"

 Chapter 164: Chapter 164: Yes, not afraid, Im no coward!

    [Edward]


    [Psychic Constitution: Metal, Wood, Water, Earth]


    [Level: Foundational Energy Level Five]


    [Techniques and Martial Arts: Azure Cloud Unfallen, Shadowy Heaven Steps, Thunderous Golden Scripture]


    The talents of Blackwood''s fifth generation descendants were mediocre at best, with only Nicholas being slightly better, possessing a dual Psychic Constitution.


    They weren''t like the first three generations, nor did they have access to Ethan''s top-tier ''Heavenly Mechanism Psychic Enhancement Pills''.


    The potions Amelia concocted to enhance the quality of the Five Elements in their Psychic Constitution only slightly improved their talents.


    The worst part was that they weren''t nurtured by the family from a young age.


    You see, the fourth generation kids basically grew up living with mystical beasts, and when they had nothing else to do, they would even enter the Deathly Coffin to battle.


    [Your descendant Olivia has important matters to discuss.]


    Time sped up, and about three days passed. Edward hadn''t even returned home when Olivia''s message arrived.


    After switching the screen.


    Olivia saw the shimmering Cards and quickly knelt, "Forebearer, I have heard that Edward has gone to meet the County Prince."


    Ethan seriously suspected that Dawn''s people had infiltrated the royal residence...


    "Michael gave us twenty years, and this is also an opportunity for us!" she exclaimed.


    "What he meant was for us, Blackwood, and Edward to achieve something together, there''s an implication in his words."


    Hearing this, Ethan slightly raised an eyebrow.


    He had sensed something amiss when he heard Michael speak, especially since Michael, a man of such high status, had done nothing since Betty became pregnant, which was quite odd.


    "My child has checked, and in fact, for tens of thousands of years, the successive County Princes of the Duke''s Mansion did not lack the intention to care for the people of Cloudview County."


    " However, whenever the Duke''s Mansion was about to act, forces like the Azure Cloud Pavilion always seemed to be forming alliances."


    "Michael''s deeds over the years have shown me his extraordinary nature. He is a great man who loves his people like his own children, which is also why the county town is increasingly thriving. He is also the most distant from the sect powers among all the County Princes in history. "


    "When the two sects fought, the common people suffered, and I heard that Michael was so angry that he couldn''t sleep for three years. Whenever the major powers caused trouble, he was always furious."


    "Our family... when our family was slaughtering all around, Michael both laughed and raged."


    As Olivia recounted, Ethan understood.


    The reason Michael hadn''t moved against Blackwood because of Betty''s issue was not as simple as Betty threatening with her life; he also wanted to use Blackwood, to turn Blackwood into a weapon in his hands to completely reshuffle Cloudview County!


    Now, not only was Blackwood powerful, but they also had good relations with Sky Sect and even the Black Tortoise. The two sects had thus ceased fighting and formed an alliance.


    "By forming a marital alliance with the Duke''s Mansion, our family could gain the most powerful ally."


    "I''ve got a plan..." Discover new worlds on NovelFire-mpyr.


    "..."


    Ethan ignored Olivia''s scheme.


    Well, that was to sell off the Duke''s Mansion and then profit from the chaos, while pinning the blame on the neighboring county.


    "Stop scheming, will ya? If we actually did that, who knows if the imperial court would come knocking, or if we''d get busted. If Nathan heard about this kind of backstabbing, he''d definitely give her a thrashing."


    After clearing up Michael''s intentions with Olivia, Ethan cracked a smile.


    When the scene switched to Edward, Ethan suddenly felt a warm familiarity.


    Soon, Dennis brought Edward back to the ancestral hall.


    Nathan also heard about Michael''s words from them, which made the honest and straightforward Nathan muse, "Twenty years? If it''s about finding a prodigy, why would it take twenty years? With the grandeur of the Duke''s Mansion, why should they give my Blackwood a chance?"


    "Forebearer, I understand now!"


    Nathan immediately knelt down, joyfully saying, "It''s not that Michael thinks our Blackwood isn''t worthy of the Duke''s Mansion, but rather they need something from our Blackwood. They can''t lower their pride, so they resorted to this tactic! He''s trying to win over our Blackwood." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If it weren''t for needing a legitimate reason to show the other major powers, he''d probably push his daughter onto our Edward right now!"


    Ethan took a sip of water, suddenly recalling Michael''s angry yet composed demeanor in the scene just now.


    Hmm, he really looked dignified.


    But now that old man, it seems like he''s been stripped clean by the Blackwoods. Edward looked like a ghostly youth, with the ghost fire stopping at his doorstep, just waiting for him to send his daughter on a broken motorcycle.


    Hearing Nathan''s words, Edward, who had been nervous, suddenly became excited, "Great-grandfather, so I haven''t brought trouble to our family? Am I about to marry Betty?"


    At these words, Nathan''s face darkened. Although he was the great-grandfather, he couldn''t understand for the life of him how that girl Betty could fancy his no-good grandson?


    He immediately took out a rattan cane.


    "Kneel down!"


    As Edward was being punished, the Blackwood elders had already planned his training regimen.


    Twenty years, to beat all the prodigies under fifty in the entire Cloudview County, was indeed a challenge.


    Just after being beaten.


    [Your descendant Edward has been thrown into the first layer of the Dire Death Coffin.]


    Nathan was fair to all.


    [Your descendants Nicholas and Donna, enjoying the spectacle, have been thrown into the Dire Death Coffin.]


    ...


    ...


    [In the year 93 of Blackwood, your descendants Edward, Nicholas, and Donna, after enduring six months of constant death in the Coffin of Dire Death, have improved their martial arts and psychic techniques, significantly enhancing their combat experience.]


    It was only their martial arts and psychic techniques that improved; when they emerged from the coffin, their eyes were vacant, nearly broken.


    "Our great-grandfather said that our ancestors all cultivated their psychic powers coming out of that coffin."


    Edward rubbed his face, "I didn''t expect it to be so terrifying."


    Right?


    Their strength was merely at the fourth or fifth level of Foundational Energy. In front of the endless zombies in the Coffin of Dire Death, they were basically dying every three seconds. Even after spending six months inside cultivating psychic powers, they never survived past thirty seconds.


    "I can feel my psychic abilities getting stronger, I''m not scared anymore!" Donna puffed her cheeks, the eleven-year-old dressed in a sleek black outfit, standing about 4 feet 7 inches tall, slim and rather cheeky in appearance.


    She remembered three years ago when Dennis took her to the Fist of the Hundred sect, and Grandpa Dennis had her kill the nursemaid and the wife of the sect leader of Fist of the Hundred.


    But facing those who had bullied her before, she just couldn''t bring herself to do it. After killing zombies in the Coffin of Dire Death for half a year, she felt sure she wasn''t afraid anymore!


    "Yes, not afraid, I''m no coward!"


    Nicholas, also just eleven, a dashing young boy dressed in fine clothes, flashing a big white smile, "The Divine Tree Grandpa called me a coward, I want to prove him wrong!"


    Amidst their conversation.


    Nathan''s voice startled them, "This is just the beginning."


    Edward turned around, "Great-grandfather, is there more training? Let us rest..."


    Before he could finish.


    The three youngsters suddenly felt a heaviness in their heads.


    A figure in black appeared behind them, bowed to Nathan, flashing the Dawn badge, and with Nathan''s nod, whisked the three youngsters away on a cloud.

 Chapter 165: Chapter 165: I fear there might be a misunderstanding

    When they woke up, they saw a sect with a stone sword piercing the sky, a grand sight, and the place was crowded with people. There was a fighting platform below, seemingly in the midst of a duel.


    "Is this a secret realm?" Edward looked around blankly.


    "I... don''t know."


    Nicholas swallowed.


    Donna quickly pulled her brothers behind a large tree, her face tense, "It''s okay, they can''t see us."


    But they were soon captivated.


    A young man with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes was particularly eye-catching. He stood on the platform like an unyielding pine, with the sword case behind him emitting a sound of sword cries. The young man seemed to glance at them faintly.


    Then...


    One by one, the swordsmen below the platform stepped up to duel with the young man. Although the swordsmen who stepped up were flashy in their moves, they were continuously defeated by the young man''s plain swordsmanship!


    It seemed that no matter the sword move, he could break it with a single strike.


    With each swordsman he defeated, he would collect their long swords into his sword case.


    Until...


    Everyone in the sword pavilion was utterly disheartened!


    The young man, expressionless, took a cup of water from a stunned servant, drank it, and then turned around.


    "He... he''s walking towards us!"


    "Ah? No, why are we here?"


    "Is this really a secret realm? Great-grandfather, I can''t tell anymore!"


    In their confusion,


    The handsome young man had already approached them, his smile seeming forced as if he hadn''t smiled in a long time, "I am your great uncle, and I will lead you in cultivating psychic powers."


    "Great... great uncle?!!"


    Edward was instantly excited; he had grown up listening to stories about his great uncle, his hero.


    The great uncle was a heroic figure, rumored to have refined his sword with the blood of children in the Silver Iron Woods, sacrificing a hundred boys and girls a day.


    It was the great uncle who had chopped off both hands and feet of the third uncle, causing him to lose all his power and resort to refining an AI Bionic Robot to regain his psychic powers.


    The reason why the fourth grandmother was wheelchair-bound was also due to the great uncle''s beating, which caused her to lose all her cultivation.


    He always wanted to follow in the great uncle''s footsteps!


    Nicholas and Donna both looked up to him; the great uncle was a true legend of the family, even capable of slaying an Ability Master!


    Seven days later...


    Their dream was shattered.


    The three children watched as the great uncle, who had taken them to a noodle shop and casually asked them for silver to pay for the meal, spoke to them less than ten times in those days. They thought the great uncle would take them to some fairyland to cultivate psychic powers, but...


    Lucas pulled out a long list, filled with all the rare treasures needed for cultivating psychic powers.


    The next day, he took them to raid a sect.


    Indeed, they raided under the cover of night, and there wasn''t even a guard in sight.


    Fortunately, things returned to normal on the eighth day.


    The great uncle took them to a place called Emerald Phoenix Peak. Strangely, as soon as the great uncle arrived, Psychics flew up in the sky above Emerald Phoenix Peak, and the protective great array was activated.


    "I''m just borrowing the Heavenly Pool of Emerald Phoenix Peak to help my descendants, don''t wait for me to come again, then it won''t be just me."


    "Could it be that your Emerald Phoenix Peak has a Gary too?"


    The sword case behind the great uncle trembled, and the sword cries could be heard, the disciples of Emerald Phoenix Peak showing fear in their eyes.


    The array opened, and the disciples of Emerald Phoenix Peak greeted them with various psychic equipment.


    "Great uncle, where is this? And who is Gary?" Edward was curiously inquisitive.


    Lucas patted each child''s head one by one. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They are all the same, all stepping stones for my Blackwood."


    novel hosted m,vle mpyr


    Ethan was glued to the screen, watching the trio delve into the mystical powers at Emerald Phoenix Peak''s Heavenly Pool. The pool was thick with psychic energy, with about a hundred meditation cushions floating mid-air.


    [Emerald Phoenix Heavenly Pool]


    [Effect: Enhances the foundational energy of those cultivating psychic powers within. Strengthens their core and refines their meridians, significantly speeding up the cultivation process. Water Psychic Constitution may increase by 2-6 points. The pool gathers psychic energy every thirty years and can sustain a hundred users for a hundred days.]


    As soon as the trio entered, they were amazed by the pool''s magical properties, but they also chatted casually about the legendary grand elder''s disappointing reality.


    "Still as terrifying as ever," Ethan mused, now able to discern details just from the screen.


    Lucas, who seemed ordinary in his swordplay compared to the Sword Pavilion folks, had not even drawn his sword while approaching Emerald Phoenix Peak.


    However, above the clouds where Lucas stood, sword shadows constantly appeared around him. Standing at the gate of Emerald Phoenix Peak, his sword case was trembling, ready to reveal its sharpness.


    That was... a certain artistic conception.


    **Your descendant Lucas is honing his sword intent, having concealed 5000 swords. These swords are learned from others'' techniques, integrating their moves into his own.**


    **With 10,000 concealed swords, one can break through to ''Ten Thousand Swords Body'', and the sword pill can rival the heavenly pill, making the body as strong as a mid-grade psychic weapon!**


    A body as strong as a mid-grade psychic weapon could rival the peak of Developing Skill.


    Lucas was definitely not the most talented, nor did he have the same opportunities as other descendants; his sword skills were self-taught through hard work. Young Lucas practiced sword fighting daily, and now he was like a dedicated Psychic, wielding his sword across the world in search of sword intent.


    Days passed in a flash.


    Emerald Phoenix Peak, once the sect of Gary, was now under Lucas''s watch as he brought the trio into the mountains. Initially, the elders of Emerald Phoenix Peak sent people to monitor them, but now...


    An old woman with a frown approached Lucas, who was sitting in meditation at the entrance of the Psychic Sanctuary by the Heavenly Pool, a sword resting on her knees, its edge once sharp now concealed.


    Despite being at the peak of Developing Skill and this being her territory, and even though Gary from Blackwood had been killed, she felt somewhat hesitant to speak.


    "Sword King, I have a matter to discuss," she said.


    Lucas opened his eyes and stood up, polite as ever, "Please speak, elder."


    The old woman said, "This Heavenly Pool is a possession of Emerald Phoenix Peak. This year, it is also the prize for our disciples'' grand competition, meant for cultivating psychic powers. I wonder..."


    Lucas immediately understood her implication, sat back down, and closed his eyes to continue absorbing the unprocessed sword intent from his sword case, "The elder jests. Emerald Phoenix Peak is your domain. "


    "I am merely borrowing it for the benefit of my family''s younger generation, with no intention of usurpation. Afterwards, I will compensate Emerald Phoenix Peak with a substantial amount of Energy Stones, essentially a transaction. "


    "The Blackwoods are well-taught; I fear there might be a misunderstanding."

 Chapter 166: Chapter 166: You still have one chance

    The old lady''s mouth twitched slightly, her feelings a mixed bag, feeling like something was off but unable to put her finger on it. She managed a strained, "Thanks."


    Hesitating, she asked again, "Sword King, previously at Emerald Phoenix Peak outside the Sky Sect..."


    Before she could finish, Lucas spoke up. "Let''s keep things separate. I''ve learned something from years of sword practice: things change. If you''re trying to say that Gary''s issue has nothing to do with Emerald Phoenix Peak, that''s a bit of a stretch."


    "If I say that Blackwood has forgotten about Emerald Phoenix Peak, you wouldn''t believe me either. What if one day, someone asks Emerald Phoenix Peak to attack Blackwood? What then? That''s what really matters."


    Lucas grinned, "That''s all there is to it, no need to ask more."


    "Ha, you really see the big picture, Sword King!" The old lady left happily, knowing that the folks at Blackwood were still reasonable.


    Watching her leave, Lucas turned to look towards the direction of the three youngsters at the Psychic Sanctuary.


    "Twenty years to challenge the prodigies, huh? That''s enough."


    He had already gotten the scoop from his younger sister. Whether Edward could grow up and gain favor from the Duke''s mansion was crucial.


    That was also the key to returning to their homeland...


    [Blackwood Year 94.]


    The three youngsters from Blackwood had broken through their barriers.


    Their cultivation had improved by a level, and so had their talents.


    Just out of the gate, they saw a figure standing tall with a sword case on his back, facing away from them. After greeting him, Lucas stared at them, "Let''s go."


    "Where to, Great Grandpa?" Edward replied, puzzled. He had grown up in Anderson''s Bluefield, where the people were kind to him, and life had been easy. But for some reason, returning to the family felt heavy.


    The family elders seldom came home, always in a rush to leave again.


    Each of them had a look of expectation in their eyes, just like he hoped to see Betty.


    Edward swore he had never seen outsiders carry the same burden as his elders, each of them as silent as mountains, except for Uncle William.


    Despite the family''s strength, everyone was pushing hard, so hard he felt he couldn''t catch up.


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    "You''re going where you need to go."


    This was the most Lucas had spoken to them since they met. "Edward, I don''t know if you feel the urgency of the twenty-year agreement, but I want to tell you, you''re lucky to be a father now. Your lady love is willing to risk her life for you," he said.


    Edward fell silent. These past two years, he had questioned whether he had made a mistake.


    Poor Betty had a child out of wedlock, possibly facing scorn, and he hadn''t even seen his beloved or held his child. That day at the Duke''s mansion, in front of Michael, he hadn''t even dared to mention it.


    "I don''t want you to end up like me."


    Lucas''s gaze deepened.


    Then he looked at Nicholas and Donna, "You''ve been raised by others since your parents weren''t around, missing out on a proper childhood. I''m sorry we elders have interacted with you this way. We don''t expect you to understand, but now there''s a chance, a chance to not enter our world, maybe then you can live a little easier."


    The three of them looked solemnly at Lucas. Ever since their great-grandfather had returned, they felt they were living in a dangerous place, yet they didn''t know where the danger came from.


    Hearing this, Nicholas''s eyes reddened, his voice choked up, "Great Grandpa, are you... are you going to die? Great Grandpa, don''t go to dangerous places. When I was at Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, an uncle who went on a dangerous mission talked just like this!"


    Lucas furrowed his brow deeply, shook his head, turned around, and simply ignored the three youngsters. Under their bewildered gazes, he leapt into the air. After a while, it seemed like the crisp sound of a sword breaking could be heard from the sky.


    Edward and Donna squinted their eyes, staring intensely at Nicholas.


    "Did... did I say something wrong?"


    Just as they were about to speak, their minds went blank. A figure dressed in black caught the three falling children, tied them up, and whisked them away through the clouds.


    "Man, that kid''s got a temper," Ethan chuckled, covering his mouth as his shoulders shook.


    [Your descendant Lucas has destroyed a medium-grade psychic equipment and has decided to raid a bandit lair or a cult today to rid the people of evil.]


    "Cough, cough."


    Ethan finally regained his composure and looked back at the screen where the three youngsters had already appeared in a new location.


    [Demon Hunters Alliance]


    Waking up from unconsciousness, they smelled something fragrant, feeling sticky all over. As their vision gradually cleared...


    "Ah!!!"


    They jumped up simultaneously, finding themselves in the mouth of a man-eating flower! Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Damn, where the heck are we?"


    "Big boss flew away!"


    "That''s a huge flower, and it''s got teeth, and eyes? I''m scared."


    As they regained their composure, they saw a girl looking at them with interest. She sat on a dry tree branch, wearing a shabby Taoist robe. The faded cyan robe was loosely worn, revealing a white undergarment that accentuated her figure.


    Her lower body was clad in loose white pants, showing the cleanest part of her calves, and she wore worn cyan cloth shoes with dirty, yellowed white socks that reached just two inches above her ankles.


    If not for the chaotic soot marks on her body, she would appear very gentle and demure.


    At that moment, she grinned, showing a set of white teeth, "This is really a big catch, you little Blackwood rascals, hiding for so long. Now I''ve finally caught you. Just wait here, I bet your enemies from Blackwood would pay a handsome price for your lives."


    "..."


    "..."


    The three kids were silent for a long while until Nicholas saw the girl''s smile gradually fade, then he said, "The children have seen their great-grandmother."


    "Ahaha."


    Amelia forced a laugh, "True descendants of the Blackwoods, I knew you weren''t fools like Larry and Marcus."


    Jumping down from the tree branch, Amelia''s expression was calm, "Your great-grandfather must have asked you if you''re ready to embrace the next phase of cultivating psychic powers, right?"


    Edward nodded seriously.


    "Great-grandpa asked us if we really wanted to enter the family''s world, or choose to live an ordinary life."


    Amelia raised an eyebrow, "You still have one chance."


    "I want to marry Betty openly and honorably!"


    "I am no coward."


    "I... I''ve returned from the Coffin of Eternal Death, and I''m not afraid of pain anymore, really, not afraid!"


    Amelia turned away, a slight, pleased smile on her face.


    Ten minutes later.


    In a pool bubbling like boiling water, a thick green viscous liquid.


    The screams of the three children formed a discordant sound in the Demon Hunters Alliance.


    [Your three descendants are currently being soaked in a body tempering liquid concocted by Amelia from three hundred and sixty types of ninth-grade poisons...]

 Chapter 167: Chapter 167: Damn the beloved relatives

    "Ah!!!"


    "Gurgle~ Gurgle~" sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Watching this so-called body tempering liquid on the screen, Ethan broke out in a cold sweat.


    "No wonder she''s called a lethal pharmacist..."


    It wasn''t just Ethan who was nervous; there were quite a few Blackwoods in the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    At that moment, above the bubbling greenish liquid, Julian and his wife, along with Daniel, were present, staring at this strange concoction. Even they, who had survived countless battles and bloodshed, couldn''t help but feel a chill down their spines.


    Julian rubbed his bald head, "Sis, you... you''re not going to kill my three great-grandsons playing around, are you?"


    "How could I?" Amelia scoffed. "This is a concoction of 360 different poisons I''ve gathered over the years. If it weren''t for our own kids, plus Edward needing to snatch that thing, I''d have offered it to Forebearer."


    The crowd had just breathed a sigh of relief when Amelia casually mentioned, "Besides, I''ve been making medicines for years. The dosage and toxicity are evident if the user doesn''t die."


    "..."


    Julian''s bald head was all knotted up, "I only have six great-grandsons left, and two of them are already not looking good. One is about to join the Moore side branch. Don''t kill them all, sis!"


    "Come on, you really think my reputation as a saintly herbalist and lethal pharmacist is for nothing? Even Forebearer doesn''t doubt me."


    Amelia shooed the three away, "Younger brother, aren''t you trying to break through to the seventh rank? I can''t wait for your seventh-rank psychic puppet to help me plant herbs."


    "Mary, wasn''t your younger sister supposed to help Larry capture two demon kings in the swamp forest? Remember to bring back some seventh-rank psychic materials for me; I need to make my breakthrough too."


    "Daniel, you should leave. Your elder brother is about to finish his retreat. It''s been years since you''ve seen him, and you should catch up and see if there''s anything in the Sky Sect that could be of use to the Blackwoods."


    Watching them leave with full hearts of doubt, Amelia sat down cross-legged.


    Actually, she wasn''t wrong; Ethan really never doubted Amelia''s abilities.


    After all, she possessed the "Thousand Herb Scripture" and the "Heavenly Scourge Divine Tree."


    With her various traits and years of medical experience, there was no way anything could go wrong.


    "But to honor Forebearer like that is a bit too much."


    Ethan commented, having spent too much time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, Amelia did have a bit of a demonic vibe.


    Then he clicked on that fearsome pool of green water.


    [Nine-grade Rotating Heavenly Azure Pool]


    [Description: Amelia''s secret body tempering pool, made from 360 different poisons, many of which Amelia tested herself. The potent medicines stimulate the muscles, meridians, Psychic Constitution, and internal sea, potentially boosting various Psychic Constitutions by 8-15 points.


    The body constantly absorbs and recombines due to the potent medicinal agents, significantly absorbing various psychic energies from the environment.]


    [Side effects: Severe pain, prolonged immersion may lead to death, vegetative state, or dementia in the physically weak.]


    "..."


    Ethan felt that if such a miraculous item were sold in reality, it would hardly receive any negative reviews. Meanwhile, in the scene:


    Amelia watched her family leave and breathed a sigh of relief, "Finally, they''re gone."


    She squatted beside the pool, looking at the three people in the Azure Wheel Pool, who were still screaming in pain.


    "It''s a bargain for you."


    Amelia stuck out her tongue and smiled, then vines began to emerge around her.


    These vines turned into roots, cradling her like a sacred statue, lifting Amelia slowly into the air.


    Gradually.


    Flowers began to grow on these vines, spreading over the demon-tainted dead soil from years of battles with demonic psychics, the flowers seemed so out of place, yet bloomed so beautifully. Even the grotesque Azure Wheel Pool seemed to gain an unusual beauty from the blossoming flowers.


    Trees began to rise from the ground, budding and blooming.


    The cave, once like a demon''s lair, now felt like spring had arrived, filled with vitality, a true paradise.


    Amelia was like a fairy guarding the flowers.


    Seeing this scene, Ethan''s face changed dramatically.


    [Your descendant Amelia is using the "Divine Plant Magic Technique," she is consuming her lifespan to repair and enhance the physique and talents of the three children!]


    The dancing flowers fell onto the bodies of the three young ones in the pond.


    Their wailing stopped, as if they had fallen into a warm embrace, their breathing gradually eased, as they dreamt a beautiful dream.


    Ethan finally understood why Amelia had said ''It''s a bargain for you.''


    She must have known about the toxicity of the Azure Wheel Pool and feared that Julian and his wife, along with Daniel, would stop her, so she sent them away!


    [Stop!]


    Ethan hastily wrote these words using Forebearer Cards, gritting his teeth.


    He now understood that Amelia had planned from the beginning to use her lifespan to activate the Divine Plant Magic Technique to counteract the toxicity of the Azure Wheel Pool!


    Seeing the words before her.


    For the first time in her life, Amelia defied the Forebearer''s command.


    Her smile bloomed as brightly as the flowers today, and even in her disheveled state, she was beautiful enough to alleviate all pain and bring life to the dead soil.


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    "Hehe, Forebearer, it''s okay."


    "The child is still young, and I can already feel the next level of the Divine Plant Magic Tree and the Immortal Fetus. When I break through next time, I''ll reach the third Psychic Constitution, and my cultivation speed is getting faster. Plus, with the Immortal Fetus, taking medicinal pills won''t harm me."


    "They..."


    "But they are my beloved relatives."


    Amelia didn''t spell it out.


    But if Ethan were to put it bluntly, damn the beloved relatives!


    Amelia and these three little rascals were meeting for the first time!


    Edward''s talents were ultimately low, and even with the family''s full support, he might not be a match for his peers in the youth talent battle twenty years later, the future filled with uncertainties.


    So...


    Amelia has always been like this, smiling foolishly, saying nothing matters. Then, as a child, she stayed away from the crowd, unlike other children who gathered, she was alone in the psychic medicine garden, taking care of everything.


    While other children played with kittens and puppies, she was already dragging corpses to the Beast Blood Fruit tree to bleed them.


    The Thunderfire Demon Cave just needed to gather intelligence, she stayed here for decades, sending all the good stuff back home, the most valuable thing on her person was a basic psychic tool gourd for collecting medicinal herbs.

 Chapter 168: Chapter 168: Your descendant Amelia is consuming her lifespan...

    Ethan gritted his teeth as he furiously typed on the keyboard. But as he typed, he hit the delete key.


    Amelia, forming a magical gesture, her eyes curved down like crescent moons, looked quite ordinary, yet her smile was stunningly beautiful. reading here on NovelFire _l _e _mpy _r


    "Forebearer, let your child be willful just this once."


    Ethan knew he probably couldn''t persuade her, just like always; she would forget as soon as she turned around. It was as if she was saying, let her be willful this time, and it would be the same next time.


    If it were any other descendant, Ethan might think about giving them a good scolding, but when Amelia said it...


    Ethan sighed deeply, "Amelia..."


    He wanted to murmur something, but the words stuck in his throat, unsure how to express himself. He wanted Amelia to think more about herself, but he knew it would probably fall on deaf ears.


    On the screen, Amelia was surrounded by flowers. To others, Amelia might appear as a disheveled, desperate apothecary, entwined in withered vines like a saint of the plants. In Ethan''s eyes, Amelia was the child he most wanted to protect.


    Time slowly passed.


    [Your descendant Amelia...]


    [Is consuming her lifespan...]


    Two months later.


    She wore a thick dress for the first time, covering her body, wearing gloves, and a mask with a theatrical smile. The sealed entrance with vines was opened.


    The once dark Psychic Sanctuary could no longer see vines and flowers, like her life, it was withering, and just as vibrant as it once was, yet hidden in the soil, as if it had never contributed to this world.


    The Nine-Tiered Azure Pond, from boiling with strange colors, turned into clear water. Three children opened their eyes and saw Amelia sitting on a branch of a dead tree, looking lighter than before.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, Nicholas, soaked in the Nine-Tiered Azure Pond, simultaneously broke through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy!]


    [Their Psychic Constitution greatly enhanced!]


    [In the Nine-Tiered Azure Pond, their bodies continuously destroyed and repaired, their meridians, internal Qi seas, and bones became more robust, gaining the trait: Gift of the Thunderwood.]


    [With stronger recovery abilities, combat power increased by 20%, speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 15%, greatly increased resistance to poisons, and accelerated healing speed.]


    "Grandma''s potions are amazing, even better than the Emerald Phoenix Peak''s celestial pond!"


    "My Psychic Constitution has improved, grandma, look, I''ve broken through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy, my meridians and internal body are much better than before!"


    "Grandma, why are you wearing a mask?"


    The three children looked at Amelia on the branch, from pain to relief, their memories still lingering on the first moment they saw Amelia.


    But this time, Amelia wasn''t as mischievous, swinging her feet or scaring them, she was so quiet it made them feel inexplicably sad, as if they owed grandma everywhere.


    After their initial joy, they dared not speak loudly, just quietly staring at grandma.


    "It''s good that you''ve broken through."


    Amelia, behind the mask, forced a slight laugh, "Go out, kids, your great-grandfather is waiting for you. Tell those two, stop being lovey-dovey in front of me, how old are they, really, not acting their age."


    "And Daniel, when he comes back, have your Grandpa Daniel help me manage the power, and by the way, tell the Demon Lord, I''m about to break through."


    The children did not dare to delay, "Yes, grandma."


    As the children left, Amelia still did not take off the mask. She held the Forebearer Cards, sitting cross-legged.


    As if she had never done anything, just like she had once again sealed the entrance to the Psychic Sanctuary, standing in the dark corner, hunching over her recently straightened body.


    Like a wounded cat, silently licking its wounds. The Thunderfire Demon Cave did not taint her with demonic nature; she was like the most beautiful flower in the world.


    Emerging from the Ninth Rank Celestial Pond, the three youngsters were quite at a loss, especially since the Psychic Sanctuary where their great-grandmother resided had just closed.


    They were pondering their whereabouts when a middle-aged man with streaked white hair, dressed in a purple robe, approached them.


    His stride carried the authority of someone accustomed to high positions, and his piercing gaze seemed to see right through people.


    He smiled warmly, making the youngsters instinctively bow their heads in respect.


    "Edward, Donna, Nicholas," the man spoke in a gentle yet somehow commanding voice, "I am your grandfather Daniel."


    "Grandfather Daniel?" The youngsters were stunned to learn his identity, then disbelief set in.


    They had heard some of the elders in Gratitude Village mention family members, including stories about their grandfather Daniel.


    He was once the head of the family, described by the elders as the kindest man.


    They also recounted some of his embarrassing moments, with many elders having easily fooled him.


    In their imagination, Grandfather Daniel was supposed to be a very kind, approachable man with a twinkle in his eye.


    But now, they only felt an overwhelming presence, even though Daniel was trying his best to appear gentle and kind, which made them treat him with great respect.


    As Daniel slowly interacted with them, their initial fear gradually subsided.


    However, as he led them through the Demon Hunters Alliance and the Thunderfire Demon Cave, their confusion grew.


    According to legend, the Psychics of the Demon Hunters Alliance were righteous individuals from all over, fighting on the front lines against the Thunderfire Demon Cave, with many having laid down their lives on this land.


    Yet, all the Psychics of the Demon Hunters Alliance respectfully greeted their Grandfather Daniel!


    Logically, Daniel should have been something like a squad leader of the Demon Hunters Alliance. When they reached the Thunderfire Demon Cave, they even thought Daniel was going to fight the demonically possessed, which made them nervous.


    However, the expected battle scene did not occur. Instead, they saw the Psychics of the Demon Hunters Alliance and the demonically possessed from the Thunderfire Demon Cave come together.


    These demonically possessed individuals... also paid their respects to Grandfather Daniel!


    After a nod of acknowledgment, both sides performed an incomprehensible act. They separated into two groups and bombarded the rugged battlefield between the Demon Hunters Alliance and the Thunderfire Demon Cave, eventually returning exhausted to their respective sides.


    "Grandfather Daniel, what are they doing? Our family..."


    Daniel looked up at the dark clouds and smiled, "Years ago, your great-grandmother came to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where a Terminal Pharmacist appeared."


    The youngsters were shocked. They suddenly understood that their playful great-grandmother, who had tried to trick them at their first meeting, was also the most special existence in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Terminal Pharmacist.


    She represented the medical path among the twelve righteous paths of the Demon Hunters Alliance, saving countless lives on this battlefield. It was rumored that the entire Demon Hunters Alliance would willingly serve her to repay her kindness.


    "And what about the Thunderfire Demon Cave?" they asked.


    "Your great-grandmother was the first righteous Psychic to truly enter the Thunderfire Demon Cave and also became the saint of the demon cave. She achieved what no other righteous Psychic had managed," Daniel said with a tone of reverence. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 169: Chapter 169: Remember, you only have two years

    Even though Daniel had been managing the powers on both sides for Amelia all these years, he knew very well that it was Amelia whom the Psychics truly revered. His efforts were merely to support his aunt, who wasn''t as adept at managing power.


    "What? Great-aunt is actually... the Saintess of the Demon Cave?!!"


    The youngest of the three was agape, incredulous. This time, they truly felt the power of their great-aunt!


    The Saintess of the Demon Cave!


    In legends.


    At the deepest part of the Thunderfire Demon Cave, a Class B mutant psychic was sealed. And within the entire cave, the real authority was the Saintess of the Demon Cave!


    Their hierarchy was strict, and it was rumored that the Saintess could command all the mutant psychics in the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    "Thunderfire Demon Cave, Demon Hunters Alliance..."


    Edward stared blankly, "Our Blackwood family has such power?"


    "Never lose respect for your great-grandmother; she is... the greatest contributor to our family, even if you can''t see her contributions."


    Feeling the aura of these three children, Daniel sighed deeply and then laughed heartily, "Because of her, now here¡ª"


    "Carries the name Blackwood!"


    As Daniel''s words fell.


    The three youngsters looked up, never imagining that the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance, legendary for their fierce battles, were not just tragic tales.


    And the one behind all this was their great-grandmother!


    At that moment.


    They seemed to see the clouds in the sky gathering together, gradually forming a giant ''B'', suppressing the entire Thunderfire Demon Cave and Demon Hunters Alliance.


    They even heard the story of how their great-grandmother came alone to allow the temple guardian beast to transform.


    A scene appeared in their minds.


    In this land covered with dark clouds, filled with warfare, mutant psychics and righteous Psychics were battling. Until one day, a frail girl carrying a medicine basket, tightly gripping the straps of the basket, walked into the Thunderfire Demon Cave and sat down on the central throne, balancing the forces of good and evil here!


    "Let''s go, meet your great-grandfather."


    Daniel called out to the three youngsters.


    ...


    Soon they arrived deep within the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where intense heat emanated from the Psychic Sanctuary.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The sound of metal striking metal came from the Psychic Sanctuary, making their eardrums tremble, the ground shaking with each impact, like a minor earthquake!


    Daniel had already left.


    Leaving the three youngsters outside the Psychic Sanctuary, dumbfounded.


    Inside the Psychic Sanctuary, they saw a man with a bare torso and wearing tattered pants, his body covered in bulging muscles, furiously hammering a pitted iron block with a hammer bigger than his own body!


    That was their great-grandfather, Julian!


    "Come in!" Julian didn''t even glance at his three great-grandsons as he continued to hammer away at the iron block, his eyes red with the same fervor he had back in the forge at Gratitude Village.


    This roar had already caused the three youngsters to tremble with fear as they entered the Psychic Sanctuary. Here, thunder from an unknown source struck into a river formed by a waterfall of magma. Lightning and fire intermingled, and the magma exploded continuously, splashing around, even reaching behind Julian, giving the Thunderfire Demon Cave its name. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Great-grandfather..." The three youngsters stood respectfully in front of their great-grandfather.


    If this had been before they entered Amelia''s Psychic Sanctuary, Julian would have been very affectionate towards them, but now he was not.


    Amelia had sealed the Psychic Sanctuary, but Julian felt it too¡ªthe life force she used to extend the lives of these three children, refining them!


    That strange poison pond, Amelia couldn''t control it at all, her words about the bizarre psychic creatures were just to make him feel like Amelia had everything under control.


    "Now, pick up this equipment!" Julian continued hammering, his body starting to show a phantom image of a hammer floating above him!


    The three youngsters dared not speak further. They glanced at the ground in front of their great-grandfather, where three sets of black armor lay, each chest piece with nine iron bars.


    "Yes!" They endured the heat of the Psychic Sanctuary, and just as they were about to lift the armor, their expressions changed. With their Level Seven Foundational Energy, they had to use all their strength just to lift the armor!


    "From now on, you will wear this set of armor every day, no matter what you''re doing¡ªeating, drinking, relieving yourselves, wear it! When you can bear the weight of the armor, pull out one of the bars from the chest."


    "Two years, if those nine bars are still there in two years, I will disown you three as my great-grandsons!" The three youngsters'' faces turned pale.


    They had already used all their strength to put on the armor, and now even walking was extremely difficult, sweat covering their bodies.


    They didn''t understand.


    Why was their great-grandfather, whom they were meeting for the first time, so harsh on them?


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!" The great-grandfather continued to furiously hammer the iron block, but the three youngsters dared not ask further. They could feel that besides forging, their great-grandfather harbored an unknown anger and guilt.


    "What are you still standing here for? Go run a couple of laps."


    "After today, someone will bring you elixirs and heavenly materials. Whatever it is, digest it as quickly as possible!"


    "Remember, you only have two years. I want results!" With Julian''s roar, the three children staggered out running.


    It seemed that the family rumors had always been fabricated by others; the ferocity of the great-grandfather was false.


    If the great-grandfather brought them the gift of eldership, and the great-grandmother brought them gentle nurturing, then from their great-grandfather, they only felt the strictness of an elder.


    "Whimper, big brother, why is great-grandfather so harsh on us?" Nicholas''s eyes were red.


    Donna gritted her teeth, "Quit your whining! Great-grandfather is trying to make us grow. He''s also being kind to us."


    Hearing this, Edward looked guilty but remained silent, running even faster.


    He could faintly feel that everything was related to him; perhaps if he hadn''t committed that act in the past, his siblings wouldn''t have to suffer because of him.


    "Twenty years, I must show results, not to let the elders and my siblings down!"

 Chapter 170: Chapter 170: Limit Breakers!

    Nobody knows what beliefs sustain them as they crazily cultivate their psychic powers. All that is known is that from day one, they kept falling, and after taking a medicinal pill the next day, they fell again, gradually getting used to moving forward under the burden.


    However, such days couldn''t last long, and they would soon return to the state of the first day. And today was just such a day. In front of their armor, they pulled out another bar!


    "Boom!"


    With a loud bang, Edward and Donna, who were walking forward as if they were old and frail, turned around.


    "Nicholas!"


    They hurriedly turned back and helped the fallen Nicholas to his feet.


    These three kids were drenched in sweat, pushing their limits every day!


    In just one year, the remarkable changes in them were visible. Because they couldn''t take off their armor, the original lining had long been corroded by their sweat and the past year''s exposure, revealing their solid muscles.


    Edward, who was ordinary-looking, had developed a bronze skin tone. The most delicate Donna had also grown taller; she originally had cute twin ponytails but had cut her long hair like a boy to avoid the sweaty hair hindering her psychic power cultivation.


    As for Nicholas, he was almost as tall as Edward now, his handsome face showing a toughness never seen before.


    "Big brother, sister Donna, I... I can''t keep going," Nicholas panted.


    Donna clenched her teeth, "Little brother, you stand up for me, don''t disgrace our Blackwood people!"


    It was this sentence that changed Nicholas''s expression, and he stood up gritting his teeth. Such dialogues had occurred countless times over the year.


    Edward looked worriedly at his siblings, his words stuck in his throat as if choked, he could only turn his head away.


    When he couldn''t see his siblings, his gaze was resolute, "Run, continue cultivating psychic powers, let everyone in the Thunderfire Demon Cave know that we are worthy of being the descendants of our great-grandmother! "


    "Great-grandfather had already said, accept our fate, we agreed, so we can''t go back on our word! We are¡ª"


    "Blackwood descendants!"


    ...


    On the screen, Ethan''s expression gradually softened.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, and Nicholas have been relentlessly honing their psychic powers for a year, enduring physical and mental challenges daily, pushing their limits. They''ve acquired a trait¡ª]


    [Limit Breakers!]


    [They chase the limits, they achieve the limits, and they will never forget what they''re enduring now. Combat strength increased by 10%, resilience by 20%!]


    Ethan watched their transformations bit by bit. Nicholas, once pampered, although occasionally wanting to give up, would quickly toughen up and get back on his feet to continue honing his psychic powers.


    Little Donna, previously hindered by the trait ''Striving Victim'' which reduced her combat effectiveness, now boosted by ''Limit Breakers''. It wasn''t just about the traits.


    Ethan also saw the hardships this girl had once endured slowly burying themselves deep in her heart. Now, she would become a qualified member of Blackwood, bravely facing everything.


    And then there was Edward.


    He could tell that Edward felt guilty. Maybe he didn''t know about the life Amelia had sacrificed for him, maybe he didn''t understand why Julian was so harsh on them.


    But he seemed to sense that everything was because of him, that the elders let him grow continuously, and because of this, his siblings also suffered alongside him.


    At night, when his siblings luxuriously enjoyed their nightly rest, Edward would always take a stimulating pill and then continue running in the depths of the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    The reason for their continuous breakthroughs.


    Ethan clicked on their equipment.


    [Nine-layer Heavy Armor]


    [Grade: Medium Psychic Equipment]


    [Description: Composed of the heaviest grade-nine minerals, crafted by Julian. The Heavy Armor suppresses the wearer''s psychic powers while nurturing the body daily. The more tired you are, the more psychic power you draw from the universe. It has nine layers of weight, and each iron bar removed from the chest increases the weight exponentially!]


    Ethan felt that these kids had finally grown up, catching up to their predecessors.


    As he pondered.


    The three kids were now at the entrance of Julian''s Psychic Sanctuary, daring to stay outside the Psychic Sanctuary for the first time after experiencing Julian''s stern, even furious, roar last time. If it had been before, their great-grandfather seemed annoyed whenever he saw them, casually scolding them...


    That day.


    The ''clang, clang, clang'' of forging in the Thunderfire Demon Cave finally stopped, and the psychically tormented beings outside could finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Great-grandfather."


    Even Edward, who had been scolded, seeing the great-grandfather forging inside the Psychic Sanctuary, held no resentment but endless admiration.


    The other two kids did the same, shrinking behind Edward, sneakily watching their great-grandfather.


    The reason they had no complaints, even persisting throughout the year, was because Julian had also become their role model! This bald, muscular man was forging and hammering almost every day without rest. Every strike he made was with full force! S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They seemed to understand the high-intensity training their great-grandfather put them through because he was that kind of person, he never gave up.


    And today...


    "Your great-grandfather is about to break through."


    Daniel joyfully stared at Julian forging inside the Psychic Sanctuary, feeling the embryonic form of psychic powers emerging in his uncle.


    Just then.


    Julian still held his hammer, larger than his own body, which through his forging had already reached the level of a top-grade psychic equipment, even a life-bound psychic equipment, growing with Julian bit by bit.


    But this time.


    Julian didn''t bring the hammer down.


    The hammer hovered behind him, he maintained the posture of dropping the hammer on the forge, his eyes tightly shut, his muscles bulging, seemingly in a moment of enlightenment!


    ...


    "Uncle Dan isn''t around to watch you, or maybe you could take a break. I won''t snitch," Daniel teased, glancing at the three kids daring to slack off. His tone was gentle, as if he might actually let them off the hook.


    Edward shook his head, his jaw set firmly. "I can''t, Grandpa Daniel. Betty is waiting for me, the kids are waiting, and so are the elders at home..." It seemed like he was psyching himself up with these words. After speaking, he trudged towards the distance, as if his most treasured possession lay at the end of his path.


    "Ah! Big bro, I''m no coward. I must prove myself to the Sacred Tree!" Nicholas was clearly hung up on this, having used such self-motivation countless times as his personal stimulant.


    Then... he collapsed after a few steps.


    Watching her older brother move forward, Donna helped her useless younger brother up, then flashed a sweet smile at Daniel. "Grandpa Daniel, you must be kidding. If we dared to slack off, you''d turn around and sell us out in a heartbeat."


    Daniel maintained his kind smile. "Donna, your brother persists to bring back his loved ones and see his children. Your younger brother persists because he doesn''t want to be seen as a coward who flees from battle. What about you? What''s your reason?"


    Donna wrinkled her nose. She supported Nicholas and continued forward, leaving behind her somewhat defiant voice. "Grandpa Daniel, I''m tired of being bullied. I want to fight back. Only when I grow up and become stronger will I have the right to resist."


    The three children moved on. Daniel watched their backs, finally allowing himself a smile, then sighed as he looked at their uncle inside, who was undergoing a breakthrough. "Ah, Uncle, you''re too old to get angry now. Auntie didn''t use up her life for them, she did it for..."


    "Family."

 Chapter 171: Chapter 171: How could I not be scared?

    Ethan was also watching Julian inside the Psychic Sanctuary. He witnessed Julian''s madness over the year, even more intense than his own efforts back in the days at the Gratitude Village Forge.


    "Your descendant Julian, after years of forging and continuously using his hammering techniques, has mastered a new technique this year¡ªthe Thirty-Six Instant Hammer!"


    [Thirty-Six Instant Hammer]


    [Rank: Yellow Grade]


    [Description: The hammer has two layers. The first layer, thirty-six consecutive strikes, stacking power, releasing full force, multiplying strength, leaving the body drained of strength after use! The second layer, an instant burst that concentrates all the body''s strength into the hammer, also draining strength after use!]


    This year of cultivating psychic powers was not just about the growth of the three young ones; Julian was also on the verge of a breakthrough!


    "Your descendant is now engraving the Thirty-Six Instant Hammer into the False Core stage!"


    Once the engraving is complete, he will break through to the D level. Although the Yellow Grade technique seems weak, Julian''s strength is not in combat but in forging. He has long understood how to forge psychic gear, yet lacked the power. He even has blueprints for forging D-level psychic constructs!


    Ethan''s basic War AI Bionic Robot has been transformed by Julian, who assembled various psychic gears, giving it the strength of the early Developing Skill stage.


    In the scene, Julian, amidst his breakthrough, was still murmuring, "Big sis..."


    No one knew how guilty Julian felt; he wasn''t really angry at those three kids. It was because he knew that his sister was doing this for the family. She was giving her all to seize this opportunity to connect with the Duke''s mansion, ensuring a powerful ally for the family.


    This would give the family a better chance to face the countless hidden enemies!


    So...


    "Boom!"


    Julian opened his eyes, and his heavy hammer fell on the uneven iron stone!


    "It''s my fault. If I could forge more powerful psychic constructs for the family, stronger than D-level, we wouldn''t need any Duke''s mansion!"


    "Our Blackwood would have enough strength!"


    "Clang!" Julian''s massive hammer fell, sending psychic energies scattering, intensifying the vibrations throughout the Thunderfire Demon Cave. He was embedding the "Thirty-Six Instant Hammer" technique into his Developing Skill¡ªa mere yellow-grade technique, but absolutely perfect for Julian!


    Time flew by.


    As Julian''s activities grew louder, the eardrums of those in the Thunderfire Demon Cave who were possessed by demonic abilities were dominated by the sound of his forging, cultivating a custom of using ''Silence Arrays'' to cultivate their psychic powers.


    The happiest part of their day was stepping out of the Thunderfire Demon Cave, joining forces with the Demon Hunters Alliance''s Psychics to wreak havoc everywhere, lamenting the unrest within the cave.


    [Blackwood, Year 96]


    The sound of the forge continued, children still ran about, but now, they had removed all the steel bars from the nine-layered heavy armor, running at high speeds around the Thunderfire Demon Cave, with Edward, the most diligent in cultivating psychic powers, able to leap up, while Donna was actually boxing, only Nicholas was slightly behind.


    No one knew the hardships they had endured over these two years, beyond the physical and mental breakthroughs, they also had to guard against the pranks of those possessed by demonic abilities in the Thunderfire Demon Cave. These mischievous beings would take them miles away, forcing them to run back on their own.


    Or they would use spells to increase gravity several times, making them crawl like turtles.


    Or they would place a highly dangerous beast right behind them, scaring them into giving their all to avoid adding new injuries to their behinds... Such torments were countless.


    Heaven knows how they encountered so many pranks, and what psychological damage these possessed beings had inflicted on them in just two short years, changing their temperaments.


    "Huff, finally free."


    In front of a Psychic Sanctuary that emitted a demonic aura and a faint Buddhist light, the three stopped, Nicholas panting heavily and exhaling turbid air.


    As they became more familiar with the possessed beings, Donna still appeared fragile, but she revealed a mocking smile, shocking those who could hardly imagine she was once a bullied girl too scared to tattle.


    "Useless brother, you shouldn''t be thinking about whether we''re free, but what we''ll face next. Prepare yourself mentally, or it won''t just be about getting your butt bitten. I''ve heard there are quite a few androgynous beings among the possessed."


    "Ah???" Nicholas''s face changed dramatically, he straightened up quickly, "I understand, sister, I need to protect my little bird!"


    Edward, now a young man, looked more resolute, a slight smile on his lips, "Donna, stop scaring the kid. He was captured by one of those androgynous beings a few months ago and wet his pants."


    "Brother..." Nicholas''s face turned red, "How could I not be scared? They started undressing, and if it weren''t for Grandpa coming, I would have been done for."


    "Ha ha ha!" Edward and Donna burst into laughter, their demeanor even more like that of seasoned adventurers.


    Gradually, they shed their armor, each wearing a look of pride.


    If it weren''t for their great-grandfather still breaking through, they would have already wanted to go to his Psychic Sanctuary to tell him that they had not let him down.


    The moment they took off their armor, they instantly felt a world of difference compared to when they first put it on.


    "Boom!" S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A surge of psychic power burst forth from their bodies, and they watched in disbelief as their own abilities exploded.


    After being suppressed and frantically cultivating psychic powers and consuming psychic pills, they had reached the peak of Foundational Energy!


    Once they joyfully adjusted, they put on clothes borrowed from demonically possessed psychics and all furrowed their brows, looking towards the Psychic Sanctuary in front of them.


    Unlike other parts of the demon cave, this Psychic Sanctuary had a young man and a young woman sitting on black and gold lotus platforms.


    They wore checkered monk robes, one gold and one black, embodying demonic energy and Buddhist power, coexisting yet opposing each other.


    It was clear that if these two peculiar monks stood up, one would resemble an angry King Kong and the other a compassionate Guanyin.


    "How come Nicholas and his siblings'' cultivation of psychic powers turned out so bizarre?" Nicholas voiced his confusion.


    These were Charles and Christopher, whom he had known for years, who used to pray and worship Buddha every day.


    It was only when Nicholas came to the Thunderfire Demon Cave and joined his brother and sister in cultivating psychic powers here that he saw them in this state.


    They just wouldn''t open their eyes, and as far as Nicholas knew, they had maintained this posture for two years, just like they used to pray, but they definitely were not believers in the myriad Buddhist gods.


    Now, Nicholas realized that despite his years of arduous cultivation of psychic powers, he was no match for Charles and Christopher!

 Chapter 172: Chapter 172: Is he bewitched?

    On the screen, Ethan cracked a smile as he clicked on the avatars of Christopher and Charles, pulling up their history.


    [Blackwood 92 Years: Christopher and Charles, devoted to their spiritual practices, were sent by their family to the Thunderfire Demon Cave.]


    [Their unchangeable faith led them to focus on spirituality, unconcerned with worldly matters. The demon lord Fang Linglong, intrigued by the brothers, challenged them. He left a demonic thought in the Psychic Sanctuary; if they could resist it, they could return to their temple. If not, it proved they were unworthy of their faith.]


    [Blackwood 93 Years: Unable to resist the demonic thought, Charles absorbed it to prevent his twin sister Christopher from falling into darkness.]


    [Seeing his brother''s sacrifice, Christopher couldn''t bear to see him succumb and used his spiritual power to preserve his brother''s sanity.]


    [Years of battling between demonic and spiritual energies within them led to an increase and blending of both forces. They gradually understood that spirituality and demonism could coexist and also realized the importance of family. They gained a unique trait¡ª]


    [Buddha-Demon Mind!]


    [Neither spirituality nor demonism could bind their beliefs anymore. Their nature remained unaffected, yet they could cultivate psychic powers, mastering both demonic and spiritual techniques. In their spiritual state, their psychic power cultivation speed increased by 30%, countering all evil magic. In their demonic state, their combat power increased by 40%, unaffected by righteous laws.]


    "Sending them to the demon cave back then was the right call, thanks to the demon lord."


    Ethan laughed.


    Now, these two were truly the most uniquely gifted descendants of the fifth generation of the Blackwoods. Although they were no longer bound by spiritual precepts, they developed a preference for tranquility, enjoying their quiet cultivation.


    The only impact was their aloofness towards others, except for each other, though they were somewhat more courteous to Blackwood relatives.


    Ethan had even overheard their private conversations; their greatest dream was to become accomplished enough to defeat the demon lord who had challenged them.


    Now, aside from cultivating psychic powers, they kept to themselves, hardly bothering with the outside world.


    No wonder Julian once said these kids were almost wasted.


    Pondering whether to have Olivia intervene to make these two emotionally detached descendants more compliant, the screen suddenly showed Daniel appearing behind the three children. By now, they seemed used to Grandpa Daniel''s sudden appearances and turned to look at him.


    But it wasn''t just Grandpa Daniel there; there was also a middle-aged woman in a wheelchair. Stray white hairs peeked through her dark hair, and despite the wrinkles on her face, one could still see the beauty of her youth.


    Dressed in a white robe, she exuded an aura of intellect. Her presence was so kind and amiable, she seemed like one of those rare good souls in the world.


    Her voice was soft and gentle, like a breeze in February, "Winter is coming." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The children realized she must be the great-grandmother of the family, the very kind Miss Olivia from Gratitude Village that the elders spoke so highly of. She even remembered the names of all the villagers back when Gratitude Village was just a small village.


    Whenever a household encountered trouble, she was the first to resolve it. Any bad reputation she had outside must surely be just rumors...


    Just as they were about to speak to her, the phrase "Winter is coming" echoed, and in Thunderfire Demon Cave, three faces filled with anticipation froze, still in the midst of moving forward to respectfully greet Olivia, their expressions a mix of restraint and affection.


    "Aunt Olivia, shall we visit Uncle Three and Aunt Two?" Daniel wasn''t surprised by Aunt Olivia''s actions; he admired her greatly.


    After all, tormenting these three children to hasten their growth was something he learned from her.


    Olivia shook her head, "Never mind, my sister and brother are in the midst of breakthroughs. I''ll take these three kids away; it''s time they learn how we Blackwoods handle things."


    "Yes, Aunt Olivia," Daniel replied, not daring to say more, but he knew Aunt Olivia didn''t want to see Uncle Three''s madness or Aunt Two''s aged appearance.


    Just like in the past, when he was learning by Aunt Olivia''s side, he saw her sigh for the first time during the great clan war because of Uncle Three''s relentless forging. And when Aunt Two came to Thunderfire Demon Cave, it was the first time he saw Aunt Olivia nearly in tears.


    "Daniel, you''ve managed well in Thunderfire Demon Cave over the years, showing true leadership. I''ll let your elder brother know; he''ll be proud of you too," Olivia complimented before leaving.


    Hearing this, Daniel smiled faintly, "Thank you, Aunt Olivia, it''s my duty."


    Watching Aunt Olivia maneuver her wheelchair away with the three frozen figures, Daniel felt calm inside. After years of controlling power from behind the scenes, he had developed the demeanor of a leader, accustomed to flattery and high regard.


    Such praise was trivial; even if his clan called him a prodigy, he would just smile it off.


    Excitement over such things was childish.


    Not long after, a demon-possessed psychic bowed to Daniel.


    Daniel patted the psychic''s shoulder, saying lightly, "Yes, good, my Aunt Olivia just praised me."


    "Uh... what?" Daniel walked away, leaving the psychic staring dumbfounded at the back of this saintly apostle who dominated the demon cave, a figure who used to be so imposing and frightening, always seeming to harbor sinister schemes. Now...


    "Why is he hopping away so cheerfully? Is he bewitched?"


    Soon, in Thunderfire Demon Cave, Daniel, dressed in a purple robe with a goatee and graying hair, walked around. Although he tried to maintain a stern expression, his steps became increasingly light.


    To everyone he met, he said, "My Aunt Olivia praised me."


    Then he knocked on Julian and Amelia''s Psychic Sanctuary, shouting loudly.


    "Uncle Three, Aunt Olivia praised me!"


    "Aunt Two, Aunt Two! Aunt Olivia said I have the talent to lead!"


    "Man, Daniel''s totally lost it today," Ethan said, rolling his eyes as he sped up the video feed. Olivia was already leading her three kids toward Cloudview County. She seemed younger now.

 Chapter 173: Chapter 173: Thats not necessarily true

    [Your descendant Olivia is gradually mastering the ''Four Seasons'' power, slowly unraveling the laws of ''life'' and ''seasons'', merging with them, as the threat of heavenly tribulation looms closer.]


    If we''re talking about skill levels, the Competent phase is about mastering the laws of nature, just touching the fringes of human laws. When the thunder tribulation strikes, Developing Skill transforms into Competent. And Olivia?


    She doesn''t have Developing Skill...


    Her power is borrowed. In this game world, all the literary types Ethan had seen seemed to operate this way, borrowing the power of nature with their words, making laws follow their commands.


    And just from the video, you could see thunderclouds constantly following Olivia, gathering strength.


    Beneath those thunderclouds, countless faint orbs seemed either to push the thunder in the sky upward or to wait silently for the thunder to fall and obliterate them. Maybe that''s why the thunder dragons in the clouds seemed a bit restless.


    As the scene flashed by like a phantom, Olivia and her three children arrived at...


    The Duke''s Mansion!


    As soon as she arrived, the mansion was on high alert, two Competent level guards suddenly leaping out, seemingly annoyed as they stared at the woman in the wheelchair, who nonchalantly played with her black hair, further irritating them.


    After a moment, an old man with Developing Skill appeared in the mansion, his face wearing a strange expression as he glanced at the ice sculpture of Edward before leading them inside.


    The same grand hall of the mansion.


    Michael approached quietly, more serious this time than when Dennis had brought Edward before, because this time it wasn''t just anyone, but Olivia, a true elder of the Blackwood clan!


    The last people in Cloudview County anyone wanted to mess with were from Blackwood.


    He looked up at the sky, realizing that Olivia had probably been targeted by the heavenly tribulation for a while now. But the tribulation seemed wary, even he couldn''t tell why, what made it hesitate, allowing this ruthless woman to slowly gather strength to confront it.


    And if Olivia wished, the tribulation would bring down thunderous power that even Competent wouldn''t dare approach. Anyone who saw Olivia had to weigh whether it was worth it to confront her, as the tribulation was indiscriminate. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Could it be that this tribulation thing is biased?" Michael wondered to himself, still remembering how he had been nearly killed by a tribulation strike. He had no idea how Olivia managed to carry the tribulation around with her.


    After sipping some tea to ease his inner apprehension, he glanced at Olivia, who was smiling and sitting in her wheelchair facing him, and said softly, "Lady of Blackwood Dawn, I''ve heard of your reputation. It''s rare to see someone who doesn''t bow in my presence."


    "My legs aren''t what they used to be, my lord. Please bear with me," Olivia replied with a smile.


    "That''s not necessarily true," Michael squinted slightly, "If your legs weren''t strong, how could you control Dawn? If you don''t respect me, just say it. I don''t care much for these formalities. Sitting as equals could indeed be interesting."


    "My lord jests. You are high above, and I respect you in my own way. If you were a relative of my Blackwood clan, then technically, I would rank two generations above you. Sitting as equals is already showing great respect to you, my lord," Olivia said, her smile radiant.


    "Heh," Michael rubbed his thumb and forefinger together, outwardly calm but internally suppressing his anger, nowhere near the imposing figure he had been when pressuring Edward and Dennis. If it were them, Michael might have already beaten them half to death and thrown them out.


    Olivia really hit Michael where it hurt. What really grated on him about his precious daughter marrying into the Blackwood family was the issue of seniority, and only secondarily the difference in their social standings. If the marriage went through, he''d be surrounded by a bunch of elders in the Blackwood family, some of whom were at least 600 years younger than him...


    But as he looked up and saw Olivia tapping her fingers on the armrest of her wheelchair, he realized it wasn''t worth getting angry with this little girl.


    "Hmph!"


    Michael sharply sipped his tea. "Speak then, what brings you here with this riff-raff?"


    "We Blackwoods understand the pain of a child who has grown up without seeing their father," Olivia sighed deeply, finally giving a respectful bow to Michael.


    "Your Highness, I ask for your grace. Let bygones be bygones, as we Blackwoods have accepted. But now, the child is already five years old, and Edward has become a man under our care."


    "I hope to let Edward meet Miss Betty and the child. Considering their current age, they should be able to sense whether their love is genuine. You wouldn''t want to see your beloved daughter pine away, would you?" Michael frowned upon hearing this. If it were anyone else, he would have ignored them.


    But with Olivia... he could feel that if he refused, she might just find a way to hide her daughter and grandson.


    As he pondered, Olivia continued: "Your Highness, I also wish for our three children to stay a few more years in your estate. With the strength of your estate, I believe you can cultivate three individuals with Emerging Abilities."


    "That''s interesting."


    Now, Michael was truly angry. He scoffed coldly, "You expect me to turn a blind eye to your youngsters ruining my precious daughter, and to let them meet¡ªthat I can understand as human nature."


    "But you want them to live in my estate, to let me watch these nobodies romance my daughter, and even have my estate train your Blackwood successors? What do you take me for?"


    "My girl, do you really think I''d be scared just because you walk under thunderstorms? That''s utterly delusional!"


    In an instant, the energy of heaven and earth gathered in the palace.


    Michael sat in the main seat, his hair moving without wind and his robe fluttering, a powerful aura pressing down on Olivia, almost as if he was about to strike her down right there!


    All the decorations in the hall trembled and shattered under the force of his Competent power.


    The ice sculptures of the three youngsters also shattered.


    "Of course not."


    Olivia''s streaked hair and white robe fluttered, her face trembling from the blow, yet she remained unmoved, just quietly staring at Michael, calmly saying, "If it were as you believe, Your Highness, then I would indeed be overstepping. But as I said before, I am willing to treat you as an equal, which is a sign of respect from me and the Blackwood family."


    "Put away your pride, take a good look, it''s you who need us Blackwoods, not the other way around."


    These words were sure to infuriate Michael.

 Chapter 174: Chapter 174: The Alliance at the Royal Mansion

    At this moment, Michael furrowed his brows, his imposing aura vanishing instantly. Outside the mansion, three presences emerged, forcing him to take the situation seriously. Yet, Olivia''s face was all smiles.


    "Now, can we have a proper chat?" she said as her words fell.


    From outside the mansion, two voices were heard.


    "County Prince, I am Warren from Sky Sect, bringing the new sect master to meet you!" Michael recognized the voice. It was the voice of Warren, the Grand Elder of Sky Sect, and he could even identify Warren''s competent aura!


    Then came another voice...


    "Hahaha! Old dog Warren, this new sect master of yours isn''t much to look at, all gloomy and sad!"


    "County Prince, I am Leon from Black Tortoise. Old dog Warren has invited me, and I am quite intrigued. May I have the honor of meeting you?"


    Leon, the Daoist!


    If Warren from Sky Sect had come, he could understand; during the great battle outside Sky Sect, Warren had cowered. Later, he even found out that the new sect master of Sky Sect was the third-generation eldest son of Blackwood, and the successor as sect master.


    But...


    Black Tortoise?


    He knew that due to the great battle years ago, the long-standing enmity between the two sects had dissipated, but he did not know how Blackwood could possibly summon Leon from Black Tortoise!


    However, he understood that the presence of these two sects was exactly what Olivia had mentioned earlier.


    This meant that Sky Sect and Black Tortoise might very well join his grand plan due to Olivia''s behind-the-scenes mediation!


    It also meant that Blackwood truly understood why he hadn''t executed Edward on the spot and had already begun to secretly align Blackwood''s usable forces with him, thereby wielding the knife for him to reshuffle the entire Cloudview County.


    But...


    He wanted to control Blackwood, to make Blackwood serve him.


    The arrival of the two sect elders, however, deviated from his plans.


    It seemed that Blackwood''s influence had exceeded his expectations.


    He suddenly stared at Olivia with a grave expression.


    He understood everything Olivia had just said.


    Olivia was telling him that he should jointly nurture the three young ones of Blackwood with them, and he should also accept the marriage between Edward and Betty because... sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Blackwood was never alone; they could summon two major sects, they had other forces in the shadows, and they had Olivia!


    They were qualified to stand on equal footing with the Duke''s mansion, not to be used by it, nor to be its vassals.


    Olivia was telling him.


    He wasn''t qualified to control Blackwood!


    Moreover, he only had two choices: to interact with Blackwood through marital ties or... to hide his daughter and granddaughter and be enemies with the mad Blackwood. It seemed that now, Blackwood really didn''t lack the Duke''s mansion as an enemy.


    "Phew."


    Michael let out a long breath, then stared at Olivia with a cold and mocking gaze, bursting into a hearty laugh, "Hahaha, they are just two sect forces after all!"


    An hour later, in the backyard of the Duke''s mansion, the three youngest Blackwoods finally emerged from the melted ice sculpture.


    They rolled their eyes, no need to look to know it was the work of their elders, who loved nothing more than to knock them out or freeze them, then mysteriously transport them to strange places for cultivating psychic powers. They were already braced for intense training.


    Edward was the first to speak, his words driven by the first clear impression he had upon regaining consciousness, "Great-grandma, we know we need to cultivate our psychic powers, you don''t have to¡ªhuh??"


    Their expressions gradually turned blank.


    In front of them, Great-grandma sat in a wheelchair, smiling warmly at them. A Daoist figure caught their eye.


    Two old men... and a young man with a troubled expression, staring at Great-grandma, seemingly very upset.


    And...


    "Betty!"


    A round-faced girl who looked incredibly sweet was leading a five-year-old child by the hand, a child who bore a striking resemblance to Edward!


    Even though Betty had grown up quite a bit, Edward recognized her instantly, the girl who haunted his dreams. At this moment, Betty was also overwhelmed with joy, tears streaming down her face.


    The child she was holding, dressed in fine clothes, stared curiously at him. Edward knew this was the child born of his past misdeeds.


    Beside Betty and the child stood his greatest fear, Michael.


    In the past, the sight of Michael would have made Edward want to run away immediately.


    But looking at Betty and the child, all his fears vanished, and he walked resolutely towards his lover and child.


    He was even prepared to be beaten half to death by Michael.


    His body trembled.


    Then...


    As expected, Michael''s hand landed on his shoulder, his teeth clenched, "You can''t stop me from being with Betty and the child..."


    Edward faced this as if accepting his fate.


    But before he could finish, he looked dumbfounded at Michael''s hand on his shoulder. The expected instant annihilation did not occur. Michael''s grip was strong, pinching his shoulder fiercely, then he patted it harshly.


    Then, with eyes full of murderous intent, he revealed a smile uglier than crying.


    "Edward, the first time I saw you, I knew you were a good lad!"


    Yeah.


    The words ''good lad'' squeezed out through his teeth.


    If Edward was alone in the royal mansion, Michael would definitely give him a good thrashing. Watching Edward and his family in that cozy scene, he suddenly felt abandoned, as if his daughter had forgotten her old father. But now was not the time to dwell on such matters, as everyone quickly moved into the hall to continue their conversation.


    Ethan was meeting the Black Tortoise Daoist for the first time, a handsome young man dressed in a robe adorned with Black Tortoise patterns, holding a white fan. He looked like a refined gentleman, but his behavior was more like a street thug, cursing and acting brashly, and he kept calling the Warren Daoist an ''old dog''.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Alliance at the Royal Mansion]


    [Your family has been afraid to return to their homeland for many years. Michael wants to completely reshuffle Cloudview County. With Olivia''s mediation, the two families secretly form an alliance!]

 Chapter 175: Chapter 175: Ancient gods essence blood!

    As Olivia and Michael emerged from the hall, a hint of joy was visible on their faces. The age-old rivals, Daoist Warren and Daoist Leon, were still bickering as they walked away into the distance.


    Olivia gave Michael a respectful bow, "Since we''ve agreed, I''ll take the younger members of my family away. Once they acknowledge their ancestors and return to the clan, I will send them back."


    Soon after, watching his daughter and grandson waving at him from the sky, Michael sighed deeply, "A daughter married off is like water spilled out of the house. But... it''s only been a few years, and Edward has started to catch my eye. The people of Blackwood are indeed worthy of trust."


    [Your sixth-generation descendant has acknowledged his ancestors and is named ''Joseph''!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute value of +5]


    Ethan, watching the child successfully perform the Ancestral Communion and seeing the sixth-generation member appear on the family list, was overjoyed. He sent a burst of ancestral love to all the members currently in the ancestral hall. This five-year-old child was extremely adorable.


    [Joseph (Sixth Generation)]


    [Talent: Thunder Single Psychic Constitution]


    [Trait: Immense Strength]


    [Born with the strength of a fierce tiger, his power will increase by 10% as his cultivation improves]


    His talent... truly worthy of the bloodline of the Duke''s Mansion. It was said that Michael wanted to drown him at birth, but over time, he grew increasingly fond of Joseph, going through great lengths to procure heavenly treasures for him from the royal family.


    Besides his natural traits, he also consumed a drop of ancient god''s essence blood!


    [Your descendant Joseph has received a drop of ancient god''s essence blood as a gift from the elder Duke''s Mansion. As he ages, the essence blood will continuously nourish his body, enhancing the speed of his psychic power cultivation, gradually increasing his comprehension until he fully assimilates the Thunder Single Psychic Constitution!]


    He is definitely one of the most talented newborns in the Blackwood lineage.


    Ancient god''s essence blood, something Ethan had never even heard of before.


    As time passes, Ethan could feel that Joseph would become increasingly powerful!


    "Joseph, haha, what a great name! Forebearer has named him, and Joseph has the makings of an Ability Master!"


    In the ancestral hall, Nathan, seeing this only sixth-generation descendant, also liked this sensible child, because when it was time to come out of the coffin, it was Joseph who helped lift the coffin lid.


    After Joseph acknowledged his ancestors, the people of Blackwood also held a rare feast at their residence for the first time in many years.


    This time, Marcus also returned with them!


    This third-generation eldest son, who had been in seclusion in the Sky Sect for many years, showed no change in appearance, still looking troubled. When he saw his clan members, he bowed his head in deep shame.


    At night.


    He was like the crying child of those years, his eyes red, kneeling before Ethan''s cards, "Forebearer, your son... your son has truly been unfilial! During the years of my seclusion, I had no idea that the old thief Wesley dared to lay hands on the Boar Monarch Pete!"


    "By the time I came out of seclusion, everything had ended."


    "Your son still thought that through his own efforts, he could step by step become the sect leader, but who knew... who knew..."


    He was Lucas''s child, not as closely related to the Boar Monarch Pete, unable to empathize as deeply as Julian''s lineage could.


    Seeing Marcus''s guilty appearance, Ethan sent him a ''Forebearer''s warmth''.


    In fact, Marcus had done a lot for the family over the years, it was just that the incident happened suddenly, and he was facing a breakthrough, otherwise, Ethan believed, this guy would definitely be at the forefront.


    ...


    That night, the Blackwood estate was alive with nocturnal conversations. Nathan and his daughter Olivia stood under the Primordial Blood Tree, watching its blood-red branches sway in the night breeze.


    "Olivia, do you remember this old tree?" Nathan asked softly.


    Olivia''s expression flickered with nostalgia. "I remember, it was many years ago. Father, mother, and my siblings all went into the Silver Iron Forest and brought back this divine tree. I could only wait quietly at home."


    "The divine tree has been growing slowly, accompanying us Blackwoods," Nathan continued.


    "Back then, none of us could have imagined that the tree would grow so large, or that our Blackwood family would develop so quickly. Who would have thought its leaves would be so red, or that our path forward would be stained with so much blood."


    A cool breeze swept through the night, bringing back memories for the father and daughter. Suddenly, a face appeared on the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Its crimson eyes stared at them. "Do you need a sign?"


    If it were a descendant of the Blackwoods, it could easily provide a sign, which was also necessary for the growth of the Blackwood descendants after the death of the Boar Monarch Pete. However, as time passed, the Primordial Blood Tree understood that it was better to use such signs later, representing a corner of the children''s future, whether it be cultivating psychic powers, death, or joy.


    Seeing the form of the Primordial Blood Tree, Nathan and Olivia exchanged a smile.


    Nathan said, "Old tree, I was the one who dug you up and planted you here. You''ve taken root because of me, so don''t try to show off these fates to me. I came from a slave background, worked many years as a farmer, then as a hunter. I''ve made my own path, and no one but the Forebearer can decide my future."


    "And you?" The Primordial Blood Tree ignored Nathan and turned to Olivia.


    It remembered that Nathan, when it lacked spiritual awareness, used to bring his children to urinate on it.


    Olivia also ignored the Primordial Blood Tree''s offer of a sign, instead saying with a smile, "Divine tree, you''ve consumed so much blood over the years, I want to see the future of our family."


    [Primordial Blood Tree asks you if you want to use the stored life essence blood to foresee a corner of the future.]


    [Use it.]


    Ethan, without hesitation, typed on his keyboard. Although he agreed with Nathan''s words, the signs from the Primordial Blood Tree had never been wrong. Knowing a piece of the future would make it easier for them to face what was to come.


    As he spoke, the branches of the Primordial Blood Tree swayed, and a red light descended. Its eyes turned even more blood-red, and two leaves fell onto the shoulders of the father and daughter.


    The ancient voice of the Primordial Blood Tree spoke, "I have seen, and I have heard."


    "Enemies come from all directions, you march forward bravely, you fight recklessly, you scream with all your might." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Blood dilutes the rivers of Cloudview County, the earth turns red, the sky has only one word¡ª"


    "B."


    "That day will come soon, and the children of Blackwood will return home."


    It seemed that using so much psychic power had exhausted the Primordial Blood Tree, and the face on the tree faded into the night, unwilling to engage further with Nathan and his daughter.


    Soon, father and daughter furrowed their brows and dispersed.


    They had found a piece of the future from the Primordial Blood Tree, and now it was time to make battle arrangements. They needed to let everyone in Blackwood know that war was coming!


    Later into the night, Marcus came out of the ancestral hall. He paid his respects at the grave of the Boar Monarch Pete and drank a cup of wine, then went to drink in front of the Primordial Blood Tree.


    When the Primordial Blood Tree opened its eyes again, it was clear that Marcus was aware of its abilities.


    But he simply shook his head and continued to drink with the moon.

 Chapter 176: Chapter 176: Dawn was breaking

    Soon after, Dennis arrived with the three Blackwood kids, along with Betty, Joseph, and another woman. Nicholas rolled up his sleeves, showing off his muscular arms, and flashed a big, white grin.


    "Sacred Tree, look at me, I''m a real man now. I''ve died many times in the Dire Death Coffin, faced numerous demon-possessed fighters, and kept pushing myself in the Thunderfire Demon Cave. I''m no coward anymore."


    "Right, Nicholas is soon to be a man, ready to marry his sister," said Helen, who had been promised to Nicholas since they were children. She patted Nicholas on the head, just like in the old days, her appearance unchanged over the years.


    Nicholas, who had learned a bit about the birds and the bees from the demon-possessed, blushed deeply, but he was determined to follow family rules and not mess around like his older brother.


    "Ha ha ha, right!" Dennis laughed heartily. "The Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion can be yours now!"


    "Grandpa Dennis," Nicholas and Helen said, bowing their heads, a hint of reluctance in their eyes.


    Years ago, Dennis had told them his time was coming¡ªan unavoidable fate that nearly all Psychics eventually face.


    Seeing the sadness in the kids'' faces, Dennis said nonchalantly, "Come on, you think I, Dennis, haven''t calculated my own fate after all these years? I''m not afraid to admit it, but it''s all for the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion to keep existing. That''s why I''ve worked so hard for Blackwood."


    "Now my goal is achieved. Helen, Nicholas, you need to ensure the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion lasts for a thousand, ten thousand, even a hundred thousand years. Let the people of the Pavilion always remember that I, Dennis, was the first master here, proof that I once existed."


    The three kids, who had grown up under Dennis''s care, didn''t fully understand but seemed to grasp some deeper insight, nodding at Dennis.


    And on the screen, Ethan also showed a slight smile. Indeed, everyone has different talents and opportunities, and facing the end is something all Psychics must deal with. But at least Dennis had lived a splendid life, and now he was about to pass on peacefully, his legacy enduring, which is what many Psychics hope for.


    Under the moonlight, more wrinkles appeared on Dennis''s face, but the old man was still smiling kindly.


    He might not be a great man, but he would forever live in the memories of future generations.


    Dawn was breaking.


    That day, Nathan lay back in his coffin, Olivia walked the earth again, and Marcus sobered up and returned to the Sky Sect. Dennis, along with the three kids, Lady Betty, and Joseph, headed back to the Duke''s Mansion.


    Dennis was on his way back to Blackwood, ready to silently wait for his final moment at the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    Suddenly, Stephen, the former master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, blocked his path with a beaming smile.


    "Dennis, we meet again. Do you want to live?"


    Under the sun, it seemed to record the traces of Blackwood people walking on earth, along with the memories of Blackwood companions.


    Cloudview County was as peaceful as ever, with the scattered Blackwood kids all hustling to hone their psychic powers. That day, when Nathan and Olivia sent out letters warning of the impending war, every Blackwood felt the urgency. They knew homecoming day was fast approaching.


    Back at the screen, Ethan was still dealing with kids caught in crises¡ªlike Justin from Black Tortoise, who nearly died, Larry who was duking it out with two demon kings in the Swamp Forest, and William, whose half-baked assassination attempt nearly got him killed...


    These troublemakers were more of a headache for Ethan than other descendants.


    Luckily, Lisa had whipped up some chicken soup today, giving Ethan a bit of a breather. Setting his bowl outside, Ethan smiled as he looked towards the duke''s mansion. Inside one of the Psychic Sanctuaries, Edward finally emerged from seclusion!


    [Blackwood for 100 years!]


    [Your descendant Nicholas has advanced past the Emerging Ability phase, shedding his Metal Psychic Constitution for a pure Water Psychic Constitution!]


    [Your descendant Donna has advanced past the Emerging Ability phase, ditching her Earth Psychic Constitution for a dual Water-Fire Psychic Constitution!]


    [Your descendant Edward, has advanced past the Emerging Ability phase, shedding his Earth-Wood Psychic Constitution for a Metal-Water Psychic Constitution!]


    With the massive resources of the duke''s mansion, their breakthroughs took even longer, and Edward even received special care from the mansion.


    Duke Michael glanced at them from afar. He wanted to praise them, but seeing his daughter excitedly running to meet Edward, he turned away with a scowl, wishing he could hang a sign at the front door: "No Entry for Edward and Dogs."


    Especially that Joseph. At nine years old, already as tall as Edward''s chest, this kid was not only handsome but also exceptionally bright and thick-skinned.


    Seeing the elders emerge, he immediately reached out his hand, expecting gifts just like when he met any elder, as his grandfather had taught him.


    But what could Edward and the others give? They used to have some treasures, but after their trip to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, those demon-infested jerks had either conned or stolen everything, leaving them penniless.


    After a tough search, Joseph looked bewildered at the struggling elders and the three nails they reluctantly placed in his hand. He burst into tears, "I''m sorry, I didn''t know our elders were this broke. Wait here, I''ll bring you all the good stuff!"


    Moments later, Joseph returned with a pile of gifts from various festivals given by others.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, and Nicholas received gifts from Joseph: three top-tier psychic equipment pieces, one basic psychic device, forty nine-to-eight-grade talismans, and various pills...] sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Father, uncle, aunt, just wait!" Seeing the elders'' baffled faces staring at the pile of gifts, Joseph felt even more convinced that his family elders were dirt poor, probably why they were always out of sight, likely doing what his grandfather said about robbing to support the family.


    Thinking of this, his eyes reddened, and he gritted his teeth, "I''ll go to grandfather''s treasury and bring you all the good stuff!"


    This made the three elders'' faces change. Donna quickly grabbed Joseph, "Little Joseph, our family elders have said we mustn''t steal from our own people. Aunt knows the duke''s mansion is wealthy, but we Blackwoods are proud even in poverty; we must never steal, we always ask."


    "But... but these gifts..." Nicholas looked at the gifts in the young boy''s hands. He remembered the elders saying that as long as the origins of the gifts were clean and the conscience clear, they could accept them. Although it was embarrassing to take things from a junior, it wasn''t entirely out of the question.


    Donna frowned, handing the gifts back to Joseph, "We''ll accept your gifts, but take your sentiment back."

 Chapter 177: Chapter 177: Son-in-law???

    "Oh," Joseph nodded firmly, his gaze resolute as he reached out to take back his belongings, but his aunt had already whisked them away. His little face tightened, a sense of unease creeping in as he mulled over her words, eventually bursting into tears and running to find his mother.


    It seemed his childhood was marked by a crucial lesson from the elders.


    "Donna, you''ve been picking up bad habits from those cursed with demonic powers," Edward said darkly, looking at his sister. He missed the simplicity and kindness of the sister he first met, who used to be so meek. Now, she seemed always to be scheming to bully others.


    Donna, her eyes still innocently wide, smiled coyly. "Big brother, the elders say we need to follow them in their journeys. We can''t just go empty-handed, right? When we return, we''ll repay Joseph double."


    "Alright then."


    Later, Edward approached his son and his future wife. As he aged, he seemed to truly understand the words of the great-grandfather from long ago.


    "Edward, where are you guys headed next?" Betty asked tearfully, her eyes fixed on Edward.


    Growing up, she had been raised on stories of the Blackwood clan. When she learned of Edward''s identity and his aspiration to become a swordsman like Lucas, she couldn''t help but admire him. By the time she had Joseph, despite her father''s scolding, she was unsure if her actions were right.


    Her father had said that the Blackwoods might be renowned, but they were unlikely to be competent fathers, husbands, wives, or mothers in their generation. Their children and many relatives were scattered, hiding from unknown dangers.


    The descendants of Blackwood were like wolves scattered across the wilderness, each either alone or in small groups, always vigilant of the beasts around them or ready to bear scars in exchange for food.


    Now, the man of her dreams had grown from a boy into a true Blackwood man.


    "Sorry, Betty," Edward said, embracing his wife and child, his eyes filled with reluctance but also determination. He whispered in Betty''s ear, "Betty, I was too young then. Grandfather said I didn''t understand anything, didn''t know what love was. He was right." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Edward..."


    Edward rubbed his cheek against Betty''s ear, cutting her off, "I met the great-grandfather, and he told me I was lucky to have a woman like you who cares for me, and a child. I should cherish everything."


    A wind seemed to rise out of nowhere at the duke''s mansion, making his eyes itch.


    "Back then, he gave me a choice to continue being a Blackwood child or to become an ordinary person. But I... I chose the former."


    "As a child, I felt the burden of being a Blackwood descendant. Gradually, I understood everything that happened in our family. I''ve been to Emerald Phoenix Peak, Thunderfire Demon Cave, and back to the duke''s mansion, and even returned to our clan. I''ve met many elders."


    "It turns out our family was never as strong as outsiders said. Our ancestors have always been protecting the clan, but our enemies won''t let the Blackwoods live in peace."


    "At the Thunderfire Demon Cave, I met our great-grandmother, a mischievous elder. She threw us into a terrifying pool, or so we thought for a while. Later, we learned that she had sacrificed her life for us."


    "Our great-grandfather was always irritable. When we were cultivating psychic powers, we saw him forging every day. He was annoyed whenever he saw us, urging us to keep going. He felt guiltier than us."


    Edward took a deep breath.


    Donna and Nicholas were listening too, and they had known all along. The elders always treated them like children, but they understood more than they were given credit for... they just didn''t know why they still hoped to be seen as children by the elders.


    They were afraid that if the elders knew they weren''t foolish, they might be ashamed to the point of despair.


    "In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, we left our marks on that dark red soil, sinking the ground by about three feet, and there we grew up¡ªnot just in body, but in heart as well."


    "There, we realized that our family has always been fighting, always pushing their limits. We thought we had it tough, breaking our limits every day, but what about our relatives scattered throughout Cloudview County?"


    "They all have a dream, dreaming that our whole family can gather under the sacred tree at the Ancestral Communion, enjoying a grand feast, listening to our great uncle''s deep speeches, our cheeky great-grandma''s laughter, and our great-grandfather''s roars..."


    "Betty."


    By then, Betty''s face was streaked with tears. He wiped them away, his smile radiant, "I''m sorry, I chose the family, chose those elders I once didn''t understand. I''ve become just like them."


    They looked at each other, speechless, as if trying to imprint this moment in their hearts forever.


    Little Joseph didn''t understand, but he could feel the bitterness. His family''s elders were very poor, so poor they had to leave their homeland.


    After a long while.


    Betty watched Edward and her smiling younger siblings leave, and it took her a long time to shout, "Edward, come back soon, take me and Joseph home!"


    Hearing this, Edward stopped in his tracks, his body trembling, then he walked faster, afraid he would turn back.


    At that moment, atop the walls of the Duke''s mansion stood a dignified, portly man in a python robe.


    If it had been before.


    Once Edward left, he would have been shouting for days and nights. Now, he just quietly watched Edward''s retreating figure.


    He seemed to see three grown wolves leaving the Duke''s mansion, the Blackwood wolves.


    These wolves would one day come together, and on that day, no one could stop these wildest of beasts, their firm beliefs capable of destroying everything!


    Michael gritted his teeth and went to the treasury to find three suitable psychic tools and elixirs for them.


    Just then, the mansion''s steward said, "My lord, that Blackwood scoundrel has left, I''ve prepared a feast for you, and notified your friends in the city to come and drink."


    The steward smiled obsequiously, as he usually did when cursing Edward with Michael, expecting the Duke to laugh heartily and reward him generously.


    But this time, Michael''s reward did not come.


    He silently handed over a Storage Ring, saying softly, "Give this Storage Ring to my son-in-law."


    "Son-in-law???"


    The steward was stunned.


    But the Duke had already turned back, his steps light, as if a great burden had been lifted from his shoulders.


    Then the Duke said something that almost made the steward slap himself and kneel.


    "My son-in-law''s name is Edward."

 Chapter 178: Chapter 178: Commander through a meat grinder??

    "The kids have finally grown up, huh?" Ethan was quite moved, having practically watched these three kids grow up over the past few days. He quickly switched the screen. Now, the time had come to the Blackwood Centennial!


    Inside the Blackwood clan''s shrine, Nathan had already prepared the Tribute Offering and was kneeling before Ethan! Across Cloudview County, from Thunderfire Demon Cave to Sky Sect, the Swamp Jungle, and Black Tortoise... in all these places, children were setting up altars. No matter how busy they were, they all worshipped Ethan''s Cards.


    As long as the Cards were there, anywhere could be Ethan''s shrine!


    [The Blackwood Centennial, a grand ceremony every ten years, begins!]


    "Forebearer, Larry bows before you, hoping for a smooth year ahead, and to capture two demon kings to guard our Blackwood!"


    "Your son Jeffrey, on this day of Ancestral Communion, prays for a life of luxury, with lovers who bring treasures."


    "Your son William brings 998 heads, to entertain the Forebearer on this grand ceremony day. Please accept them, Forebearer!"


    Seeing the continuous stream of gifts on the screen, Ethan was exasperated. The previous generations were okay, but the fourth generation was really stirring things up. While he indeed received the precious materials and elixirs he needed, the wishes they made were truly headache-inducing.


    "Do you think I''m Santa Claus? And you, the cheeky kid offering heads, do you want me to drink tea from a skull?"


    After a long rant, Ethan collected all the precious materials and elixirs.


    [Received 250 Beast Blood Fruits]


    [Received 200 Great Penis Enlargement Pills] Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Received three Grade 8 Pills ''Mixed Psychic Pill'' and several Grade 7 Pills ''Psychic Storage Pill''...]


    [...]


    [Would you like to retrieve the descendants'' Tribute Offering?]


    Looking at the screen, Ethan felt a mix of satisfaction and excitement. After 100 years, the Tribute Offerings he received were increasing, and his descendants respected him greatly.


    Moreover, he believed that with these elixirs, he could reach the pinnacle of Developing Skill.


    However, Ethan knew he had to make good use of these elixirs, as he had also seen the future predicted by the Primordial Blood Tree through its essence.


    [Yes!]


    As he retrieved the descendants'' Tribute Offering, the room was once again filled with precious materials and elixirs, which he absorbed through his computer, just like last time.


    By the way...


    [You are sending a ''Divine Gift'' to your descendant Nathan.]


    [Dual Cultivation Technique x1]


    This Dual Cultivation Technique was something he had bought from some odd websites over the years.


    Over the years, it had become increasingly difficult for the children of Blackwood to reproduce. The stronger their Psychic abilities, the lower their fertility, a common natural law.


    Like Michael, who was hundreds of years old and had spent a great deal of effort and nearly half of his fortune to have Betty.


    Earth was the same, with fertility rates long being a fraction of the death rates.


    Later, to change this, Earth strictly controlled killings and gathered various dual cultivation techniques, developing the "Dual Cultivation Technique."


    When this thing came out, the whole Earth shook at night, and walking on the streets, one might think there was a battle going on.


    Gradually, the fertility rates improved.


    "The Forebearer has bestowed another Divine Gift. On behalf of the descendants, I thank the Forebearer and vow to restore the Blackwood lineage to its former glory, living up to the Forebearer''s great expectations!" Nathan saw the two items next to the Mystic Burner and immediately bowed his head.


    He picked up the Energy Stone and stood there, bewildered for a long time, before he dared to believe what he saw in the Forebearer Cards and then in the Energy Stone in his hand.


    The wind from outside the shrine blew in, adding to his disarray.


    The Energy Stone not only recorded the spells but also the movements and details.


    As he bravely observed the Forebearer''s gift, Nathan''s expression grew more and more animated.


    Blackwood had its dual cultivation techniques, but they were minimally effective. However, the technique bestowed by the Forebearer was so detailed and comprehensive, it was terrifying!


    It even included the combination of humans and demons...


    "Thanks, Forebearer, I get it now. You want us to grow our clan¡ªour kids are still too few!" Nathan expressed his deep gratitude. "Rest assured, Forebearer, once the Blackwood kin return home, with your dual cultivation techniques, our descendants will spread throughout Cloudview County!"


    He casually gave Nathan a ''Warmth from the Forebearer''.


    Right now, Ethan was more concerned about the pop-up on his screen!


    [Congratulations, you''ve absorbed a massive amount of heavenly materials and treasures, breaking through the peak of Developing Skill!]


    [Your family''s hundred-year development conditions have been met, please choose the skill you wish to upgrade!]


    [Detected remaining Spiritual Tribute points: 230,000]


    ...


    The grand ceremony concluded.


    [Blackwood Year 101]


    Ethan watched as his family members were fervently cultivating psychic powers. Indeed, as Edward had said, it wasn''t just them; their elders had been quietly amassing strength over the years!


    Olivia would message him periodically, Dawn''s forces were scouting the enemy''s movements.


    Everything was as the Primordial Blood Tree had foreseen.


    One day, the Blackwood kin would return to their homeland, and their enemies would also head to the Blackwood residence. These enemies represented what was considered ''orthodox'' in the whole of Cloudview County, each emerging from the ancient Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    The storm is coming, the building is full of wind.


    "Phew."


    After many days, Ethan stretched lazily and stepped out of his room, "Let the game speed up, the kids are growing, and with Dawn watching over, nothing will go wrong."


    That''s what he said, but Ethan still left an AI Bionic Robot in front of the screen to help operate.


    "Commander."


    Just as he stepped out, he saw Lisa bowing towards him, her eyebrows slightly furrowed, "You haven''t been to school for many days now. Your homeroom teacher has been calling home constantly. After I blocked him, he even called the police, suspecting a program error had sent the Commander through a meat grinder."


    "..."

 Chapter 179: Chapter 179: A terrifying organization?

    Ethan''s lips twitched as he removed his teacher from the blacklist on his old-school flip phone. Just as he dialed, Ethan frowned and pulled the phone away a bit, feeling like his teacher''s spit was about to spray out through the speaker.


    "Have you lost your mind, Ethan? With your talents, why aren''t you in school? Skipping classes? Your family''s gone AWOL, and you don''t think to maybe step up your game? You''re a genius, man!"


    "And what about the match the other day? Why was the other genius kidnapped to a spaceship and only returned two months later?"


    "Little punk, I told you to just move a finger and defeat him, and then you could have been California''s top genius, maybe even get trained by the federal army. Do you realize what a huge opportunity you wasted?"


    "Are you traumatized and don''t want to see people? Can''t you just listen to me? Everyone faces setbacks in life..."


    "And that John, the gatekeeper, what''s his deal? You told him to wait, didn''t you, to keep me from coming in? Wait till I become the campus secretary, I''ll bring a thousand teachers to sort him out!"


    Ethan scratched his head, listening intently. His teacher, Joshua, was generally good to every student, otherwise Ethan wouldn''t have bothered helping him out.


    When a panting sound came through the phone, followed by a pause, Ethan coughed, "Teacher, I''ve really been busy with important stuff lately, but I''ve also been kinda scared to answer your calls, thought you might have cooled down."


    "I can''t fucking cool down."


    There was a slight delay in Joshua''s voice, "Busy with what?"


    "Starting from scratch."


    Ethan grinned, "You''ve adjusted now, right? Has the principal been arrested? Have you been nominated as the interim principal?"


    "Huh? You did that too?" Joshua was stunned, then he relaxed, "A starving camel is still bigger than a horse. You Blackwoods still have some clout. I mean, right after that genius was kidnapped during the match, the next day the principal was taken away for investigation by the officials, and they uncovered years of corruption. The next day, I was nominated as the interim principal."


    "Teacher, now that you''re the interim principal, could you help me sneak out some of those alien species from the school lab when you have time?"


    As Ethan finished speaking, Joshua was silent for a long time before responding, "Have you been brainwashed by a terrorist organization? That stuff is too dangerous."


    "Ah, alright, alright, I''ll come see you."


    Ethan hung up the phone. He and his teacher had a pretty good relationship, and Joshua was the first to recognize his talent.


    Ethan quickly stepped out of the room, and there was Granny Quinn, squatting by the door. As soon as she saw Ethan, she sprang to her feet, her eyes sharpening. But just as she was about to speak, her expression changed.


    That day, she had wanted to embezzle a piece of top-notch advanced psychic gear, which Ethan had taken out from his Storage Ring.


    "Granny Quinn, how about we go out for some morning tea early in the morning?" Ethan said as soon as he finished speaking.


    The peak aura of Developing Skill burst forth from him, hands clasped behind his back, he leaped onto the floating psychic spear of Tianji Town and headed out of the villa area.


    As Ethan''s aura emerged, the Developing Skill aura spread throughout the entire villa area.


    All those still cultivating psychic powers in the villa area suddenly opened their eyes within the Psychic Sanctuary, staring blankly at the sky in the direction Ethan was leaving, all with complex expressions.


    The gatekeeper, Mr. John, was eating a steamed bun, and the bun he had just bitten into fell from his mouth.


    "Goodness, this talent is even fiercer than the first Commander back in the day, and he''s one who likes to play dumb and eat tigers," he muttered.


    In the meantime, he felt the old psychic lady wanted to chase after him. His eyes sharpened, and he instantly disappeared from the spot, appearing in front of the old psychic lady.


    At the front of Psychic Gear number one.


    The old psychic lady stood alone, with gatekeeper Mr. John leading, plus about thirty others dressed in pajamas, dirty all over, or still eating instant noodles, surrounding Granny Quinn in a circle.


    "Old psychic lady, have you gone mad crafting psychic gear? In our territory, even those who control the Twin Fish Harmony Seal aren''t someone you can mess with?"


    "Hey, neighbors, let it go, old psychic lady. It''s hard enough to make it to number twelve, you know how many people want to live in your Psychic Sanctuary."


    "If it weren''t for you breaking into the Mech Clan alone four hundred years ago, I''d slap you right now and clear out your number twelve Psychic Sanctuary. Don''t force me to really disrespect you!"


    Looking at these neighbors, some of whom she had known for many years.


    The old psychic lady squinted her eyes, scoffing with a sneer, "For so many years you were suppressed by that person from Blackwood, your servility unchanged. Now the Blackwood folks are gone, how long do you still want to be oppressed by their younger generation?!!"


    "Just with you guys trying to stop me? A bunch of sycophantic villains!"


    At the front door.


    Lisa, through the peephole, watched everything outside. She finally relaxed the delicate hand that had been on the doorknob, and returned to the living room to close her eyes.


    Leaving the Psychic Sanctuary, Ethan didn''t bother with the affairs of Psychic Gear. From his childhood, he had been protected by these uncles and aunts, and everyone who met him was curious to see how far he''d grow.


    In the villa area, from house number 1 to 108, the higher the number, the greater the influence.


    Ethan, under his family''s protection, could live in house number one, and he had always been guessing about his own identity, trying multiple times to figure it out but never succeeding.


    Everyone said he should just let things slide and not try too hard.


    Initially, he thought it was because of Blackwood''s presence that these inscrutable people respected him so much. Later, he realized that wasn''t the case. The more cunning he acted, the stronger his qualifications appeared, and the nicer he was to the people in the villa area, the more obedient they became.


    Now, reaching the peak of Developing Skill should be enough to make some people in the villa area take action!


    "When I''m strong enough, I should be able to find out," Ethan thought, raising an eyebrow. He didn''t ponder further and directly flew to a large building.


    That was Alan''s company.


    After handing over the items he got from the game to Alan, and as he was leaving Alan''s company, Alan''s respect seemed much greater. He shouted in Ethan''s direction as he was leaving, "Ethan, remember this, I was the first to join our terrifying organization, I''m from the oldest batch!" S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After shouting this, all the Psychics commuting by sword around the building widened their eyes. ''A terrifying organization''? Had they stumbled upon some big secret? Someone even activated their wristband to project a holographic image and called the police.


    Alan glared, "What are you looking at? And you, what are you doing calling the police? Look carefully at what this is!"


    He pulled something out of his pocket, and the corners of everyone''s mouths twitched as they scattered like birds. He had pulled out an identity card that was two hundred years expired, from the former Chief of the highest police bureau in California.

 Chapter 180: Chapter 180: Ancient Relics Network

    Not long after leaving Alan''s company, Ethan arrived at a school''s faculty area, where a series of Psychic Sanctuaries were located, and he found Joshua''s office.


    "You finally decided to step out, huh?" Joshua greeted him, a middle-aged man with glasses and a stern, serious look that suggested he wasn''t much for small talk. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan entered the teacher''s home and they chatted briefly about mundane family matters, why he hadn''t been attending school, and the statewide competition.


    Joshua, having lived for hundreds of years and experienced the resurgence of psychic abilities on Earth, mostly used ancient devices, influencing Ethan to do the same.


    After sipping some tea brewed by Joshua, Ethan said, "Teacher, would it really be no trouble for you to sneak out some alien species for me?"


    "It''s no trouble. Just knock those researching professors around a bit to keep them quiet. But you have to tell me what you''re using them for; I can''t just let you release those things on the streets," Joshua frowned.


    "I really can''t say," Ethan replied, waving his hand dismissively. "Don''t you trust me? You know I hate getting into trouble."


    Joshua pondered for a moment, then turned on an old TV, which only displayed one channel. The channel, [Ancient Relics Network], featured a woman in a white robe excitedly discussing the significance of archaeological finds, "This will be the greatest discovery, our historical civilization has many gaps, a massive site represents an era!"


    Ethan paid little attention, more curious about why Joshua was watching this channel again. "Teacher, why this channel again? That lady doctor looks a lot like you."


    "That''s my sister!" Joshua revealed.


    "Ah? You keep such a low profile, and you have a sister like her?"


    Joshua was silent for a long time before he finally said, "Let''s not talk about that. You want the alien species, fine, I''ll get them for you in a while. But you have to promise me one thing."


    "What''s that, Teacher?" Ethan grinned.


    "Don''t waste your talents, kid. Go to my sister''s place; she''ll set you up with a cushy job. With your abilities, they''ll treat you like a treasure and give you whatever resources you need. They control a lot of ancient secrets that would be hugely beneficial for you, something others can''t even join."


    "Sure," Ethan agreed nonchalantly, his mind elsewhere. He was least concerned about resources; tomb raiding was George''s kind of job, not his.


    After a long conversation with Joshua, Ethan occasionally checked his phone for updates on his family''s situation. Fortunately, aside from Justin messing up again, there were no major issues.


    Eventually, Ethan headed home. Unbeknownst to him, it had already gotten dark.


    After buying some groceries, he arrived at his doorstep only to see Grandma Quinn still squatting there, probably having known for many days that the Blackwood family''s influence was waning and wanting to hoard his top-tier psychic equipment.


    Moreover, she was testing to see if Ethan was completely without support now.


    Luckily, Ethan had kept his relationship with the gatekeeper Mr. John strong, who had earlier knocked on Grandma Quinn''s door.


    The conflict continued for a while.


    Now...


    The two exchanged glances and smiled at each other in the sunset.


    "Little Ethan, what have you been up to all day? If there''s anything, just talk to your Grandma Quinn, you know I always treat you like my own grandson."


    "..."


    Ethan spent about an hour at Granny Quinn''s Psychic Sanctuary before emerging with a smile, gently touching the Storage Ring in his hand. He quickly returned home.


    Lisa opened her eyes and greeted him with a smile, "Welcome home, Commander. What''s for dinner tonight?"


    "Let''s go with a big pot of stewed goose. Make extra, and send some over to everyone who came out of the Psychic Sanctuary today."


    Hearing this, Lisa nodded obediently, "What about the psychic old lady next door?"


    "Steam a couple more buns for her, and take them up to her Psychic Sanctuary."


    With that, Ethan went back to his room, looked at the descendants on his screen, and remembered his teacher''s words, his lips curling into a smile, "Finally, I can play games in peace! School? Tomb raiding? Heck no!"


    ...


    Back in his room, sitting on the bed, he stared at the huge screen. Time in the game was still accelerating.


    Ethan caressed the Storage Ring, which held the gains from his recent outing. As he watched his descendants strive in the game, he felt his intelligence slowly increasing, enabling him to handle situations that previously overwhelmed him.


    For instance, facing Granny Quinn¡ªif it had been before, he would have had to cower to survive under her hands. Now, he wondered if he had Olivia''s intelligence, he might even be able to silently take out Granny Quinn.


    Ethan exhaled deeply, no longer dwelling on it, and smiled as he watched the time and events on his screen.


    [Blackwood Year 109]


    Unknowingly, he had been out for over eight hours. Over the years, the Blackwood had also been passing peacefully.


    The event log continued to record the struggles of his family members.


    Nathan was still lying in the Forebearer''s Hall within the family''s mausoleum.


    In a mysterious realm, Luna was becoming increasingly beautiful.


    Lucas was still journeying with his sword, having ventured beyond Cloudview County. His once-new black outfit was now worn, but the sword case on his back was still pristine, his stubbled face showing the many vicissitudes he had experienced.


    Inside the Thunderfire Demon Cave, traces of the children once cultivating psychic powers still existed, no longer disturbed by the clanging of iron, only Julian busily building a giant AI Bionic Robot in the scorching thunderfire Psychic Sanctuary.


    More and more zombies were appearing in the Psychic Sanctuary, neatly arranged and eerily eye-opening, but in reality, they were all psychic puppets!


    In another Psychic Sanctuary, Amelia was once again supported by trees, still wearing her old mask, her body tightly wrapped in clothes, but the entire Psychic Sanctuary was glowing, with psychic powers converging from all directions.

 Chapter 181: Chapter 181: I got everything I ever wanted, haha!

    At the border of the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance, a palace had been erected.


    Daniel sat on the throne like an emperor, listening to the demonically possessed psychics and righteous warriors continuously reporting from both sides of the great hall.


    At some point, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, who had been in the mausoleum, had walked out of Blackwood.


    Although his eyes were still blood-red, his body, once like a dried corpse, was now half restored, his dark skin etched with various mysterious inscriptions, showing a rugged handsomeness.


    Behind him followed seven robust men and women, five men like black bears, two women like cheetahs, all constantly frowning.


    This group of eight was closely following Olivia! S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nowadays, Olivia has become even younger, her charm still evident, making it clear just how stunningly beautiful she was in her youth. At this moment, Olivia is holding a scroll, continuously reciting the principles of natural law.


    Golden text swirls around her, gradually influencing the demonic energy within eight demons.


    At the grand hall of the Sky Sect, Marcus, with a full beard, sits boldly in the leader''s seat, drinking from a wine gourd, "I got everything I ever wanted, haha! But what did I actually earn through my own efforts? Instead, I''ve only caused trouble, haha! Maybe I should never have come to this Sky Sect!"


    ...


    Atop a great mountain.


    Three figures appear, two men and one woman, all with disheveled hair and beards.


    The leader, with a deep and mature gaze, looks stable but his beast-skin attire makes him appear wild. He closes his eyes, sensing everything in the mountain, and says, "Donna, Nicholas, I heard that our uncle is tomb raiding here. There''s an ancient aura in the tomb, it could be dangerous."


    "What haven''t we faced over the years? Could there be anything more dangerous than cultivating psychic powers next to Uncle William?"


    Donna, now fully grown but still petite at just under 5 feet with a youthful figure, dressed in a yellow dress and twin ponytails, looks incredibly cute, "In three years, it''ll be big brother''s time to compete. Uncle is going to teach us one last lesson. If we succeed, we''ll take down all the prodigies of Cloudview County, and even those from other counties!"


    "I''d like to see who dares to compete with big brother for a bride."


    Compared to Edward''s maturity and Donna''s recklessness, Nicholas is handsome but not as rough. He seems more refined, speaking softly, "Sis, Great-Grandma always said not to follow Uncle William..."


    "Which eye of yours saw me learning from him? This is what Aunt Jessica instructed when she was in Jones. You have to be ruthless in life. If you don''t scare those bastards, trouble will keep coming!"


    Donna picks her nose.


    Nicholas quickly dodges to the side, afraid his sister might flick her boogers at him, "Sis! There was a young master chasing after you recently. If he knew how gross you are, wouldn''t he be devastated?"


    "He wouldn''t be devastated. Didn''t big brother tell you?" Donna asked, puzzled.


    "Huh?"


    Edward paused, his eyebrows twitching, "Oh, I remember now. That guy had ill intentions, planning to use some love potion. I caught him. Donna cleaned him up overnight, stripped him naked, pierced his shoulder blades, and hung him at the city gate for public display."


    "..."


    Nicholas glanced at his older sister, who seemed indifferent, her face darkening. "How many people have been fooled by that pitiful look of hers?"


    On the screen.


    Ethan also opened his mouth, feeling a bit regretful that he had missed such a scene.


    He opened the history of the three siblings, who had spent most of their years together.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, and Nicholas, aware of the family''s plight, have been cultivating psychic powers more diligently than ever!]


    [They went to Sky Sect, read the Sky Sect scriptures, were taught by Marcus, observed the sun, moon, and stars at the Sky Temple, and were guided by their Daoist mentor from the Ninth Abyss!]


    [Inside the Black Tortoise, they followed Justin into deadly situations. They lived on the edge, encountering a peak Emerging Ability individual for the first time, daring to challenge outside the D-level Psychic Sanctuary, repeatedly pursued by D-level Psychics, and witnessed Justin becoming a direct disciple in a duel...]


    [In the Swamp Jungle, they followed Larry and Mary in a mad battle with thousands of beasts, they crossed the demon king''s territory, and drank the demon king''s blood with Larry and Mary!]


    [In Cloudview County town, they followed Jessica, witnessing the deceit within the town, saw Jessica help her husband Jack ascend to the head of the family, and watched Jones grow and strengthen under Jessica''s guidance.]


    [They followed Jeffrey, watching this exceptionally beautiful man gradually empty the coffers of D-level female cultivators, gaining the support of D-level Psychic resources...]


    [...]


    [They were by the side of their family elders, witnessing the elders'' mad cultivation of psychic powers, each elder commanding their respect, each elder''s actions becoming a legend, and they also gained traits from their elders¡ªinheritors of four generations.]


    [Every lesson from an elder increased their combat power by 1%. They were more likely to acquire special professions.]


    Ethan raised an eyebrow slightly.


    He saw that they all had professions like ''alchemist,'' ''beast master,'' ''talisman master,'' but none were particularly skilled.


    But this also meant their growth!


    Soon.


    The three children reached the entrance of the tomb, just steadying their feet when suddenly a white light burst from inside the tomb, pushing them back several feet, staring in astonishment at the tomb.


    From within, a handsome man in a cloud-patterned white robe emerged, cursing.


    "Damn! Thought it was just a common D-level Psychic''s tomb, who knew there was a Competent soul inside!"


    "Good thing the grandpas were here, otherwise I really would have capsized in the gutter this time."


    As he spoke.


    A series of translucent figures emerged behind him, the elderly in a meeting.


    "Those ungrateful kids at Azure Cloud Pavilion, actually kicked George out, forcing us to follow George into tomb raiding, not even knowing whose era this tomb belongs to."


    "Hmph, just a Competent beginner in life, trying to seize the power of heaven and earth to possess the younger generation, he was stunned as soon as he entered George''s soul sea and saw us."


    "Foolish indeed, but this person did find a way to preserve a Competent''s method, almost succeeded."


    "Don''t say that, having a top-grade special ability tool as a Competent beginner, he must have been quite a figure back in the day."


    "..."

 Chapter 182: Chapter 182: Come, fight me—Nathan

    The three of them were stunned as they saw the souls of many powerful beings. They had heard that the Competent were formidable, capable of projecting their souls out of their bodies, potentially preserving them indefinitely...


    "One, two, three..." Nicholas blinked hard, "Twenty-three."


    His siblings were no better off; this situation was more terrifying than any encounter they had had with their elders, and the aura of their uncle...


    "Yo?"


    George had already sensed the familiar presence at the entrance. He grinned at the three youngsters, "Heard you were coming to learn from me. Didn''t expect you to arrive so soon. You''ve all grown up! Come, let Uncle have a good look at you."


    As soon as he finished speaking, twenty-three elders instantly surrounded them, nodding and assessing.


    "George, these three youngsters have learned a mixed bag of tricks," one elder commented.


    "Their talents are decent, and one even has a Water Psychic Constitution, though it''s far inferior to your Wind Psychic Constitution."


    "They might be considered prodigies among the younger generation, but I can tell their cultivation is bolstered by resources. Each one must have been through numerous battles. Trying to stabilize their foundation this way won''t work. Three years left, right? There''s still time."


    ...


    Ethan watched as the three youngsters were led away, trusting that the twenty-three experienced elders knew how to enhance their cultivation and combat abilities.


    This was their final stop!


    Their experiences far exceeded what ordinary people could imagine.


    Soon.


    [Blackwood Year 110, the decennial grand ceremony begins!]


    On this day, all of Blackwood opened their eyes from meditation. Beside Olivia, the Thunderfire Raging Python emerged from the ground with its massive head.


    Even within the Blackwood residence, the Primordial Blood Tree, with its blood-red leaves swaying, revealed its ancient human face and opened its eyes to look through the canopy at the sky.


    All of Blackwood murmured in unison.


    "War is coming."


    The altar was set up, resources were supplied to Ethan again.


    As the grand ceremony concluded, the members of Blackwood had packed up everything, even Marcus from the Sky Sect, who had discarded his liquor gourd, his eyes shining with a sharp light.


    They knew that this time, it would determine whether they could return to their family''s residence and whether their people could finally come home.


    Or whether they would carve out an era unique to Blackwood in Cloudview County, or if Blackwood would be completely lost within Cloudview County.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, was equally solemn.


    He was digesting the offerings from his descendants.


    Time passed once again.


    As Blackwood prepared for war, a pop-up appeared on the screen.


    [Blackwood Year 112, your descendants increasingly feel a hand reaching out towards Blackwood.]


    [Special Event¡ªThe Master of the Era]


    [As Blackwood goes completely mad due to the sacrifice of the Boar Monarch Pete, the entire Cloudview County seems like boiling water about to erupt in rage. All forces in Cloudview County feel the shift of the era. Everyone is preparing to compete for supremacy, and if they can win this battle, they will be remembered in Cloudview County like the Azure Cloud Pavilion was 130,000 years ago.]


    [Your family is just one of the players in this era.]


    The special event in the game appeared today!


    Ethan''s expression grew more solemn, Olivia had been investigating for years and had long discovered the anomalies in Cloudview County.


    According to Amelia, this was an inevitable outcome for Cloudview County, with Blackwood merely being the spark that drew everyone''s ire. For 130,000 years, Cloudview County had been resource-poor, with resources slowly being divided, and it had been many years since a B-grade powerhouse had emerged.


    A disaster was bound to happen, leading all forces to fight desperately for the fate of Cloudview County.


    There was a sect called The Oracle Chamber; they said that Blackwood had almost seized half of Cloudview County''s fate over the years.


    This sect was also the most mysterious in Cloudview County.


    Olivia had been searching for the secrets of this mysterious sect for years, yet she didn''t even know who their sect leader was, only that they had been stirring up trouble for years.


    "The Oracle Chamber, huh?"


    Ethan furrowed his brows; he wouldn''t have known about this sect if not for Olivia. Not just him, many competent forces were unaware, and even when Olivia specifically asked Michael, he deliberately changed the subject, seemingly quite wary.


    While pondering, Ethan switched the screen!


    On this snowy day, the world was draped in silver.


    In the Blackwood encampment, Nathan climbed out of a coffin, a pigeon from afar landed in his hand¡ªit was a message from Olivia.


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled as he stuffed the Forebearer Cards into his chest, deciding not to strap the coffin of direct death to his back but instead carried it on his shoulder and soared into the sky, "The Cloudview County competition is about to begin, may the Forebearer bless me, and may I vanquish the Competent!"


    Soon after he soared through the clouds, he arrived outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    As he approached, the Azure Cloud Pavilion went on high alert, activating their protective formation!


    "Boom!"


    Nathan slammed the coffin vertically into the ground, dust and smoke billowing, and he let out a loud laugh.


    "Hahaha, back in the day, Olivia alone suppressed your Azure Cloud Pavilion, and no one dared to make a move. Today, I, as her father, will follow in her footsteps!"


    "Aren''t you the memory of Azure Cloud Pavilion from 130,000 years ago? Aren''t all the people from the major sects of Cloudview County originally from Azure Cloud Pavilion?"


    "How dare you drive my great-grandson out, today we settle new scores and old debts together. If Azure Cloud Pavilion still has any men, then let all your masters come out." S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he spoke, his expression gradually darkened.


    "Come, fight me¡ªNathan!"


    The aura of a mid-stage Developing Skill burst forth in all directions, stirring up dust and sand, and the heavy snow around the Azure Cloud Pavilion began to flow back towards the sky, centered on Nathan.


    Several Developing Skill masters stood on the walls of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, their faces grim as they stared at Nathan shouting outside the gate. Nathan, a burly man pressing his hand against the coffin beside him, grinned broadly, looking very much like a farmer leaning on a hoe in the field.


    Despite their strength, none dared to step out of the sect!

 Chapter 183: Chapter 183: You only have ten minutes

    Beneath the Azure Cloud Pavilion, at the foot of the mountain, lay the bustling Azure Cloud Martial Hall. This place, once a slaughterhouse for the young elites of Cloudview County by George, now gathered a new generation of young talents.


    Dozens of high platforms, made of some unknown material, floated about 33 feet above the ground, repelling the heavy snowfall with their magical arrays.


    Among the clouds, a woman dressed in splendid attire sat in a high seat, her gaze sweeping over the young prodigies below. Next to her, a butler pointed towards the crowd and said, "Miss, take a look. That''s a genius from Azure Cloud Pavilion. I heard he''s only 44 and has already reached the Transcendent Seed stage."


    "And over there, wow, that''s a hotshot from Star Dance County. Rumor has it he survived two moves against a D-rank opponent without biting the dust."


    "And that guy, from a small family in Sun County, got dumped but climbed his way up to the Transcendent Seed stage. Man, I heard he''s got aces up his sleeve and might break through to Developing Skill level soon."


    Betty, however, was fed up with the butler''s chatter and tuned him out. She continued to scan the crowd below, searching for the one who haunted her dreams.


    That day, she had cried as she watched her man leave. Now, she waited, waited for Edward to return and take her home.


    Finally, her eyes visibly reddened, and she covered her mouth with a delicate hand as tears streamed down her face.


    A deep voice boomed through the sky, "Amitabha."


    "All these talents gathered here, such a grand event, this monk wishes to test his mettle. Except for us from Blackwood, who dares claim the title of prodigy?"


    From afar, two figures on black and white lotus platforms approached through the clouds. Dressed in black and white monk robes, Charles and Christopher pressed their palms together, their faces showing great compassion but their words dripping with arrogance.


    The crowd''s expression changed. They could feel the power of these two, or perhaps the mere mention of ''Blackwood'' was enough to instill fear!


    No one could forget the terror that followed George''s massacre of a generation of prodigies.


    And now, this generation...


    They were still terrified by the mere presence of these two.


    From a distance, another voice laughed, "Haha! Charles, Christopher? What brings you guys here?"


    A cute-looking girl, sitting on a roaring tiger, her twin ponytails flying, laughed wildly, "Why do you even bother? I, Donna, am here. If Uncle George could wipe out a generation, I want to see what this generation is made of!"


    "If you''re scared, beat it!"


    "This place, only Blackwood folks can stand!"


    Donna''s wild shouts caused another stir among the prodigies, some of whom quietly slipped away.


    "Man, sis! You''re too wild. We agreed to keep a low profile, but you guys... well, as long as we win, right? But what if we get surrounded?" Nicholas followed, riding a donkey on the ground, looking up at his siblings in the sky, his face turning dark.


    Hearing Nicholas call out ''sis'', people hurriedly scattered, and Nicholas struggled to control his unruly donkey, gritting his teeth, "Stupid donkey, why do you have to be such a freak beast?"


    What is fear?


    As the fifth generation of Blackwood made their grand entrance, the Azure Cloud Martial Hall, usually bustling with thousands, fell silent, filled only with the shouts of Blackwood and the sounds of so-called geniuses making a quiet exit, terrified of being spotted by Blackwood.


    And in the sky above, Betty saw him.


    There was a familiar figure, riding a majestic eagle, slicing through the clouds ¡ª Edward!


    Edward, now clean-shaven and dressed in new clothes, looked deeply at Betty sitting in the sky, his smile gentle, his eyes filled with longing.


    His gaze was icy as he let the giant eagle circle around the Azure Cloud Martial Hall before landing in the center.


    "Thinking you can steal my girl?"


    "You only have ten minutes!"


    "Otherwise, nobody leaves!"


    In that moment, the fifth generation of Blackwood shone brilliantly!


    In the skies above the Azure Cloud Martial Hall, descendants of the Blackwood lineage suppressed the talents of the entire Cloudview County with their overwhelming presence.


    At the entrance of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, Nathan stood alone with a coffin, just as Olivia had years ago, rendering everyone at the Azure Cloud Pavilion too intimidated to move.


    With their arrival, the entire Cloudview County was no longer at peace. It was as if beneath this temporary calm, a boundless threat was lurking!


    News spread to every corner of Cloudview County at lightning speed.


    Over at the Williams estate, the only other influential family in Cloudview County besides the lofty County Duke''s residence, their territory spanned an entire mountain.


    The mountain was structured like a spiral pyramid, with countless fields of psychic crops at its base, towns established by the Williams descendants, and a variety of exotic beasts being bred. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Midway up, the Williams'' qualified members cultivated psychic powers in various halls dedicated to alchemy, psychic medicine, and crafting psychic equipment. Masters of emerging abilities flew about. At the very top, pavilions and towers were shrouded in psychic mists, with even a golden dragon illusion soaring through the air.


    In the deepest part of a golden lake, a dragon lurked. Suddenly, a paper kite fell from the sky. Donald Williams, who had once attacked Ethan outside the Sky Sect, emerged from the lake as the paper kite dissolved into nothingness. His expression gradually darkened.


    "Thirty-two years have passed. Does Blackwood really think they can rule over Cloudview County just because they defeated us outside the Sky Sect?" He could not forget that day. A mysterious figure had produced a dark weapon, crafted by an unknown master, which had severely injured him and destroyed his life-bound psychic weapon that had been with him for six hundred years.


    It took him thirty-two years to fully recover!


    He stepped out of the golden pool. A dragon''s roar echoed, and tens of thousands of Williams clansmen looked up.


    "The era of great strife has arrived. From today, we, the Williams, will rise like a dragon over Azure Cloud!"


    Elsewhere, on the streets of a county town, a nine-foot-tall monk walked barefoot with a staff, his monk''s robe tattered and he limped along.


    "Kind sir, may I beg for alms?" He had just knocked on a door when a household known for its quarrelsome woman let the poor monk in and offered him a simple meal. After a while, the monk left the house, closing the door behind him, ignoring the blood seeping from under the door.


    "Buddha bless, the world is impure, without Buddha''s teachings, how can people behave righteously?" Abbot David sighed deeply, "Buddha''s compassion is boundless, today I have again sent another soul to the hell of incessant suffering."


    As he prepared to beg at another house, a paper kite flew towards him. Abbot David, with utmost devotion, proclaimed, "Where Buddha''s light shines, there shall be prosperity. It''s time Cloudview County was filled with temples. If Blackwood won''t descend into hell, who will?"


    Abbot David continued forward, his previously limping right leg now moving smoothly. That day at the entrance of the Sky Sect, even though he had fled in haste, his right leg had been broken. Over thirty years, the merit accumulated from temples across Cloudview County had greatly enhanced his psychic abilities.


    At this moment, all the temples in Cloudview County rang their bells 108 times, a sound of auspiciousness and good fortune in Buddhism.


    "Amitabha." All the monks emerged, holding vajras, wooden fish, and vajra staffs.

 Chapter 184: Chapter 184: What need was there for platforms?

    In the sprawling expanse of Azure Cloud, twenty-four counties bowed under the sway of twelve major powers, a single clan, one monk, two sects, three mountains, and five great temples. Today, they all emerged!


    Most had received the letter. It was like a long-planned conspiracy, waiting for any move from Blackwood.


    At the outskirts of Cloudview County, atop the Duke''s mansion, Michael stood on the rampart, his gaze sweeping the horizon, his ears catching whispers from afar. In this fierce winter, with snow swirling and the landscape serene, he narrowed his eyes.


    An elderly man approached, flying on a sword, and knelt on one knee before Michael. "Father!" This was Michael''s only son, Kenneth, who, though over four hundred years old, stood by his father, indistinguishable as parent or child.


    With a wave of his hand, he revealed a cage trapping a paper kite that fluttered its wings, "Again, The Oracle Chamber. Today, all forces of Cloudview County have moved, targeting Blackwood."


    Michael''s face remained expressionless.


    Kenneth frowned deeply, "Father, for tens of thousands of years, our Johnson family has steered clear of Cloudview County''s affairs. Now, more than ever, we should mediate. This is the way of the Johnsons, who govern Azure Cloud. With twelve powers present, and Azure Cloud Pavilion as the orthodox power, plus our Duke''s mansion, Cloudview County might be weak, but no one dares to offend."


    "What do you think?" Michael asked.


    "I think our Duke''s mansion should withdraw promptly, regardless of the major powers'' siege on Blackwood. Or we should step forward, declaring Edward as a son-in-law of the Johnsons, which should deter any offenses against us. This is the best strategy."


    "Armchair strategy," Michael said, disappointment evident as he glanced at his son. "Blackwood has become a thorn in the side for all major powers in Cloudview County. As long as Blackwood exists, they will never rest easy. Do you think our intervention would make them set aside their grudges?"


    Kenneth became anxious, "But father, this bloodshed, no matter who wins, they will become the new Azure Cloud Pavilion. But what about us, the Johnsons? With Cloudview County losing many of its masters, we are doomed either way!"


    "The reason Azure Cloud Pavilion exists, becoming a memory across Cloudview County, is because the dynasty needs them. They gather the finest of Cloudview County to face the demons and barbarians surrounding us..."


    "This is The Oracle Chamber''s trap, targeting our Duke''s mansion!"


    Before he could finish, Michael shook his head, "For 130,000 years, generation after generation of princes have guarded against The Oracle Chamber, feared its schemes, and today..."


    "Our Duke''s mansion enters the fray!"


    ...


    [Special Event¡ªThe Fifth Generation''s Bridal Contest!]


    [At the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, the young princess of the County Prince''s Mansion is holding a martial contest to choose a suitor. Your descendant, Edward, along with his siblings, faces the prodigies of the entire Cloudview County at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, vowing to suppress all these so-called talents!]


    Ethan stared intently at the screen.


    He had adjusted the game''s time to mirror reality seamlessly.


    In front of Edward, the Spiritual Tribute was burning, and Ethan switched the view to Olivia.


    [Your descendant Olivia has important matters to discuss.]


    Now, Olivia appeared as she did in her twenties or thirties, dressed in a long white gown, her cool demeanor like the winter snow, yet striking as a snow lotus that captures the eye at a glance.


    Her stunning face always seemed to carry the most amiable smile, her hands holding Cards, "Forebearer, the five children have now arrived at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion. From this moment, we become the blade of the County Prince."


    As Olivia finished speaking,


    Another special event suddenly appeared!


    [Special Event¡ªRising Storm]


    [The County Prince''s Mansion wants Blackwood to act, to eliminate the major forces of Cloudview County and completely reshuffle Cloudview County. Your family joins in, and now the major forces of Cloudview County, vying for the Azure Cloud''s fate, decide to seize half of the Azure Cloud''s fate occupied by Blackwood.]


    In the game, Ethan saw a chessboard, with Blackwood as a pawn.


    It seemed to him that Michael had acknowledged Edward as his son-in-law, but Ethan could feel that just being in-laws, Michael wouldn''t simply sell his soul for Blackwood. Even the Sky Sect and Black Tortoise wouldn''t run errands for Blackwood for the sake of a disciple.


    And now, the emergence of this special event further indicated that this siege on Blackwood was untrustworthy!


    Blackwood...


    Just a fuse, a knife!


    "Forebearer."


    As he pondered, Olivia''s smile widened, "My child can feel that in this grand scheme, there are hidden manipulators using everything they can. We, Blackwood, are merely pawns."


    Ethan squinted slightly, just as he had when he saw Blackwood in the years following that bloody massacre, when Cloudview County was unusually calm.


    He always felt something was off but couldn''t pinpoint what it was. Now, everything seemed to be becoming clearer.


    Ethan typed on the keyboard.


    [If they want us to be pawns, they better be prepared for us, Blackwood, to leap off the chessboard!]


    Thunderfire Raging Python emerged from the soil, conveying Ethan''s words to Olivia with a deep voice.


    "Commander says, do it!"


    Ethan''s expression, originally solemn, froze as he read the words above Thunderfire Raging Python''s head. Suddenly, he felt the urge to switch his temple guardian beast or perhaps treat the whole clan to a demon king-level snake soup. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia, too, looked astonished at the Thunderfire Raging Python. "Did the Forebearer really say that?"


    The Thunderfire Raging Python''s large eyes flickered with confusion before it relayed Ethan''s words verbatim, "Isn''t it all the same?"


    Olivia decided to ignore the temple guardian beast and bowed respectfully towards the Forebearer Cards. "Child understands, in this great conflict of the era, child is ready to make our Blackwood the chess player. We, the descendants, fear not the harsh winter!"


    "Now, we just wait for the major forces to make their move!"


    "And wait for... the children of the fifth generation."


    The scene shifted back to the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    The children of the fifth generation still looked down upon all the prodigies.


    The incense stick had burned down significantly.


    Over two thousand talents had gathered at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, ranging from the peak of Foundational Energy to the False Core stage, coming from twenty-four counties and even other regions.


    But with the arrival of the Blackwood members, everything changed, and talents began to leave one after another.


    Under the snowstorm, snowflakes gently landed on the shoulders of everyone present at the scene, making this winter day extremely cold.


    They didn''t even know what the deal was with those two strange little monks and nuns, who Edward was, why the little girl riding a fierce tiger had such a strong presence, or what the story was with the guy riding a donkey.


    But the word "Blackwood" meant everything!


    Over thirty years, the deeds of Blackwood had spread far and wide, no longer just the tales of ''bodies cast before the Azure Cloud Pavilion'', ''one man battling three Competents'', or ''Dawn alone holding the Azure Cloud Pavilion''. The younger generation even considered the words ''blood-stained Blackwood'' taboo.


    It didn''t matter whether it was about cowardice or shame, nor did it matter about the disdainful looks from those who still remained at the scene. Surviving was enough.


    The hundred-plus floating platforms in the sky became a joke in this snowstorm.


    What need was there for platforms?


    The descendants of Blackwood were ready to smash everything!

 Chapter 185: Chapter 185: Nicholas remained undaunted

    "Hey, friends, trust me on this, the incense is almost burnt out, and if you don''t leave now, it''ll really be too late."


    Over two thousand talents had departed, leaving less than ten percent.


    Nicholas shouted at the multitude of geniuses, well aware of the tactics of his elder brother and sister, and those two peculiar siblings. He had felt their strength back in the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    He thought to himself, if these people really left, he wouldn''t have to make a move. It would be a pity to kill so many talents.


    Wouldn''t it be wonderful if they all went to their families to cultivate special ability fields and occasionally draw some blood to feed the divine tree during their spare time?


    Besides...


    He looked around worriedly, sensing that some prodigies and masters were still following.


    "How ridiculous!"


    But Nicholas''s words did not stir any ripples among the many prodigies.


    They came from the twenty-four counties of Azure Cloud, each one raised in adulation from childhood. Each one a standout in their own right, each one full of pride.


    The speaker, looking at Nicholas riding a donkey, scoffed, "Others may fear you, Blackwood, but I certainly do not! I heard your Blackwood family emerged from a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood. Haven''t I also reached this day step by step?"


    Everyone in the Azure Cloud Martial Hall looked towards that man, full of dread, yet remaining silent.


    His name was Eric, from a small family and clan. He had once ventured alone into a Developing Skill sect and defeated a remarkably talented direct disciple rumored to possess the Developing Skill, who had also rejected his marriage proposal.


    Eric, within this Cloudview County, had faced countless dangers and possessed extraordinary combat skills, fearing neither heaven nor earth!


    Among those present were even more prodigies.


    Some emerged from great mountains, obtaining rare treasures. Some came from noble families, receiving Competent inheritances. Even those who could command thousands of beast souls!


    Regarding those so-called talents who had fled.


    The people on the scene sneered at them. Had they not heard of the time when George slaughtered the martial contestants of the Azure Cloud Martial Hall?


    But how could those who came then compare to today''s talents?


    They even looked down on the so-called direct disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and even if George himself reappeared, they would dare to challenge him!


    In an instant.


    The scene fell silent once again.


    Only the winter''s snow and the many prodigies, ready to strike, remained...


    ...


    In front of the screen, Ethan nodded slightly. Indeed, as Eric had said, the prodigies arriving this time were incomparable to those George had faced before.


    But now, the fifth generation of the Blackwood family, nurtured with the collective wisdom of their elders, might not have the innate talent of George, but they had experienced trials and tribulations George had never faced!


    With a sigh, as the snowstorm blew through the game, the Spiritual Tribute before Edward burned out.


    At that moment, all the prodigies unleashed their abilities, dispersing the snowstorm, proving themselves far superior to the talents George had once faced.


    Among them, not a single one was below the mid-stage of Emerging Ability.


    Each one brandished their psychic equipment, even psychic devices!


    In an instant, the entire Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion burst into radiant light, targeting the Blackwood descendants.


    The overwhelming psychic powers caused the entire pavilion to tremble, and the masters hidden in the shadows changed their expressions.


    They recognized the extraordinary nature of the Blackwood descendants!


    Nicholas sighed deeply.


    As the enemy''s powers erupted, he kicked the donkey beneath him into the air and focused on Eric, who had just back-talked him.


    Then, with a boom, his False Core stage ability erupted, and behind him appeared a map.


    It was the primary psychic device, the ''Great River Dragon Map,'' once bestowed upon George after the Blackwood elders annihilated the Rodriguez family.


    Now, this primary psychic device belonged to Nicholas!


    His abilities, like all Blackwood clan members, were learned from the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s "Azure Cloud Unyielding," a terrestrial technique that greatly enhanced their psychic powers beyond ordinary people. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He also had...


    [Your descendant Nicholas, taught by the old grandfather inside George''s body, has a solid foundation and can perfectly utilize his abilities through the water Psychic Constitution, perfectly integrating with the Great River Dragon Map! Over three years, he has been imbued with a vast amount of symbol knowledge by the old grandfather, earning the profession¡ª]


    [Eighth-grade Water System Symbol Master!]


    In an instant, shrimp soldiers and crab generals emerged from the Great River Dragon Map!


    Behind Nicholas, symbols appeared like money was no object, attaching themselves to the shrimp soldiers and crab generals through Nicholas''s abilities.


    The Azure Cloud Unyielding ability, the manipulative power of the water Psychic Constitution, and the vast array of ninth to eighth-grade water symbols acquired from family elders...


    The reason for studying water symbols was because it was the fastest way!


    In an instant, thousands of frenzied shrimp soldiers and crab generals, along with a roaring water dragon, took over the ground of the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    Nicholas stood still, forming hand seals, his abilities still erupting, a long spear appearing in his hand, a primary psychic device given to them by Michael from the prince''s mansion before they left!


    One by one, the symbol-adorned shrimp soldiers and crab generals passed by him, and he stood like a general commanding thousands of troops!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Eric and all the Psychics around him suffered immediately.


    At the start of the battle, they witnessed the terrifying power of Nicholas.


    This man, who rode a donkey and was only notable for his looks, gave them unimaginable pressure.


    From the Great River Dragon Map, each shrimp soldier and crab general, after being adorned with symbols, possessed the power of high-level Foundational Energy, even up to the Emerging Ability stage.


    The water dragon that emerged from the Great River Dragon Map was no ordinary False Core stage creature, now roaming the battlefield!


    They were fighting against a symbol master with a rich family background, fighting against Energy Stones!


    Eric, no easy opponent himself, roared and pointed to the sky, a giant finger with immense pressure descending.


    Nicholas remained undaunted.

 Chapter 186: Chapter 186: Fury of the Weak Woman!

    He was still forming hand seals when the giant finger struck. Suddenly, he looked up, his eyes gleaming with determination.


    Once in Blackwood, after being called a coward, he was the child who cried and clung to Dennis. Back then, it seemed everything frightened him. Though no one called him timid, looking back, he was indeed a pampered, useless young master.


    But now...


    He had faced it all, endured hardships, and worn the heaviest armor. With his siblings'' help, he had fallen and risen again in the Thunderfire Demon Cave. No one knew how much he had sweated, no one knew how he used potions daily to soothe his bruised shoulders from the armor.


    Back then, he still cried, secretly at night, fearing Donna would scold him as ''the useless brother.''


    During his adventures with the elders, he had feared the swamp forests, wet himself when Uncle Justin provoked a D-level threat, and even spent a night vomiting after Uncle William tricked him into sleeping with a severed head.


    Now...


    "Nothing to fear."


    Nicholas, seeing those struggling to hold their ground against the shrimp soldiers and crab generals, some even fleeing, boldly grasped his spear and executed the family''s "Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps." He became a blur of hundreds, dodging Eric''s massive finger and its oppressive force, his spear aiming straight for Eric.


    He saw the terror in Eric''s eyes, a slight smile curling his lips, his voice booming across the battlefield!


    "Go to hell, cowards!"


    "Now, I am the king of this battlefield!"


    One strike.


    A fatal blow!


    Watching Eric, engulfed in flames, impaled by the spear, Nicholas remained silent, his cold gaze shifting to a fleeing peak Emerging Ability.


    He walked through blood, his spear''s tip drawing ripples on the ground, truly like a king patrolling the battlefield of the living!


    ...


    "Pfft!"


    In the chaotic battlefield, Donna had already moved at the first sign of combat!


    She too executed the Azure Cloud Unfalling, using Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps to split into hundreds of copies, yet these were the chosen ones.


    She stared blankly at the sword tip piercing her left shoulder, dripping blood, seemingly confused.


    "Boom!"


    The battlefield had no room for hesitation. A palm struck her from behind, sending Donna plummeting from the sky. Mid-air, she turned to face the hidden False Core stage expert... very strong.


    "Donna!"


    The voices of her useless brother and elder brother reached her ears, those two monks seemingly ignoring her as Donna remained dazed.


    With her body in pain, she trembled.


    The deepest fears awakened, as they had over the years. She remembered at the Fist of the Hundred sect, how the nursemaid would prick her with needles, dunk her head in water repeatedly, and scald her feet with fire.


    Unknown to anyone, she had told Nathan she wanted to cultivate psychic powers with her brother to become strong. That way, no one would dare bully her again.


    "Slash!"


    A whooshing sound as a Psychic, seeing Donna land, took the opportunity to swing his axe, unleashing all his powers!


    But at that moment.


    Donna, seemingly delicate, suddenly exploded in strength, her muscles bulging, tearing her yellow dress to reveal her resilient beastly garment!


    "Boom!"


    Her hand firmly grasped the axe blade, and the ground shattered under the immense force of Donna''s arm, thick as an adult''s thigh and knotted with muscle!


    Once petite, standing less than five feet tall, she now stood nearly six feet, even more imposing than Abbot David outside the gates of Sky Sect!


    Her eyes bloodshot, she towered over the terrified genius, her bulging veins and large hand gripping his neck.


    Her voice was still somewhat delicate as she shouted.


    "Was it you who hit me?"


    "No one, no one can oppress me!"


    She brutally snapped the Psychic''s neck, his protective psychic barrier as fragile as paper under her grip.


    She was also... the only body cultivator in Blackwood!


    [Your descendant Donna, constantly dying in the Coffin of Death, endured endless agony. She knew that only with a strong body could she avoid being humiliated by the nursemaid again!]


    [In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, she wore armor that suppressed her physical strength and endured immense pressure. She slowly got along with the demon-possessed ability users and acquired a body cultivation technique from one of them, becoming a body cultivator. She gained the profession¡ªBitter Psychic!]


    [Trait Acquired: Fury of the Weak Woman!]


    [Normally, no one can perceive the strength of her body. When injured, she becomes frenzied, unleashing all her physical strength. Her combat power increases by 20%!]


    Thus, she always maintained good relations with the demon-possessed ability users in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, gradually adopting their coarse language to curry favor and learn their body techniques!


    So, although her talents were not as great as Nicholas''s and her determination not as strong as Edward''s, she could always run more effortlessly than both Nicholas and Edward!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    A frenzied Donna punched repeatedly on the battlefield, her twin ponytails whipping wildly as she caught the Psychic who had pierced her shoulder.


    Then she slammed him to the ground, and under his despairing gaze, she pounded him into a pulp with punch after punch!


    "Take a good look at who you hit, you bastard!"


    Blood-covered Donna roared.


    She was no longer the girl who was bullied and too scared to speak up; she no longer needed to tell anyone, nor did she need Dennis to take her for revenge.


    She had strength, she had raging muscles, muscles that could battle with a False Core stage fighter!


    "Phew, better keep my distance."


    Seeing his sister stabbed but unharmed, and beginning to transform before smashing one of the enemy''s minions with a punch, Edward breathed a sigh of relief and stepped back. Over the years, he had grown accustomed to his sister''s frenzied, unrecognizable rage after being hit.


    "Roar!"


    As he pondered, a horde of beasts attacked. Edward dodged swiftly, his eyes fixed on the sky filled with visions of his Betty, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth.


    His childhood dream was to become a swordsman like the great lords of old, wandering the world with his sword.


    Really...


    It was quite childish.


    "Sing!"


    The sound of swords humming filled the air around him as he slowly turned to face the Beast Tamer who had just attacked him.


    At that moment,


    far away, a dozen powerful Emerging Ability Psychics, along with the Beast Tamer''s exotic beast, nearly filled the entire sword formation!


    This sword formation, known as The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors, consisted of thirty-six swords, each positioned strategically, their edges gleaming fiercely.


    "Be careful, he''s a Sword Cultivator and a Formation Master!"


    "This sword formation is no simple matter; smash that throne, it''s the foundation of the formation."


    "There was once a Master of Sword Formations from the Duke''s Mansion!"


    Edward paid no heed to the exclamations of the Psychics trapped within the formation; he slowly walked towards the throne and sat down.


    That day, he stood under the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Primordial Blood Tree had told him that he would step by step ascend to the lofty throne, and it was indeed accurate.


    [Your descendant Edward, emerging from the Duke''s Mansion, received from Duke Michael the profound formation array ''The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors'' and the mid-grade psychic weapon ''Sword of the Celestial Noble''!]


    [Michael left a message¡ªJohnson''s son-in-law should be a gentleman who commands respect from all over the world!]


    [Your descendant Edward, in the Sky Sect, sought out formation techniques from the Nine Nether Daoist, diligently practicing the gifts from Michael.]


    [Acquired profession¡ªMaster of Sword Formations!]


    [Your descendant Edward, guided by the old grandfather within George''s body, became an eighth-grade Master of Sword Formations!]


    From the throne of the eighth-grade sword formation, Edward leisurely watched the thirty-six Swords of the Celestial Noble, attacking the enemies like the most loyal guards.


    He was somewhat dazed.


    Every day he strived hard; his talents were not outstanding, requiring him to work twice as hard as his siblings!


    He did not disappoint his elders; sitting on the lofty throne, he was about to become Johnson''s son-in-law.


    The years of hardship were all released on this day; these so-called geniuses were nothing in front of him and his siblings!


    Within the sword formation, no genius could match them!


    He could faintly feel that whether it was Duke Johnson''s mansion or his family, there were grand schemes, and he had become a pawn. S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But it didn''t matter.


    With a cold laugh, his voice spread throughout the entire Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, making all the geniuses who had already left the pavilion bow their heads.


    "From today onwards, I forbid anyone to mention geniuses in front of us Blackwoods, nor harbor any ill intentions, whether you advance to Developing Skill or Competent. Remember us, remember today; cross the line, and our fifth-generation descendants will step onto your family''s doorstep!"


    ...

 Chapter 187: Chapter 187: Theyre insane, truly insane.

    In the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, the prodigies were fleeing in terror under the assault of the fifth generation descendants of Blackwood!


    Mad as a titan, Donna, commanding dragons and legions, Nicholas, and Edward, shielded by sword formations upon his throne, they were monsters.


    They possessed earth-shattering psychic powers, wielded profound-level martial arts, and utilized psychic devices; even their combat prowess was honed between life and death.


    In their presence, hidden masters saw the shadows of those from Blackwood.


    "One generation stronger than the next!"


    "Your prodigy is about to be killed, hurry and save him."


    "Have you lost your mind?"


    The hidden masters spoke, many at the False Core stage... yet dared not move.


    Finally.


    Everyone in the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion''s expressions changed as a surge of psychic energy erupted!


    In the distant sky, an old woman, her face twisted in madness, stared at a woman caught by Donna, bellowing ferociously, "Do not harm my disciple!"


    That was... the early stages of Developing Skill!


    Behind her, a celestial pearl dharma body split into nine, spinning in the skies of the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, scattering the snow and wind, pressing down on the three young Blackwoods.


    They suddenly looked up... shocked.


    Not by the Developing Skill early stage master.


    But because...


    "Amitabha, to bully the weak, you truly have no shame."


    "Brother, why waste words with her? D-level? I want to see just how different she is from a D-level!"


    On the black and gold twin lotus platform, a strange scene unfolded.


    Charles, dressed in black and typically demonic, was surprisingly genteel, while the nun, Christopher, was extremely rough.


    But as the D-level appeared.


    The two, who had not been using their full strength on the battlefield, suddenly unleashed a surge of demonic energy!


    The lotus platform beneath them grew even more terrifying.


    The petals of the lotus had tentacles writhing out, and as the siblings'' eyes gleamed with black light, those tentacles rushed towards the nine blood pearls of the Developing Skill Psychic, scattering like celestial maidens, forming a dark curtain around them!


    They... were always the strongest prodigies of Blackwood!


    [Your descendant Julian, has forged two lotus platforms from the Buddhist psychic equipment and devices taken from the monks of Temple, slaughtered by Monk Jacob, becoming the primary psychic devices for Charles and Christopher!]


    [Your descendants Charles and Christopher, received a gift from their elder¡ª Abbot David''s right leg. After years of studying Abbot David''s thigh, they tainted it with demonic energy while contemplating the Competent Buddhist teachings left behind, integrating Abbot David''s right leg into the lotus platform.]


    [The primary psychic device merged with Abbot David''s right leg, becoming a mid-grade psychic device¡ªthe Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus!]


    [Possessing a trace of Competent energy, using flesh and blood to control the enemy!]


    Thus, over the years, they have been cultivating psychic powers in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, using treasures previously obtained from the Buddhist sect.


    That day, in front of the Sky Sect, what exploded was indeed Abbot David''s right leg, now causing Abbot David to limp, especially since the flesh on his body was infinitely useful!


    "Boom!"


    In the sky, waves formed by ripples surged, and the two monks'' Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus actually withstood the D-level celestial pearl!


    But then...


    "Spurt!"


    Both Charles and Christopher simultaneously spat out a mouthful of black blood as the Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus retracted back into the lotus platform.


    The Developing Skill early-stage master was momentarily stunned; she hadn''t expected that these two young descendants of Blackwood could withstand her deadly strike at seventy percent strength, despite only being at the False Core stage.


    With her movement, sounds echoed around.


    "Blackwood''s brats must not be spared!"


    "Young ones, spare my grandson''s life, and we shall call it even. I do not wish to be enemies with Blackwood!"


    "Please spare my disciple''s life, I would be eternally grateful."


    One by one, masters emerged from the shadows.


    Inside the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, Edward furrowed his brow again as a shadow emerged beside his throne¡ªit was the servant who had been standing next to Betty earlier, now smiling broadly, "Son-in-law, you''ve won this grand competition, and now you are the prince consort of our royal house. Come with me to the palace, and you can reunite with the young lady and the young master."


    "And my siblings?" he asked, his brow furrowed as he looked at the masters and up at Betty in the sky.


    The servant shook his head with a smile, "With their status, they wouldn''t dare touch your siblings, and besides, Blackwood has its own strong protectors."


    "I..."


    Edward wanted to say more, but the servant placed a hand on his shoulder, all his psychic devices were taken away, and he was whisked into the sky on a psychic shuttle, along with Betty, heading towards the royal palace.


    It all happened in less than ten seconds!


    "Brother!"


    By the time Nicholas realized what was happening, his expression changed.


    "Amitabha." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Charles and Christopher performed a Buddhist salute.


    On the ground, the frenzied Donna had already killed the old woman''s daughter...


    "You destroy my lineage, I want your life!"


    The Developing Skill old woman went mad too, so much had happened in such a short time, even those masters protecting their own descendants hesitated, unsure whether to simply help the Blackwood youngsters to curry favor.


    The nine celestial pearls rose again, but this time, Charles and Christopher could no longer summon the Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus.


    For the four Blackwood youngsters, these nine celestial pearls represented an irresistible force!


    The pressure was descending.


    But they showed no fear.


    The frenzied Donna''s muscles bulged again as she gathered all her strength and shouted, "Old hag! Are you trying to suppress me with your pressure? Come down here, come down!"


    "Developing Skill... what kind of Developing Skill are you among those I''ve encountered?!!"


    Nicholas was no coward, although worried about his brother being taken away, he remained fearless!


    He used all his psychic power on the Great River Dragon Map, the long river emerged, countless symbols appeared behind him.


    They inherited the madness of the Blackwood people, the fearlessness of the Blackwood people.


    Even if...


    Facing a Developing Skill with just an Emerging Ability body, under such pressure, they still dared to advance!


    "They''re insane, truly insane."


    The surrounding masters also changed their expressions; they were too late to intervene now.


    If they thought the Blackwood youngsters were arrogant before, now they realized their madness was beyond that. How could they know what the Blackwood elders had put them through?


    "Amitabha."


    Charles and Christopher''s demonic Buddhist aura burst forth again, wiping the blood from their lips. Although they didn''t know how their siblings could be so bold, whether it was Buddha or demon, both were indifferent to life, including their own.


    Having just faced a Developing Skill without fear, what was there to fear now?


    The two simply transformed into demonic forms, grabbed the lotus platform, and charged into the sky, standing shoulder to shoulder with their siblings, smashing towards the old woman''s celestial pearls!


    Just then.


    "Chant!"


    Sword shadows formed rainbows, coming from far away.


    Across the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, all swords vibrated involuntarily, flying towards the sky.


    Following that.


    These sword shadows, carrying the sharpness of swords, turned into dragons, almost pausing time and space, and with just one collision, shattered the nine celestial pearls!


    Before everyone''s astonished eyes, the swords pierced the old woman, turning her into a wasp''s nest!


    "Did you really think Blackwood had no one left?"

 Chapter 188: Chapter 188: Iron Beast Subduing

    Atop the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, swords clashed like thunder, their metallic symphony unending, as if a dragon made of silver sword shadows converged, capable of tearing apart any Developing Skill power!


    The old woman, still in the early stages of Developing Skill, was riddled with bloody holes. She had just regained her sanity from the madness of her disciple''s death, staring blankly ahead, "Sword King, Lucas."


    As her words fell, the air was thick with blood and flesh!


    In the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, the masters who had appeared were all staring in terror at the sword shadows where the blood mist was thickest.


    Indeed, the Blackwood generation was strong, dominating the scene just like George did in the past. Some say each generation of Blackwood is stronger than the last.


    But only those who survived that bloody massacre know the true terror of the Blackwood elders, especially Sword King Lucas, the premier swordsman of Azure Cloud. He walked the lands of Cloudview County, never hiding his tracks.


    The major powers often received reports about Lucas! Alone with his sword, he challenged countless swordsmen, and everyone knew that with each defeat, his sword intent grew visibly stronger!


    It wasn''t that no one wanted to kill Lucas. Recently, news came that a Competent swordsman from Star Dance County, having heard of the extraordinary Lucas in Cloudview County, came to test his sword. In that duel, a mountain was split into three by their blades.


    The Competent master, perhaps unable to accept defeat, pursued Lucas for seven days and nights, yet still Lucas escaped.


    The renowned ''The Celestial Star Swordmaster'' returned home, swearing to emulate Lucas, to defeat all swordsmen under the heavens before seeking another battle with Lucas!


    "Return."


    Once again, Lucas''s calm voice echoed through the heavens. The sword dragons that had pierced the old woman at the beginning of Developing Skill turned back to their origin, and everyone saw that distant figure!


    He was dressed in simple black, still carrying his sword case, exuding the unique aloofness of a swordsman. He had clearly just had a haircut and shaved. Behind him, the sword case opened, and swords of various grades, even mundane weapons, obediently entered the case as if finding their home.


    "Great Grandfather!"


    Donna and Nicholas''s eyes widened. Although they had spent some time with the great grandfather, during that time, they realized he was different from the rumors; others spoke of rumors, but the great grandfather was clearly a quiet, oddly behaved, somewhat kind elder.


    But now... This scene was nothing like that of a great grandfather; it was like a living sword immortal!


    "Damn, how can great grandfather be so strong? A man should be like this!" Nicholas wiped the sweat from his face, his image of great grandfather jumping between godlike and mundane.


    "Amitabha, great grandson greets great grandfather." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Compared to these two, Charles and Christopher were much calmer, bowing to Lucas who was already approaching on his sword.


    "Hmm."


    Landing in front of his four juniors, the Sky Sword completely sheathed, Lucas nodded slightly. Each time he met his juniors and family, it was after many years, and it was easier with his peers, with plenty to talk about, and even simpler with his third brother, where scolding sufficed. With his father and mother, a simple kneel would do. As for his juniors...


    He never quite knew what to say, but he could feel that from the first moment they saw him, they must have been utterly in awe.


    Thinking this, Lucas looked around, and only a few challengers remained alive atop the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    Many masters had already come forward respectfully, their smiles strained.


    They felt it.


    Lucas''s sword energy had already locked onto everyone present!


    "Greetings, Sword King!"


    "Many years ago, I saw the Sword King once, and his grace remains unchanged!"


    "..."


    Praise filled the air, but Lucas didn''t even glance at those around him. He smiled at his four juniors, "Not bad, daring to face Developing Skill with just the Transcendent Seed stage."


    Nicholas snapped back to reality, his expression urgent, "Great Grandfather, big brother has been taken away!"


    "I know," Lucas replied calmly. "He wasn''t taken away; he went to the Prince''s Mansion. Let him be."


    "So, he was taken to the Prince''s Mansion," Donna sighed in relief but then frowned. "Why would the Prince''s Mansion take big brother? Didn''t we win? Couldn''t they just openly declare big brother as the son-in-law of the Prince''s Mansion?"


    "I don''t know." Lucas shook his head nonchalantly, ignoring his juniors. He glanced at the protectors behind the geniuses, and with just one look, those people hurriedly bowed their heads. Lucas remained as calm as an ancient well, "Leave all your valuables here, then take your juniors and leave."


    "..."


    "???"


    As Lucas''s words fell, everyone was stunned.


    Donna and Nicholas were somewhat used to it; they had been with their great grandfather years ago. He had said that sometimes, when there''s no great enmity and one''s enemies could never surpass oneself, there was no need to kill them¡ªtaking their possessions was enough.


    Wait for them to make a mistake again, and more could be taken, creating a cycle of profit. This was called a ''favor accident.''


    "Amitabha, Great Grandfather is merciful."


    The two monks also smiled, secretly praising the great grandfather as a good man.


    Meanwhile, the many Psychics who had been prepared to watch the Blackwood descendants be killed or who wanted to interfere were now showing anger.


    Sword King had a great reputation indeed.


    But everyone present was a genius who had been cultivating psychic powers for years, and they were experienced in dealing with such situations.


    [Special Event, the Fifth Generation Bridal Pursuit has been completed!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute value of +20000!]


    [Your descendant Lucas has dominated the scene, killing a Developing Skill Psychic and publicly extorting all the scheming Psychics present. They lined up, respectfully handing over resources to Lucas.]


    [The family has obtained a large amount of spoils of war!]


    [Complete bodies of geniuses X143, fragments of geniuses X32...]


    [Top-grade psychic equipment X5]


    [High-grade psychic equipment X12]


    [Yellow-grade technique ''Iron Beast Subduing'' one.]


    [...]


    "This... we''re rich!" Nicholas and Donna''s eyes sparkled with gold. Nicholas extended his hand, "Great Grandfather, do you... do you have any instructions for us juniors?"


    Seeing Nicholas''s fingers hooked, Lucas frowned, "Who taught you to always have your hand out?"


    Hearing this, Nicholas and Donna exchanged glances, their expressions awkward. No one had taught them, but they had indeed taught this to their junior, Joseph...


    Lucas didn''t pay much attention to this and silently put everything into the sword case behind him, not giving them anything. He led the four juniors towards the Azure Cloud Pavilion, "Our family is poor. You''re already at the Transcendent Seed stage; you should learn to bring things home, not just ask for them."


    "These items will be managed by your Fourth Great Grandmother when we return to the family. You can strive for them based on your own efforts."


    The four juniors watched Lucas''s back, their faces darkening. They couldn''t fathom how their great grandfather could make being stingy sound so profoundly reasonable.


    But the words ''when we return to the family'' had been heard.


    Their faces filled with anticipation; they were about to return home!


    ...

 Chapter 189: Chapter 189: If they come in, it will surely bring no good!

    Before the Azure Cloud Pavilion, snowflakes danced wildly, burying Nathan''s knees, yet he remained unmoved. The repeated oppressions by the Blackwoods had long stripped the Azure Cloud Pavilion of its dignity.


    Today, they still dared not come out to fight, leaving the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion in despair. Over the years, a sect that once boasted thirty thousand disciples had dwindled to just over two thousand.


    The sect leader had already been replaced three times...


    Today, the Azure Cloud Pavilion had hoped to remind the world of its existence during the martial contest for a royal marriage at the foot of the mountain.


    They had even prepared a grand entrance: a thousand swords from the Azure Cloud Psychics would fill the sky, and the Pavilion Master would stand with hands behind his back, summoning his spiritual form to show the enduring depths of the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    But...


    They simply couldn''t make it out.


    "Reporting to the Pavilion Master, the elders, and Master Azure Cloud, all our prodigies have been defeated by the Blackwood disciples. Blackwood Edward has been taken away along with the young princess of the Prince''s Mansion!" A disciple of the Azure Cloud Pavilion reported, leaving the elders and the current Pavilion Master, Jason, looking utterly defeated.


    The Blackwoods hadn''t even needed to breach the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion; the only person from Azure Cloud killed by the Blackwoods was Elizabeth.


    And just like that, their once exalted sect seemed as if it had been wiped out, existing in name only.


    "Why must you Blackwoods press us so relentlessly?!" Jason roared in anger. "With the major sects having left the Azure Cloud Pavilion, do you truly wish to see the Azure Cloud Pavilion, which once performed great deeds for the entirety of Cloudview County, completely destroyed?"


    "Time and again, Elizabeth is dead, and my Azure Cloud Pavilion has paid the price it owed. Where in the world does such logic exist?!!"


    "Just give my Azure Cloud Pavilion a chance to start over..."


    Jason, nearing his limit, seemed to have exhausted all his strength. He had never bowed down in his life, and now he looked up to the sky and sighed deeply, tears streaking down his face, "Blackwood, let my Azure Cloud Pavilion go.


    From today onwards, we no longer wish to be a part of Cloudview County''s memory, nor do we desire any dirty power. All the filth has been cleansed, let my Azure Cloud Pavilion disappear from the world."


    His words carried endless sorrow, and the falling snow seemed to sweep away all the glory of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, leaving it like a withered tree.


    Finally, Nathan''s expression showed a trace of emotion, a flicker of pity in his clear eyes.


    In truth, Jason wasn''t entirely wrong. Elizabeth was dead, and the Azure Cloud Pavilion had paid back its dues for its indulgence.


    Those remaining in the Azure Cloud Pavilion were mostly from the neutral faction, not aligned with any major powers.


    Suddenly, Nathan laughed loudly, "Ah, Jason, you speak so righteously. Dare you open the protective formation and let me, Nathan, come inside for a talk? If you are upright, you need not fear a crooked shadow. Why do you keep me, Nathan, out? Why did you drive away my family''s George?!!"


    "Open the gate!"


    Jason clenched his teeth, seemingly making a firm decision.


    As these words were spoken, the faces of the Azure Cloud Pavilion elders and disciples changed.


    "Pavilion Master, this cannot be! There might be Blackwood people lying in ambush outside. Once the gate is opened, they will come in!"


    "Yes, Pavilion Master, I''ve heard that the Blackwoods used this same tactic to destroy another power."


    "There''s not a single trustworthy person among the Blackwoods; if they come in, it will surely bring no good!"


    "..."


    Jason, his voice firm and resolute, shouted at his disciples, "Open the gate! After so many years of cowering, what pride does the Azure Cloud Pavilion have left? Are we not ridiculed enough? Do you want to suppress your inner demons forever?"


    Everyone fell silent.


    Soon after, the gates of the Azure Cloud Pavilion swung open. Nathan, with narrowed eyes, made his way towards the pavilion. Jason stood at the doorway, the atmosphere tense throughout the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    To their relief, Nathan, who was carrying a coffin, did not attack. He trudged through the thick snow, step by step, until he reached Jason and stopped.


    He didn''t even glance at Jason, his voice low and somber. "You made the right choice. Now, I need to know everything about the former Pavilion Master, Stephen."


    Jason''s body trembled, his pupils dilating as he seemed to realize something. "Who... who is that?!"


    From the walls of the pavilion, the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion gasped in shock.


    Lucas, along with four younger members of the Blackwood clan, had followed Nathan''s snowy path and now stood where Nathan had been moments before.


    Lucas smiled as he watched his father enter the Azure Cloud Pavilion, while Donna and Nicholas looked on guard, and two young monks continued to chant some indecipherable scriptures.


    In the midst of both groups, another figure approached Lucas and bowed. "Sword King, you''ve traveled far and wide across the lands, and finally found me in Star Dance County. We agreed that after today, you would cease to trouble me."


    Lucas nodded slightly. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Only Jason''s expression drastically changed. "Is it you?"


    The family head of the Gu family, Frank, who had fled soon after taking over as Pavilion Master, spread his hands helplessly towards Jason.


    "Let''s go, Jason. Have a good talk with Mr. Nathan about Stephen. Oh, and make sure the grand formation is ready; no one leaves the Azure Cloud Pavilion. As for the outside, don''t worry about it. I''ve experienced the Sword King''s clever tactics myself.


    No matter how many come with developing skills, they''re useless."


    "Understood."


    Jason, accompanied by Frank, walked back into the Azure Cloud Pavilion, feeling a conspiracy unfolding across Cloudview County¡ªa conspiracy that had always involved the Azure Cloud Pavilion!

 Chapter 190: Chapter 190: Your descendant...

    Across Cloudview County, the major clans emerged, their presence formidable and vast.


    Twenty-four counties and twelve major Competent powers, among them was the Emerald Phoenix Peak, known for the elder who was tragically slain.


    "Duke''s Mansion decrees a citywide curfew; the county magistrate of Tranquil County, heed the order!"


    "Jubilee County, heed the order!"


    "..."


    Servants of the Duke''s Mansion, riding on flying swords, headed to every major city to directly locate the magistrates and town leaders, even reaching the rural areas.


    On this day, the entire Cloudview County felt the oppressive air of a storm brewing.


    The major families sensed that all this turmoil was somehow linked to the calamity once caused by Blackwood in Azure Cloud.


    They even received news that masters from the great clans were coming!


    This day, Cloudview County was unusually quiet.


    ...


    Cloudview County was divided into nine directions, each guarded by an unparalleled master waiting with their clans. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Inside the city of Cloudview County.


    In a simple tavern, there was a secret room.


    This small space, lit only by candlelight and resembling a wine cellar, was occupied by Stephen, once the lofty master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Dennis, the former master of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, was supposed to have passed away a decade ago as his time had come.


    Yet now, he appeared somewhat younger, sitting quietly in the darkness, burdened with many thoughts, sighing repeatedly.


    The cramped space.


    Also housed a group of nine, gathered around a table, illuminated by the dim candlelight focusing on a large compass surrounded by nine smaller ones, all connected by mysterious runes.


    The inscriptions on them bore blood-stained words.


    "Twelve major Competent powers of Azure Cloud, nine are here today."


    "Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, masters of the sinister Ghost Eye Technique."


    "Ten Thousand Life Mountain, Kylin Mountain, you are the orthodox lineage of Azure Cloud."


    "Celestial Origin Sect, Renowned Sect, Divine Path Flow, Heavenly Blade Pavilion..."


    Stephen smiled at the group, "And Williams and Abbot David, fate is an elusive thing; do you really want to clash with Blackwood over it?"


    At these words, an elder in a white robe from Ten Thousand Life Mountain sighed, "We''ve always kept to ourselves, but no matter the fate, Blackwood is too arrogant. They tolerate no one; if they grow too powerful and set their sights on Ten Thousand Life Mountain, we truly might not withstand them."


    "Hmph!"


    An elder from Williams, dressed in a golden robe, spoke, "Blackwood''s youth have already triumphed at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, and Edward has been taken back by Duke''s Mansion, clearly fearing our hidden threats to their son-in-law.


    Duke Michael is an old fox; we can''t wait any longer, or else we, the orthodox lineage of Azure Cloud, will watch our millennia of foundations be usurped by them."


    The monk could only chant, "Amitabha, well said, well said."


    "In recent years, Blackwood has been close with Sky Sect and Black Tortoise; they''ve always been at odds with us. If we delay further, they might even unite. Everywhere it''s said that a new era for Cloudview County is coming, and if it''s a new era, it should belong to us, the orthodox of Azure Cloud!"


    The elder from Williams clenched his fist, "We must first eliminate the menace of Blackwood, then destroy Sky Sect and Black Tortoise. After that, it''s just a matter among us, the orthodox."


    "Stephen, my friend, use your Azure Cloud Pavilion''s divination, all these years of preparation must be put to use now."


    "This time, not a single person from Blackwood shall remain!"


    His words were resolute, but everyone present had their own agendas.


    Stephen still wore a smile, asking the group, "What do you all think?"


    "Agreed."


    "Good."


    "Go ahead, Stephen, my friend, though I wonder how you will calculate it? I, from Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, have tried but was blinded by a great tree, a coffin, and a set of Cards; Blackwood is truly no simple matter."


    Stephen turned to Dennis, who was frowning deeply, and said, "Mr. Dennis has been with Blackwood for many years; he has seen all of Blackwood''s people. After they leave Blackwood''s base, they still leave traces within their clan¡ªa strand of hair, a piece of clothing, even their used dishes can be of use to us."


    The elder from Williams suddenly brightened, "No wonder, Stephen, you never let us destroy their base; you had plans all along."


    Stephen simply smiled, saying nothing.


    Moments later, Stephen took an artifact from Dennis''s hands, an heirloom of the Blackwood descendants, engraved with the names of their lineage. As the cellar burst into light, inscriptions flowed from the energy locator. Nine small energy locators spun wildly, each eventually pointing in different directions!


    They each grabbed an energy locator and headed out of the cellar. At the same time, the nine major Competent forces stationed at the edge of Cloudview County sprang into action!


    In the dimly lit cellar, only Stephen and Dennis remained, exchanging meaningful glances under the flickering candlelight. "Mr. Dennis, as of now, you have eighty years left to live, and your skills have reached the peak of Developing Skill," Stephen congratulated with a bow.


    Dennis''s face showed no joy for his extended life or skill breakthrough, he sighed deeply. "The Oracle Chamber, such power."


    Stephen smiled faintly. His Storage Ring flashed, and a yellow flag appeared in his hand, emitting a mysterious yellow light. He murmured, "We can act now."


    "Ha ha ha, excellent!"


    ...


    On the screen, Ethan sipped his tea calmly. Outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, the Blackwood children had secured their victory, not disappointing the years of training from their elders, shining brightly in their battle with the prodigies!


    Ethan looked pleased. [Your fifth-generation descendants, five of them, crushed many geniuses in the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion battle, earning the trait¡ªProdigy of a Generation!]


    [Their prestige has increased, and their imposing presence has risen by 10% when facing their peers.]


    Meanwhile, Nathan had entered the Azure Cloud Pavilion. The screen''s event bar flashed with notifications!


    [Your descendant Luna has broken through!]


    [Your descendant Larry has emerged from the swampy jungle!]


    [Your descendant...]


    Ethan could see that across Cloudview County, towns were fortifying their gates. Forces throughout Cloudview County were mobilizing, advancing from the edges.


    But he... "Time for some milk tea." Ethan grinned, sipping through a straw, his gaze turning cold, "Let''s see who really controls the game!"


    As he spoke, Ethan switched the view. It was at the Duke''s Mansion! Edward had been brought back to the Duke''s Mansion, reuniting with his wife and child. Joseph, now a young man, was greeting his parents, eager to hear about the astonishing deeds Edward had performed at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    But Edward was distracted, replying nonchalantly, "It''s nothing much." "What do you mean, nothing much? Father, tell me more! I heard that legendary figure Eric was there, and I''ve heard he''s very strong, unmatched by anyone."


    Joseph was excited; he loved hearing about those who cultivated psychic powers, unlike at the Duke''s Mansion, where he could only play the spoiled rich kid, always wary of his uncle''s line, caught in some succession dispute.


    Before Edward could respond, Betty smacked Joseph on the head, scolding, "Stupid boy, what legendary figure? Do you want your mother to marry someone else?"


    "¡­My mistake, mother!" Joseph realized his error, rubbing his head, "I just thought dad couldn''t possibly lose."


    Edward chuckled, "Eric? I vaguely remember him, just a few encounters, and he became a ghost under your Uncle''s Spear."


    "What???" Joseph''s eyes widened, and he motioned for the maid to bring more fruit and tea, "Tell me more."


    The family enjoyed a warm moment together. Edward occasionally frowned, sensing that the competition at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion was just the first move in a game played by his elders in realms unknown to him.


    Meanwhile, under a large tree at the Duke''s Mansion, Duke''s Mansion Michael was playing chess with Olivia. Beside them, Michael''s only old son Kenneth, and a serpent that had shrunk its body to about two meters, stared at Kenneth drooling.


    "Why are you staring at me?" Kenneth felt uncomfortable under the gaze.


    "Love at first sight."

 Chapter 191: Chapter 191: Let your Williams vanish completely!

    The chessboard opposite the two was tense with concentration.


    Michael made a difficult move, his voice heavy with implication, "You truly live up to being the master of Dawn, your moves are cunningly laid. It''s like how it took me ages to uncover the spy you planted in my Duke''s Mansion. "


    "You wouldn''t be planning to secretly eliminate my son to have Betty take over the reins of the Duke''s Mansion, would you?"


    Kenneth, who was standing nearby, overheard and instantly became alert, almost cursing out loud.


    Olivia chuckled lightly as she placed her piece, "My dear in-law, you jest. Our family rules forbid such actions. Besides, with my people returning home, I really have no interest in your county lordship."


    Seeing Michael''s twitching lips as he faced inevitable defeat on the board, Kenneth finally breathed a sigh of relief. Olivia then added, "However, I''ve heard that someone has been targeting my Joseph. If things escalate, who knows what might happen, right?"


    "Father, I have urgent matters to attend to, I''ll take my leave now." Kenneth''s face darkened as he bowed slightly to Michael and hurried out, his steps quickening. As he left the hall, he summoned a servant, urgently saying, "Where are those useless children of mine? Bring them here, am I not to break their legs?!"


    Michael glanced at his son and rolled his eyes, then motioned for someone to pour tea. "I''ve heard that over the years, your Blackwood family has been preparing, with countless treasures and a grand formation protecting your family estate."


    "Thus, if Blackwood could secure the aid of the Warren Daoist and the Heavenly Leon Daoist, along with that mysterious person you summoned earlier, and that secret weapon, could you possibly withstand a union of the nine major forces?" S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "At Duke''s Mansion, we can provide a mid-stage Competent Psychic."


    After speaking, Michael looked visibly agitated. He saw Olivia, still calm and sipping her tea, "Olivia, you must have received the news by now. It''s time to lead your people home to resist. I shall send my great-grandfather with you."


    Olivia suddenly smiled, her eyes twinkling like stars and seas, making Michael''s scalp tingle.


    "Lord County, you don''t really think that my Blackwood family would willingly be your Duke''s Mansion''s blade, do you?"


    "What do you mean?" Michael narrowed his eyes.


    "What I mean is, our families are actually quite well-matched, Lord County," Olivia said with a light laugh. "You treat my Blackwood as a pawn, likening us to a chopping knife. But in fact, my Blackwood also wishes to try being the chess player for once."


    ...


    On the road from Williams to Blackwood in Cloudview County, Donald led the Williams descendants in a grand procession. They traveled on a massive flying boat, with Williams Donald and all Developing Skill on board!


    He held an energy locator, which Stephen had handed over in the cellar. Inside this energy, locator red dots moved about.


    The energy locator represented all directions of Cloudview County, and the red dots represented Blackwood people!


    At that moment, he burst into laughter, "Haha! How interesting, how very interesting!"


    All the Williams people, hearing Donald''s laughter, couldn''t help but smile. They knew well what Donald meant: if they killed the Blackwood people, they could seize Blackwood''s fortune. What''s this era of Blackwood?


    From now on, Cloudview County might as well be renamed ''Dragon Cloud County''!


    This was a battle for the fate of their clans.


    He even saw that all Blackwood people seemed to have gotten the news early and were frantically consolidating within Cloudview County. He had no doubt that this was the doing of Dawn''s master, Olivia.


    But suddenly, Donald''s smile faded. Among those consolidating Blackwood people, a few unusual red dots moved in the opposite direction!


    "How dare they come out? Something''s not right. How dare they come out? They should be cowering, scurrying around like rats under the siege of our nine forces, seeking help everywhere!"


    Now, he didn''t even know whether he should lead his people back or meet up with other sects.


    "Stop the boat!"


    Donald''s mind froze as he watched the Blackwood clan members charging in the opposite direction on the energy locator, seemingly fearless. The other Blackwood members had already gathered together early and then vanished chaotically. Red dots were moving closer to his location. In an instant, he was reminded of the terror of the explosion outside the Sky Sect that day.


    His thoughts became chaotic. "Impossible, Blackwood couldn''t possibly still have such master-crafted devices, or none of us would have escaped that day. Have they gotten wind of our plans and gathered the Competent from Sky Sect and Black Tortoise to pick us off one by one?"


    "Or is it that Blackwood has some top-tier advanced psychic equipment, or perhaps a mysterious master was already in place elsewhere?"


    "I..."


    Donald began to lead his bewildered clan members back home. He started sending messages to other forces. It seemed everyone was in the same situation, and then, gradually, he could no longer receive any messages. But the Blackwood people''s speed was increasing, getting closer to their mid-tier psychic power flying boat.


    Until...


    "What is this thing?!!"


    Donald stared at the energy locator as the red dots frantically scrambled, becoming more numerous. His scalp tingled. "What kind of cursed energy locator is this?!!"


    Donald glared furiously and crushed the energy locator in his hand. The red dots in the locator were more than millions, covering the entire device, making it glow red. "A fake energy locator?!! Clan members, head home immediately!"


    His words had just fallen when a mocking voice echoed from the sky all around.


    "Donald, you surely didn''t think that for these decades, it was my Blackwood who was scurrying around like a frightened rat?"


    "All this time, it''s been you, Donald, hiding in your home, too scared to come out!"


    "You can''t forget that day''s explosion at the Sky Sect, you''re scared."


    "I''ve told you before, my Blackwood is the sky of this Cloudview County!"


    "Today..."


    "Let your Williams vanish completely!"

 Chapter 192: Chapter 192: I am pleased

    In the distant Duke''s Mansion, they were oblivious to the terror that gripped Williams from afar.


    Yet today, a strange wind blew from nowhere, mingling with the snowflakes, lifting the indifferent Olivia''s hair, her strands brushing against her cold, stunning cheeks. Her pale complexion and clothes almost blended her into the beautiful scenery of the day.


    However, Michael, the Duke during this Competent period, felt an unusual chill in today''s air.


    Olivia before him held no beauty in his eyes; he even dared not meet her gaze directly. Every glance at Olivia caused his eyes to ache, as if a needle made of ice stood before him!


    "Family jokes aside."


    It was the first time Michael had initiated calling someone from the Blackwood family "in-laws," "What chess player, what knife wielder?"


    ...


    Now, in front of the screen.


    Ethan, watching the conversation inside Duke''s Mansion, his hand trembling on the mouse, his eyes bloodshot, only felt this extreme excitement when he was utterly thrilled, and it had been a long time since he had felt this way.


    It was like being in an international competition, where, just when the opponent was sure of winning, he turned the tables completely, causing a thrilling upset!


    Very early on, he had sensed something unsettlingly quiet about Cloudview County.


    He speculated, investigated, and prepared to face any incoming foes with caution.


    Fortunately, not only was he on guard, so was Olivia.


    He admitted, he was not as smart as Olivia; he was just a teenager, while Olivia was nearly a hundred years old, but still, it was effective. If it came to intelligence, Olivia + Julian = Olivia, then he + Olivia, at least equaled 1.2 Olivias!


    They...


    Had completely jumped out of the chessboard!


    In the scene.


    Olivia, looking up at the snowy sky, let the snowflakes fall on her, "It''s evident that the Duke has always adored his daughter, but you, Duke, must admit you''re a man of decisions, unlike your outward appearance."


    "To outsiders, you love your people like children, and hearing of the Psychic causing trouble makes you itch with anger. But let me tell you, my old man is that kind of person; when he''s really angry, he''d carry a coffin to smash someone."


    "You''re different; you appear angry but remain unmoved."


    "Sky Sect and Black Tortoise have been at war for years, Tranquil County has suffered a drought for twenty years, and you''ve ignored it. My Blackwood has slain over two million enemies, and you even..."


    Seeing Michael still frowning, appearing angry.


    Olivia said, "Hand over your daughter to my Blackwood."


    With these words.


    Michael finally slammed the table in anger, "Olivia, you may speculate about me as you wish, but hand over my precious daughter to your Blackwood? Are you even worthy?"


    Olivia was unfazed by Michael''s authority.


    "The Duke is right, Blackwood isn''t worthy. But if it could become the Duke''s blade to clear all major forces in Cloudview County, letting you, Johnson, completely control Cloudview County, harsh as it may sound, it''s just a daughter, then it''s truly trivial. As I said before, the Duke is a man of decisions."


    "Otherwise, how could your daughter Betty, so noble, in this vast Duke''s Mansion, hear of my Blackwood so often, to the point of admiration? How could she have your consent to go to places like Tranquil County? Aren''t you afraid that my Blackwood might start another great war, risking Betty''s life?"


    "And your Developing Skill expert, truly useless, allowed Betty and my Edward a coincidental meeting, and that disgraceful affair. I''m confident, my Blackwood''s younger generation may be reckless, but this has happened before, almost reaching the palace, and since then, our younger generation has been instructed not to act without permission."


    "My family''s wild one, with a beauty by his side, yet able to resist temptation. If such an immature one can do this, what more the older, more mature Edward?"


    She paused, her smile distinctly different, "You drugged her, didn''t you?"


    No reply, just a long breath, said it all. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia continued, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and strategy, "You''re waiting, waiting inadvertently for my Blackwood to learn of this. Duke Michael, you must be quite familiar with my family by now. You know that once such news breaks, my Blackwood would inevitably seek an alliance through marriage."


    She paused, her curiosity piqued, "Duke Michael, we''ve come this far, why not satisfy my curiosity? If my Blackwood had remained unaware of Joseph''s birth, how long would you have waited to let us know without seeming too deliberate? To keep it under wraps, unnoticed by gods and ghosts alike?"


    Michael clenched his teeth, his eyes shut tight.


    "I understand now," Olivia deduced, "you would have waited until Joseph was grown, perhaps even orchestrating a scenario for him to seek out his kin. Given the nature of my Blackwood people, we would still have sought an alliance through marriage."


    "Whether it''s due to family teachings or the benefits of aligning with Duke''s Mansion, such an alliance would certainly improve our standing."


    "So... my Blackwood would ultimately become your blade."


    "All the powers would know of our alliance, just like now, under the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, where my family''s Edward won the martial contest. You even brought Edward back to Duke''s Mansion specifically to let all the powers know of our union."


    "Moreover, your years of distancing yourself from these powers will make them desperate to eliminate my Blackwood, fearing that Duke''s Mansion might protect us and eradicate them."


    Olivia''s expression was playful, "Duke Michael, after your first step in the plan succeeded, are you excited?"


    At this moment.


    Duke Michael''s expression changed; he was smiling, a smile more gentle than any Olivia had seen at Duke''s Mansion when dealing with the Blackwood people, as gentle as Olivia''s now!


    "I am pleased."


    Michael reached out for his cup, which no longer contained tea but had merged with the snowflakes around, turning into water, which he drank in one gulp, "My father, on his deathbed, kept saying that my Duke''s Mansion could never truly dominate this barbaric southern land."


    "But I, seeing an opportunity through your Blackwood, took it!"


    "You are too interesting, rising from the rural lands, daring to commit acts of great audacity. People of Cloudview County say that your family is like the wild beasts of the Silver Iron Forest, daring to offend the Azure Cloud Pavilion for a demon king."


    "You even killed a Competent from Emerald Phoenix Peak for me."


    His laughter grew, "You are perfect, antagonizing the entire Cloudview County, disregarding any power. You also uniquely sought to ally with sects. Do you know how thrilled I was the day you came to my Duke''s Mansion, having Sky Sect and Black Tortoise support your cause?"


    "At that moment, I knew that with your Blackwood and these two sects, all I needed to do was stir the pot a bit, and you and the major forces of Cloudview County would at least both suffer great losses! Even that very night, I made sure all the major sects knew about it, and they spent a sleepless night!"


    As he spoke, his expression turned somber.


    "And yet, I too am troubled."


    "Oh?" Olivia expressed her confusion, intrigued by his last remark.

 Chapter 193: Chapter 193: A trap!

    Michael spoke, his voice carrying a weight of realization, "From Edward, I''ve seen the nature of you Blackwood people. You''re wild, like beasts, like a pack waiting to strike. "


    "Outsiders say that a lone Blackwood is untouchable, but I''ve felt it¡ªwhen you Blackwoods gather, you''re terrifying, like a pack of wolves."


    "Blackwood has grown so much in just over a hundred years, making Cloudview County restless, and I am no exception."


    He took a deep breath, "Today, I thought it was finally a time to be at ease, yet I hadn''t realized how many players were in this game."


    "I want to know, under the cunning calculations of The Oracle Chamber, how will you Blackwoods respond? What makes you, Olivia, so confident and assured?"


    Olivia''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    She remembered how, thirty years ago, her Forebearer had instructed her to start planning for Azure Cloud.


    Twenty years ago, when Forebearer told her that nothing was simple, she knew he was watching everything, his ancient wisdom from the Ability Realm seemingly piercing through all, inspiring her!


    Forebearer had been manipulating everything from behind the scenes, perhaps sensing the complexity of the situation many years ago.


    "Thirty years ago, our thoughts aligned with those of the Duke; we wanted everything."


    "Twenty years ago, my Blackwoods actively entered the game."


    "A few years ago, we stepped off your chessboard, and..." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia scoffed, "Do you think the rumors that Blackwood represents a new era, that Blackwood controls half of Cloudview County''s fate, are because of your Duke''s Mansion pushing us into battles with the major forces? No, it was us, the Blackwoods!"


    "Azure Cloud Pavilion is the past, Blackwood is the new dawn!"


    ...


    High above.


    A deep voice resonated, Donald''s gaze was vacant, the Williams clan members looked around in terror, even Forebearer was alarmed, let alone them.


    But no one knew the extent of Donald''s fear.


    The Blackwoods had arrived...


    His Competent saw a coffin, just like the one he had seen outside Sky Sect that day, Blackwood''s mission this time... four men!


    Nathan, Lucas, and...


    Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason, and... the deceased Gary!


    The clan members'' voices continued to rise, the Williams had already begun calling for help.


    "Reporting to Forebearer, the transmission Energy Stone from Ghost Eye Demonic Gate has reacted, they told us... to hold on a bit longer, they are near. But... that''s what they said just now."


    "Mount Longevity also responded, they told Forebearer to act more pitiful... to beg for mercy, maybe Nathan will be merciful, what does that mean, Forebearer?"


    "Renowned Sect responded, asking if Forebearer really said he would make Williams soar over Azure Cloud? They said at his age, he shouldn''t speak such shameful words!"


    "..."


    Listening to his clan members'' reports, Donald felt his liver and gallbladder split.


    He had never been as terrified as he was facing that explosion outside the gates of Sky Sect.


    The energy boat was still speeding, his soul trembling, the daylight snow seemed black to him, as if he was seeing a storm in a cloudy sky.


    The responses from those sects sounded like Blackwood''s mockery.


    It seemed as if a giant hand from the sky appeared, a hand of Blackwood, pressing down on him, crushing him to dust.


    In his entire life, he had never felt as vulnerable as now.


    "Lies, all damn lies!"


    He realized.


    His energy locator was fake, the nine major forces'' encirclement of Blackwood was fake, even... the notion that Blackwood held half of Azure Cloud''s fate was fake, even the legendary The Oracle Chamber...


    These years, he might have been hoping in lies, wanting to become a new memory of Cloudview County!


    Like a clown made for mockery, still a buffoon!


    "Ah!!!"


    It seemed that from thirty years ago, a conspiracy against him had begun, or rather... a conspiracy against the entire Cloudview County!


    In this, his energy locator was never his hope, but rather, it was to lure him out of Williams'' residence, to destroy Williams.


    A trap!


    "Impossible!" Donald''s roar echoed from afar. Atop the Death Coffin, Nathan stood with his hands behind his back, already spotting the Williams'' airship, "A mid-grade ability vessel, capable of carrying ten thousand, equipped with a seventh-grade defensive array and six primary ability crossbows. Sadly, its size is its downfall, only as fast as a primary ability shuttle."


    Swords slid from their sheaths, slowly gathering in the sky above to form a sword energy rainbow. Lucas could see the reluctance in his father''s eyes. But this frugality probably ran in the family, as Lucas also remarked, "It''s a pity, father. This mid-grade ability vessel won''t make it through today. Its complex manufacturing process is a marvel, and I wonder if our youngest can build a better one."


    "Julian, a seventh-grade craftsman, should be able to construct one. After the battle, remember to have someone collect the fragments. They are our family''s spoils of war, not to be touched by others."


    ...


    In front of the screen, Ethan scratched his head as he watched the father and son discuss. "They''re already counting their spoils before the battle has even started, huh?" Coming from humble beginnings, they knew the value of resources. But they had the confidence to back it up!


    Ethan clicked on their profiles, checking their information. Lucas, early Developing Skill... Don''t be fooled by his low level; his uniqueness lies in his traits!


    [Your descendant has walked the path of the sword for many years, defeating countless swordsmen.]


    [With a sword case holding twenty thousand blades, forged over many years with fire, from a thousand swords body, he achieved a transformation¡ªinto a body of ten thousand swords!]


    [His body is like a mid-grade ability weapon!]


    Decades have passed, and Lucas has consistently pursued the way of the sword, deserving such accomplishments. In that sword case, a long sword landed in Lucas''s hands. The sword was pitch black, as if cracked, with strands of ability gathering the fragments into the blade.


    [Celestial Star Sword]


    [Grade: Supreme Ability Weapon]


    [Description: This sword, obtained from The Celestial Star Swordmaster, can transform into celestial stars!]


    The rumors were true; Lucas had indeed met and fought with the Celestial Star Swordmaster! [Your descendant faced ''The Celestial Star Swordmaster'' from Star Dance County in battle. The swordmaster, facing a bottleneck in his swordsmanship, heard of Sword King Lucas in Cloudview County and came to challenge him. The two fought as mortals, using only sword moves and sword intent.]


    [The battle covered eight hundred miles, lasting seven days and nights, with Lucas being defeated ten thousand times, breaking the sword saint''s moves over a hundred times, but in the final strike, he won with a single move that split a mountain into three, enlightening the sword saint.]


    [Your descendant Lucas received the supreme ability weapon, the Celestial Star Sword, as a gift from The Celestial Star Swordmaster!]


    [In their exchange of moves, Lucas gained a few strands of the sword saint''s sword intent, advancing his sword technique ''Sword Journey of a Thousand Miles'' to the mysterious level ''Celestial Sword Rainbow''.]


    That battle was undoubtedly the most beneficial in Lucas''s life! Seven days and nights. People thought he could actually escape the sword saint, but in reality, they were feeding moves to each other, neither winning the other''s sword, almost becoming sworn brothers on the spot.

 Chapter 194: Chapter 194: Below a Competent, the Sword King...

    Besides Lucas, there was another...


    "Gary!"


    Nathan called out as he watched the ability vessel still fleeing ahead.


    Gary, who had been severely injured that day, with his competent body all damaged, lifted his head respectfully and stared at Nathan, waiting for his command.


    She sat quietly just as she had at Sky Sect, looking like an innocent little girl swinging her legs in mid-air.


    But the current Gary was no longer in the green clothes of before. Her complexion was unnaturally pale, making her resemble a porcelain doll. She wore a black knee-length dress with strange patterns, and her detachable sleeves revealed her small shoulders.


    Two hairpins adorned her head, tinkling with the wind, especially with two black talisman papers hanging at the tips. She also wore talismans made from some unknown beast''s skin on her calves, revealing the white thighs beneath her skirt.


    This Gary, upon hearing Nathan''s call, stared with her large, pupil-less black eyes, her innocent appearance incredibly endearing.


    "Commander, what are your orders?"


    Nathan didn''t even glance at Gary.


    He just stared distantly at the ability vessel above, where Donald seemed to have lost his composure.


    He remembered how high and mighty Donald had been.


    That man had gone to Sky Sect without explanation, so arrogant. To him, the people of Blackwood were nothing but ants, always laughing and talking outside the gates of Sky Sect.


    And now.


    Nathan saw the panic in him, the same panic he had faced when confronting the Forebearer!


    "Kill him."


    Nathan said softly.


    Without hesitation, Gary rose to her feet, soared into the air, and headed straight for Donald, with the wind howling and the bells on her ringing loudly!


    ...


    "Sky Corpse!"


    Seeing Gary approach, Williams Psychic found nothing cute about her.


    On Gary, they saw a surge of deathly aura! The weak force of law belonging to a Competent category emitted a sharp scent of death, a kind that instilled unavoidable fear upon contact.


    In broad daylight, the sky was shrouded in black mist.


    "Blackwood has impressive methods, to have refined you, a dignified Competent, into a Sky Corpse, endowing you with a nascent soul!"


    Seeing Gary approach, Donald dared not slacken. He turned and shouted to his kin, "Go back, leave this to me!"


    He saw it, Blackwood Nathan controlling that silver coffin, had already passed him, chasing after his kin.


    But he knew better; he had to stop Gary.


    A Competent was a disaster for a large clan. Yet he was confident that mere Nathan and a Sword King Lucas, even with Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason added, could not possibly be a match for the descendants of Williams, relying on just these three was far too dismissive...


    Just as he blocked a strike from Gary, Donald''s expression changed.


    In the distance, three figures rose from the Death Coffin.


    Countless flying corpses, even a Developing Skill realm Corpse King, emerged from the coffin, instantly filling the sky for kilometers around!


    Besides that.


    Suddenly, two figures from Blackwood rose up with Cards, and those he had seen at Sky Sect, the Blackwood Forebearer Cards, these Cards were flashing with purple light, not like that day when a foggy figure appeared in front of the Cards, but...


    They manifested ability power!


    ...


    "Go back? Williams has shown up, and you still want to go back?!!"


    At the screen, Ethan excitedly slammed the table.


    For a hundred years, Blackwood no longer needed his personal descent, nor the various schemes and efforts, nor the sacrifices of his clan members to defeat the Competent family. They have all sorts of trump cards!


    As long as it''s not on someone else''s turf, Ethan is confident that they can still take on families like the Williams.


    Look at Nathan''s zombies and Gary.


    [Your descendant Nathan, after years of refining zombies, has met the conditions to refine ''Gary'' into a ''Sky Corpse''!]


    [Congratulations, your family has acquired a ''Sky Corpse''!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, after years of refining zombies, has leftover materials to refine more than twenty ''Zombie Kings''!]


    [Gary (Sky Corpse)]


    [Level: Beginner]


    [Description: It has acquired the fresh soul of a baby, branded onto the Direct Death Coffin. Its soul grows every day, becoming an entity that exists between the realms of yin and yang. The refining process has left its body and Competent parts intact, retaining some of its strength, and it is influenced by the aura of death.]


    [It possesses the flesh and bones of a million people, its power comparable to a body cultivator, and its Competent harbors the ''Emerald Phoenix Phantom,'' transforming into the ''Undying Emerald Phoenix Phantom''...]


    Although Gary might not be as strong as before.


    But.


    Blocking Donald shouldn''t be a big problem, how terrifying is a battle with a Competent master? sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan also saw in the game screen, enveloped by dark fog, the golden scales that were once outside the Sky Sect, and the roaring sound of the Wild Dragon.


    As for the Williams clan members?


    Without Donald, they face Lucas, who has few rivals within the Developing Skill realm!


    Among the countless flying zombies and Zombie Kings, Lucas''s sword chants in the sky, already becoming a soaring dragon!


    Lucas stands atop the dragon''s head, directly targeting the Williams'' flying vessel.


    The Williams Psychic is not an easy opponent either, with overwhelming psychic powers coming at Lucas.


    But even such powers, which would make any Psychic flee, leave Lucas expressionless.


    Too weak!


    Compared to the Celestial Star Swordmaster he once faced, these pressures, these powers, are too weak!


    "The Celestial Sword like stars."


    "My sword¡ª"


    "Returns to the heavens!"


    As his words fell, the black celestial star sword in his hand suddenly blocked in front, instantly shattering!


    Pieces of the celestial star sword floated in the sky, truly making the Williams'' sky look like a sea of stars, twinkling.


    The sword dragon under Lucas also cracked instantly, rushing into the high sky stars, merging with them.


    Then...


    Like a goddess scattering flowers, with the whistling of the long sword, the stars fell like shooting stars!


    No matter what psychic equipment the Williams used, no matter what techniques or martial arts, or talismans, or magic circles, under this world-ending starfall, they all seemed like illusions!


    "Is this... the true strength of Sword King Lucas?"


    Cries of agony sounded, already in mid-air, Jason, who thought he had to fight desperately, was now staring in shock at Lucas in the sky, pinching a magic formula, his robe fluttering.


    At this moment, Jason was sweating coldly, his eyes filled with shocked contemplation, and a fortunate fear!


    "No wonder Frank said back then, as long as the Sword King is outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, no amount of Developing Skill would be useful without a Competent."


    "Below a Competent, the Sword King..."


    "Is invincible!"


    He swallowed, then glanced at Nathan, the old head of the Blackwood family, who amidst those overwhelming zombies, seemed quite ordinary.


    This guy, carrying a coffin into the flying vessel, smashing it with the coffin, so straightforward and simple.


    He also only had the mid-stage Developing Skill psychic powers.

 Chapter 195: Chapter 195: Abbot David, you cannot escape

    Jason remained vigilant, his eyes scanning the horde of zombies that filled the sky¡ªNathan''s conjuring. He was their true king, including the formidable Sky Corpse, forged by Nathan himself. Jason sensed that Nathan bore sins heavier than the coffin on his back.


    "No!" Jason''s expression shifted abruptly as he noticed the azure aura enveloping Nathan. He smashed, summoned thunder from the heavens, transformed into a thousand shadows, and conjured a tortoise-shell patterned array for protection.


    "Sky Sect''s ''Thunder Inducing Heavenly Script,'' ''Mystic Shadow Heavenly Steps,'' Black Tortoise''s ''Xuanwu Body Inscription Technique,'' and my Azure Cloud Pavilion''s lost ''Azure Cloud Unfalling''..."


    If it were merely a matter of learning these techniques secretly, Jason wouldn''t be shocked. He knew well that if someone from Blackwood had learned them, it was inevitable, given that the hottest true disciples from those sects were from Blackwood.


    What truly astonished him was, "All executed to perfection!" Simple yet profound, Nathan''s mastery over various techniques and martial skills revealed an exceptionally stable foundation. Jason realized that this man, seemingly a simple farmer, was merely understated.


    "Senior Jason, I can''t hold on much longer. Please assist me," Nathan''s calm voice reached him.


    Jason''s mouth twitched slightly, and without further words, he hurried into the battlefield. ''Can''t hold on? You mean you just scratch yourself with your own power and claim you''re critically wounded?''


    ...


    In front of the screen. Ethan hadn''t expected this father and son duo to be so formidable, especially since Williams still had two Developing Skill peak masters!


    [Carl]


    [Introduction: Descendant of the Jiaolong bloodline, born a century ago, unmatched within the Developing Skill realm in physical combat. Dominated his peers in his youth with his supreme abilities...]


    ...


    [Todd]


    [Introduction: The epitome of Williams'' magical and martial arts... Blessed with the family''s ancient mysterious dragon patterns, his power doubled... Inherits the forebearer Jiaolong blood, transforms into myriad shadows, leaving no trace...]


    These two were geniuses within the Developing Skill realm.


    But...


    Carl was truly defeated.


    [Your descendant Nathan, commanding three zombie kings with their physical bodies, gathered a hundred flying zombies to self-destruct, catching Carl off guard. With all his powers unleashed and the Soul Calamity Formation summoning thousands of souls, a coffin smashed Carl to pieces!]


    [Under Lucas''s Heavenly Sword, Todd had nowhere to escape!]


    ...


    In front of the screen. Ethan''s mouse hovered over the skills, all cards lit up. For a moment... his heart felt lost amidst the glowing cards.


    "My children, even the Forebearer''s cards are starving for action!"


    At the same moment in different places, Abbot David was shivering with cold.


    In the Golden Forest, hundreds of birds were startled.


    Golden translucent membranes, eight massive stone walls, and a screen of mysterious yellow light... Various magical arrays enveloped the entire forest.


    The air was visibly twisting, and suddenly, only a shadowy figure could be seen, gliding like a fish across the surface, sweeping everything on the ground in a straight line, yet the figure itself was invisible until the ground collapsed and trees toppled, raising dust and debris.


    A shadowy figure soared from the ground¡ªit was Abbot David!


    He looked solemnly at the huge ancient tree with a red crown outside the arrays and at the woman standing on it, dressed simply yet unable to conceal her stunning figure. Who else could it be but Luna, who had just broken through from the secret realm of the celestial fox?


    "Abbot David, you cannot escape."


    Luna gently placed her hand on the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree, her lips parting slightly, her eyes shining with a pink light, her voice soft yet possessing a uniquely enchanting power.


    Abbot David had been trapped in the magical array for who knows how long. A monk of great accomplishment, yet every time Luna spoke, it caused him to pause!


    "You have lost, Stephen gave you a fake energy locator from The Oracle Chamber."


    "The calculations of The Oracle Chamber were also fake, there is no such thing as Blackwood''s destiny, it was just a trick to lure you into a trap."


    "Stephen was actually one of us, Azure Cloud had dealings with me, Blackwood, including you, Abbot David, and Williams. You have already lost."


    "All the sects and the Duke''s Mansion are ours, you stand no chance."


    "Give up, you cannot escape, let go of the past, why cling to it?" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Luna''s voice from outside the array was like a buzzing fly, constantly affecting the mind. At first, Abbot David found it laughable, but as the battle and time dragged on, his mood grew more irritable.


    He and Donald had encountered the same thing; the energy locator did not guide him to the people of Blackwood but led him into a trap in the Golden Forest!


    "Witch, stop your bewitching words!"


    "You evil demons, my faith does not allow you to exist in this world!"


    "Indestructible as a diamond, the endless sea of suffering, the body of Buddha endures!"


    Indeed, he was affected.


    Abbot David''s eyes bulged, his body swelling as if he were outside the Sky Sect back in the day, not fully exerting his power then, only hastily defending against the massive hidden weapons. Now, as he spoke, the ground of the Golden Forest was truly flooded with black bitter water, and two arms wriggled out from his sides.


    Truly a Buddha Vajra.


    In an instant, a dark shadow burst from the ground, madly rushing towards Abbot David, only to be easily crushed by his palm.


    Then another, and another, in a cycle!


    His six-armed Buddha Vajra continuously slapped around, sacred Sanskrit emerging around him.


    Blood mist filled the air, continuously gathering, with more shadows rushing in, endlessly slain!


    These silent shadows, six in total, kept delivering themselves to death. Even when trapped by Abbot David''s Buddhist powers, they exploded and died, reborn in the blood mist, flourishing in the slaughter!


    Outside of this, another figure lurked.


    It transformed into a black mist, eroding the Sanskrit in the Buddhist array bit by bit, constantly seeking Abbot David''s weaknesses, relentlessly attacking this formidable Buddhist body cultivator.


    It too was injured each time but always came back, just waiting for a chance to strike Abbot David, the array echoing with sharp and excited laughter!


    "Demon!"


    The furious Vajra roared, no longer bound by any monastic discipline.


    Now, Abbot David only wanted to destroy everything, to break out from the array, to crush all the people of Blackwood!


    Besides, there was a panic unbecoming of a Buddhist monk.


    His experience was like Donald''s.


    From Stephen of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had early on held multiple identities from The Oracle Chamber, he had obtained the array disk, fully trusting the fate techniques of The Oracle Chamber.


    But he was confused.


    Confused as to why, on his way to Blackwood, he instead fell into Blackwood''s trap, the energy locator utterly useless.


    Even...


    The promise to jointly annihilate the forces of Blackwood seemed to vanish in an instant, only the old man from Ten Thousand Life Mountain shouting ''bald donkey'' at him!


    He wanted to get out, to send those who used schemes and conspired with demons against a monk like him, one by one to the deepest hell!


    Eyes blazing with golden light, six arms wildly dancing, Sanskrit blazing like flames.


    "Kill!"

 Chapter 196: Chapter 196: This place is also safe

    At this moment, Ethan''s view had already shifted to the battlefield. This time, the battle was fierce from both ends. None of those who had once prepared to annihilate Blackwood outside the Sky Sect could escape!"Gurgle."


    Just arriving, he spotted Drunken Fool hiding behind the Primordial Blood Tree. The old man looked terrified, words appearing above his head, "Damn terrifying, a bunch of demons have trapped Abbot David. He probably never imagined this day would come."


    "A bunch of demons, huh?"


    Ethan''s lips curled slightly as he surveyed the scene. Drunken Fool was right; today, it was indeed all of Blackwood''s demons that had trapped Abbot David, forcing him to fight with all his might!


    The Primordial Blood Tree, using its formation, had trapped Abbot David.


    Standing atop the tree, Luna spoke enchanting words. After many years, through Ethan''s eyes, Luna seemed more beautiful than ever, her three fluffy tails swaying behind her.


    And now her cultivation level... was that of a peak demon king!


    [Luna gained an opportunity in the Heavenly Fox Secret Realm, receiving a trace of inheritance from the Heavenly Fox Competent, acquiring the bloodline inheritance of the Enchanting Fox!]


    [She learned the technique ''Heavenly Fox Shadow,'' which allows her to transform into a Heavenly Fox, possessing ghostly speed and enchanting fox melodies.]


    [Acquired trait: Enchanting Fox Speech]


    [Her words carry an enchanting power, which grows stronger over time, stirring up people''s emotions and desires!] Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, Luna was using her trait, her techniques, her words increasingly affecting Abbot David!


    "So powerful."


    Ethan muttered, not about Luna, but about Abbot David!


    Trapped within the formation, which was not only supported by the Primordial Blood Tree but also involved Drunken Fool using top-tier psychic tools like the Golden Origin Bowl and the Celestial Chopsticks, otherwise, they couldn''t have trapped Abbot David.


    Even so, Abbot David''s combat power was beyond Ethan''s imagination. Previously outside the Sky Sect, Abbot David had focused all his combat power on speed, and now his power was terrifyingly formidable.


    With his Arhat Golden Body and Six Arms, he was a body cultivator with few weaknesses.


    If any other Competent stage Psychic were in the arena, they would likely be battered and bruised by now!


    "Boom!"


    Another burst of blood mist rose, then settled¡ªit was...


    The six from the third generation of Blackwoods!


    Above the formation, Thomas stood with his hands behind his back, not engaging in the battle. Possessing the power of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, they knew well that as long as the six were not simultaneously destroyed, they would be the most troublesome beings in this world!


    And now, their condition...


    [Your descendants, the third generation of Blackwoods, have followed the gradually recovering Lord of Frenzied Blood, cultivating psychic powers, feeling the demonic aura, and developing skills!]


    [They are increasingly falling into the demonic path, unable to extricate themselves. The method of the Lord of Frenzied Blood is gradually making them lose their humanity.]


    [Your descendants, the third generation of Blackwoods, have followed Olivia, listening to the Heavenly Scholarly Melodies, suppressing their demonic nature, acquiring the trait¡ªEnduring Humanity!]


    [Their demonic nature, suppressed under Olivia''s scholarly power, as long as the scholarly power is strong enough, the humanity of the third generation of Blackwoods will not perish!]


    Ethan was initially worried about their demonic nature.


    But as the third generation of Blackwoods followed Olivia, Ethan gradually became reassured, like those who fall into demonic abilities, they still have humanity.


    However, for some reason, the inheritance of the Lord of Frenzied Blood is more violent, driven by the desire of blood, they gradually become unrecognizable, which is the biggest drawback of the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s inheritance.


    But Ethan believed, these seven, would never escape Olivia''s suppression!


    Besides that...


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, Abbot David''s body took a hit, uncontrollably staggering forward.


    "Jeeheehee!"


    A sharp laugh echoed within the formation.


    That was the Lord of Frenzied Blood who had followed Olivia along with the third generation of Blackwoods!


    In the game, Ethan saw what the Lord of Frenzied Blood looked like.


    Now, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, after years of following Olivia, had fully recovered his form. His body was covered in black demonic runes, making him look devilishly handsome yet revealing his undeniable madness. This demon, released from the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm, had become one of Blackwood''s trump cards, just like Gary, who had been turned into a zombie.


    [Your descendant Nathan, despite years of exposure to deathly energies, has not made the Lord of Frenzied Blood submissive.]


    In truth, the Lord of Frenzied Blood had never truly acknowledged the Blackwoods. After all, this being had been trapped for tens of thousands of years, immortal and impervious, unaffected even by the divine Buddhist melodies¡ªhow could Nathan possibly influence him?


    But what did affect him was this:


    [The Lord of Frenzied Blood sensed a bloodline connection; he saw the third generation of Blackwoods! In them, he even felt his original power, the strength he had once lost.]


    [Having lost all memories, the Lord of Frenzied Blood now possesses a new, naive consciousness. He watches the third generation of Blackwoods, feeling that they are inherently one with him.]


    [The frenzied Lord of Frenzied Blood is willing to obey all commands from the third generation of Blackwoods.]


    [Over the years, he has been nourished by Blackwood, devouring vast amounts of blood, growing stronger every day, and achieving Competent power!]


    [He is also continuously influenced by Olivia''s scholarly power, maintaining the notion that Blackwood''s command is absolute.]


    These years, Olivia has been tirelessly working for these beings...


    And indeed, it has paid off!


    The Golden Forest has been completely destroyed by their battles, dust and smoke rising.


    Buddhist golden light and demonic energy spread throughout the formation. Even though the Lord of Frenzied Blood now possesses Competent power, he is no match for Abbot David. He lacks true strength; his only abnormal trait is his immortality.


    This is also the abnormality of the third generation of Blackwoods, allowing them, with only the initial Developing Skill strength, to dare to harass Abbot David, giving the Lord of Frenzied Blood an opportunity.


    Luna''s enchanting words also continue to affect Abbot David!


    They say evil cannot overcome good, but today, evil rises high!


    "This place is also safe."


    Seeing that his descendants now have the strength to face Competent masters, Ethan feels greatly relieved.


    How formidable were Abbot David and Donald in the past?


    And now?


    They can only struggle to survive when facing Blackwood!


    He slowly shifted the scene to Duke''s Mansion.


    At this moment.


    Olivia still sat opposite Michael, the two seemingly silent for a long time.


    He squinted his eyes, staring at Michael, this old fat man.


    If it weren''t for Olivia possessing Dawn, and seeing the years of interaction between Blackwood and Michael, Michael''s gifts to Edward, his affection for Betty, and his benevolent facade shown to outsiders,


    Ethan might never have known that this man was the true puppet master behind the current disputes in Cloudview County!

 Chapter 197: Chapter 197: What? A group of what?

    Inside Duke''s Mansion, Olivia and Michael sat quietly opposite each other.The chessboard between them was newly set, but this time it was chaotic, and neither had made a move for a long time, just staring at the board in deep thought.


    "Tap, tap, tap..."


    Footsteps hurriedly approached.


    It was Johnson Kenneth, Michael''s only son. Upon entering, he saw the two sitting opposite each other at the chessboard, just like when they first played chess. But as he drew closer, Kenneth''s eyebrows knitted together in a line.


    Something felt different as he approached.


    For some reason, he sensed a confrontational aura surrounding his father and Olivia Blackwood, along with a faint murderous intent. Was it because the plot to kill Joseph by his children had been exposed, leading to the current situation?


    This thought had just flashed through Kenneth''s mind when he shook his head.


    He knew well that his father was one of the rare good people in the world, deeply caring about his children and very generous towards Blackwood. With his father''s character, he would never hold a grudge against Olivia over this.


    Taking a deep breath, Kenneth moved forward, bowing to Michael and ignoring Olivia''s presence.


    His lips curled into a smile as he announced, "Father, there''s been a change!"


    Seeing that his father was still focused on the chessboard, Kenneth continued to report the good news, his smile growing wider, "Great news, there are rumors that the nine major powers obtained a treasure from The Oracle Chamber that can locate the Blackwood bloodline. "


    "But for some reason, their energy locators have malfunctioned, and they can no longer trace the whereabouts of the Blackwoods."


    At this statement,


    "Tap, tap, tap..." Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Michael, who had just picked up a chess piece, paused mid-air, and the white piece fell onto the board, making a clear sound in the snowy day.


    Kenneth glanced at the white piece, then at his father''s slightly stunned expression, his smile broadening.


    "And there''s even bigger good news!"


    "Our relatives must have been prepared early."


    He glanced at the composed Olivia, a flash of admiration in his eyes, "There''s intelligence that on the way to Blackwood from Williams, there''s a Competent aura. Some have even found the bodies of the Williams people who fell from the sky."


    "Sword King Lucas''s sword qi rainbow appeared, zombies filled the sky, and even Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason is supporting Blackwood!"


    Looking again.


    His father had picked up the fallen white piece, clutching it tightly in his hand, his expression returning to its usual calmness.


    Kenneth slightly furrowed his brow, finally sensing something amiss. According to his memory, his father should be jumping with joy at this time...


    But he dared not ponder further, continuing to report the intelligence.


    "At Golden Forest, news has also come that the giant red-crowned tree within the Blackwood clan has appeared. Along with it, the long-lost divine beggar''s heritage, his golden source barrier formation, and various Blackwood traps have trapped Abbot David."


    "Some have seen Blackwood''s old grandmother outside the trap, but inside, the battle rages fiercely, and Golden Forest has even been leveled to the ground. My child estimates that once Luna enters, it will be the time of Abbot David''s death!"


    As the report concluded.


    Silence lingered for a long time, until Michael finally spoke, his tone slightly grim, "What about the other seven major powers?"


    "That''s the strange part."


    Kenneth frowned, "My intelligence says that our relative Nathan was outside Azure Cloud Pavilion, and after Sword King arrived, they left together. That was also when the major powers were besieging Blackwood. The nine major powers were also assembled at that time, confident in their siege."


    "But the moment Abbot David and Donald were in trouble, those seven major powers disappeared at the same time, as if by agreement."


    Saying this.


    Kenneth''s expression grew serious, "Father, could this be... another plot of theirs?"


    Michael remained silent.


    Now it was Olivia who became interested, she smiled and asked, "Them? You''re not talking about The Oracle Chamber, are you?"


    "This..."


    Kenneth hesitated until Michael nodded, then he replied, "Yes, The Oracle Chamber is the most mysterious force in our Cloudview County. For hundreds of thousands of years, they have been trying to destroy Cloudview County. The great calamity of Cloudview County was also caused by them."


    "Of course, The Oracle Chamber''s target is not just our Cloudview County. After the dynasty was established, they tried every means to destroy the dynasty, and the reasons are still unknown."


    At this point.


    Kenneth''s eyes flashed, "In fact, the troubles that Blackwood has encountered, The Oracle Chamber is the culprit. But now, with Blackwood and I, Johnson, forming an alliance through marriage, the crisis in Blackwood has been resolved. We, the Johnsons, will definitely help our relatives eliminate such schemers who plot in the shadows!"


    "They think they are clever, but they didn''t expect Blackwood to be one step ahead, probably beating their chests in frustration and rage right now."


    "Self-inflicted..."


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    "Have you said enough?"


    Kenneth''s words were cut off by Michael, whose expression was grim, even crushing the white piece in his hand.


    "Father..."


    Kenneth wanted to say more but received a stern ''get out'' from Michael, and he quickly retreated.


    As he left.


    Kenneth murmured, "Did I say too much? Why was father acting so strangely just now?"


    Then.


    He shook his head and smiled, "Well, now that the dust has settled and Blackwood is safe, next, our Duke''s Mansion can gradually persuade the major forces. Cloudview County will once again be united, impervious to external threats."


    ...


    As Kenneth departed.


    Olivia looked at Michael with interest, teasing, "My lord, it seems I have underestimated you. Even your own son doesn''t know what kind of person you really are."


    "My son is dull, he is very much like the ancestors of our Johnson family."


    Michael shook his head and sighed, "He is content with the status quo, his greatest hope is that Cloudview County can remain peaceful forever. But in my view, that is extremely foolish. Human ambition only grows larger. If, thirteen thousand years ago, our Duke''s Mansion had taken the opportunity to break Azure Cloud Pavilion one by one, we could have completely controlled Cloudview County by now."


    "Instead of now, where all the major forces love to compete. Especially you Blackwoods, your ambition is even greater, wanting to become the new sky of Cloudview County, to lead this era? Too sharp."


    Olivia smiled without saying a word.


    Michael curiously looked up and asked, "How did you Blackwoods do it? The Oracle Chamber uses sorcery, and Stephen from Azure Cloud Pavilion has been with The Oracle Chamber for two hundred years. He wouldn''t betray The Oracle Chamber for Blackwood, especially since The Oracle Chamber promised him a breakthrough to Competent, an offer no one can resist. And you Blackwoods can''t offer him anything."


    "And the seven major forces, how could they back down? You Blackwoods hold half of Azure Cloud''s fortune, to become the new ruler of Cloudview County, they would risk annihilation to try!"


    Upon hearing this.


    Olivia''s expression was peculiar, and her words made Michael crush another white piece.


    "My lord, do you also believe in such elusive things as fortune?"


    "I told you long ago, it was we who pushed the major sects to besiege today, we are the chess players."


    "Years ago, my people from Dawn had already spread the word, telling everyone that Blackwood would replace the former Azure Cloud Pavilion to become the new ruler of Cloudview County. Everywhere people said, this era belongs to us Blackwoods."


    "The effect was very good, people always respect the strong, over the years, our enemies in Blackwood have become fewer, and our friends have increased. Unfortunately, the Competent sects are proud and arrogant, I have sent people to negotiate many times, but they neither want to ally with us nor oppose us."


    "Including... Blackwood controlling half of Cloudview County''s fortune!"


    Michael furrowed his brow.


    He realized, Blackwood''s ambition was even greater than he had imagined!


    But he was still puzzled, "Rumors spoken enough times become truth, even if The Oracle Chamber explains it''s useless. Aren''t you Blackwoods afraid of trapping yourselves?"


    "To dispel rumors, you just need one person with enough prestige."


    "Even, on this day, to block all enemies for us Blackwoods."


    "Just so, my Blackwoods have such people."


    Michael was stunned, "What? A group of what?"

 Chapter 198: Chapter 198: I wonder how the spoils should be divided?

    "A group of what? Of course, it''s the grandfathers, didn''t expect that, did you?" At this moment, Ethan grinned in front of the screen. The scene shifted, and after many years, George finally emerged from the dark, ancient tomb!At this time...


    He was gathered with the seven major forces'' Competent experts under a cool pavilion on a high mountain, surrounded by a mist of strange abilities. He sat while the seven Competent experts stood, looking bewildered at the twenty-three grandfathers behind George.


    "Ah, the current mountain master of Ten Thousand Life Mountain really isn''t much. I was alive about thirty thousand years ago, back then your mountain master even had a fight with me."


    "This generation''s Ghost Eye Demonic Gate is decent, though. I was alive thirteen thousand years ago, and it was my disciple who established the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate. I always said he was of poor character. Ah, I heard my disciple died at the peak of Developing Skill, never thought the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate would become a Competent force today."


    "Ha ha ha, these youngsters are really foolish. I''ll tell you, all that talk about Blackwood holding half the fortune? Fake. I was still around when they went out spreading those rumors."


    "Alright, George will soon return to Azure Cloud Pavilion, and the descendants of Blackwood will be the new masters of the pavilion. You don''t have to worry, you don''t have much enmity with Blackwood, but more with Azure Cloud Pavilion. If Azure Cloud Pavilion won''t be destroyed, how could you possibly be?"


    "Right, don''t get involved in this mess. We''ve been waiting for today without stepping out of Azure Cloud Pavilion. Stop focusing on Blackwood, it''s no use. If you really start something, you''ll have to live every day in fear."


    ...


    George sat in the pavilion, hearing the noisy chatter of the grandfathers behind him, and looking at the many baffled faces of the Competent old monsters in front of him, his heart pounded, and he swallowed hard.


    When the seven major forces made their move, the disciples of Azure Cloud Pavilion blocked all the Competent paths and brought them here.


    The mountain was really high, the pressure from the seven Competents was really strong, and the wind here...


    was very strong.


    He felt like crying but had no tears.


    He didn''t know if these Competents would capture him and use him to threaten his family, or kill him on the spot and take away the grandfathers behind him. Or maybe these people simply didn''t care about these old, toothless grandfathers at all...


    Various thoughts raced through his mind, and he felt utterly helpless.


    "Can''t I just peacefully make my fortune in the tomb? Great Aunt, I''m scared!"


    "Ha ha ha! Interesting, the lingering souls of twenty-three Competent predecessors within the Azure Cloud Pavilion!"


    In the midst of a snowstorm.


    Even now, with everything exposed, Michael showed no signs of panic, merely laughing before sighing, "The lingering souls of the Azure Cloud Pavilion predecessors, Blackwood truly has extraordinary fortune."


    "With their presence, as long as Blackwood makes an example of one, George can become the new master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion. The remaining major forces will continue to adhere to their old duties, respecting the Azure Cloud Pavilion just as they did tens of thousands of years ago, only now there''s a Blackwood added to the mix!"


    "Abbot David, Williams..."


    "They are the discarded pawns!"


    Seeing the certainty in Michael''s eyes.


    Olivia calmly said, "My lord, I need you to swear to the heavens that from today, unless there''s a calamity that threatens to wipe out our clan, you will not leave the Duke''s Mansion, and appoint Kenneth as the new head of the family. With this, the matter can be settled, and the Duke''s Mansion will remain lofty as ever, with my Blackwood family still related by marriage to the duke."


    Michael finally stood up, turned around, and looked at the snowflakes falling from the sky, "As if nothing ever happened?"


    "As if nothing ever happened."


    With Olivia''s affirmative response, the wind inside the Duke''s Mansion grew colder.


    The wind carried the snowflakes everywhere. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For a long time.


    The wind and snow almost blurred Michael''s figure, his sighs mingling with the winter day.


    "It''s too late."


    "Johnson has missed opportunities time and again, generation after generation of incompetence, this time I wanted to lead Johnson to a victory."


    Hearing this.


    Olivia no longer spoke, allowing her personal maid to lead her away from the Duke''s Mansion, blending into the cold snowy day.


    Soon after.


    In the vast Duke''s Mansion, soldiers moved about, Johnson''s foundation fully alert.


    Kenneth, in a panic, rushed past the anxious servants of his household to the place where Michael and Olivia had just strategized. Olivia was no longer there, only Michael still stood there for a long time.


    Kenneth was stunned; his father, a Competent, had always been a towering figure, standing tall and straight.


    At this moment, his father''s silhouette seemed immensely weathered.


    "Father... Mystic Alliance..."


    "An anomaly!"


    ...


    On the ground, corpses everywhere, a huge, battered airship lay on the ground.


    Nathan had once again hoisted the coffin onto his shoulder.


    The flying corpses that filled the sky earlier had all been retracted into the Coffin of Direct Death.


    Lucas had also shouldered his sword case, the sky no longer filled with a rain of swords like stars.


    They stood quietly under a large tree that had barely survived the great battle.


    And Donald?


    Gary was sitting on a tree branch, swinging his legs as before, while Jason from the Azure Cloud Pavilion kept his distance, hands hidden in his wide white sleeves, frowning forward.


    "..."


    Donald, who had come to annihilate Blackwood and had boasted of renaming Cloudview County to Dragon Cloud County, was already pale-eyed, hanging limply in mid-air like a dead dog, held by the collar by a burly man, his limbs dangling weakly touching the ground.


    "Blackwood''s head of the family is quite capable, managing to have Gary serve Blackwood."


    This burly man, though rough in appearance, was a smooth operator, not mentioning at all that Nathan had turned Gary into a zombie, dropped Donald on the ground, and said with a smile, "Let me first congratulate Blackwood for replacing Williams, becoming another Competent family in our Cloudview County."


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    Nathan and Lucas spoke in unison.


    "Thanks to the Immortal Master, my Blackwood family does not qualify as a Competent family, but remains a Developing Skill family."


    "This time, having intercepted Williams, thanks to the Immortal Master''s support, I wonder how the spoils should be divided?"

 Chapter 199: Chapter 199: Your time has come!

    Father and son exchanged a knowing glance, each seeing the approval in the other''s eyes.[Your descendant, George, aided by the twenty-three elders and with the support of the seven major factions and the current leader, Jason, has secured the position of the next Azure Cloud Pavilion Master!]


    [Empowered by Competent!]


    [Your family, with the help of the Ten Thousand Life Mountain Immortal Master and the rescue efforts of the Ten Thousand Life Mountain experts, successfully eliminated over thirty Williams Psychics. The Immortal Master, joining forces with Sky Corpse Gary, killed the fleeing Donald on the spot!]


    "Ahem."


    The Immortal Master cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping over the father and son.


    One, earnest and sincere, the other, stern and unsmiling ¨C they appeared to be genuinely good people.


    Yet, the Immortal Master saw through their facade, recognizing the cunning that dwelled within.


    "Understood. Ten Thousand Life Mountain will announce that the Williams clan attempted to collaborate with foreign enemies and was subsequently eradicated by the combined forces of Cloudview County. As for the Williams'' resources..."


    The Immortal Master paused, considering.


    "Azure Cloud is already lacking in resources. It would be best if Blackwood were to assess them first and then distribute them among the various factions of Azure Cloud. This would greatly benefit all of Azure Cloud and help Blackwood solidify their position."


    Nathan nodded slowly in agreement.


    Ethan, observing from the screen, felt a surge of hope.


    This Immortal Master was someone they could work with.


    The Immortal Master''s assistance had been crucial.


    Without him, Gary alone wouldn''t have been able to prevent Donald''s escape, and Blackwood would have faced a sleepless night.


    The fact that he had some authority over the distribution of resources...


    Blackwood getting first pick meant they could take whatever they desired without needing to justify themselves.


    Moreover, the Immortal Master''s words signified his acceptance of Blackwood''s presence in Cloudview County.


    Quickly, with the help of the Ten Thousand Life Mountain experts, Nathan and his son gathered all the corpses and remnants of equipment, taking Gary with them as they made their way towards the Williams'' base.


    ...


    "Demonic, possessed esper, your kind shall not escape Buddhist justice!!!"


    Golden Forest.


    Abbot David continued his relentless assault.


    His body was covered in wounds, but the formations he faced were also on the verge of collapse.


    He was, after all, the most accomplished practitioner of Buddhist arts in all of Cloudview County.


    Though only a few individuals were engaged in combat, the Golden Forest was eerily still, the ground compacted by the sheer force of their struggle.


    Blood stained the earth ¨C the blood of Blackwood''s third generation and the Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    Despite their combined might, Abbot David had killed them time and time again!


    And now...


    "Boom!"


    With a six-armed strike, his power diminished but his determination unwavering, he finally broke free from the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s assault, shattering the formation!


    He charged towards Luna, closing the distance with every stride.


    Luna, as if frozen in place, remained rooted to the Primordial Blood Tree, her demonic mutterings echoing in the air.


    Abbot David saw it with his own eyes.


    Under the weight of his Buddhist aura, Luna stood paralyzed, her eyes wide with terror, her mouth agape in a silent scream.


    "No!"


    Luna stood frozen, her three fluffy tails still swaying slightly.


    She couldn''t move.


    The Buddhist chants and inscriptions enveloped her, the power of a Competent-level technique holding her captive.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s roots lashed out, twisting and turning as they tried to ensnare Abbot David.


    Its esper abilities surged, layers of barriers forming in defense.


    But...


    It was no use.


    The roots were slowly being pulled away, the distance widening.


    Behind him, Blackwood''s third generation and the Lord of Frenzied Blood charged forward with a desperate fury, their cries filled with anguish and rage.


    None of them had anticipated the sheer extent of Abbot David''s power!


    He had reached the middle stage of Competent.


    Unstoppable!


    "Grandma, Grandma!"


    As golden light flared, amidst the heart-wrenching cries of Blackwood''s third generation, Abbot David smiled cruelly and threw a punch!


    Blood.


    The demon''s blood splattered as his fist connected, pulverizing Luna into nothingness!


    Even the Primordial Blood Tree was snapped in half by his strike!


    Abbot David didn''t hesitate.


    With terrifying speed, he vanished from the scene.


    There were still many Blackwood members scattered throughout Cloudview County, awaiting his judgment.


    And then...


    "Today, this humble monk has slain the demoness in the name of Buddha! But Azure Cloud remains tainted by the Blackwood evil. This monk swears to never rest until it is purged!"


    "...."


    The golden God Beggar Formation still held strong, its intricate patterns shimmering in the air.


    Outside its protective embrace, the crimson crown of the Primordial Blood Tree blazed defiantly.


    Luna continued her insidious whispers, her voice a siren''s call.


    Within the formation, Blackwood''s third generation and the Lord of Frenzied Blood stood shoulder to shoulder, a line of defense against the unseen enemy.


    But now, a new figure stood just beyond the formation''s edge.


    He was a gaunt man, clad in black.


    A long, thin strip of black cloth, once used to cover his eyes, now hung loosely around his neck.


    He had removed it upon arriving, yet Abbot David, consumed by the ongoing battle, seemed oblivious to his presence.


    The newcomer''s eyes blazed with an eerie black light, and like Luna, his lips moved in a silent chant.


    "Hahaha, old baldy, your time has come!" S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Drunken Fool watched with delight as Abbot David thrashed wildly within the formation, his attacks growing increasingly erratic.


    Though Drunken Fool was only at the peak of the Developing Skill level, he could see that Abbot David''s previous battles had taken their toll.


    It was the inherent weakness of physical cultivators ¨C their bodies, no matter how strong, were still susceptible to exhaustion and the erosion of will.


    Abbot David was already succumbing to the insidious whispers of Luna''s demonic influence.


    And now, to make matters worse, the founder of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, Old Ralph, had arrived!


    Old Ralph was a master of ocular techniques, arts that could shatter the very mind of his opponents.


    In the past, the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate had been branded as demonic cultivators, feared for their ability to sow chaos and madness with their gaze.


    It was only through generations of effort that they had finally earned the grudging acceptance of the other major powers in Cloudview County.


    Such was the power of their techniques.


    "You think you''re so tough, huh, baldy? Back at Sky Sect, I was just a spectator, and I almost got killed by your sorry hide when you ran off! Let''s see you try that again!"


    Drunken Fool, the grimy old man, stood with his hands on his hips, his voice a mocking taunt.


    He had barely escaped with his life the last time he had witnessed Abbot David in action.


    This time, he would not only watch, but he would make sure the old monk paid for what he had done.

 Chapter 200: Chapter 200: In broad daylight, really?

    Not long after.[Your descendants, the third generation Blackwood and Luna, along with the ancient Ralph, used a technique that affects the soul''s essence to weaken Abbot David, stripping him of his spiritual sinews, bones, and relics...]


    Despite being a highly enlightened monk, the controlled and bloodied Abbot David reverted to his usual demeanor. Even covered in wounds, he remained calm.


    He simply lifted his head, gazing at the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s barrier, the demonic Blackwood, and the mad sorcerer, uttering a single word.


    "Amitabha, Cloudview County has become a land of demons."


    "Today, I head to the hell of warriors, waiting for the demonic Blackwood. The day hell empties is the day I attain enlightenment."


    Ralph frowned, "Abbot David, don''t others know you? Haven''t I always known? Over a thousand years ago, you loved killing, taken in by the monastery, thereafter killing in the name of Buddha. A millennium has passed, and countless innocents have died by your hand.


    "Among them were greedy villains, reckless scolds, and decadent scholars... but they were all ordinary people. You weren''t slaying demons or evil; you were just satisfying your own desires under the guise of Buddha!"


    "Amitabha." Abbot David continued his chant.


    "If you were truly a Buddha, how could Luna and I have influenced your spirit? You''re less than a demon."


    "Amitabha..."


    "Amitabha, it''s annoying to hear."


    Before Abbot David could finish, under Ralph''s shocked expression, Luna grabbed Abbot David''s shoulders, and a dagger pierced through his jaw, burning away his Competent Force with soul fire, much like she used to bleed pigs, casually placing a basin on the ground to catch Abbot David''s blood.


    During the previous battle, Abbot David had bled profusely, which pained Luna to see. Now, this Competent Force-infused blood, whether sent to Julian for crafting special gear or to Amelia for concocting potions, was an excellent resource.


    "Cough, cough, Luna, that was clean and efficient."


    Ralph twitched his lips as he watched the blood gush from Abbot David''s neck, the sound of it dripping into the basin crisp and clear. Glancing at Luna''s calm eyes, he inexplicably shivered.


    "Thank you for your help, Elder Ralph."


    Luna smiled slightly, genuinely pleased. She had long heard that her descendants practiced both demonic and Buddhist arts, consuming the flesh of Buddhas on a throne of blood. A Competent Force corpse was indeed a great supplement.


    Old Blackwood was going to prosper again.


    "You''re welcome."


    Elder Ralph took a deep breath, looking around, "Now that Abbot David is dead, I have no more concerns in Cloudview County. With that, I''ll prepare for the upcoming disaster."


    "May the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate endure forever."


    Luna''s expression was solemn.


    Elder Ralph slightly smiled and nodded at Luna before soaring into the sky.


    Leaving behind a wish.


    "May Blackwood shine for eternity."


    As their conversation ended.


    Luna finished draining Abbot David, storing his body in the Storage Ring.


    On this snowy day, the Lord of Frenzied Blood and the third generation Blackwood stood quietly behind her, and Drunken Fool, surprisingly, did not clamor to desecrate the corpse. They were in the now-ruined Golden Forest.


    In the distance lay the towns of Cloudview County.


    They heard the town''s warning bells.


    "The Azure Cloud Pavilion orders, civilians to evacuate with their valuables at top speed!"


    "The Duke''s Mansion has declared martial law? He''s after your lives!!!"


    "Retreat immediately, and you may survive!"


    Gratitude Village. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Blackwood Residence.


    At this moment, Nicholas, Donna, and two monks had returned to their homeland.


    They gazed upon the peaceful Gratitude Village, their emotions a complex tapestry. When they had left, they were but naive children, prone to tears and tantrums. Now, they had grown, following in the footsteps of their elders.


    Nicholas wondered what his older siblings might think.


    To him, Gratitude Village seemed smaller now. The familiar faces of the villagers, once so well-known, now seemed strange, making him hesitant to speak, so much so that he avoided meeting his old friends.


    Small, yet warm. Returning to the family grounds, they visited the ancient Blood Tree, the forebearer hall, and the Silver Iron Forest.


    A sense of unprecedented safety washed over him, bringing him close to tears.


    While wandering,


    a figure caught his eye¡ªit was... Helen, his betrothed!


    Helen still bore her beauty and now wore a white robe similar to Dennis''s, guarded by experts from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    "Nicholas!"


    "Helen!"


    Upon seeing Helen, Nicholas ran to her without hesitation, embracing her openly, something he would have proudly declared as a manly act in the past.


    Now, he simply held her quietly, feeling her tremble with excitement. "Helen, I''m back."


    "In broad daylight, really?" Donna commented, rolling her eyes at their public display. But with family around, she refrained from harsh words, only warning, "Don''t get ahead of yourself, kid. Some things are meant for after you''re married. Just don''t follow in your brother''s footsteps. Hugs and kisses, and a little touch here and there should suffice for now."


    With that, she left with the two monks, heads bowed, chanting scriptures.


    "..."


    Nicholas twitched a smile, grateful at least that Donna hadn''t called him ''useless brother.''


    Helen, stunned, watched Donna''s retreating figure. "What''s gotten into Donna? Has she... been possessed?"


    If he remembered correctly, Donna was timid when she left, her voice soft and pitiable. Now, she spoke her mind freely, much like the straightforward grandfathers of legend.


    "Cough, cough."


    Nicholas touched his nose. "Donna''s been hanging out with some rough crowds; you get used to it."


    The two sat beside the ancient Qiuchun tree of Nicholas''s childhood, but now, he no longer wished to climb it, preferring to watch quietly, recalling the days when Grandpa Dennis and Helen would push him on it, his cheers lost in the wind.


    Nicholas shared his adventures, Helen gripping his hand tighter with each perilous tale.


    When he spoke of his victories at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, even defeating the renowned Yi Xian, Helen wept with joy. "Grandpa Dennis always said Nicholas would return with honors worth boasting about."


    But their joy was short-lived, falling into silence.


    After a while, Nicholas said, "Helen, I''m sorry, we haven''t found Grandpa Dennis. Grandma has been using Dawn to search everywhere, even the Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "It''s okay. As long as we keep looking, we''ll find him one day," Helen whispered softly.


    That day, the day Grandpa Dennis left Blackwood to find a place for his final rest and leave his legacy to the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, was the last anyone saw of him.


    Investigations revealed he had met with Stephen, the former head of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, now known to be a member of the mysterious Oracle Chamber, his true intentions unknown.


    As they sat, heads bowed,


    a member of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion arrived hurriedly by sword, his expression a mix of astonishment and confusion.


    "Miss Helen, the Pavilion Master... he''s returned, just outside Gratitude Village!"


    "What?!!"


    Surprised and hopeful, Nicholas and Helen rushed to the outskirts of Gratitude Village.


    After many years,


    their Grandpa Dennis stood not in meditation but upright at the village gate, his expression somber as he looked upon everything within.


    As his most cherished approached,


    he took a deep breath and declared, "Notify the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, notify the elders of Blackwood, they need to come back immediately. They..."


    "Are coming!"

 Chapter 201: Chapter 201: I saw that I was going to die

    In Cloudview County, adjacent to the Endless Forest, there stands a towering mountain with a city at its base.Here, a Psychic guards a high tower, at the top of which, even in broad daylight, sits a massive gem¡ªan exceptional ability weapon, coveted by many yet guarded only by a Foundational Energy Psychic.


    Especially at the very top of the tower, reaching into the clouds, there is a formation.


    At this moment.


    Stephen, the former head of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, stands against the wind at this spot.


    The kindly old man, dressed in flowing white robes, has his pale hair whipped back by the fierce wind.


    He looks older than before, yet his stature remains imposing.


    "Sigh."


    Suddenly, a figure appears beside Stephen.


    It''s Olivia!


    But this time, she isn''t sitting in a wheelchair; she stands shoulder to shoulder with Stephen.


    The two stand at the highest point in Cloudview County, overlooking the vast, lush forest that stretches endlessly.


    No one knows what secrets the forest hides.


    Across from the Endless Forest lies the entirety of Cloudview County¡ªa collection of cities that symbolize the prosperity and glory of the county.


    But from this height, all of Cloudview County seems so small, so fragile, as if they could easily crush it all with a mere gesture.


    They stand in silence for a long time.


    Ethan, watching from his screen, also remains silent for a long time, quietly observing the beautiful scenery of Cloudview County with Olivia and Stephen.


    After a while.


    Stephen extends his hand as if trying to grasp the wind of Cloudview County in his palm.


    His aged voice rises, filled with pride.


    "Across from Cloudview County lies the Endless Forest, home to the Druids who are close to nature and practice their unique arts."


    "Thirteen hundred thousand years ago, at the beginning of the dynasty''s turmoil, the Druids emerged with their mythical beasts, aiming to take over the pure lands of Cloudview County. Only the Azure Cloud Pavilion stood in their defense." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He then points to another area, "Look there, Dawn''s master, that was once a county under my dynasty''s rule."


    Olivia looks.


    That area... is now covered by forests.


    She can''t help but wonder how prosperous that county must have been, possibly home to various sects and families like Blackwood.


    Olivia shakes her head, "The energy locator of The Oracle Chamber, did you tamper with it?"


    Ethan''s fingers tap on the desk in front of his screen.


    Over the years, Blackwood has always been scheming.


    Back then, he and Olivia hadn''t thought much about it; they wanted to bring the descendants of Blackwood back to their forebearer lands, to let them live out their lives in peace, making Blackwood invincible in Cloudview County.


    That had always been Olivia''s plan, but gradually, they realized that a dark hand in the cloudy skies was suffocating Blackwood.


    And that person was not The Oracle Chamber as a whole, but one individual¡ªStephen!


    This man, with his multiple identities, had once released William, even leading the people of Blackwood to believe he was a reasonable and kind man.


    "Yes."


    Stephen gives a bitter smile, "It was a tactic of The Oracle Chamber, allowing me to find Dennis and obtain items from your Blackwood family. Through the destiny energy locator, I was able to track you down. Thus, Blackwood has nowhere to hide."


    "The ultimate result is that Blackwood, Sky Sect, Black Tortoise, and Duke''s Mansion will engage in a life-and-death struggle against the nine major forces."


    "That''s exactly what The Oracle Chamber wants, not my desire."


    "I just didn''t expect..."


    "It turns out that you at Blackwood had been prepared all along, with the remnants of twenty-three ancestors from Azure Cloud Pavilion. Even I, once the master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, was unaware of their existence. It seems I overstepped."


    Olivia furrowed her brows, "Thank you."


    Her feelings were mixed; Blackwood had always been searching for the forces secretly targeting them over the years.


    Now that she had found them, she discovered that Stephen was targeting Blackwood but also helping them. Such contradiction left her unsure of what to do... after all, she didn''t want to lay a hand on a dying man.


    "In Cloudview County, the original players in this game of chess were only two, Duke''s Mansion and The Oracle Chamber."


    "The Oracle Chamber''s goal is simple; they want to destroy Cloudview County. Duke Michael... he''s a beast, willing to do anything to gain complete control over Cloudview County."


    Upon hearing this, both Olivia and Ethan nodded.


    They had uncovered this through years of investigation.


    The real answer lay in the endless forest. Michael was waiting for chaos in Cloudview County, waiting for the major forces to fight to the death!


    Thus, the druids would gather masters, taking advantage of the deaths of Cloudview County''s masters, a disaster like the one Thirteen hundred thousand years ago would reoccur.


    The survivors would then dominate Cloudview County!


    When Ethan first heard this news, he couldn''t believe it. Later, he understood more clearly; Michael, now over seven hundred years old, could even break through to become a divine being after dominating Cloudview County.


    "That day, when you Blackwood were building the Jingguan outside Azure Cloud Pavilion, I saw it."


    Stephen smiled, "I saw that you Blackwood were different, like awakened lions. Similarly, I saw..."


    "I saw that I was going to die."


    Stephen''s expression gradually darkened.


    "I know that Azure Cloud Pavilion can no longer command the whole of Cloudview County like it did Thirteen hundred thousandyears ago; they''ve decayed, and so has the whole of Cloudview County."


    "Cloudview County needs a cleansing, and you Blackwood are doing well, driving the people from other sects of Azure Cloud Pavilion away."


    "I also know that The Oracle Chamber and Duke''s Mansion will never miss such an opportunity."


    Stephen sneered, "They want to be the players in this game, treating the lives in Cloudview County as if they were mere ants. Well, I, Stephen, will not let them have their way!"


    "When you Blackwood were slaughtering, they were happy."


    "But they don''t know that this is also our opportunity, to remove those truly greedy, and Cloudview County can see clear skies and bright days again!"


    "The siege outside Sky Sect caught the three greediest scoundrels!"


    Upon hearing this.


    Olivia and Ethan''s mouths twitched simultaneously across the screen. No wonder the three Competent Forces arrived so quickly that day; it seemed like the major forces of Azure Cloud Pavilion instantly knew about the troubles caused by Blackwood, all thanks to Stephen, that treacherous dog.


    He must have been secretly watching Blackwood since leaving Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    "Aren''t you afraid that Blackwood will be destroyed?" Olivia''s brows merged into a single line, now wanting to send Stephen''s soul to her father.


    "What''s there to fear?"


    Stephen laughed, "If Blackwood truly perishes, then I need not worry. They''ll divide up your Blackwood, and Cloudview County will still be the same old Cloudview County. Either way, I win, and I can return to Azure Cloud Pavilion to purge those other sect forces that have shown themselves."


    Regardless of Olivia''s expression.


    Stephen quietly said, "I am glad that everything has gone as I contemplated. Gary, Abbot David, Donald are all dead, and the major forces of Cloudview County have no internal worries."

 Chapter 202: Chapter 202: Special Event—Druid Invasion!

    "BlackwoodGeorge will become the master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, assisted by twenty-three predecessors. One day, the Azure Cloud Pavilion will shine brighter than it did 130,000 years ago, stronger than ever before.""All the major forces of Cloudview County will unite in this catastrophe."


    "People say you, Blackwood, are heartless, a demon among men, but I can see that as long as you have Olivia and Daniel from the Thunderfire Demon Cave, your journey will not end here. You, Blackwood, would never eliminate the strength of the major sects just for some resources..."


    He hadn''t finished speaking.


    It seemed he saw Olivia stirring...


    But Stephen just sighed deeply and let it be. He said, "I believe with you here, you must have already heard the news of the Druids'' arrival. Now, I hope you immediately return and send the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion to the major cities of Cloudview County to evacuate the citizens and prepare all the Psychics of Cloudview County..."


    "An hour ago, I had already sent people to do just that."


    Olivia''s words choked Stephen, "My father and brother went to the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and hearing that you''ve been focusing on the Endless Forest for years, I pretty much figured out everything. The necessary arrangements have been made."


    "Let''s go, the Pavilion needs your cunning guidance as its new leader."


    Olivia turned around, her eyebrows slightly furrowed, indicating for Stephen to go back, yet her eyes held a trace of pity.


    As expected.


    Stephen didn''t leave; he chuckled self-deprecatingly, "I''ve foreseen it, my end is today. Go now, Lord of Dawn, or it will be too late."


    Suddenly.


    At the edge of the Endless Forest, the shadows of the trees swayed!


    In the sky, an ability vessel approached!


    It was unclear whether it was the approaching storm clouds or the flickering of figures, but a dark mass loomed!


    Olivia closed her eyes and vanished from the spot in an instant.


    "The Endless Forest is stirring, quick, activate the supreme ability weapon, alert all forces of Cloudview County!" S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That day.


    The supreme ability weapon of Cloudview County, which hadn''t been activated for many years, finally shimmered with dazzling light under the operation of the Psychics in the high tower.


    Inside Cloudview County, all forces were shocked by this sight.


    The descendants of the Blackwood family halted their steps back to their clan!


    In the Duke''s Mansion.


    Michael''s lips curled slightly. Amidst the chaos of the entire Duke''s Mansion, he kicked the disbelieving Kenneth, stopping everyone in the Duke''s Mansion, "Activate the grand formation, ask our ancestors to stay calm!"


    ...


    The sky was bright.


    Stephen in the high tower had never seen such a brilliant light.


    He opened his arms, embracing the wind blowing in from the Endless Forest. Although he could hear the distant shouts of the Druids and the terrified screams of the Psychics guarding the border below, as if they were being slaughtered.


    Dust and killing intent...


    But Stephen was still greedily breathing in the air of Cloudview County, his head held high, his aged face clearly wrinkled under the vigilant supreme ability weapon of Cloudview County, his robe fluttering.


    At this moment, he looked utterly divine, like a saint descending to the mortal world, so out of place compared to the rushing Druids below the clouds.


    Just then.


    A Daoist figure appeared behind Stephen, wearing a mask and dressed in a white robe with a scale embroidered on the chest.


    Instantly, his hand pressed against Stephen''s back, his voice ice cold.


    "I''ve nurtured you for two hundred years, raised a wolf with a hidden agenda!"


    The power of the Competent Force invaded his body, his soul!


    In a flash.


    Stephen''s life was cut short!


    He fell powerless from the high tower, and in his dying moments.


    He saw the masked man standing at the edge of the high tower, leaning on his knee, looking down at him.


    He saw...


    The sky of Cloudview County had never been so bright.


    He reached out towards everything he saw, as if to touch everything he cherished.


    An innocent smile crept across his weathered face.


    "Blackwood, you must protect Cloudview County, let it flourish."


    "This is my last request, as an old and shameless man."


    [Congratulations, you have completed the special event, Wind Rises Azure Cloud!]


    [Your family, through cunning schemes, has successfully annihilated all enemies in Cloudview County. Blackwood has truly become invincible within Cloudview County, with friends everywhere.]


    [You have gained +100,000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    ...


    [Special Event¡ªDruid Invasion!]


    [For years, members of The Oracle Chamber have been hidden in Cloudview County, passing down their mission through generations, attempting to destroy Cloudview County. The Duke''s Mansion, the puppet master behind Cloudview County, through your family''s ''Wind Rises Azure Cloud'' event, aims to annihilate all major powers in Cloudview County.]


    [With Stephen, a member of The Oracle Chamber and the former head of Azure Cloud Pavilion, entering the fray, he only managed to bring the major forces of Cloudview County and Blackwood to a ceasefire and handshake, giving the powers of Cloudview County a chance to save themselves.]


    [The Duke''s Mansion and The Oracle Chamber still have a backup plan, drawing the Druids into Azure Cloud, plunging your family into disaster!]


    ...


    Atop the border tower.


    Stephen''s life force was completely severed, his body falling from the tower like a withered leaf.


    Until...


    Engulfed by shadows emerging from the endless forest, like countless beings silently obliterated by history. No one knew what Stephen had done for Cloudview County; he trudged through the darkness, bearing burdens, sacrificing his life to secure a glimmer of hope for Cloudview County.


    "Alas."


    At this moment, Ethan still focused on the border tower.


    Perhaps he was the only one in all of Cloudview County witnessing Stephen''s downfall, a pity he couldn''t empathize with Stephen.


    But he understood, everyone has their own convictions, their own things they wish to protect.


    And for the people of Blackwood, it was their family!


    Then.


    Ethan shifted the view to a dense crowd of Druids.


    The Druids resembled wild men, controlling bizarre beasts, filling the skies and the ground, dressed in animal skins, much like Blackwood in its early days, and Larry in the Swamp Jungle.


    By clicking on a Druid riding a beast resembling a three-headed dog, Ethan gathered some information about them.


    [Druid]


    [Description: They are close to nature, revere it, and respect the forces of heaven and earth. The endless forest houses two major races, Druids and Demons, fiercely competing for territory. They also eye the lands cultivated by humans, hoping to revert them back to forests, which is their vision.]


    Opening the map, the endless forest, shaped like an arc, surrounds the Emerald Dynasty...


    Humans have three dynasties, scattered across the world, seldom in contact.


    As for the Emerald Dynasty, it is directly encircled by Druids, Demons, and the sea.


    As far as Ethan knew, this was also related to the changes of the era. The ancient game world had no dynasties, only realms of immortals, with various races barely surviving before humans. After a great war, the era of humans ended.


    In ancient times, humans were slaves to the Demons... In the remote past, Demons and Druids were slaves to humans... In the primordial age, when Ability Masters existed, gods fell...


    Continuing to monitor the movements of the Druids.


    It seemed that after entering Cloudview County, they began to split up, with many weaker Druids setting fires at the border, dancing around campfires, erecting totems, and the land once cultivated by humans began to sprout flora, showing signs of becoming a forest.


    A message on the screen interrupted Ethan''s observation.


    [Your descendant Olivia reports to you.]


    Ethan switched the view, Olivia controlling Dawn, she surely knew more than what he saw on the screen.


    Then he looked.


    Ethan was stunned...


    Map¡ª[Endless Forest¡¤Harris Tribe¡¤Joy Beast Branch¡¤Elder Glenn''s Home]


    "..."

 Chapter 203: Chapter 203: They were unstoppable!

    The scene unfolds within the Endless Forest, a lush expanse dotted with towering ancient trees and home to a variety of mystical beasts. Druids clad in animal skins frolic joyously with these creatures, sharing fruits in a display of harmony.Olivia sits in a wooden hut perched atop an ancient tree, donned in a tiger-skin coat. Before her on the table lie the Psychic Position and the Mystic Burner.


    Ethan blinks hard.


    No way...


    Hadn''t the druids just barged in? Weren''t you just communicating with Stephen, and now you''ve infiltrated the druids?


    Ethan''s Psychic Position glows, sending a warm current into Olivia''s body.


    A smile quickly spreads across Olivia''s handsome face, her head held high as if pleased, thinking, ''The Forebearer must have seen me infiltrate the druids; he must be praising me now.''


    "Forebearer."


    Olivia speaks respectfully, "Child has gathered intelligence from the Joy Beast Branch. The druids have been preparing for war, awaiting chaos in Cloudview County. They are stronger than the Emerald Dynasty, holding their own against the demon clans within the Endless Forest."


    "They have twelve major witch divisions, each with its own sectors and smaller tribes."


    "The ones who have come to my Cloudview County belong to the Skywood witch division, comprising three sectors: White, Harris, and Clark."


    As she speaks, Olivia''s expression turns grave, "Forebearer, from what your child knows, within the Harris sector, particularly the Joy Beast lineage, there exists a Competent Force Psychic, also known as a priest."


    Information trickles into Ethan''s ears, his expression growing somber. Just three sectors, yet their power could rival the peak times of Cloudview County.


    And yet... Harris seems to be the weakest of the three.


    "Child has obtained their attack plans." S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia''s intelligence capabilities are formidable!


    Ethan sees the plans laid out on the table, showing the invasion routes of White, Harris, and Clark.


    Starting from the border, they spread like veins.


    They bypass the major sects, entering Cloudview County, targeting ordinary towns for slaughter, swiftly and devastatingly, before encircling the major sects of Cloudview County.


    Interestingly, the attack plans do not mark Duke''s Mansion!


    Ethan is more concerned about the strategic map showing the attack directed at Blackwood!


    One of the routes...


    Directly targets Blackwood!


    Meanwhile, a special event reappears on the screen.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Covetous Clark Branch!]


    [Chief of the Clark Branch, having learned from the disciple of human Stephen, knows that Azure Cloud Blackwood and the major sects of Azure Cloud are battling fiercely, likely weakened. The vast Blackwood family, rich in resources, is ripe for exploitation. Slaughtering the renowned blood-stained family will bring great fame to the Clark Branch!]


    If Stephen were not already dead, Ethan would have cursed him.


    Olivia helplessly says, "Forebearer, that old rogue Stephen was treacherous, fearing that my Blackwood would sit idle during the druid invasion, thus he resorted to this."


    Ethan shrugs indifferently.


    Listening to Olivia continue to report all the intelligence she knows, his eyes sparkle with determination.


    "Let my Blackwood descendants¡ª"


    "Return home!"


    "Let Clark, and the entire druid community, feel what Blackwood¡ª"


    "Brings to shock them!"


    As the Psychic Position traces words before Olivia''s eyes.


    Olivia''s lips curl slightly.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    ...


    On this day, the citizens of Cloudview County were fleeing in droves. They didn''t know why, but they trusted the legendary Azure Cloud Pavilion''s words and headed towards Duke''s Mansion. They had heard that Duke''s Mansion would provide them with ample food and the greatest protection.


    All the food from the towns and villages was transported by Psychics, who, like oxen, pulled carts loaded with provisions towards Duke''s Mansion.


    A tide of refugees surged from all directions towards Duke''s Mansion.


    All the Psychics of Cloudview County were gathering at the nearest sects because of this day.


    Azure Cloud Pavilion had announced to all practitioners that the Druids from the border were coming. They intended to seize all the resources of Cloudview County''s Psychics and occupy their ancestral lands.


    True to Stephen''s expectations, after several incidents, Azure Cloud Pavilion had risen from the ashes like it did 130,000 years ago, once again becoming the leader of the entire Cloudview County. They were once again sacrificing everything for Cloudview County, leading it against external threats.


    Similarly, all the Competent Force powers in Cloudview County were releasing their forces, confronting the Druid priests head-on. These ancient beings, who had lived for countless years, were originally planning to besiege Blackwood. Now, they soared into the sky, sitting cross-legged, ready to fight to the death if challenged.


    Meanwhile, on the road to Forest Town Gratitude Village in Blackwood, dust was swirling up.


    It was the Druids'' giant rock Clark branch!


    Druids, born from the forest, each one merged with nature and survived in the jungle like wild beasts. Each Druid was a hunter of the forest, incredibly robust.


    Especially those with giant rock abilities, their tribe lived in the mountains, dwelling in caves, and even children had to climb rocks.


    They possessed the power to control the mountains.


    Over a hundred thousand of these giant rock ability tribespeople were sprinting across the ground. Alongside them were creatures as large as boulders, running across the land, their rocky bodies scattered with cheering tribespeople.


    In addition, there were giant snakes, spiders, and stone dogs made of rock!


    Above in the sky, giant stone figures as large as mountains were slowly flying, following the tracks of their tribespeople below. On these stone figures, one could see remnants of trees, moss, and soil.


    Around them were huge totems forming a wide magical array that enveloped the stone figures, the Druidic magic inscriptions appearing ancient and mysterious.


    Atop the heads of these stone figures stood the priests of the giant rock ability tribes, chiefs of various small tribes, and powerful Druid warriors.


    Apart from the priests who wore robes embroidered with various magical symbols, the chiefs looked like wild men, their bodies covered in tattoos, all exuding a powerful aura.


    They marched forward.


    In front of them, all the towns of Cloudview County were like paper, easily breached by their giant stone figures.


    Occasionally, they encountered some families or forces that hadn''t fled, stubbornly trying to defend their homeland. However, the magical barriers these stubborn folks activated seemed laughable.


    The giant rock ability tribespeople on the ground ran while using their witchcraft.


    Their witchcraft was more direct than the human race''s magical martial arts.


    Sharp giant rocks surged from the ground, easily transforming large areas into forests of stone spikes.


    They were unstoppable!

 Chapter 204: Chapter 204: Take their heads home, as an offering to the Forebearer!

    Powerful, insane!On the screen, Ethan kept up with the footage of the giant rock Clark tribe, accelerating as he went.


    Even with preparation, Ethan''s heart was tense.


    This battle was unlike any he had faced with Blackwood before.


    This time, facing the giant rock Clark tribe was a racial war, and the tribe had played all their cards, with numerous people involved.


    The people of Blackwood had never fought with the Druids before.


    He was getting ready.


    Fortunately, all the descendants of Blackwood scattered abroad were also preparing!


    Ethan watched the screens of each descendant one by one.


    [Cloudview County City, Jones]


    Refugees continuously poured into the county city, seeking shelter at the Duke''s Mansion.


    Atop the roof of her house, Jessica watched all this with a pained expression.


    The gates of Jones were tightly shut.


    Soon after, a Daoist figure came from the outskirts of the Duke''s Mansion.


    They even brought... Edward, Betty, and Joseph''s family!


    The men in black bowed to Jessica, "Miss Jessica, your servants have completed the mission and brought back young master Edward and Miss Betty."


    They ignored the confusion of Edward''s family.


    Jessica whispered, "Go back."


    She glanced at Edward''s family and smiled, "Wait a moment, your aunt will take you home."


    Then, she slowly walked into the grand hall of Jones, glanced at Jack lying disheveled on the bed, surrounded by several beauties, no longer taking his duties seriously, her expression complex, "Husband, I am leaving."


    "Go away, where you go has nothing to do with me. Do you really think you''re something special?"


    Jack was no longer the obedient fool he used to be.


    Jones''s influence in the county city was growing, and he was now the head of the family, even able to attract beauties more beautiful than Jessica!


    He had everything he wanted, and he was tired of it.


    "Alright."


    Jessica took a deep breath, closed the door, and as she listened to the laughter of the women inside, the last bit of fondness in her eyes disappeared, and she turned away.


    The elders of Jones gathered together, and one elder brought a child to Jessica.


    It was a child born with deformities, a result of Jack''s past misdeeds, which led to Jessica being kidnapped after being impregnated, fortunately with the help of an ancestor, but the child had been tainted by psychic powers.


    The child''s legs were weak and powerless, he reached out his hands towards Jessica and laughed adorably.


    "Good child, follow your mother back to her parental home, let''s rebuild a stronger, more prosperous Jones, and cure your illness, shall we?"


    Jessica''s eyes were full of love.


    The child laughed joyfully.


    Jessica''s gaze turned cold, she didn''t even glance at the bowing elders of Jones, she slowly walked forward, leaving only her icy voice behind, "Did you hear that? My child said he will bring a better future for Jones."


    "Yes."


    The many elders nodded slightly and entered Jack''s room.


    Moments later, the blood-stained elders of Jones, along with many servants, joined Jessica and her child on the ability vessel, heading towards Blackwood.


    On the ability vessel, Edward''s family was so happy.


    Joseph looked at his great-grandmother holding the baby, he swallowed, "Dad, you never told me that the Lisa in the county city was my great-grandmother..."


    Edward and his wife ignored their child''s words.


    They had understood everything, and looked deeply towards the direction of the Duke''s Mansion, sighing deeply.


    [Swamp Jungle]


    Larry, dressed like a druid with strange inscriptions all over his body, looked even more like one.


    Beside him, Julian''s wife Mary wore heavy armor.


    The two of them, each sitting atop a demon king¡ªa massive white eagle and an enormous crocodile!


    "Belonging to Swamp Jungle, follow me back to Blackwood!"


    Behind them, countless exotic beasts boiled with excitement, following the path of the Swamp King!


    ...


    [Black Tortoise]


    Justin, with a turtle shell on his back, held Cards in his hands.


    "Forebearer, aid me, for I must assassinate the priest."


    He had just left Black Tortoise.


    Justin was stunned.


    He saw his brother, Jeffrey.


    The handsome and charming Jeffrey, also holding a Psychic Position, followed by a group of... beauties?


    "Big brother!"


    Jeffrey was thrilled, "I''ve brought my beloved friends home to help!"


    Justin glanced at the turtle shell on his back, then at the thirty-six beauties behind Jeffrey, at least two of whom had Developing Skills, his expression somewhat sour.


    While discussing their experiences over the years, he prepared to face this family crisis.


    Justin occasionally glanced again at the beautiful women behind Jeffrey.


    He suddenly remembered his life''s constant pursuit of thrills, repeatedly flirting with life and death. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then he sighed deeply in melancholy.


    "What have I been wasting my life on?"


    ...


    In a tomb.


    George, holding two mummies, was chased out by a group of ghosts.


    In his mind, a group of old men were shouting.


    "George, why run? Fight them!"


    "Why the hurry? Didn''t you used to not leave until you''d scavenged everything?"


    "Finally remembered to go back to Azure Cloud Pavilion, huh?"


    Not a chance!


    George gritted his teeth, continued to hold the two mummies, and took to the air.


    He could feel the Forebearer Psychic Position in his arms flashing!


    The Forebearer was summoning!


    "Esteemed ancestors, you must help me this time, or my house will be torn down!"


    As he moved forward.


    Behind him... the original twenty-three old men turned into...


    Thirty-two!


    ...


    Across Cloudview County, the fourth generation, like him, were returning to Blackwood.


    Beside them, every Forebearer Psychic Position lit up.


    They brought with them all the power they had amassed over the years!


    ...


    Sky Sect.


    With the Forebearer Psychic Position floating beside him, the once disheveled Marcus had now shaved and redressed, just like when he first came to Sky Sect as a young man.


    He stood at the highest point of Sky Sect, looking down at the mountain base where many external Psychics came to assist, and Sky Sect''s disciples used a magical formation to protect them from the strange miasma outside the sect''s gates.


    Marcus''s eyes shone with a golden light.


    Suddenly, a Daoist from the netherworld appeared behind him, sighing, "Marcus, as the master of Sky Sect during the druid invasion, do you really need to return to Blackwood?"


    "First and foremost, I am a son of my family, then a sect master."


    Marcus smiled, "This great calamity, I will not take the sect''s disciples, but the Sky Temple..."


    The Daoist shook his head and smiled.


    "Sky Sect has friends to protect it, no one will dare to disturb it for a while, you may take the Sky Temple."


    "Thank you, master!"


    Marcus smiled slightly, leaped up.


    Nine fire lotuses surrounded him.


    At that moment, everyone in Sky Sect looked up, above the sect, a space dark yet filled with stars, followed Marcus as he departed!


    His expression was serene.


    "Forebearer, this time, your son will fight on the front lines!"


    ...


    On the great road to Blackwood.


    A group of eight walked.


    The one in front, bare-chested, carrying a blood-red greatsword, extremely handsome, his body covered in mysterious runes.


    The five men and two women behind him, all robust, wearing heavy armor, shook the ground as they moved.


    Where they passed, clouds gathered and dark mist swirled.


    Behind them.


    Lay headless bodies of druid people, they tread through blood.


    Beside the third generation of Blackwood, each had a Psychic Position floating.


    They moved in silence, but their murderous aura grew heavier.


    Suddenly, a group of druids appeared ahead, their eyes shining red.


    Thomas''s lips parted widely.


    "Take their heads home, as an offering to the Forebearer!"


    ...

 Chapter 205: Chapter 205: Welcome Blackwood—

    [Thunderfire Demon Cave]Inside the Psychic Sanctuary where Amelia resided, she was still being supported by a giant tree, having been in a deep slumber for so long that the recent visitors to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, both demon cultivators and righteous warriors, had only heard of the existence of the saintess and the desperate apothecary.


    "Sigh!"


    Inside the cave, suddenly, without any wind, Amelia, still wearing her mask, opened her eyes, staring intently at the Psychic Position floating before her, shining brilliantly!


    "Forebearer, your child understands, your child has recovered, and now¡ª"


    "Homecoming!"


    As her gentle words fell, the entire cave burst into life, just as it had when Amelia had sacrificed years of her life to cultivate psychic powers, with vibrant flowers and plants sprouting from the decayed ground!


    ...


    In the cave where thunder and lava converged.


    The Psychic Position was glowing!


    "Clang!"


    Julian, who was forging with a massive hammer, paused mid-air. He lifted his sweaty, bald head, sweat dripping down his neck onto his muscular upper body, his muscles outlined smoothly.


    "Druid? Forebearer, worry not, whatever it is, your child will smash it all!"


    Julian set down his hammer and walked toward the end of the cave.


    As he slowly turned around.


    Behind him, rows of psychic puppets opened their eyes, their eyes reflecting the cave''s lava, like stars in the night sky!


    ...


    In the central area of the Thunderfire Demon Cave, atop the palace built by Daniel.


    Daniel was half-reclining in his seat, supporting his head with the back of his hand...


    Very flamboyant.


    Now, he appeared to be the oldest among the Blackwood men, his white hair lightly falling over his shoulders, his face lined with wrinkles, sporting a white goatee.


    Next to his seat, the Psychic Position lit up.


    "Druid?"


    Daniel squinted his eyes, his voice deep yet indifferent, "Forebearer, with your child here, no druid shall cross our family''s land."


    "The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors."


    "The Demon Hunters Alliance of the twelve righteous paths."


    "Attend!"


    As his words fell, figures began to fill the great hall within the cave, lining up on either side, bowing respectfully.


    "By the command of the Demon Lord!"


    ...


    Time slowly passed.


    Ethan watched the descendants of Blackwood return home, proud. His descendants had wandered abroad for many years, leaving their legends on this land!


    He still remembered.


    Years ago, the offspring of Blackwood had sworn to him that one day they would return to their ancestral lands openly and honorably.


    Over the years, they had always strived to return home.


    They had endured hardships, never forsaking their Blackwood identity.


    Now.


    They would unite, ready to face the imminent enemy!


    Atop Gratitude Village.


    At this moment, only Edward, Donna, and two Buddhist disciples were at home.


    Inside Gratitude Village, everyone was ready with their weapons, gazing into the distance, the ground trembling!


    Dennis was sweating profusely.


    His peak Developing Skill aura could feel the legendary druids approaching from all directions, seeing in the distance giant Energy Stone beings stomping the ground. Although Gratitude Village had developed over the years, it was as fragile as paper in the face of such power.


    "Sixteen thousand people, sixteen thousand druids."


    Dennis closed his eyes tightly. Although he had learned much about the druids from Stephen, he had never imagined facing so many terrifying druids.


    In the face of such a vast force, any Competent Force would likely only struggle to survive under their sect''s great formation.


    Inside Gratitude Village.


    There were over a hundred thousand civilians, all trembling, feeling the oppressive force of the druids.


    "Grandpa Dennis, it''s okay."


    Nicholas forced a smile, having prepared the villagers of Gratitude Village with weapons and formations, but everything still seemed so fragile. Hope shone in his eyes, "I believe our elders will definitely make it back in time!"


    "Mm." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dennis nodded slightly, remembering a time when he too had believed that the crazy eccentrics of Blackwood would return and show those druids a thing or two!


    But before that, he had also prepared to sacrifice his life to ensure Nicholas and Helen could escape.


    At this moment, Blackwood was like a cloud-covered land.


    Suddenly, Dennis and everyone else''s expressions changed as a Druid Psychic, riding a stone eagle, approached, holding a staff and laughing loudly at the people inside Gratitude Village.


    As a scout in the Transcendent Seed stage, he could sense from the messages transmitted by The Oracle Chamber that Blackwood, daring to contend against the entire Cloudview County, was nothing but a laughable joke.


    Look at this so-called blood-stained family''s residence, with only one Developing Skill Psychic!


    Look at their formations, merely six eighth-grade and one seventh-grade formations.


    They were even... using ridiculous crossbows!


    "O great Sacrificer, this place is nothing but..."


    The chieftain shouted to the heavens.


    He was still laughing, but his laughter froze at that moment.


    Everyone in Gratitude Village stared blankly at the scene outside the town.


    "Haven''t you heard from the people of Cloudview County that the Blackwood clan, when scattered, can suppress all directions, and when united, are an indestructible rock?"


    "Do you, a mere Transcendent Seed, dare to shout outside our clan''s territory?"


    The mocking voice echoed in his ears.


    The Transcendent Seed scout looked down in terror.


    Blood, soaked his garment.


    The body of the Druid scout fell from the sky, still gripped by terror.


    At that moment, everyone in Gratitude Village looked up, their eyes widening from a momentary daze to full alertness.


    Their hearts began to pound fiercely.


    In the distance, they could see the massive figures of the Giant Rock Psychics, dust covering all directions around Gratitude Village. They even saw the head of a hundred-meter-tall Giant Rock Psychic, a being they had never encountered before.


    But now, they felt a deep sense of peace, a peace so profound that their lips curled into smiles, uncontrollably turning into expressions of frenzy and joy.


    "They... they''re back!" Dennis shouted, though his voice was faint, drowned out by the distant giants'' thunderous roars.


    Yet, in the minds of all the elders of Gratitude Village, these words emerged uncontrollably, just as they had when they had bid farewell to the Blackwood people from Gratitude Village, who had fled in times of peril.


    But everyone in Gratitude Village had always believed that one day, they would break through the darkness and return in glory under the sunlight!


    Suddenly, everyone''s gaze was captured by a burst of light.


    Instinctively, they all looked up at the sky above Blackwood.


    With a thunderous roar, the Primordial Blood Tree that once stood in Gratitude Village returned!


    Just like that winter day, red snow began to fall from the sky!


    The snowflakes gathered, a manifestation of the Primordial Blood Tree''s power.


    A line of giant words covered the sky, overshadowing all other brilliance in the world¡ª


    Blackwood!


    They reached out to catch the red snow, feeling the warmth spread through their bodies, and then they all knelt facing the outskirts of the town, looking up at the figures above.


    "May Blackwood shine for eternity!"


    "Welcome Blackwood¡ª"


    "¡ªHome!"


    ...

 Chapter 206: Chapter 206: Memories of the past were awakening!

    When Nathan and Olivia returned home, the Primordial Blood Tree had foreseen it.It declared that the day would come when Azure Cloud would be stained with blood, and the sky would bear a single word¡ªBlackwood.


    On this day, the children of Blackwood would return home!


    At that moment, Gratitude Village seemed like a lone boat surrounded by endless dust storms, with the imposing presence of the giant rock Clark tribe pressing in from all sides.


    The massive canopy of the Primordial Blood Tree shone with crimson leaves, dazzling as it grew to a hundred meters!


    Above Gratitude Village, Nathan stood atop a coffin, hands behind his back.


    He heard the shouts of the villagers behind him, felt their kneeling worship, and his eyes blazed with fury.


    Luna, too, returned to Gratitude Village at that moment.


    She held Nathan''s arm and rubbed her cheek against his shoulder in silence, conveying years of longing.


    Then, with a captivating gaze, she looked towards the enemy ahead. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas, with the Celestial Sword in hand, stood a distance from his parents.


    He closed his eyes, indifferent to the approaching foes, his sword case humming with energy.


    And then there was William.


    This guy had actually caught up to his elders and was the first to return to the clan.


    He held a dagger, licked the blood from it mid-air, and then spat it out with a grimace, cursing loudly, "Damn, that''s foul. Turns out those assassins do this just to scare people. It tastes awful!"


    His cursing only highlighted the eerie silence around Gratitude Village.


    It seemed everything had changed since their arrival.


    The villagers'' eyes burned with intensity; they had cast aside their fear and grasped their swords.


    Some might have lacked Foundational Energy, some might have aged from their prime, and others might have been disabled over the years.


    Yet, they silently picked up their weapons.


    They remembered the past, fighting alongside the Blackwood clan in Pine Forest Town, going wild in the Silver Iron Woods, battling together throughout the entire region of Taiqing County.


    Now, they could still wield weapons.


    Their strength might have been insignificant, but their will pursued the footsteps of Blackwood!


    A gust of wind blew.


    The steps of the giant rock Clark tribesmen faltered, and the dust covering them slowed.


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment...


    "Stop!"


    High above, although there were only a few of them, the druid masters atop the mountain-like stone heads of the giant rock tribe changed color, even... their high priest!


    Druids, who take strength as their surname, resembled mythical beasts more than humans, inheriting their powers through bloodlines and passing down their magic in the same way.


    By inscribing magic into their bodies with beast blood, they could cast spells instantly, faster than cultivators.


    The high priest of the giant rock tribe, named Cynthia, held a staff, an old woman herself.


    When she saw the Primordial Blood Tree suddenly grow to a hundred meters, even from ten miles away, it was still dazzling.


    She felt an inexplicable crisis and ordered everyone to stop.


    But no one in the giant rock Clark tribe intervened or questioned her authority.


    It wasn''t about Cynthia''s dignity.


    The moment the Blackwood clan appeared, they felt an overwhelming murderous aura!


    Cynthia held two turtle shells engraved with inscriptions, chanting spells as the shells glowed in mid-air, her face turning pale.


    "High Priest, what''s wrong?"


    The chieftain beside her, wearing a necklace of beast bones, changed his expression.


    He had never seen the high priest so pale; he could feel the terror hidden in the town they had destroyed along their journey.


    Cynthia took a deep breath, "The divination is slightly ominous, heavy casualties."


    "What?!!"


    All the chieftains were shocked.


    They had never imagined that attacking a town could result in such an ominous sign.


    Cynthia gestured to the chieftain who had just spoken.


    As he approached her, resigned to his fate and with a hint of honor, she stabbed him in the throat with a dagger.


    Blood flowed, running up the turtle shell.


    All the druids took it as usual.


    Cynthia''s gaze was vacant as she muttered, "The divination..."


    "Great misfortune!"


    "What?!!"


    All the chiefs looked towards the now quiet Gratitude Village, where the mysterious Blood Tree grew more vivid and dazzling by the moment.


    It seemed as if the sky above their clan was pressing down, about to collapse, overwhelming them with its immense pressure!


    "How can this be, Great Shaman? It was only a minor misfortune before, how could it now..."


    "Let''s retreat, Great Shaman!"


    "It''s just a small town, the Bloodline Family... how could they pose such a great threat to us?!!"


    The chiefs murmured in fear.


    But Cynthia paid no heed to any of the chiefs.


    She withdrew the turtle shell from the sky and, under the astonished eyes of the chiefs, crushed it into powder. She spoke lightly, "Great misfortune, that''s all. I have found a way to break it. Order our people to prepare for battle. We will win this fight."


    With that said,


    Cynthia summoned a giant eagle and, under the puzzled looks of her tribe, headed towards the small town.


    She looked up at the sky.


    The sky, once obscured by dust brought by her people, was now clear.


    The closer she got to Blackwood,


    the fresher the air felt, and she greedily breathed it in, memorizing all the beautiful colors of the world.


    Then, outside Gratitude Village, near the Nathan family, she stopped.


    She saw it.


    Inside the small town, under the huge tree canopy, the humans were fiercer than any they had encountered on their journey. They were fearless, unafraid of death!


    Their will caused the energy of the entire Gratitude Village to surge, even breaking through the clouds!


    And the source of it all...


    was the man in front of her, looking like a simple farmer.


    No.


    Or rather, it came from a family.


    The Psychic Position beside them shone brightly, their faith more devout than the Druids'' worship of nature!


    As she approached, the sword energy locked onto her, and a pair of enchanting fox eyes stared at her from above the clouds. She could even sense the spirits in the coffin under the farmer''s feet, ready to tear at her flesh.


    They were merely Developing Skill!


    "Friends of Blackwood, I..."


    Cynthia tried to maintain a friendly smile.


    But before she could finish, Luna, nestled in Nathan''s arms, softly said, "Your name is Cynthia?"


    "...Yes."


    Cynthia''s smile froze.


    Luna was as gentle as ever, it was better for her to speak since the visitor was a woman, "Say nothing, we of Blackwood do not beg for mercy. Cloudview County is our land. Whether you are invaders or what kind of race your Giant Rock tribe might be, it doesn''t concern us, nor should you worry about what kind of family we Blackwoods are."


    "Prepare your people, today..."


    "Blood will stain Azure Cloud."


    Cynthia turned around.


    She felt like she had swallowed a bitter pill. What made Blackwood beg for mercy?


    She wanted to say they just wanted to pass through Blackwood, they wanted to be friends with Blackwood, they no longer desired Blackwood''s land, nor to uncover its secrets!


    But...


    Behind her, Nathan, hearing his wife''s words, was extremely pleased. He looked back at the old friends of Gratitude Village.


    "Everyone, did you hear that?"


    Just like when he used to walk through Gratitude Village, leading the villagers into the Silver Iron Forest for hunting, he said casually, "My wife has spoken, don''t bother about who they are! These scoundrels have come knocking at our door, now what should we do?"


    Memories of the past were awakening!

 Chapter 207: Chapter 207: Will lead my people to thrive against all odds!

    The former village chief, leaning on his cane, slowly made his way to the center of the street.His face was wrinkled and darkened with age, yet flushed with a rosy tint.


    His eyes were red with fervor as he exclaimed, "To hell with the foreigners! Great lord, this old man can still wield a knife!"


    "Hey, young man, hand me the knife on your back!"


    The young man called upon grimaced, reluctantly pulling the knife from behind and handing it to the old village chief.


    "Chief, this knife... my wife scrimped and saved to buy it for me. It''s even a low-grade ability weapon. Please remember to return it to me."


    "Look at you, always pinching pennies!"


    The people of Gratitude Village burst into laughter, watching the young man and the old village chief who had thrown away his cane and now held the knife high.


    At this moment, the chief''s legs trembled, but his spine was straighter than ever, his gaze firm as if he had rediscovered something he had lost.


    "Great lord, I truly can still wield a knife!"


    The laughter in Gratitude Village stopped abruptly.


    They had been afraid when the giant rock tribe of Clark approached, but now, they were fearless!


    The people of Blackwood had returned, and the aged village chief of Gratitude Village raised his knife high.


    They too...


    Could do the same!


    Nathan took a deep breath, his memories also being awakened.


    He was still the hope of the entire village, the same man who had led Gratitude Village forward.


    He turned his face, looking into the distance.


    The giant rock tribe, tens of thousands strong, their presence overwhelming, certainly more powerful than Gratitude Village at the moment.


    But...


    "What are we waiting for?!!"


    As his words fell,


    Everyone in Gratitude Village laughed heartily and charged out of the small town, fearless!


    "Blackwood!"


    This surname shone so brightly in the skies of Cloudview County!


    Everyone could see the name emerging from the direction of Gratitude Village. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In Duke''s Mansion,


    Michael stood on the rooftop, looking up at the family name that seemed to press down on the entire Cloudview County.


    "Father, there are too many refugees!"


    Kenneth was anxious. After the druid invasion, refugees had nearly filled the entire county, driving him to despair. Yet his father did not take charge of the situation, his gaze also drifting to the sky.


    "It''s Blackwood. They''ve secretly brought Betty back, and now the giant rock tribe of Clark is invading Blackwood."


    Kenneth clenched his teeth, "Dad, even if we don''t send aid, we have to bring Betty back!"


    Michael remained unmoved.


    He took a deep breath, "Go attend to your duties. The giant rock tribe can''t breach Blackwood. They are invading, but the people of Blackwood... they''re just going home."


    "Going home?"


    Kenneth paused, then spoke no more.


    Michael looked towards that direction, remembering the day three wolves walked out of Duke''s Mansion. He knew very well just how fierce the beasts of Blackwood were.


    His eyes held a trace of respect.


    No matter his schemes, no matter his past actions, it did not diminish his awe of this family.


    The name of the Blackwood family appeared in the skies over Cloudview County.


    Sky Sect, Black Tortoise, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate... all the powerful forces in Cloudview County opened their eyes wide at this moment.


    They all took a step forward in unison!


    In front of Jiuyou Daoist of the Sky Sect stood a druid priest, heading towards Blackwood.


    "Move aside!"


    Jiuyou Daoist remained unmoved, a space behind him appearing like the depths of hell as he smiled, "Are those from the giant rock tribe of Clark heading to Blackwood? It seems they''ve chosen the worst possible place in all of Cloudview County."


    The priest furrowed his brows, "What do you mean?"


    He had already received a message from Cynthia. It wasn''t a call for help. It was a farewell letter!


    Cynthia said that the divinations before reaching Blackwood were auspicious, but upon arrival, they turned slightly ominous. With the appearance of the Blackwood people, the signs became extremely ominous, and when Cynthia turned around, the divination predicted a natural disaster!


    There was no solution, whether begging for mercy or retreating, only death awaited. Cynthia''s only option now was to fight desperately.


    The priest couldn''t understand how, with the strength of the giant rock tribe and druids from all directions, they could be pushed to such a state by a single power, even if that power was the notorious blood-stained family of Cloudview County!


    Jiuyou Daoist grinned, "It means nothing to you, as you surely don''t understand the fear we felt in Cloudview County years ago, nor do you know how the major powers here have lived in fear and unease for decades."


    He laughed, "Honestly, when I heard you were invading, I actually felt relieved."


    "Relieved?" The priest looked uneasy.


    "Yes," Jiuyou Daoist mocked, "Now, Cloudview County is full of my friends, and we are invincible here. Because the ones blocking Blackwood''s path now... are you."


    The name of the family was rapidly expanding in the sky, spreading across the entire Cloudview County, causing all the powerful psychics of the county to laugh.


    These druids from the Endless Forest didn''t know the fear that Blackwood had once brought them, especially the giant rock tribe of Clark. They were like brutes crossing a river, charging into the most ferocious family.


    And the psychics of Cloudview County just needed to watch quietly, blocking all the priests heading for support. They were sure to profit! They could gain the friendship of Blackwood. Their fear hadn''t disappeared; it would transfer to these foolish druids!


    "Clansmen, I see the signs!"


    "This war requires you to throw your heads and shed your blood. I see my clansmen fearless, I see you charging forward!"


    "Do not fear pain, do not fear death."


    "Our descendants will flourish on this land, the totem of the giant rock tribe of Clark will stand in every corner of this land, the druids will have our legends, our descendants will be proud of us."


    "Now..."


    "Fight fiercely, fight for the future of our clan!"


    Outside Blackwood, Cynthia raised her staff high, her silhouette magnifying infinitely in front of the giant rock tribe.


    She shouted, her voice thundering through the heavens, "Attack!"


    Hearing Cynthia''s words, the people of the giant rock tribe looked at the humans charging out of the small town, their eyes red with madness.


    At this moment, they were fearless!


    In their minds, they envisioned the future Cynthia had painted for them, a land with high mountains, their people being born one after another, their tribe''s name renowned far and wide.


    Such a future was worth their lives!


    Watching her people charge madly, Cynthia narrowed her eyes, her gaze resolute, "If the future is unseen, then I..."


    "Will lead my people to thrive against all odds!"

 Chapter 208: Chapter 208: Smash these... broken stones!

    "Charge!"The battle cry echoed.


    In Gratitude Village, both sides launched their most frenzied, fearless charges!


    The mighty Clark clan fought for a future blueprint.


    The people of Gratitude Village, following the return of the Blackwood youth, stood with the elders of Blackwood to fend off all invaders and protect their homeland!


    Enemies could come from all directions.


    The villagers saw those immense figures; they were so tiny in front of them.


    To both sides, they seemed like a mere wisp of smoke, about to be engulfed by the towering dust storms of the Clark''s supernatural powers.


    Yet, they charged on.


    Their eyes were red.


    Slowly bowing their heads, there it was...


    Countless roots, breaking through the soil, sprouting in front of them, lifting them up, and sweeping everything in their path!


    It was the Blackwood Sacred Tree!


    Suddenly.


    Two figures descended from the sky, standing in the center of the battlefield!


    They surveyed the enemies coming from all directions, and the citizens of Gratitude Village lifted high by the Primordial Blood Tree, their gazes icy!


    "Sixteen thousand druids, each one a Psychic, a million Stone beasts, what a force!"


    Armored Mary, now truly a general of the battlefield, held her spear with a fiery glow in her eyes, the phantom of four demon kings appearing behind her, her Developing Skill stirring up the dust as she charged to the forefront, her heroic spirit fierce, rushing towards the countless incoming foes.


    "Larry, let''s see if their Stone beasts are stronger, or the beasts we''ve tamed over the years are more ferocious!"


    "Yes!"


    Larry, sitting atop the crocodile demon king, took out a horn and blew it!


    "Woo!!!"


    Instantly, the silver iron behind Blackwood began to shake violently, beasts burst from the forest, charging towards the area swarming with Stone beasts!


    "It''s the beasts, so many beasts!"


    The citizens of Gratitude Village watched in amazement as they were engulfed by shadows, surrounded by beasts leaping out crazily!


    They roared, sweeping through all directions, more numerous than the Stone beasts.


    Then...


    "Ha ha ha!"


    A robust voice boomed from the sky!


    Mary had just shattered a ten-meter-tall stone figure with her spear, a smile of joy on her face because of that voice!


    "Boom!"


    A fierce blast of air swept up from beside her, a massive hammer fell from the sky, clearing all enemies in front of her, repelling a druid Developing Skill.


    A towering figure, bare-chested, appeared before Mary.


    His bald head gleamed, that rough and bold voice so familiar to Mary''s ears, "Wife, I haven''t even arrived, and you''re already charging forward, so disobedient, tonight I''m going to spank you!"


    Mary glared.


    Her anger mixed with a hint of shyness not felt in a long time.


    Then, in the center of the battlefield, Julian swung his right hand fiercely, his eyes fixed on the druids who were pushed back by his psychic powers and charging again, he admired, truly admired the spirit of this tribe.


    Unfortunately...


    "Mary, look at what I''ve saved over the years!"


    In front of him.


    Rows of psychic puppets, each one a high-grade, even... seventh-grade, numbering in the thousands, the newly upgraded thirty-meter-tall war AI Bionic Robots gleamed silver!


    Julian''s silver left arm, too, was writhing, the metal turning to liquid, enveloping him, gradually transforming him into a ten-meter giant.


    He watched a five-meter spider charge at him, again grasping the hammer he could barely hold, smashing the Stone beast to pieces, his robust voice booming again! sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Smash these... broken stones!"


    As he began his charge.


    The rows of psychic puppets, like him, covered in metallic liquid, grew larger and crazily charged into the battlefield, overwhelming the druids in front of them!


    As Julian charged forward, a twitch appeared at the corner of his mouth. His voice, soft and almost imperceptible on the battlefield, carried a memory he would never forget, even in death.


    "Little brother, are these your pathetic toys?"


    How familiar that insult was!


    Suddenly, Julian felt a strange mix of emotions; his sister scolded him, and he almost wanted to cry. "Big sis... have you recovered?"


    He looked up into the sky.


    There, a gentle light cascaded down like a waterfall from the sky to the ground!


    Amelia no longer wore a mask.


    Her appearance was still rough and dirty, her arms open wide, her gentle psychic powers rippling out from her like waves, the soft green light starkly contrasting with the roots pouring down behind her.


    Those roots mercilessly hit the ground, forming spikes that swept through the area like a torrent!


    Amelia looked towards Julian, now transformed into a metallic psychic puppet, a smile playing on her lips. "I heard you were crying?"


    Julian glared back, remembering the anger he felt when his sister had sacrificed her lifespan during his forging process. He gritted his teeth and retorted, "No, I was forging; that was sweat on my forehead!"


    "Big sis, uncle, why didn''t you wait for me?"


    A calm voice came from the sky.


    Both siblings looked up, frowning.


    Not just them, everyone on the battlefield looked up.


    The entire battlefield was overshadowed by...


    A fleet of ability vessels!


    An old man with white hair sat in a golden chair, leaning on the armrest, his face wearing a confident and proud smile, making him stand out even against the massive fleet of ability vessels behind him.


    "Daniel, have you been feeling quite unique lately?"


    Far away, standing on a flying sword, Lucas spoke without moving, his voice carrying through the wind.


    This seemingly old man, under the youthful voice of Lucas, trembled all over, no longer daring to lean back. He tightened his legs, straightened his back, and placed his hands on his thighs, his eyes visibly clearer.


    "Dad, I was wrong."


    ...


    "Clansmen, attack!"


    Cynthia was roaring, but what she told her people was a lie!


    As a Druid Priestess, she was supposed to be protected by the natural order of heaven, using turtle shells to divine good and bad omens. Whether to flee or attack, the turtle shells showed only a slim chance of survival!


    Now.


    She had only one path left, the so-called burning of the boats. By showing her people hope, she could carve out a slim chance of survival!


    Moreover...


    Her mighty Clark clan was not without its last resort. Even in the face of destruction, she was determined to make Blackwood pay a heavy price!


    ...

 Chapter 209: Chapter 209: Eliminate all these damned invaders!

    In front of the screen, Ethan watched everything unfold with a calm demeanor. Around him were the remnants of the last Forebearer Communion¡ªlarge chunks of thigh meat sent by his descendants. He fiercely tore into the succulent feast, savoring each bite.The Druids were known for their abundance of Stone beasts.


    [Stone beast]


    [Born from the giant rocks of the Endless Forest, these unique creatures absorb mystical energies from the environment, gaining protection from the mountains and sharing a symbiotic relationship with the Clark clan of the giant rocks, summoned by the bloodline of the Clark people!]


    At that moment, both sides were charging!


    On the screen, the Stone beasts approached in an arc formation. Initially, Gratitude Village seemed tiny, but everything changed when Mary appeared.


    The beasts formed an overwhelming number, until Julian arrived. Though few in number, his steel-formed psychic puppets were the most formidable warriors on the battlefield, weaving through the chaos!


    Daniel''s arrival marked the true beginning of despair for the Clark clan.


    A total of one hundred massive Psychic Gear-class ability vessels appeared in the sky, casting shadows over the entire area!


    The Thunderfire Demon Cave''s sorcerers and the Demon Hunters Alliance''s righteous fighters.


    They rode flying swords, descending from the ability vessels like raindrops, striking the ground. With their vast combat experience, they took lives before the Clark people could even scream in surprise.


    And on that map.


    The descendants of Blackwood were still approaching.


    Ethan casually moved his mouse. As a Forebearer, his heart remained undisturbed; he was used to the struggles of his people and had to remain calm, controlling the situation just like Olivia.


    The phone rang. Ethan glanced at it; it was his teacher''s sister, something Orion, who had called several times already. He couldn''t ignore it any longer.


    Ethan kept his eyes on the screen, multitasking, "Hello, this is Ethan."


    In the game, Lucas''s sword energy surged once again!


    The voice on the phone was clear even in the room.


    "I''ve heard from my brother that you have great potential, worthy of our psychic evaluation team''s training, so you''re expected tomorrow."


    The woman''s voice was gentle, "I don''t know how you convinced my brother, but let me be upfront, many people wish to join the psychic evaluation team, and there are countless with strong abilities. You''re also the youngest. I hope you can commit more effort..."


    She hadn''t finished speaking.


    Ethan was still focused on the screen, nodding slightly, "I know, I''m a genius, and you''ll need to use all your resources to support me. Is it next year that I join the psychic evaluation team? Just send all the resources to my house, much appreciated."


    In the game, the forces collided, blurring the lines between friend and foe!


    "Do you want to hear what''s being said..."


    "Right, I''ve heard everything, thanks, Aunt Joshua. Is there a relic you''re sending me? Even my teacher isn''t this generous."


    He clicked on Nathan''s avatar, and he disappeared in a flash.


    Gary was released, now fighting alongside Priestess Cynthia!


    "I''m saying you''re crazy..."


    "Yes, a breeze has blown into my house, I need to close the door, or Lisa will be blown away."


    Ethan calmly hung up the phone and turned off the computer.


    In the game, it seemed the opposition had brought out a secret weapon!


    He had heard everything!


    He stared intently at the screen, his demeanor cool. Teacher''s sister Orion had mentioned, to celebrate his joining as a genius, a presidential-level banquet was being planned, and he was to be made the head of the psychic evaluation team!


    But now. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What Joshua, what psychic evaluation team, none of that mattered.


    His mental state was excellent, just like the descendants'' at this moment.


    Watching his people struggle, Ethan took a deep breath and clicked the mouse.


    [Activate skill¡ªFight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Entering the game world!]


    Ethan sat up straight, his eyes rolling back.


    His consciousness became clearer, his focus sharper than ever!


    ...


    "Hello? Why did you hang up?"


    "The number you have dialed is switched off, please try again later."


    "The number you have dialed..."


    Inside the pristine laboratory of the Psychic Evaluation Research Institute, various objects were scattered around.


    A statue of a man carrying a coffin.


    A sword cultivator sculpture... still blood-stained dagger fragments of an ability weapon... and even a psychic coffin sealed with talisman papers...


    Orion, wearing glasses, sat by the research table, staring at the old phone in her hand, her eyebrows furrowed in anger. After a long pause, she took a deep breath and dialed the phone.


    "Hey, sis, the student I introduced to you, he''s pretty good, right?"


    "..."


    Orion pondered for a moment, "Brother, have you changed jobs recently?"


    "Ah? How did you know? I''m now acting as the principal."


    "I''m asking if you''re working at a mental hospital?"


    "Ah? What happened?"


    [You have entered the game world.]


    [Countdown...]


    Blackwood''s stronghold.


    Gunsmoke rose everywhere, the sounds of weapons clashing and psychic powers colliding filled the air, along with shouts of battle!


    In this massive battle involving millions, everyone from Blackwood charged forward, sometimes unable to distinguish whether those around them were friends or foes. They had to be constantly vigilant.


    Each person relied on years of experience to choose where they were most needed in battle, to select their opponents!


    They didn''t even know how many casualties Gratitude Village had suffered, or if any enemies remained.


    All they knew was that every Stone beast had to die.


    They fought their way to the enemy''s rear until no one was left!


    At that moment.


    All the descendants of Blackwood paused, the Psychic Position in their chests stirred, floating up before their eyes.


    "Forebearer, the Forebearer has shown his powers!"


    Nathan looked at the shimmering Psychic Position on his chest!


    That Psychic Position, so dazzling on the battlefield, floated towards the center of the battlefield.


    Then, from all directions, Psychic Positions converged in the center until the Psychic Position expanded, forming a huge, semi-transparent figure of a Psychic Position!


    All the descendants of Blackwood looked up.


    They were frenzied, reverent!


    Until.


    A familiar black mist appeared in front of the Psychic Position, a long spear shining with silver light on the battlefield, a yin-yang fish pattern spreading, covering the entire battlefield!


    The Forebearer, shrouded in black mist, held a celestial spear that subdued psychic powers, standing on the yin-yang fish pattern!


    Then.


    Beside the Forebearer, a steel dragon appeared, roaring in front of the Forebearer!


    "That is..."


    Lucas''s eyes widened, then filled with indescribable joy. He felt a formidable power from the dragon beside the Forebearer, a power he had never felt even when facing Priestess Cynthia!


    "A truly powerful AI Bionic Robot!"


    Julian trembled all over. The war AI Bionic Robot was something he had always dreamed of creating, and now, that steel dragon excited him as if he had found a new dream!


    "Forebearer..."


    Nathan raised the Death Coffin, shouting across the battlefield, "My children, the Forebearer has shown his powers, he is fighting with us, defending our family with us!"


    "Kill!"


    "Eliminate all these damned invaders!"


    "The Forebearer in the sky has powers!"


    At this moment.


    All the descendants of Blackwood went mad. The last time the Forebearer appeared at Sky Sect, they had no power, they could only watch.


    But now.


    They had enough strength to stand beside the Forebearer, to fight for the Forebearer!


    ...

 Chapter 210: Chapter 210:

    The cries of the descendants echoed in the air.Ethan''s gaze was fixed on the distance.


    There, the ritual site of Cynthia, Gary''s black mist, and her adept stone spikes clashed wildly.


    A translucent screen appeared before him.


    [You have activated the Intermediate AI Bionic Robot, Azure Dragon!]


    [Azure Dragon has been activated, please issue the original command to Azure Dragon!]


    Beside Ethan, the eyes of the Azure Dragon were cloudy.


    "Command?"


    As the Azure Dragon roared, this was the ''Elder''s Gift'' Ethan received after stepping out of his house and rekindling his friendship with Grandma Quinn!


    It was also one of the reasons he had last left his home.


    A mid-level war AI Bionic Robot personally crafted by Grandma Quinn!


    Ethan''s gaze shifted to the totems controlled by several chiefs, who were using druidic rituals and powerful spells. Ethan could feel that once these spells were activated, they would definitely bring danger to Blackwood.


    "Heaven and Earth!"


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal moved instantly, and the chiefs looked on in terror at the covered Twin Fish Harmony Seal.


    The man of the black mist had already appeared before them, and the Celestial Pole Energy Spear skewered two Developing Skill chiefs in one thrust!


    Ethan''s hoarse voice rose between heaven and earth.


    "From today, this place shall be a land of life, and any enemy who comes before Blackwood shall be annihilated!"


    "Roar!"


    The Azure Dragon roared, its eyes beginning to shine, and with its steel teeth wide open, it crushed the totem in one bite.


    [You have issued Command One: Protect Blackwood!]


    His voice, along with the roar of the dragon, was clear on the battlefield!


    The descendants of Blackwood were resolute in their hearts.


    They shouted along with Ethan, fighting the enemy with increased vigor!


    In a flash.


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal moved again, and Ethan appeared a hundred meters above the head of a Stone beast.


    The Celestial Pole Energy Spear plunged from the sky, and his black mist soared into the heavens!


    "Heaven and Earth''s Five Elements!"


    The power of the Five Elements descended from the sky, landing on the Celestial Pole Energy Spear, causing the hundred-meter Stone beast to shatter inch by inch.


    "Any enemy of Blackwood shall perish, fearless across thousands of miles, no distance too far from the ends of the earth!"


    The giant eyes of the Azure Dragon grew brighter.


    It looked towards Cynthia, the ritualist!


    [Command Two: Fight for Blackwood, eradicate all enemies.]


    All descendants of Blackwood looked towards their Forebearer.


    Looking at the Azure Dragon.


    They were the most dazzling presence on the battlefield.


    In this moment.


    Their Forebearer, along with the Azure Dragon, nearly broke through the entire battlefield, and wherever they went, they eliminated all the Druidic trump cards.


    Druidic totems, Competent Force Stone beasts, and the grand druidic spell formations...


    The Forebearer''s arrival was brief.


    But he had nearly cleared the clan of all threats from the Druids.


    On this day.


    Everyone saw the terrifying presence of Blackwood, realizing that the truly powerful madman of Blackwood had always been hidden in the shadows.


    He was a war god enveloped in black mist, coming without a shadow, leaving without a trace.


    Until he disappeared.


    Leaving only the roaring dragon in his place.


    And the frenzied roars of the people of Blackwood! S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Strictly obey the Forebearer''s command!"


    "Annihilate all enemies who come, kill!"


    "Forebearer''s divine might is invincible!"


    Despair crept up on her, and fear in her mind was like ants emerging from their nest, biting so fiercely that her soul ached.


    "No... it shouldn''t be like this."


    Cynthia shook her head, hoping everything she saw was just an illusion.


    She was ready for a desperate counterattack.


    Even as troops from Blackwood approached, she hadn''t given up on finding a way to survive from a hopeless situation.


    But everything changed when the Forebearer of Blackwood appeared.


    The Druids had many tricks up their sleeves, each capable of costing Blackwood dearly.


    But that man shrouded in black mist seemed all-knowing and all-powerful.


    The moment he appeared, he had already destroyed the Druidic totems used for their grand formations, killed the peak-level Stone beast she had prepared to detonate among the crowds, and ruined the secret Druidic sacrificial circle she had set up...


    Then...


    The Clark Tribe had no chance to escape.


    "Kill!"


    Outside the battlefield, zombies and flying corpses released from Nathan''s Death Coffin blocked all escape routes for the Clark Tribe.


    "Our children have also arrived!"


    "Elders, please appear and lend your strength to Blackwood!"


    "Jones''s forces, engage! Leave no Druids behind, avoid friendly fire."


    "..."


    More and more people from Blackwood arrived, and the reinforcements they brought were increasingly formidable.


    The once mighty army of the Clark Tribe was crushed and scattered; she had no more cards to play.


    ...


    Half a day later.


    Cynthia knelt on the battlefield, her surroundings riddled with devastation. The priestess of the Clark Tribe stared blankly, weakly propping herself up with her hands on the ground.


    The Azure Dragon still roamed and roared in the sky.


    Beside her, Gary and the Lord of Frenzied Blood were restraining her, with Nathan, the head of the Blackwood family, in front!


    The strange beasts and powerful allies of Blackwood were clearing the remnants on the battlefield.


    She seemed to hear the Clark Tribe''s people questioning her.


    "Priestess, why did you bring us to this cursed place?"


    "You promised we would thrive here... no, it wasn''t supposed to be like this!"


    "Priestess, you lied to us..."


    "..."


    The cold wind of the battlefield swept through, leaving Cynthia''s hair in disarray.


    The small town that initially seemed insignificant still stood unyielded, while the mighty army of the Clark Tribe lay shattered on the ground.


    Members of the Blackwood family gathered in front of Cynthia.


    They looked down at her as she knelt in defeat.


    Nathan and his wife stood at the forefront.


    The second generation of Blackwoods, four in number, chatted and laughed as if the battle was of no consequence to them.


    The third generation, nine strong, remained the most silent. The seven demons stood quietly, while brothers Marcus and Daniel exchanged a smile, their eyes reflecting the scars of years gone by.


    The fourth generation children played in the back.


    George seemed to be scolding William, then moved on to berate each of his siblings, causing them to bow their heads in pain.


    The six children of the fifth generation couldn''t believe how powerful their family was.


    Even after the battle, they stared at their elders in awe, as if to say, "You old folks, always so humble, just how many tricks do you still have up your sleeves?"


    Joseph from the sixth generation stood alone on the city wall.


    He touched his nose, a pained expression on his face, watching his dumbfounded elders.


    "I thought our family was weak and poor."


    "It turns out it was my parents who were weak and poor!"


    "I thought I was coming back to a life of poverty, but our family''s power keeps growing. The phrase ''blessed by our ancestors'' is almost suffocating me!"


    This time.


    The Blackwoods gathered together, not just returning home, but for the first time in nearly a century, all members were back!


    They no longer hid; they brought all their power with them.


    Just like the family crest still shining brightly over Cloudview County.


    They were telling everyone in Cloudview County.


    The Blackwoods were the true rulers of Cloudview County, no other power could compare. The exotic blood now flowing through Cloudview County from the Blackwoods was the best proof!


    "It can''t be, it can''t be!"


    Cynthia shook her head, still in disbelief at everything she was seeing.


    Nathan heard her, slowly crouched down, and grabbed Cynthia''s hair, looking at this disheveled priestess with a mocking expression.


    "Nothing is impossible. You are invaders, and we..."


    "We just happened to be on our way home and stumbled upon you, a stepping stone that was just a bit too hard."

 Chapter 211: Chapter 211: Azure Cloud War Clan

    As the war came to an end, the giant family name that dominated the sky in the game vanished.The red snow from the battle around the Primordial Blood Tree settled, and the forces brought by the Blackwoods cleaned up the battlefield before setting up camp outside of Blackwood territory.


    Inside the family shrine, all the descendants of the Blackwoods gathered, turning their attention towards Ethan Forebearer Communion.


    Ethan was all smiles.


    This time, he and his descendants had fought together, and his children had proven they could stand on their own.


    He hardly needed to use the version 3.0 of the Forebearer Psychic Position to rescue his descendants anymore.


    The descendants'' admiration for the Forebearer hadn''t faded over time; instead, it had grown into a fervent reverence, making them the most devout ''Forebearer People'' in the game world.


    [Your family has completed a special event¡ªThe Coveting of the Clark Tribe!]


    [Your descendants have gathered together and completely eradicated the Clark Tribe, bringing a powerful aid to your family, the ''Mid-Level War AI Bionic Robot¡¤Azure Dragon''. Seeing your divine presence, they unanimously regard you as the most charming Forebearer in the world.]


    [You have received a Spiritual Tribute value: 100000!]


    "What a charming Forebearer? This is what I, as a Forebearer, should do, haha," Ethan laughed proudly.


    [Your family has obtained spoils of war.]


    [+1 barely alive Competent Force priest]


    [A large number of druid bodies.]


    [Souls of stone beasts and more...]


    The spoils of war nearly filled the entire Blackwood courtyard, ensuring that Nathan would have the company of tens of thousands of druids even in his coffin.


    The Blackwoods were all smiles, shining brightly in the battle and gaining recognition from each other.


    Even William, who had previously been locked in the dungeon, received Nathan''s approval to openly participate in the Forebearer Communion and was acknowledged by Olivia, which made him so happy that he climbed onto the roof of the Forebearer shrine.


    During this Forebearer Communion, everyone shared their experiences since leaving home, filling the room with emotions of joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness.


    For the first time, Ethan truly felt the joy of having his descendants around him.


    He gave each person a dose of the version 3.0 ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    [Would you like to upgrade ''Forebearer''s Warmth''?]


    [Your skill will now be able to mildly heal advanced skill masters, moderately heal those with emerging abilities or lower within a psychic range. Group coverage within ten meters, effectiveness reduced by 50%!]


    [Costs 20000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    "Has this skill turned into group healing?" Ethan''s face lit up with joy, and he didn''t hesitate to click yes.


    [Your skill ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' has been upgraded to¡ªAncestor''s Caress!]


    [Each use costs 2000 Spiritual Tribute points]


    [Using the skill ''Ancestor''s Caress'', choosing group coverage!]


    Suddenly, a phantom appeared in the hall.


    He floated gently in front of the hall, nodding with a kind smile while extending his aged palm, passing it over the heads of his descendants.


    "The Forebearer is showing his powers!"


    "It feels so good; my injuries from the battlefield are healing."


    "...."


    Until the dawn of the next day, the flying snow had cleared, and the sun shone brightly.


    Everything happened just as the Primordial Blood Tree had foretold; enemies approached from all directions, the Blackwood descendants shouted and charged, and finally, all the children returned home.


    In the end, only the first and second generation members remained.


    "Forebearer," Nathan said with a grave expression, "I and the children have together wiped out the giant rock Clark tribe. Should we continue to fight, or should we rest and recuperate? Please give your command, Forebearer!"


    Hearing this, Ethan seemed momentarily lost in thought, as if transported back a hundred years.


    Back then, it was the same¡ªchildren of the first and second generations gathered, seeking guidance from the elder.


    His expression grew solemn as he pondered for a long time.


    "It''s simply not possible to go out and fight now. After this battle, they are surely prepared. With the major powers of Cloudview County watching over each other, and the druids wary of making a move, we must look for opportunities."


    Thinking of the straightforward advice from the Thunderfire Raging Python, he quickly typed many words on the keyboard.


    Then, the huge python head emerged from behind the Forebearer Psychic Position, recalling the last time it relayed information to its master, it seemed both the master and Olivia had the urge to strike it.


    It then used a tone previously used by the two, deep and steady, "Wait and see!"


    "..."


    Ethan''s mouse silently moved over the skill icon, tempted to descend once again.


    Unexpectedly, Nathan nodded excitedly, "Forebearer, I understand!"


    "This great battle, no one knows how the giant rock Clark tribe was annihilated. Olivia''s celestial tribulation intercepted all the high-level Competent Force scouts. By not making a move, we pose the greatest threat!"


    "Moreover, I have received intelligence that the druids have become much more cautious, guarding against our attacks."


    "Now we should wait for an opportunity. We have brought back various resources, and we still have powerful forces. With enough time, our family will become an impregnable fortress!"


    With these words, everyone in the family nodded slightly.


    After a long while, Ethan stiffly typed on the keyboard, "Good."


    This time, the Thunderfire Raging Python accurately relayed Ethan''s words.


    A popup appeared before Ethan.


    [In this great battle, your family has gained a lot of prestige. The powers and civilians of Cloudview County will all know of the Blackwood''s feat of annihilating an entire druid tribe with the strength of one family.]


    [Congratulations, your family trait ''Bloodstained Clan'' has evolved into¡ªAzure Cloud War Clan!]


    [Your clan has become the most valorous in Azure Cloud, a family of iron and steel. Your prestige in Cloudview County has increased by 100%, and your combat power in Cloudview County battles has increased by 15%, with partial blessings of Cloudview County''s destiny.] S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your family is on its way to becoming a Competent Force clan, please continue your efforts.]


    "Azure Cloud War Clan, prestigious percentage bonuses!"

 Chapter 212: Chapter 212: Spoiled brat

    "Blue Sky Warriors!"Ethan always enjoyed such a high success rate, but he still hadn''t quite figured out how luck played into it.


    Soon, the Forebearer Communion at the shrine concluded, and Ralph, a descendant of the Blackwood family, threw a grand feast, inviting everyone from Gratitude Village and friends who had helped out to dine.


    Gratitude Village was brightly lit, with psychic lamps hanging high.


    After the war, the townspeople shed their formalities and simply sat on the ground, gnawing on roasted exotic meats brought by the giant rock Clark clan, sharing wine and dividing the spoils of war.


    The demon cultivators from Thunderfire Demon Cave, along with the exotic beasts brought by the Blackwoods, were the happiest, feasting on the bodies of druids, much to the annoyance of the self-proclaimed righteous Psychics who fiddled with broken totems and bones.


    The Blackwoods gathered together, cherishing this rare reunion and chatting about the happy times over the years.


    Ethan cherished this scene too, not hastening the flow of time.


    "Those kids from the Blue Sky Martial Pavilion went on a rampage, and guess what? I was there too! I tell you, after those geniuses left, I sneaked up one by one. Dare to bully my nephews and nieces? Hmph..."


    William, who couldn''t hold his liquor, stood with one foot on a chair and the other on the table, his face flushed as he boasted, oblivious to the dark looks from his relatives.


    Then.


    "Wuu wuu wuu~"


    Generations sat at separate tables, with William tied to a post and gagged.


    "Don''t mind him, he''s just a lost cause!"


    George looked annoyed, but he was actually worried his brother might be kicked out of the house again, then boasted proudly, "I''m different, hehe, I''ve been digging every day for years, getting more skilled. Not just the Blue Sky Pavilion, but Sky Sect, Black Tortoise, Spectral Vision Sect... I''ve dealt with them all..."


    "Wuu wuu wuu~"


    At the post, one drunk, one sober, both tied up, exchanged a look of despair.


    The fourth generation sat upright, scared to speak of their own foolish acts outside, then looked at each other, realizing most were not exactly upstanding, and burst into laughter.


    They weren''t afraid anymore and continued to chat about everything under the sun.


    "Those damn kids!"


    Julian suddenly stood up, furious upon hearing that Justin, the rascal, had taken the younger ones to challenge the druids, and Jeffrey wanted to meet some druid beauties... such audacity, even more than him as a grandfather.


    But before he could speak, Amelia grabbed him, and his sister rolled her eyes at him, "What''s the rush? Let the kids have their fun, they''re smarter than you think."


    "Smarter than me? Impossible!"


    Julian, wide-eyed, looked around for support, but seeing no one cared, he turned to his wife, "Honey, say something."


    Mary, busy serving food, ignored her husband Julian.


    Julian turned to his older brother for a fair judgment, "Big brother..."


    "Yeah, yeah, you''re the smartest, okay?"


    Lucas forced a smile.


    Julian, touching his shiny bald head, seemed eager to prove his supreme intelligence.


    Nearby.


    The third generation of Blackwoods, though still marked with magic tattoos, had regained some of their simple demeanor under Olivia''s strict cultural teachings.


    Seeing their father proudly rubbing his bald head, they began whispering.


    "The old man thinks he''s smart, he can forget it, remember how he tricked us back then?"


    "Don''t remind me, he taught us how to approach women, and I ended up looking like a thug."


    "I''m so disappointed in our uncle and grandfather, we should beat him up like he used to beat us when we were kids."


    "Hehehe~"


    The old simpletons laughed, recalling some happy memories.


    "Cough cough."


    Marcus coughed lightly, interrupting the third generation of Blackwoods'' daydreaming, and looked at his brother, "Younger brother, why do you look older and older? Aren''t you in your Developing Skill phase anymore?"


    Everyone at the table looked at the oldest-looking member of the family.


    Upon hearing this.


    Daniel looked around cautiously, like a thief in the night, then covered his mouth with his hand and whispered, "I wouldn''t tell this to anyone else, but let me be honest with you, places like Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance are tough to navigate."


    "Those cultists and the so-called righteous folks, none of them are good. I found out that the older I looked, the whiter my hair, the more authority I seemed to have. Plus, I secretly moved around, observing the big shots for three whole years. It took me three years of practicing in front of a mirror to master their demeanor."


    "Wow," Daniel sighed, "to hold your own against such petty people, you need to be strong and have an imposing presence..."


    Marcus gave a thumbs up.


    He spoke from experience, "You''re right. When I was the leader of the Sky Sect, I felt it too. Without a strong presence, you''re always going to have troublemakers around. But once you show some backbone, even if you''re not as strong, they''ll back down."


    Listening to these two discuss their insights, the third generation of the Blackwood family grimaced.


    Thomas scoffed, "Big deal being a leader. It''s not like we haven''t dealt with that before."


    "Huh?"


    Two squinting eyes turned towards him, making Thomas''s legs go weak.


    The quietest of the group were the fifth-generation descendants and Joseph.


    They were notorious in the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, feared even by the younger generation under fifty. Now...


    "Amitabha."


    Hearing the elders talk about their past misdeeds, Charles and Christopher began reciting scriptures. They had spent a long time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave practicing both demonic and Buddhist teachings.


    Only now did they realize the extent of their elders'' pasts, which neither Buddha nor the demons would likely forgive.


    The other four sat up straight.


    Until they overheard the elders whispering among themselves.


    "We''re not leaving this time."


    "How boring will that be? But we have no choice, it''s all druids out there. Maybe we''ll go out and play with the druids occasionally."


    "Boring? We still have the younger generation, don''t we? Remember how tough our elders were on us? It''s time to get some payback."


    "Hehehe."


    Cold sweat trickled down as memories of their adventures with the elders came flooding back. These elders really played hard with their lives... none of them were normal.


    Then everyone''s gaze turned to Joseph, who was holding a disabled infant.


    At that moment, the child was still blissfully unaware. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Edward, what are you doing?" Betty asked, puzzled, as Edward suddenly stood up. They weren''t married yet.


    Edward gave Betty a reassuring smile.


    Then, with a determined look, he announced, "Elders, I have something important to say."


    "Hmm?"


    Everyone looked at the fifth-generation kids.


    Edward pointed at Joseph, "I think this young man has spent too much time at Duke''s Mansion. He''s become a spoiled brat, undisciplined and unteachable."


    "What?"


    Joseph looked bewilderedly at his father, who had just praised him the day before for his good qualities and potential.


    As everyone watched, Donna also stood up, her expression serious, "Yes, I''ve heard he''s been bullying men and women in the county town. It''s our responsibility to properly train him."


    "I..." Joseph''s eyes widened in shock.


    He hadn''t done any of that!


    "Agreed!"


    Nicholas sat up straight and raised his hand.


    Matthew, who had just returned from a battle with his troops, added gravely, "We''ve discussed this already. We really can''t handle him; it''s best if the elders take over."


    "???"


    Joseph looked incredulously at his uncle, whom he had met for the first time today.


    Then, seeing the predatory look in the eyes of the older generation and the relieved expressions of his parents as they sat down, Joseph''s face fell into a look of utter despair.


    At that moment, he realized.


    ''Spoiled brat'' was their lie; probably his parents didn''t want him to endure the harsh training of psychic powers like they had twenty years ago, so they used him as a scapegoat.

 Chapter 213: Chapter 213: Would truly stand at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud

    *Cough cough*, "I need to use the restroom."Joseph couldn''t bear the gaze of the elders anymore. He stood up, handed the baby in his arms to his mother, and realized explanations were futile; the elders seemed quite intrigued.


    Goodbye, my family. Today, I, Joseph, am setting off on a journey...


    "Where are you going?"


    Suddenly, the entire dining room fell silent. Joseph, who was preparing to leave home, froze as a hand landed on his shoulder.


    He slowly turned his head and caught sight of a hand shrouded in black mist on his shoulder.


    Looking back at the elders, everyone had a moment of stunned silence, followed by increasingly wide eyes, until they couldn''t contain their excitement and fervor.


    "Forebearer!"


    "Child greets the Forebearer!"


    "The Forebearer shows his powers again, descending from the Ability Realm!"


    ...


    [Forebearer Moment]


    [Countdown...]


    Back in the game world!


    Ethan observed the looks in his family members'' eyes, the jovial banter he had dreamed of for years!


    Descendants of Blackwood gathered together.


    He could finally share a meal with his kin, watching their laughter and joy, seeing them with his own eyes.


    For this, he was willing to spend a great deal of Spiritual Tribute, much like a person working hard all year round, willing to spend all their savings to return home for the holidays.


    No matter the distance or the cost, they wanted to see the changes in their family, return to their true safe haven, and feel the warmth of kinship absent of deceit.


    Ethan felt it, even his eyes welled up with tears.


    Nathan and his wife, Lucas, Julian, Amelia, Olivia... they were so real, excitedly watching him, mirroring the excitement in his heart.


    And the simple-minded third generation of Blackwoods, the brothers Marcus and Daniel, weathered by the years.


    Cared for bit by bit by him, they survived to this day, the prank-loving fourth generation.


    And the six hard-working fifth-generation children.


    And Joseph, the young fool who struggled to recognize and return to his roots.


    He slowly let George and William go, pulling them back to their seats under their overwhelmed expressions.


    Then he walked over to Nathan''s table and found a seat.


    As soon as he sat down, the children he watched grow up suddenly stood up.


    Ethan glared and scolded with a laugh, "What are you all standing for? Sit down. After being out and about for so long, we''re finally together. Let''s not stand on ceremony."


    "Come on, eat, drink, and chat."


    "Your ancestor is happy today."


    Upon hearing this. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The elders hadn''t moved yet, but Joseph''s eyes lit up as if he saw a lifeline, running to hug Ethan''s leg, "Forebearer, you must have seen it, right? Dad and the others are blaming me unfairly, please stand up for me!"


    Tears and snot flowed together.


    Ethan rolled his eyes and kicked Joseph away, as if only a Blackwood child would behave like this with the younger generation, "Nathan, throw him into the Death Coffin tomorrow."


    "Yes, Forebearer, he won''t come out for a year!"


    "I..."


    Joseph stared in disbelief.


    "Exactly, he''s just making excuses!"


    Edward quickly agreed, having just noticed the skeptical looks from the elders.


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    Ethan squinted, "Throw these few little rascals in there too."


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Under the moonlight, the Blackwood family laughed at the despair in the eyes of the youngest two generations.


    They resumed their eating and drinking, chatting and laughing in front of the Forebearer.


    Ethan looked into the night.


    He smiled sincerely, hoping to always stay in this world, to occasionally hear the laughter of the children echoing around him...


    On the screen.


    His family, under the night sky, beneath the falling red leaves of the Primordial blood tree, gathered together, sitting scattered, whispering to each other, Ethan''s black mist so out of place, yet blending into this beautiful painting.


    Perhaps, this was the most beautiful scene in the world, the most beautiful landscape in Ethan''s heart.


    On this day, Blackwood was free from any battles, and everyone was laughing and enjoying a rare gathering at the feast.


    Ethan only stayed for a few minutes before he left, under the regretful gazes of his descendants.


    He sighed.


    This time, he truly wiped the dirt off Amelia''s face, served each child a helping of food, fiercely devoured a bowl of rice, took a big gulp of wine, and let out a joyful laugh, while playfully tapping on the foreheads of the third generation of Blackwood...


    Before leaving, he also heard the old folks urging him to marry and have children.


    "Quick, have kids for the Forebearer, so when I''m well-off, I can show up again!"


    Ethan grimaced.


    Even Nathan and his wife nodded in agreement, though it was unclear why the single men of Blackwood were nodding, shamelessly.


    ...


    After the feast.


    Cloudview County became unusually quiet. The druids had planned a blitzkrieg to take over Cloudview County.


    According to Olivia, it was Stephen''s self-sacrificial act that secured a lifeline for Cloudview County, turning the blitzkrieg into a prolonged war. For a long time to come, no one would dare trouble Blackwood.


    That''s what Ethan and his kin believed.


    And now?


    As dawn broke, Nathan led a few people to the ancestral hall.


    "Forebearer, we''re all back, and it''s time for a new head of the family!"


    Ethan glanced at his relatives. When other families chose their new leader, it was almost a fight to the death, but in Blackwood, everyone was stepping back as if the position was a hot potato.


    "Huh? Where is everyone?"


    In the end, Nicholas looked around in confusion. Just moments ago, he was worried about being thrown into the Death Coffin, and now he stood out so much that it was too late to step back.


    The whole family looked at him with satisfaction.


    "Nicholas has finally grown up, a man of responsibility."


    Nathan gave him a thumbs up.


    [Your family has established a new head, Nicholas!]


    "I..."


    Nicholas''s facial muscles twitched as he looked at his elders. In other families, the head was strictly obeyed, but what use was there in him being the head when he couldn''t command anyone in his family except for Joseph? He had heard that it was a family tradition: the fool becomes the head, more tiring than a plowing ox.


    The moment he became the head, he was promoted to the strongest errand boy.


    Half a day later.


    Nicholas sat in the spacious leader''s seat, bewildered, with the help of his wife Helen and Dennis, managing the affairs of Gratitude Village.


    In front of him was the orderly line of people from Gratitude Village.


    There were also people who had come to help Blackwood, requesting to join the Blackwood forces or become vassals.


    He felt as if he had entered a strange new world.


    ...


    Ethan enlarged the screen, looking at Blackwood.


    This return home, the descendants of Blackwood had also gained a lot of experience over the century.


    [Your descendants have coordinated their opinions and have drafted a Blackwood family plan for your review.]


    The cover of a book appeared on the screen, with a mouse click able to turn the pages, approximately a thousand pages.


    Ethan briefly looked through it.


    His eyes brightened!


    According to the plan, they had a vast amount of resources and intended to build the family into a very large clan, even expanding the territory to Pine Forest Town!


    The area would be as large as a county.


    They even planned to capture a druid priest and a group of druids who could transform plains into forests, to expand the once Silver Iron Forest and allow a million exotic beasts to reside there.


    And forces like ''Dawn'' would establish their main bases in the family''s territory.


    If truly completed.


    Blackwood''s defenses alone would make the invading druids of Azure Cloud helpless and dare not attack.


    They, Blackwood, would truly stand at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud!


    "Good!"


    Ethan agreed without hesitation.

 Chapter 214: Chapter 214: Not having a wife, dont you think your life would feel incomplete?

    Blackwood is unlike any other family. While others develop their clans and then slowly expand their territories, Blackwood has forged ahead through fierce battles and accumulated wealth before returning to build their domain.Although the blueprint is ambitious, Blackwood definitely has the capital to back it up!


    Nathan has nearly filled the Death Coffin with zombies, which are tireless and serve as the perfect workforce.


    Watching the family develop in an orderly fashion, the descendants also refrained from causing trouble.


    Ethan relaxed for a moment.


    "My back and waist are killing me."


    After stretching, Ethan stepped outside his room and asked Lisa to cook him a lavish seafood stew and steam some white rice.


    An hour later, he returned to the family.


    The game''s landscape developed rapidly.


    The terrain outside Blackwood, previously marred by war, was now being flattened by Psychics, all of whom were busy building, establishing Blackwood''s stronghold.


    Suddenly.


    The screen filled with flowers, shifting to Blackwood''s residence!


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 123]


    [Your descendants Edward and Betty are married!]


    [Your descendants Nicholas and Helen are married!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute value of +30]


    Descendants marrying is always a joy for the elders, especially when they approve of the match.


    Helen is undoubtedly the best partner for Nicholas.


    Betty, though from Duke''s Mansion, is very well-behaved. Despite her noble birth, she hasn''t been spoiled by wealth. Joseph has always been indifferent to fame and fortune, probably inheriting his mother''s temperament.


    "Ha ha ha, excellent!"


    Nathan and Ethan were both delighted.


    Ethan watched as two pairs of newlyweds entered their bridal chambers in the night.


    The next day.


    As soon as the rooster crowed, Nathan eagerly gathered the children at the Forebearer Shrine, holding many Energy Stones engraved with "Dual Cultivation Techniques," and said solemnly, "Kids, the Forebearer showed his powers last time, bringing us these secret manuals. From now on, no one is escaping; it''s time to seriously start expanding our family!"


    "Those of you who aren''t married yet, how old are you?"


    "And you guys!"


    Nathan pointed at Marcus, Daniel, George, William, Justin, and others, laughing scornfully.


    "Do you know what it means to be a real man? A real man has a family."


    "Lucas was only fifteen when he got a girl in trouble!"


    Lucas, who had been enjoying the scene with a smile, gradually turned pale.


    Julian, seeing the humor in the situation, nudged his older brother, "Big brother, dad is making fun of you..."


    "You need to be shameless like Julian and his children to strengthen our family!"


    Julian''s smile slowly faded.


    Watching these two, Ethan crossed his arms in front of the screen, "Nathan is absolutely right. They need to understand, learn, and get married!"


    "Have plenty of children to grow our family!"


    Ethan was already looking forward to the day when their efforts to expand the family would bear fruit.


    On the screen, Nathan snorted, "As a man, you need to have a family! I''m from Gratitude Village, and do you know what they used to say about bachelors there? They''d say this person is busy all day long, so busy that in the end, he doesn''t even have a wife, only his own hand to keep him company!"


    "Not having a wife, don''t you think your life would feel incomplete?"


    "..."


    "Bang!"


    Ethan, with a stoic expression, clenched his fist and slammed it down on the table fiercely.


    On this day, the children of Blackwood were as incredulous as Nathan had been when he first received the secret technique.


    They stared in disbelief at the serious Nathan, then glanced at the Forebearer Psychic Position and the fourth generation''s wild children, suddenly feeling that their lack of seriousness wasn''t without reason.


    The happiest were those with wives; they treated the dual cultivation techniques like treasures.


    Jeffrey watched the images emanating from the Energy Stone, growing more spirited and joyful by the moment. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan exhaled deeply, switching the display. Although he knew Nathan wasn''t scolding him, he felt implied criticism.


    He decided to check on his family''s progress.


    It had been just over a year.


    Yet, to the west of Blackwood, there was a massive cave, continuously emitting steam and smoke.


    [Seventh Rank Forge Pavilion]


    [Established by Julian, with equipment masters gathered from various forces, it burrows three thousand meters underground, emulating the Thunderfire Demon Cave, drawing magma through magical techniques.]


    [The pavilion''s members hail from major forces, totaling 285 people.]


    [Possessing resources...]


    This time, Ethan took a closer look at Julian''s psychic puppet.


    [Your descendant Julian has mastered the craft of creating Eighth Rank psychic puppets.]


    [Eighth Rank Psychic Puppet: Composed of flying zombies and shape-shifting ability weapons with Storage Ring technology, capable of understanding simple commands, instantly transforming into steel psychic puppets up to five meters tall.]


    ...


    [Julian has become a master of Seventh Rank psychic puppets!]


    [Seventh Rank Psychic Puppet: Created from Developing Skill psychic powers, requiring a large amount of seventh rank materials... using demonic cultivation methods, with Psychic flesh and soul forged into the psychic puppet... integrating Psychic flesh with materials seamlessly...]


    Seeing Julian''s method for crafting Seventh Rank psychic puppets, Ethan suddenly remembered his time on the battlefield.


    His Seventh Rank psychic puppets could now fly, and their most significant feature was that their entire bodies were weapons, with steel that could stretch like liquid. Their decent recovery abilities also allowed them to compete with Developing Skill.


    [Your descendant Julian is attempting to integrate the elemental forces of metal, wood, fire, water, and earth, as well as the energies of wind, fire, thunder, and lightning into the psychic puppets, to harness psychic powers beyond the physical body.]


    [Requirements: Developing Skill, ability materials containing the forces of nature.]


    "Hiss~"


    Ethan gasped in awe. If Julian''s idea succeeded, the Seventh Rank psychic puppets could wield psychic powers, potentially surpassing real Developing Skill Psychics.


    And now, Julian had begun to share the techniques for Ninth Rank psychic puppets with the equipment masters.


    A new method of cultivating psychic powers was spreading within the game world.


    Given enough time, Blackwood''s psychic puppets could sweep through the ancient Clark tribe!


    Together with Ethan''s contributions and the war AI Bionic Robot, fully equipped with weapons, Julian now possessed three Seventh Rank psychic puppets, rivaling a Developing Skill family with thousands of years of history.


    However, Ethan also noted that constructing a Seventh Rank psychic puppet was not easy; merging the psychic soul with materials alone required ten years.


    "If Julian''s idea really works, his crafted psychic puppets will indeed surpass the craftsmanship of basic war AI Bionic Robots."


    After a moment of reflection.


    Ethan then shifted his gaze elsewhere, noting Blackwood''s growing strength in a short time.


    The Primordial Blood Tree, nourished by the blood of Competent Forces, now stood only ten meters tall, but the people of Gratitude Village knew that in times of war, it could grow to a hundred meters. And it was still growing, its roots spreading rapidly in all directions.


    But as members returned, Ethan''s event log filled with more news about the Primordial Blood Tree.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree reports to you that Julian has come out of the forge pavilion and urinated under it again, requesting that you discipline Julian.]


    [The third generation of Blackwood urinating around it... it''s furious...]


    [...]

 Chapter 215: Chapter 215:Dual Cultivation Techniques

    Who would have thought that after the invasion by the mighty Clark clan, the most severely wounded would be the reclusive Primordial Blood Tree of the family...But with just one click, Ethan''s face lit up with joy.


    [After years of absorbing blood and participating in great battles, the Primordial Blood Tree has gained a new ability¡ªGuardian Psychic Plant]


    [Its roots can differentiate into multiple consciousnesses, controlling its offspring like the Bloodsoul Fruit Tree and other psychic plants within the range of its roots to fight for it.]


    Now, Blackwood possesses three Bloodsoul Fruit Trees and sixteen psychic fruit trees, not to mention over a hundred other psychic plants that have developed consciousness.


    The strength of these psychic plants lies in their collective range attacks.


    "If we plant these psychic plants all around Blackwood, they could also serve as excellent scouts," Ethan suddenly realized another function.


    That day.


    He called a few who were relieving themselves anywhere to the temple.


    [Your family has established a new rule: no urinating on the Primordial Blood Tree...]


    Julian''s eyes shifted, "It didn''t say anything about not defecating."


    Hearing his father''s mutter, the third generation of Blackwood suddenly realized.


    "..."


    Seeing the small words above these guys'' heads, Ethan wasn''t actually angry; it''s normal for hundred-year-old kids to be a bit mischievous and rebellious.


    Then.


    He switched the scene to Amelia.


    At that moment, Amelia was treating a child submerged in a psychic fluid, with Jessica also present. This child was born to Jessica and Jack, named Sam.


    Ethan briefly reviewed Jessica''s history.


    Years ago, Jessica was moved by Jack, and Olivia helped them gradually take control of the Jones power. Jessica truly wanted to help Jack and gradually lost the desire to control the Jones family. Blackwood didn''t lack resources from a Developing Skill family, treating them like in-laws was enough.


    Later... time and status can easily change a person.


    For this, Jessica gained a trait¡ª


    [Bloodstained Rose]


    [Your descendant Jessica no longer believes in love or trusts anyone outside of her bloodline. With her heart sealed by blood, she will become incredibly calm and decisive. Her speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%, combat power by 10%, and authority by 30%.]


    Now Jessica, in the Transcendent Seed phase, was already refining her Developing Skill, but she had no time for seclusion because of her child.


    Ethan bestowed a ''Forebearer''s Caress'' on the two girls in the cabin and the child from the maternal side.


    "Forebearer!"


    The two immediately knelt in worship, and Sam naively smiled, reaching out to the semi-transparent elder''s extended hand.


    Soon the ground shifted, and they all looked back as the Forebearer''s purple giant python appeared, speaking human language, "Master says, Julian and the third generation of Blackwood have been defecating and urinating on the Primordial Blood Tree."


    "..."


    Hearing the Forebearer''s report, Amelia was stunned for a moment, then angrily grabbed a small knife used for treating Sam''s ailments from beside the psychic fluid, storming out, "Forebearer, I''ll hang and whip the whole third family!"


    The Primordial Blood Tree was something she had nurtured bit by bit; what had her little tree been fed these days?


    "I''m going too."


    Thunderfire Raging Python quickly followed the furious Amelia, suddenly recalling some gossip from the town about discord among descendants, often due to the immorality of the elders, the master being greatly immoral.


    Jessica, holding her child, followed with a hopeful expression, adding William who passed by, forming a team of descendants that swelled like a torrent.


    Soon.


    "Refreshing!"


    The ''immoral elder'' watching from the screen saw Amelia catching the father and his eight sons red-handed at night, these eight guys fiercely cursing the ''sneaky snitching little tree'' at the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Then... roots emerged from behind Amelia.


    "Second sister... give me some face," Julian and the third generation of Blackwoods pleaded as they saw Amelia appear, with a crowd of younger family members outside. They had thought that coming at night would prevent anyone from noticing, but now they were in real trouble, knowing full well how much Amelia cherished the Primordial Blood Tree.


    "Alright."


    With a casual wave of her hand, Amelia blocked the younger family members'' view with the tree''s roots.


    Then...


    The branches of the Primordial Blood Tree swayed excitedly.


    The younger family members remained vigilant, watching emotionlessly before bouncing back to their rooms, quickly closing the doors and activating soundproofing spells.


    Only Ethan caught the trick.


    "Powerful." S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan clicked on Amelia''s profile.


    [Your descendant Amelia has broken through the Developing Skill phase!]


    [Her talent has transformed into a Triple Psychic Constitution, gaining the first three levels of the ''Heavenly Scourge Plant Technique'', obtaining a Plant Body, and her Developing Skill has become Heavenly Pill!]


    [She has spent years searching for and personally preparing medicinal recipes, producing seventh-grade medicines: Mysterious Psychic Fluid, Soul Extinguishing Powder, Mind Awakening Illusion Fluid...]


    No wonder it''s called a divine technique.


    Ethan had seen Amelia''s Plant Body form a waterfall from the sky, instantly killing an opponent of the same level. He could feel that during the great battle that day, Amelia had not even used her full strength.


    ...


    Seeing these guys get their comeuppance, Ethan felt refreshed.


    Time in the game sped up again.


    With the help of zombies, psychic puppets, strange beasts, and many other forces, Blackwood''s development was improving day by day.


    [Seventh Grade Forge]


    [Seventh Grade Psychic Beast Institute]


    [Earth-Level Library]


    [Dawn Headquarters]


    [Mist Hall (Thunderfire Demon Cave and Demon Hunters Alliance Headquarters)]


    [...]


    One by one, the forces established by Blackwood were built around Gratitude Village. Blackwood''s descendants, besides breaking through in seclusion, also temporarily managed these forces.


    Over the years, Blackwood had amassed a vast amount of resources, allowing them to spend freely for the time being.


    Until...


    [Blackwood Year 126]


    Ethan, who had been observing Blackwood''s development in these turbulent times, was stunned for a long time.


    [Your descendant Edward, deeply cultivating psychic powers ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'', and after obtaining fertility treasures from Amelia, has finally conceived a daughter with Betty.]


    "She''s pregnant."


    In the scene, Edward was touching his wife''s large belly, with dozens of Blackwoods spectating, their stares making Betty blush.


    Everyone was excited, tense.


    "She''s pregnant..."


    Ethan repeated, then suddenly jumped up, "She''s pregnant! Haha, my ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'' really works, she''s pregnant!"


    It''s no wonder the people of Blackwood were excited; the Dual Cultivation Techniques, although powerful, only slightly increased the chances of pregnancy and had a bit of an aphrodisiac effect. The stronger the Psychic, the harder it is to conceive. Some Psychics even use life-shortening secret techniques for the sake of childbirth.


    After decades, Blackwood finally had a child born!


    "Hahaha, I''m thirty-four, and my little sister is about to be born!" Joseph was tearful.


    He wiped away a tear.


    Suddenly realizing something was amiss, the whole family''s gaze focused on him, and Joseph felt that something was terribly wrong. He laughed awkwardly, "My elders, I... I have urgent matters outside."


    "What''s the rush?"


    Joseph saw a hand on his shoulder, and as he turned to leave, the elders grabbed him.

 Chapter 216: Chapter 216: Rainbow Lotus

    Blackwood was jubilant. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.But now, Cloudview County was far from peaceful.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Fall of Renowned Sect and the Beast Tribe]


    [In Cloudview County, the major sects and druids never ceased their skirmishes, constantly testing and deceiving each other. In a major battle, the Beast Tribe deceived the Renowned Sect. Countless sect disciples, led by their elders, sacrificed themselves using a blood ritual to fight the druids, ultimately perishing alongside the entire Beast Tribe.]


    On the map.


    A green marked location, and the red dots rushing into it, vanished before Ethan''s eyes at a visible speed.


    The last scene he saw was a sky filled with beasts storming into the Renowned Sect, the disciples'' spirits and blood withered, none retreating.


    The explosion was even more shocking than the mushroom cloud Ethan had seen before.


    "Boom!"


    The sound reached Blackwood, the ground trembling.


    George and William, who had been holding Joseph''s arms, let go; Joseph had no intention of fleeing.


    Everyone in Blackwood stepped out of the courtyard, looking towards the direction of the Renowned Sect.


    "Olivia, did the Renowned Sect call for help?"


    Nathan asked gravely.


    Olivia took out a copper mirror, her eyes shining with a white light, then sighed and shook her head, "No call for help. The nearest master of Competent Force wanted to help, but was stopped. He only managed to save the last hundred disciples of the Renowned Sect, who are the future hope of the sect."


    "Senior Warren said that until the last moment, the Renowned Sect didn''t call for help because they sensed something was off. The area outside the Renowned Sect was a trap, and they had to face it alone. They feared that calling for help would prompt a reckless response from the other powers."


    "The rescued disciples of the Renowned Sect said that the last words of their elder were..."


    "If the Renowned Sect is gone, they still have their legacy. If Cloudview County is gone, the Renowned Sect would be the sinners of their homeland."


    That day, the people of Blackwood emerged from their joyful reunion.


    To be honest, hearing that the Renowned Sect and the Beast Tribe had annihilated each other, Ethan and his kin felt nothing but heaviness.


    Then, as Ethan followed Nathan, he truly learned a lesson.


    Nathan, holding Luna, lay down in a coffin.


    In the dim space, Nathan sighed, "My dear, if it were us in Blackwood, we''d definitely be calling for help everywhere. They''re different from us; we''ve only lived here for a little over a hundred years, at most just wanting to protect our own land."


    "They''re different; they''ve been here for over a hundred thousand years, the whole of Cloudview County bears their mark. Just like we would do anything for our family, they would sacrifice their lives for the future of Cloudview County."


    Hearing this.


    Ethan remained silent for a long time, then slammed his fist on the table.


    "Screw you, Michael!"


    In the past, he really thought that Duke''s Mansion couldn''t control the major powers, and that''s why Michael wanted to destroy them.


    Now he understood, it was all nonsense!


    The rulers, for their own gain, think the land they control is everything, that they can manipulate it at will, even believing that the people living on this land are all against them.


    Little do they know, the citizens of Cloudview County love this land more than the so-called rulers; they are fearless and shed their blood for it.


    Michael, still manipulating everything from behind, just watching the world evolve.


    They always come out unscathed, reaping the fruits of final victory.


    Even if they lose, it doesn''t hurt them.


    Just like now, without the druids attacking Duke''s Mansion, their biggest problem is just dealing with the refugees that Olivia and Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason deliberately handed over to Duke''s Mansion.


    Ethan didn''t know what kind of sect the Renowned Sect was, and Blackwood didn''t have much contact with them.


    But at least... it''s something that Ethan, and countless citizens of Cloudview County, deeply respect.


    "Damn it, Michael, remember, what goes around comes around!"


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 127]


    The people of Blackwood kept the events involving the Renowned Sect close to their hearts, yet they appeared carefree, as if trying to make up for the time they had spent wandering away from their families.


    However, whenever they had a moment, they were still dedicated to cultivating psychic powers, often visiting the Death Coffin.


    Nathan had no choice but to move to the third floor with Luna to give the elderly couple some peace from the children''s disturbances.


    On this day,


    everyone broke through their limits.


    [Congratulations, Betty has added a new member to the family, named Katie!]


    "Hahaha, Forebearer, after so many years, our family has a child again."


    "Huh?"


    Seeing Nathan holding the loudly crying baby girl, Ethan was stunned.


    This little girl was extraordinary!


    [Your descendant Katie, from birth, has been the center of attention. The elders of Blackwood, fearing any mishaps with a child born after many years, took great care. Amelia used medicinal meals and consumed seventh-grade potions during Betty''s pregnancy to nourish her. Olivia used the natural laws of the universe to cleanse Katie''s marrow and strengthen her bones.


    Marcus removed a corner of the stars from the ''Sky Temple'' and bestowed it upon her...]


    [Daniel found a seventh-grade elixir to nourish her. George consulted four female ancestors, who imbued Katie with their spirits to aid her growth. William took a special ability item ''Rainbow Lotus'' from a genius and gifted it to her...]


    [Your descendant Katie has acquired traits¡ªpure ability body, immense strength, star-protected body, and the body of the Lotus.]


    [Psychic Constitution of the Earth]


    "I... wow."


    Ethan was overjoyed and speechless.


    [Trait: Star-Protected Body]


    [Derived from the shadow of the stars taken from the Sky Temple, she is immune to external evils and her cultivation cannot be harmed under the Developing Skill. She can summon the shadow of the stars to defend against enemies.]


    The Sky Temple was a treasure brought back by Marcus from the Sky Sect!


    It was also the place where Marcus cultivated his psychic powers. His nine unique fires, which he reached during the Developing Skill phase, couldn''t even affect this space. In the previous great battle, Marcus had used these nine unique fires to defeat mid-phase Developing Skill opponents!


    When a peak Developing Skill attacker targeted Marcus, he simply released the Sky Temple, and nothing happened.


    [Sky Temple (Marvelous Item)]


    [Captures the shadow of the celestial stars, enhancing the insight of those cultivating psychic powers within it, can be used for defense, and its true inheritor can control the shadow of the stars for battle.]


    This item, Marcus couldn''t fully utilize; he mostly used it for defense, only a Daoist like Warren could unleash its full power.


    Then there was the ''Body of the Lotus.''


    [Trait: With the Lotus entering the body, one can obtain a supreme life-bound ability weapon. As a Lotus platform, it increases the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 60%, allows for barrier-free breakthroughs to the Emerging Ability realm over time, and serves as another internal sea of qi and Developing Skill Competent Force, also capable of defending against enemies.]


    A true genius!


    No wonder she was born at just the right time. Blackwood hadn''t had children for many years, and almost all their affection was given to her.


    With her current talents, she could already be ranked in the top ten of Blackwood!


    "Hahaha, good child, good child!"


    Nathan, just as overjoyed as Ethan, smiled even wider as Katie reached out her little hand to touch his face and then tried to grab the Forebearer Cards. "She knows to get close to the Forebearer from a young age, Katie will surely be an excellent weaver in the future!"


    "..."


    Ethan vigorously rubbed his face, wondering if Nathan even heard what he was saying.


    ...

 Chapter 217: Chapter 217: what would I do?

    Time quickly passed, and a month went by.The people of Blackwood each took turns holding Katie, eagerly competing to take care of the child.


    Recalling when the fourth generation of children were born, Luna and Mary couldn''t avoid them fast enough, but now they had grown fond of caring for children. According to them, taking care of one child was life, but taking care of a group was sheer madness.


    Joseph stood still, watching as the elders took Katie from his arms.


    The elders also scolded him a bit.


    It was mostly about him not knowing what others were up to and not seeing him with a girl he loved.


    "It''s all from the same mother, can''t you treat them equally? Always talking about getting married, what about breeding?"


    Joseph rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath before leaping up to the top of the Primordial Blood Tree.


    His body shimmered with golden light as he entered a dream state, his abilities gradually increasing.


    Ethan watched this scene.


    Joseph, this kid... keeps a low profile, indifferent to fame and fortune, always getting scolded, but just a drop of ''ancient god blood'' is enough to ensure he''s never outshined by his sister.


    And on this day,


    Blackwood was decked out in celebration, heralding the birth of a genius in their midst.


    The entire Gratitude Village was once again festooned for a grand feast, hosting not only the townsfolk but all their allied forces.


    However, Blackwood''s forces were somewhat diminished today, as most from the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance had already departed, and many from Dawn were out on missions.


    It was a time of great chaos.


    During the feast,


    The people of Blackwood''s expressions changed as a phantom appeared in the sky.


    This figure, clad in a beastly robe and painted face, wielding a scepter, was a muscular barbarian.


    [Clark High Priest (Phantom)]


    Ethan clicked on the phantom, and a message appeared.


    The Giant Rock clan had already fallen at the hands of Blackwood, and it was said that Clark had turned around and devoured all that was left of them.


    "Word has it that Blackwood has a daughter, Katie, born with exceptional talents. You people of Cloudview County have a tradition called ''the full moon celebration.''"


    Clark, the High Priest, with a smile visible to all, said, "Out of respect, I, Luke, on behalf of Clark, bring a full moon gift!"


    Upon hearing this,


    The people of Blackwood shifted from initial wariness to a calm demeanor, Nathan, with his psychic powers, addressed the gathering, "Folks, it''s just a shadow. Let''s continue to eat and drink."


    Then, his expression turning cold as he stared at the ten-meter-high phantom in the sky, he scoffed, "If you truly understood our customs, you wouldn''t bother with these mystical theatrics. Don''t disrupt our celebration today, come down!"


    "My apologies, then," said Luke.


    The High Priest didn''t mind and transformed his phantom into a human form, bringing a brocaded box, its origins unknown, perhaps plundered by a druid from some city.


    He approached the banquet.


    The people of Blackwood merely frowned, seemingly ignoring him, and continued to enjoy their meal and conversation.


    Though the two parties were enemies, it wasn''t a matter of life and death. Even if Luke himself had come in person, Blackwood would have welcomed him, as long as he behaved properly.


    "Luke, right? I''ve heard of you, Clark High Priest, recently plotting to take over the counties surrounding Blackwood for Clark."


    Nathan didn''t even glance at George.


    He tore a piece of meat from a beast''s leg, swallowed it forcefully, then cleaned his hands with his psychic powers, "We Blackwoods are simple farmers; we speak and act straightforwardly, and we have no need for formalities with you druids. Speak plainly."


    "That''s much better."


    Luke still smiled faintly, "We''ve seen the strength and influence of Blackwood. You''ve destroyed an important tribe of ours, but I''m not angry. In fact, I admire Blackwood."


    "See, still nonsense."


    Nathan angrily tossed aside a bone, grabbing another chunk of the beast''s leg to gnaw on.


    Luke''s face briefly showed a flash of anger as he continued, "We''ve also investigated Blackwood''s deeds over the past few years. Frankly, if Blackwood were to stand up, all the forces in Cloudview County would follow your lead."


    "You, sir, are a wise man. You should understand the current situation. Our druidic power is vast, and just our three factions alone have overwhelmed many forces in Azure Cloud, with the Duke''s Mansion avoiding confrontation."


    "Actually..."


    George chuckled softly, "We don''t necessarily have to be at war. We could sit together like today, have a friendly conversation, right? Blackwood would gain immense benefits, power, and glory."


    Nathan''s hand paused.


    Then, overwhelmed with joy and disbelief, he looked at Luke, "Are you saying that you, Clark, want to be our dog?"


    "You..."


    Luke slammed the table in anger!


    "Bang!"


    The desk shook as Luke, unable to contain his anger, exclaimed, "What? Clark wants to be Blackwood''s dog?"


    His words were cryptic, but he knew everyone in Blackwood could understand him clearly¡ªhe wanted Blackwood to collaborate with the Druids!


    "You..."


    But before Luke could finish, the psychic powers emanating from the people of Blackwood lifted his phantom into the air, silencing him mid-sentence. All eyes turned to Nathan.


    "Put away your tricks."


    Nathan said mockingly, "Over the years, we in Blackwood have been oppressed and have fled across Cloudview County, but we have never yielded! We Blackwoods are few, descendants of six generations over a hundred years, but not one of us is a coward! Forget about persuading us to surrender. Bring on whatever clever tricks you have, I''ll face them one by one!"


    "Boom!"


    As his words fell, Luke''s phantom vanished.


    It was as if nothing had happened at Blackwood. They continued to eat, drink, and laugh at the banquet, treating the recent disturbance as nothing more than an annoying fly.


    While eating, smiles appeared on the faces of the people of Blackwood, their eyes sparkling with an unyielding spirit.


    ...


    As night fell,


    Nathan entered the family shrine.


    Upon entering, he knelt on the ground and bowed towards the Psychic Position of the Forebearer, "Forebearer, I was perhaps too rash today. I understand that collaborating with the Druids might be the best choice. The Druids are powerful, and many clans are ready to join the battle at any time. It would be wise to align with the strong, to prosper in these chaotic times under their protection." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But..."


    Ethan watched the scene unfold in the game.


    A pop-up appeared on his screen.


    [Special Event¡ªChoice of Allegiance]


    [Clark represents the Druids, inviting your family to become allies of the Druids. The Druids are powerful, possessing vast lands and countless masters. Cloudview County only faces three factions now, but more Druids will join in the future.]


    [Does your family have the opportunity to join the powerful Druids and persuade the major forces of Cloudview County, or will you stand with the weak and resist stubbornly?]


    "What kind of choice is this?"


    Ethan exhaled deeply. According to the game''s mechanics, joining the Druids would indeed be the best move.


    Even in reality, many would choose to stand with the powerful, to become servants to a powerful master.


    "If I were really faced with this choice, what would I do?"


    Ethan looked again at Nathan in the game.


    Nathan was still repenting.


    "Forebearer, I don''t know if what I did today was right. I still have a chance, but I don''t want to be a traitor. I don''t want my descendants to remember me as someone who, raised on the soil of Cloudview County, crawled to the Druids like a dog."


    "They would say, I was nurtured by the land of Cloudview County, yet I crawled to the Druids'' side like a dog."

 Chapter 218: Chapter 218: A truly perfect combination

    Ethan pondered for a long time, a smile finally breaking across his face.


    Then he summoned the Thunderfire Raging Python.


    [Blackwood people, stand tall!]


    At that moment, the Blackwood clan gathered together, their emotions mixed. They all knew their father''s decision was wrong, at least in terms of interests, but they hoped he would continue making mistakes.


    It wasn''t until they saw the apparition of the Forebearer in the shrine, caressing Nathan''s head.


    The Thunderfire Raging Python recited the Forebearer''s words, the most complete recitation ever by the temple guardian beast!


    Smiles appeared on everyone''s faces.


    The Forebearer, still standing strong!


    "To hell with the druids!"


    The Forebearer cursed, and the Thunderfire Raging Python roared.


    Hearing this, under the night sky, all the descendants of Blackwood knelt towards the Forebearer''s shrine.


    "To hell with the druids!"


    All the Blackwood youths roared to the sky with the Forebearer''s curse, like a pack of beasts commanded by a deity!


    [Your descendants unanimously cheer for your choice, congratulations, you have gained a Spiritual Tribute value of +1000]


    [Your family, facing the oppression of the druids, shows no cowardice, fearless of all dangers, gaining the trait: Iron Bones]


    [Willpower increased by 10%, combat power against druids increased by 10%]


    "Um..."


    Just as the Blackwood crowd and Ethan watching the screen were boiling with excitement, Dennis, an odd one out, suddenly raised his hand.


    Under everyone''s gaze.


    He cleared his throat, "When I was with Mr. Stephen, he mentioned he had left a gift for you, and now it''s time to give it to you."


    "Hmm?"


    ...


    In the brightly lit Blackwood hall,


    Dennis, who had once left with Stephen, had his lifespan restored and even received Stephen''s legacy. The Blackwoods didn''t blame him; Dennis roughly knew Stephen''s intentions and cooperated accordingly. Besides... it was that bastard Stephen who had threatened Dennis with the lives of Nicholas and Helen.


    At that moment, a black Energy Stone materialized a holographic image of a mountain, once home to the giant rock Clark clan!


    "The giant rock Clark clan''s dwelling is quite peculiar, located in a region of continuous mountains, home to Stone beasts, unique to this area."


    Dennis said, "When I was with Mr. Stephen, he mentioned that one of the goals of The Oracle Chamber was to incite a major battle between Cloudview County and the druids. Additionally, there were many smaller objectives benefiting The Oracle Chamber."


    "The Oracle Chamber had explored the dwelling of the giant rock abilities years ago, suspecting that the formation of Stone beasts was related to a preternatural object beneath the mountains, capable of granting abilities to the Stone beasts."


    ...


    The Blackwoods silently stared at Dennis, making his scalp tingle, "What... what''s wrong?"


    "You should have said this earlier!"


    Nathan exhaled deeply, "Now it''s too late, the giant rock abilities tribe has already been divided up, the opportunity has passed."


    "Did Stephen make you wait until now to tell us?"


    Olivia frowned, "Was he afraid that my Blackwoods might cooperate with the druids?"


    Dennis spread his hands, "Indeed, but don''t worry, Mr. Stephen said that although it''s been years since anyone could enter the mountains to explore, if it were that easy to find, it would have been taken long ago. Even though The Oracle Chamber has made a move, according to his calculations, it would take them at least three to five years to find it."


    In the midst of this conversation.


    Dennis pulled out another item, a token with a scale drawn on it!


    It was a token of The Oracle Chamber!


    But this token was also inscribed with various scripts, seemingly suppressing the abilities within the token.


    "Mr. Stephen has been in The Oracle Chamber for over two hundred years, he said their influence is immense, and there''s not much he could do. But at least he could tamper with the token, by now there should be people from The Oracle Chamber within the mountains, this item can track the whereabouts of The Oracle Chamber''s people."


    It must be said, Stephen was a genius, calculating even in death.


    Without a doubt, a treasure capable of endowing stones with consciousness could certainly give Blackwood another ace up their sleeve, especially now that they had irreparably fallen out with the Druids.


    But Blackwood''s gaze remained fixed on Dennis.


    It wasn''t that they didn''t trust Dennis; they didn''t trust Stephen...


    Ethan didn''t trust him either. Who knew if it was some kind of trap?


    "It''s too risky."


    Olivia shook her head, "It''s not worth it, let''s drop the subject."


    Everyone nodded in agreement, and Dennis could only offer a wry smile.


    Even the adventure-loving Justin agreed, "Right, that old man Stephen just tricked our family last time by bringing the giant rock tribe, the Clarks, to our doorstep. He''s not trustworthy."


    George nodded slightly, "My Forebearer also advised against it."


    "Big brother is right!"


    William looked up to George with admiration.


    ...


    The next day, the Blackwood clan set out from their home!


    With Luke''s arrival, the Blackwoods felt a sense of urgency.


    [Your descendant Olivia reports to you that Harris and Clark are persuading tribes around the Druids to launch a major attack on Cloudview County. Duke''s Mansion Kenneth is also secretly asking for help from nearby Starlight County and Cedar County. This upcoming battle is expected to become even more chaotic.]


    The Blackwoods were heading to places suitable for seclusion, many of them on the verge of breaking through to the Developing Skill level from the Transcendent Seed stage.


    The environments suitable for their Psychic Constitution techniques could significantly increase their chances of breakthrough.


    Meanwhile.


    On the road to the Endless Forest, George, William, and Justin were traveling together!


    "Hehehe, exactly right!" S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Justin, who was riding a sword with a turtle shell on his back, laughed loudly, "I want to see just how dangerous these Crestwood Hills are. The greater the risk, the stronger I become!"


    George was more cautious, "We still need to ensure our safety, but we should definitely try for that mysterious power. Buried deep underground, it could generate millions of Stone beasts. If it falls into Blackwood hands, that would mean millions, even more, troops! With that, we''d stand a much better chance against the Druids."


    As he spoke, he glanced back at William, who was following closely behind with a glint of cold light flashing from his sleeve, and rolled his eyes, "What are you doing?"


    "Ahaha."


    William hid his hands behind his back, flicked his fingers, and the dagger disappeared, "Nothing... just agreeing with you guys. The Crestwood Hills are nothing; I dared to kill in front of a Competent Force old monster during my Emerging Ability period."


    "Damn..."


    Ethan, who was checking on the whereabouts of his descendants, cursed under his breath when it was these three guys'' turn, "No wonder you were so well-behaved last night!"


    [Your three descendants did not follow the family''s decision to give up on this treasure hunt. Instead, they took the opportunity of going out to cultivate psychic powers and teamed up to head to the Crestwood Hills to claim the treasure for the family!]


    ...


    It must be said, these three were the wildest of the fourth generation.


    Ethan rolled his eyes; one liked to dig underground, one liked to kill, and one liked to court death¡ªa truly perfect combination.


    He was just about to inform Olivia...


    Ethan''s eyes were lifeless as he finally spoke, "Olivia, you''ve changed, even you lie now..."


    At that moment, Olivia, seated in a wheelchair surrounded by clouds, was followed by four assassins from Dawn with Developing Skill levels.


    They were headed toward the Crestwood Hills.

 Chapter 219: Chapter 219: Heres the thing, our in-law...

    Ethan never saw it coming. Just yesterday, Ralph and the others were all talk, but today they flipped like night and day. The ones who shouted loudest about not going to Crestwood Hills were the first to bolt.


    In an instant.


    The three brothers, rushing toward Crestwood Hills, suddenly stopped in their tracks, looking at each other in confusion. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Their chests were heaving!


    "Big brother, the Forebearer in my arms is moving."


    "We''ve been spotted, didn''t we agree that wrapping up the Forebearer would keep it hidden?"


    "True to its nature, I always knew the Forebearer was watching me. Haha, it''s not the sacrifices it enjoys, but watching me in action!"


    "..."


    You three little rascals, can''t you speak plainly?


    [Stop, don''t go!]


    Ethan didn''t have time to scold them, he wrote these words using Psychic Position.


    But seeing the words floating in mid-air, they all shook their heads in unison.


    George chuckled, "Forebearer, we know you''re worried about us, but we really need to go this time."


    "Yes, Forebearer, we''re not just seeking thrills," Justin said earnestly.


    As soon as he spoke, George quickly covered his mouth, smiling bitterly, "Don''t listen to this madman, Forebearer."


    "These past two years have been peaceful, but when High Priest Clark visited yesterday, something was off. I could tell they might attack soon, and it won''t just be the three factions."


    "That''s why High Priest Clark is so desperate for an alliance. He''s afraid other factions will compete with them for land."


    Hearing this.


    Justin pulled George''s hand away, staring at his brother incredulously, as if to say, how could you, who shuns worldly affairs, guess what I had guessed?


    George ignored his younger brother.


    He continued, "Mr. Stephen was wholeheartedly devoted to Azure Cloud. The legacy he left must be valuable, it could definitely help our Blackwood. I''m willing to trust Stephen once more, to seek a new opportunity for Blackwood."


    "Besides, I''m used to digging graves, and with so many predecessors to help, I might just find what others cannot."


    "Hehe."


    George grinned foolishly.


    Then the three fools stared intently at the Psychic Position, and at the screen, as if looking at Ethan.


    Ethan could tell, no amount of persuasion would work. They seemed to have a belief, a conviction that they were the right ones for this mission.


    Then...


    "Boom!"


    The screen went black, a cloud of dark smoke released by the trio obscured everything!


    Ethan''s face darkened.


    He clicked on the trio''s icons again, they were flying fast.


    "Ahaha, big brother always has a plan, a feint, and we made our escape!"


    "Quick, wrap up the Psychic Position, then the Forebearer won''t be able to find us."


    "Are you guys nuts? The Forebearer is definitely still watching, hurry up, or the Forebearer''s Psychic Position will catch up."


    "..."


    Ethan ran his hand from his forehead to his chin, grinding his teeth for a moment before letting out a long sigh, "Such fools."


    Immediately.


    He switched the view to Olivia.


    This time only the Psychic Position floated up.


    "Forebearer."


    Seeing the Psychic Position floating beside her, "You found us after all. Did you want me to bring those three back?"


    "..."


    Indeed, Olivia could guess a thing or two about everything.


    "My child really needs to go."


    Olivia smiled sweetly, "Those three are quite reckless, I need to protect them. Besides, I have some influence in the Druids, and this time, securing that artifact is a must. The family has been quiet these past two years, and I need to let the Druids know that even in their midst, we Blackwoods can move as if we own the place!"


    "Forebearer, I didn''t mean to hide it from you. Father... he''s getting older, and I''m growing up. He''s increasingly worried about my safety. If I didn''t keep it from him, he would never let me go."


    Ethan fell silent.


    What does he mean, getting older? That''s just an excuse.


    Didn''t he know that Olivia and those three troublemakers shared the same thought, predicting the Druids'' imminent arrival, wanting to give Blackwood a boost?


    Olivia was just afraid that if she spoke up, Nathan would take it upon himself to lead the charge.


    He suddenly laughed.


    "Go for it!"


    He slammed his fist on the table, "If you''re going to compete, know that Forebearer is your strongest support!"


    ...


    Moments later.


    Ethan switched the view to Nathan.


    The coffin lid shot up, and Nathan emerged from the smoke.


    "Damn, those little troublemakers! Even Olivia won''t listen!"


    As soon as Nathan saw Luna holding Katie, he started shouting angrily, "Those three I can understand, but Olivia... she''s driving me mad!"


    His good daughter had actually lied to him!


    "Why are you in such a hurry? Even Forebearer isn''t panicking," Luna said soothingly.


    ...


    Ethan touched his nose, to be honest, even Forebearer was anxious about the clever Olivia lying.


    Luna smiled, "It''s just how kids are, they do it so we won''t worry. Look at you now, they didn''t dare tell you yesterday because they were afraid you''d stop them."


    "Your worrying now only makes them uneasy. Calm down, they''ve already gone. Just get ready to have Lucas and Amelia go support them."


    "Yeah, you''re right."


    Nathan nodded slightly.


    Just as he was about to act, someone came to report.


    Nathan and Luna both frowned, and the couple headed to the living room.


    ...


    "People from the Duke''s Mansion?"


    Watching the scene in the hall, Ethan''s anger cooled down. He and his family had a strong dislike for the Duke''s Mansion.


    Edward and his wife were sitting to the side.


    Edward''s face was icy as he looked forward, while Betty kept her head down, her lips pursed and her fists clenched tightly.


    Joseph, who usually either slept in on the Primordial Blood Tree or experienced ordinary life on the streets of Gratitude Village, was also there. He glanced at the newcomers, his expression a mix of mockery and anger.


    Facing them was Kenneth from the Duke''s Mansion!


    Michael''s eldest son seemed younger now, sipping tea with an air of restraint.


    "Tap, tap, tap!"


    Nathan and his wife approached, and Kenneth suddenly stood up, not yet speaking.


    Nathan hummed, "What? Michael didn''t dare to come himself? Had to send his son? That''s quite the slight to us Blackwoods, isn''t it?"


    "This... my father is unwell."


    Kenneth lied with open eyes, but he also probably knew some of the truth about the current state of Cloudview County. He even suspected that if his father came in person, he might end up buried in Blackwood.


    Nathan scoffed, "Speak up, then. If it''s nothing important, and Michael didn''t come himself, we have nothing to discuss."


    "Understood."


    Kenneth wiped the sweat from his forehead, "Here''s the thing, our in-law..."

 Chapter 220: Chapter 220: No medicine is more precious than your leg

    "Don''t call me your in-law!"


    Nathan''s gaze was icy cold. "Betty married into my Blackwood family. By marrying into the Blackwoods, she is one of us. But we Blackwoods do not acknowledge your Duke''s Mansion. It''s beyond our reach, and frankly, it''s bad luck."


    Such harsh words did not anger Kenneth; instead, his eyes filled with even more guilt.


    "Then I''ll just say it."


    He sighed, "I''m here because my father has asked the Blackwoods to let Betty return home with the children."


    Suddenly, the hall fell silent.


    All eyes turned to Betty.


    At that moment, Betty suddenly looked up, her fists clenched tighter, her eyes red as she growled, "Brother, go back and tell Michael that I was happy for those twenty-some years, with a father who loved and cherished me."


    "But later, I realized my happy life was a lie. I was always just an object to be used. I can''t imagine what kind of father would drug his own daughter for his purposes. I''ve paid my dues."


    "From now on, I want nothing to do with him or the Duke''s Mansion. He better not lay a finger on my son or daughter!"


    Hearing this, Kenneth did not persist. He just sighed, and as he walked to the door, he turned back and gave Betty a gentle smile, "Little sister, you''re gentle by nature. Take good care of yourself here in Blackwood. If anyone bullies you, don''t tell dad, just tell me."


    "And you, Joseph, stop wasting your time. You''re not getting any younger; you should find a wife."


    "The rest..."


    "I''ll handle it."


    Kenneth left with his entourage, his figure tinged with weariness.


    "Brother!"


    Betty watched her brother''s retreating figure, finding solace in the thought of her uncle Martin.


    Joseph touched his nose and lay back under the Primordial Blood Tree, looking up at the sky, "Always rushing me..."


    He sighed long.


    "The only good person in my family is my uncle."


    Half a month later.


    At the Duke''s Mansion.


    Kenneth had returned home alone.


    Michael stood where he had played chess with Olivia, watching the flowers bloom and wither on the trees, not turning around, "She refused to come back?"


    "Yes."


    Kenneth relayed everything about the Blackwoods, listening to Michael scoff, "That old thief from the mountains, he doesn''t acknowledge us as in-laws? He''s not worthy of being my in-law. That''s for the best."


    Kenneth frowned, "Father, I''ve seen it. Betty and the others are doing well in Blackwood. We don''t need to..."


    "Hmph! What do you know?" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Michael''s cold snort made Kenneth bow his head. He said solemnly, "My granddaughter is no less talented than Changsheng. Bringing her back serves a greater purpose. Chunlin, you must understand, everything I do is for our family."


    "Here''s what we''ll do. Send someone to keep an eye on Blackwood. If there''s a chance, bring Katie back."


    This time, Kenneth did not argue. He nodded calmly, "Yes, father, I''ll see to it."


    With that, Kenneth walked out, looking at the bustling servants and the sprawling architecture of Martin, his sighs growing deeper.


    He had once thought his father would do anything for Cloudview County, raised with that belief. His father had told him that the land of Cloudview County belonged to Martin, and Martin would do anything for it.


    Now, it seemed he had misunderstood his father''s intentions all along. The father he imagined lived in another world. The real father lived in a world of lies.


    He suddenly envied the Blackwoods.


    Generation after generation, they were free from such scheming. In Nathan''s eyes, he saw only concern for his descendants.


    Continuing forward, Kenneth''s gaze grew colder as he entered a dark room filled with Martin''s retainers.


    "Young master!"


    The retainers bowed.


    He continued forward, approaching a stone chair where one of the Martin forebearers sat.


    Kenneth bowed respectfully, his expression firm, his tone resolute.


    "Forebearer, father is..."


    "Getting old."


    ...


    It was a drizzly day in Cloudview County.


    In the county town, countless people lined up, eating the thin porridge bestowed by the eldest son of the Duke''s Mansion, all looking towards the outskirts where the Duke''s Mansion stood.


    A red pillar of light descended from the sky, and a huge magical circle enveloped the Duke''s Mansion. Four figures, radiating powerful auras, floated above.


    No one knew what was happening at the Duke''s Mansion.


    Kenneth floated above the Duke''s Mansion, his wrinkles fading, his silver hair rejuvenating, tears glistening in his eyes.


    Thunder roared.


    He had been a dutiful son all his life, never daring to look his father in the eye, nor defy him in the slightest.


    Today.


    Below him, in the great hall of the Duke''s Mansion, sat his father, still calm and unchanged in appearance, yet unrecognizable to him. Behind him lay the whole of Cloudview County, a county suffering great calamity!


    No one in Cloudview County dared to challenge the Duke''s Mansion; doing so would be akin to betraying the empire. Only he could stop this.


    "Father, please forgive your unfilial son!"


    ...


    [Your descendant Jeffrey, along with his partner, has made progress in cultivating psychic powers using the ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'' and is expecting a child with his partner Victoria...]


    The affairs of the Duke''s Mansion were so secretive that the people of Cloudview County could only glimpse a fraction of what was happening, and Blackwood was completely in the dark.


    At this moment, Ethan''s gaze was fixed on the children heading to Crestwood Hills.


    He was also keeping an eye on family messages.


    "Finally expecting, huh?"


    Ethan adjusted the view slightly and saw a handsome man in Blackwood joyfully embracing his wife, with about thirty girls chattering happily in the courtyard, a smile appearing on his face.


    "Charge ahead, Jeffrey, the great responsibility of family continuation rests on you!"


    It was no wonder Ethan entrusted this great task to Jeffrey.


    This young man had two traits: [Attracting Attention] and [Romantic]. Ethan thought ''Romantic'' was a more polite term for what was essentially promiscuity. Compared to Jeffrey, the other children seemed almost indifferent.


    The fourth generation had experienced too much; they preferred cultivating psychic powers, their behavior erratic, so it was best not to pin too many hopes on them.


    As for the fifth generation... it was just Nicholas and Edward now. Matthew had become a son-in-law, contributing to the Moore family.


    Donna? She was currently in a gravity field in Blackwood, frantically cultivating psychic powers to break through to the next level of skill.


    Not to mention those two monks, neither believing in Buddha nor demons, yet possessing the temperament of Buddha and the principles of demons...


    And Joseph... Just the other day, he saw Jeffrey''s close female friends getting jealous of each other, and Jeffrey spending all day comforting one after another. He hadn''t yet recovered from the psychological impact.


    [Your descendant Amelia has returned to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, met with the demon lord, and is now using her medical skills to treat him.]


    [Your descendant Lucas has consumed various elixirs in an attempt to break through.]


    [Marcus has returned to the Sky Sect...]


    Ethan was about to turn his attention back to protecting the descendants heading to Crestwood Hills when he paused, looking at the buildings of Blackwood.


    It was now the year 128 in Blackwood.


    Blackwood had brought back a wealth of resources and had begun to massively build up the family estate. The landscape had changed.


    Fields of special abilities and medicinal gardens were everywhere. Psychics, for some reason, were all busy crafting talismans and magical formations, or constructing buildings.


    The entire population of Gratitude Village was trying to cultivate psychic powers, able to access the special medicinal herbs plundered by Blackwood, the price being labor for Blackwood.


    Production had become Blackwood''s primary driving force.


    On the chaotic streets, Nicholas walked with Helen.


    "Family head, I... I just injured my leg, there''s no need for such precious medicine."


    At that moment, Nicholas took out an eighth-grade healing pill and fed it to a citizen with foundational energy, seeing the citizen''s gratitude and shame, he stared.


    "What do you mean precious? No medicine is more precious than your leg. What if the injury becomes chronic? Besides, you have children to take care of. Go on, go rest for a few days, and we''ll talk when you''re fully healed."


    Walking with Helen to another street, they saw a towering building draped in white silk.


    Upon inquiry, Nicholas learned that it was the Black Blood Society''s team that had gone out.


    They had gone to the family''s mining area to retrieve materials for building the city walls, and several had died at the hands of roaming druids.

 Chapter 221: Chapter 221: Let these druids pay with their lives!

    He bowed toward the Psychic Position, "Farewell, everyone. Rest assured, I, Nicholas, will take good care of your widows and orphans. The yearly supply of Energy Stones and precious resources will exceed your salaries."


    Then, under the grateful gazes of his subordinates from Blackwood, he walked to the headquarters of Dawn and personally led the charge.


    "Whoever killed our people, everyone in Gratitude Village shall be punished, and I, Blackwood, am no exception!"


    "Let''s go!"


    "Let these druids pay with their lives!"


    Initially, it was just a small tribe of about a hundred people that Nicholas intended to punish, and he only called for a dozen men.


    However, as he led his men out of the family estate, the group grew from a dozen to over a hundred, and then to thousands. If he hadn''t stopped them, the numbers might have reached ten thousand.


    "Good lad."


    Ethan watched Nicholas''s growing influence and gradually smiled, understanding why the ancient Primordial Tree had once said he was a qualified family head.


    Now, Nicholas had adapted to his role as the family head, and thanks to him, Blackwood was united, rapidly advancing in infrastructure development.


    ...


    Now, looking at the children heading to Crestwood Hills.


    At this time, Olivia had already ventured deep into the Endless Forest, but she wasn''t in Crestwood Hills.


    [Harris¡¤Joy Beast Tribe¡¤Elder Glenn''s Home]


    At this moment, Olivia had once again donned the druid''s attire, sitting inside the elder''s house of the Joy Beast Tribe. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Last time Olivia mentioned she had some influence among the druids, could it be the Joy Beast Tribe?"


    Ethan was increasingly shocked as he spoke, not even knowing how Olivia had infiltrated their ranks.


    After a while.


    Ethan saw a girl in a tiger-skin coat enter the small treehouse and sit opposite Olivia.


    "What''s the news?" Olivia asked.


    Glenn, who had a gentle appearance, was revealed by Ethan''s information to be a master in the Developing Skill phase.


    Glenn''s head displayed the words, "I found no evidence of The Oracle Chamber collaborating with our druids. However, I know that our Harris, White, and Clark tribes are desperately seeking allies. Two tribes, seduced by promised benefits and great glory, are eager to join."


    "Recently, our druid community has been peaceful, all eyes are on Cloudview County. Logically, they should be rushing here like mad. I heard that a county destroyed years ago faced an enemy ten times what Cloudview County is currently facing."


    Hearing this.


    Olivia frowned in thought, then gradually relaxed.


    Seeing Olivia''s demeanor, Glenn said seriously, "Olivia, I heard that Blackwood has made no moves. Our agreement was for you to help the Joy Beast Tribe regain its former glory as part of the larger Harris tribe. Yet, the Harris forces attacking Cloudview County haven''t suffered at all."


    "My people and the priests want to see results."


    Olivia replied calmly, "Elder Glenn, to destroy Harris, your presence in a great battle would be enough. But what after the battle? Think about it, if the Joy Beast Tribe emerges unscathed, wouldn''t that raise suspicions?"


    Glenn frowned, "That''s not your concern. I just want results."


    "Alright."


    Olivia squinted, "Help me obtain something, and I''ll support you fully!"


    "What is it?" Glenn''s face lit up with joy.


    Moments later.


    Glenn left the treehouse and headed toward a cave within the Joy Beast Tribe, where a dragon swam around the tribe''s ancient priest!


    "Great Priest, Blackwood''s Olivia has fallen into our trap!"


    With these words.


    The priest opened his eyes and sneered, "Foolish humans, their greed and confidence will only lead them to destruction. The lord of Azure Cloud Dawn is no different."


    Glenn smiled darkly, "But before that, Olivia wants something buried under the giant rocks of the Clark Tribe."


    "Hmm?"


    The priest narrowed his eyes, "Now that all tribes within Crestwood Hills are searching, I shall inform the High Priest of this matter."


    "Yes!"


    ...


    Inside the house, Ethan''s cards flickered.


    He saw everything¡ªthe collaboration between Olivia and the Joy Beast Tribe.


    Where there are beings, there are disputes, and it seemed the Joy Beast Tribe was no exception.


    "Can the druids be trusted?" Ethan pondered, stroking his mouse.


    In the past, he would have been thrilled to have an insider among the druids.


    But now? Ethan really didn''t trust others.


    Look at Stephen... he seemed weak, but his schemes were unimaginably cunning, calculating even in death.


    And then there was Michael, practically a centuries-old demon in disguise, his own son never realizing who he truly was.


    Ethan felt that the cooperation between Olivia and the Joy Beast Tribe came a little too easily.


    In Olivia''s personal history, Ethan found some information.


    [Your descendant Olivia came to the druids twenty years ago, coveting the fertile lands of the Endless Forest, a place rich with natural treasures and resources.]


    [She constantly schemed to claim the Endless Forest for the family, where the druids could nurture the Primordial Blood Tree, enrich the Death Coffin, and assist her father in refining corpses...]


    [Over the years, she meticulously planned, targeting six tribes in distress.]


    [She would injure key members of these tribes, then heal them and send them back as a crude pretext to establish relations with the druids.]


    [Even if discovered, it didn''t matter; she was giving these downtrodden druids opportunities while also testing the intelligence of these tribes...]


    Ethan, who was drinking water, almost spat it out.


    "I thought it was a druid invasion, but wow, you''ve been scheming for over twenty years."


    "Were you planning to invade the druids sooner or later if they didn''t come to you?"


    At that moment, Ethan seemed to understand; the Blackwoods had always been invaders...


    If none of the past events had happened, in a few decades, it might be a different story.


    Olivia seemed even more terrifying and ambitious than Stephen and Michael.


    The only difference was that the thoughts of the previous generations of Blackwoods became the collective mindset of any family member.


    Just like now.


    The family wanted the supernatural item buried under Crestwood Hills, and all four children were coming to find it, with the family preparing in the background.

 Chapter 222: Chapter 222: Was this really something to be proud of?

    Inside the house, Olivia was rubbing her fingers together, seemingly deep in thought. Suddenly, she froze as the Psychic Position in her arms floated up, revealing a line of text in front of her.


    [Can the Joy Beast Tribe be trusted?]


    "Forebearer!" Olivia''s face lit up with joy. "As expected, you''ve noticed it too."


    On the screen, Ethan''s toes curled slightly. He only had a vague feeling of distrust, as for noticing anything... he noticed that Glenn walked with a wiggle, just like a corgi.


    Olivia smiled faintly and said, "Forebearer, after all, the Joy Beast Tribe doesn''t eat our Blackwood''s food. They are merely collaborators with our child."


    As she spoke, her expression became playful. "However, this time, they agreed too quickly."


    Ethan grinned. He understood now; the Joy Beast Tribe seemed to be playing a very new game.


    Ethan and Olivia in the game had a different relationship; they both squinted their eyes, their voices somewhat icy. "Then... we really miscalculated!"


    ...


    Crestwood Hills. The three Blackwood siblings were moving forward.


    The land of the druids was indeed a land of druids, filled with poison and traps everywhere, and many druids hunting in the forest. Fortunately, they were all seasoned adventurers.


    Traps? Poison? George had seen all sorts of traps in tombs and dodged all kinds of deadly gases.


    Magic circles? William had broken into all sorts of places.


    As for the druids... Justin, carrying a turtle shell, would scream wildly to lead people away, always managing to return safely.


    "I thought the druids would be more formidable, but that''s it."


    In a small cave, Justin, blackened by magic, pulled out hundreds of arrows stuck in his turtle shell.


    George picked up an arrow and his eyes lit up, "Justin, go around again. These arrows are all made of high-grade materials. If you gather more, our family can forge a lot of Psychic Gear in one day. Isn''t this faster than my tomb raiding?"


    "Big brother, do you think I''m using my shell to borrow arrows?" Justin rolled his eyes. "We''ll be at Crestwood Hills soon. Hey, where''s Brother William?"


    "Yeah, where is William? Did he disappear?" George also froze, only remembering to dodge and forgetting about William.


    Just then, a noise came from outside the cave. "I''m here!" William walked in, grinning, his lips seeming to have just wiped off blood, as if he hadn''t done anything, his gaze evasive. "I just got lost."


    "I don''t believe it, where did you go..." George''s words were cut off.


    "Clang." A bowl fell from William''s arms, changing his expression until both brothers looked at the Storage Ring in his hand. He quickly hid his hands behind his back, looking nervous. "Mine, all mine, don''t even think about stealing it!"


    But the next second, he was restrained by George and Justin. "Tell us, where did you just go?"


    "I... I went to steal from our tribe, ah! Don''t steal my Storage Ring, I knew I shouldn''t have put it in the smallest Storage Ring, it can''t fit everything!"


    Moments later, the three brothers were dividing the spoils. William sulked, having stolen from a small tribe without a single ability weapon, even stealing people''s iron bowls into his Storage Ring.


    Then the brothers looked at each other, understanding the unspoken intentions in each other''s eyes, and shared a conspiratorial grin.


    [Your descendants are on their way to Crestwood Hills, deciding to observe the situation there while pilfering from nearby druids.]


    [Your family has obtained many spoils of war.]


    [Low-grade Psychic Gear: Warm Jade Bed]


    [Yellow-tier Technique: Golden Vine Six Flashes]


    [Manure Fork...]


    "Can''t you guys do something legitimate?" Ethan''s eyelids drooped, initially thinking these three would tread carefully in druid territory.


    But as soon as the scene switched, he saw them clearly divided in their tasks: Justin drawing fire, George searching for treasures, and William breaking formations and killing...


    The three of them together, Ethan already saw the notorious future of the Blackwoods.


    But as chaotic as they were, they hadn''t forgotten their main mission.


    Half a month later.


    [Crestwood Hills]


    True to its name, this place is marked by a hundred towering mountains, standing starkly amidst the Endless Forest. The lush forest surrounds these barren peaks, which are devoid of vegetation and scattered with rocks. Here, creatures known as Stone beasts, once confined to Blackwood, now roam freely.


    Atop these mountains, various caves can be seen, bearing traces of the once-great Clark tribe.


    At this moment, George and his companions are inside one of these caves.


    This time, twenty-eight elderly figures appeared behind George; had he not given four to Katie, there would have been even more.


    [Your descendant has emerged from cultivating psychic powers, and following an encounter with a Competent ForcePsychic''s soul in an ancient tomb, and on the advice of twenty-three elders, he followed in the footsteps of his predecessors, absorbing all the living Competent Forces of Cloudview County into his body.]


    [Trait gained: Elder Harvester]


    [He can more easily locate the souls of his predecessors and gain favor from their lingering spirits.]


    "Esteemed predecessors, this is the token of The Oracle Chamber. The members of The Oracle Chamber are nearby; it''s up to you to find them!"


    With the elders'' approval, George pointed energetically outside the cave, "Go forth, elders!"


    The spirits flew out of the cave.


    "Hiss~"


    Although Justin and William had seen the elders emerge from George before and had even received their guidance, they couldn''t help but gasp in awe.


    William looked at his brother with concern, "Big brother, with so many people inside you, how do you bathe... change clothes... or do other things..."


    "That''s why I never bathe. I use a cleansing technique and only change clothes when they are out."


    George lifted his head proudly, "I haven''t used the restroom in decades!"


    "You truly are our big brother!"


    As the two exchanged praises, Justin couldn''t bear to watch. Was this really something to be proud of?


    Seeing Justin''s disdainful expression, George frowned, "Do you have a question?"


    "No... not at all!"


    Justin saw William clenching his fists and forced a smile, "I just think our big brother is extraordinary, and words fail to do you justice."


    Crisis averted.


    Soon, the group of spirits returned to the Psychic Sanctuary.


    A psychic image appeared before the three and Ethan, who was watching through a screen.


    Ethan squinted slightly.


    It was a masked man wearing the white robe of The Oracle Chamber, with a scale weight on his chest!


    He remembered, this was the person who, atop the high tower on the border of Cloudview County, had extinguished Stephen''s psychic soul with a single palm strike!


    This person was using a formation disk, hiding beneath a great mountain in the Psychic Sanctuary.


    Below him.


    Countless Druids seemed to be digging for something, employing various spells and battling against naturally formed magical arrays!


    It appeared he had located the mysterious object and was waiting to reap the benefits.


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan cursed under his breath, suddenly recalling that day when Stephen fell from the tower, still smiling as if he wasn''t upset at all. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You old fox, did you set us up to retrieve this treasure just so we could avenge you?"


    It was highly likely.


    So likely that Ethan couldn''t help but admire Stephen, who might be dead but was still seeking revenge.


    However, after the initial shock, Ethan felt reassured; this proved that Stephen''s setup wasn''t aimed at Blackwood. His ultimate goal was most likely to have Blackwood avenge him, using the treasure as a reward.


    The reward might even include members of The Oracle Chamber themselves.

 Chapter 223: Chapter 223: Why do I feel... somewhat uneasy?

    At this moment, the elders in the game were discussing information about the person from The Oracle Chamber.


    "The folks from The Oracle Chamber, back in the early days of Competent Force, if I were still alive, I could have squashed him with a slap."


    "Cut it out, you''ve been dead for thousands of years, stop bragging. The Oracle Chamber is shrouded in mystery, who knows what tricks they have up their sleeves?"


    "With just the three of you youngsters, you really can''t take him down. Why not ask your clan for help? Your grandfathers could lend a hand, oh... except for Julian."


    "..."


    As the elders analyzed the situation, George''s two brothers began to look increasingly uneasy.


    Justin licked his lips, "During the Competent Force era, I never messed with such people. If I could escape from his clutches, I would achieve great enlightenment and increase my power."


    William shouted, "Assassinate him, assassinate him!"


    "Let them play on their own."


    George, accustomed to such scenarios, pulled the elders aside to strategize.


    ...


    At that moment.


    The Psychic Position of the Blackwood clan was glowing, and they opened their bright eyes.


    In the Joy Beast tribe.


    Olivia''s lips curled up, "Forebearer, is it someone from The Oracle Chamber? That''s truly a great gift."


    ...


    Blackwood.


    Nathan looked at the two children, Lucas had his sword case on his back, and Amelia was holding the Psychic Position.


    He burst out laughing.


    "Capture the person from The Oracle Chamber, uncover their dirty secrets, and finish off Michael!"


    ...


    Sky Sect.


    Marcus entered the Sky Temple, where Warren Daoist was observing the stars.


    "Master."


    "Are you interested in the person from The Oracle Chamber?"


    Warren Daoist suddenly opened his eyes wide and laughed, "Interesting, my disciple, bring out the Sky Temple, I want to make a trip to the imperial city!"


    ...


    In the Crestwood Hills.


    The masked man from The Oracle Chamber hid in the shadows, the distant tinkling sound echoing.


    He remained calm.


    But as the magical formations were being dismantled day by day, his excitement grew, "Two thousand years, just waiting to take this thing away, it''s almost time, in a few more years I''ll be able to dig it out! From then on, what does The Oracle Chamber matter?"


    "What does Cloudview County matter? I will disappear from the public eye, and before my life runs out, I might glimpse Basic Mastery, even Advanced Mastery!"


    In the distance.


    He saw four or five druid priests, but he remained calm, they were not a concern to him!


    "Why do I feel... somewhat uneasy?"


    The masked man furrowed his brow, "No one knows who I am, Stephen is dead, who else would think of me? Could it be that I''m just being paranoid?"


    ...


    In the room.


    Ethan had been waiting for two hours.


    In the game, under Nicholas''s leadership, Blackwood was steadily progressing.


    Magnificent structures sprang from the ground as psychic energies converged from all directions.


    Blackwood even formed an eighth-grade psychic vein, doubling the speed at which its inhabitants could cultivate their psychic powers.


    With treasures plundered over the years, Blackwood''s foundation could now barely compare to the once-great Azure Cloud Dragon family!


    As usual, in Cloudview County, the Druids and Azure Cloud forces continued their intermittent clashes.


    According to family predictions, this situation could persist for a century, or even longer. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan''s focus, however, was more on what was inside Crestwood Hills.


    [Crestwood Hills]


    At this moment, on the screen, the three brothers'' game avatars were still hiding in a cave, concealed by an ability weapon that masked their presence.


    After learning about the importance of this event from the Forebearer''s Psychic Position, they were very obedient.


    Suddenly.


    Ethan''s hand, which was about to pick up a milk tea, paused.


    He focused intently, gripping the mouse and staring at the screen.


    In one area of Crestwood Hills.


    A huge ''BOOM'' appeared, and dust billowed!


    [Your descendant George reports to you that his grandfather saw The Oracle Chamber Masked Man succeed.]


    At the same time.


    "Phew!"


    After reporting through the Psychic Position, the three brothers, like wild beasts that had been stalking their prey, rushed out crazily, eager to unleash their long-suppressed desire to hunt!


    "So impulsive."


    Ethan rolled his eyes and quickly used the Psychic Position to send a signal to the clan members hidden around Crestwood Hills.


    All the clan members around suddenly opened their bright eyes, looking at the floating Psychic Position.


    "Yes, Forebearer, the net of heaven and earth is ready for the enemy!"


    ...


    "Ha ha ha! Got it, they would never expect that I still have The Oracle Chamber''s secret techniques. With the Heavenly Elements Escape Technique, it was a piece of cake!"


    The Masked Man looked at the Storage Ring in his hand.


    From it, he could see a basin-sized lump of earth, glowing with a mysterious yellow light and soft like cotton. He couldn''t suppress the joy on his face, "The sky is vast enough for fish to leap at will, from now on I no longer need to bother with the affairs of Cloudview County..."


    As he soared through the sky, he suddenly paused and looked behind him, "Hmm?"


    Three Developing Skill stage Psychics were tracking him!


    "Damn it, are these Blackwood people? Sending three youngsters, there must be a trick!"


    The Masked Man narrowed his eyes, but he didn''t stop.


    He continued to fly, even faster, summoning the natural energies of the world and exhaling, "Psychic powers of heaven and earth, Wind God protect me, go!"


    True to The Oracle Chamber''s reputation, his methods were exceptional!


    With just one magic formula, two half-step Competent Force tornadoes formed in the air, sweeping up everything in their path and gradually taking human form, like door gods, blocking his path!


    However, his expression quickly changed.


    ...


    If you were to talk about the most potential in Blackwood, it would undoubtedly be the past two generations.


    However, when it comes to overcoming stronger foes with lesser strength and the potential they hold now, the most formidable are the three kids from Blackwood''s fourth generation!


    "Damn!" Ethan couldn''t help but curse as he watched the screen.


    In previous battles, he had focused more on the four individuals from the second generation, but now, as George and the others prepared to give it their all in two years, his exclamations were endless!


    "William, Justin, block those two gusts of wind!"


    During the chase, George, who had been digging graves, appeared more steady and calm than Ethan had ever seen him.


    He charged forward relentlessly, not even bothering about the two gusts of wind powers, trusting his younger brothers completely.


    "Yes, big brother!"


    The sky roared with fierce winds.


    William took the lead and charged forward, facing the gust of wind with half-step Competent Force.


    A dark aura surged around him!


    Apart from Ethan, no one knew how powerful this Blackwood freak really was when he got serious.


    He possessed the trait [Natural Born Troublemaker], which made it easier for him to acquire traits than anyone else in Blackwood.


    Every time he killed, he gained a bit of strength.


    After so many years, he had killed all sorts of things.


    Now, his [Traits] alone dazzled Ethan.


    [Traits]: Natural Born Troublemaker, Aura of Murder, Elder Brother''s Vigilance, Elite Hunter, Druid Slayer, Sneaky Ambusher...


    Just his combat power alone boosted him by 1000%.


    His usual public display of power was at the early Developing Skill stage, but now, he was fully unleashing at the mid Developing Skill stage!


    Besides that.


    "Magic Gourd of Treasures, Ten Directions Psychic Gear, explode!"


    William''s eyes turned blood red, and he charged madly towards the wind power.


    A gourd at his waist, ten pieces of Psychic Gear appeared behind him and rushed towards the wind power, then exploded!


    The wind power was unharmed, merely pushed back a step by the tremendous force.


    William kept shouting.


    "Ten Directions Psychic Gear, explode!"


    Who knew how many Psychic Gears he had hoarded over the years from his constant killing?


    Each of his ten fingers was adorned with a Storage Ring!


    The gifts he gave to Katie were all psychic items; his family''s wealth was extraordinarily vast!

 Chapter 224: Chapter 224: You really got dazed by the hit, didnt you?

    On the other side, Justin was a stark contrast to William.


    "Heavenly Heavy Tortoise Shell, Black Tortoise Protection Technique!"


    As Justin moved forward, he activated the ''Heavenly Heavy Tortoise Shell,'' a special ability he had acquired at Lake Heavenly Heart after Ethan had saved him from near-death experiences more than fifty times.


    "Boom!"


    At the early stages of Developing Skill, Justin was blown away by an opponent with nearly Competent Force.


    However, equipped with his special ability and the secret Black Tortoise technique, he wiped the blood from his mouth, grinned, and charged back towards the wind power.


    "He''s tough. If he wasn''t so focused on chasing my brother and hit me with full force, I''d be seriously injured."


    Yet, he kept charging forward.


    With each approach, the wind power''s speed seemed to slow, gradually becoming agitated by Justin''s persistence.


    But with every injury, Justin''s aura grew stronger.


    Ethan watched quietly, gradually easing his worries.


    Although Justin didn''t possess William''s strength or his array of traits, as long as he wasn''t killed instantly, he would prove to be a formidable and tenacious opponent.


    Over the years, while breaking through his limits, Justin had acquired a trait¡ª[Growing Stronger with Battle].


    As long as he wasn''t killed, his strength would continue to increase with the duration of the fight and the number of life-threatening situations he faced.


    His most terrifying traits were initially [Numb to Death] and [Walking with Death].


    He had faced countless dangers in his life, extremely sensitive to crises, like an indestructible roach!


    These three traits combined made him an incredibly difficult opponent for anyone to face.


    "How is this possible?"


    The Masked Man, flying with the force of Competent Force, sensed the battle he had left far behind and his expression soured.


    "What''s with these Blackwood people? What''s going on?!"


    He had lived for many years and had seen all the talents of Cloudview County.


    He knew the fearsome reputation of the Blackwood youths, but seeing them in action was something else entirely.


    William, whose combat power soared when he went berserk.


    Justin, who navigated through deadly dangers like an unkillable roach, always managing to rise even stronger.


    These two were beyond his comprehension.


    "They''re cultivating some strange psychic powers. No, there must be some powerful treasures on them!"


    The Masked Man finally understood why these three young ones dared to compete for treasures and act so boldly.


    "Run!"


    The sense of danger in his heart grew stronger, and he increased his speed, even pulling out his top-grade ability weapon.


    But just as he thought he had left George far behind, his expression turned ugly.


    "Ancestors, aid me!"


    George''s roar came from behind.


    In an instant, his aura surged from the early to the mid-stage of Developing Skill.


    "Damn it!"


    The Masked Man cursed under his breath.


    He sensed a remnant soul of Competent Force within George, enhancing his natural energies.


    He gritted his teeth.


    "Do you really think a remnant soul of Competent Force can deal with me?"


    He scoffed, but as he continued to flee, he could feel that Blackwood had more tricks up their sleeve.


    As if to confirm his suspicions, George''s aura continued to grow.


    The Masked Man even heard an ancient voice behind him.


    "What are you old folks waiting for? I''ll protect George''s body and meridians with my soul, letting him merge with some of your strength. Together, we are stronger!"


    With that declaration, the Masked Man felt overwhelmed by the noise, so much so that it made him nauseous.


    "Ha ha ha, good, after many years I only have about 20% of my strength from before my death."


    "I''ve been wanting to meet The Oracle Chamber for a long time, and it''s actually our first encounter."


    "Let''s get him!"


    George''s aura grew steadily, like wheat rising bit by bit.


    His eyes sparkled with a golden light as his power surged from the mid-stage of Developing Skill to its peak... and then to half-step Competent Force, until reaching Competent Force itself!


    Even more, he felt the presence of a soul from the peak of Competent Force, and even from the Out-of-Body stage...


    The heavens formed a barrier, tightly enveloping him, even blocking the secret techniques of The Oracle Chamber with the once Azure Cloud Pavilion''s divination methods!


    "Impossible..."


    Trapped in the sky within the pinnacle formation of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, he had nowhere to escape.


    Turning around, he faced George with a face dripping with cold sweat.


    At that moment, George walked through the air as if strolling in a garden, surrounded by a golden formation inscribed with divination symbols.


    Twenty-eight elders appeared behind him, following George as if walking alongside him.


    Suddenly.


    The Masked Man from The Oracle Chamber remembered the Azure Cloud Pavilion from 130,000 years ago, as if seeing their peak moment when they once dominated the entire Cloudview County!


    All the peaks of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, no, even the entire heritage of Cloudview County, were now embodied in George!


    Fear descended.


    He was at the early stage of Competent Force, and among the best, with countless techniques learned from The Oracle Chamber and other places.


    He tried them all, enduring the brutal assault of the natural energies in the formation for half an hour.


    But... how could he possibly contend against the entire heritage of Cloudview County?


    All the techniques and martial arts, in the hands of those elders, reached a transcendent level, all using high-grade techniques, and their calculations were far deeper than those of the Masked Man.


    The Masked Man could easily face multiple priests and even snatch the ''Rootless Soul Soil'' from their hands, but now he was utterly at a loss.


    George looked towards the Masked Man from afar.


    Without exaggeration, at this moment, he was the strongest in Blackwood!


    "Boom!"


    The "Unfalling Azure Cloud," the most powerful secret technique of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, transformed into the Azure Cloud itself.


    In George''s hands, it had only reached a proficient level, but now, controlled by one of the oldest elders, it gathered the clouds from the sky to form another dimension. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Composed of clouds like deities, it struck the Masked Man from The Oracle Chamber with a punch, sending him crashing to the edge of the formation barrier.


    "Ha ha ha!"


    The Masked Man, spitting blood, saw George still advancing and laughed madly, "You''re all doomed, I''ve taken the Rootless Soul Soil. In half an hour, even if you''ve masked your presence with your divination methods, the Druids will find this place, and perhaps they''ve already surrounded it!"


    Hearing this.


    George also laughed, somewhat mockingly, "You really got dazed by the hit, didn''t you? We''ve been tracking you for two years; did you really think we in Blackwood weren''t prepared?"


    "What do you mean?"


    The Masked Man, his body slumping, looked towards the west where smoke billowed and the forest turned into a sea of fire.


    That was...


    The direction of the Joy Beast Tribe!


    George sneered, "Compared to the battle here, the destruction of a Druid tribe is far more eye-catching."

 Chapter 225: Chapter 225: No... it wasnt supposed to be like this

    "That''s the direction of the Joy Beast tribe, what''s happening?!!"


    "Are they still after that supernatural item?"


    "What are you talking about? The Emerald Empire is invading!"


    On this day, all the tribes around the Joy Beast tribe were rushing to their aid!


    At this moment.


    The Joy Beast tribe, once collaborators with Olivia, had turned into a sea of flames. Under the bright daylight, the scene was a blazing red, the ground''s blood coagulated from the heat, mixing with the soil and the ashes of vegetation.


    The people of the Joy Beast tribe were fleeing.


    Elder Glenn of the Joy Beast knelt on the ground, clutching the tribe''s soil, tears streaming down his face.


    Today, she was supposed to follow the plan she made with Olivia, leading the Joy Beast tribe''s hidden priests to Crestwood Hills to seize the ''Rootless Soul Soil'' as part of their trade agreement.


    But...


    A group of demons had descended upon the Joy Beast tribe. They came without warning, storming right into the tribe''s sacred grounds!


    "Boom!"


    They were like the flames of today, devouring everything, like reapers from hell.


    In less than an hour, she could no longer sense the presence of the priests!


    "Whoosh~"


    "Thud, thud, thud..."


    The dull sound of footsteps arose in front of the kneeling Glenn, surrounded by burning and collapsing giant trees and buildings. She saw them, saw the huge figures emerging from the flames!


    It was a giant serpent, its dark silhouette visible in the fire, excitedly swaying as it held a soon-to-transform sacred beast of the Joy Beast tribe in its jaws.


    Beneath it.


    A shadow approached, a man carrying a sword case, walking leisurely, then with a dark, seemingly fragile sword in his hand, he sliced through the sky, and a Developing Skill elder fell from the sky.


    "They told you not to set fires, you stinking snake. There are so many ancient trees here, so many treasures of heaven and earth, all burned by your thunder flames."


    A woman in a dirty white robe approached, complaining as she walked, scolding the giant serpent, which bowed its head.


    Then.


    Seven tall and mighty figures appeared, and with them, a slightly shorter handsome man carrying a large sword.


    They emerged from the flames, from the fiery pits of the eighteenth layer of hell.


    They gradually became clear in Glenn''s eyes.


    "Clang... Clang..."


    Their weapons collided or dragged on the ground, the sound painfully sharp.


    Especially... S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia, who had been collaborating with the Joy Beast tribe, always speaking softly and warmly, was still smiling amidst the flames.


    "Why?!! Why?!!!"


    Glenn screamed, her voice hoarse. She used to love Olivia''s smile, but now she wanted to tear Olivia''s mouth apart and burn her as fertilizer for the Joy Beast tribe!


    Olivia calmly said, "This is also part of our cooperation. You helped us obtain the Rootless Soul Soil. Congratulations, you''ve done it, and we from Blackwood have succeeded, while you''ve successfully drawn the attention of other druids."


    "In the days to come, we Blackwood people will fulfill our part of the agreement and destroy the other Harris tribes."


    Glenn''s mind went blank.


    "No... it wasn''t supposed to be like this, the price we agreed to pay wasn''t supposed to be like this!"


    She seemed mad, crawling over the ground, trying to strangle Olivia.


    Olivia still looked calmly at Glenn, her old friend now grotesque, her eyes filled with hatred for her, her gaze holding the most venomous curses and insults.


    Olivia didn''t even defend herself, just watching Glenn''s dying struggles.


    "Thud!"


    Lucas''s sword easily pierced Glenn''s chest, the sword energy wreaking havoc inside her, cutting off all her vitality. Then, dragging the Joy Beast tribe elder by her hair, he dragged her across the ground, regardless of her legs kicking.


    Lucas scanned the surroundings and said in a low voice, "Let''s go, our mission here is done. The druids are on their way."


    "Okay."


    Olivia nodded slightly, her eyes showing a flash of understanding. She gave Glenn one last look, filled with reluctance, "In your next life, don''t engage in schemes and deceit. You have no idea how dangerous it can be, the kind of pressure it puts on you. Because one misstep can destroy everything you cherish."


    "..."


    As she was dragged away, Glenn''s final view was of her tribe, which she had lived with all her life, now reduced to ashes.


    "Crackle, crackle..."


    Everything was burning, just like her life.


    She remembered the mythical beasts of the Joy Beast tribe, and the children happily playing here, their laughter filling the air.


    Olivia was right.


    Unknowingly, she had set a fire here.


    "The high priest... Olivia has fallen into the trap."


    "The Lord of Dawn is nothing special..."


    "Greed and overconfidence will only lead them to their demise..."


    "When Blackwood trusts us, we can use them to eliminate everything and then capture them all..."


    "Ha ha ha..."


    The conversation with the high priest slowly surfaced in her mind.


    Glenn''s eyes filled with despair.


    "It turns out, we were the ones filled with greed and overconfidence all along."


    She entered the eighteen levels of hell, carrying the most vicious curse of her tribe.


    ...


    [Congratulations, your descendant has destroyed the Joy Beast tribe!]


    [You have obtained spoils of war, including the body of a giant serpent on the verge of transformation! Your family''s temple guardian beast is feasting on the enemy''s body, swallowing their Developing Skill and undergoing a wondrous transformation!]


    [You have obtained spoils of war, the body of the high priest.]


    [You have obtained spoils of war...]


    [Your descendant Olivia, in this slaughter, has gained some insights and acquired the trait: Destroyer of Tribes]


    [After years of planning the destruction of tribes, she has wiped out numerous forces and races. Under her leadership, the combat strength of the entire tribe has increased by 5%. With each tribe destroyed, her understanding of the laws of nature deepens.]


    [Your family''s guardian ''Lord of Frenzied Blood'', after devouring a large amount of druid blood, seems to have awakened some ancient lineage, unlocking new spells...]


    "Big haul!"


    Ethan exclaimed joyfully, slamming his hand on the table. This operation was initially just to provide George with an opportunity, but the rewards turned out to be substantial!


    The Thunderfire Raging Python had devoured a demon king on the verge of transformation, accelerating its own transformation process.


    As for the trait ''Destroyer of Tribes''... upon reflection, Olivia truly had destroyed many races and forces.


    The strangest of all was Olivia.


    Her information panel still showed her as a mortal, still borrowing life from Azure Cloud, yet she could harness the power of nature, almost on par with a Competent Force.


    And then there was the Lord of Frenzied Blood... this being had developed a new consciousness, continuously influenced by the people of Blackwood. Now, he had become Blackwood''s most loyal guardian. However, his awakening of a druidic lineage was puzzling to Ethan.


    "Awakened a druidic lineage, is that why he unlocked spells?"


    Ethan murmured, "Could this guy have a connection with the druids?"


    But without any clues, Ethan couldn''t figure it out and decided not to dwell on it.


    Soon.


    The Blackwood party safely escaped through the inferno at the Joy Beast tribe, soaring into the sky, heading towards the place where George and the Masked Man were fighting.


    "Ah? George, you''re ruthless! Competent Force skills, and you''ve been hiding it from your old man, how could you?!!" Thomas looked at George inside the magical barrier, jumping with anger. How was he supposed to discipline this kid now?


    The other members of the third generation of Blackwood felt the same, gritting their teeth in frustration, as if annoyed by the prospect of being unable to surpass their juniors in the future.


    Little did they know, William and Justin had already surpassed them, both bearing wounds and glaring fiercely at George, as if they had only just found out as well.

 Chapter 226: Chapter 226: What a laughable perfect plan

    George was speechless for a moment, then wiped the sweat off his forehead and forced a smile at his elders, "It''s all borrowed, I''m just starting to develop my skills... cough, I''m busy."


    He quickly turned his gaze to the Masked Man at the edge of the barrier, his voice booming, "Take off the mask!"


    At his command, everyone''s eyes shifted to the Masked Man. Their mission, besides acquiring the Rootless Soul Soil, was to capture him alive!


    "Take off the mask!"


    As the words echoed, the Masked Man looked utterly defeated, realizing he had no way out. With George alone stripping him of all his advantages, and knowing Blackwood had even more skilled fighters!


    He gave a bitter laugh, "I want to know, how did you track me down? It seems like you''ve calculated everything. Who is it? Who is plotting against me?"


    "You seem to have killed someone you shouldn''t have."


    George silently pulled out a token, it was... a token from The Oracle Chamber. As long as a member of The Oracle Chamber was within a hundred miles, the token would react!


    Looking at the token, engraved with inscriptions and suppressing its power, the Masked Man felt all his strength leave him.


    He remembered that day on the high tower, when he had scattered Stephen''s soul, that ungrateful old fox still smiling at him.


    He suddenly understood everything.


    With a sigh, the Masked Man slowly removed his mask, revealing only a bitter smile.


    But as he revealed his true face, the eyes of the Blackwood group widened in shock.


    A Psychic from the county town arrived at Betty''s yard, bearing news that drained the color from her face. Staggering, she rushed to the Blackwood hall.


    "Edward, Edward..."


    She had hoped to find her husband, but as she entered the hall, she saw Nathan and his wife seated in the main chairs, and Edward, giving her a glance, shook his head.


    The Duke''s Mansion had been sealed for two years, its secrets unknown, but today, its protective barriers were finally lifted, and the Blackwoods had been watching closely.


    "My brother..." Betty fell to her knees. "He lost the battle for the family leadership and now he''s missing. Please, you must help me find him; he''s the last family I have left. My father will never let him be."


    Nathan and his wife exchanged a glance.


    Luna stepped forward, helping Betty to her feet with a gentle expression. "Betty, let''s talk."


    ...


    Atop Crestwood Hills, the Masked Man slowly removed his mask.


    "Kenneth."


    As his true face was revealed, the temperature seemed to drop, and Olivia murmured his name softly, causing everyone from Blackwood to widen their eyes in shock.


    The family had never ceased their investigations into their own, and they had gathered every piece of information on Kenneth, including details about his sons and his affairs. Yet, they had never imagined that Kenneth, who had been battling Martin in Cloudview County for over a hundred thousand years, was actually the current leader of The Oracle Chamber!


    Martin and his son, who had lived side by side, had never truly seen each other.


    Now, Kenneth, with a bitter smile, faced the Blackwoods.


    The sky was eerily silent, save for the wind.


    Kenneth discarded his mask and, with a long sigh, handed his Storage Ring to George. It contained the ''Rootless Soul Soil'' he had schemed so hard to acquire.


    In that moment, he seemed to shed all his burdens and waved his hand nonchalantly.


    "I''ve lost. Spare my life, in-law; I still have my uses." S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing this, George looked towards his great-aunt, who nodded. Only then did he dissolve the barrier, his power slowly fading.


    Kenneth didn''t fight or flee. Once subservient as a dog to Michael, he now stood tall, unburdened.


    "This isn''t the place to talk. Let''s go down," Olivia said to Kenneth with a faint smile.


    ...


    "Clatter."


    Ethan''s bubble tea fell to the ground. It took him a moment to pick it up and continue drinking; only a little was left.


    [Your family has captured The Oracle Chamber''s Masked Man!]


    In the Psychic Sanctuary, Kenneth''s voice was low.


    "The Oracle Chamber is more complex than you imagine. I only know about the part in the county town because my late Forebearer left me the legacy of The Oracle Chamber when I was a hundred years old."


    "What?!"


    The Blackwoods were once again taken aback. To destroy The Oracle Chamber in Cloudview County and ensure the direct succession of Duke''s Mansion¡ªwhat was the reasoning behind this?


    Kenneth chuckled. "Surprising, isn''t it? I was just as surprised when my Forebearer told me."


    He sighed deeply. "My Forebearer also warned that if I ever betrayed them, Martin would face the full wrath of The Oracle Chamber, possibly even from a Basic Mastery-level powerhouse. As the years passed, to ensure Martin''s existence, I had to accept missions from The Oracle Chamber, even though I''ve never met my direct superior."


    "Over the years, I''ve developed many members within Cloudview County''s The Oracle Chamber, including leaders like Stephen of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, Elder Dylan of the Sky Sect, and the Elder of the Black Tortoise..."


    As Kenneth listed the members of The Oracle Chamber in Cloudview County, the implications were startling.


    Elder Dylan had been the one who had helped Marcus in the past.


    "Years ago, I received a mission," Kenneth continued gravely. "They said the time had come to destroy Cloudview County. I was to inform the Druids and all major powers in Cloudview County to unite against you, the Blackwoods."


    "That was the first time I resisted a mission. I didn''t want to see Cloudview County destroyed. I was even prepared to reveal everything and have my father lead our people to flee."


    For some inexplicable reason, the people of Blackwood could sense the immense burden and pressure hidden behind Kenneth''s seemingly casual words. The Oracle Chamber possessed formidable power; even if they wanted to flee, where could Martin possibly go?


    "But my father''s words gave me some relief," Kenneth said with a self-deprecating laugh. "I could never fully understand him. One day, I subtly leaked some information to him to ensure Blackwood''s safety, to solve everything. He was confident, telling me that Martin had to be directly involved."


    As he spoke, tears streamed down Kenneth''s face, his voice gradually turning into a low growl.


    "I believed him, so I methodically carried out my tasks, even killing Stephen, that troublesome traitor. I thought he had a perfect plan, haha, what a laughable ''perfect'' plan¡ªit was all driven by his own interests!"


    "Do you know what he said?" Kenneth continued, his voice filled with scorn.


    "He said he would wait, just maintain a balance, let all the powerful forces in Cloudview County exhaust themselves! He was prepared all along. The neighboring Starlight County was also getting ready; they were all waiting to pick up the pieces. My father had secretly promised Starlight County a third of our taxes for a thousand years."


    "And if all else failed, he could still escape. He was a duke, a noble of the empire; he could ask the Emerald Emperor to let him develop new lands."


    The people of Blackwood could see Kenneth''s breakdown.

 Chapter 227: Chapter 227: An Unstoppable War!

    Imagine if Nathan suddenly turned into a scoundrel, the kind who would abandon his own family to achieve his goals. How devastated would they be? For a moment, everyone shivered with dread.


    At that moment, Kenneth''s face was streaked with tears. "Two years ago, I couldn''t take it anymore, and I dropped the facade I had maintained for many years to confront my father."


    "I told him everything, that I wanted to become the new head of the family, and The Oracle Chamber agreed. But..."


    "I lost. I thought I had won over Martin''s loyalty, but I later realized I couldn''t do it. Even my closest allies were spies my father had left by my side."


    "I had no choice but to follow the secrets left by our ancestors and come here to seize the Rootless Soul Soil, no longer concerning myself with the affairs of Cloudview County."


    Look at this father and son.


    Kenneth, a long-time member of The Oracle Chamber, was constantly thinking about saving Cloudview County. Michael, on the other hand, a Duke, was leading Cloudview County to ruin. Kenneth, such a man, was led by the nose, a truly lamentable sight.


    Olivia closed her eyes, clenched her teeth, and remained silent.


    Amelia glanced at her sister, narrowing her eyes, "Maybe you should have come to us earlier to eliminate Michael. There''s still a chance now."


    "With you here, you can reveal everything, whether it''s suing in the capital or leading the experts of Cloudview County to take down Martin directly. Both are good strategies."


    "Now... the advantage is on our side."


    Everyone nodded in agreement, smiles of relief appearing on their faces.


    Even Thomas from the third generation of Blackwood loudly said, "Yes, let''s inform the surrounding counties... no, for such a vile man, we should be the ones to take him down ourselves!"


    Kenneth gave a wry smile.


    Just as he was about to speak.


    Olivia opened her eyes and let out a long sigh, "It''s too late, everything is too late."


    As her words fell.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, the ground shook, and the air was heavy with tension!


    Everyone in Blackwood changed their expressions and looked outside the cave.


    They saw.


    Originally, many tribes were heading towards the destroyed Joy Beast tribe, but suddenly, all these tribes stopped in their tracks!


    The cave was situated on high ground.


    Everyone''s eyes widened as they looked across the Endless Forest, where suddenly all the tribes seemed to have received a command at the same moment!


    Terrifyingly tall trees, hundreds of feet high, uprooted themselves, shaking off rocks and dirt as giant beasts carefully moved through the Endless Forest, carrying druids towards the direction of Cloudview County!


    This time.


    There were more tribes than the three-sided tribal conflict two years ago, and they were stronger! Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Great-aunt... this..."


    George swallowed hard.


    Olivia sighed deeply, "The Oracle Chamber and the druids have a bigger appetite than we imagined."


    ...


    [Special Event¡ªAn Unstoppable War!]


    [Your family and the righteous of Cloudview County have tried to stop a war. You have outmaneuvered the chess players and won before. But you have never escaped the fate of being pawns. Cloudview County was just a pawn to distract the Emerald Empire, keeping all eyes on Cloudview County while you struggle to survive in a chaotic world.]


    In front of the screen, Ethan clenched his teeth tightly.


    Olivia said ''it''s too late'', but it''s not too late, they had been very successful.


    The only problem was, they were only focused on Cloudview County.


    [Your descendant Larry reports to you, he saw it, the druids suddenly rushing into Starlight County!]


    [Riley, being struck by heavenly thunder, reports to you, he saw Cedar County sending several priests who beat a Competent Force expert to death.]


    [Your descendant Marcus reports to you, his master Warren Daoist went to the capital to report on the affairs of Cloudview County, mentioning the capture of a member of The Oracle Chamber. But he was chased by the capital''s elites, and the last message sent back was that the Emerald Emperor was severely injured and in seclusion!]


    "So, Cloudview County was just a small pawn."


    His expression darkened, they had worked hard, trying to ensure Blackwood had peaceful days, just like these past few years, the whole family gathering together for fun. But now, they were still affected by the damned situation.


    "Ding-a-ling."


    Suddenly, the phone rang. Ethan turned it off; he wasn''t in the mood. He knew the family was facing a severe crisis. "I need to go into seclusion and break through to the Competent Force level. Only then can I truly help my family!"


    At that moment.


    In the laboratory, Orion, dressed in a white lab coat, darkened his expression as he heard the ''The number you have dialed is switched off'' message, almost ready to smash his phone.


    Behind him, there came a burst of joyful laughter from the staff.


    "We found it, haha, we found it, and there are ancient inscriptions on it!"


    Orion hurried out to see a team member approaching, holding a silver coffin¡ªan ability weapon, indicating the person''s significant status.


    All the staff were busy deciphering the inscriptions.


    [We tried hard to prevent disaster from befalling our homeland, but we failed.]


    [I am still proud.]


    [Proud to have lived in this era, to have fought selflessly for the future of Azure Cloud, even in the darkest of futures, we still held onto hope.]


    [Proud that I fought alongside Blackwood, standing behind the times.]


    [And now, they are still fighting, carrying the will of all of us, standing against those who scheme from their high towers!]


    Even though it was from a long-gone era.


    Everyone looking at the inscriptions in the coffin could feel the solemnity of that time!


    It seemed they were caught in a tremendous calamity, united and never giving up, even in death.


    "This family..."


    Orion murmured, having received various relics. It seemed this family was a very sinister one, their children trained to kill from a young age, emotionless, their aura filled with murderous intent.


    Among them were corpse drivers, demons, despicable assassins, and poison masters... even groveling traitors.


    They must have been a large family of dark cultivators.


    Yet, they seemed to be leaders of their era as well.

 Chapter 228: Chapter 228: The master says, prepare for battle!

    "Aunt Olivia, what should we do now?" Even Thomas, a notorious demon lord, was losing his composure.


    He too had noticed that the entire Druid order was stirring. They were like ferocious beasts, eager to devour the delicious morsel that was Cloudview County!


    The Forebearer had already given them a sign!


    On the fringes of the Emerald Empire, county towns were under attack by the Druids at this very moment, and to make matters worse, there were troubles brewing within the capital itself.


    "Focus on the present."


    Olivia let out a long sigh. "It won''t be easy for the Druids to make their move. I need time to clear my head. For now, you all should go home, and I''ll investigate the Druids'' activities."


    "Alright."


    Lucas nodded slightly. He had seen his sister''s capabilities; she could move through Druid territory as if it were uninhabited. Given the current situation, that was all they could do, even though the enemies of Cloudview County had just increased!


    As the group was leaving, they noticed Kenneth hadn''t moved.


    Lucas frowned. "What about him?"


    Kenneth gave a bitter smile. "Killing me won''t help you..."


    "That''s not true, your corpse would be quite valuable."


    William licked his lips.


    Kenneth was momentarily speechless, but Olivia shook her head at the others and smiled at Kenneth, "Stay alive. I look forward to the day you meet Michael again."


    Under Kenneth''s gaze, the Blackwood clan departed.


    His expression was one of dawning comprehension; he seemed to grasp the meaning in Olivia''s words.


    "There will be another day. I... I haven''t lost yet. Yes, Cloudview County hasn''t lost either. We still have a chance!"


    ...


    "Yes, we haven''t lost. I must win!"


    Ethan narrowed his eyes.


    He was closely observing the situation on his game screen.


    Indeed, the county towns around the Emerald Empire had been invaded, and the situation seemed one-sided. News of the death of a Competent Force expert had arrived swiftly.


    But that didn''t mean Blackwood had no place to survive. Blackwood had survived the hostility of the entire Cloudview County before, and they could do it again, though this time they might have to abandon their ancestral land.


    At the Psychic Position, which was the shrine, the whole world was Blackwood''s hunting ground!


    However, that meant he couldn''t descend into the world to absorb the natural energy and attempt a breakthrough.


    "If I enter the game now, there''s still time."


    Ethan took a deep breath.


    His current Spiritual Tribute value was enough for him to descend for a long time, and he could come out at any moment if there were an emergency.


    He switched his view to the ancestral land.


    [Would you like to use the Forebearer moment?]


    [You are currently at the peak of Developing Skill.]


    [Entering the game world to cultivate psychic powers will consume 50,000 Spiritual Tribute points per year!]


    [Confirm entry!]


    In an instant.


    Ethan entered the game world, invisible to all as before.


    The boundary, marked by a red circle, had expanded to the size of a county town.


    Now, Blackwood looked even more formidable than the last time he saw it, and all the affiliated forces were busily preparing for battle.


    Nathan was directing the people of Gratitude Village.


    Before long.


    The Blackwood people who had gone to Crestwood Hills returned.


    [Blackwood Year 130, the Great Blackwood Festival begins.]


    [Your descendants offer you a Tribute...]


    A pale blue screen appeared, and Ethan, as before, chose items that could enhance his abilities.


    In the shrine.


    Ethan sat quietly at the shrine table, watching his family members kneel in worship. He truly felt like a spirit, watching his descendants honor him, a strange feeling of being revered even after death.


    As Nathan finished the annual sacrificial speech.


    Nathan bowed deeply. "Forebearer, with the total assault by the Druids imminent, please rest assured, your children have weathered many storms before, and we will survive this disaster too!"


    "What instructions do you have, Forebearer?"


    The Thunderfire Raging Python appeared, having undergone significant changes after devouring a demon king in the Joy Beast Tribe. It had grown two long tentacles.


    Ethan clicked on the blue screen, still displaying the Thunderfire Raging Python''s icon.


    This time it seemed to be handwritten.


    As Ethan typed, the Thunderfire Raging Python spoke in a deep voice, "The master says, prepare for battle!"


    "Yes, Forebearer!" The descendants of Blackwood smiled.


    They were a family used to doing as they pleased, and after a few quiet years, they even found themselves longing for the adrenaline of dangerous days.


    ...


    As the grand festival concluded, Ethan sat cross-legged under the Primordial Blood Tree, while the people of Blackwood fell into a quiet anticipation, waiting for the Druids to make their move.


    They had traveled a long way to Cloudview County, a journey of at least half a month.


    The busiest were the allied forces of Blackwood, who had heard the news and were now setting various traps. Everyone could feel the danger descending upon Cloudview County; this was no longer a personal matter, protecting their homeland was crucial.


    Beneath the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree, a mysterious yellow light excited the tree, causing it to sway.


    [Rootless Soul Soil]


    [This special soil, existing for a million years, can generate unique abilities and give birth to Stone Beasts where it lies.]


    This was originally the habitat of the Giant Rock ability clan, where Stone Beasts were born and controlled by the Giant Rock Clark tribe.


    At this moment, with the Rootless Soul Soil beneath it, the Primordial Blood Tree was undergoing strange changes.


    Within a ten-meter radius of it, the ground had transformed into something resembling granite, etched with mysterious patterns. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was... altering the terrain of Blackwood!


    Even a full-force strike from Foundational Energy couldn''t damage such ground.


    The people of Blackwood, having heard the news, excitedly gathered to observe.


    Ethan grinned.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree reports to you that it and the Rootless Soul Soil can complement each other. It can continuously make the land of Blackwood more robust through its intelligence, slowly altering the terrain within the range of its roots. Moreover, with sufficient ability, it can summon massive Stone Beasts.]


    "If this gives the family enough time, couldn''t we become a force even stronger than the Giant Rock Clark tribe?"


    This pleasant surprise delighted Ethan, no wonder the Primordial Blood Tree wanted to experiment when the Rootless Soul Soil returned to the family.


    Ethan even noticed that the Primordial Blood Tree was undergoing another phase of transformation.


    While the people of Blackwood were excited, Olivia in her wheelchair noticed Helen, who was frowning and trying to stay behind the others.


    Olivia narrowed her eyes, "Helen, where is Nicholas?"


    A cold wind blew through, making today in Blackwood feel particularly chilly.


    ...

 Chapter 229: Chapter 229: You are not a coward.

    Dust and gunpowder filled the air.


    This was a city in ruins, where the Druids had set up campfires, dancing and singing around them.


    Totems surrounded them, symbols of their ancient and profound heritage, yet they still indulged in primitive rituals.


    They were celebrating their return to the lands of the Emerald Empire, praising the tribes on the outskirts that had breached the borders of the Emerald Empire''s counties.


    Suddenly, the Druids fell silent.


    Today, a human boldly entered their midst¡ª


    Nicholas!


    He squinted his eyes as he entered the stone cave where the high priest, Luke, resided.


    Luke, with a mocking smile, still managed to appear courteous. "Ah, Nicholas, the new head of the Blackwood family. I saw you at the full moon feast. Perhaps my visit to Blackwood was a mistake."


    Nicholas took a deep breath.


    He bowed respectfully to Luke. "Honored High Priest, may I inquire if the collaboration you wished to discuss with my family still holds any value?"


    "Oh?"


    Luke sat on the ground, fiddling with a turtle shell, not even glancing at Nicholas. "Do you know what this is? We Druids use it to divine the right time and place for action. Do you know why I visited Blackwood? The answer lies on this shell; we could be the best of allies."


    "Unfortunately, a wise man knows his own timing, and your family''s Nathan is no wise man."


    In the past, Nicholas might have fought anyone who dared to insult his elder. Now, he clenched his fists inside his sleeves but remained still, his voice tense. "I''m asking if it''s still effective."


    Luke scoffed. "With the Druid army pressing in, and our forces multiplied within Cloudview County, why should I give you a second chance? Convince me."


    Nicholas took another deep breath.


    "The current situation requires us as allies. All the border counties are under attack, but that doesn''t mean humans will sit idly by. You need someone to help negotiate and persuade on your behalf."


    "You can''t be everywhere at once; your tribal lands might also be attacked by other Druids, so you need us to manage the territories for you."


    "Other Druids will contest with you for power, and we at Blackwood can eliminate those troubles for you in the shadows."


    Hearing this, Luke finally looked directly at Nicholas, a smile creeping across his face. "Interesting. But Nathan told me that day that there are no cowards in Blackwood. I want to see if his words hold true."


    Moments later.


    Documents bearing the Blackwood family seal, offering terms of surrender, scattered throughout the Clark territories.


    Nicholas stood on a giant eagle, lifeless as he followed Luke to Blackwood.


    All of Blackwood''s people stood on the city walls, their brows furrowed, their faces filled with anger, yet they remained silent.


    Until Nicholas, looking lost and defeated, flew towards the Blackwood city walls from the sky.


    Luke, standing on the giant eagle, laughed loudly. "Congratulations, Blackwood. From today onwards, no matter how the war progresses, danger will not touch Blackwood''s land, unless we Druids are defeated. We have finally become the most loyal allies!"


    As if declaring victory, Luke circled around the Blackwood stronghold and headed back towards Clark.


    The air at the Blackwood stronghold seemed to freeze.


    Nathan had just approached Nicholas when Nicholas knelt on the ground, his hands supporting him on the earth, wet with his tears.


    "Did you kneel before Luke like this?"


    "Yes."


    "Do you realize you''re slapping me in the face?"


    "I do."


    "Sigh¡ª"


    Nathan shook his head, raised his hand, but the slap never came. In the end, he said nothing, only letting out a long sigh as he led the family away.


    Nicholas remained kneeling, from day to night, and through to dawn, with only Helen by his side.


    Finally.


    His choked voice broke the silence, "Sister Helen, the sacred tree was right, I am a coward."


    "No, Nicholas, you are not a coward. You''re not."


    Helen held her husband tightly, tears streaming down her face. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She knew when Nicholas had gone to meet with the Druids, yet she hadn''t stopped him.


    She had watched her little man grow up, just as she had taken on the responsibility of managing the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion when Dennis had left.


    She had watched Nicholas gradually take on the responsibilities of their family.


    Life offers many choices, and people can take risks they shouldn''t, and they can start over when they make mistakes.


    But as a leader of a community, a clan, a household, they don''t have the luxury of taking risks. They can only choose the broadest, safest path. It doesn''t matter if it''s humiliating, if people mock them, or if they are misunderstood.


    From dawn until the moon hung high, Nicholas finally stood up from Helen''s embrace. He stood atop the high wall, looking over his family as if nothing had happened. He suddenly smiled at Helen, pointing out various places around their home.


    "Helen, over there, that''s where I used to play as a child, where you and Grandpa Dennis kept me company. When I returned from the Thunderfire Demon Cave, it was just as it always was, the swing I played on as a child was still there."


    "And there, after the battle outside our town, the old village chief made me promise to cultivate more medicinal fields in Gratitude Village. He wanted the children of Gratitude Village to grow strong and protect this land. I''ve done it, and now all the children can benefit from the ''Bone Strengthening Pills'' produced by our alchemy hall."


    "I also want to expand the Silver Iron Forest for miles and miles. I want our town to produce more powerful Psychics. I want our family''s allies to settle in Gratitude Village. I want my family to endure through the ages."


    Nicholas opened his arms wide, as if erasing the events of yesterday, sharing his grandest visions until a long silence fell. He seemed to be painting the most beautiful blueprint in his mind.


    Then he reached out to Helen, his face tear-stained but with a slight apologetic smile.


    "Helen, will you walk with me, even though I''m a coward?"


    That night, Nicholas stood before the bright moon, as if shielding it from the darkness behind him, his smile radiant.


    Helen rushed into Nicholas''s arms, her voice firm, "I will. I will walk with you, face everything."


    She remembered.


    When her husband was a child, he had listened to stories of his elders, saying they were doing great things, greater than the sandcastles he built, and that he wanted to be a hero like them when he grew up.


    Her husband had said he was not a coward, so he would follow his brother out of Blackwood. He had fallen and complained in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, but he always got back up.


    He had told her of his adventures outside, his Great River Dragon Map, his talismans, how he had slain the prodigies praised by the world.


    Her husband refused to be a coward!


    "Thank you."


    Nicholas''s gentle voice filled her ears, and Helen softly responded, "Mhm."


    She knew her husband had once been a hero.


    He had grown up, his strength had increased, and he could have been as carefree and vengeful as his elders, following his desires. But what he carried on his back was not the sword of his dreams, but...


    The entire Blackwood.

 Chapter 230: Chapter 230: Admit that we are the weak.

    Nicholas had no idea that the Forebearer had been following him all along.


    "Ethan sighed deeply, having watched and questioned himself: Was Nicholas truly a coward?


    Everyone has their own convictions, just like Nathan insisted on having the family''s descendants stand tall, fighting the Druids despite the generations of effort that built their homeland.


    Nicholas chose to compromise, to accept humiliation. Ethan believed that no one would choose to bow down if there were better options available.


    "In the end, it all comes down to power."


    Ethan leaned against the wall, standing shoulder to shoulder with Nicholas, looking over the thousands of lights in Gratitude Village. He believed that the descendants of the family would understand Nicholas''s reasons just as he did.


    "So, my children, admit it," he said, his eyes bright as stars and as promising as the soon-to-rise sun, whispering into the night, "Admit that we are the weak. But one day, we will stand before the Druids, alongside Nicholas, and face Luke in a different way."


    "Face... all of this."


    Ethan jumped down from the wall and returned to sit cross-legged under the Primordial Blood Tree.


    He focused intently, sensing the laws of the natural energy around him.


    As the energy of Developing Skill gathered to form a Pinnacle Apprentice, he awaited the day he would break through to become a Competent Force, ready to rebuild and fight for his family once more.


    As time passed, the Blackwood clan secluded themselves, cultivating psychic powers.


    Ethan''s view was limited to the Blackwood grounds. He occasionally walked around, checking the family''s information on a semi-transparent panel as usual.


    Now and then, Druids visited the Blackwood grounds, brought by Nicholas.


    He handled it well; even in cooperation with the Druids, the Blackwood''s pride was intact. Facing ordinary Druids, he had his ways.


    Ethan also saw Luke''s true form visiting Blackwood.


    He resisted the urge to return to reality and kill the old man with the help of his clan.


    They needed Luke alive.


    A year quickly passed.


    [Blackwood Year 131]


    [Your descendant Nicholas, with the Druids, went to persuade the Sky Sect to surrender. Your descendant Marcus learned of this in advance. With the Grand Elder Warren Daoist missing and unable to resist, he had to take most of the disciples and leave the Sky Temple. Some elders and disciples who chose to resist to the end detonated the sect.]


    Seeing this message, Ethan also looked at his Core of Power.


    Inside the Core of Power, the form of a Pinnacle Apprentice was taking shape, soon to become a Competent Force!


    This great battle saw the entire Cloudview County in turmoil, yet Blackwood remained unscathed.


    This year, the clan seemed to have forgotten everything before.


    Within the family, they continued cultivating psychic powers, doing everything possible to increase their skills. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A semi-transparent screen caught Ethan''s attention.


    [The family''s guardian beast, the Thunderfire Raging Python, is undergoing a transformation. It requests that you allow the clan to take it to another place to await the heavenly tribulation!]


    "Thunderfire Raging Python? It''s transforming?" Ethan''s face lit up with joy. Since the Thunderfire Raging Python had devoured a demon king on the verge of transformation, it had grown tentacles, and its next step was to transform into a dragon-like creature¡ªa significant phase for mythical beasts.


    With joy, Ethan instructed his people to protect the beast.


    Soon, the Blackwood people and the Thunderfire Raging Python arrived at the Forebearer''s shrine.


    The clan members looked excitedly at the Thunderfire Raging Python, though their eyes still held worry.


    "Guardian beast, where do you plan to undergo your tribulation?"


    Nathan looked solemn, his years of cultivating psychic powers had taught him the terror of the Competent Force''s heavenly tribulation. Many psychics, even those who had reached the Pinnacle Apprentice stage, dared not break their core to face it, as few below that level survived the tribulation.


    The Thunderfire Raging Python spoke gravely, "Let''s head to the Thunderfire Demon Cave. Although the power of thunder and fire there is somewhat weak, it can still offer me some assistance and increase my chances of survival."


    As it spoke, it chuckled, "If I don''t make it back alive, please find a stronger guardian beast for the master."


    The Blackwood clan remained silent for a long time.


    Suddenly, Olivia suggested, "Don''t go to the Thunderfire Demon Cave. I know of a place called ''Chilling Gorge.'' The power of the icy rocks there can counteract some of the heavenly tribulation''s force."


    "This..."


    The Thunderfire Raging Python seemed to understand something, its eyes narrowing, "Chilling Gorge must be the place you''ve chosen for your own tribulation, right? I can''t..."


    Before it could finish, Olivia smiled, "It''s okay. Your contributions to the family are well known. When the time comes for my tribulation, I have my ways. I won''t let it fall, and it wouldn''t dare!"


    Despite its doubts, the Thunderfire Raging Python, reassured by Olivia''s confident demeanor, led the Blackwood clan members away.


    This journey included Amelia, Gary, and a few other clan members. With them present and the location being remote, it was sufficient.


    Before departing, Nathan gifted it a top-tier ability weapon from the family''s treasury to help it withstand the lightning tribulation.


    Ethan seemed to understand Olivia''s words, as if he alone could see the thunder still lingering above Olivia''s head, and beneath it, countless souls... The thunder would strike down, first annihilating these innumerable souls.


    Days of cultivating psychic powers always flew by quickly. In the blink of an eye, two years had passed.


    Ethan had grasped a part of the wood attribute laws, which were also the intrinsic power of the Primordial Blood Tree. He then delved inch by inch into the ground next to the Rootless Soul Soil, finding it easier than ever to comprehend the laws of the earth attribute.


    During his spare moments, he also kept an eye on his descendants'' progress. Since everyone was diligently cultivating psychic powers, there were few other distractions, with most activities related to their cultivation.


    [Blackwood Year 133]


    [Your descendant Edward is in seclusion, refining his earth pill with sword formations and the ground-level technique ''Azure Cloud Unfalling''.]


    [Nathan has made a breakthrough to the peak of Developing Skill after accumulating experience over time!]


    [George, having become more skilled in the Competent Force phase after the last great battle, with the help of many elders, has gradually advanced to the mid-stage of Developing Skill.]


    While the descendants were hard at work cultivating psychic powers, two pieces of information stood out.


    [Your descendant Jeffrey, diligently practicing ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'', is expecting a daughter with his partner...]


    [Joseph, after intense cultivation, has finally at the age of 41, fallen to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability...]


    Jeffrey, well, that guy. After coming back, he completely indulged in beauty... No, he has always been indulged in beauty. Recently, he has fathered four children with his partners, and two more are pregnant.


    It seems he''s quietly expanding the family, then planning to astonish everyone.


    As for Joseph?


    Ethan slightly lifted his head, this odd fellow, 41 years old but not showing signs of aging, was asleep on the Primordial Blood Tree.


    This guy is different from the others!


    [Your descendant Joseph, having gained insight into the heavenly technique ''Dream Return of the Ancient God'' from ''ancient god blood''. Only those with ancient god blood can use it, the great technique of the ancient god dream, falling from the peak of Emerging Ability to a mortal, the great technique can be achieved!]


    Ethan was envious.


    "Work hard, my children. Someday we''ll capture an ancient god and extract its blood, then we can practice this technique!"

 Chapter 231: Chapter 231: Exploding Sky Serpent

    Spring departs and autumn arrives.


    [Blackwood 137 years]


    This time, Ethan emerged from the earth, and Blackwood grew even stronger.


    Ethan walked through the family estate. It had been four years since the Thunderfire Raging Python and the clan members had left. Breaking through the Competent Force was not simple, and even in an excellent place for transcendence, there were dangers; they also needed to set up magical formations to withstand the heavenly tribulations.


    A recent message also indicated that they were safe and sound.


    [Your descendant Donna, in Chilling Gorge, endured the forces of earth and the chilling ice to temper her body. With the help of Thunderfire Raging Python and Gary, she acquired a special constitution: the Ice-Rock Body.]


    [Her body has become more robust, using the Ice-Rock Body, she can wield the power of ice and rock against her enemies. Her constitution has improved by 50%, and her strength by 10%.]


    The family''s younger generation continued to cultivate psychic powers.


    Ethan headed towards where Nathan was.


    [Your descendant Nathan has been accumulating knowledge and experience, attempting to break through the fourth layer of Death Coffin. Years of perseverance, although not reaching the deepest part of the third layer, have solidified his psychic powers and foundation, increasing his speed in digesting elixirs and medicines.


    An eighth-grade Blood Psychic Fruit has further enhanced his Psychic Constitution, breaking through the peak of Developing Skill!]


    Nathan was definitely the one with the most solid foundation in the family, mastering powerful techniques and martial arts, all practiced deeply within Death Coffin, even his spiritual body was the most solid.


    Ethan had once seen Nathan in battle, unremarkable at first, but his opponents would eventually find that Nathan had few weaknesses, and as time passed, they would be slowly worn down by him.


    This guy... a Hexagonal Psychic.


    Meanwhile, in Death Coffin, there were also the third generation of Blackwood and Lucas...


    The third generation of Blackwood had now abandoned their beloved heavy weapons, picking up rusty swords, with piles of sword manuals that Lucas had collected over the years, then going off to practice swordsmanship. Every few days, they would return with a grimace, practicing swords with Lucas...


    [To inspire the younger generation to cultivate psychic powers, your descendant Lucas guided the third generation of Blackwood in swordsmanship. He issued them challenging psychic power cultivation tasks, requiring them to master a new sword technique every seven days and spar with him. If they lost, they would continue to fight, thus motivating the third generation of Blackwood to persevere.]


    [After years of cultivating psychic powers, Lucas broke through the mid-stage of Developing Skill, his Sword Pill nearing perfection, and he began refining the supreme ability weapon, the Heavenly Star Sword, as his life-bound ability weapon.]


    [Your descendant, the third generation of Blackwood, after years of practicing swordsmanship, gained deep insights into the techniques, feeling deeply grateful to Lucas. They acquired the trait: Sword Disdainer]


    [Upon encountering sword cultivators, their hostility increases by 30%, and their combat power increases by 80%!]


    "Ahem..."


    Watching Thomas grimacing, not at all intimidating as he walked towards Lucas with a sword, Ethan coughed lightly. Such touching scenes were better left unseen.


    Afterward.


    Ethan left Death Coffin, glanced at the elemental forces of wood and earth within him, and frowned, "The elemental forces of the five elements should be enough for me to break through to Competent Force, right? Next, I''ll go to Julian to experience the forces of metal and iron."


    Soon, Ethan arrived at Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    There he saw Julian still forging, Donna was the only physical cultivator in the family, but actually, abandoning the identity of the ancestor of psychic abilities, Ethan felt Julian was more like a physical cultivator...


    That bald head''s hammer was getting bigger and heavier, and his physique was growing larger, almost like an ordinary person wielding an excavator''s shovel to forge.


    "Huh?"


    Upon seeing Julian, Ethan was stunned; this guy... originally only his left arm was silver, but now his right arm had also turned silver!


    [As his strength grew, the metals he forged became harder, and your descendant Julian crafted a right arm to match his left. He was amazed to discover that with the implantation of the right arm, he found the meridians connecting both arms, storing more robust psychic powers, breaking through the mid-stage of Developing Skill!]


    [He gained the trait: Ability Weapon Body!]


    [His body will more easily accommodate ability weapons, also more easily manipulate ability weapons, each ability weapon in his possession can exert greater power than if controlled by psychic powers alone. Moreover, he can manipulate multiple ability weapons simultaneously!]


    Ethan felt a chill despite the lack of any tangible threat. Using multiple ability weapons at once was daunting. Normally, just one required a connection through psychic powers and the soul. Managing two or three was already a feat.


    Ethan imagined Julian with dozens, even hundreds of ability weapons floating behind him. How desperate would his opponents feel?


    Lost in thought, Ethan saw Julian suddenly stop forging. The young man was touching his bald head, staring intently at his legs, "With the strength in my hands, even the peak of Developing Skill wouldn''t dare to withstand my hammer. But I lack speed and stamina. If I could enhance my legs with the power of wind and draw strength from the earth..."


    Julian''s eyes sparkled brighter as he spoke, and he excitedly ran towards the Death Coffin, "Mom, Dad, haha, I''ve got it! I''m going to cut off my legs, get me the materials!"


    Watching Julian''s retreating figure and hearing his shouts, along with Mary cursing through clenched teeth, Ethan just scratched his head in bewilderment.


    Sometimes, even as a Forebearer, one felt helpless because descendants could be so bizarre.


    Thinking of Julian willingly chopping off his own arms and planning to sever his legs, all while smiling foolishly, Ethan shuddered and decided to stop thinking about it. He sat down to meditate, focusing on understanding the laws of metal and fire, while keeping an eye on the pale blue screen in front of him.


    ...


    It wasn''t until [Blackwood 139 years] later that Ethan opened his eyes from his meditation. Julian was still forging nearby, working with a mold that perfectly matched his left foot.


    This time, however, it wasn''t a new law he had discerned.


    A flicker of joy crossed his face.


    "Success!"


    [The temple guardian at Chilling Gorge has survived its heavenly tribulation! As a Thunderfire Raging Python, it possesses the power of thunder and flame, which counteract each other. The heavenly tribulation brought severe divine punishment, and in the clash of thunder and fire, it nearly perished but also found fortune.] Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [The Thunderfire Raging Python has transformed into an Exploding Sky Serpent.]


    [It can absorb the natural energy of heaven and earth, causing thunder and fire to roar and explode wherever it goes.]


    [The family''s prized ability weapon, the ''Heavenly Command Orb,'' shattered and merged into its body, becoming its life-core orb!]


    [In the clash of thunder and fire, it chose to forgo transforming its shape, retaining its psychic powers to sustain itself. It has taken on a second form, the Mist Serpent.]


    [With thunder and fire transforming into smoke, its movements become hard to track.]


    Despite the updates on the screen, Ethan furrowed his brows, sensing the difficulty of this breakthrough.


    He didn''t dare delay and quickly arranged for his clan to assist.

 Chapter 232: Chapter 232: Help! Uncles going to kill someone!

    At this moment, the once frozen Chilling Gorge was breaking apart, its ancient ice shattering and melting.


    Rocks tumbled everywhere, and amidst the chaos lay a gigantic red dragon!


    Surrounding it were numerous druids.


    Dark clouds burst overhead, and the oppressive force from the battle of the Competent Force warriors made the air heavy for miles around.


    Protectors from Blackwood, along with Amelia and Nathan from Sky CorpseGary, had arrived, never expecting to encounter a group of druids on a mission, numbering in the thousands!


    The Exploding Sky Serpent''s heavy eyelids drooped.


    It had faced its most perilous trial yet, the dragon''s tribulation, despite possessing a top-tier ability weapon and an ideal location for the ordeal.


    It had endured the thunder tribulation, which struck in multiples of nine, a total of fifty-four times!


    Now, it was utterly drained of strength.


    It couldn''t even fend off these druids, who seemed as insignificant as ants.


    Yet, they couldn''t kill it either.


    "Donna...Donna..."


    The vision of the Exploding Sky Serpent blurred, but it could still see everyone fighting.


    Before it, a muscular girl with her hair in a bun stood guard, repeatedly charging at the approaching druids and being forced back each time.


    She was battered and bruised, yet she kept surging forward.


    "Nobody... is getting past me!!!" Donna yelled, wiping the blood from her mouth, her eyes wild with fury.


    She fiercely protected the temple guardian beast behind her, her body growing more robust, her skin turning as hard as ice.


    Anyone who dared approach the guardian beast would face her unleashed power!


    Five snaps of a finger, and her arm was broken.


    Twenty snaps, and she could feel her ribs cracking.


    Her internal organs were damaged.


    Yet, she staggered on in battle until the sound of a sword chiming signaled a momentary return to her original form.


    An elder threw a healing pill into her mouth, and a warm flow revitalized her, mending her injuries as she was carried next to the dragon.


    She faintly heard the elder telling her to rest.


    Donna wanted to rise, to keep fighting, but she had no strength left.


    She remembered her grandfather Daniel asking why she was so determined to cultivate psychic powers.


    She had said she didn''t want to be bullied anymore.


    Now, she realized she didn''t want her family to be bullied either.


    Powerlessly, she looked up at the sky, recalling scenes from the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Back then, she and her brother always had their useless younger brother trailing behind, needing help to keep running.


    The useless brother, always toyed with by demonic cultivators, was forever the weak link, even among elders.


    If she could turn back time, she wished she could return to the past, so her brother wouldn''t have to grow up, wouldn''t have to become the head of the family.


    Over the years, her brother had become withdrawn, no longer daring to face his family, like a true coward.


    She didn''t believe it; she wanted to prove...


    The Exploding Sky Serpent closed its heavy eyes, its blood seeping onto Donna.


    Suddenly, Donna stood up, her muscles bulging, her body covered in icy rock, and she charged at the druids once more!


    "Great-grandfather, great-grandmother!" Donna roared, "Nicholas always gets back up every time he falls! He''s scared of demonic cultivators, but he always bravely approaches them. He tries hard, always trying to keep up with us."


    "He''s just like me, no matter what happens, he''ll stand by our side, even in front of us!"


    "Believe me... believe me!!!"


    Her roar was fierce, her punch devastating, sending waves of force a hundred meters long, knocking down druids one by one.


    High above, Lucas and Amelia frowned, exchanging glances.


    They could see this child didn''t need to be so battered, yet she seemed driven to prove something, choosing the toughest opponents, venting her frustrations.


    Lucas descended again, intending to carry Donna back to the Exploding Sky Serpent, but she grabbed his wrist tightly.


    Her eyes were bloodshot, staring straight at him, and though Lucas could tell she was delirious, she still choked out, "Nicholas is not a coward..."


    Until she passed out.


    In the chilling depths of Gorge, Lucas and Amelia were tidying up the aftermath.


    At this moment, the Exploding Sky Serpent and Donna had awoken.


    Lucas glanced at Donna, who looked disheartened, and shook his head.


    He then turned to Amelia and said, "Sister, the entire druid tribe has been wiped out, but the news of the dragon''s ordeal has probably spread. The Exploding Sky Serpent, being of Competent Force, is too risky to bring back home. It might alert the druids to our family''s growing strength, spoiling Nicholas''s good intentions."


    "Take the Exploding Sky Serpent back to the demon lair," he instructed.


    Donna''s ears perked up from a distance, her gaze sharpening.


    Amelia nodded slightly, "With the Demon Lord there, the druids would think twice before causing trouble at the Thunderfire Demon Cave."


    Without further ado, Amelia led the Exploding Sky Serpent towards the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    As the dragon departed, it looked back at Donna with a sense of longing.


    When it was powerless, it had only seen Donna defending it fiercely, wishing it could treat Donna as its own child.


    Lucas, along with Donna and three other clan members, proceeded towards their family estate.


    Along the way, Donna couldn''t help but ask hesitantly, "Great Uncle, about what you just said..."


    Although Donna was hesitant, Lucas understood her meaning.


    "Are you talking about Nicholas?" He sighed, "Donna, sometimes being a coward also requires courage. None of us in the family have the bravery he does. We may not accept his choices, but we acknowledge that Nicholas has bought us time to strengthen ourselves, and that''s all."


    Lucas smiled, "Donna, work hard on cultivating your psychic powers. Nicholas bowing his head means our entire clan bows. But one day, we too will lift our heads and look towards the clear skies."


    With no more words, Lucas led Donna and the others back home.


    Outside their family estate, there were still many druids.


    Lucas casually eliminated a druid who seemed about to question him, before entering the estate.


    Upon reaching the Primordial Blood Tree, Lucas''s expression darkened.


    There, covered in demonic tattoos, Thomas was solemnly telling the family''s stories to several children from Jeffrey''s line.


    The children listened, swallowing their fear.


    "Do you know how your great-grandfather''s hand was severed? It was your Great Uncle who chopped it off. He had a fierce temper, the most ferocious of his generation. Your great-grandfather merely scolded him once, and suffered greatly for it. And your great-grandmother, she was crippled by him, confined to a wheelchair for life."


    "And your other great-grandmother, she dares not return home, always hiding in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, fearing your Great Uncle might sever her limbs."


    "He eats children, you know. If you see him, you must run. I had over thirty children, and he''s eaten all but two..."


    Thomas sighed, his face a picture of tragedy.


    Suddenly, he was kicked from behind.


    "Who''s there? I''m telling a story..."


    Thomas turned around, his pupils shrinking, a shadow falling over him.


    He saw Lucas, his face dark as coal.


    Lucas''s breath was heavy, his chest heaving, his voice seething through clenched teeth, "I wondered why the younger ones looked at me as if they''d seen a ghost. For decades, I thought it was my enemies plotting against me from afar, but it was you!"


    "You... very clever, aren''t you?!"


    Lucas advanced menacingly.


    Thomas trembled, swallowing hard, his face pale, "Wait... Uncle, we can talk this over..."


    Moments later.


    Jeffrey''s children scattered in terror, screaming for help.


    "Help! Uncle''s going to kill someone!" S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That day.


    All the descendants of the Blackwood family looked up as Thomas''s screams echoed, and those children who had heard the rumors about Lucas hid away, sealing themselves off in fear.

 Chapter 233: Chapter 233: Totem shattered...

    "My grandson didn''t have much to offer, but after five years of effort between the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance, he forged a formation disk for Grandma. It gathers the unique powers of heaven and earth, enhancing her abilities significantly."


    "My elder brother also sent a gift, a piece of the starry sky from the Sky Palace to protect Grandma''s spirit."


    "Why are you all looking at us... Dad already gave all our weapons to Grandma..."


    "I''m willing to lead the elders to protect you and establish a magical altar! All twenty-eight of our senior elders have survived their own ordeals; they have the experience."


    "Are you really wearing a turtle shell, Grandma?"


    "I''ll throw in ten Druidic totems! What? These totems were acquired through less than honorable means and carry a curse? Nonsense, the people I dealt with are long gone... Great Aunt, why are you locking me up again..."


    After the gift-giving, Luna, feeling content, touched her filled Storage Ring and headed with her clan to the site of her ordeal.


    Preparations were thorough.


    In just one year, Luna had achieved her breakthrough!


    Various notifications caught her eye.


    [Totem shattered... Totem shattered... Jade amulet shattered...]


    [Luna''s palm was scorched by the heavenly thunder, but she finally endured the formidable Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, transforming into a Six-Tailed Fox Spirit¡ª the Thousand Charm Celestial Fox!]


    [Awakening the Celestial Fox bloodline, she gained mystical fox abilities: Shadow Multiplicity, Hundred Paths Charm, and Celestial Fox Descent.] Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Trait gained: Half-Fox¡ª Luna''s bloodline fully merged with the fox spirit within her, enhancing her psychic power cultivation speed by 20% and her ability to absorb natural energies by another 20%. She can now blend into human society or, like a fox spirit, draw energy from others to further accelerate her psychic development.]


    "Eh?"


    Ethan was momentarily stunned, inwardly pitying Nathan for the tough times ahead, as absorbing energy from others meant they''d need significant recovery time. He sighed, "Ah, they won''t be able to flaunt their love in front of me every day anymore, which is quite sad for me as their forebearer... ha... hahaha!"


    Soon, Luna returned, her half-fox form appearing merely as a peak Emerging Ability to the untrained eye, but she was stunningly beautiful!


    Ethan was waiting for Nathan to be upset, but upon hearing the news, Nathan laughed heartily. The couple embraced tightly, with no younger family members around, Nathan passionately kissed Luna, "This is great, my dear! In the Death Coffin, I have endless energy to help you with your cultivation!"


    "Look at you, acting all improper at over a hundred years old."


    Luna, her cheeks flushed, tapped Nathan on the forehead and took his hand, "Come on, let''s get into the coffin."


    "Thump."


    The coffin lid closed.


    Ethan''s eyelids and facial muscles twitched as he clenched his fists and slapped his thigh for a long time before returning to the forge to continue his psychic cultivation.


    Indeed, Julian''s hammering was a more pleasant sound.


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 149]


    Ethan sat cross-legged in the middle of a mystical lake, a creation of his clan, absorbing the shimmering reflections and the ever-changing waters day and night.


    "Hmph, it infuriates me! So he''s a noble from Starlight County, huh? My parents always said that the Duke''s Mansion is full of villains. I refuse to marry him just because that old rogue Wind says so!"


    Ethan heard a murmuring voice.


    Opening his eyes, he saw a woman, Katie, kicking pebbles by the lake.


    "Our little proud girl, huh?"


    Ethan slightly raised an eyebrow. Nathan had once said that Katie would grow up to be a nation''s downfall, but Nathan was often wrong. Katie resembled Edward; both father and daughter had an understated appearance, but Katie had inherited many of Betty''s good traits¡ª


    Close to nature, with a level heart.


    "Hmph, now Michael wants to exploit us at Blackwood too? After selling off his daughter, he won''t even spare his granddaughter."


    Thinking about Katie''s words, Ethan glanced at her personal history.


    [From a young age, she was pampered by her family elders and adored by her brother, yet deeply influenced by her family''s teachings. Although she was unaware of the many trials her family had faced over the years, nor understood why the druids outside always seemed so arrogant, she too carried the family''s pride and often scolded any druid she met.]


    [At 13, Duke''s Mansion''s Michael sent a message, wanting Katie to marry Martin and move to Cedar County.]


    [At 16, she was nearly kidnapped by an expert sent by Michael.]


    [At 22, Nate, a young genius from Starlight County''s Duke''s Mansion, proposed a marriage alliance with Martin. However, with Martin''s younger generation mysteriously dying off and no successors, Michael once again pushed for Katie to marry Nate.]


    [Nate was reluctant about the arranged marriage but was sent by the Walker family to meet Katie at Blackwood. Known as a veteran in romantic affairs, Nate''s repeated interactions with the plain-looking Katie only deepened his fascination with her.]


    Ethan remained silent for a long time before murmuring, "Old dog Walker, haven''t you learned enough lessons over the years to dare trouble my Blackwood?"


    He emerged from his meditation.


    "Phew."


    He exhaled deeply, returning to his familiar room. Even inside, he could feel the storm brewing over the residential area. He frowned, "What kind of tribulation is this? Despite having a complete mastery of the elemental laws, the threat remains significant?"


    He squinted, ignoring these concerns, and collected the Tribute Offerings that had piled up in the room during the two major ceremonies into his Storage Ring. Then he asked Lisa to cook a meal. After eating, he sat down at his computer.


    He clicked on Katie''s profile.


    The Forebearer Psychic Position appeared, instructing her to seek out Olivia!


    "Oh! Forebearer, the Forebearer is showing its powers!" Katie, having seen the Forebearer Psychic Position manifest only a few times, was excitedly waving her fists. She had grown up hearing tales of the Forebearer, how fearsome it was, once swallowing eighty thousand druids in one gulp.


    Seeing the young girl''s excitement, Ethan also smiled slightly. Look how well-behaved she is? Surely, she''s impressed by the mystery of it all. Although a bit sheltered and naive, isn''t this how all Blackwood folks start?


    "Do you feel it, Katie? This is the charm of the Forebearer!"


    In a jovial mood, Ethan sent her a ''Forebearer''s Caress''.


    He then clicked on Olivia''s profile, signaling her to handle the situation. Ethan took a drive around the neighborhood, traded some items with Alan to lighten his mood after a long stint in the virtual world, and had tea with some neighbors before contentedly returning home.


    Just as he was about to re-enter the virtual world, his phone rang.


    Ethan frowned, noticing on the game screen that Katie was almost at Dawn Headquarters.


    "Hello? Yes, this is Ethan," he answered casually, seeing that it was a call from Orion.


    As soon as he finished speaking,


    The voice on the other end was somewhat restrained yet gentle, "Um... Ethan, my brother told me to speak nicely to you, asking you to report in soon. Are you busy with something?"


    Ethan continued to monitor some interfaces.

 Chapter 234: Chapter 234: Defeat me, and Ill give you a chance!

    It seemed like William had gotten himself into a bit of trouble outside, sustaining injuries while possibly engaging in a fight.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was busy healing him, pondering over how to respond.


    On the other end of the phone, Orion had already said, "Look, if you don''t want to show up, then don''t bother coming at all. If you don''t appreciate this opportunity, plenty of others will."


    At that moment, Ethan''s face lit up with joy. In the event log, a breakthrough was happening.


    Both Edward and Donna had reached the Developing Skill stage. Donna''s physique seemed to be influenced by the dragon''s blood, coupled with her years of intensely developing psychic powers, her Developing Skill had reached an extraordinary level!


    Hearing Orion''s words, Ethan responded with even greater joy, "Thank you, you really understand me!"


    "You..." Orion''s voice grew increasingly irate over the phone, "Do you not realize how rare the opportunity to join the psychic abilities team is?"


    Ethan was checking Donna''s traits.


    [Your descendant Donna saved the Exploding Sky Serpent and earned its gratitude, gaining the trait: Dragon''s Grace]


    [Bathed in dragon''s blood, her physical strength increased by 20%. Gaining some of the dragon''s power, her Developing Skill became more solid.]


    [To prove her generation''s bravery, Donna intensely cultivated psychic powers, gaining the trait: Desperate Effort]


    [Her cultivation of psychic powers became even more diligent, increasing her physical training speed by 10%]


    On the phone, Orion was furious, "Do you think you''re a Competent Force? How can you not cherish the resources of the psychic abilities team?!!"


    Realizing something, Ethan sincerely said, "Thank you, sister. I am useless. It''s not that I don''t want to go, but I know that using these resources on me is a waste. The old lady next door always taught me not to take advantage if I''m not capable, not to waste what I have. So, I''m not fit to enjoy these resources, please save them for someone useful. I was born ordinary."


    Ethan grinned, realizing that once you reach Competent Force in the psychic abilities team, there are no useful resources left. Why bother then? He could feel a breakthrough approaching, just needing to grasp the power of the sun and moon to advance beyond Competent Force!


    These days, although Blackwood seemed calm, with Luna''s breakthrough, everyone was preparing for their own advancements and battles.


    As a Forebearer, he couldn''t lag behind. Every second counted!


    Moreover, Donna and Olivia had already joined forces, plotting a major plan against Michael!


    After a moment of thought.


    Ethan choked up, "Sister Joshua, please don''t tell the teacher, I''m afraid he''ll be heartbroken. Tell my successor that there is a future in the tomb, to carry my hopes and serve society."


    In the lab, Orion stared at the phone in disbelief, her eyes moistening, "This child... I..."


    "I was even angry with him before, I... I''m really not a good person!"


    In the room, Ethan smoothly hung up the phone and turned it off, "Finally, I can focus on striving with my clan again!"


    With eyes turning white, the rested Ethan returned to his true home!


    ...


    Upon arriving at Dawn''s headquarters, Katie was already standing before Olivia, sharing her troubles about Nate''s harassment and the arranged marriage Michael had set up for her.


    "Don''t worry, Katie, with us here, no one can bother you," Olivia assured her with a smile. "I''ve looked into Nate. Aside from being a bit of a flirt, he''s actually a decent person who values his reputation highly. Arrange a time with him, defeat him in a challenge, and he''ll avoid you and bow his head in respect whenever he sees you."


    "With your skills, plus this specially crafted psychic bow that fits you perfectly, defeating him will be a breeze."


    "As for Michael... you can dismiss him from your concerns for now."


    Katie took the pink psychic bow handed to her by Olivia and left.


    Soon after, Olivia summoned some of Dawn''s assassins. With the druid attacks on major towns, the years of conflict had only increased the number of Dawn''s assassins. It was likely that even the core members of Blackwood didn''t realize just how vast and powerful Dawn had become.


    Ethan, just by observing, noticed that among the ten assassins Olivia had called, one was at the peak of Developing Skill!


    She pulled out a thick book and expertly flipped it open to a page filled with detailed information on Duke''s Mansion, down to the secretive dealings of its servants.


    "After all the descendants I''ve killed, after assassinating your younger generations to the point of breaking your lineage, you still haven''t learned your lesson," Olivia scoffed coldly. "It seems you haven''t suffered enough."


    [Your descendant Olivia is assigning tasks to ten Dawn assassins, all of whom have deep-seated vendettas against the descendants of Duke''s Mansion!]


    Seeing the content of the mission, Ethan grinned, "That''s quite ruthless."


    Ten days later.


    Ethan was still meditating, watching the sunrise and the moonset, experiencing the interplay of day and night, and absorbing the forces of the universe.


    Suddenly, a message caught his eye.


    [Your descendant Olivia reports to you that Michael''s talented descendant, only over two hundred years old, has broken through to Competent Force. He personally led the Martin clan members to set up a massive defensive formation.]


    [In this secret location, a traitor among the Martin experts sabotaged the formation''s foundation. Ten fearless Dawn assassins charged into the weak spot under the cover of a thunderstorm, causing a massive upheaval in the storm, leading to their mutual destruction with the Martin genius on the verge of breaking through Competent Force!]


    [Olivia assures you that after this incident, Michael will never have peace.]


    "So many years have passed, has my Blackwood''s influence reached another height?" Ethan thought, reassured by Nicholas''s negotiations with the druids and Olivia''s covert protection of the family.


    Just as he was about to continue his meditation, Ethan saw Katie approaching with her pink longbow. Facing her was a handsome man who said with a bitter smile, "Katie, my feelings for you are genuine. After all this time, you know what kind of person I am."


    "I admit I was a bit of a flirt before, but I promise, I''ll never wander again. Let''s grow old together, get married, have children, and name our child..."


    He had even thought of a name for the child...


    Ethan really wanted to slap some sense into the young man.


    Katie, however, just snorted coldly and silently took out her pink longbow, "Defeat me, and I''ll give you a chance!" S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Why must it be this way?" Nate''s face turned sour. "Katie, I''m a genius, no one of my age can defeat me."

 Chapter 235: Chapter 235: Sparkly Unicorn Bow

    Katie drew her bow, her gaze icy and determined. Ethan watched her with satisfaction, seeing in her the pride and fearlessness characteristic of the Blackwood lineage. "This girl is far stronger than Joseph, the lazy one..." he thought, his lips curling into a smile.


    Just then, his smile froze.


    "A genius? My father said that in their presence, no one dared to claim that title, and the same holds true in my generation among the Blackwood descendants."


    The pink longbow in Katie''s hands glowed brightly, its power forming a formidable pressure. She represented the new generation of Blackwood, shining brightly! S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Katie spoke coldly, "In front of my ''Sparkly Unicorn Bow,'' your defeat is certain!"


    Ethan: ...


    Nate: ...


    The Blackwood members, who were secretly monitoring the situation and ready to assist, were also speechless.


    Julian, who was forging in the smithy, stopped his work abruptly.


    It seemed like his mind exploded. All the Blackwoods were asking him if he was the one who named the bow.


    His eyes lost their sparkle as he muttered, "No, I''ve never touched this thing. Yes, I don''t forge longbows, never have, it wasn''t me. Sister, you vouch for me."


    "It was his craftsmanship, but the name probably wasn''t his," Olivia''s telepathic message was brutally honest.


    Honest to the point where Julian collapsed on the floor, his dignity lost for the day.


    Meanwhile, at Duke''s Mansion, Michael had aged significantly, his hair streaked with silver.


    "My lord Duke, we''ve investigated but found no trace of those ten martyrs; however, Kingdom County has grievances with us, perhaps it was them..."


    Before he could finish, the guard, a novice in Developing Skill, was choked by Michael, who was in the Competent Force stage. Michael sneered, "Kingdom County? Over the years, the Dawn organization affiliated with Blackwood has planted many spies in my Duke''s Mansion."


    "You were present when my young relative broke through. Now you suggest it''s Kingdom County, trying to divert the blame?"


    "Foolish man, Blackwood is a notorious traitor of Cloudview County, how can you compare them to my Duke''s Mansion? You''ve sided with the wrong team!"


    The guard struggled in pain, his eyes bewildered, barely managing to say, "No... not... Lord Duke..."


    He died before he could finish.


    As a servant came to collect the guard''s Developing Skill, Michael stared intensely at the servant until the skill was handed over, his face still full of caution.


    He felt as if everyone in Duke''s Mansion was a member of Dawn!


    Just a few days had passed.


    Michael''s eyebrows twitched as he sensed with his Competent Force that the whole family was whispering about him being overly suspicious, seeing spies everywhere. The entire county was buzzing with rumors that Duke''s Mansion was no longer what it used to be.


    Michael, sitting in the Duke''s seat, felt powerless to stop the tide. He couldn''t even bring his daughter back. His most talented descendant had been killed right before his eyes...


    Someone was determined to ruin his reputation and bring him down!


    He slowly walked to the table, calmly picked up a teacup, and sipped his tea with a composed smile, "Thinking this will bring me down? Ridiculous, truly ridiculous."


    He scoffed and left the hall.


    "Boom!"


    The building collapsed, dust billowing into the air.


    "Whoosh!"


    On this day, over the lands of Azure Cloud Blackwood, a pink arrow sliced through the sky. Katie, carrying her pink longbow, patrolled the Blackwood residence, her head held high with pride.


    Walker Nate, coming from Starlight County, left Cloudview County in utter humiliation and pain. Beside him, his bodyguard, a peak Developing Skill expert, heard Nate muttering nonstop on the ability vessel, "It''s over, my life is ruined. From now on, everyone will know I was defeated by an ability weapon named ''Sparkly Unicorn Bow.''"


    Trying to hold back a laugh, the Walker family servant coughed lightly before speaking, "Master Nate, this is normal. Although Azure Cloud Blackwood might seem weak, they have stood at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud for generations. Katie is only 22 and already at the Emerging Ability stage with an unheard-of solid foundation and Psychic Constitution.


    Her numerous hidden strengths make your defeat no disgrace."


    "What do you mean no disgrace? The disgrace is that I was defeated by that bow!"


    Nate clenched his teeth for a long time, then suddenly sighed facing the wind, "It''s a pity that Blackwood has sided with the Druids, becoming traitors to the Emerald Empire. I couldn''t take Katie with me. I just hope I don''t encounter her on the battlefield in the future."


    The servant shook his head, "Master, I disagree with you. Cloudview County is different from us. Duke''s Mansion avoids confrontation and refuses to fight, just watching the Druid invasion. If they had all resisted, perhaps all the major powers in Cloudview County would have been wiped out by now."


    "But now, Blackwood''s leader Nicholas is moving around, and Cloudview County is actually quite peaceful. Even our presence in Azure Cloud doesn''t attract Druid pursuers. Maybe one day we''ll be fighting alongside Blackwood."


    Nate gave a slight smile, "I hope that day comes."


    Suddenly remembering something, the servant pulled out a letter from his pocket, "Oh, Master Nate, when you were pursuing Katie, the former head of the Blackwood family, Daniel, asked me to give this to you. Please review it and then present it to our leader."


    "Oh?"


    ...


    Cultivating psychic powers, cultivating psychic powers!


    In Cloudview County, the once blood-stained Blackwood, those ancestors who had made a name for themselves, seemed to have completely vanished, their glory being forgotten.


    Family head Nathan no longer led the enchantress Luna in declaring war against the major powers.


    Sword King, the Saint of Flora, the Ancestor of Psychic Puppets, the Lord of Dawn... these mighty Blackwood warriors had completely fallen silent, like night-blooming flowers that had once shone brightly.


    [Blackwood 150 years, the grand ceremony held every decade begins, your descendants offer you a Tribute Offering...]


    Unknown to many, the people of Blackwood now had only one goal: to become stronger as quickly as possible!


    In the ancestral hall.


    Ethan, just like before, sat at the Psychic Position table, legs crossed, watching his devout descendants.


    "May the Forebearer bless our family with smooth sailing, our children grow quickly, and may we descendants breakthrough safely without harm..." Nathan recited the ceremonial words, "Our people have not let down the Forebearer''s hopes."


    "Luna has already advanced to the Competent Force stage, our family has truly become a house of Competent Force. Please rest easy, Forebearer, I will reclaim the honor our family lost, and one day, no one will dare look down on us Blackwoods."


    All the children of Blackwood lifted their heads, their eyes filled with fighting spirit and anticipation.


    Ethan nodded slightly, "As long as you all are well, everything is fine."


    Though the children couldn''t hear him, this was Ethan''s greatest prayer.


    As the ceremony concluded, the people of Blackwood gathered to discuss the results of their years spent cultivating psychic powers. Nathan listened quietly, caressing the Storage Ring in his hand, his gaze intense.


    "We still have plenty of resources in our family, even if we have to pile up resources, we must develop more Competent Force warriors. I want each of you to breakthrough in the shortest time possible."


    Nathan''s words calmed the family members, "Over the years, everyone has stored up quite a bit of resources, and I''ve almost spent all of mine. Let''s take out what we have and share it, so we can all get what we need."


    Leaning against a pillar, Joseph suddenly opened his eyes wide, his teeth clenched as he remembered the fear of being deceived by the elders at Duke''s Mansion, "A bunch of old thieves, they must be rich, maybe even rivaling Duke''s Mansion."


    Katie, with her innocent wide eyes, looked up at her brother, "Brother, how can you say that about them? The elders always say they are poor, that all their resources go into building our power."


    "Every time they give me resources for cultivation, I can see their hardship, scraping together what they can find. Father said, even if our family is poor, he wants me to have better natural treasures than other families'' children."


    Katie was on the verge of tears, "The elders have really sacrificed a lot for us, I won''t let you call them old thieves."


    In her mind, she even pictured the elders eating poor meals but still smiling as they saved the best for her.


    "Ah."


    Joseph glanced at his naive sister and shook his head, "You''re still young."

 Chapter 239: Chapter 239: Compassionate Family Head

    "Madness... sheer madness!"


    A Druid, overlooked by the Lord of Frenzied Blood, stood pale-faced, staring at the sky in horror.


    The sky was nearly obscured by fleets of ability vessels emerging from the inner city, their demonic occupants cheering and shouting.


    Under the setting sun, Dawn''s assassins streaked across the red clouds like a meteor shower, vanishing into the horizon at breakneck speed!


    "Boom!"


    The Silver Iron Forest, known as the most dangerous place since Gratitude Village, was stirring.


    Rumored to house powerful beasts and countless demon kings, it was the most feared location for the Druids stationed at Gratitude Village.


    Any Druid who ventured close would become prey to these beasts.


    Now, as the shadows of the trees swayed, the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest emerged and lingered in Gratitude Village.


    Many of the village''s top fighters, as if they had known this would happen, laughed and called out ''old buddy'' to the beasts, leaping onto their backs.


    These overwhelming creatures charged in unison toward a single direction!


    The volatile ability equipment masters...


    The refined alchemists, pharmacists, and talisman masters...


    Each one a steel beast...


    Watching everything unfolding within the Blackwood stronghold, the Druid felt utterly hopeless.


    He had spent thirty years in Gratitude Village, hearing rumors of the Clark tribe''s annihilation but never feeling any fear because he believed Gratitude Village and Blackwood were weak.


    But now, he realized they were not weak; they were a group of terrifying dormant beasts.


    They had been quietly amassing a power that no tribe, not even a whole region, could contend with!


    The middle-aged Druid glanced at the chieftain''s corpse on the ground, his body adorned with a glowing tortoise shell, trembling as he picked it up.


    This object was the Psychic Gear that connected the sacrifice and the chieftain.


    "Great Sacrificer..."


    He intended to report the current situation, but then he froze again.


    Shadows enveloped everything around, the ground outside Gratitude Village cracked like a spiderweb, and the ten-meter-tall blood-red ancient tree within the village grew larger, its red canopy redder than the sunset.


    Finally, at a hundred meters tall, the ancient tree''s eyes opened on its trunk.


    "Boom!" Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thunder roared in the sky, and a Stone beast emerged from the ground.


    The sentient ancient trees around Gratitude Village walked with their roots, keeping pace with Blackwood''s army.


    "Great Sacrificer, we... are finished."


    "Quick, let''s take our people and run."


    Once a county town in Tranquil County, the area had transformed into a massive mountain due to the Clark''s settlement.


    Inside a dark cave, the high priest Luke frowned, unsettled for reasons unknown.


    Before him stood his subordinates, the sacrificers and chieftains.


    "High Priest, over the years, by leveraging Blackwood, we''ve unified the Harris and White tribes.


    Now both have become part of our tribe, and we occupy the entire Cloudview County.


    We no longer need Blackwood; eliminating them is imperative!"


    "Hahaha, the cowards of humanity, they think we Clark would really treat them as our own."


    "Nicholas never lets us into the inner city of Gratitude Village, probably because he harbors ulterior motives.


    It''s best to eliminate Blackwood sooner rather than later to avoid future troubles."


    Hearing this, Luke nodded slightly, his unease beginning to ease.


    Why worry indeed?


    For thirty years, he had been immensely grateful for his decision to collaborate with Blackwood. Through Blackwood, he had eliminated his rivals and gradually taken over the entire Cloudview County. Now, Clark was invincible within Cloudview County!


    Even the two tribes that had originally come with Clark were now looking up to him, their high priests becoming his subordinates. The three other tribes that later wanted a share of his territory were driven away.


    Now, Cloudview County had long become his land, and he might even break through Basic Mastery in a thousand years!


    "Those not of our kind must have different hearts. Although Blackwood are cowards, they should not be underestimated."


    Luke waved his hand nonchalantly, "Let the Beast Division and the Ghost Division go together. Half of Clark''s strength should be enough to flatten Blackwood. I particularly like that seventh-grade ability tree in Blackwood; capture it and bring it back. And I want Nathan alive."


    Mentioning Nathan, his eyes narrowed slightly, remembering the humiliation he had suffered at Nathan''s birthday banquet.


    "Yes!"


    As the many priests and chieftains turned to leave, their expressions changed.


    Their tortoise shells were flickering.


    Luke''s eyes hardened, and anger instantly enveloped the cave. Several chieftains reported to him that Blackwood had rebelled!


    Just as they were about to deploy their Competent Force.


    "High Priest, it''s terrible! In our tribal land in the Endless Forest, someone was undergoing the Thunder Tribulation, and it was all... all destroyed in an instant!"


    "High Priest, it''s the Thunderfire Demon Cave! The experts from Cloudview County who were hiding there suddenly made a move today. They all rushed out and attacked Harris! And... and White, several immortals are rampaging in White, with Blackwood Olivia and the Celestial Star Swordmaster from Starlight County circling above White, waiting for their chance!"


    "High Priest..."


    These calls made Luke''s expression dazed, as if he could feel tentacles silently stretching out from the darkness towards him.


    He looked at the tortoise shell in his hand...


    There was nothing unusual about it, the divination of the day showed neither good nor bad, only a dead calm like still water.


    "High Priest!"


    Suddenly, a tribesman hurried into the cave from outside, "Someone has broken in!"


    Luke took a deep breath, "Is it Blackwood?"


    "It''s... no, not exactly."


    The Druid shook his head, speaking softly, "It''s just one person, the head of the Blackwood family, Nicholas!"


    In the real world, within the vast ocean expanse.


    The sea surface shimmered with persistent arcs of lightning, the waters turbulent as if recently struck by a powerful force, now forming whirlpools as steam rose into the sky.


    In the gradually gathering clouds above, it seemed as if nine thunder dragons roared, unwilling to vanish into oblivion.


    Mid-air, Ethan, holding the Celestial Pole Energy Spear and standing on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, looked up at the sky, feeling the power he controlled within his body.


    He had returned to the real world the day before the great family battle began, ready to break through!


    The ninety-nine heavenly tribulations were truly nothing to him. Over thirty years of preparation and a wealth of resources were enough to elevate him to the mid-stage of Competent Force during the tribulation.


    But at this moment.


    Ethan''s expression was somber, his face devoid of any joy.


    "Whoosh..."


    Rain began to fall on the sea surface, and Ethan slowly extended his hand to feel the raindrops in his palm, letting out a long sigh, "Maybe from the beginning, I shouldn''t have let you bear all these responsibilities, no one should have to."


    He shook his head and flew back towards home through the rain.


    His eyes reddened, not using psychic powers to shield himself from the rain, as if hiding something.


    He tightly clutched his smartphone, the screen displaying a room where, in the event log at the bottom right, all that was happening to his family was recorded.


    [Your family members have begun a full rebellion against the Druids!]


    [Your descendant Nicholas is heading alone towards Clark to confront Luke directly! His long-held inner demons dissipated upon facing Luke again, gaining the trait: Fearless Warrior!]


    [Gained trait: Compassionate Family Head]


    [Gained trait: Eternal Infamy]


    [Gained trait: Nicholas]


    [Your descendant Nicholas, after nurturing the Transcendent Seed for thirty years, has broken through Developing Skill, reaching the mid-stage of Developing Skill in a single moment!]


    [Your descendant Nicholas...]


    [Fallen.]


    ...

 Chapter 240: Chapter 240: Thirty years... just thirty years

    "Attack!"


    In the game world, the descendants of Blackwood charged into battle. Thirty years ago, those cursed Druids stepped into Cloudview County, setting foot on their ancestral lands!


    Today.


    They were like beasts unleashed, tearing into the Druids who had used them, who had seen them as mere tools, as lambs to the slaughter.


    For thirty long years, every member of the Blackwood family had been cultivating psychic powers. It seemed like business as usual, but unknown to others, they, along with the people of Gratitude Village and all of Cloudview County, were waiting for this day. They were waiting to have enough strength to drive the Druids from their homeland!


    But in this slaughter.


    Every member of the Blackwood family paused, their brows furrowed, a sense of melancholic loss overwhelming them.


    Soon after.


    As the descendants of Blackwood fought across Cloudview County, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position appeared before them all, shimmering like twinkling stars, now even more radiant than before.


    It had been over thirty years. The Forebearer, like them, had been silent, and they rarely saw the Psychic Position light up. This should have been a moment of excitement, knowing the Forebearer was watching over them, but their expressions were blank.


    Then, stiffly, they moved towards where Clark was. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    In Gratitude Village, morning fog rolled in, and the elderly, women, and children who remained were cleaning up the battlefield.


    Helen walked aimlessly, her eyes vacant, passing the place where she once lived with Nicholas. Without realizing it, she arrived at the open space where her family''s home stood, greeted by the morning breeze.


    "Squeak... Squeak..."


    The swing that little Nicholas once sat on, which she had pushed as he joyfully screamed, now creaked in the wind. The ropes were frayed, and the wooden planks nailed together had lost their color, ready to fall apart at any moment. Yet, it still swayed in the morning breeze.


    "Helen..."


    Dennis approached, now more profound and powerful, yet his hair had turned white, and his eyes were moist. He walked up behind Helen with a complex expression, stopping short, only letting out a long sigh.


    In his life, the two most important people were Helen, whom he had raised since she was a child, and Nicholas Blackwood.


    But it seemed to him that both of the most important people in his life had drifted away from him.


    He had inherited the methods of "The Six Divinatory Figures" and "The Oracle Chamber" from Stephen, capable of predicting many things, yet he only foresaw Nicholas''s death, with no means to prevent it.


    "Grandpa Dennis."


    Helen still stared at the swaying swing, smiling, "Remember when you asked me if I wanted to be betrothed to Nicholas as a child bride? Do you know what I thought back then? I resisted, but for the sake of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, for your kindness, I started taking care of my little husband from a young age, treating him like a child."


    "Little Nicholas was immature, but when he returned from outside, he hugged me here, and everything changed. I realized he had grown up, truly becoming a man worthy of trust."


    "It was still here."


    "Thirty years ago, on the city walls, Nicholas pointed to this place, this little swing that holds all our memories with him. That day, he reached out his hand to me, asking if I was willing to walk all the paths with him. At that time, everyone despised him, but only I understood, like me, he had to accept things he didn''t want to."


    "And then it all became a burden, a responsibility."


    The morning wind was cold, Dennis clenched his teeth, his shoulders trembling. Once upon a time, Helen and Nicholas were just children.


    Helen turned around.


    Her face showed no sorrow for her husband''s death; she smiled happily.


    "I did it. Over the years, I walked step by step with Nicholas. He was no coward, at least not in my eyes."


    "I''m grateful, Grandpa Dennis, for letting me marry Nicholas. I''m proud, proud to be Nicholas''s wife."


    "I''m about to leave Gratitude Village," Helen said, turning to old Dennis. "Please tell everyone in the family that I''m sorry. When Nicholas left for the Druids to confront Luke, I didn''t stop him, nor did I inform anyone. If they hold any grudges, please ask Grandpa Dennis not to make any excuses."


    After her words, Helen bowed deeply to Dennis, then walked through Blackwood, retracing the steps Nicholas had once taken.


    As she reached the outskirts of Gratitude Village, she looked up at the city walls. Thirty years ago, those walls weren''t so tall, and Nicholas was the most handsome man around. Later, even as he grew portly, he remained the most imposing figure.


    That day, she saw it coming. Nicholas reached out his hand, offering her a future filled with inevitable sorrow.


    Yet, she still took his hand.


    "I have no regrets," Helen whispered, caressing her belly with a tender expression. "Nicholas, I cried for you that day, but now I smile with pride for you. I will ensure our child lives an ordinary life, not burdened by the choices we were forced to make."


    As the sun rose, Helen smiled and walked towards the light.


    ...


    Clark.


    Inside this great mountain, once thrown into chaos by the rebellion of Blackwood, it was now eerily quiet.


    Clark''s Druids were shivering.


    High Priest Luke stood atop the mountain peak. The wind was cold today, tousling his hair as he stared emotionlessly out over the mountain.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder exploded, heralding the arrival of Nathan, bearing the Death Coffin!


    Then came Lucas, carrying a sword case, emerging from the Thunderfire Demon Cave. Amelia sat atop the Primordial Blood Tree. Julian stood atop a hundred-meter-tall creature, his expression sinister. And there was Olivia, dressed in white, standing mid-air against the wind!


    And other descendants of Blackwood.


    No outsiders were there, only Blackwood folk!


    "Thirty years... just thirty years," Luke murmured, his head bowed. He hadn''t expected that in just three decades, Blackwood would grow so powerful!


    At the time of the incident, he felt the formidable force of Blackwood. He thought that once Nicholas betrayed Cloudview County, no one from Cloudview would follow Blackwood, allowing him to slowly infiltrate other powers. But that didn''t happen!


    He thought by stripping Blackwood of resources, they would no longer advance. Yet, he underestimated the depth and cunning of the Blackwood people, and their terrifying potential.


    Now...


    Nathan, once his humiliator, stood boldly outside Clark''s stronghold amidst a thunderstorm.


    Blackwood Sword King Lucas and Luna had already broken through to Competent Force.


    Two dragons soared through the clouds, one a fiery red and the other seemingly made of gold and iron, clashing sounds echoing as it moved.


    Three Sky Corpses, one demon!


    And the younger generation of Blackwood, their strength unknown to anyone.


    Clark was nearly suffocating under the pressure of less than a hundred Blackwood members, even Luke felt as if the sky was falling.


    "Whew."


    Luke exhaled deeply, waving his hand. A Developing Skill chieftain, holding a spear, a blood-stained scroll, and a tattered, bloodied garment, flew into the sky.


    Even though they had already heard the news from their forebearers, the sight of these items still made the Blackwood people''s faces change color. Donna screamed, her expression fierce, as Edward held her tightly.


    The chieftain, trembling, flew up to Nathan, his hands shaking as he handed over these items. "My lord, the High Priest sent me to return the belongings of the Blackwood family head."


    At that moment.


    The air around Clark''s stronghold seemed to freeze, the psychic powers of the Blackwood people creating a fierce wind, with thunder raging in the sky.


    Nathan''s voice, heavy and somber, filled the air, "When Nicholas charged into your Clark, was he brave?"


    The chieftain stammered, "I... I don''t know, he... he seemed crazy as he charged in. We didn''t fight back, really, we didn''t. We tried to stop him, but we couldn''t..."


    Nathan''s aura of fury nearly overwhelmed him!


    In just a snap of the fingers, the chieftain could no longer speak, as thunder from the sky struck him down, turning him to ash.


    Nathan''s eyes were bloodshot as he stared intently at Luke, who stood on the mountain peak in the distance. His voice boomed like thunder.


    "You!"


    "Now tell me, when Nicholas came to settle the score with you, was he brave?!!"

 Chapter 241: Chapter 241: Charge—Charge!

    Thunder filled the sky, mixed with the most furious energy of the universe. No... perhaps not fury, but pride.


    Standing atop the mountain, Luke looked down at the Blackwood clan members scattered around Clark. He could feel the emotions of the Blackwood people. Their pride was everywhere, piercing his skin like thorns, invading his mind and body, causing him to shiver uncontrollably.


    After Nathan''s roar, he was silent for a long time.


    Having worked with Nicholas for thirty years, he remembered him as one of the few cowards in the Blackwood clan.


    Nicholas wasn''t arrogant like Nathan, nor was he as wild as the other Blackwoods. He was like a trapped beast, shielding the others from the world''s ridicule, struggling within his cage, trying desperately to prevent the Blackwoods from being destroyed in these chaotic times.


    Luke understood all this, but he also knew more clearly that ever since Nicholas knelt, the label of ''traitor to humanity'' meant the Blackwoods had little chance of redemption. From then on, the Blackwoods were no longer a threat, as humanity would never accept them. Daring to betray the Druids meant they had to be ready to be despised by both sides.


    Then.


    Nicholas appeared outside of Clark, and even now, Luke couldn''t forget that scene.


    This young man fought his way through, with Druids blocking his path, rampaging wildly. His Great River Dragon Map, his psychic spear, and countless talismans meant nothing.


    Facing him, the high priest, under the power of his Competent Force, the young man laughed mockingly and died from an explosion of his Developing Skill. That was the boy''s final move!


    "The head of the family died here, Luke, we Blackwoods can spin many tales! The Emerald Empire cannot refuse a strong and righteous Blackwood!"


    Luke could even imagine.


    Perhaps by the time Nicholas arrived, various reports had already spread throughout the Emerald Empire. It was nothing but tales of the Blackwood family head defying family orders, colluding with the Druids, and then, thirty years later, the Blackwoods righteously eliminating their own...


    Perhaps thirty years ago, Nicholas was already prepared to face death.


    And now.


    The trapped Blackwoods had walked out of their cages because the beast at the forefront gnawed at the bars every day until it was bloody-mouthed and lifeless!


    Thunder still roared in the sky.


    All the Blackwoods had bloodshot eyes, and Luke knew clearly that these beasts, having crawled out of their cages, would unleash the craziest revenge on the Druids!


    But for Luke now, it was more about respect.


    He suddenly looked up, the energy of the Competent Force bursting forth, and he stared at Nathan.


    "Nathan, many years ago you said your Blackwoods never yielded, I didn''t believe it, but you Blackwoods have! You said there were no cowards in your Blackwoods, I didn''t believe..."


    His voice grew deeper, "I should have believed. I thought Nicholas was a coward, I was wrong."


    As the high priest, he grinned, "You ask me if he was brave, I''ve seen many warriors in Clark, but none as brave as your Nicholas!"


    "Thirty years, Nicholas fought for your Blackwoods. There''s no turning back for either of us now, let me see what your Blackwoods are capable of, and let me show you, there are no cowards in Clark either!"


    "Clark tribe, annihilate them!"


    "Boom!" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thunder rolled across the sky, and the mystical mountain of Clark shed its outer shell, shining brilliantly like a gemstone. Clark had long been prepared for battle! Countless members of the Clark tribe emerged from within the jade mountain, armed with totems, magical formations, and spells...


    "Attack!"


    Hearing Luke''s words, the Blackwood clan was visibly shaken, but as numerous Druids from Clark charged, they remained fearless and charged towards the Druids.


    Charge¡ªCharge!!!


    Their eyes were bloodshot; in this moment, they understood that the past thirty years were a time and opportunity fought for by Nicholas.


    Outside their family stronghold was an external affairs office, and Nicholas never returned to the stronghold.


    Over the years, within the family stronghold, they could laugh as usual, slowly assimilating the heritage accumulated by the family over the years, continuously growing. But all this was fought for by Nicholas alone, who bore the brunt of the outside world, scarred and battered until his death.


    Perhaps even Helen, who was close to Nicholas, didn''t know how difficult these years had been for him.


    He was never a coward; he walked alone in the darkness, battered and bloodied, seeking a beacon for the Blackwoods.


    Now... the beacon had been found.


    They fought with the light Nicholas had brought them, with his will!


    In the room.


    Ethan had rushed back as quickly as possible, his eyes glued to the computer screen.


    [Your cultivation has reached the Competent Force stage, and your family has become a Competent Force lineage!]


    [Your family has touched the heavenly laws, offering a Family Spiritual Tribute, becoming the family''s will!]


    [Detecting a large amount of Spiritual Tribute in your family... converting...]


    [You have gained Family Will: 30]


    Transformation... everything was changing, Ethan clearly understood that Nicholas''s sacrifice had brought all this to the family and was also affecting him.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan exhaled deeply, unable to express in words everything Nicholas had done for the family. Now, all he had to do was fight and grow with his family!


    [You have used 1 point of Family Will to upgrade the skill Lv1. ''Charge, My Children!'']


    [Skill upgraded to¡ªFamily Glory!]


    [Using the skill, all Blackwood descendants within a hundred miles increase their combat effectiveness by 20%! Competent Force stage psychics, using part of the natural energy rules, increase by 20%!]


    [Now using skill Lv.4 ''Family Glory''!]


    ...


    On the battlefield, the descendants of the Blackwood family were surrounded by a glowing aura, as the Psychic Positions floated up around them, forming a massive family crest in the sky. This radiant symbol enveloped every member of the Blackwood clan, enhancing their strength, courage, and will!


    "Charge!" they roared.


    The fifth-generation descendants, who had once stormed the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion with Nicholas, were now even more ferocious than before. Donna, once petite, had grown to a towering three meters tall, her fists pounding the ground with the combined power of icy rock and the mighty force of the Exploding Sky Serpent.


    Edward remained seated on his throne, his sword moving freely within the great formation.


    They all remembered the days in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, when little brother Nicholas always followed behind, needing their help to get up and keep running. Now, they were immensely proud. Nicholas had moved to the front, a king on the battlefield!


    Behind them, the monk brothers, Charles and Christopher, remained seated on their lotus platforms, closely following the two frenzied warriors. "Brother, I don''t understand, why do people knowingly embrace death when they could choose life?" Christopher asked, puzzled, as he summoned tendrils from his flesh-and-blood lotus platform to fend off the totemic ability weapons attacking Edward.


    "Perhaps that''s what it means to be family," Charles replied, looking ahead at their fearless kin, all charging forward. He suddenly looked up at the family crest in the sky and sighed, "Sister, do you regret abandoning your faith?"


    Hearing this, Christopher smiled, "No regrets. After all, faith alone can''t shield us from the world''s misunderstandings and slander. They say there''s a pure land in paradise, but we''ve never set foot in it. Yet Nicholas... he has made our family''s world as peaceful as a pure land."


    "So..." Charles began, his lotus platform disintegrating into a dark golden blood that hovered around him, transforming him into an octopus-like figure on the battlefield. Whenever his tendrils stretched out, droves of druids fell. His eyes turned black as he spoke, "Sister, if such is our pure land, such our family, why should we not embrace death knowingly?"


    "Fight!" Christopher declared, his figure transforming into a sixteen-armed Bodhisattva radiating golden light, charging into battle!


    [Your descendants Charles and Christopher, having fused the monk and demonic corpses with the flesh-and-blood lotus platform, incorporating Monk Abbot David into it, have elevated the flesh-and-blood lotus platform to a seventh-grade ability object!]


    [Seventh-grade Flesh-and-Blood Lotus Platform: Capable of merging with spiritual bodies, transforming into demonic beings or Bodhisattvas, comparable to high-grade ability weapons. The two platforms, now embodying both monk and demon, are comparable to the finest ability weapons!]


    [Your descendants Charles and Christopher have broken through their Developing Skill, obtaining an Advanced Core, merging monk and demon into a Super Core!]


    [In this battle, they have understood the meaning of family, gaining the trait: Family Faith]


    [With their newfound faith, their fervor carries Nicholas''s will to the family, fighting for their clan, their power and will increased by 50%!]

 Chapter 242: Chapter 242: What kind of victory is this?

    The children of the fourth generation all possessed Developing Skills. They had grown up during the era when the Blackwoods were fugitives, always with Nicholas, who was once timid and pampered.


    That little boy truly became a real man of the Blackwood family, yet the last memory they had of him was still that of a child.


    No one knew better than they did how difficult it was to live in exile.


    Nicholas''s kneeling before Luke, that moment on the city walls, had given them a peaceful thirty years. Only now did they truly appreciate how precious those thirty years had been.


    "Show what you''re capable of, let Nicholas see that we are proud of him, that we haven''t wasted these thirty years!"


    "Annihilate the druids!"


    "Let their blood be a tribute to Nicholas!"


    Fight, fight, fight!!!


    George, William, and Justin would usually be laughing in battle. But now, these three shameless guys had serious expressions. They exchanged glances and charged at an enemy in the mid-stage of Competent Force.


    "Boom!"


    The elder from their family appeared on George''s body and engaged the enemy directly. Justin moved around the perimeter, occasionally getting knocked back only to return stronger each time.


    William stood in the distance, various Psychic Gear and ability weapons appearing around him, resembling a venomous snake. Over the years, the only reasons he stayed with the family were his elder brother and the Forebearer.


    Now, as he watched his kin fighting all around, he seemed to understand that it wasn''t just his brother and the Forebearer who cared about him. Perhaps everyone in the family was silently contributing, just like Nicholas, who silently stood in front of everyone, shielding him as well.


    These guys, one day in the future, might not care that he was a black sheep, or about the many wrongs he had done. They would stand with him without hesitation.


    "A bunch of... fools." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendant William, feeling the deepest hidden emotions among his kin, has gained the trait: Hidden Guardian]


    [Like Nicholas, he is willing to remain hidden at the heart of the family, eliminating all enemies for them. When killing for the family, his strength increases by 20%, and he becomes more ferocious.]


    Strength is growing, growing!


    William found his opportunity, hundreds of Psychic Gear, ability weapons, and even totems from the druids flew towards the Competent Force expert, then, explosion!


    ...


    Fight to the death, relentless battle!


    Ethan watched the family''s fight, all the descendants united like never before, fighting desperately!


    And the reason for all this was not just the widespread ''Family Will'' skill, but also Nicholas leading them into the future.


    In this battle, many family members, like William and the two young monks, were awakening their traits.


    Thirty years ago.


    All the descendants acknowledged their weakness, but now, they finally faced the entire Clark tribe with the posture of the strong, and they crushed them!


    The sky was also a battlefield.


    It had been an hour, and there was High Priest Luke, as a tribal leader, he possessed the peak strength of Competent Force. With his own power, he calmly faced many experts from the Blackwood family!


    Then.


    Despair descended!


    "Whoosh"


    [Activating skill¡ªFight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Your current strength has reached the early stage of Competent Force, possessing the power of rules, descending into the game world requires consuming family will: 3]


    [Descend?]


    "Yes!"


    In the sky, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position formed a family emblem, its golden light shining in front of Luke, making him cautiously step back, black mist emerging, the Twin Fish Harmony Seal enveloping all directions!


    "Forebearer!"


    The Blackwood people were shaken, after thirty years, the Forebearer descended again to fight alongside them!


    ...


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    A gust of wind surged, Ethan descended into this world again, looking around, the Blackwood children were fighting on the ground, he could hear their battle cries.


    Originally today... among these fighting children, Nicholas would have been present.


    Suddenly.


    Ethan''s eyes focused on the retreating Luke, his deep voice resonating in the sky, "Capture him alive."


    As soon as he spoke, Ethan''s Twin Fish Harmony Seal spun, already showing on the spot, appearing in front of Luke, his body of black mist, carrying the power of the five elements, the sun, moon, and stars!


    "Yes!"


    The Blackwood people nodded slightly, they didn''t have the ecstasy they had when the Forebearer appeared before, they knew, the Forebearer''s mood was as heavy as theirs now!


    "Hahaha, think you can capture me alive? Ridiculous!"


    Another hour later.


    The Blackwood descendants stood on Nathan''s coffin, their Forebearer had already begun to disappear.


    Clark''s High Priest Luke, desperately knelt behind the Blackwood people.


    The Death Coffin moved towards the Blackwood direction.


    "Why... why?!!"


    Before the battle, he told Nathan, their Clark tribe had no cowards, but he saw, one by one, Clark''s people began to flee. Even their Competent Force mid-stage priest fled in front of the three young Blackwoods.


    Clark originally had the strength to fight, but in the face of the Blackwood people''s frenzy, Clark only lasted less than half an hour before disintegrating, fleeing for themselves.


    They looked like the real cowards!


    Even he...


    After the Blackwood Forebearer appeared, he also experienced true despair, that Blackwood ancestor had complete mastery of the five elements within the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, containing the sun, moon, and stars, invisible within the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, especially that spear capable of breaking all laws, could also dispel the natural energy of the world.


    Five minutes, if the opponent hadn''t intended not to kill him, he would have probably died long ago.


    Until the opponent left.


    Nathan''s boundless Sea of Death, Luna''s Six-Tailed Fox form, Lucas''s Sword Intent domain, and Amelia''s summoned Divine Tree slowly surrounded him in the sky with two dragon serpents, three zombies, and several younger family members.


    He thought about running, but escape was impossible.


    Where Clark stood, Mount Jade crumbled, stained with blood, dust filling the sky. Rising to the heavens was the fierce pride of Nicholas and the Blackwoods. What collapsed was their so-called Druidic honor and courage.


    On the screen, Ethan quietly watched it all unfold.


    [Congratulations, your descendants have completely destroyed the Clarks!]


    [Before he left, your descendant Nicholas, in the name of the ancient Blackwood ancestor Nathan, had the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion send letters to every county and major power throughout the Emerald Empire. He let everyone in the Emerald Empire know that thirty years ago, a traitor emerged from the Blackwoods, and his name was Nicholas.]


    [He told everyone in the Emerald Empire that all the Blackwoods were furious about his betrayal and fled the family. Until today, thirty years later, the Blackwoods had gathered enough strength to righteously annihilate their kin, breaking the entire Clark clan in one fell swoop.]


    [Your family has cleared the name of ''human race traitor'' and remains the proud ''Azure Cloud Warriors.'' The entire Emerald Empire is celebrating this rare victory for Cloudview County.]


    [Gain +5 Family Will]


    "What kind of victory is this? What kind of celebration?"


    Ethan clenched his teeth, his fists tight, until all that was left was a sigh.


    ...

 Chapter 243: Chapter 243: Druid Slayer

    Seven days had passed.


    Inside the Blackwood residence, the people of Gratitude Village were ecstatic in the streets. They had heard rumors that the Blackwoods were still the same as before. Not only had they slain the cursed Druids of Gratitude Village after thirty years, but they had even ventured to the Clark territory and achieved glorious battle honors!


    Even throughout the entire Cloudview County.


    All the forces emerged from hiding, seeking revenge after thirty years of concealment. They struck swiftly at the Clark, Harris, and White tribes, which had once suffocated Cloudview County, forcing them into a desperate retreat. Their main forces had fled back to the Endless Forest.


    The remaining Druids in Cloudview County could only struggle to survive under the relentless pursuit of the major powers.


    The situation had reversed so quickly.


    They could even foresee that, in the near future, no one would call the people of Cloudview County spineless. No one would call the people of Gratitude Village cowards; they would only praise the Blackwoods for leading the entire Azure Cloud to a commendable victory for humanity!


    But they didn''t know.


    At this moment, deep in the Silver Iron Forest, not far from Boar Monarch Pete, a statue had been erected.


    It was the statue of a young man riding a donkey, laughing heartily. The youth''s spirited demeanor was unaffected by the donkey, instead, he appeared utterly carefree, and anyone could see his ease and comfort.


    He was poised to charge forward, holding a silver spear and a map, his eyes fierce, as if no one could block his path.


    A...


    Warrior without burdens, acting on his whims.


    Behind the statue was a coffin, which held no body, only blood-stained clothes, a magical spear, the Great River Dragon Map, and a set of heavy armor. This was the armor Nicholas had worn in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where he had grown stronger step by step.


    A light rain began to fall from the sky.


    The people of Blackwood stood before Nicholas''s grave, gazing long at his statue and his tombstone.


    The tombstone was empty.


    Dennis sighed deeply, tears mingling with the rain, "Do not record everything Nicholas went through. When you handed him over to me, I watched him grow up bit by bit. He used to be carefree, saying he wanted to be a great hero like you all, to live freely, but he chose a different path."


    "Let him... walk away from all this, freely."


    Hearing this, the people of Blackwood bowed their heads.


    Nathan stepped forward to Nicholas''s tombstone, his hand caressing it. He still remembered the day Nicholas knelt before him on the city walls. He had reached out his hand, but ultimately, he did not strike Nicholas.


    That day, Nicholas had knelt before Luke, struck his face, and said little. He was even prepared to face the entire Emerald Empire and all the Druids.


    Until now...


    Nathan realized that whether in life or death, Nicholas was no longer a child, nor a coward. He had carried a great mountain forward. It was they, the elders, who were the real cowards, hiding in the deepest parts of the family, cultivating psychic powers, and enjoying the happiest and most peaceful thirty years.


    As Nathan''s psychic powers emerged.


    The tombstone recorded Nicholas''s life, but not the burdens he had borne.


    [Nicholas, the most respected member of the Blackwoods. He grew up in the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion during difficult times and became a hero there. As an adult, he followed in the footsteps of his elders, living freely. In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, he faced countless demonic cultivators, never showing fear, and even drinking and reveling with them.]


    [He participated in battle after battle for the Blackwoods, never showing fear. At the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, he faced the strongest talents of Cloudview County, charging forward with a laugh, becoming the pride of the entire county.]


    [He made the entire Druid Clark tribe submit to him, making the high priest Luke kneel before him.]


    [He is...]


    [The proudest, fearless warrior of the Blackwoods!]


    Nathan slowly turned his head, looking at Luke kneeling before Nicholas''s grave, and asked, "Lord Luke, take a look, isn''t the life of my Nicholas spectacular?"


    Larry stared blankly at Nicholas''s tombstone.


    After a long silence, he suddenly smiled, "I pay my respects to him. I didn''t lose to the Blackwoods, I lost to him."


    "Thank you."


    As Nathan''s words fell, Luke closed his eyes, his wish also fulfilled. His people were fleeing, his defeat inevitable, and he wanted to honor his opponent in his final moments, a pride of his status as high priest.


    Luke''s head fell, and his blood flowed towards Nicholas''s grave.


    The soil of the grave closed, and the people of Blackwood lingered for a long time. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the misty rain, the statue seemed to come to life, Nicholas, just as he had wished, laughing heartily as he roamed the world.


    [Congratulations, your descendants have, with the strength of their clan and the will of Nicholas, slain a million Druids, earning the trait: Druid Slayer]


    [Damage against Druids increased by 30%]


    Seven days passed in the game world, and the people of Blackwood gradually moved away from Nicholas''s grave. Ethan''s screen still lingered there, his eyes closed in the room.


    From the start of this game until now, the children of the family had grown up, and unknowingly, all of them had entered the most important place in his heart.


    He glanced at the skill item, looking at the astronomical number of Spiritual Tribute points, Ethan shook his head.


    They still had much to do, they had to follow the path Nicholas had left for the family, to build the strongest Blackwood, ensuring this land would never again be troubled by Druids, or... by anyone!


    ...


    In just half a month, Gratitude Village had regained order and was now more prosperous than it was thirty years ago, despite being occupied by Druids for many years. The infrastructure had been improving every day. Now, the people of Gratitude Village could instantly enjoy a better life than they did thirty years ago, truly a case of hardship followed by relief.


    During the war, the people of Gratitude Village had spread out to various places, each household displaying white silk ribbons. Despite the pain of losing family members, they took pride in those who had died in battle, defending their land. Their loved ones had once fought against the Druids!


    This land was built over generations with the blood and flesh of their ancestors. They had no other way to repay but to live and thrive on this land, to grow stronger, and to continue the will of their forebears and family members, protecting their homeland at all costs.


    Fortunately, they had the support of the Blackwoods behind them.

 Chapter 244: Chapter 244: Are you still hesitating...

    The people of Gratitude Village seemed different from those in other places. Blackwood never defended Nicholas, but after this great battle, it seemed they understood everything.


    On this day, every household in Gratitude Village brought a Tribute Offering, asking Blackwood to let them enter the Silver Iron Forest.


    "You all..." The people of Blackwood stood at the gate, looking at the scene before them, their eyes red with emotion.


    The mayor of Gratitude Village had died in the war, and a young man named Marvin stepped forward. His father, Riley, had died in the battle, and Marvin had inherited his father''s will. He had ridden a flying sword swiftly in the great battle, becoming the most outstanding hero of Gratitude Village.


    "Gentlemen," Marvin shouted, "we want to pay respects to Lord Nicholas!"


    "We don''t believe that Lord Nicholas betrayed Gratitude Village or Blackwood, as the rumors suggest. My father told us that we must wait, that we were weak, and we needed to wait until we were strong enough."


    "He understood, he had his moments of fear when he heard the Druids were coming. If he had resisted, our family would have been destroyed. When the Druids entered our village, I was still young. I saw my father knocked down by a Druid, even though he was stronger. I didn''t understand why he didn''t fight back."


    "He told me he needed to protect me, the fool, and to protect my mother and brother."


    "Perhaps my father and Lord Nicholas were similar. They both were waiting for the day when the town''s bells rang. I went to see Lord Nicholas, only to meet Lady Helen. Maybe..."


    "Maybe he and my father were the same, waiting for the day they could strike against the Druids, both enduring disgrace to protect us all."


    Marvin clenched his fists, "Please, gentlemen, let us pay respects to Lord Nicholas. We are not only honoring him but also the misunderstood loved ones!"


    On that day, a neat line of people continuously formed, orderly marching towards a statue deep in the Silver Iron Forest. Fireworks floated up to the sky above the forest, continuing day and night for three months.


    Every household in Gratitude Village began to display a statue of a young man riding a donkey at full speed.


    The people of Blackwood watched all this. Ethan was also watching. Their eyes brimmed with tears, their expressions relieved. Nicholas was ultimately too naive; he miscalculated. He wanted everyone in the Emerald Empire to think he was a traitor, but that wasn''t true. At least the people of Gratitude Village, at least the people of Blackwood, knew everything he had done.


    Soon, half a month passed, and the people of Gratitude Village were still paying their respects. Their understanding helped Blackwood slowly recover from the grief of Nicholas''s sacrifice.


    [Your descendants are paying respects to you in the Forebearer Hall.]


    The scene shifted to the Forebearer Hall, where members of the first and second generations were kneeling. At this moment, his Psychic Position was at the top, followed by Boar Monarch Pete and Nicholas.


    [Your descendant Nathan reports to you that after the High Priest Clark was defeated, all Druids are fleeing Cloudview County, heading back to the Endless Forest. Various major sects are regrouping and sending letters. In this chaotic era, with strong enemies still lurking outside Cloudview County and Duke''s Mansion Martin uninvolved, the major sects hope Blackwood can take charge.]


    "Take charge, huh?" Ethan squinted slightly. Nicholas''s vision was for Blackwood to endure. He had done so much, and now Blackwood had finally shed the label of human traitor and was trusted again by the Emerald Empire. Now, Blackwood also had enough strength.


    At this time, every border county of the Emerald Empire was in the midst of war, and the Druids from other counties probably had no spare capacity to attack Blackwood. If they could unite the forces of Cloudview County, then... the situation could be reversed!


    What needed to be guarded against was no longer Cloudview County, but the Druids of the Endless Forest!


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Exploding Sky Serpent, and in an instant, a serpent-like mist appeared. This was the second form of the Exploding Sky Serpent, known as the Mist Serpent. As soon as it appeared, a message popped up in the event log.


    [Your temple guardian beast requests that you give it an elegant name.]


    After some thought, Ethan decided he needed to consult a dictionary for this task. He then had the Exploding Sky Serpent relay a message.


    It sulkily said to Nathan, "The master says, ''To secure peace within, one must first manage external threats.''"


    "Forebearer agrees!" Nathan nodded vigorously, bowing repeatedly, "Please rest assured, Forebearer, I understand your meaning."


    In the hall were Luna, Julian, and Amelia. Lucas was still outside the family, having brought back celestial swordsmen from Starlight County. They were currently clearing out the remaining Druids in Cloudview County. Olivia, during her great battle with Luke, had not experienced the thunder tribulation, and was now contemplating the power of the mountains, rivers, and lakes.


    "Forebearer says we need to secure our internal affairs first."


    Luna''s expression tightened slightly, "The head of the house, the only thing we need to be cautious about in Cloudview County is that one family."


    "Martin!"


    Julian''s silver arm caressed his bald head, his teeth gritted, "That old man Michael has lived too long. Over the years, other county Duke''s Mansions have been fighting, only Wind Duke''s Mansion has been sitting by, otherwise, our Cloudview County wouldn''t have been so powerless at the start!"


    "I''ve heard about it too, damn it, the Emerald Empire also has a bunch of bastards, all the rewards issued by our Cloudview County went to Martin."


    "Dad, just give the word, and I''ll take the kids and smash his Duke''s Mansion!"


    Hearing this.


    Nathan frowned deeply, pondering for a long time before finally sighing and shaking his head, "No."


    At this, Julian''s eyes widened, "Dad, are you still hesitating..." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I mean, ruining Duke''s Mansion isn''t enough. I want Michael to feel like a thorn is in his side, to end his days in constant fear and die in disgrace!"


    A fierce light flashed in Nathan''s eyes, the root of all problems was Michael!


    This schemer, sitting high above, wanted to destroy Cloudview County. Thirty years ago, he almost succeeded, and perhaps he even knew about the large-scale attacks in advance. Cloudview County was supposed to be protected by Duke''s Mansion, but they just sat back and watched as everyone in Cloudview County struggled desperately.


    Over these thirty years, Blackwood had endured humiliation, and Nicholas had gone through unimaginable trials, the shame of which could not even be washed away by the future.


    Amelia had been quietly listening, and now she smiled, "Cloudview County is changing, Duke''s Mansion..."


    "Should change as well."

 Chapter 245: Chapter 245: Martin was, after all, their maternal family line

    "Consolidating Cloudview County starts with taking down Michael," Ethan muttered as he clicked his mouse.


    He ignored a message that popped up: [Your temple guardian beast is requesting a ''good enough'' name.] Instead, Ethan clicked on Olivia''s avatar, intending to have her oversee the big picture.


    But there she was, transformed again, now pushed by a maid formed from an AI Bionic Robot.


    "What''s happened to her now?"


    Previously, Olivia had reverted to her youthful self, a young girl of eighteen. Now, she had aged again, appearing as a mature woman of charm, pausing by the mountains and lakes.


    [Your descendant Olivia is contemplating the power of the world''s mountains, rivers, and lakes, undergoing a natural decline.]


    [She is currently understanding the third layer of the ''World Scripture'', focusing on landscapes.]


    [Olivia kindly asked Dennis for guidance and received fragments of ancient wisdom, gaining a partial understanding of fate.]


    [She has spent decades of her life communicating with the Endless Forest, asking for a sliver of fortune to rejuvenate Blackwood.]


    Ethan thought he saw a faint purple light from the Endless Forest heading towards Blackwood. Above Olivia''s head, he noticed storm clouds; every few moments, a wild spirit would be extinguished under them.


    Having reached the Competent Force stage, Ethan still didn''t quite grasp the concept of fortune. He had heard that a family''s prosperity and wealth were tied to it, and many were obsessed with cultivating ''fortune trees.''


    "Did you go... to seize fortune?"


    Ethan''s scalp tingled, no wonder Olivia had aged again!


    A Psychic Position emerged.


    Olivia''s eyes sparkled with joy, though her expression remained unchanged, "Forebearer, I''ve realized it! Cloudview County hasn''t produced a Basic Mastery in over a hundred thousand years because it lacks fortune! In the struggle for supremacy, it''s not just about fighting for treasures but also for the world''s fortune. " S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Without it, there are no more opportunities, no favor from the cosmos. Please rest assured, Forebearer, I will use all my strength to slowly reclaim our fortune."


    "..."


    Ethan was silent for a moment, still not fully understanding this concept. He had intended for Olivia to return home and take charge, but now he had to let that plan go.


    He sent Olivia a ''Forebearer''s Caress'' and left a message [Take care of yourself, no need to force things], then switched the screen.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    Olivia looked at the cards that had returned to normal, squinting slightly at the storm clouds in the sky.


    "Nicholas, I''m sorry, your great-grandmother has been too fierce these years, not knowing you had already resigned yourself to fate."


    "Just be at peace in the cycle of reincarnation. When your great-grandmother takes control of the cycle of life and death, I''ll restore an eternal Blackwood for you, where you can roam freely!"


    [Your temple guardian beast, please give it a random name.]


    "..."


    The event tab popped up again with a message from the Exploding Sky Serpent. Ethan stroked his chin, assuring himself that it wasn''t out of spite for the serpent condensing his several hundred words into a few, after all, people from Blackwood aren''t petty.


    Ah, this will do...


    [The Primordial Blood Tree reports to you that your descendants, Julian and the third generation of Blackwood, taking advantage of Amelia''s absence, want to retaliate for the previous tattling incident while it rests. Please allow it to teach them a lesson.]


    "Agreed."


    Ethan seriously clicked on the Exploding Sky Serpent''s avatar, solemnly consulted his clan, and then gave it a resounding name.


    He then promptly switched the screen to the Blackwood Hall.


    At this moment.


    The Blackwood family at home was discussing the affairs of Cloudview County. After Nicholas, the family hadn''t appointed a new head. Nathan said that from now on, all family matters would be decided collectively by those at home. After strategizing, if it was a major issue, they would consult the Forebearer.


    Suddenly, the Blackwood folks looked outside, baffled.


    "Ha ha ha, I have a name now! Call me Charlie Crackle, ha ha ha."


    "Oh!"


    "Enemies, tremble before me, Charlie Crackle!"


    The corners of everyone''s mouths twitched as they recognized the ecstatic roar of the Exploding Sky Serpent... no, Charlie Crackle.


    They didn''t see little Katie proudly lifting her head.


    She would never tell the clan that just now the Forebearer had shown his powers, asking her to give the temple guardian beast a formidable nickname, signifying his approval of her!


    No one would ever know...


    Suddenly, Katie froze as the elders'' gazes simultaneously fixed on her.


    "..."


    Katie tilted her head and scratched it. Was it that obvious?


    The Blackwood folks were just about to teach Katie a lesson to prevent more such disgraceful incidents, their faces darkening.


    Over at the Primordial Blood Tree.


    "Help!"


    "You sneaky tattletale old tree, don''t think you''re something special, just you wait!"


    "Ha ha ha, I''ve finally waited for this day! Eight jerks, old and new scores to settle!"


    "..."


    Outside, branches swayed and roots entwined, flinging eight big guys around like windmills, while inside the Blackwood Hall, the folks darkened their faces and simply used a magic circle to block out the noise.


    When they turned back, they couldn''t help but smile.


    The people of Gratitude Village, lined up to pay their respects, also looked towards Blackwood, hearing these shouts and couldn''t help but laugh.


    Maybe... no, definitely.


    What they were protecting was just like this.


    ...


    Back in the hall.


    Nathan sat back in the main seat, sipped his tea, and looked around at the few people present; George, William, and Justin had gone to Druid to scavenge. He then said, "Martin is ultimately under the empire, we need to act, but not overtly, and certainly not let our Blackwood name be associated with this."


    "Grandfather, don''t worry."


    Daniel sat stiffly, "Aunt Dawn has already handed over to me, these days I''ve had Dawn''s assassins watching Martin, none will escape. Now that Cloudview County''s major powers have reemerged, they are willing to follow our Blackwood lead, grandfather, we have plenty of ways to deal with Martin."


    Amelia casually said, "If the demon cultivators make a move, then it''s none of our Blackwood business, after all, demon cultivators are capable of anything."


    "Edward, Betty, Joseph, Katie, what do you think?"


    As Nathan asked, everyone looked towards Edward''s family.


    Martin was, after all, their maternal family line.


    The family was expressionless. Katie had no feelings for Martin; after she was born, she only knew her grandfather had sent people to kidnap her, wanting to marry her off at a tender age. Even in her twenties, they still tried to arrange a marriage for her. She had heard some of the past stories and couldn''t understand how such a shameless Duke could come from the Duke''s Mansion.

 Chapter 246: Chapter 246: You little rascal, come here!

    "Ah."


    Joseph let out a long sigh, his eyes catching a glimpse of reluctance in his mother''s gaze, which the Blackwood clan also noticed. He then exhaled deeply, "Mother, there''s something I must say. Do you know? Once, my uncle''s direct descendants tried to harm me, thinking I was competing with them for the inheritance."


    The crowd looked at Joseph, frowning.


    Joseph continued, "What right do I have to claim the inheritance? I''m from a different family. It was Grandfather who wanted me to rise. He gave me a drop of precious ancient god blood. After all these years, I can only sleep and meditate under the divine tree, trying to shield my fate from the heavens. Elders, why do you think that is?"


    The wind outside the hall tried to penetrate the magical barrier, chilling everyone to the bone. Betty''s eyes were red, and the veins on her hands were bulging.


    "He never truly sacrifices for anyone, let alone for ancient god blood. I''ve opened my third eye, even seeing things from after my birth. Back then, Grandfather didn''t try to drown me but to see if my life was tough enough to withstand the ancient god blood fortune he couldn''t accept."


    "He was waiting, waiting for me to fully absorb the ancient god blood, my talents far surpassing his. Waiting to take over as the head of the Martin family, then I would become him. Unfortunately, he miscalculated too much. He didn''t realize that the Blackwoods are far more formidable than he anticipated."


    "Over the years, he kept sending people, not just to capture Katie, but looking for me. He never expected that I would stay indoors for decades, giving him no opportunity. He even sent beautiful girls, but my third eye showed me the past, and I trust no one."


    "Bang!"


    The always gentle Betty erupted in anger for the first time, smashing the table with a palm. Her eyes were bloodshot as she knelt before Nathan, "Great-grandfather, please take action!"


    Her tone was so resolute, even if the Blackwoods didn''t seek revenge against Michael, she would fight alone!


    The Blackwoods felt the same.


    They looked at Joseph, who had just calmly revealed all this. They didn''t know that Joseph had been through so much since childhood.


    But this guy, who seemed too lazy to care, only sleeping all day, indifferent, never leaving the house, not fighting for power or love, was silently enduring Michael''s covetousness.


    "Brother, why... why didn''t you say anything?" Katie''s eyes were red, wondering how long her brother had lived in fear. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "..."


    Joseph waved his hand, then patted Katie on the head, "I''m not like dad, who talks about everything. Don''t be like him; he always gets what he wants, and I almost fell for dad''s tricks."


    "You little rascal, come here!"


    "Ah! Dad, go easy, you dare do it but can''t let others talk?"


    Edward was furious, grabbing Joseph and hitting him, not using much force, his expression somewhat relieved.


    Everyone else looked at the father and son, and Betty on the ground also broke into a smile.


    Then Nathan looked grimly at Daniel, "Go, arrange everything. I want to see if he can outsmart us this time!"


    "Yes!"


    Daniel''s eyes flashed coldly.


    Soon, Joseph went back to sleep, and everyone looked at his retreating figure with complex emotions. In Joseph, they saw a hint of Nicholas.


    This guy, unassuming, was silently enduring.


    "Dad, Joseph... he probably didn''t dare say it before. Back then, we couldn''t provoke an opponent like Martin," Amelia said softly.


    It had been many years since they had returned, and the children of the house were all remarkable.


    On the screen.


    Ethan stared blankly at Joseph, unaware of these matters. He hadn''t even imagined that Michael''s moral bottom line was even lower than he could have imagined.


    Joseph, sleeping on the Primordial blood tree, curled up, his shoulders trembling.


    Then he finally fell into a peaceful sleep, breathing evenly, a smile on his face, seemingly sleeping more peacefully than ever.


    "Damn Michael!"


    ...


    In the grand hall of the Duke''s Mansion, Michael sat in the master''s chair, his face a mask of shock and disbelief. Outside, the servants and family members of the mansion were celebrating joyously, their laughter echoing through the corridors.


    "Hahaha, we won! We''ve driven all the Druids out of Cloudview County, and the empire has rewarded us!"


    "I knew it! It looked like the Duke wasn''t doing much, but he must have been working his strategies in secret."


    "We might even be able to unify Cloudview County and launch a counterattack against the Druids. The lands of Cloudview County will expand, bringing in a wealth of resources. I''ll earn my stripes in the Duke''s Mansion for this!"


    But Michael was far from celebratory. His voice trembled as he muttered to himself, "How is this possible? How could you possibly win?!"


    Unknown to others, Michael had grand plans for the future. He saw everyone¡ªfrom the Oracle Chamber and the Blackwoods to the Druids¡ªas mere pawns in his game. He had known about Kenneth''s and Stephen''s true identities all along.


    With the major powers of Cloudview County wiped out, the Emerald Empire would still survive. Even after a great battle, Cloudview County would retain half of its lands. With the Blackwoods gone, he could have taken Joseph and, through him, possibly unlock the secrets that allowed the Blackwoods to thrive for over a century. He could have gained Katie and powerful allies...


    Given enough time, he even dared to scheme against the entire Emerald Empire!


    But now, with the Druids driven out of Cloudview County, all his plans had crumbled to dust. The Blackwoods had risen to dominate Cloudview County, just as it had been sung about thirty years ago. It was the era of the Blackwoods.


    The Blackwoods were ready to show their fangs and eliminate him through various means, just as Olivia had always found ways to thwart him in her spare time.


    "No, there''s still a chance," Michael muttered, narrowing his eyes. "Everyone is a pawn in my game, and I can..."


    Before he could finish, a messenger from the Martin family, a Developing Skill Psychic, rushed in from afar, his expression frantic. "Duke, the Druids... the Druids have pushed back in!"


    "What?!!"


    Michael stood up abruptly, his face lighting up. "The world is as unpredictable as the weather, full of opportunities, opportunities!"


    But his expression changed again.


    "Duke, there''s been a change. They aren''t here to attack. It''s good news! The Blackwoods have captured them and brought them here to claim their victory and discuss with us at the Duke''s Mansion about attacking the Druids!"


    The smile slowly faded from Michael''s face as he sank back into his chair, the familiar surroundings of the hall suddenly seeming so pale and colorless.

 Chapter 247: Chapter 247: Undying Pests

    "Run!"


    Upon hearing the report from his guard, Michael didn''t hesitate. He transformed into a breeze using the natural energy of the world and in an instant, he was high above the ground.


    Then...


    He returned to the great hall, activating the magical array as he took refuge in Duke''s Mansion, daring not to move. After all, he was the Duke, and he maintained his composure. "I am the Duke, backed by the empire. As long as I''m in Duke''s Mansion, under everyone''s watchful eyes, what can you do to me?"


    Above Duke''s Mansion.


    Figures appeared among the clouds!


    George stood reluctantly at the center above Duke''s Mansion, with twenty-three Sages behind him. The extra elder had been sent out to help his clan members enhance their psychic powers, and he hadn''t asked for him back yet.


    Seeing George''s expression, Ethan could guess why the young man was reluctant.


    [Your descendant George unearthed a fragment of a high priest''s soul from the Druid High Priest''s tomb. Just as he was about to capture it, he received a family order to abandon the soul and bring the elders who once represented the peak of Cloudview County to stop Michael from escaping!]


    As soon as these elders appeared, Michael didn''t hesitate to flee back to Duke''s Mansion.


    No wonder...


    [Your descendant George, after thirty years of cultivating psychic powers, has reached the peak of Developing Skill and is a Pinnacle Apprentice. Over thirty years, the Blackwood clan has found rare treasures for these elders to solidify their spirits, granting George even greater power!]


    "Hmph, he sure knows how to run fast."


    "George, be ready to lend us your body at any moment. I am the eighth master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, and I''ve spent my life guarding Cloudview County. Cloudview County was almost destroyed by him; I''ll risk my life to end him!"


    "And me! Forget it, George, just dive down there and storm through his Duke''s Mansion."


    "..."


    George scratched his head, "Elders, please, this mission was arranged by my second uncle."


    He remembered his second uncle Daniel''s smile, which made him shudder. If it were his great-aunt''s command, he might dare to resist a bit; she might just be scaring him for fun by saying she''d refine his elders. But his second uncle... when he was the head of the family, he always did as he said, and now that he''s back from Thunderfire Demon Cave, he''s even more formidable.


    ...


    Michael sat within his family''s estate, but his calm lasted only a moment.


    All the skilled warriors in Duke''s Mansion suddenly looked up.


    They could feel the unrest of the day, as all the skilled warriors in Cloudview County watched Duke''s Mansion closely!


    Meanwhile, outside Duke''s Mansion, the Druids brought by Blackwood were now bound at the mansion.


    As these Druid chiefs began to speak, Michael''s face turned sour.


    Their voices were so loud in the city of Cloudview County!


    "I am Chief Harris, and I can testify that Duke Michael has been collaborating with us Harris for three hundred years."


    "I am Chief White, and I have also collaborated with Michael."


    "I represent the Eagle Tribe!"


    "..."


    Six chiefs, with their tribespeople bound outside Duke''s Mansion, made such shocking statements.


    The people of Cloudview County listened intently, piecing together a terrifying message. Three hundred years ago, Duke Michael had already been collaborating with the Druids. This man wasn''t even from Martin; he was a spy sent by the Druids to Cloudview County, and Michael''s father was a slave to the Druids...


    "Damn it, damn it!"


    There was nothing left intact in the great hall; Michael was like a madman, those Druids were spreading nothing but lies!


    But he couldn''t understand why these resolute Druids would obey Blackwood''s orders and slander him in public. Public opinion is fearsome, especially the words of these Druids.


    Inside Martin, the voices of several skilled elder warriors reached his ears. These skilled warriors didn''t believe the rumors either, but they demanded that he immediately announce his abdication!


    "How could these Druids... why would they help Blackwood?"


    "They were captured, clearly doomed to die; under such circumstances, they should have fought back."


    The Duke, who had schemed his whole life, even against his own family, suddenly became despondent. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With the loss of his position as head of the family, all his visions and dreams were about to burst like bubbles.


    At that moment, Ethan looked out over the scene unfolding outside Duke''s Mansion. The citizens of Cloudview County had gathered, their initial shock turning into anger. Their homes had been ravaged by the Druid invasion, their loved ones lost.


    Now, they finally understood¡ªit was Michael, the lofty Duke, who was harming them!


    Their praises had turned into curses.


    "True to his reputation as the Heroic Tyrant who led both demonic and righteous warriors in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, he really plays dirty."


    Watching everything unfold on the screen, Ethan let out a sigh of admiration and switched the view.


    It was...


    [Endless Forest]


    In a tribal setting, a towering figure covered in demonic tattoos sat at a table. Before him were the elite of an entire Druid tribe, including a high priest. These old adversaries of Blackwood, who had once fought valiantly on the battlefield and were tough opponents, were now forcing smiles in front of a member of the Blackwood clan.


    "No more wine, pour me some."


    Thomas reached out with a bowl made from a skull, and as a Druid woman poured him wine, he glanced at the many stern-faced elites and grinned, "Don''t look so sour. You have plenty of chiefs; lending me one isn''t a big deal.


    "I once saw one of your rituals where you casually sacrificed a chief. Chiefs aren''t that valuable here, are they?"


    "Here, let me show you a trick."


    Seeing Thomas remove his head to show them and then cheekily place it back on his neck, the Druids still wore grim expressions.


    No wonder they were upset.


    [Your descendant Daniel sent six members of the third generation of Blackwoods, all at the mid-level of Developing Skill, under the title Lord of Frenzied Blood. They went to six different Druid tribes, died several times, and after being resurrected, they returned to harass the Druids, much to their annoyance.]


    [Eventually, both parties reached an agreement. The Druids agreed to spread rumors about Michael in exchange for the third generation of Blackwoods not harassing their tribes outside of wartime.]


    [Your descendant''s third generation of Blackwoods earned the notorious nickname ''Undying Pests'' among the Druids.]


    "..."

 Chapter 248: Chapter 248: Leave the rest to me.

    Ethan had miscalculated. He thought George, William, and Justin would be the first to disgrace the family name, but it was the third generation of the Blackwoods who led the notorious trend.


    "If Olivia had planned this, it wouldn''t have gone this way."


    Ethan stroked his chin, considering the strategists in the family¡ªonly Olivia and Daniel. Both were ruthless in achieving their goals, yet they were distinctly different. Olivia''s schemes were like silent assassinations from behind the scenes; she was more composed and thorough in her planning.


    As for Daniel... he was reckless to the extreme. Years ago, when he needed the Moore family head''s help, he didn''t hesitate to consider eliminating Moore, a fellow ally, for the sake of the family. In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, to consolidate Amelia''s power, he even turned on his most loyal subordinates.


    Even Ethan had to think twice about the consequences of Daniel''s actions...


    "Undying Pests... After this, it might be wise to let the Seven Black Bears lie low for a while. The name has made its mark, but it''s bound to make the Druids wary. Being immortal doesn''t mean there aren''t ways to deal with them, and if the Druids really get organized, that could spell trouble."


    Ethan couldn''t help but consider more deeply, especially now that Olivia was fully focused on seizing fortune.


    The third generation of Blackwoods had many flaws; they were slow at cultivating psychic powers. After all, the original Lord of Frenzied Blood took tens of thousands of years to reach Basic Mastery. They seemed to be a special existence, eternal in age but incredibly slow in developing their powers.


    After pondering everything, Ethan activated the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    Reluctantly, the third generation of Blackwoods bid farewell to the Druids and returned to their family stronghold to meditate.


    ...


    "Traitors of Cloudview County!"


    "No wonder the Duke''s Mansion had us stay at home; he wanted us dead!"


    "Maybe Michael has turned into a demon cultivator; he wants to use our blood for sacrifices, he''s a demon cultivator, a demon cultivator!"


    ...


    Half a month had passed, and the Duke''s Mansion was still filled with curses.


    In a tower in the city of Cloudview County, an aged Daniel stood by the window, looking out at the heavily fortified Duke''s Mansion. Behind him were Edward, Betty, Joseph, and Katie, all staring intently at Martin.


    "He hasn''t come out yet; he''s quite the character."


    Daniel praised, noticing Edward and Betty frowning. Daniel smiled, "Michael is indeed a formidable opponent. If it weren''t for our Blackwood family''s growth over these thirty years, everything might have gone as Michael wished, and he could have surpassed Basic Mastery."


    "Unfortunately for him, he won''t get the chance. Grandfather said he would end in constant fear and die in disgrace, and he''s already disgraced enough. Next comes the final step."


    As Daniel''s words fell, a Daoist figure appeared in the room, dressed in white and wearing a mask embroidered with a scale¡ª


    Kenneth!


    "Brother!" Betty''s face lit up with joy.


    Thirty years ago, he was captured by the Blackwoods and released by Olivia. Now, on the day the Blackwoods drove the Druids from Cloudview County, he had returned!


    He gave a faint smile to Joseph''s family.


    Then he stepped out of the room, pausing at the door, just as he had when he left the Blackwood hall all those years ago, only this time he was more confident.


    "Leave the rest to me."


    Soon, on his way to Martin, Kenneth, dressed in fine clothes, looked at the Duke''s Mansion''s sign and trembled as he knocked on the grand door.


    Olivia was right that day!


    He would wait for it; Cloudview County still had a chance under Blackwood''s leadership, and they had won a brilliant victory. But it wasn''t over yet; Cloudview County was still surrounded by formidable enemies.


    Some things only he could do, and today was the day he would finish what was left undone!


    Only by eliminating all adverse factors could Cloudview County continue to triumph!


    Duke''s Mansion.


    Michael, who had secretly been stripped of his position as head of the family, was playing chess alone on a stone chair. As the grand doors of Duke''s Mansion were knocked, his hand froze, dropping the chess piece on the board, "Kenneth... he... how has he returned?!!"


    His pupils contracted, and these days, he had been scheming on how to turn the current situation around.


    He could feel that the Blackwood clan was outside Cloudview County, ready to take his life, to take everything from him. Fear was spreading, but his will to survive was even stronger.


    And now... S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He realized that what he truly feared was just beginning to descend!


    "Father, it''s been years, you''ve aged quite a bit."


    At the courtyard entrance, Kenneth stood under the door, bowing to Michael just as he had years ago.


    With Kenneth''s arrival.


    Michael looked desperate. In the sky, besides George who had been watching his every move, the spectral avatars of the old ancestors from Cloudview County Competent Force had come!


    "Now that the druids of Cloudview County are gone, I, Black Tortoise, heard that Duke''s Mansion harbors a traitor from Cloudview County, haha, I, Leon, know Duke''s Mansion well, how could such a heartless person exist here?"


    "Right, impossible. Solving this matter is simple, now is the time for us in Cloudview County to strike at the druids, friends of Duke''s Mansion, why not prove your innocence this way?"


    "Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, we hope Duke''s Mansion can send a master to assist!"


    Experience tales at m-vl-e-mpyr


    ...


    In the scene, five figures emerged from Duke''s Mansion, truly an ancient force capable of suppressing the entire Cloudview County with their power alone. All five were Competent Force members, especially the oldest, whose presence was even stronger than Luke''s!


    The youngest, barely over two hundred years old, was also the most talented among Martin''s younger generation.


    At this moment.


    The five Competent Force members from Duke''s Mansion glanced at Kenneth and Michael, father and son playing chess inside, and finally sighed, smiling in agreement to the requests of the major forces. In just half a month, they had already led the masters of Duke''s Mansion towards the borders of Cloudview County, where the armies of the major forces were also gathering.


    No sooner had these guys left, Ethan saw the message in the event column.


    [Your descendant Daniel reports to you that he sees a great opportunity now!]


    The scene shifted.


    Daniel was seen sneaking around in a dark room, using a plethora of isolation spells, pulling out Forebearer Cards to worship, "Forebearer, now with Kenneth and his son at Martin, and all the old Martin ancestors gone, we''ve created a chance for them to fight to the death."


    "We can kill Michael and no one would know, and on the battlefield, it''s normal for people to die, it''s normal for Martin''s five Competent Force to die in battle."


    "After that, we can support Edward to take the throne, or even Betty, and once our Blackwood children stabilize their rule, we Blackwoods will also be royal nobility!"


    "Next, we can continue Michael''s plan, wait under the protection of Duke''s Mansion until the war ends, everything in Cloudview County will be ours, we might even plan for the Emerald Empire!"

 Chapter 249: Chapter 249: Michael, struck by the Forebearers lightning...?

    Ethan was stunned, looking at the excited Daniel.


    Well, he hadn''t thought wrong before, this kid was more Michael than Michael, no wonder back in the family, Daniel said he had plenty of ways to deal with Michael.


    [No more on this matter.]


    Ethan casually left these five words with the Forebearer Cards, no more ''MichaelPlus'', look how miserable Michael is now?


    Besides, the situation in Cloudview County was already complicated enough, adding the Emerald Empire, Ethan wasn''t sure he could handle it.


    While communicating with Daniel.


    Ethan frowned slightly.


    Daniel, who was originally kneeling to use another strategy, suddenly turned his head, knelt to Ethan again, and then burst out the door!


    Ethan quickly shifted the scene too.


    Only to see, with the departure of Martin''s elders, the great formation of Martin was blasted open!


    That scoundrel Michael, was fleeing! S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then...


    "Think you can escape?"


    Ethan chuckled mockingly.


    ...


    "Damn it, damn it!!!" Michael roared, on the brink of madness! For thirty years, ever since Nicholas surrendered to the Druids, all his plans had turned to dust.


    Olivia had never ceased to harass him through Dawn, keeping him in a constant state of fear and paranoia.


    Those cursed Druids, defeated so swiftly, had sent a new menace¡ªDaniel! This man was even more vicious. He aimed to ruin Michael, to haunt him day and night!


    "You think you can escape? Where can you possibly run?" With a thunderous noise, George appeared above, his aura bursting forth.


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    The power of twenty-three Sages infused him, and the ancient secrets of the Azure Cloud Pavilion were unleashed. The celestial formation of the Six Divinatory Figures enveloped the heavens and the earth!


    "As the Duke of Cloudview County, you disregarded the lives of your people. How can we let a beast like you live? How can the souls of the dead Stephen, the fallen disciples of the Renowned Sect, and the many citizens of Cloudview County who perished in the great war rest in peace?!!"


    This was the roar of the twenty-three Sages! They could no longer tolerate Michael and had long wished to destroy him themselves. Now, they finally had their chance!


    "Boom!"


    Michael, too, wielded a powerful earth-level technique, but against the seasoned predecessors of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, he was swiftly struck down. Yet, this strike did not critically injure Michael. This man, a mid-tier warrior of the Competent Force, still thought to escape!


    But suddenly, his expression drastically changed. Something stirred in George''s embrace¡ªa Psychic Position materialized before him!


    [You are currently upgrading the skill ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'' to Lv.3. Would you like to upgrade?]


    [Upgrade!]


    [You have spent 500,000 points of Spiritual Tribute to upgrade ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'' to ''Forebearer''s Thunderous Rage''!]


    [Would you like to upgrade the skill ''Forebearer''s Thunderous Rage''?]


    [Upgrade!]


    [Family Will consumed: 10!]


    [You have obtained the Lv.4 skill¡ªForebearer''s Divine Punishment!]


    "Thunder rolled!" Suddenly, storm clouds gathered above, striking the Forebearer Cards, imbued with the essence of the universe! "What... what is this?!!" Michael''s face was filled with terror. The Forebearer Cards seemed to channel the force of a celestial tribulation!


    On the screen, Ethan grinned maliciously, maneuvering the Forebearer Psychic Position. Beside the Forebearer Psychic Position, a name appeared¡ª[Michael]!


    "This is my long-sealed, desperately hungry Cards, you bastard!" It had been years since he had used the Forebearer Psychic Position. Because the Lv.3 skill used psychic powers and required descendants, it was less efficient than his physical descent.


    But now things were different! The Lv.4 [Forebearer''s Divine Punishment] had a greater effect and saved more family will than his physical descent!


    [Would you like to spend 1 point of Family Will to use Forebearer''s Divine Punishment?]


    [Forebearer''s Divine Punishment: Your Cards contain the essence of the universe and possess the power of a celestial tribulation. For every 100 descendants, your Cards can channel an additional Competent Force-level celestial tribulation, each consuming more Family Will!]


    [Your Forebearer Cards contain one Competent Force-level celestial tribulation!]


    Ethan''s eyes sparkled with anticipation. He could use this skill, thanks largely to Jeffrey. This guy had been quietly having children within the family, and now his lineage had over fifty children! "Let the lightning fall, my Cards!" Ethan''s Psychic Position, charged with the power of thunder, traced arcs of lightning across the sky, the air crackling explosively.


    Michael was caught off guard and blasted by the thunder!


    "Michael, struck by the Forebearer''s lightning...?"


    Outside the Duke''s Mansion, watching Michael fall from the sky, barely stabilizing his form to resist the Forebearer Cards, Daniel showed a look of certainty, "The Forebearer truly is divine!"


    "... "


    Although it was Michael who had been struck by lightning, George, who had just repelled Michael, stood stunned as if struck by lightning himself. The Sage power within him was in turmoil.


    "George, what''s the origin of these Cards? They can control celestial tribulations? You''ve had them for so long, how come we never felt it?"


    "Stay back... We are soul bodies, and celestial tribulations do not discriminate. If it spreads to us, we''re all done for!"


    "No, there are no storm clouds, no divine punishment from above, this is targeted at Michael."


    "..."


    One incense stick later.


    "Boom!"


    The Cards returned to normal, landing in George''s hands. Kenneth stood staggeringly, with Michael lying defeated at his feet. At this moment, Michael''s Competent Force was damaged, devoid of any psychic powers, lying powerlessly on the ground. His life force was fading away as he looked up in despair at the sky above Duke''s Mansion.


    The entire Duke''s Mansion was eerily empty. All the guards, servants, and family members he had relied on were nowhere to be found. He even saw Martin''s ancestor, the only one left to watch over the house, step into the courtyard, take a long sigh, and then leave.


    Footsteps then echoed.


    Edward, Betty, Joseph, and Katie approached. His son, daughter, son-in-law, and two grandchildren all looked down at him with no trace of pity in their eyes, only countless layers of hatred.


    "I... I did everything for Martin, Kenneth. I raised you from a young age; you should understand me."


    "Betty, I''ve cherished you since you were little. You must remember that, right?"


    "Edward, the day I acknowledged you as a real man, when I handed Betty over to you, you should be grateful to me."


    "And Joseph, Katie, you both are my beloved grandchildren. Joseph, I even gave you ancient god blood. Katie, I wanted you to have the best life, that''s why I arranged your marriage to a well-matched family."

 Chapter 250: Chapter 250: Who will lead us in the future?

    Until this moment, Michael was still struggling.


    Even though he knew he was utterly abandoned, he refused to give up hope!


    In the distance, Daniel walked up to George and shook his head as George started to step forward, "This is their family matter. The Forebearer is protecting them. Let them handle it themselves; it''s not our place to interfere."


    "Alright."


    George nodded, not fully understanding, and followed Daniel away.


    Just a few steps later, he regretted it, realizing his uncle was tricking him. "George, you''re the head of Azure Cloud Pavilion. Have you ever thought about using the prestige of Azure Cloud Pavilion, which has been around for tens of thousands of years, to gradually take over the major powers in Cloudview County..."


    Behind them.


    Michael continued to plead under the complex gazes of his family, his eyes filled with even greater shock.


    He had spent his life on the high throne of Duke''s Mansion, never having been so humiliated or so pleading.


    He had calculated everything in his life, but he had never foreseen this day.


    "I did it all for our family, for our family to continue in Cloudview County for a hundred thousand, even a million years. Only then could I share everything with you, so our whole family could achieve Basic Mastery, and we could spend countless ages together..."


    Michael was begging when Kenneth pulled out a pill that could restore Competent Force!


    "Give it to me, good boy. If dad survives, the whole Cloudview County, even the Emerald Empire, will be yours!"


    But his hope quickly turned to despair as Kenneth, right in front of him, swallowed the life-saving pill!


    "You''ve deceived me for hundreds of years, and you still want to deceive now? You''ve never treated us like family! Each of us was just a tool for your use!"


    Blood poured from Michael''s mouth.


    Betty looked on with pity, "How long do you still want to harm us?!"


    Joseph, always a man of few words, just silently watched.


    The sun shone brightly over Duke''s Mansion.


    The family of five surrounded Michael, watching him quietly pass away.


    The warm sunlight seemed to dispel the shadows that Michael had cast over their family for many years.


    When the servants arrived, they only saw Michael staring up at the sky with eyes full of despair and unwillingness to die.


    "Click, clack." Stay with us on m-vl-em-py-r


    Only Kenneth remained, silently playing chess by the board.


    [Special Event¡ªAt the Pinnacle of Azure Cloud, Masters of the Era, Completed!]


    [Your family has completely eliminated Michael. With no more obstacles in Cloudview County, your family''s power has reached the summit, recognized as the strongest in Cloudview County, replacing Duke''s Mansion as the true rulers. The Blackwood family has become the masters of this era in Cloudview County, prestige enhanced.]


    [Congratulations, you have gained +10 Family Will]


    "He''s finally gone for good!"


    Ethan and his relatives watched as Michael passed away, and George''s elders even took a tour around the entire Duke''s Mansion to make sure Michael''s Competent Force was completely extinguished before everyone finally felt at ease.


    If the game says he''s dead, then he must be dead.


    For Ethan, reaching the peak of Cloudview County wasn''t really a big deal.


    After all, this was the reputation his family had fought for on this land generation after generation, earned through their blood and sweat, and it was only right.


    Just as he was about to switch the view back to his family''s home base.


    Ethan saw George sneaking off to the back hill of Martin''s place... that was where the cemetery was.


    George looked solemnly at the energy locator in his hand, pondering something, as a guzheng had already been opened, and his elders skillfully picked up shovels and spades from inside the guzheng, looking quite interested.


    "Stop digging, you!"


    Ethan quickly used the Forebearer Psychic Position to prevent George from disturbing the peace of Martin''s ancestral graves.


    Looking again.


    Martin was not at peace either.


    Daniel, that guy, stood with his hands behind his back at the entrance to Martin''s treasure vault.


    Martin''s household elders, retainers, and loyal servants all surrounded him as if facing a great enemy, but Daniel''s gaze remained calm, speaking first.


    "Please rest assured, unless you invite me, I will not enter."


    An elder in plain clothes from Martin''s family flashed a look of helplessness, "Fellow Daoist, I''m not in charge of such secret places of Martin, and now that Michael... died from a psychic power mishap while cultivating, many matters will have to wait for the new family head to take over, right?"


    "Indeed."


    Daniel, now appearing even older, was completely composed in front of Martin''s elder.


    His demeanor seemed even more distinguished.


    As the wind blew, Daniel''s white hair and beard fluttered, and his face always carried a calm smile.


    To outsiders, he exuded the aura of a transcendent sage.


    Looking at the screen showing Martin''s treasure vault, Ethan''s eyes gleamed.


    This was something the family had planned upon arrival: to eliminate Michael and take a look at Martin''s foundation.


    After all, Duke''s Mansion had been around even longer than Azure Cloud Pavilion, and since Martin and Blackwood were related by marriage, it was good to know more about each other.


    He then shifted the view to report the good news to Nathan and others.


    ...


    [Blackwood]


    "With Michael''s death, our family has finally become invincible within Cloudview County! Forebearer, we did it, under the leadership of the Forebearer, step by step we reached the pinnacle of Azure Cloud..."


    Nathan excitedly hugged Luna and wept in the ancestral hall.


    Under the Primordial Blood Tree.


    "Oh!"


    Amelia raised the Forebearer Psychic Position high, circling around the Primordial Blood Tree, "Old tree, old tree! Forebearer said our family is powerful now, haha!"


    This caused the face on the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree to spin along with Amelia, dizzying it.


    At this moment.


    [Border of Cloudview County]


    This area had gathered Psychics from various sects and clans within Cloudview County.


    After the Druids retreated back to the Endless Forest, these Psychics had rushed to the border at the first call and assembled into an army.


    Facing this war between races, they were able to set aside their differences and follow the arrangements of the ancient leaders of Cloudview County''s Competent Forces.


    They established magical formations along the border of Cloudview County, ready to counterattack at a moment''s notice.


    At this moment, Cloudview County was truly united.


    On the ground, hundreds of massive ability vessels were in action, with all forces contributing. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Floating in mid-air was a grand structure where Competent Force Psychics were seated around a chessboard, meditating.


    The chessboard displayed a projection of the distribution of Druid forces along the edge of the Endless Forest.


    These venerable elders, with their far-reaching vision, discussed future matters.


    "Thanks to Blackwood, the Druids were driven out, and Cloudview County was spared. But these Druids took away our inherited psychic fields, psychic medicines, and psychic mines. Without these resources, the future generations in Cloudview County might struggle to grow.


    We fear that the scramble for scant resources will lead to deadly conflicts, endless internal strife, and accumulating grudges that will eventually affect us all."


    "World affairs ebb and flow. United in purpose, we can find opportunities outside Cloudview County. The Druids still have them, and so do other regions! Starlight County and Cedar County are calling for our help, and they too have resources. It just means our descendants will have to travel far."


    "Who will lead us in the future?"


    The five elders from Martin, each taking turns to speak, completely ignored the other Competent Force elders from Cloudview County, causing many to frown.


    Old acquaintances of Blackwood, like the rugged Immortal Master from Ten Thousand Life Mountain, the blindfolded Elder Ralph from Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, and Elder Jason from Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had mustered all their forces, were now quietly focusing on a young man¡ªMarcus.

 Chapter 251: Chapter 251: We are one and the same.

    Days had passed, and not a single expert from Blackwood had shown up, except for Marcus, who was the least skilled among those present.


    Still at the peak of Developing Skill and in the midst of becoming a Pinnacle Apprentice, he represented the Sky Sect.


    Seeing everyone looking at him, Marcus simply closed his eyes, pretending not to see.


    His elders had advised him, "When you''re out and about, carry yourself as the head of the Sky Sect. If you come across an opportunity or face bullying, then reveal your Blackwood affiliation."


    The Competent Force elders from various powers sighed quietly.


    They had long requested Blackwood to take charge, but the Blackwood folks were peculiar; they cared little for fame or honor.


    Recently, they even encountered Julian from Blackwood.


    Julian had led a thousand AI Bionic Robots into a Druid tribe.


    The elders were thrilled and wanted to assist, hoping to discuss important matters with Julian.


    However, the burly bald man suddenly became defensive, blocking the psychic mine behind him and shouting, "This psychic mine is my discovery! Anyone who dares to steal it will face my wrath..."


    The five elders from Martin glanced at Marcus, noticing his lack of enthusiasm.


    They exchanged smiles, confident in their superiority as representatives of the Duke''s Mansion.


    Now fighting for Cloudview County, they still considered themselves a cut above the rest.


    These Psychics had to listen to them! Even if Marcus spoke up, they could easily manipulate such a young man.


    Just as one of the Martin elders was about to finalize their plan with a smile, everyone''s expression changed as they looked towards the entrance of the hall.


    "Such powerful sword energy."


    Two figures approached, riding on swords, dressed in long robes like exiled Ability Masters.


    Their sword energy was fierce, and they stood proudly on their flying swords, overlooking the Competent Force elders with disdain.


    Marcus, who had been sitting cross-legged, brightened up and quickly stood to bow to the younger man with sharp eyebrows, "Father!"


    He then greeted the other, "Honored to meet you, Celestial Star."


    If Lucas''s sword energy was aggressively piercing, the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s was lofty.


    Dressed in a white robe, he crossed his arms, a handsome figure.


    Seeing Marcus greet him, he slightly smiled, "You are Lucas''s eldest son. You have a good aura, though it''s a pity you''re not a swordsman."


    He then looked away, ignoring everyone else.


    Lucas nodded slightly at Marcus, signaling him to sit down, and acknowledged the Competent Force elders who had greeted him.


    Finally, he turned to the five Martin elders with a calm voice, "Elders, I am here on my father''s orders to bring unfortunate news. Duke Michael has perished due to a mishap in his practice." S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What?!"


    The Competent Force elders were shocked; they hadn''t even heard about Michael''s death.


    The Martin elders frowned; when they had left, Michael was no longer the head of the family, having left the resolution to Michael and Kenneth.


    Now, hearing this from Lucas, they suspected that Blackwood might have been involved.


    But what could be done?


    "Martin and Blackwood are related by marriage, and I deeply regret this incident," Lucas continued, his voice the only one in the room. Stay connected with m|vl|e|mp|y|r


    "Kenneth has been appointed the new Duke. On behalf of Blackwood, I extend our congratulations, and a gift has been sent to the Duke''s Mansion. With that said, I leave the matter for you elders to consider."


    The five Martin elders lifted their heads, their expressions sour.


    What did they mean by appointing Kenneth as the new Duke? They had just learned of Michael''s death!


    What did he mean by ''consider it''? It was a blatant threat.


    Lucas''s words were few, but they conveyed a clear message¡ªif they disagreed, they might just join Michael sooner than expected!


    They looked around at the other Competent Force elders, their faces growing even grimmer, all while Marcus, still with his eyes closed, held a jagged, black object in his left hand¡ªthe Sky Temple, spinning slowly.


    It was as if he was saying, with just one word from his father, he would launch the first strike to annihilate the five Martin elders right there!


    "Hahaha, Your Excellency Sword King, you are too kind. The Johnson and Blackwood families are related by marriage; we are one and the same, no need to consider, no need at all."


    The Martin elder''s tone was amiable.


    Marcus retracted the Sky Temple back into his body, much to the disappointment of the other Competent Force elders who had been enjoying the show, leaving the Martin elders grinding their teeth in frustration.


    "That''s good to hear."


    Lucas didn''t say much more, glancing at the Celestial Star Swordsmen before the two turned their flying swords and left.


    As they reached the grand hall''s entrance, Lucas paused and called out without turning back, "By the way, esteemed elders, if my son Daniel causes any trouble, I hope you can bear with him."


    Arrogant and dismissive!


    Watching the two swordsmen depart, the Competent Force elders of Cloudview County could feel Lucas''s dominance.


    The Martin elders didn''t dare utter a word, as if Lucas had never been there.


    But everyone knew, Lucas''s visit was a command from Blackwood, a declaration of sovereignty.


    They were telling everyone that in this era, Blackwood was in charge, and even the high and mighty Martins had to accept this reality.


    Now, Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster were leaving the borders of Cloudview County, heading towards the Endless Forest.


    "Brother Lucas, during this visit, I fought alongside your sister Olivia against a Druid tribe. She helped me defeat a Competent Force high priest. I really want to thank her properly. Do you know where she might be? Could I see her?" The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s gaze darted around, his hands clenched behind him, slightly nervous.


    "Hmm?"


    Although Lucas was deeply focused on cultivating his psychic powers, he noticed the unusual tone and expression of the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    His face darkened, "My sister''s whereabouts are unpredictable, even I don''t know where she is. This trip, you and I are to continue our battle, Brother Celestial Star. Best not let other matters distract you, otherwise, it wouldn''t be honorable for me to claim victory if I injure you."


    With that, Lucas even snorted coldly.


    No wonder the Celestial Star Swordmaster had been lingering in Cloudview County, sticking around like a shadow.


    Damn! I treat you like a brother, and you want to be my brother-in-law?

 Chapter 252: Chapter 252: Glory City Part 1

    Ethan noticed it too¡ªthe Celestial Star Swordmaster seemed to have a crush on Olivia. He looked at him with a mix of pity and amusement, "Stop pining, brother. In the end, you might end up with nothing."


    Olivia was stunningly beautiful and had a charming personality that shone brightly in public. Over the years, she had her fair share of romantic entanglements, or rather... romantic disasters. Imagine what it''s like to fall for a woman who used the souls of millions to fend off a celestial catastrophe?


    Just the thought of it sent shivers down Ethan''s spine.


    Three months quickly passed in the game world. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan had been closely monitoring his family''s progress. As they reached the pinnacle of Azure Cloud, the Blackwoods found themselves increasingly busy handling various matters.


    With no external threats in Cloudview County, the family members were busier than ever. They hadn''t had time to cultivate their psychic powers in three months, caught up in the whirlwind of activities at home. After all, Gratitude Village now stood at the peak of Cloudview County.


    Over the years, they hadn''t paid much attention, but when the dust settled, they realized they had amassed a variety of powers and territories. Even they were unaware of the full extent of Blackwood''s influence...


    One problem after another began to surface.


    Gratitude Village, having survived the war, became one of the most intact places in all of Cloudview County. It was especially coveted for its Grade 8 psychic vein, abundant in psychic energy, making it a desirable location for Psychics to settle down.


    Your descendant Daniel captured a White Druid and used magic to summon a parade of ghosts within a hundred miles of Gratitude Village, scaring away any approaching Psychics.


    Tensions between the dark Psychics and the righteous ones in Gratitude Village were on the rise. Due to Blackwood''s influence, they dared not kill each other and only dared to duel under the cover of night. In one instance, the dark Psychics controlled beasts to defecate outside the Demon Hunters Alliance, forcing every household in Gratitude Village to join in cleaning up the mess.


    Experience magic at m v le mpyr


    Daniel decided to send most of the people from both sides back to the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Your descendant Nathan reported to you that in Olivia''s absence, the Dawn assassins fell into disarray. They couldn''t secure external contracts and were secretly tempted by the offers from both the dark and righteous Psychics. They took to the streets of Gratitude Village, asking everyone they met if they had any enemies outside...


    Nathan decided to send the Dawn to establish branches in major towns throughout Cloudview County. Blackwood reopened the Heavenly Justice Hall, ostensibly a general goods business, but secretly accepting assassination contracts.


    Nathan decided to help them establish power bases in various towns after Blackwood had depleted the family''s hundred-year reserve of psychic rice, consuming vast resources in the process.


    With a million beasts in the Silver Iron Forest running out of food and starting to kill each other, your descendant Luna decided to have each household in Gratitude Village adopt a beast.


    ...


    Three months later, Gratitude Village returned to its peaceful state, with the villagers celebrating the departure of mischievous demon cultivators, righteous Psychics, and numerous assassins by beating drums and striking gongs.


    Inside the Forebearer Shrine, the people of Blackwood looked listless, who knows what they had endured over these three months? They also realized that, without noticing, Blackwood''s influence had grown to an extent they had never imagined before!


    "This is Blackwood now!"


    Ethan''s eyes sparkled as he opened the map. Now, the family''s influence was flourishing in Cloudview County. Every county town had Blackwood''s subsidiary forces stationed, and the entire Cloudview County was just as he had hoped¡ªno longer any red, only green and white!


    Every town and county had a Blackwood family business, ''Heavenly Justice Hall,'' specializing in dealing with second-hand traders and selling items needed by Psychics. Every shopkeeper and assistant came from Gratitude Village.


    For this, Ethan even presented a "Service Industry Personnel Quality Cultivation Training Manual" at the grand ceremony of 160 years. Now, no matter the level of the Psychic, entering Blackwood''s Heavenly Justice Hall, one could see the standard smile of the Heavenly Justice Hall assistants and hear the friendly greeting, "Welcome!" Their service philosophy reached the pinnacle of Cloudview County.


    Ethan could even imagine that in the days to come, the people of Blackwood could just sit at home and reap a fortune in Energy Stones, becoming wealthy!


    [Your family, following the proposal of the people of Gratitude Village, has renamed Gratitude Village to¡ªGlory City]


    "Renamed, huh?"


    Seeing this message, Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    He zoomed in on the map, no wonder Gratitude Village was renamed.


    The current Blackwood station was already different from before. After years of development by Nicholas, the city was divided into Blackwood''s core areas, inner layers, and outer layers, all transformed by the Primordial blood trees, covered with stone bricks engraved with mysterious patterns.


    The circular town gradually arched around the center, the walls getting higher towards the inside, resembling a cake.


    More and more Psychics were appearing in Glory City, all developed from the original villagers of Gratitude Village, and they would continue to guard Glory City generation after generation.


    On the outskirts were the silver-iron forests... Nowadays, many Druids captured in Glory City were changing the landscape outside the city every day, with mountains, trees, and lakes all under development.


    Moreover, with Energy Stones still being piled up beneath Glory City, and various magical formations extracting special energies from nature, the natural energy here would become increasingly rich, turning this place into a true sacred land for cultivating psychic powers.


    In the outer forests, the trees controlled by the Primordial blood tree would be the most loyal guards. Numerous Stone beasts buried underground could emerge at any moment to protect Blackwood. Various magical beasts in the forest were slowly adapting to the new environment, gradually becoming self-sufficient, even in the mountains and lakes.


    Around Glory City, the foundations of magical formations were being established, with Glory City''s Psychics guarding them every day, ready to activate the grand formation at any moment.


    If an enemy were to invade, they would find it impenetrable!


    [Your descendant Nathan reports to you that many forces on the borders of Cloudview County are once again requesting Blackwood to send masters to participate in the war against the Druids.]


    Proud of the current prosperity of Glory City, the message in the event column shifted Ethan''s view back to the Forebearer Shrine.


    There, Nathan knelt towards the Psychic Position, "Forebearer, we receive pleas for help from various forces almost every day, and I''m unsure whether we should assist."


    Hearing this, Ethan pondered for a moment.


    He then clicked on the icon of the Exploding Sky Serpent, who was currently wrestling with Donnacultivating psychic powers. Upon hearing the news, it transformed into smoke and appeared, its dragon head visible in the smoke form. As Ethan tapped the keyboard, it spoke, "Master says he wants to hear your opinions."


    "Yes!"


    At this moment, in the Forebearer Shrine, many of Blackwood''s children at home were kneeling.


    As everyone looked towards Daniel, he spoke solemnly, "Forebearer, I believe this battle is necessary. Currently, the entire Cloudview County is lacking resources, and it is the same for us, Blackwood."

 Chapter 253: Chapter 253: Glory City Part 2

    Ethan nodded slightly.


    Over the years, Blackwood had nearly exhausted its resources.


    In battle, Blackwood''s various ability weapons also suffered significant wear and tear.


    Especially for the Blackwood members... ordinary resources had little effect on them, only items of the seventh rank or higher could catch their eye.


    "Conquering more territory for Cloudview County is also profitable for us at Blackwood."


    "Our Heavenly Justice Hall branches spread throughout Cloudview County, and trading resources will bring us a massive amount of Energy Stones and resources."


    "The larger Cloudview County''s territory, the more profits we will see in the future."


    "Moreover, as long as the Druids remain, we cannot rest easy."


    "Furthermore..."


    Daniel hesitated for a moment, then pulled out a golden scroll.


    Ethan furrowed his brow as he saw the text on it.


    [Divine Decree from the ancient gods]


    [Hearing of Azure Cloud Blackwood''s loyalty and righteousness in making great sacrifices for the empire, a special reward is granted, bestowing the title ''The Iron Bone Warriors Clan'' to Azure Cloud Blackwood, granting them perpetual control over the county of Tranquil, recognized by the royal family for generations.


    It is hereby ordered that Azure Cloud Blackwood dispatch masters to join the many righteous warriors of Cloudview County in battle, ready to support the major county towns at any time.]


    "Ordered by the ancient gods, we must comply," Daniel reported, having heard from Dawn that after our counterattack in Cloudview County, officials from the imperial military were dispatched to oversee the battle and would arrive soon.


    Daniel''s expression was serious when he mentioned the imperial officials.


    Ethan slightly frowned.


    When he heard that the Druids were mobilizing, imperial officials were sent to oversee the battles in various county towns.


    But thirty years had passed, and the empire had ignored Cloudview County, clearly having abandoned it early on.


    Now that Cloudview County had held its ground, the empire was sending people...


    What ''The Iron Bone Warriors Clan,'' what perpetual control over the land of Tranquil County¡ªthese were just words.


    The gods are high and far, whether Tranquil County belongs to Blackwood or not, does it need to be said by the gods?


    Moreover, Ethan had heard early on that the ancient gods were severely injured, and the imperial capital was already in turmoil.


    Whether this decree was personally written by the ancient gods was still uncertain.


    However, whether the imperial people come or not, Blackwood must exert effort.


    Soon everyone began discussing who to send and how to fight.


    This matter made it difficult for the people of Blackwood for a while.


    Nathan and Luna couldn''t go... both had major issues with their magic, Death Coffin and the half-demon form could cause big problems if the imperial people were stubborn.


    Lucas was busy cultivating psychic powers with The Celestial Star Swordmaster, Amelia was striving to break through and helping the Primordial blood tree in its breakthrough, Julian''s temper only caused trouble, and Olivia was out plundering fortune.


    The third generation... Marcus had to oversee the big picture at Sky Sect, the family couldn''t do without Daniel, and as for the third generation of Blackwood... they were negligible.


    "You guys... don''t look at me!"


    As the gazes converged, George''s mouth twitched, alright, he got it.


    Ever since the old grandfather had increased, the family always turned to him when there was nothing else, and he seemed to have returned to the days of years ago when he was busy taking care of his younger siblings every day, even lacking time for his hobbies like playing music and tomb raiding.


    With a long sigh, he slowly stepped forward, but his face quickly darkened.


    "Edward, Donna, you two go on your training journey, and take Azure Dragon along with your younger siblings. Your parents'' generation has been quite stubborn, so now this important task falls to you."


    "Yes!"


    As Nathan''s voice faded, the two stepped forward with a solemn expression, causing George and the other fourth-generation members to scratch their heads in confusion.


    What did he mean by stubborn?


    Nathan looked towards Jessica among the fourth-generation children and asked with a smile, "Jessica, is everything set up for Jones?"


    "All set."


    Jessica, the most composed of the fourth generation, nodded slightly.


    "Sam has come of age and has taken over as the head of the Jones family. I can go and assist Edward and Donna on this journey."


    "With you there, we can rest easy. Don''t push yourselves too hard or try to stand out too much; just make sure everyone stays safe."


    Daniel''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    "Our real battlefield at Blackwood isn''t about fighting alongside many other forces."


    [Special Event¡ªRaiding the Druids]


    [As your family resources grow increasingly scarce, amidst the chaos of war in Cloudview County with many forces involved, your family decides to take advantage of the turmoil and raid the Druids'' rear, seizing a large amount of resources!]


    Three days later. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Jessica left with two younger relatives and many of the skilled fighters Blackwood had trained over the years.


    Nathan stood on a tall tree in the Silver Iron Forest, carrying the Death Coffin.


    Behind them, in the tree crowns all around, stood many of the fourth-generation children, excitedly looking towards the distant Endless Forest.


    War?


    A war to help the Emerald Empire, which had never truly considered them as their own?


    What a joke. Discover more magic on m-vl-em-pyr


    This was what they were truly good at!


    "Everything is all set, and I can finally relax a bit."


    Ethan let out a long sigh of relief and stretched lazily.


    He watched as his family progressed in the game.


    Edward and Donna had already headed to the border, keeping a low profile.


    Meanwhile, Nathan was stealthily camping in the Endless Forest with the family''s children, reminiscent of the battles they fought years ago in the Silver Iron Forest.


    With their generations of hunting skills and their knack for adventuring, they were unlikely to face any danger.


    These days, every day had been tense for him, with the family constantly on the brink of extinction or fleeing for their lives.


    But now, things were looking up.


    The situation in Cloudview County had turned around, and Blackwood was now aligned with the human factions.


    They could develop quietly and without worry, and he finally had some free time.

 Chapter 254: Chapter 254: Damn, I better just stick to playing video games

    Ethan was about to enjoy a long overdue deep sleep, but he paused in front of his computer screen. A message caught his eye.


    [Your descendant''s wife Helen has given birth to a son after nine months, named Adam.]


    Ethan quickly switched the view.


    [North Sea City¡¤Coastal Village]


    It was a small village located north of the Emerald Emperor, close to the sea, where every household dried fish outside.


    Helen, once the lady of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and now a Blackwood, stood barefoot on the beach in a simple yellow shirt, holding a child. She let the sea splash against her shins as she gazed out at the sparkling water.


    "Nicholas, you never saw the sea in your lifetime. Now, with your Psychic Position facing the ocean, you can see it as much as you want."


    As she spoke, she playfully teased the child in her arms. "Adam, from now on, it''s just you and me, living happily and safely, okay? Little Adam?"


    Ethan remained silent for a long time. Helen left with the child, and everyone in the family knew and did not try to stop her. She feared that little Adam might end up like Nicholas.


    "It''s for the best, I hope they live happily," Ethan thought. Everyone has different dreams, and Ethan couldn''t stop a mother''s wish.


    Then, he contacted Nathan. Upon hearing the news, Nathan, like Ethan, fell into a long silence before finally sighing deeply. "Forebearer, without Nicholas, perhaps our Blackwood family would still be on the run, and the entire Cloudview County might have been swallowed by the Druids. How could we have today? Our whole family owes them."


    The Exploding Sky Serpent, Charlie Crackle, appeared, conveying Ethan''s message, "Master says, do not disturb, protect them discreetly."


    "Yes!"


    Soon after, Nathan called upon Drunken Fool, who appeared tipsy and glanced at Nathan. "Brother Nathan, this is a tough one. That''s North Sea City; just traveling there takes a month, not to mention how long we might need to protect them. It''s also close to the imperial capital. As a magic practitioner, one wrong move and I could lose my life."


    "A land-level technique, Azure Cloud Unfallen," Nathan said calmly.


    "You''ve been at the peak of Developing Skill for years, already beginning to condense your spiritual infant but hindered by mediocre techniques and lacking external aids to withstand the heavenly tribulation. This mission to protect the mother and child is a perfect opportunity to comprehend the technique.


    When you return to Cloudview County, my Blackwood family will help you advance to Competent Force."


    "As for the dangers, take my Sky Corpse with you. This Sky Corpse, named Donald, possesses the secret methods of the Dragon family and can be summoned in times of trouble."


    At this, Drunken Fool angrily retorted, "Nathan, you underestimate me, Drunken Fool. Even without these things, just based on our families'' relationship, I would still undertake this journey!"


    A day later.


    North Sea City saw the opening of a new tea house run by a beautiful woman who rarely showed herself. From inside the tea house, the cries of a baby could be heard. Outside, a perpetually drunk old beggar wandered around with broken bowls and chopsticks, counting the days.


    "I hope you and your son have the most carefree life," Ethan sent his blessings to Helen and her child before lying down in bed, pulling the covers over himself, and just as he was about to close his eyes, his body stiffened.


    "Ring, ring..."


    Picking up his phone, he saw the caller ID and for the first time felt that having no friends outside was actually a good thing.


    "Hello, Ms. Joshua, why are you calling again? I''m a lost cause, the kind beyond saving. You should save your team spot for someone with talent. If you really need someone, I know a guy, he was in the top school competition, had a powerful Psychic Constitution. If it weren''t for him being kidnapped during the competition, he would have won."


    "After our last conversation, I''ve thought a lot," Orion''s voice was grave. "Our team''s founder used to say, in archaeology, you dig where you stand. Talent isn''t important; if you''re lucky enough to unearth an ancient predecessor, your life could change. Ethan, you''re a good kid, don''t give up on yourself."


    You think you''re our founder, George?


    Ethan rolled his eyes, pondering how to decline.


    "Boom!"


    A loud noise startled him, and he quickly went outside, even feeling a powerful presence in the sky!


    As he stepped out, Lisa also looked serious. They walked out together and saw all the big shots in their villa area already outside. The ground trembled violently as they all looked up to see the sky lit red, intense energy waves pulsing through the air, and meteors breaking through the earth''s clouds, a massive planet looming close.


    Soon, the meteors scattered across the sky, one heading straight for their villa area!


    Ethan had never seen such a scene in his life and was completely stunned.


    "Hey! Ethan, don''t... don''t come... stay... stay safe at home..."


    The call was choppy and then cut off. Find your chapter at m_v_l_e_m_p_y_r


    In the skies of California, a powerful Psychic broadcasted:


    "Fellow Californians, a magical civilization is attacking, follow me into battle!"


    "Damn..."


    Ethan stared blankly at the sky, witnessing a war between civilizations for the first time, and they were using planets as weapons.


    Beside him, Lisa seemed unfazed and tugged at the dazed Ethan, "Master, let''s go inside. The villa area is safe. It''s just a magical civilization; the earth''s masters have gone out, which is why they dare to be so bold. But even so, they are not to be feared."


    "Okay."


    Ethan swallowed hard, and as he turned to go back, he saw Mrs. Quinn from next door stepping out of her house, her aura rising continuously¡ªCompetent Force, Basic Mastery, and even higher!


    She smiled at Ethan and then vanished in an instant!


    As Ethan turned back in astonishment, the sky seemed to be setting off a brilliant fireworks display as the meteor shattered. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    More and more masters from the villa area leaped into the sky to meet the battle!


    "Damn..."


    Ethan went back still dazed; everything had happened too fast. Who says the sky is falling without someone to hold it up? He was sure that an unimaginable battle was taking place beyond Earth, yet he was still safe and sound.


    "Damn, I better just stick to playing video games."


    "Earth is freaking tough, how long has civilization been around? And we''re already fighting interstellar wars."


    "No way, I need to focus on gaming, otherwise, with my little Competent Force, wouldn''t I just die out there?"


    Ethan stared at his computer screen, his face pale.

 Chapter 255: Chapter 255: Druids, friends? That doesnt seem right.

    At that moment,


    "Boom!"


    The meteor shattered, and the bigwigs of the villa district, led by Grandma Quinn, gathered in the sky. In an instant, Grandma Quinn''s body was enveloped by golden metallic liquid, her figure reaching a hundred meters tall!


    "Not bad, old lady with superpowers, it''s been two hundred years since I''ve seen you in action, and your ability has improved again."


    Hearing this, Grandma Quinn snorted coldly, looking towards the man holding a divine scroll and dressed in ancient scholar robes, "Scholar, you''re not bad either. You''ve deeply mastered the ''Seasons'' and ''Rivers'' scriptures. No wonder you reside in the Ninth Psychic Sanctuary. Dare to join me in a battle against the magic civilization?"


    The Scholar scoffed, "Why not? Ancient records say that the magic civilization evolved from the Druids. Our forefathers, who inherited my techniques, had the Druids fleeing in terror. Why should I fear their descendants?"


    "Stop arguing."


    A Psychic, his eyes covered with a long black cloth and carrying an ancient sword, snorted coldly, "We are committed to virtue, awakening on the day of enlightenment to teach and protect our homeland through lifetimes. You''ve cultivated psychic powers not for rivalry but for protection.


    Follow me into the sky, let''s defeat the grand sorcerer of the magic civilization, and leave the rest to our allies on Earth!"


    "Alright!"


    Grandma Quinn and the Scholar dared not say more; they transformed into streaks of light and shot through the sky.


    Mr. John, the villa''s gatekeeper, looked up at the sky, his eyes filled with nostalgia, yet he remained still, murmuring softly, "Another day of boiling blood, just like in my past life memories."


    He sighed, "If only the people from my past life were still here, not even a meteor would dare touch our land, let alone entertain the thought, or their entire clan would be wiped out. Where have you all gone?"


    ...


    Over the ocean.


    The superpower exploration team was also facing a dire situation as they attempted to salvage underwater ruins¡ªmeteors and tsunamis!


    "It''s over, Ms. Joshua, we''re doomed!"


    "Where are our people?!!"


    "Ms. Joshua, what do we do now?"


    Various technological arrays protected their vessel, but even so, the meteors in the sky were overwhelmingly powerful, and they faced a dozen of them!


    Orion, who had just hung up the phone, was pale. She couldn''t worry about Ethan or the lost boy anymore.


    Just then.


    Everyone looked towards the cabin, stunned.


    "Boom!"


    Inside the vessel, a coffin that had been excavated from the ruins and sealed with numerous talisman papers for who knows how many years, suddenly burst open!


    The coffin exuded an overwhelming aura of death!


    "You... woke me up." S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Whoosh!"


    A gust of wind blew, and Orion, in horror, watched as her team members were...


    Drained of blood!


    It was a little girl in a pale blue dress, her body shriveled. She wore her hair in two buns adorned with bells that still chimed loudly despite the storm, and as she drank the blood, her veins began to pulse, visibly restoring her body!


    Then, the zombie girl extended her hand, and a dozen black mists formed into a giant dragon, soaring towards the falling meteors, lighting up the sky with brilliant fireworks.


    The girl tilted her head, blood trickling down her bark-like mouth corners, and looked at the stunned Orion, "What year is it now?"


    Orion shivered, "3... 3024."


    The little girl calculated briefly, nodded slightly, "I don''t quite understand your years, but it seems I''ve woken up a bit early, my masters haven''t awakened yet."


    Then.


    She stared at the planets approaching Earth, her crimson eyes glowing, licking her lips.


    "The taste is familiar, hmm? No, there''s only a trace of Druid bloodline, haha, I didn''t let your race be completely exterminated last time, this time I''ll wipe you out completely, all for my nourishment, all of it!!!"


    Orion stood dazed on the vessel, watching the terrifying being fly into the high sky, unable to snap out of it.


    She muttered unconsciously. Find adventures at m v lem|p-yr


    "How is this possible? How can a being from past epochs be revived?"


    "What master? What awakening?"


    "What on earth did I dig up?!!"


    So eerie, too eerie!


    Terrifying, horrifying!


    "Boom!"


    Orion finally snapped to attention. She looked up at the sky, where all the meteors had been shattered. It seemed as if a powerful forbidden spell had been cast from beyond their world, a clash of rules unfolding!


    But she couldn''t concern herself with that now. Driven by her training as an archaeologist, she was compelled to understand everything immediately!


    "Everything in this site, their legacy, it hasn''t ended! These beings, existing in the gaps of human civilization''s history, might still be out there!"


    "Master... Rodriguez is awake... Druids..."


    "They knew the precursors to our magical civilization and even fought and defeated the Druids. What exactly did they go through?"


    "Yes, the scriptures, the stone tablets!"


    Orion, frantic, ran back to examine everything once more. She realized she might have uncovered a terrifying piece of history, the truth behind the civilization''s gap!


    As Orion searched, her expression flickered with confusion.


    "Druids, friends? That doesn''t seem right."


    ...


    In the room.


    Ethan put on his headphones, indifferent to the world.


    He vigorously rubbed his face, "Why should I be scared? I''m just a small fry; it doesn''t matter to me. No need to flee from victory, can''t escape from defeat, might as well just enjoy my game."


    No point in sleeping now.


    Ethan stared intently at his game screen, "Keep developing, kids. If I don''t get stronger, the magical civilization will snatch me up!"


    [Blackwood Year 162]


    In the game, his family was still developing. Ethan glanced at the current situation in Blackwood. It was pretty much the same as before, with many descendants of Blackwood in seclusion. Jessica, along with her siblings Edward and Donna, and many skilled individuals from Blackwood''s allied forces, were stationed at the border of Cloudview County.


    The forces in Cloudview County were making steady progress. The Blackwood group, following the elders'' instructions, worked diligently though not overly so. Despite frequent grumbling from other factions, they couldn''t really complain about Blackwood since they were genuinely contributing, especially with the steel-formed Azure Dragon, whose strength was at the peak of Competent Force!


    As for other members of Blackwood...


    Their traits ''Druid Killer'' and ''Sneaky Plunderer'' were quite noticeable.


    Especially in the event log.


    [For years, the Dawn faction of your family has been watching the White family. Your descendant Nathan, along with his wife Luna, entered the forbidden lands of White during a major battle between White, Harris, and Cloudview County, and stole the ''Ghostly Psychic Pearl'' guarded by Druids, then left triumphantly!]


    Now, many things hardly caught Blackwood''s eye, nor were they of much help to Blackwood''s experts, but the sight of the ''Ghostly Psychic Pearl'' still made Ethan''s eyes light up.


    "Nathan''s strength will increase again."


    [Ghostly Psychic Pearl (Grade Six Psychic Item)]


    [Effect: Using this item, one can collect Psychic grudges and souls. The deeper the Psychic grudge, the stronger the ghostly entity formed. For those beyond the Three Realms and not within the Five Elements, this item can have miraculous effects.]


    At that moment, Ethan saw in the Death Coffin, a little girl named Gary lying in a coffin, a black pearl in her mouth, as ghostly energy infused into her body!


    The Ghostly Psychic Pearl contained untold amounts of ghostly energy. Since the Sky Corpse was already beyond the Three Realms and not within the Five Elements, and now with the Ghostly Psychic Pearl, it was constantly growing stronger, undergoing a special transformation!


    Meanwhile, other descendants also had their share of gains.


    [Your descendant Amelia, while concocting medicines, learned of the Druids'' wooden method. Knowing the Druids are skilled in medicine, she sent a demon cultivator to infiltrate their ranks. To avoid alarming them, she planned to gradually kidnap one Druid pharmacist each day.]


    [After three months, the wooden method finally noticed something was amiss. Amelia had no choice but to abandon her gradual approach and kidnapped two hundred pharmacists in one night with the help of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, seizing a centuries-old medicine storehouse and never returning.]


    At that time.


    In Glory City, over three hundred Druid pharmacists were standing outside the city, looking bewildered at the queue of locals, who didn''t treat them as strangers at all.


    "Sir, I''ve been cultivating psychic powers for many years and feel that my meridians are blocked. Could you check and see what kind of psychic medicine I need to resolve this issue?"


    "Two years ago, I fought with your people and was cursed with a ghost spell. Could you help me resolve it?"


    "I''m willing to spend five hundred Energy Stones for a medicine that increases the chances of developing Emerging Abilities!"


    "..."

 Chapter 256: Chapter 256: I feel like Im turning into a monster?

    While tending to the people of Glory City, the captured herbalists felt a sense of confusion.


    If it weren''t for Amelia using her enchanting medicines to mesmerize them and borrow all their recipes, they might have forgotten they were captives. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You really dare to think and act," Ethan said, scratching his head in front of the screen.


    Beneath the ancient Blood Tree, Amelia was leaning against the trunk, discarding one recipe after another, muttering, "Useless, useless. There are hardly any seventh-grade recipes, let alone sixth-grade ones. These recipes won''t improve my potion-making skills at all."


    Then she sorted through various special ability potions.


    "Ninth-grade, eighth-grade, all useless. Hmph, even with centuries of savings, at most, I can only make a dozen seventh-grade potions, and there are only two plants for sixth-grade special ability potions."


    Seeing Amelia''s disdainful expression, Ethan was speechless.


    In the past, these items would have overwhelmed Blackwood, but now things were different.


    Blackwood was filled with many experts who needed seventh and sixth-grade special ability potions. But seventh-grade was already hard to find, often requiring centuries-old ingredients, and as for sixth-grade? Those needed millennium-old growth under harsh conditions!


    Because these materials were so hard to find, the Competent Force found it very difficult to speed up their psychic power cultivation. They often had to rely on formations to absorb more natural energy and understand some rules to enhance their strength.


    Thus, in Cloudview County, many elders of the Competent Force were only at the early stages, and it was rare for anyone under a thousand years old to reach the middle stages. Any peak Competent Force psychic was considered exceptionally talented.


    These ingredients taking a thousand years to grow? Psychics were already fighting over century-old materials.


    Meanwhile, the children were not idle.


    [Your descendants George, William, and Justin, after years of adventures with the Druids, have made quite a name for themselves by digging up ancestral graves, stealing from treasuries, and mocking and insulting during sacred rituals.]


    [Because they always wore masks of jesters and robes embroidered with the mark of The Oracle Chamber, often seen in public acting as fortune-tellers, each carrying tools like a tortoise shell, an abacus, and an energy locator, and using some techniques learned from Kenneth of The Oracle Chamber, they were mistakenly believed to be members of The Oracle Chamber and earned the infamous nickname ''The Magical Three Villains''.]


    "Cough, cough."


    Ethan coughed, noticing the three young thieves squatting outside a Druids'' tribe.


    It seemed that due to their frequent antics, the tribe was very cautious, even guarding the ancestral graves and scattering various mythical beasts around.


    "It looks like they were prepared; our previous plan won''t work. You''re forcing me to use my last resort."


    "I get it, big brother. You rush in, William steals, and I''ll take your place digging the graves!"


    "Get lost, my last resort is to find a less cautious tribe. We''ll do this job in a couple of months; I don''t believe they can stay alert for two months, and if not, we''ll come back in two years. Competing with us, Blackwood, these little Druids are still too green."


    "Brilliant, big brother!"


    This was a lack of virtue indeed.


    Seeing the three children quickly flee the scene, Ethan couldn''t help but laugh. He wondered how The Oracle Chamber would feel about suddenly becoming infamous for no reason.


    But, truth be told, these three lads had quite the haul!


    [Your descendants have obtained a large amount of spoils of war, seventh-grade special ability potions... Druids totems... Druids bloodline infant bones...]


    [After two years of searching, with the help of his two brothers, George finally found the fleeing spirit of a Druids Competent Force. Since the spirit was not well-received by the predecessors inside his body, he generously offered it to his great-grandfather Nathan, who used the ''Catastrophe Soul Hooking Formation'' to control the Competent Force spirit in battle.]


    [Druids bloodline infant bones, which can enhance physical strength and grant some Druids bloodline traits, are not for Pinnacle Apprentices of the Druids to use, as they are likely to explode and die. When used by humans, they instantly explode and die. ]


    [George, to test whether the infant bones could be used by humans, offered them to his father Thomas. Thomas integrated the infant bones and exploded hundreds of times, but his body gradually began to accept the infant bones.]


    Ethan glanced at Thomas again. The third generation of the Blackwoods was now under house arrest, and Thomas, the young man, was particularly conspicuous... as if he had mutated.


    After accepting the infant bones, his psychic powers and physical strength surged to the peak of Developing Skill, and a pair of flesh buds sprouted on his back, resembling the wings of a chick...


    He ran in panic to see Nathan and Luna, pointing at his back.


    "Grandpa, Grandma, can you help me see, am I a demon or a witch now? I feel like I''m turning into a monster?"


    Nathan, Luna, and Ethan, watching from the screen: ...


    He was already foolish enough, and now he had transformed into this.


    George, the old man, really ruined him.


    Thinking this, Nathan and his wife suddenly heard a noise and looked outside, their faces darkening.


    Ethan felt the same way.


    In the sky, a line of psychics flew on their swords, about fifty people, arranged in a crooked family emblem.


    "We psychics, with justice in our hearts, brothers and sisters, join me, and let''s show the might of the Blackwoods!"


    "Invincible Blackwoods!"


    As the shouts rose, Ethan and Nathan''s family felt an uncontrollable sense of... embarrassment.


    These were all descendants of the fifth generation... from Jeffrey''s line!


    Each of them grew up hearing stories of family elders, each hoping to become a great hero or a heroic woman, and then... they spent their days at home practicing formations and shouting slogans. They had decent talents, but their maturity...


    Let''s not talk about it.


    Heroes can''t just decide to become one, and none of their elders wanted to be heroes anymore, perhaps they once did, but not now.


    ...


    Ethan switched the view to the border area.


    Now, the psychics of Cloudview County were mainly focusing on the border, Ethan got some news from Jessica.


    The old ancestors of Cloudview County''s Competent Force even made a ''thousand-year plan'', preparing for a millennium-long war, allowing the psychics of Cloudview County to train at the border, also to reduce the resource pressure within Cloudview County, so that the psychics wouldn''t have to fight over a single psychic-enhancing herb.


    Moreover, the Endless Forest was rich in resources, offering great opportunities.


    The border had already established a fortress, surrounded by ability vessels. During war times, psychics could pick up tasks and join the battlefield, obtaining resources like Energy Stones, psychic-enhancing herbs, and elixirs.


    Although there were resources, the major powers would certainly not lose out; if they won the war, they had ways to profit. If they lost... then they wouldn''t need to give out resources.


    At this moment, in the Border town, Blackwood people were on the fifth floor of a tower, with many psychics trading on the three floors below.


    This was the Blackwood industry¡ªHeavenly Justice Hall.


    In just two years, Donna hadn''t changed, still petite and delicate, but ever since Nicholas died, she rarely cursed or mocked others, mostly remaining expressionless.


    Edward''s face had more stubble, perhaps from the hardships of the battlefield, with his sister Betty pouring tea for them. Betty, as the little princess of the Martin family, had good talents and resources from both families, and had already advanced beyond Developing Skill.


    Now Marcus was sitting in the main seat.


    His face was full of smiles; he enjoyed it. For two years, his younger relatives called him ''grandpa'' every day. After many years of cultivating psychic powers at Sky Sect, he could finally experience the joy of being an elder.


    No one knew how delighted he was to see the respectful attitude of the children, making him wish he could dismantle a part of the Sky Palace to give to these younger ones.


    Just as he was observing these kids cultivating their psychic powers.


    When Ethan clicked on Jessica''s profile, he was stunned.


    Stay connected with m|vl|e|mp|y|r


    There, Jessica was tied up and brought to a valley, standing in front of her was a man in a mask, dressed in white, with a scale weight on his chest...


    "Blackwood Jessica, the notorious Serpent enchantress of Border town, have you heard of me, The Oracle Chamber, from Blackwood?"

 Chapter 257: Chapter 257: Special Event—Kill Lance

    "The Oracle Chamber?"


    The room outside was trembling, the status of the war unknown, yet Ethan remained calm, his gaze fixed on the game screen, his mouse hovering over a skill without any action.


    Because Jessica was eerily composed!


    At that moment, she was enveloped by complex inscriptions, fixed on the wall of the valley. The appearance of The Oracle Chamber''s Masked Man did not seem to faze her. Her lips parted slightly, "You must have come from the imperial capital, a member of Battle Oversight, right? Only a handful of you managed to capture me without a sound. Let me guess who you are."


    With those words, a murderous aura flashed across the Masked Man''s face.


    Jessica just scoffed, "Try and kill me! You''ve only recently arrived in Cloudview County, barely settled, and if we at Blackwood pursue this, The Oracle Chamber will hold you accountable. Let''s see if you end up in a worse state than me!"


    ...


    Originally wanting to help Jessica, Ethan''s moving mouse suddenly stopped. By now, the Masked Man had released Jessica, and Ethan stared blankly at the event log.


    [Your descendant Jessica, through keen observation, has uncovered the true identity of The Oracle Chamber''s mysterious person and struck a deal with them. She has gained a new identity, a member of The Oracle Chamber.]


    It wasn''t long before.


    Ethan saw the member of The Oracle Chamber who had taken Jessica away now returning her to the same place... As he left, Jessica tossed him a communication stone.


    The mysterious person from The Oracle Chamber walked away with a desolate and lonely silhouette, as if deeply humiliated.


    Jessica pulled out the Forebearer Psychic Position, "Forebearer, your child has now taken control of the new leader of The Oracle Chamber and has important matters to report to you. Please help bring her back home!"


    ...


    In the Forebearer Shrine.


    Many children of the Blackwood family were summoned by Ethan to gather, including George from the Druids who had also returned.


    They were all stunned upon hearing about Jessica from Charlie Crackle of the Exploding Sky Serpent.


    William was the first to react, "The Oracle Chamber has reached out to Jessica too?"


    "Huh?"


    Hearing this, everyone looked at William, who just grinned.


    The next moment, the faces of the Blackwood family darkened as William''s Storage Ring flashed red, revealing a severed head with a note attached¡ª[The Oracle Chamber member, a brazen souvenir]


    ...


    Soon after, William was tied to a post, whimpering, as George twitched his eyelids and took away William''s Storage Ring, the shrine''s exterior flickering with fire, clearly George was helping William destroy evidence. Well... there was quite a bit of evidence. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The family didn''t dwell on what William had been up to recently.


    Their expressions were somber; they didn''t need to care about The Oracle Chamber''s actions as long as it didn''t involve Blackwood. They could profit from The Oracle Chamber''s intelligence and focus on their development. However, one piece of intelligence was closely related to Blackwood.


    [Intelligence: The border conflicts of the Emerald Empire are showing signs of collapse, the ancient god is severely injured, and the current Grand Tutor Gilbert is battling demons in the north. The national advisor Lance has dispatched Battle Oversight, but after two years, there''s no significant advantage in the war.


    He plans to cede Cloudview County, Cedar County, Starlight County, and other territories to the Druids in exchange for a thousand years of peace with the Emerald Empire.]


    "Damn, are we being abandoned?"


    Julian, quick-tempered, burst out cursing, "Nicholas sacrificed himself, we spent thirty years in hiding, finally overcoming the Druids! What is Lance thinking? With a single word, he''s ceding our Cloudview County, which will end up as Druids'' land again. What about us? What are we supposed to do?"


    The mood among the Blackwood family was grim.


    They didn''t know what fate awaited them if Cloudview County was handed over to the Druids; everything was uncertain.


    Daniel took a deep breath, "Our best option is to leave Cloudview County and head towards the inner parts of the Emerald Empire. It might be more prosperous inside, but we''ll also face resistance from the existing powers, making everything we face even more challenging."


    Evacuate... Evacuate!


    These words hung over everyone''s heads like a shadow.


    Julian was right; families had claimed this land, pouring generations of blood, sweat, and tears into it. The people of Glory City had buried their ancestors in this soil, even establishing the Hall of Valor here, swearing to protect this land for generations!


    Their hard-won victories seemed insignificant compared to the whims of those in high places, those schemers. Everything they had fought for now seemed so trivial!


    Read today on m,v,l,e,mpyr


    Daniel was always composed.


    He looked around at everyone, sensing the anger and helplessness in their hearts. He was usually calm, but now, there was a hint of madness in his expression, "No, there is still hope! Battle Oversight is still operational, they''re letting us continue the fight, which means negotiations haven''t started yet!"


    "I suspect that Lance sent Battle Oversight to oversee the battle, aiming for a decisive victory that disregards consequences, to strengthen their position in negotiations!"


    "We still have time¡ª"


    "Kill Lance!"


    At that statement, everyone''s gaze shifted to Daniel, their eyes reigniting with the fire of battle.


    They didn''t know how powerful the national advisor was, or how difficult it would be to kill Lance, but they saw hope in doing so before negotiations began.


    "Forebearer, please give the order!"


    Many descendants knelt in the shrine.


    Watching the screen before him, Ethan clenched his fists, and Charlie Crackle''s eyes turned blood red as he issued the Forebearer''s command¡ª


    "Get stronger, as quickly as possible!"


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    All the Blackwood descendants grinned; they were the Azure Cloud warrior clan, standing at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud! From the time the Forebearer first displayed extraordinary abilities, they had protected this land generation after generation, driving enemies from their territory. Now, faced with a more formidable foe, it was merely a bit of hardship!


    Behind them was the homeland they vowed to protect; above them, the Forebearer watched over them.


    Lance was nothing to fear!


    [Special Event¡ªKill Lance]


    [Despite being abandoned by those in power, your descendants have not given up hope. Each one is determined to become stronger as quickly as possible, to save their homeland and gain the group trait¡ªIndomitable Warrior Spirit.]


    [Before killing Lance, your descendants'' speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 30%, and their combat strength by 5%. Thanks to your descendant Olivia, who continuously plunders fortune from the Druids, your family''s chance of encountering opportunities in this event increases, with a 2% higher chance of breakthroughs.]


    "Thanks to the national advisor in the imperial city for sending this BUFF to my Blackwood family."


    Ethan''s voice was somber in front of the screen.


    He was angry too. Over a hundred years of family legacy, and now, because of Lance, a newcomer, his children faced displacement?


    What decline?


    All the border towns were fighting for their homes, no one was backing down!


    Was Lance securing his position as national advisor, or did he truly care about the people as his name suggested? Who could really tell?

 Chapter 258: Chapter 258: What the hell?

    Three months had passed, and the entire Blackwood clan had prepared a plan for cultivating psychic powers, working harder and with more purpose than ever before.


    Just as the Forebearer had said, only by becoming stronger in the shortest amount of time could they reach the decadent halls where National Advisor Lance resided.


    Daniel had managed to send Dawn, a spy, towards the imperial city to gather some intelligence on National Advisor Lance.


    At that moment, Ethan shifted the view to a bustling place.


    [Emerald Emperor City]


    The Emerald Empire was truly extraordinary, with a massive city that was home to everyday people who seemed accustomed to seeing dragons flying overhead.


    "True to its reputation as the imperial capital, those courtesans in the brothel, are they at the peak of their Developing Skill?"


    "Those eight things... a hundred meters tall, guarding the imperial capital like little mountains? They''re alive, and their power is unfathomable."


    "The ground is covered in magical formations..."


    William wandered through the imperial capital like a country bumpkin. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Eventually, he arrived at a splendid mansion and, looking up at the words [National Advisor''s Residence], his lips curled into a slight smile as he vanished into the darkness.


    Another month passed.


    Inside the National Advisor''s Residence, there was an additional guard.


    [Your descendant William has successfully become a guard at the National Advisor''s Residence.]


    Ethan grinned as he watched the screen, where William was now guarding the grand hall inside the residence. Find your next favorite at m vl-em|p-yr


    Inside that hall, there was singing and dancing, with rows of Emerald Empire officials in official attire and beautiful maids serving them. Despite the ongoing war at the borders of the Emerald Empire, where countless people died daily, they indulged in this den of luxury!


    It was Ethan''s first glimpse of National Advisor Lance!


    He was a very handsome middle-aged man in a black official robe, sipping wine. It was a timely moment for Ethan to see the small words above Lance''s head.


    "Grand Tutor Gilbert is conquering the north, celebrating victory after victory, a great fortune for our nation! Yet, our Mystic Alliance lands face repeated setbacks, plagued by poverty and Druid invasions. Many local powers defy imperial commands, and the people of Mystic Alliance are deemed unworthy of life!


    Once I secure a millennium of peace, and Grand Tutor returns, Mystic Alliance will still belong to our Emerald Emperor nation!"


    But as soon as he finished speaking.


    Lance and everyone present changed their expressions as the ground trembled and a terrifying aura rose!


    Suddenly, all the experts in the National Advisor''s Residence appeared.


    Below the residence, a huge cylindrical object was burning fiercely.


    Outside the National Advisor''s Residence, William calmly walked out, slowly shedding his guard''s uniform, and muttered softly, "This will shake you up."


    "Boom!"


    Behind him, the residence''s defensive formations activated, and flames cracked the formations, shooting towards the sky as if venting the rage of the Mystic Alliance lands mentioned by Lance!


    On that day.


    Everyone in the Emerald Empire watched as flames shot up from the National Advisor''s Residence, and above...


    The smoke formed a scale weight.


    In a tower within the imperial capital, the firelight reddened the face of an old man, his brows furrowed.


    "Damned fools, who dares slander The Oracle Chamber again?"


    [Your descendant William, after infiltrating the National Advisor''s residence for many days, planted the ''dark weapon'' you bestowed upon him beneath the residence and found an opportunity to activate it. Although it didn''t kill Lance, he was still very confident, gaining the trait: A real man never looks back]


    [Confidence Boosted]


    "True to its reputation, the National Advisor''s residence, indeed the imperial capital."


    Ethan was also watching everything happening in the imperial capital, and he sincerely admired it. The last time he went out, he visited Alan and got another ''dark weapon''.


    Unfortunately, unlike the Sky Sect, the imperial capital is still the imperial capital, and Lance is still the National Advisor.


    He saw with his own eyes that the explosion didn''t even break through the grand formation activated by the National Advisor''s residence. It seemed that a master instantly stopped the impact of the explosion, leading everyone out of the blast area. National Advisor Lance was only disheveled and slightly embarrassed, but his residence was completely destroyed.


    "Damn, that''s strong."


    Ethan let out a long breath. The purpose of this time was also to probe the strength of the National Advisor''s residence through this method. Ethan felt it was worth it, especially since he still had another ''dark weapon''!


    And this time''s ''dark weapon'' was different, just a simple explosion with some modern world''s advanced technology added, no radiation. Otherwise, Ethan was really afraid they would trace it back to the Blackwood family, especially since there had been an explosion at the Sky Sect before.


    Just as he switched the view.


    Ethan was stunned for a moment.


    [Special Event¡ªLance''s Fury]


    [Your dark weapon killed the Third Prince who was misbehaving with a maid, and killed the prince supported by Lance. His fury will spill over to The Oracle Chamber, leading to a frantic search for members of The Oracle Chamber. His focus will be on investigating The Oracle Chamber and reorganizing his forces, which might give your family more time to develop.]


    "What the hell? An unexpected benefit that has them biting each other?"


    Ethan''s face showed a hint of joy, now feeling that this explosion was very worthwhile!


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 163]


    This year for Blackwood was a quiet one, except for a few children still participating in the Druids'' war at the borders. The family members within Blackwood were all trying to cultivate psychic powers. As for the line of Jeffrey, Ethan and Nathan didn''t interfere much. The old saying really made sense; blood relations thinned after three generations.


    If they didn''t show any special talents or make significant contributions to the family, they would likely never catch the elders'' eyes. Blackwood could only provide them with some resources. And these children, to obtain resources beyond what was supplied, had to strive on their own.


    Jeffrey''s children understood this and quietly began to join various forces within Blackwood, hoping to gain more attention from the family through their efforts.


    Now, even the fifth generation of children had appeared, and under the family''s protection, they continued to thrive.


    However, relatively speaking, they were somewhat fortunate; the burdens on their shoulders were not as heavy as those of the elders. Blackwood was now trying every means to become stronger. They faced not only the Druids but also had to protect the family''s lands. They must become stronger until one day they could stand before Lance!


    On this day.


    The ancestral hall was once again filled with people; they had already heard about everything that happened in the imperial capital, and William had also returned. This time, everyone''s attention was on Amelia and the family''s sacred tree, the Primordial Blood Tree.


    [Your descendant Amelia, along with the family''s sacred tree, the Primordial Blood Tree, had reached the critical point of Pinnacle Apprentice ten years ago but dared not break through. Today, Amelia decided to advance to Competent Force.]


    Seeing Amelia about to break through, the people of Blackwood were very solemn.


    They all knew that Amelia was cultivating psychic powers through the formidable Celestial Botanical Technique, which was very powerful. But Amelia said she was facing the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations!


    Such tribulations had never been faced by anyone in Blackwood!


    As for the Primordial Blood Tree, it faced the Seventy-Nine Heavenly Tribulations.


    Even though the family members gave gifts, Amelia appeared somewhat relaxed, but the people of Blackwood knew that Amelia did not want to worry anyone.

 Chapter 259: Chapter 259: Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations

    "Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations," Ethan said gravely. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Only he knew the true terror of such a trial; he had once endured the relentless thunder for an entire day at sea.


    If it weren''t for his mastery of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, which negated ninety percent of the heavenly forces, along with his top-tier psychic equipment, he wouldn''t have come out of it so easily.


    The Celestial Botanical Technique is powerful, but Amelia, with her dual Psychic Constitution, facing a day under such tribulations, would barely survive!


    "Amelia, let''s wait a bit longer," Luna said tenderly, stroking Amelia''s hair.


    "There''s no rush to break through. Let''s be fully prepared first."


    But Amelia just smiled calmly, "Don''t worry, mother, I''m confident. If you don''t believe me, ask our ancestor. He said I would definitely make it through."


    The room fell silent.


    The Exploding Sky Serpent appeared in a mist, frowning at Amelia, unsure whether to support her lie.


    Even without words from the ancestor or the Exploding Sky Serpent, everyone could see Amelia''s determination.


    National Advisor Lance might sell off Cloudview County at any moment, and Amelia had been studying sixth-tier psychic medicines.


    She knew that only by mastering these could she accelerate the family''s progress.


    She was prepared to wait centuries if necessary.


    Just then, the Exploding Sky Serpent spoke up, drawing everyone''s attention, "The master says to wait a few more years."


    "Hmm?" Everyone paused.


    Meanwhile, atop a psychic mountain, several members of The Oracle Chamber gazed toward another mountain in the distance.


    Giant trees walked like humans there, and Druids were arranging totems around countless bodies¡ªmillions of them! Find unique content at m-vl-em-py-r


    The leader of The Oracle Chamber spoke coldly, "That is the Druids'' natural magic formation, powered by the lives of a million from Starlight County, capturing a seventh-tier psychic vein that once belonged to a Competent Force power, enhanced by various Druidic totems."


    "Why have you brought us here, leader? What does the chamber seek that requires so many of us?" asked a member of The Oracle Chamber.


    The leader replied, "After the Druids'' defeat at the hands of Azure Cloud, they''ve retreated into the Endless Forest, heading to more prosperous Druidic lands. Their greatest hope lies in Arnold, a once-in-a-millennium talent born with a ghostly psychic constitution. He can host thousands of spirits, boosting his strength rapidly."


    "With nine spiritual cores and unmatched power within his current level, even possessing celestial ghost fire, he could fight mid to peak Competent Force warriors upon breaking through."


    "This natural magic formation can negate eighty percent of the heavenly tribulations, aiding Arnold''s transition from Developing Skill to Competent Force!"


    "The Oracle Chamber has ordered, at all costs, to eliminate this Druidic prodigy!"


    This declaration left all members of The Oracle Chamber breathless.


    The Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations were legendary, marking those destined for greatness¡ªnot just reaching Basic Mastery, but potentially even Advanced Mastery!


    The members nodded silently.


    After they dispersed, a figure approached the leader of The Oracle Chamber, her voice low, "Leader, I''m quite interested in this matter. If you don''t mind, may I accompany you back home?"


    The leader of The Oracle Chamber stood in silence for a long while, then waved his hand with a trembling voice, "I... I should never have let you threaten me. You people from Blackwood have really got me cornered. Aren''t you afraid I''ll fight back even if it destroys us both?!"


    With a whoosh, two sword shadows approached, their wielders gliding on their swords, their long hair fluttering in the wind, looking effortlessly cool.


    Behind them, a loving couple stood atop a silver coffin.


    A burly man covered in demonic tattoos stood with his arms crossed, glaring fiercely.


    Another young man silently pulled out two daggers, eyeing the most vulnerable spots on his opponent...


    Half a day later.


    Jimmy Martinez, dressed in simple clothes like an ordinary old man, stepped into Glory City, his kindly face tinged with bitterness.


    Walking the streets of Glory City, it seemed untouched by the war raging outside, a testament to the city''s simplicity.


    Yet he was certain!


    This damned city, filled with those damned people from Blackwood, had no virtue at all!


    Otherwise, why would everyone, young and old, bully him, a 1600-year-old man?


    "Oh, the misfortune, having been the leader of The Oracle Chamber in over a dozen places, and now I''ve met my downfall in Cloudview County," he sighed.


    The Blackwood folks who had surrounded Jimmy were no longer there, but he still walked dejectedly into the inner city of Blackwood, into the deepest parts of Blackwood.


    There, a feast was laid out, and the people of Blackwood were all smiles.


    "Ahaha, welcome our new friend from Blackwood! Go on, Thomas, help Mr. Martinez to his seat, he''s a VIP in our house!" As soon as he entered, Jimmy heard Nathan''s polite shout, sounding like a simple farmer.


    "Hey, hey, hey!"


    A two-meter-tall black bear quickly ran up to Jimmy, effortlessly lifting him onto a chair, still speaking politely, "Our benefactor, today you must eat well and drink well, we''re honoring you."


    Fine wines and dishes were neatly arranged.


    The Blackwood family looked at him with beaming smiles, and to an outsider, he might seem like a distinguished guest of Blackwood.


    Only Jimmy himself knew the truth. Just a year ago, he had kidnapped Jessica, and now...


    He had inexplicably become a VIP of Blackwood, a friend of Blackwood, albeit reluctantly.


    All the people of Blackwood smiled so insincerely, he felt like what was really laid out on the table wasn''t fine food and wine, but himself. These people from Blackwood were about to shed their disguises, grabbing knives and bowls to feast on his flesh.


    Jimmy took a deep breath, gritted his teeth, and fumed.


    "Stop pretending, all of you! I, Jimmy, have lived over a thousand years smoothly, and today I''ve fallen into your hands!"


    "I see now, you''re after the natural magic formation!"


    "Speak up, how do you want to handle this? Let''s agree that after this, you''ll stop messing with me, or else I, Jimmy, am not a pushover!"


    Silence fell among the people of Blackwood for a long while.


    Then they looked at each other and all broke into relieved smiles.


    While Jimmy was still angry, Nathan suddenly hugged him, catching him off guard, "My good brother, my lifesaver, once we secure the natural magic formation, you and I will truly be brothers, sincerely."


    In the distance.


    Amelia''s eyes were moist; only she knew that everything her family told Jimmy was sincere.


    They could have forced Jimmy back, but to make him sincerely work for Blackwood, to ensure she could safely undergo her tribulation within the natural magic formation, her family had treated Jimmy with such courtesy, fearing any resentment he might harbor.


    She watched her father, who was pouring wine for Jimmy with a servile smile, something he had never done for anyone else in his life.

 Chapter 260: Chapter 260: They had to fight!

    "The Natural Magic Array aligns with the laws of nature itself. Druids, with their connection to nature, can utilize it according to destiny. It requires various totems and the sacrifice of a million lives, even a master of Competent Force, to resonate with the cosmos and withstand eighty percent of the celestial tribulation."


    "The intelligence I''ve gathered indicates that the Whites, for their prodigy Arnold, will join forces with the struggling Harris and Qu Fang to protect the Natural Magic Array and Arnold. Once Arnold reaches the level of Competent Force, it will elevate everyone associated with him. The Druids are prepared to pay any price for future glory."


    "It will take at least three more years to prepare the Natural Magic Array."


    "If we just want to eliminate Arnold, with the help of you Blackwoods, things would be much simpler. Mr. Nathan, I need you to be clear about what exactly you intend to do on this mission."


    After a banquet, Jimmy didn''t say much.


    He directly led the Blackwoods under the Primordial Blood Tree to strategize. The scene he had witnessed at the Natural Magic Array with The Oracle Chamber members was summoned using the power of the cosmos.


    There had once been a minor feud between Blackwood and Cloudview County''s The Oracle Chamber, but now the new leader of The Oracle Chamber was plotting with Blackwood, a truly curious turn of events.


    Nathan hesitated for a moment, glancing at Amelia.


    With just one look, Jimmy understood everything. He was momentarily stunned, a flicker of shock crossing his face, but he concealed it and continued, "Then I understand. I can only tell you, Mr.Nathan, that achieving your goals with Blackwood will be as difficult as reaching the heavens!"


    Upon hearing this, the Blackwoods all frowned.


    Jimmy continued, "Let me break it down for you, starting from the outer perimeter of the Natural Magic Array. Three tribes, to gain Arnold''s favor, will deploy their best warriors to guard three positions with a powerful magical array. To approach the main array, you first have to break through the outer defenses."


    "Breaking this array will provoke a desperate resistance from all their top warriors. The three high priests are all at the peak of Competent Force. Even though they''ve been setback, the three sides still have about six to eight priests, with no fewer than fifty tribal chiefs and elders, all wielding Druidic totems."


    "If there''s any disturbance, the Natural Magic Array will activate within the time it takes an incense stick to burn. That means, in addition to facing these Druidic masters, the person you want to undergo the tribulation must enter the Natural Magic Array within that short time!"


    "At that moment, she will face Arnold alone, a peerless genius unmatched within the realm of Developing Skill, and she must defeat him within the span of thirty finger snaps, or else face a double celestial tribulation, a challenge no one has survived."


    Jimmy''s words sounded light, but a shadow seemed to fall over the entire hall. Facing all the warriors from three tribes... Remember, Blackwood had only faced Clark''s side before, and they had even eliminated one of Clark''s priests. Clark had fled in panic that day, but the enemies they faced now were of a completely different caliber!


    "Dad... maybe... maybe I should wait a bit longer," Amelia sighed deeply.


    "Wait for what?"


    Nathan smiled faintly, "If it''s as difficult as reaching the heavens, then we Blackwoods will just have to climb to the heavens!"


    Jimmy could only offer a bitter laugh. "But Nathan, have you considered that just as we are prepared to pay any price to eliminate the Druids'' prodigy, the tribes of Starlight County will do the same to kill our genius? When that happens, the masters of Starlight County will also attack, and we''ll be walking into a death trap!" Read more adventures at m-vl-em-pyr


    Back when he was in the imperial capital, Jimmy had heard of the Blackwood family. They had pioneered an era in Cloudview County, and even as the leader of The Oracle Chamber, he did not wish to see such a defiant family perish.


    Unfortunately, his warnings were in vain.


    This man, who looked like a simple farmer, just gave his daughter a reassuring smile, then bowed deeply to Jimmy. In his eyes, Jimmy saw nothing but resolve!


    And then there were the people of Blackwood in the hall... a group of complete madmen. They understood each other without words and silently left the hall to prepare.


    "Mr. Martinez, I will be by your side from now on. To be honest, I am also a member of The Oracle Chamber." Dennis bowed slightly to Jimmy. "Please forgive me, Mr. Martinez. Although we are friends, it''s wise to be cautious, right?"


    "Dennis, the master of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, I know you. You received Stephen''s legacy."


    Jimmy''s expression was odd. "I also know that you once followed Stephen and hindered our mission at The Oracle Chamber. By rights, I should have killed you."


    Hearing this, Dennis was not only unafraid but also laughed as if he had nothing to lose. "Well, when you decide to kill me, just give me a heads-up so I can arrange my affairs."


    Jimmy paused for a moment, glanced at the Blackwood members who had quickly dispersed, and then looked back at Dennis''s fearless eyes. He shook his head with a wry smile. "It seems you haven''t learned anything from Blackwood except how to be mad."


    In the room.


    Ethan watched the scene in the Forebearer Shrine.


    Amelia was kneeling towards his Psychic Position.


    "Forebearer, please show your powers quickly. Only you can stop my father now. Trying to obtain the Natural Magic Array is too dangerous, we should just kill Arnold..."


    Amelia was in tears.


    This time, Ethan did not show his powers. His expression was grave. Amelia was breaking through a severe trial, and during her time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, she had spent nearly two hundred years of her life. Now, Amelia was only left with a little over a hundred years!


    Losing this opportunity meant neither Blackwood nor he could ensure Amelia''s safe passage through the trial!


    They had to fight!


    Ethan sent a warm message to Amelia. His Psychic Position traced a gentle arc in mid-air, and a line of text appeared before Amelia''s eyes.


    [This time, let your family help you, okay?]


    "Forebearer!"


    Watching the shadow in the sky, Amelia cried like a child and eventually fell asleep in front of Ethan''s Psychic Position, her dirty face showing a faint smile.


    Tonight, the full moon hung high. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan and his wife embraced, gazing long at the Primordial Blood Tree. They did not ask the ancient tree about the future; it had been with Blackwood for a lifetime and was also waiting for a breakthrough. Any damage could potentially kill the old tree during the thunder trial.


    Footsteps sounded behind them.


    "Mr.Nathan." Jimmy came with Dennis, bowed to the couple, and got straight to the point. "Mr. Dennis and I have inquired, and with the current strength of Blackwood, even if you gather all the masters of Cloudview County, the chances of achieving your goal are still slim. I suggest..."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Mr. Martinez."


    Nathan looked tenderly at his wife and smiled. "This time, even if I have to risk my life, I will seek a chance for my foolish daughter."


    Jimmy frowned, puzzled. He had made it very clear; it was a near-suicidal mission, and a great family really shouldn''t risk so much for one Psychic. Only Dennis, standing behind him, couldn''t help but smile reassuringly.

 Chapter 261: Chapter 261: Pink Terror

    Nathan pointed at the ancient tree in front of them. His voice was gentle. "Mr. Martinez, people often say that my family, the Blackwoods, are no different from dark sorcerers. Even some of our old friends joke about it."


    "I remember when we were very poor, my foolish daughter would spend all day by this old tree, trying everything she could to make it bloom and bear fruit. She knew that this was the only way our family could get some decent natural treasures. Thanks to her, our family''s old tree has grown strong."


    As Nathan spoke, the Primordial Blood Tree did not show a human face, but its branches swayed slightly in the night.


    Jimmy still frowned.


    Nathan continued, "My foolish daughter, oh, she spent decades in the psychic herb garden, dirty and ignored by everyone. But since then, Gratitude Village has been free of disease, and our family has never lacked psychic herbs."


    Check for new content on m-vl-em-pyr


    "Later, when times were tough, our family''s elder serpent needed to break through. Everyone knew the dangers ahead. She had been quiet all her life, but that day, when we were rushing to go, I heard her speak so long and so logically for the first time since she was born."


    "The Oracle Chamber should know of her many titles: the Saintess of Flora, the Maiden of the Demon Cave, the Doomsday Pharmacist... But do you know, beneath all these glorious titles, she kept no treasures for herself, everything she found she brought home. And you certainly don''t know that in my heart, she has only one title."


    "And that is my daughter!" S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "She has given her life for our family, and as long as someone in our family is alive, no one can hurt her, not even the thunder tribulation!"


    Nathan''s words pierced the night, striking straight to the soul.


    Jimmy was shaken for a while, then a warm look crossed his eyes. He bowed slightly to Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, then I won''t try to dissuade you."


    He shook his head and, followed by Dennis, left the Blackwoods, heading towards the border.


    Dennis smirked, "Mr. Martinez, why did you stop trying to persuade him?"


    "What could I use to persuade him?" Jimmy shrugged and sighed deeply, "I can persuade an old family patriarch, but I can''t persuade a father. Let''s go, Mr. Dennis, we have much to do in Border Town."


    Hearing this.


    Dennis''s eyes lit up, "Mr. Martinez, are you going to help us?"


    "What can I offer to help?" Jimmy rolled his eyes, "You think the power controlled by the leader of The Oracle Chamber is vast? The members I brought can handle some petty theft and scheming, but if it comes to a major battle with three tribes, we won''t be much help."


    Saying this.


    He moved forward, his eyes narrowing slightly, "But it''s been a long time since I''ve met a friend as sincere as Mr. Nathan. I''ll give it a try!"


    "It might be good for my peace of mind!"


    [Special Event¡ªAmelia''s Nine Trials of Thunder]


    [Your descendant Amelia has faced the ultimate thunder trial, and your family confronts three Druid tribes, facing perilous paths ahead, yet your family marches on undeterred!]


    As the event unfolds, the entire Blackwood springs into action!


    They move silently, armed with the Forebearer Psychic Position, spreading out in all directions like spectral forces under Daniel''s strategic command, with every key member assigned a specific task.


    At the Blackwood residence, they''ve even enlisted an elder from Duke''s Mansion''s Competent Force to help keep watch. Only Jeffrey''s family remains at the residence, frantically expanding their lineage, with the children fervently honing their skills.


    Meanwhile, Katie''s reputation grows; countless young talents in Cloudview County have fallen to her Pink''Sparkly Unicorn Bow'', likely unable to raise their heads in her presence for a long while.


    [Your descendant Katie has defeated numerous prodigies, now her name instills fear across Cloudview County. At the sight of anything pink, adversaries lose heart and retreat. Trait gained: Pink Terror]


    [As long as the realm difference isn''t too vast, the chance of opponents fleeing increases. During battle, the psychological burden on opponents increases by 100%!]


    "It seems our younger generation is growing up... well, growing up in a way."


    Ethan watches with a hint of pride as Katie, with her long bow, searches for opponents on the screen.


    Looking elsewhere, the Primordial Blood Tree has risen from the ground, no longer within Blackwood. At this moment, young Joseph is still lying in a pit.


    [Your descendant Joseph, who has slept for three years, gains the trait: Serene Detachment]


    [He desires nothing, chases neither fame nor fortune, and avoids conflicts. His insight has increased by 30%!]


    Joseph''s realm has fallen to the early stages of Emerging Ability, still youthful in appearance. Ethan wonders when Joseph''s study of the "Great Dream of the Ancient God" will end.


    Seeing that the children are safe, Ethan is about to switch the view.


    He freezes as a Blackwood servant rushes over, whispering into Joseph''s ear, "Young master, the second young miss''s reputation is growing. Dawn has sent word that someone has challenged her to a duel.


    They say behind their challenger is a master of Developing Skill, seeing the second young miss''s naive nature, they wish to defeat her and have their disciple marry into our Blackwood family for profit."


    "Should we..."


    The servant''s face darkens, making a throat-slitting gesture.


    Joseph, without opening his eyes, breathes deeply, "No action needed, let Katie grow up and see the world''s wickedness. Send orders to slowly inform Katie of their plans, let her handle it herself. Make sure everything is arranged properly, don''t let my foolish sister get hurt."


    "Yes, young master!" The servant smiles slightly, "Afterwards, shall it be as before?"


    "Mm."


    Joseph turns over, "Leave no trace, make it clean."


    The servant hurries off, and moments later, from the headquarters of Dawn in Glory City to the halls of Grey Mist, masters scatter.


    "...What?"


    Ethan, watching this unfold on the screen, is stunned. It''s been a long time since he last checked in on Joseph.


    Though always seemingly lazy, Joseph has not been idle. Looking back at Joseph''s past experiences, one thing stands out.


    [Your descendant Joseph, influenced by many life experiences, although not wanting to become like his grandfather Michael or uncle Kenneth. As Jeffrey''s lineage grows and becomes more susceptible to deception, the family''s power also expands, attracting unseen elders and entangling them like omnipresent tentacles.]


    [He has learned to disguise like his maternal relatives, taking over the family''s power in the shadows, eliminating the relentless and greedy like flies.]


    [Trait gained: The Hidden Hand]


    "No wonder Blackwood has become the most powerful family in Cloudview County, free from the harassment of those with ulterior motives."


    Seeing this trait appear, Ethan is surprised for a long while, then smiles with relief, "These children are also slowly growing up, starting to silently share the family''s burdens. With this, I can let go and focus on the natural magic array."

 Chapter 262: Chapter 262: Disaster! The Druids are invading

    Time trickles by slowly.


    [Azure Cloud Border]


    At this moment, Cloudview County is beginning its counterattack. One Psychic after another enters the Endless Forest, gradually gaining more territory and resources.


    Psychics from all over Cloudview County flock here, drawn by the war and the promise of abundant resources.


    At the location of Battle Oversight.


    Blackwood is executing the first step of their plan¡ªsupporting Starlight County from Cloudview County. This move is strategic; as Blackwood attempts to seize the natural magic array, the intense battle will distract the major tribes of Starlight County, easing pressure on Blackwood!


    With the arrival of Battle Oversight, these high-ranking officials from the dynasty have gained control over various powers. Even the seasoned elders and experts from Duke''s Mansion must obey the commands of Battle Oversight.


    Marcus, Jessica, and Edward are sitting inside the Battle Oversight headquarters. The overseer of this mission, a young and handsome man from the Emerald Empire''s imperial military, is named Clarence.


    He is over a thousand years old and exudes extreme elegance. Also present are other members of Battle Oversight, including Jimmy.


    Clarence looks around at the Blackwood members and smiles, "Oh? Cloudview County is supporting Starlight County? I''m afraid I''m powerless to assist."


    Upon hearing this,


    Jimmy looks surprised, "Lord Clarence, Cloudview County currently has the resources to spare for aiding Starlight County, which is crucial for eliminating the tribes within Starlight County. With their help, it would benefit the border conflicts of our Emerald Empire. Why do you say you are powerless?"


    "Ah, Mr. Martinez, you misunderstand. I too wish to see such a scenario unfold," Clarence sighs deeply.


    "But you are not aware, Mr. Martinez, that I recently received intelligence that the Druids in the Endless Forest are preparing to strike back. Cloudview County is in imminent danger and cannot afford any distractions."


    "Battle Oversight truly cannot retract the orders for all forces in Cloudview County to defend. You must understand, Mr. Martinez, the pressure on me is immense."


    "I..."


    Before Jimmy could say more, Jessica pulls him back and bows slightly to Clarence, "If that''s the case, we shall take our leave."


    As the Blackwood group leaves,


    Clarence''s expression darkens, "Interesting. Worthy of being the most reputable family in Cloudview County. I''ve only been here a short while, and Jimmy is already siding with you. All the major powers obey your commands. "


    "Am I, Clarence, the supreme commander of Battle Oversight, or are you, Blackwood, in charge? You just say the word, and Cloudview County is to support Starlight County? Do you think I''m just for show? That I''m blind? This is too much!"


    "Someone, pass down the order. The imperial capital''s Battle Oversight commands that the Druids of the Endless Forest are about to attack. All forces must be prepared and not slack off!"


    "Yes!"


    ...


    "Scoundrels."


    Leaving Battle Oversight, Donna clenches her fists, wishing she could smash the pretentious Clarence into the mud, "What resurgence of the Endless Forest Druids? The three tribes closest to Cloudview County are all busy building the natural magic array!"


    Jimmy glances back at Battle Oversight and scoffs, "It''s simple. Do you know that every time we venture into the Endless Forest, Cloudview County gains a wealth of natural treasures? Many of these treasures end up in the pockets of Battle Oversight. In just a few years, Clarence has gained more than he did in decades."


    "Pity, the man is short-sighted. He fears that if we help Starlight County, the Druids on the borders of Cloudview County will regain the upper hand, making our counterattacks more difficult. "


    "Even if supporting Starlight County leads to victory and both sides launch a joint counterattack, he doesn''t want it because then the Battle Oversight of Cloudview County would have to share the spoils with colleagues still in combat."


    Donna was stunned for a long time before she grasped the situation. She blurted out, "No wonder the Emerald Empire is getting beaten so badly by the Druids."


    Jimmy gave a bitter laugh, "If Clarence won''t issue the order, and Cloudview County can''t provide support, what should we do?" Discover new adventures at m-vl-em-pyr


    The members of Blackwood looked at each other and just smiled.


    Edward gazed into the distance, towards Blackwood''s Heavenly Justice Hall, where Betty stood! She was also looking towards Edward, instantly understanding his thoughts. A black Energy Stone appeared in her hand, and she silently muttered something.


    Seeing Jimmy still confused, Marcus raised an eyebrow, "Mr. Martinez, it seems you outsiders haven''t realized that here in Cloudview County, there has always been only one power that can control the narrative!"


    Hearing this, Jimmy''s heart raced, and he swallowed hard.


    "Everyone in Cloudview County listens to Battle Oversight because we, Blackwood, choose to be your friends, to give Battle Oversight face."


    "But now, Battle Oversight has chosen a different path."


    "Mr. Martinez, I''m sorry, I hope there are no friends of yours in Battle Oversight at this time."


    As Marcus''s words fell, shadows enveloped the entire border town!


    Having been the leader of The Oracle Chamber in over a dozen counties, he felt fear for the first time, and even a bit of relief.


    "Ding! Ding! Ding!" S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A bell rang out from nowhere, tolling nine times!


    All the Psychics in the border town stopped what they were doing and without hesitation started fleeing out of the town, with the slower ones being dragged along by the more powerful.


    Figures appeared from all directions around the border town, using a pre-prepared grand formation to shield all traces of activity within the town.


    The new Duke of Duke''s Mansion, Duke Kenneth, arrived on clouds along with four elders of the Competent Force!


    Ten Thousand Life Mountain''s Immortal Master, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s Elder Ralph, Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason... one by one, these powerful figures mockingly flew to the outskirts of Battle Oversight.


    "Boom!"


    Clarence burst out of the door, glaring angrily at these Competent Force elders from Cloudview County, realizing that these rascals were after his life!


    "Who dares! I am from the imperial military, I am the commander of Battle Oversight, you dare touch me..."


    "Boom!"


    The energy of the world erupted, and the air was thick with the intent to kill!


    The Blackwood members were still quietly walking out of the border town. Jimmy glanced back at the great battle, wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, "Truly, this is the land of the Mystic Alliance..."


    As they walked away, screams of terror came from inside the border town.


    "Disaster! The Druids are invading, the Druids are invading!"


    "Commander Clarence has been beheaded by three high priests from Starlight County, his body completely destroyed!"


    "We have suffered heavy casualties. Starlight County dares to kill our commander of Battle Oversight, this enmity must be avenged. Fellow Psychics of Azure Cloud, follow me to attack Starlight County!"


    Inside the border town, a large number of Psychics boarded their ability vessels, heading towards Starlight County.

 Chapter 263: Chapter 263: Trait acquired—Kings Potential

    On the ground, Clarence, nearly defeated, stared blankly at the sky. The shouts of the Cloudview County Psychics were so loud that he couldn''t even grasp what was happening to him. He only felt someone grabbing his hand, dragging him along. Finally, he saw a silver coffin.


    "Mr. Nathan, we''ve brought the man to you. He''s still alive, but his Competent Force is crippled. We''ve trapped him with a secret method, so no matter what skills he has, he can''t escape."


    "Thank you all."


    "There''s no need for thanks. This guy came to our Azure Cloud acting all high and mighty. If it weren''t for the resources he could still provide for us, we would have executed him on the spot during our last trip to the Endless Forest! But these resources..."


    "Now, when Cloudview County is in such need, my Blackwood still has some reserves. The body of the Competent Force is enough. If we can extract some techniques and secrets from him, we will share them with you all."


    "Ha ha ha, Mr. Nathan is generous!"


    "I, Blackwood, still have urgent matters to attend to, so I will take my leave now. See you in Starlight County."


    "See you in Starlight County!"


    Clarence''s expression grew more desperate. He felt like he had come to the wrong place. His previous high status seemed like an illusion, like a dream that vanished in an instant. Cloudview County had a nice name, but in reality, it was a den of demons!


    [Congratulations, your family has obtained spoils of war.]


    [A half-dead mid-stage Competent Force Psychicx1]


    Ability vessels, flying swords, exotic beasts... Cloudview County''s massive army, like dark clouds, pressed towards the entire Starlight County!


    [Special Event¡ªSupport Starlight County]


    [To allow your family members to successfully seize the natural magic formation and resist the ninety-nine heavenly tribulations to break through the Competent Force, your family has joined the entire Cloudview County to support Starlight County and wage war against the Druids of Starlight County!]


    "Is this the influence of Blackwood now?"


    Ethan smiled broadly. He remembered how years ago, everyone in Cloudview County wanted to attack Blackwood, but now, with just one command from Blackwood, the members of Cloudview County even dared to kill officials from the imperial capital''s Battle Oversight!


    In the scene now.


    Edward and others followed the supporting army of Cloudview County. This support included half of Cloudview County''s top experts and thirty percent of its Psychics. Blackwood''s relative, the new Duke Kenneth, was also among them.


    Kenneth and Jimmy, the former and current leaders of The Oracle Chamber, stood together, exchanging glances with a hint of irony.


    "Edward, do you know why I support this action?" Kenneth asked, looking down at everything on the ground.


    Edward paused, continuing forward. He saw the scene in Starlight County was different from Cloudview County. Here, everywhere were ruins from battles, the remnants of walls seemed to bear the prosperous traces of human life that once thrived.


    Exotic beasts on the roadside were gnawing at the corpses, stirring an indescribable emotion in him, "Naturally, it''s for Cloudview County. Starlight County is close to Azure Cloud. If Starlight County falls, Cloudview County will be attacked from both sides."


    "That''s right."


    A satisfied smile appeared on Kenneth''s face, "For thirty years, everyone in Cloudview County has been fighting for their land, and we are all the same."


    "Behind us, we have our families, our friends, everything we know. But Cloudview County also has its citizens, who will continue from generation to generation. The greater the power, the greater the responsibility. We Psychics bear the future of the entire Cloudview County."


    Edward nodded slightly, still staring at the horrific scenes on the ground. Suddenly, he dashed down, rescuing a pair of children being chased by exotic beasts through the ruins.


    [Your descendant Edward has witnessed the people of Glory City fighting desperately against the Druids for their homeland over the years. He has seen the psychics of Cloudview County sacrifice everything, even the weakest citizens taking up arms to defend their homes, often discussing the major events of Cloudview County with his cousin Kenneth.]


    [Gradually, a belief formed in his heart: he wanted the people of Cloudview County to live a peaceful life, free from the disturbances of the Druids. Trait acquired¡ªKing''s Potential]


    [His charisma increased by 20%, his personal strength in leading psychics in battle increased by 20%, and the combat effectiveness of his subordinates increased by 3% under his leadership.]


    "Hmm? The Primordial Blood Tree really didn''t misjudge, are we from Blackwood about to see a rise of a noble?"


    Seeing Edward''s potential, Ethan was stunned.


    After all, it was through constant exposure that Edward had the deepest interactions with Martin, not just with Kenneth. Over the years, he was also greatly influenced by Betty.


    However, Ethan didn''t mind; each descendant had their own life to lead. As long as their actions weren''t too outrageous or harmful to the family''s interests, the family would fully support them.


    ...


    Time quickly passed, and the grand army of Cloudview County marched to Starlight County to join forces with the psychics there resisting the Druids. The previously losing battle quickly turned around, forcing the Druids to retreat and seek reinforcements from the Endless Forest at the border of Starlight County.


    The structure of Starlight County was similar to that of Cloudview County, with six major powers, their legacies varying in age. The strongest, the Arcane Society, had a legacy of just over a thousand years and comprised three Competent Forces.


    Their third-generation leader, Chuck, was only seven hundred years old, a peak Competent Force with no rivals in Starlight County.


    The Duke''s Mansion in Starlight County, led by the previous Duke Ed, contrasted sharply with Martin of Cloudview County; Ed had led his warriors to fight on the front lines at the start of the war!


    The noble Duke sacrificed himself to buy enough time for Starlight County''s defense, leading the Duke''s Mansion''s troops and perishing along with two Druid priests using a sacred relic.


    The current Duke, Jon, a young man of about 120 years old and at the peak of Developing Skill, was a supreme talent, known for his scholarly charm and wit. He was currently meeting with the major sects of Cloudview County, bowing to Kenneth,


    "Cloudview County''s aid in this time of crisis is deeply appreciated. Otherwise, the legacy of generations might have indeed ended in my hands."


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    Kenneth smiled faintly, then pulled Jon aside to discuss something privately.


    Nate, who once pursued Katie in Blackwood and was Jon''s grandson, was now looking around anxiously and relieved in the crowd from Blackwood, finally asking Edward, "Sir, may I inquire how Miss Katie is doing?"


    ...


    Hearing this, Edward glanced at Nate, who had once pursued his daughter and was rumored to be somewhat of a playboy, and remained silent for a long time. He suddenly understood why Kenneth always seemed to harbor an inexplicable resentment towards him.


    Nate, unaware that Edward was Katie''s father, looked at Edward''s stern gaze, "Sir, why are you staring at me like that? I''m scared."


    "Brother, leave it to me."


    Donna, standing nearby, tugged at Edward''s sleeve and then turned to Nate with a gentle smile, "You must be Nate? I''m Katie''s aunt. I often hear Katie mention you."


    "Really?" Nate was overjoyed.


    "Really."


    Donna smiled slightly, not mentioning that Katie had once referred to ''some fool whose name she couldn''t remember, who got his face all messed up by her Sparkly Unicorn Bow,'' and mysteriously said, "Come, let''s go somewhere private, and I''ll explain things to you properly."


    The two walked away, and moments later. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A bruised and trembling Nate followed Donna back.

 Chapter 264: Chapter 264: People can be so devious, truly devious

    Duke Jon of Starlight County was taken aback when he saw his grandson''s condition. "Nate, what happened to you?"


    Before Nate could respond, Donna, who stood fearlessly by his side, was suddenly confronted by a figure that appeared before her. It was Chuck, the most powerful genius and warrior of Starlight County, and the leader of the Arcane Society.


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    Chuck, a young man dressed in a black robe, who rarely smiled, immediately grabbed Donna''s wrist, his eyes flashing with excitement.


    "Young one, I felt your energy when you made your move. Such a solid physical training, possessing a Super Core, and the blood of the Azure Dragon! Excellent! Who is your master?"


    Seeing Donna still stunned, Chuck pressed on, "It doesn''t matter, just tell me who your master is, and I will challenge them. I want to see who dares to compete with me for disciples!"


    Donna remained silent for a long time before frowning and saying, "Buddy, who do you think you are?"


    Her dismissive response made the experts of Starlight County sweat, as Chuck had dominated the younger generation of the county in battles for centuries, and no one dared to speak to him in such a manner.


    Just when everyone feared a conflict might arise between the visitors from Cloudview County and the Arcane Society, Chuck''s mood surprisingly improved. "Good! A body cultivator uses strength to break magic, fearless and bold, that''s the spirit I want in a disciple. I''ve decided, you''re my disciple now!"


    He then stared emotionlessly at the people from Blackwood, "Any objections from you folks?"


    The people from Blackwood frowned slightly, realizing that Chuck genuinely admired Donna''s talents and wanted to take her as his disciple, despite his arrogance.


    Back at the screen, Ethan wore a peculiar expression, knowing that Chuck was indeed skilled but probably too arrogant from being unchallenged in Starlight County. "This attitude might cause trouble if Charlie Crackle, who sees Donna as his own, sees this. He''d probably fight Chuck over it."


    However, as Marcus was about to summon the Sky Palace, Donna revealed a sly smile and shook her head at the Blackwood crowd. Jessica, standing nearby, smirked like a cunning fox.


    [Your descendant Jessica had already thoroughly investigated the forces of Starlight County. She knew of Chuck''s great strength and arrogant nature, and that he lacked a worthy disciple to pass on his mantle.]


    [Together with Donna, they planned to expose Donna''s physical training aura if they encountered Chuck, knowing he disliked the weak. By acting recklessly, Donna won Chuck''s favor and gained entry into the Arcane Society to inherit Chuck''s mantle.


    This would ensure Blackwood''s support in Starlight County and help the family control the county''s powers through Donna''s new status as Chuck''s direct disciple.]


    [Your descendant Donna has acquired a new identity as Chuck''s first disciple and a direct disciple of the Arcane Society!]


    Watching Jessica''s calm and smiling face, and Donna, who proudly agreed to become a disciple of the Arcane Society, along with Chuck, who laughed heartily, unaware of the scheme, Ethan''s expression turned complex.


    It turned out that Jessica had completely uncovered Chuck''s background and even manipulated his temperament.


    "It''s all a plot. Donna intentionally fought Nate to catch Chuck''s attention!"


    "People can be so devious, truly devious," Ethan sighed deeply.


    In the crowd, Kenneth and Jimmy exchanged glances, and Jimmy glanced at Jessica and said resignedly, "There are indeed some bad folks in Blackwood."


    As the forces from Cloudview County rushed to Starlight County, the Blackwood clan members scattered throughout the region, meticulously setting up their strategies to aid Amelia in overcoming a formidable challenge known as the "Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even the old friends from Cloudview County were clueless about the Blackwoods'' activities. The Blackwoods moved like ghosts, their actions shrouded in secrecy, revealing nothing of their whereabouts.


    Meanwhile, outside the Natural Magic Formation, someone had been watching for a whole month. Sometimes transforming into a large tree, sometimes merging with the earth, and at other times becoming a bird. This time, emerging from the rocky soil, he silently slit the throat of a passing Druid, another dagger piercing directly into the Druid''s spiritual core, extinguishing his soul.


    William!


    Now, he was dressed in the Druids'' garb, his body marked with their inscriptions, exuding their very essence.


    "Brother, I think I want to return to the tribe. Just last year, the chief gave me two wives. I''ve been here for a few years now, and who knows if they''re still waiting for me," he lamented in the tribe''s unique accent to his ''good friend'' while they patrolled together at noon.


    [Your descendant William has observed for a month, mastering the tribe''s accent, gathering information on some of the tribe members, their relationships, and customs...]


    [He has acquired a new identity: Druids'' Mountain Patrol.]


    [Your descendant William is now relaying information about the Natural Magic Formation back to the family.]


    The family often overlooked William when assigning tasks. His past actions were somewhat unreliable, and even after emptying his Storage Ring, it would soon fill up again with new ''spoils of war.'' He even had a trait known as ''Head Collector,'' which made assigning him tasks a risky affair.


    However, in Ethan''s view, William was making earnest efforts to integrate into the family. Although most of the family didn''t trust him, he still silently took on the role of a spy in the most dangerous locations.


    But most of the family didn''t know that after being exposed years ago in The Oracle Chamber by Stephen, William had become more cautious, managing to restrain himself from killing during his undercover missions.


    As for stabbing his fellow clansmen in the back... that little rascal still entertained the thought occasionally.


    ...


    With the arrival of reinforcements from Cloudview County, a fierce battle erupted just outside the borders of Starlight County. Duke Jon, with the help of Cloudview County, led the first counterattack with the experts of Starlight County.


    Unbeknownst to them, a strange force was at work!


    Dawn!


    This assassin group, formed by Olivia over 120 years ago, had silently infiltrated Starlight County. Their mission this time was not to kill. Some of them followed the experts of Starlight County in battle, quietly remaining in the background, collecting the bodies of the deceased.


    They silently passed through areas damaged by the battle, collecting all the bodies they came across into their Storage Rings.


    In a secluded valley within Starlight County, the air was thick with the stench of decay. Occasionally, figures in black appeared, their Storage Rings glowing as they dropped body after body into the valley.


    These bodies transformed into a black light, absorbed by a silver coffin at the center of the valley.


    [Death Coffin, Fourth Layer: Endless Sea of Death]


    At that moment, Nathan was sitting cross-legged in the center of the Sea of Death, surrounded by mists formed from the deathly energy that shaped into roaring dragons in the sky.


    Floating above was a small coffin, inside which lay Gary, her breath now reaching the mid-stage of Competent Force. The deathly dragons formed from the mist furiously surged into her body, as if preparing her for a great terror upon awakening.

 Chapter 265: Chapter 265: Evacuate within a year or die!

    On all sides of the Endless Sea of Death stood four zombies!


    Cynthia, who was once beaten half to death outside the former Glory City, the headless high priest Clark, Luke, Michael, and the commander of Battle Oversight, Clarence.


    "Two Sky Corpses have already been successfully refined."


    Ethan clicked on the information for these zombies. Druid priestess Cynthia had naturally been refined long ago. This female Sky Corpse was now ghostly pale, dressed in a white gown, truly spectral. Pieces of Blackwood, obtained after killing Druid masters, floated behind her like a halo, forming a circle. Totems surrounded her, swirling around her.


    [Junior Sky Corpse: Light]


    [Dark Magic: Eight Trigrams Barrier Technique (predicting the opponent''s use of natural energy with a snap of the fingers), Dark Energy Prison Technique (using predictive Turtle Shells and Druid totems to trap enemies with the power of nature)]


    These half-dead zombies, Nathan always managed to make great use of them, a unique effect of the supreme ability treasure, Death Coffin. The former priestess Cynthia, now the Light Zombie, was even stronger than before!


    After transforming into Sky Corpses, some of their life''s techniques lingered and merged with the energy of death!


    As for Luke?


    Luke was once at the peak of Competent Force. Nathan could not use Luke''s full strength, nor could he control his Competent Force. Even with the help of Death Coffin, he could only exert the mid-stage power of Luke''s Competent Force.


    [Intermediate Sky Corpse: Luke]


    [Dark Magic: Ghost Mountain (Summoning the mountain with the energy of death to fight)]


    Even with just one Dark Magic, Luke was still incredibly powerful. The Jade Mountain where Clark was stationed was Luke''s technique, and now it could still summon the Jade Mountain, only now the natural energy was replaced by the energy of death.


    Luke''s head had long been used to sacrifice Nicholas. Now headless, clad in armor, wielding two supreme ability weapons, ghost-headed greatswords, his combat power was formidable.


    Besides, there were two other recently collected corpses.


    [Zombie Clarence: In the process of being refined]


    [Zombie Michael: In the process of being refined]


    "Almost there, three years, after three years my Four Symbols Death Energy Formation will be complete, summoning the Sea of Death, and I can fight a high priest alone!"


    Nathan''s eyes shone brightly, those corpses falling into the Endless Sea of Death, the energy of death falling into the bodies of the two new Sky Corpses.


    Even Nathan''s old friends, who knew him well, had never seen such a bizarre moment from him. For Amelia, he had once again done something against his will, indiscriminately bringing back the bodies of the dead and refining their unique souls!


    No one in Cloudview County knew.


    This time, supporting Starlight County, one of the goals in Blackwood''s plan was to attract attention, allowing Nathan to collect and refine corpses!


    ...


    "Nathan refining the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation can fight a high priest, but there are still two people, and several priests."


    Ethan watched the progress of his people, extremely anxious.


    Three years, for him, was just three or four hours!


    Soon they would face powerful enemies in the natural magic formation, unable to seek help from Cloudview County and Starlight County. Just like Arnold of White, only a few people in their three tribes knew, and they didn''t even trust people from other tribes.


    Blackwood was no different; before crossing the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations, any minor mistake could lead to total defeat!


    [Your descendant George, with the help of Jessica and Kenneth, has asked experts from major sects to guard one side, taking advantage of the absence of Starlight County''s experts on the battlefield, and begins digging at the resting places of the ancestors of the major sects.]


    "Sages, are you sure there are high sages in their graves?" George asked nervously to the Sages around him, "Our elders, brothers, and sisters are all counting on us. If we can''t stop a high priest, that would be a big problem. Sages, I''m under a lot of pressure."


    With that, many Sages from Azure Cloud Pavilion were displeased.


    "What''s the problem with this kid? No matter what, our Azure Cloud Pavilion has been around for over a hundred thousand years. We old timers were once renowned figures. Starlight County is nothing compared to us; they can''t hide anything from our eyes."


    "Right, we still need to visit the Eight Directions Pavilion. Even though they''re gone, we should check if their secret realms are still there. If they are, heh, the herbs in those realms must be thousands of years old, some even reaching the sixth or seventh grade!"


    "And don''t forget the Shadow Hunter Sect! That sect is also gone, but I heard they had high-level supernatural equipment. I''ve been envious of it since my living days, but out of respect, I never dared to take it. Now that we''re digging it up, it''s not too much, right?"


    "Don''t worry, just leave it to us old folks, and you just wait to get rich."


    "..."


    Ethan stared blankly at this scene. He remembered when he first unearthed these old men; they were all fighting for the future of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, grooming George to be the next master of the Pavilion. Now, it seems that with the Pavilion stable, they follow George around, tomb raiding even more diligently than him.


    According to them, tomb raiding is like opening mystery boxes or scratching lottery tickets; it''s addictive and always yields something exciting for sages as old as they are.


    They''re even waiting for George to help them restore their fragmented souls and find new bodies. However, reaching their level, the moment of restoration also means facing a thunder tribulation, which is ten times more difficult with a soul body.


    ...


    [Your descendant Lucas, along with The Celestial Star Swordmaster, is heading to Sword Mountain...]


    [Your descendant Julian, carrying years of accumulated supernatural puppets, is heading to the Endless Forest...] sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendant Justin is secretly calling trusted experts from the family for help!]


    [...]


    Jimmy said it would be nearly impossible for Amelia to take over Arnold''s natural magic array, but he underestimated Blackwood; Blackwood is preparing!


    They have a clear division of labor. Nathan, George, and Azure Dragon can each hold off a high priest.


    Charlie Crackle, Luna, Lucas, and The Celestial Star Swordmaster... along with Blackwood''s many friends and the experts Blackwood has controlled over the years, are enough to withstand the rest.


    They are secretly making all the preparations!


    Two years have passed in the blink of an eye.


    All eyes in Blackwood are now on the natural magic array, and everyone is heading there!


    But as they approached, the Forebearer Psychic Position rose around them, and they all stopped in their tracks with grim expressions.


    Then they took a deep breath and surrounded the location of the natural magic array. They didn''t hide their presence as planned, nor did they prepare to catch the Druids off guard.


    On this day.


    All the Battle Oversight from the borders of the Emerald Empire led their members to retreat inward.


    Masses of people were evacuating, the battle at the borders of Starlight County ceased, and the two major forces of Starlight County, as well as some forces from Cloudview County, returned home in defeat.


    Ethan watched the screen with a grim expression. Your next chapter is on m_vl_em_p_yr


    [Special Mission¡ªKill national advisor Lance, Failed!]


    [This year, the demon race invaded the western part of the Druids, forcing the Druids to divert their attention westward. National advisor Lance seized this opportunity to secretly negotiate with the Druids, offering twelve border counties in exchange for a thousand-year peace between the Emerald Empire and the Druids.]


    [The Druids gave the human inhabitants of the twelve border cities two choices: evacuate within a year or die!]


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan clenched his teeth in frustration. They had prepared for so long, and Blackwood was still fighting for their homeland. After their great victory in Cloudview County, they had made various plans, standing at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud. Nicholas even sacrificed his life for the current situation!


    But fate is unpredictable, and they still couldn''t prevent their downfall. Lance''s single decision made all their efforts seem laughable.


    Everyone in Blackwood looked at the natural magic array, their eyes filled with reluctance.

 Chapter 266: Chapter 266: Today they were cowards

    At that moment, within the grand natural magic formation, three high priests of the Druids stood before a young man named Arnold.


    Arnold was a robust figure, bare-chested with a large totem on his back, exuding immense pride.


    Suddenly, the appearance of Blackwood''s forces caught the Druids off guard, causing them to sweat profusely.


    "Blackwood''s people? How did they appear without a sound? How did they know about our movements?"


    "High Priest, the area outside the natural magic formation is swarming with Blackwood''s forces, and they''re positioned at our weakest defenses!"


    "Ha ha ha, so what? The tribe has received word that the Emerald Empire has offered land for peace! They wouldn''t dare attack us. Now, the major powers from each county are fleeing into the Emerald Empire. If they attack us, the Emerald Empire won''t shelter them. On the ceded lands, they''re on a path to doom!"


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    Outside the natural magic formation.


    Amelia watched the Druids'' arrogant celebration after their narrow escape.


    She looked at her father and grabbed his arm, which was clenched in fists.


    Shaking her head with a smile, she said, "Dad, let it go. I''m not in a hurry, let''s go home."


    "Go home..."


    These words relaxed Nathan''s tense muscles.


    He glanced at Amelia, ignoring the laughter of the Druids, and nodded slightly, "Alright, let''s go home."


    As Nathan turned to leave, the people of Blackwood took one last deep look at the natural magic formation, exhaling deeply before turning away.


    Blackwood had not failed; they had not been defeated by the Druids, nor had the border counties of the Emerald Empire.


    They had been defeated by Lance!


    On the same day, deep within the unnoticed Thunderfire Demon Cave, in an abyss that seemed bottomless, a pair of bright, beautiful eyes opened.


    "My disciple Amelia is facing the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations without even consulting me, truly not considering her master at all."


    "She really forgot about this great support she has in me."


    As the royal decree arrived, the flames of war in the border town of Starlight County were extinguished.


    The Druids, who had been driven out by the joint forces of Starlight County and Cloudview County, now strutted proudly outside the town, taunting the Psychics who flew above the city walls on their swords.


    Just moments ago, these Druids had fled with their tails between their legs.


    At this time, the Psychics, who had just been celebrating their victory, now only had despair and unwillingness in their eyes.


    Duke Jon of Starlight County held the royal decree with a grim expression.


    It read:


    [By the grace of the ancient god, who cannot bear to see the borderlands suffer, permission is granted for the twelve border counties to evacuate...]


    Donna, known for her fiery temper and still stained with the blood of an enemy chieftain she had killed on the battlefield, cursed loudly, "To hell with the grace! We were winning, so many lives forever lost on the battlefield, and this damn decree stops us from fighting, leaving us isolated and helpless, damn ancient god!"


    "Disciple, watch your manners!"


    Chuck frowned, walked up to Jon, snatched the decree, and with his psychic powers, burned it promptly.


    "It seems our ancient god is a coward, no wonder the Emerald Empire has made little progress in twenty thousand years. Duke, what do you think we should do next?"


    Jon watched the flames consuming the decree and sighed deeply.


    This decree had caught everyone off guard.


    Before this, he had been preparing to support other counties with all the righteous fighters once Starlight County had secured victory.


    He had seen hope!


    But now...


    He took a deep breath, "Starlight County has been my Walker family''s home for twenty thousand years. To see such a foundation destroyed on my watch, I truly do not know how to face my ancestors. Uncle Kenneth, what about you? Evacuate?"


    "I don''t know."


    Kenneth shook his head, and they all stepped outside, where the sight of the borderlands filled them with despair.


    Everyone was evacuating!


    In the distance, Psychics panicked and fled.


    On the ground, an old man covered in blood and wounds knelt, holding an urn.


    His face, obscured by dirt, clutched desperately at the trousers of a passing Psychic, his voice cracking as he shouted, "Don''t go! We''ve made it into the Endless Forest, stay and fight with us, let''s push further into the Endless Forest!" S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Old man, we don''t have the right to fight anymore. The imperial capital has ordered, we have no support!"


    The Psychic initially wanted to push the old man away, but seeing him holding the urn, he gritted his teeth, helped the old man up, and said, "Come on, we''re both men, let''s evacuate first, and one day..."


    He wanted to say they''d return when they were more useful, but feeling the old man''s weakening body, he swallowed his words and just pulled him to evacuate.


    The old man''s mournful cries still echoed in his ears, "Brother, I can''t leave, we can''t leave! My wife, my children were all killed by the Druids in our village, I still need to avenge them, I still need to defend our village. We can''t go! On the road of evacuation, the people in the village will starve, they won''t survive..."


    Passing Psychics heard the old man''s cries and gradually stopped in their tracks, their eyes and brows lowered.


    At this moment, they suddenly remembered why they had joined this war.


    The world was so vast, they had their skills, they could go anywhere, they didn''t have to fight, was it really just for those resources?


    Who in their right mind would fight to the death for such trivial things?


    No matter how selfish they were, even admitting they were villains at times.


    But they knew, this was their land, those damn Druids had stepped on their land, killed their people, destroyed all the hopes they had once had for this land, they had to take up arms!


    But now...


    "Ah."


    The surrounding Psychics were left with nothing but a long sigh, then they resumed their journey to flee.


    That decree didn''t just order them to evacuate; it destroyed all their morale.


    Few would fight a battle without hope, they had to admit, today they were cowards, and the day they would stand up again was far off.

 Chapter 267: Chapter 267: 130000 years

    "Damn it, damn it! Damn it!!!" Donna roared in the great hall.


    Just days ago, this hall was filled with laughter from the victorious elders of the Competent Force, but now, it was shrouded in gloom, and they remained silent.


    The only sounds were Donna''s furious shouts and the noise of destruction!


    That royal decree...


    It had also shattered their spiritual resolve, leaving them powerless to stop it.


    They could traverse the universe with their psychic powers, yet they were unable to straighten their comrades'' broken spirits or win back the hearts of the people.


    They had once seen hope, but the disaster did not come from an enemy.


    ...


    Two years ago, the psychics of Cloudview County had set out with high spirits on their ability vessels, flying on swords from Cloudview County to aid Starlight County.


    The sky was filled with ability vessels, as if they were carrying the sun and hope on their backs.


    Now, they returned under a cloud of gloom.


    That day they had cheered as they left, but this time, they returned to Border Town in Cloudview County, heads down and silent.


    The towns of Cloudview County and Starlight County looked quite similar.


    The people of Blackwood also returned, everything ready, just waiting for the completion of the natural magic array.


    But with this terrible news, they dared not act.


    Now back in Border Town of Cloudview County, everyone''s faces were grim.


    They not only lost the natural magic array but also failed in their mission to help Amelia break through the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation.


    This meant that their thirty years of perseverance had turned to ash because of that royal decree.


    Two years ago.


    In this Border Town, they had conspired with the elders of the Competent Force and other powers to kill the enforcers from Battle Oversight.


    They had agreed to fight together in Starlight County, but they never met on the battlefield; instead, they returned together, disheveled.


    "130000 years," sighed Jason, the master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had once broken through the Competent Force and looked youthful despite his age.


    Now, he had aged significantly.


    He bowed to the others with a bitter smile, "130000 years, ruined by my hands. No more fighting... no more."


    With a long sigh, Jason led his disciples away from Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    130000 years, they had flourished, nearly destroyed by Elizabeth and Blackwood, yet they had also helped Blackwood in repentance.


    Jason had thought of the memories of Cloudview County, but those were past now.


    He only wanted Azure Cloud Pavilion to start anew, to be reborn from destruction as Stephen had once said.


    But no one expected this day to come.


    Jason''s departing figure was so forlorn.


    "Fellow Daoists, we have one more year," Leon Daoist said with a forced smile. "Have you thought about where to establish our new sect after we leave?" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Everyone was silent.


    The Immortal Master of Ten Thousand Life Mountain tried to keep a cheerful face, "Once we reach the inner realms, those sect powers might ostracize us. In my view, we really need to cooperate sincerely, so when we look for a new place to practice, we won''t be bullied."


    "Iron Ridge is not bad; it''s deep in the mountains and forests, but it needs to be developed. We agreed that when the time comes, our younger generation will surely cause some trouble. They fight their own battles, which is also a form of training, but no matter what happens, we remain comrades, united..."


    Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s elder Ralph said earnestly, but as his voice fell, the Competent Force of Cloudview County remained silent, and Ralph said no more.


    It was a sunny day, but it felt unusually cold.


    The wind blew their robes, rustling.


    He could feel it; no one really wanted to leave!


    But they truly saw no hope, despair and fear crawled into everyone''s hearts like bone-deep maggots.


    For a long, long time, Leon, the elder, forced a smile. "Ralph is right, let''s choose Iron Ridge then."


    As soon as he finished speaking, all the venerable elders of the Competent Force turned their gaze towards the people of Blackwood.


    Silence enveloped today''s border of Azure Cloud; the people of Blackwood hung their heads, none speaking.


    In Cloudview County, known as the Blackwood Rock, Nathan clenched his fists, the sound of his coffin and corpse colliding behind him!


    "In-laws."


    Kenneth frowned deeply, "Before my father passed away, he had prepared a backup plan. Grand Tutor Gilbert has been fighting the demon tribes in the north for many years, and there''s plenty of new land there. Why not join me and go there?"


    As he spoke, he noticed the displeased looks from the venerable elders of the Competent Force.


    He forced a laugh and said, "You can all come with me, Martin. With our abilities, why worry about not flourishing in a new place?"


    As he spoke, everyone looked again towards the people of Blackwood.


    Nathan remained silent, and the people of Blackwood kept their heads down.


    The entire atmosphere in Border Town thickened with the anger of the people of Blackwood, though no one knew where this anger stemmed from.


    But soon, that anger vanished.


    Nathan raised his head, bowed to the crowd with a gentle smile on his face, "Then let''s head north. Given the current situation, we truly have no power to turn back the tide."


    "The north is indeed a good place. We can continue there for ten thousand, a hundred thousand, or even longer years. On new land, there are new opportunities."


    "Even if not for ourselves, we should consider our descendants. Let''s not stay here any longer. Let''s go back, pack our bags, and set off as soon as possible."


    He was the first to bow to the crowd, "See you in the north."


    After speaking, Nathan and his wife gave their children at home a faint smile, said no more, and turned towards Glory City.


    The many venerable elders of the Competent Force watched the backs of the people of Blackwood for a long time, eventually sighing deeply together, bidding each other farewell, and preparing to leave.


    Behind them lay the ravaged Border Town, where they had fought, where their disciples had bled, where they had given everything unimaginable for the future of Cloudview County!


    The sun set in the west.


    Behind them were also the ruins of human cities, which, in the near future, would be covered by forests.


    The traces of their existence would be buried and forgotten with time.


    The blood that flowed on those lands and ruins would be covered by dust and erased by the years.


    Their efforts, over thirty years of sacrifice and struggle, had become meaningless. Stay tuned to M|VL|EM|PY|R

 Chapter 268: Chapter 268: They have everything they never dreamed of

    In Glory City, every citizen was busy packing up their valuable belongings.


    Despite the city''s population of over a hundred thousand, it was as silent as if everyone had suddenly become mute.


    If there was any talk, it was only in hushed whispers as people exchanged words while moving their possessions. Exclusive content from m,v lem|p,yr


    The noise of moving items filled the air.


    That day, the lords and ladies of Blackwood returned with dire news.


    They declared that Cloudview County could no longer be defended and that it would soon be overwhelmed by the Druids.


    They spoke of a new land to the north, where Blackwood would lead them to settle and thrive, promising a life even more prosperous than that in Glory City.


    No one objected; they all knew that the fearless people of Blackwood would never abandon Glory City unless truly desperate.


    But then...


    "We swore an oath to protect Glory City no matter what! My father died for this city, Lord Nicholas endured disgrace for thirty years for it, we''ve all borne this disgrace for thirty years. Is there really no hope left?!"


    The new mayor, Marvin, his eyes red with emotion, challenged Edward, who was directing the evacuation of the vulnerable onto the ability vessel.


    But before he could finish, Edward clamped his hand over Marvin''s cheek, silencing him.


    Edward''s voice was strained as he hissed, "So what? You want everyone in Glory City to fight a battle we''re not sure to win? Look behind you. Do you want them to die in vain?"


    Marvin stiffly turned his head to look back at the weak and elderly, their eyes filled with reluctance but lacking the strength to fight.


    He knew that if the enemy breached the city, even these vulnerable souls would try to defend it.


    But to what end? Their deaths would be meaningless.


    "I''ll tell you what will happen next," Edward growled. "The ancient god has issued a royal decree. The people of Cloudview County, Starlight County, Cedar County, and many others will leave. In a year, the Druids from all around will converge without hesitation, fighting over this new land. Those who don''t escape will have nowhere to run, completely isolated."


    "Eventually, Cloudview County will fall to the Druids. Their experts in Basic Mastery will be unrestrained, crushing us as easily as one might crush ants. All our resistance will only serve as a mockery to our enemies. That''s the harsh reality."


    Edward sighed deeply, "It''s pointless. We have no other choice."


    Marvin collapsed to the ground, powerless.


    In the distance, a figure watched everything unfold.


    She was dressed in a tight black dress with intricate cutouts that accentuated her stunning figure, her pale, delicate legs visible beneath the hem, clad in high-heeled black leather shoes.


    Her long, cascading hair framed a face of exquisite beauty, her long lashes fluttering over her starry, peach-blossom eyes, which held a calm demeanor.


    "Blackwood has fallen," remarked Diana, the lord of Thunderfire Demon Cave, emerging from the abyss.


    Her lips parted slightly as she looked at Edward, "I''ve seen this young man in Thunderfire Demon Cave. Such a fine temperament. Julian is hot-headed, Daniel is cunning and deceitful, and then there are those two monks. I thought Blackwood was an extraordinary family, but now it seems they are truly desperate."


    She chuckled, "Well, it''s also good for me. Heading north will give me some peace, and slowly let Amelia heal me."


    With that, Diana blended into the crowd, moving freely among the people of Blackwood as if she were invisible, unseen by anyone.


    ...


    At night.


    In the Blackwood Shrine, Nathan, along with the descendants of Blackwood, kneels towards Ethan''s Psychic Position.


    Ethan watches all of this unfold.


    No one can predict the future, and Blackwood never imagined being betrayed by the empire.


    "Forebearer, I am sorry. I must leave our homeland, the place where we took root."


    Nathan sighs deeply.


    On the screen, Ethan shakes his head and bestows a ''Forebearer''s Caress'' upon the descendants of Blackwood.


    "Thank you, Forebearer."


    Nathan takes a deep breath, then turns to the descendants behind him, a fierce look flashing in his eyes, "Kenneth told us to head north, and we should go. All the people of Glory City will move to the north. Luna, Jessica, Joseph, you will lead the people there."


    "Yes!" Jessica and Joseph frown.


    "George, you return to Azure Cloud Pavilion and become its master."


    "Justin, as a direct disciple of Black Tortoise, you must fulfill your duties."


    "Daniel, I want you to lead Dawn and the halls of Grey Mist to infiltrate the imperial capital!"


    "..."


    Nathan meticulously arranges tasks for each family member, even assigning himself the grim task of dealing with the aftermath.


    All the Blackwoods squint, understanding Nathan''s intentions.


    This scheme targets the entire Emerald Empire.


    Nathan, who has always delegated family affairs to his children, now takes matters into his own hands, each plan permeating the Emerald Empire!


    Soon, the Blackwoods nod and disperse into the night.


    ...


    In just one month.


    The once joyful and simple life of Glory City''s people is gone, but the streets remain clean and tidy.


    Over a hundred elderly who refused to leave sweep the streets.


    They say, at their age, they don''t have many days left and want to spend their last moments with Glory City.


    Suddenly.


    One elder''s movements freeze, his body trembling, his eyes red with disbelief, "Mas... Master!"


    Nathan!


    Having arranged everything and decided on another course of action, Nathan returns to Glory City a month after everyone has left.


    The surrounding elders approach Nathan, their eyes moist.


    One of them exclaims, "Master Nathan, why have you returned? Didn''t you go north with the children?"


    Nathan laughs, "If I didn''t tell them I was going north, would they have gone?"


    "Master, you..."


    As the elders are about to speak, Nathan simply shakes his head, "Enough, you old fellow, I remember you. Back when Glory City was still Gratitude Village, you were with me through Pine Forest Town. What did you say back then?"


    The elder, tears mixed with laughter, replies, "Master, back then I said, when I had nothing to eat, it was you who took me in. Now that I have everything, it''s time to repay you. I was lucky then, and that luck turned into an Emerging Ability."


    "Yes, you have everything now."


    Nathan sighs deeply, "Old friend, I never dreamed I''d see this day." Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Enough talk, I need to walk around home again."


    That day, Nathan and the elders who stayed in Glory City walk through the city they built bit by bit, visiting every place, including the graves of Boar Monarch Pete and Nicholas.


    They reflect on how Glory City evolved from the small Gratitude Village, each brick and tile imbued with generations of effort.


    They have everything they never dreamed of.


    They are proud enough that this pride could accompany them into the soil, walking the path to the afterlife with heads held high, respectfully greeted by mythical guardians, and even speaking boldly in the face of death itself.


    Their lives were worthwhile, unregretful even for a bowl of Ferrywoman''s soup!

 Chapter 269: Chapter 269: No one can step into our home!

    As the sun rises in the east, Nathan stands at the gates of Glory City. By his side is the Iron Forest Horse he tamed long ago in the Silver Iron Woods.


    "Old buddy, it''s been over a hundred years, your life is as tough as mine," Nathan grins, pulling on the reins of the Iron Forest Horse. He has kept this old fellow for over a century; though no longer needed, he continued to care for him. Unfortunately, despite reaching the peak of mythical beasts, he could progress no further, yet he still accompanies him.


    "Huff!"


    The Iron Forest Horse turns its head and glares at Nathan, as if to say, ''You old thing, watch your words.''


    Behind him, the elderly of Glory City, regardless of gender, don their long-stored armor!


    "Let''s go, old horse. You were quite timid back in the day, now accompany me on this journey!"


    "Neigh!"


    Nathan mounts, and with a kick from the horse''s front legs, they head towards the sun.


    As the Iron Forest Horse neighs, it carries Nathan forward, step by step, just like the old days.


    Behind them, the faces of the elderly left in Glory City beam with pride. Facing the sunlight, they follow Nathan, fearless as they were in their youth, stepping towards Border Town.


    They are aged.


    But now, they are filled with nothing but passion and excitement!


    At the end of their lives, their old master is just as he was back then, not abandoning a single one of them.


    Their old master has not forgotten their promise; they will defend this land with their lives, protect their children, and forge a future for them.


    The journey from Glory City to Border Town takes them two full months!


    Nathan stands atop the wall.


    The subordinates of Glory City, clad in their heavy armor, stand at the edge of the city wall, just as they once defended their village in Gratitude Village. Nathan even sees an old buddy who, at the moment he stands on the wall, has closed his eyes forever, yet still clutches his rusty iron spear tightly!


    Nathan''s nose tingles, but he clenches his teeth and does not let the old buddy lie down. He shouts to everyone.


    "People of Gratitude Village!"


    "We now stand atop the wall of Border Town, our homeland lies behind us. Today, I ask you to stand with me, to live or die with our homeland!"


    "To hell with the Emerald Empire!" S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "To hell with the Druids!"


    "Everyone, brace yourselves. As long as I, Nathan, am alive, they cannot breach our home!"


    The summer night sky is filled with stars, and a cool breeze sweeps over the wall of Border Town. Nathan''s shouts echo loudly.


    Before them lies the Endless Forest, and before them, no enemies.


    Yet the villagers of Gratitude Village, though near the end of their lives, still raise their torches high, roaring towards the sky.


    "Yes!"


    "No one can step into our home!"


    Summer had passed, and deep autumn had arrived, bringing with it the rustling of falling leaves.


    In the town of Azure Cloud Border, unexpected visitors had arrived. They were the same Druid factions that had once invaded Cloudview County, including many skilled Druid masters from that day''s grand natural magic formation.


    "Is that Blackwood Nathan?"


    Amidst the chilly autumn breeze, the genius Arnold White, along with the High Priest of White and many other priests and chiefs, stood at a distance from Border town. They gazed up at the firm figure of Nathan atop the wall, and the old men standing straight with their spears. Even though they were enemies, every one of the Druids couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of awe and admiration.


    They clearly remembered that the people of Blackwood had tried to seize their grand natural magic formation.


    In recent days, their tribesmen who had ventured into Cloudview County were slain by Nathan on the spot.


    Now, they had come to avenge their kin, but upon seeing Nathan standing on the wall, dressed in simple clothes and holding only a spear, they found themselves unable to attack.


    They just stared blankly at Nathan on the wall, and the old men behind him.


    "Enemies!"


    "Quick, beat the drums, prepare for battle!"


    "Blackwood, undefeated in battle!"


    Though they were only about a hundred in number and appeared pitifully few atop the walls of Azure Cloud Border town, these old men in heavy armor quickly prepared for battle. Their aged faces and cloudy eyes suddenly filled with a fierce determination!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The old men were beating the drums!


    They were few and seemed frail, almost too weak to withstand the cool autumn breeze, yet they showed no fear, ready to fight at any moment!


    The sound of the drums reached Arnold, who stood shirtless, his body covered in tattoos and carrying a totem on his back. He was momentarily stunned.


    He had heard the stories of Blackwood, of Nicholas who alone charged at Clark, sounding the horn for Cloudview County''s counterattack, and of Blackwood''s frenzied fighting in the great battle. But those were just stories. Only today did he truly understand what Blackwood really was!


    There stood Nathan, in the center of the town, gripping an ordinary spear, his jaws clenched tight, the autumn breeze blowing through his long hair. This man, who looked like a mere farmer, was the backbone of Cloudview County!


    "High Priest, fellow priests."


    Arnold took a deep breath, his body trembling, "Let''s leave, let''s not step into Cloudview County. No, never step into Cloudview County. I do not wish to provoke such an enemy."


    The High Priest of White frowned deeply, giving Nathan one last look. Nathan''s piercing gaze was fixed on him!


    He exhaled deeply and nodded slightly.


    "Arnold, High Priest! Why? Why are we leaving? That''s Nathan! The ancestor of Blackwood! Whether we capture him or kill him, it would avenge Clark and represent honor..."


    One priest reluctantly looked back at Nathan standing on the wall.


    But before he could finish, the High Priest of White had already slapped him across the face, the sound crisp and clear.


    The priest''s cheek reddened, his teeth clenched as he looked at Nathan, the High Priest''s solemn voice echoing in his ears.


    "Do you want to kill him? Do you want us, the White, to always be wary of Blackwood seeking revenge for Nathan? Do you understand what kind of family this is? Can you guarantee that aside from Nicholas and Nathan, there are no more like them in Blackwood?"


    "And the old men from Glory City, they too have children! They are old yet fearless of death, can you ensure their descendants won''t be such fearless warriors?"


    "We can provoke the Emerald Empire, they lack backbone, but we..."


    "Cannot provoke Blackwood."


    These pressing questions stunned the priest, his gaze at Nathan slowly turning to fear.


    His reluctance faded, leaving only a long sigh as he departed with his tribesmen.


    Behind them.


    The old men from Glory City returned to their posts, weapons in hand, vigilant against any enemies that might come from the Endless Forest. Nathan, atop the city gate, slightly loosened his grip on the spear, his gaze still sharp and alert. Explore the unknown at m.v.l.e.mpyr


    Below the city gate.


    A figure lazily leaned against the wall, watching the departing Druids, her eyebrows slightly raised in disappointment, "They''re leaving? I thought I might get to stretch my muscles a bit."

 Chapter 270: Chapter 270: Cloudview Countys Last Hope

    Time slowly passed, from early autumn to late autumn. Weeds grew rampant in Border town, and dead leaves fell in the Endless Forest, rustling as they descended.


    Since the White family''s forces arrived, three months have passed. More and more Druids have been coming to Cloudview County. Yet, without exception, none have crossed from Border town into Cloudview County. They all choose to stay outside Border town, not daring to enter Cloudview County from any other direction.


    Nathan''s Competent Force was on patrol, and any Druid daring to step into Cloudview County would meet their end on his spear!


    Even so, not a single Druid High Priest or celebrant dared to confront Nathan.


    He stood alone in Border town, blocking more than a million Druids.


    Nathan had become the most majestic sight in Border town. Clad in simple clothes, he stood firm against the wind and rain, spear in hand, leading a group of weary old men.


    His presence was etched into every Druid''s heart, as if with him there, no one could cross this towering mountain!


    "Mr. Nathan, please step back. We of the White wish to be eternal friends with your Blackwood!"


    "Yes, Mr. Nathan, I, Harris, feel the same. What is there in the Emerald Empire worth guarding? Please, step back."


    "What''s the point of your persistence?!"


    The two Druid High Priests levitated, trying to persuade Nathan. They had many masters and had prepared for many days; they could easily kill Nathan if they attacked together, yet they resorted to pleading in low voices.


    Nathan remained silent, his quiet gaze deafening as he stared at these powerful beings.


    Below the city, a dense army of Druids gathered.


    Suddenly, he remembered a royal decree from months ago. He couldn''t stop the downfall of Cloudview County; Blackwood had to retreat, but he could not!


    His family''s influence had grown, and he had once declared that everyone in Glory City would protect their homeland with their lives, but under the overwhelming circumstances, his family had broken their promise.


    He had to stand out; he had to guard Cloudview County until the last moment.


    When news of his death spread, no one would care if Blackwood had broken their promise; they would remember Nathan standing at the borders of Cloudview County, fighting for their homeland until his last breath.


    "One day..."


    Nathan smiled, waiting for the Druids below to charge.


    "One day my children will grow strong, and the old friends who left Cloudview County will also grow strong. Our descendants will pass down these stories."


    "They will know that there was someone named Stephen in Cloudview County who died for it."


    "Many sects in Cloudview County fought for over thirty years to protect this land, shedding their ancestors'' blood."


    "They will remember, we of Blackwood had someone named Nicholas, who endured humiliation for thirty years to bring us victory."


    "And me, Nathan..."


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled, "I stand on this wall, fearless against a million Druids, dying with our homeland!"


    "My descendants, the future generations of Cloudview County, will carry all these memories. Under the leadership of my Blackwood, they will return to this land, drive out all enemies, and bring renewal!"


    "The sacrifices of Cloudview County over these years will not have been in vain!"


    He stood before a million Druids.


    He stood on the wall, appearing so frail, like a grain of sand about to be submerged.


    But he was a pillar holding up the sky, supporting the future of the entire Cloudview County!


    ...


    [Your descendant Nathan, leading the elderly left in Glory City, goes to defend Azure Cloud Border town!]


    [He decides to sacrifice his life, becoming a memory for the descendants of Cloudview County, awakening their belief to return to their homeland, setting their goal to return to Cloudview County. Trait gained: Cloudview County''s Last Hope]


    [On the land of Cloudview County, combat power increases by 30%, prestige by 50%!]


    Ethan, in front of the screen, watched everything unfold.


    Withdrawing from Cloudview County was Nathan''s lie, this guy who had been honest all his life, this was his first time deceiving the children, the first time lying to Luna.


    "At such an old age, why so foolish?"


    Ethan held the mouse, his finger on the skill button.


    He didn''t try to stop him; he knew it was futile. The children had grown up and become stubborn, with their own thoughts and their own convictions.


    Ethan took a deep breath, shifting the view to the outskirts of Border town. He murmured softly, "Nathan, oh Nathan, do you really think you can hide your plans from me, from Luna and the kids? You''re not exactly the sharpest tool in the shed."


    There stood a tall tower!


    The autumn breeze fluttered a woman''s simple attire. This woman, with her enchanting beauty, carried a silver coffin on her back. She had been standing on that tower for who knows how long, gently gazing at Nathan''s figure on the city wall.


    Death Coffin, truly Nathan''s unique treasure, sensed his presence, causing the coffin lid to tremble.


    Luna reached back to touch the coffin lid, smiling slightly, "You''re upset too, aren''t you? It seems when men get powerful, they turn bad, learning to abandon their families."


    The coffin lid trembled even more violently. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Let''s go, we''re going to settle the score with him!"


    As her words fell, Luna rose into the air, her presence overwhelmingly mystical!


    All the Druids outside Azure Cloud Border town looked up, watching Luna descend like a fairy from the heavens!


    "Madam!"


    Content from m-vl|em|p,yr


    The elderly men of Glory City on the city walls were all stunned, saluting Luna in unison.


    "Luna, how... how did you get here?"


    Nathan''s face changed as Luna appeared beside him, glaring at him furiously, causing him some panic.


    "What do you think?"


    Luna looked up at her husband, her fists clenched in anger, ready to punch Nathan, but then her fists slowly relaxed. She touched Nathan''s face, her voice tender, "Fool, don''t you dare leave me behind. Whatever it is, we''ll face it together."


    She had seen through her husband''s intentions early on but chose not to expose him, not even to their children.


    She came without any regrets!


    What Druids? What Emerald Empire?


    None of that mattered anymore. Whether in life or death, she would be by her husband''s side, just as they had been through the years.


    "Luna."


    That day, the hundreds of elders from Glory City, along with a million Druids, all stared blankly at the couple on the city walls. The autumn breeze was cool, and as the couple looked into each other''s eyes, no one else existed in their gaze.


    "..."


    Their Forebearer, Ethan, was also watching. He suddenly took a gulp of water, for even though he hadn''t eaten anything, the sweetness was overwhelming, sweet enough to choke him.

 Chapter 271: Chapter 271: Master, what are we really afraid of?!

    [Your daughter-in-law Luna, well aware of Nathan''s intentions, did not expose him but came to join her husband in facing death! The couple gained the trait: Till Death Do Us Part]


    [United as a couple, their strength is unbreakable. Together in battle, their combat power increases by 10%, and their speed of cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%]


    "???"


    Ethan''s face twisted in agony, enduring another day tormented by the couple''s unyielding bond.


    In the scene.


    Nathan, realizing it wasn''t the time for tender moments, locked eyes with Luna for a long time before frowning, "Luna, why are you here? What about the children?"


    "They don''t know."


    Luna looked down at the countless Druids below the city walls, her voice soft but fearless, "But my dear, you can''t hide it from them forever. The children have grown up, and except for Julian and his seven kids, I guess each of them knows what you''re thinking."


    Nathan took a deep breath.


    He stared at the Druids, who could attack Cloudview County at any moment, and took the Death Coffin from Luna, his voice deep, "Then I hope they understand the meaning behind my actions and don''t do anything foolish. Death Coffin, after our death, follow our bloodline to find our children, and forever fight for Blackwood." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As if understanding Nathan''s words, the Death Coffin trembled, and inside, the Sky Corpses suddenly opened their eyes and knelt on one knee in the boundless sea of death.


    ...


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, four Psychics flew on their swords!


    They headed towards the deepest abyss of the demon cave, where Amelia emerged from the darkness, her brows slightly furrowed, "Brother, I couldn''t find the master."


    "If we didn''t find him, then we didn''t find him."


    Lucas squinted slightly, "It''s fate, then there''s truly no other way."


    Julian clenched his teeth, "What fate? Dad tricked us and went to risk his life alone. Brother, we shouldn''t care about anything else. It''s just the Druids, right? We just need to fight!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had come along, was silent for a long time before finally deciding to clear his throat, "Ahem, I still want to ask where Olivia is?"


    "..."


    This question from The Celestial Star Swordmaster silenced the three siblings, their eyes fixed on him, making his scalp tingle.


    Finally, he waved his hand, "Actually, I also know a Basic Mastery expert named Bill, who is cultivating psychic powers beneath the Lost Abyss. My master once took me to meet him. If we can persuade him to leave his retreat, with Bill''s skills, he could truly protect a county!"


    Ten days later.


    In a deep mountain, the bottomless abyss looked like a gaping maw ready to devour anything, surrounded by dead things.


    Lucas, Amelia, and Julian stood outside the abyss.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster shouted, "Elder, our human borders are in great peril, and the Emerald Empire turns a blind eye! Before my master passed away, he brought me to meet you, saying you were the most chivalrous. The world is in chaos, and only a hero like you can save our twelve border counties from disaster! Please come out, elder!"


    "Once you emerge, even millions of Druids are mere ants before you, easily wiped out with a wave of your hand."


    "Compared to you, the so-called national advisor of the Emerald Empire is but mere dust. You should have come forth and looked down upon the imperial court long ago!"


    An echo came from the depths of the abyss.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster paused, looked at the Blackwood people staring intently at him, and frowned, "Why are you staring at me like that?"


    The three siblings shook their heads in unison, their eyes filled with amazement. If they hadn''t been traveling with The Celestial Star Swordmaster all this time, they might have thought he was possessed. He was usually so proud, but now... his flattery was loud and clear.


    Lucas suddenly froze, transmitting a message to his sister and brother, "It''s working, there''s a disturbance from below."


    Upon hearing this, Julian shouted. Hosted by m_vl_em_p_yr


    "Elder, come out! Let''s go beat those damned Druids together. The ancient god is no more; it''s time for you to ascend the throne!"


    Lucas bit his lip, his cheeks reddening slightly, and shouted with difficulty, "I''ve heard of your unparalleled abilities, elder. As soon as I arrived, I could feel the regal aura of your retreat. How can such a peerless talent be seen only by us? The world should also know how mighty you are, now is the perfect opportunity!"


    The aura from below the abyss, with each praise, pulsed like a rekindled heart!


    A pair of bright eyes slowly opened in the darkness.


    ...


    In the valley of Sunshine Prefecture, numerous ability vessels lay dormant.


    Lord Jesse of Sunshine Prefecture frowned upon these vessels and the tents that nearly filled the valley, all belonging to people from Cloudview County and Glory City, as well as various factions from Blackwood.


    Originally headed north, they had long stationed themselves in Sunshine Prefecture without departure.


    Initially, Lord Jesse feared that the people from Blackwood might pose a threat to Sunshine Prefecture, given Blackwood''s notorious reputation.


    Now, all he could do was sigh deeply.


    In the valley, Daniel from Blackwood was speaking to the newcomers from Glory City.


    Carrier pigeons flew out of the valley, heading towards all corners of the Emerald Empire.


    Around the valley, the people from Glory City silently sat around their tents, cleaning their weapons and checking their Psychic Gear and talismans, their eyes filled with resolve.


    "Why must it be this way? Why? With such a vast world, why can Blackwood not find another place?"


    Lord Jesse held a letter, also sent from Blackwood, convinced that it would reach every city and faction within the Emerald Empire.


    [Cloudview County calls for help]


    [Thirty years of wind and snow, a million righteous souls rest forever. The sacred words cannot erase the Azure Cloud''s resolve; our generation regrets nothing, even if our blood stains the sky!]


    A simple plea for help.


    Lord Jesse seemed to see the thirty years of Druid invasions, where the Psychic warriors from the border towns heroically charged at the Druids, battling every day!


    Yet... a royal decree... their thirty years of efforts were in vain.


    Now, atop the city walls of the Azure Cloud border, stood a man.


    The people of Blackwood from Cloudview County still held onto hope; they had not retreated and were ready to fight again!


    The people of Blackwood in the valley below were set to return to Azure Cloud soon.


    "What can I offer for help? Resist the empire''s orders?"


    Lord Jesse clenched his teeth, turned away, and his expression of reluctance finally turned into a long sigh, "Who dares to help? And how could we possibly win?"


    Ten days later.


    The Competent Force Psychic of Sunshine Prefecture sat in the dojo, lifting his head with his disciples as the ability vessels from Glory City took to the skies.


    The people of Blackwood did not head north but went to Cloudview County instead.


    Even though their calls for help had been sent across the entire Emerald Empire without a single response, they were prepared to fight again!


    "Master, not a single person from Blackwood has gone north, not even their subordinates have deserted," reported a disciple who had been monitoring Blackwood, his eyes filled with shock.


    Before this, he had even bet with his fellow disciples on how many from Glory City would flee.


    These ability vessels, like heading towards the underworld, yet the people aboard remained uncomplaining and proud!


    A disciple of Sunshine Prefecture bit his lip and questioned his master, "So, Master, it''s been thirty years, and we''ve never supported the border. Now, when the border has the advantage, why does the national advisor want to abandon them? "


    "The people of Glory City fear neither death nor danger; can''t we resist and just watch our land fall into the hands of the Druids? Master, what are we really afraid of?!"


    As he spoke, more and more disciples could no longer hold back.


    "Yes, Master! Cloudview County is right before us, and Blackwood has blocked the Druids for over thirty years, preventing the war from reaching our Sunshine Prefecture. Are we to just stand by now?"


    "The people of Blackwood are returning, they will have no support, Master, if they perish, they won''t perish at the hands of the Druids, but by our own hands!"


    "Have you considered? Today''s Cloudview County could be our Sunshine Prefecture tomorrow!"

 Chapter 272: Chapter 272: Blackwood Calls for Help

    With every word, it was as if Jesse''s very soul was being struck. He took a deep breath and shouted at his disciples, "Silence! How dare you debate the will of the ancient god?"


    At his command, the disciples dared not speak another word.


    Seven days later.


    In the Sunshine Mansion, Jesse emerged from his seclusion, letting out a long sigh. With a flicker of his Storage Ring, he donned a mask and silently made his way toward Cloudview County.


    From that day on, many masters within the Emerald Empire, holding pleas for help, traveled across the vast skies toward Azure Cloud.


    ...


    On the roads of the Emerald Empire, for the first time, Katie was not carrying her usual broken pink bow. Instead, she bore her sleeping brother, Joseph.


    "We''re here, brother!"


    On a plain, Katie dismounted from her flying sword, setting her brother down as Joseph finally opened his eyes.


    "Just keep sleeping, who can sleep more than you?" Katie muttered.


    "Don''t think I didn''t hear that, little stinker," Joseph replied, rubbing his bleary eyes. Ignoring his sister''s comment, he looked ahead to Starlight County, where Walker and many other powerful forces were stationed.


    Continue reading at m|v-l''-NovelFire


    He grinned and said, "Let''s go, we don''t have much time. We need to find more allies for our family."


    Moments later.


    The siblings entered Walker''s tent, where Joseph sat across from Duke Jon, conversing, while Nate kept winking at Katie, leaving her puzzled and unable to recall who this odd fellow was.


    Soon after, Joseph and Katie left the temporary headquarters of Starlight County with grim expressions.


    "Brother, they''re cowards!"


    Katie clenched her teeth in anger. "We even supported Starlight County before, and now they turn their backs on us!"


    It was clear they had come seeking help, but Walker had refused!


    Joseph simply smiled and said, "It''s all too common. We''ve already approached five of the twelve county dukes looking for evacuation, and it''s been the same everywhere. Just keep a normal heart. Let''s go to Cedar County; I''ve heard they have an unparalleled Basic Mastery expert. It''s worth a shot."


    Katie once again hoisted her instantly sleeping brother onto her back and flew off into the distance.


    Back in the tent.


    "Nate frowned and said, "Grandpa, that''s really not fair. The Blackwoods helped us out in the past, bringing in experts from Cloudview County! Now that the Blackwoods are fighting back home, we just watch? They''re doomed, doomed! What about my Katie?"


    "What do you know?"


    Jon replied frustratedly, "That''s a desperate situation! Our family business is ruined, do you want us to risk everything?"


    "Hmph!"


    Nate slammed the table and stormed out, leaving Jon grinding his teeth in frustration.


    In his room, Nate opened a letter given to him by Daniel when he had lost to Katie and left. As he read through the letter, a spark of defiance lit in his eyes.


    [Heroes come in two types: the invincible and the influential!]


    In the dead of night, Nate tore up the letter, gritted his teeth, and led a group of masters toward Cloudview County, cursing under his breath, "Old fox, trying to trick me into rebellion? I refuse. I''m going to fight! At least I, Walker, still have some backbone!"


    [Special Event¡ªBlackwood Calls for Help] S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendants know well that Blackwood alone cannot stand against the Druids without help. They begin to disperse, seeking any possible assistance in the shortest time.]


    From the time Nathan went to guard the borders of Azure Cloud alone, all his kin were aware of this.


    They did not stop him; they knew Nathan''s true intentions and supported him silently from behind. Once again, they scattered in all directions from the city of Emerald Emperor, seeking help everywhere.


    Even a little bit of assistance, they were unwilling to give up.


    Even on the day of the great battle, their calls for help remained unanswered...


    Ethan stared intently at the scene.


    He knew clearly, from the moment Nathan returned alone to Cloudview County, this was no longer just Nathan''s future plan, but a desperate struggle for all of Blackwood!


    Nathan had misjudged his plan, even misjudged the children''s resolve!


    ...


    Heading toward Cloudview County, a dark mass of ability vessels above.


    Daniel stood at the bow of the ship, releasing carrier pigeons in all directions. It had been three full months with no replies!


    Originally, he led the Thunderfire Demon Cave, Demon Hunters Alliance, and Dawn with a total of two thousand ability vessels, but now only half remained. Even Blackwood''s subordinates were reduced to half.


    "Lord of Demons!"


    One of The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors approached the bow where Daniel stood looking into the sky, kneeling on one knee, his expression filled with a murderous intent, "Another of The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors has taken our ability vessel and followers. Please, Lord, order us to pursue and bring back his head!"


    Daniel did not turn around; his voice was low as he asked, "This journey back to Cloudview County, we have no reinforcements, it''s a life and death situation, why haven''t you fled?"


    The demon cultivator grinned and said, "Since Lord of Demons asked, I''ll speak frankly."


    "All these years, I''ve followed Lord of Demons, fought alongside Blackwood. We demons never thought we''d see the light of day again in Cloudview County, and those self-proclaimed righteous Psychics outside dare not attack us because they know we are Blackwood''s people."


    "I''ve roamed the world all my life, never have I felt as free as now, fighting in Cloudview County, supporting in Starlight County. Anyone must address me respectfully as a fellow Daoist! They see me, see the mark of Blackwood''s subordinate, and know that although I cultivate demonic arts, I am a true warrior, not a scheming demon cultivator hiding in the shadows!"


    "Lord of Demons, when you said we were retreating, I was truly scared for a moment."


    The demon cultivator laughed heartily, "We demon cultivators aren''t so roundabout. I''ve long considered Cloudview County my home, why should we leave our home because the Druids have come? We''ve fought for Cloudview County for over thirty years, spent over a hundred years building today''s business and status!"


    "Lord of Demons brought us back, you didn''t leave, Blackwood didn''t leave! At least for everything I''ve fought for in Cloudview County, I''m willing to give my life, only in Cloudview County am I treated as a normal Psychic!"


    "As long as you are willing to fight for Cloudview County, even if I die, I have no regrets! Even if I go to the underworld, meet the King of Hell, in those eighteen levels of hell, I will still honor you, honor Blackwood as my lord!"


    Daniel felt the strong winds blowing around the ability vessel, he gripped the mast tightly, looking back at everything behind him, that was also the land of Cloudview County.


    Unknowingly, the family had already established such a reputation in Cloudview County.

 Chapter 273: Chapter 273: Though death befalls, no regrets!

    Originally...


    Coming back was indeed the right choice!


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    At this moment, Daniel''s eyes shone brightly. He admitted he had hesitated upon his return. Three months of waiting without a single reply had driven him to despair.


    But now...


    His psychic powers surged, and with thousands of ability vessels accompanying him, Daniel''s apparition appeared on each one. Everyone was astonished to see thunder rolling across the sky!


    Daniel, with his aged appearance and flowing white hair, spoke in a deep voice.


    "If anyone wishes to leave, you may do so now. This journey is fraught with certain death, and I will not hold you back."


    "If you choose to stay, then station yourselves here for now and protect me."


    "Once I break through the Pinnacle Apprentice level, I will join you on the journey to the Azure Cloud border to battle the Druids at night!"


    "If we succeed, our names will remain in Azure Cloud forever, celebrated throughout the land."


    "If we fail..."


    "Are you willing to follow me to hell?"


    "With a thunderous roar!"


    As Daniel''s words fell, he rose into the air, with bolts of lightning striking him. All forces in Blackwood could see Daniel standing above the clouds, his figure godlike!


    Hundreds of thousands knelt on one knee towards Daniel.


    They roared, almost dispersing the thunder above Daniel''s head! Their eyes were filled with the will to fight, daring to venture to the blood-soaked battlefields of the Azure Cloud Border town.


    Because Daniel was still leading them, and Blackwood did not retreat!


    "Fight!"


    "Fight!"


    "Fight!"


    ...


    [Your descendant Daniel, leading hundreds of thousands from Blackwood to the battlefield, has reached the peak of his Developing Skill after many years. Upon hearing his subordinates, he saw hope in despair. With a sudden realization, he gained confidence that he could break through the severe thunder tribulations!]


    [Your descendant Daniel, representing all of Blackwood, has earned the faith of all warriors in Blackwood, gaining the trait¡ªAzure Cloud Overlord!]


    [He fights for Cloudview County, blessed by the fortunes of heaven and earth in Cloudview County, cultivating psychic powers 30% faster. Within Cloudview County, all his attributes increase by 100%, his combat power by 30%. Leading the people of Cloudview County, their morale boosts by 50%, and their combat power by an additional 5%!] S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Daniel has always been a hidden genius of Blackwood, even breaking through the Competent Force earlier than George!


    From a pure heart to a Heroic Tyrant, and then to a cunning strategist, at this moment of despair, he became the true overlord of Cloudview County!


    ...


    On the great road north from Azure Cloud city.


    On the path forward for the major forces of Cloudview County, many elders of the Competent Force who once commanded respect stopped in their tracks.


    Many psychics from Cloudview County also hesitated, seemingly making a difficult decision. This place might have more than a million psychics, yet it was eerily silent, only whispers could be heard.


    "Have you heard? Elder Nathan of Blackwood has returned to the Azure Cloud border."


    "He''s brought hundreds of elders from Glory City, stationed on the city walls. To this day, the million Druids gathered outside the Border town dare not step into Cloudview County."


    "They''re crazy! We have no support, isn''t this seeking death?"


    "Stop... don''t say that, those are people from Glory City!"


    Suddenly, everyone looked towards the front of a group, led by people from Blackwood, followed by civilians from Glory City!


    Among those from Blackwood, only George and many deceived members of the celestial generation, along with Jeffrey''s lineage, were present.


    "I''ve been deceived all my life."


    George muttered in a low voice, "They told me we were poor, made me rob graves for so many years. Now they tell me to retreat to the north, everyone else is running back, and I''m the only one left in the dark, still leading the people of Glory City north, everyone''s making a fool of me."


    "George!"


    Dennis descended from the sky, blocking George''s path, his brow furrowed, "Are you really going back?"


    George shrugged and chuckled, "Aren''t we supposed to go back? Don''t say anything else. I''ve heard from the family that you''ve done a lot for Blackwood over the years. I don''t really have anything to thank you for, so here, I''ll give you an old predecessor. I''m definitely going back home. If you can beat me, then fight; if not..."


    George didn''t say more. He released the remnant soul of an elder, who glanced at Dennis, rolled his eyes, and then returned to George''s body.


    The psychics of Glory City remained silent!


    They followed George closely, found Blackwood''s psychic ships, and jumped aboard without hesitation.


    The psychic ships took off, and their departure was marked by silence, a calm demeanor.


    But everyone from the major forces present could feel the resoluteness of the people from Blackwood!


    George was different from the others; he didn''t ask for help or say much. Although he might be naive, he was sure that every preparation made by his family was better than his own. All he needed to do at such a time was to take those who wanted to go back, back home!


    The silence of Glory City was like thunder, striking the hearts of all the psychics in Cloudview County.


    Everyone was speechless, the air seemed oppressive.


    Until a moment later, everyone from Duke''s Mansion''s side cleared a path!


    Duke Kenneth slowly walked out, silent, carrying a coffin on his back, accompanied by several elders of Duke''s Mansion aboard the psychic ship.


    They saw it.


    The coffin bore simple inscriptions, Duke Kenneth was prepared to bid farewell to the world after the battle!


    [We once strived to prevent disaster from befalling our homeland, but we failed.]


    [I am still proud.]


    [Proud to have been born in this era, to die for the future of Azure Cloud, even in the darkest of futures, we still have hope.]


    [I am proud to have fought alongside Blackwood, standing behind the times!]


    It was a day of silence.


    The psychics evacuating from Cloudview County seemed to see Nathan still standing on the city walls of Border town, facing countless night raiders without stepping back!


    Some were still fighting alone for a hopeless homeland.


    Dennis''s body trembled as he watched the psychic ships of Blackwood and Duke''s Mansion depart, his eyes red.


    "Belonging to Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, we¡ª"


    "Go home!"


    The psychic ship marked with the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion insignia took to the skies!


    Then, one by one, the elite warriors and masters of various forces, along with their disciples, boarded their psychic ships.


    The eyes of all the psychics on the psychic ships were blazing.


    Yes!


    Their hopes were few, but even in the darkest of futures, Blackwood stood at the forefront, fighting alongside them.


    That was enough.


    Though death befalls, no regrets!


    "Spectral Vision Sect!"


    "Black Tortoise!"


    "Ten Thousand Life Mountain!"


    "..."


    "Go home!"

 Chapter 274: Chapter 274: No one knew the true strength of Blackwood

    Snow drifted over the border town.


    Nathan stood atop the city walls, his hand resting on Death Coffin.


    His once pristine clothes were now tinged with yellow.


    Luna, with her curly hair, leaned weakly on Nathan''s shoulder, snowflakes settling on her long eyelashes.


    Where soldiers once guarded, now stood an elder from Glory City.


    For three hundred days, the Druids outside Border town had multiplied, gathering six tribes, growing increasingly restless over time!


    Below Border town, countless Druids advanced, pressing towards the solitary bastion like a tide!


    The six tribes'' High Priest floated above, leading a robust and handsome man in a purple robe adorned with the radiant sun, moon, and stars, a streak of purple lightning at his brow.


    "I, Mike, apostle of the Bird Totem, pay my respects to the most admirable foe of my Druids."


    Mike nodded respectfully towards Nathan.


    Behind him, countless Druids surged forward like a dark cloud.


    Yet, Nathan''s eyes showed no fear, his gaze remained sharp, his hands strong, the natural energy above him overwhelmingly powerful!


    Mike, a high-ranking figure among the Druids, knew there were greater Druids above him.


    These weren''t individuals but believers in the Druids'' totem, including apostles and elders, managing all their tribes.


    Mike had traveled widely and met many people.


    Despite Cloudview County being abandoned by the Emerald Empire, Nathan chose to share its fate, a fact that earned Mike''s respect as an apostle.


    As Mike finished speaking, Harris, the High Priest, lamented, "Mr. Nathan, leave this place. Your and your wife''s vigil here is pointless. Today marks the agreement between my Druids and the Emerald Empire. Cloudview County is now Druid land, and with the border region''s eleven counties under Druid control, Cloudview County stands alone. Your continued presence makes you an invader."


    "Don''t you see? Your resistance is futile. The Emerald Empire never cared for the twelve counties of the border region; you are expendable! You will receive no aid, not even your children have come, have they?"


    Mike smiled, "You have another choice. The Emerald Empire has forsaken you, and Blackwood is now free. You, Nathan, could simply surrender to my Druids. There''s an old human saying, ''Those not of our kind must have a different heart,'' which was the fundamental cause of the great war between Blackwood and Clark. But this isn''t without a solution."


    "More than a hundred descendants of Blackwood exist. Just one child from Blackwood''s lineage marrying into my Druids, one child inheriting our blood, learning our magic, and believing in our Bird Totem, would make them one of us."


    Upon hearing this, the six High Priests'' expressions changed.


    They had felt Nathan''s terrifying power!


    They even sent skilled warriors from the Competent Force to probe him, but in just a short time, they learned nothing; Nathan''s coffin blocked all their senses.


    When the deathly aura in the sky dissipated, their priest stood behind Nathan like a puppet on strings.


    Nathan alone was enough to instill fear in them.


    Yet, they knew Nathan was not the strongest of Blackwood; the strongest from three tribes gathered outside the natural magic formation that day said it was the closest they had come to death.


    No one knew the true strength of Blackwood.


    If they truly became part of the Druids... all present Druid tribes would worry their totem might be taken by Blackwood.


    Millennia later, Blackwood might usurp their place!


    But Mike ignored the High Priests'' concerns, needing Blackwood as a powerful ally, confident their Bird Totem could become Blackwood''s most fervent belief!


    Mike, impassioned, declared, "Sir, stand behind my Druids, and I assure you, you will become the most trusted member of our Bird Totem!"


    "Our Bird Totem is not the Emerald Empire; we do not abandon our people or our lands like the Emerald Empire does!"


    "You Blackwood will join us in battle, your glory and achievements will be engraved on the Bird Totem, your memories will live on!"


    Watching Mike''s frenzied actions.


    This time, Nathan finally reacted, he suddenly raised his head, looking around at the Competent Force experts floating above.


    He naively smiled at Mike.


    "Okay, then I have one condition, give me Cloudview County, can it be the territory of my Blackwood?"


    "You agree?" Mike now squinted his eyes, "If it''s just Cloudview County, then it''s okay."


    Nathan''s mouth curved up, with a hint of sarcasm, "Apostle sir, since Cloudview County is now our Blackwood territory, there''s no need for a large army anymore. From now on, I am one of the Druids. How about this, you go back now and bring a thousand of the most beautiful Druid girls here, I still have many descendants who aren''t married."


    Then.


    Mike''s face completely darkened, "Why didn''t you hesitate at all? Are you playing me?"


    "It''s you who''s playing me."


    Nathan''s playful smile disappeared, his face expressionless again, "Even if my Blackwood surrenders to the Druids, no matter what we do, generation after generation will be suspected by you Druids. Look at them, Apostle sir, you''ve driven me to a dead end."


    Mike looked towards the High Priests Nathan was pointing at.


    These High Priests, each one on alert, even if Mike''s persuasion had truly succeeded, these Druids would not hesitate to storm into Cloudview County, to kill Nathan!


    "I..."


    Mike was suddenly choked up, his spur-of-the-moment idea, but he had forgotten to consider the other Druid tribes!


    No one would want to let Blackwood into the Druids, it would be unclear whether it''s the Druids'' Blackwood, or Blackwood''s Druids!


    Nathan sighed deeply, "Thank you for your appreciation, Apostle sir, it''s a pity, our family has a child who has already tried for our Blackwood, we find it hard to live on the same land."


    "He chose to walk alone to Clark, to die to show his resolve, to tell everyone in the Emerald Empire that we Blackwood still stand with them."


    At that moment.


    Mike and those six High Priests felt Nathan''s fighting spirit rising!


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    "Put away your pity, put away your sympathy."


    "Come fight!"


    With Nathan''s roar, the elders still on the walls of Glory City, facing the endless Druid army, they were the first to beat the war drums, to blow the horns!


    Even though they were less than a hundred strong!


    Outside Border town, the Druids who were originally advancing, stopped in their tracks at this moment!


    The sound of the war drums and horns from Border town was so faint, yet so clear and audible, as if the whole world only heard the sound of Border town.


    In the snowstorm.


    Dozens of elders, picking up their weapons, jumped down from the walls of Border town, they lined up neatly, even though they were as small as dust in front of the Druid army, they still stood straight!


    They were old, but like the toughest pines, unafraid of the snowstorm, fearless of life and death!


    "Ah."


    Mike sighed, he and the High Priests moved towards Nathan, their movements slow, staring at the distant Nathan, "Sir, after you die, I will hold the grandest human funeral for you."


    Nathan ignored Mike, he could feel the strong presence of the seven experts! S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He gently looked at Luna, "Wife, are you scared?"


    "Not scared."


    Luna''s eyes curved like crescent moons, "I heard that in the underworld there''s a Ferrywoman''s soup, after drinking it you forget everything, in the next life when we meet again, you must remember me first, you have to help me lift the red veil again, otherwise, you''re done for."


    "Hahaha, what more could I ask for in this life? What more could I ask for!"


    Nathan and Luna rose into the air, their faces full of smiles, facing the Druid experts!


    One by one, the priests surrounded them in the sky, Nathan and Luna remained unafraid!


    Nathan looked down at the Druids surging towards Border town like a tide.


    His voice was loud!


    Every elder in Glory City could hear his voice.


    "One day in the future, our children will step into Cloudview County again."


    "Old buddies, today we old folks will set an example for our descendants."


    "Charge!"


    Then.


    They gripped their weapons, laughing as they charged forward, charging!

 Chapter 275: Chapter 275: The ancient god was truly spouting nonsense

    They were old, and Cloudview County was their final refuge. Fighting for Cloudview County was their wish!


    On the battlefield, they appeared so frail compared to the robust Druid warriors, yet they charged forward without hesitation!


    "Spear formation! Spear formation!"


    They lifted their heads, above them the Druids'' magic unleashed thunder and fire upon them, yet they roared with laughter in the face of danger.


    Nathan and Luna charged forward too!


    They couldn''t defeat the twenty-plus Competent Force, but they were fearless!


    Suddenly.


    Everyone on the battlefield froze, their eyes widening in shock.


    In the snowy daylight, the sky turned.


    The sky blazed red as blood.


    A fierce wind blew, turning the falling snow into eerie red flakes.


    The Druids looked up, seeing an old man in a red robe, holding a staff, his arms open wide. His psychic powers stirred the energy of the heavens and earth, changing the color of the sky!


    His aged voice echoed over Border town!


    "I have seen."


    "I have heard."


    His voice seemed magical!


    The ground trembled, vines burst from the earth forming a massive wall, protecting the elders of Glory City!


    His voice still rang out.


    "Cloudview County may become a thing of the past, but not today!"


    "The fighting spirit of Blackwood may quiet down, but not today!"


    "This land will be stained red, and your blood, Druids, will make Cloudview County a forbidden zone."


    "A Blackwood forbidden zone!"


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The earth itself was in motion.


    Ancient trees and stone beasts burst from the soil, rushing past the hundred elders of Glory City towards the battlefield!


    Sturdy roots pierced through the bodies of the Druids at the forefront!


    .....


    In the heart of the imperial capital, a magnificent palace floated above the city center. Inside, the court was filled with officials, all gazing intently at the center of the grand hall.


    There stood Edward from Blackwood. Accompanying him were several mathematicians from Cloudview County, who had brought with them an Eight Trigrams board and other mystical devices capable of divining the secrets of the universe. As the mathematicians demonstrated their powers, an image materialized before the eyes of the assembled court.


    It depicted everything happening at the Azure Cloud Border town.


    Everyone saw it.


    Atop the town walls stood a couple, seemingly just returned from farming, surrounded by nearly a hundred elderly warriors, their lives hanging by a thread. Before them, the entire town seemed minuscule against the advancing army of Druids, as if the city would crumble with their every step forward.


    "Your Majesty! I wish to lead our forces to Cloudview County and battle the Druids!"


    The scene had a profound impact on all who witnessed it. They had heard rumors that one man, Blackwood Nathan, still stood defiant on the town walls, but seeing it was something else entirely.


    Who could have imagined that on this forsaken frontier, someone would stand alone against a million Druids? Who knew what pressures Nathan faced every day?


    Among the military leaders, General Owen Lewis, trained at Radiant Sky Grotto, clenched his teeth and stepped forward, kneeling before the ancient god.


    As he made his plea, more warriors loyal to Owen followed suit, kneeling and begging, "Please, Your Majesty, command us to fight the Druids and reclaim our lands!"


    Their passionate pleas, however, did not seem to stir the figure behind the royal curtain.


    Again, they pleaded loudly.


    This time, even the civil officials, seeing the urgency, knelt down. In the image, less than a hundred elderly warriors leaped from the walls, forming a spear formation, standing tall as they charged into battle alongside Nathan.


    The scene turned blood-red, and the mathematicians spat blood, their vision ending there.


    The court was left in suspense, not knowing what would happen next, but they heard that the people of Blackwood were still willing to fight!


    Perhaps every person in Blackwood would stand at the very front of the border, defending the sold-off Cloudview County and Border town.


    Perhaps...


    Such iron-willed men and families were rare in the empire.


    "Please, Your Majesty, give the order!" Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    More people knelt in the hall, their cries loud, even though they knew a deal had been struck and to go back on it would be a slap in the face to the ancient god, they still pleaded.


    Edward, standing in the center, had tears in his eyes. In this cold imperial capital, there were still those willing to stand up!


    Moments later.


    Finally, there was a stir behind the curtain, and the ancient god spoke with a deep voice, immediately darkening Edward''s expression.


    "We are aware of the border situation."


    "However, Grand Tutor Gilbert and the north have been at war with the Druids for two thousand years, and the state of our nation cannot sustain another war with them."


    "Yet, within our Emerald Empire, we have families as loyal as Blackwood, which brings us great comfort."


    "Owen."


    As the ancient god spoke, the burly, bald-headed warrior in armor bowed and accepted the command, "At your service!"


    "Take our decree to Cloudview County and order the Druids to cease their aggression. Our empire''s lands are vast, and the north has new territories inexhaustible. Blackwood may choose a new place to settle. We hereby grant Blackwood the hereditary title of Duke, in recognition of their iron-blooded loyalty to our Emerald Empire."


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "..."


    Owen had received his orders and was leading the dazed Edward out of the grand hall.


    Even as they reached the open sky, Edward still appeared bewildered. He blankly asked Owen, "What nonsense was that mongrel spouting on the jade steps just now?"


    "You..."


    With just one word, Owen''s face changed dramatically. He quickly covered Edward''s mouth, "Kid, are you trying to get us killed? The entire imperial capital is filled with Lance''s spies. If the emperor hears what you just said, Blackwood is done for!"


    Edward looked at Owen strangely, making Owen''s scalp tingle. Edward pulled Owen''s hand away and pointed at the so-called ''heavenly palace'', questioning, "So General Owen, you follow this kind of absurd trash? Aren''t you tired?"


    "I..."


    Owen was at a loss for words. He took a deep breath, his expression solemn, "Let''s go, I''ll take you back to Blackwood. Maybe..."


    He wanted to say maybe they could still prevent the war in Cloudview County, but he just sighed deeply.


    The ancient god was truly spouting nonsense.


    From the imperial capital back to Cloudview County, even he would need several days.


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    Suddenly, Owen was startled as Edward turned around and headed back towards the grand hall!


    Everyone in the grand hall was shocked, all the old foxes there could see the ancient god''s intentions. The ancient god had completely abandoned the southern border, totally forsaking Blackwood!


    Just as they feared Edward from Cloudview County might spout more nonsense.


    They saw Edward bowing towards the steps above, his voice loud as he laughed wildly.


    "I was in such a hurry earlier, I, a commoner, forgot to give thanks!"

 Chapter 276: Chapter 276: My clan never gives up hope!

    "Commoner thanks His Majesty for bestowing upon me the name Azure Cloud Blackwood ''The Iron Bone Warriors Clan,'' and for granting me the land of Tranquil County!"


    "Commoner boldly asks His Majesty, you said that within the vast borders of the empire, I, Blackwood, could choose a place to settle and be granted the title of Duke. Is this true?!"


    The courtiers frowned in disapproval.


    National advisor Lance scolded angrily, "How audacious! The Emperor''s word is golden, of course it''s true, and you can certainly choose your own place in the north!"


    "Very well."


    Edward''s eyes sparkled with determination, "Then I, Blackwood, choose Cloudview County!"


    "Ridiculous!" Lance exclaimed angrily, "His Majesty has already promised Cloudview County to the Druids. Why do you repeatedly insist on Cloudview County? Do you want His Majesty to break his promise and seize Cloudview County?"


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Edward laughed loudly, having thought before arriving that the grand hall was filled with significant figures. He had heard that these people were all of noble birth and wielded great power, but now he saw them as nothing but trash, useless!


    "National advisor speaks well! Indeed, it was rash of a commoner!"


    He narrowed his eyes, glaring at the courtiers, vowing to remember their indifference. His voice turned icy, "Then, commoner asks, what if I, Blackwood, take back Cloudview County?!"


    At this, the entire court looked at each other, speechless, but their amused expressions said it all.


    Take back Cloudview County? That would indeed be a feat, but wouldn''t it still be land of the Emerald Empire?


    From the jade steps, the ancient god spoke solemnly, "Edward, I have been patient with you today. Speak your mind, but test my patience no further."


    "Very well."


    Edward took a deep breath, "I demand that above the empire''s Competent Force, no Psychic shall enter Cloudview County without my, Blackwood''s, permission. Azure Cloud shall never pay taxes, and we shall not bow in the grand hall!"


    The grand hall erupted in shock!


    "How dare you!" Lance roared, yet his gaze remained cool.


    How arrogant? To treat the entire Emerald Empire''s Cloudview County as if it were a sacred offering!


    But the entire court knew that Edward''s words, though arrogant, were merely a desperate struggle. Cloudview County, a lone city, a small clan, what could it use to withstand the Druids'' great army?


    From the jade steps, the ancient god fell into a long silence, anger rising, and finally, he sighed deeply, "I consent."


    "Then I, Blackwood, am prepared to die in battle!"


    Edward smiled, bowing to the court, "Commoner wishes all the lords rise in ranks, and may the ancient god reign as high as the heavens!"


    "And may I, Blackwood, triumph!"


    He turned and strode forward, the courtiers watching his retreating figure!


    He was returning to Cloudview County! Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This time, he brought no great army from the Emerald Empire, only seeing a group who disregarded Cloudview County and Blackwood. But at least he secured a future for Blackwood, a future not to consort with these incompetents!


    At the doorway, Owen was sweating profusely, watching Edward, this man not yet a hundred years old.


    It was hard to imagine how Edward dared to stand so proudly before the court.


    "General Owen, how long from the imperial capital back to Cloudview County?" Edward asked calmly, not even glancing back at the heavenly palace.


    "Half a month."


    Owen frowned, "Edward, you''re going back to Cloudview County? Half a month is too late."


    But his advice was futile, as he saw Edward''s eyes shining brightly.


    "You''re wrong!"


    Edward''s smile widened, "Everyone in the entire Emerald Empire is wrong, there''s still time!"


    "What?"


    Owen was stunned, unsure where this young man''s confidence came from.


    Edward laughed wildly, as if mocking the entire Emerald Empire.


    "My clan never gives up hope!"


    "Once, all of Cloudview County was against us, Blackwood, yet we still stood on the land of Cloudview County. When the Druids invaded, they entered Glory City, yet we still survived in despair!"


    "General Owen, take me back, I want to celebrate with my people."


    Owen hesitated, then, biting his lip, he still led Edward away.


    At least he hoped that in the desperate situation of Cloudview County, there could indeed be a celebration, a celebration that the entire Emerald Empire should have fought for thirty years ago.


    ...


    In the heavenly palace, everyone watched as Owen led Edward away. They no longer cared about Edward''s earlier arrogance. Instead, they all turned to look up at the jade steps, dismissing Edward''s arrival from their minds. It was merely the ravings of a man facing death.


    Lance was the first to kneel before the ancient god, his voice loud, as if conceding twelve border counties and leaving Blackwood to fight alone in Cloudview County was something to be praised.


    "His Majesty the ancient god is kind and patient, even with a reckless fool like Edward. This is indeed a blessing for our empire and for the world!"


    "May His Majesty the ancient god live as long as the heavens!"


    The ministers echoed in unison.


    Their voices seemed to spread throughout the entire empire.


    The heavenly palace was so splendid, and beneath it, the people in the imperial capital lived in peace and prosperity, amidst song and dance.


    It was truly a scene of peace and well-being.


    But was there a place in the Emerald Empire that yearned to be as sunny and bright as the imperial capital?


    At that moment, heavy snow was falling in Cloudview County, and the skies over the border town were stained red, with red snow dancing wildly!


    Countless Druid troops surged like a tide but paused momentarily due to strange phenomena in the heavens and earth.


    "Old tree?"


    Spikes blocked the Druids'' vanguard, and stone beasts and mystical trees rose from the ground to enter the battlefield and charge at the Druids. Nathan, slightly stunned, looked up at the sky at the red-robed old man embracing the heavens, "You''ve transformed?!"


    "That''s... a demon! No, not just any demon, a mystical tree turned demon!" Explore more stories with m,v l''e-NovelFire.net


    Below the red clouds, Mike, who was leading the priests in attacking Nathan, changed his expression!


    He had also led his tribe in fierce battles against the demon races, which occupied half of the Endless Forest. Aside from their endless numbers, what was truly terrifying was their powerful individuals.


    Although it was extremely difficult for them to break through, they possessed innate bloodline powers. Each demon king was a unique entity, and some noble beasts breaking through levels were not like humans; they could even reach the peak of demon king directly.


    Especially the mystical plants, they were more like wonders. It was incredibly difficult for plants to awaken their intelligence, and that moment also meant they were favored by the heavens and earth.


    Transforming from a mystical plant... to put it bluntly, just by their value, they had already surpassed the Azure Dragon.


    "Blackwood''s divine tree has transformed and come to the rescue, which also means..."


    For some reason, a chill ran through Mike''s heart.


    He looked at the stone beasts and tree demons overwhelmed by Druids'' magic on the ground and coldly said to the six High Priests and many priests, "Kill them as quickly as possible!"

 Chapter 277: Chapter 277: What kind of thunder tribulation did you undergo?

    [Your family''s sacred tree, the Primordial Blood Tree, had already sensed the thunder tribulation. With the help of many family members, multiple magical formations were inscribed to break through the seventy-ninth heavenly tribulation, allowing it to evolve beyond its current form!]


    [You have gained the magical abilities of your bloodline: Sky Canopy (a phenomenon that grows stronger with more magical formations and spells) and Destiny Shield (which allows glimpses into fate and can block others from divining your future. If the diviner is weak, you can counter their magic directly in the divination battle.)]


    Ethan was glued to the screen!


    His mouse hovered over the skill, ready to use it to protect his descendants if not for his fear of being unable to. Read the latest on m_v-l''e|m,p| y- r


    He even saw it.


    A Druid priest dared to use a Turtle Shell to divine the old tree!


    But as soon as the Turtle Shell was activated,


    "Puff!"


    A figure in a red robe, with unconventional red hair cascading down, radiated a red light from the old tree, appearing suddenly next to Nathan. Without moving, the divining priest spat out blood!


    "Be careful! This tree spirit can battle using fate, don''t fall for its tricks!"


    Mike instantly recognized the extraordinary nature of the Primordial Blood Tree. The other priests, about to use their Turtle Shells, changed their expressions and put their shells away.


    "Old tree, why have you come?"


    Nathan''s face showed no joy. The sky had turned blood red with the appearance of the old tree, but Mike had already altered this phenomenon. The sky now held the sun, moon, and stars, with beams of light falling from the sky, forming hundreds of magical formations, each with the power of a seventh-grade force.


    Ahead were six High Priests, their psychic powers boundless!


    Under the magical formations formed by the celestial bodies, there were images of the Vermilion Bird, hundreds of totems instantly forming a grand formation that suppressed psychic powers, and the force of thunder wreaking havoc...


    "Nathan, oh Nathan, how could you think to fight without us knowing?"


    The Primordial Blood Tree smiled faintly, unafraid of the Competent Force and the special domain formed by the natural energies in the sky. His ancient body began to transform, gradually morphing back into his true form, a towering red tree thousands of meters high, his red roots piercing into the air, his trunk showing a human face.


    His roots continuously struck out at all enemies!


    Nathan and Luna also unleashed their psychic powers, protecting the area around the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Luna''s six tails shimmered brilliantly as she grew white fur and transformed into a massive fox, her claws gleaming coldly!


    Death Coffin was released, and hordes of Zombies and Sky Corpses fell onto the battlefield like a flood, with dark formations appearing underfoot. The Sky Corpses, including the headless Luke and Michael wearing an iron mask, appeared, and he used his ultimate spell¡ªFour Symbols Death Energy Formation!


    "What kind of spell is this?!!"


    Mike, a disciple of the Druids, felt even more cautious as the Death Coffin appeared, its formations beginning to contend with his celestial powers.


    He hadn''t expected Nathan to withstand his morning star spells.


    Inside the Four Symbols Formation, the four Sky Corpses were now battling psychic powers from all directions within the formation. The Sea of Death formed inside the formation had spirits climbing out, their power augmenting Nathan and the four Sky Corpses!


    "You shouldn''t have come, none of you should have."


    Nathan soared into the clouds, confronting Mike, but his mind was more on the old tree''s appearance. His worst fears had materialized¡ªthe old tree had come, meaning his descendants were also lurking nearby!


    He looked down at the ground.


    The stone beasts and tree spirits summoned by the old tree, though formidable and numerous, seemed so frail in front of the tidal wave of the Druid army.


    At this moment, the old tree, having unleashed all his psychic powers, saw his Sky Canopy begin to shatter. Even as a tree spirit, how could he battle against six High Priests? And Luna... her transformed body could only barely dodge.


    This was just one of six tribes, in the Endless Forest, there lay greater terrors!


    "Why did you come?" Nathan floated upward, murmuring in a daze, yet Mike''s Morning Star spell couldn''t break through Nathan''s magical formations. They were getting closer and closer!


    The light of the Morning Star collided with the deadly energy of the Sea of Death within the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, causing explosions that could severely injure even a master of Developing Skill if they got too close.


    Ahead, Mike was incredibly surprised by Nathan''s strength. He had already overestimated Nathan, but it turned out he had still underestimated him. He also glanced at the battlefield, his expression grave, "Nathan, I didn''t expect that you, having just entered the Competent Force, would have mastered such terrifying spells. What kind of thunder tribulation did you undergo?"


    Nathan remained silent.


    At the screen, Ethan''s lips curled slightly, "What thunder tribulation? Bearing the Death Coffin, forging the Super Core, refining millions of corpses, with great sins, what do you think?" S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Past information flashed before his eyes!


    [Your descendant Nathan underwent the seventy-ninth thunder tribulation! The tribulation sensed Nathan''s possession of the Death Coffin and corpse refining techniques, refining various types of Zombies, with deep sins, turning into the ninety-ninth tribulation!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, fallen in battle!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, using the second life of the Super Core... successfully passed the ninety-ninth thunder tribulation!]


    Only the Blackwood people know how perilous that thunder tribulation was. Even with all kinds of preparations, the ninety-ninth tribulation caught the Blackwood people off guard. If not for Nathan possessing the lethal Super Core, with three lives, there would be no Nathan today!


    For this reason, the Blackwood people deeply understand the terror of the ninety-ninth tribulation and are so cautious about Amelia undergoing the tribulation.


    But at the same time...


    This also signifies Nathan''s strength!


    Having passed the ninety-ninth tribulation, his natural energies are incredibly solid. The spell ''Four Symbols Death Energy Formation'' further adds a layer of the power of the ninety-ninth tribulation, making even WhiteArnold''s talents seem insignificant in front of Nathan!

 Chapter 278: Chapter 278: They are born proud and immensely powerful!

    "I understand now." Seeing Nathan''s silence, Mike''s expression turned solemn after his initial surprise.


    "So you are the true genius of Blackwood. In my Bird Totem, there are hardly five who could match you. Nathan, I respect you as a person and even more so your strength, but unfortunately..."


    Mike sighed deeply, the stars in the sky shining even brighter, natural energies manifesting!


    The Morning Star spell began to form purple lines, connecting countless stars together like a giant net, suppressing the deadly energy from Nathan''s Four Symbols Death Energy Formation!


    Even behind Nathan, a net formed, sticking to him like a spider''s web, rendering him immobile!


    Mike''s eyes were like a vast sea of stars, his voice booming amidst this celestial phenomenon, "It''s just unfortunate that you were born at the wrong time! The Emerald Empire won''t protect a genius like you, and neither can my Druids keep you! I''m sorry, but if I don''t kill you, my Druids will never be at peace!"


    "And your Blackwood ancient tree, he came, and your Blackwood descendants are no exception."


    "What a pity, they shouldn''t have come."


    Mike looked around, seeing figures approaching, his eyes filled with regret and relief, "You are isolated and without support, each one of them must die!!!"


    At these words.


    Nathan suddenly looked up, feeling it too, from all directions, Blackwood''s children, just as he suspected, were all lying in ambush, frantically rushing towards the battlefield!


    These little rascals, still as rebellious as before!


    Suddenly.


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    Nathan laughed, "What the hell are you saying?"


    Mike was shocked, his spell should have immobilized even a peak Competent Force, but now...


    "Crack, crack, crack..."


    The Morning Star magic that trapped Nathan was shattering bit by bit!


    Nathan stretched and threw a punch at the coffin next to him, shouting, "Come out!"


    From the Death Coffin, a small coffin appeared!


    The coffin slowly rotated, and a petite figure emerged, opening eyes filled with endless darkness. Above in the sky, the sound of bells rang out, murderous intent boundless!


    Gary.


    The moment this little zombie girl appeared, she suddenly looked up, opening her small, peach-colored mouth, and the boundless Sea of Death under the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation began to disappear at a visible rate, sucked into her mouth, her aura growing stronger!


    The four Sky Corpses were materials for the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, but the real foundation¡ª


    Was Gary, who had swallowed the sixth-grade supernatural item ''Ghostly Psychic Pearl''!


    She collected psychic grudges and souls, and the Sea of Death gathered these grudges and souls to their fullest!


    As Gary appeared, Nathan''s aura, like Gary''s, surged wildly.


    He could feel it, the children had already charged into the battlefield.


    He grinned at Mike, causing Mike''s scalp to tingle!


    "You want to kill my children?!!"


    "Then I''ll send you to hell first!"


    Nathan grabbed the Death Coffin and charged out, Gary transforming into thousands of shadows like a specter!


    The children had arrived, he couldn''t stop them!


    Originally, Gary, the Death Coffin, the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, and countless zombies, were all left for the children.


    But now it didn''t matter.


    He was even somewhat relieved, the children hadn''t given up on him, they were still as rebellious as ever, knowing they would die yet not choosing life, so no matter what happened, he didn''t need to hold back.


    Today, he would use every means possible, together with his family, to face everything!


    In the sky, the deadly energy was rising, Mike''s Morning Star magic contaminated by it.


    He smiled joyfully, "Still have a trump card? Good! It''s worth my trip here!"


    Mike''s heart trembled, it had been over a thousand years, he had almost forgotten how long it had been since he had experienced such a great battle, nor how long since he had encountered such an opponent!


    The stars reappeared, the sky thundered mightily.


    He would use all his strength to send such a worthy opponent to hell!


    The skies over the Azure Cloud border were ever-changing. A clear day suddenly gave rise to the Morning Star, followed by thunderous roars.


    Originally, this suppressed the deadly energy emanating from the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation.


    However, as Nathan broke through the Morning Star''s web and summoned Gary, the four Sky Corpses and the souls within the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation transformed into a black light that enveloped Gary''s body, turning the tide of battle once again.


    Even on the ground, one could feel the oppressive aura descending from thirty thousand feet above. It was Nathan and the Apostle Mike locked in a fierce duel!


    "Blackwood Nathan, to think he could stand against an Apostle?" Harris, the High Priest, exclaimed in disbelief.


    He sensed the battle above the clouds with his Competent Force.


    He and Mike were close friends, and only he knew that Mike was a prodigy who had survived the formidable celestial tribulations, blessed with profound fortune.


    Now, at the age of sixteen hundred, Mike''s cultivation far surpassed his own, mastering the powers of the stars and the natural forces of the universe, even reaching the stage of Pinnacle Apprentice. He was a genius who might reach the Basic Mastery stage by the end of his life, capable of battling four High Priests alone. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet, Nathan, whom he thought would be easily defeated with little effort, was only at a slight disadvantage against the Apostle?


    "His magic is peculiar, not ordinary at all! And that silver coffin, it''s high-level special equipment!" one of the High Priests said gravely. "This man must not be allowed to escape. Even if he does, he will be a calamity for us. Join me in suppressing him, and help the Apostle kill him!"


    "Agreed!"


    The natural energies shifted instantly!


    The six High Priests furrowed their brows simultaneously. They could feel that as their Pinnacle Apprentice ascended into the skies, Apostle Mike was already expressing his displeasure.


    Yet, they remained undeterred, exchanging glances before soaring into the clouds, unconcerned with the Apostle''s desire for a fair duel with Nathan.


    That was nonsense!


    Behind the Apostle was the entire Bird Totem, but if Nathan were to grow stronger, it would be their six tribes that would suffer!


    Just then, the six High Priests suddenly halted their advance. The sky, already filled with stars, thunder, and deadly energy, underwent another change!


    From nowhere, streaks of light erected over the Border town, casting a giant family emblem into everyone''s sight.


    "This is..." Harris, the High Priest, felt a sudden panic. He had seen this strange phenomenon before!


    It was the symbol that appeared when he and Clark had once invaded Cloudview County, and the Blackwood clan had counterattacked. It was also the day he witnessed the most frenzied side of the Blackwood people, a nightmare he could never forget!


    He and the other High Priests looked solemnly towards the rear of Cloudview County. Figures approached, radiating murderous intent, the natural energies shifting rapidly, and within the clouds, two Azure Dragons roared!


    The Azure Dragon bellowed.


    "Command one: Forever protect Blackwood!"


    "Command two: Annihilate all enemies of Blackwood!"


    The wind rose, clouds surged, and a thick fog enveloped the area!


    Another Azure Dragon attacked furiously, its head ferociously roaring, "Kill!"


    "Two... two Azure Dragons, why are these Azure Dragons so bizarre?!!" one of the High Priests'' complexion changed.


    Any Azure Dragon that has matured through the ages is a peak existence of Competent Force! Their bloodline is favored by the universe, and their bodies are comparable to a body cultivator at the Competent Force stage. I once heard from a Druid friend who fought against beast clans, "Never try to subdue an Azure Dragon. They are born proud and immensely powerful!"


    Once, a Druid at the Basic Mastery stage tried to forcibly subdue an Azure Dragon, but faced the dragon''s desperate counterattack. The dragon was ultimately stripped of its sinews and bones, leading to a brutal purge by the dragon clan.


    Their twelve Druid totems remained silent, and since then, no Druid dared disrespect the dragon clan.

 Chapter 279: Chapter 279: Only a fight to the death!

    Now, Blackwood has two Azure Dragons, their existence surpassing the understanding of these High Priests.


    One of the Azure Dragons, its body forged from golden iron, summoned natural energies upon its arrival. Its scales shifted, revealing dark voids, and these energies formed into spheres, targeting each High Priest!


    The other transformed from a misty form into a fiery red figure, its every movement causing explosions in the surrounding space due to its natural energies!


    But after a moment of panic, smiles slowly appeared on their faces.


    "They really came!"


    "Foolish, reckless."


    "After today, our tribe will have no more worries, and my Bird Totem will have no more reservations!"


    They saw them.


    On the backs of those two Azure Dragons were the people of Blackwood, as reported in their intelligence. Some wielded swords with a murderous look, others wore armor made of plants and held pure bottles.


    A strong man used his body as a puppet, three hundred feet tall... These were the second generation of Blackwood, known to support the entire community!


    Each one was a major concern for the Druids and the reason why the six tribes of Druids had been kept out of Border town by Nathan for a whole year.


    And now...


    "Ha ha ha! They think they are brave, coming to save Nathan, but they are merely coming to their deaths!"


    Harris, the High Priest, arrived worried but now spoke boldly, "Send two people to help Lord Apostle suppress Nathan! All priests, follow me and eliminate these so-called geniuses of Blackwood!"


    "Good!"


    It seems that today''s Azure Cloud border has turned into a trap for the extermination of Blackwood!


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The Exploding Sky Serpent advanced, the space around him exploding!


    Ethan wore headphones, the sound booming in his ears, the game screen blossoming like fireworks. His left hand tapped the keyboard, his right hand gripped the mouse, his eyes... turned white!


    Pop-ups continuously appeared on the computer screen.


    [You are using the skill Lv.4 ''Family Glory''!]


    [All descendants within a hundred miles, combat power increased by 20%! Competent Force descendants, natural energies rules enhanced by 20%!]


    [You are manually controlling the mid-level war AI Bionic Robot¡ªAzure Dragon!]


    [Body Vitality Cannon/A]


    [Humanoid Combat Form: Azure Dragon Hunter/S]


    [Automatic Hunting Mode/Space]


    [Talent Ability...]


    [You are using Automatic Hunting Mode]


    At this moment, Ethan was multitasking, controlling the computer and perceiving everything in the game world through the Azure Dragon''s perspective.


    In the real world, he constantly switched screens, even perceiving the safety of the Blackwood children in the game world through the Azure Dragon. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It''s a good thing the keyboard was specially made, or it would have been worn out by his tapping!


    "Kill!"


    Ahead, Harris, the High Priest, roared.


    Ethan felt heavy-hearted. Before, Blackwood only faced Clark, but now, they faced six tribes!


    Six High Priests, four at the peak of Competent Force, two in the middle stage of Competent Force! Behind them were over twenty priests, even including six mid-stage Competent Force experts, and several Competent Force chiefs and Druids'' Competent Force experts! Experience tales at m v|l e''-NovelFire.net


    In contrast, their side.


    Only two Azure Dragons had reached the peak of Competent Force.


    As for other Competent Force experts, they were even fewer.


    Lucas and the assisting Celestial Star Swordmaster, their aura only at the early and middle stages of Competent Force, their sword energy extremely sharp, their sword intent seeming to shatter everything!


    Lord of Frenzied Blood came wielding a large knife, even after years of consuming blood in Blackwood, his strength was only at the mid-stage of Competent Force.


    These were all the Competent Force experts of Blackwood.


    Even including the long-battled, scarred Luna and Primordial Blood Tree, excluding Nathan who used all the Sky Corpses from high above, their Competent Force experts were only seven.


    They remained silent, facing the thirty-plus Competent Force of the Druids from six directions, still charging, their natural energies colliding, retreating step by step, yet without a word, without a retreat.


    Only a fight to the death!


    Amelia, Julian, Marcus, Jessica, Larry... These children of Blackwood were all exceptionally gifted. They had nearly monopolized all the fortune of Cloudview County for over a hundred years. Yet, their cultivation was still in its early stages, still honing their skills.


    They paid no attention to the battle of the Competent Force experts in the sky, silently heading towards the clouds below.


    That was their battlefield!


    "Ha ha ha! True to the Blackwood name, true to the Azure Cloud warriors, I admire your courage. To come here alone, relying solely on the strength of your clan!" Harris, the High Priest, laughed heartily. He was delighted, utterly at ease.


    The murderous aura of the Blackwood people was so strong, his laughter growing darker as they drew nearer, "I will erect a monument for you in your Glory City!"


    The advancing members of Blackwood did not respond!


    Meanwhile, high above, facing the bombardment of natural energies, the Primordial Blood Tree, which had long been resisting with the bloodline technique ''Blood Realm Formation'', chuckled mockingly, "I''ve said that Cloudview County would be forbidden to Blackwood. It seems you didn''t take my words seriously?"


    "Smoke and mirrors!"


    Harris, the High Priest, continued to laugh. His Competent Force could sense everything within a thousand miles. Blackwood had no reinforcements!


    He was certain that the people of the Emerald Empire would not defy the ancient god''s royal decree.


    Today was the day Blackwood would be annihilated!


    Yet, the Primordial Blood Tree sighed repeatedly, his voice echoing throughout Border town, causing all the Druids'' faces to change dramatically.


    Harris, the High Priest, was also terrified.


    From thirty thousand feet above, Apostle Mike sent a message, his tone extremely grave, "All six Druid tribes, prepare for battle!"


    "What?" Harris, the High Priest, was momentarily stunned.


    He saw the celestial phenomenon that had formed following the arrival of the Primordial Blood Tree, which also gradually dissipated as the Primordial Blood Tree reached its limit.


    Around the Primordial Blood Tree, transforming from a fox shape into a frenzied swirl, the six-tailed fox spirit gradually took human form due to the rapid dissipation of psychic powers!


    "No... this isn''t right!"


    Harris, the High Priest, flashed a look of panic, suddenly realizing that the natural energies of these two beings were depleting too quickly, and the consumption of natural energies around the entire Cloudview County was abnormal!


    And the Blackwood people, who had rushed to battle, all wore a mocking smile on their faces.


    The energy of the battlefield formed a wild wind, wave after wave, furiously slapping his face.


    His eyes wide as bells, sensing everything around him with his Competent Force, he then shouted in desperation, "Defend! Defend!"


    At the same time.


    Above in the sky, a throne appeared, upon which sat a lazy old man, playing with his prey like a king!


    His voice was calm, as if even a hundredfold increase in Druids could not disturb his tranquility.


    "Belonging to Azure Cloud."


    "Today, let these Druids be stained with the blood of Azure Cloud!"

 Chapter 280: Chapter 280: How is this possible? How can it be?!

    "How is this possible? How can it be?!"


    Harris, the High Priest, was pale as a ghost.


    The ground trembled, and all the Druids, following Harris''s furious roar, shrank back in terror.


    The Druids at the forefront were obliterated in an instant by a barrage of Psychic Gear, ability weapons, talismans... along with the powerful techniques and psychic powers of their foes.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    "Woo woo¡ª"


    "Kill!"


    These were the sounds of war drums and horns coming from within Cloudview County.


    Harris, the High Priest, still stared blankly into the depths of Cloudview County.


    As the Primordial Blood Tree weakened, one could see in the skies above Azure Cloud Border town, within the territory of Cloudview County, rows of neatly arranged ability vessels.


    On these ability vessels, dense crowds of Psychics used their powers to attack the Druid army, raining down various talismans and Psychic Gear. The sky was even filled with psychic formations from Cloudview County.


    Cloudview County Psychics, riding on swords, flew towards the momentarily panicked Druid army, avoiding the areas targeted by the attacks.


    On the ground, countless Cloudview County Psychics also charged out from the city gates of Cloudview County, shouting as they rushed into battle! Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They formed a neatly ordered arc, actually surrounding the Druids. From the formation of the battle, Cloudview County seemed to have the upper hand.


    "This isn''t right! Is this an illusion?!"


    Although Harris had the Druids prepare in the shortest time possible, he still couldn''t believe what he was seeing. Not just him, all the Druid experts couldn''t believe their eyes!


    All the Psychics of Cloudview County had already evacuated.


    So why had they come back?


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    With so many Druid priests and High Priests present, their Competent Force could survey thousands of miles.


    Why had these experts from Cloudview County come, and yet they had not noticed at all?


    Everything that happened today felt so surreal, so bizarre, it was like Harris, the High Priest, was trapped in a nightmare.


    "What have you done?!"


    Harris, the High Priest, eyes bloodshot, charged towards the man sitting on the throne above Border town. He recognized him, Blackwood Daniel! That guy was still mocking him with a smirk, as if watching a fool''s antics, making him want to tear that smirk off his face!


    Daniel remained unmoved, that smile slowly driving Harris, the High Priest, to madness. Martin''s oldest ancestor had already intercepted Harris!


    The two sides'' natural energies clashed fiercely for a long while. Suddenly, Harris, the High Priest, angrily stared at Luna and the Primordial Blood Tree, who had retreated back to Border town due to injuries and were sitting cross-legged, recovering.


    "It was you! You two despicable creatures!"


    At these words, Luna and the old tree remained seated cross-legged, their faint snickers through their breaths said it all!


    ...


    "Ha! Our family''s old fox has really played those Druids for fools!" Donna''s physical strength surged, her petite frame bulking up with muscles like a wild bull, as she entered a state of frenzy. Now at the stage of Developing Skill, she wasn''t mad enough to lose sight of friend from foe. Charging into the crowd with a Psychic rush, she laughed wildly!


    She remembered the days in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where Uncle Daniel was not just about power plays. She recalled seeing all kinds of books on his desk, and once asked if he intended to pursue scholarship.


    But Uncle Daniel had said that reading books wasn''t just about scholarship; an empty mind couldn''t control the scheming demons and righteous Psychics of the Thunderfire Demon Cave without some ink in the belly.


    Today, these Druids would see just how rotten the ink in Uncle Daniel''s belly could be!


    Behind Donna, seated on the Demon Buddha Lotus were Charles and Christopher, two men who feared little. Yet, hearing Donna''s words, they both paled, glanced back to see if Uncle Daniel had noticed, and only relaxed when they saw he hadn''t. They continued their slaughter of the Druids, whispering to Donna, "Don''t be reckless, or you''ll catch Uncle''s cunning eye."


    These two knew better than anyone how deviously clever Uncle Daniel could be, having spent the most time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave!


    Ethan, watching the screen with eyes glowing white, shifted the view just in time to catch this trio''s muttered criticisms, his lips curling into a slight smile.


    The event log was clear for all to see:


    [Your descendant Daniel has led the Blackwood forces back to Cloudview County!]


    [Your descendant Daniel, waiting on the road, has welcomed George leading his people back!]


    [They continued to wait, welcoming back the Blackwood clansmen and the Primordial Blood Tree, which had broken through to Competent Force.]


    [Special Event¡ªStrategizing against Druids]


    "Strategizing with surprise, the plan began the moment the Primordial Blood Tree arrived," Ethan sneered at the still bewildered High Priest Harris in the sky.


    After breaking through to Competent Force, the Primordial Blood Tree possessed innate spells: Sky Canopy, which could integrate into spells and shield others from divination.


    Before this, the Primordial Blood Tree also had the spell ''Blood Realm Formation''.


    From the moment the Primordial Blood Tree appeared, snow began to fall from the sky, turning the entire Azure Cloud Border town blood-red, marking the start of Daniel''s plan. Otherwise, why would the Primordial Blood Tree, after years of accumulating blood, cause snow to fall over Gratitude Village, only to spend so much again at the borders of Cloudview County?


    It was all an act, a deception to paralyze the Druids, who felt assured of their victory, making them believe he was merely engaging in trickery.


    Deceive, and deceive again!


    This, in turn, caused the Primordial Blood Tree to expend a great deal of natural energies.


    Then came Luna''s spells!


    Originally possessing ''Enchanting Words'', which could bewitch minds, she became even more potent as the Thousand Charm Fox, with ''Thousand Schemes Technique'' allowing her to sway hearts at will.


    ''The Fox Descends to Earth'' allowed her to transform into a fox spirit, further shielding her presence. When the battle suddenly began, she had already used ''Shadow Multiplicity'' to crazily defend the Primordial Blood Tree, not to protect it, but to help mask its presence together.


    Then...


    The army silently arrived at Cloudview County, catching the Druids completely off guard, prepared against the unprepared, compensating for their lack of strength!

 Chapter 281: Chapter 281: Was it you?!

    At this moment, the Psychic warriors from Cloudview County burst forth, clashing with the Druids in a spectacular display of magic and elemental forces that shook both the sky and the earth. The power of the five elements spread far beyond a thousand miles. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Those who had once fled Cloudview County were now returning to their homeland. They brought back all the warriors of Cloudview County, stepping onto their native soil once again, vastly outnumbered by the Druids yet fearless.


    "I once fled, I once headed to the north!" Duke Kenneth, veins bulging with determination, charged at a priest with a coffin on his back, echoing the teachings of his real and adoptive fathers. "But we could never abandon our homeland! I, Kenneth, swear by my title as Duke, I will not retreat an inch in this life!"


    "To hell with the north, to hell with the cowardice of our forebearers, you Druid scum, I, Leon, am back!"


    "Azure Cloud shall not fall, holy spirits protect us, celestial soldiers descend from the clouds!"


    "Disciples of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, form up! Today we open the gates of the underworld and fight to the last man!"


    At this moment, every Psychic of Cloudview County charged into battle. They fought with a disregard for their own lives, as if reliving the struggles they faced 130,000 years ago when Azure Cloud was named. Today, 130,000 years later, these descendants had not forsaken the expectations of their ancestors.


    Even without knowing what the future held, they were determined to fight.


    At this moment, under Daniel''s strategic command, they formed the sharpest spearhead, breaking through the endless waves formed by the Druids.


    "Despicable Cloudview County Psychics!" Harris, the High Priest, furious and still battling Elder Martin, glared at Daniel who sat calmly, seemingly unaffected and not even sparing him a glance, yet constantly unsettling his mind. "Do you really think such petty schemes can save the falling tide of Cloudview County?!"


    "You have lost, the Emerald Empire has abandoned you, all your cunning is but a death throe!"


    "Even if my tribes retreat today, more will come tomorrow. Cloudview County has been ceded to us, the Druids, and in our lands, not yet at war with the Emerald Empire, with Basic Mastery at our disposal, you are but lambs to the slaughter. I wonder how long you can keep up your arrogance?!"


    At this statement, Daniel finally frowned slightly, impatiently retorting, "Such haste and waste, you are not even worth the disturbance to my ears."


    "You..."


    With just those words, and the disdain in Daniel''s expression, Harris, the High Priest, was once again mentally shaken. The Exploding Sky Serpent, laughing wildly, charged at Harris with a magic of myriad beasts formed by natural energies, scattering the spectral beasts before him. This failure in magic forced Harris to spit out a mouthful of blood.


    Harris, unable to speak further and lacking the strength to continue fighting the Exploding Sky Serpent, hastily retreated.


    Just as he sought another High Priest to join him against the Exploding Sky Serpent, his expression changed dramatically.


    A chieftain from the Endless Forest, having exhausted much psychic power and nearly collapsing, charged into the battlefield. He did not join the fight but rushed towards a battling priest, even as he was accidentally injured by natural energies, he screamed in agony, "Priest, High Priest! Hurry, go back, our tribe... is destroyed!"


    "Who? What happened?!"


    Harris, the High Priest, teleported instantly, grabbing the chieftain''s shoulders, but the chieftain died in an instant.


    Harris, stiff-necked, painfully turned to look at Daniel, who sat leisurely, his face full of resentment, "Was it you?!"


    "..."


    On the battlefield, all the people of Blackwood heard the furious roar of Harris, the High Priest, and stared collectively at Daniel. The third generation of Blackwood and many children who had suffered at Daniel''s hands felt a chill run down their spines. The Psychics emerging from the Thunderfire Demon Cave shivered and gasped in the cold air.


    Looking at Daniel, who appeared unconcerned and as if everything was under his control, they thought to themselves that surely this deeply wicked man had committed some outrageously evil act again.


    But what they didn''t know was that Daniel, maintaining his previous expression, was making the biggest decision of his life.


    "Although I don''t know what happened, maintaining such a dignified posture will surely make the younger generation revere me."


    "Brilliant."


    Above the Endless Forest, a group of experts watched everything outside the Azure Cloud Border town. At this moment, the six factions of Druids were already in decline.


    Weren''t these the same White forces who had nearly lost their natural magic array to the people of Blackwood?


    Now, they looked solemnly at the Azure Cloud Psychics above the Border town.


    A priest said in a focused tone, "Arnold, they''ve fallen into our trap, layer upon layer of schemes have led them into decline. But if we, the White, join the battlefield, we can turn the tide of battle!"


    Arnold and the White High Priest frowned.


    The priest''s words undoubtedly made some sense. Now, with the White tribe members in the Endless Forest, it would only take a moment for the experts to come to the rescue, and both the expert and ordinary Druid warriors could instantly turn the tide of battle.


    The White High Priest narrowed his eyes, "If you ask me, we should indeed fight. Arnold, whether it''s Nathan or Amelia from Blackwood, their talents are comparable to yours... to yours, and besides them, it''s also about eliminating future enemies for you. This time, it''s up to you to decide. My life is not much longer, and eventually, the White will be yours."


    All the White forces were looking at Arnold, with a hint of anticipation in their eyes, as the Druids loved to fight.


    But what they didn''t expect was that Arnold still shook his head, "Let''s go back."


    Saying this, he turned and led the way, exhaling deeply before looking up at the sky. He too wanted to fight, he too wanted to eradicate the Blackwood clan!


    But...


    He always felt as if there were eyes in the sky watching him, making his heart tremble!


    "The talents of the Blackwood clan will grow over hundreds or even thousands of years. Time changes many things, even if we win this battle, we, the White, won''t gain much. If we lose, it would weaken our White strength and provoke a powerful enemy like Blackwood."


    His voice reached the ears of all his tribe members, "Moreover, we don''t need to intervene. Cloudview County no longer has the protection of an empire, Apostle Mike has already made his move, and even those stronger than Basic Mastery can act. Let Blackwood enjoy this brief victory, their good days are numbered."


    Hearing this, the people of the White tribe raised their eyebrows, thinking that it was indeed wise of them to have nurtured Arnold, this genius. Explore more at m,v l''e-NovelFire.net

 Chapter 282: Chapter 282: Tell him, are we afraid?

    "Disaster has struck! A massive fire has erupted in our tribe, and the chief who watches over us has been assassinated!"


    "Our people are fleeing; I must go home!"


    "We can''t let our tribe be destroyed for the sake of Cloudview County!"


    Only Harris High Priest heard the news, but he was determined to fight to the death, urging his people to storm into Cloudview County and annihilate the Psychic of Cloudview County. Suddenly, more and more Druids appeared, shouting about the fire at the back of their ranks!


    The Druids began to panic.


    Who doesn''t have a family? Who wants to lose their real home while invading another place?


    Chaos spread like a plague, and the Druids started fleeing towards the rear!


    "We can''t flee; this is a despicable trick by the Azure Cloud people! I dare anyone to try it!!"


    The leaders of the six Druid factions roared in anger, but their cries were in vain.


    Harris High Priest even killed a Druid trying to escape with a totem, but it did nothing to deter the others!


    He grabbed another shouting Druid, and as he sensed the aura on the man, his blood surged, "Azure Cloud people? Azure Cloud infiltrators in my Druid tribe?!!"


    But even knowing the truth, he turned around, his face pale.


    It was no use; too many were fleeing. Even if he told the truth, the panicked tribespeople wouldn''t listen unless they were sure of their safety.


    "Retreat, retreat!"


    The retreat was inevitable. From the sky, Apostle Mike''s furious voice echoed, "A bunch of failures, can''t even control your own people! Retreat,"


    ....


    In just a short hour, the already chaotic Druids were routed by the numerically inferior Azure Cloud Psychic.


    Outside the Azure Cloud Border town, the Psychic did not pursue. Those who returned to Cloudview County stood proudly outside the ruined city walls, facing a landscape of carnage. They had reclaimed their homeland, driving the Druids out of Cloudview County once again!


    Above the city, the masters of Cloudview County gathered, each one battered and bruised, many of whom would forever rest in the Azure Cloud Border town. Yet, their fighting spirit was unbroken!


    Across from them stood Mike, along with the High Priests of the six Druid tribes and many Druid masters.


    In this brief respite, their eyes still held an unyielding sharpness.


    "It seems we have lost this battle."


    Mike stared at Nathan across the way. Nathan appeared unscathed, just as he was when he first came to Cloudview County. Facing Nathan, Mike showed no resentment from his defeat, instead, there was a sense of mutual respect and pity, "But Mr. Nathan, this is just the beginning. You shouldn''t continue to guard Cloudview County, and your Cloudview County Psychic shouldn''t have come back."


    At that moment, Nathan, his clothes torn and his upper body scarred, furrowed his brow.


    Indeed.


    He shouldn''t be standing on the wall, and the Psychic of Cloudview County shouldn''t have returned.


    He looked towards the endless Endless Forest, knowing this war was just the beginning. Cloudview County had been abandoned by the Emerald Empire, a forgotten land, but...


    Nathan turned to look at the Cloudview County Psychic behind him. He saw the children of Blackwood, each one scarred from the war, all looking at him with a mix of reproach for their elder who had kept them in the dark about defending the city alone.


    Behind him were many old friends, the unassuming Duke Kenneth, Jason who had once been trapped in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, the veteran Leon Daoist who had aided Blackwood for years... and Blackwood''s old friends from the Hundred Tools Sect, the practitioners from Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Demon Hunters Alliance...


    Hearing Mike''s words, these old friends of Blackwood showed no fear. They knew the road ahead was fraught with challenges, yet each one was fearless!


    Then what did he have to fear?!!


    Above the blood-soaked battlefield, where dust filled the air and snowflakes danced wildly, Nathan burst into laughter, his mirth causing the Druids opposite him to furrow their brows.


    "Brothers, did you hear that? Our enemy says we shouldn''t have come back. This man, Mike, is an Apostle of the Druids, and I believe him."


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    At this, Mike, from the opposing side, slightly curved his lips upward. Although he had hoped to eliminate Nathan for the Druids, he ended up befriending him and felt honored by it.


    Nathan continued, "He says we shouldn''t stay, so what lies ahead will be even tougher than today!" sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Michael once said he would trade the lives of everyone in Cloudview County for a glorious future, but we haven''t lost!"


    Snowflakes settled on everyone''s shoulders, each person''s gaze firm and unwavering.


    Only Kenneth''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Nathan''s voice replaced the warmth of the sun that was missing today.


    "Thirty years ago, the Druids first set foot on our land. We retreated but never gave up hope!"


    "Today, thirty years later, this place is once again filled with the bodies of Druids, and the people of Cloudview County still stand proudly on our homeland, defying the Druids!"


    "I, Nathan, am no saint, nor do I believe in blind loyalty to any cause."


    "I may not be the backbone of Cloudview County, but I know this place holds the memories of our Azure Cloud people, everything we''re familiar with."


    "Tell him, are we afraid?"


    Nathan''s voice boomed!


    "Ha ha ha!" Kenneth, who had always been a refined man, now covered in scars, spat blood onto the ground, "Mr. Nathan, are we scared of them? I can fight again right now!"


    "Yes, it''s just life and death. If I die, I die in my homeland!"


    Jason fiercely plucked out a few of his white beard hairs, glaring at the priest who had injured him earlier, "Despicable barbarians, daring to ambush me, do you dare to fight again?"


    All the Azure Cloud people roared, and the masked volunteers from across the Emerald Empire wished they could tear off their masks and smash them into the faces of the Druids.


    The people of Cloudview County were shouting!


    The six directions of Druids masters were furious but were stopped by Mike, who still smiled gently, "Mr. Nathan, the Druids never abandon their land, and we still have many tribespeople behind us."


    "Then come!"


    Nathan''s expression was cold.


    Mike shook his head, "There are elders above me, and even among the Apostles, I am but a weakling."


    Nathan took a deep breath, but his response was the same.


    "Then come!"


    "Well... good luck, Mr. Nathan."


    Mike sighed, seeing a group of stubborn mules, then led the Druids'' masters away.


    Far away, they soared above the defeated Druids'' army.


    Harris, the High Priest, dissatisfied, said, "Apostle, we can still fight, I..."


    But before he could finish, Mike slapped him across the face. Harris, initially furious, quickly changed his expression as he heard.


    "Spurt!"


    Mike spat out a mouthful of blood, and if not for the strong ones beside him catching him, the mighty Bird Totem Apostle might have fallen from the sky, "Apostle, you..."


    Mike shook his head at the priest, glaring fiercely at the pale-faced Harris High Priest, "Do you think I don''t want to fight? Do you think I don''t want to slaughter them at the Azure Cloud border?"


    He seemed unharmed when he was in the Azure Cloud Border town.


    But now, all the strong ones understood, Mike... was severely injured! No one could stop Nathan, and if they fought again, they would be defeated one by one by Nathan!


    "Alas."


    Mike sighed deeply, "We lost, but luckily I was clever, maintaining my energy and keeping the people of Cloudview County at bay."


    Everyone gasped in shock, thankful for the Apostle.


    Otherwise, they all would have died!

 Chapter 283: Chapter 283: One by one, the bodies of Psychics were buried

    Outside the town of Azure Cloud Border.


    "Nathan, Mr. Nathan, what''s wrong with you?!!"


    The strong ones of Azure Cloud were in a panic. The Druids had left a while ago, and Nathan had just entered the town to discuss future strategies with them. As soon as he stepped into the Psychic Sanctuary, he spat out a mouthful of blood, his breath chaotic.


    "Quick, quick, quick, Amelia, heal Dad!"


    "Why did you hold on for so long? If you were injured, you should have said something earlier!"


    "Mr. Nathan, it''s good that you held on, otherwise Mike would have broken us one by one!"


    On the bed.


    The severely injured Nathan was being treated by Amelia.


    He looked at the strong ones crowding the room, blinked, grinned showing his blood-stained teeth, and gave them a thumbs up as if to boast¡ª


    Look at how clever I am!


    In the room, Ethan had already taken off his headset. He had returned to reality from commanding the Azure Dragon, and he couldn''t help but let out a long sigh of relief.


    This war was bigger than any he had faced before. On the battlefield, it was essentially king against king. Beyond Developing Skill, they not only had to find opponents but also had to figure out how to use psychic powers to attack the enemy''s weaker Psychics, while also constantly guarding against the enemy''s strong attacks on their own weaker Psychics.


    In addition to various formations, totems, and ability weapons that needed to be ready at all times. But one should not underestimate the weaker Psychics; the Azure Dragon had been slightly injured by thousands of Druids using a powerful spell through a single totem.


    After taking a breath of relief.


    He looked at the event column.


    [You used the skill ''Forebearer Warmth'', healing your tribe collectively.]


    [You used the skill ''Forebearer Raging Waves''...]


    During this war, his mouse and keyboard were almost worn out.


    A series of messages appeared.


    [Your descendant Julian killed enemies on the battlefield, witnessing the might of the Azure Dragon''s abilities, and the Azure Dragon''s ability to transform a second time, seizing natural energies. He was quite inspired. The Exploding Sky Serpent killed enemies continuously exploding, he could feel the powerful force of thunder and fire, gaining a deep understanding.


    Acquired trait: The Art of Explosion]


    [He developed a deep interest in explosions, feeling that this was the true violence of men. Studying the explosions of natural energies, his insight increased by 10%]


    ...


    [Your descendant George, gathering the might of many ancestors, played the harp on the battlefield, feeling the murderous aura, successfully composed the ''Azure Cloud War Song'', comparable to a mysterious-level technique, recognized by the fortune of Cloudview County.]


    [When the ''Azure Cloud War Song'' is played within Cloudview County, the recovery speed of Azure Cloud Psychic natural energies increases by 20%, and the strength of natural energies increases by 5%]


    [Your descendant successfully composed a mysterious-level technique, profession musician, promoted to¡ªWar Song Composer]


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    [He preferred to compose war songs, when playing war songs, the effectiveness increased by 10%]


    [Acquired trait: Slacking Off]


    [He realized that by playing music at the rear of the battlefield, he was more useful to the war effort, having worked hard all his life, a strange thought appeared in his mind.]


    [Your descendant Jessica, under the command of her great-uncle, led the Cloudview County Psychics in battle formations at the onset of the war. She directed the Psychics to fend off enemies using strategic formations, and amidst the clash of formations and magic, her rank as an eighth-grade formation master broke through to a seventh-grade formation master.]


    [In such a grand-scale war, your descendant Jessica faced danger without fear, repeatedly leading the Psychics to alter the course of battle, always finding the enemy''s weak points, earning the trait: Blackwood Female General]


    [Wisdom increased, prestige increased when facing Psychics, morale boosted when leading Psychics.]


    ...


    [Congratulations, your family has led Cloudview County to victory in the war to reclaim Cloudview County! You repelled six tribes of Druids, killing hundreds of thousands!]


    [During the war, your Forebearer Psychic Position protected every member of your family. Although two family members and one family member''s wife died, your family members still felt the personal protection from the Forebearer.]


    [Family Will increased by +20]


    [Current Family Will: 42]


    "Did we still lose family members?"


    Ethan paused for a moment. The Blackwood family is large now, and he had done everything to protect everyone, but this is still a battlefield, and even his mouse was smoking from overuse at times.


    That was Jeffrey''s descendant.


    [Your descendant Timothy, bravely advanced on the battlefield as Druids'' Psychics attempted to use totems to summon Developing Skill realm beast spirits to attack the Cloudview County formations. Mid-Emerging Ability Timothy, fearless of life and death, found several Psychic Gears on a fallen ally and charged desperately, activating his own Psychic Gear to self-destruct in his final moments!]


    [Your descendant Jesse, took a fatal blow for his brother Rodney, who was preparing a formation, and prayed with his dying breath that Rodney would take care of his pregnant wife.]


    [Jeffrey''s wife, Jenna, was not by her husband''s side for the first time on the battlefield; she rode the demon king given by Larry, blocking the Druids'' army that surged from the sky towards her husband and many sisters, and died in battle.]


    At this moment, Nathan was barely able to get out of bed.


    A month had passed since the war, and outside Border town, the Azure Cloud Psychics under the command of the strong were cleaning up the battlefield, lifting the bodies of Psychics that were intact. Each one had a nameplate with their name, or their name carved on their body, a preparation every Psychic made before battle.


    They all knew that anyone could die on this battlefield, but everyone came with many hopes.


    Hoping to live.


    Hoping their bodies would be intact, found by their comrades, buried in their homeland with honors and praises from future generations.


    Hoping...


    Cloudview County would always be their Cloudview County.


    On the road from Border town to Cloudview County, there was a tomb where many Azure Cloud Psychics had gathered today. Competent Force strong ones used natural energies to create simple graves, and a lot of grass and trees floated up, forming coffins under the power of Competent Force Psychics, and many fallen Psychics found their resting places.


    The living strong ones of Cloudview County came in small numbers, they stood silently by the neatly arranged tombstones, some wept quietly, but many more raised their heads.


    They were proud, every person from Cloudview County was a comrade, they were proud of their comrades, facing countless Druids on the battlefield, no one retreated!


    Before long. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    One by one, the bodies of Psychics were buried, their names engraved on the tombstones. Some lucky Psychics had their bodies found by friends, and their tombstones would chronicle their lives. But everyone present believed that even those nameless, unmarked Psychics would not be mourned, their seemingly empty tombstones held the respect of all Cloudview County.


    And perhaps, those standing here might also die for this cause, they too would be like these Psychics, dying without regret!

 Chapter 284: Chapter 284: Would they spare my Blackwood family?

    "Grandfather, I want to leave for two days, to take Jenna and the kids back home."


    Jeffrey and his numerous wives and children were crying. His branch of the family was the largest, and they usually bickered over everyday matters. But at this moment, there were no more hidden conflicts among them.


    In this mausoleum, there were cenotaphs for Jeffrey''s wife and two children. They fought for Cloudview County, and they should be commemorated here, forever watching over their homeland from Azure Cloud Border town.


    Nathan sighed deeply. As the graves were covered with dust and sand, everyone at the mausoleum looked up.


    "Ah!"


    A flock of geese returning home at the end of winter sliced through the sky, heading towards Cloudview County, just like the fallen warriors of Azure Cloud, returning home to rest forever in Azure Cloud.


    "Perhaps this is what it means for us to go home and fight for Azure Cloud."


    Luna wrapped her arm around Nathan''s, her eyes dazzled, "Let''s go, my dear. For Cloudview County, we still have many battles to fight. War is like this, starting suddenly, but always hard to end as one wishes." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Yet, not in Cloudview County, people in Blackwood are still fighting for Cloudview County!


    Ethan looked at the continuous tombstones, sighed deeply, and switched the view to the Endless Forest!


    [Harris]


    A great fire engulfed Harris''s base, reddening the sky and melting the snow. The strong of Harris have returned.


    On a high mountain, Olivia stood at the summit, with William by her side! They quietly watched as one master after another flew back to Harris. The elderly, women, and children of the Druids did not die but knelt outside the fire, wailing and crying.


    Olivia''s voice was soft, "They invaded our homeland, yet lost their own homes. But they are fortunate, the Endless Forest is vast, they have many places to retreat to. It''s different for us people of Cloudview County; we are still on our homeland, yet we have no way out."


    The last time Olivia fought for fortune in Blackwood, she began to look like a charming older woman, now even more aged, her hair streaked with gray.


    "Great-aunt, you should have let me kill all their elderly, women, and children. Wouldn''t the masters of Harris have been desperate when they returned?" Continue reading at m|v-l''e -NovelFire.net


    William clasped his hands behind his head, chewing on a blade of grass, unable to bear Olivia''s moralizing, "Have you been too peaceful for too long, read too many books, and actually believed those saintly nonsense? Just setting a fire and spreading rumors through the agents you once placed among the Druids is really boring."


    Hearing this.


    Olivia still had a kind expression, smiling gently, "Killing cannot solve everything, this is what I''ve realized over the past hundred years. Think about it, if we had killed them all, would they still come back?"


    This actually made William pause, "No, they''d probably be desperate and fight to the death in Border town."


    "If we really did that, could you and I escape from the Druids?"


    "Probably not, then even the Basic Mastery stage would come out."


    "Would they spare my Blackwood family?"


    "Even a fool would guess it was our doing."


    William scratched his head naively, "Great-aunt, you''ve thought this through. But now, although our family has won, they might attack at any time, even with Basic Mastery stage masters... What do we do?


    Grandfather''s abilities have been exposed, and so have the abilities of the second great-aunt, both are beings of the ninety-ninth thunder tribulation, Grandfather even managed to fight Apostle Mike to a standstill, they must be eager to eradicate our Blackwood family."


    Facing the masters from all sides is not a dead end, this is!


    And this time, Olivia had no other choice, she just smiled faintly, "We''ve already borrowed a lot of fortune, how to undergo the tribulation will depend on fate. The Primordial blood tree has also transformed, it can guide our clan members, as for us, there''s still much to do. To truly get through this calamity, the endless battles on the battlefield cannot solve the problem."


    "This should have been the war of the Emerald Empire, so let their war continue, I want to see how many people they can abandon for this."


    She looked towards the depths of the Endless Forest. The twelve Druid tribes, twelve totems, not just the Bird Totem!


    And there it was...


    "Moon Dragon Totem!" William''s eyes lit up, "Great Aunt is about to..."


    They moved through the shadows, unseen on the battlefield, unknown for their deeds, yet still tirelessly working and fighting for their clan!


    [Your descendants Olivia and William, rush to the location of the Moon Dragon Totem among the twelve Druids.]


    [Your descendant William emerges from the grand natural magic formation, his undercover plan having failed, leaving him despondent for six whole months. Now, on a secret mission with Great Aunt, he finally feels the joy of being alive, earning the trait: Great Aunt''s Shadow]


    [Unconditionally following Great Aunt''s orders, his wisdom increases by 20%]


    ...


    The Druids were retreating, but soon they began to station themselves outside the Endless Forest, continuously gathering more Druids from all around the Endless Forest.


    In the starry night.


    Mike was still severely injured, and with such wounds, even with a plethora of herbs, it might take two to three years to fully recover, to cleanse the deathly aura imbued by the Death Coffin. At that moment, he was kneeling before the bonfire, with many Druids'' High Priests and priests behind him, surrounded by the tribe''s totems.


    As the crowd chanted spells, the flickering flames gradually formed the pattern of a phoenix, lifelike as it soared into the night sky, circling above before forming a pattern in the air.


    "Reporting to the elder."


    Mike knelt on one knee, his head bowed in guilt, "In the battle of Azure Cloud, they were defeated. They underestimated Cloudview County, underestimated Azure Cloud Blackwood, they..."


    Before he could finish.


    A flash of fire from the pattern above shot towards Mike, and he dared not resist; dust rose from his chest as he spat out blood again, now it would take at least four to five years to heal.


    Mike, disregarding his injuries, struggled to his feet, the surrounding High Priests and priests trembling with fear, he knelt and said, "Elder, they need support, Azure Cloud Blackwood is extraordinary, they have a woman, Amelia, a Pinnacle Apprentice about to break through the ninety-ninth thunder tribulation.


    Blackwood''s ancestor, newly entered into Competent Force, named Nathan, practices the path of death energy, commanding Zombies and spirits, also a rare talent among those who reach the Pinnacle Apprentice level."


    This time, the pattern did not inflict punishment, Mike''s expression solemn, "These two are exceptionally talented, if they achieve Basic Mastery, they will one day be a great threat to our Bird Totem. Now, Cloudview County is our Druids'' land, it will not provoke the mighty ones from Emerald Empire, please elder, send the elders to eliminate them!"


    After a moment.


    Mike stood atop an ancient tree, gazing at the Morning Star over the vast sea, he sighed, "Elder is so cautious about Blackwood, to deal with such a small clan, three people were sent?"


    "Mr. Nathan, I respect heroes, but you never heed advice. Forgive me for being underhanded once, I can no longer afford a fair fight with you."

 Chapter 285: Chapter 285: Isolated City

    Half a month passed in a blink.


    By now, almost all the county towns on the southern border of the Emerald Empire had been occupied by the Druids.


    The Druids had begun to transform the land of these county towns, some even a year ago, and it was difficult to find any trace of the Emerald Empire.


    On the southern border of the Emerald Empire, Cloudview County, which still retained some of its former appearance, was so conspicuous.


    Every day, Psychics still came to Cloudview County on their swords.


    If they were independent cultivators, they were not afraid of being recognized.


    If they had a master and were righteous, they would wear masks.


    Even if they were recognized, they would still put on a show so as not to cause trouble for their sects or families.


    Every one of them had seen Daniel''s call for help.


    The Emerald Empire had ceded territory and sought peace, losing its backbone.


    Cloudview County was the last backbone of the Emerald Empire.


    They were willing to fight for Cloudview County and contribute their meager strength.


    If they won the battle, perhaps they could make the ancient god change his mind.


    Of course, there were also those who fought for the sake of fighting.


    Fighting against the Druids with the Azure Cloud Psychics also meant that there was a possibility of gaining benefits from the Druids.


    "Cloudview County..." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment, two people were flying towards Azure Cloud on their swords.


    One was a young man with ordinary looks, and the other was a man in armor, extremely burly.


    As soon as the strong man entered the territory of Azure Cloud, he was stunned.


    "It''s actually still standing?"


    This person was none other than Owen, the ever-victorious general who had brought Edward from the imperial capital.


    Coincidentally, a Psychic riding a tiger came from below.


    He must have cultivated some kind of "Wind Listening" technique.


    He looked up and shouted, "Fellow Daoist, where are you from? Haven''t you heard? Cloudview County has won a great victory!"


    Edward''s eyes were filled with joy.


    He clenched his fists in his sleeves and let out a long breath, as if speaking to himself.


    "General Owen, you should have believed me. There is still hope for my Blackwood clan. My people will not be defeated!"


    Owen had already flashed down in an instant, startling the tiger-riding Psychic.


    His eyes were gleaming.


    "Tell me more."


    Owen looked up at the sky and shouted, "Edward, don''t you want to know about your family?"


    "Humph! I know that my Blackwood clan will win. Why should I be curious?"


    Ten minutes later.


    Owen watched as Edward slapped his thigh excitedly, tears streaming down his face, and shouted, "Good, good, good! All the forces have returned. My second uncle''s brilliant plan has driven the Druids back to where they came from, hahaha!"


    "..."


    Owen waved his hand, dismissing the Psychic, and looked at Edward with a solemn expression.


    "Your second uncle''s brilliant plan... You said that the conditions you mentioned to the ancient god in the grand hall were also taught to you by your great-grandfather Nathan. It seems that he is not a simple man either. Your great-grandfather has good methods. This time, the Blackwood clan is saved."


    "Hmm?"


    ...


    At this moment, in Border town, the major forces of Cloudview County were discussing in the space opened by Marcus.


    The war was far from over.


    Apostle Mike had made it very clear that the entire Emerald Empire was weak in the face of the Druids, let alone Cloudview County?


    They were facing a behemoth!


    Everyone sat on prayer mats in the center, talking.


    However, they could not see that in this Sky Hall, there was an existence that was free from space and time, staring at a pile of broken copper and iron in the corner.


    These were all spoils of war obtained from the Druids!


    [You have used the skill Forebearer Moment!]


    [Detected that your strength has reached the Competent Force stage, consuming 1 Family Will per year]


    [Possessing natural energies, you can move freely within a hundred meters of the Forebearer Psychic Position and instantly appear next to the Forebearer Psychic Position possessed by your descendants. Within the territory, you can move freely and use skills.]


    ...


    [Congratulations, your family has won a great victory and obtained a large number of spoils of war]


    [Beast Tribe - Ten Thousand Beasts Totem]


    [Sacrificial Druid Bones +3]


    [Various spells]


    [Druid corpses...]


    Ethan had entered the game world early on. Find your next adventure on m_v l|e-NovelFire.net


    He had decided to be a hardworking Forebearer.


    At this moment, this pile of things from the Druids caught his attention.


    The Druids'' cultivation system was different from that of humans.


    The things they used were also related to bloodline power, such as these totems.


    [Beast Tribe - Ten Thousand Beasts Totem]


    [Rank: Seventh Grade Witch Artifact]


    [By using Druid bloodline to transmit faith to the totem, one can activate the Ten Thousand Beasts Totem and summon the illusory shadows of ten thousand beasts. It can accommodate beast souls and urge them to fight for the totem.]


    ...


    [Sacrificial Druid Bones]


    [Rank: Competent Force]


    [The bones of a Druid sacrifice. When integrated into the body, they can enhance bloodline power and inherit the secret techniques of the Competent Force sacrifice''s spells. The mortality rate for those below Competent Force... The success rate for humans...]


    ...


    A whole bunch of things, for the people of Cloudview County, only the herbs and Druid corpses obtained from them were useful.


    It was no wonder that the Psychics of the Emerald Empire were too lazy to fight the Druids.


    There was not much benefit in fighting them.


    It was better to trade with them.


    "The third generation of the Blackwood clan can use these things."


    Ethan looked at the Druid bones on the ground thoughtfully.


    The current Thomas already possessed Druid bloodline and was even cultivating spells!


    At this moment, the third generation of the Blackwood clan was standing in the corner of the Sky Hall.


    After experiencing multiple deaths and fusing with the Druid bones, the pair of fleshy wings on Thomas''s back had grown a bit bigger...


    It was probably because he possessed the bloodlines of humans, Druids, and demons, resulting in some unknown mutation.


    "Thomas has advanced to the Developing Skill stage after fusing with the Druid bones. The third generation of the Blackwood clan should also try more. The family is united, and their bloodlines don''t matter. Anyway, they are all my descendants."


    Ethan secretly made up his mind and decided to wait for a while to ask for their opinions using the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    He then walked towards the place where everyone was discussing.


    At this moment, the Competent Force ancestors of Cloudview County were talking about the war in Cloudview County.


    Just listening to a few words, Ethan was already focused.


    This great victory was only the beginning of the crisis!


    A light blue pop-up window appeared before his eyes.


    [Special Event - Isolated City]


    [News from the imperial capital has arrived. Your descendant Edward was unable to change the ancient god''s royal decree. The ancient god is the supreme ruler of the Emerald Empire, and his words are law. However, Edward also received a promise from the ancient god in the grand hall. If the experts of the Emerald Empire want to enter Cloudview County, they must obtain the Blackwood clan''s consent.]


    [Cloudview County has become an independent and unique existence outside the empire.]


    This was the significance of never paying taxes and the Blackwood clan not kowtowing in the grand hall.


    "In other words, the current Cloudview County is equivalent to a small country that doesn''t have to pay tribute? It is surrounded by the Emerald Empire and the Druids. "


    "Because of the agreement between Edward and the ancient god, as long as the Blackwood clan doesn''t mess around, according to the ancient god''s personality of keeping his word, the Emerald Empire cannot send anyone above Competent Force to interfere in the affairs of Cloudview County, at least not openly..."


    Ethan''s eyes suddenly lit up.


    At the same time, Nathan smiled at the many Psychics and said, "Everyone, we will have more help in the future."


    Everyone looked at this seemingly honest and simple man.


    "I sent Edward to the grand hall a year ago to ask for a promise after my death. Anyone above Competent Force must report before entering Azure Cloud. Cloudview County will never pay taxes, the Blackwood clan will not kowtow in the grand hall, and we will have the title of Duke."

 Chapter 286: Chapter 286: I have seen it

    Everyone was puzzled.


    Nathan''s expression turned playful. "Everyone has overlooked the first half of the agreement, because ''no taxes'', ''no kowtowing in the grand hall'', and ''the title of Duke'' are already greedy enough. But the most overlooked condition is the most important one."


    "Think about it, everyone. Psychics above Competent Force need to report before entering Azure Cloud. At least, the empire can''t send people here openly. What does this mean?"


    Nathan let out a long breath. "Guess what, every year in the Emerald Empire, there are many rebellious people who are hunted down by the righteous path, by the grand hall, and by the major forces of the Emerald Empire."


    "But once they enter Cloudview County, the Emerald Empire can''t send anyone to capture them!"


    "This..."


    The faces of the many experts in Cloudview County gradually lit up with joy. Kenneth even slapped his thigh. "From now on, anyone who has committed a crime will come to Cloudview County. At least in Cloudview County, they still have a glimmer of hope. They don''t have to flee anymore and can choose a place to cultivate their psychic powers!"


    "They will be our source of soldiers."


    Nathan''s expression turned grim. "At the same time, it will also embolden some people in the Emerald Empire. As long as our Blackwood clan remains in Cloudview County for a day, if anyone in the Emerald Empire has a grudge against others, they wouldn''t dare to act recklessly before, because of the influence of the major forces and the empire."


    "But now they dare! Our strength will grow. Given enough time, we will be able to resist several times the number of Druids from half a month ago!"


    Everyone gasped.


    They didn''t expect that Nathan, this seemingly foolish guy, had already paved the way a year ago!


    Nathan didn''t even know if the major forces would come back this time, and he didn''t even know if he could survive, but he had thought so far ahead!


    Those fugitives, which one of them didn''t have some skills?


    And after they came to Cloudview County, they would all serve the Blackwood clan and do everything in their power to protect the Blackwood people. Only with the Blackwood people around would the agreement between the Blackwood clan and the ancient god be effective.


    Perhaps there were already experts at the Basic Mastery stage or even above on their way to Cloudview County.


    Ethan silently looked at the traits on Nathan.


    He didn''t know when, but a trait had already appeared on him.


    [Trait: Wise Fool]


    ...


    "From now on, Cloudview County will be the city of sin."


    Nathan suddenly looked apologetically at the leaders of the various forces and said with a wry smile, "I''m sorry, everyone. I didn''t expect you to come back and guard Cloudview County with me." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I also didn''t expect that I would be able to defend Cloudview County this time. I thought I would definitely die, but I was paving the way for the future of my Blackwood clan. I didn''t expect this day to come."


    Hearing this.


    Kenneth smiled helplessly. "This is a good thing. These Psychics who enter Azure Cloud will also fight for this ''pure land''. However, besides guarding Azure Cloud, we also need to talk to our disciples and clansmen. There will be many experts with unknown origins and pasts coming to Cloudview County in the future.


    It''s better for them to keep a low profile when they are out and about, so as not to offend anyone they shouldn''t."


    "Understood!"


    Everyone nodded repeatedly. Even if they didn''t say it, they knew what to do. After all, a long time ago... they had encountered these freaks from the Blackwood clan.


    Jason of the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s eyes lit up. "Everyone, in order to make these experts fight for Azure Cloud, why don''t we add fuel to the fire? Let''s say that we have obtained secret treasures from the Druids, or that someone has achieved enlightenment overnight among the Druids. In this way, these daring Psychics will dare to challenge the Druids and fight alongside us."


    Immortal Master''s face was calm. "We can say that the Druids have harmed the people of Cloudview County. This time, we can use the name of the legendary Oracle Chamber and manipulate ''fortune'' a little."


    A sinister voice rasped, coming from Patriarch Ralph of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate. "Have you heard of the Human Refinement Pill? Using humans as cauldrons? This method can be spread throughout Azure Cloud..."


    Before he could finish his sentence, the many patriarchs of Cloudview County glared at him.


    If such a method were to spread, in a thousand or ten thousand years, Cloudview County would truly become a land of evil, and even they, the patriarchs, might be captured and refined.


    ...


    The old foxes in the Sky Hall were deep in discussion.


    Ethan was truly an eye-opener. In the eyes of other Psychics, they were all high and mighty, extremely dignified, and anyone who saw them would call them "exalted ones." Even before this, when the Blackwood people met them, they had nothing but praise for them.


    But only when they were on the same boat did they realize that none of them were really decent people. It was like two strangers meeting for the first time. Everyone was a little reserved, and the other party seemed gentle and refined.


    But after they became friends, they would have to get up in the middle of the night and complain, "What a bunch of lunatics."


    "Perhaps there is no such thing as good and evil in this world, only whether our values are compatible and our aspirations are aligned."


    Ethan shook his head and smiled.


    At least when the Druids came, the grand hall, which ruled over the entire Emerald Empire, did not come to the aid of Cloudview County. Instead, it was these seemingly bad guys who resolutely guarded this land alongside the Blackwood clan. Even on the battlefield, the demon cultivators brought by Daniel charged at the forefront.


    Two days passed quickly.


    Ethan casually switched between his Blackwood descendants and saw friends from all over the Emerald Empire who had come to help Cloudview County. These were truly righteous people. Most of them wore masks... He didn''t know who taught them, but they all had a steelyard embroidered on their chests, and they would tell everyone they met that they were members of the Oracle Chamber.


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    They even had tokens.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, colluded with the old tree and used the method of manipulating fate to create a new force in Border town - the Oracle Chamber (fake)]


    [Righteous people from all over the Emerald Empire have joined the Oracle Chamber (fake) to fight for Cloudview County]


    [Current number of members: 2185]


    "..."


    Looking at the event log, Ethan fell silent for a moment. He had found the culprit. As expected, it was one of his own.


    At this moment, above the Primordial Blood Tree, the Blackwood people stood on their swords.


    It was a valley. The valley was filled with the corpses of Druids. Blood was flowing. The Primordial Blood Tree had transformed into a ten-meter-tall tree. Its roots even floated on the blood, like water pipes, sucking the stinking blood.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree asks you if you are willing to expend the vast amount of blood essence it has stored to peer into a corner of the future for your descendants?]


    "Yes."


    Ethan nodded slightly.


    This time, the Blackwood clansmen in Border town were gathered. They all had solemn expressions. After so many years, they would not come to the Primordial Blood Tree for a prediction unless they were facing a crisis that they could not resolve.


    They had already peered into many corners of the future, and it was not a good thing. Many times, they would see the deaths of their clansmen, their own deaths, or a tragic future, and all of that was very difficult to change. After experiencing it time and time again, no one would doubt the old tree''s abilities.


    "Old tree, the Emerald Empire has abandoned us, and the Druids will not let us go either."


    Nathan''s expression was calm. "My Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation aptitude has been exposed, and Amelia''s aptitude has also been discovered by others. The Druids are probably impatient. I have no way to resolve this. The crisis is approaching. They will send experts to kill us.


    This is what I can sense."


    Hearing Nathan''s words, a human face appeared on the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree!


    The blood energy in the entire valley surged like fog. The Primordial Blood Tree''s aged face looked around at all the Blackwood people. Its branches swayed, and everyone could feel its joy.


    "I have seen it."


    "I have heard it!"


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s excited voice echoed throughout the valley. "I said it long ago. Cloudview County will be a forbidden land, the forbidden land of the Blackwood clan!"


    "Tonight, under the crimson moon, crimson snow will fall upon the Blackwood clan."


    "Everyone in Cloudview County will see that this is the Blackwood clan''s Cloudview County! All the nobles of the Emerald Empire will regret betraying Cloudview County!"

 Chapter 287: Chapter 287: Whats the point of bullying a group of children?

    "This is a protracted war. We will stand firm in Cloudview County. Everything has just begun..."


    The Blackwood people left the valley with grim faces.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s omens were always vague, but they saw hope in them.


    Everything had just begun. They still had many opportunities. They were still standing in Cloudview County, and that was enough!


    Perhaps someone would die tonight under the crimson moon, but if death could elevate the family to the heavens, then so be it.


    Ethan also narrowed his eyes.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s words had many meanings. He had already deduced many scenes from them...


    As he was thinking, Ethan''s mouth twitched.


    Charlie Crackle, who had transformed into a ten-meter-long dragon, came with Donna. Charlie Crackle frowned and said, "Old tree, you saw the crimson snow again? The last time you saw it, it was still..."


    The old tree was stunned for a moment. "Nathan asked me for a solution. I peered into the future and only saw them standing in the sky."


    "Ah?"


    Charlie Crackle was dumbfounded. Donna, who was riding on its back, scratched her head. "Then what about the crimson snow you mentioned..."


    The old tree transformed into an old man and winked at the dragon and the girl. "I want to go too. Last time, after I used my natural energies to form the Blood Realm Formation, Daniel told me that he hoped I would use this innate spell again when he appeared. He would descend from under the crimson moon, and the place where he was would be filled with crimson snow."


    "..." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan''s face darkened for a long time. As expected, Julian and the third generation of the Blackwood clan had fed the old tree a lot of things they shouldn''t have.


    When he teleported to Daniel''s side, Ethan''s face darkened even more.


    The Azure Cloud overlord, who had intimidated the Druids outside Azure Cloud Border town half a month ago and used a clever plan to defeat the Druids with a weaker force, was now sitting on his throne, giggling at a large bronze mirror like a senile old man.


    ...


    Night fell. As expected, the sky was filled with crimson clouds tonight, and even the full moon was dyed red.


    Above the border, the Blackwood people gathered!


    In the darkness, experts were watching everything in Cloudview County!


    They were among the clouds.


    "Did you sense it? Or did you receive the news?" Mike had originally come to give his opponent, Nathan, one last farewell, but he didn''t expect the Blackwood people to gather together. But after muttering to himself, he sneered. "So what if you received the news?


    The elders have arrived, and many tribes are approaching from three directions: Endless Forest, the former Starlight County, and Cedar County. Cloudview County is already doomed."


    Everyone in Cloudview County saw it.


    Under the crimson moon, Nathan''s figure, carrying the Death Coffin, was so clear. Luna, with her six tails swaying, was beside him.


    Behind them were Lucas, soaring through the air on his sword, Amelia, with her gentle light, and Julian, whose body had transformed into gold and iron!


    Marcus, holding the Sky Hall, Daniel, sitting on the throne, George, with many elders behind him... Many Blackwood descendants.


    Two Azure Dragons soared under the crimson moon, the red robes of the elders fluttering in the air.


    Every time the Blackwood people gathered together, it was like the most trustworthy guardian deity.


    The ominous blood-red night was unexpectedly reassuring.


    At least it was like that in Cloudview County.


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    "That is..." A terrifying aura came from Endless Forest, and pressure descended!


    At this moment, all the experts in Cloudview County soared into the air again. They felt the pressure of the Basic Mastery stage, and there was more than one!


    The Blackwood people''s auras erupted as they calmly looked at everything in front of them.


    ...


    At this moment.


    In a forest on the border of Border town, Edward was roasting a rabbit with Owen. Looking at the changing color of the night sky, Edward saw the figures of his clansmen standing under the crimson moon. He didn''t care and soared into the sky!


    But as soon as he reached midair, his shoulder was pressed down.


    A terrifying pressure rose from Owen. Owen, clad in armor, lowered his head. A helmet appeared in his hand, and he slowly put it on. A pair of gilded hammers appeared in his hands, and he let out a ferocious laugh. "Get down!"


    "You Druids are courting death. Since I''ve encountered you, I''ll let you perish in Cloudview County!"


    ...


    On the border between Cloudview County and Sunshine Prefecture.


    Justin had just stepped into the territory of Cloudview County. Looking at the crimson moon in the sky and the pressure that permeated the night sky of Cloudview County, his eyes widened. "Senior Bill, I told you long ago that these Druids don''t take you seriously at all. I''ve long wanted to use your name to suppress these Druids, but they all said they don''t know such a nobody."


    "A peerless hero like you should teach them a lesson. How can a firefly compete with the brilliance of the moon?"


    As Justin''s flattering words fell.


    Beside him, the man in the wide robe, who was small in stature and whose face was hidden by the brim of his robe, suddenly raised his head. His face was flushed, and his eyes were filled with satisfaction and pride under Justin''s flattery. His voice was arrogant.


    "Well said, young man!"


    "How can a firefly compete with the brilliance of the moon?!"


    Watching Bill Daoist turn into a black light and fly into the night sky, Justin wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and muttered to himself, "It''s a good thing I''ve been flattering him for half a year, exhausting all my knowledge."


    ...


    In the darkness.


    Diana looked at Amelia, whose face was grave, among the gathered Blackwood people. She puffed up her cheeks and grumbled, "You really forgot about Master. It''s been half a month, and you''ve been secretly following this traitor for half a month, and you haven''t mentioned Master once."


    With that, she let out a long breath.


    Then she looked back and saw two decent auras approaching. Diana raised her eyebrows. "It seems that the Blackwood clan can still find backers. Then this place..."


    "Doesn''t need me anymore."


    As soon as she finished speaking, Diana disappeared into the night sky!


    In an instant, she appeared at the place where Mike had communicated with the Druids that day and pressed her hand on the totem!


    The Bird Totem reappeared, and the sky formation activated.


    As if sensing Diana''s aura, the formation trembled.


    Diana smiled faintly.


    "So, what''s the point of bullying a group of children?"

 Chapter 288: Chapter 288: So many weaklings. This is troublesome

    Under the blood moon, crimson snow filled the sky.


    At this moment, all the experts above the Developing Skill stage in Border town felt a chill in their hearts.


    They soared into the air and looked towards Endless Forest.


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    "Basic Mastery?!"


    Kenneth, Martin, and the other four patriarchs, carrying their family''s treasures, rose into the air on clouds.


    Their eyes were filled with coldness.


    Patriarch Martin, the oldest of them, felt the strange energy around him.


    It was as if he had fallen into a quagmire.


    Cold sweat dripped from his forehead, and he couldn''t stop his body from trembling.


    But his face was filled with anger.


    "If I had another hundred years, I would risk my life to try and break through the bottleneck. How dare the Druids bully Azure Cloud for having no Basic Mastery?!"


    The six Competent Force experts exchanged glances and flew towards the sky.


    Then, one after another, the Competent Force experts and Developing Skill experts of Cloudview County rose into the air, like shooting stars under the crimson night sky.


    Among the Psychics from the border areas of the Emerald Empire who had gathered in the ''Oracle Chamber'', there were also quite a few knowledgeable Psychics. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unlike the experts of Cloudview County, they might still fight to the death against Psychics of the same level.


    But facing the pressure of a Basic Mastery expert, they were filled with fear.


    "A Basic Mastery expert coming here is already going against the norms of the world. Aren''t they afraid of incurring karma?"


    A Competent Force Psychic gritted his teeth and said, "This is too much!"


    "Do you dare to go with this old man?"


    An elder wearing a mask looked up at George and smiled.


    Under the pervasive pressure, the many Psychics looked at the elder.


    Although they were all wearing masks, some of them still knew each other''s identities.


    This person was Jesse Daoist from Sunshine Prefecture!


    Above a county was a prefecture.


    Cloudview County was also under the jurisdiction of Sunshine Prefecture.


    Most of the righteous people here were from Sunshine Prefecture, and Jesse Daoist had the highest prestige.


    As soon as he spoke, someone shouted, "What''s there to be afraid of?"


    The other Psychics'' eyes were filled with determination.


    "Then follow this old man and see if those Druid Apostles and elders dare to take our lives when we stand in front of Cloudview County! To commit such an act of bullying the weak!"


    As he spoke, Jesse Daoist soared into the air.


    He simply took off his mask, his purple robe fluttering in the wind.


    His face, which looked youthful despite his white hair, was filled with a hint of unrestrainedness.


    The Psychics who followed him also did the same, all with the determination and joy of facing death with equanimity!


    In an instant.


    At first, there were only Blackwood experts in the sky, but slowly, their numbers grew.


    More and more experts rose from Cloudview County''s Border town under the crimson moon.


    From a few dozen to a hundred, and finally, even Emerging Ability Psychics flew up on their swords behind the experts, facing the Basic Mastery pressure from Endless Forest!


    At first, they were nervous, but under the crimson snow, their expressions became extremely calm.


    That night.


    The bronze bell in Glory City tolled nine times!


    One by one, lanterns lit up in Azure Cloud''s Border town, and everyone raised their torches, almost igniting the night sky.


    Psychics gathered in Border town.


    Those below the Developing Skill stage couldn''t even sense the pressure of a Basic Mastery expert, but seeing the experts soaring into the air, they probably knew that danger had arrived.


    It was just a battle.


    It didn''t matter if the enemy was strong and they were weak!


    "Everyone..."


    Under the crimson moon, Nathan looked at the people gathered around him.


    He wanted to say something, but in the end, he didn''t say anything.


    He had said enough in the past half a month.


    He untied the Death Coffin, put his arm around Luna, and looked towards Endless Forest.


    The Blackwood people also silently took out their weapons.


    As the pressure of the Basic Mastery experts got closer and closer, all the experts of Cloudview County in the sky saw their enemies.


    Three people!


    They were dressed in white robes with firebirds embroidered on them.


    The patterns, made of unknown materials, shone brightly under the blood-red night sky.


    They were the three elders from the Bird Totem!


    One of them was a woman named Christine.


    Her long robe reached her calves, like a long dress.


    The robe was loose, probably hiding her curvy figure.


    She was extremely pure-looking, with long black hair draped over her shoulders and no makeup on her face.


    She seemed delicate as she frowned at the Psychics gathered in the sky.


    Her voice was as clear as a lark''s, but it also had a lifeless quality to it.


    "So many weaklings. This is troublesome."


    Her cold voice made the winter night even colder, perhaps because of the crescent moon behind her, which almost froze the surrounding space.


    "Elder of the Bird Totem, Moon God Christine."


    Perhaps seeing the troubled look on Christine''s face, Jesse Daoist from Sunshine Prefecture flew in front of all the Psychics and transmitted his voice to everyone.


    "You know me?"


    How could Jesse Daoist''s voice transmission be hidden from Christine''s divine sense?


    But she wasn''t angered by it.


    Instead, it was as if she had heard a child mentioning her name on the side of the road.


    She smiled playfully at Jesse Daoist.


    "Of course I do."


    Jesse Daoist wasn''t afraid either.


    He simply stopped transmitting his voice and said directly, "Many years ago, Sunshine Prefecture went to the aid of Golden Sprouts Prefecture and fought a battle with you Druids. Moon God, you also participated in that battle. My sect still has records of everything that happened in that war. I haven''t forgotten."


    As the saying goes, "Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will not be defeated in a hundred battles."


    Even in the face of a Basic Mastery expert, everyone in Cloudview County listened attentively.


    At this moment, Ethan was also among the crowd, ready to descend into the game world at any time to participate in this battle!


    Jesse Daoist continued, "Thirty thousand years ago, Moon God, you participated in the war between the Emerald Empire and the Druids in Golden Sprouts Prefecture. You used spells and divine arts, as well as the laws of the moon, to trigger a celestial phenomenon. "


    "With the help of your companion artifact, the Ice Moon Wheel, you froze a hundred miles around Golden Sprouts Prefecture. You were only at the early stage of Basic Mastery then, but you killed a Basic Mastery expert from our Emerald Empire. Now that I think about it, Moon God, you should be even stronger now."


    "Hehe."


    Christine chuckled softly.


    "I didn''t expect that someone would still remember something that happened thirty thousand years ago, especially with the short lifespans of you humans. I thought that you weaklings of the Emerald Empire had already forgotten about me."


    As soon as she said this, everyone was even more shocked.


    The Druids were protected by nature, and their lifespans were at least ten times longer than humans!


    A human Basic Mastery expert only had a lifespan of ten thousand years.


    This Christine was already a Basic Mastery expert thirty thousand years ago.


    Now... she was probably even stronger!


    Jesse Daoist snorted coldly.


    "Moon God, not only do I remember you, but I also remember that thirty thousand years ago, you froze a hundred miles and caused countless deaths. You were seriously injured by an expert from Radiant Sky Grotto. "


    "If the Druids hadn''t ceased fire with our empire and you hadn''t promised never to step foot on the land of the Emerald Empire again, you would have died long ago! Now, why have you broken your promise?!"


    As soon as he said this.


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    Christine''s face instantly turned ice-cold, and frost spread across the sky!


    The other two elders sneered, as if they were looking at dead people.

 Chapter 289: Chapter 289: This family never seemed to fight an unprepared battle

    Jesse Daoist, who had just spoken, had already activated his psychic powers, but for some reason, frost began to form on his body.


    Moon God Christine, her killing intent boundless and her face as cold as ice, had been enraged by Jesse Daoist''s words.


    "Radiant Sky Grotto... Thirty thousand years have passed, and I am still alive. Where is the person from Radiant Sky Grotto who seriously injured me? Little one, I originally wanted to spare your life, but you insisted on seeking death!"


    "Senior Jesse!"


    The expressions of the Cloudview County experts changed drastically.


    They could see that Jesse Daoist was using all his natural energies to resist Christine''s aura, but they could also feel Christine''s overwhelming power!


    They didn''t know what spell this woman had used, or how powerful the crescent moon behind her was, but Jesse Daoist, a mid-stage Competent Force expert, couldn''t move at all.


    If this continued, Jesse Daoist''s soul would be frozen!


    Jesse Daoist was clearly about to be frozen, but he laughed loudly.


    "Moon God, try and kill me! An expert from Radiant Sky Grotto seriously injured you once, but my sect also has powerful backers. I am the sect leader. If you dare to touch me, the Grand Elder of my sect will join the battle!"


    Hearing this.


    The other two elders frowned.


    They could see that whether it was Jesse Daoist or the other Psychics standing at the forefront with him, they all had the same expression as Jesse Daoist.


    From the very beginning, Jesse Daoist had intended to provoke Christine and force her sect''s Grand Elder to join the battle!


    These guys, knowing full well that Cloudview County had been ceded to the Druids, were still willing to die to give the forces behind them a reason to intervene!


    "Moon God, calm down."


    Just as the Cloudview County experts were about to make a move, and the three Druid experts were about to stop them, a sudden change occurred!


    The Cloudview County experts looked behind them in astonishment.


    Under the crimson moon, a ray of golden light shot towards them from afar, getting closer and closer!


    "Boom!"


    The shockwave formed by psychic powers was like a ripple of rules, spreading outwards.


    The frost that had frozen the surrounding space shattered inch by inch, and the ice on Jesse Daoist''s body melted like snow under a warm wind.


    In the midst of the three Druid Basic Mastery experts and the Cloudview County experts, golden light flickered.


    It was... a gilded hammer, radiating the power of rules, like the scorching sun in summer!


    "Hahaha! What a joke! Thirty thousand years ago, an elder from my Radiant Sky Grotto could injure you. Tonight, I, a junior, have come as well. Let''s see what progress you, the so-called Moon God, have made in the past thirty thousand years! Let''s see if your so-called thirty-thousand-year lifespan is something to be proud of, or the beginning of your shame!"


    Laughter echoed under the crimson moon!


    Jesse Daoist breathed a sigh of relief, but soon, like everyone else from Cloudview County, he was puzzled.


    Only the Blackwood people had smiles on their faces.


    Ethan, who was among the crowd, smiled faintly.


    [Your descendant, Edward, has returned from the imperial capital, bringing with him the new direct disciple of Radiant Sky Grotto, the ever-victorious general of the empire, Owen!] Explore stories on m,v l''-NovelFire.net


    "Who?!"


    Just by seeing the gilded hammer, Christine couldn''t help but take a step back.


    Her slender hand clenched tightly, and her previous composure and disdain for juniors vanished.


    Feeling the approaching aura, the memories of thirty thousand years ago flooded her mind, making her want to flee from Azure Cloud''s Border town!


    Seeing Christine''s state, the handsome young man beside her, also dressed in white but with one empty sleeve, snorted coldly.


    "Moon God, what are you afraid of? Thirty thousand years have passed. The person who injured you is already dead, and you have become stronger. What is there to be afraid of? Besides..."


    The Druid elder shouted towards the powerful aura in the distance, "Your Excellency, the ancient god has already ceded Cloudview County. You must be from Radiant Sky Grotto, right? As far as I know, every generation of Radiant Sky Grotto disciples serves the Emerald Empire. If you disobey the ancient god''s order, I''m afraid you won''t be able to go back and explain yourself."


    Christine, hearing this, still stared fixedly at the gilded hammer.


    The Cloudview County experts all looked at the Blackwood people.


    As expected, the Blackwood people didn''t seem surprised at all.


    In fact, they all had smiles on their faces.


    Good!


    No wonder the Blackwood people had been waiting in the sky above Border town early on.


    They had been prepared!


    In an instant.


    A streak of golden light flashed by, and everyone saw a burly figure clad in armor.


    He stood in front of the Cloudview County experts, reached out, and the gilded hammer flew into his hand as if it were an extension of his own body!


    He casually slung the two gilded hammers over his shoulders.


    Owen, the ever-victorious general from the imperial capital, the direct disciple of Radiant Sky Grotto, raised his head disdainfully, looked down at Christine and the other two elders with his chin held high, and said, "What disobedience to the imperial order? You barbarians are truly ignorant. I am Owen, the ever-victorious general. Haven''t you heard the saying?"


    "What saying?" The Druid elder frowned.


    "A general in the field is not bound by the orders of a distant emperor!"


    As the two elders'' expressions changed, Moon God Christine took a step back.


    Owen raised the gilded hammer in his right hand towards Christine.


    "And you, thirty thousand years ago, my elder seriously injured you. Today, I will make you remember the pain of that day!"


    "Boom!"


    In an instant, golden light burst forth.


    This general of the grand hall, who had been ordered to persuade the Blackwood people to leave Cloudview County, didn''t even utter a word of persuasion.


    Instead, he transformed into a stream of light and charged towards the three Druid elders.


    The battle began in an instant!


    At this moment.


    The expressions of the experts on Cloudview County''s side also changed.


    They all activated their Psychic Gear and weapons to resist the power of rules that erupted from the clash between Owen and the Druid elders.


    Fortunately, Owen used some kind of spell, and a golden barrier pushed them back.


    Otherwise, they would have suffered casualties.


    "General Owen... is truly valiant."


    Kenneth looked at Owen, who had charged out alone and was now fighting the three Druid elders in the sky, and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.


    He wanted to say "reckless," but he couldn''t bring himself to say it.


    Then, sensing the auras outside Azure Cloud''s Border town, he breathed a sigh of relief and said to the frowning Nathan, "My in-law, how did you manage to invite General Owen here?"


    When he was young, he had followed Michael to the grand hall and had seen many experts there.


    Naturally, he had heard of the famous ever-victorious general, Owen.


    It was said that this direct disciple of Radiant Sky Grotto had even followed Grand Tutor Gilbert to the East Sea to fight against the sea demons.


    "I don''t know either."


    Nathan shook his head, his expression still grave as he stared at the battlefield ahead.


    The battle between Basic Mastery experts demanded the full attention of all the Blackwood people.


    It was also the first time they had witnessed such terrifying power.


    Seeing Nathan pretending not to know, Kenneth rolled his eyes.


    Of course, he didn''t believe it, but he didn''t ask any more questions. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had a feeling that the Blackwood people had made a lot of preparations for their return to Cloudview County this time.


    Standing beside the Blackwood people, Kenneth felt inexplicably at ease.


    This family never seemed to fight an unprepared battle.


    What he didn''t know was that it was useless to ask Nathan about this.

 Chapter 290: Chapter 290: By charging in headfirst?

    At this moment, Ethan, who was in the crowd, watched Owen make his move, stunned.


    Although he knew that Owen had been brought by Edward and even knew that Owen would intervene, he didn''t expect this guy to just charge in without hesitation after saying a few words...


    "Good heavens, you didn''t even prepare at all, you didn''t even figure out the strength of the three elders before rushing in to fight them all by yourself."


    Ethan couldn''t help but laugh.


    "Is this how you, the ever-victorious general, achieve victory? By charging in headfirst?"


    As he laughed, Ethan glanced to the side and breathed a sigh of relief.


    Edward, who had returned with Owen, had quietly rejoined the Blackwood ranks.


    He nodded to Jessica and Daniel, and all three of them had relieved smiles on their faces.


    Then, Jessica walked over to the ''Oracle Chamber'' group.


    Among this fake Oracle Chamber, there were actually some real Oracle Chamber members!


    As soon as Jessica arrived, a Masked Man in front of her took off his mask.


    "I''ve done everything I can to help you. You owe me a big one."


    This person was none other than Jimmy, the one who had kidnapped Jessica, the leader of the new generation of the Cloudview County Oracle Chamber! Read the latest on m_v-l''e|-NovelFire.net


    "Mr. Martinez used the power of the Oracle Chamber to help my Blackwood clan get acquainted with General Owen and resolve the crisis in Azure Cloud. We will repay this kindness."


    Jessica bowed slightly.


    Ethan glanced at the panel in front of him.


    [Your descendant, Nathan, is guarding Cloudview County alone. Your descendants are trying their best to find help for Cloudview County. Your descendants, Jessica and Daniel, conspired to use the power of the Oracle Chamber to choose help for Cloudview County when Nathan ordered Edward to go to the imperial capital to ask for help.


    The most righteous ever-victorious general, Owen, was one of the candidates selected by the family...]


    The Oracle Chamber had been behind Edward''s ability to attend the grand hall, and even Owen''s request to come was due to the Oracle Chamber''s influence!


    One preparation after another, but unfortunately, the family''s success rate in seeking help from experts was not high...


    Many people who spoke up for the Blackwood clan at the grand hall that day were targets of the Blackwood clan, but in the end, only Owen was ordered by the emperor to bring Edward back.


    Ethan didn''t pay attention to these matters anymore.


    He slowly appeared in the middle of the Blackwood group.


    While many experts were looking up at the battle in the sky, shocked by the battle between Basic Mastery experts, the Blackwood people silently took out their Forebearer Psychic Positions from their pockets.


    The Primordial Blood Tree, in its human form, walked up to Nathan.


    The old tree''s expression was grave.


    "Nathan, I''m ready." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Okay."


    Nathan nodded slightly, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.


    "Then let the Druids see the true strength of my Blackwood clan after all these years!"


    "May the Forebearer bless us!"


    At this moment, all the Blackwood people lowered their heads, looking at the flickering Psychic Positions in their hands, and smiled faintly.


    "May the Forebearer bless us!"


    Below Border town, the people of Glory City who had left, men and women, old and young, had all returned.


    They stood neatly below Border town.


    The members of the Blackwood forces were the same.


    They all looked up at the sky, waiting quietly.


    ...


    The experts of Border town watched the battle in the sky, using their Psychic Gear and ability weapons to resist the pressure coming from above.


    But Owen was fighting three against one, and none of these three elders were simple!


    Moon God Christine, with the moon wheel behind her shining brightly and her body as cold as ice, continuously attacked Owen with ice crystals that carried the law of ice.


    Beneath her, ice crystals formed a domain, beautiful yet filled with murderous intent.


    Even in the vast sky, she had the ability to freeze hundreds or even thousands of miles, and ice dragons roared beneath the frozen ground that formed in the sky.


    Beside her, the young-looking Druid elder, also at the Basic Mastery stage, should have been able to regrow severed limbs, but his left arm was gone.


    As he fought Owen, a totem appeared beside him.


    He stretched out his right arm, two fingers together, and continuously drew in the air.


    Every time he drew a strange pattern, it would be engraved on the totem.


    Powerful spells formed from these patterns, pouring natural energies towards Owen.


    As he engraved more and more patterns, the natural energies became stronger and the totem grew larger!


    All kinds of laws appeared in the sky, forming barriers that trapped Owen.


    Christine''s ice attacks seemed to be countered by Owen.


    They couldn''t even pierce his armor, and the ice dragons were easily shattered by Owen''s gilded hammers.


    Owen was more like a body cultivator, his hammers smashing down with brute force.


    If it weren''t for the increasing pressure of the one-armed elder''s formations, which constantly blocked his path, he would have already hammered Christine to death.


    This made Owen anxious.


    He shouted angrily, "Who are you? What kind of spell are you cultivating? It''s so strange!"


    The one-armed young man continued to engrave patterns, ignoring Owen.


    He glanced at Christine, who was useless, and then at the elder who hadn''t made a move yet, his hands still tucked in his wide sleeves.


    He said in a deep voice, "Moon God, Shane, I''ll take care of this. You two continue with the mission. Kill all the Psychics above the Competent Force stage in Cloudview County, including the Blackwoods. Remember, don''t touch those Psychics who have backers in Cloudview County. There''s no need to cause unnecessary trouble for our Bird Totem."


    "Yes!"


    Moon God glared at Owen through gritted teeth.


    She desperately wanted to kill this descendant of Radiant Sky Grotto on the spot, to wash away the humiliation of being defeated by someone from Radiant Sky Grotto all those years ago, but she could only give up for now.


    Then, she and Shane, who had been closing his eyes and resting, flew down.


    Seeing this, Owen wanted to chase after them, but he was blocked by the one-armed young man''s formations, which had become layers of barriers, growing stronger and stronger.


    Just as he was getting anxious, Owen suddenly froze and looked down at Azure Cloud''s Border town.


    Another figure stood in front of the Blackwood people, and he breathed a sigh of relief.


    "The Blackwoods have another expert? Good."


    The young man also frowned.


    He had thought that the mission to eliminate the experts of Cloudview County would be simple, but he didn''t expect to encounter so many obstacles.


    He took a deep breath, sensed that Owen seemed to be getting serious, and decided to focus on the enemy in front of him.


    "So, you''re the leader of those two?" Owen could also tell that this one-armed young man was not simple.


    "Yes."


    This time, the one-armed young man finally responded.


    He said in a deep voice, "My name is Lester, General Owen. We are only here to complete our mission. Cloudview County already belongs to our Bird Totem. You shouldn''t be fighting against us. Now, you leave me no choice."


    "Hahaha! That''s bullshit! All under heaven belongs to the emperor. Cloudview County is the territory of my Emerald Empire!"


    Owen laughed loudly.


    "I am a general of the empire. His Majesty made a wrong decision, and as his subject, I am here to correct his mistake! I have a choice, and I choose to kill all you Druids, to show my empire''s determination to resist!"


    Golden light gathered in his eyes, his hammers collided, his aura several times stronger than before, and he charged forward!


    As his hammers rang out, he was like a god of war!

 Chapter 291: Chapter 291: What... what is that?!

    On the other side, Shane still maintained his unfazed demeanor. Christine, with the moon wheel revolving behind her, descended towards the Cloudview County forces below, ice crystals trailing in her wake.


    The ice crystals, imbued with the power of rules, shattered the formations that the Cloudview County experts had erected to shield themselves from the pressure from above!


    Just as the Cloudview County experts'' faces paled and the Blackwood clan frowned, reaching for their Psychic Positions, Shane, who had been resting with his eyes closed, suddenly opened his cloudy eyes.


    "Boom!"


    The ground cracked open, and a stone wall, stretching for six miles, rose from the earth at the border of Cloudview County, blocking Christine''s ice crystals!


    A young man''s voice rang out from the sky.


    "It''s them, Elder! They''re bullying our Blackwood clan! I told you, you''re our Blackwood''s backer! Look what they''re doing! Isn''t this a slap in your face?"


    The ice crystals in the sky collided with the towering wall, and ripples of rules spread through the air, forming a transparent wall between the border of Cloudview County and Endless Forest.


    Seeing this scene, and the calm expressions of the Blackwood clan, all the experts of Cloudview County turned their gazes towards the silent group. So, they had been keeping a low profile all this time, but they had quite a few backers! S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Who is it? Who is stopping me again?!"


    Christine could no longer remain calm. This sudden arrival had blocked her again, and she could sense that this person also countered her!


    Shane shook his head at Christine. "Moon God, don''t be impulsive. Continue with the mission."


    With that, he flew towards the source of the psychic power fluctuation.


    Christine flew over the wall and stared down at the Cloudview County forces, her eyes narrowed. "Now, let''s see who else can save you?!"


    As soon as she finished speaking, ice crystals rained down on Cloudview County once more.


    As the Cloudview County experts frantically used their spells and abilities to resist the ice crystals, Nathan roared, "Old tree, assist the Forebearer in activating the Forebearer''s Arcane Formation!"


    That night, the Primordial Blood Tree revealed its true form, towering over 300 feet tall!


    Thirty years ago, their Forebearer had bestowed upon them the ''Forebearer''s Arcane Formation,'' which could gather the strength of the entire village. They had never used it. Tonight, after over a hundred years, the village had become a town, and then a city!


    Tonight, under the blood moon, the Blackwood Forebearer''s Arcane Formation was activated!


    In the eyes of everyone in Cloudview County, the roots of the Primordial Blood Tree descended from the sky like spider silk, attaching themselves to all the Blackwood descendants, as well as everyone in Glory City and the experts belonging to the Blackwood forces!


    At this moment, their bodies flickered with light, and without exception, a single character lit up on each of them - B!


    "What is that?!"


    Christine, who was manipulating the ice crystals in midair, was stunned. She could sense a strange figure appearing before the Primordial Blood Tree!


    Not only her, but Owen and Lester, who were locked in battle, as well as Shane and Bill Daoist, who had just clashed with their rules, all turned their gazes towards the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Forebearer Psychic Positions in front of the Blackwood clan members floated eerily towards the Primordial Blood Tree.


    They merged into a single Psychic Position, thirty feet tall. The roots of the Primordial Blood Tree connected to the back of the Psychic Position, and a figure formed from black mist appeared in front of it.


    He stood upon the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, wielding a silver spear, his head radiating black and white light.


    With a wave of his spear, all the ice crystals that Christine had unleashed shattered, scattering dazzling shards of light through the blood-red night!


    Then, the spearpoint flashed, and he disappeared, reappearing in an instant before Christine, aiming for her head!


    "Hold nothing back! Channel your psychic powers with me!"


    Nathan roared, his natural energies surging, flowing into the roots that the Primordial Blood Tree had extended towards him. His natural energies, along with his strength, were being rapidly depleted!


    The power within every Blackwood descendant erupted!


    As did the power of every citizen of Glory City.


    The family character tattooed on their bodies blazed with light. In response to Nathan''s roar, they all raised their heads to the sky and, without hesitation, grabbed onto the roots of the Primordial Blood Tree, pouring their strength into them without reservation.


    For over a hundred years, everyone who had joined Glory City and pledged their loyalty to the Blackwood clan had had the family character tattooed on their bodies. The true foundation they had built over a century was not pills or Psychic Gear, but the Forebearer''s Arcane Formation!


    They all knew that this tattoo not only granted them the protection of the Blackwood clan when they were away from home, but it was also the Blackwood clan''s true trump card in times of life and death. And tonight, under the blood moon, they finally understood the true meaning of this tattoo!


    The roots of the Primordial Blood Tree drew strength from every citizen of Glory City.


    Their bodies felt hollow, their strength draining away, but every single person in Glory City looked up at the sky, their eyes filled with excitement.


    They might still be weak, but tonight, they were all participating in this battle, contributing their strength!


    Your next chapter is on m v|l-e''-NovelFire.net


    ...


    "What... what is that?!"


    "Hahaha! The Blackwoods still have a trump card! How dare the Druids bully Azure Cloud for having no Basic Mastery?!"


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    That night, everyone on the border of Azure Cloud watched this bizarre scene in shock.


    High in the sky, the Primordial Blood Tree towered over 300 feet tall. Its roots stretched out, countless in number, connecting to every single person in Glory City like a bridge, drawing upon their strength!


    Under the blood moon, everyone whose strength was being drawn upon by the roots glowed with a strange red light.


    Before the Primordial Blood Tree, the Blackwood clan''s Forebearer Psychic Positions merged into one gigantic form, and the figure of black mist appeared on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal. As more and more roots pierced into the Forebearer Psychic Position, the black mist''s power grew steadily!


    And then...


    The spearpoint flashed!


    That night, under the crimson moon, all color drained from the world, leaving only the dazzling spear, thrust towards Moon God Christine.


    The spear pierced forward, and the sky was engulfed in white light. Christine retreated frantically!


    Ice walls appeared before her one after another, but the spear was unstoppable. The ice walls shattered, the fragments scattering like beautiful snowflakes under the crimson moon. The ice walls continued to shatter, faster and faster, as if the night sky itself was being torn apart by that peerless spear!

 Chapter 292: Chapter 292: Stop! Cant you hear me?!

    "What a terrifying spear!"


    Even Owen, who had witnessed the Blackwood''s Forebearer Arcane Formation and the eerie sight of the Primordial Blood Tree''s roots spreading, felt a shiver run down his spine.


    However, the appearance of the black mist figure eased his worry about Christine attacking the Blackwoods.


    No one knew the complex emotions that had surged through him in those few heartbeats.


    Now, he could only stare in awe at the black mist figure''s spear thrust!


    The black mist figure''s power continued to rise, from early-stage Competent Force to mid-stage, then to peak.


    What was truly terrifying was the spear''s unique ability to shatter all techniques, its tip crackling with the power of the five elements, the four seasons, mountains, rivers, and lakes.


    The most terrifying is the chaotic force of light and shadow, conflicting yet complementing each other. This power seems to embody all contradictions, capable of both destruction and creation!


    "If I were facing that spear..." Owen sucked in a breath, then abruptly looked up, sensing Lester''s aura growing erratic.


    Lester, too, was staring at the Moon God, who was desperately retreating under the devastating might of the spear.


    He was trying to recall his formations and go to her aid!


    Golden light exploded from Owen''s body as his gilded hammers clashed, the booming resonating through the air.


    Above his head, streaks of golden light rained down, embodying the most unbreakable laws, forming walls of gold that blocked Lester''s path. Enjoy new stories from m-v l''e|-NovelFire.net


    He grinned ferociously at Lester, who had been calm until now but whose eyes finally flickered with anxiety.


    "You wanted to stop me earlier, didn''t you? Well, your little buddy isn''t going anywhere either!!!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, Shane, the ever-silent elder, floated beneath the crimson moon, facing Bill Daoist, whose features were hidden by his hood.


    They hovered less than a hundred meters apart, these two Basic Mastery experts, motionless, their eyes locked.


    Their auras were as restrained as ordinary people.


    But in reality, their nascent souls were locked in a fierce battle within a void!


    It was a shattered world, Shane''s domain.


    He could drag the nascent soul of any opponent into this world, where he could wield the laws of heaven and earth as he pleased.


    Throughout the Emerald Empire and even among the demon races, few knew of Shane''s true power, for those who had witnessed it were no more, their souls extinguished within his nascent soul realm!


    Now, within this nascent soul realm, mountains spun wildly, resisting the onslaught of the five elements, molten lava, raging lightning, and countless otherworldly souls.


    Bill Daoist, who had kept his appearance hidden, finally revealed his face.


    The legendary Bill Daoist was, shockingly, a young man.


    He had clearly suffered quite a bit within Shane''s domain.


    Wiping the blood from his mouth, he glared at Shane, who was growing anxious, trying to withdraw his nascent soul realm.


    He snorted coldly, a hint of stubbornness in his voice.


    "To think I''d encounter such an expert like you! I almost fell for your wicked tricks!"


    "Now, don''t get distracted! Focus on our battle! You''re not going anywhere!"


    ...


    [Using skill ''Fight, My Dear Forebearer!'']


    [Detected that your strength has reached the Competent Force stage. Consuming 10 Family Will.]


    [Your descendants are gathering the natural energies of all Blackwood descendants and citizens of Glory City through the ''Forebearer''s Arcane Formation'' on the Primordial Blood Tree!]


    [Your strength is temporarily increasing!]


    "Pierce!"


    The spear, imbued with the power to penetrate all things, shot forward!


    Ethan''s strength surged, reaching the peak of the Competent Force stage... and still increasing!


    The Forebearer''s Arcane Formation continuously channeled power into him.


    "What is this... What are you?!"


    Christine''s previous arrogance was gone.


    She retreated frantically, erecting ice walls in front of her.


    But her mid-stage Basic Mastery ice walls were useless against the Celestial Pole Energy Spear, which could shatter all laws!


    Fear gripped her.


    Her ice shards pierced the black mist figure''s body, but it continued to lunge towards her relentlessly.


    This strange black mist figure''s power was growing!


    It was even... Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thump! Thump! Thump!"


    She could sense that the black mist figure was inherently weak, its rapidly increasing power tearing at its meridians, bones, and very essence.


    But still, it kept coming!


    Until... its aura reached the Basic Mastery stage!!!


    "You can''t handle this power! Aren''t you afraid of dying?! Stop, stop! I am an elder of the Bird Totem! I have authority! We can negotiate!


    I can guarantee that the Bird Totem won''t invade Cloudview County for ten thousand years! Just stop!"


    The wheel behind Christine spun wildly, pouring lunar energy into her.


    This power, a combination of lunar and ice energy, was even stronger than what she had used against Owen and Bill Daoist.


    But this time, she didn''t dare to attack!


    The black mist figure''s attack had been too sudden, its law-shattering spear too bizarre.


    Now, all Christine could see was the tip of the Celestial Pole Energy Spear!


    She didn''t dare to attack anymore.


    The black mist figure was getting faster, its power growing.


    All she could do was desperately erect ice walls with her natural energies and retreat as fast as she could.


    Christine had no idea how much natural energy she had expended.


    She just wanted to escape from this spear, from this damned Cloudview County!


    "Stop! You useless thing, stop! Can''t you hear me?!"


    Ice walls shattered, laws crumbled.


    Christine roared, pouring all her strength into her defense.


    She was no longer aware that her aura was fading, that the moon wheel behind her was cracking!


    But what she didn''t know was that Ethan couldn''t stop, even if he wanted to!


    Ethan remained silent.


    Christine was right. He couldn''t handle this power. No one knew the agony his body, though impervious to death, was enduring. The power surging through him was too much for his mortal form to contain. It was a pain far worse than being torn apart by horses, riddled with arrows, or even death by a thousand cuts.


    His black mist form was fracturing, his very being on the verge of collapse.


    But still, he pressed forward. His vision narrowed to the tip of the Celestial Pole Energy Spear and Christine before him. This woman had to die!


    The death of a Basic Mastery expert would cement the Blackwood clan''s position in Cloudview County. It would give his family the leverage to negotiate with the Druids.


    Even the empire, which barely acknowledged a Blackwood clan with only Competent Force experts, would have to take notice of one capable of killing a Basic Mastery expert!


    From then on, more and more powerful individuals would flock to Cloudview County, eager to serve the Blackwood clan.


    Compared to that, this pain was nothing. All that mattered was killing Christine before his body gave out!

 Chapter 293: Chapter 293: How could this be? How?!

    "Stop, please! Don''t... don''t come any closer!"


    On that night, under the torn crimson sky, every Psychic in Cloudview County heard the Moon God''s pleas.


    They all watched as the Blackwood clan''s strength dwindled, their life force fading with each passing second under the blood moon.


    The torn red curtain of the night expanded!


    Until, at the very edge of the shattered ice, the Primordial Blood Tree appeared in its true form.


    The Blackwood clan members collapsed, utterly spent.


    The gigantic Blackwood Forebearer Psychic Position crumbled, vanishing into thin air.


    The awe-inspiring spear and the mysterious black mist figure were gone.


    And so was Moon God Christine''s aura!


    The Blackwood clan lay on the ground, gazing at their Psychic Positions, which were once again whole and glowing faintly.


    Smiles spread across their faces.


    "The Forebearer blesses us!"


    The crimson moon faded.


    Lester, locked in battle with Owen, paled.


    He could sense it ¨C the Moon God had burned her nascent soul and life force!


    Now, her aura was gone, vanished along with the black mist figure that had pushed itself beyond its limits.


    "How could this be? How?!" Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Disbelief flickered across Lester''s numb face.


    They had been through countless battles, had expected this to be an easy slaughter of weaklings.


    Even when they encountered Owen and Bill Daoist, they hadn''t felt a shred of urgency.


    Never had he imagined that the Moon God would meet her end in Cloudview County!


    As Owen attacked again, a flicker of resentment crossed Lester''s eyes.


    "Ever-victorious general of the Emerald Empire," he said, his voice heavy, "you are indeed formidable. I look forward to our next encounter."


    "Next encounter? Let''s settle this now!" Owen roared.


    He sensed the Moon God''s demise, the Blackwood ancestor''s sacrifice.


    He understood that the Blackwood ancestor, their trump card, had perished alongside the Moon God.


    If the Blackwood ancestor had such resolve, how could he, a general of the empire, shy away from a fight to the death with Lester?


    But Lester merely shook his head, ignoring Owen.


    "Shane," he muttered, "this is no place for further conflict. We must leave before something else happens. Take me with you."


    "You''re not going anywhere!" Owen bellowed, his rule-infused power surging.


    Golden spikes materialized in the air around them.


    In the distance, Shane, still battling Bill Daoist within his nascent soul realm, sighed.


    "It seems this is the only way. A pity it will cost me a century of cultivation."


    As his words faded, countless souls emerged from his body, swirling around him.


    These otherworldly souls, a maelstrom of black mist, spread outwards!


    For a fleeting moment, every soul in Cloudview County felt a disorienting ripple.


    Even Owen froze.


    But in the blink of an eye, it was over.


    When Owen recovered, all that remained was Lester''s formation, holding him back!


    Lester and Shane''s auras were already far away, speeding towards Endless Forest!


    Another aura appeared beside Owen ¨C Bill Daoist.


    He only reached Owen''s ribs, his face pale from his injuries.


    The two of them, one tall and one short, stared towards Endless Forest, their expressions grave. Discover hidden tales at m,v l''e-NovelFire.net


    Only they knew the true extent of Lester and Shane''s power.


    "You are the general from the empire? Do you know anything about them? I''ve never suffered such a loss in all my years of cultivating psychic powers," Bill Daoist said, his face grim.


    Even in his pride, he couldn''t deny Shane''s strength.


    Owen shook his head, seemingly relieved.


    "I know nothing about them. The Druids'' lifespans far exceed ours. Since the founding of our dynasty, we''ve been in constant skirmishes with them. To be honest, this is only my second encounter with a Druid Basic Mastery expert. The last one was only at the early stage. The elders never mentioned Druid experts being this powerful.


    I suspect... in all these millennia of conflict, the Druids have never revealed their true strength."


    As they spoke, cheers erupted from the Azure Cloud Psychics below, but the two men remained heavy-hearted.


    The Psychics began tending to the injured from Glory City, offering them healing pills.


    One by one, the Blackwood clan members were helped to their feet.


    "Thank you, General Owen. Thank you, Senior Bill."


    Nathan, supported by Kenneth, was pale but managed a bow.


    "If not for your assistance, Cloudview County would have faced a disaster today."


    "Hahaha! You are too kind. You are Nathan Blackwood, I presume?" Owen asked, putting away his hammers.


    He glanced at the Blackwood clan members, and upon seeing Nathan''s nod, he said with admiration, "I''ve heard tales of your deeds. If only the empire had more people like you, we wouldn''t have to fear the Druids!"


    "If only the empire had more forces like the Azure Cloud Blackwoods and the other powers of Azure Cloud, we wouldn''t have to worry about its decline!"


    Bill Daoist puffed out his chest as if he had been the one to defeat Shane.


    "Those Druids were nothing! I could have swatted them away like flies. If they hadn''t run so fast, I would have left them no place to rest in peace!"


    The Blackwood clan expressed their gratitude profusely.


    Daniel and Jessica engaged Owen in conversation, their sincerity and the Blackwood clan''s honesty evident in every word.


    Justin, along with George and the fourth-generation descendants, surrounded Bill Daoist.


    They showered him with compliments, and the color gradually returned to Bill Daoist''s pale face, a smile tugging at his lips.


    As they talked, they made their way towards the edge of Border town.


    The remnants of Basic Mastery rule power still lingered at the edge of Endless Forest, a terrifying aura of light and shadow that seemed capable of tearing apart reality itself!


    A hundred-meter-wide scar marred the landscape, all vegetation obliterated, as if Endless Forest itself had been wounded.


    The scar ran deep, littered with shards of ice.


    Soon, the Blackwood clan and the experts of Border town reached the end of the scar.


    There, lying on the ground, was the figure of a woman.


    Moon God Christine!


    They approached, looking down at the once mighty being who had held their lives in her hands.


    "Alas."


    Owen, sensing the aura that had even given him pause, glanced at the impassive Blackwood clan.


    "Don''t grieve too much," he said. "Your ancestor sacrificed his life, but it was not in vain. His spirit will find peace knowing that he brought down a Druid Basic Mastery expert with him."


    "Indeed." Bill Daoist nodded solemnly.


    "I rarely admire others, but I must admit, your Blackwood ancestor deserves respect."

 Chapter 294: Chapter 294: ...Im still fucking alive.

    Although he had fought fiercely against Shane, Bill Daoist could sense that the Blackwood ancestor had only been at the Competent Force stage.


    With such limited strength and no external protection, forcibly channeling the power of hundreds of thousands, including that of numerous Competent Force and even peak Competent Force individuals, could only result in his demise.


    The fact that they couldn''t even find the Blackwood ancestor''s body meant he had likely been completely obliterated.


    Hearing this, the Blackwood clan members exchanged glances. Finally, a member of the third generation gritted his teeth, fell to his knees, and pounded the ground, his mournful cries tearing at the hearts of all who heard them.


    "Oh, Forebearer! We, your unworthy descendants, have failed you!"


    The rest of the Blackwood clan bowed their heads, clutching their Forebearer Psychic Positions, their grief palpable.


    "Alas." Owen and Bill Daoist, the two Basic Mastery experts, along with the other Cloudview County experts, sighed heavily.


    Beside them, Ethan, having finally recovered, reappeared in his incorporeal form.


    "...I''m still fucking alive."


    After muttering this under his breath, he grinned wryly, deciding to let it go. It seemed that sometimes, even in life, one could be considered dead.


    ...


    [Congratulations! You, through the Forebearer''s Arcane Formation, led your clan to slay a Basic Mastery Druid elder and drive away two others. All of Azure Cloud''s Border town was awestruck by your spectacular spear attack. Your death was a glorious one. Your descendants are filled with pride and boundless respect for you.]


    [Family Will obtained: 15]


    [Current Family Will: 45]


    [Congratulations! Your family has obtained spoils of war:]


    Stay updated via m-v l|-NovelFire.net


    [Mortally wounded Druid elder, Moon God Christine, and all possessions on her person, soon to become artifacts.]


    Christine lay sprawled on the ground, her body surrounded by ice crystals formed from rules, but her own power was gone.


    No one knew the terror she had experienced while fleeing from that spear. She had run with everything she had, burning through her strength, her life force, even her nascent soul!


    The crimson moon in the sky began to fade. Winter''s grip loosened, the long night receding as the first hint of dawn touched the horizon.


    "So... this is my tribulation, the price of my words."


    Christine, lying on the ground, looked up at the sky. She remembered that day, thirty thousand years ago.


    She had been defeated by a Radiant Sky Grotto disciple, just like today. She had begged for her life, just like today, consumed by the same terror. But that disciple had shown mercy.


    Thirty thousand years had passed, and she had forgotten her vow. Now, it echoed in her ears with chilling clarity.


    She had sworn that if she ever set foot on Emerald Empire soil again, she would meet a gruesome end, her nascent soul destroyed, her soul forever barred from reincarnation.


    "If only... I had kept my vow."


    With a final sigh, a strange sense of peace washed over Christine as she closed her eyes.


    She was gone. The Blackwood clan gathered around her, silently collecting the shattered fragments of the moon wheel. Owen and Bill Daoist, the two Basic Mastery experts, observed the Moon God''s remains. There wasn''t a single wound on her body, yet she was undeniably dead. Awe flickered in their eyes.


    "Under the Blackwood ancestor''s spear, she didn''t dare to retaliate, only defend. Even the slightest opening would have meant death," Owen, ever the seasoned expert, deduced.


    "She could only run. The Blackwood ancestor never even touched her. She exhausted her strength, her very essence, even her nascent soul, just trying to escape."


    Even he felt a shiver of fear. He couldn''t imagine the terror that had gripped the Moon God, driving her to deplete herself so completely.


    "Goodness..." Bill Daoist swallowed hard. He had never imagined such a pathetic way to die ¨C running until your very being was extinguished. But it also spoke volumes about the power of that spear, a power so overwhelming that the Moon God had no choice but to flee until she could flee no more.


    As they prepared Christine''s body for burial, everyone froze, their gazes snapping towards the depths of Endless Forest, towards the Bird Totem!


    The sun continued to rise.


    "Screech!"


    A fiery bird, engulfed in flames, appeared in the sky, taking the sun''s place. Its cry echoed across the land, filled with a chilling sorrow.


    Beneath the fiery bird, a pillar of darkness pierced the heavens, its energy rippling outwards.


    Everyone watched in stunned silence.


    The sky darkened, as if about to consume the world. This terrifying spectacle lasted for the time it took an incense stick to burn. Finally, light returned to the sky above Endless Forest. The fiery bird vanished, leaving behind a mystery.


    "That... that was Master''s aura."


    Amelia stared at the spot where the darkness had been, her voice barely a whisper. The Blackwood clan members exchanged uneasy glances. They all knew that Amelia''s master was the Demon Lord of Thunderfire Demon Cave. No one knew how long the Demon Lord Diana had been hiding in the cave, nursing her wounds.


    Amelia had been treating her for over a century, with little progress.


    No one knew the true extent of the Demon Lord''s power. Amelia had once speculated that she was at the Basic Mastery stage. Over the years, the Blackwood clan had been gathering resources to aid the Demon Lord, hoping to repay her kindness. They had intended to ask for her help this time, but she had been nowhere to be found.


    As the Blackwood clan pondered the meaning behind the spectacle in Endless Forest and its possible connection to the Demon Lord, a black light streaked across the sky, landing near them.


    A moment later, the Demon Lord Diana came into view. She walked towards them, a small smile on her lips. Seeing their stunned expressions, she turned to Amelia, feigning anger. "Why are you just standing there? Don''t you greet your master?"


    The Blackwood clan members exchanged confused glances.


    Amelia walked towards Diana. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just as the Blackwood clan concluded that Diana must have been fighting in Endless Forest as well, secretly aiding them, they bowed deeply in gratitude. As Amelia was about to kneel before her master, the world seemed to tilt.


    Wait...


    Why was the world spinning?


    No...


    "Master, are you alright? Why are you falling?!"


    "Demon Lord?!"


    "Quickly, Amelia, take your master back for treatment!"

 Chapter 295: Chapter 295: Me? As Duke?

    Three days passed in a blink.


    After the three Druid elders attacked Cloudview County, and following the apocalyptic event at the Bird Totem in Endless Forest, the Druid forces seemed to have vanished.


    Even with the Moon God''s death, the Druids didn''t retaliate against Cloudview County with the expected fury. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Druids continued to gather at the edge of Endless Forest.


    The six tribes led by Mike hadn''t left, and the Psychics of Cloudview County remained vigilant, constantly reinforcing the border with formations and traps.


    Diana had briefly regained consciousness after collapsing.


    She had told Amelia, "The Blackwoods no longer need to fear experts above the Basic Mastery stage," before falling unconscious again.


    Amelia had taken her back to Glory City.


    The Blackwood clan understood that Diana had played a crucial role in their victory, but Amelia explained that only her Celestial Botanical Technique and exceptionally rare treasures could truly heal the Demon Lord.


    Ordinary methods were ineffective, leaving the Blackwoods unsure how to repay Diana''s kindness.


    The Blackwood clan gathered, kneeling before the Forebearer Psychic Position, expressing their gratitude to Ethan for slaying the Moon God and saving their family once again.


    Ethan, perched proudly on the altar, waved his hand dismissively.


    "It was nothing, hehe, just a small matter."


    As if he hadn''t spent the entire day after using ''Fight, My Dear Forebearer'' in a daze, suffering from the agonizing aftereffects.


    "Forebearer, I acted recklessly, dragging our family into war with the Druids. Please punish me!" Nathan kowtowed, filled with guilt.


    Ethan wasn''t angry.


    Everyone in the Blackwood clan knew that Nathan had come to Border town prepared to die, to secure a future for his family.


    But neither Ethan, the Forebearer, nor the Blackwood descendants would abandon any of their own.


    They would face all challenges together.


    Ethan activated the skill ''Forebearer''s Caress.''


    Charlie Crackle, in his Mist Serpent form, appeared before the Psychic Position, relaying Ethan''s words, which he had written on the translucent panel.


    "Master says, what''s done is done. Facing the consequences with courage is the righteous path."


    "Thank you for your forgiveness, Forebearer!" Nathan kowtowed repeatedly, secretly pleased that the Forebearer favored him the most.


    The Blackwood clan gathered in the ancestral hall to discuss the future of Cloudview County.


    As Ethan had said, now that they had returned, neither the Emerald Empire nor the Druids could take their land.


    They would use every means at their disposal to make it clear that Cloudview County belonged to the Blackwoods!


    "Forebearer, Edward, as I instructed, obtained the title of Duke from the ancient god, along with his promise. This status will allow us to command many powerful individuals and factions. I believe Edward should be the one to hold the title of Duke."


    Edward, who had been listening attentively to his elders, was taken aback.


    "Great-grandfather, me? As Duke?"


    Surely, there were many elders more qualified than him.


    "Yes." Nathan smiled.


    "Martin already holds the title of Duke. Even with our close relationship, having two Dukes in one county could lead to conflict. But you are different. Kenneth is your brother-in-law, and you have ties to the Martins. He would be delighted. Besides, the old tree is never wrong.


    He said you would sit on the throne, so sit boldly."


    "I understand." Edward nodded solemnly.


    The old tree, now in human form, closed his eyes and puffed out his chest with pride.


    Edward retrieved several items from his Storage Ring: a jade slip with the imperial decree, a jade seal signifying his dukedom, and a magnificent robe.


    He stepped out of the room, and with the Blackwood clan''s approval, took a deep breath and engraved his name on the ancient god''s decree.


    A formation descended from the sky above Cloudview County, bathing Edward in a pillar of natural energy.


    A throne materialized in the air.


    Everyone in Azure Cloud''s Border town stared in awe at the pillar of light. Explore more at m,v l''e-NovelFire.net


    Edward ascended with the light, taking his place on the throne!


    His voice boomed across the sky.


    "Today, Edward Blackwood of Azure Cloud, by decree of the ancient god, assumes the position of Duke of Cloudview County!"


    Natural energy surged from the formation, converging upon Edward.


    His aura swelled!


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the imperial capital, during the court assembly held every eighteen days...


    Chaos erupted among the officials.


    "News from the Azure Cloud border! All the Psychics who evacuated Cloudview County have returned! Led by Daniel Blackwood, they launched a brilliant ambush, slaying four hundred and thirty thousand enemies!"


    "Unbelievable! Not a single one obeyed the order to retreat! A mere county town withstood six tribes! And the Azure Cloud Blackwoods are no ordinary clan. Nathan Blackwood has undergone the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation and single-handedly held off a Druid Apostle. Intelligence reports indicate that another Blackwood, named Amelia, is also about to undergo the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation."


    "I heard the Druids even sent elders this time. That hasn''t happened in thirty thousand years! The Blackwoods used their trump card and killed the Moon God!"


    "Hiss..."


    Their astonishment was understandable.


    During the last court assembly, they had all but written off Cloudview County.


    Now, against all odds, it had survived!


    Some even felt a secret thrill.


    The cession of the twelve border counties had been a humiliation for many of the high-ranking officials present.


    This victory was a much-needed morale boost.


    But among the officials, none looked as grim as National Advisor Lance.


    The Blackwood clan''s victory brought him no joy.


    Ceding the twelve counties in exchange for a millennium of peace had been a perfectly reasonable trade in his eyes, a political achievement he had intended to boast about.


    But the Blackwoods'' defiance had disrupted his plans, even sowing seeds of doubt among the officials.


    The survival of a county and a clan that had been deemed expendable was a slap in his face, a public declaration of his folly.


    "Your Majesty!" Lance bowed towards the ancient god, who sat behind a curtain.


    "The ever-victorious general, Owen, disobeyed your orders and engaged in battle with Druid elders in Cloudview County. He has jeopardized the alliance between Your Majesty and the Druids. This is treason! Please issue a decree, and I will immediately dispatch men to bring Owen back for punishment!"


    His words ignited a storm of outrage among the military officials.


    The grand hall echoed with the shouts of both civil and military factions.


    Numerous generals pleaded for permission to lead their armies to Azure Cloud''s aid.


    Some even proposed summoning reclusive experts to lead the charge, emulating Grand Tutor Gilbert''s northern expedition, to conquer the Mystic Alliance''s Druid lands and claim them for the Emerald Empire.


    Even some of the most conservative civil officials in the grand hall supported this idea.


    As more and more officials voiced their support for military action, the ancient god''s voice finally rang out.


    "This matter will be discussed upon Grand Tutor Gilbert''s return."


    His words silenced the court.


    Grand Tutor Gilbert had been campaigning in the north for millennia.


    By the time he returned, Cloudview County would be overrun with Druid totems.

 Chapter 296: Chapter 296: You little rascal,are you rebelling?

    "National Advisor."


    Hearing the ancient god address him,Lance hastily bowed."Your servant is here!"


    "Convey my decree.Summon Owen back to the capital immediately..."


    A triumphant smirk spread across Lance''s face.But before the ancient god could finish his sentence,everyone in the grand hall sensed a token appearing outside¨Ca Duke''s token!


    In the Emerald Empire,all noble titles were recognized by the heavens and bestowed by the ancient god.This Duke''s token bore the name of Edward Blackwood!


    As the Cloudview County Duke''s token materialized within the hall,everyone''s expression shifted.


    The ancient god had clearly intended to abandon Cloudview County,to abandon the Blackwoods.When Edward had left,everyone,including the ancient god,had believed Azure Cloud was doomed,the Blackwoods destined to fall.That was why the ancient god had so readily promised the Cloudview County dukedom to Edward.


    Now...


    The appearance of this token presented a dilemma.If the ancient god approved it,it would mean acknowledging the Blackwood clan''s renewed control over Cloudview County,effectively breaking his pact with the Druids.If he refused,it would make him,the ancient god,a liar,breaking his word.


    "How dare they!"Lance roared,his eyes wide with fury.The Azure Cloud Blackwoods had chosen this moment,during the court assembly,to make their move,a blatant challenge to the ancient god''s authority!


    Edward had chosen this precise moment,with all the officials gathered,to make his play!


    ...


    On the Azure Cloud border...


    Everyone watched the unfolding scene in the sky.Cloudview County was at the center of a swirling vortex of energy,the heavens themselves seemingly poised to bestow their blessing.This was the moment of a Duke''s ascension,a rare sight!


    Hope filled their eyes.


    The Blackwood clan had led them against the Druids.They yearned for the Blackwoods to ascend to the dukedom,to legitimize their rule!


    But soon,anxiety crept in.The heavens''blessing was delayed.


    The Blackwood clan frowned.


    Edward,however,remained calm upon his throne.Kenneth had explained the process of a Duke''s ascension."I imagine the Duke''s token has reached the grand hall by now,"he mused.


    A grin spread across his face,and he called out,his voice booming,"I implore His Majesty,the ancient god,to honor his promise made in the grand hall and bestow upon me,Edward Blackwood,the dukedom of Cloudview County!"


    As his words echoed,every Psychic on the Azure Cloud border raised their voices in unison.


    "We implore the ancient god to honor his promise!"


    Their voices rose in a crescendo,wave after wave,their plea carrying across the distance,reaching the ancient god''s ears.


    They called out once,twice...but there was no response.The Azure Cloud Psychics''cries grew frantic.


    Then,silence fell.On this day,so soon after their victory against the Druids,a shadow of despair settled over the Azure Cloud Psychics.


    The ancient god''s blessing did not descend.The formation in the sky dissipated,the pillar of light vanished!


    Only Edward remained,seated calmly upon his throne in the air.


    The bastard on the imperial throne,favored by heaven,had broken his promise,refusing to grant Edward the dukedom!His words were nothing but empty air,another betrayal of the people of Cloudview County! Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As anger simmered within the hearts of the Cloudview County forces,Edward''s voice rang out once more.


    "It seems His Majesty,the ancient god,does not recognize me.But what does it matter if I don''t have this dukedom?"


    His words stunned everyone in Cloudview County.


    Indeed,even without the ancient god''s recognition,was Edward Blackwood any less of a Duke?


    "The twelve border counties have been ceded.Azure Cloud is no longer part of the empire.Are we,the Psychics,not allowed to fight for what is rightfully ours?We stand on our land,resisting the Druids!"


    "Thirty years ago,we stood our ground.And today..."


    "We do the same!"


    Edward''s voice echoed once more.


    Everyone in Border town stared at him,their eyes wide.


    Kenneth,along with the five patriarchs,looked at Edward.A smile spread across his face,and his voice,amplified by natural energy,reached every ear."If the ancient god refuses,then I,as Duke,recognize Edward.What say you,people of Cloudview County?"


    "Hahaha!Duke Edward!"


    "Duke Edward!"


    Cheers erupted once more throughout Border town,wave after wave.


    To hell with the ancient god!He hadn''t lifted a finger to help them during the war.Why should they need his approval to name their own Duke?


    "You little rascal,are you rebelling?"Ethan muttered,watching the scene unfold.His descendants were a wild bunch.


    As soon as he finished speaking,a message flashed across the pale blue panel,bright and impossible to ignore.


    [Your descendant,Edward,deliberately chose the day of the imperial court assembly to request the dukedom.He was certain the ancient god had no grounds to punish the Blackwoods and intentionally humiliated him.Still harboring resentment for the ancient god''s betrayal in the grand hall,he has decided to gradually undermine the ancient god''s authority,inciting dissatisfaction among the people of Azure Cloud and even the entire Emerald Empire.Trait obtained:Rebellious Heart.]


    [He is gradually becoming a rebel.Success rate of inciting rebellion increased by 20%.Psychological damage to the ancient god increased by 20%.True damage increased by 10%.]


    "..."


    Ethan stared at Edward,who wore a faint smile,listening to the cheers of the Psychics around him.At this moment,he suspected that these Psychics would storm the heavenly palace itself if Edward gave the order.


    He scratched his head,bewildered.


    "Well,this kid has the potential to bring ruin upon the entire family."


    ...


    The chants of"Duke Edward"echoed throughout Cloudview County for half a day.


    Although the ancient god hadn''t officially recognized him,within Cloudview County,Edward was their Duke,in their hearts and in their actions!


    Inside the Sky Hall...


    "You little brat!Are you trying to start a rebellion?Who put you up to this?Do you even realize what you''ve done?You little bastard!" Your next read is at m v|l-e''-NovelFire.net


    Nathan was giving Edward a thorough thrashing,chasing him around the hall.Edward,shielding his head,felt a familiar sense of dread,reminiscent of the time he had been caught with Betty.


    "Great-grandfather,stop!What''s the big deal?Those bastards in the heavenly palace are a bunch of hypocrites!Why should we bow to them?Besides,I''m just uniting the people!The ancient god never intended for us Blackwoods to actually become Dukes..."


    "You dare talk back?!"Nathan''s blows grew even fiercer.


    "Even if you want to rebel,you should do it discreetly!Why make such a spectacle?You think you''re so tough now,huh?Your wings have sprouted,and you''ve become arrogant beyond measure!"


    "Alright,alright,dear,that''s enough.He hasn''t actually committed treason.Besides,compared to what Edward did during our battle with the Druids,this is nothing."Luna intervened,stopping Nathan."It''s just a little rebellion.No need to get so worked up that you injure the child."


    Julian chimed in,"Yeah,Dad.Just tell him to be more careful and not make such a fuss next time."


    Daniel stroked his beard,looking at Edward,who was kneeling on the ground,with approval."Good boy."

 Chapter 297: Chapter 297: Hmm? They found allies?

    Ethan, observing the Blackwood clan, lowered his eyelids.


    It seemed Nathan was the only sane one left.


    The rest of them... were itching for trouble.


    "Sigh."


    Both Ethan and Nathan sighed in unison.


    Nathan shook his head. "Enough, enough. Remember, rumors can be dangerous. Don''t give anyone a reason to accuse us. We''re surrounded by enemies. Now is not the time to talk about usurping the throne."


    "Understood!" The Blackwood clan members responded, their expressions serious.


    Seeing their obedient demeanor, Ethan felt somewhat reassured.


    They were all shrewd individuals, after all.


    Aside from Julian and the third generation, who were prone to causing trouble, the others wouldn''t do anything reckless.


    The Blackwood clan got back to work, focusing on strengthening the defenses of Border town.


    The experts who had come to Cloudview County''s aid showed no signs of leaving.


    They began cultivating in the ''Oracle Chamber'' in Border town.


    Righteous individuals from all corners of the Emerald Empire, those with status and influence, had joined their ranks.


    They even used their psychic powers to create a mountain near Border town, establishing a Psychic Sanctuary upon it.


    Bill Daoist, who had come from the depths, contributed the most, setting up his own Psychic Sanctuary in the most prominent location on the mountain.


    Numerous Psychics flocked to him, eager to hear the teachings of a Basic Mastery expert.


    Even a few words of guidance from such a powerful individual could be immensely beneficial for Psychics below the Competent Force stage.


    Ethan was currently inside Bill Daoist''s Psychic Sanctuary.


    Bill Daoist was meditating, surrounded by Blackwood clan members.


    Ethan... was eavesdropping.


    [Your descendant, Justin, under Bill Daoist''s guidance, has gained a deeper understanding of the earth element''s steadfastness.]


    [Jessica, guided by Bill Daoist, has learned a profound Earth-rank spell, ''Mountainfall Legion Technique.'' This spell has three levels and can channel the power of mountains into a thousand or even ten thousand individuals, or draw upon the strength of a thousand or ten thousand individuals, transforming it into a mountain to crush enemies.]


    [Marcus, who has been unable to fully utilize the Sky Hall, sought Bill Daoist''s advice. Seeing the Sky Hall''s unique properties, Bill Daoist, recalling his battle with Shane, suggested that the Sky Hall, containing countless stars, could manifest illusory stars but lacked solidity. He advised Marcus to try incorporating mountains, rivers, and vegetation into the Sky Hall, creating a world within.


    Your descendant, Marcus, suddenly realized that the Sky Hall might have the potential to become a miniature world.]


    The Blackwood descendants were all diligently cultivating.


    Over at Owen''s residence, Blackwood clan members were also seeking guidance.


    [Your descendant, Julian, impressed by Owen''s hammer techniques, sought his instruction and learned an Earth-rank hammer technique, ''Heaven Ascending Hammer.'']


    "You''re an Ability Gearsmith? And a Seventh-grade craftsman?" Owen looked Julian up and down, noticing that all four of his limbs were replaced with mid-grade ability weapons.


    "I''ve met many skilled Ability Gearsmiths in the imperial capital, but I''ve never seen anyone like you, replacing their own limbs with ability weapons. You''re a true anomaly among Ability Gearsmiths. What were you thinking?"


    Julian, of course, wouldn''t reveal that he had gotten the idea from the war AI Bionic Robots sent by the Forebearer.


    He grinned. "I just thought those AI Bionic Robots looked sturdy. I didn''t have time to train my body to be as tough as them, so I decided to turn myself into an AI Bionic Robot. General Owen, you''re so knowledgeable. I heard Radiant Sky Grotto has some excellent Ability Gearsmiths and AI Bionic Robot specialists." Find adventures on m_v l|-NovelFire.net Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''re interested in that? Radiant Sky Grotto does have a long history. I''ve dabbled in it during my millennia of cultivation." Owen saw through Julian''s intentions and chuckled.


    "I can''t reveal any of our sect''s secrets, but considering your Blackwood ancestor died fighting for the Emerald Empire''s border, I can share some knowledge with you. At least enough to help you integrate your psychic powers into your limbs."


    "Thank you, Senior!"


    Julian spent half a month learning from Owen.


    Radiant Sky Grotto, the ancient sect revered even by the ancient god, lived up to its reputation.


    Julian was enthralled by Owen''s teachings.


    [Your descendant, Julian, under Owen''s guidance, has gained knowledge of crafting Ability Gear and AI Bionic Robots, filling in the gaps in his cultivation.]


    [He has experienced a sudden epiphany, overcoming the obstacle that had prevented him from channeling psychic powers into his Ability Puppets. He has even gained some insight into channeling natural energy into AI Bionic Robots!]


    "We''ve struck gold!" Ethan couldn''t help but rejoice.


    Julian had been stuck at the peak of the Developing Skill stage for years, hindered by his lack of knowledge.


    Once he mastered this new information, the Blackwoods, with sufficient materials, could mass-produce Seventh-grade Developing Skill Ability Puppets!


    Even Sixth-grade Competent Force Ability Puppets might be within reach!


    "Hahaha! Thank you for your guidance, General Owen! I''ve got it, I''ve got it! Hahaha!"


    Julian, overcome with excitement, dashed out of Owen''s residence.


    The two-meter-tall man sprinted through Border town, eventually bursting into Nathan''s presence.


    He grabbed Nathan''s arm, his manic energy startling Nathan so much that he spilled his tea.


    "Dad, I''ve got it! I need to go home and forge! I''ll leave these Ability Puppets with you! You and the others need to gather more materials! Doesn''t matter who it''s from, just grab it! I need to forge!


    Hahaha!"


    "..."


    Julian shoved his Storage Ring into Nathan''s hand and disappeared as quickly as he had arrived.


    Nathan looked at the Storage Ring, which contained over two thousand Ability Puppets.


    He finally regained his composure and glanced around the hall.


    It was filled with the leaders of Cloudview County''s major factions.


    They, too, had recovered from their initial shock and were now eyeing Nathan warily, clutching their own Storage Rings protectively.


    They had clearly heard Julian''s words and were afraid the Blackwoods would rob them...


    "Ahem."


    Nathan suppressed the urge to chase after his son and give him another beating.


    He forced a smile at the wary crowd.


    "My third son suffered a head injury during the battle with the Druids. Don''t take his words seriously. Let''s continue our discussion. Resisting the Druids and finding more allies is far more important."


    As he spoke, Nathan''s eyes darted towards the Storage Rings in their hands, his mind racing.


    He calculated how many precious materials the Energy Stones the Blackwoods had plundered over the years could buy.


    If they couldn''t buy enough, he would have to ask Daniel for help.


    With Azure Cloud united in their purpose, good news reached Ethan within half a month.


    [Your descendants, Joseph and Katie, report that after over a year of persuasion, they have finally convinced Duke Jon of Starlight County. The entire population of Starlight County is currently heading towards Cloudview County!]


    "Hmm? They found allies?"


    Ethan, who was busy stealing knowledge from Bill Daoist, raised an eyebrow.


    He quickly reviewed the previous messages.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, after numerous failed attempts to persuade Jon, witnessed Jon preparing to relocate the entire population of Starlight County to Whisperwood Vale. He then activated the Dawn network hidden within Whisperwood Vale, spreading rumors that Chuck of the Arcane Society was about to break through to the Basic Mastery stage and that Duke Jon harbored ambitious plans.


    This led to widespread suspicion among the factions of Whisperwood Vale, making things difficult for Walker and thwarting his ambitions...]


    [Your descendant, Joseph, has obtained the trait: Mastermind.]

 Chapter 298: Chapter 298: It seems we have some bad seeds among us

    At this moment, the power of information and the people came to light.


    Ethan''s scalp tingled.


    He could already imagine the people of Starlight County arriving in Whisperwood Vale, only to be met with resistance from the local factions, who would treat them like outsiders trying to seize their homes.


    And indeed...


    Ethan''s consciousness instantly shifted to where Joseph was.


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    He saw numerous airships heading towards Cloudview County, the faces of the Starlight County Psychics etched with displeasure, as if they had suffered a great injustice.


    At that moment, Joseph was sprawled out on the deck, fast asleep, while Katie gently wiped down her Sparkly Unicorn Bow.


    "Brother... isn''t this a bit unfair?" Katie transmitted her voice to Joseph, her expression unchanged.


    Even though her brother was asleep, she was certain he could still hear her.


    As expected, Joseph''s lazy voice echoed in her mind, "There''s nothing unfair about it. Even if I didn''t do this, they would eventually be treated as outsiders, just like what we''ve heard about our family''s struggles in Cloudview County all those years ago. I''m just letting them face reality sooner. It''s their choice whether they come back with us now."


    "I understand, brother."


    "What do you understand?"


    "Lazy people really do have clever minds. They spend all day scheming instead of working."


    "..."


    Meanwhile, on the bow of the ship, Duke Jon and Arcane Society Chuck stood together, Jon glancing at Joseph with a strange expression.


    Chuck clenched his fists beside him. "Damn Whisperwood Vale, calling us Mystic Alliance barbarians! If you hadn''t stopped me, I would have taught them all a lesson! I told you, we shouldn''t have gone to Whisperwood Vale in the first place. Why subject ourselves to such humiliation? We''re not as enlightened as your grandson!"


    "We''d rather die on our feet than live on our knees!"


    As if hearing Chuck''s words, the experts from Starlight County glared fiercely.


    Only Jon smiled faintly. "Old Blackwood, it seems we have some bad seeds among us."


    The wind on the deck ruffled Joseph''s hair as he snored peacefully, oblivious to the slight upward curve of his lips.


    For an entire month, Ethan diligently learned from Bill Daoist and Owen in Border Town, while the Druids refrained from making any moves.


    Many members of the Blackwood family and experts from Cloudview County were engaged in rebuilding Border Town.


    The mountain that Daoist had created with his immense psychic powers at the border, stretching for six miles, still stood tall beyond the Azure Cloud border, inadvertently bolstering Cloudview County''s defenses.


    Now, the people of Cloudview County planned to use it as a foundation, utilizing their psychic powers to erect a 330-foot-tall and at least 660-mile-long wall along the Azure Cloud border to resist the Druids.


    The Psychics of Cloudview County had effectively formed an army.


    Prior to this, Martin had also maintained an army.


    These armies in the world of cultivation all cultivated psychic powers and employed military formations.


    It was similar to the Heath Spear Forest Formation that the Blackwood family had obtained from Pine Forest Town many years ago.


    Ethan had learned about it in his spare time and found it fascinating.


    [Various factions have decided to establish the ''Azure Cloud Army.'' Your descendant, Daniel, due to his remarkable victory in the previous battle against the Druids, has been nominated and appointed as the Commander of the Azure Cloud Army.]


    Upon seeing this message, Ethan instantly appeared beside Daniel, who was currently on the city wall, overseeing the transfer of power within the Blackwood faction.


    Behind Daniel stood most of the ''leader''-level experts from Thunderfire Demon Cave, Demon Hunters Alliance, and Dawn.


    They were all at least at the Transcendent Seed realm or above, their numbers having dwindled to less than a hundred after the successive battles.


    However, after these numerous trials by fire, the remaining individuals were absolutely loyal to the Blackwood family.


    "From this day forward, you are all one entity, integrated into my Blackwood ''Heavenly Justice Hall.'' The Heavenly Justice Hall has two branches: the overt branch, which conducts treasure businesses throughout the land, and the Covert Branch, which handles dangerous missions. As I am now tasked with commanding the Azure Cloud Army, your next leaders will soon return and make arrangements for you."


    Upon hearing this, the numerous subordinates exchanged glances, a hint of wariness in their eyes.


    Nevertheless, they all responded to Daniel with a respectful "Yes."


    [The three factions within your family have merged to form a new force, the ''Heavenly Justice Hall - Covert Branch.'' Your descendant, Joseph, has been appointed as the Head of the Heavenly Justice Hall - Covert Branch.]


    "Joseph''s going to have his hands full now," Ethan chuckled to himself.


    Among the Blackwood children, Joseph wasn''t the sharpest tool in the shed.


    His cultivation had even regressed to the eighth level of Foundational Energy, and he had yet to make a name for himself.


    The people of Cloudview County only knew of Blackwood Katie, and even Jeffrey''s children had gained some reputation.


    Yet, no one knew of Joseph.


    However, Ethan knew full well that all of the Blackwood sixth generation descendants combined were no match for Joseph alone.


    As for the Heavenly Justice Hall - Overt Branch... that was the public face of their organization, and Luna had always been in charge.


    Its primary purpose was to earn Energy Stones.


    Occasionally, promising Blackwood children would be sent to the overt branch for training, allowing them to experience setbacks in the business world and learn valuable lessons by spending Energy Stones.


    At the same time, Luna would assess their reliability.


    The reason for this arrangement was Jeffrey''s numerous offspring, who had also begun to procreate at an alarming rate.


    As the subordinates dispersed, Jessica, who had been standing behind Daniel, furrowed her brows.


    "Uncle, although these individuals are loyal to our family, they are all used to acting independently and harbor their own agendas. They are a lawless bunch. Joseph is still young. Can he truly control them?" sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I had originally intended for you to lead the Covert Branch, but you insisted on joining the military. Now, we have no choice but to entrust it to Joseph. I can only hope that he can keep them in line."


    Daniel let out a sigh.


    Seeing Daniel''s helpless expression, Ethan couldn''t help but smile wryly.


    Amelia was currently assisting Diana in her recovery.


    Julian... well, he was still busy forging, which was a great help in itself.


    Marcus had to lead the Sky Sect, and Warren Daoist was still missing.


    If it weren''t for the fact that his soul lamp was still lit, Ethan would have thought that his old friend had perished.


    As for the third generation of the Blackwood family...


    [The third generation of your Blackwood descendants has begun to integrate the Druid infant bones and cultivate magic alongside the Lord of Frenzied Blood.]


    At this moment, those eight youngsters were in Marcus'' Sky Hall.


    Otherwise, they would probably be clamoring to venture into the Endless Forest.


    As for the fourth generation... Ethan noticed George and Justin sneaking off to the Endless Forest.


    With William away, these two had taken Larry, the beast tamer, with them, forming a new trio.


    They had been staking out a Druid tribe for over a month but had yet to find an opportunity to strike.


    Apart from Joseph, there really wasn''t anyone reliable.


    Ethan briefly glanced at the children Jeffrey had sired.


    Among the fifth generation and the sixth generation, there were some promising individuals, but compared to the rest of the Blackwood family, they were merely average or still in their developmental stages.


    However, the reason Daniel was willing to relinquish control of the Covert Branch and let Joseph take charge was that both he and Jessica had witnessed the greater potential within the Azure Cloud Army!


    Jessica said in a solemn tone, "Uncle, commanding the Azure Cloud Army won''t be easy either. They come from various factions within Cloudview County, including Martin''s forces. The army is a mixed bag, with no one willing to submit to another. We have our work cut out for us."


    "Hahaha, I was able to suppress the various factions within Thunderfire Demon Cave back in the day. Now, as long as you give me enough time, I can transform this Azure Cloud Army into the ''Blackwood Army''!"


    Daniel burst into hearty laughter.


    "May the Forefather bless us! Only by having our family control everything can we truly live up to his expectations!"

 Chapter 299: Chapter 299: A trade?

    Watching Daniel and Jessica earnestly holding their Forefather Psychic Compasses, Ethan couldn''t help but feel a sense of dread, like a giant, inescapable burden had just been placed upon his shoulders.


    A few days later, Joseph returned with the Psychics from Starlight County.


    After discussions between Duke Jon and Kenneth, they decided to gradually reclaim the land of Starlight County.


    For now, the Starlight County Psychics were stationed at the border between Starlight County and Cloudview County, standing guard alongside the Azure Cloud Psychics.


    With the return of the Starlight County Psychics, the Druids retreated another twenty miles.


    "Hahaha, my brother and I completed the mission! We brought back help!"


    Katie excitedly announced their success in the ancestral hall, drawing surprised glances towards the still-slumbering Joseph.


    Joseph was then carried to the center of the ancestral hall.


    Despite his accomplishment, the boy remained sound asleep, seemingly indifferent to the praise.


    However, something felt amiss to Joseph in his slumber.


    As he opened his eyes, he found all the elders staring at him, offering their congratulations.


    "Congratulations, Joseph! From now on, you are the head of our Heavenly Justice Hall - Covert Branch!"


    Joseph stared back in a daze, struggling to accept the reality of yet another difficult task thrust upon him.


    He glanced at his bound hands and feet.


    "Elders, can''t we talk about this? Heavenly Justice Hall is fine, I won''t run away. But tying me up like this makes it seem like I''m about to be roasted alive."


    His apprehension quickly turned to panic.


    The elders of the fourth generation hoisted him onto their shoulders and carried him off to a matchmaking session.


    General Owen, who had arrived from the imperial capital, was also occupied.


    He seemed determined to abide by the principle of "discretion is the better part of valor" while on the battlefield. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had received three imperial decrees urging his return, but he simply informed the empire that he was gravely injured and required recuperation in Cloudview County.


    However, everyone in Cloudview County knew that General Owen was in perfect health.


    He was merely staying vigilant against the Druid elders.


    Rumor had it that he possessed a unique ability to sense the presence of any Druid elder who set foot in Cloudview County.


    While the entire Cloudview County was bustling with activity, the Blackwood family gradually faded into the background.


    On the battlefronts of Border Town, only Daniel, Marcus, Jessica, Edward, and a few younger members could be seen cultivating their psychic powers and gaining experience.


    However, it wasn''t a major concern.


    With the arrival of Starlight County, Cloudview County finally had the strength to launch a counteroffensive.


    The four Grand Magisters from that fateful night were locked in a stalemate, their divine souls clashing in the sky, none daring to make a move.


    As for Apostle Mike? His old friend Nathan was absent from the battlefield.


    Instead, Chuck from the Starlight County Arcane Society had emerged, surprisingly able to hold his own against Mike.


    [Special Event - A Fair Fight]


    [Casualties have arisen within the Druid ranks. After the battle with the Cloudview County Grand Magister Psychics, Shane and Lester appealed to the Bird Totem for aid but were informed that no assistance would be provided.]


    Seeing this, Ethan had a hunch that it was related to Diana''s deal with the Druids.


    Once, the Blackwood family had to struggle for survival against the Druids.


    Now, it seemed the tables had turned.


    One day, Ethan opened his eyes within Bill Daoist''s cultivation grounds.


    Under the starry night sky, a White Clan chieftain arrived at the Blackwood residence.


    Trembling, he knelt before the bewildered Blackwood family.


    "Friends of the Blackwood family, I come at the behest of the High Priest to propose a trade."


    "A trade? What could the Blackwood family possibly trade with the White Clan?" Nathan remarked casually.


    His interest was piqued when the Druid chieftain spoke.


    "We are willing to assist you in constructing a Nature Magic Grand Formation. This is the formation diagram sent by our High Priest!"


    Of course, it wasn''t without a price.


    [Arnold''s Gift - Nature Magic Diagram!]


    [As the activation of the Nature Magic Grand Formation draws near, Arnold senses the Blackwood family lurking nearby, waiting for an opportunity to strike. To ensure the formation''s successful completion, he is willing to offer it to the Blackwood family, hoping they will cease their pursuit of him. Humans are simple creatures. Give them a glimmer of hope, and they will abandon risky endeavors.


    After today, I can finally rest easy and focus on my breakthrough.]


    Within the Nature Magic Grand Formation, the White Clan High Priest reprimanded Arnold.


    "Arnold, how could you collude with the Blackwood family and give them the Nature Magic Formation Diagram?"


    Arnold''s expression remained calm.


    "High Priest, this formation requires a Druid High Priest to activate it, a million corpses, and a mystical energy vein. The Blackwood family can''t fulfill any of these conditions. I am merely giving them a way out, a reason to abandon their plans. After today, I can finally rest easy and focus on my breakthrough."


    The High Priest pondered for a moment.


    It was true. The Blackwood family wouldn''t be able to activate the formation without a High Priest.


    Meanwhile, Ethan received a message.


    [Your descendants, George and Justin, report that they have been observing the Nature Magic Grand Formation. The defenses around it are tighter than ever. Although they haven''t obtained it, they have formulated a plan to disrupt Arnold''s tribulation at a certain cost.]


    "...No wonder Arnold is scared. You two have been watching him like hawks."


    Ethan chuckled, finally understanding.


    He accepted Arnold''s gift without hesitation.


    "Hahaha, you don''t think we can create a Nature Magic Grand Formation, do you? A million corpses, a High Priest... This is perfect! From now on, if anyone wants to attempt a breakthrough to the Master Force realm, we''ll just use this!"


    Julian, upon receiving the diagram, excitedly rushed towards Amelia''s alchemy workshop.


    "Sister, you''re saved! This is amazing, you''re going to be alright!" Your journey continues at m v|l-e''-NovelFire.net

 Chapter 300: Chapter 300: Daily Slaughter

    The Blackwood family had been given a much-needed reprieve, but they dared not waste a moment.


    Every Blackwood descendant was diligently honing their psychic abilities.


    For the Blackwoods, ten years slipped away like sand through their fingers.


    The Azure Cloud border, the site of the great battle, had undergone a dramatic transformation.


    Just as initially planned, a thousand-mile wall now stood between the border and the heart of the Endless Forest, significantly hindering the Druids'' advance.


    The defensive pressure on Cloudview County had eased considerably.


    Large-scale battles were rare in the past decade, replaced by smaller skirmishes involving less than ten thousand combatants.


    More often than not, it was the Azure Cloud army engaging in these conflicts, both sides tacitly agreeing to a measured approach, treating it as an exercise in military training.


    Ethan emerged from his secluded meditation beside Daoist Bill, where he had been immersed in comprehending the laws of the universe.


    This time, the isolation didn''t carry the same weight of loneliness as before.


    He had grown accustomed to the feeling.


    It was as if, after reaching the Competent Force stage, a decade felt like a mere half-year.


    During this period, he had only awakened once, during a grand family ritual, taking the opportunity to return to the mortal realm.


    He brought back gifts and, in turn, received a wealth of treasures.


    Over the years, Daniel, through his command in the great battle, had successfully navigated several special events, earning him a measure of family destiny.


    Ethan''s own reserves of family destiny had only slightly diminished.


    [Family Destiny: 42]


    [Congratulations! After a decade of cultivating psychic powers alongside Daoist Bill, you have acquired a vast array of psychic abilities and gained insights into the laws of earth and mountain. This potent force of law will enable your Competent Force to break free from its embryonic form and transform into a nascent soul!]


    Ethan''s consciousness delved into his inner being, where he beheld an infant, seated in meditation, within his core.


    Upon reaching the Competent Force stage, it took the form of an infant.


    During this phase, it not only absorbed the psychic energies of heaven and earth but also assimilated the laws of the universe as nourishment, integrating them into the Competent Force. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ultimately, when the Competent Force became an exact replica of himself, it would signify the birth of his nascent soul!


    The challenge in cultivating a nascent soul lay in merging the laws of the universe into one''s being.


    This was the very hurdle that prevented countless psychics from attaining the nascent soul stage.


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    Of course, there were those blessed with extraordinary fortune, stumbling upon mystical realms or other unorthodox methods, enabling them to forcefully assimilate the laws and achieve Basic Mastery.


    However, achieving Basic Mastery in Cloudview County was an arduous feat.


    Ethan could sense that the laws of heaven and earth available for assimilation in Cloudview County were scarce, explaining his lack of progress despite a decade of cultivation.


    "I can only take it slow."


    Ethan had no other recourse.


    He had never dared to dream of surpassing the Competent Force stage, and now he was already seeking ways to break through to Basic Mastery.


    All he could do was his best and leave the rest to fate.


    Ethan proceeded to check on the progress of his Blackwood descendants.


    His gaze fell upon Nathan and his wife.


    Ethan''s face darkened.


    [Your descendant, Nathan, attempted the fifth level of the Death Coffin but was unsuccessful. He has spent the past decade dual cultivating with Luna within the Death Coffin, emerging only for grand family rituals and to check on the well-being of the Azure Cloud during critical battles. Apart from addressing matters concerning their children, they rarely ventured outside the Death Coffin.]


    Ethan surmised that the couple shared his sentiment.


    With their extended lifespans, the concept of time held less significance.


    They had even reached a point of indifference towards the birth of new Blackwood children.


    It was no wonder that many powerful individuals grew detached from worldly affairs.


    Ethan then shifted his attention to the offspring of his second-generation descendants.


    A decade had passed, and Lucas was still entangled with the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, and the Celestial Star Swordmaster have been journeying together, seeking opportunities to comprehend the essence of swordsmanship.]


    Their so-called journey across the world amounted to roaming around Cloudview County.


    However, whenever they encountered children with a passion for swordsmanship, they would impart their knowledge, hoping that these youngsters would grow up to join the Azure Cloud army and defend their homeland against the Druids.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has acquired the trait: Swordsmanship Mentor]


    [He travels throughout Cloudview County, recounting tales of the great battle against the Druids, ensuring that the Azure Cloud psychics'' fearlessness in the face of death is passed down through generations. Each year, there is a 0.1% chance of triggering an epiphany.]


    "Once a sword-obsessed maniac, now a swordsmanship mentor."


    Ethan marveled at the unpredictable nature of life''s journey.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, his beard now long and his appearance weathered by time, habitually murmured to Lucas, "Brother Lucas, I must ask again, where is Olivia?"


    Choosing to ignore the peculiar duo, Ethan turned his attention to Olivia.


    After a decade, she had transformed back into an elderly woman!


    William, who had become Olivia''s devoted follower, remained by her side, his demeanor as sincere and dependable as ever.


    The two of them were...selling meat on a street corner that clearly belonged to a Druid settlement!


    [Moon Dragon Totem - Fallen Stars Clan]


    William, looking as if he had just returned, approached Olivia with a cheerful expression, assisting her in hawking their wares.


    In a low voice, he murmured, "Great-aunt Olivia, we''ve been stationed here for a decade. Haven''t we found a suitable opportunity yet? I miss my brother."


    [Your descendant, William, has spent the past ten years selling meat alongside his great-aunt Olivia in the Moon Dragon Totem, finding solace only in selecting individuals to kill for amusement each day. He has acquired the trait: Daily Slaughter.]


    [Unable to bear a day without killing, William appears no different from ordinary people when engaged in regular slaughter. Each missed daily kill quest increases his inner darkness by 1%.]


    Olivia responded to William''s words with a calm smile, "Patience, child. Ten years is but a blink, and a century is hardly enough. We will find our chance eventually. William, try to curb your bloodlust. Excessive killing will only lead to formidable tribulations when you reach the Competent Force stage."


    As she spoke, Olivia sold a piece of meat to a Druid.


    At first glance, the meat seemed unremarkable, but then Ethan froze.


    [Your descendant, Olivia, has sold a piece of meat and gained a minuscule amount of Druid destiny.]


    Examining her past actions, Ethan found it filled with instances of selling meat...


    As for what destiny entailed...

 Chapter 301: Chapter 301: This world is full of liars!

    Ethan seemed to grasp its meaning through the experiences of his other Blackwood descendants...


    [Your descendant, George, has spent the past decade excavating ancient Druid tombs, recovering three Druid bones and a wealth of spells, which he has sent back to the family.]


    [Your third-generation Blackwood descendants have all fused with Druid bones, becoming a hybrid of human, Druid, and demonic, their cultivation simultaneously reaching the peak of Developing Skill.


    Under the guidance of the spell-savvy Lord of Frenzied Blood, the third-generation Blackwoods have begun cultivating psychic spells, enhancing their physical prowess and acquiring the trait: Demonic Druid.]


    [Spellcasting speed increased by 20%.]


    [Your descendant, Justin, while on an adventure, discovered a location still imbued with a seventh-grade psychic vein. Your family has gathered a million Druid corpses, with the Lord of Frenzied Blood and the third-generation Blackwoods acting as Druid High Priest and priests, respectively.


    Together, they offer prayers to their bloodline''s faith, constructing a grand nature magic array upon the psychic vein.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, under the protection of a small amount of family destiny, has endured the ordeal of the nine-nine thunder tribulation, acquiring a single-element wood psychic constitution and the Celestial Wood Body!]


    It seemed that Olivia''s borrowing of destiny had been the turning point. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Blackwood''s misfortunes were slowly fading, replaced by a string of successes.


    Ethan even suspected that the arrival of the two Basic Mastery experts and the relative peace enjoyed by Cloudview County in recent years were connected to the destiny Olivia brought back.


    Amelia, having now broken through to the Competent Force stage, was in Glory City, secretly healing Diana.


    Then there was Julian.


    The Blackwood forge was a hive of activity, with psychic equipment masters hammering away at their craft.


    Julian, seemingly possessed, toiled tirelessly in a blazing inferno resembling a volcano''s mouth, attempting to forge a sixth-grade iron weapon.


    [Your descendant, Julian, guided by Owen''s teachings, has spent a decade honing his skills and can now imbue seventh-grade psychic puppets with psychic powers. Witnessing the Exploding Sky Serpent''s detonation and the Azure Dragon''s natural energy blasts, he has grasped the essence of explosive power. He has created psychic power-wielding puppets and self-detonating psychic puppets!]


    The Blackwood psychic puppets were now a force to be reckoned with.


    Imagine the devastation caused by a hundred Developing Skill level self-detonations...


    His other children were also excelling.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, on the verge of facing the eight-nine thunder tribulation for his breakthrough to the Competent Force stage, is searching for natural treasures imbued with the essence of mountains, rivers, and vegetation to transform the Sky Hall into a miniature world, shielding him from the tribulation. He has acquired the trait: Natural Treasure Collector.]


    [For each natural treasure acquired, his strength increases by 20%.]


    [Your descendant, Daniel, inspired by the Forebearer''s bestowed knowledge from the "Cultivator Militia Examination Essentials," has gained insights into military training. Army training speed increased by 20%. He currently commands a cultivator army of 50,000 strong.]


    Ethan observed that this army, disciplined and efficient, had been decimating the Druids in battle.


    Their tactics and formations even surprised General Owen.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, after a decade of relentless effort and a 10% reduction in the Heavenly Justice Hall''s forces, has finally managed to curb the infighting within the Heavenly Justice Hall''s Covert Branch...]


    [Acquired the trait: Trouble Resolver.]


    Indeed, leading a shadowy organization was no easy feat.


    Ethan watched as Joseph, the lazybones, tossed and turned in his sleep.


    As for Joseph''s father, Edward... his life wasn''t a walk in the park either.


    [Your descendant, Edward, the Dark Duke of Cloudview County, faces a constant influx of "fugitives" seeking refuge from far and wide. Each day, he must personally interview every "fugitive," arrange accommodations, and engage in cunning power struggles with these desperate individuals.]


    Ethan felt a pang of sympathy for the father and son, both burdened with their respective responsibilities.


    At that moment, Edward sat upon his throne, a scholarly-looking man standing before him.


    The scholar recounted his past, a customary practice for all newcomers.


    He claimed to have fled to Cloudview County after offending those in power.


    Edward''s face darkened.


    He slammed his fist on the table.


    "I''ve seen countless fugitives in the past decade. Do you think you can deceive me? One flicker of your aura, and I''ll know you''re lying. Speak the truth!"


    The scholar''s face paled.


    He hastily confessed, "Your Excellency, I... I was once a scholar in the imperial capital. My... my master had a dozen concubines, and I... I defiled one."


    "Is that all? Not an unforgivable sin. You can join the Azure Cloud army''s vanguard..."


    Before Edward could finish, Jeffrey, passing by, overheard the scholar''s confession.


    As handsome as ever, now with forty-three wives to his name, Jeffrey stormed into the chamber, his eyes blazing with righteous fury.


    "Edward, listen to your uncle! This man deserves no mercy! He dared to defile one of his master''s concubines when there were only a dozen. Imagine the chaos he''d unleash in a household with dozens more! You can''t possibly understand, Edward! This man deserves to be executed..."


    Edward''s face darkened further.


    He ordered his guards to drag both his uncle and the scholar away.


    [Your descendant, Jeffrey, has fathered another 22 children.]


    [Your fifth-generation descendants have borne 42 children for your family.]


    [Your family has expanded to the seventh generation. Please bestow names upon them.]


    "Hmm?"


    Ethan clicked on the notification regarding the seventh-generation children, expecting them to be in Glory City.


    To his surprise, they appeared in a small fishing village...


    Before his eyes...


    [North Sea City - Coastal Village]


    Inside a small tavern, a handsome young man lay beside a plain-looking woman, a newborn babe cradled in her arms.


    A stunning woman, her beauty hidden beneath a simple apron, gazed lovingly at the family of three.


    "Nicholas, did you see? We have a grandson!"


    Outside the tavern, a filthy beggar rattled his meager earnings in a rusty bowl, pleading with passersby for spare change.


    "Have mercy on this old man! Three years have passed, and I''ve gained nothing. This world is full of liars!"


    "Forebearer, Adam has fathered a son. Please bestow a name upon the child."


    Even the small fishing village had a modest shrine.


    As night fell, Helen knelt before Ethan within the shrine.


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    Ethan observed from his position.


    Over the years, during his moments of respite from cultivation, he would occasionally visit this Coastal Village.


    Although Helen had taken Adam away to live a simple life, the annual Forebearer Communion remained a tradition.


    However, after all these years, Adam still remained unaware of his Blackwood heritage.


    "Bestow a name?"


    Ethan pondered for a moment.


    Within the shrine, the Forebearer''s psychic position rose into the air, leaving behind three characters:


    Alexander.


    "Thank you for bestowing the name, Forebearer!" Helen''s eyes welled up with tears of joy.


    Despite their simple life in the fishing village, the Forebearer continued to watch over her and her child.


    She knew that if the family wished to intervene, they could easily locate them with their current power.


    Ethan lingered in the village for several days, observing the family''s life.


    It was simple, yet filled with warmth.


    At that moment, Adam sat in their humble dwelling, cradling his son with joy.


    His wife lay on their bed, her gaze filled with tenderness as she watched the father and son.


    "Little Alexander, little Alexander, you have a name now. Will you grow up to be the most skilled fisherman in these parts, just like your father?" Adam grinned at the babe in his arms.

 Chapter 302: Chapter 302: Daily Slaughter

    Ethan observed the life of his descendant with a keen eye.


    The boy, Alexander, possessed remarkable potential, bearing a dual psychic constitution.


    Helen, with her sharp mind, had raised Adam well, instilling in him the ways of cultivation while emphasizing discretion.


    Now at the sixth level of Foundational Energy, Adam was a skilled cultivator, though he kept his abilities hidden.


    His reputation as the finest fisherman for miles around had, in his youth, drawn matchmakers to their small village like moths to a flame.


    Yet, Adam remained devoted to Erin, the girl who lived just two lanes down from his childhood home.


    Their marriage was a testament to their enduring love.


    Erin, though not blessed with extraordinary beauty, possessed a heart of gold. Read exclusive adventures at m_v-l''-NovelFire.net


    She might not have mastered the refined embroidery of noblewomen, but her kindness knew no bounds, extending even to the injured creatures of their village.


    As Ethan prepared to return to his family and resume his cultivation, a sense of contentment washing over him, a sight gave him pause.


    Adam, dressed simply in tunic and trousers, emerged from the tavern, his demeanor as composed and collected as his mother''s.


    He walked towards the front of the tavern, where the Drunken Fool sat begging for alms.


    With a familiar gesture, Adam offered the old man a gourd filled with wine.


    The Drunken Fool accepted the offering with a grateful smile, but a flicker of something crossed his features, his expression momentarily freezing.


    "Old friend," Adam began, his voice steady, "you''ve been a fixture outside this tavern since I was a boy. I''ve grown now, and many in the village my age are gone, yet you remain as spry as ever. And never a day goes by without your gourd of wine."


    "Good wine, good wine!" the Drunken Fool exclaimed, taking a large gulp, feigning intoxication.


    Adam''s expression remained unchanged. "I''ve faced my share of dangers growing up, but somehow, I always managed to escape unscathed. Years ago, when bandits threatened our village, I led our men to fight them. By the time we arrived at their hideout the next day, they were all gone. When I inquired, the villagers mentioned you had been away for a while that night."


    "There''s no such thing as a selfless act of kindness, at least not in my experience. I''ve been cultivating since I was a child. My mother possesses knowledge of cultivation that others wouldn''t even dare to dream of. I can sense she''s keeping something from me, and so are you."


    "When I was young, I used to ask about my father, but she would always refuse to speak of him. Now that I''m older, I need to know..."


    "What is my father''s name?"


    "..."


    As Adam spoke, Helen, her brow furrowed, peered down from the tavern window.


    Though Adam''s voice had dropped to a whisper, it couldn''t escape Helen''s ears, honed by years of cultivation to the second level of Developing Skill.


    Below, the Drunken Fool continued to play the part of a rambling drunkard, oblivious to Adam''s questioning gaze.


    Unbeknownst to them, a man carrying a coffin on his back stood with his arm around a beautiful woman, their figures hidden in the shadows of a nearby alleyway.


    "My love, let''s stay a while longer," Luna pleaded softly.


    "As you wish," Nathan replied with a smile. "We shouldn''t disrupt their lives. They have everything they need here."


    "Perhaps this simple life is a blessing," Luna mused. "We never had a choice, but I hope they can live in peace and happiness, always."


    The street bustled with activity, but the couple remained unseen, like phantoms passing through the crowd.


    Suddenly, the Drunken Fool, still squatting by the tavern entrance, froze.


    His eyes widened as he spotted the couple in the shadows. "Twenty years! Do you have any idea what I''ve been through all these years?" he sputtered, nearly choking on his wine.


    That night, Helen, clutching Alexander in her arms, soared into the night sky, searching for any sign of Nathan and Luna.


    Her efforts proved futile.


    All she found was a storage ring lying on the ground.


    It contained enough resources and treasures to drive a Competent Force level power mad, along with a simple note:


    [Live well]


    Facing south, towards the Emerald Empire''s border, Helen fell to her knees, tears streaming down her face.


    A few days later, the old beggar vanished from his spot outside the tavern.


    A fierce thunderstorm raged across the sea near Coastal Village, much to the astonishment of the villagers.


    Soon after, the filthy old beggar reappeared, back in his usual spot, begging for alms.


    ...


    Unlike the peaceful lives of Nicholas''s descendants in the small fishing village, Cloudview County remained embroiled in conflict.


    The war on the border raged on, even after all these years.


    Daniel, now a seasoned general with a commanding presence, sat upon the main seat in Border Town.


    His youthful face, framed by a crown of silver hair, contrasted sharply with his imposing black armor.


    Another battle was about to commence outside the town.


    Jessica, leading Cloudview County''s Azure Cloud army, pursued a retreating Druid force.


    They had already seized control of a Druid settlement, and many psychics were busy plundering its resources.


    Ethan observed the scene with a sense of relief.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, a true warrior, leads the Azure Cloud army against the Druids on the border of Cloudview County, her victories unmatched. The mere mention of her name strikes fear into the hearts of the Druids. Word of her past deeds in Cloudview County, particularly her actions in Jonestown, has spread among the Druids, earning her the moniker "The Bloodsoaked Widow."]


    [Due to her merciless slaughter of the Druids in every battle, she has acquired the trait: Druid Slayer.]


    [When facing Druids, her pressure increases by 100%. She is under the protection of Cloudview County''s destiny. For every ten thousand Druids slain, her progress towards the Competent Force stage increases by 1%. Current progress: 12%.]


    "Kill!" Jessica roared, her voice echoing across the battlefield.


    She soared through the air on her dual swords, her beautiful face contorted in a grimace of righteous fury.


    Behind her, tens of thousands of Azure Cloud army psychics followed, their swords forming a dazzling, unstoppable formation.


    The combined might of their psychic powers seemed to blot out the sun.


    Ethan watched the battle unfold, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes.


    "It seems Olivia''s borrowing of destiny from the Druids is having a more significant impact than I anticipated. If Jessica slays another eighty-eight thousand Druids, she''ll break through to the Competent Force stage..." S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With Daniel and Jessica leading the charge, Ethan felt reassured about the border''s security.


    The Azure Cloud army was stronger than ever.


    Ethan had grown accustomed to his existence as a silent guardian, a phantom watching over Cloudview County.


    [Blackwood Year 185]


    [Congratulations! After years of contemplation alongside Daoist Bill, you have fully comprehended the law of the mountain''s weight.]


    Emerging from seclusion, Ethan assessed his current state.


    The barrier between the Competent Force and Basic Mastery stages was a formidable one.


    It required not only the absorption of vast quantities of natural energies but also the mastery of the laws governing the universe.


    Only then could his Competent Force grow and transcend its physical limitations, achieving Basic Mastery.


    He could now perceive the various laws that permeated the world around him, such as the five elements, wind, and thunder.


    "Thankfully, with the aid of these laws, my Competent Force has grown somewhat."


    Ethan felt a surge of excitement.


    The Blackwood family had presented him with two tribute offerings during this period, but the amount of natural energies they provided was minuscule.


    Based on his calculations, if he continued to receive tributes of this caliber every decade, it would take him at least ten thousand years to reach the peak of the Basic Mastery stage... and a Competent Force stage cultivator''s lifespan was a mere two thousand years...


    "However..." Ethan murmured, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.


    And with that, he vanished from sight.

 Chapter 303: Chapter 303: Since when did our family become so poor? Part1

    Ethan materialized within the Blackwood residence.


    It was bustling, more prosperous than ever, practically overflowing with psychic energy.


    The energy vein beneath their home was on the verge of reaching the seventh-grade, further enhanced by countless formations and artifacts designed to gather and amplify psychic energy. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Primordial Bloodwood had returned to its original location, its form restored to its full glory.


    Having reached its current level of cultivation, it could now draw psychic energy directly from the heavens and the earth.


    Every few years, when the mood struck it, the Primordial Bloodwood would shower the land with its crimson snow, a boon to every psychic in Glory City.


    Those fortunate enough, especially those at the Foundational Energy level, could even break through their bottlenecks from its energy alone.


    As a tree spirit, the Primordial Bloodwood possessed an incredibly long lifespan, easily tens of thousands of years.


    Thanks to the Primordial Bloodwood''s generosity, eighty percent of Glory City''s 230,000 residents were now psychics.


    Glory City had become a sacred place, revered throughout Cloudview County.


    Upon arriving at the residence, Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    The Blackwood clan was gathered in the main hall, engaged in a heated discussion.


    The topic?


    "Since when did our family become so poor?"


    Julian, the muscular, bald giant, sat sprawled on the floor, clinging to Nathan''s leg and wailing dramatically.


    "Father, I beg you, just a little more material! I''m so close! Once I forge a sixth-grade psychic puppet, I can break through to the Competent Force stage! I''m almost two hundred years old, my hair is turning white! If I don''t break through soon, I''ll die of old age!"


    "..."


    The younger generation of Blackwoods exchanged amused glances.


    Did he even have any hair to turn white?


    As Julian''s cries subsided, Amelia chimed in, counting on her fingers.


    "Three hundred... five hundred... just two thousand more years, and my sixth-grade spirit herbs will be ready in that hidden realm up north. Then I can finally refine my sixth-grade spirit pills!"


    "We''re truly out of resources," Nathan said, his face grim.


    Although he had spent the past few years cultivating in the Death Coffin, he had heard tales of his children''s insatiable hunger for materials.


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    They had scoured every major power in Cloudview County, but their demands were exorbitant, always insisting on materials of the seventh-grade or higher.


    Now, the mere mention of their names sent shivers down the spines of even the most powerful figures.


    It wasn''t just Cloudview County.


    They had ransacked Starlight County, Clearwater County, even venturing into Druid territory beyond the Azure Cloud border, claiming every high-grade material they could find.


    Yet, they were like bottomless pits, their appetites insatiable.


    Amelia, in particular, was notorious for her extravagant use of rare and precious ingredients, often squandering them on experimental concoctions.


    With a sigh, Nathan tossed his storage ring to his children.


    "We''re truly strapped for resources. See for yourselves."


    The siblings'' faces fell as they peered into the ring.


    It was as he said.


    Apart from a mountain of energy stones and a vast arsenal of ability weapons, the ring was practically empty.


    The younger generation, observing their elders'' predicament, remained unconcerned.


    They knew the true extent of the family''s wealth.


    They had seen the treasure vault with their own eyes.


    As long as they completed their missions or achieved something noteworthy, they could request anything they needed from the vault through Azure Dragon.


    And every time they visited the vault, it seemed to be even more overflowing than before, brimming with formation disks, cultivation techniques, pills, psychic puppets, talismans... it was a treasure trove beyond their wildest dreams.


    As the family grappled with their predicament, Marcus, who had been unusually quiet, spoke up, his voice laced with resentment.


    "Grandfather, aunts, uncles, we still have the Sunshine Clan to deal with."


    The mention of the Sunshine Clan cast a pall over the room.


    The air crackled with unspoken anger.


    Ethan''s eyes narrowed.


    The Blackwood''s rise to power over the past decade had not been without its challenges.


    Their relationship with the Sunshine Clan was particularly strained.


    ...


    Within the Psychic Sanctuary, a secluded space Amelia had created within Iron Forest Horse, lay a ''Heavenly Rejuvenation Jade Bed''.


    This artifact, acquired from Duke Jones of Starlight County at a hefty price in energy stones, was a marvel of craftsmanship, capable of healing even the most grievous wounds.


    A psychic at the Foundational Energy level could recover from near-fatal injuries with just a few days of rest on the jade bed.


    Even those at the Emerging Ability level could expect a full recovery within a couple of months.


    At that moment, two figures lay upon the bed.


    One was a woman of unparalleled beauty, her features unmistakable: Diana, the Demon Lord of the Abyss.


    Beside her lay a man, his handsome face framed by thick, dark eyebrows, his bearing radiating an air of unconscious arrogance even in repose.


    Lucas... his bare chest bore a long, jagged scar, the wound still raw but instead of blood, it oozed a faint black mist.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, while intercepting a Basic Mastery psychic from the Crimson Gate Syndicate attempting to enter Cloudview County alongside the Celestial Star Swordmaster, was gravely wounded. He was saved by the timely intervention of Owen and Daoist Bill.]


    This incident had transpired two years prior.


    Over the past decade and a half, Cloudview County had become a place of unique significance.


    Any Basic Mastery psychic who dared to trespass would be swiftly detected by Daoist Bill.


    The Blackwoods, too, had been proactive, actively recruiting powerful cultivators from across the Emerald Empire and even assisting the Heavenly Justice Hall in escorting captured criminals back to Cloudview County to bolster their defenses.


    The incident with Lucas occurred when he and the Celestial Star Swordmaster returned from the Sunshine Clan''s territory with a group of cultivators from a Competent Force level sect.


    The sect''s patriarch, enraged by their actions, had pursued them relentlessly.


    Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster, never ones to back down from a challenge, had met the patriarch head-on.


    However, they were no match for his overwhelming power and were swiftly defeated.


    Fortunately, the Crimson Gate Syndicate patriarch had spared Lucas''s life.

 Chapter 304: Chapter 304: Since when did our family become so poor? Part2

    Had he been killed, the Blackwoods would have undoubtedly retaliated with devastating consequences.


    Upon learning of their father''s injuries, Daniel and Marcus were beside themselves with rage.


    Even the usually level-headed Daniel had mobilized the Azure Cloud army, marching them to the border and advancing deep into Sunshine Clan territory.


    Had Nathan not intervened and Lucas himself regained consciousness briefly to urge his sons to stand down, they might have been facing a full-blown rebellion instead of a border skirmish with the Druids.


    Now, after much deliberation, the Blackwood clan had gathered in the Psychic Sanctuary, their faces etched with concern as they looked upon their fallen comrade.


    Two years had passed, and despite Amelia''s tireless efforts, she had been unable to purge the lingering sword qi from Lucas''s wound, preventing his full recovery.


    "Grandfather," Marcus said, his voice tight with suppressed anger, "two years have passed. You''ve tried reasoning with the Sunshine Clan''s authorities, but they''ve ignored our pleas. "


    "The ancient agreement clearly states that any conflict involving cultivators above the Competent Force stage within Cloudview County''s borders must be reported. My father was already within our territory when he was attacked. "


    "The Sunshine Clan should have apprehended that rogue cultivator, but the Crimson Gate Syndicate remains at large, that old dog of a Basic Mastery expert still roaming free."


    Marcus gazed down at his father, his heart heavy with worry.


    They hadn''t always seen eye to eye, but Marcus had always admired his father''s strength and unwavering resolve.


    His own absence from family affairs, choosing instead to seclude himself within the Sky Sect, stemmed from the guilt he still carried over the Boar Monarch Pete incident.


    He blamed himself for the misfortune that had befallen his family.


    But now, with his father lying wounded, he had spent the past two years by his side, his only focus on Lucas''s recovery.


    And now, with the family facing a shortage of resources, he saw an opportunity.


    "Grandfather, you''ve always cautioned us against challenging the empire, fearing we might incite a rebellion. But as you can see, the Emerald Empire doesn''t consider us true citizens, and the Sunshine Clan even less so."


    His words hung heavy in the air.


    Joseph, who had been dozing in his wheelchair, jolted awake, his eyes fluttering open.


    "Ancestor," he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep, "our Heavenly Justice Hall hasn''t fared well in the Sunshine Clan''s territory either. They''ve been suppressing us at every turn. You''ve generously provided us with energy stones, but acquiring high-grade materials has become increasingly difficult.


    I''ve investigated the matter, and it seems the Sunshine Clan has always harbored resentment towards us. They''re doing this on purpose."


    Edward nodded in agreement.


    "Indeed, the number of psychics seeking refuge in Cloudview County from the Sunshine Clan has dwindled significantly in recent years. Great-grandfather''s efforts to bring back those who fled have been met with resistance. "


    "The Sunshine Clan is actively preventing psychics from leaving, even going so far as to detain and interrogate them. They''ve gone too far. I heard a Basic Mastery expert attempted to defect but was intercepted and persuaded to return."


    Listening to his descendants'' concerns, Nathan''s expression grew heavy.


    Over the past decade and a half, despite Cloudview County''s unique position, he had always strived to maintain a cordial relationship with the Emerald Empire.


    After all, compared to the colossal might of the empire, the Blackwoods were but a speck of dust.


    If the empire truly wished to crush them, they wouldn''t stand a chance.


    Their continued existence hinged solely on Cloudview County''s role as a bulwark against the Druids.


    But now...


    "My love," Luna said, a gentle smile gracing her lips, "don''t hesitate any longer. Our children need resources, and we won''t stand idly by while others bully us."


    Seeing the expectant gazes of his descendants upon him, Nathan''s frustration boiled over.


    "Do you truly believe I''ve grown senile?" he boomed.


    "Huh?"


    The room fell silent, everyone staring at him in surprise.


    "George and Justin," Nathan continued, his voice laced with a hint of mischief, "have already infiltrated the Sunshine Clan''s territory."


    The Blackwood descendants gasped.


    No wonder they hadn''t seen their relatives lately.


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    Nathan let out a hearty laugh.


    "We''ve already drained Cloudview County dry of its resources. The path of cultivation is long and arduous, spanning centuries. I''ve learned that the Way is ruthless, and the pursuit of power is a constant struggle. We, the Blackwoods, will not be bound by the whims of the Emerald Empire!"


    His words were met with cheers of approval.


    They had long yearned to challenge the Sunshine Clan, both to avenge Lucas and to secure the resources they desperately needed.


    The Sunshine Clan''s territory, the wealthiest in the south, was ripe for the taking.


    Led by Nathan, the Blackwood clan made their way to the ancestral shrine.


    As they departed, Lucas''s eyes fluttered open.


    He glanced down at the scar marring his chest, a flicker of shame crossing his features.


    "Over two hundred years old, and I was laid low by a single sword strike for two whole years. How embarrassing."


    He attempted to sit up, but his gaze fell upon Diana, who lay beside him, still unconscious.


    Her beauty, even in sleep, was captivating.


    Lucas frowned, thinking his little sister was being inconsiderate.


    Why put him in the same bed as Diana?


    The least she could have done was cover her up a bit. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He grabbed a nearby animal hide and gently draped it over Diana''s chest.


    "What are you looking at?" a voice said, sharp as a whip.


    Lucas froze, his blood turning to ice as Diana''s crescent moon eyes snapped open.


    The air in the room crackled with killing intent.


    A wave of awkwardness, a feeling he hadn''t experienced in over a century, washed over him.


    He thought quickly.


    "Pfft!"


    Lucas deliberately coughed up a mouthful of blood, then closed his eyes, feigning unconsciousness.


    Everything would be alright when he woke up.


    Hopefully.


    "..."


    Diana glanced down at the animal hide covering her, then back at Lucas.


    He was a handsome one, she had to admit.


    She decided to let it slide.

 Chapter 305: Chapter 305: Since when did our family become so poor? Part3

    With a sigh, she closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep.


    Meanwhile, the Blackwood clan had arrived at the Forebearer''s shrine.


    They knelt before Ethan''s Psychic Position, their heads bowed in reverence.


    "Forebearer," Nathan intoned, his voice filled with respect and determination, "today, our family marches forth from Azure Cloud. We beseech your protection!"


    [Granted]


    Ethan responded through his Forebearer Psychic Position.


    He had witnessed the Emerald Empire''s increasingly oppressive behavior towards Cloudview County over the years.


    And he knew more than they realized.


    Olivia, from her distant outpost in the Fallen Stars Clan''s territory, had kept him informed.


    Not only had the Emerald Empire failed to provide support, but those loyal to National Advisor Lance had been secretly communicating with the Druids, urging them to conquer Cloudview County.


    They claimed the empire had no intention of defending the region.


    The Emerald Empire had caught wind of the Blackwoods'' growing power.


    The restrictions imposed on Cloudview County by the Sunshine Clan, particularly the ban on resource trading, were a deliberate attempt to stifle their growth.


    If not for Cloudview County''s ongoing war with the Druids, a conflict that painted them as heroes defending the realm, and the rumored protection of the Grand Tutor''s faction in the north, who opposed Lance''s schemes, the Blackwoods might already be fleeing for their lives.


    "We have to strike back!"


    With Ethan''s blessing secured, the Blackwood clan, each clutching their Forebearer Psychic Position, began their preparations.


    The elders, having weathered countless storms throughout their long lives, remained calm and collected.


    Only the younger generation, the descendants of Jeffrey''s line, buzzed with excitement, eager to prove themselves alongside their legendary elders.


    ...


    [Special Event - Unleashing the Beast]


    [Driven by dwindling resources and fueled by the injustice of Lucas''s injury, your clan can no longer tolerate the oppression of the Emerald Empire and the Sunshine Clan. Led by Nathan, they have resolved to break free from the empire''s shackles and strike back, beginning with the Sunshine Clan!]


    As the special event unfolded, Ethan''s consciousness merged with his descendants, granting him a firsthand view of their actions.


    They were not acting recklessly.


    For decades, Dawn, a clandestine organization operating under the Blackwoods'' banner, had been planting spies throughout the Emerald Empire.


    Over the past ten years, Joseph had focused his efforts on expanding the Heavenly Justice Hall''s Covert Branch''s reach within the Sunshine Clan''s territory, gathering intelligence and establishing a network of informants.


    Now, Joseph was the first to venture beyond Cloudview County''s borders, evading the watchful eyes of the Sunshine Clan''s psychics stationed at the border.


    "Brother, do you have to go yourself?" Katie asked, her voice laced with concern.


    She had matured into a capable young woman, her Sparkly Unicorn Bow, now radiating the aura of a mid-grade ability weapon, a testament to her growing strength.


    However, as she grew older, she found herself less inclined to spar with the younger generation in Cloudview County, her protective instincts towards her brother taking precedence.


    "Great-grandfather Daniel and Great-aunt Jessica are occupied with the Druids at the border," Joseph replied, his eyes still closed.


    "Our elders can be a tad impulsive. It''s best if I oversee things personally." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "How long will you be gone?" Katie asked, her gaze lingering on her brother''s face.


    She had achieved a considerable level of mastery in her cultivation, having bested every opponent her age in Cloudview County during her youth.


    She had planned to challenge the older generation, hoping to earn her brother''s praise and cement her legend within the Blackwood clan.


    She had even come up with a nickname for herself: "Azure Cloud''s Blooming Flower."


    But before she could realize her ambitions, her brother was leaving.


    "Remember the old Wind Duke''s Mansion?" Joseph asked, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.


    "How could I forget?" Katie shuddered.


    "That wretched excuse for a grandfather."


    "He was a visionary, in his own right," Joseph mused.


    "I have to admire his ambition. He spent centuries plotting to seize control of Cloudview County. He may have failed, but I intend to learn from his mistakes. I''ll succeed where he failed and achieve even greater things."


    "..." Katie glared at her brother playfully.


    "Don''t even think about marrying me off to some stranger to forge an alliance, or Father will have your head!"


    "It depends on the price," Joseph teased.


    "I swear, I''ll push you into a ditch!"


    "..." Experience tales at m v|l e''-NovelFire.net


    A fortnight later, Joseph, clad in the simple robes of a scholar, opened his eyes, their usual playfulness replaced by a steely glint.


    "Katie," he said, his voice low and serious, "what I''m about to do... it might be considered cruel. Far crueler than anything you''ve witnessed today. If you can''t stomach it, then turn back now and return to Cloudview County."


    Katie glanced behind her.


    They stood before a modest estate in a small county town within the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    The nameplate above the gate bore the inscription: "Blackwood."


    Several figures, assassins from the Heavenly Justice Hall, melted into the shadows, disappearing over the estate''s walls.


    "I''m not afraid, brother," Katie said, her voice firm.


    "You''ve always protected me. Now it''s my turn to protect you."


    She grinned, her eyes shining with unwavering loyalty.


    Everyone in the family claimed her brother was wicked.


    His reputation as the master of the Heavenly Justice Hall''s Covert Branch had spread throughout Cloudview County, striking fear into the hearts of even the naughtiest children.


    But Katie knew better.


    No matter what anyone said, no matter how ruthless his actions might seem, her brother always had their best interests at heart.


    After all, there was no one else in the world who would protect her as fiercely and unconditionally as her brother.


    "Alright then," Joseph said, gesturing for Katie to crouch beside his wheelchair.


    Autumn was in full swing.


    As Joseph gently ruffled Katie''s hair, she beamed up at him with a carefree grin.


    Then, together, they ventured deeper into the heart of the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, believes that acting openly as the Blackwoods of Azure Cloud would only provoke the ire of the imperial court. Inspired by Michael''s example, he has chosen to conceal his true identity and instead manipulate events from the shadows, using AI Bionic Robots as his agents to gradually seize control of the Sunshine Clan.]


    [He has eliminated the Silver Ridge County branch of the Sunshine Clan''s Blackwood family, a lineage with a century-long history. Now, disguised as descendants of the Sunshine Blackwoods, he and Katie journey to the main branch of the Blackwood family, a lineage with a history spanning millennia, to claim their supposed birthright.]


    [Acquired Trait: Mastermind]


    "What?"


    Back in Glory City, Ethan stared at the notification in disbelief.


    "A Michael 2.0?" he finally breathed, shaking his head in astonishment.

 Chapter 306: Chapter 306: This is going to be interesting

    "Alright then," Joseph said, gesturing for Katie to crouch beside his wheelchair.Autumn was in full swing.


    As Joseph gently ruffled Katie''s hair, she beamed up at him with a carefree grin.


    Then, together, they ventured deeper into the heart of the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, believes that acting openly as the Blackwoods of Azure Cloud would only provoke the ire of the imperial court. Inspired by Michael''s example, he has chosen to conceal his true identity and instead manipulate events from the shadows, using AI Bionic Robots as his agents to gradually seize control of the Sunshine Clan.]


    [He has eliminated the Silver Ridge County branch of the Sunshine Clan''s Blackwood family, a lineage with a century-long history. Now, disguised as descendants of the Sunshine Blackwoods, he and Katie journey to the main branch of the Blackwood family, a lineage with a history spanning millennia, to claim their supposed birthright.]


    [Acquired Trait: Mastermind]


    "What?"


    Back in Glory City, Ethan stared at the notification in disbelief.


    "A Michael 2.0?" he finally breathed, shaking his head in astonishment.


    "To think, this was the same boy who was once swindled out of all his resources by Edward and the others. I thought he''d turn out like Julian. The paths people take in life are truly fascinating."


    Joseph and Katie had successfully infiltrated the Sunshine Blackwoods.


    The boy had even gone to the trouble of forging bloodline records and identity documents.


    He had even planted witnesses near the Silver Ridge County estate to vouch for their legitimacy as Sunshine Blackwoods.


    Ethan marveled at Joseph''s meticulous planning and cunning.


    He was indeed a worthy descendant, carrying a spark of Michael''s strategic genius within him.


    As time went on, Ethan followed the siblings'' progress through the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    The Sunshine Blackwoods were based in the central province''s capital city.


    Compared to the bustling heart of the Sunshine Clan, Cloudview County, despite its reputation as a haven for cultivators, seemed like a backwater province.


    The Emerald Empire was divided into eighteen provinces, each further subdivided into seven to twelve counties.


    The Sunshine Province originally encompassed eight counties, but with Azure Cloud, Starlight County, and Maple Grove County now under Druid control, only five remained.


    However, this loss had done little to diminish the Sunshine Clan''s prosperity.


    The remaining five counties, along with the surrounding areas of Sunshine Province, were known as the "Dragon''s Favored Lands."


    Since ancient times, the Sunshine Clan''s territory had been blessed with an abundance of hidden realms and ancient ruins.


    They even had strict laws in place to prevent the reckless exploitation of energy veins and the overharvesting of spirit mountains, prioritizing sustainable development above all else.


    They also placed great emphasis on righteousness and decorum.


    Even before engaging in a duel, cultivators were expected to debate the merits of their respective positions.


    As a result, the Sunshine Clan boasted a high concentration of scholarly and artistic cultivators.


    Academies and private schools were commonplace, their halls echoing with the sounds of diligent study and the gentle melodies of stringed instruments.


    The border counties were a different story.


    As far as Ethan could recall, in Cloudview County, might made right.


    Resources were there for the taking, and strength was the only law that mattered.


    As for scholarly pursuits...


    The most "cultured" place in Cloudview County was now Glory City, thanks to the efforts of Raymond, a fifth-generation descendant of Jeffrey''s line.


    Inspired by Olivia, Raymond had dedicated himself to the scholarly path, but his chosen field of study was combat spells.


    His introductory lesson involved traveling to the border and personally slaying a Druid under the guidance of his instructors.


    Even their musicians were a different breed.


    One of them was currently plotting to desecrate the ancestral tombs of the Crimson Gate Syndicate, seeking revenge for Lucas''s injury.


    In retrospect, Cloudview County''s poverty and barbarity were hardly surprising.


    Perhaps Michael''s radical approach had been the right one after all.


    Sadly, even after tens of thousands of years, the mindset of Cloudview County''s cultivators remained stuck in the past.


    "When will Cloudview County ever achieve such splendor?" Joseph sighed, gazing out at the bustling streets of the Sunshine Clan''s capital from his vantage point atop the Blackwood estate. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Everywhere he looked, he saw opportunity, peace, and prosperity.


    The citizens were content, their lives free from the constant threat of war and deprivation.


    It was a stark contrast to the harsh realities of his homeland.


    Katie, however, remained unimpressed.


    Discover exclusive content at mvl


    "I don''t know about splendor, brother," she said, her nose wrinkled in distaste.


    "They all seem so... soft. We''ve been here for two months, and I haven''t seen a single ounce of fighting spirit in any of them."


    "The Sunshine Blackwoods are no different," she continued.


    "Their younger generation is too busy squabbling amongst themselves for the position of clan head. They''d be better off settling their differences with swords and spells. I bet if the Druids ever reached this place, they''d all turn tail and flee."


    "You can''t have it both ways," Joseph said, chuckling.


    "Celestial should be arriving from Cloudview County any day now. It''s time to set our plan in motion."


    The Sunshine Blackwoods weren''t a particularly large clan, their lineage stretching back a mere four centuries.


    Their branches had spread throughout the land, their influence diluted with each passing generation.


    Their current patriarch was only at the early stages of the Competent Force level, and their elders, numbering no more than twenty, were constantly vying for power.


    Every century, the younger generation engaged in a bloody struggle for control of the clan, their infighting weakening them from within.


    It wasn''t long before Joseph and Katie encountered the Celestial Star Swordmaster, disguised as a humble coachman, within the Blackwood estate.


    "Greetings, Celestial," Joseph said, bowing respectfully.


    Only a handful of Blackwoods had accompanied Joseph on this mission: George, Justin, Donna, and forty of Jeffrey''s descendants.


    The rest were either too well-known or too valuable to risk exposing.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s presence was a testament to his loyalty to Lucas.


    He had been wracked with guilt ever since witnessing his "sworn brother''s" humiliating defeat at the hands of the Crimson Gate Syndicate patriarch.


    He had spent the past three years ranting about the insult to his honor, vowing to avenge Lucas''s injury.


    "Your father instructed me to follow your every command," the Celestial Star Swordmaster said, grinning at Joseph.


    His gaze drifted towards the bustling street beyond the estate''s gates, a wistful expression crossing his features.


    "This is a fine place, but it lacks a certain... spark without Olivia."


    "Without her gentle smile, my heart knows no peace," he sighed dramatically.


    "..."


    Joseph and Katie exchanged exasperated glances.


    The old swordsman had only met Olivia''s great-grandmother twice, and that was over thirty years ago.


    And now he fancied himself a lovesick poet, pining for a woman he barely knew.


    "This is going to be interesting," Joseph muttered under his breath.


    Ignoring the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s lovelorn ramblings, Joseph and Katie retreated to their chambers.


    They retrieved their Forebearer Psychic Positions and contacted Ethan.


    [What are your plans now?]


    Ethan inquired, his voice tinged with curiosity.


    Joseph had informed him of his plan to install a puppet leader within the Sunshine Blackwoods.


    Three months had passed since the Blackwoods'' arrival, and their agents were now scattered throughout the Sunshine Clan''s territory, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.


    The more Ethan learned about the Sunshine Clan, the more he realized the sheer scale of their power and the complexity of their internal politics.


    Could the Blackwoods truly hope to seize control of such a formidable force?


    It seemed like an impossible task.


    Unless they rallied the entire might of Cloudview County, enlisted the aid of the six Druid tribes from the Endless Forest, and persuaded Lester and Shane to join their cause, their chances of success were slim to none.


    Joseph knelt on one knee, his expression earnest.


    "Forebearer," he said, his voice filled with respect, "the Sunshine Clan is vast and powerful. Even within this single city, there are countless families with Competent Force level cultivators. Unlike Cloudview County, they are ruled by a governor who answers only to the emperor himself."

 Chapter 307: Chapter 307: The Millennium Bloodline Project

    "I initially intended to control their leaders and, through them, the entire province," Joseph explained, his voice laced with frustration."But that''s simply not feasible. The Sunshine Province has adhered to the emperor''s decrees for centuries. No single faction or family has ever held absolute sway over the region. Even within its five counties, power is fragmented among countless noble families and competing sects. It''s a constant game of shifting alliances and power struggles."


    Ethan frowned as he listened to Joseph''s report.


    Cloudview County had been under the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s influence for over a hundred thousand years.


    Their cultivation techniques and traditions permeated every aspect of life in the region.


    George''s discovery of the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s ancestral founder had allowed them to unite the county under a single banner.


    Coupled with Michael''s machinations and Stephen''s strategic maneuvering, they had finally achieved a semblance of unity.


    But the Sunshine Province was a different beast altogether.


    With thousands of factions vying for power, controlling them all was an impossible dream.


    Even if they managed to seize control temporarily, it wouldn''t last.


    Human nature was fickle.


    It wouldn''t be long before their newfound allies turned against them, betraying the Blackwoods for their own gain.


    "Forebearer," Joseph said, his eyes shining with a newfound determination, "I request Great-grandfather Marcus''s assistance. And I believe the descendants of Grandfather Jeffrey can play a crucial role in our endeavors."


    Ethan studied Joseph''s face, his gaze lingering on the boy''s bright, intelligent eyes.


    Suddenly, it all clicked into place.


    The Sunshine Province lacked a unifying force like the Azure Cloud Pavilion, a lineage that had dominated Cloudview County for over 130,000 years.


    So... why not create one?


    They might not recognize the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s legacy, but what if Jeffrey''s descendants infiltrated the Sunshine Province''s various sects and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming elders and even sect leaders?


    In a few centuries, or even a millennium, who would question their claims of inheriting the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s teachings?


    A spark of madness flickered in Joseph''s eyes.


    "If we succeed," he whispered, his voice trembling with excitement, "we can absorb the entire Sunshine Province without firing a single shot!"


    [Special Event - The Millennium Bloodline Project]


    [Your descendant, Joseph, has devised a plan to gradually infiltrate the Sunshine Province''s sects and clans with Blackwood descendants, ultimately transforming the entire region into a Blackwood stronghold!]


    "A thousand-year plan..." Ethan murmured, awestruck by the sheer audacity of Joseph''s vision.


    Michael had spent centuries laying the groundwork for his ambitions.


    Joseph was even more patient, willing to play the long game, his sights set on a goal that spanned generations.


    [Proceed with your plan.]


    Ethan granted his approval, sending a wave of elation through Joseph.


    Meanwhile...


    "Joseph''s plan?"


    In Glory City, Marcus, his appearance now that of a wise and seasoned cultivator, received the Forebearer''s command.


    Without hesitation, he gathered the remaining five thousand disciples of the Sky Sect and set off for the Sunshine Province.


    Five thousand psychics soared through the night sky, their swords leaving trails of shimmering light in their wake.


    Marcus, clutching his Sky Hall in one hand and his horsetail whisk in the other, led the charge, his black robes billowing in the wind.


    "Today, the Sky Sect marches forth from Azure Cloud," he declared, his voice booming across the heavens.


    "The Sunshine Province''s fragmented lineages shall be unified under a single banner!" Continue reading stories on mvl


    "Who shall be crowned the King of Leaders?"


    "I shall be the King of Leaders!"


    Tonight, Marcus''s eyes burned with the same intensity as the full moon above, their ambition illuminating the path ahead.


    He envisioned a future where his gaze, like the rising sun, would command respect and inspire awe.


    And when that day came, woe betide anyone who dared to harm his father or threaten the Blackwood clan!


    As if sensing his resolve, the Sky Hall in his hand pulsed with a surge of power.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, has been plagued by guilt and self-doubt ever since his master''s disappearance. He blames himself for Wesley Daoist''s betrayal, for his inability to protect his family during the Druid invasion, and for his struggles to break through to the Competent Force stage despite mastering every cultivation technique Cloudview County has to offer.]


    [Now, with his father, Lucas, gravely wounded, his anger and desire for power have reached a boiling point. He understands that only overwhelming strength can overcome his obstacles and avenge his father. He has carried the Sky Hall for years, but its spirit has been angered by his repeated attempts to break it apart and distribute its fragments to his younger relatives.


    It has refused to acknowledge him as its true master. But today, it has finally sensed his unwavering determination and has helped him overcome his inner demons!]


    [Acquired Trait: Heavenly Detachment]


    [The Sky Hall has acknowledged you as its master, revealing its true potential. It can absorb and store countless natural treasures, shielding your mind from harm. Your descendant, Marcus, is now 99% less likely to be affected by inner demons. With the Sky Hall''s aid, his comprehension of the laws of the universe through natural treasures has increased by 30%.]


    [Your descendant, Marcus, is approaching his seventh-nine thunder tribulation. He has suppressed his cultivation, refusing to ascend until he can face the legendary nine-nine thunder tribulation!]


    "Good boy," Ethan whispered, a proud smile spreading across his face.


    Of all his third-generation descendants, Marcus had always been the one he worried about the most.


    The boy was kind, intelligent, and fiercely loyal, but he was also prone to overthinking and self-blame.


    When Lucas and Karen separated, Marcus had felt like a traitor, torn between his parents.


    During his time at the Sky Sect, he had constantly strived to prove his worth to his family, fearing he wasn''t doing enough.


    After Boar Monarch Pete''s death, Marcus had spiraled into a deep depression, drowning his sorrows in alcohol and blaming himself for the tragedy.


    When the Druids invaded, and Warren Daoist disappeared after traveling to the imperial capital to expose Michael, Marcus had convinced himself that he was somehow responsible for his master''s fate.


    Layer upon layer of self-doubt had buried Marcus''s true potential.


    But now, he had finally broken free from his inner demons.


    "This is how a Blackwood should be," Ethan thought, his heart swelling with pride.


    "Even if Lucas had to suffer a few more injuries, it was worth it to see Marcus finally embrace his true strength."


    Back in the Iron Forest Horse infirmary, Lucas woke with a start.


    "Achoo!"


    Diana, her brows furrowed in annoyance, kicked him off the Heavenly Rejuvenation Jade Bed with a swift flick of her leg.


    "..."


    Lucas landed on the floor with a thud, blinking in confusion.


    He had no idea why he had sneezed, considering his cultivation level, but he wasn''t about to argue with Diana.


    He simply rolled over and went back to sleep.


    Amelia, hearing the commotion, rushed into the room and scooped Lucas back onto the bed, scolding her master.


    "Master, why did you kick my brother off the bed again? It''s big enough for both of them. They''re both old and injured, practically half-dead. Why are you still clinging to these outdated notions of propriety?"


    Diana: "..." Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas: "..."

 Chapter 308: Chapter 308: Its a difficult choice

    While Marcus and the Sky Sect disciples made their move openly, a different kind of mobilization was taking place back in Cloudview County.Before the Primordial Bloodwood stood a throng of Blackwood descendants, all of them offspring of Jeffrey''s line.


    These were the same youngsters who had once gathered outside Glory City, striking heroic poses and vowing to emulate their legendary elders.


    Sadly, none of them had achieved the same level of renown as their predecessors.


    Some had made names for themselves within Cloudview County, but their accomplishments were confined to the younger generation. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Besides, Cloudview County was now a tightly-knit community.


    Even their sparring matches were considered friendly competitions.


    Anyone who dared to bully a Blackwood descendant would face the wrath of the Heavenly Justice Hall and the Oracle Chamber.


    The fifth and sixth-generation descendants were essentially living in a sheltered bubble.


    They all yearned to surpass their elders, but the reality was harsh.


    They could mimic their ancestors'' actions, but they couldn''t escape their shadows.


    The Blackwoods didn''t glorify suffering, but they understood that adversity often forged the strongest individuals.


    Some thrived under pressure, while others crumbled and faded into obscurity.


    Of course, there were exceptions.


    Katie was one such anomaly, but no other Blackwood descendant could compare to her unique circumstances.


    The little princess had been born into privilege, with a doting brother, Joseph, a father who secretly ruled Cloudview County, and an uncle who held a similar position.


    No one would shower affection on a hundred-plus descendants without expecting something in return.


    The Blackwood treasure vault was overflowing with riches, but to claim their share, the younger generation had to prove their worth.


    Today, they stood before the ancient tree, their eyes burning with anticipation.


    Their elders were about to assign them their missions.


    Tales of their ancestors'' exploits were legendary throughout Cloudview County, but when people spoke of Jeffrey''s line, they often dismissed them as a fading branch.


    They were overshadowed by the family''s illustrious past, but they refused to be defined by it.


    They weren''t a fading lineage.


    They simply needed an opportunity to prove that the blood coursing through their veins burned just as brightly as their ancestors''.


    They, too, could carry the Forebearer''s Psychic Position and make their mark on the world, spreading the Blackwood clan''s glory far and wide!


    "Craig," the Primordial Bloodwood''s voice echoed, a deep rumble that shook the very air around them, "Emerging Ability level two, with a triple psychic constitution. You are bold, impulsive, but possess a generous heart. Your path does not lie in the Sunshine Province."


    "You will serve in the Heavenly Justice Hall in Azure Cloud''s Jubilee County. You will become a respected leader, forge lasting friendships, and find a virtuous wife."


    "Yes, Divine Tree!" Craig replied, bowing deeply.


    "Rick," the ancient tree continued, its voice softening slightly, "peak Foundational Energy level, with a quadruple psychic constitution. You are blessed with a handsome visage. I have seen glimpses of your past, your unwavering determination. I know you aspire to become a warrior in the Azure Cloud army, but perhaps your destiny lies in the Sunshine Province."


    "Divine Tree," Rick asked, his eyes wide with curiosity, "with your vast knowledge, can you tell me if the Sunshine Province has an army?"


    "Indeed, they do," the Primordial Bloodwood replied, its voice a rustling whisper carried on the wind.


    "Wayne," the ancient tree intoned, turning its attention to a bright-eyed youth, "a promising young man with a dual psychic constitution. Your future lies in the Sunshine Province''s Golden Valley County. You will soar like an eagle, starting your journey by weaving straw sandals in Golden Valley''s county town."


    "No wonder Grandfather always said I had a knack for farming," Wayne chuckled.


    "..."


    One by one, the Blackwood descendants stepped forward, seeking guidance from the Primordial Bloodwood.


    Nathan and Luna watched with furrowed brows.


    They weren''t entirely comfortable with their descendants glimpsing into their potential futures.


    It brought back painful memories of their own children''s quests for signs and omens, their actions guided by the Primordial Bloodwood''s pronouncements.


    Back then, their fourth-generation descendants had faced countless trials and tribulations, some even losing their lives in the process.


    Edward and Nicholas had been profoundly affected by those experiences.


    Nathan and Luna wanted their descendants to live safe and fulfilling lives within the protective embrace of Glory City and Cloudview County.


    They might not know all of them personally, but every grandparent wished for their descendants'' happiness.


    But life was rarely that simple.


    Most of their descendants yearned for something more than a peaceful existence in Cloudview County.


    Given the slightest opportunity, their ambition would blossom.


    And who were they to stand in their way?


    After all, if they remained confined to Cloudview County, they might never reach their full potential, their cultivation stagnating before they even reached the Developing Skill level.


    "A life of peace and comfort, or a life of struggle and glory... it''s a difficult choice," Nathan sighed, his shoulders slumping with the weight of his responsibilities.


    "I''m getting old. When I was young, I never overthought things. I would have fought tooth and nail for a single energy stone. Back then, I wanted all my children to be like me, willing to sacrifice everything for the clan. Now, all I want is for my descendants to be happy."


    "My love," Luna said, gently squeezing Nathan''s arm, "why torment ourselves with such dilemmas? Every child has their own path to forge. It''s their journey, not ours."


    "After all," she continued, "they carry the Blackwood blood. It''s in their nature to seek adventure and make their mark on the world. As elders, the worst thing we can do is interfere. If they make mistakes, we''ll guide them back on track. But if they have dreams and aspirations, we should support them with all our might."


    "You''re right," Nathan said, a wry smile tugging at his lips.


    In the distance, Jeffrey stood with his wives, a colorful gaggle of women who usually filled Glory City with their boisterous laughter.


    Now, they watched their children receive their assignments with a mixture of pride and apprehension.


    Jeffrey puffed out his chest, his gaze sweeping over his descendants.


    He had heard whispers that his children were weak and unworthy of the Blackwood name.


    Nonsense!


    Every single one of his offspring was far more capable than he had ever been.


    He knew his only real talent was his handsome face, but... he had raised a brood of exceptional children!


    "My children," he called out, his voice booming across the clearing, "remember to stay safe out there! Protect yourselves! And when you achieve greatness, don''t forget to send back energy stones and natural treasures to support your old man!"

 Chapter 309: Chapter 309: Vitality and Fertility Enhancement Technique

    The other fourth-generation descendants stared at Jeffrey, speechless.They had produced a few offspring themselves, but compared to Jeffrey? They couldn''t compete with his sheer number of wives.


    As the most "useless" member of the fourth generation in terms of cultivation, he was ironically the most successful in another aspect...


    Even Jeffrey''s own children rolled their eyes at their father''s antics.


    But Ethan held a certain admiration for the man.


    [Traits: Charismatic, Amorous, Prolific... Unsung Cultivator]


    [Unsung Cultivator: He diligently cultivates in obscurity, gaining a 10% increase in cultivation speed when unnoticed.]


    Jeffrey didn''t crave power or recognition.


    He simply focused on producing heirs and quietly honing his cultivation.


    He had already reached the early stages of Developing Skill, his foundation solid and unwavering. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Over a century of cultivation, he had even created a unique psychic technique, the "Vitality and Fertility Enhancement Technique," perfectly suited for the Blackwood bloodline, especially when combined with Beast Blood Fruit.


    He might be the weakest of the fourth generation in terms of raw power, but his numerous children brought him a steady stream of resources from the family.


    He distributed every reward and allowance he received among his wives and children, never keeping a single scrap for himself.


    He relied solely on absorbing natural energy for his own cultivation.


    He truly lived up to his name, Jeffrey, a tireless worker who toiled without seeking recognition or reward.


    Sometimes, Ethan wondered if Jeffrey had kept all those resources for himself, he might have already reached the Competent Force stage.


    With their assignments received, the Blackwood descendants, under the watchful eyes of their elders, departed for the border between Cloudview County and the Sunshine Province.


    This was a clandestine operation.


    Most of these youngsters were unknown outside of Cloudview County.


    They would assume new identities within the Sunshine Province, their true origins a closely guarded secret.


    They would operate under Joseph''s guidance, infiltrating the Sunshine Province''s powerful factions.


    Even if they couldn''t rise to positions of authority within the major sects, they could still serve as valuable informants, playing a crucial role in the Blackwoods'' long-term plans.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, they set off in different directions, guided by assassins from the Heavenly Justice Hall.


    They cast one last glance back at Cloudview County, a hint of longing in their eyes.


    This was their home, the place where they had grown up, surrounded by everything familiar and dear.


    But then they turned their faces towards the Sunshine Province, their expressions hardening with resolve.


    They were leaving behind the safety and comfort of Cloudview County, venturing into uncharted territory.


    They would no longer have the protection of their family, and no one would sing their praises.


    Their journey was akin to blazing a trail through a dense wilderness, fraught with unknown dangers.


    But...


    People in Cloudview County whispered that they were a generation riding on the coattails of giants, that they were nothing without the Blackwoods'' legacy.


    They would prove them wrong!


    They were stepping out of the shadows, forging their own paths.


    They would clear the way for the giants, carrying them forward on their shoulders!


    When the Sunshine Province fell into their hands, they would return triumphant, silencing all doubters!


    ...


    "This is a long-term endeavor," Nathan sighed, his voice heavy with emotion. "Who knows when we''ll see them again?"


    The ancient tree, now in human form, stood beside Nathan, watching the departing figures. "Our children are always like this," he chuckled. "They live in your shadows, constantly striving to break free."


    "They are like serpents leaving the mountain, destined to return as dragons."


    Nathan frowned. "You''ve seen the future?"


    The ancient tree shook his head.


    "Isn''t that the Blackwood way?" he said, his voice carried on the wind.


    "I suppose you''re right," Nathan said, another sigh escaping his lips. "I''m truly getting old."


    He led the remaining Blackwood descendants back to the main hall.


    A short while later, Duke Walker Jones of Starlight County arrived.


    After a lengthy discussion with Nathan, the duke''s face lit up with joy. "Mr. Nathan," he exclaimed, "are you saying you''ll help us reclaim Starlight County?"


    The six major powers of Starlight County had sought refuge in Azure Cloud, establishing a presence on the border between the two counties to avoid conflict with Cloudview County.


    They had even joined forces with Cloudview County to fight the Druids, hoping to persuade them to help drive the Druids out of Starlight County.


    But Daniel, the commander of Cloudview County''s forces, was a shrewd negotiator.


    He had presented them with a long list of demands, practically demanding the surrender of Starlight County to the Blackwoods.


    Now, Nathan had finally relented.


    "Yes," Nathan said, his voice firm. "I will order Daniel to liberate Starlight County. But I have two conditions. Will you agree to them?"


    He saw the flicker of hesitation in Jones''s eyes and continued, "Firstly, once the Druids are purged from Starlight County, it will be renamed Azure Cloud. The two counties will be unified, with no distinction between us."


    "Secondly, I expect the major powers of Starlight County to remember that it was the Blackwoods who reclaimed your homeland. Our psychics will shed their blood and sacrifice their lives for Starlight County. When the Blackwoods call upon you for aid, I expect you to answer without hesitation."


    Jones pondered Nathan''s words for a long moment before finally nodding his agreement.


    The other factions had no objections.


    They yearned to return to their ancestral lands, regardless of the name.


    Besides, the two counties had been allies for years, their bonds forged in blood and shared hardship.


    Their elders were practically family.


    As for aiding the Blackwoods when called upon? Donna was Chuck''s, the leader of the Arcane Society, personal disciple.


    If they refused, Chuck would personally deliver their punishment.


    With Jones''s departure, Daniel and Jessica emerged from the shadows, their faces etched with smiles.


    "Uncle," Daniel said, admiration lacing his voice, "your methods are truly impressive. After presenting them with such outrageous demands, Grandfather swoops in with two seemingly reasonable conditions, and that old fox Jones falls for it hook, line, and sinker."


    "He had no choice," Nathan said, stepping out of the house and gazing towards the Sunshine Province, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "If word of our previous demands had spread, the six major powers of Starlight County would have turned against us. Then we would have been truly at odds."


    His children were embarking on a thousand-year plan to conquer the Sunshine Province.


    As their elder, it was his duty to lay the foundation for their future empire.


    He would gift them a Cloudview County that spanned two provinces!

 Chapter 310: Chapter 310: The boy was his childhood nightmare

    Nearly a hundred Blackwood descendants had infiltrated the Sunshine Province.It was a vast territory, and they were but grains of sand scattered across its expanse.


    However, Joseph, ever cautious, utilized the Heavenly Justice Hall''s network to provide them with impeccable new identities.


    Some were portrayed as simple villagers who stumbled upon a chance encounter with cultivation, embarking on the path of self-improvement.


    Others were presented as orphaned survivors of fallen cultivator families, driven by a thirst for vengeance and a desire to restore their lost legacies.


    Still others were cast as reformed bandits, their innate talents leading them to seek redemption and a new life.


    Joseph''s plan required them to remain hidden for at least three to five years, ensuring their true identities remained undiscovered.


    During this period, they would start from scratch, cultivating mundane or Yellow-grade techniques, blending seamlessly into their new surroundings.


    "Forebearer," Joseph explained when Ethan inquired about his strategy, "these few years will not only serve to conceal their identities but also to temper their spirits. Embracing a life of anonymity will foster humility and patience. By starting from the bottom and working their way up, they will develop a stronger foundation, both in their cultivation and in their character."


    Ethan was reassured by Joseph''s thoughtful approach and entrusted him with overseeing the mission.


    A year passed, and the youngsters scattered across the Sunshine Province began to develop unique and unexpected traits.


    [Your descendant, Corey, has assumed the identity of a butcher in a small county town within the Sunshine Province. Acquired Trait: Butcher]


    [Temperament increased by 20%, Killing Intent increased by 5%, Intimidation effect against ghostly beings increased by 30%.]


    ...


    [Your descendant, Ted, posing as a scholar from a humble background, has immersed himself in the literary scene of Blue Haven County. He has gained renown for his exquisite poetry, earning a living by composing verses for the courtesans of pleasure houses. Acquired Trait: Courtesan''s Muse]


    [Cultivating his literary skills within a pleasure house, his comprehension has increased by 5%. His favorability among courtesans has increased by 50%.]


    ...


    [Your descendant, Ross, was exposed as a cultivator while training at a martial arts academy in Cedar Hill County. Accused of harboring ulterior motives, he was pursued relentlessly. During his escape, he suffered grievous injuries, losing both his cultivation and his eyesight. He refused your and the family''s aid, choosing instead to join the Heavenly Blade Sect as a broken man.


    Acquired Trait: Blind Bladesman]


    [Perception increased by 100%, Danger Sense increased by 50%.]


    ...


    Observing his descendants'' progress, Ethan realized that their true potential had been masked by the Blackwoods'' overwhelming presence.


    Now, freed from their elders'' shadows, they were blossoming in unexpected ways.


    It was a reminder that everyone possessed unique talents and abilities, waiting to be discovered.


    One location, however, stood out from the rest.


    Nestled deep within a mountain range, its psychic energy even richer than Glory City''s, was a formidable sect with eight floating islands suspended in the sky above its headquarters.


    [Crimson Gate Syndicate]


    This was the sect whose Basic Mastery psychic had crippled Lucas.


    Hidden within an inconspicuous cave near their ancestral tombs, two figures sat in deep meditation, their bodies covered in dust and cobwebs, even spiders crawling across their skin.


    [Your descendants, George and Justin, have been staking out the Crimson Gate Syndicate for nearly two years. However, the sect''s Basic Mastery patriarch''s nascent soul remains vigilant, making infiltration impossible. Undeterred, they have resolved to plunder the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s ancestral tombs and treasure vault, even if it takes them decades. Acquired Trait: Patience]


    [Patience increased by 5%.]


    "Brother, I wish William was here," Justin grumbled, swatting a spider that had been cultivating near them, its strength boosted by their residual psychic energy, reaching the Foundational Energy level. "He''s full of tricks. We wouldn''t be stuck here waiting like sitting ducks."


    Justin had always been terrified of William.


    The boy was his childhood nightmare.


    Countless fourth-generation descendants had been traumatized by William''s antics, sleeping with one eye open for weeks after witnessing his disturbing behavior.


    But now, Justin wished he had William''s cunning by his side.


    "Who knew the Sunshine Province would be so difficult to infiltrate?" George sighed, sharing his brother''s frustration.


    The Sunshine Province was far more formidable than they had anticipated, their cultivation system more comprehensive and their defenses more robust.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate''s formations, talismans, and other protective measures were like an impenetrable wall.


    They had attempted to raid the ancestral tombs of a Competent Force level family a few months back, but they were discovered after only two days, forcing them to flee for their lives.


    Justin had managed to sneak into their treasure vault during the chaos, but he could only grab a few items from the outer layers.


    He hadn''t even breached the inner formations before being detected.


    ...


    Reassured by his descendants'' steady progress under Joseph''s guidance, and confident that George and Justin wouldn''t do anything reckless, Ethan returned to his cultivation.


    Joseph might not be the most brilliant member of the family, but he was undoubtedly the most cautious and adept at operating in the shadows.


    Meanwhile, a storm was brewing in Cloudview County, a conflict that held Ethan''s undivided attention.


    [Special Event - Reclaiming Starlight County]


    Nathan and Jones''s alliance had finally been set in motion.


    Starlight County had been preparing for this moment for over a year, but it was hardly enough.


    After years of Druid occupation, Starlight County was a shadow of its former self.


    Nearly half of its territory had been transformed into dense forests, the remaining areas reduced to rubble and ruins.


    The Druids'' strength increased within their forests, as if they drew power from the Endless Forest itself.


    Their already impressive regenerative abilities were amplified, and their spells gained additional potency.


    According to Daniel, reclaiming Starlight County required meticulous planning and a swift, decisive strike.


    They would launch a surprise attack from the original border of Starlight County, carving a path of destruction hundreds of miles long and a thousand meters wide, severing the Druids'' connection to the Endless Forest.


    They would then set fire to the forests, denying the Druids their home-field advantage.


    With the four Druid tribes trapped within Starlight County, they would then engage in a long and arduous campaign to eradicate them completely.


    "Brother Daniel, your military genius is unmatched," Jones said, bowing deeply to Daniel in Cloudview County''s Border Town. "We entrust the fate of Starlight County to your capable hands." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had initially been apprehensive about merging Starlight County with Azure Cloud, fearing the loss of his family''s power and influence.


    But over the past two years, he had come to accept the inevitable.


    The Blackwoods'' rise was unstoppable.


    They were a family of dragons, and he was no match for them, especially not for someone like Daniel.


    He had relinquished his ambitions, content to let the Blackwoods take the reins.


    He would focus on what he did best: leading his people in battle and reclaiming their homeland.


    The Jones family would remain dukes, even if their power was diminished.

 Chapter 311: Chapter 311: It seems we have some unexpected guests

    As Jon listened to Daniel''s battlefield arrangements, he felt reassured seeing that Daniel meant them no harm.An idea struck him, and he interjected, "Brother Daniel, would Blackwood be interested in strengthening its ties with my Walker family even further?"


    "Oh?" Daniel paused, glancing at the leaders of the various factions around them, their expressions intrigued.


    He looked at Jon with curiosity. "Brother Jon, are you proposing a union between our families?"


    To his surprise, it was Nate who reacted most strongly.


    He had been listening quietly until now, but he suddenly stood up, chest puffed out.


    The image of a certain woman filled his mind ¨C the one who had haunted his dreams for decades, the one who had defeated him with a pink bow and left him utterly humiliated.


    Daniel considered for a moment before replying with a smile, "It''s certainly possible. However, after what happened with Michael, Blackwood forbids arranged marriages that sacrifice the happiness of our children. But if two hearts are drawn to each other, there''s no obstacle."


    Kenneth, standing nearby, could only think: Must you constantly bring up my dead father? Is it really necessary?


    A while later...


    Nate pleaded with a pitiful expression, "Grandfather, why not me? Why must you burden my children with this? You should go and beg them yourself!"


    Disgusted by his grandson''s spinelessness, Jon delivered a swift kick. "You useless fool! You couldn''t even work up the courage to approach Lady Katie, and you think you deserve to marry her? You''ve already taken three wives on a whim. Don''t even try to play the love-struck fool with me, you pathetic wretch!"


    "Ugh..." Nate groaned as he lay sprawled on the ground, gazing up at the sky. "I can''t help it, Grandfather. Ever since that defeat, I''ve searched all of Cloudview County, and I haven''t found a single person who can wield a pink bow like that. My other wives were mere desires, but Katie... she''s true love."


    "..."


    Seeing Nate lost in his delusional heartbreak, Jon ordered his men to toss him into the lake to cool off.


    Ethan could only shake his head in disbelief.


    Nate wasn''t a bad guy, but his lechery and spinelessness made him the worst possible candidate to court Katie.


    Unlike his own son, Jeffrey, who genuinely loved each and every one of his wives.


    As they continued their war preparations, Ethan suddenly frowned.


    "It seems we have some unexpected guests."


    ...


    Outside Glory City, an ability vessel approached.


    Most vessels in Cloudview County were simple and practical, designed to transport large numbers of Psychics and conserve their psychic powers.


    Even a lower-grade ability weapon vessel was considered quite valuable.


    This particular vessel, however, screamed extravagance.


    It radiated the powerful aura of a top-grade ability weapon.


    Its prow was adorned with a menacing Kirin head and intricate runes.


    A pair of wings extended from its sides, shimmering with faint traces of energy as it flew. Stay tuned to mvl


    At night, it would be a sight to behold.


    And a very obvious target for enemies.


    Nathan, perched atop Glory City''s wall, had already received Bill Daoist''s message.


    These visitors from Sunshine Mansion had properly announced their arrival before entering Cloudview County.


    As Nathan greeted them, he couldn''t help but form a rather uncharitable opinion.


    Despite his inward judgment, Nathan maintained a courteous facade. "Hahaha! I thought I heard larks singing this morning. To think it was the esteemed members of the Nangong family gracing us with their presence! Blackwood is truly honored."


    Despite Nathan''s warm welcome, the three figures who descended from the ability vessel wore expressions of haughty indifference.


    The distinguished elder at their head merely offered a slight nod, as if he were an ancient god gracing mortals with his presence.


    Though their arrogance was palpable, Nathan continued to play the gracious host, leading them inside.


    "Kylin Mountain Roberts of Sunshine Mansion."


    Ethan watched them go, a sardonic smile playing on his lips.


    The interface before him displayed snippets of Nathan''s memories, several of which involved the Kylin Mountain Roberts.


    [After your descendant Nathan''s decisive victory against the Druids, he received guests from Sunshine Mansion ¨C the Kylin Mountain Roberts. Believing Cloudview County''s fortunes had turned, the Roberts sought Blackwood''s support in petitioning the ancient god to rescind his decree and aid them against the Druids. Their price? The Primordial Blood Tree. Nathan politely declined.]


    [Years later, during Cloudview County''s counteroffensive, the Roberts returned. This time, they demanded Blackwood relinquish its secret art of corpse control... Nathan politely declined.]


    [Years later, after Starlight County''s return to Cloudview County, the Roberts returned once more. This time, they demanded the hand of Blackwood''s prodigy, Katie, in marriage to a Roberts scion... Nathan''s fury shook the very table.]


    It wasn''t just the Roberts.


    After Cloudview County''s victory, numerous powerful factions from Sunshine Mansion had come knocking, each hoping to claim a piece of the pie.


    They had found no such luck with Blackwood.


    Blackwood, after all, was known for their willingness to fight tooth and nail, and they had both Owen and Bill Daoist backing them.


    Martin''s family had fared slightly better.


    As a Duke''s lineage, they had at least avoided being bullied.


    Other factions, however, had not been so fortunate.


    The Azure Cloud Pavilion had suffered the most.


    Not only had their leader, Jason, been severely injured by a powerful faction, but their treasured Earth-grade cultivation technique, the Azure Cloud Scripture, and a top-grade ability weapon had been stolen. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Had Jason not fought with his life on the line, they might have even lost their Heaven-grade technique, the Azure Cloud Undying Scripture, passed down from their founding ancestor.


    The Black Tortoise Sect hadn''t fared much better.


    Their entire sect relied on their sixth-grade energy formation, making them Cloudview County''s most formidable defenders.


    But they were also incredibly poor, having poured thousands of years of effort and resources into creating their Black Tortoise Formation Disk.


    And now, it was gone.


    The ancient god had decreed that any Competent Force entering Cloudview County must first announce their arrival.


    But... such pronouncements were meaningless without the strength to back them up.


    "Bastards!"


    Deep within the Iron Forest Horse, in a room devoid of the Psychically-attuned jade beds, lay the injured Jason.


    As if sensing the arrival of those from Sunshine Mansion, he shot up, a mouthful of blood spewing from his lips.

 Chapter 312: Chapter 312: What... what are you saying?

    "Calm yourself; anger won''t help your injuries," Amelia urged, noticing the elderly man''s ragged breathing. She helped him sit up, her brow furrowed with concern. "Your energy channels are damaged. You won''t be able to seek revenge in this state."Jason had faced many trials since becoming the leader of the Azure Cloud Pavilion. He hadn''t coughed up blood when Blackwood trapped him within his own sect. He hadn''t felt this level of fury even after reconciling with Blackwood and uncovering the Oracle Chamber and Michael''s schemes.


    He hadn''t been this badly injured even after defying the odds and surviving the Five-Nine Heavenly Tribulation to face the Druids invading Cloudview County.


    But now, as he wiped the blood from his lips, an inferno of rage burned within him. His normally youthful face, framed by white hair, was flushed crimson, his eyes bloodshot. Tears welled up uncontrollably as he gritted out each word.


    "Every single person in Cloudview County fights to protect this land! Every sect, every faction stands as the first line of defense against the Druids for Sunshine Mansion! They couldn''t take what was ours, not even the Druids! I''ve been wounded battling them, but I''ve always held my head high!"


    "And yet, it''s those from Sunshine Mansion who come to steal our treasures, our heritage! Is Sunshine Mansion not wealthy enough?! Years ago, I yearned for Sunshine Mansion, the Dragon''s Favored Land! A place teeming with ancient traditions, where everyone lived by the virtues of loyalty, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness!"


    Your journey continues with mvl


    "Hahaha, what a laugh! The Dragon''s Favored Land!"


    Jason''s resentment seemed to permeate the entire room.


    As his voice faded, both he and Amelia froze. A cold, clear female voice echoed in their ears. "Did your elders never tell you the truth about Cloudview County?"


    Amelia recognized her master''s voice, but Jason could only whip his head around in astonishment. Who could possess such profound skill to transmit their voice directly into their minds, undetectable even to a Competent Force expert like himself?


    Jason quickly sat up and bowed towards the door. "I apologize for my ignorance. Would you enlighten us, esteemed senior?"


    "The human domain is but a speck in the grand scheme of things. The ancient god is protected by the heavens, and his presence naturally blesses the land with abundant energy. The deeper the fortune, the more frequent the opportunities for advancement.


    The further one travels from the heart of human civilization, the less one benefits from this fortune, making it difficult to cultivate to higher realms."


    "Of course, that doesn''t mean Azure Cloud can''t produce Basic Mastery cultivators. What a pity."


    Diana chuckled dryly. "Long ago, Azure Cloud enjoyed the blessings of heaven. This very land witnessed battles between beings whose power you can''t even fathom. Legacies were plentiful, ruins overflowing with ancient wisdom. But time marches on. The Emerald Emperor established his empire, uniting the human race under his banner, and Cloudview County...


    well, it became the borderland."


    "Forced to defend against the Druids on one side, while the various factions of Sunshine Mansion pressure you for resources on the other. Your ancestors, each generation, they hid their treasures, kept their true strength hidden, all to avoid attracting the greedy eyes of Sunshine Mansion!"


    "Now, Azure Cloud emerges victorious against the Druids, your true strength revealed, your treasures on display. Did you really think they wouldn''t try to claim their share? Each generation toils and bleeds, only to become someone else''s treasure chest."


    Understanding dawned on Jason, but it wasn''t a comforting revelation. The truth ignited a fresh wave of fury within him, making his body tremble. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "130,000 years... 130,000 years!"


    Jason saw it now. Cloudview County, a cage disguised as a homeland. Mocked as barbarians by Sunshine Mansion, they were nothing but caged beasts. When the Druids attacked, they were the first line of defense, expendable pawns in a larger game. And when the Druids weren''t a threat, Sunshine Mansion waited to reap the rewards of their sacrifices.


    Ethan, listening to the exchange, felt a chill run down his spine. If not for the Druid invasion, this cycle of exploitation would have continued for generations to come.


    ...


    In a luxurious manor within Glory City''s bustling outer district, a warm August breeze wafted through the open courtyard. A servant served tea as Nathan sat across from a lavishly dressed elder named Danny. The eighth elder of the Kylin Mountain Roberts, Danny possessed a cultivation base at the mid-Competent Force level and spoke with an air of casual authority.


    Despite being from Sunshine Mansion, he addressed Nathan, a man who had fought a Druid Apostle to a standstill, with surprising candor. "Nathan, you''re still young. Blackwood''s rise has been meteoric, but with youth comes impulsiveness."


    "Wise words, Elder Danny." Nathan smiled politely, choosing his battles. There was no need to expend energy arguing, especially when it wouldn''t cost him a single Energy Stone.


    Danny frowned, carefully placing his teacup back on the table. "I''ve offered to help Blackwood on numerous occasions, yet you''ve refused me time and time again. You wouldn''t relinquish a mere tree demon, nor would you share your knowledge of Dark Magic. Have you ever wondered why the empire hasn''t offered its assistance?"


    Nathan shook his head, a serene smile on his face.


    Danny''s frustration grew with each passing moment. "It''s because your heart isn''t true. You''re arrogant, blinded by pride. You need to temper your spirit, young man. It''s only out of compassion for Blackwood''s role in fighting the Druids that my Kylin Mountain Roberts has extended a hand, hoping to help Azure Cloud, to help you weather this storm."


    "Do you truly believe that Cloudview County, having repelled the Druids once, can do so again? You underestimate them. They are gathering their strength, and their next assault will be far more devastating. General Owen and Master Bill are honorable men, but without the support of Sunshine Mansion, how can a single county withstand the full might of the Druids?"


    Nathan let out a hearty laugh. "You speak in riddles, Elder Danny. I''m but a simple man. Please, speak plainly."


    Danny sighed dramatically. "My Roberts family holds a position of influence in Sunshine Mansion, and we have connections within the empire itself. One of our own serves directly under the High Councilor. And it has come to my attention that a senior member of the High Councilor''s family is nearing the end of their lifespan. A grand funeral is being prepared."


    "Nathan, the High Councilor has dedicated his life to the empire. It is our duty to ease his burdens in this time of need. Do you understand?"


    Nathan tapped his fingers lightly on the table. Those who knew him well recognized this as a sign of his true displeasure.


    Leave it to someone from Sunshine Mansion to be so infuriatingly indirect. A senior member of the High Councilor''s family was dying, a grand funeral was in order, and it was their duty to ease his burdens. He wanted his Artifact of the Fallen!


    Unaware of the storm brewing within Nathan, Danny misinterpreted his silence. He pressed his advantage, sensing an opportunity.


    "Mr. Nathan, a single word of support from the High Councilor could alleviate Blackwood''s troubles. He might even take notice of Blackwood, elevating your family to unimaginable heights..."


    Before he could finish, Nathan''s voice, laced with amusement, cut him off.


    "Danny, we have no quarrel. Why do you treat me like a fool?"


    The elder''s carefully constructed facade crumbled. He stared at Nathan, his face frozen in a rictus of disbelief.


    "What... what are you saying?"

 Chapter 313: Chapter 313: Those who bully others invite their own downfall

    "Insolent!"One of the two younger men accompanying Danny, a handsome youth, slammed his fist on the table and shot to his feet.


    "Nathan, how dare you address the elder by his given name¡ª"


    "Who the hell do you think you are?!" Julian roared, his voice booming through the room.


    "You have the gall to address my father so disrespectfully? What kind of dog dares to bark at a lion?!"


    Before the Roberts scion could react, his eyes widened in terror.


    His mouth opened and closed wordlessly as a shadow enveloped him.


    A massive hand, rough and cold, clamped around his throat, lifting him off the ground.


    He thrashed wildly, his Developing Skill, early-stage psychic powers useless against this monstrous grip.


    "You... let me go!" he choked out, his voice a strangled whisper.


    He found himself staring into the furious face of a giant of a man, his head shaved clean.


    The man''s eyes blazed with icy rage, his entire body radiating an aura of lethal intent.


    It was Julian!


    The Roberts youth, accustomed to the deference his family name commanded, had never encountered the raw, primal killing intent that emanated from Julian, a man forged in the fires of countless battles.


    He had dared to challenge Nathan, emboldened by his family''s prestige and Danny''s presence.


    Now, all that remained was pure, unadulterated fear.


    He was drowning in a sea of killing intent, the air thick with the phantom cries of a million fallen warriors.


    Nathan watched, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes as Danny, his face creased with worry, realized he was also caught in Nathan''s sights.


    A silent pressure held him immobile, a predator toying with its prey.


    Julian''s killing intent intensified, forcing the other Roberts youth, halfway out of his seat, to sink back down with a whimper.


    "Nathan, what is the meaning of this?" Danny demanded, his voice trembling with suppressed fury.


    He had always found Nathan to be courteous, even during their disagreements.


    At most, he might slam a table in frustration. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But now, Danny realized he had drastically underestimated both Nathan''s patience and the depths of these "barbarians''" fury.


    He could feel it now ¨C waves of power converging on their location from across Glory City, even from as far as Border Town.


    A single word from Nathan, and he knew he wouldn''t see the next sunrise.


    These savages had lost their minds!


    "Meaning?" Julian bellowed, his eyes blazing.


    "You leeches slither in here every few years, demanding this, demanding that! What do you take Blackwood for?!"


    "You cowered in Sunshine Mansion while we fought for our lives!" Julian roared.


    "And now, while we''re still licking our wounds, you come begging for more? Do you think we have so many victories to spare? To hell with your Kylin Mountain Roberts! We faced down the Druids, and we''re not afraid of a pack of glorified scavengers!"


    "You..."


    Danny glared at Julian, but he knew the man''s reputation for volatility.


    It was best not to provoke him further.


    He turned his icy gaze back to Nathan.


    "Nathan, have you considered the consequences of your actions? If you incur the wrath of my Roberts family, and Cloudview County falls to the Druids, you''ll find no refuge in Sunshine Mansion!"


    A cruel smile played on his lips as he glanced at the struggling youth in Julian''s grasp.


    He had been searching for an excuse to take what he wanted from Blackwood, and now, they had handed it to him on a silver platter.


    Blackwood had struck first, giving him the moral high ground.


    His voice softened, laced with faux concern.


    "Nathan, be reasonable. Surely you don''t want this incident to spread throughout Sunshine Mansion, leaving Cloudview County vulnerable on all sides? Give me the high-grade artifact! Do this, and my offer still stands. Sunshine Mansion will lift the siege on Azure Cloud this very day!"


    Nathan exhaled slowly, his gaze fixed on Danny with an intensity that sent shivers down the elder''s spine.


    "If my Cloudview County, if my Blackwood, requires the likes of you to save us," Nathan said, his voice devoid of emotion, "then we are truly lost, and our ancestors weep for us."


    ...


    [Following Nathan''s negotiation with the Kylin Mountain Roberts, your family receives a gift from Danny.]


    [One top-grade ability vessel, equipped with three quasi-sixth-grade defensive formations and one offensive formation, capable of traveling ten thousand miles per day.]


    [Three Storage Rings containing a vast quantity of Energy Stones, eighth to sixth-grade heavenly treasures, talismans, and more.]


    [One seventh-grade artifact, the "Kirin Earth Jade Pendant," crafted from the remains of a Kirin, capable of assisting those below the Developing Skill level in refining their psychic powers, increasing cultivation speed, and safeguarding the mind.]


    "Father, look! It''s sixth-grade Dewdrop Mist Grass! Three stalks of it!" Julian exclaimed, his eyes gleaming as he rummaged through the Storage Rings. Explore stories at mvl


    "The Kylin Mountain Roberts are truly wealthy! Second Sister has been searching for this missing ingredient for her sixth-grade Revitalizing Breath Pills! This is incredible!"


    "And look at all these artifact crafting materials!" Julian continued, practically giddy with excitement.


    "This will keep me busy for months! We should have tied them up and made them send more!"


    A smile touched Nathan''s lips, chasing away the shadows of anger.


    Even Ethan couldn''t help but feel a surge of satisfaction.


    [Revitalizing Breath Pills (Sixth-Grade)]


    [When consumed, this pill allows the user to absorb energy from the surrounding environment, rapidly restoring physical injuries and replenishing psychic power. An exceptional elixir for those at the peak of Developing Skill, attempting to break through to the Competent Force level. It can also be used to restore the physical strength of Competent Force Psychics.]


    "Second Sister has been researching this formula for over twenty years," Nathan said, his voice filled with pride.


    "With her skills, she should be able to synthesize these pills. They''ll be invaluable for Marcus''s tribulation and for Lucas''s recovery."


    Julian continued to revel in their spoils, his enthusiasm infectious.


    Nathan watched his son, a rare moment of lightness in his heart.


    Marcus, his second son, had taken the Sky Sect to Sunshine Mansion two years ago and had established a foothold there.


    However, he faced constant pressure from the local factions.


    If he could survive the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, his talent would be enough to overcome any obstacle.


    Then there was his eldest, Lucas.


    While he had survived his encounter with the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s Basic Mastery Psychic, the insidious energy from that battle had burrowed deep within him, clinging to his very core.


    He couldn''t even utilize natural energies without risking further injury.


    His only option was to slowly, painstakingly purge the foreign energy from his system, lest he face the fate of a Pinnacle Apprentice ¨C his cultivation crippled, his life force extinguished.


    Despite the treasures spread before him, a shadow of worry lingered in Nathan''s eyes.


    He made his way to the ancestral hall, his steps heavy with concern.


    "Ancestors," he murmured, bowing before the ancestral tablets.


    "The Kylin Mountain Roberts grow bolder with each passing year, their insults increasing tenfold. They covet our family''s secrets. I thought that after two hundred years, I had learned to control my temper. Yet, I fear I have only brought another enemy to our doorstep."


    Guilt flickered in his eyes.


    [Do not fret.]


    Ethan, seated upon the altar, smiled reassuringly.


    He had seen this coming.


    As time passed, the conflict between Cloudview County and Sunshine Mansion was bound to escalate.


    It was inevitable.


    Nathan wasn''t a weak man by any means.


    However, the enemy they faced was a behemoth, a sleeping giant.


    If not for that, Ethan knew Nathan would have already fed those Roberts fools to the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Both he and Nathan could sense it ¨C the Roberts family wouldn''t let this go unpunished.


    [Special Event ¨C The Roberts'' Fury]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has confiscated all valuables from Danny and his two companions. He has silenced the disrespectful Roberts youth, breaking his jaw and severing his tongue. Danny has been crippled and tossed out of Glory City, incurring the wrath of the Roberts family.]


    "Those who bully others invite their own downfall," Ethan said, a cold glint in his eyes.


    They had brought this upon themselves.


    The moment they decided to prey on Blackwood, they should have considered the consequences.


    So what if they had one more enemy?


    Blackwood would face them all head-on!

 Chapter 314: Chapter 314: Its a trap!

    At the border between Sunshine Mansion and Cloudview County, the three Roberts men, so recently brimming with arrogance in Glory City, now cut sorry figures.Danny''s face was a mask of fury. He couldn''t believe the audacity of those Blackwood barbarians! To rob them blind, taking even their ability vessel, and to break his legs in full view of Glory City''s citizens!


    The memory of that humiliation washed over him. The commoners had surrounded him, gawking and jeering like he was a stray dog to be toyed with. He hadn''t dared to fight back, hadn''t even dared to cry out in pain. He knew, with chilling certainty, that Nathan would have ended his life without a second thought.


    In his thousand years of cultivating psychic powers, he had never endured such shame. Never had he imagined that he, a Roberts, would be subjected to such treatment, least of all in this backwater county.


    He had been forced to crawl, yes crawl, out of Blackwood on his hands and knees, the mocking laughter of Glory City''s residents ringing in his ears. The memory burned like acid, fueling his rage.


    "Elder Danny, Blackwood has gone too far!"


    The Roberts youth, his tongue restored by a potent healing pill, glared back at the receding silhouette of Glory City. He had accompanied Danny on numerous trips to Cloudview County, and always, they had been treated with the utmost respect, their every whim catered to.


    And yet, here they were, forced to flee like whipped dogs, not even daring to turn their heads as they soared away from that cursed place.


    "Blackwood... Blackwood, I will have my revenge!" Danny roared, his fury echoing across the sky. The air crackled with energy, his two companions cowering before his unleashed power.


    It took him a while to regain his composure. His gaze, now cold and calculating, settled on Blackwood. "This humiliation... I will repay it tenfold."


    But his words were cut short as a wave of terror washed over him. A cold sweat broke out, his body trembling uncontrollably. A suffocating aura of malevolent energy descended upon them, a palpable wave of bloodlust and darkness. It felt like sinking into a mire of blood and shadows.


    His two companions froze, their faces ashen. If Julian''s killing intent had been a raging inferno, this was something far more sinister, a chilling whisper of death that promised unimaginable suffering.


    A figure materialized before them, seemingly out of thin air. A tall, muscular man with intricate tattoos covering his bare chest and a massive sword strapped to his back. He walked with an air of casual menace, his eyes radiating a chilling intensity.


    "Well, well..."


    Danny''s voice was a strained croak. He could sense the man''s power, a cultivation base equal to his own, at the mid-Competent Force level. But the sheer intensity of his aura, the raw, untamed power that radiated from him, told a different story. One wrong move, and Danny knew he would be dead before he hit the ground. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What was a rogue cultivator of this caliber doing here, traveling from the direction of Sunshine Mansion towards Cloudview County? Had he been exiled, seeking refuge in that backwater county? Was he planning to offer his services to Blackwood, to fight against the Druids?


    Cloudview County, that wretched hive of scum and villainy, didn''t deserve a cultivator of this caliber!


    Danny''s mind raced, fear and confusion battling for dominance. He had to do something, anything, to protect himself. He stepped forward, blocking the man''s path.


    "Honored sir, a moment of your time, if you please."


    "Hmm?"


    The man paused, his brow furrowed in curiosity. Most people avoided him like the plague. Only his seven sworn brothers and his family treated him like a normal human being. Who was this fool to stand in his way?


    Danny swallowed his fear, forcing the words out. "Honored sir, your path... it leads to Cloudview County, does it not?"


    "It does."


    "Then you must turn back!" Danny exclaimed, his voice trembling with urgency. "It''s a trap! Those Blackwood devils... they practice Dark Magic! They lure unsuspecting Psychics to Cloudview County with promises of power and riches, only to drain them dry! They have a monstrous tree, a blood-drinking fiend, that feeds on the life force of their victims.


    And once they''ve drained their victims dry, they toss their corpses back over the border, claiming the bounty on their heads! We barely escaped with our lives!"


    He let out a dramatic sigh, congratulating himself on his quick thinking. This lie, this brilliant fabrication, would spread like wildfire. He would make sure of it. Blackwood would pay for what they had done.


    But his moment of triumph was short-lived. The tattooed man was looking at him with a strange expression, a mixture of amusement and something far more dangerous.


    "Oh?" he said, his voice a low growl. "You''ve discovered Blackwood''s secret, have you?" Read latest chapters at mvl


    "Yes..." Danny began, but the words died in his throat. What was this? What secret? Why was this man looking at him like that?


    A cold dread gripped his heart as the man''s aura flared, casting grotesque shadows across the landscape. The air crackled with malevolent energy.


    "Run! He''s one of them! He''s with Blackwood!"


    Danny didn''t need to be told twice. He unleashed his psychic powers, throwing himself backward in a desperate attempt to escape.


    The world exploded in a maelstrom of dark energy, the sheer force of the blast attracting the attention of two powerful Basic Mastery Psychics stationed within Cloudview County.


    Moments later, the dust settled. The Lord of Frenzied Blood, his hand still gripping the lifeless body of the Roberts youth who had dared to insult his family, sheathed his bloodstained sword. He glanced towards Sunshine Mansion, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features.


    "Foolish old fool," he muttered. "He almost had me there. Not bad, for a dying breed."


    He had spent years cultivating in Blackwood, accepted and respected despite his unorthodox methods. Blackwood had become his home, its people his family. And he would defend them with his life. Anyone who dared to harm his family, anyone who dared to spread lies and sow discord... would face his wrath.


    He turned to pursue the fleeing Danny, his eyes burning with cold fury. But before he could take a step, a voice echoed in his mind, stopping him in his tracks. It was Bill Daoist, his voice laced with an icy calm that brooked no argument.


    "Leave him alive," the voice commanded. "For now."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood frowned. "Why spare him? He knows too much."


    "He knows nothing," Bill Daoist replied. "But his lies could prove... useful. Let him go. Spread the word. Let Sunshine Mansion tremble at the thought of Blackwood''s might."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood hesitated, then nodded curtly. "As you command. But if you''re wrong, old friend, if this backfires... I''ll hold you personally responsible."


    The voice chuckled softly. "Have a little faith, old friend. Sometimes, the best weapon is the one your enemy wields against themselves."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood snorted, then turned and melted back into the shadows, leaving behind the lingering scent of blood and the promise of a storm to come.

 Chapter 315: Chapter 315: Your tribulation approaches

    As the Lord of Frenzied Blood disappeared into the distance, heading back towards Glory City, Bill Daoist wiped a bead of sweat from his brow.He stood at the foot of Psychic Sanctuary Mountain, his gaze fixed on the spot where the rogue cultivator had vanished.


    "Heavens above," he muttered, his voice hushed with awe and a hint of trepidation.


    "What manner of monster has Blackwood taken in? Could he be... one of the Ancient Blood, a descendant of the primordial demons?"


    The Ancient Blood. Creatures of pure, unadulterated power, their lineage stretching back to the dawn of time.


    They were incredibly rare, their numbers dwindling with each passing millennium.


    Most lived in seclusion, their existence shrouded in myth and legend.


    "How Blackwood manages to control such a being is beyond me," Bill Daoist mused.


    "But it''s for the best, I suppose. Better he channels his power for their cause than unleashes it upon the world."


    ...


    High in the mountains, miles from the border, Danny lay broken and bleeding.


    His limbs, severed at the joints, lay scattered around him like discarded twigs.


    He coughed up a mouthful of blood, his eyes filled with terror and regret.


    "Why?" he gasped, his voice a ragged whisper.


    "Why me?"


    Fate, it seemed, had conspired against him this day.


    Humiliated and robbed blind by Blackwood, he had barely escaped with his life.


    And then, just when he thought his luck couldn''t get any worse, he had stumbled upon that rogue cultivator... a Blackwood agent!


    If not for the desperate gamble he had made, burning half his life force to activate the Kylin Mountain''s secret escape technique, the Kirin''s Shroud, he would be dead.


    "Elder Danny, are you alright?"


    Victor, his last remaining companion, hovered anxiously by his side.


    The young man''s face was pale, his voice trembling with fear and barely suppressed anger.


    "Your energy channels... they''re shattered! You''re..."


    "Silence, you fool!" Danny roared, his voice laced with pain and fury.


    "This is all your fault! If you hadn''t provoked them..."


    But even in his rage, Danny knew he couldn''t blame Victor entirely.


    He had let his anger cloud his judgment, underestimating both Blackwood''s ruthlessness and their reach.


    "Victor," he gasped, his voice weak.


    "Take me back... to the family. We must make them pay... for what they''ve done."


    "But Elder Danny..." Victor stammered, his eyes wide with fear.


    "They''re too powerful! We can''t..."


    "Fool!" Danny spat, his voice regaining some of its former strength.


    "Do you think I''ve survived this long by being weak? Blackwood may have won this battle, but the war is far from over."


    A cunning glint entered his eyes.


    "We''ve been visiting Azure Cloud for the past two years, haven''t we? Did you not notice the movements near Martinez Pass, where Starlight County borders Cloudview County?"


    Victor frowned, confused.


    "I... I don''t understand."


    "They''re planning something," Danny hissed, his voice a conspiratorial whisper. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Blackwood... they''re not content with just defending Azure Cloud. They want to retake Starlight County for Duke Jon. And they''re planning a surprise attack!"


    Victor''s eyes widened.


    "But... how can we use that to our advantage?"


    "We''ll use their arrogance against them," Danny said, a cruel smile spreading across his lips.


    "Take me back to the family. We''ll inform the patriarch. He''ll contact the Druids in Starlight County, have them lay an ambush."


    "When Blackwood walks into that trap," he continued, his voice filled with venomous glee, "they''ll be slaughtered. Owen and Bill Daoist will be forced to abandon Azure Cloud, leaving Blackwood vulnerable and alone."


    "Their precious artifacts, the Death Coffin, the Shapeshifting Divine Tree, their soul-controlling techniques... all of it will be ours for the taking."


    He turned to Victor, his eyes burning with avarice.


    "You''ll be rewarded handsomely for your loyalty, Victor. I''ll even grant you the ultimate prize... the chance to claim Blackwood Amelia''s body as your own! Her Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation-tempered physique... imagine the power!"


    Victor''s breath hitched.


    The thought of possessing Amelia, a prodigy whose talent was spoken of in hushed whispers, sent a thrill of excitement through him.


    But he wasn''t a fool. He had seen Danny''s true colors.


    "Swear it," he said, his voice surprisingly steady.


    "Swear a blood oath that you''ll fulfill your promise."


    Danny hesitated, his eyes narrowed.


    But he was desperate.


    "Very well," he hissed.


    "I, Danny of the Kylin Mountain Roberts, swear upon my blood and my lineage..."


    ...


    With the Roberts family dealt with, a strange calm settled over Azure Cloud.


    News of Danny''s fate spread like wildfire, serving as a stark warning to any who dared to underestimate Blackwood''s resolve.


    Blackwood, however, wasn''t resting on its laurels.


    They knew the Roberts family wouldn''t forgive or forget this humiliation.


    They prepared for retaliation, reinforcing their defenses and strengthening their alliances.


    Even Bill Daoist and Owen, disgusted by Sunshine Mansion''s greed and treachery, pledged their support.


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    If the Roberts family dared to retaliate, they would face the full might of Blackwood and its allies.


    "Those Roberts fools," Owen had scoffed, his hand resting on the hilt of his warhammer, an heirloom weapon that pulsed with restrained power.


    "They have but one measly Basic Mastery cultivator to their name. If not for the risk of escalating the conflict, I''d pay them a visit myself and teach them some manners."


    Five years passed.


    Life in Cloudview County settled into a new rhythm.


    The border remained a flashpoint, skirmishes erupting with predictable regularity.


    But Blackwood stood firm, their defenses bolstered by Ethan''s guidance and the growing strength of their allies.


    [Congratulations! Under Daniel''s leadership and Jessica''s tactical brilliance, your family has slain over three hundred thousand Druids in the past five years. You have successfully annexed former Druid territory into Cloudview County, achieving remarkable victories. You have gained 5 Family Willpower.]


    Ethan tallied his gains.


    Between the family''s accomplishments and his careful management, his Family Willpower had reached an impressive 53 points.


    On the battlefield, both Jessica and Daniel had flourished.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, has slain over ten thousand enemies in battle. She attempted to establish peaceful coexistence with the Druids, but their ideologies proved irreconcilable.


    After a group of Druid captives collaborated with their brethren to launch a surprise attack on Azure Cloud''s forces, your descendant spent six months constructing a network of killing grounds, utilizing both natural formations and psychic formations to eliminate over a million Druids.]


    [Trait: Druid Slayer ¨C Having slain over a million Druids, Jessica can now withstand the Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation.]


    Clad in crimson armor, Jessica stood atop Border Town''s wall, her gaze sweeping across the endless expanse of the Endless Forest.


    Her expression was calm, her grip on her twin swords steady.


    Below her, the soldiers of the Azure Cloud army stood in disciplined ranks, eighty thousand strong.


    If not for the constant attrition of war, their numbers would have easily swelled to two hundred thousand.


    Each soldier wore crimson armor, their movements synchronized and precise.


    The armor... it was eerily reminiscent of the Black Iron Blood Armor Julian had crafted all those years ago.


    And indeed, it was Julian who had gifted the design to Cloudview County''s enchanters.


    His armor, while incredibly potent, was also relatively simple to craft, perfect for outfitting a large army on short notice.


    Each suit was a masterpiece of psychic engineering, forged from metal and tempered in the blood of slain Druids for forty-nine days.


    The results were... unpredictable, to say the least.


    But each suit amplified the wearer''s psychic powers, allowing them to channel their energy into devastating formations.


    Jessica smiled, a hint of pride flickering in her eyes.


    Half of the Azure Cloud army now answered to her command.


    Another three hundred thousand Psychics stood ready to answer her call, their ranks swelling with each passing year as a new generation came of age, eager to prove themselves in battle.


    And all of it, this formidable force, was but a single cog in the machine her uncle Daniel had built.


    "Jessica, your tribulation approaches."


    Daniel materialized beside her, his keen senses detecting the telltale signs of an impending tribulation gathering in the sky above her.


    It crackled with raw power, tinged with the bloodlust and resentment of countless slain Druids.


    "The Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation," he said, a hint of pride in his voice.


    "Most impressive. Your aunt has been hard at work, crafting a new batch of seventh-grade elixirs. And the family''s alchemists have prepared a dozen high-grade healing pills. Your uncle Julian even crafted you a new weapon. It''s time to prepare for your breakthrough."

 Chapter 316: Chapter 316: Theyre all good children

    "Speaking of family," Daniel said, his tone softening, "you''ve been on the front lines for years. Haven''t seen much of your boy Sam back in Jonesport, have you? He''s grown into a fine leader. You''ve even got a great-grandchild now. You should pay them a visit. No need to tire yourself out here."Daniel, childless and unmarried, held a special affection for Jessica.


    She was the brightest of the fourth generation, sharp as a whip and decisive in battle, a testament to Olivia''s tutelage.


    Having her lead the troops on the border allowed him to focus on the bigger picture, strategizing against the Druid Apostles and elders.


    Jessica shook her head, her gaze still fixed on the endless expanse of the Endless Forest.


    "Thank you for your concern, Uncle. I spent my younger years away from the family, in Jonesport. I thought I was there for the family''s benefit, but I let my guard down, made foolish mistakes, trusted the wrong people like that snake, Jack."


    A shadow flickered across her face, the memory still painful.


    "I won''t make that mistake again. I helped Sam secure his position as leader, ensured the Jonesport line continued. That''s all the closure I need."


    She turned to face him, her expression resolute.


    "These past few years have opened my eyes, Uncle. I''ve seen our home nearly destroyed, our people almost driven from their land. I''ve seen enough. The world is a dark place, and Blackwood is not yet strong enough to protect its own. I won''t stand by while others suffer the same pain, the same betrayal I endured."


    "As long as the Druids remain a threat," she declared, her voice ringing with conviction, "Jessica will not rest!"


    Daniel smiled, pride swelling in his chest.


    He offered her a Storage Ring filled with treasures, but Jessica politely declined.


    "Uncle, my duty is here, on the border. My path is paved with the blood of my enemies. This is the law I''ve come to understand. The greater the carnage, the stronger my tribulation will be. And I won''t stop until I''ve conquered the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation!"


    Her words were spoken with a chilling calmness, as if discussing the weather.


    Daniel chuckled, stroking his beard thoughtfully.


    "Well said, my dear. I''ll see to it that you have the elixirs and artifacts you need to overcome your tribulation. You focus on the enemy. Leave the rest to me."


    [Your descendant, Jessica, has sworn to overcome the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation. Her trait, Druid Slayer, has evolved into ¨C Druid''s Bane.]


    [By slaying ten million Druids, Jessica can challenge the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation. Current progress: 11%. Druids'' fear towards her has increased by 40%. Damage dealt to Druids increased by 20%.]


    "Good children," Ethan murmured, a wave of warmth washing over him.


    "They''re all good children."


    He watched Jessica with pride.


    Like Marcus, she possessed an unyielding spirit, a burning ambition that pushed her to strive for greater heights.


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    Both sought to conquer the legendary Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, a feat few had ever achieved.


    He would ensure they had everything they needed to succeed.


    His gaze shifted to the other Blackwood descendants scattered throughout Sunshine Mansion.


    Five years had passed since they had embarked on their mission, infiltrating their enemy''s ranks.


    They had integrated seamlessly, their true allegiances hidden behind masks of normalcy.


    Joseph, in particular, had exceeded his expectations.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, has spent years cultivating his network within Sunshine Mansion, never revealing his true strength or ambition. He has befriended countless influential figures, using his feigned disability and his sister Katie''s prodigious talent to gain their trust.]


    [Joseph''s charm and intellect, coupled with his carefully crafted persona of a humble, tragic figure, have earned him the sympathy and respect of Sunshine Mansion''s elite. He has become a trusted advisor, subtly manipulating events from the shadows. He has gained the trait: The Pitiful One.]


    [Joseph''s perceived vulnerability increases the likelihood of others showing him mercy by 30%. Revealing the tragic tale of his family''s destruction and his parents'' deaths increases the likelihood of others feeling compassion for him by 50%.]


    "Ancestor," Joseph''s voice echoed in Ethan''s mind, filled with quiet confidence.


    "Katie is already recognized as one of Sunshine Mansion''s brightest talents. In ten years, she''ll have the attention of their elders. We''ll have a foothold in their society, a foundation to build upon. Slowly but surely, we''ll replace them from within. Sunshine Mansion will be ours."


    Ethan chuckled to himself.


    He had been observing Joseph''s progress with a mixture of amusement and admiration.


    Initially, he had expected something more... dramatic.


    A classic tale of the underdog rising to power, fueled by righteous fury and fueled by the support of his loyal followers.


    After all, Joseph was no ordinary youth.


    He had strength, intelligence, and the full backing of Blackwood.


    Ethan had envisioned grand pronouncements, secret meetings in shadowy corners, whispers of rebellion spreading through the ranks.


    He had half-expected Joseph to gather his followers and declare himself the rightful heir to Sunshine Mansion, igniting a glorious revolution.


    Instead, Joseph had chosen a far more subtle path.


    He had befriended his enemies, earned their trust, and manipulated them with whispers and smiles.


    He had even identified and eliminated potential threats, those foolish enough to challenge him before they were ready.


    "Remember, Ancestor," Joseph had once said, his voice laced with chilling pragmatism, "power without support is fleeting. Those who rise too quickly, without a solid foundation, are destined to fall." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Two years passed.


    The sky above Cloudview County darkened as storm clouds gathered, a metaphorical reflection of the tension gripping the land.


    In Glory City, Blackwood''s warriors emerged from seclusion, their faces grim, their eyes hardened by years of constant vigilance.


    Across the county, the various factions that had rebuilt their strength under Blackwood''s banner prepared for war.


    "The time has come," Ethan murmured, watching as streams of cultivators soared into the sky, their silhouettes stark against the storm clouds.


    "The battle for Starlight County has begun."


    Glory City had transformed in the years since the Druid invasion.


    Gone were the days of complacency and naivete.


    Every household had felt the sting of loss, the terror of war.


    Now, cultivation was not just a path to power, but a necessity, a way of life.


    Families sent their children to train, to fight, to protect their homeland.


    Those who remained behind dedicated themselves to supporting the war effort, their hearts filled with a fierce determination to never again experience the horrors of that invasion.


    This spirit, this unwavering resolve, had spread throughout Cloudview County.


    Even the refugees who had fled the Emerald Empire, seeking safety within Blackwood''s borders, had been swept up in the tide.


    They had witnessed Blackwood''s resilience, their unwavering commitment to protecting their own.


    They had seen firsthand the strength that came from unity, from shared sacrifice.


    And slowly but surely, they had begun to embrace Blackwood''s values, their hopes for the future aligning with those who had offered them sanctuary.


    Cloudview County had become a crucible, forging a new generation in the fires of war.


    They were no longer the scattered, vulnerable county they had once been.


    They were Blackwood, united and strong, ready to face any challenge, any enemy, to protect what was theirs.

 Chapter 317: Chapter 317: Why are you shaking?

    "People of Cloudview County! The Azure Cloud border needs your strength! We call upon all able-bodied Psychics to answer the call to arms!"The summons echoed across the land, carried by the wind and amplified by countless voices.


    From bustling cities to sleepy villages, the call to action reverberated through every corner of Cloudview County.


    Across the county, Psychics of all levels paused, their gazes drawn skyward.


    A fire ignited in their eyes, a fierce determination burning bright.


    And then, they moved.


    Like a river of steel and resolve, Psychics from every corner of Cloudview County converged on the Azure Cloud border.


    Some would journey for weeks, their resolve unwavering.


    They knew the risks, the possibility of facing insurmountable odds, of making the ultimate sacrifice.


    But they also knew their duty.


    For on the road to the border, there stood a silent reminder of what was at stake: a sprawling cemetery, a testament to the sacrifices of generations past.


    It was a solemn reminder that freedom came at a price, and that the people of Cloudview County had never shied away from paying it.


    Blackwood had once possessed a unique trait, a testament to their indomitable spirit: the Azure Cloud Warriors.


    Now, that spirit flowed through the veins of every single person in Cloudview County.


    They were all Azure Cloud Warriors now.


    "Where... where did they all come from?"


    A week later, Daniel stood atop Border Town''s wall, his jaw slack with astonishment.


    Below him, a sea of humanity stretched as far as the eye could see.


    Tens of thousands, perhaps even hundreds of thousands, of Cloudview County''s citizens had answered the call. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Psychics of all levels, their ranks bolstered by ordinary men and women armed with whatever they could scavenge, their faces etched with grim determination.


    ...


    On the border between Starlight County and Cloudview County, the combined forces of Starlight County''s six major factions, along with the elite warriors of Walker Duke''s Mansion, stood ready for battle.


    A low rumble shook the ground, drawing their attention to the horizon.


    "By the gods..."


    "It''s the Crimson War God, Jessica! And the Azure Cloud army! They''re here! They''re here to help us! Why are you shaking?"


    "You''re shaking too!"


    The approaching force was a sight to behold.


    Even the battle-hardened warriors of Starlight County watched in awe.


    Jon let out a low whistle.


    "The Azure Cloud army... they''ve been forged in fire. They have the heart of true warriors."


    Even Chuck, his usual arrogance tempered by respect, nodded in agreement.


    "No wonder those Druids are running scared. The Azure Cloud army is a force of nature. You know, old man, maybe joining forces with Azure Cloud wasn''t such a bad idea after all."


    Together, they watched as the dust cloud approached, resolving itself into a fleet of sleek ability vessels.


    The sky rained blood as the vessels, their hulls shimmering with protective formations, descended towards the battlefield.


    The Azure Cloud army disembarked with practiced efficiency, their formations holding firm even amidst the swirling dust and chaos.


    They wore matching crimson armor, their faces hidden behind visored helmets.


    Each soldier carried an arsenal of weapons: seven blood-red spears strapped to their backs, a heavy bow slung across their shoulders, quivers brimming with arrows at their hips.


    Their belts were adorned with pouches containing talismans, elixirs, and volatile spheres of condensed psychic energy.


    They were armed to the teeth, their movements precise and deadly.


    Their faces, though hidden, radiated an aura of cold, unwavering resolve.


    It was the look of soldiers who had stared death in the face and emerged unbroken, the look of those who would follow their commander into the heart of hell itself.


    A wave of pressure, palpable and suffocating, descended upon the assembled forces of Starlight County.


    Even seasoned Psychics felt a shiver of unease, their instincts screaming at them to run.


    And then, their gazes were drawn to the figure at the head of the advancing army.


    Jessica, the Crimson War God.


    Her crimson robes billowed around her like flames, her long black hair whipping in the wind.


    Her beauty, normally captivating, was now a weapon in itself, a mask that hid the steely resolve in her eyes.


    She paused, her gaze sweeping across the battlefield.


    With a flick of her wrist, she pulled a crimson ribbon from her armor and deftly tied her hair back, securing it beneath her helmet.


    Then, raising her voice, she issued a command that echoed across the battlefield.


    "Azure Cloud army, advance!"


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    As the Azure Cloud army marched forward, their footsteps a thunderous drumbeat, the Psychics of Starlight County watched in stunned silence.


    The sheer presence of Cloudview County''s forces, their unwavering discipline and raw power, left them speechless.


    Azure Cloud.


    Unstoppable.


    ...


    Meanwhile, on the border between Cloudview County and Sunshine Mansion, a group of figures watched the unfolding events from a concealed vantage point.


    They were masters of stealth, their auras masked, their presence undetectable even to the keen senses of Azure Cloud''s two Basic Mastery Psychics.


    They were representatives of Sunshine Mansion''s three most powerful families: the Kylin Mountain Roberts, the Fortune Sanctum Parkers, and the Golden Valley Duke''s Mansion Carters.


    Sunshine Mansion was a land of vast resources and powerful factions, a breeding ground for ambitious cultivators and ruthless power struggles.


    Among its many factions, the seven great families stood above all others.


    Each family boasted at least one Basic Mastery cultivator among their ranks, their influence extending across the land.


    The Kylin Mountain Roberts, for instance, were known for their vast numbers and ruthless pragmatism.


    They believed in strength in numbers, their family tree sprawling and complex.


    Their agents and merchants could be found in every corner of Sunshine Mansion, their fingers in every pie.


    This focus on expansion, however, had come at a cost.


    Family ties were often tenuous, loyalty a fickle thing.


    Victor and Danny''s betrayal was a testament to that.


    "Gentlemen," Danny said, his voice raspy but steady.


    He sat at a stone table, his face pale but his eyes burning with cold fire.


    His limbs, severed by Julian five years ago, had long since regenerated, but the damage to his cultivation base lingered.


    He was a shadow of his former self, but his ambition remained undimmed.


    "I didn''t invite you here on a whim," he continued, his gaze fixed on the two men seated across from him.


    "I have a plan, a way to make Blackwood pay for what they''ve done. I''ve received intel, reliable intel, that the four Druid tribes in Starlight County are prepared for Blackwood''s attack. They''re walking into a trap."


    He leaned forward, his voice a conspiratorial whisper.


    "When the time is right, when Blackwood is at their most vulnerable, we''ll strike. We''ll ''help'' them finish the job."


    The word "help" dripped from his lips like venom, his true intentions clear.

 Chapter 318: Chapter 318: Prepare for battle! Part 1

    Explore stories at §Þ??Danny had barely finished speaking when the woman representing the Fortune Sanctum Parkers posed a pointed question.


    "If you''re so certain of Azure Cloud''s defeat, Danny, why involve the Parkers and the Carters?"


    The Parker representative, an elder named Neil, exuded an air of serene detachment, her white robes pristine against the rugged landscape.


    The Parker family, known as the Fortune Sanctum, had a knack for accumulating wealth.


    Their founder had been a shrewd businessman, and over the generations, the Parkers had expanded their reach, their fingers in every profitable pie imaginable.


    Pills, heavenly treasures, Psychic Gear, talismans... if it turned a profit, the Parkers were involved.


    They even supported promising factions, securing their loyalty with generous loans and then reaping the rewards with hefty interest.


    "What else could it be?"


    Before Danny could respond, the young man representing the Carter Duke''s Mansion spoke up, a predatory gleam in his eyes.


    "Blackwood has grown fat off their secrets. The Roberts family can''t possibly gobble it all up alone. We carve up Blackwood together, and who in Sunshine Mansion would dare question us?"


    The speaker, Kyle, exuded an aura of barely restrained violence that made both Danny and Neil exchange wary glances.


    The Carter Duke''s Mansion, hailing from Golden Valley, was a different breed altogether.


    They were the smallest of the seven great families, but also the most ruthless.


    Their Forebearer had been a legendary assassin, and his descendants had inherited his ruthlessness in spades.


    For generations, every Carter child, upon reaching the age of eighteen, underwent a decade of brutal training, honing their skills while simultaneously fulfilling their duty to expand the family line.


    Then, they were cast into a secluded valley, forced to fight to the death.


    Only seven survived each decade.


    And every century, a new Duke emerged from the carnage, his claim to power built upon the bodies of his kin.


    Every Carter expert had walked a path paved with the corpses of their own family.


    Who wouldn''t fear them?


    "So, we''re to be vultures, picking at the carcass of a fallen enemy," Neil said, taking a sip of tea.


    She glanced at Kyle, her expression unreadable.


    "Blackwood''s demise... it''s for the best, I suppose. I''ve heard whispers. They''re a bloodthirsty lot. Sunshine Mansion could do without such a destabilizing influence."


    "Neil, what are you insinuating?" Kyle snarled, his hand hovering near the hilt of his sword.


    The Carters bowed to no one, least of all a bunch of glorified money lenders.


    Neil, however, remained unfazed by his outburst.


    She simply sipped her tea, her silence speaking volumes.


    Danny, sensing the tension escalating, quickly intervened.


    "Peace, gentlemen. We''re here to cooperate, not to squabble amongst ourselves."


    His words seemed to have the desired effect.


    The two men fell silent, their animosity simmering beneath the surface.


    Danny turned his gaze towards Cloudview County, his eyes hardening.


    Five years.


    Five long years he had nursed his grudge, the memory of his humiliation in Azure Cloud a constant burn.


    He had planned for this moment, meticulously weaving his web of intrigue.


    Blackwood would fall, and when they did, he would make them suffer.


    He would make them experience the same humiliation, the same despair, that he had endured. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Elder Danny!"


    A young Developing Skill Psychic approached the table, bowing respectfully.


    "The Crimson War God, Jessica, has led the Azure Cloud army towards Starlight County. They didn''t even stop for a moment. They''ve already joined forces with Starlight County and are marching deeper into their territory!"


    "Excellent!" Danny exclaimed, unable to contain his glee.


    He turned to Neil and Kyle, both of whom were now wearing predatory smiles.


    "The trap is sprung," he said, his voice laced with anticipation.


    "The Druids are waiting. Once the Azure Cloud army is crushed, Duke Miles''s Mansion and his six allied factions will be trapped, with nowhere to run. Cloudview County will be defenseless, ripe for the taking. The six Druid tribes that have been pushed back from the Azure Cloud border will sweep through and crush everything in their path."


    He threw back his head and laughed, a harsh, grating sound.


    "We''ll be waiting, gentlemen. Waiting to claim our prize."


    ...


    News of the Azure Cloud army''s advance spread through Sunshine Mansion like wildfire, reaching even the most secluded corners of the land.


    But the most apprehensive souls weren''t in Starlight County, bracing for Blackwood''s assault.


    They were in the heart of Druid territory, among the six tribes who had long been a thorn in Cloudview County''s side.


    Apostle Mike, who had been enjoying a rare period of peace, his days spent sipping tea and exchanging barbs with Nathan, felt a chill run down his spine.


    "To arms!" he roared, his voice booming across the Harris tribe''s encampment.


    He unleashed his power, his cultivation base at the peak of the Competent Force level, a beacon of strength that sent tremors through the air.


    "Prepare for battle!"


    The six Druid tribes had grown complacent over the years.


    Jessica and Daniel''s relentless campaigns had pushed them back, but they had grown accustomed to the rhythm of war, the ebb and flow of conflict.


    They had grown soft.


    "By the ancestors..."


    The Harris High Priest, his face ashen, stared towards the horizon.


    He could see it.


    Border Town.


    And it was swarming with enemies.


    The Azure Cloud army, their crimson armor gleaming in the sunlight, their formations as precise and deadly as ever.


    And behind them, a seemingly endless tide of Cloudview County Psychics, their numbers overwhelming.


    They had fought the Azure Cloud army before.


    They knew their ferocity, their unwavering determination.


    He had seen an Azure Cloud Psychic at the Emerging Ability level charge headlong into their ranks, screaming defiance even as he drew his last breath, his name forever etched in the annals of Azure Cloud''s heroes.


    There were times, the High Priest mused, when he couldn''t tell the difference between the humans of Cloudview County and the berserkers they faced in their nightmares.


    Jessica, the Crimson War God, had instilled a deep-seated fear in their hearts.


    She was a force of nature, a whirlwind of death and destruction.


    There were whispers among the tribes, tales of her ruthlessness, of her utter disregard for life, even her own.


    He had even attempted to negotiate with Daniel, a man he considered more reasonable, more open to diplomacy.


    He had hinted at a truce, a way to end the bloodshed.


    Daniel''s response had been chillingly pragmatic.


    He had demanded the surrender of twelve tribes, their lands forfeit as a price for peace.


    Now, looking at the approaching army, the High Priest felt a cold sweat break out.


    Panic spread through the ranks of the six tribes as reports of Blackwood''s movements reached them.


    "They''re gathering at the border! Their numbers are growing by the day!"


    "The outlaws, the ones Blackwood shelters in their lands... they''re marching on Clark''s territory! They''re already setting up camps, digging for resources!"


    "But... we were told the Azure Cloud army and Jessica were gone! How is this possible? It''s a trap!"


    "Apostle! You said we were going on the offensive! What''s happening? Are we attacking or defending? Do you even know anymore?!"

 Chapter 319: Chapter 319: Prepare for battle! Part 2

    High above the encampment, Mike''s face was a mask of grim determination.Five years ago, he had received intelligence from his Druid brethren in Starlight County.


    They had spoken of a coming storm, a day when Cloudview County would unleash its full might, when Blackwood would lead their warriors against Starlight County, and when the Azure Cloud army would meet its doom.


    He had been waiting for this moment, biding his time, gathering his forces.


    When news reached him that the Azure Cloud army had left Cloudview County, he had immediately begun mobilizing his warriors, eager to reclaim their lost territory and resume their campaign of conquest.


    But now, despite the apparent vulnerability of Cloudview County, he hesitated.


    "Apostle, what are we to do?"


    The Harris High Priest''s voice was laced with uncertainty.


    "Word has reached the tribes. The Azure Cloud army is indeed in Starlight County. Are we to proceed with the plan? Are we to attack Azure Cloud?"


    "Hold!"


    Mike shook his head, his gaze distant.


    "Years ago, we marched into Azure Cloud brimming with confidence. We underestimated Blackwood. We thought they were weak, divided. We paid the price for our arrogance. Our elders sought to crush them, but instead, it was Moon God who fell that day."


    He turned to the High Priest, his eyes cold and calculating.


    "The rabble at the Azure Cloud border... they''re a distraction. Daniel sent them to Clark''s territory to mine for resources. It''s a feint, a ploy to draw us out. We mustn''t fall for it."


    "But Apostle..."


    The High Priest''s voice was strained, his frustration evident.


    "Azure Cloud grows stronger with each passing day. If we don''t strike now, we''ll lose even more territory, even more resources. They''ll use our own strength against us!"


    Mike understood the High Priest''s concerns.


    He shared them.


    But he had learned a valuable lesson from their previous defeat.


    "Patience," he said, his voice low and steady.


    "Humans are a greedy, envious lot. Blackwood will soon realize that their enemies are not limited to us."


    "Word on the wind is that Sunshine Mansion is putting immense pressure on Cloudview County, on Blackwood. The intelligence we received about their attack on Starlight County... it came from Sunshine Mansion."


    A cruel smile twisted his lips.


    "By doing nothing, we''ve already achieved a great victory. We may not be able to defeat Azure Cloud, to defeat Blackwood, but those fools in Sunshine Mansion... they''re blinded by their own greed. They''ve become our weapon, a blade pointed at Blackwood''s heart."


    The High Priest''s eyes widened, understanding dawning on his face.


    Even Mike felt a surge of satisfaction as the pieces fell into place.


    "Spread the word," he commanded.


    "Tell the tribes that the Azure Cloud army has set a trap, that we''ve seen through their deception. We''re retreating, falling back a hundred miles."


    "Yes, Apostle!"


    The High Priest hurried off to relay the orders.


    Meanwhile, on the Azure Cloud border, Nathan stood atop the wall, his coffin strapped to his back, his gaze fixed on the horizon. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Beside him stood Daniel, clad in gleaming armor, his expression a mixture of anticipation and concern.


    Behind them, a sea of Cloudview County Psychics stretched as far as the eye could see.


    Two-tenths of Azure Cloud''s population had answered the call to arms.


    "Report! The Druids... they''re not moving. They''re retreating!"


    A Developing Skill scout rushed towards them, his voice breathless. Experience more on §Þ??


    Nathan and Daniel exchanged a look, their brows furrowed.


    "They''re retreating again?"


    Nathan stretched, his muscles tense.


    He felt no elation at the news, only a growing sense of unease.


    "Mike is a cunning adversary."


    Despite his semi-retirement, Nathan had kept a close eye on their Druid rivals.


    He had even shared a few cups of tea with Mike, their conversations a strange mix of animosity and grudging respect.


    He had even met two of the Druid elders, Shane and Lester, their interactions a delicate dance of veiled threats and thinly veiled insults.


    But Nathan never underestimated his opponents, especially Mike.


    The Druid Apostle was a shrewd strategist, a patient and calculating leader.


    "It''s for the best," Daniel said, letting out a sigh of relief.


    "Grandfather, we need you here, vigilant. If Mike is planning something, we need to be ready. The cost of a miscalculation could be devastating."


    "Relax, he won''t attack," Nathan said, a wry smile twisting his lips.


    "He''s waiting for us to weaken ourselves, hoping we''ll tear each other apart. Whether we win or lose against Sunshine Mansion, it''s a victory for the Druids."


    His eyes hardened.


    "He''s a cunning bastard, but we''ll see how long he can sit on the sidelines. Once we''ve conquered Starlight County, he''ll be singing a different tune."


    Together, they turned their gazes towards Starlight County, their thoughts aligned.


    "Don''t worry, Grandfather," Daniel said, his voice filled with confidence.


    "Jessica is more than capable. She''ll bring us victory."


    ...


    "What? The Druids are retreating from the Azure Cloud border?!"


    Danny''s face contorted with rage as he received the news.


    "The Azure Cloud army is gone! Cloudview County''s strongest warriors are in Starlight County! Why are they retreating?!"


    He grabbed the messenger by the collar, his voice a furious hiss.


    He had given the Druids everything they needed.


    They had assured him that once the Azure Cloud army was out of the picture, Mike would lead his forces in a devastating counterattack.


    It was the perfect plan.


    He had already envisioned the fall of Border Town, the triumphant march of the three families into Cloudview County, the plundering of Blackwood''s treasures.


    He should be standing victorious over Blackwood''s ruins, not listening to this infuriating news!


    "The Druids... they''re afraid!"


    The messenger stammered, his voice trembling with fear.


    "Border Town is overflowing with Psychics! Blackwood has called upon every able-bodied man in Cloudview County to defend the border! They''re even sending ordinary people, those without any cultivation!"


    The messenger''s fear stemmed not only from Danny''s wrath but also from what he had witnessed in Cloudview County.


    The people of that cursed land, regardless of their strength, were willing to fight, to die, for their home.


    It was a level of unity, of unwavering resolve, that he had never seen before.


    If Sunshine Mansion had called for such a mobilization, their citizens would have fled in terror.


    Even the Psychics would have sought safer havens.


    But these people... they were different.


    They feared nothing.


    "Danny."


    Kyle, who had been waiting impatiently, rose to his feet, his face a mask of thunder.


    He was a man of action, and delays frustrated him.


    "You promised us that the Azure Cloud border would fall. Instead, I see those Druid cowards retreating. Did you bring us here for nothing? I, Kyle, never return empty-handed."


    Danny''s face paled.


    He hadn''t anticipated this.


    His carefully laid plans were unraveling before his eyes.


    "Please, be patient, honored sir."


    Victor, who had risen through the ranks of the Roberts family thanks to Danny''s patronage, stepped forward.


    "Elder Danny is a man of foresight. The Azure Cloud army is in Starlight County, engaged in a fierce battle with the Druids. Once they fall into the trap..."


    He smiled, a cruel, predatory expression.


    "Once Azure Cloud suffers heavy losses, the Druids at the Cloudview County border will surely seize the opportunity to strike."


    "It better be that way," Kyle growled, reluctantly taking his seat.


    The Carters might be a bloodthirsty lot, but they were also shrewd and pragmatic.


    They wouldn''t have involved themselves in this scheme if not for Danny''s assurances of success.


    Only those who had walked through mountains of corpses and rivers of blood truly understood the danger posed by a family like Blackwood.

 Chapter 320: Chapter 320: Prepare for battle! Part 3

    Discover more stories at M V L"Yes, all you have to do is wait. Everything will be ours."


    Danny let out a sigh of relief, nodding gratefully at Victor.


    He had been genuinely panicked for a moment.


    If he hadn''t managed to placate Kyle, he would have made a powerful enemy, and the nightmare of being robbed blind in Glory City might have repeated itself.


    The three families and their retinues waited, the tension growing with each passing day.


    Five days later, Danny''s anxiety had reached a fever pitch.


    His face was ashen, his hands trembling.


    "Something''s wrong. It''s been too long. Cloudview County''s attack was supposed to be a lightning strike. We should have heard of Blackwood''s defeat by now."


    As if to punctuate his words, a tremor shook the ground, drawing the attention of everyone present.


    They turned their gazes towards the east, their eyes widening in alarm.


    On the horizon, a dark shape was rising, blotting out the sky.


    It stretched across the horizon like a ribbon of darkness, its distance impossible to gauge.


    But there was no mistaking its nature.


    Something massive was approaching, a vast army of Psychics and ability vessels.


    "What... what is that?!"


    Danny stared in disbelief, a cold dread gripping his heart.


    ...


    Sunshine Mansion was divided into three border counties: Starlight County, Azure Cloud, and Maple Grove.


    Azure Cloud lay nestled between the other two.


    Cloudview County, within Azure Cloud, shared a long border with Starlight County but was separated from Cedar County by treacherous mountains and a wide, raging river.


    Cedar County was a land of abundance, its resources coveted by the Druids.


    But its natural defenses were formidable, requiring years, if not decades, to overcome.


    Blackwood had never considered Cedar County a threat, focusing their defenses on the more immediate danger posed by the six Druid tribes.


    Now, above the border between Sunshine Mansion and Cedar County, a vast fleet of ability vessels darkened the sky.


    Psychics, their auras blazing with power, stood ready for battle.


    At the forefront of the fleet, a magnificent vessel, its hull radiating the power of a top-grade ability weapon, led the charge.


    It was the very vessel Blackwood had taken from Danny five years ago, but it had undergone a transformation.


    No longer a gaudy symbol of wealth, it was now a sleek, deadly weapon of war.


    Standing at the vessel''s prow, his black robes billowing in the wind, was Edward, the Duke of Azure Cloud, a man who had long operated in the shadows.


    "Duke Bryce," he said, his voice carrying across the distance, "welcome to Cloudview County."


    Beside him stood a young man, his features handsome, his bearing noble.


    But his eyes held the wisdom of a thousand years.


    It was Bryce, the Duke of Cedar County.


    His expression was a mixture of apprehension and grim determination.


    He was a Duke, a descendant of the once-proud Phillips family, one of Sunshine Mansion''s eight great Psychic families.


    Cedar County had been their domain, their ancestral home.


    They had ruled it with an iron fist, their influence unchallenged.


    But now, listening to Edward''s words, knowing that Cedar County was to be absorbed into Cloudview County, just like Starlight County, he felt no resentment, only a burning desire for revenge.


    "Very well," he said, his voice steady.


    "If it means reclaiming our homeland, then let Cedar County be renamed. Let it become part of Azure Cloud."


    He took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping across the familiar landscape below.


    He could sense the Druids gathering, their forces mobilizing to defend their stolen territory.


    His voice rang out, filled with power and resolve.


    "Today, the people of Cedar County return home!"


    "Azure Cloud stood firm against the Druids. We will follow their example. This battle..."


    "Will end in victory!"


    "Not another inch of Cedar County will be yielded!"


    With a roar, he leaped from the vessel, his psychic energy erupting around him like a storm.


    Behind him, the fleet of ability vessels descended, disgorging a wave of Cedar County Psychics, their swords gleaming, their eyes burning with righteous fury.


    They charged towards their homeland, their hearts filled with a single purpose: to reclaim what was rightfully theirs.


    ...


    High atop a snow-capped mountain, overlooking the ravaged landscape of Cedar County, Ethan watched the unfolding events with a satisfied smile.


    Before him, the translucent interface displayed a message:


    [Your descendant, Edward, has successfully brought the Cedar County Psychics back to their homeland, diverting attention from the Starlight County campaign.]


    [Special Event ¨C Supporting Cedar County]


    [After Joseph and Katie''s initial attempts to persuade Duke Bryce to ally with Blackwood failed, Bryce faced increasing hostility in his new territory. Rumors spread, accusing the Phillips family of harboring ambitions to conquer their neighbors. Their situation grew increasingly precarious.] S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Blackwood, however, never gave up hope. Your descendants, starting with Nathan and Lucas, took turns trying to persuade Bryce. The more they persisted, the more suspicious Bryce became, and the more precarious his situation grew. Finally, over a decade ago, Bryce agreed to a plan to retake Cedar County with Blackwood''s help.]


    [Your family, however, refused to simply restore Bryce to power. They demanded that Cedar County be renamed Azure Cloud and that Bryce wait for the opportune moment to strike.]


    Blackwood had never been content to simply react to their enemies'' moves.


    And today...


    "The time is right," Ethan murmured, his smile widening.


    "Blackwood has been planning for this moment for years. It''s time to reveal our hand."


    His time in the game world had given him a deep understanding of his family''s history, their strategies, their unwavering determination.


    He had witnessed their cunning, their willingness to take risks, their unwavering commitment to protecting their own.


    He had seen the "Millennial Bloodline Project," the "Support Cedar County Plan," and even Nathan''s desperate gambit, a plan that had nearly cost him his life.


    Blackwood never played defense.


    From their humble beginnings as a small village, they had always been the aggressors.


    Now, behind him, the combined might of Cloudview County stood ready for battle.


    The leaders of the major factions were present: Black Tortoise''s Leon Daoist, Ten Thousand Life Mountain''s Immortal Master, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s Ralph... and half of their disciples!


    Years of constant warfare had tempered Cloudview County''s factions, forging them into a formidable force.


    Black Tortoise had gained another Competent Force expert.


    Ralph, ever the pragmatist, had resorted to unorthodox methods, utilizing forbidden techniques to bolster his sect''s strength.


    The Ghost Eye Demonic Gate had become the most powerful faction in Cloudview County, their methods whispered about in hushed tones but ultimately accepted as a necessary evil.


    Even the Primordial Blood Tree, the object of so much envy and greed, had taken human form, standing tall and imposing amidst the assembled forces.


    Blackwood Luna, Julian, Mary, Amelia, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, Larry from the third generation... they weren''t in Glory City, they weren''t at the border, they weren''t in Starlight County.


    While all eyes were focused on the battles raging elsewhere, they had quietly assembled their forces and marched on Cedar County.


    "Cedar County!" Julian roared, his booming laughter echoing across the mountaintop.


    He hefted his massive hammer, his shaved head gleaming in the sunlight.


    Those around him instinctively ducked, fearing the wrath of his mighty weapon.


    The blacksmith, his muscles honed by years of tireless work, was practically giddy with excitement.


    "Who needs that pathetic Starlight County? It''s even poorer than Azure Cloud! This time, Blackwood is going for the big prize!"


    Yes, the big prize.


    They had reached the Cedar County border undetected, a ghost army materializing from the shadows.

 Chapter 321: Chapter 321: You... youre with Blackwood too?!

    All eyes were fixed on the border between Cedar County and Sunshine Mansion.A dark shape appeared on the horizon, growing larger with each passing moment.


    Luna could sense the Druids within Cedar County stirring, their alarm growing as they dispatched troops to intercept the approaching force.


    A distant explosion boomed across the landscape, sending tremors through the air and disrupting the flow of natural energies.


    The Forebearer Psychic Position emerged from the Blackwood descendants'' chests, glowing with an ethereal light. It hovered above the snow-capped mountain, forming a giant character ¨C "B" ¨C the symbol of their lineage, their strength. Their power surged, their psychic powers intensified, their control over natural energies amplified.


    [You have used Family Willpower.]


    [Skill activated ¨C Family Glory!]


    [Attack!]


    The Forebearer''s inscription blazed above them, a beacon of power and defiance. With a roar, the Blackwood descendants charged down the mountainside, their eyes burning with righteous fury.


    "Children, the Forebearer watches over us! Take up your Psychic Positions! Charge!!!"


    Luna, her six tails swirling behind her, led the charge, her voice a clarion call that echoed across the battlefield.


    Julian, his necklace of Storage Rings shimmering with power, followed close behind. His army of AI Bionic Robots, their eyes glowing with malevolent intent, shot forward like a volley of arrows. Julian himself transformed mid-air, his silver limbs melting into a liquid metal that enveloped his body, growing larger and larger until it towered over the battlefield, a hundred meters tall. Experience new tales on M V L


    "AI Bionic Robot legion, charge!"


    The AI Bionic Robots followed their creator''s lead, their forms shifting and expanding, their metallic bodies bristling with weapons. They became mountains of steel and fury, crashing down upon the unsuspecting Druids.


    "Holy... that madman''s AI Bionic Robot techniques have become terrifying," Ralph muttered, watching the metallic rain descend. The Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, masters of unorthodox techniques, were no strangers to AI Bionic Robot arts. He had fought alongside Julian in the past, back when those robots were mere puppets, incapable of flight or independent thought.


    Now... this army of psychic-powered AI Bionic Robots was a nightmare come to life.


    Then came Mary and Larry.


    One, inheriting the will of Boar Monarch Pete, the other, the queen of the Swamp Jungle, they stood atop Julian''s colossal mech, their forms dwarfed by the towering machine. As the ironclad behemoth crashed through the Druid lines, a wave of monstrous beasts followed in its wake.


    Psychic beasts, summoned from the depths of Mary and Larry''s minds, materialized around the AI Bionic Robot, their numbers growing with each passing moment.


    And then came the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Its vines snaked across the battlefield, cracking the earth, summoning an army of tree demons and Stone beasts.


    They were an unstoppable force.


    If only Nathan were here, Ethan thought, his Death Coffin would unleash a tide of Zombies and wraiths, turning the battlefield into a nightmare realm. But the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate had their own tricks up their sleeves. They unleashed their forbidden technique, the "Underworld Gate," summoning a horde of vengeful spirits from the depths of darkness.


    In less than a quarter of an hour, Cloudview County''s forces had transformed into an unstoppable torrent of destruction. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They swept through the border between Cedar County and the Endless Forest, flames engulfing the Druid rearguard.


    The plan they had devised for Starlight County was unfolding in Cedar County instead!


    ...


    "Elder Danny, the Azure Cloud army, led by Jessica, engaged the Druids in Starlight County. And then... they retreated with the rest of Cloudview County''s forces!"


    "Terrible news, Elder Danny! Bryce of Cedar County has somehow returned to his homeland! He''s attacking from Sunshine Mansion!"


    "And Cloudview County... their forces have appeared in Cedar County! They''ve caught the Druids completely off guard!"


    One after another, the reports reached Danny, each one a hammer blow to his carefully constructed plans.


    "Impossible! This is impossible!"


    Danny couldn''t comprehend it. Sunshine Mansion had been on high alert ever since Starlight County had joined forces with Azure Cloud.


    How had Bryce managed to return to Cedar County?


    And why was everything going wrong? Blackwood hadn''t even attempted to hold Starlight County. Jessica''s Azure Cloud army had played right into his hands, lulling the Druids into a false sense of security.


    He felt like a puppet, his every move orchestrated by an unseen hand.


    "Danny..."


    Kyle''s face was a mask of fury. He strode towards Danny, his eyes blazing with anger. With a swift motion, he snatched Danny''s Storage Ring. "You Roberts are all incompetent fools! You''ve been played!"


    "No... it can''t be..."


    Danny shook his head, his mind reeling. Then, his eyes widened in horror as he turned to Victor. The young man was smiling, a cruel, knowing smile.


    His mind felt like it was about to explode. He couldn''t understand. What had happened?


    Kyle glanced at Neil, who remained seated, her expression unreadable. He shook his head, a sigh escaping his lips. He turned and left, his retinue following close behind. At least he had Danny''s Storage Ring. He wouldn''t leave empty-handed.


    As he flew away, he glanced back at the unfolding battle in Cedar County, his eyes narrowed. "Blackwood... you''re more cunning than I anticipated. I''ll be watching you. Sunshine Mansion has no place for a family like yours."


    Once Kyle was gone, Danny unleashed his psychic power, his injured body trembling with rage. He glared at Victor, his voice a venomous hiss. "It was you! You betrayed me! You revealed my plans to Blackwood!"


    But Victor showed no fear. He laughed, his voice mocking. "You''re slow, old man. Five years ago, you almost got me killed when you confronted that Blackwood demon. Do you really think you survived by chance?"


    "What..."


    Danny stared at him, his mind reeling.


    "Do you really think you were allowed to visit Blackwood so many times without their knowledge?" Victor continued, his voice dripping with disdain. "Do you really think you stumbled upon their plans by accident? It was all a show, a performance for your benefit."


    "Blackwood tolerated you for years. Why humiliate you now, break you so publicly? To fuel your rage, of course!"


    "The Crimson War God... she lives up to her name. And that Azure Cloud overlord... he''s a master strategist. They were right. Anger makes fools of us all.


    And sometimes, your enemy can be your most useful tool."


    "Blackwood laid the bait, exposed their vulnerabilities, and you, blinded by rage, walked right into their trap!"


    A trap... a trap...


    It all made sense now. From the moment he had set foot in Cloudview County, he had been playing Blackwood''s game.


    "I''ll kill you!"


    He lunged at Victor, his psychic energy blazing. He didn''t care why Victor had betrayed him. All he wanted was revenge.


    But Victor just laughed.


    A spectral Kirin, summoned by Danny''s fury, charged towards Victor, only to be intercepted by a wave of psychic energy. It dissipated into nothingness.


    The force of the blast revealed a small, unassuming object hanging from Victor''s belt: a miniature scale.


    Danny stared in disbelief. It was... Neil''s symbol!


    "You... you''re with Blackwood too?!"


    Danny''s face was ashen. He was surrounded by enemies. The rogue cultivator on the road, his own family member...


    Who else was working for Blackwood?

 Chapter 322: Chapter 322: Explain? What explanation?

    "You seem to have truly miscalculated today, Danny Roberts. Did you really believe I, Neil Parker, would be a mere pawn for Blackwood?"Neil chuckled softly.


    "However, Bryce from Cedar County offered our Parker family quite a handsome reward. Five years of our efforts, helping them return to Cedar County unnoticed."


    "You..."


    Danny''s vision blacked out, a mouthful of blood staining his lips.


    "You treacherous Parker family! The allies of the Sunshine Mansion will avenge me!"


    "You overestimate your so-called ''allies.'' Who hasn''t engaged in dealings with my Parker family? Bring forth evidence, then we''ll talk about vengeance."


    Neil rose to his feet, sighing deeply.


    "I thought you, Danny Roberts from Kylin Mountain, had something up your sleeve. To think you couldn''t even outmaneuver a mere subordinate of Blackwood, instead becoming a pawn, a jester dancing for another''s amusement. I foolishly believed you could topple Blackwood. I overestimated you."


    "I..."


    Danny struggled to speak, but Neil offered him no chance.


    With a casual clap of her hands, two Competent Force from the Parker family emerged, instantly charging towards Danny.


    Within moments, the severely wounded Danny was slain.


    This man, arrogant and domineering under Blackwood''s nose, convinced he had uncovered Blackwood''s weakness, swore to bring about Blackwood''s downfall.


    Yet in the end, he never even caught a glimpse of Blackwood himself, dying at the hands of his supposed ''companion.''


    Victor sighed, watching as Neil prepared to retrieve the body.


    He bowed hastily.


    "Master, our agreement included eliminating those from Carter Duke''s Mansion. How should I explain this?"


    "Explain? What explanation? Do you have any idea who Carter Kyle is? The Emerald Empire has its Power Ranking. Every name on that list possesses the potential for Basic Mastery, Kyle ranks twenty-third. If I could kill him, do you think I''d be standing here making deals with you?"


    Neil scoffed.


    "And your master, if I were to be injured in a battle with Kyle, I doubt I could escape this place either. Blackwood''s influence is far-reaching indeed."


    "..."


    Victor remained silent for a moment, then glanced at the body Neil was dragging.


    "Master, I wish to purchase this corpse. Please, name your price."


    The two began their morbid transaction.


    In the distance, a group clad in white, their chests emblazoned with the symbol of a scale, concealed their presence.


    These were the Psychics.


    "Master, should we strike?"


    One of the Psychics made a throat-slitting gesture.


    The leader''s eyes glinted coldly.


    Despite the distance, his gaze remained fixed on Neil.


    He raised a hand slightly, stopping his eager subordinate.


    "That woman from the Parker family is no simpleton. She must have sensed something to let Kyle go. She wouldn''t have acted so calmly without an escape plan or the means to defeat us. We don''t engage in unnecessary risks."


    With that, the group made no further moves, turning back towards Cloudview County.


    Upon reaching Border Town, the leader removed his mask and donned his armor.


    His flowing white hair cascaded down his shoulders as he strode towards a burly man in simple clothes, carrying a coffin on his back.


    Together, they gazed towards the distant Endless Forest.


    "Grandfather, Danny is dead."


    "What of the other two families?"


    "They escaped. I found no opportunity to eliminate them all. I have failed you and our Forebearer."


    "No matter. The world is vast, and there''s time yet."


    Experience tales with M V L


    ...


    The battlefield in Cedar County raged.


    High above, five powerful auras clashed, sending ripples across the sky.


    Shane and Lester, witnessing Cedar County''s plight, had attempted to intervene.


    However, they were intercepted by Bill the Daoist and Owen, and now, Elder Phillips had joined the fray.


    The Druids, caught off guard by the ferocity of Cedar County''s forces, were in disarray.


    They hadn''t anticipated such resistance after all these years.


    Blackwood''s hidden experts, stationed in the surrounding mountains, further added to the Druids'' woes.


    [Your family''s meticulous planning over the years led to the establishment of the ''Dawn'' faction within the Sunshine Mansion. Victor, out of favor within Kylin Mountain, joined their ranks. Later, he aligned himself with Daniel and Jessica, forming ''The Oracle Chamber''.]


    [Under your family''s orchestration, Danny became a pawn, feeding false information to the Druids, diverting their attention. This misinformation also lulled other factions within the Sunshine Mansion into a false sense of security!]


    [Through connections forged between Phillips and ''The Oracle Chamber'', your family struck a deal with the Parker family of the Sunshine Mansion''s Fortune Sanctum. This allowed Phillips to secretly approach Cedar County and aid your family in eliminating Danny.]


    [Family Willpower +5]


    [Your descendant, Daniel, reports his failure to eliminate all three families, expressing his disappointment.]


    "They''ve done well enough."


    Ethan surveyed the battlefield below.


    His descendants charged into the fray, wielding their Forebearer Psychic Positions.


    Over the years, he had grown accustomed to seeing them treat these artifacts as both protective talismans and deadly weapons.


    A surge of pride swelled within him.


    Blackwood had truly matured.


    The children of what was once Gratitude Village had all found their place, whether as rulers, shadowy figures pulling strings from the darkness, or fierce warriors on the battlefield.


    His gaze fell upon Luna, locked in a perilous struggle.


    Without hesitation, Ethan channeled his own Forebearer Psychic Position, joining the fight alongside her.


    [3 Family Willpower consumed. Activating skill: ''Forebearer''s Divine Punishment''!]


    "What is that?"


    The clash of mighty warriors raged far from the main battlefield.


    A Druid priest, his movements swift and ghostly, fought with the aid of protective totems and incredible regenerative abilities.


    He had already wounded Luna.


    But suddenly, the Druid froze, his eyes drawn to the sky.


    Lightning crackled, converging upon Ethan''s Psychic Position, infusing it with the power of two thunderbolts.


    The air crackled with the raw energy of the storm.


    With the empowered Psychic Position floating before her, Luna, her features contorted in a feral snarl, charged alongside it. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The Forebearer stands with us, descendants of Blackwood!"


    "Kill!"


    ...


    One month later.


    [Special Event - Support Cedar County: Complete]


    [Your family''s meticulous planning over the years, through various means, has brought Phillips back to Cedar County. The Psychics of Cedar County have returned to their homeland, reclaiming half of their territory. Your family''s surprise attack has cut off the Druids'' retreat, trapping a large number of them within Cedar County.]


    In Cloudview County, outside the walls of Glory City, a courtyard bustled with powerful figures from three great counties.


    The people of Cedar County had retaken their homeland, but it was a vast land.


    Even with the support of Cloudview County, it would take at least a decade to completely drive out the Druids.


    Glory City, strategically located in the center, became a gathering point for these powerful figures, ready to lend their support at a moment''s notice.


    "Congratulations to Bryce on reclaiming your homeland."


    Among the crowd, Duke Jon offered his congratulations to Bryce.


    His expression held no hint of resentment, only genuine joy.

 Chapter 323: Chapter 323: If I have overstepped my bounds, I apologize

    When Jessica led the Azure Cloud army to help Walker reclaim their homeland, Jon and the six factions of Starlight County were initially overjoyed.However, their joy was short-lived.


    Jessica abruptly withdrew her forces, claiming it was merely a feint, leaving the Psychics of Starlight County bewildered.


    Even the Druids, who had prepared traps to ambush the Azure Cloud army, were left scratching their heads.


    It wasn''t until the battle in Cedar County commenced that they grasped the full picture.


    At first, Jon was furious.


    But as he came to understand the situation, his anger subsided.


    He realized that if Blackwood could keep their own allies in the dark, they could certainly deceive the Druids and the opportunistic factions lurking in the shadows of the Sunshine Mansion.


    Besides, everyone was in this together now, and cooperation was paramount.


    Once Jon embraced a more passive role, entrusting the heavy lifting to others and enjoying the ride, he found a newfound peace.


    Duke Jon was, for once, content.


    "Hahaha, excellent!" Bryce boomed, clapping Jon on the back.


    "My Phillips family''s return to our homeland wouldn''t have been possible without your Walker family drawing the enemy''s attention. Once we''ve driven out the Druids, we''ll clear out those infesting your Starlight County!"


    Bryce, brimming with confidence after his victory, surveyed the faces gathered in the courtyard, celebrating their triumph.


    With a sly smile, he gestured to one of his kinsmen.


    A map unfurled across the table, depicting the recent battles.


    Bryce cleared his throat.


    "Friends, Blackwood and my family have been planning this counteroffensive for years. For the past five, I have dedicated every waking moment to preparing for this war. Now, observe..."


    Bryce pointed to the map, his psychic powers projecting a three-dimensional representation of the three counties.


    He spoke with an air of authority, outlining his strategies and plans.


    He occasionally glanced at the Blackwood contingent, but Nathan, Daniel, Jessica, and Edward showed no signs of concern, only nodding along.


    This puzzled Bryce slightly.


    He turned back to the group and announced, "As you know, Blackwood and I had an agreement. They would help us reclaim our homeland, and in return, Cedar County would be renamed Azure Cloud."


    "Therefore, I propose that from this day forward, the three counties shall be unified under the banner of Azure Cloud, divided into East and West territories, with Azure Cloud as the heartland. What say you?"


    The Blackwood representatives remained impassive, nodding their agreement.


    However, the other factions from Cloudview County, including the six factions of Starlight County and even Duke Jon, frowned.


    In the past, Blackwood had always taken the lead in such matters.


    Now, despite Cloudview County playing a crucial role in Phillips'' victory, Bryce was acting as if he were the one in charge, disregarding his guests and assuming a position of authority.


    Chuck from the Arcane Society, known for his fiery temper, rivaling even Julian, was the first to speak out.


    Seeing Blackwood''s silence and Bryce''s self-assured demeanor, he roared, "Bryce, what''s the meaning of this? I''ve never even met you, and you''re here acting like you''re giving us orders?"


    Bryce, seemingly anticipating this reaction, chuckled.


    "You must be Chuck from the Western Arcane Society, ranked thirty-ninth on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking."


    "You''re damn right I am!" Chuck glared at Bryce.


    He couldn''t explain it, but he disliked the man on sight.


    Unlike Blackwood, who, despite their flaws, were always upfront and loyal to their allies, Bryce seemed artificial, his every action calculated to assert his dominance. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bryce brushed off Chuck''s hostility.


    "My dear Chuck, if I came across as commanding, it''s only because of my eagerness. You see, I accompanied Grand Tutor Gilbert on his eastern campaign many years ago and gained some experience in matters of war. I''m merely offering my humble suggestions."


    He glanced at the assembled crowd and bowed slightly.


    "If I have overstepped my bounds, I apologize."


    Nathan, sensing the tension, let out a hearty laugh.


    "Come now, Bryce, there''s no need for such formalities. We''re all friends here, sailing on the same ship. Blackwood fully supports any ideas you may have."


    "But I..." Chuck started, but Donna silenced him with a swift kick to the shin.


    He gritted his teeth and whispered, "What was that for? Can''t you see this Bryce fellow is bad news? I need to set him straight!"


    Donna shook her head, knowing their whispers were likely audible to the powerful Psychics present.


    Chuck, with a final huff of indignation, fell silent.


    The meeting dragged on for two hours, with Bryce dominating the conversation and everyone else merely listening.


    The atmosphere remained tense and awkward.


    As the attendees dispersed, Bryce watched them go, a frown etched on his face.


    One of his elders leaned in and murmured, "Bryce, it seems Blackwood''s influence here runs deep."


    "Indeed, Great Grandfather," Bryce replied, his eyes narrowed.


    "But time changes everything. I''ve fulfilled my end of the bargain with Blackwood, and they''ve reaped considerable benefits from this alliance. My Phillips family has a Basic Mastery, our strength far surpasses that of Cloudview County, and our roots run deeper. This is our chance.


    I trust Blackwood understands their place and the advantages of aligning themselves with the mightiest tree in the forest." Explore stories on M V L


    ...


    Back at their headquarters, the Blackwood contingent gathered beneath the crimson canopy of the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Chuck, witnessing their nonchalant attitude towards Bryce''s power play, finally understood the meaning of "a watched pot never boils."


    "Are you Blackwood folks blind?" he exploded, one hand on his hip, the other pointing accusingly.


    Despite his handsome features, his demeanor resembled that of a disgruntled market vendor.


    "You''ve brought a pack of wolves into our midst, helped them no less! Who does that Bryce fellow think he is? One would think he single-handedly defeated the Druids! He''s got delusions of grandeur, I tell you!"


    "Enough, Master, enough!" Donna cried, her pigtails bouncing as she leaped to her feet.


    She wrapped an arm around Chuck''s neck, dragging him back.


    "You''re embarrassing yourself! Have some decorum! What good does shouting achieve at your age?"


    Had she always been so level-headed?


    Perhaps having an even more impulsive master in Chuck had forced her to mature quickly, constantly needing to rein in his reckless outbursts.


    Chuck, grumbling under his breath, reluctantly fell silent, though his gaze remained fixed on the courtyard outside, simmering with indignation.


    [Your descendant, Donna, having spent years cultivating psychic powers alongside Chuck, has become increasingly accustomed to her master''s impulsiveness. She has become like a caretaker, reining in his temper and guiding his actions. This has granted her the trait: Rebellious Disciple.]


    [Respect for Master -80%, Success rate in preventing Master''s outbursts increased by 50%, Damage dealt to Master increased by 50%, Psychic power cultivation speed increased by 10% when near Master.]

 Chapter 324: Chapter 324: Dont blame yourselves

    Ethan, noticing Donna''s new trait for the first time, was speechless.He remembered when Donna was a wild child, running with rogue cultivators, her temper rivaling even Julian''s.


    It seemed the only way to curb her impulsiveness was to pair her with someone even more volatile.


    Chuck was an amusing contradiction ¨C fearless before Blackwood, even in the presence of two Basic Mastery masters, yet terrified of his own apprentice.


    Ethan and the rest of the Blackwood clan, however, found Chuck''s outburst relatable.


    What Chuck had perceived, most of them had as well, except perhaps Julian and the younger generation.


    Ethan maintained a neutral expression, but inwardly, he felt a twinge of annoyance.


    They hadn''t anticipated Phillips'' ambition when they''d helped them reclaim Cedar County.


    It was a stark contrast to when they''d brought Walker back to Cloudview County.


    Back then, Blackwood had proceeded with caution, aware of the potential pitfalls of sharing power.


    Jon, to his credit, had been surprisingly compliant, easing their worries.


    His obedience had lulled them into a false sense of security.


    "Chuck, you see, rumors can be deceiving," Daniel said with a wry smile.


    "Did you ever expect Phillips to act this way?"


    "Never," Chuck admitted, shaking his head.


    "Legend has it that the Phillips family were once renowned for their peace-loving nature. I''ve been to their lands before, and they were incredibly hospitable. I never imagined that after Blackwood helped them, that Bryce fellow would try to seize control of all three counties!"


    He clenched his fists, his frustration evident.


    "We''ve always worked together, followed Blackwood''s lead. Now Bryce comes along with his power grab. Even a fool can see this will lead to trouble."


    "Human nature is a complex thing," Nathan, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke, sighing.


    "It''s easier to find companionship in hardship than in victory. But perhaps it''s for the best. Phillips has revealed their true colors early on, giving us time to prepare."


    Chuck''s eyes lit up, and he slammed his fist into his palm.


    "You''re right! I''ll go find Jon. We''ll confront that old Phillips together and remind him of his place!"


    "Master, not this again!" Donna groaned, leaping up to deliver a swift chop to the back of Chuck''s head.


    Chuck yelped, clutching his head as he glared at his apprentice.


    "There are Blackwood elders present, Donna! Who''s the master here?"


    The Blackwood elders exchanged amused glances at the bizarre master-disciple duo.


    In the distance, Charlie Crackle, who viewed Donna as a surrogate daughter after she''d saved his life, wiped away a tear. Experience tales with M V L


    "They grow up so fast," he mumbled. "She''s got a master now, doesn''t even have time to ride on my back anymore."


    "Thank you, Chuck, but there''s no need for that," Daniel interjected, gently restraining Chuck.


    "We can''t afford to rock the boat now. The three counties have just found a fragile peace. Bryce has fulfilled his promise, renaming Cedar County to Azure Cloud. He hasn''t broken any agreements. He''s ambitious, yes, but who isn''t? Let him be."


    "But..." Chuck began, then caught Donna''s warning look.


    He crossed his arms and grumbled, "Well, my Arcane Society wants nothing to do with him. I''m sure old Walker feels the same, and don''t forget about Martin from Azure Cloud!"


    "Listen, Chuck," Daniel said calmly.


    "From now on, just humor Bryce. If he oversteps his boundaries, come to me. The Phillips family has a Basic Mastery, so they''re bound to have aspirations. As long as they don''t go too far, we''ll let them be."


    Reassured, Chuck finally relented.


    Had Daniel not intervened, the hot-headed cultivator might have stormed off to confront Phillips directly.


    Once Donna had ushered Chuck away, Nathan spoke, his voice laced with displeasure.


    "It seems both Bryce and Phillips have grand ambitions."


    The Blackwood elders exchanged grim looks.


    Edward slapped himself hard on the cheek.


    "It''s my fault, and Joseph''s. We shouldn''t have orchestrated Phillips'' return to Cedar County. We''ve invited the wolf into our home."


    "Don''t blame yourselves," Daniel said, stopping Edward from another round of self-flagellation.


    "If Phillips wants to rule the three counties, believing it will elevate their status, then let them. It might actually work in our favor."


    "What?" Julian exclaimed, about to launch into a tirade, but he bit his tongue, remembering Chuck''s earlier scolding.


    At least Donna was the only one who dared to reprimand Chuck.


    Here, he had an entire audience ready to put him in his place.


    Still, Daniel''s nonchalance irked him.


    "They''re on our turf, claiming dominion! How is that a good thing?"


    "You idiot!" Amelia interjected, kicking Julian''s shin.


    As her brother crumpled to the ground, clutching his leg, she continued, "Let me explain something. When I cultivate my spirit herbs, the ones that grow the tallest are always the first to be harvested. Look at that old tree behind you. When it was younger and taller, it bore the brunt of every storm. And you lot, you used to relieve yourselves at its base because it was the most convenient target."


    The Primordial Blood Tree: ...


    Unpleasant memories flooded its consciousness, eclipsing its earlier amusement at Julian''s expense.


    "Exactly," Daniel said, grinning.


    "Aunt Amelia understands. Phillips sees our success but has no idea how difficult it''s been to maintain control of even one county all these years. We have enemies on all sides, factions eyeing Cloudview County with envy. Now is the time for Blackwood to lie low. If Phillips wants to shoulder the burden of leadership, let them."


    "We shouldn''t oppose them. We should encourage them, support them. Instead of confronting every challenge head-on, let''s push Phillips forward, to shield Blackwood."


    "That will give us time to focus on our own affairs."


    Daniel''s expression turned serious.


    "Phillips better not disappoint us. Otherwise..."


    Ethan, observing the family meeting, smiled.


    The people of Cloudview County might not recognize the ancient god royal decree, but they would answer Blackwood''s call without hesitation.


    That was the foundation they had built over years of shared struggles and triumphs.


    No matter how grand Phillips'' and Bryce''s ambitions were, as long as they remained on Cloudview County soil, their aspirations would only serve to make them Blackwood''s most valuable assets.


    Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 325: Chapter 325: Ethan, where have you been?

    After the Cedar County campaign, while Cloudview County was still embroiled in conflict, the Azure Cloud army returned to their borders, gradually reclaiming the territory that Clark had seized.Jon, true to his word, had embraced a life of leisure, and the Psychics of Starlight County followed suit.


    Some even began joining the Azure Cloud army, inspired by their display of might.


    After all, not all Psychics were solely focused on honing their powers; some yearned for the camaraderie and purpose of military service.


    Meanwhile, Phillips continued their war against the Druids in what was now the Western Territory of Azure Cloud.


    Atop the same mountain where Blackwood''s surprise attack had taken place, Phillips erected a grand palace, a symbol of their authority and a strategic command center.


    Despite Phillips'' ambition, Bryce proved to be a capable leader.


    He organized their forces, minimized losses, and even sent envoys to learn from Jessica, establishing a formidable "Phillips Legion."


    Five years passed, and under Phillips'' rule, Azure Cloud flourished.


    One day, in the grand hall of the Phillips palace, Bryce sat upon his jade throne, clad in black armor adorned with a black python, a symbol adopted from Daniel.


    "Daniel, my friend," Bryce boomed, "I owe you a debt of gratitude. Your timely arrival with one hundred thousand Psychics was instrumental in crushing the Eight-Leaf Druids and driving them from our Western Territory!"


    Daniel smiled modestly.


    "You give me too much credit, Bryce. Your leadership was the deciding factor. Speaking of which, we''ve had numerous delegations from the Sunshine Mansion these past few years. They''ve caught wind of the spirit herbs and ores we''ve acquired from the Druids and are eager to trade.


    They''ve approached various factions within Azure Cloud, offering Energy Stones but refusing to part with any other resources. How should we proceed?"


    Bryce''s face hardened.


    The hall was filled with representatives from various factions, and none had escaped the Sunshine Mansion''s attempts to exploit their recent gains.


    The mere mention of the Sunshine Mansion elicited scowls and murmurs of discontent.


    "They can dream on!" Bryce declared, slamming his fist on the armrest.


    "They offered no aid during the war, content to isolate us and restrict our access to resources. Now they want a share of our hard-won spoils? I''d rather see our storehouses overflow than give them a single scrap!"


    "Well said!" The hall erupted in cheers.


    Once the crowd dispersed, Bryce wiped the sweat from his brow.


    Those five years had been the most challenging of his life.


    Since assuming control of Azure Cloud, the Druids'' attacks had intensified, focusing solely on his Western Territory.


    He''d spent every waking moment coordinating defenses, appeasing allies, and consolidating his authority.


    He''d finally managed to secure his position as the leader of Azure Cloud, but now Jon and Chuck were pressuring him to liberate the Eastern Territory.


    And then there were the citizens of Cloudview County, struggling to rebuild their lives and their cities, their needs a constant drain on their resources.


    But the most formidable threat remained the Sunshine Mansion, their covetous gaze fixed upon Azure Cloud, like predators circling their prey.


    "Thank goodness I''m here," Bryce muttered to himself.


    "If Blackwood were in charge, Azure Cloud would be ripe for the taking. Still, they''ve been surprisingly cooperative. I''ll give them that."


    He took a deep breath and gazed towards the Sunshine Mansion, a steely glint in his eyes.


    "This is my Phillips family''s opportunity. We have the land, the resources, and the people. Once I''ve dealt with the Druids, the Sunshine Mansion will rue the day they ever crossed Azure Cloud!"


    Meanwhile, Ethan, enjoying a rare moment of respite, emerged from his meditation in Bill the Daoist''s cultivation chamber.


    [Your family, under Bryce''s leadership, continues to thrive and grow stronger.]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has entered seclusion to attempt a breakthrough to the fifth level of the Death Coffin technique.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, having acquired a large quantity of seventh-grade and a small amount of sixth-grade crafting materials, including a branch from the Primordial Blood Tree, is preparing to attempt a breakthrough to sixth-grade Spirit Artifact Master.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, has successfully refined two doses of the sixth-grade Spirit Medicine, "Body Restoration and Qi Gathering Powder."]


    [Your descendants have gathered the necessary resources for Marcus to attempt his ninety-nine thunder tribulation...]


    Ethan smiled, nodding in satisfaction.


    He glanced towards Bryce''s palace atop the mountain, raising a thumbs-up.


    "Blackwood chose wisely. You''re doing an excellent job."


    ...


    With Bryce at the helm, the three territories of Azure Cloud prospered.


    As the next Grand Rite approached, Ethan logged out of the game.


    Returning to reality after so long, he felt a strange sense of disorientation.


    He pulled out his phone.


    While years had passed in the game, only a few days had gone by in the real world.


    His phone was flooded with notifications.


    [Major victory! The magical civilization invasion has been repelled in just one day! They have retreated to near Mars!]


    [Rumors abound of an unknown powerhouse wreaking havoc within the magical civilization''s stronghold. Several reclusive Psychics have joined the national army, seeking retribution!]


    [Exciting news from the National Psychic Exploration Team! The underwater ruins they discovered may hold the key to Earth''s lost history!]


    [...]


    "What? They were defeated so quickly?" Ethan was stunned.


    He knew the magical civilization was outmatched, especially with Earth''s Psychics returning from their interstellar missions, but he hadn''t expected such a swift resolution.


    He''d been worried about them attacking his neighborhood.


    He breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Good riddance. By the time I master my skills in the game, they''ll be no match for me." Your next chapter is on M V L


    He scrolled through the news as he stepped outside.


    Lisa, his AI assistant, was waiting for him, her expression unreadable.


    "Master, this is the longest you''ve stayed indoors."


    Ethan couldn''t exactly tell her he''d been busy building a family and fighting for survival in a virtual world.


    He mumbled a vague excuse and instructed Lisa to prepare his meal.


    "The bicentennial Grand Rite is fast approaching. I have more than enough Energy Stones and spirit herbs. My family is well-stocked too. Sixth and seventh-grade spirit medicines are impossible to find on Earth. Ancient cultivation techniques or advanced weaponry are the only things that would be of value to them now."


    Even outside the game, his thoughts remained fixated on his virtual family.


    "They''re still at war with the Druids. Who knows when it will end."


    "The Sunshine Mansion is another threat. They haven''t retaliated for Danny''s death, but everyone knows Blackwood was responsible."


    "Our family is still young. We won''t have a Basic Mastery Psychic anytime soon. Our priority is to find ways to counter a Basic Mastery expert."


    Lost in thought, he barely noticed Lisa setting his meal before him.


    She seemed accustomed to his distracted demeanor.


    He searched his contacts, hoping to reconnect with Orion.


    They''d been cut off during their last call due to the magical civilization invasion. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, he was met with the disheartening message: "The number you have dialed is no longer in service."


    "Right, she must be busy excavating that new ruin."


    Ethan chuckled.


    "I was hoping she might have unearthed some ancient cultivation techniques, artifacts, or high-level spirit equipment. I would have paid her handsomely in Energy Stones."


    Years of living in the game world had subtly shifted his perspective.


    He spoke of illegal activities and ancient artifacts as casually as discussing the weather.


    He dialed his teacher, Joshua.


    "Ethan, where have you been? Your phone''s been off, and your family''s too! I thought those mages had abducted you and turned you into their plaything!"

 Chapter 326: Chapter 326: A house full of descendants

    Ethan''s face darkened."Joshua, you''re a teacher! Have you listened to yourself? Anyway, I wanted to ask, with all those meteorites falling during the magical invasion, everything okay at your end?"


    "Not a damn thing to worry about! Even before those space rocks started falling, your dear teacher had rallied all the veteran Psychics in the district. Thirty thousand strong, Ethan! Ready for battle!"


    Joshua''s voice took on a wistful tone.


    "Thirty thousand, under my command! We were going to show those mages what happens when the people rise up...ah, never mind."


    "Must have been static on the line, Joshua. Didn''t catch that last part."


    Ethan would have hung up if he wasn''t curious about something.


    "By the way, Joshua, about that extraterrestrial creature sample..."


    Joshua chuckled.


    "You''re in luck! With the magical invasion and all, things are a bit hectic. School''s canceled, everyone''s in shelters, so a few things going missing here and there is to be expected. I''ll have someone send that sample over. Wait at the gate; your grumpy security guard wouldn''t appreciate a visit from me."


    "Thanks, Joshua! You''re the best."


    Ethan grabbed his takeout, a contented grin on his face.


    He''d been craving Lisa''s cooking.


    The neighborhood was eerily quiet, most of the residents having fled during the invasion.


    If it weren''t for his remaining neighbors, Ethan would have been tempted to investigate the secrets hidden within those opulent, now-empty mansions.


    "I bet those ''reclusive masters'' who joined the army and fought off the mages were from this neighborhood."


    Ethan shuddered, pushing the thought away.


    This place was a breeding ground for secrets, and he knew better than to pry.


    Some things were best left undisturbed.


    "Mr. John, good to see you! Brought you some of Lisa''s cooking ¨C tomato egg stir-fry, spicy stir-fried pork, and mouthwatering chicken!"


    Mr. John, the ever-stoic security guard, had remained at his post throughout the invasion, unfazed by the chaos.


    He greeted Ethan with a rare smile, his usual drowsiness replaced by genuine warmth.


    "You''re too kind, Ethan. The only one who still remembers this old man."


    After a brief chat with Mr. John, a young man approached, holding a small box.


    Ethan''s eye twitched.


    He had no idea where Joshua found these people.


    The young man marched towards him, stopped, and presented the box with a stiff salute.


    "Salvation Army, Unit 0325, reporting for duty, sir! Mission accomplished! Please accept this package, Mr. Ethan!"


    "...."


    Ethan stared at the young man''s retreating figure, a wave of unease washing over him.


    He decided it was best to avoid dwelling on the oddities of the outside world and focus on the familiar comfort of his game.


    Ethan returned home and called Alan.


    His associate arrived shortly, his face plastered with a nervous grin.


    "Mr. Ethan, you sure know how to give a guy a challenge! Getting my hands on that item you requested...let''s just say I had to deal with some unsavory characters. That group, they''re bad news, I tell ya!"


    Ethan''s eyes widened as he saw the contents of the Storage Ring.


    He''d only mentioned it casually, never expecting Alan to actually find it!


    He found himself intrigued by this mysterious group.


    "Alan, if you don''t mind my asking, what was the name of this organization?"


    Alan glanced around nervously, then leaned in and whispered, "The Salvation Army."


    "..."


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    "Mr. Ethan, is something wrong? You know about them?"


    Alan asked, noticing Ethan''s stunned silence.


    "No, not at all."


    Ethan shook his head, forcing a neutral expression.


    "Thank you for this, Alan. You''ve been a lifesaver. Things are a bit chaotic right now, so I''m leaving the company in your capable hands."


    ...


    After Alan left, Ethan rushed back to his room, his face grim.


    He briefly considered blocking Joshua''s number.


    He glanced at the box.


    "It''s because of the extraterrestrial sample, isn''t it? That kind of request screams ''criminal underworld.'' And then there''s that incident with his student...Joshua must have revealed his connection to the Salvation Army because he wants to recruit me."


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan rubbed his face, a chill running down his spine.


    "Joshua, you sly dog. Well, two can play at this game. I''m just going to stay home and play my game. Let''s see you try to recruit me now!"


    He sat down at his computer, pushing all thoughts of the Salvation Army aside.


    The game loaded, and he was greeted by the sight of the Blackwood ancestral hall, more magnificent than ever.


    Blackwood descendants were returning from far and wide for the upcoming ceremony.


    Nathan and Luna, despite being seasoned warriors, walked hand-in-hand, their attire simple and understated.


    Luna barely reached Nathan''s chest, even with the Death Coffin strapped to his back.


    They entered the hall, enveloped by an aura of reverence.


    Lucas, his health somewhat recovered, arrived next, his black robes billowing behind him as he carried his sword case.


    Amelia followed, her clothes still worn, her hair a mess, a small gourd dangling from her waist.


    Then came Julian, his arms and legs now gleaming silver, his torso bare and covered in intricate runes, his head shaved bald.


    Olivia, her youthful vigor replaced by the frailty of old age, was wheeled in by Julian.


    Marcus, his black robes shimmering like the night sky, arrived next, his presence radiating an otherworldly aura.


    Daniel, clad in black armor, his white hair flowing behind him, walked alongside Marcus, deep in conversation.


    Behind them came the boisterous third generation of Blackwood.


    George, Justin, William, and the others followed, their eyes widening at the sight of Jessica, clad in crimson armor, her demeanor confident and commanding.


    It was as if they were silently questioning how their usually carefree cousin had transformed into such a formidable figure.


    Then came the fifth generation: Edward and Donna.


    Both had cultivated in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, but their paths had diverged.


    Edward, now a leader in his own right, exuded an air of authority, his attire refined, his expression composed.


    Donna, on the other hand, still retained her fiery spirit, berating her juniors despite her diminutive stature, her pigtails bouncing as she scolded them.


    In stark contrast, Charles and Christopher, the devout siblings, walked with their hands clasped in prayer, their faces serene and detached from worldly concerns.


    Joseph and Katie arrived last, Joseph being pushed in a wheelchair, his hand clamped over his ear as if to block out a barrage of nagging.


    Katie, meanwhile, seemed to find the situation endlessly amusing.


    "A house full of descendants, a house full of blessings," Ethan thought, a wave of warmth washing over him.


    "To have so many filial children...my life has been worthwhile."


    As his descendants knelt before him, a message appeared on the screen:


    [Year 200 of Blackwood.]


    [Your descendants offer their respects!] S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 327: Chapter 327: Extraterrestrial Parasite

    The grand ceremony concluded as it always did, with Ethan receiving a bounty of celestial treasures and potent elixirs to enhance his supernatural abilities.The Blackwood descendants, having completed their ancestral veneration, dispersed after a brief gathering, most returning to their own affairs.


    With peace reigning at the borders, Nathan and his wife, a couple still deeply in love after two centuries, retreated to their coffin.


    They carefully stored Ethan''s bestowed gifts within the Death Coffin, a repository for the family''s most prized possessions.


    Inside the Death Coffin''s fourth level, three cylindrical green objects stood out.


    On the ground lay a black, semi-transparent cube the size of a human head, within which a strange gas, resembling black electrical orbs, flickered.


    [Death Coffin Fifth Level]


    Ethan followed Nathan and his wife inside.


    Unlike the boundless Dead Sea of the fourth level, the fifth level presented a series of black light curtains.


    [Death Sky Veil]


    [Traverse eighty-one Sky Veils to attain complete Death Rule and refine the Sky Veil into a domain.]


    It was practically spoon-feeding the path to mastery.


    "Master, the gifts bestowed by the Ancestor are terrifying," Luna exclaimed, gazing in awe at the items Ethan had brought into their world.


    She recognized the three cylindrical objects; the Ancestor had unleashed these dreadful ''hidden weapons'' during the confrontation with the three great Apex Forces outside the Sky Sect.


    What frightened Luna more was the semi-transparent black cube.


    She cautiously touched it and quickly withdrew her hand.


    "The Ancestor said this thing could kill a Sovereign, shatter the pocket dimension created by a Sovereign Psychic, and obliterate their soul."


    "This is the truly terrifying one."


    Nathan regarded another iron box with even greater apprehension.


    Through his Apex Force, he could perceive a lump of flesh writhing within.


    "The Ancestor said this is a supernatural artifact. Once used, it will transform into the most dreadful demon, capable of unimaginable changes. I have a feeling that using it will have dire consequences. Perhaps we should let Thomas and the others try it?"


    "On behalf of the seven of them, thank you very much..."


    Ethan hastily interjected, preventing Nathan from continuing down that path.


    After bringing the Extraterrestrial Parasite from the school laboratory into this world, Ethan could also access its information, including a research report.


    [Extraterrestrial Parasite]


    [An unknown species from the depths of the cosmos. Integrating it into one''s body will result in unpredictable transformations. If integration fails, it will clash with the host''s body, leading to explosive death. Successful integration will bring about drastic changes.]


    This entity had been studied in the laboratory for generations, yet no one had been able to unravel its secrets.


    However, the report Ethan read mentioned that when these parasites were first discovered, many people had used them, and some even conducted experiments on captured subjects. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Records from a hidden research facility revealed that thousands upon thousands had perished in these experiments.


    But there were also successes.


    Some who used the Extraterrestrial Parasite directly transformed into mutated celestial Psychic Constitutions, while others gained innate spells.


    There were also unfortunate outcomes.


    The hidden research facility contained numerous cultivation pods holding grotesque creatures like giant worms and sentient rocks, all results of failed integrations with the Extraterrestrial Parasite.


    Nathan broke out in a cold sweat upon hearing the Ancestor''s explanation through Psychic Projection.


    "Thank you for the warning, Ancestor. If Thomas and the others had used this thing and turned into worms, I would have committed a grave sin."


    Relieved that the third generation of the Blackwoods had been spared, Ethan exited the Death Coffin.


    ...


    Meanwhile, the second-generation siblings were still gathered in the ancestral hall.


    Olivia, who only returned once every few years from her travels, was present.


    Even Lucas, enduring his injuries, wanted to spend more time with his fourth sister.


    "Olivia, I heard from the Ancestor that you''ve been among the Druids all these years, seizing their treasures," Lucas said, frowning at Olivia''s appearance.


    "You finally regained your youthful looks, and now you''re at it again."


    "Nothing escapes the Ancestor''s eyes," Olivia chuckled, shaking her head.


    "Brother, don''t worry, it''s not what you think. My cultivation of the ''Scripture of All Under Heaven'' has reached the Pinnacle Apprentice stage. It requires me to experience the cycle of youth, aging, and rejuvenation ninety-nine times. As for seizing treasures, it''s a gradual process that takes time."


    "I see."


    Realizing he knew little about scholarly cultivation, Lucas dropped the subject and asked, "Since you''re back, why not stay for a while? Azure Cloud is stable now. The Druids rarely attack our heartland anymore. You don''t need to work so hard."


    "Alright, I''ll stay longer this time. Seizing treasures isn''t something that can be done overnight."


    Seeing the concern in her siblings'' eyes, Olivia, after years away, felt a sense of peace.


    "Brother, your injuries are serious. You should go back and rest."


    "Alright, remember to visit me at the infirmary in three days. And no more running off."


    The power of rules within his wounds flared up again, causing Lucas to grimace and nod.


    As Lucas departed, Julian sighed worriedly.


    "Fourth Sister, my injury has lingered for over a decade. You have many disciples. Do you know of any methods to help your brother recover?"


    Amelia and Olivia exchanged glances, their expressions peculiar.


    Seemingly understanding each other''s thoughts, they said in unison, "It can''t be healed."


    Ethan, standing nearby, silently glanced at the information on his interface.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has been severely injured for many years. While recovering beside the Demon Lord Diana, he has spent over a decade comprehending the sword within the sword case, gaining the trait: Sword Heart]


    [With a sword in his heart, he can train his swordsmanship anywhere. Comprehension increased by 5%]


    [After years of being fellow patients with Diana, a strange feeling has developed between them...]


    "Sharing a bed for over a decade, impressive, truly impressive."


    Ethan smiled with satisfaction as he watched the two of them retreat to their shared quarters.


    While the reunited siblings were catching up, three old bachelors were looking at each other with tears in their eyes.


    "William, we''ve been waiting for you!"


    Justin almost burst into tears at the sight of William.


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    "For almost twenty years, your brother and I have been stuck in the Crimson Gate Syndicate, accomplishing nothing! Quickly, join us in taking down the Crimson Gate Syndicate and avenging Lucas'' grandfather!"


    George choked back sobs.


    "William, think of something fast! That old Sovereign from the Crimson Gate Syndicate constantly monitors everything with his Primordial Spirit. Your brother has had no chance to desecrate their ancestral graves."

 Chapter 328: Chapter 328: Very well, let it be

    Seeing their dumbfounded expressions, William scratched his head in disbelief."Are you pulling my leg?"


    "Dead serious," George replied, his expression grave.


    "That old fox is as cautious as they come. He hasn''t left his compound in nearly two decades. There''s not a snowball''s chance in hell."


    "That''s not what I meant."


    William''s expression turned strange. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''m saying, if you know it''s impossible, why not choose a different target?"


    "Huh?"


    Both George and Justin were taken aback.


    The two, who had been fixated on this for almost twenty years, stared at each other, their eyes wide with confusion.


    William sighed inwardly, realizing his companions were utterly single-minded...


    And so, the three of them, arms slung over each other''s shoulders, walked out of the family estate and headed towards Sunshine Manor.


    ...


    Seeing that his children all had their own matters to attend to, Ethan decided to seclude himself within the Death Coffin for cultivation.


    Time held no sway over the ageless cultivator.


    When he finally opened his eyes, years had passed.


    [Year 205 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Special Event - Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary]


    [The war between Cloudview County and the Druids raged on. As Sunshine Manor''s intrusions into Cloudview County grew bolder, Bryce became increasingly dissatisfied with them. His intelligence network discovered that the legacy of ''Heavenly Path Venerable,'' a Basic Mastery level expert from millennia past, had been unearthed within Sunshine Manor.


    He planned to assemble Azure Cloud''s Psychics to compete for the Heavenly Path Venerable''s inheritance.]


    "We Blackwoods haven''t even made a move on Sunshine Manor, and you''re already planning to fight them for it," Ethan muttered, stretching his limbs.


    With a flicker, he vanished from his spot.


    At that moment...


    Nathan was still cultivating within his coffin, Lucas was still recovering from his injuries, and Amelia and Julian were as engrossed as ever, either crafting mystical artifacts or concocting potions, their dedication bordering on obsession.


    As for Olivia, after her return, she had been teaching literary cultivation in the city, leaving behind two inherited scriptures, the "Four Seasons Sutra" and the "Mountains and Rivers Classic."


    Meanwhile, within Bryce''s manor, the Psychics who would be embarking on the secret mission to the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary were gathered.


    Within the grand hall stood the four Psychics chosen for the covert operation: Arcane Society''s Chuck, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s Patriarch Ralph, Martin family''s Patriarch Will, and Phillips family''s Patriarch Bob.


    Each had reached the peak of the Competent Force level, with Chuck even ranked thirty-ninth on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings.


    They all possessed their own trump cards.


    As for Patriarch Ralph... having ascended to his current level by consuming cannibalistic pills, it was unclear what gave him the audacity to participate in this contest.


    Bryce, seated within the hall, fixed his gaze upon the nonchalant Daniel, a hint of displeasure in his eyes.


    "Brother Daniel, does the Blackwood family have no interest in the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary? Nathan Blackwood is more than capable of going toe-to-toe with Mike. If he wished, he could easily secure a place on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings. Your second aunt, Amelia, has weathered ninety-nine thunder tribulations. "


    "Though she keeps a low profile, she''s undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. And let''s not forget your family''s demonic expert, who waltzes in and out of Druid territory as if it were his own backyard. "


    "Your brother George enjoys the protection of the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s senior members. Any one of them could prove invaluable to our endeavor."


    The Blackwoods were exceptional in every way.


    Over the years, they had answered his call, provided him with unwavering support, and genuinely entrusted him, Phillips, with authority.


    Although the Blackwoods wielded immense power, their relationship was one of mutual cooperation and shared success.


    The only fly in the ointment was their penchant for secrecy and their reluctance to fully commit.


    "Bryce, you''re well aware of our family''s circumstances," Daniel replied with a wry smile.


    "My grandparents are under constant surveillance by the Druid Apostle Mike. They can''t so much as breathe without him knowing. My father is still recovering from his injuries and can''t even leave the infirmary. My second aunt wouldn''t dare leave her workshop. "


    "Lord of Frenzied Blood is out of the question; the Druids have been on high alert all these years precisely because of him. As for my nephew, I haven''t the faintest idea where he is. Tell you what, I''ll reach out to my brother who''s currently at Sunshine Manor. Would that be satisfactory?"


    Daniel wasn''t being disingenuous.


    None of them could afford to make a move.


    Otherwise, he was certain that the moment they stepped foot outside Azure Cloud, Mike would lead the Druids in a full-scale invasion of Cloudview County.


    Only they knew that the Druids'' true fear wasn''t Bryce, but the Blackwoods.


    Bryce frowned.


    He was generally cognizant of the Blackwoods'' predicament.


    He waved his hand dismissively.


    "Very well, let it be. As for your brother... what was his name again?"


    "Marcus," Daniel replied, a hint of annoyance in his tone.


    "Right, Blackwood Marcus, the Sky Sect''s Sect Master."


    Bryce continued, "There''s no need to trouble him. He''s still at the peak of the Developing Skill level, a Pinnacle Apprentice who has yet to make his grand entrance. Leading the Sky Sect in their precarious position within Sunshine Manor is already a tall order. Let''s not add to his burdens."


    "..."


    Daniel chose not to dignify that with a response.


    Over the years, he had made a conscious effort to avoid conflict with Bryce and had come to understand him to some extent.


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    The old man was indeed a capable Duke, possessing the qualities of a true leader and a benevolent heart.


    The only chink in his armor was his excessive kindness.


    Despite the Blackwoods'' immense power and prestige, he harbored no ill will towards them and never resorted to subterfuge.


    As he often proclaimed, being born into a position of power meant that wielding authority was second nature.


    The sword of a gentleman, which he held, was meant to be pointed at his enemies, not his allies.


    Bryce turned his gaze towards the four Competent Force experts, his expression solemn.


    "Everyone, the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary presents a golden opportunity, but it is not without its perils. I implore you to look after one another and present a united front."


    The four nodded curtly and made their way out of the grand hall.


    Outside, Jessica, clad in armor, had been waiting patiently.


    Daniel nodded at Jessica and handed her a Storage Ring.


    "Go. Larry will oversee the Azure Cloud army for now. You take Thomas and the others."


    "Yes, Uncle!"


    Jessica bowed slightly, her hand resting on the Storage Ring.


    Inside the Storage Ring, which could only contain inanimate objects, five men and two women, built like bears and clad in blood-red armor with demonic markings on their faces, were cursing up a storm.


    "Who in the bloody hells packs people into a Storage Ring?!"


    "Jessica, let us out! Even demons have the right to walk under the sun! Who''s afraid of those self-righteous Daoists?!"


    "Shut your traps! Hurry up, let''s get to the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary! That old fart Bryce, saying my brother is incompetent, I''ll show him incompetent! I''m going to loot the entire Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Sunshine Manor''s Sky Sect...


    Located in a remote and desolate mountainous region, the sect was far removed from civilization.


    When Marcus first arrived with five thousand Sky Sect disciples, they faced constant oppression from the various sects and families of Sunshine Manor.


    Recruiting disciples was but a pipe dream; they were fortunate if their elders and disciples weren''t driven out.


    Even resources had to be provided by the Blackwoods, barely enough to keep the sect afloat.


    They lived under the constant threat of covetous forces.


    Standing atop the sect''s gate, Marcus held his whisk and the rotating Sky Palace, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position flickering beside him.


    He gazed into the distance.


    "The Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary, a proving ground for all below the Basic Mastery level, a crucible where Sunshine Manor''s geniuses clash! Forebearer, bless your descendant. I shall bear witness to who reigns supreme among the non-Basic Mastery experts of Sunshine Manor!"

 Chapter 329: Chapter 329: This... This is too good to be true!

    Deep within a mountain range, George, William, and Justin burst forth, the Forebearer Psychic Position beside them glowing brightly."Forebearer!" George knelt in reverence.


    As the Forebearer Psychic Position stirred, a message was relayed, causing his eyebrows to shoot up.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary? The best of Sunshine City are gathering there, even Uncle went?"


    Justin''s eyes gleamed with excitement.


    "Brother, it''s going to be dangerous there, we have to go too! I''ve been itching to meet the experts from Sunshine Mansion. It''s been ages since I''ve felt a real thrill, and I''m stuck at the peak of Developing Skill with no progress."


    "Let''s go, let''s go! Time for some real action!"


    William licked his lips.


    ...


    In the Blackwood Estate of Sunshine Mansion, under the shade of a giant tree, Joseph sat alone, engrossed in a game of chess.


    Katie lay on a branch above, enjoying the cool breeze.


    Both seemed perfectly at ease.


    Suddenly, the Psychic Position beside them lit up.


    Katie leaped down from the tree, while Joseph paused his game, his gaze fixed on the glowing object.


    "Have the elders departed?"


    Joseph bowed towards the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    "Please rest assured, Forebearer. I have been studying the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary for many years. My reason for coming to Sunshine City from Blackwood was precisely for opportunities like this. The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is a world unto itself, developed over millennia. It is divided into inner and outer regions. I''m afraid the inner region can only be accessed by the elders."


    "As for the middle and outer areas..."


    Joseph smiled at Katie.


    "Katie and I will pay them a visit. I hope the younger generation of Sunshine Mansion is ready for what we have in store."


    ...


    [Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary]


    [Millennia ago, the resting place of ''Heavenly Path Venerable'', a Psychic who achieved the peak of Basic Mastery, transformed into a self-contained world with its own laws, giving birth to mystical herbs, beasts, and artifacts. Many Basic Mastery Psychics from Sunshine Mansion covet its treasures. To avoid karmic repercussions, they send their descendants to compete for them.]


    At this moment, on a small mountain known as ''Misty Mount'' in Sunshine Mansion, Psychics from all corners converged, some soaring through the air on enchanted swords, others riding Psychic Gear or wielding ability weapons.


    Once a barren land, Misty Mount was now bustling with activity thanks to the appearance of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The surrounding villages were filled with awestruck villagers, their gazes fixed on the ''Masters of Mysticism'' gathered in the sky.


    Multiple formations shimmered in the sky above Misty Mount.


    As each Psychic approached, ripples spread out like waves in water.


    Within the mountain lay a cave, its entrance sealed by a swirling vortex-like formation.


    Each Psychic who arrived stepped into the vortex and vanished.


    Dozens of miles away from the cave, every passing Psychic paused, their expressions turning intrigued as they witnessed a peculiar sight.


    High above, suspended in mid-air, over a hundred talismans pulsed with a terrifying aura, their golden inscriptions glowing brightly as they slowly rotated.


    Trapped within these talismans were four figures, each radiating the power of a peak Competent Force Psychic.


    Who else could they be but the four peak Competent Force experts dispatched by Bryce?


    These four had arrived only to be captured before even laying eyes on the entrance to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    A sect from Sunshine Mansion, known as the Golden Dawn Alliance, had acted swiftly and decisively.


    Without a word, their Basic Mastery Grand Elder had unleashed a surge of psychic power, trapping the four within the confines of the talismans.


    What kind of profound technique did this Golden Dawn Alliance patriarch cultivate?


    Even Chuck, a powerhouse unmatched in his own county, couldn''t break free from these seemingly fragile talismans!


    A master from Phillips Duke''s Mansion frowned and cupped his hands towards the sky.


    "Senior, the opportunities within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary are for all to seize. Why treat us juniors in such a manner? This is going too far!"


    The Grand Elder of the Golden Dawn Alliance remained silent, his actions speaking volumes.


    It was a blatant display of power, leaving the four trapped experts with faces contorted in anger.


    "What''s the point of talking to him?"


    Chuck roared, still bombarding the formation with his attacks.


    "They''re clearly afraid of us from Cloudview County gaining any real power, terrified that we might break through to Basic Mastery. They''ve had their eyes on us since we left Azure Cloud!"


    "Alas..."


    Patriarch Ralph and Patriarch Walker could only sigh.


    They had long known that Sunshine Mansion sought to suppress the growth of Cloudview County, but they hadn''t anticipated such blatant hostility.


    The Basic Mastery Psychic didn''t dare to release them, fearing they might retaliate in anger.


    However, he couldn''t kill them either.


    The war with the Druids was still raging in Azure Cloud, and they too had Basic Mastery Psychics.


    ...


    "???"


    Ethan trailed behind Joseph and Katie.


    The trio, along with a makeshift team of Psychics, were entering the Psychic Sanctuary under the guidance of a Developing Skill expert from Sunshine Blackwood. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was then that Ethan noticed the four figures from Azure Cloud, imprisoned high in the sky.


    So much for coming to seize resources.


    Now they were reduced to being glorified decorations, trapped in the sky for all to see?


    "Thank goodness for Blackwood. Otherwise, our Azure Cloud would''ve returned empty-handed."


    Ethan wasn''t exactly thrilled.


    After all, they were all on the same side.


    Although his family''s actions were supposed to be a secret, they had hoped that the experts sent by Cloudview County would gain something from this expedition.


    It would benefit Azure Cloud as well.


    For a Basic Mastery Psychic from Sunshine Mansion to act so shamelessly... this wasn''t just an insult to Chuck and the others, it was an insult to all of Cloudview County!


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    "So this is what a Basic Mastery Psychic from Sunshine Mansion is like? What a joke, this Golden Dawn Alliance. Their name sounds all righteous and noble, but their actions are despicable."


    Joseph''s face darkened as he witnessed the scene in the sky.


    "Our Cloudview County has been battling the Druids for years. Each of those seniors has fought bravely on the front lines. Now, they come to Sunshine Mansion seeking opportunity, and this Golden Dawn Alliance resorts to such underhanded tactics!"


    Katie, her massive bow strapped to her back, furrowed her brow.


    "If they''re going to be so devious..."


    "Then we won''t hold back either."


    Without another word, Joseph had Katie push him towards the entrance of the Psychic Sanctuary.


    ...


    The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary truly lived up to its reputation as a world unto itself, formed from the remnants of a peak Basic Mastery Psychic''s power.


    As Ethan stepped inside with the others, he was immediately struck by the dense concentration of mystical energy.


    Lush greenery stretched out before them, encompassing vast rivers, towering mountains, and a sky filled with clouds.


    However, there was no sun, moon, or stars, as if it were perpetually daytime.


    Untouched for millennia, this place was a treasure trove of mystical herbs and rare resources!


    No sooner had they arrived than they spotted a group of Psychics gathered in the distance.


    At the center of the commotion was a mystical herb, radiating potent energy.


    [Rare Life-Giving Herb]


    [Rank: Seventh]


    [Originally an eighth-rank mystical herb, it has grown for over two thousand years, reaching the seventh rank. Consuming it raw can increase one''s mystical powers and heal severe injuries below the Developing Skill level. It is an exceptional ingredient for concocting healing pills.]


    "This... This is too good to be true!"


    Ethan felt like he had stumbled upon a gold mine.


    And this was just the outer area!


    Who knew what wonders awaited them deeper inside?


    The Psychics surrounding the herb were practically drooling with desire, yet none dared to make the first move.


    However, the first to claim a prize wasn''t Joseph.


    On the pale blue screen before him, a line of text appeared, catching Ethan''s eye.


    In an instant, he located the source... George and his companions.


    This was the outer region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    As Joseph had explained, the people of Sunshine Mansion valued their reputation above all else.


    The moment the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary opened, the Basic Mastery Psychics of Sunshine Mansion had divided it into three layers, each corresponding to the Emerging Ability, Developing Skill, and Competent Force levels.

 Chapter 330: Chapter 330: Whats the fun in a fair fight?

    This area seemed to be the most mystically potent in the entire outer region.A mystical spring shimmered with star-like motes of energy, clearly something extraordinary.


    [Marrow Cleansing Mystical Spring]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [Formed from the shattered essence of a Basic Mastery Psychic, their essence infused the spring water, causing it to undergo a mystical transformation over millennia. By cultivating within this mystical spring for eighty-one days, a Psychic can purify their body and enhance their innate potential.


    Even Competent Force Psychics can utilize this mystical spring to refine their Psychic Constitution to a higher level. Usable by three individuals.]


    Ethan''s eyes lit up at the sight of this treasure.


    Emerging Ability Psychics had one chance to defy fate and alter their destiny, but the further along one progressed, the more difficult it became to alter their innate potential.


    Countless Psychics found themselves limited by their potential, unable to achieve a Single Psychic Constitution or solidify their meridians sufficiently to break through to the Competent Force level from the Pinnacle Apprentice stage.


    Even for those who reached the Competent Force level, further refinement of their potential, strengthening their Psychic Constitution, and expanding their meridians could deepen their connection to natural energies, potentially doubling or even tripling their combat prowess!


    This mystical spring was truly heaven-defying!


    As if that wasn''t enough, a large stone stood beside the spring, seemingly suppressing its power.


    On either side of the stone bloomed two flowers, their petals resembling flickering flames.


    [Phoenix Stone]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [Formed from the essence of Heavenly Path Venerable''s spirit beast, which perished alongside its master. Their combined essence seeped into this boulder, causing it to undergo a mystical transformation over millennia. It now possesses a faint sentience.


    Cultivating near this Phoenix Stone allows one to comprehend the might of the Phoenix, increasing cultivation speed, enhancing comprehension of fire-attribute techniques, and offering a slight chance of improving one''s Fire Psychic Constitution. It is also an exceptional material for crafting mystical equipment.]


    ...


    [Twin Phoenix Feather Mystical Herbs]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [Mystical herbs formed from the blood of a Phoenix, possessing a faint sentience. Consuming them offers a chance to inherit the Phoenix bloodline, purify one''s body, and potentially awaken a Single Fire Psychic Constitution. Consuming them individually yields remarkable effects.]


    ...


    If Amelia and Julian saw these treasures, they''d probably be laughing in their sleep.


    However, George and his companions had no intention of taking these treasures for themselves!


    Hidden in the shadows, the three were up to something...


    [Your descendants, George, William, and Justin, have entered the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary but have chosen not to act immediately.]


    [Observing the abundance of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, William''s cunning mind devised a plan. He deduced that the more cautious experts from Sunshine Mansion would likely wait three days before leaving with their spoils. Moreover, these experts would likely travel alone. Thus, they decided to lay in wait at the Sanctuary''s exit for three days.


    George successfully ambushed and killed two Competent Force Psychics.] Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Spoils of war obtained¡ª]


    [One Competent Force Psychic corpse, 18 Competent Force Psychic fragments.]


    [Sixth-rank Marrow Cleansing Mystical Spring, Sixth-rank Phoenix Stone, Sixth-rank Twin Phoenix Feather Mystical Herbs. Various seventh and eighth-rank mystical treasures, two sets of Competent Force Psychic possessions...]


    "As expected of you three."


    Ethan wiped the sweat from his brow as he watched the trio settle into their ambush position.


    His gaze lingered on William, the one on the far left.


    Those eighteen fragments... they were all from him.


    Such a waste.


    William''s intellect was on par with Daniel and Joseph''s, but he never used it for anything good.


    Decades spent with Olivia had only sharpened his cunning, though he lacked her broader vision.


    When it came to "street smarts," even Olivia couldn''t hold a candle to him.


    Justin began to fidget.


    "William, why are we stuck here? This is just the outer area, full of small fry. Let''s go deeper inside, where the real action is! I need to test myself against Competent Force Psychics to feel truly alive!"


    "That''s where you''re wrong, my friend."


    Explore stories on M V L


    William licked his lips.


    "What''s the fun in a fair fight? It''s all about the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of crushing your enemies like ants. Just watch. Those greedy fools from Sunshine Mansion who haven''t left after seven days? They''ll be loaded with loot. Don''t underestimate the outer region.


    We''ve already spotted plenty of valuable seventh and eighth-rank materials along the way!"


    "Once we set these three treasures out as bait, those greedy bastards won''t be able to resist. We''ll just sit back, relax, and claim at least half the resources in the entire outer region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!"


    Ethan shuddered.


    He was glad to be a Blackwood Forebearer.


    If he had been unfortunate enough to be reborn into this world and caught up in the chaos of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary... well, whether he played it safe or went all out, he''d likely end up dead at William''s hands.


    "Patience, Justin. There''s no need to rush into the inner region."


    George rubbed his hands together excitedly, holding back the eager Justin.


    "We just need to lay low for a month, and we''ll be swimming in riches. Then, we''ll head to the middle region. Remember Crimson Gate Syndicate? They spent twenty years guarding that place and got nowhere. This is way faster!"


    "We''ll be rich soon enough. Then we''ll see who dares to call my tomb raiding a waste of time!"


    Justin finally relented.


    While he relished the thrill of a near-death experience, the promise of wealth was a close second.


    It wasn''t long before the trio tensed, their senses on high alert.


    A group was approaching.


    George''s expression hardened.


    Leading the group was a young prodigy, no older than fifty, yet already at the Transcendent Seed level, rivaling George in his prime.


    Beside him walked an elder, his aura radiating the peak of Developing Skill!


    Their eyes were filled with greed as they gazed upon the three treasures before them, praising their good fortune.


    George gritted his teeth, his gaze fixed on the elder.


    "The audacity! A Developing Skill expert stooping to scavenging in the outer region."


    Justin snorted.


    "The sight of that old geezer makes me sick."


    "He has to die. I despise treacherous scum like him!"


    In a flash, George''s body was engulfed in a surge of power as over twenty ancestral spirits possessed him, pushing his cultivation to the peak of Competent Force.


    William and Justin, their bodies radiating the power of nascent deities, emerged from the shadows.


    [Your descendants, George, Justin, and William, have successfully lured in greedy Psychics using valuable treasures as bait, earning the trait: Trapper.]

 Chapter 331: Chapter 331: Rising Star Elimination Master

    "Whoosh!"A streak of pink light tore through the air, too swift for the naked eye to follow.


    Only a faint pink arc and a trail of pulverized stone marked its path, the raw power of its mystical energy warping the very fabric of space.


    The pink arrow''s trajectory intersected with a shimmering pink formation hanging in mid-air.


    At the formation''s heart, a pink star rested atop a seven-colored lotus, its petals both vibrant and strangely menacing.


    The lotus pulsed with an overwhelming power, seemingly capable of suppressing all before it, holding the Psychic in the arrow''s path utterly immobile.


    "Thud!"


    A soft sound, a gasp of surprise, and a spray of crimson.


    The arrow pierced the Psychic''s throat, leaving them wide-eyed and lifeless.


    The attacker, a young woman, lowered her Sparkly Unicorn Bow with a dissatisfied frown.


    She turned to the young man seated in a wheelchair beside her.


    "Brother, is this truly the most powerful Rising Star Heavenly Justice Hall could locate in Sunshine Mansion over the past century? A hundred and twenty years old, Developing Skill mid-stage, possessing a Super Core... and that''s all?"


    "A disciple of Twilight Edge Assembly," the young man mused, examining the storage ring he''d taken from the dead Psychic.


    "Their sect favors alchemy and medicine over true combat prowess, yet they crave recognition. It seems those lacking in one area often overcompensate in others. This ''once-in-a-millennium'' Rising Star from Twilight Edge Assembly is nothing more than a product of pill-popping. Even that Earth-grade technique of theirs, who knows where they acquired it, is poorly mastered. His foundation is weak."


    He smiled faintly at his companion.


    "Katie, you may have defeated him, but don''t let it go to your head. You possess the Heavenly Pure Land Psychic Constitution, a step above even those born with Heavenly Bestowed Psychic Constitutions. You''ve cultivated the ''Azure Cloud Undying Scripture'' since childhood and have the protection of both the Rainbow Lotus and Great Grandfather Marcus''s Astral Blessing."


    "You may only be at the early stage of Developing Skill, but you possess a Super Core just like him. To struggle so much against such an inadequately trained opponent... you need to dedicate more time to cultivating your mystical energy."


    This duo was none other than Joseph and Katie.


    [Your descendants, Joseph and Katie, have spent half a month traveling with their group, encountering few noteworthy Rising Stars in the outer region.]


    [Hearing rumors of a location in the outer region containing three sixth-rank mystical treasures, they rushed to claim them. However, instead of treasures, they encountered George, William, and Justin. A tense standoff ensued, nearly leading to their capture by the older generation...]


    [Forced to retreat to the middle region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, your descendant Joseph was shaken to his core, realizing he had underestimated the cunning of others. He was grateful that the ambushers were his elders; otherwise, he might have met his end. This experience instilled in him a newfound sense of caution. Trait gained: Cautious and Prudent.]


    [Once bitten, twice shy. From now on, he will carefully consider the risks before pursuing any opportunity, no matter how tempting. Caution +100%.]


    "..."


    Ethan was speechless as he read the description of the trait.


    He vividly remembered the scene.


    Just as Joseph and Katie were about to claim the treasures, George and his companions had sprung their trap.


    George, despite possessing the power of a peak Competent Force expert, had chosen a surprisingly theatrical approach.


    William had surrounded them with hundreds of pieces of Psychic Gear, ready to self-detonate at a moment''s notice.


    Justin had unleashed a dozen ability weapons, sealing off their escape. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And George... well, he had almost unleashed his ultimate move.


    Ethan knew Joseph well.


    He was usually calm and collected, unfazed by any challenge.


    But that day, he had been genuinely terrified.


    As for Katie... George''s overwhelming aura had simply knocked her unconscious.


    Now, Joseph and Katie made no mention of their embarrassing encounter in the outer region.


    They had ventured into the middle region, hunting down Sunshine Mansion''s Rising Stars with ruthless efficiency. Enjoy exclusive content from M V L


    "The elders are truly formidable," Katie said, securing her bow on her back.


    Despite her victory, the battle had taken its toll.


    Her hair was disheveled, and she was still catching her breath.


    "Don''t worry, brother. I won''t underestimate any opponent, especially not the elders."


    She glanced at the corpse at her feet, her expression hardening.


    "As for them... they''re nothing to me."


    [Your descendant, Katie, has been unable to find any worthy opponents under a hundred years old. She has now set her sights on the middle region, where she has spent several days hunting down Rising Stars from Sunshine Mansion who have come to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary seeking opportunities. She has defeated a total of ten Rising Stars. Trait gained: Sunshine Prodigy Slayer.]


    [She is now virtually unrivaled among those under a hundred years old in Sunshine Mansion. Only facing older and more experienced Psychics can ignite her fighting spirit. Combat prowess increased by 10% when facing older opponents.]


    "Let''s go, Katie," Joseph said, a cold smile playing on his lips.


    "Sunshine Mansion may have been suppressing our Azure Cloud Psychics for years, but they never expected us Blackwoods to infiltrate their ranks so thoroughly. The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary has drawn in a significant portion of their talented youth. The elders may have decimated our generation years ago, but now it''s our turn to return the favor."


    "Yes!" Katie''s eyes gleamed with determination.


    With her brother by her side, she feared nothing.


    A message from Heavenly Justice Hall arrived, pinpointing the location of another Rising Star.


    She pushed Joseph''s wheelchair forward, eager to continue their hunt.


    Ethan watched as they efficiently disposed of the body and erased all traces of their presence.


    He couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride.


    Some traditions, it seemed, were passed down through generations.


    "So that''s your goal... to cripple Sunshine Mansion''s next generation."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    "These Rising Stars... they won''t be easy targets."


    He glanced back at the system interface.


    This plan... it had been set in motion long ago.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, is acutely aware of Sunshine Mansion''s long-standing oppression of his family. As part of a millennium-long plan, Blackwood agents have been infiltrating Sunshine Mansion''s major sects for generations, aiming to rise to positions of power.


    To facilitate this plan, Joseph has been secretly ordering Heavenly Justice Hall to gather intelligence on all potential threats to Blackwood, particularly talented individuals who cannot be swayed to their side. These individuals are then marked for elimination.]


    [Trait gained: Rising Star Elimination Master.]


    [Any rising star who attracts attention will inevitably appear on Joseph''s radar, becoming a target for elimination. He can perceive their strengths and weaknesses with uncanny accuracy. Each rising star eliminated grants a small increase to the family''s fortune and subtly enhances his comprehension of the world.]


    Ethan shuddered.


    If he and Joseph had been born in the same era and found themselves on opposing sides... well, he wouldn''t bet on surviving for long.

 Chapter 332: Chapter 332: Fear was a distant memory

    While George, Joseph, and the others were having a grand old time in the outer region, deep within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Marcus found himself in dire straits.He was situated above a serene lake, within a structure that resembled a massive, partially formed black cube, its edges shimmering like distant stars. This was no ordinary structure; it was Marcus''s Sky Palace.


    Surrounding the Sky Palace were three Competent Force Psychics, seated in a triangular formation. They channeled their mystical energy, weaving a complex spell, their intent clear: to breach the palace''s defenses.


    One of these Psychics was none other than Neil, the woman from the Parker family of Fortune Sanctum, the very same woman who had been in league with Blackwood and King Phillips.


    "Blackwood Marcus, Sect Master of Sky Sect, you came to Sunshine City with five thousand Sky disciples at your back," Neil''s voice echoed across the water, calm and steady. "Had you remained within your sect, we would have left you be. We have no desire for unnecessary bloodshed. However, you couldn''t resist the allure of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, could you?" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Inside the Sky Palace, Marcus sat in deep meditation, his brow furrowed as he listened to Neil''s words. He made no move to respond, his focus solely on the task at hand.


    In his hand, a sphere of water floated effortlessly, defying gravity. As Marcus channeled his mystical energy, refining the water and reinforcing the Sky Palace''s defenses, Ethan watched, his concern growing.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, has entered the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. He has been laying low, avoiding conflict, and searching for mystical artifacts unique to this realm.]


    [As he has yet to break through to the Competent Force level, Marcus has chosen a cautious approach, seeking out naturally formed mystical treasures within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, steering clear of any confrontation.]


    [He has acquired two mystical artifacts: the seventh-rank Azurewood Branch and the sixth-rank Heavenly Path Tear.]


    The Sky Palace already housed several mystical wonders. Marcus''s ''Nine Mystical Fires'' blazed brightly in the palace''s simulated sky, taking the form of nine miniature suns. A vibrant green branch, pulsing with life force, hovered in the air before gently descending to the palace floor, where it sprouted, transforming into a young tree.


    [Mystical Artifact: Azurewood Branch]


    [Rank: Seventh]


    [A gift bestowed upon Heavenly Path Venerable by a dear friend from Azurewood Mountain millennia ago. This branch, imbued with the essence of the Azurewood Tree, is the culmination of millennia of mystical energy cultivation by an Advanced Mastery Psychic residing on Azurewood Mountain. It possesses the power to restore vitality and store vast amounts of mystical energy.]


    The other artifact was even more extraordinary.


    [Heavenly Path Tear]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [A single tear shed by Heavenly Path Venerable in their final moments. Having reached the pinnacle of Basic Mastery, they sought to transcend to the realm of Advanced Mastery, to merge their essence with the very fabric of existence. ]


    [However, despite their efforts, the threshold remained elusive. As their life force dwindled, they looked back upon their long existence, a tapestry woven with joy, sorrow, and profound understanding. This final tear, imbued with the weight of their experiences and the remnants of their mastery over the Heavenly Path, carries within it the echoes of their two-thousand-year journey. ]


    [It can merge with a Psychic, forming an impenetrable shield to protect their mind and spirit. Those who can unlock its secrets will inherit a portion of Heavenly Path Venerable''s legacy, gaining access to the wisdom and insights accumulated over two millennia.]


    It was clear that Marcus was currently attempting to unravel the profound secrets held within the Heavenly Path Tear.


    "Of all the times for this to happen... three Competent Force Psychics working together!" Ethan muttered, his concern growing. Refining a mystical artifact was a long and arduous process, one that could take years, even decades.


    Marcus was trapped, unable to escape while the refinement was underway. However, the Sky Palace was no ordinary artifact. Even with their combined might, the three Competent Force Psychics could only hope to contain Marcus, not overpower him.


    Marcus couldn''t seem to catch a break. He had dedicated his life to the Sky Sect, rising through the ranks to become a favored disciple, only to lose his master shortly after. He had persevered, earning the recognition of the sect''s elders once more, only to be forced into seclusion during the Blackwood conflict.


    He had eventually ascended to the position of Sect Master, but fate had dealt him another blow with the disappearance of Daoist Warren.


    And now, just as he had stumbled upon a priceless opportunity for advancement, he was trapped once more.


    It seemed Marcus''s life was an endless cycle of fortune and misfortune.


    Outside, Neil''s voice broke through Marcus''s concentration. "Marcus, I know you''re in the midst of refining a mystical artifact. But do you truly believe this trinket can protect you indefinitely? Consider this,I could summon every powerful Psychic within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. It''s only a matter of time before your little sanctuary crumbles."


    "Surrender now, Marcus. I won''t harm you. I merely wish to strike a deal, a mutually beneficial agreement between you and Blackwood." Continue your journey at M-V-L


    Finally, Marcus responded, his voice echoing from within the Sky Palace.


    "Leave. Or, by all means, summon your allies. Let them come." His tone was calm, resolute.


    Having reached this level of cultivation, fear was a distant memory. He could guess the nature of Neil''s proposed deal. It undoubtedly involved exploiting his family for their gain. He knew the Parkers well; they would stop at nothing to further their own interests.


    "I''ve caused my family enough trouble for one lifetime. If this is truly the end, then I''ll face it head-on."


    Marcus opened his eyes, his gaze unwavering. The Heavenly Path Tear hovered before him, pulsating with power. Tendrils of mystical energy danced across his palms.


    He had one final trump card to play.


    He could disperse the Sky Palace, merging its essence with his own. It would be a double-edged sword, pushing his body and spirit to their absolute limit, risking complete annihilation.


    But it would unleash the full might of the Sky Palace, calling down a devastating nine-nine tribulation lightning storm. If Neil was to be believed, if a horde of Competent Force Psychics, or even a Basic Mastery expert, awaited him...


    "A worthy end," Marcus murmured, a wry smile gracing his lips.


    Outside, Neil''s composure faltered. "You..."


    Marcus''s unwavering defiance took her aback. She took a deep breath, struggling to maintain her composure. "Very well, Marcus. I''ll allow you time to reconsider. You''re young, with immense potential. You could even reach the Basic Mastery level someday.


    "


    "It would be a shame for a Rising Star like you to perish within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. I''ve heard your family holds you in high regard. Why cling so stubbornly to this path?"


    "Yield, and I promise my demands will be reasonable. You''ll be treated well under my care."


    The Sky Palace trembled, the air thick with Marcus''s unyielding resolve.


    "Never," his voice boomed, echoing with the strength of his conviction.

 Chapter 333: Chapter 333: One wrong move could trigger a catastrophe...

    "So be it. You''re making a grave mistake, but I''ll give you time. You''ll come around eventually."Neil turned away with a cold sneer.


    She hadn''t anticipated encountering Marcus here.


    The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary drew countless powerful individuals seeking their fortune.


    They were far beyond desiring mere trinkets.


    The true prize, the most coveted treasure left behind by Heavenly Path Venerable, was the ''Heavenly Path Tear'' that Marcus had stumbled upon.


    "Of all the people to find it, it had to be Blackwood Marcus," grumbled an elder from the Parker family.


    Neil shared his frustration.


    If they were contending with other major powers of Sunshine Mansion, taking the ''Heavenly Path Tear'' by force wouldn''t be an issue.


    But Azure Cloud''s Blackwood family was a different beast altogether.


    Despite years of systematic suppression by various factions, few dared to openly provoke the Blackwoods, let alone kill one of their own.


    Such an act was practically considered suicidal.


    The more they learned about the Blackwoods, the warier they became.


    As long as the Blackwoods weren''t pushed too far, they maintained a semblance of decorum, focusing their efforts on the war against the Druids in Azure Cloud.


    But if their rage was truly unleashed... they were more than capable of unleashing chaos upon Sunshine Mansion, dragging the entire Cloudview County into a devastating conflict.


    The memory of Lucas Blackwood''s near-fatal injury years ago still sent shivers down their spines.


    It had been a tense period for Sunshine Mansion, with every faction bracing for a full-scale invasion from Cloudview County.


    The Basic Mastery experts of every major power were ready to apprehend the Basic Mastery Psychic from Crimson Gate Syndicate responsible for the attack, offering him up as a peace offering to the Blackwoods.


    And now... Neil found herself in a precarious position.


    Both the Heavenly Path Tear in Marcus''s possession and the Sky Palace he had deployed were of great interest to the Parker family.


    She had hoped to intimidate Marcus into surrendering the treasures, perhaps even using this opportunity to forge a temporary alliance with the Blackwoods and ease the tension between their factions.


    But Marcus had chosen defiance over surrender.


    "Elders, contain him. Keep this matter under wraps. Our goal is to incapacitate him, nothing more," Neil instructed, her voice low and dangerous.


    "If he hasn''t emerged after a month, and we still can''t breach his Sky Palace, we''ll call for reinforcements."


    "And if incapacitating him proves impossible..." she trailed off, her gaze hardening.


    The other two elders exchanged a chilling look.


    "Then we silence him permanently. Ensure no word of this leaves the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    "As long as no one suspects the Parker family''s involvement, all of Sunshine Mansion will share the brunt of the Blackwoods'' wrath. What do we have to fear?"


    ...


    "Such cunning, such ruthlessness."


    Ethan hovered near the Sky Palace, invisible to the Parker family.


    He had overheard their entire conversation, and his expression was grim.


    The Fortune Sanctum''s Parker family was not to be trifled with.


    They were far more formidable than the likes of Danny from Kylin Mountain.


    Ethan understood Neil''s intentions all too well, and a shiver ran down his spine.


    "This goes beyond mere greed. Neil intends to lure Marcus out and silence him permanently. His death might not mean much to others, but Lucas''s lineage... they''ll unleash hellfire upon Sunshine Mansion. Daniel would lead the charge himself, with the full might of the Azure Dragon Cavalry at his back."


    "One wrong move could trigger a catastrophe..."


    Ethan''s gaze lingered on Neil.


    Her expression was deceptively calm, but her eyes betrayed a chilling ruthlessness he had rarely encountered.


    He swiftly sent a message through his Psychic Position, alerting his descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary to Marcus''s predicament.


    Deep within the sanctuary, Jessica, clad in her crimson battle armor, paused amidst the carnage.


    The armor, a masterpiece crafted by her grandfather Julian, was forged from the blood of Elder Harris''s Moon God, the materials painstakingly extracted from the melted fragments of Harris''s totem.


    It had taken Julian, a seventh-rank mystical equipment craftsman, eight years of relentless effort to create this exquisite medium-grade ability weapon.


    She also possessed a pair of swords, forged from the Moon God''s companion moon wheel and a trove of rare ores gifted by Harris.


    These were Julian''s crowning achievements, a testament to his skill, a pair of top-grade ability weapons. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Blood Moon Mystical Armor, Blood Moon Twin Swords]


    [Crafted from the essence, moon wheel, totem, and pulverized bones of Elder Harris''s Moon God. Due to Julian''s limitations as a mystical equipment craftsman, he was unable to fully unlock the potential of these rare materials and create higher-grade mystical equipment.]


    [Allows the wielder to manifest the Moon God''s moon wheel, drawing upon a portion of natural energies while at the Developing Skill level. Refining these weapons as one''s life-bound mystical weapons grants an Ice Psychic Constitution.]


    This formidable arsenal had allowed Jessica to become a force of nature on the battlefield, leading the Azure Cloud army to countless victories while ensuring her own survival.


    But now, as she received her Forebearer''s message, her expression shifted, a flicker of concern crossing her features.


    "Forebearer, Neil of the Parker family is as cunning as they come. Fortune Sanctum''s Parker family boasts two truly formidable individuals. The first is their current patriarch, Nangong Jingyun, whose strength remains an enigma."


    "The second is Neil herself. Though only six hundred years old, her true terror lies not in her cultivation, impressive as it may be for someone her age to have reached the peak of Competent Force, but in her strategic mind. "


    "She has managed the Parker family''s affairs for decades. Two Competent Force families in Sunshine Mansion who dared to oppose them met their demise under mysterious circumstances, their downfall orchestrated in such a way that no blame could be attributed to the Parkers."


    "Neil''s scheme is insidious. If not for your foresight, Forebearer, we might have fallen into her trap."


    Ethan stood tall, hands on his hips, a smug grin on his face.


    Look at me, saving the day without even lifting a finger.


    His moment of self-congratulation was short-lived.


    He and Jessica knew the gravity of the situation.


    None of the Blackwoods who had ventured into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had reached the Competent Force level.


    And even if they had, they would likely suffer the same fate as the four unfortunate souls trapped outside.


    Direct confrontation would also jeopardize their true objective: to discreetly acquire as many resources as possible from within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Jessica, Joseph, George, and the others were operating under strict secrecy.


    Anyone outside the family who had crossed their paths had met an untimely end.


    Within Jessica''s storage ring, the third generation of Blackwoods seethed with indignation.


    "That treacherous snake, Neil, thinks she can play games with the Blackwoods! Forebearer, release us! We''ll turn that damned sanctuary upside down!"


    Thomas roared, his frustration palpable.


    He was going stir-crazy, confined within the storage ring.


    If it weren''t for the ring''s exorbitant value, he would have broken free long ago.


    Besides, Marcus had always been their protector.


    Whenever they were wronged, the elders might have scolded them, but it was always Marcus who sought retribution.


    He might not have achieved much for the family in the grand scheme of things, but Thomas knew that Marcus had joined the Sky Sect to acquire their secret techniques for the Blackwood family''s benefit.


    He had remained there to strengthen their position, and now, he had even ventured into Sunshine Mansion for the sake of their millennium-long plan.


    Who in their right mind would willingly subject themselves to the whims of those arrogant fools in Sunshine Mansion if not for the family''s future?


    The other Blackwoods within the ring echoed Thomas''s sentiments.


    Jessica listened to their pleas, sensing their eagerness for action.


    Her second uncle had warned her before their departure that acquiring resources wouldn''t be the most challenging aspect of this mission.


    Keeping her seven fathers in check would be the true test.


    Read the latest on M-V-L


    "Patience, my elders. I have a plan."


    The third generation of Blackwoods fell silent, their trust in Jessica absolute.


    They knew that when it came to strategy, only she and their second brother could outwit their combined intellect.

 Chapter 334: Chapter 334: This wasnt a request; it was a shakedown

    George and his companions had finally reached the middle region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.Their initial plan had been to lie in wait at the outer region for a month, ambushing unsuspecting Rising Stars lured in by their treasures.


    However, the flow of potential victims had dwindled to a trickle, forcing them to venture deeper in search of richer pickings.


    They hadn''t anticipated the carnage that awaited them.


    The middle region had been thoroughly ransacked, its Rising Stars decimated.


    Even seasoned experts from the inner region had descended upon the area, their fury palpable.


    It seemed their own promising disciples had met untimely ends within the middle region, and they were hellbent on finding the culprits.


    Whispers of the culprits'' terrifying prowess spread like wildfire.


    They were a two-person team, striking with deadly precision whenever a Rising Star strayed from their group, vanishing without a trace.


    They left no bodies behind, only the lingering echoes of their power.


    The most experienced Competent Force Psychics could only glean fragments of information from the remnants of mystical energy left behind.


    One wielded a bow with deadly accuracy.


    The other... they had only intervened once, when their companion had been pushed to the brink.


    That single intervention had resulted in the death of Sunshine Mansion''s most promising prodigy, a Developing Skill expert with a mutated Water-type Single Psychic Constitution, said to be invincible within his level.


    The battle had been legendary, drawing the attention of countless Competent Force Psychics, leaving them no time to conceal the aftermath, allowing others to deduce the events that had transpired.


    "Those little bastards are loaded with loot, causing such a ruckus," George grumbled, his face contorted in envy. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had just interrogated a captured Rising Star, learning of the chaos engulfing the middle region.


    "Looks like we missed out on the real treasures. All we managed to snag in the outer region were a few trinkets, nothing above seventh-rank, and only two sixth-rank artifacts."


    "Stop your complaining!" William whined, covering his ears.


    For some reason, the dagger in his lap twitched, its edge drawn to the pulse throbbing in his brother''s neck.


    "Was my plan flawed? Absolutely not! If you want to blame someone, blame Joseph. If he hadn''t gone on a rampage against those Rising Stars, we''d be rolling in riches right now."


    "Enough, you two. I found Joseph!"


    Justin materialized silently between his bickering companions, his sudden appearance startling them into silence.


    The trio exchanged a knowing look and vanished, reappearing moments later, surrounding Joseph and Katie.


    "Grandfathers... what are you doing here?" Joseph stammered, his mind flashing back to their terrifying encounter in the outer region.


    He had just eliminated a formidable Developing Skill Rising Star, but despite his recent victory, he couldn''t shake the feeling that these three, despite being at the same cultivation level as his victim, possessed a different, more profound strength.


    Back home, rumors of their eccentricities were legendary.


    Great Grandfather Thomas often spoke of their unpredictable nature.


    Grandfather George had a peculiar affinity for coffins, even going so far as to disturb the Forebearer''s final resting place.


    Grandfather Justin had an even stranger quirk: he thrived on pain, his excitement growing with every strike he received as a child.


    And Grandfather William... his reputation as an unhinged killer preceded him.


    "Joseph, my boy, we need a favor," George said, wiping away a fake tear, his voice thick with feigned despair.


    "I''ve been working my tail off out here, trying to make something of myself, but your dear old Grandfather George... I''m past my prime, a failure, I tell you. I haven''t accomplished anything worthwhile, haven''t acquired a single treasure worthy of mention. I made a promise to the family before I left: I wouldn''t return without reaching the Competent Force level. But I''m short on resources, you see.


    And your Grandfathers William and Justin... well, we''re..."


    "Flat broke!" the trio chimed in unison.


    Joseph sighed, his heart sinking.


    He understood their plight all too well.


    He had been in their shoes countless times.


    As a child in Johnson Duke''s Mansion, his elders had swindled him out of every gift he received during festivals.


    As a young man, hiding from Michael''s attempts to possess him, his own father had tricked him out of his resources.


    Even now, as the Covert Branch Director of Heavenly Justice Hall, a significant portion of his earnings went towards appeasing his elders.


    And now, these three... this wasn''t a request; it was a shakedown.


    He glared at his upside-down grandfathers, gesturing towards his bound feet.


    "I get it, I really do. But could you at least put me down before we continue this conversation? I''m not getting any younger, you know. Generation after generation, all you elders do is exploit us poor juniors. Have you no shame?"


    They reluctantly released him, and after a "friendly" discussion, Joseph found himself handing over his storage ring, watching in dismay as they divvied up its contents.


    "Grandfathers, I can see you''re all on the verge of breaking through." Joseph fixed them with a stern gaze.


    "But let me be clear: these resources were hard-earned by Katie. You can take what you need for your breakthroughs, and not a single scrap more. Otherwise, I''ll report this blatant robbery to the Forebearer, to our ancestors!"


    Katie, for her part, seemed unfazed.


    She had long accepted that their elders were perpetually broke.


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    These three, in particular, looked like they hadn''t eaten in weeks.


    "Yes, yes, we understand," William said dismissively, waving a hand.


    "Once your dear Grandfather William breaks through the Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, you''ll be swimming in riches."


    "As expected of William, always aiming high. I''m only at the Five-Nine Heavenly Tribulation," George chimed in, casually stuffing a sixth-rank mystical herb into his storage ring.


    "I envy you youngsters. Me? I''m stuck at the measly Three-Nine Heavenly Tribulation."


    His brothers shot him a dubious look.


    "Brother, that''s pushing it."


    Joseph didn''t believe a word of it.


    He rolled his eyes.


    No wonder Great Grandfather Thomas often referred to these three as the most shameless of the third generation elders in the entire Blackwood clan.


    If their Heavenly Tribulations were truly that weak, pigs would fly.


    Grandfather George had inherited the legacy of countless Azure Cloud predecessors; he was practically swimming in karmic fortune.


    Grandfather Justin had cheated death more times than anyone else in the Blackwood family combined, each near-death experience pushing him further beyond his limits.


    And Grandfather William... his true strength remained a mystery, but rumors of his monstrous kill count were legendary.


    Great Ancestor Olivia had taken him under her wing after sensing his inherently destructive nature, a consequence of his cultivation path.


    Such individuals rarely lived past a hundred years.


    Joseph suspected these three weren''t just eccentric elders; they were the Blackwood family''s most dangerous hidden weapons.


    Their gleeful looting was interrupted as their Forebearer Psychic Positions lit up simultaneously.


    The message they received drained the color from their faces.


    "Great Grandfather Marcus has been trapped by Neil?" Joseph''s brow furrowed.


    "She''s clearly up to something. But with the Forebearer''s awareness, rescuing Great Grandfather shouldn''t be impossible."


    He bowed towards Ethan''s Psychic Position.


    "Forebearer, Joseph has a plan!"


    "..."


    Ethan gazed at the eternally bright sky of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, a weary sigh escaping his lips.


    Here we go again. Another plan.

 Chapter 335: Chapter 335: The knowledge Ive gained is invaluable

    Jessica''s plan had a certain general''s cunning.She proposed spreading the news of Marcus''s entrapment far and wide.


    The loss of the Heavenly Path Tear, while unfortunate, was a small price to pay for Marcus''s safety.


    The Competent Force Psychics wouldn''t dare harm him with so many powerful witnesses present.


    The revelation of the Heavenly Path Tear''s existence alone could ignite a full-blown war.


    Under the cover of chaos, they could target the vulnerable disciples of various factions in the outer region, picking them off one by one while remaining hidden, waiting for the opportune moment to seize an even greater prize.


    George, on the other hand, had a more... unconventional plan.


    He proposed rounding up all the disciples they could get their hands on and holding them hostage, forcing the Parker family to release Marcus in exchange for their safe return.


    Once Marcus was secure, they would renege on their promise, eliminating the hostages and making off with their spoils.


    Their logic was simple: if they couldn''t defeat these Competent Force experts, surely they could overpower their disciples?


    However, as always, events unfolded in unpredictable ways.


    The Blackwoods dispersed, their hunt for unsuspecting Rising Stars commencing.


    Ethan returned to the Sky Palace, his mind awhirl with potential strategies.


    But Marcus remained oblivious, his consciousness lost in the depths of the Heavenly Path Tear.


    The artifact hovered before him, its essence slowly merging with his own.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, is receiving Heavenly Path Venerable''s legacy, experiencing the entirety of their predecessor''s life.]


    [He senses that upon completion, he may be able to withstand the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation!]


    [Would you like to expend 1 point of Family Will to join your descendant, Marcus, in exploring Heavenly Path Venerable''s two-thousand-year journey?]


    "He might actually survive the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation?" Ethan''s expression brightened.


    If Marcus could achieve such a feat, it would completely change the game.


    With the Heavenly Path Tear fully integrated into his being, witnessed by countless individuals, Neil wouldn''t dare lay a finger on him.


    Without hesitation, Ethan accepted the prompt.


    Images flashed before his eyes, a whirlwind tour of Heavenly Path Venerable''s life.


    He was born into a humble village, blessed with loving parents and a simple life.


    Possessing a rare Triple Psychic Constitution, he became only the second Psychic in his village''s history, eventually joining a small sect.


    Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and power, he devoured the Yellow-grade techniques taught within the sect.


    A chance encounter led him to a hidden formation left behind by a long-deceased Developing Skill expert, accelerating his cultivation beyond measure.


    By the age of fifty, he had reached the Emerging Ability level, prompting him to seek greater challenges within a more prestigious sect.


    His dedication and unwavering focus on cultivation, coupled with his detachment from worldly desires, reminiscent of Wesley Daoist''s teachings to Marcus, earned him the recognition of the Developing Skill sect''s elders.


    He was granted access to their most guarded secrets, receiving their ancient legacy.


    However, his pursuit of power led him down a dark path.


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    He discovered a forbidden technique within the ancient legacy, a gruesome ritual that harnessed the life force of living beings to fuel his cultivation.


    For decades, he sacrificed countless lives, fueling his ascent to the Developing Skill level, forming his Super Core.


    By the age of three hundred, he had adopted the title ''Heavenly Path Daoist'' and joined yet another sect, rising to the rank of elder.


    [You have experienced Heavenly Path Venerable''s life and gained access to the forbidden ancient formation: ''Living Sacrifice Formation.'']


    [You have acquired the Yellow-grade technique... and the Earth-grade technique: ''Righteous Heavenly Path Escape.''] Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He became the most powerful elder within his sect, but his ambition remained insatiable.


    Another offer arrived, this time from a legendary sacred ground, one of the most powerful factions within Sunshine Mansion, the very same sect that had produced the ''seventh-rank Azurewood Branch'' Marcus had acquired: Crystal Crest, now known as Crystal Crest Sacred Mountain, rumored to house unfathomable power.


    Through Heavenly Path Venerable''s memories, Ethan glimpsed the true extent of Crystal Crest''s influence.


    Its disciples, numbering less than a hundred, lived in complete seclusion, their existence a closely guarded secret.


    Yet, their reach extended even to the empire itself.


    Heavenly Path Venerable''s master, an elder within Crystal Crest, was a legendary figure, rumored to have reached the elusive Advanced Mastery level.


    As expected, at the age of four hundred, Heavenly Path Venerable''s talent caught the eye of Elder Phil, a revered figure within Crystal Crest.


    Under his guidance, Heavenly Path Venerable finally broke through the shackles of the Developing Skill level, ascending to the coveted Competent Force realm.


    He dedicated the next few centuries to secluded cultivation within Crystal Crest.


    [You have experienced Heavenly Path Venerable''s life and gained access to the Earth-grade technique: ''Pilgrimage to Dust Crystal Scripture.'']


    [You have acquired the Earth-grade technique: ''Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique,'' the Mysterious-grade technique... ]


    Centuries passed.


    Heavenly Path Venerable''s cultivation soared, reaching the pinnacle of the Competent Force level.


    He stood on the precipice of Basic Mastery, yet the final barrier remained elusive.


    With five hundred years of his lifespan remaining, Elder Phil discerned the source of his disciple''s stagnation.


    The atrocities committed in his youth, the massacre of an entire county, had left an indelible mark on his soul, a karmic debt that threatened to cripple his future.


    Elder Phil urged Heavenly Path Venerable to seek atonement, to accept his fate.


    But Heavenly Path Venerable refused to yield.


    "A Psychic fights against fate, against heaven itself. My name is Heavenly Path! I walk the path of the heavens! I will not be bound by destiny!"


    Ethan watched as Heavenly Path Venerable turned his back on Crystal Crest Sacred Mountain, his gaze fixed on the horizon.


    "Wait, that''s it?"


    Ethan''s eyes snapped open, his mind reeling.


    He had witnessed Heavenly Path Venerable''s life unfold before him, yet the story felt incomplete.


    He knew Heavenly Path Venerable had eventually reached the Basic Mastery level, transcending his physical form.


    But the Heavenly Path Tear''s memories ended abruptly, the final two hundred years of Heavenly Path Venerable''s life shrouded in mystery.


    "No matter. The knowledge I''ve gained is invaluable." Ethan couldn''t help but smile.


    Marcus emerged from his meditative state, his eyes glowing with newfound power as he assimilated the Heavenly Path Tear''s essence.


    The entire process had taken a mere fortnight.


    Ethan examined the techniques and insights he had gained, his heart swelling with satisfaction.


    That single point of Family Will had been a wise investment.


    [Living Sacrifice Formation (Seventh Rank)]


    [All living beings possess a life force, a spark of mystical energy. This formation harnesses that energy, sacrificing life to fuel the caster''s cultivation. ]


    [The remnants of their life force and mystical energy empower the caster, allowing them to break through cultivation bottlenecks. However, such a path comes at a steep price. The accumulation of karmic debt hinders future breakthroughs and invites unforeseen calamities.]


    ...


    [Pilgrimage to Dust Crystal Scripture (Earth-grade technique)]


    [This technique emphasizes self-cultivation and detachment from worldly desires, leading to a state of transcendence and stability in one''s mystical powers. By embracing this scripture, one can blend into the world, becoming one with the dust, evading the tribulations that plague those seeking power. ]


    [It allows one to comprehend the profound laws governing existence, even while in a mortal state. Each law comprehended strengthens one''s mystical energy threefold. Mastering nine laws leads to the ''Transformation to Dust'' state, where mystical energy flows freely through all nine mystical apertures, granting unparalleled might within the Competent Force level. Few can stand against such power.]


    [Transforming Essence into Divinity... Nine Transformations of the Crystal Law, forging a world within...]


    [Divinity merging with the Void, becoming one with the heavens and earth... Mastery over a realm of existence.]


    ...


    [Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique]


    [An illusionary technique that locks down a specific location, drawing upon its prosperity and fortune to empower the caster. The more prosperous the location, the greater the power. This technique reaches its full potential only within the designated area, retaining thirty percent of its power when cast elsewhere.]


    [At the Developing Skill level, it can encompass a small town. At the Competent Force level, an entire county. At the Basic Mastery level, a whole province. And at the Advanced Mastery level, it can even draw upon the fortune of an entire state.]


    ...

 Chapter 336: Chapter 336: The Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation is within reach!

    "Holy smokes! We''ve hit the jackpot! This is the true legacy Heavenly Path Venerable left behind!" Ethan was practically giddy with excitement.For years, the Blackwood family had relied on a single Earth-grade technique, the ''Azure Cloud Undying Scripture,'' while Amelia and Olivia''s techniques and magic formulas were unique to their bloodlines.


    But after experiencing the legacy of Crystal Crest, Ethan realized just how... well, let''s just say the Azure Cloud ancestors wouldn''t be offended.


    It was like comparing a basic Earth-grade technique to a legendary one.


    As for combat techniques, the Blackwoods only possessed Mysterious-grade ones.


    This ''Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique'' from Crystal Sacred Mountain was a game-changer.


    Mastered, it allowed one to draw upon the power of an entire region, making them virtually invincible within their level, even capable of defeating opponents from higher realms!


    "If the family used this technique to draw upon the power of Glory City... could they even challenge a Basic Mastery expert?" Ethan chuckled, lost in his fantasies.


    These two techniques alone were enough to elevate the Blackwoods to a whole new level of power.


    As for the ''Living Sacrifice Formation''... Ethan wouldn''t dare let his family touch it.


    Its limitations were too severe, and the potential karmic backlash was terrifying.


    Marcus, despite his misfortunes, had once again proven his worth.


    His earlier acquisition of numerous cultivation techniques from the Sky Sect had already propelled the family forward.


    Now, he had stumbled upon an even greater treasure!


    As Ethan reveled in their newfound fortune, Marcus retrieved his Psychic Position, his face beaming with joy as he bowed towards Ethan.


    "Forebearer, I finally see a path forward! The key to breaking free from this predicament lies within the Heavenly Path Tear! After experiencing two thousand years of Heavenly Path Venerable''s life, my understanding of the Heavenly Laws has deepened. I can sense it... the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation is within reach!"


    "Excellent!" Ethan''s heart swelled with pride.


    Not only had the family acquired invaluable treasures, but they were about to gain another Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation Rising Star.


    He watched as Marcus prepared for his breakthrough, then vanished, his thoughts turning to his other descendants.


    "Hopefully, those kids haven''t gone overboard with... well, it''s probably fine."


    ...


    Ethan''s own understanding of the Heavenly Laws had deepened after experiencing Heavenly Path Venerable''s memories.


    [Congratulations! You have gained insights into the Water, Lightning, and Wind Laws...]


    He had already begun comprehending the Metal, Wood, Fire, and Earth Laws through his interactions with his descendants.


    Julian''s constant forging had exposed him to the Metal and Fire Laws, though his understanding was rudimentary, requiring further exploration.


    The Primordial Blood Tree had granted him insights into the Wood and Earth Laws, which he was still deciphering.


    Heavenly Path Venerable''s memories had filled in many gaps in his understanding.


    Once his comprehension of the Laws reached a sufficient level, allowing his Competent Force essence to transcend his physical form, he would be able to construct his own personal realm, a miniature world known as a Domain.


    Lost in thought, Ethan arrived at his descendants'' location.


    However, their plans had gone awry.


    The Blackwood descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary were huddled together, their faces etched with worry.


    Even the usually composed Joseph and Jessica seemed shaken.


    [Special Event: Closure of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary]


    [Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, the resting place of Heavenly Path Venerable has been discovered. In a fierce battle for control of the sanctuary''s treasures, Kyle of Carter Duke''s Mansion in Golden Valley single-handedly fought against seven Competent Force Psychics, one of whom ranked thirty-third on the Pinnacle Apprentice Leaderboard.]


    [Kyle emerged victorious, slaying two of his opponents. However, the intensity of their battle triggered the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s defensive formations, sealing the entrance and concealing the entire space within.]


    "What''s going on?" Ethan''s expression darkened.


    No wonder his descendants were in such a state.


    With the sanctuary sealed, their plans were in ruins.


    He gazed at the unchanging sky of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, a chilling realization dawning upon him.


    Concealed space... that meant the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had been transported from its original location in Misty Mount.


    Its current whereabouts were unknown.


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    The sanctuary''s entrance was sealed, trapping countless Psychics within a space the size of a large county.


    Who knew what chaos would unfold?


    Katie''s face was pale.


    "We''re doomed! My life is over! I haven''t even defeated all the experts in Sunshine Mansion, haven''t made the family rich! I''m going to die in this forsaken place!"


    Joseph stared at his three grandfathers, who were still engrossed in a game of Gomoku, taking turns placing five stones in a row with unwavering seriousness.


    He shuddered, imagining spending the rest of his life trapped with these eccentric elders and the equally boisterous ancestors within his storage ring.


    But amidst his frustration, a sense of relief washed over him.


    "At least the plans I set in motion within Sunshine Mansion will continue. The family can still prosper."


    Jessica''s heart was heavy with worry.


    "The Druids... without me, I don''t know if Larry can lead the Azure Cloud army to victory, to eradicate those monsters."


    ...


    This unforeseen turn of events had caught everyone off guard.


    Ethan reappeared beside Marcus, relaying the news.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is sealed? Could this... be related to my refinement of the Heavenly Path Tear? Forebearer, please forgive me!" Marcus''s face contorted in anguish as he knelt before Ethan, begging for forgiveness.


    Ethan''s heart softened.


    Despite overcoming his inner demons thanks to the Sky Palace, Marcus still blamed himself for this disaster.


    [It is not your fault.]


    Ethan''s words, conveyed through the Forebearer Psychic Position, brought Marcus immense relief.


    He bowed deeply towards the glowing object.


    "Forebearer, now that the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is sealed, what should I do?"


    Ethan frowned, observing Marcus''s demeanor.


    He possessed immense talent and had once possessed an unyielding spirit.


    But over the years, he had become increasingly hesitant, indecisive, even allowing his juniors to surpass him.


    He had grown accustomed to following orders, his once-fierce spirit dulled.


    This was the same Marcus who had dared to slay his enemies within the Sky Sect, defying the entire sect with his audacity.


    After a moment of contemplation, Ethan chose not to dictate Marcus''s next move.


    Instead, he sent a simple message through the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    [Marcus, you are the eldest Blackwood within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Your family looks to you for guidance.]


    Marcus stared at the message, his mind racing.


    "I am the elder... the children''s last hope within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary... their hope..."


    As he pondered his newfound responsibility, Neil''s voice echoed from outside the Sky Palace, her tone sharper, more menacing than before.


    "Marcus, life is a series of choices. But sometimes, a single misstep can lead to irreversible consequences." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan''s brow furrowed.


    He and Marcus had been engrossed in the Heavenly Path Tear''s secrets for the past fortnight, oblivious to the events unfolding outside.


    Neil, however, had likely known about Kyle''s battle and the sanctuary''s closure for some time.


    He had been pondering the potential consequences of countless Psychics trapped within a sealed space, cut off from the outside world.


    "Isolated, with no fear of repercussions, they will..."


    "Do as they please!"


    Ethan and Marcus, within the Sky Palace, exchanged a chilling look, their eyes hardening with resolve.


    Neil''s voice continued, laced with impatience.


    "Elders, this fool refuses to see reason. It seems we have no choice but to..."


    Her words were cut short.

 Chapter 337: Chapter 337: Greed is woven into the very fabric of their bloodline

    As the Sky Palace slowly unfurled, Marcus, clad in white robes, hovered in mid-air, his arm gracefully holding a duster.The Sky Palace shrunk at a speed visible to the naked eye, finally landing and spinning in the palm of his left hand.


    His expression remained serene as he gazed at Neil, who was seated in a meditative posture dozens of feet away.


    Behind Neil stood two elders from the Parker family, members of the elite force known as Competent Force.


    Neil seemed momentarily taken aback by Marcus''s sudden appearance.


    The sky was interwoven with a grand formation, meticulously crafted by three Competent Force members over the past few days.


    Its purpose was clear: to trap Marcus.


    They feared that once the Sky Palace was breached, Marcus would use the opportunity to escape with his disciples.


    "You have kept me confined for days, Neil," Marcus''s voice was calm, yet his eyes, as sharp and piercing as Lucas''s, held a hint of disdain and arrogance.


    "Do you truly believe that we, the Blackwoods, are easily bullied?"


    "You... you dare to show your face?" Neil retorted, her voice laced with a hint of panic.


    If Marcus had broken free from the Sky Palace by force, Neil would have struck him down without hesitation.


    However, Marcus''s voluntary surrender and his unwavering composure had thrown her off balance.


    One of the Parker elders burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha! How dare you come out? Very well, very well. No one thinks the Blackwoods are easy targets, but you seem to be oblivious to the current situation. Here, within the confines of this Sky Palace, no one will know if we end you! "


    "Now... hand over the Heavenly Path Tear and that peculiar mystical artifact of yours, and I might just spare your life!"


    Marcus merely raised an eyebrow at the elder''s words, choosing to remain silent.


    To everyone''s surprise, it was Neil whose expression darkened.


    She glared at the Parker elder, her voice sharp with anger.


    "What do you mean by that?"


    "What do I mean?" The elder scoffed.


    "Neil, outside the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, I only tolerated your commands out of respect for the Patriarch. But now, with the Sanctuary sealed, no one knows when we''ll be able to leave. Do you really think you can still order us around? Do you intend to keep the treasures Marcus possesses all to yourself?"


    The other Parker elder chimed in with a cold snort.


    "The Patriarch has always favored you, Neil. All the treasures you''ve acquired within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary are stored within your Storage Ring. Hand them over, and we shall share whatever Marcus has obtained. We are, after all, family."


    "You..." Neil''s face flushed red.


    She had never anticipated that the moment Marcus emerged, it wouldn''t be his capture they''d be focused on, but rather, a squabble among her own family elders for the spoils!


    For centuries, she had been the revered prodigy of the Parker family within Sunshine Mansion, accustomed to unquestioning obedience from her kin.


    The thought of her authority being challenged, especially by family elders, had never crossed her mind.


    "Enough talk, Neil. Hand over the Storage Ring!"


    In an instant, the atmosphere crackled with tension as the three Competent Force members from the Parker family stood at odds with each other, their hands hovering near their weapons.


    This unexpected turn of events caught both Ethan and Marcus off guard.


    Ethan had been prepared to unleash the full might of his Forebearer Psychic Position, ready for the Forebearer to make a grand entrance.


    Who could have predicted that the Parker family would implode from within?


    Natural energies surged and clashed as the three Parkers engaged in a silent battle of wills, the threat of violence hanging heavy in the air.


    Marcus remained suspended in mid-air, an amused spectator to this unfolding drama.


    The Parkers had intended to kill him, but now, they had become the main act in a spectacle he could hardly have imagined.


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    "The Fortune Sanctum Parker family, the most quintessential merchants in all of Sunshine Mansion," Ethan sighed, shaking his head.


    "Greed is woven into the very fabric of their bloodline. Once the reins of order are loosened, these merchants will stop at nothing."


    Despite the amusement, a flicker of unease ran through Ethan.


    If the three Parkers, bound by blood, could turn on each other with such ferocity, then the closure of the Sunshine Psychic Sanctuary would undoubtedly plunge this place into chaos.


    After all, there were thousands of Psychics trapped within, ranging from those just beginning their journey with Foundational Energy to seasoned Competent Force experts.


    These Psychics had clawed their way to their current positions, their hands stained with the blood of their rivals.


    None of them were saints.


    It was like trapping a pack of wolves within an enclosure, their primal instincts unleashed without any fear of consequence.


    What kind of pandemonium would ensue?


    As Ethan pondered the implications, Neil launched a full-blown assault on the two Parker elders.


    True to their lineage, the trio fought with extraordinary skill and power.


    Neil, despite her elegant name, wielded a rather mundane-looking ability weapon: a giant gold coin.


    But what truly set Neil apart was her arsenal of top-tier ability weapons.


    As she engaged her opponents, she produced two more, each radiating immense power.


    The first was a golden silk robe that materialized around her body, its brilliance illuminating the sky with a shower of golden rain that served as a shimmering barrier against her attackers.


    The second weapon was a treasure basin, likely a complementary piece to her other artifacts, much like Drunken Fool''s arsenal.


    As the golden rain cascaded from the sky, it poured into the basin, causing Neil''s aura to surge with power.


    Natural energies swirled around her, coalescing into a massive grinding wheel that manifested behind her.


    With each golden drop that fell into the basin, the wheel spun faster, its power growing exponentially until it began to suppress the natural energies of the two Parker elders, hindering their movements.


    "That cunning woman... she''s been hiding her true strength all along. Her power rivals even Mike''s," Ethan murmured, his eyes narrowed in appraisal.


    Mike, who had fought Chuck to a standstill on multiple occasions, was undoubtedly Pinnacle Apprentice material.


    Marcus, too, watched the battle unfold with a furrowed brow.


    He had come to Sunshine Mansion to witness the rise and fall of its heroes, but Neil''s display of power had shaken him to his core.


    "To think, even with the Heavenly Path Tear integrated into my being, I wonder how long I could last against her," he muttered under his breath.


    "Unfortunately, this Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is a world unto itself. I can''t sense my thunder tribulation here. However..."


    Marcus''s gaze fell upon the Sky Palace in his hand, and a slow smile spread across his face as he recalled the Forebearer''s words.


    "It will have to be enough. This time, I will stand as a shield for my people!"


    ...


    Two incense sticks'' worth of time later, the golden rain that had filled the sky during Neil''s battle had dissipated.


    Clad in her golden robe, the treasure basin shrunk in her left hand, and the giant gold coin spinning around her right, she stood triumphant over the two Parker elders.


    One lay dead, while the other clung to life, his eyes wide with terror. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "A hundred years ago, you were only at the mid-stage of Competent Force," the surviving elder choked out, his voice hoarse with fear.


    "All these years, you''ve only ever displayed the strength of a mid-stage cultivator... How... how is this possible...?"


    Puchi!


    The elder coughed up a mouthful of blood, his face contorted in a mask of horror.


    Year after year, he had witnessed Neil''s progress, but her true strength, the power she had unleashed today, was beyond anything he could have imagined.


    It was as if she had been holding back a tidal wave all this time.


    "Hmph." Neil spared the dying elder no more than a dismissive glance.


    If she hadn''t needed his help, she would have ended his life along with his comrade.


    Turning her back on the fallen elder, she fixed her gaze on Marcus, who still maintained his air of composure.


    Her initial wariness returned.


    "You''re not running?"


    "If I ran, I would miss this grand spectacle, wouldn''t I?" Marcus replied, a hint of mockery in his tone.


    And with those words, he did something unexpected.


    Clutching the Sky Palace in his hand, he shot towards Neil like a hawk descending upon its prey!

 Chapter 338: Chapter 338: Foolish child!

    With just a subtle surge of his psychic powers,Marcus''s aura shifted,causing Neil''s expression to change dramatically."You...You''ve already broken through?!"


    Marcus could now wield natural energies!


    If not for the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s barrier,which masked his presence from the heavens,Marcus''s thunder tribulation would have already descended upon them.


    Nine fiery lotuses materialized around his ethereal form,bathing him in an inferno of mystical flames,transforming him into a veritable fire god.


    Behind him,the Sky Palace transformed into his spectral projection,a breathtaking tapestry woven with constellations and celestial bodies.


    The Azurewood Branch,now residing within the Sky Palace,unfurled as countless vines,surging forth with fiery tendrils.


    The Heavenly Path Tear,taking the form of a colossal,hundred-foot-tall Asura warrior,emerged from the depths of the Sky Palace,its grotesque visage contorted in a fearsome roar directed at Neil.


    Even Marcus''s duster was no ordinary artifact.


    The bristles of the duster were consumed by the flames that enveloped him,transforming the handle into a blazing spear,its length extending far beyond its original form.


    So much for the transcendent,otherworldly Daoist!


    It was all a facade!


    Marcus,after all,had inherited Lucas''s fiery spirit.


    In that moment,he was possessed by the same fervor he had displayed years ago within the Sky Sect,when he stood before a multitude,spear in hand,a blazing inferno consuming his enemies.


    But now,he was far more powerful!


    "You''ve always spoken of choices,of how every step in life is a crossroads,and a single misstep can lead to eternal damnation!"Marcus roared,his spear thrust forward,igniting the sky with fiery clouds.


    His eyes burned with the same intensity as the flames that danced around him.


    "Now,I offer you a choice:Submit to the Blackwoods,or..."


    "I will unleash upon you an eternity of suffering!!!"


    As his words echoed through the air,the flames intensified,the Asura warrior formed from the Heavenly Path Tear charged towards Neil with a deafening roar,and fiery vines erupted from Marcus''s surroundings,their tendrils reaching out like fiery serpents.


    Neil,initially stunned by Marcus''s newfound power,recovered from her shock.


    A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she watched Marcus,his form ablaze. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A playful smirk spread across her face as she effortlessly raised her gold coin,deflecting the Asura warrior''s colossal fist,the fiery vines,and Marcus''s spear with a single,graceful movement.


    "Interesting.Are all Blackwoods this arrogant?"Neil inquired,her voice laced with amusement.


    Her red lips curled into a condescending smile.


    "The Ninth Heavenly Tribulation?What of it?Even if you had fully endured its trials,you would still be no match for me.And yet,here you are,untested by its fires,daring to challenge me?"


    "A frog at the bottom of a well cannot fathom the vastness of the ocean.I must admit,I admire your courage.However..."


    "Courage alone is simply not enough.You are no different from those two pathetic fools from the Parker family."


    With a flick of her wrist,the grinding wheel,the gold coin,and the treasure basin reappeared,radiating immense power.


    Neil''s golden silk robe shimmered as Marcus''s flames washed over her,their heat barely enough to ruffle her silken garments.


    She stood before him,an ethereal goddess gazing down upon a mere mortal consumed by his own hubris.


    A surge of excitement coursed through Neil.


    Discover hidden stories at M-V-L


    For years,she had kept her true power hidden,a secret known only to herself.


    Now,finally,she had an opportunity to unleash a fraction of her true might,to make Marcus,this insignificant ant,tremble before her like a god.


    What could be more exhilarating?


    Once she had seized all of Marcus''s opportunities,she would be free to challenge Kyle for supremacy within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!


    Yet,facing Neil,who seemed to stand on the other side of an insurmountable chasm,Marcus felt no fear,only an unyielding determination.


    The Asura warrior,his spectral projection,had been shattered by the onslaught of golden rain.


    His flames couldn''t even melt Neil''s gold coin,and the Azurewood Branch''s vines were scattered like ashes,their power negated.


    Still,he pressed forward,his spirit unbroken.


    Words were unnecessary.


    For years,he had never felt so alive,so free.


    He had always been plagued by fear and self-doubt.


    His mother,Karen''s,betrayal,her theft of their family''s treasures,had left him feeling unworthy.


    His defeat at the hands of Elder Felix of the Sky Sect,his fall into Wesley Daoist''s insidious trap,the near-death experience of Boar Monarch Pete¨Cthese events had haunted him for centuries,making him wary of conflict.


    He had treaded carefully around the powerful factions of Azure Cloud,always mindful of the precarious balance of power.


    He had approached the Duke''s Mansion with caution,and even the arrival of the Druids had not spurred him to reckless action.


    But now...


    He looked down at the flames that flickered around him,their intensity waning with each failed assault.


    And he remembered the Forebearer''s words.


    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,he was the eldest of the Blackwoods.


    He had no reason to hesitate,no reason to fear.


    His people were depending on him.


    He had to stand his ground!


    "Sky Palace,lend me your strength!Help me vanquish my foe!!!"


    ...


    Meanwhile,atop a mystical mountain imbued with celestial energy,cranes soared through the sky,their cries echoing through the air.


    It was time for the ancient ritual of the Dao Discussion.


    "Dong!"


    A bell tolled,its sound ancient and profound,resonating through the very core of the mountain.


    Deep within the mountain''s heart,a young boy sat upon a lotus platform,his voice reciting ancient scriptures.


    Before him,disciples clad in Daoist robes knelt in meditation,their minds absorbing the wisdom of their master''s teachings.


    As the bell''s echo faded,the boy opened his eyes,his chanting ceasing.


    The disciples rose in unison,bowing respectfully before departing,their forms shrinking into the distance until they were but specks against the horizon,their swords carrying them swiftly through the air.


    Among the disciples,an elderly man with a youthful face remained,his presence requested by the boy himself.


    "Grandmaster,"the elder inquired,his voice filled with reverence,"you have summoned me.What is your bidding?"


    The boy,though possessing the appearance of a child,spoke with a voice that resonated with an age far beyond his years.


    "One hundred and thirty thousand years ago,I departed from Azure Cloud,leaving behind the treasure known as the Sky Palace,and thus,the Sky Sect was born.Your talent is undeniable,your dedication to the Dao unwavering."


    "You possess the secret treasure,the Sky Palace,and yet,after fourteen hundred years,you linger at the peak of Competent Force.You should have long since reached the Nascent Soul stage,transcended your mortal shell,and attained Basic Mastery."


    Could this be Warren Daoist,the legendary cultivator who had vanished without a trace after suffering grievous injuries on his journey to the Imperial Capital?


    Marcus had always been haunted by his master''s disappearance.


    To think that Warren Daoist had been cultivating his psychic powers in this remote location all along!


    Warren Daoist could only offer a wry smile in response to the boy''s words.


    "Grandmaster,the Sky Palace you left behind is a truly enigmatic artifact.Each successive generation of Sky Sect leaders has inherited its guardianship,and we have adhered to your teachings,severing our worldly ties,purging ourselves of earthly desires."


    "Yet,the Sky Palace remains indifferent to our efforts.I have wielded its power for many years,but aside from cultivating my psychic powers within its confines and utilizing it for defense,its true purpose eludes me."


    "Foolish child!"


    The boy''s voice,though soft,carried a weight that sent Warren Daoist crumbling to his knees.


    A sigh escaped the boy''s lips as he waved his hand dismissively.


    "Who filled your head with such nonsense?Who told you that the path of cultivating psychic powers requires the severance of all worldly ties?One hundred and thirty thousand years ago,when Azure Cloud faced its darkest hour,it was the unity of our Psychics,our unwavering commitment to our homeland,that saved us from annihilation."


    "If we had all abandoned our earthly bonds,if we had turned our backs on Azure Cloud,do you think Cloudview County would even exist today?"


    "I cannot fault you entirely.You are unaware of the events of the past,and therefore,you cannot comprehend the true nature of the Sky Palace."


    As the boy spoke,a hint of longing flickered in his eyes,as if he were reminiscing about a bygone era.

 Chapter 339: Chapter 339: No... It was far, far worse

    "Back then, Azure Cloud was on the verge of defeat.The Druids possessed a powerful artifact, forcing us to retreat at every turn.


    We had no choice but to wage a war of attrition, gathering the strength of the entire county.


    It took three hundred years of relentless effort, sacrificing countless mystical artifacts and pouring our very life force into the endeavor, before the Sky Palace finally manifested!"


    Warren Daoist''s face paled as he listened to the boy''s words.


    It was difficult to fathom the desperation that must have gripped Cloudview County in those dark times, the sacrifices those Psychics had made, willingly surrendering their most prized mystical equipment and ability weapons.


    "The Sky Palace was but a skeletal framework," the boy continued, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and sorrow, "yet even in that incomplete state, it possessed unimaginable power."


    "As its sentience grew, so too did its memories of that bygone era.


    To think, you believed that severing your worldly ties was the key to unlocking its power!


    Without the weight of responsibility upon your shoulders, without the unwavering determination to protect those you hold dear, the Sky Palace would never have even acknowledged your existence."


    The boy''s explanation struck Warren Daoist like a bolt of lightning, illuminating the path he had so blindly strayed from.


    "No wonder... No wonder!


    We have been misguided for generations!


    It all makes sense now, why the Sky Palace has always regarded us with such indifference."


    The boy sighed, his youthful features etched with a wisdom that belied his age.


    "Tell me, Warren Daoist, where is the Sky Palace now?"


    A wry smile spread across Warren Daoist''s face as he replied, "It is in the possession of my disciple."


    "Oh?" The boy''s eyes twinkled with amusement.


    "You seem rather confident in this disciple of yours."


    "Indeed, Grandmaster."


    Warren Daoist''s thoughts drifted back to Marcus, his troubled yet determined student. Explore new worlds at M-V-L


    "He has endured much hardship in his life, his path fraught with misfortune.


    Among the Blackwoods, he may not be considered exceptional, and the trials he has faced have taken their toll.


    But I know this much: Marcus carries the blood of the Blackwoods in his veins, and he is a man of unwavering loyalty and compassion."


    "One day, he will emerge from the shadows, and he will make me prouder than I could ever imagine."


    "The day he breaks free from his cocoon and takes flight!"


    The boy nodded slowly, sensing the unwavering conviction in Warren Daoist''s voice.


    "I, too, hope to witness this disciple''s transformation."


    "That day will come, Grandmaster.


    It will come."


    Warren Daoist''s smile widened, his eyes shining with pride.


    Then, a thought occurred to him.


    "Grandmaster, if you would indulge an old fool''s curiosity... what is the true purpose of the Sky Palace?"


    "It is..." the boy paused, his gaze turning distant, as if peering into the depths of time itself, "a weapon."


    ...


    "Clang!!!"


    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Marcus''s desperate plea, "Sky Palace, lend me your strength!" was answered with the deafening screech of grinding metal.


    Behind him, the black celestial canopy formed by the Sky Palace flickered, the watery Asura warrior and the fiery inferno within vanishing without a trace, replaced by an abyss of pure, unadulterated power.


    Neil, her form shimmering with golden energy, felt a shiver run down her spine.


    The Sky Palace had fallen silent, the flames that had engulfed Marcus''s body were fading, his psychic powers clearly exhausted.


    Even the nine mystical flames that danced around him, his constant companions, were on the verge of dissipating.


    Yet, the faint hum emanating from the Sky Palace filled Neil with a sense of unease, a primal fear that stayed her hand.


    She couldn''t explain it, but something told her that finishing off Marcus now would be a grave mistake.


    However, her intuition was lost on the surviving Parker elder.


    Wounded and terrified, desperate to prove his loyalty and save his own skin, he saw only weakness in Marcus''s fading aura.


    Ignoring his injuries, he launched himself into the air, positioning himself between Neil and his intended victim.


    "Neil, there''s no need to waste your energy on this insignificant whelp," he snarled, his eyes fixed on Marcus with murderous intent.


    "This Blackwood brat dared to challenge the might of the Parker family!


    Allow me to relieve him of his miserable existence!" S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Neil frowned, her keen eyes seeing through the elder''s desperate ploy.


    She simply smiled, a silent acquiescence, and took a step back, gracefully dismissing her ability weapons.


    Marcus remained suspended in mid-air, his body hunched, like a wounded wolf.


    And then, Neil witnessed a sight that would forever be etched into her memory.


    The Parker elder, his body surging with natural energies, summoned his innate ability weapon, a golden spear, and charged towards Marcus.


    "Crack... Crack... Crack..."


    A sickening sound, like shattering glass, filled the air.


    Behind Marcus, the Sky Palace began to crumble, its once-impregnable surface splitting apart.


    The wounded wolf raised its head, its eyes blazing with defiance.


    Neil met Marcus''s gaze, her body trembling uncontrollably.


    His eyes, once filled with fear and uncertainty, now burned with a cold, steely resolve, like twin stars piercing through the veil of night.


    Everything was breaking apart.


    The Parker elder''s spear, mere inches from Marcus''s chest, froze in mid-air, as if time itself had ground to a halt.


    The Sky Palace, its dark, celestial form now a maelstrom of swirling fragments, drifted towards Marcus, each piece pulsing with an ancient, terrifying power.


    The sheer pressure emanating from the disintegrating artifact was enough to paralyze the Parker elder, a cultivator at the peak of Competent Force, rendering him utterly helpless.


    The world seemed to hold its breath, color draining from the sky as the Sky Palace, this terrifying instrument of destruction, was reborn.


    The fragments, as if possessing a will of their own, spiraled around Marcus, converging, coalescing, until they formed a magnificent, terrifying weapon: a halberd, its blade shimmering with the light of a thousand stars.


    "What... What is this?!"


    The Parker elder''s eyes widened in horror, his voice a strangled gasp.


    He could feel the terrifying power emanating from the halberd, its presence suffocating, inescapable.


    It was like staring into the abyss, its depths unknowable, its power absolute.


    The pressure bearing down on him was more terrifying than anything he had ever experienced, even Neil''s grinding wheel paled in comparison.


    No... It was far, far worse.


    Marcus''s voice, devoid of any emotion, cut through the silence.


    His words, however, were not directed at the terrified elder, but at Neil, who was already backing away, her initial confidence shattered.


    "Now... who is the frog at the bottom of the well?"


    "Who is the pathetic fool?!"


    ...


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    The sound of shattering and reformation continued to echo through the air.


    As Marcus gripped the halberd, its starry surface seemed to flow onto him, his body taking on the same celestial hue.


    His wounds healed instantly, his aura surging with newfound power.


    The nine mystical flames, the Azurewood Branch, and the Heavenly Path Tear, all residing within the Sky Palace, were now flowing into him, their power merging with his own.


    The once-impenetrable shell of the Sky Palace seemed to fuse with his flesh, making him as unyielding as the artifact itself.


    He had never felt such power before.


    With a single clench of his fist, he felt like he could shatter mountains, control the very fabric of reality.


    And...


    Within a radius of hundreds of feet, everything was under his control, suppressed by the overwhelming power of the Sky Palace.


    Unless his opponents possessed the strength to break free from the combined might of his three mystical artifacts, they were utterly at his mercy.


    "Neil... Neil, help me!"


    The elder''s desperate cries pierced through Marcus''s thoughts, drawing his attention to the pathetic figure struggling futilely against the invisible force that held him captive, his previous arrogance replaced with abject terror.


    "You think she can save you?


    Look around, old man.


    See where your precious Neil has run."


    Marcus lifted his left hand, releasing the pressure on the elder''s throat.


    The elder turned his head stiffly, his eyes widening in horror as he realized...

 Chapter 340: Chapter 340: Surrender, and I promise to treat you well

    "You bitch!!!"he roared,eyes bloodshot.A streak of light was all that remained before him.


    Neil,employing some unknown secret technique,had already fled the scene!


    "Spare me...Master,spare me!


    You saw it yourself,Neil and I fought,and now she has abandoned me.


    Regardless,there''s no way Neil and I can coexist.


    Besides,I''m still useful!"


    The fear of death can always ignite the desire for survival.


    Where was the arrogance of the Parker family elder from moments ago?


    His mind raced,and he began to calmly stare at Marcus,whose skin shimmered like stars.


    In a deep voice,he said,"I also know that you can''t catch Neil.


    She used our Parker family''s bloodline secret technique,the''Divine Shield Technique''.


    After escaping,she can transform into gold or silver and bury herself anywhere,like an inanimate object.


    She can even hibernate for a thousand or even ten thousand years,slowing down her lifespan consumption by a hundredfold!"


    Marcus remained silent,but he had witnessed Neil''s escape technique.


    It was truly remarkable.


    Although his strength was considerable after the Sky Palace entered his body,he wasn''t certain he could catch up to Neil.


    Seeing Marcus lost in thought,a glimmer of hope flashed in the Parker family elder''s eyes.


    "Master,I can find her.


    We are connected by blood.


    As long as I live,I''ll do anything you ask!


    Otherwise,Neil is cunning and treacherous.


    You wouldn''t want to be schemed against by someone like her day and night,would you?


    Even if you want to kill me,I want Neil to die before me!"


    But as soon as he finished speaking,his face turned ashen.


    Marcus''s expression turned strange.


    "You don''t think Neil can really escape,do you?"


    "What..."


    ...


    Escape!


    Neil''s face was grim.


    She hadn''t expected Marcus to have so many trump cards.


    Breaking through the ninety-nine thunder tribulation was one thing,but even if he had truly undergone the baptism of the thunder tribulation,it wouldn''t be a big deal to her.


    However,when the Sky Palace appeared,she no longer wanted to tangle with Marcus.


    Even with all her cards on the table,she was no match for him.


    Only Carter Kyle of Golden Valley County,or Tom,ranked eighth on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking from Whispering Pines Fort,or the Unquestioning Scholar,ranked tenth from Bright Light Institute,or the Wild Monk,ranked nineteenth from Grand Royal Temple,could possibly fight Marcus!


    "I heard that Kyle is at the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    I hope at least one of the remaining three from Sunshine Mansion is there too."


    Neil let out a long breath.


    "Otherwise,after forcing me to use a secret technique that I can only use once every hundred years and causing the deaths of two Competent Force from my Parker family,this grudge...I can''t let it go!"


    But as soon as she finished speaking,her expression changed drastically.


    She had already traveled hundreds of miles using the''Divine Shield Technique'',escaping the search range of Marcus''s Competent Force.


    Just as she was about to burrow into the ground and hide for two to three months before making further plans,something stopped her in mid-air!


    Thirteen strange Psychic Formations were rising up,surrounding her from all directions.


    She recognized them. Experience new tales on M-V-L


    It was rumored that only Blackwood people used Psychic Formations in battle.


    This was common knowledge,and many in Sunshine Mansion mocked it.


    But everyone knew that when Blackwood Psychic Formations appeared,it meant the Blackwood people were fighting to the death!


    At the same time,various ability weapons floated in the air,and even...totems used only by Druids!


    Numerous formations appeared,clearly indicating that the other party had come prepared.


    There was nowhere left to escape!


    "Blackwood!"


    Neil felt a chill run down her spine.


    The wind in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary was cold,making her numb from head to toe.


    "How can there be more Blackwood people?


    Didn''t only Marcus come from Blackwood this time?


    Weren''t the experts from Cloudview County trapped outside Misty Mount?!"


    Her thoughts were in turmoil.


    In an instant,a playful voice rang out from below.


    "Neil,the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is only so big.


    Where do you think you can run to?"


    "Surrender,and I promise to treat you well."


    "Think carefully.


    There are many choices in life,but sometimes one wrong step can lead to eternal damnation."


    ...


    The speaker was an extremely handsome young man,sitting in a wheelchair pushed by a woman who,apart from carrying a pink longbow,was otherwise unremarkable.


    One possessed only Foundational Energy,while the other had just entered the Developing Skill realm.


    Yet,they dared to look directly at her,a dignified Competent Force!


    Especially the young man''s calm and composed words made Neil''s face particularly unsightly.


    Weren''t these the very words she had used to mock Marcus over the past half month?


    Now,they were being thrown back at her!


    No.


    Besides anger,what terrified her even more was that the man''s words implied that everything she had done in the past half month had been under surveillance!


    As expected.


    A stunning woman in blood-red armor,wielding dual swords,appeared. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Behind her,a blood-colored lunar halo froze the surrounding space,drawing everyone''s attention.


    It had to be said that the Blackwood people were bold.


    This woman,at the peak of the Developing Skill realm,was at the critical juncture of forming her Nascent Soul.


    Yet,she dared to approach Neil within a thousand meters,her crescent moon-like eyes fixed coldly on Neil,as if she were already dead.


    "Neil,there was a time when our Blackwood cooperated with you.


    We know that your Parker family is a family of merchants.


    Why do you insist on walking this path of no return?"


    "Bloodclothed General,Jessica!"


    Although Jessica was only at the Developing Skill realm,Neil didn''t dare to let her guard down in the slightest.


    The alarm bells in her heart were ringing louder and louder.


    In recent years,among the Druids who had invaded Azure Cloud,Jessica ranked among the top three!


    Her reputation as the Crimson War God not only deterred the Druids outside Azure Cloud but even reached the ears of those in the imperial capital.


    The ever-victorious general Owen had written back to the imperial capital,and Grand Tutor Gilbert,who was on the northern expedition,had somehow heard of Jessica''s name and praised her highly.


    There were even rumors that if Jessica were to enter the imperial city,the Grand Tutor''s faction would spare no effort in nurturing her.


    She didn''t believe that Jessica would be foolish enough to block her path with only two insignificant figures while being at the Developing Skill realm herself.


    Moreover,there were ten Psychic Formations,representing ten Blackwood individuals.


    Nathan,Luna,Lucas,Amelia...These Blackwood individuals were all Competent Force.


    They might even possess terrifying trump cards like Marcus.


    She scanned her surroundings,searching for an escape route,not daring to move a muscle.


    Marcus would arrive soon,and the hidden Blackwood individuals were bound to be even more formidable...


    But as she was pondering,Neil froze.


    A flash of blood-red light emanated from Jessica''s Storage Ring,and seven figures emerged.


    These seven individuals had a bizarre appearance.


    They were all clad in heavy armor,making their already bear-like physiques even more imposing.


    Their exposed skin,even their faces,were covered in demonic runes,and there was something strange about them.

 Chapter 341: Chapter 341: This... is the power of our ancestors?

    If the intel was accurate, then Blackwood Thomas had sprouted a pair of massive, blood-red wings.Blackwood Anthony now bore a vertical eye on his forehead, while Blackwood Linda wielded six weapons with her six arms.


    Blackwood Kevin''s back writhed with slender tentacles, Blackwood Paul sported both horns and a tail, and Blackwood Yun was covered in black scales.


    As for Andrew, he now stood as a colossal giant, towering over 16 feet tall!


    Their forms were monstrous, yet they exuded no demonic aura, only an overwhelming wave of dark, arcane energy and Druidic power.


    The totems used by Druid priests glowed brightly in their presence, and the mystical artifacts they carried pulsed with an eerie light.


    "Blackwood... what are these abominations?!" Neil exclaimed, her vast experience failing to prepare her for the sight of the Blackwood''s third generation.


    But... that was all they were.


    "Every single one of them is at the peak of Developing Skill, still an insurmountable chasm away from Competent Force.


    Though rumors claim they''re immortal, they''re nothing to worry about."


    Neil couldn''t afford to be distracted by these seven creatures, but she didn''t let her guard down.


    "There are still three more."


    Soon, the remaining three came into view.


    Three...


    "The Blackwood sent you lot?!" Neil stared at the three figures perched on the shoulders of Curtis (one of the third generation), momentarily stunned before bursting into laughter, a mixture of amusement and anger.


    "Laughable! Absolutely laughable! You dare to stand against me?!"


    The air, heavy with her resigned acceptance moments ago, crackled as she unleashed her suppressed power.


    "You''re courting death!" Experience exclusive tales on M-V-L


    She had assumed the final three would be formidable Competent Force experts like Nathan.


    Never did she imagine they would be Jessica''s peers!


    These were the most infamous trio in Cloudview County, whispered to be the Blackwood family''s shame.


    They were notorious for their deceitful schemes and lack of genuine strength.


    Even the most capable among them, George, rumored to have inherited the true teachings of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, was said to waste his talents on robbing ancient graves, neglecting even his own grand sect.


    Justin was even more pathetic, a mere clown who acted recklessly before true power, often suffering humiliating defeats.


    If not for the Blackwood''s backing, he would have met his demise long ago.


    And then there was William, a coward who preyed only on the weak!


    "Hahaha, you?! You think you stand a chance?!" Neil cackled, pointing at Jessica in the distance.


    Whether it was relief at surviving her encounter with Marcus or the sheer absurdity of the situation, she couldn''t contain her laughter.


    "The Blackwood Thirteen, reduced to this sorry bunch? You are utterly..."


    Her laughter died in her throat, replaced by a maelstrom of rage.


    "You overestimate yourselves!!!"


    The terrifying aura of a Competent Force expert at the Out-of-Body stage erupted from her, rivaling the strength of those on theÇ¿Õß°ñ (Power Ranking).


    She could sense Marcus approaching from afar, but... this was enough!


    Neil glared at Jessica, who had furrowed her brow.


    "It seems you truly mistake me for an ordinary peak Competent Force expert.


    You have no idea what a true Out-of-Body stage Competent Force is capable of.


    Unless every single one of you has a trump card like Marcus..."


    "By this time next year, the Blackwood will have thirteen Psychic Positions to fill!!!"


    ...


    "Hahaha!" Neil''s laughter echoed through the sky.


    If not for her recent, humiliating retreat from Marcus, she might have been mistaken for the victor she pretended to be.


    However, the Blackwood family members simply stared back at her, their expressions unreadable.


    Their calmness unnerved her.


    "Why aren''t you afraid? Unless each of you has a hidden ace up your sleeve, you''re finished!"


    A fierce wind whipped around her, her golden silk robe shimmering.


    The millstone reappeared behind her, and she wielded both her top-grade ability weapon, the Fortune Coin, and the Treasure Basin.


    The power emanating from her now surpassed even what she had displayed against Marcus.


    In the face of her fury, Jessica calmly stated, "Neil, you''re terrified, aren''t you?"


    Neil''s eyes flickered with panic for a fleeting moment before she gritted her teeth.


    "You think so little of me?!"


    "Someone like you wouldn''t act so recklessly unless they were consumed by fear and had lost all reason."


    Jessica''s words only fueled Neil''s rage, seemingly solidifying her resolve.


    The usually composed Fortune Sanctum elder, who had fled at the mere sight of Marcus, now radiated an almost manic confidence.


    The last vestiges of fear vanished from her eyes.


    "Hahaha, afraid? Of you insignificant ants? What is there to fear?!"


    "Very well. Then we''ll show you exactly what you should be afraid of."


    With that, Jessica nodded at her family.


    In an instant, the totems behind the Blackwood''s third generation rose into the air.


    George communed with the remnants of his predecessors within his soul sea.


    Most of them surged into him, his power skyrocketing.


    Only three remained, meditating within his soul sea.


    Instead of joining the fight, George retrieved his ancient zither, the instrument he used for grave robbing.


    As his fingers danced across the strings, his psychic powers, amplified by the music, flowed outward, connecting him to his family.


    The Blackwood''s strength surged under George''s support.


    Their Psychic Positions glowed brightly.


    Ethan observed the scene, his expression as impassive as the rest of the Blackwoods.


    They had faced numerous enemies over the years, and as Jessica had said, the more fear they felt, the more ferocious and dismissive they became.


    True indifference was calm and collected.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, seasoned by countless battles, has gained the ability to perceive the true thoughts of her opponents.


    She has acquired the trait: Battlefield Psychologist.] Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [See through their hearts, manipulate their minds.


    Increase psychological damage to enemies by 20%, affecting their combat effectiveness.]


    ...


    "Attack!"


    The battle erupted.


    The Blackwood''s third generation, their forms grotesquely transformed, charged forward.


    "Formation!"


    "Paul, be careful. Your magic is our best bet. Use illusions and don''t die too quickly!"


    "That woman''s technique is strange, but it has weaknesses.


    Her millstone needs constant replenishing with natural energies, once every snap of her fingers.


    You lot keep her ability weapon occupied, and I''ll drain her dry!"


    "Got it, brother!"


    The immortal Blackwood third generation surged forward, a whirlwind of limbs and arcane energy.


    Meanwhile, the rest of the Blackwoods trapped Neil within their formation.


    George, empowered by the psychic energies of his predecessors, used his music to erect a barrier around the perimeter.


    [Your descendant, George, is lending his body to ''Divine Music'' Harold, a deceased senior from the Azure Cloud Pavilion who lived 30,000 years ago.]


    It was unclear who this Harold was, but his musical prowess was undeniable.


    Using George''s body, he unleashed a technique called the "Endless Road Ballad," boosting the Blackwood''s third generation to a level nearing Competent Force.


    The strength of every Blackwood present surged dramatically.


    "This... is the power of our ancestors?" Joseph and Katie, relegated to the sidelines, watched in awe.


    Although Joseph had devised the plan to intercept Neil and formulated their current strategy, he couldn''t help but be awestruck by the display of power unfolding before him.

 Chapter 342: Chapter 342: Are they even human?

    George always been the type to shy away from conflict, even during the Druid invasion, preferring to stay behind the scenes.Perhaps it was due to his unremarkable strength or his inability to contribute directly to the battles.


    Besides, someone had to hold down the fort, manage resources during the war, and ensure the family remained united from within.


    This was the first time, apart from hearsay, that he witnessed the true extent of his elders'' power!


    "Are they even human?" Katie gasped, equally stunned.


    She was a Developing Skill expert herself and had always believed her talent within this stage was practically unmatched.


    Her brother might be an exception; she had only seen him fight once.


    He had summoned something akin to ancient god blood, but the technique seemed to come at a heavy price.


    It would take him years to recover and utilize it again without suffering severe repercussions.


    She had considered her brother to be the most gifted Developing Skill expert, but now... Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just look at them!


    The seven great-grandfathers fought with a complete disregard for death.


    Their bodies were covered in mystical runes, and their attacks were a terrifying blend of unorthodox techniques, dark magic reminiscent of Rogue cultivators, and their own monstrous transformations.


    They were more formidable than any physical cultivator Katie had ever seen, even surpassing Aunt Donna in raw strength!


    They threw themselves at the barrier within the formation, dying again and again, yet their deaths were strangely tactical, a testament to their experience in countless battles.


    Her three grandfathers were no less impressive.


    Witnessing the spirits of countless predecessors emerge from George, Katie finally understood why she had four spectral grandmothers residing within her own soul sea since birth.


    They had guided her cultivation, protected her from harm, and only departed after she reached the Developing Skill stage, mentioning something about old friends and an intriguing endeavor...


    And Justin, the grandfather everyone dismissed as a reckless fool... he was anything but!


    The intricate barrier surrounding them, faintly etched with what appeared to be scale patterns, mirrored the markings on Justin''s own shell-like back.


    The thirty or so formations floating in the sky were undoubtedly his doing.


    He was... a master formation expert, specializing in defense!


    Perhaps that explained his daredevil personality.


    Finally, there was William.


    "Hahaha! Neil, look who we have here! Recognize this fine young man?"


    "If I haven''t mistaken my captive, this would be the most promising talent from your lineage, the one destined to inherit your mantle, perhaps even surpass you."


    "Tsk, tsk, capturing him was quite the ordeal. A clever one, he is, not unlike yourself."


    "Don''t glare at me like that. I know you''d love to kill me right now, but alas, you have your own problems to worry about. Why do you think he hasn''t begged for mercy? Oh, that''s right, I ripped out his Developing Skill. No use for a tongue without the power to back it up."


    "Don''t worry, I won''t kill him. Have you ever tasted living flesh? Meat carved straight from a living being? Just a snap after it''s cut, still twitching. It squirms in your mouth, desperate to escape. Let me demonstrate..."


    "..."


    Every word was a vicious attack on Neil''s composure, shattering her already fragile facade.


    Katie fought back the urge to vomit, but she couldn''t help but notice the Parker family''s Rising Star.


    He hadn''t dared to make a move since their arrival.


    Rumor had it he possessed a trump card capable of rivaling a Competent Force expert, but...


    Katie recalled William disappearing for an hour yesterday, presumably to capture this very individual.


    He had returned completely unscathed!


    A peak Developing Skill expert capturing a Psychic with a Competent Force-level trump card...


    Katie couldn''t even begin to comprehend how William had pulled it off.


    And then there was Grandma Jessica.


    The blood-red lunar halo behind her had solidified into a domain, radiating an aura of pure killing intent.


    How many lives had she taken to cultivate such a terrifying presence?


    The murderous aura was palpable, and every time Neil attempted to escape, Jessica''s lunar halo would shift, sending the Fortune Sanctum elder scrambling back as if she had seen a ghost.


    Katie could have sworn she heard Neil mutter something about "Basic Mastery aura."


    "Are they even human?" she murmured again, her hand instinctively reaching for the Sparkly Unicorn Bow strapped to her back.


    "When will I ever be as strong as them?"


    They weren''t the only ones in awe.


    Even Ethan was stunned.


    It had been years since he had witnessed such a display of power from his family, Jessica aside.


    The Blackwood''s third generation was usually kept out of sight, and George and his companions were notorious for their wild streaks.


    Those three couldn''t resist a good, old-fashioned adventure.


    Especially the Blackwood''s third generation.


    "They''re taking this seriously." Continue your adventure with M-V-L


    The last time he had seen these seven fight with such ferocity was during their initial descent into madness.


    Their newfound immortality had made them complacent, but now, united, they were holding back Neil with their relentless assault and uncanny resilience!


    It was a testament to the power they had gained from the Druid bones.


    [Your descendants, the Blackwood''s third generation, have integrated Druid bones, acquiring a portion of Druid blood.


    The fusion of human, demonic, and Druidic essence has triggered an extraordinary transformation, granting them the trait: Mutation.]


    [Due to their Lord of Frenzied Blood trait, their physical regeneration has been greatly enhanced!


    Their bodies, previously locked in their demonically transformed states, have begun to evolve after fusing with the Druid bones.


    The extent of their evolution depends on the strength of the Druid bones they have absorbed.


    They can now cultivate spells and Rogue cultivator magic formulas.]


    [Your descendant, Thomas, has gained ''Dragon Wings,'' granting him the ability to teleport within a 100-meter radius.]


    [Anthony has gained ''Heaven''s Eye,'' allowing him to perceive an opponent''s weaknesses and predict their next attack.]


    [Linda has gained ''Six Arms.'' She has lost her psychic powers, but her strength, defense, and speed have tripled...


    Kevin has gained ''Frenzied Dance,'' his tentacles now rivaling low-grade ability weapons...


    Paul has gained ''Lethal Touch.'' Any Psychic below peak Developing Skill touched by his horns will die within seven days...


    Curtis has gained ''Inverse Scale,'' reflecting damage back at his attacker...


    Andrew has gained ''Giant,'' granting him the ability to increase his size.]


    They had essentially gained innate abilities, and these abilities would only grow stronger with time!


    The only downside was that their cultivation speed would be hindered.


    Druids had lifespans ten times longer than humans but cultivated at a much slower rate.


    The Blackwood''s third generation would now face a similar challenge in their pursuit of power.


    It seemed even fate believed in balance, offering a toilet but taking away the toilet paper.

 Chapter 343: Chapter 343: You were hiding this much power all along?

    "Get away from me! Get away!" Neil roared, her voice laced with fury as she unleashed a torrent of mystical energy within the confines of the formation.It was a powerful binding array, to be sure, and the thirty-plus formation discs would have given even a seasoned Competent Force expert pause.


    However, she knew that if she could just maintain her focus for a few more moments, she could break free.


    Individually, the Blackwood''s third generation might have been nearing Competent Force level, but none of them could truly match her power.


    She could obliterate them with a flick of her wrist.


    Even that blood-clad general, Jessica, with her tangible killing intent and quasi-Basic Mastery domain, posed only a minor threat.


    Her murderous aura might slow Neil down, but a single, decisive strike would be enough to end her.


    And yet...


    It was these seemingly insignificant opponents who were driving her to the brink of despair!


    The Blackwoods were like a plague of locusts.


    The third generation clung to her like leeches, while the rest buzzed around her like annoying flies.


    If she were a physical cultivator, it would be a simple matter of breaking through and crushing those pests.


    But she was a master of mystical arts, and if her protective golden aura shattered, she would be at the mercy of these Developing Skill ants.


    To die at their hands would be a humiliation that would follow her into the afterlife.


    But there was still hope...


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    The sound of shattering metal reached her ears.


    She whipped her head towards the source and saw a black light piercing the sky in the distance.


    "Marcus!"


    Terror had gripped her when Marcus had pursued her earlier, but now... a strange sense of relief washed over her.


    If she was destined to die at the hands of these unkillable Developing Skill pests, she might as well meet her end at the hands of a true powerhouse like Marcus, a Psychic who had endured nine thunder tribulations.


    ...


    A short while later, the Blackwoods gathered within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The third, fourth, and sixth generations all looked upon Marcus with a mixture of awe and respect.


    He had reverted to his usual appearance, a serene Daoist master with a horsetail whisk in one hand and the Sky Palace in the other.


    They had witnessed his terrifying transformation when he arrived to aid them.


    His body had been wreathed in darkness, his every strike imbued with devastating power.


    He had cleaved through Neil''s nigh-impenetrable Soul Grinder with a single blow.


    Marcus, in turn, regarded the Blackwoods with admiration.


    The Forebearer had assured him that Neil wouldn''t escape, but he hadn''t expected his family to be the ones to capture her.


    He couldn''t shake the image of their coordinated assault: the formidable formation trapping Neil, his seven siblings transformed into monstrous entities, and the four members of the fourth generation, each wielding unique and deadly abilities.


    Every single one of them was far stronger than he had been at their level.


    The idea of Developing Skill experts trapping a Competent Force opponent was unheard of, even ludicrous.


    And yet, it had happened, right here in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    For a moment, they simply stared at each other, a silent conversation passing between them.


    "You were hiding this much power all along?"


    Only Joseph and Katie remained silent, gazing up at their extraordinary family members.


    They finally understood why the Blackwoods had dominated Azure Cloud for so long, why even the arrival of Phillips hadn''t shaken their position.


    As for Neil...


    [Congratulations! Your descendants worked together to capture Neil, obtaining a wealth of spoils of war!]


    [Top-grade ability weapon ''Rain of Golden Coins'': Transforms into a torrential downpour of coins capable of eroding all techniques. When the coins converge, they form an impenetrable shield, nullifying all attacks.] S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Top-grade ability weapon ''Treasure Basin'': Creates a binding formation, captures living beings, and nourishes Psychic Gear and ability weapons, enhancing their abilities.]


    [When used together, the Rain of Golden Coins and Treasure Basin create a protective domain, rendering the user nearly invincible. Coins absorbed by the basin enhance the user''s power.]


    [Top-grade ability weapon ''Golden Silk Robe of Fortune'': Protects the user with mystical energy, enhancing natural energy reserves...]


    [Obtained mystical artifact: ''Seventh Grade Gold Ingot''.]


    [Obtained Neil''s Storage Ring, containing a lifetime''s worth of accumulated treasures...]


    "Damn..." Ethan muttered, crouching beside the defeated Neil and examining their loot.


    The Blackwoods had fought countless battles, slain enemies of all strengths, even a Basic Mastery expert had fallen to Ethan''s own hand.


    But never had they encountered such a wealthy opponent.


    The two Parker elders they had captured paled in comparison.


    Speaking of which, the "big boss" of the Parker family was currently restrained, her body a canvas for over three hundred formation symbols.


    George''s spectral companions, along with William and Justin, were keeping her under strict control.


    Her soul sea was sealed, her Competent Force strength suppressed.


    Fifty pieces of Psychic Gear and ability weapons adorned her form, pushing her to the brink of collapse.


    Only her head remained visible.


    Neil was a valuable asset, alive.


    She possessed knowledge of countless Parker family secrets and was a treasure trove of information.


    "Ahem."


    Marcus cleared his throat, breaking the stunned silence.


    He looked down at Neil, whose eyes were devoid of hope.


    "We owe you all a debt of gratitude. Without your efforts, this woman would have escaped."


    His words drew everyone''s attention to the figure standing beside him.


    They had been informed by the Forebearer about this Parker elder, who had somehow joined forces with Marcus.


    He had even participated in Neil''s capture, fighting with a ruthlessness that surpassed even the Blackwoods.


    "Cut the pleasantries, brother. If Jessica and Joseph hadn''t stopped me, I would have ripped that bastard apart!" Thomas snarled, sending a kick towards Neil.


    His wings fluttered menacingly as he turned his gaze to the Parker elder.


    "Now, tell me, what''s the deal with this traitor?"


    "Hehe..." The elder, who appeared deceptively young, shifted uncomfortably under the Blackwoods'' intense scrutiny.


    "He''s one of us." Marcus chuckled, holding up a token.


    "It seems the Parker family is experiencing some internal strife. This is Brent. While Neil remained defiant, Brent... well, he''s an interesting fellow. To ease my worries, he offered me his ''Soul Control Token,'' linked to his Pinnacle Apprentice. He''s a friend now."


    Marcus'' words were carefully chosen, preserving Brent''s dignity.


    The elder bowed deeply, his face a mask of sycophancy, much like a seasoned Parker merchant. Discover hidden stories at M-V-L


    "I see." The Blackwoods nodded, a hint of amusement in their eyes.


    A living, cooperative Competent Force expert was far more valuable than a dead one.


    And if they ever managed to leave the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Brent could prove to be a valuable asset within the Parker family.


    A most intriguing thought.


    "Brent!" Neil shrieked, her despair replaced by a surge of fury.


    She struggled against her restraints, her eyes burning with hatred.


    "You traitor! I spared your life, and you repay me by betraying the Parker family! You joined forces with our enemies, helped them capture me! You will die a dog''s death!"


    "Hahaha, laughable! I will die a dog''s death?" Brent retorted.


    "If you hadn''t insisted on capturing Marcus, on harming the Blackwoods, you wouldn''t be in this situation!"


    "I handed over my Pinnacle Apprentice because of you, you wretched woman!"


    "You..."

 Chapter 344: Chapter 344: Too flashy and attention-grabbing?

    The Blackwoods paid little mind to the squabbling Parker duo and set about dividing their spoils."Brother, we seven are tough as nails. We don''t need any of this fancy stuff. Look at this ''Seventh Grade Gold Ingot.'' It''s perfect for your Sky Palace. Refine it, and your power will surely increase."


    "This Golden Coin and Treasure Basin, they''re a matched pair of top-grade ability weapons. Offense and defense in one package. It''s how Neil reached the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings. Anyone? No? Too flashy and attention-grabbing?


    Fine, Katie, you take them for now."


    "Joseph, you get the Golden Silk Robe. You need something to keep you safe in this dangerous Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    "..."


    Katie and Joseph stared at the powerful artifacts in their hands, a mixture of emotions swirling within them. Their elders were practically showering them with treasures, holding nothing back.


    Once the loot from Neil was distributed, the Blackwoods turned their attention to the treasures they had acquired within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    They had slain numerous Rising Stars, amassing a small fortune in mystical artifacts. Since they couldn''t leave yet, they might as well put their newfound wealth to good use, bolstering their strength for the challenges to come.


    They gathered in a secluded spot, their eyes gleaming as they emptied their Storage Rings.


    Andrew, his massive 16-foot frame casting a long shadow, resembled a walking mountain as he crouched down, effectively shielding the group from view.


    The contents of George, William, and Justin''s Storage Rings, however, were the most shocking.


    "Sixth Grade?! Sixth Grade mystical herbs and ores... hundreds of them?! What have you three been up to?!" Thomas roared, snatching George by the collar.


    "There are people watching, Father! Have some decorum!" George protested with a wry smile.


    "Oh, right, right." Thomas hastily set George down, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "That''s my boy! A chip off the old block when it comes to acquiring... treasures." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Heh heh heh."


    The Blackwood''s third generation watched with amusement as "The Magical Three Villains" divvied up their loot. Jessica, having spent most of her time protecting the younger generation, had little to show for her efforts.


    Marcus, however, was ecstatic. "Four mystical artifacts?"


    "Hahaha, excellent! Once Uncle refines these, the Sky Palace will be even more formidable. We''ll be unstoppable within this Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!" William declared triumphantly.


    Before he could finish his sentence, however, he was hoisted into the air, much like he had been back in the Forebearer''s ancestral hall. "What''s the big idea?!" he sputtered, indignant.


    Ignoring his protests, they shook him upside down, and sure enough, two more Storage Rings tumbled out of his robes.


    Leave it to William to hide the best for last.


    Sensing their accusing stares, William exploded. "What are you looking at me like that for? I''ve spent my entire life risking my neck for these treasures! Can''t a guy keep a few things for himself? Besides, these are useless to you! One ring is full of severed heads, nothing but trophies.


    The other has some decent ability weapons, but they''re all for surveillance."


    George, sensing his brother''s distress, intervened. "He''s right. We wouldn''t have been able to pinpoint Uncle''s location without William''s gadgets. Especially that mirror... what was it called again?"


    "The Eternal Element Mirrorr," William supplied, his mood brightening slightly now that his brother had come to his defense. "See? My Storage Rings are full of tools for the trade, not your average trinkets."


    "Then what''s this?" George asked, his face darkening as he pulled another Storage Ring from William''s hair.


    "That... heh heh..."


    William''s protests were cut short as he was engulfed in a wave of darkness, his cries echoing through the air.


    Once William''s punishment was dispensed, the Blackwoods gathered to discuss their next move.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s closure is unpredictable," Jessica began, her voice laced with concern. "The entire place is in chaos. There are no rules anymore. And our battle with Neil... it didn''t go unnoticed. Other Competent Force experts are aware of our presence."


    Her words cast a pall over the group. They had sensed other Out-of-Body stage experts observing their confrontation with Neil. Some had even seemed poised to take advantage of the situation, but Marcus''s arrival had deterred them.


    "Elders," Joseph spoke up, his voice tight with anxiety. "This place is no longer safe. We need to leave, before stronger opponents..."


    His words were cut short as their expressions shifted, their senses screaming in unison. A powerful Competent Force aura had descended upon them.


    "Damn it!" Marcus roared, the Sky Palace materializing in his hand.


    They whirled around just in time to see Brent unleash a surge of natural energy, shattering the formations that bound Neil. He grabbed her by the leg and flung her into the air with a speed that defied belief.


    In the blink of an eye, Neil was gone.


    ...


    "Brent."


    Neil soared through the sky, her heart pounding against her ribs.


    She didn''t dare look back, but her eyes stung with unshed tears. Everything that had transpired had been a chaotic blur, a nightmare she couldn''t wake from. She hadn''t anticipated Marcus''s overwhelming strength, the betrayal of her own family elders, or the sheer number of Blackwoods lurking within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. But the most unexpected twist of fate...


    Brent, the seemingly spineless traitor, had been playing a dangerous game, biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.


    She could still see the look on his face as he crouched beside her, urging her to live, his smile more dazzling than any treasure she had ever seen.


    Neil had grown up in a world of merchants, her life driven by profit and gain. For the first time, she understood that there was more to the Parker family than just wealth and power. The Patriarch had always told her that a merchant''s tears were worthless, but for the first time...


    Tears welled up in her eyes, blurring the starlight above.


    "Brent, Brent!" she cried out, her voice raw with emotion. "I will survive! And when I do, I will paint the ground red with the blood of every last Blackwood, a tribute to your sacrifice!"

 Chapter 345: Chapter 345: We never betray our family!

    "BOOM!"Brent''s attack was swift and decisive. The moment Neil was free, he turned on the Blackwoods, his demeanor shifting from obsequious to ruthless in a heartbeat. With a roar, he ignited his very soul, unleashing a devastating palm strike aimed directly at Joseph.


    The sheer power of a Competent Force Psychic''s death blow was terrifying.


    Joseph paled, caught completely off guard. Instinctively, his ancient god blood surged, a primal force rising to meet the threat.


    Before he could react, Katie leaped forward, throwing herself between her brother and the blast.


    "You son of a..."


    But the Blackwood elders were faster. The third generation formed a living wall in front of Joseph, Thomas''s Dragon Wings flaring as he teleported in front of the attack, taking the brunt of Brent''s power.


    Marcus, reacting instantly, unleashed the Sky Palace, a wave of protective energy shielding them. The Blackwoods'' ability weapons hummed, adding their power to the defense. George''s spectral companions merged with him completely, his strength skyrocketing.


    "KABOOM!"


    The world shook as Brent''s suicidal attack detonated. When the dust settled, Joseph stood trembling, drenched in a cold sweat, but alive.


    "Brother, are... are you alright?" Katie asked, her voice trembling with concern.


    "I... I''m fine."


    Joseph took a shaky breath, his gaze sweeping over the protective ring of his family, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position glowing faintly beside him. The reality of his near-death experience crashed over him.


    The Blackwoods surrounded Brent, who had collapsed to his knees, his lifeblood spilling from his lips. His soul, ravaged by the backlash of his attack, was fading fast. He knew his fate was sealed, his Soul Control Token in Marcus''s possession. He had made his choice, embraced his demise.


    They stared down at him, their expressions a mixture of awe and confusion. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Neil was gone. Vanished without a trace.


    Sensing their unease, Brent let out a delirious laugh, blood staining his teeth. "You Blackwoods... did you really think the Parker family were all cowards and weaklings?! Neil escaped! She''s gone, and you''ll never find her!"


    "..."


    Silence descended upon the group. They watched as Brent, his body wracked with pain, continued to laugh, a chilling sound that echoed through the chamber. The wind, stirred by the remnants of his power, whipped his hair around his face. In that moment, the Blackwoods felt a grudging respect for the dying man.


    "You''re not afraid of death?" Marcus asked, exhaling slowly. "Not long ago, Neil used you, tested my strength with your life, and then discarded you without a second thought."


    "Hahaha, how amusing!" Brent cackled, his laughter laced with defiance. "Our internal squabbles are our own! From the very beginning, Marcus, you were played!"


    He savored his victory, fleeting as it was.


    "Trapped within your Sky Palace, I knew I was doomed. But you see, we Parkers, for all our greed, have one unwavering principle: loyalty to our own. We never betray our family!"


    "I couldn''t guarantee Neil''s escape, but I offered you my soul, my life in your hands. I became your prisoner, my fate tied to yours. I was willing to die to give my family a fighting chance. But alas..."


    He glared at Joseph, a cruel smile twisting his lips. "I failed to eliminate the Blackwood cripple. What a shame! Hahaha!"


    "..."


    Silence greeted his words once more. Brent''s laughter intensified, fueled by their apparent shock. "Go on, kill me! Neil will avenge me! You''re all doomed! Hahaha..."


    His laughter died abruptly, his expression freezing.


    A collective gasp escaped the Blackwoods. Joseph, recovered from his initial terror, watched with a mix of horror and fascination. William, a strange look on his face, produced a bronze mirror. The surface shimmered, and an image flickered to life. It was a first-person perspective, a view from the sky.


    They were looking down at a tattered dress and a pair of women''s shoes. A voice, filled with venom, whispered from the mirror, "Brent, I''ll be back. And when I return, the Blackwoods will pay."


    Brent''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Impossible... how is this possible?!"


    Joseph, nudged forward by Katie, faced the man who had nearly killed him. His voice, though still laced with fear, held a newfound respect. "We never intended to kill Neil. We Blackwoods have a saying: sometimes, letting our enemies live serves us better than their deaths."


    A wave of knowing laughter rippled through the Blackwoods.


    "No, no!" Brent gasped, his body slumping, his fists clenching.


    Ignoring his breakdown, Joseph continued, "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is closing. Our battle here hasn''t gone unnoticed. We need eyes, ears within the chaos."


    "And Neil, especially a vengeful Neil, is the perfect asset. She knows the Psychic world like the back of her hand. She may not be able to defeat us, but she''ll seek out stronger allies, manipulate them to do her bidding. She''s a strategist, a master manipulator."


    "To anticipate your enemy''s moves is to be one step closer to victory."


    "We just didn''t expect..." Joseph trailed off, wiping the sweat from his brow. Brent''s attack had been far more terrifying than anything he had ever experienced. He had been that close to death.


    Brent stared at the image of Neil, his hopes crumbling. All his sacrifices... a cruel joke.


    William put away the mirror, his lips curling into a chilling smile. "You see, Brent, we''ve always had eyes on the Parker family. This Eternal Element Mirror, it only needs a drop of heart''s blood. We can see through the eyes of a bird, a rat, a fly, and our target remains none the wiser."


    "Now, tell me, why do you think Neil was restrained with so many artifacts, her gaze vacant? Did you truly believe we needed all that to subdue her? She''s a Pinnacle Apprentice candidate, a force to be reckoned with. We wouldn''t risk keeping her alive, not unless..."


    "Unless we needed her alive to extract her heart''s blood. To give her a fighting chance, a glimmer of hope, so she would desperately cling to life and attempt to escape!"


    William''s smile widened, a grotesque mockery of warmth.


    Brent stared back, his blood running cold. He had fallen into the clutches of monsters.


    He lunged at William, his sanity snapping, only to be thrown back by the Sky Palace''s power. "You''re not human! You''re monsters! Monsters!"

 Chapter 346: Chapter 346: I suspect hes not dead yet

    Brent understood.From the beginning,everything was a calculated scheme by the Blackwoods.Even if he hadn''t fought so desperately,they would have deliberately given Neil a chance to escape,a chance for revenge,to become their eyes and ears!


    All his efforts,his sacrifices,had not only been in vain but had inadvertently done the Blackwoods a huge favor.From now on,Neil would never doubt her escape,and all her future efforts would only serve to strengthen the Blackwoods!


    "So,choose how you want to die."


    Marcus closed his eyes.Everything was part of the family''s plan.He just hadn''t expected Brent to be so insane.It was beyond their expectations that Joseph almost died at Brent''s hands.


    But Brent didn''t respond to Marcus''s words.He was still struggling to charge at William,cursing,determined to seize the Eternal Element Mirror from William''s grasp.


    William''s eyes darted around."Uncle,why even bother asking how he wants to die?Joseph almost died by his hand.How about this,hand him over to me.I''ll stab him to death,give him a clean death."


    "..."


    Seeing William''s expression,Joseph rolled his eyes.He could already imagine William treating this like finding a new toy.If Brent really fell into William''s hands,then a slow,agonizing death would be the most merciful outcome.


    He glanced at Brent.Although he almost died by the man''s hand,Joseph still admired him.He sighed."It''s a pity you didn''t truly join our Blackwood family.If we had met a man like you outside of Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,we Blackwoods would have been your closest allies."


    Silence fell over the Blackwoods once more.


    Ethan,who had been quietly observing,also remained silent.This time,the Blackwoods were truly shaken.They had been the hunters for so long,and now they had been pecked by the eagle.Initially,they really intended to spare Brent''s life.After all,a living and capable Force Manipulation expert at the Competent stage was more valuable than even the rarest ability weapon.


    But instead of being pleasantly surprised,Brent had been terrified.Fortunately,the family had planned,and Joseph had been saved.


    The only downside was...


    Joseph''s hand trembled like he had Parkinson''s disease...


    [Your descendant has experienced multiple near-death experiences,including a close call with Brent.His trait''Cautious''has evolved into''Ultimate Prudence.'']


    [After experiencing multiple frights,he will not overlook any detail and will never leave himself vulnerable to any foreseeable danger...]


    As the Blackwoods remained silent,Joseph continued to sigh."Great-grandfather,Brent is a truly admirable figure.Why don''t you personally grant him a swift and merciful end?The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is vast.Burn his soul and give his body to me.I will find him a peaceful resting place where no one will disturb his remains."


    "Very well."


    Marcus looked at Joseph''s sincere eyes and nodded slightly.This man deserved a good death.


    In a flash,Marcus killed Brent with a single stroke of his dagger,burning his soul to ashes.He then handed the body to Joseph.


    Seeing Brent''s corpse,Joseph jumped back in fright."Katie,quick,take me at least a thousand yards away!"


    George,William,and Justin stared at the terrified Joseph in astonishment.They couldn''t understand why he was so scared.


    Ignoring Joseph,they concealed themselves and continued to monitor Neil.


    As expected,within seven days,Neil had already gathered numerous psychics and begun plotting.


    Outside their hidden location,Joseph had indeed arranged a grave for Brent.The grave was surrounded by various formations.After waiting for seven days,Joseph brought Katie to exhume Brent''s grave.


    Katie stared at her brother,who was sitting two hundred yards away,in disbelief."Brother,are you crazy?Everyone says he''s dead,his Force Manipulation completely gone.What are you still doing here?"


    "I suspect he''s not dead yet." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Joseph''s expression was grave."Katie,seal his body with an ability weapon and send it back to Grandfather for refinement.Oh,and after you dig him up,burn the surrounding area with fire.Actually,on second thought,use your psychic powers to sweep the entire area.I''m afraid some of his remaining soul might try to possess a passing animal."


    Katie:"..."


    ...


    After letting Neil go,the Blackwoods were in no hurry to act.They changed locations every few days,using formations,arrays,talismans,and ability weapons to conceal themselves.They wanted to avoid any unexpected encounters with powerful adversaries and were not prepared to recklessly engage in the already chaotic scramble for resources within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Even when they encountered some Emerging Ability psychics who had obtained treasures,Joseph would stop his elders from intervening,fearing a trap.


    Currently,the Blackwoods were establishing a hidden base three hundred yards underground.The only light came from a bronze mirror that showed Neil''s perspective.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is vast,spanning several counties.The previous battles have attracted the attention of psychics from all over.Our strength has been partially exposed,and we''ve likely drawn unwanted attention."


    Joseph said in a serious tone,"Why don''t we lay low for a while?Neil must be desperate to find a way to kill us.Her actions will be our opportunity!"


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    They spent the next few days observing Neil.After her escape,she had become surprisingly rational.After all,she had been in a position of power for many years and,relying on her status within the Fortune Sanctum Parker family,she had gathered many weaker psychics,forming a formidable force through sheer numbers.She had even managed to recruit a peak Competent Force expert from a major sect,seeking safety in numbers.


    And then there were...certain intimate acts between her and her companions that the Blackwoods would have preferred not to witness...


    "Jonathan,regardless of whether I was truly frightened by that Azure Cloud Blackwood,within this Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,numerous experts are fighting amongst themselves for resources.As time goes on,resources will only become scarcer,and conflicts between us will be inevitable.We must be prepared."


    Inside a cave,Neil was nestled against the chest of a handsome young man,her delicate fingers tracing circles on his chest.This alluring scene unfolded before the Blackwoods''eyes,but it didn''t faze them.Physical intimacy was a mandatory part of their family training,ensuring they wouldn''t make foolish mistakes.


    The man sharing the bed with Neil was not swayed by her beauty.He slowly dressed himself,contemplating her words."That battle between your Fortune Sanctum Parker family and the Azure Cloud Blackwoods..."


    "I wasn''t the only one observing.Many Competent Force experts were watching,Neil.If you''re talking about cooperation,I''m open to it.It''s simply a means of survival.But remember,I will not fight to the death against the Blackwoods."


    A cold glint flashed in Neil''s eyes,but her voice remained sweet and seductive as she coiled around the psychic named Jonathan like a serpent."Heehee,in Jonathan''s eyes,am I truly such a person?Right now,all I desire is to survive."


    "You''d best remember that."


    As Jonathan walked away,Neil''s eyes turned cold.She turned on her side,pulling the blanket over herself.A single tear rolled down her cheek,but her voice remained frigid."How could I,Neil,have fallen so far?"


    These scenes played out before the Blackwoods and Ethan,casting a heavy silence over their hidden observation point.

 Chapter 347: Chapter 347: Hes nothing special

    Ethan could sense the mood in Blackwood Manor.Jessica,having experienced the sting of love and used her beauty as a weapon,lowered her gaze.


    Katie,though innocent in such matters,could still feel Neil''s bitterness.


    The two young women of Blackwood''s third generation couldn''t fathom why anyone,especially a woman,would resort to such tactics instead of relying on their own strength.


    As for the Blackwood men...well,many were bachelors,but no one knew for sure if they indulged in such establishments.


    Ethan had even heard rumors of a group of single Competent Force psychics from Azure Cloud frequenting the largest brothel in Cloudview County,each occupying separate rooms,awkwardly avoiding eye contact.


    "Damn it,a real man should never prey on the vulnerable or force someone into this,"Thomas grumbled,running a hand through his messy hair.


    "We should have just killed her instead of letting her use such tactics against us."


    Jessica frowned.


    "But sometimes,we have to admit,it''s the most effective weapon.She has no psychic abilities,no ranking on the Pinnacle Apprentice leaderboard.This is the best she can do;otherwise,she wouldn''t stand a chance against Blackwood."


    Her words caused another wave of sighs.


    Marcus turned to Joseph.


    "My boy,is this Jonathan the head of the Evans family?"


    "The Evans are a family of Competent Force psychics.I hear this Jonathan is their ancestor,having cultivated psychic powers for over a millennium."


    Joseph said solemnly,"He''s nothing special.But from what I can tell,he has no intention of fighting Blackwood over Neil.However,Neil was once a powerful figure,and people tend to obsess over what they couldn''t have.Neil is determined to use Jonathan,and he''s resourceful enough to do it."


    "It seems like there will be more like him."


    In the following days,the Blackwoods,confined to their manor,received a constant stream of intelligence through Neil.


    Multiple factions had rapidly formed within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,primarily because powerful psychics like Kyle,ranked twenty-third on the Pinnacle Apprentice leaderboard,Tom of Whispering Pines,ranked eighth,and Master Unquestioning of Bright Light Institute,ranked tenth,were aggressively seizing resources.


    These factions were mostly formed by weaker Competent Force psychics who banded together for protection against these formidable individuals.


    Surprisingly,Wild Monk of Grand Royal Temple,ranked nineteenth,was diligently traversing the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,seemingly on a mission of mercy,intervening in battles and preventing bloodshed.


    Whenever he encountered a conflict,he would subdue both sides without lethal force,leaving them frustrated and bewildered.


    ... Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While chaos reigned within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,outside,various forces grew increasingly anxious,unable to locate its whereabouts.


    Chuck and the others,initially trapped outside the sanctuary,were relieved by this turn of events.


    After expressing their gratitude to the Basic Mastery psychic guarding Sunshine Mansion,they hurried back to Azure Cloud.


    "Master Nathan,please don''t worry.We are closely monitoring the situation at Sunshine Mansion for any news of Marcus Blackwood''s entry into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    King Bryce of Phillips hurried to Blackwood Manor and reassured Nathan,"I have used my connections to inquire with several powerful factions,seeking a solution.Let us pray for your grandson''s safe return from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    "Thank you,Your Majesty,"Nathan replied gratefully.


    As King Bryce departed,he couldn''t help but sigh,a mixture of relief and worry.


    Having held a position of power for so long,he was well aware of Blackwood''s formidable influence,deeply rooted and intimidating.


    Now,he was even more apprehensive.


    Upon hearing of Marcus''s predicament,he felt a flicker of malicious joy,a dangerous thought for someone in his position.


    His worry stemmed from witnessing Nathan''s despondency during his visit.


    He feared that Marcus''s entrapment in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary would impact the war efforts in Azure Cloud.


    "I can only hope that the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary will reopen,allowing Marcus to break through and return.Azure Cloud needs another powerful Competent Force.With the Sunshine Mansion psychics eliminated,the balance of power will shift in our favor."


    After King Bryce''s departure,Nathan remained in the Blackwood Manor hall,his face etched with worry.


    Marcus wasn''t the only one trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Seeing her father''s distress,Olivia offered a comforting smile.


    "Father,don''t worry too much.We have seven members of the third generation inside the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,including Jessica,William,and Joseph.You know how they operate;they won''t run into any serious trouble.Besides,the Forebearer assured us of their prudence.They even outmaneuvered the Parker family."


    "Alas,"Nathan sighed,"all my capable children are trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.How can I not worry?The sanctuary''s closure was strange.You,with your mastery of fate,haven''t sensed anything unusual,and the old tree,despite expending a great deal of its life force,couldn''t divine anything either.I can''t shake this feeling of unease."


    Although the Forebearer had acquired numerous incredibly powerful secret techniques during his journey and bestowed them upon the family,Nathan couldn''t bring himself to feel any joy.


    "Father,you''re overthinking it,"Olivia said with a gentle smile.


    However,despite her cultivation in the Way of Fate,she couldn''t shake off a similar feeling of unease.


    She trusted her intuition,and her father''s anxiety only strengthened her premonition.


    Moreover,Jessica and Joseph''s absence had significantly impacted Blackwood.


    Olivia now had to oversee both the Azure Cloud army and the thousand-year plan against Sunshine Mansion.


    The entrapment of Blackwood''s third generation,the Magical Three Villains,had also weakened the family''s strength,leaving many matters unresolved.


    Just then,Amelia rushed in.


    "Father,Olivia,have you seen Mary?I need some beast blood from her."


    ...


    Crystal Crest,a majestic mountain.


    Its peak was shrouded in tangible psychic energy,yet an eerie silence prevailed,broken only by the occasional sight of powerful beasts soaring above.


    At the foot of the mountain,numerous psychics waited patiently,embarking on a"pilgrimage."


    Crystal Crest was home to Advanced Mastery level psychics,and within its gates resided less than a hundred individuals,all of whom possessed Competent Force.


    To gain the favor of Crystal Crest was to ascend to unimaginable heights.


    On this day,a woman clad in armor arrived,her physique suggesting the agility of a black panther were it not for the heavy plating.


    Her arrival was as imposing as her appearance,her voice booming across the mountainside.


    "Mary of Azure Cloud,daughter-in-law of the Blackwood family''s second generation,requests an audience with Elder Phil!I implore Elder Phil to locate the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!"


    Her thunderous voice startled the birds and drew frowns from the pilgrims gathered below.


    Crystal Crest was a sacred ground.


    Never before had they witnessed such audacity,such disrespect.


    This woman,a wife from a family of uncivilized barbarians,dared to disturb the peace of this holy place.

 Chapter 348: Chapter 348: And we... we cant escape it

    Mary''s cries echoed unanswered.She continued to shout, her heart heavy with worry.


    Her seven beloved children were trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    At that moment, what did she care for the sanctity of this place?


    Meanwhile, deep within Crystal Crest, an old man in peasant garb emerged from a humble cottage, smoke curling from its chimney.


    He had heard the commotion at the foot of the mountain.


    Stepping forward, he made a few quick calculations with his fingers, his face etched with concern.


    "Alas, the Heavenly Path, the Heavenly Path... what a tragedy this is," he muttered, shaking his head.


    Without another thought for the disturbance outside, he returned to his daily routine.


    ...


    "What? Mary went to Crystal Crest?"


    Julian was in the midst of forging a weapon in the Glory City smithy when his sister informed him of his wife''s whereabouts.


    He hadn''t even noticed her absence.


    Tossing aside his tools and wiping the sweat from his brow, he impulsively flung his Storage Ring to his sister and took off towards Crystal Crest, his bare torso gleaming in the sunlight.


    "Brother, what''s the rush?" Olivia called after him.


    But Julian was already halfway there when he slammed headfirst into an invisible barrier conjured by Olivia.


    If she hadn''t used her psychic powers to cushion his fall, the massive blacksmith would have crashed into Glory City like a meteor.


    Olivia, her features aged and wrinkled, scolded him, "Brother, why did you give me your Storage Ring? Mary may have gone to Crystal Crest, but she wouldn''t cause a scene. By giving me this, you''ve made your intentions clear. You want to barge into Crystal Crest and cause havoc. At your age! Have you learned nothing?"


    "How can I not be worried?!" Julian exclaimed, pounding his head in frustration.


    "I swore an oath on Boar Monarch Pete''s grave to protect Mary and the children. That damned Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary has trapped our kids, and neither the old tree nor you can figure out what''s going on in there. It''s clearly not as simple as it seems. "


    "And Mary, she''s a delicate woman. What if she''s being mistreated at Crystal Crest? I don''t care if it''s a Basic Mastery or Advanced Mastery psychic, Elder Phil was Heavenly Path Venerable''s master. I''ll drag him out myself if I have to!"


    "You fool!"


    A furious roar shook the air.


    Julian froze, his eyes widening in fear as he recognized the voice.


    It was Luna, his mother, a woman known for her gentle nature.


    To hear her roar like that sent shivers down his spine.


    He dropped to his knees.


    "Mother," he whimpered.


    Luna strode towards him, her face a mask of anger.


    She delivered a resounding slap to the back of his head.


    "Are you truly this stupid? My daughter-in-law has been kneeling at Crystal Crest for half a month without incident. It means the situation isn''t dire, and those at Crystal Crest are tolerant enough to allow it. Must you escalate things and create a problem where none exists?"


    "Well..." Julian paused, a flicker of realization dawning on his face. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''re right, Mother."


    Luna sighed, shaking her head at her son''s impulsiveness.


    Turning to Olivia, she said, "Olivia, have the Heavenly Justice Hall spread the news about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Let everyone in Sunshine Mansion know that Heavenly Path Venerable was Elder Phil''s disciple."


    "Especially those pompous scholars at Bright Light Institute. It took them countless years to produce a single Unquestioning Scholar. Let them deal with Crystal Crest."


    "Yes, Mother." Olivia nodded, a plan already forming in her mind.


    "And Julian," Luna continued, fixing her son with a stern gaze.


    "Larry is struggling to hold the Azure Cloud army together. Daniel has his hands full with the war on all three fronts of Azure Cloud, especially the eastern border. The Druids have grown bolder with Jessica''s absence. Julian, take Azure Dragon and Charlie Crackle and go. A real challenge will keep you from causing trouble at Crystal Crest."


    Julian wanted to protest, but the sight of his mother''s raised hand silenced him.


    He reluctantly agreed.


    With her children dispatched, Luna returned to the house.


    Her husband awaited her, his face etched with worry.


    "Luna, are you truly going north?"


    Ethan had returned to the Blackwood stronghold, drawn back by a peculiar summons.


    [Special Event - Invitation from the Northern Fox Clan]


    [Myriad demon clans are scattered across the land. In the northern reaches of the Endless Forest dwells a vast fox demon clan. Their patriarch, a Fox Sage, faces an impending tribulation, a test he is destined to fail. ]


    [With no worthy successor among his kin, he has learned of Luna of Azure Cloud, a half-demon who achieved the six-tailed form in a mere two hundred years. He extends an invitation for her to return to the fox clan, claim her birthright, and inherit the true teachings of their demon arts.]


    This wasn''t the first time the fox clan had extended this invitation.


    After Luna''s true form and power were revealed during the battle at the Azure Cloud border, the Fox Sage had sent word.


    It seemed his time was running out.


    The tone of his letters had shifted from one of offering a grand opportunity to something akin to pleading.


    Luna chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement.


    "Don''t be silly. With everything in such disarray, the Druids at our borders, Sunshine Mansion lurking in the shadows, and our children trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, I have no time for fox clans."


    "Of course, of course," Nathan said, relieved.


    But he noticed the flicker of hesitation in his wife''s eyes.


    He knew her better than anyone.


    She was devoted to their family, yet today, she seemed... different.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t be involving herself in clan affairs, making arrangements for their children.


    He feared the invitation had stirred something deep within her, unsettling her usually unwavering resolve.


    As night fell and they lay together in their Death Coffin, Nathan wrapped his arms around Luna, unable to contain his curiosity any longer.


    "Luna, after two hundred years of marriage, you can''t hide from me. You''re still considering going to the fox clan, aren''t you?"


    "..." Luna hesitated for a long moment before meeting his gaze, a wistful smile gracing her lips.


    "You know me too well, my love."


    Nathan sighed.


    "Two hundred years... I''ve come to understand your heart."


    Luna decided to confide in him.


    "My love, we''ve fought so hard to build this life, to have a family, descendants who will carry on our legacy. I used to believe that once we claimed Pine Forest Town, we could live out our days in peace. But I underestimated the world, the way fate has a way of interfering with even the best-laid plans. "


    "We may have won against Forest Town, but the world is a much bigger place. Our mortal lives are but a blink in the grand scheme of things. After Forest Town came Sky''s battle with the Black Tortoise, a century of drought and strife. We defeated Tranquil, but then came Wesley Daoist, Azure Cloud, the Druids..."


    "Now, our children are grown, and it''s their turn to fight. But they''re not like us. We were born in the wilds, content with simplicity. They were born into a legacy, hailed as the ''Prodigal Children of Blackwood.'' They have ambitions, a thirst for greatness that can''t be quenched with a simple life. They''re destined to clash with the world."


    "And we... we can''t escape it."

 Chapter 349: Chapter 349: Foolish creatures, driven by their own greed

    "The children are depending on us.The Druids won''t let us go, and the Sunshine Mansion is crawling with wolves in sheep''s clothing.""Even if the kids made it to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, they''re still in trouble.We have to seek help from this Crystal Crest, a place I''ve never even heard of."


    "When you have people you care about, you have no choice but to play the game.Honey, I''ve come to understand that if we can''t escape this mess, we have to fight our way out."


    "I''m going to the demon realm.At the very least, I''ll inherit the Demon Saint''s legacy.Let''s see who dares to touch my children then, no matter how ambitious they become!"


    Luna''s words silenced Nathan and Ethan.


    Neither of them understood Luna as well as she understood herself.


    The path of cultivating psychic powers wasn''t always about pushing forward relentlessly.


    But with so many people and things weighing on her mind, Luna, despite her usually peaceful demeanor, still clung to her habit of tending to her psychic beasts at the Iron Forest Horse Ranch.


    She seemed unfazed by the turmoil at home, but perhaps her heart wasn''t as tranquil as her surface suggested.


    Nathan pondered for a long while before turning to Luna with a smile.


    "Honey, don''t you worry about a thing.I''ve got this family.You go to the north.If there''s any trouble, send word, and I''ll bring the kids to back you up!"


    Seeing her husband''s fierce expression, Luna couldn''t help but laugh at his tough-guy act.


    "Look at you, all bark and no bite."


    Witnessing their affectionate exchange, Ethan quickly excused himself from the Death Coffin.


    He knew better than to stick around for the passionate farewell that was sure to follow.


    ¡­


    Seven days passed.


    Blackwood''s message was sent back to the Fox Tribe.


    The journey was long, and they needed the Fox Tribe''s cooperation.


    He could only hope they weren''t more worried about Luna''s safety than he was.


    Meanwhile, the battle in Cloudview County raged on, but within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, the Blackwood clan remained calm and composed.


    Ethan waited beneath Crystal Crest, where Mary knelt, pleading with Phil, the Daoist master of Crystal Crest, to intervene.


    As the mentor of the Heavenly Path Venerable, Mary believed Phil might know some secrets about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, perhaps even a way to open it and free her children.


    As Blackwood spread the word, more and more psychics flocked to Crystal Crest.


    They glanced at Mary before joining her in kneeling, adding their voices to the plea for Phil''s help.


    Despite their differences, the dire situation within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, where their most powerful disciples and kin were trapped, united them under a common cause.


    As Luna and Olivia had predicted, the Bright Light Institute was the most vocal, their members shouting insults outside Crystal Crest.


    Though they refrained from outright profanity, their words were nonetheless vulgar and offensive.


    Ethan listened with growing unease.


    If this were anywhere but Blackwood, these troublemakers would have been dealt with swiftly and brutally.


    "Master!"


    Within the ordinary-looking psychic sanctuary atop Crystal Crest, a disciple appeared before Phil, who remained in his unassuming mortal form.


    The disciple frowned.


    "As you predicted, Blackwood Mary has rallied various factions.Somehow, they''ve learned that the Heavenly Path Venerable was once your disciple."


    The disciple''s frown deepened.


    "Master, I must ask, why is the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary sealed?The Heavenly Path Venerable''s lifespan ended millennia ago.Why would his resting place seal itself?It makes no sense, and now this chaos unfolds."


    "Do not concern yourself with matters beyond your purview."


    Phil sighed and waved a dismissive hand.


    His next words made the disciple''s face pale.


    "Foolish creatures, driven by their own greed.Their intrusion into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is no concern of Crystal Crest.Yet, they dare to come here and make demands?They court their own destruction."


    "Go, Samuel.Make an example.Let them know that they are nworthy to even set foot on Crystal Crest, let alone make demands."


    Samuel''s face was a mask of conflict.


    He had spent centuries cultivating psychic powers at Crystal Crest and had never harmed an innocent soul.


    This sacred ground had always been a place of peaceful cultivation, as his master had taught him.


    And now, he was being ordered to¡­ kill these desperate people who merely sought answers?


    His master could easily explain the situation, yet he chose to conceal the truth!


    "Master, I¡­"


    "Go!" Phil snapped.


    "An example, not a massacre.


    The Blackwood clan started this, so¡­ eliminate Mary."


    "What are you waiting for?!" Phil roared when Samuel hesitated.


    The outburst shocked Samuel.


    He had never seen his master so enraged.


    Phil, the epitome of composure, was now a tempest of fury.


    Samuel barely recognized him.


    He even sensed¡­ fear?


    "Yes, Master."


    Samuel could only obey, his heart heavy with dread.


    Phil sighed, his youthful face a mask of despair.


    "I can only hope this isn''t another one of Heavenly Path''s tests.


    And I hope¡­ that it is."


    But moments later, Phil''s expression shifted from despair to horror.


    Samuel returned, not with Mary''s blood on his hands, but with Mary herself in tow.


    Phil''s fury erupted, and he appeared beside Samuel in a flash, startling his disciple.


    Phil glared at Mary, who looked back with confusion.


    He grabbed Samuel by the collar, his voice shaking with rage.


    "What have you done?!You imbecile!Who told you to bring her here?I ordered you to kill her!You dare disobey me?!"


    "You want to kill me?" Mary frowned.


    She had come to Crystal Crest prepared to die.


    But neither Phil nor Samuel paid her any mind.


    Samuel trembled under his master''s wrath.


    "Master, I¡­ I couldn''t bring myself to kill an innocent.If you want her dead¡­ do it yourself!"


    "You¡­"


    Phil''s youthful face, framed by white hair, flushed red with anger.


    He drew a deep breath, regaining control. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So be it.Your heart is too kind, Samuel.You fail to grasp that sometimes, sacrificing one can save countless others."


    "What do you mean, Master?" Mary was utterly bewildered.


    Even Ethan, who had been ready to sacrifice everything to save Mary, was taken aback.


    Phil seemed to have abandoned any intention to kill, replaced by¡­ despair?


    Ethan couldn''t shake the feeling that his family''s venture into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had disturbed something forbidden.


    Why else would Phil act so strangely?


    As Ethan pondered, Phil placed his hand on Mary''s head, her eyes rolling back in her head.

 Chapter 350: Chapter 350: Yes, he lives Part 1

    A surge of cosmic energy erupted from Phil, washing over Mary as if probing for something deep within her.The speed of his action caught Ethan off guard, but he soon breathed a sigh of relief. Phil''s Advanced Mastery power was formidable, impossible to stop. Yet, Mary seemed to be in no immediate danger.


    Moments later, Phil withdrew his hand from Mary''s head. She returned to normal, as if nothing had happened.


    Phil turned to his disciple, who watched with a furrowed brow and a mix of apprehension and curiosity. He gestured for Mary to follow him. "Come, child. You wish to know about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, about Heavenly Path himself, and why I wanted you dead, do you not?" Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unafraid, Mary followed Phil into his humble abode.


    Inside, Phil prepared tea with the air of a seasoned elder, not the legendary Advanced Mastery psychic he was rumored to be. "I know not how you discovered the connection between Heavenly Path and myself, but you have stumbled into a grave error."


    "A grave error?" Mary''s expression turned serious.


    "Your approach was clever, I''ll grant you that," Phil said, his face impassive. "You learned of my bond with Heavenly Path and my ability to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. By seeking my help, you ensured your success. Opening the sanctuary would be a deed of great merit, beneficial to both of us. Your Blackwood clan could even forge a connection with me through this."


    Mary frowned, seeing the truth in his words.


    "When I refused to cooperate, your Blackwood clan rallied other factions, spreading rumors and applying pressure. You left me with no choice. Faced with such overwhelming force, I would have been compelled to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary for you."


    "You even dared to defy me. I heard whispers that even the Druid Bird Totem wouldn''t risk sending their strongest against Blackwood. You feared me not, believing I wouldn''t harm a soul from your clan."


    Mary''s frown eased. She hadn''t orchestrated any of that. Her only thought had been to rescue her children. It seemed events had spiraled far beyond her control.


    "But you miscalculated," Phil said with a bitter smile. "My disciple should have ended you. Your death would have severed the threads of this entanglement. He''s always been prone to suspicion."


    Samuel, who was pouring tea, froze.


    Sensing his disciple''s reaction, Phil scoffed. "Not you."


    Reassured by his master''s familiar demeanor, Samuel asked, "Master, do you have another disciple besides me?"


    "I do," Phil replied, his expression grave. "He was the least gifted yet the most extraordinary disciple I ever took under my wing: Heavenly Path. And now, thanks to Samuel''s suspicious nature, your presence here has made matters far worse¡­ or perhaps the trouble began the moment I took Heavenly Path as my student."


    "What?! The Heavenly Path Venerable¡­ he lives?!" Mary and Ethan exclaimed in unison.


    They might not have grasped the full implications of Phil''s words, but one thing was clear: the Heavenly Path Venerable, whom they believed to be dead, was alive!


    Even more shocking, this elderly master, who stood at the pinnacle of power in Sunshine Mansion and commanded respect throughout the Emerald Dynasty, seemed deeply wary of his supposedly deceased disciple.


    Samuel''s hand trembled, nearly spilling the tea.


    "Yes, he lives," Phil sighed. "Had you died, it wouldn''t have mattered. I would have remained oblivious to the events of the past. But Heavenly Path is ever-vigilant. Your presence here¡­"


    ¡­


    "Millennia ago, Crystal Crest bustled with life. I enjoyed taking on disciples, and my students numbered in the hundreds." Phil''s voice was filled with a wistful longing for those livelier days. Now, only Samuel remained by his side.


    Samuel, who had endured thirty years of pleading before being accepted as Phil''s disciple, scratched his head. The elders often spoke of those times as a golden age for Crystal Crest.


    "Among my many disciples was Heavenly Path. He possessed an unwavering dedication to the path of cultivation, yet he wielded a forbidden technique, the Living Sacrifice Formation, for nefarious purposes. I should have ended him then, rid the world of his menace. But guiding a soul towards righteousness is a deed of great merit. So, I kept Heavenly Path among my disciples."


    "Centuries passed, and I realized Heavenly Path possessed a rare spirit. Despite his mediocre talent, he dared to challenge fate itself."


    "Can you imagine? A cultivator with a Five Psychic Constitution, never blessed with treasures to enhance his potential, even resorting to the Emerging Ability to alter his destiny, yet remaining stuck at a Four Psychic Constitution. And yet, he reached the Competent Force realm through sheer willpower!" A flicker of awe crossed Phil''s eyes.


    "The Three-Nine Thunder Tribulation, a mere formality for those with exceptional talent, was an insurmountable obstacle for him. I told him then that reaching Basic Mastery was beyond his grasp. But his unwavering spirit, his sheer tenacity, deserved the world''s admiration."


    The room fell silent. A Four Psychic Constitution reaching Competent Force? It defied all logic.


    "He told me he understood his fate and would spend his remaining years in quiet contemplation. But I¡­ I underestimated him. The world might accept defeat, but not Heavenly Path! I never imagined he would resort to such drastic measures."


    Phil''s eyes flickered with a mixture of anger and sorrow. Samuel, sensing the dark turn in his master''s tale, paled. "Drastic measures? Master, you never told me how the other disciples died. Did he¡­"


    The weight of countless years seemed to settle upon Phil''s shoulders. "A Competent Force cultivator has a lifespan of two thousand years. Heavenly Path refused to accept his limitations."


    "He might have lacked talent, but his comprehension of the mystic arts was unparalleled. He destroyed the Living Sacrifice Formation, but not before spending centuries twisting its principles, merging it with Crystal Crest''s own Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique!"


    "The Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique borrows power from the people, from towns, cities, even entire regions. But Heavenly Path¡­ he sought to borrow life force, destiny itself, from my disciples!"


    "For centuries, he collected their blood, weaving a web of karmic bonds."


    "Heavenly Path was in the middle stage of Competent Force then, with mere decades left to live. His final Thunder Tribulation approached."


    Fear flickered in Phil''s eyes. "No, it was Crystal Crest''s tribulation. He intended to sacrifice thousands of my disciples, using their life force to fuel his ascension to Basic Mastery!"

 Chapter 351: Chapter 351: Yes, he lives Part 2

    "I¡­" sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.Samuel and Mary stared blankly, their minds struggling to comprehend the sheer horror of that day.


    Thousands undergoing the tribulation, their combined might amplifying the celestial fury a thousandfold.


    It would have been a storm of unimaginable power, far exceeding any natural phenomenon.


    Could anyone have survived such a cataclysmic event?


    Even those mighty masters, witnessing their disciples march towards certain death, could only watch in helpless despair.


    Samuel shuddered, the memory sending chills down his spine.


    He finally understood his master''s reluctance to take on new students, why Crystal Crest, despite its power, remained sparsely populated.


    But one question lingered.


    "Master, with thousands undergoing the tribulation, Heavenly Path¡­ how could he¡­"


    "That day," Phil said, his voice a hollow whisper, "every master, every elder at Crystal Crest, wanted him dead."


    He shook his head, his eyes filled with lingering terror.


    "We watched as our disciples were consumed by the storm. No one could have survived such a tribulation, not even Heavenly Path. He perished with the rest. But I couldn''t believe it."


    "I saw him. As the tribulation raged, he looked at me¡­ and smiled.


    I remember that smile. When I doubted his ability to break through Competent Force, when he summoned the Three-Nine Thunder Tribulation, he wore the same chilling smile! I had never¡­ never before witnessed such a terrifying expression."


    Phil exhaled, a long, trembling breath.


    "I knew then that he lived. For ten thousand years, I''ve searched for him."


    "And I found him. But the truth¡­ the truth is far more terrifying than I could have imagined."


    "He lives?!" Samuel''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    He clenched his fists, a mixture of fear and rage coursing through him.


    How could such a ruthless monster still exist?


    "Master, he''s hiding in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, isn''t he? We have to find it, open it, and end him once and for all!"


    But Phil''s next words sent a chill down their spines, their blood turning to ice.


    "No," Phil said, his voice devoid of emotion.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is merely a fragment of his being. For ten thousand years, he''s been striving for something far greater: Ability Master."


    "And now¡­ he could be anyone, anywhere within Sunshine Mansion."


    "There are many of him!"


    ¡­


    As his words echoed through the air, figures emerged from the heart of Sunshine Mansion.


    From the Bright Light Institute, Kylin Mountain Roberts, Fortune Sanctum Parker, and other powerful factions, individuals stepped out of their secluded domains, their gazes drawn towards Crystal Crest.


    A chilling smile spread across their faces.


    "Master, you brought the Blackwood clan into Crystal Crest, just as I suspected. You have been searching for me all these years."


    "Azure Cloud Blackwood¡­ clever, very clever.


    My reincarnation, Michael, died by your hand, disrupting my plans."


    "The Blackwood clan''s rapid rise to power¡­ intriguing. And now, you and my dear master have finally caught up to me."


    "Thirteen Blackwood juniors wreaking havoc within my Basic Mastery Psychic Sanctuary¡­ and yet, even I couldn''t detect anything amiss. Fascinating."


    Their voices dripped with malice.


    "Very well. Azure Cloud Blackwood will be eradicated!"


    Figures shot across the sky, a wave of malice surging from Sunshine Mansion towards Cloudview County Blackwood.


    ¡­


    Beneath the Primordial Blood Tree, Olivia, who had been meditating, suddenly opened her eyes.


    The ancient tree mirrored her action, their gazes meeting in a moment of shared terror.


    They turned towards the horizon, sensing the approaching darkness.


    "Run! Run!" Olivia screamed, her voice hoarse with fear and desperation, a sound she never thought she''d utter.


    ¡­


    In Cloudview County, life went on as usual.


    Common folk from across the Emerald Empire flocked to Azure Cloud, seeking refuge from the ongoing war.


    On the borders, the three Azure Cloud armies clashed with the Druids.


    Skirmishes were frequent, but the tide seemed to be turning in Azure Cloud''s favor.


    Phillips had even reclaimed a portion of Cedar County.


    Standing on a balcony overlooking his newly acquired territory, Phillips turned to Daniel, a wide grin on his face.


    "My dear Daniel, I had the strangest dream last night.


    I dreamt that these war-torn lands would flourish once more, that Sunshine Mansion itself would fall into our hands!"


    "Imagine it, Daniel! Azure Cloud, more prosperous than ever before, surpassing even Sunshine Mansion and the Imperial Capital! We would be kings in our own right! And when Azure Cloud produces more Basic Mastery, even Advanced Mastery experts, even the ancient god himself wouldn''t dare to trifle with us!"


    Daniel shrugged.


    "You certainly have a way of looking ahead, Bryce. I''m not so ambitious."


    "Oh?" Bryce raised an eyebrow.


    He had always considered Daniel to be the more ambitious of the two.


    "Surely you don''t aspire to usurp the ancient god himself?"


    Despite their initial mistrust, their years of working together had forged a strange sort of friendship.


    They might constantly scheme and plot against each other, but they could at least be honest about their ambitions.


    "You''re thinking too far ahead, Bryce. My goals are far simpler: to eliminate all our enemies."


    "Is that so?" Bryce chuckled.


    "You control the armies of three counties, Daniel. A single word from you could move legions. Even the old ancestor in Gonzalez warned me to be wary of you. But rest assured, my friend, I know you well enough to know that you''ll always leave a place for me in your grand vision for Azure Cloud. At least publicly."


    "You give me too much credit, Phillips." Daniel smiled wryly.


    "We come from different worlds, you and I. You grew up in the lap of luxury, in Duke''s Mansion, your heart filled with dreams of ruling nations. I, on the other hand, come from humble beginnings. "


    "To call it a village would be an overstatement. I was just a child when my aunt urged my brother and me to flee. I didn''t understand why. Our family was doing well. Why would we run? Later, I learned that they wanted to preserve the last of our lineage."


    Phillips frowned.


    Everyone spoke of the Blackwood clan''s strength, their influence, their ambition.


    But listening to Daniel, he realized just how much they had endured to reach their current position.


    "You might find this hard to believe, Phillips, but I was a naive fool as a child, easily tricked and manipulated. My family called me simple. They didn''t understand that I simply chose not to concern myself with such trivial matters. "


    "All I cared about was honing my skills, becoming strong enough to protect myself, to protect my family. I never wanted to run again. I wanted to stand my ground."


    "When I became the head of the Blackwood clan, I endured the most difficult period of my life."


    Daniel exhaled, his gaze distant.


    "I had always been surrounded by good people, kind souls who bathed in the light. But I knew that for them to remain in the light, someone had to operate in the shadows. To lead the Blackwood clan, I had to become the darkness. I took lives, I ordered executions, I crushed anyone who dared to defy us."


    "It was the only way to ensure our survival, to secure a future for our clan."


    He turned to Bryce, a sad smile on his face.


    "We might have moments of compassion, Phillips, you and I. But our responsibilities, the burdens we carry, force us to make difficult choices, to embrace the darkness. I care not for your ambitions, Phillips, for your Duke''s Mansion dreams. "


    "My only desire is the continued survival and prosperity of the Blackwood clan. As long as you don''t threaten that, I''m willing to keep my hands clean."


    Phillips stared at him, speechless.


    All of Azure Cloud feared Daniel Blackwood, but even he hadn''t realized the simplicity of his desires.


    He had expected a kindred spirit, someone driven by the same insatiable hunger for power.


    But Daniel''s ambition was far more profound: the preservation of his family.


    After a long silence, Phillips laughed and extended his hand.


    "Very well, Daniel. Let us hope our paths don''t cross. I, for one, am eager to witness the dawn of a new era for Azure Cloud."


    But before their hands could meet, a chill ran down their spines.


    They turned, their faces pale with terror.


    A figure hovered in the air behind them, his face hidden behind an iron mask.


    He radiated an aura of menace, as if he had been there all along, observing their every move.


    "Eternal peace, you say?" His voice dripped with amusement.


    "Time to wake up."

 Chapter 352: Chapter 352: Trading her life for a sliver of hope

    "Basic Mastery?!"Terror gripped Phillips'' heart. Both he and Daniel unleashed their Competent Force power, but it was futile. "Run, Daniel!" Phillips roared, his voice laced with panic. "Ancestor, help me!"


    ¡­


    On the outskirts of Azure Cloud, Owen and Bill exchanged grim glances. Before them stood two figures in masks, their auras radiating the unmistakable power of Basic Mastery experts. They were clearly there to intercept them.


    Behind them stood Larry. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They could sense other powerful presences converging on Glory City. What kind of force could mobilize so many experts in such a short time? What had the Blackwood clan gotten themselves into?


    Even Owen, who had seen his fair share of battles and turmoil, felt a shiver of fear.


    "Our business is with Azure Cloud Blackwood," one of the masked figures said, his voice cold and emotionless. "Hand over Larry, and you will be spared."


    "You¡­" Owen started, his face darkening with anger.


    Larry placed a hand on his arm, silencing him. She stepped forward, her gaze unwavering. As the acting commander of the Azure Cloud army, the years she had spent in the Swamp Jungle, commanding legions of beasts, had hardened her resolve. She wore her military uniform with an air of quiet strength and determination.


    She held out a Storage Ring to Bill. "Master Bill, General Owen," she said, her voice steady, "it seems our time together has come to an end. Thank you for your guidance, for your support of my clan. This ring contains the psychic beasts I''ve raised over the years. Should you encounter any of my kin, please entrust them with my legacy."


    Bill''s eyes widened as he took the ring, his heart sinking. He recognized the look in Larry''s eyes, the resolute gaze of someone who had accepted their fate. She wasn''t afraid of death. All that remained was a quiet sense of peace and a glimmer of hope.


    "Larry¡­" Bill began, his voice thick with emotion.


    She offered him a sad smile. "Don''t worry, old friend."


    Turning towards the masked figures, she walked forward, her chin held high. She didn''t know who her clan had angered, where these assassins had come from, but the absence of her kin spoke volumes.


    "Foolish child," one of the masked figures sneered, looking down at her as if she were an insect. "No one from Blackwood will survive this day."


    Owen and Bill closed their eyes, unable to watch.


    Larry unleashed her full power, her soul igniting in a blaze of defiance. She charged towards the Basic Mastery experts, a whirlwind of fury and despair.


    In her final moments, she triggered her ultimate technique, the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation, a desperate gamble, trading her life for a sliver of hope.


    She didn''t beg for mercy. She didn''t hesitate. She chose to fight, even if it meant certain death.


    The thunderous roar of the tribulation echoed across the land, shaking the very foundations of Azure Cloud.


    When the dust settled, only Bill remained, his face etched with grief. He carefully gathered Larry''s ashes, his hand closing tightly around the Storage Ring. He tossed the ring to Owen. "Go," he said, his voice hoarse. "Don''t go to Glory City. Find somewhere safe.


    I''ll stay here, in Azure Cloud. If I can save even one life¡­ it will be worth it. I''ll find you when this is over."


    "¡­Very well."


    Owen stood there for a long moment, his gaze fixed on the horizon. Dark, ominous clouds gathered over Glory City.


    A deafening explosion ripped through the air, a mushroom cloud rising into the sky.


    Owen turned away, unable to bear the sight. "I''m going to the Imperial Capital," he said, his voice heavy. "Not even they would dare to attack Radiant Sky Grotto."


    ¡­


    "What''s happening in Azure Cloud?!"


    In the heart of the Endless Forest, the Druids watched in astonishment as a mushroom cloud rose above the horizon.


    Then another.


    And another.


    The sky itself seemed to crack, a translucent dome appearing above Azure Cloud, ripples of energy distorting the clouds. The sheer power of the explosions was staggering.


    Every Druid present knew that a battle of unimaginable ferocity was raging in the distance.


    "It''s Glory City! The Blackwood clan!" A Druid high priest rushed to Mike''s side, his face alight with grim satisfaction. "Apostle, the Blackwood clan, the ones who slaughtered our brethren¡­ they''re finally getting what they deserve! This is our chance! Azure Cloud will be in chaos! Give the order, Apostle, and we''ll¡­"


    "Silence!" Mike roared, his hand shooting out to strike the high priest across the face, sending him sprawling to the ground. He drew a deep breath, his voice booming across the forest. "Prepare for war! We attack Azure Cloud with everything we have!"


    "Yes, Apostle!"


    As the Druid army mobilized, a wave of unease washed over Mike. "What have you gotten yourselves into, Blackwood clan?" he muttered, his voice filled with a strange mix of dread and concern.


    He sought out the two eldest and wisest Druids, Lester and Shane. They too were watching the explosions, their ancient faces etched with concern.


    "Elders," Mike said, bowing respectfully. "I implore you, accompany me to Azure Cloud Blackwood."


    "Why?" Lester asked, his voice as cold and unyielding as the earth itself.


    Mike extended his hand, a faint glow emanating from his palm. "Does this answer your question?"


    Within a century, he would ascend to Basic Mastery.


    Lester and Shane exchanged glances. "Very well," Shane said, his voice a low rumble. "Let us see what has transpired in Blackwood."


    Moments later, they were soaring through the air, heading towards Blackwood territory. But instead of the anticipated triumph, a sense of foreboding settled over Mike. "Please, Nathan," he whispered, his voice filled with worry. "Please be alive."


    ¡­


    Dust and debris choked the air, a suffocating blanket of destruction. The stench of death lingered over the battlefield.


    Ethan stood amidst the ruins of Glory City, his Celestial Pole Energy Spear planted firmly in the ground, his body a shield against the relentless assault. He had anticipated this, had prepared for the moment when Heavenly Path''s reincarnated fragments descended upon them like a plague.


    The three nuclear detonations and the antimatter bomb he had entrusted to Nathan had bought them some time, but it wasn''t enough.


    He looked up, his eyes widening in horror as another figure emerged from the dust cloud, his features twisted into a mockery of Nathan''s own. They kept coming, an endless tide of Heavenly Path''s fragmented souls, each one driven by an ancient hunger for revenge.


    He fought with the fury of a cornered animal, his spear a blur of motion, but despair gnawed at his heart. For every fragment he struck down, another slipped past him, drawn towards Glory City like moths to a flame.


    In two hundred years, the Blackwood clan had faced countless enemies, overcome impossible odds. But against Heavenly Path, against this fragmented monstrosity, he felt a profound sense of helplessness.


    [Your descendant, Larry, has fallen!]


    [Your descendant, Wayne, has fallen!]


    [Your descendant¡­]


    One by one, the names of his kin echoed in his mind, each death a fresh wound on his soul.

 Chapter 353: Chapter 353: For Blackwood!

    Heavenly Path showed Blackwood no mercy. His assault was swift, brutal, and absolute. Not even those who had undergone the Blackwood''s "Millennium Blood Renewal Project" escaped his wrath. It was as if every move, every plan, every secret within Sunshine Mansion lay bare before his all-seeing eyes.Two hundred years of meticulous planning, of dreams and aspirations, shattered like glass before Heavenly Path''s overwhelming might.


    Ethan fought like a man possessed, his Celestial Pole Energy Spear a whirlwind of death, desperately trying to hold back the tide of Heavenly Path''s reincarnated fragments. Every fragment he delayed meant another chance for his kin to escape.


    "Die!" he roared, his spear piercing the Developing Skill-level body of one of Heavenly Path''s fragments.


    But there was no joy in the kill. Not with thousands more bearing down on him, their eyes burning with cold, calculating malice. The weakest among them was at the peak of Emerging Ability, their combined might enough to shake the heavens.


    He could sense his clan''s two Basic Mastery experts, even old man Phillips, locked in desperate battles against impossible odds.


    "Interesting," the impaled fragment chuckled, his voice devoid of pain. He looked at Ethan, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Master always said there were countless hidden talents in this world. We''ve had our eyes on you Blackwoods ever since you eliminated Michael."


    "Michael?!" Ethan froze, his blood turning to ice. "He was one of your fragments too?!"


    Heavenly Path''s fragment laughed, a chilling sound that echoed across the battlefield. "Not just Michael. Sky Sect''s former leader, Wesley, Azure Cloud''s rising star, Eric, the Dragon family''s prodigy¡­ they were all me!"


    His laughter morphed into a grotesque parody of joy, his features contorting in a mask of madness.


    "Master thought I was weak, a fluke of fate to even reach Competent Force!" he shrieked. "But I''ll show him! Ten thousand years! Ten thousand years I''ve spent reincarnating, absorbing my past selves, each one a rising star, scattered across Sunshine Mansion, mastering countless techniques! I have six fragments at the peak of Rising Star, each one a breath away from Basic Mastery!"


    "And soon¡­ there will be more. All of Sunshine Mansion''s fortune will be mine!"


    The Developing Skill fragment gripped the Celestial Pole Energy Spear, driving it deeper into his own soul. Then, in a flash of blinding light, his power surged outward, flowing into the approaching fragments, strengthening them, pushing them closer to their full potential.


    They advanced on Ethan, their movements slow and deliberate, their voices a chorus of whispers from the abyss.


    "I am displeased."


    "Ten thousand years¡­ ten thousand years I spent cultivating these fragments, these vessels of power. And now, from the backwater swamps of Cloudview County, you Blackwoods dare to challenge me?" Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You were a nuisance, a curiosity at first. Your rapid rise to power, your brazen defiance¡­ you even dared to set foot in my domain, to covet what is rightfully mine!"


    "But you forgot one simple truth: there is always someone stronger. And I¡­"


    "I am the true master of Sunshine Mansion! Even Crystal Crest cannot touch me!"


    "It''s over, Blackwood. Your time is over!"


    They charged, a wave of darkness intent on erasing the Blackwood clan from existence.


    Ethan understood then. It wasn''t about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. It wasn''t about Crystal Crest. Heavenly Path had been watching them all along, observing their every move, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. And now, the Blackwood clan had grown too strong, too ambitious for him to tolerate.


    But as despair threatened to consume him, a cold fire ignited within his soul. He looked up, his eyes blazing with defiance, stopping Heavenly Path''s fragments in their tracks.


    The despair vanished, replaced by a chilling calm.


    "Over?" Ethan''s voice echoed across the battlefield, laced with icy determination. "You think this is over, Heavenly Path?"


    "What?" A Competent Force fragment, impaled by Ethan''s spear, stared at him in confusion. But as his form began to dissipate, Ethan''s voice echoed in his soul, filled with chilling certainty. "This is just the beginning!"


    [Your descendant, Lucas, gravely wounded, attempted to confront the invaders but was rescued by a recovered Diana. He is consumed by a burning desire for revenge. Trait gained: Unrelenting Avenger.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, emerged from the Storage Ring entrusted to Owen by Larry. He had been concealed within by Larry''s technique, hidden from Heavenly Path''s senses. He is filled with righteous fury. Trait gained: Wrathful Avenger.]


    [Your descendant¡­]


    [Exiting the game world¡­]


    [You have spent 3 Family Will points to re-enter the game!]


    Ethan''s body flickered, vanishing from existence before reappearing in front of Heavenly Path''s stunned fragments. Even they seemed taken aback by this unexpected turn of events.


    He hovered in mid-air, his gaze fixed on his enemies, his grip tightening on the Celestial Pole Energy Spear.


    He was the Forebearer. He would not despair.


    It wasn''t over. Not while his children still drew breath.


    Heavenly Path might be a monster, a being of unimaginable power who had shattered their dreams and slaughtered their kin. But the Blackwood clan endured. Hope¡­


    Hope remained.


    "For Blackwood!" he roared, charging into the fray, his spear a beacon of defiance against the encroaching darkness. Every fragment he held back meant another chance for his children to survive.


    This wasn''t the end. It couldn''t be.


    The Blackwood clan had risen from humble beginnings, from a small village, with nothing but Nathan''s unwavering spirit to guide them.


    His children were survivors. They would not surrender.


    The dust had yet to settle. He could feel it in his bones: he and his kin, scattered and wounded but unbroken, would fight back.


    ¡­


    Half a day later, a group of battered and bruised figures stood above the ruins of Glory City, their masks discarded, their faces grim. Any psychic from Sunshine Mansion would have recognized them instantly: the scions of the most powerful families and sects, their names whispered with a mixture of awe and fear.


    They surveyed the scene below, their brows furrowed in frustration.


    The Blackwood stronghold was in ruins, but they could sense it: the faint but unmistakable presence of their quarry, scattered and wounded but alive.


    The Azure Cloud army, along with psychics from various factions, had converged on the ruins, their rage palpable even from this distance.


    These Azure Cloud ants, these insignificant insects, dared to defy them, to scream for vengeance.

 Chapter 354: Chapter 354: Something feels… wrong

    "Foolish mortals," one of the masked figures sneered, his voice laced with a mixture of amusement and frustration. "You thought you could defy me? When I transcend to the next realm, none in Sunshine Mansion will be spared."He stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the ruins of Glory City. Despite his confident words, a flicker of unease danced in his eyes. He had underestimated the Blackwood clan. Their hidden weapons, their fierce resistance, even that shadowy figure who kept reappearing despite being killed multiple times¡­ they had cost him dearly.


    Half his fragments were gone, including a Basic Mastery-level incarnation.


    Even with his fragments converging from all directions, he hadn''t been able to prevent some Blackwoods from escaping.


    And to make matters worse, those meddling Druids had sent two of their elders to interfere!


    "I should have acted sooner," he muttered, his voice laced with regret. "Perhaps when Michael was eliminated¡­"


    "No matter," he said, shaking his head. "They may have escaped for now, but they won''t hide forever. The Blackwoods value loyalty above all else. Let''s see if they''ll risk everything to save their own."


    "And then there''s my Psychic Sanctuary," he added, a cruel smile spreading across his lips. "Thirteen Blackwoods trapped inside¡­ my playthings."


    With that, the remaining fragments turned and vanished into the sky, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.


    A lone figure drifted through the air, his body battered and broken, his mind lost in a haze of pain and confusion. He mumbled incoherently, his voice barely a whisper.


    "Run¡­ run¡­"


    ¡­


    A small fishing boat bobbed gently on the waves near North Sea Coastal Village. The fishermen on board laughed and joked, their faces flushed with the day''s success. Their nets overflowed with fish, thanks in no small part to the two handsome young men who soared above them on their swords.


    Adam and Alexander, their faces etched with a mixture of pride and concern, descended from the sky, dragging a massive fish behind them, its scales shimmering in the sunlight.


    "Look at them, our resident psychics!" one of the fishermen shouted, his voice filled with admiration. "They make fishing look easy!"


    "They could be warlords with their talents," another chimed in. "Why waste their time with us simple folk?"


    "Let them be," an older fisherman chuckled. "The sea is vast. There''s plenty of fish for everyone."


    Adam, more handsome than ever, clapped his son on the shoulder, their laughter echoing across the waves. Alexander, now a grown man, had inherited his father''s talent for psychic arts and his love for the sea. Together, they were the most renowned fishermen in ten villages.


    "Another fine haul!" Adam announced, handing a struggling sea monster to the awestruck fishermen. "This one will grant you long life!"


    But as they stood on the deck, their faces turned somber. A sense of unease settled over them, a feeling they couldn''t shake off.


    "Father," Alexander said, his brow furrowed with worry, "something feels¡­ wrong."


    "I know," Adam murmured, his voice heavy. He closed his eyes, attempting to divine the source of their unease, but his rudimentary fortune-telling skills revealed nothing. "Something has happened. Psychics can sense these things. Perhaps a calamity¡­ or a loved one in danger¡­"


    ¡­


    "No¡­ it can''t be¡­"


    Helen, her youthful appearance unchanged by time, stared at the letter clutched in her trembling hand, her face ashen. The words blurred before her eyes, their meaning a dagger to her heart.


    [Blackwood¡­ destroyed¡­]


    She reread the message, each time hoping against hope that she had misread, that it was all a terrible mistake. But the words remained the same, their message clear and devastating.


    Despite her self-imposed exile, she had kept tabs on her clan, her heart swelling with pride as their influence and power grew, their name spreading across the Emerald Empire. There had been challenges, of course, but they had always overcome them, emerging stronger and more united than before.


    But this¡­ this was beyond anything she could have imagined.


    The letter offered no details, only that unknown assailants had descended upon Azure Cloud Blackwood, wiping them out in less than an hour. By the time reinforcements arrived, all that remained was rubble and ash.


    "No! It can''t be true!" she screamed, her voice raw with anguish. She didn''t even know who their enemies were, what they had fought for, what had led to this unimaginable tragedy.


    "Mother, I''m back!"


    Adam''s cheerful voice drifted in from the street below. Helen stumbled towards the window, her gaze falling upon her son and grandson returning from the docks, their baskets laden with fish. A wave of despair washed over her. How could she tell them? How could she shatter their peaceful existence with this devastating news?


    She had always greeted them with a warm embrace, but today, she turned and fled into the Forebearer Shrine, collapsing before the ancestral altar.


    "Forebearer, please," she sobbed, her voice choked with tears. "Tell me they''re alright."


    "Forebearer, we''ve faced impossible odds before. We''ve always found a way¡­ we''ve always survived. Tell me this is just another trial, another obstacle to overcome. Tell me they''re alive!"


    ¡­


    Downstairs, Drunken Fool sat in stunned silence, his gaze fixed on the letter clutched in his hand. It was from an old friend, a comrade from their Thunderfire Demon Cave days.


    The news hit him like a physical blow, leaving him reeling.


    "How could this happen?" he whispered, his voice heavy with grief. "What have you gotten yourselves into, Blackwood?"


    He had fought alongside the Blackwoods, bled with them, faced death with them. They had challenged the Azure Cloud Pavilion, battled Felix and Elizabeth, defied the might of Azure Cloud''s most powerful factions, even faced the wrath of the Druids.


    Time and again, they had danced on the edge of oblivion, emerging victorious against all odds. But even the most skilled dancer could stumble.


    "At least the lineage survives."


    He watched as Alexander emerged from the inn, his youthful face etched with concern. The boy was on his way to the village''s makeshift training ground, eager to share his skills with the local children. A sad smile touched Drunken Fool''s lips.


    "The Blackwood clan might be gone," he murmured, "but their legacy lives on. And me? I''m a free man once more. But where would I go? What would I do?"


    He stood up, his gaze drifting towards the horizon, but his feet remained rooted to the spot. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Perhaps¡­ perhaps I''ll stay here," he said, a strange sense of peace settling over him. "What''s wrong with guarding their legacy, ensuring their safety? Besides, I''m not convinced they''re all gone. Those Blackwoods¡­ they have a knack for surviving."


    A shadow fell over him. He looked up to see Alexander standing before him, his expression a mixture of excitement and apprehension.


    "Master," the boy whispered, glancing around to make sure no one was listening. "I''ve mastered the technique you taught me. Do you¡­ do you have anything more¡­ advanced?"

 Chapter 355: Chapter 355: Somethings not right

    Half a month passed.One by one, Blackwood''s allies and friends arrived at the outskirts of Glory City, their faces etched with grief and disbelief. Even Jimmy Martinez, a respected member of the Oracle Chamber from the distant Imperial Capital, had rushed to the scene, his heart heavy with dread.


    The air crackled with residual energy, a silent testament to the battle that had raged across the land. For miles around, the earth was scarred and lifeless, a desolate wasteland where once a thriving city had stood.


    Yet, strangely, Glory City itself seemed¡­ normal. Buildings had been repaired, streets cleared of debris. The citizens went about their daily lives, their laughter and chatter echoing through the streets as if nothing had happened.


    Jimmy refused to believe it. He had trusted his sources, trusted the Oracle Chamber''s intelligence network. Never before had he wished for their information to be wrong.


    He approached a passerby, his voice trembling with apprehension. "Excuse me, friend, is¡­ is everything alright here?"


    The man stopped, his eyes locking onto Jimmy''s with an intensity that sent chills down his spine. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the silence stretching into an eternity. Then, just as suddenly, the man''s expression softened, a smile spreading across his face as he continued on his way, exchanging pleasantries with a fellow citizen as if nothing had happened.


    It was¡­ unsettling. The city''s normalcy felt staged, a facade masking a deeper, more sinister truth.


    "Something''s not right," Jimmy muttered, his gaze sweeping over the bustling streets. "These people¡­ they''re alive, but¡­ they''re like¡­ like living ghosts."


    He closed his eyes, focusing his psychic senses, his vision shifting as he peered through the illusion. A faint shimmer surrounded the city, a web of intricate runes woven into the very fabric of reality.


    "A death array!" he gasped, his blood turning to ice.


    He grabbed another passerby, his fingers closing around the man''s arm. The man''s flesh was cold, lifeless, devoid of warmth or vitality.


    "Don''t disturb them."


    Jimmy whirled around to see a group of figures approaching, their faces etched with sorrow.


    Duke Kenneth of Cloudview County, Jon from the Rice family, Bryce, the King of Phillips, Chuck from the Arcane Society¡­ all of Blackwood''s closest allies, dressed in mourning clothes, their heads bowed in respect. They moved through the bustling crowds like ghosts, their presence unnoticed, their grief ignored.


    Jimmy opened his mouth to speak, but Kenneth silenced him with a shake of his head. They continued towards the Blackwood estate, their footsteps heavy with sorrow.


    The estate had been meticulously restored, every broken window repaired, every scorch mark erased. But the silence within those walls was deafening. Servants moved like automatons, their faces blank, their movements precise and emotionless, as if following a script they no longer understood.


    At the heart of the estate stood the Blackwood Sacred Tree, its once vibrant leaves now a cascade of crimson, falling like tears in the autumn breeze. But the tree was lifeless, its energy spent, its spirit broken.


    One by one, they reached out, their fingers closing around the fallen leaves, their faces a mixture of grief and confusion.


    Then, as if guided by an unseen hand, they turned towards the Iron Forest Horse stables.


    A faint melody drifted from within, a haunting tune that sent shivers down their spines.


    They entered the stables to find themselves surrounded by statues, each one a perfect likeness of a Blackwood clan member. There was Nathan, his shoulders heavy with the weight of the world, Lucas, his sword strapped to his back, Amelia, her medicine pouch at her side, Julian, his muscular torso bare, Olivia, her gaze sharp and calculating even in stone¡­


    It was as if the entire Blackwood clan had gathered in that place, frozen in time, their spirits forever bound to the city they had sworn to protect.


    The music swelled, drawing them deeper into the heart of the stables.


    They found Dennis seated before a guqin, his fingers plucking at the strings, his eyes filled with a mixture of sorrow and quiet determination. He glanced at them, his expression unreadable.


    "You have come to pay your respects," he said, his voice soft but steady. "Your concern is appreciated, but unnecessary. If you have questions¡­ ask."


    "Dennis," Kenneth choked out, his voice thick with emotion. "We''ve searched everywhere, but¡­ we don''t understand. Who were they? Where did they come from? What happened to Edward? My sister¡­ she hasn''t spoken a word since that day¡­"


    "You ask too much," Dennis replied, his voice a low murmur. "Even the combined might of the Blackwood clan was not enough to stop them. Some truths are best left buried."


    Kenneth bristled, but the sight of the surrounding statues silenced him. Dennis''s words, though cryptic, confirmed their worst fears. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If that is all you seek¡­ then leave," Dennis said, his gaze returning to the guqin. "There is no need for incense or offerings."


    He closed his eyes, his fingers dancing across the strings, the music taking on a mournful tone. "Sacred Tree, see our guests out."


    The air shimmered, the scent of pine needles filling the air as the Blackwood Sacred Tree, its branches swaying gently, enveloped them in its embrace.


    And then they were gone, standing once more outside the city walls, the bustling streets of Glory City nothing more than a distant memory.


    Dennis continued to play, his music a lament for the fallen, a prayer for the lost.


    "I too have questions," he whispered, his voice filled with a longing that echoed through the empty stables. "Where are you? Are you still out there, somewhere? I have faith. You will return. And until then¡­"


    "I will guard your legacy."


    ¡­


    Outside Glory City, Blackwood''s allies stood in stunned silence, their faces etched with a mixture of grief and bewilderment.


    "What¡­ what was that?" Jimmy stammered, his mind reeling.


    Bryce placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, his eyes filled with unshed tears. "After the attack¡­ we came here, hoping against hope¡­ but it was too late. The assassins¡­ they spared the citizens, but¡­ the Blackwoods¡­ they were gone."


    "When the masked figures left, the citizens¡­ they led us here, to the Sacred Tree. They told us what happened¡­ how the Sacred Tree, using the last of its power, had cast a powerful illusion, preserving the city, preserving the memory of the Blackwood clan."


    "They refuse to believe it''s over. They cling to the hope that one day¡­ the Blackwoods will return."


    Jimmy stared at the shimmering dome that enveloped Glory City, his heart aching for the people trapped within that bittersweet illusion.


    The sun began to set, casting long shadows across the land. But above Glory City, the Blackwood clan''s emblem still shone brightly, a beacon of hope in the gathering darkness.


    Inside, the citizens laughed and celebrated, their lives a poignant echo of a time before tragedy struck. They would continue to live out their days, repeating the same routines, clinging to the same memories, their hearts forever bound to the clan that had vowed to protect them.


    They believed. They had to.


    Even if that day¡­


    Never came.

 Chapter 356: Chapter 356: Lost Lineage Part 1

    [Blackwood Year 210][Special Event - The Escape]


    [Heavenly Path''s victory did not quell his thirst for Blackwood blood. Sunshine Mansion, even the empire itself, sought to grind the clan to dust. No survivor was to be spared.]


    [Your scattered kin, unable to face the horrors they witnessed, are lost in a haze of fear and despair. Their spirits are broken, their identities erased. They live in hiding, haunted by the past. Trait gained: Lost Lineage.]


    [The weight of their loss cripples them. Cultivation speed reduced by 10%, combat prowess reduced by 10%, comprehension reduced¡­]


    ¡­


    Five years had passed.


    One by one, Blackwood''s allies had come and gone, their questions unanswered, their grief echoing in the silence.


    They knew only that a force of unimaginable power had descended upon the Blackwood clan, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake.


    Glory City, once a symbol of Blackwood strength, was now a ghost town, its streets eerily silent, its citizens frozen in time.


    King Bryce had declared it a sanctuary, forbidden to outsiders, a somber reminder of a bygone era.


    Everyone knew of Dennis, the lone guardian who kept vigil over the Blackwood statues, his music a constant lament for the fallen.


    But no one knew of the figure who sat alone in the Blackwood ancestral shrine, his spirit as broken as the once-mighty Primordial Blood Tree that stood withered and lifeless outside.


    Autumn had returned, cloaking the shrine in a thick blanket of fog. The air was heavy with the scent of decay, a fitting metaphor for the despair that had settled over Ethan''s soul.


    Five years he had spent trapped in that moment, reliving the horror of Heavenly Path''s assault, the shattering of his dreams, the loss of his family.


    All their plans, their ambitions, their hopes for the future¡­ all of it had turned to ash in the face of Heavenly Path''s overwhelming might.


    They had envisioned a glorious future for the Blackwood clan, a future where their children would inherit the mantle of leadership, their laughter echoing through the training grounds of Glory City, their names whispered with respect throughout Sunshine Mansion.


    He had told Heavenly Path that it wasn''t over, that their story had just begun.


    But now¡­ now he wished for nothing more than to erase that day from his memory, to bury the pain so deep that it could no longer haunt him.


    The sun rose, casting long shadows across the shrine, burning away the fog, but doing nothing to dispel the darkness that had settled over Ethan''s heart.


    "Chirp!"


    A bird sang outside, its cheerful melody a jarring contrast to the message that flashed repeatedly on the translucent panel before him.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, is being pursued by enemies! He begs for your protection!]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, implores your aid!]


    [Benjamin¡­ begs¡­ protection!]


    "Benjamin¡­" Ethan whispered, the name unfamiliar, yet the message, the desperation in that plea, stirred something within him. With trembling hands, he opened the clan registry, a task he had avoided for five long years.


    The list of names, once a source of pride, was now a painful reminder of his loss. Each name dimmed, the word "Deceased" etched beside it like a brand.


    Finally, he found Benjamin''s entry.


    [Benjamin, son of Oliver]


    [Oliver (Deceased)]


    ¡­


    Green Manor, Milltown City.


    Benjamin, a slender youth with haunted eyes, crouched behind a towering oak tree, his energy shield shimmering faintly in the dappled sunlight. He clutched the Forebearer Talisman, his heart pounding against his ribs.


    Tiny paper figures, their eyes glowing with an eerie light, floated around him, searching, seeking.


    "Forebearer, please," he whispered, his voice trembling with fear and desperation. "Father said you would protect me. Please¡­ don''t let them find me."


    The paper figures continued their relentless search.


    Footsteps crunched on fallen leaves, drawing closer. Benjamin held his breath, his body trembling uncontrollably. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Benjamin!"


    A figure emerged from the trees, his face twisted into a cruel sneer. He was an elderly man, his robes adorned with intricate runes, his aura radiating the power of a peak Emerging Ability psychic.


    "Playing games, are we?" he chuckled, his voice dripping with malice. "You thought you could lure my disciple to his death and escape my wrath?"


    Benjamin was trapped.


    He knew it was futile, but he couldn''t just surrender. He had promised his father. He would live. He would avenge his clan.


    He stepped out from behind the tree, his jaw set, his eyes blazing with defiance. He bit down on the Forebearer Talisman, his hands gripping his twin sickles, their blades shimmering with a faint, ethereal glow.


    "You disgust me," Benjamin spat, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and rage. "Preying on the innocent¡­ forcing yourself on¡­"


    "Insolent whelp!" the old man roared, his hand snapping up in a gesture of arcane power.


    The paper figures shot towards Benjamin, their eyes burning with malevolent intent.


    Benjamin unleashed his power, his Foundational Energy surging outwards, but it was like pitting a candle against a raging inferno. The old man''s power slammed into him, shattering his defenses, his sickles cracking under the strain.


    And then, just as all hope seemed lost, the Forebearer Talisman in Benjamin''s mouth began to glow.


    A wave of pure, unadulterated Competent Force energy erupted from the talisman, washing over the battlefield, scattering the paper figures like dust motes in a hurricane. The old man screamed, his body engulfed in flames, his flesh melting away as the stolen life force he had used to fuel his power turned against him.


    Benjamin watched in stunned silence as the old man''s charred remains crumpled to the ground, the air thick with the stench of burnt flesh and ozone.


    He had survived.


    He fell to his knees, his forehead pressed against the cold earth, tears streaming down his face.


    "Thank you, Forebearer," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "You saved me."


    ¡­


    [Blackwood Year 195, Benjamin, son of Oliver, is born.]


    [Blackwood Year 197, as part of the clan''s "Millennium Blood Renewal Project," Benjamin and his father, Oliver, relocate to Sunshine Mansion.]


    [Blackwood Year 200, Benjamin learns of his Blackwood heritage and embraces it with pride.]


    [Blackwood Year 205¡­]


    [Oliver, a prodigy of unparalleled talent, faces a Competent Force fragment of Heavenly Path. In his final moments, he performs a forbidden technique, shielding Benjamin from Heavenly Path''s senses and sending him away to safety.]


    [Benjamin embarks on a perilous journey north, seeking the last remnants of the Blackwood clan, his heart burning with a desire for vengeance. Trait gained: Unquenchable Flame.]


    [He will never forget his clan''s legacy, nor the injustice they suffered. His resolve is unshakeable, his determination absolute. Cultivation speed increased by 50%, combat prowess increased by 50%.]


    "Forebearer¡­"


    Benjamin stood before the Forebearer Talisman, his head bowed in reverence. He pointed to a spot on his chest, a little over four feet from the ground. "I was this tall when Father sent me away."


    Ethan watched him, his heart aching for the young man''s loss.


    "He told me to live," Benjamin continued, his voice thick with emotion. "But I didn''t know how. I wandered for five years, Forebearer, clinging to the memory of Father''s words. He said we had kin in a small village by the North Sea. I''ve been searching ever since."


    "I never stayed in one place for too long. Father said¡­ he said that to stop¡­ to cease moving¡­ was to die."


    "I don''t know where they are, Forebearer. But I''ll find them. I have to."

 Chapter 357 Chapter 357 Lost Lineage Part 2

    [Blackwood Year 210]Five years had passed since that fateful day. Five years of silence, of unanswered questions, of a grief so profound it threatened to consume the world. Blackwood''s allies had come to Glory City, seeking answers, seeking solace, but found only hollow echoes and a city frozen in time.


    King Bryce, inheriting the mantle of leadership, continued the fight against the Druids, his heart heavy with the knowledge that the true enemy, the one who had shattered their world, still lurked in the shadows.


    Within the Blackwood ancestral shrine, Ethan remained trapped in a prison of his own making, his spirit as withered and lifeless as the Primordial Blood Tree that stood guard outside.


    He had failed his family, failed his clan. The memories haunted him, each fallen comrade a searing indictment of his inability to protect them.


    But hope, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, can emerge from the most unexpected of places.


    Benjamin, a mere ten years old when the world ended, had journeyed for five long years, guided by a father''s dying wish and the faint hope of finding his kin.


    He had walked through darkness, his spirit sustained by the belief that the Blackwood clan, like their namesake tree, could weather any storm.


    His arrival at Green Manor, his desperate plea for guidance, sparked a flicker of life in Ethan''s weary heart. The boy''s unwavering faith, his refusal to give up hope, was a beacon in the darkness, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Blackwood clan.


    "Go home¡­" Ethan whispered, his voice hoarse with disuse. Was there even a home to return to?


    He had fought with everything he had, but it hadn''t been enough. Heavenly Path was too strong, his power too absolute.


    Even Phil, the ancient master of Crystal Crest, had warned them of Heavenly Path''s potential, his ability to transcend the very limits of their world.


    Despair threatened to consume him once more.


    "Can I truly lead them home?" he wondered, his gaze fixed on Benjamin''s hopeful face.


    And then, he smiled. A genuine smile, the first in five long years.


    The Forebearer Talisman pulsed with renewed energy.


    [Yes, Benjamin,] Ethan''s voice echoed through the talisman, filled with a newfound determination. [Let''s find our family.]


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Benjamin cried, tears streaming down his face as he clutched the talisman, his heart soaring with hope. He turned and ran, his steps lighter than they had been in years, his path illuminated by the belief that he was no longer alone.


    Across the world, from hidden corners and forgotten places, the Blackwood descendants felt a surge of warmth, a flicker of hope. The Forebearer Talisman, dormant for so long, had awakened.


    ¡­


    [Imperial Capital - Radiant Sky Grotto]


    Nestled within a mountain cave, accessible only through a hidden network of tunnels and shimmering portals, lay Radiant Sky Grotto, Owen''s sanctuary, his refuge from the chaos that had engulfed the world.


    It was a place of learning, of innovation, where talented individuals gathered to hone their skills in the arcane arts.


    But for Julian, it was a prison of a different kind.


    He had arrived five years earlier, a broken shell of his former self, his spirit crushed by the weight of Larry''s sacrifice. He had witnessed her final moments, felt the searing heat of the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation, the agonizing pain of her death echoing through their shared bond.


    Owen had welcomed him with open arms, offering him a place among Radiant Sky Grotto''s elite disciples.


    But Julian had refused, choosing instead to bury himself in menial tasks, his days spent cleaning stables, tending to the psychic beasts, his nights haunted by nightmares he couldn''t escape.


    Owen watched him, his heart aching for the young man''s pain. He had seen glimpses of the fiery, passionate psychic Julian had once been, but that spark was gone, replaced by a dull ache of resignation.


    Late one night, as Julian knelt before the Forebearer Talisman in his sparsely furnished room, his voice a broken whisper, a flicker of hope ignited within him.


    "Forebearer," he murmured, his gaze fixed on the talisman, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and longing. "I''m not reckless anymore. I''m careful¡­ always watching, always waiting."


    He clutched the Storage Ring Owen had given him, the same ring that had once held him captive, a constant reminder of Larry''s sacrifice.


    "I know they''re here, Forebearer. Lance''s people¡­ they''re watching me, studying me, trying to unlock the secrets of my puppetry. But I won''t let them break me. As long as I''m useful¡­ as long as I pretend to be¡­ broken¡­ they''ll leave me be."


    And then, the Forebearer Talisman began to glow.


    Julian''s eyes, dull and lifeless for so long, widened in disbelief. "Forebearer¡­ you''re back!"


    "Julian¡­"


    Ethan reached out, his hand trembling as he fought back a wave of emotion. He had watched Julian, his heart breaking at the sight of his grandson reduced to a shadow of his former self. But the Blackwoods were survivors. They adapted. They endured.


    The talisman pulsed with warmth, bathing Julian''s face in a golden light.


    "Don''t worry, Forebearer," Julian said, a shaky smile spreading across his lips. "I''m safe. For now. This place¡­ Radiant Sky Grotto¡­ they have skilled artisans, formation masters, even AI Bionic Robot engineers."


    "I might be a mere servant, but I learn. I watch. I wait. And when the time is right¡­ I''ll be ready. I can reach Competent Force, Forebearer. I can become a Sixth Grade Puppet Master.


    I just¡­ I need time."


    [Your descendant, Julian, has awakened from his despair. He has chosen to bide his time, honing his skills, mastering his enemies'' techniques, awaiting the day he can reclaim his birthright. Trait gained: Patient Hunter.]


    [Cultivation speed increased by 20%, comprehension increased by 20%.]


    "He hasn''t given up," Ethan whispered, his own spirit lifting. "None of them have."


    He left a simple message for Julian: "We are safe." Read latest stories on empire


    And then, he was gone, his spirit soaring through the nexus, drawn towards the other flickering lights that represented the scattered remnants of the Blackwood clan. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I won''t let you down, Forebearer," Julian vowed, his gaze hardening with resolve. He looked down at the Storage Ring, his fingers closing around it tightly.


    "If only I had been stronger, more cautious¡­ maybe Larry would be here with us now."


    "I''ll avenge you, Larry," he whispered, his voice filled with a chilling intensity. "I''ll make Heavenly Path pay for what he''s done. I swear it."

 Chapter 358 Chapter 358 Lost Lineage Part 3

    Even in the depths of autumn, a fierce blizzard raged, blanketing the world in a pristine white shroud.A lone figure trudged through the blinding snow, his back bent under the weight of a woman he carried.


    In one hand, he clutched a sword case, in the other, a sturdy staff.


    Behind them, a trail of footprints stretched back into the swirling whiteness, a testament to their arduous journey. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Finally, his strength gave out.


    He gently lowered the woman to the ground, collapsing beside her, his breath forming clouds of frost in the frigid air.


    With numb fingers, he sculpted a mound of snow, shaping it into the familiar form of the Blackwood ancestral altar, etching the clan''s emblem into its surface.


    The woman, her face pale and drawn, her body wracked with pain, stirred, her eyes fluttering open.


    She gazed at Lucas, her voice a whisper lost in the howling wind.


    "Another relapse? Still clinging to your silly rituals?"


    "I''m alright," Lucas replied, his voice calm, his breath frosting in the air.


    "It''s cold, but we''re Blackwood tough. You, on the other hand¡­ you shouldn''t push yourself. You were already wounded from the battle with the Druids. And then, five years ago, you used the last of your power to get us here¡­ to this frozen wasteland."


    He bowed his head, his gaze fixed on the snow altar.


    It was the day of the ancestral festival, a day for celebration, for remembrance.


    But now, all he had were memories and a heart filled with a longing he couldn''t express.


    Diana frowned, her gaze lingering on Lucas''s bowed form.


    "I''ll never understand you Blackwoods. Even now, facing oblivion, you cling to your traditions, your¡­ faith."


    "You wouldn''t understand," Lucas replied, his voice filled with a quiet conviction.


    "I believe my family is still out there, somewhere. Lost, but not forgotten. As long as our faith endures, there''s hope."


    He looked up, his gaze meeting hers.


    "You said¡­ you said that if we kept going north, to the edge of the world, we would find your birthplace. That my wounds would heal. Was that¡­ was that the truth?"


    Diana hesitated, her brow furrowing slightly, before nodding.


    She had seen the carnage, the utter devastation of that day.


    Rescuing Lucas was all she could manage.


    For five years, she had endured his relentless optimism, his unwavering belief that somewhere, beyond the frozen horizon, lay salvation.


    His wounds had never fully healed, but she could sense it: his swordsmanship, honed by years of relentless training, was growing stronger, sharper, fueled by a determination that defied logic.


    "Forebearer," Lucas whispered, his voice filled with a fervent hope.


    "Do you hear me? My wounds will heal. I know it. Father, Mother, Amelia, Julian, Olivia¡­ they''re alive. I know it."


    He bowed his head once more, his voice thick with emotion.


    "I''ve walked for five years, Forebearer. I''ll walk for fifty, for five hundred, if I have to. I won''t give up."


    Diana had witnessed the fall of empires, the rise and fall of countless civilizations.


    But she had never seen anything like this.


    Lucas, despite the weight of his loss, the uncertainty of their future, refused to surrender to despair.


    He pushed forward, his body battered but his spirit unbroken, his determination a reflection of the Blackwood clan''s indomitable will.


    She didn''t understand his faith, his unwavering belief in something she couldn''t see or touch.


    But then, she saw it: a smile, the first genuine smile she had seen on his face in five long years.


    The snow altar shimmered, a faint golden light emanating from its surface.


    Two words appeared, etched in glowing script:


    [We are safe.]


    [Diana, fearing Lucas would return to Cloudview County, had fabricated a story, a white lie, telling him that her birthplace lay at the edge of the frozen north.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, clinging to hope, has gained the trait: Unwavering Belief.]


    [He knows it''s a lie, but he chooses to believe. It''s the only light in the darkness, the only thing that keeps him going. And as long as he believes, his swordsmanship will continue to grow stronger.]


    "Forebearer!" Lucas cried, his eyes shining brighter than the snow that surrounded them.


    "You answered me! Diana was right! There''s still hope!"


    Read chapters at empire


    Diana blinked, her gaze fixed on the glowing altar.


    Lucas''s Forebearer¡­ it was real.


    A power she couldn''t comprehend, a connection that transcended the physical realm.


    And¡­


    And it was a fool. An even bigger fool than Lucas.


    ¡­


    "You''re¡­ you''re alive."


    Across the world, the Blackwood descendants knelt before their Forebearer Talismans, their hearts filled with a mixture of awe and disbelief.


    Ethan saw them all.


    Nathan, standing on a cliff overlooking the Endless Forest, the wind whipping at his hair, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon.


    Luna, bathed in the silvery light of the Morning Star, her six tails swirling around her, her gaze filled with a quiet determination.


    Amelia, wandering alone across a vast, windswept prairie, her expression lost, her heart heavy with grief.


    Olivia, drifting among the clouds, her body seemingly weightless, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions.


    Mary, still kneeling before Crystal Crest, her prayers unanswered, her hope fading with each passing day.


    Daniel, transformed, his identity erased, his memories replaced, now ruling Phillips as King Bryce, his true self buried deep within.


    Donna, riding atop a colossal Exploding Sky Serpent, battling monstrous creatures in the depths of the ocean, her rage a force of nature.


    And Edward, trapped in a cage within Sunshine Mansion, his body bound by Heavenly Path''s magic, his gaze fixed on his tormentor, his spirit unbroken.


    And the thirteen Blackwood youths, imprisoned within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, their fates uncertain, their hopes dwindling.


    The Forebearer Talismans pulsed with warmth, their light a beacon in the darkness.


    They were scattered, lost, their hearts heavy with grief and uncertainty.


    But they were alive.


    Ethan understood now.


    Survival, in the face of such overwhelming loss, required a strength that defied logic, a belief that transcended reason.


    They were out there, scattered across the world, clinging to the faintest glimmer of hope.


    Just as he had told Heavenly Path, it wasn''t over.


    It had just begun.


    Glory City remained frozen in time, a poignant reminder of what had been lost.


    But the darkness wouldn''t last forever.


    Dawn would come, and with it, the promise of a new beginning.


    "We''re coming for you, Heavenly Path," Ethan whispered, his gaze fixed on the distant spires of Sunshine Mansion, his voice filled with a chilling certainty.


    "A storm is coming. And this time¡­ we won''t be so easily broken."

 Chapter 359 Chapter 359 Where are we...?

    As the days passed one by one.As the Forebearer''s Psychic Position lit up, a glimmer of hope sparked in the eyes of the scattered Blackwood descendants.


    All except Edward, trapped in the Sunshine Mansion like a bird in a gilded cage.


    Ethan, while shielding young Benjamin, the sole surviving descendant in Cloudview County, surveyed their situations.


    Most were far from ideal.


    ["Your descendant, Nathan, was rescued by Mike and two elder Druids. However, his Death Coffin was seized by Shane and Lester. In an attempt to sever his ties to his faith, the Druids have arranged for him to marry nine of their women, hoping to fully assimilate him into their culture."]


    ["Your descendant-in-law, Luna, was rescued by Aiden Daoist, an emissary from the demon realm. She was taken to the Fox Clan and received teachings on ''Ice Manipulation'' from the Fox Sage.


    Upon learning of Nathan''s forced marriages, she was consumed by anger, but found a sliver of solace upon discovering from demon realm intelligence that the nine Druid women were all, shall we say, ''full-figured''."]


    ["In the face of danger, your descendant Jeffrey revealed his true strength for the first time, shielding Amelia with his own body, sacrificing himself to give her a chance at survival. Amelia, pursued relentlessly by the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatar and Druid masters, has walked a perilous path, eventually reaching the grasslands of the Golden Empire."]


    ["Your descendant Olivia, amidst the family''s turmoil, finally overcame her literary thunder tribulation. She shattered a hundred of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars with the power of the ninety-nine thunder tribulations, but in doing so, drew his full attention.


    To evade his divine calculations and shield the clan''s location, she merged with the ''Scripture of All Under Heaven'', becoming one with the sky, her physical form dissolving."] Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ["Your descendant Donna, heeding Olivia''s command, fled the family estate. Her master, Chuck, came to her aid, unleashing power surpassing even the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings. With the Azure Dragon''s self-destruction and the Exploding Sky Serpent''s intervention, she escaped to the open sea.


    There, seeking resources to overcome her own ninety-nine thunder tribulations, she wages a constant war against the Crab Clan of the Sea Demons."]


    ["Your thirteen descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, though informed of the family''s plight, remain powerless to help. Their lives continue as before, vying for power with other factions within the Sanctuary, oblivious to the chaos outside..."]


    Even scattered across the world, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s pursuit never ceased.


    ...


    High above, Ethan floated beside Olivia.


    Having re-cultivated her Competent Force, she had regained the appearance of her younger self, a vision in white, as pure and ethereal as the clouds beneath her.


    The Forebearer Psychic Position hovered above, surrounded by a ring of Cards, each inscribed with a name: Nathan, Lucas, Amelia...


    Occasionally, wisps of black mist would surge towards the Cards, only to be dispersed by the faint white aura emanating from Olivia.


    [Olivia]


    [Cultivation Level: Early Stage Competent Force]


    [Status: Ephemeral]


    [Years of borrowed life, Druid fortune, and the power of the ninety-nine thunder tribulations have been used to shatter her physical form, leaving only her Competent Force.]


    "Olivia..." Ethan murmured, his voice thick with sorrow.


    Her current state was akin to a lingering soul, or perhaps a sentient artifact.


    It explained why the Heavenly Path Venerable, despite his relentless pursuit, had failed to locate the scattered Blackwoods.


    Olivia had taken it upon herself to become the focal point of all divination attempts, her ethereal form carrying the weight of their destinies.


    And those Cards...


    [Destiny Tablets]


    [Infused with the blood essence of every Blackwood, they act as beacons, drawing all divination attempts towards themselves, masking the true locations of the clan members.]


    The Heavenly Path Venerable''s arrival at the Blackwood estate had caught even Primordial Blood Tree and Olivia off guard, a testament to his formidable psychic powers.


    Olivia''s solution was as brilliant as it was heartbreaking, sacrificing her physical form to become a wandering shield for her family.


    "Forebearer... you''ve come to see me again?" Olivia murmured, her eyelids fluttering as if sensing the glow of the Psychic Position.


    [Yes]


    A thousand words crowded Ethan''s thoughts, but only a single one escaped his lips.


    The past five years had been a period of silent mourning, a wound too raw to touch for both him and the surviving members of the clan.


    "Forebearer, I''ve yearned for this day for so long. I wish to use your power, to arrange a meeting for our family."


    "A meeting?" Ethan echoed, taken aback.


    Sensing his hesitation, Olivia continued, "Forebearer, through my cultivation of the literary path, with the world as my scripture, I''ve glimpsed the tip of the iceberg of your power. Using the residual energy of the thunder tribulation, I can tug at the threads of fate, gathering our souls in one place. I''m afraid this is the best I can do."


    "This..." Ethan stared at her, awestruck.


    Olivia, despite her ethereal form, had clearly not been idle.


    Though the depths of her cultivation remained a mystery, he didn''t hesitate.


    In an instant, he activated his skill.


    [You are using the skill: Forebearer''s Divine Punishment!]


    The Psychic Position pulsed with power, and Ethan found himself whisked away to an ethereal plane, a realm of swirling stars not unlike Marcus'' Sky Hall.


    One by one, the Blackwood descendants materialized within this space, their expressions a mixture of confusion and relief.


    "This is... My children! You''re all alive! Hahaha!"


    "Father, what happened to you? Why the beard?"


    "Why is Marcus the only one here from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary? Did something happen...?"


    "Where are we...?"


    Joyous reunions filled the void as the surviving Blackwoods embraced, sharing tales of their harrowing experiences and narrow escapes.


    Only Benjamin, along with Adam and Alexander from the fishing village, remained bewildered, struggling to comprehend the situation.


    They stared at the powerful figures before them, their minds reeling.


    Alexander, his face a mask of disbelief, whispered to his father, "Dad, where are we? Did you make some powerful enemies? Are we trapped in an illusion? Why did everything go haywire when I touched the Forebearer Psychic Position?"


    "Nonsense!" Adam snapped, kicking his son lightly.


    "Your old man is a simple fisherman. I''ve lived a peaceful life, made no enemies. You, on the other hand, with your lessons from that beggar at the village entrance... Did you go and stir up trouble?"


    Alexander rolled his eyes.


    "Nice try, Dad. Blame it on me."

 Chapter 360 Chapter 360 Are we Blackwoods?

    "Ahem."Noticing the father and son''s heated argument, Benjamin glanced at the group of powerful figures gathered nearby, seemingly indifferent to the dispute.


    He strode over to Adam and Alexander and said in a deep voice, "Gentlemen, I am Benjamin. Might I inquire as to your generation within the esteemed Blackwood family?"


    "What?" Alexander was taken aback. "Benjamin... Blackwood family... generation...?"


    In that instant, Adam and his father exchanged glances with the Blackwood family members who were huddled together, tears welling up in their eyes.


    It was like a bolt from the blue.


    After all these years, he had always been unaware of his true identity, but today, it was as if he had finally found his kin!


    "Are we Blackwoods?" The father and son looked at each other, unsure of what to make of the situation.


    They then turned to Helen, who was murmuring through her tears, "They''re alive... they''re all alive."


    Adam was stunned.


    For the past five years, he had watched his mother grow increasingly frail, a change that coincided with the onset of his own unease.


    At this moment, he understood.


    Perhaps this was the reason behind his mother''s condition.


    Just as he was torn between approaching his relatives and quietly observing these elders who possessed earth-shattering abilities, the elders turned their gaze towards his family.


    The breathtaking woman in white, who was floating in mid-air, approached Helen and said, "Helen, don''t worry. We can overcome any hardship. We wanted you to see this with your own eyes, to reassure you and the children."


    "Great-grandmother, is there anything I can do to help?" Helen asked, clenching her jaw.


    In the past, she would never have involved her children in such matters.


    But upon hearing of her family''s supposed annihilation, she couldn''t suppress the hatred in her heart.


    For the past five years, she had also begun urging her children to develop their psychic abilities.


    Olivia smiled gently at Helen.


    "Your safety is all that matters. Go back now. The children will forget about today."


    "Great-grandmother..."


    ...


    Coastal Village


    Sitting at her vanity, Helen opened her eyes.


    She saw her reflection in the mirror, her face etched with wrinkles and streaked with tears.


    She stared blankly, replaying the events she had just witnessed in that ethereal realm.


    "They''re all alive," she murmured. "Great-grandmother Olivia wants me to be safe..."


    After much deliberation, she walked over to the window and looked out at her son and grandson, who were sitting cross-legged in the courtyard, their eyes now open but filled with confusion.


    It was clear that Great-grandmother Olivia had used her powers to erase their memories of what they had seen in the spiritual realm.


    "Should I tell them?" she wondered. "But even if they knew, what could they possibly do against an enemy that even our entire family couldn''t defeat?"


    Helen hesitated.


    She didn''t want her children to suffer the same fate as Nicholas, but the once-mighty Blackwood family had been reduced to a mere handful.


    At that moment, Adam suddenly looked up at his mother at the window.


    He couldn''t explain it, but while he was cultivating his psychic powers earlier, he had felt a strange sense of longing, as if he had been to a place filled with people who stirred something deep within him.


    It was a feeling he had never experienced before, not even when he encountered fearsome sea monsters while fishing.


    He asked his son, Alexander, who confirmed that he had experienced the same peculiar sensation.


    Observing his mother''s expression, Adam could no longer contain his curiosity.


    He leaped up to the window and confronted her, voicing the question that had haunted him for years.


    "Mother, where did Alexander and I go just now? All these years, I''ve always felt like you were hiding something from us¡ªmy true origins, the beggar at the gate who never seems to age..."


    Helen looked at her son, then at Alexander, who was gazing up at her with anticipation.


    Finally, she let out a long sigh.


    Her eyes flashed with power.


    In that instant, Adam''s face contorted in shock.


    His mother... was a Competent Force!


    "Adam, Alexander, take your Psychic Positions. Join me in the Forebearer Communion!"


    Ignoring her children''s astonishment, Helen grabbed her own Psychic Position and headed towards the ancestral hall.


    She had feared that her children would follow in Nicholas''s footsteps, but now that their family was facing such dire circumstances, she couldn''t stand idly by.


    There had to be something in this world worth fighting and dying for.


    Even if their family was weak, as insignificant as dust.


    ...


    "Congratulations! Your descendant, Olivia, has used life force, along with your Forebearer Psychic Position, to create a space exclusively for Blackwood descendants. You have acquired the skill: Blackwood Nexus."


    "Annual consumption: 1 point of Forebearer Will. Allows descendants to enter the Soul Chamber for communication."


    "Through your descendant Olivia, you have glimpsed the art of fate manipulation and obtained a sliver of the Fate Rule."


    "This..."


    As the space was created, Ethan was overwhelmed with awe.


    He felt like he had gained a deeper understanding of fate manipulation and the interconnected destinies of blood relatives.


    On Olivia''s Psychic Position, threads extended from all the Destiny Tablets of the Blackwood clan members, connecting to his own Psychic Position, which possessed the power of thunder tribulation.


    These threads stretched out in all directions, representing the locations of all Blackwood descendants.


    The black mist originated from the Heavenly Path Venerable''s power.


    That entity was also trying to unravel the secrets of fate, searching for the whereabouts of the Blackwood clan.


    "I see," Ethan thought, a glimmer of realization flashing through his mind.


    He then entered the Blackwood Nexus with his soul.


    Inside, the descendants were busy catching up on the events of the past years.


    As they recounted the events of that fateful day, their faces were etched with sorrow.


    But when Ethan appeared, they all froze and turned to look at him.


    "Huh?" he thought. "They can see me?"


    As if on cue, all the Blackwood descendants knelt before him in unison.


    "Greetings, Forebearer!"


    It was fate manipulation!


    The sliver of the Fate Rule he had comprehended from Olivia allowed him to be the master of this space.


    It was his own personal domain, similar to the small world of a Basic Mastery realm cultivator!


    At that moment, Ethan couldn''t help but wonder if he might one day achieve true immortality in this world.


    However, his excitement was short-lived.


    He quickly remembered that he was still in his black mist form.


    Only within this space could his descendants see him, and he was still unable to physically interact with them.


    He observed his descendants.


    After their initial exchange, they were filled with a mix of emotions¡ªjoy at being reunited, grief over the near-annihilation of their family five years ago, and hope for the future.


    "Excellent. Now that our clan has been reunited, our next step is clear¡ª"


    "To rise again! To seek vengeance!" the Blackwood descendants roared in unison, their voices echoing with determination.


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 Chapter 361 Transcendent Immortal Clan

    Ethan met with his descendants.Their strength, the source of everything, was scattered.


    They were miles apart, each facing their own troubles.


    Nathan and Julian, for example, were caught in situations so dire that even escaping seemed impossible.


    The family members trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary couldn''t even leave, terrified that the Heavenly Path Venerable would hunt them down if they did. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And then there was Daniel...


    "Daniel, what is your situation?" As Nathan turned to Daniel, all eyes followed.


    Daniel had entered disguised as Bryce, almost making them think the Forebearer had somehow left Bryce behind...


    "My child..." Daniel hesitated, shaking his head at his kin.


    Seeing his struggle to speak, they didn''t press him further. Find more chapters on empire


    After all, who hadn''t endured their own share of unspeakable hardships in the past five years?


    "Forebearer." Olivia bowed to Ethan.


    "I have something to say, if I may."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    "Speak freely."


    "Yes, Forebearer." Olivia took a deep breath.


    "I believe the old ways of our family no longer serve us."


    Frowns rippled through the assembly.


    Olivia continued, "We established ourselves in Cloudview County, but it became our cage. We have too many attachments there, entangling us with the Heavenly Path Venerable."


    "That is our home. We have many ways to protect it, even as we transcend worldly concerns. But we have sacrificed too much for Cloudview County, more than we can bear."


    Ethan''s heart trembled.


    His kin felt the same.


    Indeed, for two hundred years, they hadn''t ventured beyond Cloudview County, beyond Glory City.


    It restricted their actions, holding them back.


    They couldn''t explore further because they were tethered to their home.


    As their power grew, they believed Cloudview County was the safest place.


    But it wasn''t.


    It had become a constraint, and a single disaster could shatter everything.


    They had escaped this time, but what about the next?


    "If we are strong enough, no matter how the world changes, Azure Cloud will always be Azure Cloud. If we wish, Sunshine Mansion can be called Azure Cloud, and so can Emerald Empire."


    "Therefore, I propose that our family transcends worldly affairs, undisturbed by external forces. This is the true path of immortality."


    To be above it all, watching the clouds drift by!


    "It is feasible." Ethan nodded at Olivia, his voice grave.


    "Now that we are scattered, the people of Azure Cloud believe us dead. We can blend into the world. But we still share a common enemy, and you each face your own challenges. Help each other, resolve your individual problems, and then we will speak of other matters."


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    They shared their current predicaments: Edward, trapped in Sunshine Mansion; Nathan''s Death Coffin, needing retrieval; Glory City, needing reawakening; and the descendants trapped in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, needing rescue.


    All of this would take time.


    This time, they wouldn''t act rashly.


    They would wait until they were strong enough to confront the Heavenly Path Venerable directly.


    [Your descendants, after careful deliberation, decide to gradually disappear from the world, taking a measured approach to free your people from their predicaments. The family trait ''Azure Cloud War Clan'' transforms into ''Transcendent Immortal Clan''.]


    [You begin to comprehend the true way of the Immortal Clan, increasing your cultivating psychic powers speed by 5% and your comprehension by 5%.]


    This was the survival strategy of powerful sects and families, like Julian''s Radiant Sky Grotto and Mary''s Crystal Crest.


    With their discussion concluded, they began to leave the space one by one, starting their cultivating psychic powers in their respective locations.


    Now, they were filled with purpose.


    They had a goal.


    Ethan sighed in relief.


    Although his children''s situations remained perilous, he saw the emergence of a stronger Blackwood family.


    A message appeared before him: [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, are paying their respects. They have learned of their heritage and the family''s plight and wish to contribute!]


    "Did Helen choose to return to the family after all?"


    Ethan instantly appeared in the Forebearer Ancestral Hall in the small fishing village.


    Helen was leading Adam and Alexander in kneeling before the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    She must have told them the story of the Blackwood family, for their eyes were wide with astonishment.


    They couldn''t believe that they, born in this humble village, belonged to such a powerful lineage.


    Looking at the two children and Helen, Ethan shook his head.


    He let the Psychic Position emit a gentle light, a silent blessing for them to live their lives in peace.


    The enemy they faced was too formidable.


    It was better for this family to continue their peaceful existence.


    ...


    Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Only Marcus had journeyed to the soul space this time.


    As he opened his eyes, the others gathered around him eagerly.


    "Uncle, how is everyone? Is the family alright?"


    "What about Father? Is he safe?"


    "What did the Forebearer say?"


    Questions bombarded him from all sides.


    They had heard about the tragedy that had befallen their family five years ago.


    If they could leave the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, they would have returned home long ago.


    Marcus surveyed them, his expression grim.


    He recounted the situation of their kin, but when his gaze fell upon Joseph and Katie, he shook his head.


    "Joseph, Katie, I won''t lie to you. Your father is trapped in Sunshine Mansion, but he is alive for now."


    "Damn it!" Katie exploded.


    Joseph pulled at her sleeve, trying to calm her down.


    "We are trapped in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Anger is useless. We are nothing but fish on the Heavenly Path Venerable''s chopping block."


    His words silenced the Blackwood descendants.


    The bronze mirror still showed Neil''s image.


    After five years, he had united a thousand Psychics and controlled a part of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    But the Blackwood descendants had no desire to confront him now.


    They didn''t even know the true nature of this place.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable seemed aware of their every move within the sanctuary but hadn''t acted against them.


    This was a mystery that even Elder Phil from Crystal Crest couldn''t solve.


    "What should we do then? Our family is rebuilding, and we can''t just sit here idly!" Thomas, never one for patience, exclaimed.


    Jessica pondered for a moment.


    "Uncle''s strength is growing, and he has absorbed all the psychic artifacts into the Sky Hall over the past five years. We could try to take over another faction secretly. "


    "The Unquestioning Scholar from the Bright Light Institute seems like a good target. He ambushed Kyle recently and should be quite wealthy. This way, we can also focus on breaking through and increasing our strength. When our family comes to rescue us, we''ll be ready to fight the Heavenly Path Venerable."


    "Alright!"

 Chapter 362 The madman on the island!

    At that moment, Ethan had no time to deal with the matters of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.His brow furrowed as he received an alarming notification.


    Donna, who was traveling with Exploding Sky Serpent over the North Sea, was in grave danger!


    [Special Event - Siege of the North Sea Crab Demons]


    [Your descendant, Donna, is on the verge of a breakthrough in her physical cultivation. She seeks to gather the five extreme elements of heaven and earth to push her Developing Skill realm physique to the peak of Competent Force.


    She already possesses the Rootless Pure Land gifted by the Primordial Blood Tree, a branch of the Primordial Blood Tree itself, and the Geng Metal essence she spent two years seeking.]


    [Now, in the North Sea demon realm, she has caught wind of ''Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water.'' However, she is trapped on an isolated island, surrounded by crab demons. Only a protective formation holds them at bay, leaving her with no escape.]


    "..."


    Ethan''s scalp tingled as he saw the image of Donna and Exploding Sky Serpent''s location.


    Donna had stumbled into a nest of crabs!


    He instantly appeared on the island, enveloped in darkness.


    A protective formation shimmered, barely containing a tide of crabs...


    Ethan rose into the air for a clearer view.


    The sea was swarming with crabs.


    Above, four figures in blue robes ¨C three men and a woman ¨C glared down at the island with grim expressions.


    They were transformed sea demons, at the Competent Force stage!


    The formation on the island was powered by Charlie Crackle''s natural energies.


    The crab demons were hesitant to confront Charlie Crackle directly, hoping to exhaust his power over time.


    Otherwise, they would have already stormed the formation.


    "She''s provoked an entire clan of crab demons? They say the sea demons are terrifying, and it seems to be true."


    Ethan''s scalp tingled.


    The sheer number of enemies was staggering!


    He glanced at his dwindling family will, down to 13 points.


    He wasn''t sure if he could save Donna from this overwhelming onslaught...


    The sea was a churning mass of crab demons, the sky and sea locked down by demonic formations!


    "I can''t do this alone. I need help."


    Ethan''s mind raced.


    Everyone he could think of was too far away.


    Daniel''s unique situation made him unavailable.


    Julian was in the imperial capital, closer, but he was under constant surveillance.


    Suddenly, Ethan remembered the small fishing village...


    His gaze shifted.


    In the village, a handsome youth with two sickles strapped to his back arrived.


    He walked into the fishing village, wrinkled his nose at the drunkard begging outside a small tavern, and knocked on the tavern door, despite it being broad daylight.


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    "Anyone home? I''m here to meet my family."


    ...


    The sea was a canvas of deep blue, devoid of its usual sparkle, as if encased in heavy armor.


    Giant blue crabs blanketed the surface!


    Some, as large as small hills, floated in the air, their bubbles forming an impenetrable barrier.


    Four transformed crab demons, clad in blue robes, stood in the sky.


    They were the elders of the sea crab clan, their gazes fixed on the lone island amidst the crab horde.


    Within the island''s protective formation, a misty Azure Dragon phantom soared, its massive eyes scanning for threats.


    However, it wasn''t the Azure Dragon, with its bloodline suppression, that truly alarmed the crab clan.


    It was...


    The madman on the island!


    Initially appearing as a young girl, she now fought as a towering giant.


    Her armor, resembling a vest, revealed the bulging muscles of her arms. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Only her twin pigtails hinted at her former appearance.


    Behind her, two half-formed lotus platforms, one black and one white, floated like wings.


    When joined, they formed a perfect circle, resembling the platforms used by Buddhist monks for meditation.


    But these platforms were connected to the madman''s shoulder blades by countless threads, fleshy tentacles writhing from their surface.


    The sight was enough to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest.


    Donna, her eyes bloodshot, glared at the endless crab demons.


    The formation opened a small gap, and she punched any crab that dared to enter, obliterating them instantly.


    The tentacles from the fleshy lotus platforms behind her pierced the exploding corpses, drawing in their essence to replenish her own psychic powers, if only slightly.


    She roared, her jaw unhinging at an unnatural angle, drool dripping from her lips.


    ...


    Ethan, having made his arrangements, arrived to witness Donna''s transformation.


    Even he was taken aback by her monstrous appearance, especially the eerie black and white lotus platforms.


    [Peak Seventh Grade Psychic Artifact: Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms]


    [Forged from the flesh and blood of Buddhist and demonic cultivators, it possesses both holy and demonic power. Imbued with the sacrificial power of the twin brothers, Charles and Christopher, it has gained sentience. It can devour the life force and psychic powers of others to heal itself and grow stronger.]


    [The Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms protect the wearer from external evils and the influence of righteous laws. When merged with the body, they amplify the wearer''s strength and psychic powers.]


    With the Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms and the power she had cultivated alongside Chuck, Donna was a force to be reckoned with.


    Even Lucas, back in his Developing Skill stage, would be no match for her now!


    But her power came at a price.


    The words "sacrificial power of the twin brothers, Charles and Christopher" flashed ominously in Ethan''s mind.


    "Donna seems to be losing herself..."


    Ethan watched her fight with growing concern.


    Since her escape, Donna''s desire for power had become all-consuming.


    During her five years on the run, she and Exploding Sky Serpent had fought their way through countless dangers, and she had seized every opportunity to become stronger.


    The rational girl who used to chatter endlessly with Chuck was gone, replaced by a being driven solely by the pursuit of power.


    Taking a deep breath, Ethan turned his attention to Exploding Sky Serpent.


    He found the serpent''s icon on his mental interface and issued a command.


    High above, Charlie Crackle''s eyes flickered.


    "Master... is that your command?"


    He emerged from the protective formation, his translucent form shimmering in the air.


    The mere presence of his Azure Dragon bloodline sent the crab demons into a frenzy.


    Even the four transformed crab demons in the sky tensed.


    The lead crab demon roared at the strange, misty Azure Dragon, "Azure Dragon! Hand over the Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water, and we might spare your lives!"


    "Hmph!"


    Emboldened by his master''s command and his own Azure Dragon heritage, Charlie Crackle spoke, his voice echoing with power, "We have claimed the Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water. I''ll give you 30 minutes to retreat. If you force our hand, your crab clan will pay the price!"


    "You..."


    The four crab demons were enraged.


    Where did this strange Mist Serpent get its confidence?


    The female crab demon, a valiant figure in light armor, wielding a double-pronged halberd, chuckled.


    "Such arrogance, Azure Dragon! We have waited a century for the Heavy Water to mature. You think you can just take it from us? Let''s see what you''re truly made of!"


    The tension was palpable.


    However, the Azure Dragon stood at the pinnacle of the demon realm''s food chain.


    The bloodline suppression was too much for the crab demons to ignore.


    They hesitated, unwilling to risk a direct confrontation.

 Chapter 363 What... What is that?!

    Ethan, stranded on the island, observed the tense situation with an unnervingly calm demeanor.Two hundred years of family legacy had granted him clarity. He echoed Olivia''s sentiments; their past was shackled by constraints, forcing them to meticulously weigh every decision, often at the cost of their own good nature.


    But greatness demanded struggle. He could no longer afford to dwell on the origins of the ''Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water,'' whether it rightfully belonged to the crab demons or had been a chance discovery Donna stumbled upon.


    They needed power, immense power, to return to the Sunshine Mansion and liberate Edward from his prison. Power to confront the Druids and reclaim their family''s Death Coffin. Power to face the terrifying might of the Heavenly Path Venerable!


    Thirty minutes had elapsed.


    The Exploding Sky Serpent solidified, its form ablaze with a crimson glow.


    Donna, still locked in a fierce battle at the array''s entrance, felt a moment of clarity. The Forebearer Psychic Position, hanging by a red cord around her neck, pulsed with light. It broke free, floating into the air and expanding before their eyes. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Black mist surged, and the Forebearer emerged!


    The seascape transformed in an instant.


    "What... What is that?!"


    The faces of the four crab demon Competent Force elders contorted in horror. Beyond the Azure Dragon''s bloodline suppression, an ominous aura emanated from the black mist. The appearance of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the high-grade ability weapon spear only amplified their fear.


    A mist-shrouded Azure Dragon... an unfathomable madwoman... a shadowy Psychic...


    Never had they encountered such a bizarre combination.


    As the black mist descended, two figures approached from afar, riding Psychic swords. Two more Competent Force!


    A flash of golden light.


    A disheveled beggar ambled forward, casually swirling a wine gourd before taking a swig. Golden bowls and chopsticks rose into the air, forming a protective barrier around the island. He sighed, "I''m in your debt, old Blackwood, but these crabs... Steamed, braised, drunken crab... Ah, a feast for a king!"


    The Drunken Fool stood atop a spinning golden bowl, his ragged clothes billowing in the wind. He grinned, brandishing two spear-like golden chopsticks, his posture like a warrior ready to strike.


    The legacy of the Divine Beggar. He had endured the six-nine thunder tribulation, elevating him to early-stage Competent Force. Coupled with his two supreme-grade ability weapons, he was a force to be reckoned with.


    "Thank you, Elder."


    Beside him stood a woman of elegant beauty, her white robes flowing like celestial garments. She glided on her sword, her hair dancing in the wind. With a flick of her wrist, seven circular formations materialized behind her, spinning rapidly.


    This was Helen, Nicholas''s wife. But she harbored another identity: the chosen successor of Dennis, the old fox. Dennis believed that Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion''s millennia-long legacy rested on Helen''s shoulders.


    "What a remarkable Formation Master you are," the Drunken Fool remarked. He knew Helen possessed extraordinary talent, but witnessing her effortlessly summon seven seventh-grade formations and prepare a sixth-grade formation without an array base was astounding.


    Helen offered a gentle smile. The Azure Dragon and Blackwood''s enigmatic Forebearer were poised to attack. The Drunken Fool, wasting no time, charged forward, chopsticks at the ready. "Come forth, Sky Corpse!"


    "Yes!"


    His Storage Ring shimmered, and a figure materialized from the black mist. It was Donald, the Sky Corpse Nathan had entrusted to him.


    "Three... Three Competent Force?!"


    Panic seized the four crab demon elders. They had underestimated the captive Azure Dragon, unaware of the allies lying in wait!


    Escape was no longer an option.


    The shadowy figure''s Twin Fish Harmony Seal flashed, teleporting it behind the female crab demon. The spear thrust forward, accompanied by a raspy voice.


    "My apologies, but you''ve blocked our path. Now... you''ll have to leave something of value behind."


    Terror gripped the female crab demon. Her natural energies surged, a protective aura enveloping her. But how had this shadowy figure appeared behind her without a sound?


    In that split second, she felt a chaotic surge of rules erupting from the figure.


    ...


    Inside the Coastal Village.


    Adam and Alexander sat in the tavern, facing Benjamin, who devoured his seafood with the desperation of a starving refugee. His eyes gleamed, as if he had never experienced such a feast.


    "Hey, kid, haven''t you had enough after half a month?" Alexander finally interjected. This boy did nothing but eat and sleep, seemingly unconcerned about their kin who had gone to their rescue. Seafood was plentiful; he could easily catch enough to feed Benjamin for a year. "Aren''t you worried about our people trapped by the crab demons?"


    "Why worry?" Benjamin mumbled through a mouthful of food. "Father said our people can overcome anything. Even if we''re all going to die tomorrow, we might as well have a good meal."


    They had no idea. Benjamin had spent his childhood in a sect, sustained by pills provided by his parents and the sect master. He vaguely recalled stories of the sea from his childhood lessons. His parents had promised to take him someday.


    Half a month had passed, and he continued to indulge in seafood, determined to savor every bite for his parents, who had never tasted it.


    Adam and Alexander exchanged glances. Unaware of Benjamin''s past, of the five years it took him to reach this village at the tender age of fifteen, they could only marvel at his carefree attitude.


    As they ate and drank, a tremor shook them to their core. All three scrambled to the harbor, their eyes wide with disbelief.


    A giant crab emerged from the sea.


    Three figures stood atop its shell, a white mist swirling around the shortest of them, a young woman in yellow robes.


    ...


    [Congratulations! You have completed the special event ''Siege of the North Sea crab demons''!]


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    [With the help of Helen, a descendant from the fishing village, and the Drunken Fool, your descendant Donna has escaped the crab clan''s encirclement.]


    [You have slain Hudson, a Competent Force-level crab demon renowned for his impenetrable defenses. The Drunken Fool''s Golden Origin Bowl shielded your descendant Donna from the crab demons'' assault, forcing the remaining three to flee.]


    [Impressed by your power, Aiden, a Competent Force-level crab demon, has pledged his allegiance to the Blackwood family for a century after you vowed to spare his clan.]


    [+5 Family Will obtained]

 Chapter 364I was using my psychic abilities to blow up cow dung

    He lost 3 points of Family Will, but now his Family Will had actually reached 15 points.At this moment, Aiden, in the early stages of the Competent Force realm, was diving deep beneath the waves, 33 feet below the surface near the small fishing village.


    He was, after all, a demon beast in the Competent Force realm.


    If it weren''t for the time limit of his servitude and the glimmer of hope it offered, Aiden would have self-destructed by now.


    However, according to Drunken Fool, a hundred years was too short a time.


    It would be better spent as a drunken crab; after being eaten, his strength would surely increase.


    [You have obtained spoils of war: one corpse of a crab demon in the early stages of the Competent Force realm.]


    [Crab demons in the Competent Force realm possess a hard exoskeleton comparable to sixth-grade ore. Their bodies contain crab essence, similar to the ''crab roe'' of ordinary crabs, which is a rare medicinal ingredient. It can reach the sixth grade, and consuming it alone can enhance cultivation and increase battle prowess for a short period.


    Consuming it below the Developing Skill realm can strengthen one''s foundation and cultivate vital energy.]


    At this time, Donna''s Storage Ring contained tens of thousands of crab demon corpses, ranging from ordinary beasts to those in the Competent Force realm, including four in the Developing Skill realm.


    The most eye-catching among them was a giant green crab, beside which sat a large vat of ''crab essence,'' emitting a mysterious yellow aura that spoke volumes about its value.


    "Adam, Alexander, Benjamin, come quickly and greet your aunt! This is your Aunt Donna!"


    As soon as Donna arrived, Helen called out to the three children.


    Perhaps it was because they hadn''t seen each other for so long, but Helen was incredibly attentive to Donna''s needs.


    Even though Donna had already reached the peak of the Developing Skill realm, Helen cared for her just like she had cared for Nicholas back then, as if time had stood still.


    "Aunt Donna!"


    The three of them bowed hurriedly, but they couldn''t help but feel a little awkward when they looked at Donna.


    The world of psychic cultivation was truly strange.


    Donna, with her youthful appearance, stood only about 5 feet tall in her yellow dress.


    Her sleeves covered her hands, and her two braids framed a childish face.


    Around her neck hung the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    However, her expression remained cold and vigilant.


    If she were to walk down the street, she would surely be mistaken for a lost rich girl.


    This aunt, whom they were supposed to address as "aunt" or "great aunt," looked more like their little sister.


    It was quite amusing.


    "Well, I don''t have much to offer as gifts."


    After chatting with her three juniors for a while and learning about their situation, Donna frowned.


    With a flick of her Storage Ring, two large vats appeared, containing half of the ''crab essence'' she had just obtained.


    "You should consume this. This way, Benjamin can enter seclusion and break through to the Emerging Ability realm within a month. Adam''s cultivation should also see some improvement. As for Alexander, you should be able to reach the peak of the Foundational Energy realm within a year."


    "Such... such potent natural energies!"


    The three of them stared in astonishment at the vat of crab roe.


    They had never seen such precious natural treasures before.


    It seemed that their elders had indeed accomplished great things during this past half-month!


    They didn''t refuse the gifts. Experience tales at empire


    Not long after, Adam and his son, Alexander, walked out of the house.


    Drunken Fool was squatting at the door again, begging... but this time, he was eating crab.


    The old drunkard even used a technique, placing the crab in a bowl and pouring wine over it, creating a dish of drunken crab.


    He took a bite of the raw crab, followed by a swig of wine, the cracking sounds he made causing passersby to grimace.


    "Senior, you are truly extraordinary. Thank you for saving my aunt."


    Adam bowed gratefully to Drunken Fool.


    "I saved her?"


    Drunken Fool was taken aback.


    He snapped off a crab claw, recalling Donna''s frenzied state on the battlefield...


    He had traveled the world of cultivation for many years, even emerging from the demon abyss, but he had never seen anyone fight with such terrifying and indescribable power as Donna in that moment.


    He had heard rumors of an incredibly powerful body cultivator from Starlight County, Donna''s master, but he was certain that Donna''s current state surpassed even Chuck''s.


    "Yes, you saved my aunt, didn''t you? Your family is truly extraordinary!" Alexander''s eyes were clear.


    "Don''t say that."


    Drunken Fool waved his hand hastily.


    He could tell that the father and son had mistaken him for some peerless expert.


    "I wouldn''t dare claim to be ''extraordinary'' in front of those inside. That would be asking for trouble."


    Adam and Alexander exchanged glances and then looked towards the house.


    Helen and Donna were deep in conversation, and even Benjamin was listening intently.


    They approached and listened as the three discussed family matters, but they couldn''t understand a single word. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As night fell, Alexander walked into the courtyard.


    His father, Adam, was sitting there, gazing at the moon with a bowl and spoon in his hands, a melancholic expression on his face.


    Alexander walked up to his father and said in a low voice, "Father, why do I always feel like I don''t belong with Grandma, Aunt Donna, and the others? Even with Benjamin, I feel like I''m not as good as him."


    "Sigh."


    Adam let out a long sigh.


    "Alexander, you and I are different from them. We''ve always lived comfortable lives, growing up under your mother''s protection. But they''re different. They''ve weathered storms. Even Benjamin, he''s been on the run since he was 10 years old. It''s been five years.


    Alexander, what were you doing when you were 10?"


    "I..."


    A look of shame flashed across Alexander''s face.


    "I was using my psychic abilities to blow up cow dung."


    "Me too."


    Adam silently scooped a mouthful of crab roe from his bowl and swallowed it, ignoring the fishy taste.


    He said in a deep voice, "Son, I''ve been fishing for many years, and I''ve heard some tales of the sea. There are truly treasures out there. Tomorrow, I''ll go talk to your grandmother. I''ll take you on an adventure. It might be a little late, but we can''t hold the family back."


    "Yes, Father!"


    ...


    [Year 218 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, feeling the gap between themselves and their family, decided to join a Psychic team from a neighboring town to search for a hidden realm in the sea, rumored to be the ''North Sea Dragon Palace,'' the ''Kunpeng Secret Realm,'' or the ''Ephemeral Sacred Realm''...]


    [Olivia, who silently protected the family from the sky, sensed the determination and drive in the hearts of the father and son. She chose to bestow upon them some of the fortune she had accumulated over the years.]


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, have gained the trait: North Sea Treasure Hunters.]


    [Their chances of finding opportunities have increased by 1%.]


    That year, Donna, Helen, and Benjamin watched as a simple ability vessel sailed towards the sea.


    Seeing the worry on her sister-in-law''s face, Donna comforted her, "Helen, don''t worry. They are children of the Blackwood family. Our Blackwood bloodline has never been content with mediocrity. Besides, the Forebearer is protecting them."


    "I know."


    Helen sighed.


    "It''s my fault. I only wanted them to live good lives. But over the years, I''ve realized that even with my constant protection, they still yearn for more. Donna, you don''t know, Adam loved to fight when he was little. He beat up all the kids in the fishing village and secretly cultivated his psychic powers behind my back."


    "Alexander wasn''t any calmer when he grew up. That rascal traveled far and wide, always dreaming of chivalry and justice."


    Hearing this, Donna fell silent for a long time.


    She thought of her own past with her brother and sister.


    Weren''t they the same?


    Finally, she smiled and said, "Perhaps this is the destiny woven into our Blackwood blood."

 Chapter 365 Ive never witnessed such a thing in my lifetime!

    This year, the Blackwood clan gathered once more.Though still facing hardships, they were not without gains.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has consumed the ''crab essence'' and broken through to the early stages of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, honed his swordsmanship while traversing the Blood Domain. A chilling ice sword manifested within him, a life-bound ''Ice Sword'' imbued with the power of rules. Upon its integration, his injuries recovered by 3%.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, has secretly learned a technique for crafting psychic equipment from the Radiant Sky Grotto: the ''Celestial Fire Forging Technique.'']


    [All of your descendants have begun cultivating psychic crystals using the techniques outlined in the ''Celestial Web of Prosperity Technique'' and the ''Pilgrimage to Dust Crystal Scripture.'']


    [...]


    Ethan once again stood before his descendants.


    While they maintained a weary facade in the outside world, within the Forebearer space, their eyes gleamed with vitality.


    As they shared their experiences, they learned of the situations unfolding across the land.


    Cloudview County remained unchanged.


    Despite the Blackwoods'' exile, Daniel still held control.


    Within Sunshine Mansion, the various factions had mysteriously ceased seeking favors from Venerable Phil.


    According to the Venerable himself, he suspected that each major power within Sunshine Mansion was being manipulated by an avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    However, Venerable Phil was certain that within a millennium, the Heavenly Path Venerable would undoubtedly achieve a breakthrough to the Advanced Mastery realm.


    By then, the Blackwoods would no longer concern themselves with the actions of a post-breakthrough Heavenly Path Venerable.


    However, Ethan knew full well that even without reaching Advanced Mastery, the Heavenly Path Venerable had already forced Venerable Phil into seclusion.


    What would happen once that monster achieved his breakthrough?


    They could forget about rescuing Edward or avenging their fallen kin!


    A millennium...


    For the first time, Ethan felt the weight of a thousand years pressing down on him.


    "Julian, how are things on your end? If you can break through to the Competent Force realm and become a sixth-grade psychic equipment crafter, you''ll possess the skill to forge top-tier psychic weapons."


    Ethan turned to Julian, who now carried himself with a newfound maturity, his former recklessness tempered.


    Julian pondered for a long moment before replying, "Father, within the Radiant Sky Grotto, I can sense that the powers from various capitals haven''t given up on their ''concern'' for me. For some reason, our family has become a thorn in their side. They can''t wait for me to meet my end.


    It''s only due to the protection of the Radiant Sky Grotto and General Owen that they haven''t dared to lay a hand on me."


    "The Radiant Sky Grotto only protects me because of General Owen. Even if I were to break through to the Competent Force realm and become a sixth-grade psychic equipment and AI Bionic Robot crafter, they wouldn''t truly treasure me. This place is teeming with rising stars. On the contrary, it would only make those individuals more eager to eliminate me.


    As it stands, I can''t even take half a step outside the Radiant Sky Grotto."


    "However, if..." Julian''s gaze shifted to Donna.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Donna gulped, noticing the look in Julian''s eyes.


    ...


    [Year 220 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has broken through to the early stages of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    Two years had passed since the last gathering.


    Donna sat cross-legged on the surface of the sea, meditating.


    Within a radius of hundreds of miles, countless crabs formed an orderly circle around her.


    Aiden, bound by a century-long pact to protect the Blackwoods, and two other Competent Force realm crab demons stared at the increasingly ominous storm clouds gathering above, their expressions a mixture of regret and terror.


    They regretted laying siege to Donna, which had cost their kind a fellow Competent Force realm member and forced Aiden into servitude.


    But more than that, they were terrified by the sheer power emanating from the tempest above.


    The events of two years prior remained vivid in their minds.


    Aside from the shadowy figure, it was Donna, at the peak of the Developing Skill realm, who had truly instilled fear in their hearts.


    Even before fully taking shape, the tribulation clouds crackled with the might of a nine-nine heavenly tribulation.


    And at the center of it all sat a seemingly delicate young woman.


    A nine-nine heavenly tribulation was the absolute limit for a Pinnacle Apprentice realm cultivator... but not for her.


    "A nine-nine heavenly tribulation... I''ve never witnessed such a thing in my lifetime!"


    "I once saw our clan''s ancestor attempt to overcome an eight-nine heavenly tribulation in my youth. He perished within half a day."


    Aiden sensed something amiss.


    "She''s attempting to overcome this tribulation without even preparing a defensive formation! She intends to face it head-on!"


    "What?!"


    The two Competent Force realm crab demons paled.


    Looking closer, they saw that Donna had indeed made no preparations as the heavenly tribulation loomed.


    ...


    They were mistaken, however.


    The Blackwoods were indeed making preparations... just not the kind Donna needed to defend herself.


    [Your descendant, Daniel, is leading the three realms of Azure Cloud in their largest counteroffensive against the Druids in years!]


    [Druid corpse +1 obtained.]


    [Emerging Ability realm Druid corpse +1 obtained.]


    [Druid corpse...]


    "Attack!"


    On the border of Azure Cloud, Daniel, disguised as Bryce, surveyed the battlefield.


    Duke Kenneth, Jon, Chuck of the Arcane Society... all of the Blackwoods'' old allies had charged into the Endless Forest, engaging the Druids in a fierce battle!


    With each fallen Druid, a specialized team of Azure Cloud Psychics collected their corpses, storing them within Storage Rings before delivering them to Daniel.


    ...


    Golden Empire, Riverton.


    Incense Offering Tower.


    This was Riverton''s largest trading post.


    The aroma of medicinal herbs wafted from within, attracting a throng of Psychics. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The reason for this commotion was a sixth-grade alchemist who had recently arrived in Riverton.


    She claimed to be capable of concocting any sixth or seventh-grade elixir with a success rate and resource efficiency of sixty percent.


    Most alchemists had varying success rates, often requiring three portions of ingredients to produce a single successful batch.


    A sixth-grade alchemist with a sixty percent success rate was an incredibly rare find.


    Moreover, such skilled alchemists rarely bothered with such trivial matters as concocting elixirs for others.


    In no time, a massive crowd had gathered outside the Incense Offering Tower, eager to submit their ingredients before this golden opportunity slipped away.


    Among them were Psychics of the Foundational Energy and Emerging Ability realms, hoping to benefit from the residual psychic energies released during the sixth-grade alchemist''s work.


    [Your descendant, Amelia, is refining elixirs for numerous Psychics in Riverton, Golden Empire. She has acquired a vast quantity of natural treasures and has begun using them to concoct psychic elixirs that enhance physical prowess.]


    Explore more adventures at empire


    [Refining: Seventh-grade Celestial Titan Powder. Upon consumption, it enhances one''s bones and physique, granting the user the strength of a Celestial Titan. Individuals with insufficient physical strength risk bodily explosion.]


    [Refining: Sixth-grade Mystic Vision Elixir. Upon consumption, it unlocks the Heaven''s Eye, allowing the user to perceive the intensity of psychic energies within a hundred-meter radius and pushing their physical body to its limits, making it comparable to a sixth-grade, low-tier psychic ore.]


    [Refining: Seventh-grade Boundless Strength Powder...]


    Inside, Amelia focused her psychic flame on refining the medicinal powders.


    In the past, she would never have considered refining elixirs for outsiders.


    However, with their family struggling to survive and resources scarce, she had no choice but to ply her trade in Riverton.


    To her surprise, business was booming.


    "I''ll slowly build up our family''s wealth by refining elixirs here in the Golden Empire."

 Chapter 366 Hmph! Nine-nine heavenly tribulation?

    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, thirteen members of the Blackwood clan emerged from their 1000-foot-deep subterranean refuge, a rare occurrence after years of hiding.The third generation of Blackwoods, led by Marcus, spearheaded the assault, their movements a blur as they formed a totemic formation, their combined might amplified by ancient power.


    Above them, Marcus unleashed the Sky Temple, its imposing presence a testament to their lineage.


    Four members of the fourth generation stood ready, their years of training evident in their synchronized movements.


    Trapped within their formation was a scholar, clad in traditional Confucian robes, his face contorted in a mixture of frustration and rage.


    Clutching a calligraphy brush in one hand and an inkstone in the other, he glared at the Blackwoods.


    "You scoundrels! How dare you ambush me again?! Does the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary hold no true Psychics? Why must I be your target time and time again?!"


    Thirty minutes later...


    "You ask too many questions."


    Marcus''s words echoed as the Blackwoods vanished, leaving the Bright Light Institute''s Unquestioning Scholar sprawled on the ground in defeat.


    Lingering psychic energies swirled around him, the remnants of his righteous aura and a grand literary work, its every stroke imbued with sorrow, fading into the air.


    Staring blankly at the sky, he sighed, "Curse those Blackwoods!"


    He glanced at his calligraphy brush and inkstone, the only possessions they hadn''t taken.


    This was the second time they had robbed him.


    The third-generation Blackwoods were relentless, and Marcus, with his unfathomable strength, was a force to be reckoned with.


    Those damned Blackwoods took everything... except his tools.


    He hadn''t understood why the first time, but now it dawned on him.


    Those bastards were leaving him his weapons so he could replenish his resources, only for them to swoop in and claim the spoils for themselves.


    A cruel, cyclical joke.


    [Your descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary have once again plundered the Unquestioning Scholar, obtaining a vast quantity of natural treasures.]


    [Sorting through a large number of psychic elixirs that enhance physical prowess...]


    ...


    Several days passed.


    On this day, Blackwood descendants across the land erected altars, their faces solemn as they prepared to make offerings.


    However, these offerings were not meant for Ethan.


    As each item was placed upon the altars, Donna, now beneath the heart of the brewing heavenly tribulation, knelt before the Forebearer''s Psychic Position.


    "Please, Forebearer, rest assured. I will overcome this nine-nine heavenly tribulation and complete the task bestowed upon me by you and the clan. I will free Great Grandfather from his plight!"


    As her words echoed across the land, a multitude of objects materialized on the altars: the corpses painstakingly gathered by her kin, potent psychic elixirs, and the treasures plundered from the Unquestioning Scholar.


    [You have bestowed upon your descendant, Donna, a Storage Ring containing the corpses of three hundred thousand Druids!]


    [You have bestowed upon Donna the seventh-grade Celestial Titan Powder, the sixth-grade Mystic Vision Elixir, the seventh-grade Boundless Strength Powder...]


    [You have bestowed upon Donna the ''Nine Psychic Mystic Flames,'' extracted from the Sky Temple and entrusted to Marcus...]


    A deafening roar shook the heavens as the offerings settled upon the altars.


    The seas churned, the winds howled.


    Aiden and the two crab demons watched in terror, their faces pale.


    Even at a distance, the sheer intensity of the tribulation made them afraid to probe Donna''s condition with their Competent Force senses.


    And now, the tribulation stirred.


    "What... what is this? They didn''t prepare a formation, did they?"


    A colossal formation blazed to life beneath Donna, its runes pulsing with a blood-red light.


    An oppressive aura of death and decay permeated the air, spectral figures swirling within its boundaries.


    "Such a sinister formation... I sense a multitude of souls trapped within!"


    "What... what manner of dark art is this Blackwood girl attempting?"


    They could feel it now.


    Donna was drawing upon the life force of the corpses to fuel her breakthrough.


    No, perhaps she already possessed the strength to withstand the nine-nine heavenly tribulation.


    This... this was her striving for even greater power!


    ...


    [Your descendant is utilizing the ''Living Sacrifice Formation Disk'' prepared by Julian. With the sacrifice of three hundred thousand Druids, her strength will soar to new heights!] S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Thunder roared, a symphony of divine fury.


    Within the tempest, the tribulation clouds coalesced, forming a pair of colossal eyes that glared down at Donna.


    The very heavens seemed angered by her audacity, by her defiance of their might, by the sheer depravity of her methods.


    As bolts of lightning crackled and writhed, Donna stood at the center of the blood-red formation, surrounded by a sea of floating Druid corpses.


    Their life force, their very essence, flowed from their seven orifices, converging upon Donna as she raised her arms towards the sky.


    She had already reached the pinnacle of the Developing Skill realm, yet her power continued to surge.


    The first bolt of lightning, a harbinger of unimaginable destruction, slammed into Donna.


    Yet, she stood firm, her expression unwavering as she endured its might.


    The first strike of the dreaded nine-nine heavenly tribulation... and she had emerged unscathed!


    As the last vestiges of life drained from the corpses, transforming them into withered husks, Donna consumed the pills, their potent energies coursing through her veins.


    Four of the five elemental treasures she had gathered over the years materialized, orbiting her like celestial guardians.


    Then came the Nine Psychic Mystic Flames, a gift from Marcus, extracted from the Sky Temple itself.


    In a heartbeat, the elemental treasures shattered, their essence merging with Donna''s being.


    Her power swelled, threatening to consume her.


    Her eyes blazed with golden light as the Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms reappeared behind her.


    Her body expanded, growing to a towering fifteen feet.


    Her muscles bulged, her veins throbbed, and with a defiant roar, she challenged the heavens.


    "Hmph! Nine-nine heavenly tribulation? Is this the extent of your power? Today, I will see whose might reigns supreme: your divine judgment or my fists!"


    And with that, she charged into the heart of the tribulation.


    The three crab demons watched in awe and terror, their forms trembling before the display of raw power.


    They were mere spectators, their strength insignificant compared to the forces clashing above.


    A full day passed before the storm subsided.


    As the last traces of lightning faded, a small girl in a yellow dress, her hair tied in pigtails, stood calmly amidst the churning sea.


    She was unharmed.


    The pressure emanating from Donna nearly forced the crab demons to their knees.


    ...


    "This... this! Was that a nine-nine heavenly tribulation or a simple Competent Force tribulation?"


    Donna''s tribulation had lasted an entire day, its effects felt even within the small fishing village, where fierce winds and torrential rain lashed the coast.


    Drunken Fool, huddled outside the tavern, had nearly prostrated himself before the sheer power emanating from the sea.


    His own tribulation had nearly cost him his life!


    Your journey continues at empire


    Yet, Donna had emerged from that maelstrom unscathed.


    If not for the lingering traces of lightning surrounding her, Drunken Fool would have believed he had imagined the entire ordeal.


    Even as Donna returned to the village with Aiden, Drunken Fool remained speechless, his mind struggling to comprehend what he had witnessed.


    Beside him, Helen showed no surprise, her expression a mixture of relief and elation.


    "With Donna''s strength, the clan''s ''Divine List Plan'' is sure to succeed!"


    At that moment, all the Blackwoods, their hearts filled with hope after the grand ritual of Year 220, turned their gazes towards the future.


    Ethan, too, allowed himself a glimmer of optimism.

 Chapter 367 More... more treasure hunting?

    [Congratulations! Your descendant, Donna, has successfully overcome the nine-nine heavenly tribulation and ascended to the Competent Force realm!][Family Will +1 obtained.]


    [Following the teachings of her master, Chuck, your descendant Donna has cultivated the high-level Earth-rank technique ''Five Element Body Tempering Art.'' By utilizing five extreme-grade elemental treasures to reshape her physique, she has achieved the pinnacle of physical prowess within the Developing Skill realm.


    Upon breaking through to the Competent Force realm, she has gained the special constitution: Supreme Overlord Body.]


    [Her physical strength has reached its absolute limit, devoid of any flaws, even after ascending to the Competent Force realm. With the ''Five Element Body Tempering Art'' mastered, she can unleash a surge of power several times greater than her normal physical strength through the use of magic formulas.]


    Ethan could sense it.


    From the moment Donna integrated the five elemental treasures, her physical strength had already surpassed that of Abbot David, the terrifying body cultivator who had once escaped a nuclear blast at its epicenter, losing only a leg as the price for his survival.


    The true terror of body cultivators lay in their unparalleled physical might, their bodies impervious to most forms of attack.


    The majority of Psychics focused on cultivating their psychic abilities.


    If they allowed a body cultivator to get close... well, they could kiss their souls goodbye.


    But Donna''s terror didn''t end there.


    [During her tribulation, your descendant Donna consumed the seventh-grade Celestial Titan Powder, the sixth-grade Mystic Vision Elixir, the seventh-grade Boundless Strength Powder, and absorbed the essence of three hundred thousand souls. She has gained the special constitution: Thunder Forged Adamantine Body.]


    [Tempered by the relentless assault of the heavenly tribulation, bolstered by potent elixirs and the life force of countless souls, her very being now crackles with the power of divine judgment. Her attacks are imbued with the might of the heavens, her defenses impenetrable, her physical strength unmatched.]


    ''Supreme Overlord Body,'' ''Thunder Forged Adamantine Body''...


    Ethan couldn''t even fathom the extent of Donna''s current power.


    He was certain, however, that if Aiden, a Competent Force realm expert, were to face Donna in battle, he wouldn''t even touch the hem of her garments.


    A single strike from her would likely send him back to the crab demon''s Forebearer.


    And it wasn''t just Donna''s physical prowess that had undergone a transformation. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms behind her had also experienced a startling evolution.


    [Your descendant, Donna, has ascended to the Competent Force realm. Her companion psychic artifact, the ''seventh-grade Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms,'' has absorbed a vast amount of life force from countless souls, green crabs, and the power of the heavenly tribulation. It has undergone a breakthrough, transforming into the sixth-grade Buddha-Demon Disk.]


    [The Buddha-Demon power can be integrated into her being, transforming her into a Vajrapani Bodhisattva, her defenses amplified by sacred chants. It can also manifest as a Supreme Heavenly Demon, unleashing a torrent of demonic energy to obliterate her foes.]


    [The fusion of Buddha-Demon power has given rise to the Divine Punishment Buddha-Demon Disk. It can summon heavenly lightning, which, when channeled through her body, further enhances her physical prowess, pushing her to the very brink of collapse.]


    Ethan had witnessed Donna''s terrifying transformation as she charged into the heart of the tribulation, absorbing its full might.


    He couldn''t help but wonder: if Donna, now empowered by the combined efforts of their entire clan, were to face Marcus, who would emerge victorious?


    Both were anomalies, monsters in their own right.


    "With this level of power, we can finally put our plan into action."


    Ethan watched as Donna and Helen walked away from the fishing village, their backs straight, their steps filled with purpose.


    A smile touched his lips.


    A special event appeared on the interface.


    [Divine List Plan]


    [Your descendant, Julian, has learned from various Psychics during his years of service in the Radiant Sky Grotto that attaining the top spot on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking would garner the attention of the empire and attract the favor of numerous factions.


    After careful deliberation between Olivia, Jessica, and Joseph, your family has decided to have Donna claim the title of number one Pinnacle Apprentice. This will grant her access to the Radiant Sky Grotto, allowing her to extract Julian discreetly.]


    For years, Julian had been under constant surveillance, unable to advance his cultivation or practice his craft.


    Even the formation disk he had used was painstakingly crafted in secret.


    Olivia had even detected the presence of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatar outside the Radiant Sky Grotto, monitoring Julian''s every move.


    Julian was already a sixth-grade psychic equipment crafter.


    Rescuing him from the imperial capital would be a boon to the Blackwood clan.


    If Donna became the number one Pinnacle Apprentice, she would have ample opportunity to infiltrate the Radiant Sky Grotto and extract Julian.


    And if they failed... well, Donna''s growth alone made it a worthwhile gamble.


    After all, the future was a fickle mistress.


    That much, the Blackwoods knew all too well.


    ...


    Under a warm spring sun, Donna, Helen, and Benjamin set out on their journey.


    Meanwhile, Drunken Fool and Aiden, tasked with protecting Adam and Alexander, ventured into the depths of the sea.


    [Year 222 of the Blackwood Family] Read latest stories on empire


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, joined a psychic expedition to seek treasure in the vast ocean. After years of searching, their efforts yielded little reward.


    The legendary secret realms remained elusive, and their only discovery was the ruins of a Developing Skill realm ''Clam Demon King.'' After a perilous struggle against both their fellow Psychics and the dangers of the ruins, they emerged with a single treasure: an eighth-grade ''Blood Pearl,'' its psychic energies long depleted.]


    [Your descendant, Adam, has broken through to the middle stage of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    "..."


    Ethan watched as the weary father and son emerged from the ruins on a remote island, their bodies bearing the scars of their ordeal.


    He couldn''t help but think of George and his lifelong obsession with tomb raiding.


    All those years spent unearthing ancient secrets, and what had he found?


    Aside from the occasional disgruntled spirit, mostly junk.


    Adam gazed at the other Psychics, their rivalries forgotten as they prepared to depart the island.


    "Alexander," he said, his voice heavy, "come on. Let''s follow them. I refuse to believe we''ll return empty-handed."


    "More... more treasure hunting?" Alexander scratched his head.


    Years spent following his father, and all they had to show for it were bumps and bruises.


    "We press on," Adam said, his voice firm.


    "Alexander, remember this: the journey is just as important as the destination."


    "..."


    Alexander rolled his eyes, recalling the treachery and near-death experiences they had endured within the ruins.


    Easy for him to say.


    They had barely escaped with their lives, let alone any treasure.


    But he knew better than to question his father.


    With a resigned sigh, he boarded their rickety vessel.


    As the father and son sailed into the sunset, Ethan turned his attention to his other descendants.


    [Your thirteen descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary attempted to rob the Unquestioning Scholar once more. However, the now-wary scholar managed to escape. It took them half a month to track him down and relieve him of his possessions once more.


    They obtained a sixth-grade material: the Boundless Rainbow Flower, various seventh-grade materials, and a mid-grade psychic weapon: the Azure Sky Bow.]


    "That''s it! I''m tapped out!"


    Surrounded by the thirteen Blackwoods, the Unquestioning Scholar had lost all semblance of his former dignity.


    He handed over his possessions with a defeated sigh, his arms crossed as he glared at his tormentors.


    "Go on, then! Kill me! I know what you''re doing. But I''m done robbing others! Let''s see how you steal from me now!"


    The Blackwoods exchanged amused glances at the scholar''s outburst.


    "It seems I really can''t keep exploiting one person."


    William''s eyes, tinged with danger, focused intently on the vulnerable spots of the Unquestioning Scholar.


    Years of working together had given Marcus an uncanny ability to decipher William''s thoughts.


    He frowned, sending a mental message.


    "William, leave him be. He may be a notorious thief, but he has never taken a life. He''s more valuable to us alive."


    William waved dismissively, accusing Marcus of thinking the worst of him.


    "In that case," Jessica said with a sly smile, "let''s pay a visit to Kyle. Neil has gathered quite the dossier on him."

 Chapter 368 Is it possible...

    [Year 225 of the Blackwood Family][Luna, guided by the Fox Sage, has broken through to the middle stage of the Competent Force realm.]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has broken through to the middle stage of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    [Your descendants, Donna and Helen, have located the 25th ranked Psychic on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking at the Green Estate and issued a challenge.]


    [...]


    Days turned into months as the Blackwoods diligently honed their psychic abilities.


    Meanwhile, in Cloudview County, Daniel tirelessly sought any information that could lead him to the Heavenly Path Venerable and, ultimately, to Edward''s rescue.


    Unfortunately, Edward, trapped in his avian form, was guarded by a Basic Mastery realm Psychic, a formidable obstacle in Daniel''s path.


    Ethan, too, found himself drawn to the location of Edward''s imprisonment.


    As fate would have it, the Blackwoods had a history with this place.


    [Mount Kunlun Roberts Estate]


    Nestled at the foot of Mount Kunlun, a secluded courtyard stood adorned with intricate formations, drawing in the surrounding psychic energies.


    Within the study, a young man in purple robes emerged, his presence radiating an air of quiet power. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The courtyard was alive with the chirping of countless birds, each confined within ornate cages that hung from the branches of ancient trees.


    The man, his long hair cascading over his shoulders, possessed a striking handsomeness.


    He strolled through the courtyard, eventually stopping before Edward''s cage.


    The transformed Blackwood, a frenzy of feathers and fury, lunged at the bars, desperate to break free and tear at his captor.


    His name was Austin, the patriarch of the Mount Kunlun Roberts Estate, his lifespan already exceeding six thousand years!


    "Interesting."


    Austin chuckled, teasing Edward with a feather.


    "Do you long to kill me, little bird? To avenge your kin? Alas, you Blackwoods are in no position for vengeance. Though I must admit, you possess a certain cunning. To have escaped my grasp and vanished without a trace... For years, I''ve scoured the world, my divination arts failing to pierce the veil concealing your whereabouts.


    Someone, it seems, possesses the power to disrupt my calculations."


    "And yet..." Austin''s lips curled into a cruel smile.


    "You Blackwoods never learn. You underestimate the reach of the Heavenly Path."


    Ethan, who had arrived just in time to hear Austin''s words, felt a chill run down his spine.


    Within his cage, Edward thrashed wildly, his talons scraping against the bars.


    What was the meaning of this?


    They hadn''t learned? They had underestimated the Heavenly Path?!


    Did this mean... their location had been compromised?


    Without hesitation, Ethan vanished from the forest, leaving Austin''s chilling laughter and the frantic chirping of caged birds echoing in his wake.


    ...


    Ethan thanked his ancestors for revealing the Heavenly Path Venerable''s machinations.


    "We''ve been so careful. ''Haven''t learned''? Where did we go wrong?" Find more to read at empire


    He couldn''t afford to waste time.


    Though he had been diligently checking on his descendants, he needed to reassess their situations, ensuring their safety.


    Nathan remained within the Druids'' territory.


    With the elders'' attention waning, he had entered a deep meditative state, cultivating tirelessly for the past sixteen years.


    Luna, under the protection of the Fox Sage, was safe.


    Only a handful within the entire fox clan knew her true identity.


    As for Lucas...


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has received your blessing: the seventh-grade Returning Powder, capable of restoring vitality and purging foreign energies. Combined with years of cultivation in the snowy plains and Diana''s guidance, his injuries have recovered to 20%.]


    "Since ancient times, the sword has been the weapon of both the noble warrior and the silent assassin. And as cultivators often hail from affluent backgrounds, the elegant swordsmanship of the gentleman has always held a certain allure. Over time, the sword has become the preferred method of flight for many Psychics, particularly those in the Emerging Ability realm."


    "But wielding a weapon, especially a sword, requires more than mere skill. It demands intent, an understanding of the underlying rules that govern its power. Your swordsmanship is one of swift, decisive strikes, but the Celestial Sword you inherited... from which fool did you acquire such a flashy, impractical weapon? It has led you astray."


    "True strength lies in simplicity, in returning to the fundamentals..."


    Within an icy cavern, Diana, her ethereal form resting upon a bed of ice, guided Lucas''s cultivation.


    Her words, honed by centuries of experience, resonated deeply within him.


    And now, a new rule began to coalesce around Lucas.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has gained a deeper understanding of cultivation. The ''Stone Sword,'' a manifestation of his comprehension of rules, has taken form within him.]


    Amelia remained hidden, amassing a fortune through her alchemical prowess.


    Riverton, located within the Golden Empire and under the protection of powerful Psychics, was a safe haven.


    No one dared to disrupt the peace within its walls, lest they face the empire''s wrath.


    There was no way her actions could be construed as reckless or arrogant.


    Julian''s situation remained unchanged.


    He continued his menial tasks, biding his time.


    Olivia, as always, was a phantom, her movements shrouded in secrecy.


    Ethan checked on each of his descendants, even the thirteen within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, finding no cause for concern.


    "Donna? She broke through to the Competent Force realm recently, enduring the nine-nine heavenly tribulation... but that doesn''t add up. She, Helen, and Benjamin went into hiding immediately after her breakthrough."


    As if to emphasize his words, a vision appeared before him: a raging wildfire consuming a mountainside.


    Amidst the chaos, Donna, Helen, and Benjamin blended seamlessly with a crowd of fleeing villagers.


    [Your descendant, Donna, has successfully defeated the 25th ranked Psychic on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, earning the moniker ''The Supreme One'' within the martial world.]


    Challenging a ranked Psychic was a tad reckless, but at least she hadn''t revealed her true identity.


    Still, Ethan could tell from the remnants of the battle that Donna had been pushed to her limits.


    She was new to the Competent Force realm, her reserves of psychic energy still developing.


    Her opponent, on the other hand, was a peak Competent Force expert.


    Unlike Marcus, whose strength stemmed primarily from external sources, Donna relied on her raw physical power.


    As for Adam and Alexander...


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, have spent years exploring the world, their efforts yielding little reward. Their psychic vessel, crewed by fellow Psychics, was attacked by a monstrous beast. Separated from their companions and pursued by the creature, they were rescued by a band of pirates.


    In return for their lives, they pledged their services, becoming members of the ''Skyhorse Island Pirates.'']


    [Trait obtained: Pirate]


    [Combat prowess at sea increased by 2%.]


    ...


    Unable to pinpoint the source of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s suspicions, Ethan, his anxiety growing with each passing moment, opened the Forebearer space.


    The Psychic Positions of his descendants across the land lit up, their souls converging within the ethereal realm.


    "Forebearer," Olivia said, her voice laced with concern, "the Heavenly Path Venerable is still searching for us. This suggests he either hasn''t found a way to strike at us directly or... he hasn''t pinpointed our locations."


    "Or perhaps," Joseph interjected, his tone cautious, "it''s a ploy to lure us out of hiding. I believe we should gather in the Snow Domain. It''s a desolate, unforgiving place, nearly uninhabitable. We can wait there until this blows over... ahem."


    Sensing the eyes of his kin upon him, Joseph coughed awkwardly.


    Still, his suggestion held merit.


    The Blackwoods needed to be more vigilant than ever.


    "Forebearer," Olivia said suddenly, her voice thoughtful, "is it possible... that the ''Blackwoods'' the Heavenly Path Venerable spoke of, the ones who ''haven''t learned'' and ''underestimated'' him... are not us?"

 Chapter 369 I... I know nothing of this

    A wave of realization washed over the Blackwoods. They were right!Two hundred years after its founding, "Blackwood" represented far more than just their bloodline. Across Cloudview County, countless individuals now identified as Blackwoods.


    The various factions, families, the Azure Cloud army, the Heavenly Justice Hall... all were bound to the Blackwood name.


    Even Glory City, frozen in time by the Primordial Blood Tree, held only a fraction of their true number.


    Since the massacre, many Blackwood-affiliated groups had faced external threats. While the leaders of Azure Cloud remained their allies, the same couldn''t be said for everyone beneath them.


    Many had chosen to go into hiding, their allegiances a closely guarded secret.


    Rumors also spoke of individuals, once associated with the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Dawn organization, who had formed their own factions, dedicating their lives to uncovering the truth behind the Blackwoods'' downfall and seeking vengeance.


    "Daniel," Ethan commanded, his voice grave, "investigate this. But reveal nothing that could compromise our safety."


    "As you command, Forebearer."


    ...


    Within the familiar forest near Milltown, where Benjamin had once narrowly escaped death at the hands of an Emerging Ability peak expert, over a hundred figures cloaked in black emerged from the shadows.


    An autumn wind rustled through the trees, whipping their dark robes around them. An air of mystery settled upon the otherwise ordinary forest.


    Before them stood one hundred and thirty-seven individuals, all connected to the Psychic who had hunted Benjamin all those years ago.


    An elderly man, his cultivation at the Transcendent Seed realm, prostrated himself before the lead figure in black.


    "Please, spare me! I know not what I have done to deserve this. I have lived an honest life in Milltown, never crossing paths with you or your kind. What have I done to warrant such treatment?"


    The lead figure''s voice was a low rumble. "Fifteen years ago, your disciple hunted a young man named Benjamin."


    "I... I know nothing of this. My disciple... he perished long ago."


    The old man''s voice trembled, his face ashen. And he wasn''t lying.


    The next instant, as autumn leaves swirled around them, all one hundred and thirty-seven individuals collapsed, their lifeblood staining the forest floor crimson.


    The wind tugged at the hoods of the lead figures, revealing their faces.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster!


    Chuck!


    Nate...


    Sam, Jessica''s son, who bore a trace of Blackwood blood and had inherited the Jones family legacy!


    Blake, son of Matthew, who had once been adopted into the Moore family and become its patriarch!


    This group, numbering one hundred and eight strong, possessed a combined might that rivaled half of Azure Cloud''s forces. None were weaker than the Developing Skill realm. Each was bound to the Blackwoods by unbreakable ties.


    They had gathered in secret, their movements orchestrated by Blake, before venturing out from Sunshine Mansion. They understood the true nature of the enemy that had brought the Blackwoods low. A simple surprise attack couldn''t have resulted in such utter annihilation. They had remained hidden, their true identities concealed, as they sought answers.


    And deep down, they clung to the belief that somewhere, somehow, other Blackwoods had survived.


    Every soul present carried the weight of their connection to the fallen clan.


    "Benjamin was only at the peak of the Foundational Energy realm," Sam said, his voice sharp with intelligence, a trait inherited from his mother, Jessica. "If he escaped an Emerging Ability peak expert, someone had to have helped him. The Blackwoods cannot be truly gone."


    "They are hiding," Blake said, his voice low and dangerous. "Whoever orchestrated their downfall is still hunting them. That''s why they remain silent."


    "Then we must tread carefully," the Celestial Star Swordmaster said, his brow furrowed. "If we reveal ourselves, we risk leading the enemy straight to them. We cannot become the instruments of their destruction."


    Chuck''s heart clenched at Blake''s words. The thought of abandoning their search was unbearable.


    He had been assisting Joseph and Katie with the Heavenly Justice Hall in Sunshine Mansion when disaster struck. The Blackwood''s "Millennium Blood Renewal Plan" had failed, resulting in the deaths of all known descendants. He hadn''t even had the chance to say goodbye to Olivia. All he knew was that she and his dear friend, Lucas, had perished in Glory City.


    He refused to accept this reality. There were still so many things he had to do. He had promised to help Lucas exact his revenge on the Crimson Gate Syndicate once he recovered. He had dreamed of having countless little sword saints with Olivia.


    "The Heavenly Justice Hall received a report," Nate said, his voice cold. "A massive storm ravaged a coastal village in the North Sea. They say it lasted an entire day, accompanied by unprecedented lightning. Rumors speak of someone undergoing the nine-nine heavenly tribulation. I''ve heard whispers of a Blackwood branch residing in that region. I believe it''s them."


    "I don''t care about the risks," Nate snarled, his voice thick with grief. "I will find the Blackwoods. I will find out who did this. And I will make them pay for what they did to Katie."


    His words sparked a heated debate. Some feared that their actions would only bring further harm to the surviving Blackwoods. Others argued that they had to find their kin, to face whatever dangers lay ahead together.


    As the argument raged, Chuck stepped away from the group, seeking solace in the quiet embrace of the forest. Years had passed since he had sent Donna away. Years of silence, her absence a constant ache in his heart.


    A twig snapped, the sound of footsteps crunching on fallen leaves reaching his ears. He whirled around, his body tensing.


    "Who''s there?!"


    Psychic energy surged around him as he assessed the newcomer. The aura was unmistakable.


    A body cultivator.


    But this aura... it was familiar yet different. Powerful, tinged with a darkness he had never sensed before, yet strangely serene.


    As the figure stepped into the light, Chuck froze, his mind reeling.


    "Dis... Disciple? No... It can''t be. My foolish student could never possess such power."


    "Is that any way to greet your master, you mangy mutt?"


    ...


    Meanwhile, an AI Bionic Robot, its metallic body battered and stained with blood, strode purposefully towards Sunshine Mansion. Its appearance, a grotesque parody of life, sent chills down the spines of those who dared to meet its gaze.


    A single talisman, radiating the aura of a Competent Force expert, was plastered across its chest. Yet, it moved with a chilling lack of killing intent, deterring any would-be challengers. No one in their right mind would provoke a being of such power without good reason.


    Upon reaching the outskirts of Sunshine Mansion, the AI Bionic Robot scaled a nearby mountain, its gaze fixed on the Roberts Estate nestled at the foot of Mount Kunlun. A series of mechanical clicks escaped its mangled vocalizer, a sound that sent shivers down the spines of those who heard it. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Within the heavily guarded estate, no one noticed the harbinger of chaos perched upon the mountaintop.

 Chapter 370 Who? Who are you?

    Within his secluded courtyard, Austin, the avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable, maintained his air of serene indifference.He spent his days cultivating, his power growing with each passing moment, or tormenting the unfortunate souls trapped within his cages.


    Each captive was a vanquished foe, their spirits broken, their bodies imprisoned.


    The air crackled with their venomous curses, a symphony of hatred directed at their tormentor.


    Yet, Austin reveled in their despair. Each insult was a testament to his power, a reminder of his triumphs.


    These pathetic creatures were nothing more than caged birds, forced to witness his ascent to godhood.


    As he basked in their impotent rage, a flicker of curiosity crossed his mind.


    He turned his gaze towards Edward, his feathered form huddled in the corner of his cage.


    When Austin had first revealed his intentions to target the Blackwoods once more, Edward had reacted with predictable fury.


    Yet, after two days, his rage had subsided, replaced by an unsettling silence.


    "Why so quiet today, little bird?" Austin asked, his voice laced with amusement.


    Edward remained motionless, his eyes fixed on Austin with unwavering intensity.


    "Very well," Austin chuckled. "You may be silent now, but your rage will resurface eventually."


    "This Sunshine Mansion... so many families have risen and fallen alongside your precious Blackwoods."


    "And their rising stars... they far surpassed anything your bloodline ever produced."


    He gestured towards the cages, his laughter echoing through the courtyard.


    "There was once a rising star from the Emerald Empire who feasted on the life force of his enemies."


    "He reached the Developing Skill realm at thirty, the Competent Force realm by fifty."


    He pointed to another cage, a cruel smile playing on his lips.


    "This one... his bloodline was blessed by the heavens."


    "They are born with the power of lightning coursing through their veins, immune to the wrath of the heavens."


    "They, too, sought to claim Sunshine Mansion as their own, just like your Blackwoods."


    He moved on to the next cage, his voice dripping with disdain.


    "And this one... born with eyes that could perceive the very essence of any technique."


    "A single glance, and he could master it."


    "And yet," Austin said, his voice laced with a chilling finality, "all they can do is curse my name."


    He chuckled softly.


    "You Blackwoods... you are but frogs in a well."


    "You surround yourselves with sycophants, those foolish enough to claim the Blackwood name as their own."


    "They should have perished long ago."


    "But it seems their misguided loyalty has led them straight into my trap."


    "They believe reaching the imperial capital will guarantee their safety? How amusing."


    As Austin spoke, Edward could contain his rage no longer.


    He lunged at the bars of his cage, his cries a torrent of fury and despair.


    He had lived a long life, witnessed countless horrors.


    But he had never encountered a monster like the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    It seemed that no matter how talented, how powerful a rising star may be, they were nothing before the might of the Heavenly Path.


    He controlled everything.


    "Hahaha!" Austin roared, his laughter echoing through the courtyard as he reveled in Edward''s despair.


    ...


    Meanwhile, on the shores of the North Sea, Blake and his companions arrived at Coastal Village.


    They stood before a familiar sight: the dilapidated tavern where Helen and her family had once sought refuge.


    The tavern was deserted, its doors bolted shut, its interior coated in a thick layer of dust.


    Undeterred, the group fanned out, their formations, talismans, and divination tools humming with power as they searched for any trace of the Blackwoods.


    "I sense lingering psychic energies!"


    "I''ve traced the residual aura on this bed. It''s faint, but I see them... the Blackwoods."


    "I''ve searched the memories of the villagers. It''s hazy, but I managed to extract an image of the family who lived here."


    "The resemblance to the Blackwoods is undeniable! They said another group arrived later..."


    "I believe the Blackwoods used some kind of technique to obscure their memories."


    "But they were heading... towards the imperial capital!"


    "The imperial capital? The Heavenly Justice Hall confirmed it."


    "The ''Supreme One,'' the one who challenged and defeated the 25th ranked Psychic... they were last seen heading in that direction."


    "It''s them! It has to be! The Blackwoods are heading for the imperial capital!"


    "We''ve found them! Hahaha! We''ve finally found them! To the imperial capital!"


    With renewed purpose, the group set off towards the heart of the empire.


    Three months had passed since Chuck had encountered Donna in the forest near Milltown.


    Yet, he feigned ignorance, mirroring the excitement of his companions. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But beneath the surface, his mind raced, his gaze darting between his fellow travelers, searching for any sign, any clue.


    "What manner of monster is this?" he muttered under his breath.


    "To possess such power... I was a fool to think I had seen all the world had to offer."


    He had been oblivious to the true nature of the enemy that hunted the Blackwoods.


    When he had intervened all those years ago, he had assumed the masked figures were merely agents of some powerful faction.


    It was only recently that he had learned the truth: they were all puppets, controlled by a single, terrifying will.


    He had believed the Blackwoods to be a force of nature, their power unmatched.


    But that fateful day, he had glimpsed the abyss, and it had stared back.


    "Master Chuck, what troubles you?"


    Blake''s voice snapped him out of his thoughts.


    "Once we find the main family, we''ll finally know the truth. And I will avenge my father."


    "Indeed," Chuck murmured, his brow furrowed.


    He couldn''t shake the feeling that something wasn''t right.


    As they journeyed onward, their faces alight with hope, they remained oblivious to the true scope of the threat they faced.


    And they were walking straight into the lion''s den.


    Because among them... walked an avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    "Who? Who are you?"


    Ever since his encounter with Donna, Chuck had been plagued by a terrifying realization: their every move, every decision, had been orchestrated by the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    They had left Sunshine Mansion, their movements shrouded in secrecy, yet the enemy had anticipated their every step.


    It could only mean one thing: the Heavenly Path Venerable had infiltrated their ranks.


    No, it wasn''t just their group. It was possible that Sunshine Mansion, perhaps even the entire Emerald Empire, was riddled with his avatars.


    That was the true terror of the Heavenly Path Venerable: he was everywhere.


    This group, this desperate search for the Blackwoods... it was all part of his plan.


    Donna''s appearance three months ago, the attack on their group... it was all a test.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable had allowed them to live, to continue their search, because he needed them to lead him to the remaining Blackwoods.


    ...


    Time marched on, relentless and unforgiving.


    [Year 226 of the Blackwood Family]


    The imperial capital loomed before them, a sprawling metropolis of grandeur and ambition.


    On its outskirts, nestled amidst rolling hills and humble villages, lay Cedar Ridge, an unremarkable mountain that held no significance to the bustling city.


    After six months of relentless searching, following the faintest of trails, the group of black-clad figures finally reached their destination.


    They ascended Cedar Ridge, their swords humming as they soared through the air.


    Before them stood a humble thatched hut, its simplicity a stark contrast to the opulence of the nearby capital.


    Outside the hut, a young man sat cross-legged, his brow furrowed in concentration as he cultivated, his hands moving in the intricate patterns of a magic formula.


    A woman, her brow slick with sweat, hauled buckets of water, her movements practiced and efficient.


    She looked every bit the part of a simple farmer''s wife.


    A young woman in fine clothes, her laughter echoing through the air, chased after a swirling mist, her demeanor carefree and playful.


    It was them. Donna, Helen, and Benjamin. They had found them.


    The trio looked up, their expressions wary as they registered the arrival of the strangers.


    But as their gazes fell upon the faces of their unexpected guests, their eyes widened in shock and disbelief.


    "Donna? Donna, Master has found you!"


    Chuck rushed forward, his voice thick with emotion, his eyes shining with a joy he had thought lost forever.


    But amidst the joyous reunion, a pair of cold, calculating eyes watched from the shadows of the Azure Cloud contingent.


    A cruel smile spread across the stranger''s lips as he uttered a single, chilling sentence.


    "Yes, we''ve found them. Hehehe... we''ve finally found them."

 Chapter 371 Why did you kill him?

    At that moment, within the imperial capital, figures soared through the sky, converging on Cedar Ridge.They were the rising stars of the empire, Psychics whose names were whispered in awe, some even the offspring of high-ranking officials, or officials themselves.


    Over three hundred strong, they assembled outside Cedar Ridge, their combined might a force to be reckoned with.


    At their forefront stood a man in his prime, clad in silver armor, a long spear strapped to his back.


    Any noble within the imperial capital would recognize him instantly.


    Brody, the eldest son of a minor psychic clan, was a prodigy blessed with extraordinary talent.


    At a mere five hundred years old, he had already ascended to the third position on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, earning the moniker "Invincible Dragon Spear Brody."


    He commanded a thousand imperial mercenaries, tasked with safeguarding the capital.


    His meteoric rise had elevated his entire clan to unimaginable heights.


    His gaze fixed on Cedar Ridge, Brody''s eyes glinted with cold determination.


    He raised his spear, its tip pointed menacingly at the mountain.


    "One hundred and seven from Azure Cloud, three Blackwoods. Leave none alive."


    "Yes, sir!"


    As his command echoed through the air, the Heavenly Path avatars surged forward, their formations, talismans, psychic weapons, and advanced psychic gear unleashed in a dazzling display of power.


    Brody braced himself, ready to face the Blackwood who had defied the nine-nine heavenly tribulation.


    But as his forces descended upon Cedar Ridge, his expression shifted, a flicker of confusion replacing his confidence.


    Before they could even strike, a blinding light erupted from the mountain, blocking their path.


    Figures scrambled to escape, their movements panicked and desperate.


    The avatars'' power surged, their strength amplified by their master''s will.


    "Damn it! Damn it all!" Brody roared, his fury echoing through the air as he watched the fleeing figures.


    "We''ve been tricked, Brody!"


    "The Blackwoods knew we were coming. Our informant is dead."


    "They lured us into a trap! Those cunning bastards!"


    "Retreat! Everyone, fall back!"


    ...But they couldn''t see him.


    The Blackwood Forebearer stood before them, his presence concealed, his gaze fixed on the retreating avatars.


    He memorized their faces, their auras, committing them to memory.


    A sly smile touched his lips.


    "Heavenly Path, your reign of terror ends today. It''s time you tasted defeat."


    ...


    Within the Kunlun Mountains, at the Roberts Estate, Austin, the avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable, felt a surge of anger as he witnessed the events unfolding at Cedar Ridge.


    He had dispatched his avatars, their movements swift and decisive.


    He had seen Donna and the Azure Cloud contingent exchanging pleasantries, their interactions seemingly genuine.


    But the moment his imperial avatars arrived, Donna had sprung her trap, eliminating his hidden agent within the Azure Cloud group.


    And then, they had vanished.


    At that moment, a panicked servant rushed into the courtyard.


    "Patriarch! There''s an AI Bionic Robot at the gate... it... it demands an audience with you. It radiates the aura of a Competent Force expert. It claims to have urgent news.


    I dared not refuse it entry."


    As the servant finished speaking, a blood-soaked AI Bionic Robot strode into the courtyard.


    Its voice, a chilling whisper, echoed through the air.


    "Heavenly Path, it seems you have three hundred and twenty-seven avatars within the imperial capital. Your ambitions are vast, indeed. But I''m afraid your plans have hit a snag. Of course, you have a choice. You can send more powerful avatars to their rescue."


    "Or," the robot continued, its voice laced with a chilling finality, "you can release Edward. At least then, your third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice avatar might survive."


    Silence descended upon the courtyard as Austin contemplated his options.


    Within his cage, Edward thrashed wildly, his heart pounding with a mixture of hope and fury.


    This was the message his clan had sent.


    They had exposed the Heavenly Path''s presence within the imperial capital.


    Continue your adventure at empire


    Now, Austin''s wrath would surely fall upon him.


    But he wanted to scream, to rage against his captors.


    Kill them! Kill every last one of those bastards! Even if it meant his own death!


    ...


    Within a remote village in the imperial capital, the Blackwoods and the Azure Cloud contingent gathered, their expressions a mixture of confusion and apprehension.


    Moments after their arrival, Donna had struck, eliminating a former Dawn assassin within their ranks.


    "Donna, why did you kill him?"


    "Sister Donna, what have you done?"


    "Sister Donna..."


    "Lady Donna..."


    As the shock subsided, a chorus of questions erupted, their voices laced with disbelief and fear.


    But as they spoke, they faltered, their gazes meeting, a shared realization dawning upon them.


    Donna''s lips curled into a sly smile.


    "Surprised?"


    "..."


    Her laughter hung in the air, a chilling counterpoint to their growing unease.


    They understood now.


    Donna hadn''t been searching for them individually.


    She had been testing them all.


    "I apologize," Donna said, her voice softening slightly.


    "I knew the Heavenly Path had infiltrated our ranks. So, I sought each of you out, revealing that his avatar was among us. I observed your reactions, hoping to expose him. But he was too well hidden."


    "Then," she continued, her voice hardening, "I gave each of you a different location, a false trail leading to our supposed hideout. Until... Cedar Ridge. His avatars converged on that mountain too quickly, their movements betraying their master''s urgency. That''s how I identified him."


    Donna''s appearance, her every action, had been a carefully orchestrated trap, a desperate gamble to expose the enemy within.


    And it had worked.


    Ethan now knew the true identities of the Heavenly Path''s avatars.


    "I see," the others murmured, their initial anger fading as they grasped the gravity of the situation.


    They couldn''t fault Donna for her mistrust.


    Facing an enemy as cunning and ruthless as the Heavenly Path Venerable demanded extreme caution.


    Donna''s gaze hardened as she turned towards Blake, her voice a chilling whisper.


    "Blake, you believe our plan was flawless, don''t you?" S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her words hung in the air, a spark igniting a powder keg.


    The Azure Cloud contingent erupted, their psychic gear and weapons materializing as they stared at Blake, the architect of their search, Matthew''s eldest son, trapped within their circle.


    ...


    Back in the Kunlun Mountains, Ethan stood before Austin, his expression unreadable.


    The news from the imperial capital had reached them.


    The Heavenly Path''s avatars had been exposed.


    For the first time, Austin, the avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable, was silent, his mind seemingly communing with his other selves.


    Ethan refused to miss a single detail.


    This was the first true clash between the Blackwoods and the Heavenly Path.


    Over the years, they had never given up on their quest to understand their enemy.


    They knew he was a shapeshifter, a being capable of fragmenting his consciousness into countless avatars.


    Mary had gleaned some information from Venerable Phil.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable reincarnated within the Emerald Empire every few centuries.


    His main consciousness would nurture his new vessel, guiding its development until it reached a certain level of power.


    Then, he would withdraw, leaving the avatar to its own devices.


    This process could take months, even years, depending on the vessel''s innate talent.


    He only invested in true prodigies.


    Once the main consciousness departed, the avatars would develop their own personalities, their actions guided by their master''s will.


    Michael, the Competent Force Duke who had manipulated Azure Cloud, was one such example.


    They also knew that when an avatar perished, its power, its memories, even its unique constitution, would be absorbed by the remaining avatars.


    And then there was the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable had relentlessly hunted the Blackwoods, yet thirteen of their kin remained safe within his sanctuary.


    It was an anomaly, a puzzle that demanded an explanation.


    "Know your enemy, know yourself, and you will not be imperiled in a hundred battles."


    This was their chance to test their understanding, to strike a blow against the seemingly invincible Heavenly Path.

 Chapter 372 Damn it! Damn it all!

    "Are you threatening me?"As Ethan observed, Austin gazed playfully at the Blackwood''s AI Bionic Robot, his voice laced with mockery.


    "Or do you truly believe those in the imperial capital hold any real significance to us?"


    With a casual flick of his wrist, Austin shattered the robot, its metallic body crumbling into dust.


    He then picked up his bird teasing stick, prodding at Edward, who was frantically beating against the bars of his cage.


    A cruel smile spread across his lips.


    "Congratulations, Blackwoods. You''ve proven to be far more entertaining than any of my previous adversaries."


    Seeing Austin''s nonchalant demeanor and Edward''s unharmed state, Ethan let out a sigh of relief and vanished from the courtyard.


    ...


    Within the Forebearer space, the Blackwoods gathered, their expressions grim.


    Ethan relayed Austin''s dismissive attitude, his words hanging heavy in the air.


    Olivia''s eyes lit up with understanding.


    "Forebearer, I think I''ve figured it out. The Heavenly Path''s avatars... they have a weakness."


    "A weakness?"


    The Blackwoods leaned forward, their attention rapt.


    "Each of the Heavenly Path''s avatars possesses its own consciousness," Olivia explained.


    "They are both a collective and individual entities. They obey the commands of the main consciousness, but when one dies, its power is distributed among the remaining avatars. This means they would benefit from each other''s demise, inheriting their strength!"


    "However," she continued, "they seem to be bound by some rule that prevents them from harming each other. Otherwise, they would have already resorted to eliminating their rivals to enhance their own power."


    "That''s why Austin, the one in the Kunlun Mountains, doesn''t care about the fate of his imperial avatars. In fact, he might even prefer it if we wiped them out!"


    As Olivia revealed her insights into the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars, Joseph''s eyes narrowed.


    "Furthermore, Forebearer," he added, "you noticed how those avatars at Cedar Ridge immediately fled once they realized it was a trap."


    "This means that beyond following the main consciousness''s orders, each avatar desires to survive, to be the last one standing."


    "He''s cultivating them like gu worms, pitting them against each other!"


    "And the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary..."


    A chilling realization dawned upon them.


    Jessica drew a sharp breath.


    "If this is how the Heavenly Path operates, then the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is likely another gu cultivation ground! The last one standing... will be possessed by the main consciousness! Venerable Phil said the sanctuary is an extension of the Heavenly Path Venerable himself. Uncle Ethan obtained the Heavenly Path Tear, an artifact of immense importance...


    The sanctuary must hold the key to the Heavenly Path Venerable''s greatest secrets."


    As the Blackwoods pieced together the puzzle, their eyes gleamed with newfound hope.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable wasn''t invincible. He had weaknesses.


    And the more they learned about him, the greater their chances of victory, however slim they might be.


    "Let''s see what our captive has to say," Ethan said, his eyes narrowed.


    "I want to know if the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars share their memories."


    ...


    Ethan reappeared in the small village, where the Blackwoods and the Azure Cloud contingent had surrounded Blake.


    Blake looked up at Donna, his expression a mixture of confusion and feigned innocence.


    "Aunt Donna, are you testing me again? This is a rather elaborate joke."


    The others exchanged uneasy glances.


    After Donna''s previous deception, they assumed this was another test.


    After all, Blake, the one who had rallied them to find the Blackwoods, was an obvious suspect.


    But Donna''s expression remained cold, her gaze unwavering.


    The other Blackwoods mirrored her demeanor.


    "Unfortunately, this is no joke," Donna said, her voice devoid of warmth.


    With a gesture, she immobilized Blake, sealing his senses.


    "This place is no longer safe. We need to relocate. And while we do, we''ll extract some information from our guest. I need volunteers with... persuasive skills."


    The others hesitated, but seeing Donna''s unwavering resolve, they complied.


    As they moved to a new location, Blake''s screams echoed through the night.


    Chuck flew to Donna''s side, his brow furrowed with concern.


    "Donna, why are you so certain Blake is a Heavenly Path avatar? What if you''re wrong?"


    "Master," Donna whispered, "Blake is a distant relative. He knows us better than most. How do you think the Heavenly Path managed to catch us off guard? Someone betrayed us. Think about it. The Moores were decimated.


    Even Matthew perished. Yet, a small fraction survived. It was a diversion. And then there''s the fact that he gathered all of you..."


    "I see," Chuck murmured, his blood running cold as he grasped the true extent of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s reach.


    He now suspected that there might be more avatars hidden among them.


    But Donna hadn''t revealed everything.


    She glanced at the others before turning back to Chuck.


    "Master, I need to leave. We''ve exposed the Heavenly Path''s presence in the imperial capital, but the danger hasn''t passed. We need to scatter, to make ourselves harder to target."


    "I have things to do," she added, her voice hardening.


    "I need to make the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars... afraid."


    ...


    "Aaaaagh!"


    Within a lavish estate in the imperial capital, Brody, the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice, the "Invincible Dragon Spear," roared in agony.


    He wasn''t alone.


    Every avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable felt it: a searing pain emanating from their very souls, a shared agony originating from Blake''s tortured form.


    They shared their senses, their memories, their power.


    But they also shared their pain.


    Your journey continues on empire


    "Damn it! Damn it all!" Brody raged, his voice laced with fear and desperation.


    "Five hundred years! It took me five hundred years to reach this point! I command a thousand mercenaries! I''m the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice! I''m on the verge of becoming a Basic Mastery expert! I have ambitions, plans!


    I will become a true power within the imperial capital! This is the path to true godhood! We will become ancient gods!"


    "Heavenly Path! The Blackwoods know! They''re torturing me! Send someone! Send someone to save me!"


    "I should be your true vessel! I was simply born too late! Otherwise, I would have already reached Basic Mastery! I wouldn''t have to bow to those weaklings in Sunshine Mansion!"


    Brody''s screams echoed through the empty estate. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He didn''t notice the pair of eyes watching him from the shadows.

 Chapter 373 Ill only take one item

    "Forebearer, should we eliminate him?" Donna murmured, her voice barely audible above the din of the bustling teahouse outside the Hall Estate.The identities of the Heavenly Path avatars who had converged on Cedar Ridge were now known to the Forebearer. With a single thought, he could orchestrate their demise.


    [No.] Ethan''s Psychic Position flickered, a silent veto. Assassinations within the imperial capital were far too risky.


    He had infiltrated the Hall Estate, witnessed Brody''s descent into madness. He had seen it with his own eyes: the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars could feel pain. Brody had even resorted to shutting down his senses, likely severing the connection with his fellow avatars to escape their shared agony.


    Their suspicions had been confirmed. The Heavenly Path''s avatars, in the absence of their master''s direct control, were each vying for dominance, each striving to become the sole inheritor of their master''s power.


    "This means that even the Heavenly Path, for all his might, has a weakness," Ethan mused, a glimmer of hope flickering within him. "He''s like a fractured mind, his avatars locked in a constant struggle for control. We can''t eliminate the other avatars in the imperial capital. If they perish, Brody will ascend to Basic Mastery, and the remaining avatars will grow stronger."


    He felt a strange sense of calm wash over him.


    They had found a crack in the enemy''s armor, a vulnerability they could exploit. He believed that even a god could be brought low, if he and his clan remained united, their resolve unwavering. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan had even considered controlling one of the Heavenly Path''s avatars, guiding it towards becoming the dominant consciousness. But he quickly dismissed the idea.


    The main consciousness could still exert its influence, and while the avatars might be susceptible to manipulation, as evidenced by Austin''s hesitation when confronted by the AI Bionic Robot, Ethan knew they would never truly submit to an outsider''s control.


    "But the fact that they can be swayed... that''s enough."


    Ethan reappeared within the Forebearer space. Donna''s Psychic Position pulsed with light as she materialized beside him.


    "Forebearer!" Donna bowed respectfully.


    "Rise, child," Ethan said, his voice low and steady. "Continue with the mission. Extract Julian from the Radiant Sky Grotto. And keep Blake alive. Have our friends from Azure Cloud assist in capturing and containing the weaker Heavenly Path avatars within the imperial capital."


    "As you command, Forebearer."


    A smile touched Ethan''s lips. "And while you''re at it... collect some interest."


    ...


    [Year 228 of the Blackwood Family]


    Two years had passed. Donna remained in the imperial capital, her movements a carefully choreographed dance of shadows and whispers.


    Meanwhile, outside the capital, another figure roamed the land, his movements erratic and unpredictable.


    Bill Daoist, the Blackwood''s eccentric ally, vanished from one location only to reappear in another, his movements guided by an unseen hand. His communication stone pulsed with light, eliciting a weary sigh. "Another one? This is getting out of hand. And dangerous. Why do I always get stuck dealing with these troublesome youngsters?"


    Moments later, Bill Daoist materialized within a bustling teahouse in the imperial capital. The Celestial Star Swordmaster sat at a table, sipping tea. He greeted Bill Daoist with a nod, his expression grim. With a flick of his wrist, he produced a scroll from his Storage Ring.


    As the scroll unfurled, it revealed an image of a cage, a woman trapped within its confines. The woman pounded against the bars, her desperate cries for help echoing from the painted surface.


    Bill Daoist produced a similar scroll, his own canvas depicting a multitude of cages, each holding a captive.


    With a surge of psychic energy, Bill Daoist erased the cage from the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s scroll, transferring the woman''s image to his own collection.


    "Only one this time?" Bill Daoist frowned. "Your progress in capturing the Heavenly Path''s avatars seems to be slowing down."


    "It can''t be helped, Senior," the Celestial Star Swordmaster replied, his usual arrogance replaced by a weary resignation. "We started with the weaker ones. The remaining avatars are far more powerful, and their positions within society make them difficult to target. Besides, the Heavenly Path has dispatched a Basic Mastery avatar to Sunshine Mansion.


    We wouldn''t dare make such bold moves without your protection."


    "We''re walking a tightrope," Bill Daoist chuckled, shaking his head. "I''ve never encountered such a formidable foe. You should leave now. I sense his Basic Mastery avatar approaching."


    "As you command, Senior."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster and Bill Daoist vanished, their presence fading like wisps of smoke. Moments later, an elderly man materialized in their place.


    He sensed the lingering traces of their auras, his eyes flashing with irritation. "Foolish Blackwoods. Do they truly believe they can topple a mountain with their bare hands? How amusing!"


    His final words were a guttural growl, a testament to his growing frustration.


    Two years. He had been here for two years. He, the Heavenly Path Venerable, with his countless avatars, had always been the hunter, not the hunted. But this time, he had been outmaneuvered, outsmarted by the Blackwoods and those insignificant ants, Bill Daoist and the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    They had devised a way to capture and contain his avatars, subjecting them to relentless torture without killing them. Each avatar felt the agony of their brethren, their screams echoing through their shared consciousness.


    His avatars lived in constant fear, dreading the moment they might fall into the Blackwoods'' clutches.


    The hunters had become the hunted. His weaker avatars were now forced to hide, to avoid the Blackwoods'' relentless pursuit. And to escape the shared agony of their imprisoned brethren, they had to periodically shut down their senses, leaving them vulnerable.


    Once captured, they couldn''t even self-destruct.


    And now...


    "Again? You dare to show your faces again?!"


    The elderly man''s face contorted in rage, his pride wounded.


    ...


    Within the Hall Estate, a blood-soaked AI Bionic Robot was ushered into Brody''s presence.


    Brody glared at the robot, his fury barely contained. "This is the fourth time! The fourth time in two years that you Blackwoods have dared to trespass on my family''s grounds! Even a saint has limits! What do you want this time?!"


    The robot''s face was a grotesque mask of pain, its metallic eyes leaking crimson tears. It let out a chilling, mechanical laugh. "Take me to your treasury. As before, I''ll only take one item."

 Chapter 374 The Undying Pirate Ship

    "Damn it! Damn it all!" Brody roared, rising to his feet. But instead of attacking the AI Bionic Robot, he stormed out of the hall.The robot followed closely behind. Its unseen operator knew that Brody''s restraint, his refusal to destroy the robot, signified another concession.


    As the treasury doors swung open, the robot retrieved a sixth-grade psychic material. It turned to Brody, its metallic face contorted in a mocking grin.


    "You and Austin... two sides of the same coin, yet so different. He never yields, while you, time and again, open your treasury to us Blackwoods, clinging desperately to life." S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You..." Brody choked back his rage, his pride wounded.


    He knew that if he perished, his five hundred years of struggle, his hard-earned power, would become another avatar''s inheritance.


    He wanted to live. He had dreams, ambitions. He wanted to become the true vessel, the sole inheritor of the Heavenly Path''s power. He had simply been born too late. If Austin had been born in his place, would he be content to tend his caged birds in Sunshine Mansion?


    And now, those in Sunshine Mansion could rest easy, their positions secure. Over a hundred of their brethren in the imperial capital had become the Blackwoods'' prisoners, caged birds awaiting their fate.


    Yet, those in Sunshine Mansion did nothing but complain, blaming their imperial counterparts for falling into the Blackwoods'' trap, for their current predicament. It wasn''t their fault. It was the main consciousness that had been outsmarted.


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has captured another avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable. It has been imprisoned within the high-grade psychic weapon, the Soul Locking Diagram. A total of 136 Heavenly Path Venerable avatars are now in your custody.]


    [Your family has received an offering from the Heavenly Path Venerable avatar ''Brody'': one thousand pounds of the sixth-grade psychic ore ''Netherworld Equilibrium Psychic Iron,'' imbued with spatial energy.]


    Within the Forebearer space, Ethan beamed with satisfaction as he read the latest update.


    They had found the Heavenly Path Venerable''s weakness. They had captured over a hundred of his avatars, halting their growth and inflicting pain upon their shared consciousness.


    The Blackwoods were no longer helpless against their tormentor.


    This might not be enough to truly cripple the Heavenly Path Venerable, but it was a victory nonetheless. For the first time in years, they had tasted success against their seemingly invincible foe. This victory, however small, filled them with hope.


    "This is just the beginning. We have time on our side," Ethan said, his voice calm yet resolute. He knew that true victory would require immense strength, a power capable of challenging the Heavenly Path Venerable himself.


    He turned his attention to the progress of his other descendants.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has recovered another 5% of his strength.]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, after losing the Death Coffin, has begun to realize his overreliance on external artifacts. Observing the Druid High Priest communing with the heavens to enhance his power, he has discovered that true strength lies within, not without. He has begun to explore the true meaning of death energy and necromancy.]


    [Recognizing the wisdom of seeking guidance from those who have walked the path before him, your descendant, Nathan, with Mike''s introduction, has humbled himself and sought instruction from Arnold, a nine-nine heavenly tribulation rising star who also wields death energy and commands corpses and spirits.


    After years of study, he has developed his own understanding of the rules of death, combining his knowledge with Druidic magic to create an Earth-rank technique: the Soul Control Divine Movement Art.]


    [This technique allows him to command the souls of the dead within a ten-mile radius, using them as his eyes and ears. He can also channel a portion of his power into any of these souls to attack his enemies.]


    "Excellent! He''s finally broken free from his dependence on the Death Coffin." Ethan smiled, his heart filled with pride.


    Without the Death Coffin, Nathan was essentially a slightly stronger early-stage Competent Force expert. But losing the artifact had been a blessing in disguise.


    Meanwhile, news, both good and bad, arrived from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    [Your descendant, William, due to his prolonged confinement within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, has been unable to fulfill his daily ''One Kill a Day'' quota. He has attempted to satisfy his bloodlust by targeting the third-generation Blackwoods, but his thirst for violence has only grown. His inner darkness has reached 100%, granting him the trait: Utterly Dark.]


    [He can no longer suppress the evil within him. Consumed by his dark desires, he has broken through to the Competent Force realm!]


    [Years of accumulated carnage have incurred the wrath of the heavens. A nine-nine heavenly tribulation, far more potent than usual, is brewing.]


    Fortunately, William was still within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, where his kin had managed to restrain him with powerful techniques. The boy had become utterly consumed by darkness, ranting and raving about slaughtering everyone within the sanctuary. Who knew what havoc he might wreak if he were to escape?


    "At least he won''t harm his own family, even in his current state."


    Ethan sighed with relief as he observed William, his eyes squeezed shut in pain, bound by psychic chains within the sanctuary.


    The other Blackwoods within the sanctuary were doing their best to reason with him, to offer him comfort and guidance.


    Meanwhile, on the vast expanse of the ocean, another breakthrough was taking place.


    [Your descendant, Alexander, after two years of secluded cultivation among the pirates, has broken through to the early stage of the Emerging Ability realm. He has abandoned his other psychic constitutions, becoming a pure Earth element Psychic!]


    The pirate father and son had risen through the ranks, becoming the leaders of their ragtag crew. They sailed the seas, their fleet growing from three dilapidated vessels to eight.


    Adam, despite having two perfectly functional eyes, now sported an eyepatch. He stood at the helm, his body swaying with the rhythm of the waves, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Rest assured, Forebearer! Alexander and I are honing our skills on the high seas. Once we''ve carved out our own territory and amassed a fortune, we''ll return to the clan, laden with treasures!"


    "..."


    Ethan''s lips twitched. Did they think they were Jack Sparrow, playing pirates in the Caribbean?


    A month later...


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, encountered a fierce storm at sea. Their entire crew perished. However, they stumbled upon an eighth-grade psychic artifact: the Undying Pirate Ship. Their deceased crewmates have become bound to the ship''s soul, rendering them immortal as long as they remain on board.]


    "..."


    Ethan stared blankly as the father and son set sail once more, their crew now a motley band of undead pirates.

 Chapter 375 Greed only invites trouble

    [Blackwood Year 230, the Grand Rite begins, your descendants offer you Tribute Offerings...][You are bestowing blessings upon your descendants...]


    It was the Grand Rite once again, a time when descendants all over the world performed rituals and exchanged resources.


    "We can''t risk capturing another Aspect of the Celestial Hand," Olivia stated.


    The family had gathered within the Ancestral Grounds after the Grand Rite.


    "Our actions these past few years have been too frequent. The Celestial Hand is omniscient; even with General Owen''s protection in the Imperial Domain, it''s only a matter of time before he finds a way to counter us."


    The Blackwood clan nodded in agreement.


    They had been capturing Aspects of the Celestial Venerable for years, amassing over one hundred and fifty from the Imperial Domain alone.


    However, they had noticed their actions becoming increasingly dangerous, even attracting the attention of powerful figures within the Empire.


    As the clan began their discussion, they solidified their individual plans.


    They knew that even with the discovery of some of the Celestial Hand''s weaknesses, facing him would require immense strength.


    Only then could they truly obliterate the Celestial Venerable.


    Nathan and Luna, a rare moment of respite allowing them to be together in the Ancestral Grounds, sat nestled beside each other.


    Their current mission was to discreetly cultivate their psychic powers amongst the Druids and the Fox Tribe.


    Mary, confined to Crystal Crest, diligently cultivated her psychic powers alongside Phil, making significant progress.


    Lucas remained in the snowy plains with Diana, focusing on his recovery.


    Their bond had deepened, becoming a blend of mentor and friend.


    However, the Blackwood clan couldn''t help but notice Lucas''s growing age and stoicism.


    He seemed to have lost the youthful passion that once burned within him.


    Julian and Amelia found themselves in contrasting situations.


    Amelia, a skilled alchemist, enjoyed freedom of movement within the Golden Empire.


    The Celestial Venerable''s reach couldn''t extend that far, and even...


    [Your descendant, Amelia, has garnered immense respect as an alchemist in the Golden Empire, attracting invitations from numerous factions.]


    [Having faced the covetous gazes of rogue cultivators and righteous psychics in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the challenges of the Golden Empire pale in comparison.]


    [She thrives in this environment, navigating its complexities with ease.]


    [Through her mastery of alchemy, medicine, and toxicology, she has earned the moniker "Medical Saint".]


    [Medical comprehension increased by 30%.]


    [Alchemy and medicine share a common root.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, after years of refining medicinal herbs, has successfully concocted a sixth-grade "Clarity and Enlightenment Pill."]


    [This pill can enhance a psychic''s comprehension of the Laws for six months.]


    [She has achieved the sixth grade in the way of alchemy!]


    Amelia had become a revered guest in Riverton, a city within the Golden Empire.


    People flocked to her, seeking her alchemical creations or her healing touch, often at exorbitant prices.


    This allowed Amelia to contribute a wealth of valuable resources to the family during each Grand Rite.


    She had even acquired numerous new formulas and, with access to a wide array of ingredients, had developed new medicinal powders.


    The transition from alchemist to pill master felt natural, and Amelia now held the esteemed rank of a sixth-grade pill master.


    Over the years, Amelia had grown quiet and reserved, reminiscent of her time in Gratitude Village.


    The difference was that her silence then stemmed from a desire for solitude, while now, it seemed to be a way to cope with past pain.


    She spent her days diligently refining medicine and pills.


    Julian''s situation differed greatly from Amelia''s.


    He possessed the skills of a sixth-grade psychic armament crafter and AI Bionic Robot engineer but remained in hiding, waiting for Donna''s rescue before making any moves.


    However, Julian''s years were not without their gains.


    [Your descendant has spent years as an errand boy in the Radiant Sky Grotto.]


    [Though unable to craft psychic armaments openly, his talent for it is undeniable.]


    [He seizes every opportunity to learn from master talisman makers, formation masters, AI Bionic Robot engineers, and other specialized professions, never missing a chance to hear a master''s lecture.]


    [He has quietly attained mastery in the following professions: seventh-grade talisman crafting, seventh-grade formation mastery, Material Sorter, eighth-grade Executioner...]


    [Gained trait: Unorthodox Path.]


    [Comprehension of unorthodox paths increased by 20%.]


    The Radiant Sky Grotto was undoubtedly a haven for unorthodox paths, boasting an eclectic mix of professions, some of which Ethan had never even encountered.


    For instance, Material Sorters specialized in extracting valuable materials from various sources, such as the carcass of a mystical beast, ensuring minimal loss of potency.


    Then there were the Executioners... specialists in decapitation.


    Enjoy exclusive content from empire


    Their role became apparent during public executions of criminals within the Imperial Domain, where their expertise in the art of taking a life was put on full display.


    It was through these unorthodox paths that Julian''s skills in crafting psychic armaments and AI Bionic Robots steadily improved.


    ...


    "Amelia, Daniel, I''ll have to rely on you two to provide cultivation resources for the family," Ethan said, glancing at them.


    They were the only ones who could reliably bring in substantial resources.


    Amelia nodded eagerly, a smile gracing her face.


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, I''m swimming in wealth. The people of the Golden Empire consider a sixty percent success rate the mark of a rare sixth-grade alchemist. Little do they know, my success rate is closer to ninety percent. It''s practically free!"


    The family chuckled at Amelia''s smugness.


    Olivia sighed.


    "Sister, you could easily claim a forty percent success rate, and people would still be lining up for your services."


    "Even twenty percent would suffice," Nathan added with a laugh.


    "Greed only invites trouble. Perhaps that''s why Amelia has managed to thrive in the Golden Empire without attracting unwanted attention."


    Luna nodded in agreement.


    "Sometimes, contentment is the greatest wealth." sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    While everyone praised Amelia, Ethan noticed Daniel''s awkwardness.


    He understood the young man''s predicament.


    The Blackwood clan had exhausted most of the valuable resources in Azure Cloud, leaving behind only a handful of seventh and eighth-grade treasures and ores.


    It was the reason why the Blackwoods had been struggling financially and resorting to desperate measures to acquire resources.


    Ethan smiled understandingly.


    "Daniel, you are now King Phillips, but you are still under pressure from Sunshine Mansion. Don''t feel obligated to obtain high-grade resources."


    " Nathan needs corpses to cultivate his technique, and only your battles with the Druids can provide them. "


    "Thomas and the others require Druid bones for their magic practice, which also falls on your shoulders. However, remember, haste makes waste."


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Daniel''s earlier awkwardness vanished as he bowed respectfully.


    The Blackwood clan then turned their attention to the thirteen members residing in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    They instructed them to keep a close eye on Neil and follow Joseph''s instructions.


    Lastly, there was Donna.


    She scratched her head sheepishly.


    After her last challenge against the twenty-fifth-ranked opponent on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, she had continued her pursuit.


    In a provincial capital, she had challenged the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice, only to suffer defeat and flee in humiliation.

 Chapter 376 What are the younger ones up to?

    Seeing Donna''s dejected expression, Ethan chuckled."Donna, there''s no shame in losing to the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice. You only broke through to the Competent Force Realm a few years ago. Reaching this level already makes you a prodigy."


    "He''s right," Nathan added, noticing Donna''s lingering self-reproach.


    "You''re stronger than Mike and I were at your age. Just keep striving for improvement."


    "You surpass me as well," Lucas said with a gentle smile.


    Marcus nodded in agreement.


    "Donna, there''s always a next time. Your third uncle is still young. He can wait a little longer for you to become the top Pinnacle Apprentice and rescue him."


    Encouraged by her family''s words, Donna''s spirits lifted.


    Their reassurance wasn''t unwarranted.


    To defeat the twenty-fifth-ranked expert on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking right after breaking through to the early Competent Force Realm was a testament to her extraordinary talent.


    Most individuals on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking possessed the ability to project their Competent Force and had cultivated their psychic powers to the pinnacle of Law Intent.


    When they unleashed their natural energies, they could even create celestial phenomena, similar to the oppressive domain Marcus had used with the Sky Temple to trap his opponent.


    Donna, on the other hand, was still in the early stages of the Competent Force Realm and lacked any external support like Marcus''s Sky Temple.


    Despite inheriting Charles and Christopher''s Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms, which had now merged into the Buddha-Demon Disk, her strength primarily stemmed from her own power.


    Moreover, Donna didn''t possess a single ability weapon, while her opponent had been adorned with them.


    During their battle, her opponent had even unleashed over a hundred sixth-grade talismans, ultimately injuring Donna.


    To possess such strength in the early Competent Force Realm was practically unheard of. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, Forebearer, I will continue to strive for improvement!" Donna declared, her determination renewed.


    Ethan nodded in satisfaction.


    He then addressed the entire Blackwood clan.


    "From this day forward, we will enter seclusion to focus on our cultivation. Donna, inform our friends from Azure Cloud to seek refuge with General Owen."


    "We, the Blackwoods, still have some influence within the Imperial Domain. Have General Owen contact Grand Tutor Gilbert and ask him to extend his protection to them. They have helped us capture Aspects of the Celestial Hand all these years; they won''t escape his calculations."


    "Yes, Forebearer," Donna replied solemnly.


    "Daniel, are the Heavenly Justice Hall and the Oracle Chamber still under your control?" Ethan inquired.


    "Yes, they are jointly controlled by various factions in Azure Cloud, but the ultimate authority rests with me," Daniel confirmed with a nod.


    "Good," Ethan said with a smile.


    "Have them discreetly investigate the entire Emerald Empire and identify anyone who could potentially be an Aspect of the Celestial Hand. Remember, do not alert our enemies."


    "Yes, Forebearer," Daniel replied, his expression grave.


    After giving instructions to each member of the clan, Ethan narrowed his eyes.


    "Now, my family, let the seclusion begin!"


    The Blackwood clan embarked on their longest period of cultivation yet.


    However, their disappearance only served to infuriate the Aspects of the Celestial Hand.


    The Aspect who had arrived in the Imperial Domain to search for the Blackwoods was enraged.


    He had barely arrived, and the Blackwoods had already vanished!


    He possessed over a hundred ways to capture Donna, devised by the main consciousness, and countless methods to apprehend the others in Azure Cloud, but his efforts were thwarted.


    In the Imperial Palace, Brody, who had been extorted by the Blackwoods nearly ten times, found himself unaccustomed to their absence.


    The tormented cries of the trapped Aspects had ceased, leaving him with a deep sense of unease.


    Countless other Aspects of the Celestial Hand shared Brody''s apprehension.


    They knew all too well that the most formidable enemy was one they couldn''t see.


    With the discovery of some of the Celestial Hand''s weaknesses, the Blackwood clan dedicated themselves to cultivation, their progress unfolding systematically.


    Ethan took a brief respite from his seclusion, returning to reality.


    The familiar bed, the familiar room¡ªyet, Ethan couldn''t shake the feeling of temporal and spatial disorientation.


    The game world felt more real, while reality seemed like a fleeting dream.


    His concern for his virtual family outweighed any attachment to his physical life.


    He contacted Alan, requesting more antimatter bombs.


    [Blackwood Year 240]


    A decade had passed since the clan entered seclusion.


    Ethan had spent those ten years cultivating alongside Luna, immersing himself in the Laws and principles surrounding the Fox Sage.


    It was during this time that he truly grasped the sage''s terrifying power.


    A true powerhouse, among the strongest in existence, possessing the might of an Ability Master!


    Unfortunately, the Fox Sage''s prolonged existence had taken its toll, weakening her to the level of an Advanced Mastery expert.


    The Fox Tribe had long since declined, facing a shortage of successors, with only two Advanced Mastery experts remaining.


    [You are comprehending the Laws of Ice and a portion of the Laws of Space.]


    Gradually, other members of the clan began to break through.


    [Your descendant, George, has steadily advanced to the Competent Force Realm with the guidance of a senior expert! However, due to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s concealment from the heavens, he was unable to undergo the Sixty-Nine Heavenly Thunder Tribulation and possesses only ten percent of the power of an early Competent Force expert.]


    [Katie has broken through to the middle stage of Developing Skill.]


    [Joseph''s cultivation has regressed to the sixth level of Foundational Energy.]


    [Your descendants, the third generation of the Blackwood clan, have obtained more Druid bones during the latest Grand Rite, enhancing their strength.]


    [Your descendant, Marcus, has acquired two eighth-grade psychic artifacts, three seventh-grade psychic artifacts, and one sixth-grade psychic artifact. The Sky Temple has been further enhanced, multiplying his strength.


    Imbued with the power of the Five Elements, the Sky Temple has gained the "Five Elements Life Extermination Formation." This formation specializes in offense, transforming the Laws of the Five Elements into five beams of starlight that attack enemies within the formation.]


    "Marcus, you still need to prioritize your own cultivation. No matter how powerful the Sky Temple is, it''s still an external force," Ethan cautioned during their latest gathering.


    Nathan''s experience served as a constant reminder.


    Ethan now placed more trust in his own strength than in external objects.


    "Yes, Forebearer, I understand," Marcus replied respectfully.


    Meanwhile, in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Jessica and Justin had yet to break through, despite reaching the cusp of their tribulations.


    Jessica refused to advance because she couldn''t bring herself to slaughter Druids, a necessary step to overcome the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Thunder Tribulation.


    Her physical strength continued to accumulate.


    As for Justin... that boy hadn''t broken through because he hadn''t found a sufficiently reckless way to do so.


    Under Joseph''s cautious leadership, the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary remained relatively peaceful.


    [Reviewing historical events.]


    [Blackwood Year 232: Under Joseph''s prudent guidance, your clan ambushed a rival faction''s base during a conflict with Kyle, obtaining substantial spoils of war.]


    [Blackwood Year 235: Ambushed Neil... obtained substantial spoils of war.]


    [Blackwood Year 238: Ambushed...]


    Joseph''s actions were... predictable.


    When Ethan visited the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, he discovered that they had been living underground.


    The sanctuary extended three thousand meters below the surface, and they had burrowed themselves over two thousand meters deep, constantly shifting their base.


    The underground network had become a labyrinth.


    Beyond the sanctuary, the other Blackwood members continued their activities from a decade ago.


    Cultivation knew no time, especially for those who had reached the Competent Force Realm, where a single retreat could last a century.


    "What are the younger ones up to?" Ethan wondered, glancing at the three youngest members of the Blackwood clan.


    His gaze fell upon the Pirate father and son, and he paused in surprise.


    Before him lay a landmass.


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    [Panoram State]


    [The main continent of the Psychic World, home to the Emerald Empire, the Druids, and the demon realm, is surrounded by vast oceans dotted with scattered islands and newly formed landmasses. Panoram State, a mere ten thousand years old, possesses thin psychic energies. Its strongest inhabitants are only at the Competent Force Realm.]


    "So it''s a new continent," Ethan mused.


    He had heard tales of these new landmasses.


    Some psychics from the main continent specialized in exploiting these nascent lands.

 Chapter 377 Congratulations on your breakthrough

    Ethan shifted his attention to Adam and Alexander.Ten years might be a blink of an eye for the Blackwood elders, but for the younger generation, it was a significant portion of their lives.


    The last time he saw them, the father and son were pirates commanding an eighth-grade Undying Pirate Ship.


    Now, they were engaged in a fierce battle against a group of psychics at the edge of Panoram State, their ship cutting through the waves.


    Even in Azure Cloud, Emerging Ability psychics were nothing special.


    However, in Panoram State, they seemed to be regarded as formidable figures.


    Adam and Alexander, aboard their ship, led their undead crew in a relentless assault against their opponents.


    It was clear that Panoram State''s techniques were lacking; only twenty or so psychics could fly on their swords.


    This was a complete and utter domination.


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, have spent years cultivating on the high seas aboard their pirate ship. Adam has reached the peak of the Emerging Ability Realm, while Alexander has advanced to the middle stage.]


    [The father and son duo discovered Panoram State and decided to explore its territories.]


    [Upon landing, they were confronted by a group of psychics seeking to claim their possessions. They learned that their adversary was the city lord and were forced into battle.]


    "So that''s what happened," Ethan murmured, deciding not to intervene.


    The strongest individuals in Panoram State were only at the Competent Force Realm.


    Adam and Alexander had Competent Force experts protecting them from the shadows.


    Next, Ethan turned his attention to Benjamin.


    Unlike Adam and Alexander, who had chosen a life of adventure on the high seas, Benjamin had opted for a different path after the Blackwood clan entered seclusion.


    The young man was currently amidst a crowd of people.


    Numerous young psychics gathered outside a mountain, awaiting the opening of a grand formation.


    A Developing Skill psychic rose into the air and announced in a deep voice, "The Treasure Mountain opens once a century. Today, the young generation of Blackwater County will compete for the title of champion..."


    Benjamin, having experienced his fair share of the world, rolled his eyes at the Developing Skill psychic''s theatrics.


    "Someone might mistake you for the Celestial Hand with all that posturing," he muttered sarcastically.


    [Guided by Olivia, your descendant, Benjamin, has been cultivating and seeking opportunities throughout the land.]


    [He has participated in battles over the ruins of Developing Skill psychics, been hunted by Developing Skill experts, and received invitations from powerful factions. His cultivation has advanced to the Transcendent Seed Realm...


    He has obtained numerous spoils of war: a low-grade ability weapon, the "Transcendent Blood Droplet"; a mid-grade ability weapon, the "Cloudwyrm Illusion Beast Pendant"; and a profound-grade technique, the "Earth Deity Descent Technique"... ]


    [Gained trait: Worldly Wise.]


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    [Having witnessed the wonders and tribulations of the world, his comprehension has increased by 3%. His comprehension will continue to grow as he experiences more.]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, is currently participating in the "Blackwater Youth Champion Competition." The individual who obtains the most tokens from the Treasure Mountain will be crowned champion...]


    Ethan watched his three youngest descendants with a hint of melancholy.


    The Blackwood clan once had many such youths.


    They, too, should have had the opportunity to live such vibrant lives.


    Time flew by, and another decade passed.


    [Blackwood Year 250]


    As the Grand Rite commenced, Ethan opened his eyes once more.


    The thirteen members of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary remained unchanged.


    Marcus had grown stronger, acquiring two more psychic artifacts, and the third generation of Blackwoods had obtained a substantial amount of Druid bones.


    "He broke through?" Ethan exclaimed, his eyes widening in delight.


    It was Nathan, who had been cultivating in seclusion among the Druids!


    Within a Druid psychic sanctuary, Nathan exhaled slowly, his body wreathed in black energy.


    His aura had grown significantly more powerful.


    "Forebearer, I have broken through!" Nathan announced, unable to contain his excitement.


    Every step closer to power brought him closer to avenging his family.


    Mike and Arnold, two Druids, approached Nathan with smiles, offering their congratulations.


    "Congratulations on your breakthrough, Mr. Nathan!" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hahaha, thank you both," Nathan replied with a hearty laugh.


    Ethan smiled, heartened by the sight of Nathan''s camaraderie with the two Druids.


    Nathan had been concealing his true strength all these years, even taking nine wives to maintain his cover.


    His peaceful life and cultivation were due in part to the friendship of Mike and Arnold.


    [After years of cultivation, your descendant, Nathan, has gradually gained control over his powers.


    Although he is unable to fully utilize the "Four Symbols Death Energy Formation Technique" without the Death Coffin Formation, he has combined the death energy from the corpses provided by Daniel, the souls he has gathered, and his mid-Competent Force cultivation to reach half of his former strength!]


    [Using the "Four Symbols Death Energy Formation Technique" as a foundation, he has created his own unique technique, the profound-grade "Myriad Souls Solitary Path Technique." This technique allows him to absorb the souls of others, using them as a foundation for his power.]


    Ethan had witnessed the Myriad Souls Solitary Path Technique in action.


    It allowed Nathan to absorb the souls of ten thousand beings and borrow their power, similar to the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation Technique.


    However, it was an incomplete version, lacking the full might of the Death Coffin technique.


    Still, it was a testament to Nathan''s talent that he had created his own unique technique.


    Ethan glanced at his other descendants.


    Lucas''s injuries had healed to seventy percent.


    Julian''s mastery of his professions continued to grow.


    Amelia remained dedicated to her alchemy.


    Just as Ethan was about to re-enter seclusion, his expression shifted.


    [Special Event - Chuck''s Breakthrough]


    [Your family friend, Chuck, ranked on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, has been suppressing his cultivation for many years. Under the guidance of General Owen and Daoist Bill in the Imperial Domain, he has experienced an epiphany, reaching the threshold of the Basic Mastery Realm. He can no longer suppress the impending Heavenly Tribulation!]


    Donna''s face paled as she appeared within the Ancestral Grounds.


    "Forebearer, what do we do?" she asked urgently.


    "Master is in the Imperial Domain. If he breaks through to the Basic Mastery Realm, he''ll need to find a secluded location. He won''t be able to conceal his aura. The Celestial Venerable will..."


    He would be discovered!


    Within the Imperial Domain, the eyes of numerous Aspects of the Celestial Hand snapped open.


    The Basic Mastery Aspect who had arrived from Sunshine Mansion twenty years ago was still present!


    A cruel smile spread across his face.


    "Found you, you cowardly rat!"


    In Sunshine Mansion, atop Kylin Mountain, Austin sipped his tea.


    His eyes suddenly brightened as he glanced at the caged birds outside.


    "Chuck, is it?" he chuckled.


    "An interesting fellow indeed. To think he was hiding his true cultivation all along. It seems his ranking on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking was a farce."


    "My, my," he murmured, his voice laced with amusement.


    "I''ve stumbled upon a fascinating new collectible."

 Chapter 378 How... how is this possible?

    Atop Amber Hill, Chuck sat cross-legged, his form bathed in the eerie glow of gathering storm clouds.The wind howled, carrying with it the oppressive weight of an impending tribulation.


    The air crackled with anticipation, a symphony of raw power waiting to be unleashed.


    For an unknown amount of time, Chuck remained still, a statue amidst the brewing tempest.


    Then, from within his depths, a spectral figure rose, shimmering into existence above his head.


    It was his nascent spirit, the embodiment of his years of dedicated cultivation ¨C his Competent Force.


    Breaking through to the Basic Mastery Realm at the Competent Force level was no simple feat.


    It was a trial by fire, a test of both body and spirit against the unyielding fury of the heavens.


    Not only would Chuck face the legendary Heavenly Thunder Tribulation, but his very essence, his Competent Force, would also be judged.


    This was the Trial of the Nascent Spirit.


    The heavens would unleash their wrath in the form of a Thunder Beast, its power directly proportional to the strength of the nascent spirit it sought to test.


    If the nascent spirit was weak, if the techniques it was founded upon were flawed, then utter annihilation awaited.


    Few artifacts in existence could withstand the sheer destructive power of the Nascent Spirit Thunder Tribulation.


    As the storm clouds churned, a figure materialized within their depths.


    An elderly man, clad in luxurious robes, his bearing radiating an air of authority ¨C a seasoned player in the game of courtly intrigue.


    He observed the spectral form of Chuck''s nascent spirit, a knowing smile playing on his lips as the tribulation coalesced into a fearsome phantom of lightning.


    "Congratulations, Fellow Daoist Chuck, on reaching the cusp of the Basic Mastery Realm," the newcomer boomed, his voice echoing across the mountaintop.


    "To achieve such a feat, hailing from the humble Azure Cloud, marks you as a true rising star."


    Chuck''s brow furrowed at the sight of the newcomer.


    It was Declan, an official from the Imperial Court, a member of Grand Advisor Lance''s faction.


    Declan had attempted to recruit Chuck years ago back in Cloudview County.


    But back then, Chuck was still a disciple of the Arcane Society, his master still alive, and he had politely declined the offer.


    Even after Chuck''s arrival in the Imperial Domain, Declan hadn''t given up on recruiting him.


    Now, on the verge of his Basic Mastery tribulation, Chuck found himself once again under Lance''s watchful eye.


    Forgoing pleasantries, Chuck cut to the chase.


    "My Basic Mastery tribulation is about to commence, Sir Declan. I''d appreciate it if you would be brief."


    "Hahaha, ever straightforward, Fellow Daoist Chuck," Declan chuckled, stroking his beard.


    "Very well, I''ll get straight to the point. Grand Advisor Lance has always held you in high regard. He often laments that your origins from the chaotic and impoverished Azure Cloud have hindered your true potential. Upon learning of your impending tribulation, he has tasked me with delivering a treasure that will aid you in overcoming this ordeal."


    Despite Declan''s amiable demeanor, Chuck remained wary, his gaze fixed intently on the official.


    Undeterred, Declan continued, "All that is required is your pledge to serve Grand Advisor Lance once you ascend to the Basic Mastery Realm. Overcome this tribulation with our aid, and a glorious path to immortality awaits you."


    Chuck scoffed at the offer of power and wealth.


    "I appreciate the gesture, Sir Declan, but I must decline."


    Declan''s expression darkened.


    He was well aware of Grand Advisor Lance''s interest in Chuck, an interest that bordered on envy.


    He hadn''t anticipated such a blunt refusal.


    "Fellow Daoist Chuck," he warned, his voice hardening, "I urge you to reconsider. Without external assistance, this tribulation will not be easy to overcome. As I understand it, you''ve made no preparations for this moment."


    Declan''s gaze swept across the desolate mountaintop, a sneer twisting his lips.


    "Furthermore, your involvement with the Blackwoods has earned you some powerful enemies. Even if you survive this tribulation, you''ll be left vulnerable to their retaliation."


    "Pledge your allegiance to Grand Advisor Lance, and I guarantee your safety. A single word from me, and your troubles will vanish."


    "Otherwise..." Declan let the threat hang heavy in the air, his patience wearing thin after Chuck''s repeated rejections.


    Chuck, however, remained unfazed by the veiled threat.


    Instead, a different emotion flickered across his face ¨C alarm.


    "Lance knows about the Celestial Hand?!"


    "Hahaha!" Declan burst into laughter.


    "My dear Chuck, do you truly believe anything escapes Grand Advisor Lance''s notice? He knows far more than you realize."


    Noticing Chuck''s unease, Declan softened his tone. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Your dealings with the Blackwoods have not gone unnoticed, Fellow Daoist Chuck. You''re alive today because Grand Advisor Lance has seen fit to lend a helping hand on occasion. A wise man knows when to seize an opportunity. Why waste your talents? Only Grand Advisor Lance knows your true strength, a strength that could place you among the top five on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking."


    "Believe me, joining Grand Advisor Lance''s ranks will bring you unimaginable benefits. Ask yourself, what have the Blackwoods given you in return for your loyalty? They cannot help you withstand this tribulation, nor can they protect you from your enemies. A path to greatness lies before you..."


    Declan''s words were cut short as his expression shifted from persuasive to wary.


    A figure shot up from the foot of Amber Hill, landing on the summit with a resounding thud that sent dust and debris flying.


    As the dust settled, Declan''s eyes narrowed.


    He recognized the newcomer.


    It was Donna Blackwood.


    Donna glanced at Declan, her brow furrowing as she sensed his peak Competent Force Realm cultivation.


    She couldn''t fathom how her master had crossed paths with such an unsightly old geezer, but she pushed the thought aside for the moment.


    With a bright smile, she tossed a storage ring to her master.


    "Master, look what I brought you!"


    "Hmm?" Chuck caught the ring, his eyes widening in surprise as he examined its contents.


    He looked at Donna, confusion etched on his face.


    "Donna, what is all this?"


    "Oh, this?" Donna grinned, striking a playful pose.


    "You might have caught us off guard with your sudden breakthrough, but luckily for you, you have an amazing disciple who wouldn''t dream of forgetting her dear master. Consider this a little care package from the family to help you conquer your Competent Force tribulation."


    Declan frowned, observing the pride in Donna''s stance and the flicker of astonishment in Chuck''s eyes.


    He could tell that the contents of the storage ring were valuable to Chuck, but he couldn''t bring himself to believe that the Blackwoods possessed anything truly useful.


    His skepticism vanished a moment later, replaced by a jolt of disbelief. Continue reading on empire


    Chuck emptied the storage ring, and the air around them thrummed with potent energy.


    Sixth-grade pills, sixth-grade psychic medicines, even sixth-grade psychic artifacts and formation disks tumbled out, along with two exquisite soul-protecting ability weapons!


    Every single item was specifically designed to protect and restore a nascent spirit during the throes of a tribulation.


    "How... how is this possible?" Declan stammered, his composure shaken.


    "Where did you get so many pills and medicines?"

 Chapter 379 Were not cut from the same cloth

    Declan muttered under his breath and rubbed the Storage Ring on his finger.Inside were fifth-grade pills and a high-level mystical equipment bestowed upon him by the national advisor.


    Although... there might have been more if some of them weren''t stashed away in his own treasury.


    But... he couldn''t resist the allure of Blackwood''s sixth-grade pills and mystical potions!


    "Master, why did you bring everything out? Don''t you know the saying, ''Don''t display your wealth''?" Donna asked, eyeing Declan warily as the treasures floated in the air.


    Declan''s face turned pale.


    He understood now.


    Chuck was putting on a show of force for his benefit!


    Chuck''s eyes were filled with scorn as he said to Declan, "Give my thanks to Lance. And tell him to keep his nose out of my business. We''re not cut from the same cloth."


    "You..." Anger flashed across Declan''s face, but he felt Donna''s killing intent and swallowed his words.


    Chuck might still have some reservations, but he knew that the Blackwoods were utterly fearless now!


    He let out a cold snort.


    "Chuck, the Blackwoods may have given you many pills, but you better be clear: there''s no such thing as a regret pill!"


    "Cut the crap! My master told you to get lost!" Donna roared.


    Declan left reluctantly after Donna''s angry rebuke.


    It wasn''t long...


    ...before he was far away, daring to curse through gritted teeth.


    "The national advisor was showing you favor, you should be honored! Such ingratitude, you''re a fool!"


    Soon, he saw several figures appear in the air.


    A smile spread across his face.


    "Hahaha, Brody, Chuck and that Blackwood girl who doesn''t know her place are all yours!"


    ...


    Glaring at Declan''s retreating figure, Donna turned to Chuck with a puzzled look.


    "Master, who is this Lance you mentioned?"


    Chuck scoffed.


    "He''s just one of Lance''s dogs, trying to win me over."


    Donna suddenly understood.


    Her master had told her about these things.


    The people in the grand hall were always trying to recruit others.


    Back in Azure Cloud, the Blackwoods had been courted by many imperial forces, even the emperor himself.


    If they had to choose a side, the Blackwoods were closest to Grand Tutor Gilbert.


    But now, her people gradually understood that compared to these so-called social niceties, true friends were those who could go through hardships and share riches together.


    "So he came bearing gifts for Master." Donna grumbled, "You should have accepted them, Master. My family always says, ''There''s no such thing as a free lunch.''"


    "Hmph!" Chuck snorted.


    "Even if Lance offered me a divine artifact, I wouldn''t spare it a glance. I wouldn''t want to taint myself."


    "Enough about that."


    Chuck turned his gaze to the pills surrounding him and frowned at Donna.


    "Donna, these things must have been hard to come by, right? I know the Blackwoods are not what they used to be, your people are on the run. My chances of breaking through this time are slim. Take these things back, the Blackwoods need them more than I do. It would be a waste to use them on me."


    He wasn''t lying.


    Breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm was extremely difficult.


    Countless people had perished attempting it.


    Even with all the help in the world, he wasn''t entirely confident.


    Moreover...


    He narrowed his eyes, sensing his surroundings.


    He knew that many pairs of eyes were watching him!


    "Heehee."


    Donna leaped forward, ignoring the sixth-grade pills and mystical potions that were considered rare and precious in places like Cloudview County.


    "Master, my family said that you''re not just my master, you''ve helped our family a lot over the years. This is a life-and-death friendship. Don''t even mention these pills and potions, if there''s anything better, we''ll send it to you."


    "Focus on your breakthrough, Master. As for the outside..." Donna slowly turned around, sensing the probing consciousness from all directions.


    These consciousnesses were filled with murderous intent and danger, making her feel like a wary beast.


    "Leave it to us! As long as we''re here, no one will disturb your breakthrough!"


    ...


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    "Donna... the Blackwoods... everyone from Cloudview County..."


    Lightning surged as Chuck looked at Donna''s back.


    This was the first time in many years that he had sensed Donna''s aura.


    Apart from the pride he felt for his disciple''s growth, he was more grateful to the Blackwoods.


    Strangely, his initial uncertainty about breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm transformed into unwavering determination.


    "I will break through to the Basic Mastery realm, I must!"


    He knew that the Blackwoods, as well as many fellow cultivators from Cloudview County, had already made arrangements.


    They were near Amber Hill!


    They didn''t even know how strong the enemy was, nor what preparations the enemy had made.


    His breakthrough this time was too sudden.


    But they still stood by his side without hesitation.


    Just like back in Cloudview County, when they faced countless unknown dangers together.


    He had lived for almost a thousand years, and this was the first time he had desired so strongly to accomplish something.


    Because his disciple, his friends, all hoped that he would succeed, that he would live!


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared in the sky, forming a lightning dragon that collided with his Competent Force.


    He slowly stood up, clenching his fists. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bathed in the terrifying power of the lightning tribulation, a smile appeared on his face, flushed red by the purple lightning.


    "My friends, wait for me to break through this Basic Mastery tribulation, and we shall face the enemy together!"


    ...


    High in the sky, numerous figures were watching Amber Hill!


    They were Heavenly Path Venerable projections from the imperial, and the one standing at the forefront was a Heavenly Path Basic Mastery projection from Sunshine Mansion, along with Brody, ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking.


    However, Brody kept a subtle distance from the Basic Mastery projection.


    Even the other Heavenly Path projections from the imperial followed closely behind Brody, as if they belonged to different factions.


    "It seems Chuck is attempting to break through to the Basic Mastery realm this time. The Blackwoods must have made preparations."


    The Basic Mastery projection looked at Donna''s massive figure in front of Amber Hill and then glanced sideways at Brody.


    "Congratulations, Brody. The Blackwoods must be prepared for a fight. As the most powerful projection of the imperial, you might be able to break through to the Basic Mastery realm after this battle."


    Brody''s face darkened with anger.


    He glanced at the other imperial projections behind him and saw a flicker of vigilance in their eyes.


    The Basic Mastery projection''s words sounded like congratulations, but they were actually a trap.


    This was going to be a fierce battle, and in a battle, there would be casualties.


    Only by inheriting a portion of the fallen''s power could he break through to the Basic Mastery realm!


    Although they couldn''t disobey the commands of their main consciousness, it didn''t stop them from playing little games with each other.


    Brody could sense that the projections behind him had ulterior motives.


    After the upcoming battle, these projections might very well use the old geezer''s words to get rid of him!


    "Don''t you dare try to sow discord among our imperial projections!"

 Chapter 380 This will be a bloody battle

    Brody scoffed."I''m afraid it''s you who will die, Hudson! Why do you think, out of all the Sunshine Mansion projections, they sent you? Because you''re the most useless! You''ve lived for eight thousand years and you''re still only at the middle stage of Basic Mastery! Your power would be better off with the rest of us!"


    "You..." Hudson''s face contorted with rage.


    The other imperial projections narrowed their eyes.


    It was no wonder Brody thrived in the imperial court, able to lead so many projections and even hold an official position.


    With just a few words, he shattered Hudson''s attempt to sow discord and united the imperial projections.


    These projections were not only independent, but they also came from different regions.


    They radiated outwards from Sunshine Mansion, gradually spreading across the Emerald Empire.


    Naturally, the projections from Sunshine Mansion were the oldest.


    The oldest projection in the imperial court had only lived for two thousand years before dying of old age!


    However, this didn''t mean that the projections from Sunshine Mansion held the highest status.


    They all looked down on each other.


    Brody, for one, held the Sunshine Mansion projections in contempt.


    He had reached the peak of Pinnacle Apprentice at the age of five hundred and was only a hair''s breadth away from breaking through to Basic Mastery.


    He was confident in his abilities!


    "Heh." Hudson, an old fox himself, sneered.


    "Brody, Brody, do you really think you''re so talented? If it weren''t for the Basic Mastery expert who died in the Battle of Glory City, and the twenty-plus Competent Force experts who perished alongside him, you wouldn''t have received so much natural energy or obtained the Phoenix Blood Physique. You wouldn''t have made it this far!"


    Brody was about to retort...


    ...when all the projections in the sky turned their attention towards Amber Hill.


    "Boom!"


    Dark clouds gathered, unleashing a torrential downpour that stretched for thousands of miles.


    Bolts of lightning crashed down towards Amber Hill!


    In an instant, the projections shot forward.


    They didn''t fear the lightning tribulation.


    Their main consciousness had given them an order: stop Chuck from undergoing the tribulation, even at the cost of their own existence!


    They knew this was their main consciousness''s way of forcing the Blackwoods out and annihilating them.


    As expected...


    As they pressed forward, figures emerged from all directions!


    Upon seeing these figures, the projections were consumed by rage.


    "Finally shown yourselves, you rats! You filthy rats!!!" S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Donna, Bill Daoist, The Celestial Star Swordmaster, Sam...


    These were the ants who had been hunting down their weakest projections all these years, playing a game of hide-and-seek across the imperial lands.


    These were the ants who had tortured their captured projections day and night, forcing them to share in their agonizing memories.


    They glared at the group from Azure Cloud, their killing intent burning especially fiercely for the dozen or so Rogue Cultivators among them.


    Those Rogue Cultivators were capable of anything!


    ...


    Thunder roared, wind howled, and heavy rain lashed down as over a hundred cultivators from Azure Cloud faced off against the Heavenly Path Venerable projections.


    For years, they had been fighting a guerrilla war against the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, knowing full well that even killing a projection would only make the main consciousness stronger.


    They held their breath, their heartbeats echoing in their ears amidst the storm.


    Despite years of fighting wits and courage against the Heavenly Path Venerable projections...


    ...they had to admit, they were terrified.


    If they could, they would rather flee and never face such an overwhelmingly powerful enemy again.


    Over the years, they hadn''t managed to kill a single Heavenly Path Venerable projection.


    Instead, they resorted to capturing and imprisoning them.


    But today, bloodshed was inevitable!


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster stared at the approaching Heavenly Path projections, their expressions mocking.


    He couldn''t deny the fear that gripped him.


    His voice, though icy, trembled slightly.


    "Donna, is it true that killing their projections will only make them stronger?"


    "Yes." Donna nodded solemnly.


    She wouldn''t lie to her comrades about the true power of a Heavenly Path Venerable, even if it meant discouraging them.


    "Besides capturing them, are there any other weaknesses we can exploit?"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s knuckles turned white as he gripped his sword.


    "Can we use formations to trap the energy they release upon death?"


    "We''ve tried, but it doesn''t work."


    Donna''s gaze locked onto Brody.


    Twenty years ago, she had fought against Psychic, ranked eighteenth on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, and lost.


    Now, she wanted to see how she measured up against Brody, the third-ranked prodigy!


    The others also fixed their gazes on the Heavenly Path projections.


    Bill Daoist exhaled slowly, assessing the strength of their opponents.


    "Two hundred and five in total. Hudson, at the middle stage of Basic Mastery, will be my opponent. In addition, there are twelve at the Competent Force realm, one hundred and twenty-one at the Developing Skill realm, and the rest are all at the Emerging Ability realm. None of them are to be underestimated."


    "Among those at the Developing Skill realm, a few are particularly formidable. They''re already at the peak of their realm."


    "This will be a bloody battle."


    A bloody battle indeed.


    They were completely outnumbered, and unlike the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, they wouldn''t grow stronger from the deaths of their comrades.


    If a Heavenly Path Venerable projection died, it would be replaced by another, potentially even stronger one.


    If they died, they died.


    Their battle against the Druids had at least been a fair trade, but this... this was different.


    This was never a fair fight.


    By killing the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, they were only making the main consciousness stronger!


    As if sensing the fear in his companions, Bill Daoist lowered his head slightly, his voice heavy. Discover more content at empire


    "So, my friends, are you afraid?"


    Thunder boomed over Amber Hill, the rain intensified, and the Heavenly Path Venerable projections drew closer.


    Despite their own strength, the cultivators from Azure Cloud couldn''t shake the bone-chilling cold that seeped into their hearts.


    "Damn it!" Sam gritted his teeth.


    "My mother always told me, as the head of the Jones family, I should never act impulsively. I should always prioritize our interests. Looks like I''m making a bad business decision today. I''m scared, but I will fight!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster glanced at the young man, a sudden sense of relief washing over him.


    "Let''s fight then. There''s no point in being afraid. My friends, if I fall today, I have two favors to ask. First, tell Olivia that... that I never got to say what was in my heart. And second, Jayden of the Crimson Gate Syndicate...


    he beat my brother to near death. I want him dead."


    As their voices faded, the gazes of the Azure Cloud cultivators hardened with resolve.


    "To hell with the Heavenly Path! I came here to kill these bastards!"


    "Alright, let''s see just how terrifying this Heavenly Path really is!"


    "They call Azure Cloud a backwater, treat us like country bumpkins. If Senior Chuck becomes a Basic Mastery expert, then we''ll have a true powerhouse in Azure Cloud! If my worthless life can help pave the way for a Basic Mastery expert, then it''s a worthy sacrifice!"

 Chapter 381 He was... toying with her

    As the cultivators from Azure Cloud exchanged words, their fighting spirit soared.They knew that on Amber Hill stood Chuck, their comrade who had faced the Druids alongside them, who had shared life and death with them on the battlefield!


    No matter how terrifying the Heavenly Path was, they would not retreat!


    Sensing their determination, Bill Daoist exhaled slowly, a smile finally gracing his lips.


    Truth be told... he was afraid too.


    But now, he understood.


    Perhaps it was on that day, when the Blackwoods had sought him out in the Abyss, when he had stepped foot into the chaotic battleground of Azure Cloud and fought alongside these people, that he had forged an unbreakable bond with the people of Cloudview County.


    "Hoo."


    He unleashed his psychic powers, summoning the Great Wall that stood guard at the border of Azure Cloud to shield Amber Hill from behind.


    Eyes fixed coldly on the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, he charged forward.


    "Come, my friends! Let us fight together! Do not let a single one set foot on Amber Hill!"


    "Kill!!!"


    ...


    The Emerald Empire had existed for hundreds of thousands of years, an epoch of countless power struggles and the rise and fall of mighty psychics.


    Now, the empire was ruled with absolute authority by the emperor.


    Over the years, the Emerald Empire had enjoyed periods of great prosperity, while its borderlands were periodically ravaged by disasters.


    Sometimes, it was warmongers like Grand Tutor Gilbert who led their psychics on campaigns of conquest.


    But peace and prosperity often bred corruption and complacency.


    Now, within the Emerald Empire, two pairs of eyes were fixed on Amber Hill.


    A Competent Force expert attempting to break through to Basic Mastery, along with a rising star like Chuck, was impossible to miss.


    Perhaps they sought to recruit them like Lance, or perhaps...


    ...perhaps they simply watched the events unfolding on Amber Hill like a play, amused by the spectacle.


    And if the mood struck them, they might descend like hunters toying with their prey!


    "Fools, utter fools."


    Decked in luxurious robes, Declan floated high in the air, far from the raging battle on Amber Hill.


    The anger he had felt when trying to recruit Chuck had vanished, replaced by a strange sense of pity.


    "With such talent, he could have pledged his allegiance to the national advisor and lived a life of peace and comfort. Yet he chooses this path of destruction. And those Azure Cloud psychics, daring to oppose the Heavenly Path... they are courting their own annihilation. Even the expert from Crystal Crest wouldn''t dare to confront the Heavenly Path directly."


    As his words echoed through the air, the battle on Amber Hill erupted!


    Thunder roared, lightning flashed, and torrential rain lashed down as the might of a Competent Force expert undergoing the tribulation shook the heavens.


    Over three hundred psychics unleashed their powers, their advanced mystical equipment blazing with energy.


    The chaotic yet magnificent spectacle filled the sky and earth with a maelstrom of psychic energy.


    The hundred or so cultivators from Azure Cloud were all seasoned veterans.


    Their war against the Druids had raged for over a century.


    Though outnumbered and outmatched, their techniques and skills inferior to those of the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, they fought with unwavering determination to defend Amber Hill, pushing back against their formidable foes.


    It was ironic, in a way.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable projections, though sharing the same consciousness, were hampered by their own distrust and inability to cooperate fully.


    On the other hand, the cultivators from Azure Cloud, hailing from different backgrounds and with different experiences, fought together as one.


    Bill Daoist and Hudson, both at the Basic Mastery realm, clashed in a dazzling display of psychic might high above the battlefield. Find more to read at empire


    Donna and The Celestial Star Swordmaster, however, found themselves in a dire situation.


    On the side of the Blackwoods, besides Donna, The Celestial Star Swordmaster, and an elder named Martin, there was only Charlie Crackle, the Exploding Sky Serpent who had accompanied Donna.


    They were four Competent Force experts against twelve, including the monstrously powerful Brody!


    "I''d heard rumors of the Blackwoods'' rising stars. Nathan and Amelia, who both endured the nine-nine tribulation lightning. And then there''s Marcus, a prodigy from my own Psychic Sanctuary. To think I''d encounter another survivor of the nine-nine tribulation lightning here, near Amber Hill."


    Brody''s voice was calm as he addressed Donna.


    "A pity you''re only at the initial stage of Competent Force. If you were at the peak, with your Supreme Overlord Body, you might actually pose a challenge. Unfortunately..."


    Brody was truly exceptional!


    He stood over seven feet tall, his face bearing the weathered look of a seasoned general.


    Clad in silver armor etched with intricate runes, he cut an imposing figure.


    The armor itself was no ordinary artifact.


    It shielded him from Donna''s attacks, her punches, which had even given the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice pause, failing to leave so much as a dent.


    Every time she got close, shadowy apparitions would erupt from the armor, catching her off guard.


    The spear he wielded was equally extraordinary.


    It was massive, over ten feet long, its head covered in grooves.


    With each swing, though its movements were visible to the naked eye, the spear seemed to pierce through space itself, its attacks arriving from unexpected angles.


    The spear pulsed with mystical energy, wreathed in protective phoenix flames that burned with an unnatural intensity.


    Above Brody''s head, a golden bead hovered, emitting seven points of light that formed a pyramid-shaped barrier, trapping Donna within.


    Adding to his already formidable power was the Phoenix Blood Physique.


    A silver phoenix phantom danced around him, its screech amplifying his attacks, making them seem unstoppable, his psychic energy inexhaustible.


    "He''s strong!" Donna thought, her back against the edge of the barrier.


    She had been pushed to her limit. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Brody, the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice, was at least ten times stronger than the eighteenth-ranked expert she had faced before!


    Donna herself was no longer entirely human.


    Twenty years of cultivating psychic powers, though she was only at the initial stage of Competent Force, had transformed her.


    Her once fifteen-foot frame had shrunk to thirteen feet, her skin, visible beneath her vest-like armor, a tapestry of corded muscle and bulging veins.


    She fought unarmed, her fists her most powerful weapons.


    She was already giving it her all.


    The Supreme Overlord Body and the Thunderclap Diamond Physique enhanced her strength to unimaginable levels.


    Even a peak Competent Force expert wouldn''t dare to take one of her punches head-on.


    Her eyes, one black, one gold, pulsed with power.


    She was drawing upon the full might of the sixth-grade Buddha-Demon Disk, her body crackling with lightning, her strength growing exponentially.


    And behind her...


    Grotesque tentacles, crackling with electricity, writhed in the air like the limbs of a monstrous kraken.


    Her vertical eye, ever vigilant, tracked Brody''s every move.


    But even so...


    One of her arms hung limp, pierced by multiple spear wounds that stood out starkly against her bulging muscles.


    Thankfully, her Supreme Overlord Body possessed incredible regenerative abilities.


    Her bones cracked back into place, and the gruesome wounds on her body closed rapidly, flesh knitting itself back together at a speed visible to the naked eye.


    "He''s not even at full strength."


    Donna gritted her teeth and vanished in a flash of movement.


    But Brody simply stood there, casually swinging his spear.


    When she reappeared, several new wounds marred her body.


    A faint smile played on Brody''s lips.


    He was... toying with her!


    No.


    Donna''s eyes narrowed.


    She saw it.


    A flicker of relief, a subtle increase in Brody''s power.


    She glanced beyond the confines of the barrier and saw that her comrades from Azure Cloud had slain one of the Heavenly Path Venerable projections!


    It was a hollow victory, a grim reminder of the terrifying truth they all faced.


    Their enemies were already terrifyingly powerful, and with each fallen projection, the remaining ones grew stronger!

 Chapter 382 Defend Amber Hill

    "See that?" A cruel smile flickered across Brody''s face.For twenty years, he had been tormented by the Blackwoods.


    For twenty years, he had shared in the suffering of his captured projections as they endured the Blackwoods'' tortures.


    Experience tales with empire


    Now, it was time for these clowns to learn their place.


    "Nothing you do matters!" Brody taunted.


    "You Blackwoods are no different from all the others who dared to oppose us. You''re all just stepping stones on the Heavenly Path''s rise to power!"


    "Go to hell!" Donna roared, her body once again bathed in celestial lightning.


    The Buddha-Demon Disk and the Thunder Forged Adamantine Body activated, pushing her strength even further.


    This time, she was withstanding 60% of the lightning tribulation''s full power, the absolute limit of what she could handle!


    She had never pushed herself this far, not even when facing the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice.


    Exceeding her limits would have disastrous consequences.


    "I don''t care about your precious Heavenly Path, or how invincible you think you are! You will pay for what you did to my people!"


    Donna''s speed and strength surged.


    Brody''s expression shifted.


    He had been toying with her before, effortlessly deflecting her attacks.


    But now... this unknown girl was actually dodging his spear!


    ...


    [Special Event - Defend Amber Hill]


    [Your descendant, Donna, is fighting alongside cultivators from Azure Cloud to protect Chuck. They are under attack by multiple Heavenly Path Venerable projections from the imperial court.]


    Ethan stared at the pale blue screen, his expression grave.


    Even though he wasn''t present at Amber Hill, he knew the impossible odds Donna and their friends from Azure Cloud faced.


    They were outnumbered, outmatched, facing an enemy they could not defeat.


    Meanwhile, in other corners of the world, his other descendants were also fighting for their lives!


    [Radiant Sky Grotto]


    [Your descendant''s wife, Helen, is taking advantage of the distraction caused by the events at Amber Hill. While the imperial nobles are preoccupied, she has contacted Owen and infiltrated Radiant Sky Grotto to rescue Julian.]


    Inside Radiant Sky Grotto, disguised as a servant girl with Owen''s help, Helen finally met up with Julian.


    "Great Grandfather!" Helen bowed deeply.


    Julian, reduced to performing menial labor, stood in the mystical beast enclosure, pitchfork in hand...


    Seeing her great grandfather in such a sorry state brought tears to Helen''s eyes.


    When had he ever suffered such humiliation in Azure Cloud?


    "We have to get you out of here, Great Grandfather," she said, her voice firm.


    "We can''t stay in this dreadful place any longer."


    "It''s not that simple." Julian smiled sadly, tossing the pitchfork aside.


    He led Helen away from the enclosure.


    "General Owen getting you in here was already a risk. Those bastards have Radiant Sky Grotto on lockdown. The moment I step outside, they''ll know."


    He led her to the heart of Radiant Sky Grotto, to the facility where the AI Bionic Robots were manufactured.


    The building was heavily guarded.


    "This is where Radiant Sky Grotto manufactures the Iron Army for the Emerald Emperor," Julian said, his voice low.


    "Inside, there are countless AI Bionic Robots, all sealed away. You are a rising star in Formation Mastery. Once you unlock the formations, you''ll have only a few precious moments, perhaps thirty minutes at most, to seize as many AI Bionic Robots as you can."


    "Leave the rest to me." Julian turned, his gaze sweeping across Radiant Sky Grotto.


    In the shadows, points of light flickered.


    A savage grin spread across his shaved head.


    "I''m going to blow these bastards who treated me like trash to kingdom come!"


    Meanwhile...


    At the foot of Kylin Mountain, outside Sunshine Mansion...


    Benjamin, who had spent years searching for opportunities, had erected an altar.


    Upon it rested the Psychic Position of the Forebearer.


    Behind him stood a young man, bare-chested, his body covered in demonic markings.


    He carried a greatsword that pulsed with dark energy.


    "Begin, descendant," the Lord of Frenzied Blood intoned, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword.


    Benjamin nodded curtly.


    He had spotted the psychics guarding Sunshine Mansion approaching, their expressions furious.


    Ignoring them, he watched as the Lord of Frenzied Blood unleashed a torrent of demonic energy, charging towards the oncoming guards.


    Benjamin dropped to his knees, bowing before the Psychic Position.


    "Forebearer, after two hundred and fifty years, your unworthy descendant begs for your blessing! Descend upon this world!"


    Ethan''s eyes narrowed as words appeared on the translucent panel before him.


    [Your descendant is performing a sacrificial ritual...]


    [Do you wish to bestow your blessing upon your descendant?]


    ... S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Panoram State.


    Ten years had passed since Adam and his son, Alexander, had emerged victorious from the battle that had raged across the seas.


    They stood on the deck of their flagship, anchored off the coast.


    Their original fleet of eight ships had been lost in the storm, their crews lost at sea.


    But by some twist of fate, they had stumbled upon the Undying Pirate Ship, an eighth-grade artifact.


    Now, they ruled a sizable portion of Panoram State''s waters.


    Over a hundred ships flew their flag, and no psychic in the south dared to set sail without their permission.


    The psychics of Panoram State called them "The Sea King" and "The Son of the Sea."


    But such titles meant little to them.


    They stood on the deck of their ship, the sea breeze whipping at their clothes, their gazes fixed on the distant horizon, towards their homeland.


    Years at sea had changed Adam.


    He still wore his eyepatch, but he had traded his rough clothes for finer garments.


    He had matured, his features hardened by the harsh realities of life at sea and the countless battles he had fought.


    Perhaps it was the contrast with his former life, but now that he had access to luxury, he had developed a taste for cleanliness.


    He wore a magnificent golden robe, his hair long and well-kept.


    He looked less like a weathered pirate and more like a wealthy merchant, his words tinged with a hint of pretentiousness.


    "Alexander, we are like the waves, and Panoram State is but a rocky shore. No matter how solid those rocks may seem, one day, they too will be swallowed by the endless ocean."

 Chapter 383 That hope lies beyond those challenges

    Alexander fell silent for a long moment.He knew better than anyone the hardships he and his father, Adam, had endured during their years at sea.


    They hadn''t tasted a decent meal, nor had they enjoyed a peaceful night''s sleep.


    It was seafood, day in and day out, and rainwater was their only source of drinking water. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Their clothes were practically disintegrating on their backs.


    And except for him, the ship was manned by a spectral crew.


    His father found solace in those days, poring over old books by Martinez.


    So, when they finally returned to land, it was no surprise that his father developed an aversion to hardship and a yearning for comfort.


    That''s how he ended up like this.


    "Dad," Alexander began, his brow furrowed with worry, "what are our people doing now? When can we go back and help them seek vengeance?"


    A deep-seated longing gnawed at him.


    He yearned to be like his brother, Benjamin, able to connect with their people, to contribute to their cause.


    Otherwise, he felt like a pale imitation of a true family member.


    Every time he and his father entered the Forebearer''s space, their kin seemed oblivious to their presence.


    No matter what they accomplished in Panoram State, it paled in comparison to the trials their people faced.


    Trials he could barely fathom.


    "Our people?" Adam chuckled, his voice full of optimism.


    "Son, you have to trust in our elders. You have to trust in the strength of our bloodline. We lost everything at sea, but that''s life, isn''t it? We face hardships, and when we overcome them, even greater challenges await. But you have to believe that hope lies beyond those challenges."


    "We lost our fleet," he continued, his voice taking on a wistful tone, "but we gained the Ghost Ship. We lost our island, but we found a new land, a vast continent where we carved out our own domain."


    "Our family is facing hardships now. We''ve lost many of our own. We''ve lost Azure Cloud, lost our standing. But I believe that our people will overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacle that is the Heavenly Path. Our family will emerge stronger than ever!"


    Alexander''s brow furrowed again.


    He didn''t share his father''s unwavering optimism.


    All he knew was that his father clung to this belief, and that it had led them down a dangerous path.


    This fleet of ships, their control over the southern seas, the crew his father had assembled... it was all part of a risky gamble.


    His father had confided in him, sharing his plan to use their resources to conquer Panoram State, to seize its fortune.


    That was the key, he claimed, to breaking through to the Developing Skill realm.


    And once they ruled Panoram State, they would return to their family and offer their aid.


    ...


    On Amber Hill, the thunder tribulation raged on.


    The battle had been raging for half a day, the two Basic Mastery experts locked in a deadly duel high above the battlefield.


    Bill Daoist, initially confident, now felt a growing sense of unease.


    Facing Hudson was like facing Shane all over again.


    The bastard even possessed a high-level mystical artifact that was slowly tipping the scales in his favor.


    Outside Amber Hill, the initial clash of over three hundred psychics had been whittled down to less than a hundred, both sides suffering heavy losses.


    The remaining cultivators from Azure Cloud had abandoned their initial assault and now huddled together behind a series of hastily erected formations, their last line of defense.


    Inside the bombarded formations, the defenders were battered and exhausted.


    Charlie Crackle, the Blackwood''s guardian beast, had been reduced to a wisp of smoke, barely clinging to existence.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was a ghastly sight, his body covered in wounds, his clothes shredded.


    He no longer resembled the legendary Sword Saint.


    In his hand, he clutched a simple broadsword.


    His own mystical sword, a priceless artifact, had been destroyed in the fighting, and he had exhausted his supply of borrowed blades.


    None of the Azure Cloud cultivators had a spare sword to lend.


    Elder Martin was dead, slain by a Developing Skill expert who had recklessly triggered a breakthrough in the midst of battle.


    He had died alongside his killer, both obliterated in a suicidal explosion of energy.


    In this battle, such desperate acts were all too common.


    Donna had lost an arm at the shoulder, and half her face had been blown away.


    Flesh writhed at the stump of her arm, and gore bubbled on her mangled face.


    Her initial rapid regeneration had slowed to a crawl.


    She had pushed her body to its absolute limit, enduring 80% of the lightning tribulation''s power!


    For the first time in her life, Donna felt the icy breath of death on her neck.


    On the other side of the battered formations, Brody, too, bore the marks of their fierce battle.


    His silver armor, once pristine, was now dented and cracked. Your next chapter awaits on empire


    His helmet was gone, revealing his wild, tangled hair.


    His free hand, clasped behind his back, trembled slightly.


    But despite his injuries, his aura was even more powerful than before.


    His spear pulsed with menacing energy.


    He stared at Donna, his expression grim, a flicker of fear lingering in his eyes.


    He knew better than anyone how monstrous Donna had become.


    The girl had tapped into some forbidden power, sacrificing her own life force to draw upon the might of the lightning tribulation, pushing her physical strength to unimaginable levels.


    She had become a genuine threat, even to him, the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice!


    At one point, she had almost overwhelmed him, forcing him to retreat to avoid a fatal blow.


    That was the closest he had ever come to death.


    "If she were at the peak of Competent Force..." Brody thought, his gaze cold as he surveyed the forty or so battered Azure Cloud cultivators.


    "She wouldn''t need that death-defying technique to fight me on equal footing. Where did she even learn that monstrous technique, the one that blends demonic and Buddhist powers? And these Azure Cloud cultivators..."


    He drew a sharp breath, a shiver running down his spine despite the growing strength he felt from the deaths of his fellow projections.


    They might have reveled in their newfound power, but all Brody felt was a chilling dread.


    These cultivators were nothing short of insane.


    Only lunatics would fight with such ferocity, pushing them to the brink of defeat.


    "To think that a backwater like Azure Cloud could produce psychics like you," he said, his voice cold.


    "I underestimated you. What a pity. You''ve chosen to defend a lost cause. You''re all going to die here!"


    He pointed towards Amber Hill, his words venomous, but his voice betrayed his fear.


    He was terrified.


    Terrified that Donna would choose to take him down with her.


    His threats were hollow, a desperate attempt to scare them into fleeing.


    He had to survive.


    He had to become one with his main consciousness.


    He couldn''t die here, not at the hands of these ants!


    But Donna wasn''t listening.


    She and the other Azure Cloud cultivators were staring past the enemy lines, their gazes fixed on the spectacle unfolding above Amber Hill.


    The celestial lightning had coalesced into a colossal beast, a primordial elephant of pure energy, clashing against Chuck''s own Competent Force.


    But Chuck''s energy was waning, flickering like a dying flame.


    The Basic Mastery tribulation was not just a test of physical endurance.


    It was a trial by fire for one''s very essence, for their Competent Force.


    The stronger the tribulation, the more powerful the breakthrough.


    And the form the tribulation took reflected its intensity.


    Some classified Basic Mastery tribulations into five levels, with the fifth being the most powerful.


    And the primordial elephant Chuck faced... was a fourth-level tribulation!

 Chapter 384 Whats happening?

    "A fourth-level tribulation?!" Donna exclaimed, her remaining eye widening in disbelief.Tribulations were classified into five levels, and those attempting to break through to the Basic Mastery realm could choose whether or not to brave a higher-level tribulation once they reached the third level.


    Her master had initially been on track for a third-level tribulation.


    Never had she imagined he would attempt a fourth-level one!


    "Hahaha, so the rumors are true! Chuck is as arrogant and stubborn as they say!" Declan''s voice boomed across the battlefield as he appeared beside Brody, a triumphant smirk on his face.


    "To think he would be foolish enough to attempt a fourth-level tribulation! Such arrogance! Such folly! He''s never witnessed the true terror of a fourth-level Basic Mastery tribulation. He''s walking to his death!"


    Brody''s face darkened at Declan''s arrival.


    He had been ready to cut his losses and retreat, but this cunning old fox had seen through him.


    "Brody," Declan said, turning to him with a sly smile.


    "Chuck is as good as dead. There''s no need to concern yourself with him any longer. As for these Azure Cloud pests..."


    He glanced at the battered defenders, a flicker of fear in his eyes.


    These people were a menace.


    "The national advisor''s orders are clear: leave no survivors."


    Brody sighed inwardly.


    He had no choice.


    With a roar, he led the remaining Heavenly Path Venerable projections forward.


    Donna''s remaining eye blazed with defiance as she watched them approach.


    "Here they come! It doesn''t matter if my master succeeds or not! We fight on! If I fall, I''ll join my master in the afterlife, and together we will repay your kindness!"


    "Yes!" The Azure Cloud cultivators roared in unison.


    They would face their deaths without fear.


    But as Brody and his forces closed in, they froze, their advance halting abruptly.


    Even the battle-hungry Azure Cloud cultivators stared in astonishment.


    Every eye on the battlefield was drawn towards a single point in the distance.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    A series of explosions ripped through the air.


    The source: Radiant Sky Grotto.


    ...


    "Boom!"


    Radiant Sky Grotto was engulfed in flames, explosions erupting across its once-serene landscape.


    The bustling marketplace outside the sect, home to countless psychics specializing in unique crafts and skills, fell silent as its inhabitants watched in horror.


    The explosions were centered around the heart of Radiant Sky Grotto, its hidden sanctuary.


    "What''s happening?"


    "Who would dare attack Radiant Sky Grotto?"


    "Have they been invaded?!"


    Panic gripped the marketplace.


    Radiant Sky Grotto was no ordinary sect. Enjoy new tales from empire S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It housed Advanced Mastery experts and was renowned throughout the Emerald Empire.


    Some claimed that while it might not be the most powerful sect, it was undoubtedly the most unique.


    Alchemists, mystical artisans, Druid poison masters... practitioners of countless unorthodox paths had gathered within its walls.


    And these unorthodox experts were not to be trifled with.


    Moreover, Radiant Sky Grotto had maintained a strong presence in the grand hall for years, with disciples like Owen serving as its representatives.


    No one in their right mind would dare provoke them.


    And yet, their sanctuary was under attack!


    Panic spread through the marketplace like wildfire.


    Inside Radiant Sky Grotto, chaos reigned.


    Believing they were under attack, the disciples scrambled to defend their home.


    Explosions rocked the hidden sanctuary, over two hundred detonations in total.


    Deep within the sanctuary, hidden within the trunk of a towering tree, a figure materialized.


    It was an elderly man.


    He rose into the air, ascending to the highest point of Radiant Sky Grotto.


    Gazing down at the inferno below, at his panicked disciples, he made a series of calculations with his fingers.


    His brow furrowed in annoyance.


    "What reckless foolishness," he muttered.


    A disciple flew towards him, bowing respectfully.


    "Grandmaster," the disciple reported, his voice trembling, "someone planted mystical bombs throughout our sanctuary. Two hundred and thirty-six of them! They were expertly concealed, their energy signatures masked. Each bomb detonated with the force of a Developing Skill expert, causing widespread destruction."


    The middle-aged disciple, fearing his Grandmaster''s wrath, quickly added, "But rest assured, Grandmaster, the casualties are minimal. The bombs mainly damaged the land within the sanctuary. It will take a few years to restore, but the mystical beast enclosure suffered the brunt of the attack. Many of our beasts perished, and it will be a long time before we can harvest their essence for our potions.


    As for casualties... only a dozen or so disciples were injured, and two lost their lives. They were caught off guard while refining materials."


    The Grandmaster of Radiant Sky Grotto remained impassive, his gaze fixed on the chaos below.


    He resembled a benevolent grandfather, but instead of addressing the explosions, he asked, "Quinn, I hear you''ve been associating with those imperial nobles lately."


    "That..." Quinn, the sect leader and a distant descendant of the Grandmaster, stiffened.


    He fidgeted nervously, his chubby face slick with sweat.


    "Grandmaster, those imperial nobles require our assistance. It''s only natural that we maintain a cordial relationship."


    The Grandmaster nodded slowly.


    "I advise you to distance yourself from them. You seem to have learned their art of selective reporting. Why tell me only the trivial matters? Why not mention what Radiant Sky Grotto has lost? And how is it that over two hundred bombs were planted right under our noses, and yet you knew nothing of it?"


    "Forgive me, Grandmaster! It was my negligence!" Quinn Daoist prostrated himself.


    But when he looked up, the Grandmaster was gone.


    He breathed a sigh of relief, then cursed under his breath.


    "Who could have done this? And how could they have bypassed our defenses and divination techniques?!"


    As smoke and dust filled the air in Radiant Sky Grotto, a servant girl took advantage of the chaos to make her escape.


    Disciples rushed past, frantically searching for the perpetrators, while a burly man in black-gilded armor stood before her, his face a mask of disbelief.


    "You..." Owen gestured at the raging inferno around them, his gaze fixed on Helen, who seemed strangely detached from the unfolding disaster.


    "The Blackwoods promised to help me rescue Julian if I smuggled you in! Is this what they call help?!"


    "Yes," Helen replied calmly.


    "But I''m afraid I have some bad news. We couldn''t get your grandfather out."


    Owen''s eye twitched at her nonchalant tone.


    Bad news? Was there any news worse than Radiant Sky Grotto being blown to smithereens?


    The explosions, the chaos... it all pointed to the Blackwoods being behind this.


    He suddenly felt like an accomplice to a crime.


    Suppressing his anger, he reminded himself of the Blackwoods'' current predicament.


    "And the good news?" he asked through gritted teeth.


    Helen frowned, trying to figure out how to break the news without sending Owen into a frenzy.


    Just then, a distant voice cut through the commotion.


    "It''s terrible! The AI Bionic Robot facility has been robbed! Ten percent of our stock, gone!"

 Chapter 385 what do we do now?

    Owen''s face was darker than a chimney sweep''s.Helen laughed and said, "General Owen, can you escort me out now?"


    Her words left Owen speechless amidst the chaos of the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He stared at Helen for a long moment, then sighed and led her out.


    Meanwhile, in the Radiant Sky Grotto''s beast enclosure, Julian sat cross-legged on a stone block.


    "That''s better."


    He inhaled the scent of gunpowder, a smile spreading across his face.


    After all these years of enduring humiliation within the Radiant Sky Grotto, this explosion had blown away all his grievances!


    Suddenly, he looked up and saw an elderly man with a benevolent face appear before him.


    Julian hadn''t even noticed his arrival.


    His family had always called him simple-minded, but he could tell at a glance that this old man was no ordinary person.


    He could even guess his identity.


    However, Julian remained silent, his gaze fixed on the old man''s eyes, the relaxed smile from his earlier outburst still lingering on his face.


    "You did this?" the Radiant Sky Grotto''s Grandmaster asked, surprised by Julian''s composure.


    Even without Quinn Daoist''s report, he could easily deduce everything that had transpired within the Radiant Sky Grotto with his level of cultivation.


    He knew about the stolen AI Bionic Robot, the explosions that had rocked the grotto, and even... Helen''s departure with Owen.


    Julian nodded.


    "Yes."


    Intrigued by the silver-skinned, bald giant''s honesty, the Grandmaster warned, "Let me make one thing clear, boy. Cause trouble in my Radiant Sky Grotto, and I''ll crush you with a single hand!"


    "That''s why I''m not running," Julian replied, rising from the stone block and leaping before the Grandmaster.


    He rubbed his bald head, a guileless smile on his face.


    "I sought refuge in the Radiant Sky Grotto and worked as a handyman for many years. I''ve heard tales of the Radiant Sky Grotto''s Grandmaster, how outsiders call your path unorthodox, yet you possess true power in this world. I knew I couldn''t hide anything from your eyes."


    "I''ve long yearned to meet you, Grandmaster, but the path to enlightenment seemed closed to me. Others coveted my talents, and I feared revealing my true thoughts would lead to my demise. This display was a desperate attempt to draw you out."


    With that, he knelt before the Grandmaster, his action surprising even the ancient master. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Prostrating himself on the ground, Julian spoke with conviction.


    "Blackwood Julian, at your service, Grandmaster! For decades, I''ve honed my skills within the Radiant Sky Grotto. I''ve reached the sixth level in crafting mystical equipment, formations, and AI Bionic Robots. Talismans, beast control, astrology... I''ve studied them all and possess true skill. Please, Grandmaster..."


    "Take me as your disciple!"


    Julian clenched his fists, dirt clinging to his fingers.


    He stared intently at the Storage Ring in his hand, his jaw set with determination.


    No one knew what he had endured all these years.


    He constantly replayed Larry''s sacrifice to save him.


    He had awakened within the Storage Ring, already aware of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s destruction of his family.


    He had experienced despair, confusion, and helplessness amidst the hostile environment of the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    But the day Forebearer appeared, he knew he had to change.


    He couldn''t remain the clueless, simpleton his clan mocked him for.


    He had waited for this day, for this gamble.


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    Only by becoming Grandmaster Reid''s disciple and learning from his vast knowledge could he avenge his family and Larry!


    When Reid remained silent, Julian gritted his teeth and repeated, "Please, Grandmaster Reid, accept me as your disciple!"


    Reid studied the kneeling Julian, his fingers drumming thoughtfully within his sleeve as he calculated.


    Finally, he looked at Julian with approval, though his tone held a hint of reprimand.


    "You chose such an extreme method to become my disciple?"


    Julian explained honestly, "I needed to draw you out, Grandmaster. Also, my people stole something from the Radiant Sky Grotto. I knew I couldn''t hide it from you. So I gambled!"


    "If you deemed me worthy, my crimes would be insignificant. If not, then death would be my only reward."


    Reid''s delight grew.


    "And did you win your gamble?" he asked softly.


    Julian slowly straightened his back, meeting the benevolent old man''s gaze.


    Behind Reid, flames painted the Radiant Sky Grotto red, and the shouts of its disciples still echoed through the air.


    A smile spread across Julian''s face, and he kowtowed three times before Reid.


    "Disciple Julian greets Master!"


    Later, Julian followed Reid deeper into the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He glanced back at the grotto''s entrance, where Helen had departed.


    Far beyond the Radiant Sky Grotto lay their homeland, Azure Cloud and Glory City, where his vast clan had once thrived.


    He had never been one for thinking, for bowing and scraping, or for taking risks.


    But this time, he had gambled correctly.


    He had spent years planting explosive AI Bionic Robots throughout the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He had toiled tirelessly as a handyman, not just to steal knowledge but to gather discarded scraps and even beast droppings.


    He could have escaped during the explosions, but he chose to stay.


    The moment Reid sought him out, he knew he had won.


    His two hundred explosive AI Bionic Robots, his secretly cultivated psychic abilities, the resolve he displayed before Reid¡ªhe believed these proved he was more worthy than that sycophantic Quinn Daoist, the Grotto Master who only served the powerful.


    "Father, Forebearer," Julian murmured, his eyes welling up as he trembled, unseen, "I won."


    The explosions at the distant Radiant Sky Grotto reached even the ears of those at Amber Hill, leaving them astonished.


    "Radiant Sky Grotto... what could have happened there?" they wondered.


    Declan, ever sharp from his time alongside National Advisor Lance, felt a surge of alarm at the news.


    He noticed Donna, standing within the protective barrier at Amber Hill, betray a flicker of delight.


    His keen mind instantly connected the events at the Radiant Sky Grotto to the Blackwoods, specifically Julian!


    Brody, who had been leading a group of projections in an assault on Donna and her allies, also froze at the distant detonations.


    He stared grimly towards the Radiant Sky Grotto, his expression darkening.


    He, too, had Heavenly Path projections stationed in the market outside the Radiant Sky Grotto, and through them, he was already aware of the unfolding chaos within!


    "Brody, what do we do now?" one of the projections asked.


    As the question hung in the air, Declan, sensing something amiss, sent a mental message: "Brody, what have you learned?"


    "Owen is emerging from the Radiant Sky Grotto," Brody replied, his eyes flickering.


    "No one knows what transpired inside, but it seems they are involved."


    "And now..." he continued, his voice laced with tension, "He''s heading this way!"

 Chapter 386 Damn it, what kind of monster is this?

    "What?!"Declan''s face paled, and a cold sweat broke out as he looked at the unfolding breakthrough at Amber Hill.


    It dawned on him: this could all be an elaborate trap!


    Chuck''s breakthrough had captivated everyone''s attention.


    Simultaneously, an explosion rocked the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    Declan believed there had to be a connection.


    His eyes widened as a realization struck him.


    "Julian is at the Radiant Sky Grotto! We''ve been watching him for years. It''s highly likely the Blackwoods orchestrated this entire situation to rescue him!"


    Brody''s gaze snapped towards Donna, his expression cold and calculating.


    She met his gaze with a mocking smile, infuriating him.


    Beneath his anger, a flicker of unease took root.


    "Donna," he snarled, "the Blackwoods are truly ruthless! You''d have Chuck achieve Basic Mastery and sacrifice yourselves as a diversion just to save Julian? Are his lives worth that much to you?!" sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His words caused the Azure Cloud members to frown and glance at Donna, exactly the reaction Brody hoped for.


    He longed to see discord among their ranks.


    However, the Azure Cloud members remained silent, much to his disappointment.


    Donna, unfazed, continued to smile mockingly.


    "Do you really think," she purred, "that we Blackwoods would stoop to something so ridiculous?"


    "You..." Brody began, but a jolt of horror cut him short.


    "No! Sunshine Mansion!" he cried out.


    ...


    Sunshine Mansion.


    Just like the day of the Blackwood raid, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections, stationed within the various factions, snapped open their eyes.


    They rose into the air and sped off in unison towards a single destination.


    This time, however, it was the Blackwoods launching an assault on Kylin Mountain!


    Storm clouds gathered ominously above Kylin Mountain, forming skeletal shapes that roared across the sky.


    Mystical totems rose into the air, crackling with power.


    Every Psychic on Kylin Mountain rushed out to meet the threat.


    The grand protective formations activated, and Roberts Psychics charged out, ready to defend their home.


    Their target: a single individual, radiating an aura of terrifying demonic energy.


    Anyone struck by his long blade fell instantly.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    He had come alone to challenge Kylin Mountain!


    "Use the binding formation! That demon is unkillable!"


    "Damn it, what kind of monster is this? Elder, he''s using Druidic magic! Physical augmentation, life-burning techniques!"


    "It''s no use, Elder! He''s immune to the binding formation! He''s placed a death curse on himself. Even if trapped, his body will simply disintegrate and reform elsewhere! He''s left blood drops everywhere. We can''t kill him unless we pinpoint his life force!"


    Panic spread through the ranks of the Roberts Psychics as the Lord of Frenzied Blood cut a bloody swathe through Kylin Mountain.


    He was an unkillable monster, and he had come prepared.


    Lives were extinguished left and right by the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s hand.


    Young or old, man or woman, none were spared.


    Finally, several Competent Force elders arrived, their combined might barely enough to slow the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s rampage.


    Then, a spectral image of a Kirin manifested within Kylin Mountain, its psychic power immeasurable.


    Wherever the Lord of Frenzied Blood reformed, the Kirin appeared instantly to confront him.


    "Foul demon!" the Kirin roared, its voice filled with righteous fury.


    It was a being of immense spiritual power, capable of speech.


    "You dare invade Kylin Mountain? No matter your cultivation technique or talent, do you truly believe you''ve achieved immortality? Today, I will see you perish!"


    The Kirin seemed to have seen through the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s secret.


    Yet, the Lord of Frenzied Blood showed no fear.


    Demonic markings blazed across his body, and his demonic energy surged.


    Once again, he allowed himself to be destroyed, his body exploding under the Kirin''s assault.


    But just as quickly, demonic energy coalesced around a single drop of blood elsewhere, reforming his flesh and bone.


    His demonic blade reformed in his hand.


    He surveyed the Roberts Psychics surrounding him, and the imposing Kirin in the sky.


    His voice was ice-cold.


    "You destroyed my hope. Now, I will see to it that Kylin Mountain knows no peace!"


    Even if it meant his demise, the Lord of Frenzied Blood would have his revenge!


    For millennia, he had endured the crushing loneliness of the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm.


    Then, he had encountered seven fools and set foot in Blackwood.


    Over the years, his intelligence had grown, and he had come to understand the world and its ways.


    Others had tried to sway him, claiming his talents were wasted on the Blackwoods.


    They said he was the one saving the Blackwoods, not the other way around.


    Fools!


    They didn''t understand that it was the Blackwoods who had saved him, who had given solace to a lonely soul!


    ...


    "We... we have someone this powerful in our family?" Benjamin whispered, watching the events unfold within Kylin Mountain from his vantage point before the ancestral altar.


    He watched in awe as the Lord of Frenzied Blood rampaged through Kylin Mountain.


    The Kirin''s attacks would destroy the Lord of Frenzied Blood time and again, only for him to rise again, each time engaging the Roberts Psychics and elders in a deadly dance.


    Benjamin was stunned.


    He remembered receiving his family mission and being sent by Forebearer.


    He had encountered the Lord of Frenzied Blood on his journey.


    At the time, he hadn''t understood how his clan could be so confident that the Lord of Frenzied Blood could single-handedly assault Kylin Mountain, one of the seven great families of Sunshine Mansion!


    "The elders always say the Heavenly Path Venerable is a monstrous prodigy who defies the heavens," Benjamin breathed.


    "But I think the Lord of Frenzied Blood is on another level entirely."


    Beside him, Ethan observed the battle as well.


    He shook his head.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood had been with the Blackwoods for nearly two centuries, yet he had only reached the middle stage of the Competent Force realm.


    Fortunately, in addition to his demonic cultivation and swordsmanship, the Lord of Frenzied Blood had also trained in Druidic techniques.


    While he might not rank on the Pinnacle Apprentice list, Ethan suspected he could send the top-ranked apprentice running for their life.


    However, even with his power, Ethan knew it was impossible for the Lord of Frenzied Blood to wipe out the Roberts single-handedly.


    He glanced at the system interface.


    [Your descendant, Helen, has infiltrated the AI Bionic Robot vault within the Radiant Sky Grotto and obtained a large number of AI Bionic Robots.] Explore more stories at empire


    [Your descendant, Julian, deviated from the family plan. Instead of escaping the Radiant Sky Grotto with Helen, he chose to gamble everything on a bold move. He awaits Grandmaster Reid within the grotto, seeking to become his disciple! New identity acquired: Disciple of Reid.]


    "It seems Julian has made his own choice," Ethan mused, glancing at Julian''s updated information.


    He didn''t fault his descendant.


    He couldn''t control everything, and his descendants had their own paths to forge.


    Julian had made his choice.


    A surge of pride welled within Ethan.


    Julian had always been impulsive and straightforward.


    Yet, this time, he had clearly put in considerable effort to earn the attention of someone like Grandmaster Reid.


    "BOOM!"


    A thunderous explosion ripped through the air, drawing Ethan''s attention back to the battle at Kylin Mountain.


    He frowned.


    The Kirin, having destroyed the Lord of Frenzied Blood multiple times, seemed to have found a way to weaken him.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood, once reckless, was now fighting with caution.


    Each time he reformed, his power seemed to have diminished slightly.

 Chapter 387 This time, I admit defeat.

    "Humph!" Ethan scoffed.Outside Kylin Mountain, Benjamin''s eyes widened.


    He watched as the Forebearer''s Psychic Position rose, and the black mist that formed the Forebearer gradually appeared before it!


    "Forebearer, your child greets you!" Benjamin called out repeatedly.


    Ethan, floating in the air, stepped on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and slowly turned his head to look at Benjamin.


    With a wave of his hand, he sucked the Storage Ring on the altar into his hand.


    Benjamin, now several miles away, heard Ethan''s voice transmission, "Child, your task is complete. Leave quickly. I await your growth."


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Benjamin''s face was full of joy.


    The Forebearer had praised him!


    In the blink of an eye, the Forebearer had disappeared.


    Not daring to delay, Benjamin quickly left.


    Meanwhile, in Austin''s courtyard within Kylin Mountain, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projection looked grim.


    He had seen it ¨C the figure in black mist, wielding a spear and stepping on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, the same one that had appeared in Glory City, had returned!


    This guy was an enigma.


    Like the unkillable Lord of Frenzied Blood, even if he was killed, he would reappear the next moment before that strange Psychic Position.


    It was because of him, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and those powerful Blackwood Rising Stars that the Heavenly Path Venerable was so eager to wipe out this strange family!


    At this moment, Austin was afraid.


    He suddenly understood.


    Everything that had happened on Amber Hill in the imperial capital, the explosion at Radiant Sky Grotto, the appearance of the black mist figure and the Lord of Frenzied Blood ¨C it was all part of Blackwood''s plan.


    Perhaps he was Blackwood''s true target!


    Like Brody, he didn''t want to be a sacrifice.


    He also wanted to be the final victor!


    As he hesitated¡­


    Austin felt it ¨C the black mist figure was staring at him!


    And the next moment, the black mist figure spun the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and instantly appeared in his courtyard.


    What made Austin''s face change color¡­


    ¡­was that there were nearly a thousand caged birds in this courtyard, and the black mist figure was precisely holding the cage where Edward was trapped.


    He had clearly set up all sorts of protections, but he was still discovered by this black mist figure, and even the formations¡­ the black mist figure had precisely broken through them!


    One by one, the cages were opened, his formations destroyed by the Twin Fish Harmony Seal.


    In that instant, the caged birds opened their bright eyes and slowly walked out of their cages.


    The black mist figure''s voice was faint.


    "Austin, Heavenly Path."


    "I heard you like to collect Rising Stars from all over the world. But guess what they want to do most when they''re released from their cages?"


    Looking at the angry eyes of the caged birds¡­


    The Heavenly Path''s body trembled.


    At this moment, he understood.


    From the moment Chuck broke through, Blackwood''s true target¡­ was him!!!


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    "Coo! Chirp!"


    In the courtyard, cages were opened one after another.


    Within Kylin Mountain, the battle raged on.


    The demonic energy of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, the psychic powers and natural energies of the Kylin Mountain Roberts'' Psychics, and the ice shards unleashed by the giant Kirin illusion were a magnificent sight.


    These caged birds were all Rising Stars imprisoned by the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    They could also sense the extraordinary nature of the black mist figure who had entered the back mountain.


    This black mist figure was also their savior.


    They had long since chosen to fly behind Ethan, glaring at Austin.


    The cages and formations that had imprisoned them were crumbling, and soon they would break free!


    Austin could clearly feel the surging anger of these caged birds.


    The Rising Stars he had imprisoned and toyed with for so many years wanted nothing more than to drink his blood and eat his flesh!


    But Austin still didn''t dare to move, because¡­


    ¡­in the black mist figure''s hand, a translucent cube appeared.


    Within the cube, black gas swirled.


    Austin clearly remembered that when he broke into Glory City that day, a Basic Mastery projection had died at the hands of this thing!


    "You wouldn''t dare use it!" Austin''s expression was calm, as if the release of his prized caged birds did not anger him.


    But the fists in his sleeves were clenched tightly.


    This did not prevent the fear from showing between his brows.


    He said to Ethan in a deep voice, "I know your purpose. You want to release the Rising Stars I have imprisoned all these years. You are very close to me. If you dare to use that thing, Edward will die, and so will these Rising Stars!"


    Ethan didn''t say a word.


    Austin took a deep breath, slowly closing his eyes, afraid that Ethan would see the resentment and anger in him at that moment.


    "This time, I admit defeat. You''ve achieved your goal. Now, get out of Kylin Mountain."


    The wind from the psychic battle swept through the back mountain courtyard, causing the black mist around Ethan to crackle like flames.


    After a long while, he said leisurely, "You''re too naive. You think I went through all this trouble just to save Edward and these Rising Stars?"


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    Seeing that Austin remained motionless, as if certain that neither of them could do anything to the other¡­


    Ethan slightly lifted Edward''s cage and smiled.


    "Edward, tell him, if you could kill his projection, would you be willing to die for it?"


    Then he looked at the caged birds behind him.


    "Are you afraid of death?"


    "Coo! Chirp!"


    Edward beat on the cage, and the caged birds couldn''t suppress their anger after years of imprisonment.


    They expressed their determination to Ethan!


    "What exactly do you want?!" Austin finally opened his eyes, his expression furious and fearless.


    "Ant, don''t think that you can threaten me on my territory just because you have a trump card! My other projections in Sunshine Mansion already know what''s going on. They''re on their way here!"


    "It''s precisely because they''re on their way here that you should be even more afraid."


    Ethan snorted.


    "I''m very interested in that Kirin illusion of your Kylin Mountain, and your treasury."


    "You¡­"


    ¡­


    At this moment, within Sunshine Mansion, Heavenly Path projections were rushing from all directions at their fastest speed.


    They could even see what was happening in the courtyard of Kylin Mountain, and their eyes gleamed at the sight.


    In the sky, two Basic Mastery projections gathered.


    But neither of them said a word, and smiles appeared on their faces as they deliberately slowed their pace.


    If they could, they would be happy to see Austin suffer.


    If Austin, those Rising Stars, and that black mist figure from Blackwood could all perish together in Sunshine Mansion, it would be the best outcome for them.


    Their troubles would be solved, and the power Austin possessed would be divided among them!


    In the courtyard¡­


    Ethan and Austin were clearly aware of this, but Austin couldn''t understand why Ethan wasn''t the least bit anxious!


    He listened to Ethan''s demands, looked at the caged birds that were slowly recovering, and said through gritted teeth, "The Kylin Heavenly Crystal is in my treasury. I advise you not to waste time, otherwise the people you want to save will not escape!"


    A token appeared in Austin''s hand.


    He threw it to Ethan and disappeared.


    However, what made Austin''s face turn ugly was that after the token was thrown to Ethan, Ethan actually found his treasury with ease and looted everything inside!

 Chapter 388 Kill him! Get my things back!

    "Impossible!" Austin''s mind reeled, a chilling sense of dread washing over him as if he''d been unknowingly watched for years."How could he know my Kylin Mountain treasury so well?"


    Ethan''s actions were unbelievably swift.


    In just a few moments, after obtaining the key and opening the treasury, the tide of the battle raging between the Kylin Mountain clan, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and the Kirin, shifted drastically.


    The Roberts clan members and elders were stunned.


    The Kirin, still trying to suppress the Lord of Frenzied Blood, saw its illusory form flicker and dim.


    Before vanishing completely, it roared furiously towards Austin''s courtyard, "Who? Who dares touch my physical form? Austin, what use are you as clan leader?!"


    "What?!"


    The elders surrounding the Lord of Frenzied Blood froze.


    In that instant, the Lord of Frenzied Blood broke free from the Kirin''s restraints, his power surging back.


    He seized the opportunity, slashing down an elder with a single blow!


    "Fall back! Use the formations!"


    The sudden turn of events sent the elders and disciples, who had been hoping to trap and kill the Lord of Frenzied Blood, scrambling.


    Having witnessed his terrifying power, they no longer dared to engage him directly, instead yelling towards the back mountain.


    "Clan Leader, what''s happening? Why has the sacred beast disappeared?!"


    "Austin, what have you done?"


    "The Kylin Heavenly Crystal, used to summon the sacred beast, is in the treasury. That traitor Austin handed the key to the enemy¡­ The treasury!"


    The Roberts elders were quick-witted.


    They instantly guessed what had transpired in the back mountain.


    But what could they do?


    Their Clan Leader, Austin, a Basic Mastery expert, had lost the clan''s sacred beast to the enemy¡­ They could only watch helplessly!


    "Hmph."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood glanced at the Roberts elders.


    Seeing them activate their defensive formations, he knew killing them would be difficult now.


    He sheathed his blade, confident they wouldn''t dare attack him again.


    He walked slowly towards the back mountain, the blood from the corpses he passed flowing into his body like water.


    As he flew towards the back mountain, he frowned, looking up at the sky above Kylin Mountain Roberts.


    He could sense them. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although the experts from Sunshine Mansion didn''t have enough time to arrive physically, their Competent Forces and Primordial Spirits had descended, observing everything happening within Kylin Mountain.


    ¡­


    It all happened so fast.


    Ethan didn''t even have time to examine the treasury''s contents.


    Using his psychic powers, he swept everything into his Storage Ring.


    The sheer size of the Kylin Mountain Roberts'' treasury was astounding, at least ten thousand square meters.


    At its heart lay a crystal containing the body of a Kirin.


    Ethan guessed this must be the ''Kylin Heavenly Crystal'' Austin mentioned.


    Read new adventures at empire


    "Greetings, Ancestor!"


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood arrived from the foot of the mountain and bowed respectfully to Ethan.


    Ethan looked at him.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood stood about six feet tall, dressed in black pants and boots, his bare upper body covered in demonic markings.


    His muscles were powerful, though not overly defined.


    He had the face of a handsome young man, perpetually frowning, his eyes entirely black, from pupil to sclera.


    His gray hair was cut short.


    After all these years, the Lord of Frenzied Blood had come to see himself as a member of Blackwood, addressing Ethan as ''Ancestor.''


    "You''ve done well. If you hadn''t distracted the Kylin Mountain Roberts'' Psychics and formations, I wouldn''t have been able to get close to Austin." Ethan smiled faintly.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood remained stoic, though a hint of a smile flickered across his face.


    "It was my duty to serve the family. Besides, I am immortal, so it wasn''t much of a hardship. However, Ancestor¡­ while you and I are fine, I''m afraid it won''t be easy for them to leave."


    He gestured towards the caged birds behind Ethan, who were slowly dispelling their defensive formations, and then pointed at the sky.


    "Indeed, it won''t be easy." Ethan nodded slowly.


    He knew that infiltrating Kylin Mountain was easy.


    He understood that the Heavenly Path Venerable had only managed to cripple Blackwood all those years ago because of the element of surprise.


    Similarly, he and the Lord of Frenzied Blood could do as they pleased within the Heavenly Path Venerable''s domain.


    The real challenge was getting Edward and the thousand chirping caged birds behind him out of Sunshine Mansion and away from the Heavenly Path Venerable''s pursuit.


    He looked at the caged birds.


    Austin had already fled, his whereabouts unknown, but the birds were still filled with rage, searching for him.


    These Rising Stars must have suffered similar hardships at the hands of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    Years of humiliation had filled them with hatred for Austin and the Heavenly Path Venerable!


    "Everyone, rescuing you wasn''t easy. I believe we all share the same goal."


    As Ethan spoke, all eyes turned to him.


    He saw the determination in their eyes, and a small smile played on his lips.


    "So, if I can save you, if I can grant you the hope of revenge, what are you willing to offer Blackwood in return?"


    Offer in return?!


    The atmosphere in Kylin Mountain turned colder.


    Lightning crackled in the dark clouds that lingered after the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s battle.


    The eyes of the caged birds glowed red.


    After decades, centuries, even millennia of blood feuds and humiliation, what wouldn''t they offer?


    Everything!!!


    ¡­


    In the sky, having fled Kylin Mountain, Austin''s Primordial Spirit had converged with the Competent Forces and Primordial Spirits of his many projections.


    He glared down at Kylin Mountain.


    "Damn it! Damn it!!!"


    Austin roared.


    He was one of the oldest projections of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    For thousands of years, he had hidden within Kylin Mountain, becoming its revered ancestor.


    He had orchestrated everything in Sunshine Mansion, always scheming from the shadows.


    He had always been meticulous, his plans flawless.


    But today, he felt utterly humiliated!


    That mysterious black mist figure from Blackwood had used his own tactics against him, catching him off guard, invading his Kylin Mountain, and stealing everything from his treasury¡­ including the Kylin Heavenly Crystal, the key to his projection''s breakthrough to Advanced Mastery!


    And his collection¡­ those were supposed to be his nourishment for his advancement to Advanced Mastery¡­


    "Kill him! Get my things back!" Austin''s eyes narrowed.


    "Don''t let a single one of those Rising Stars escape!"


    His head trembled, a physical manifestation of his rage¡­ and fear.


    "Yes!"


    The Competent Forces and Primordial Spirits unanimously agreed.


    Although some were disappointed that Austin hadn''t been killed, they couldn''t disobey his command now.


    They were afraid too.


    That bastard Austin had captured a thousand Rising Stars.


    They couldn''t imagine the disaster that would unfold if they all escaped!


    In an instant, all the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections in Sunshine Mansion sprang into action.


    But then, Austin and all his projections froze, staring at Kylin Mountain in disbelief.


    Countless black figures were swarming out of the mountain like ants from a disturbed nest.


    Cries of alarm echoed from within Kylin Mountain.


    "AI Bionic Robots¡­ They''re all AI Bionic Robots!"

 Chapter 389 Leave? Dont be ridiculous!

    "AI Bionic Robots¡­ The Radiant Sky Grotto explosion, AI Bionic Robots¡­"Outside Amber Hill, thunder still boomed.


    Donna, Azure Cloud''s forces, and the Heavenly Path projections led by Brody remained locked in a standoff.


    Brody stared at Donna, his face pale, having sensed everything unfolding in Sunshine Mansion.


    A swarm of AI Bionic Robots poured out of Kylin Mountain, scattering in all directions.


    Each robot carried traces of the caged birds ¨C feathers, scents, the lingering presence of the thousand escaped Rising Stars.


    Even the Heavenly Path Basic Mastery projections couldn''t divine their exact locations, only able to track their general direction through these faint trails.


    Blackwood had planned this well. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But¡­ how could they possibly recapture this many AI Bionic Robots?


    The escape of the thousand Rising Stars was a fait accompli.


    Sweat beaded on Brody''s back. Find more chapters on empire


    He was certain the many Heavenly Path projections around him felt the same cold dread.


    "You didn''t save Julian."


    Brody''s voice trembled as he spoke, his gaze fixed on Donna in the distance.


    "Your true objective was to use Chuck''s Basic Mastery tribulation to distract us, to make us lower our guard. Every second was crucial for you. Then, you infiltrated the Radiant Sky Grotto, stole the AI Bionic Robots, and transported them to Sunshine Mansion."


    "And now, those robots, carrying the scent of the Rising Stars, have helped them escape."


    "Blackwood¡­ You have outdone yourselves!"


    Brody drew a shaky breath.


    He finally understood why, even now, both Azure Cloud and the Druids feared Blackwood.


    His voice turned grave.


    "But I''m curious¡­ how did you transport the robots such a vast distance to Sunshine Mansion?"


    A flicker of triumph crossed the faces of the Azure Cloud forces.


    Though they didn''t know the specifics of what Brody was referring to, they could sense his fury.


    So, it wasn''t just them fighting here.


    Elsewhere, other Blackwood members were engaging the Heavenly Path Venerable as well!


    "Our apologies," Donna bowed to her Azure Cloud comrades.


    "We¡­ are but one part of a larger plan."


    "Hahaha!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster roared with laughter.


    "Donna, you underestimate me. I may be old, but I can still grasp the intricacies of this grand scheme. Besides, aren''t you fighting alongside us?"


    The other Azure Cloud members nodded, smiles on their faces.


    Donna had fought with a ferocity unmatched by any of them.


    The once boisterous young woman now bore the scars of battle, her body battered but her spirit unbroken.


    Guilt flickered in Donna''s eyes as she met their gazes.


    This was her clan''s plan.


    They knew that no matter how fiercely they fought the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections, it would only make him stronger in the end.


    They could have focused all their efforts on protecting Chuck, ensuring the Forebearer could aid them, using the AI Bionic Robots to fight alongside them here.


    But instead, they were deployed to rescue those Rising Stars.


    Even she didn''t know the full extent of her clan''s plan.


    Her master, Chuck''s, breakthrough had been too sudden.


    She took a deep breath, clenched her left fist, and addressed them with newfound determination.


    "I apologize. But rest assured, I, Donna, stand with you. I will fight alongside you until¡­ the very end!"


    A solemn silence fell over them as they turned their gazes towards the Heavenly Path projections in the sky.


    Donna locked eyes with Brody, sensing his rage.


    It was clear that the Heavenly Path projections in Sunshine Mansion had suffered a setback, and the projections here in the imperial capital wouldn''t let them off easily.


    Her voice turned cold.


    "Brody, leave now, while you still have a chance."


    "Hahaha!"


    Brody''s face darkened.


    Escape¡­ a small part of him desperately wanted to flee, to use Sunshine Mansion''s failure as an excuse to slip away.


    At least Donna was truly willing to die fighting him.


    But Declan reappeared as swiftly as he had vanished, either unwilling to let Brody off the hook or still clinging to the hope of breaking Blackwood.


    He snorted.


    "Leave? Don''t be ridiculous! You think something happening in Sunshine Mansion changes anything? You''re still in the same predicament, your situation unchanged!"


    Sam stepped forward from the Azure Cloud ranks, scoffing.


    "General Owen is on his way. What grudge do you and Brody hold against us?"


    "..."


    Brody remained silent, unable to refute Sam''s words.


    Declan, however, sneered.


    "Owen? You think he''ll make it in time?"


    "What?!"


    The Azure Cloud members'' hearts skipped a beat.


    Declan looked at them with cold indifference before turning back to the conflicted Brody.


    "General Brody, I''ve ensured that neither the Radiant Sky Grotto nor the Grand Tutor''s faction will interfere. Now, it''s your turn to fulfill your end of the bargain."


    ¡­


    On the road leading from Radiant Sky Grotto towards Amber Hill, Owen stood like an unyielding mountain amidst a blizzard, his face hardened by the biting wind.


    "Grotto Master, I am the ever-victorious general. What is the meaning of this?"


    The sky above was clear, a stark contrast to the storm clouds brewing in the distance.


    Yet, someone dared to block Owen''s path ¨C Quinn Daoist, the Grotto Master of Radiant Sky Grotto!


    The Daoist, clad in his robes, was a sturdy man with a kind, round face.


    He rubbed his cheeks, forcing a tired smile at Owen.


    "The meaning is quite simple, Levi. I''m not letting you pass. You defied the imperial decree to protect Azure Cloud all those years ago, causing me no end of trouble. And now¡­"


    Quinn Daoist sighed.


    "There are some things in this world we shouldn''t, and cannot, involve ourselves in. Accumulating too much karma will only lead to our own downfall."


    "Master always said you were too close to those in power. Karma? You''re one to talk."


    Owen scoffed, his voice turning cold.


    "I''ll count to three. Move aside, or I''ll see for myself what progress you''ve made currying favor with those nobles."


    Quinn Daoist bristled.


    "Levi, why won''t you listen? You think you''re the only one who wants to help Chuck? Many from the Grand Tutor''s lineage wanted to intervene, but they were stopped. Yet, you still insist on wading into this mess¡­"


    "One."


    "Levi¡­"


    "Two!"


    Quinn Daoist''s face paled.


    Owen''s gilded copper hammers were already in motion, leaving no room for further discussion.


    "You brute, Owen! You learned nothing in Cloudview County except how to be a barbarian!"

 Chapter 390 It was… a little zombie girl! Part 1

    Owen was intercepted, engaging in a fierce battle with Quinn Daoist.At Amber Hill, where thunder roared and lightning flashed, the two sides clashed once more, bombarding the final defensive formation erected by Azure Cloud!


    Brody, though reluctant, was forced to fight.


    Declan had not only cut off Blackwood''s reinforcements but also Brody''s escape route.


    To someone like Declan, Brody was just another Heavenly Path projection, a pawn in a larger game.


    It didn''t matter who ultimately became the dominant consciousness.


    "Hahaha!"


    Declan watched the battle unfold below, a wide grin spreading across his face.


    He reveled in this moment, in the intoxicating power he wielded.


    Even the mighty Heavenly Path Venerable and his projections danced to his tune.


    He looked down at Donna, her battered body not yet recovered, poised to break through the formation and confront Brody.


    "What a shame! You chose the wrong side. If only you had submitted to the National Advisor, none of this would have happened. Chuck is a fool, and so are you. You could have avoided this fate."


    "Today, you are all nothing but pitiful sacrifices!"


    His words dripped with malicious glee.


    But neither Donna and the Azure Cloud forces nor Brody and the Heavenly Path projections paid him any heed.


    They were locked in a desperate struggle for survival.


    Still, Declan''s arrogant gloating ignited a firestorm of rage within them.


    That bastard was nothing but a dog, a lapdog of the National Advisor!


    Just as Azure Cloud braced themselves for another desperate, potentially fatal, assault¡­


    "Boom!"


    An unknown object crashed into the battlefield with earth-shattering force, momentarily halting the Heavenly Path projections'' advance.


    All eyes turned towards the rising dust cloud, fear etched on their faces.


    A moment later, an earsplitting shriek pierced through the air, followed by the emergence of shadowy figures from the dust.


    They were¡­ ghosts!


    The spectral horde spread out with terrifying speed, leaving behind a massive black formation that pulsed with eerie energy.


    Deathly energy erupted from the ground within the formation''s boundaries, reaching towards the already darkened sky, casting an ominous pall over the battlefield.


    As this chaotic scene unfolded, a streak of light shot towards Chuck, who was still in the throes of his tribulation.


    "Such potent death energy! What is that?!"


    Declan''s face contorted in fear.


    He was certain the National Advisor hadn''t sent anyone.


    That meant this was Blackwood''s doing.


    "Impossible! The Grand Tutor''s faction is blocking all reinforcements. How could Blackwood send help? Death energy¡­ Nathan?!"


    Donna and the Azure Cloud forces, however, felt a surge of hope as they recognized the familiar energy signature.


    It was Nathan, the power he had unleashed during the battle at Azure Cloud''s border town.


    This was the same deathly aura that had terrified the Druids, keeping them from setting foot in Cloudview County!


    But their hope was short-lived.


    From within the swirling mass of death energy, a delicate sound reached their ears.


    "Jingle¡­ Jingle¡­"


    The tinkling of bells.


    A small figure emerged from the black mist.


    It was¡­ a little zombie girl!


    "Gary?!"


    Donna gasped, recognizing Nathan''s most powerful zombie.


    Though Gary rarely appeared, her growing power was no secret within Blackwood.


    Nathan had once said that after consuming the mystical artifact and becoming the core of the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, Gary had transformed into something unique.


    The Death Coffin could trap other zombies, but not her!


    "Apologies, everyone. That place was more troublesome to reach than I anticipated. I seem to be a tad late."


    Gary now looked almost human, save for her pale complexion.


    A forced smile, complete with dimples, appeared on her porcelain doll-like face as she tilted her head, her voice like the chiming of silver bells.


    "I do hope not too many of you have perished. Master would be rather cross. But if you''d like them to remain by your side¡­ as zombies, of course¡­ I can help with that."


    "..."


    Despite the timely arrival of their reinforcements, the Azure Cloud forces couldn''t help but think this zombie could use some lessons in bedside manner.


    "A zombie? A Sky Corpse!"


    Declan, initially intimidated by Gary''s entrance, now wore a strange expression as he sensed her true power. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Excellent! The more, the merrier!"


    Only Brody remained wary.


    He didn''t believe Blackwood would send a single Sky Corpse to their deaths.


    "It''s just me."


    Gary''s smile didn''t waver.


    The spectral horde, which had been drifting aimlessly, now converged around her, forming a massive, grotesque sword three times her size.


    The blade was as long as the hilt, its weight evident, creating a jarring contrast with her small frame.


    She turned her gaze towards Declan, her smile turning cold.


    "You have a rather unpleasant tongue. But don''t worry, I won''t kill you. I just want your tongue."


    However, no one paid Gary any attention.


    With her arrival, they felt it.


    Above Amber Hill, where Chuck was undergoing his tribulation, his Competent Force, previously on the verge of collapse under the onslaught of the fourth-level Basic Mastery tribulation, was stabilizing.


    Fear gripped the Heavenly Path projections.


    Even Hudson, who was battling Bill Daoist high in the sky, felt a surge of panic.


    They could sense it.


    Chuck was about to break through!


    "What have you done?!"


    Brody rounded on Gary, his voice laced with fury.


    He remembered the streak of light he had dismissed earlier, the one that had shot towards Chuck.


    "Nothing much. Just wiped out a greedy man''s entire family and borrowed a few trinkets from his treasury. You know, the kind of trinkets a Competent Force Psychic undergoing a tribulation might find useful."


    Gary''s smile remained fixed in place as the ground rumbled beneath her feet.


    She launched herself into the air, dust billowing in her wake, and in a flash, she was standing before a terrified Declan, his face ashen.


    Her previously gentle expression morphed into a mask of cold fury.


    "Isn''t that right, greedy man?"


    "Now, hand over your tongue!"


    ¡­


    Escape!


    With Gary''s arrival, escape became a luxury neither Declan nor the remaining Heavenly Path projections could afford.


    They watched in horror as, above Amber Hill, Chuck''s Competent Force clashed with the monstrous, lightning-wreathed elephant formed by the thunder tribulation.


    And then, it began to merge with it.


    It was the telltale sign of an imminent Basic Mastery breakthrough!


    "Demonic cultivator!"


    Declan roared, his eyes bloodshot, but his words were laced with fear.


    The moment Gary turned her gaze upon him, he had already begun his desperate flight.


    He didn''t even care that she had slaughtered his entire clan.


    He didn''t even know if he could defeat her.


    All he cared about was escape!


    But his Competent Force quickly picked up Gary''s pursuit, and his face contorted in terror.


    She was using a ghostly formation, its power amplified by the mournful wails of the dead¡­ the wails and accusations of his slain family!


    "Hand over your tongue!"


    Her chilling words echoed behind him, and Declan couldn''t help but think that if a hell existed where tongues were ripped from their owners'' mouths, it would sound exactly like this.


    He wasn''t the only one fleeing.

 Chapter 391 It was… a little zombie girl! Part 2

    "Scatter! Run!"Brody roared, urging the other projections to flee in different directions.


    Over the years, he had been blackmailed and threatened by Blackwood, but this¡­ this was the first time he felt true terror.


    Because this time, it wasn''t just him who had lost.


    It was Austin, back in Sunshine Mansion, as well.


    They had always viewed Blackwood as insignificant, as mere annoyances.


    Even when they had sensed a growing threat, they had dismissed them as nothing more than a nuisance.


    But now¡­


    He didn''t know what the other projections were thinking, but Brody felt it deep in his core: Blackwood had become a venomous serpent, slithering out of the darkness and sinking its fangs into them.


    Now, it was they, the projections of the Heavenly Path Venerable, who should be afraid.


    Chuck''s breakthrough, the explosion at Radiant Sky Grotto, the theft of the AI Bionic Robots, Azure Cloud''s resistance, the attack on Kylin Mountain, the freed Rising Stars¡­


    It was all part of a grand, terrifying plan, and they had walked right into Blackwood''s trap.


    "Fool!"


    As he fled, Brody shot a venomous glare at Declan, who was kneeling on the ground, his tongue ripped out by Gary.


    If it hadn''t been for that arrogant, incompetent fool, Chuck wouldn''t have gotten his hands on the treasures needed for his Basic Mastery breakthrough.


    He wouldn''t be in this mess!


    And¡­


    "Austin! You arrogant fool!"


    That scheming manipulator, lurking in the shadows of Sunshine Mansion, looking down on the world, imprisoning Rising Stars¡­


    Brody shuddered to think what horrors awaited them now.


    He had been running for what felt like hours.


    Finally, he slowed to a stop, staring down at the city below and the cultivators rushing towards him from all directions.


    They were asking him what had happened, but Brody felt no relief, no joy at having survived.


    He stared at the peaceful scene below, his gaze uncomprehending.


    Slowly, he turned, looking back at the clear sky behind him, at the storm clouds in the distance¡­ Blackwood¡­ they weren''t pursuing him.


    They had¡­ spared him?


    "Why? Why would they spare me?"


    Brody''s eyes were vacant, his expression lost.


    A cool breeze washed over him, and his form flickered, a sign of a projection nearing its end.


    His power was growing, but his face grew paler, his heart colder.


    He felt it now¡­ the humiliation, the blatant, mocking humiliation inflicted by Blackwood.


    "Damn them! Damn them all!"


    He glared in the direction of Amber Hill, his veins throbbing with rage. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For the first time in his long existence, he felt like a failure, a laughingstock.


    He could almost see them, the Blackwood clan, laughing at him, mocking him.


    Just like they had all those years ago, when they had brazenly sent their AI Bionic Robots to ransack his treasury, their gazes filled with disdain.


    ¡­


    High above, a mountain-like illusion clashed with a raging torrent of water.


    It was Hudson, one of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s Basic Mastery projections, locked in battle with Bill Daoist.


    But now, even as his power surged, Hudson''s face was ashen, darker than the storm clouds above.


    "We''ve been played."


    Though locked in combat, Hudson could still see through the eyes of the other projections.


    He had seen what had transpired at Kylin Mountain, how Austin''s bizarre obsession, cultivated over millennia, had led to this disaster.


    He felt the sting of humiliation.


    "To be outmaneuvered by these insects¡­"


    He roared in frustration, but there was nothing he could do.


    This time, they had been thoroughly outmatched by Blackwood.


    And then there was Bill Daoist.


    The old man, who should have been defeated and fleeing for his life by now, was actually laughing at him, his eyes filled with mockery.


    Hudson took a deep breath, steeling himself.


    He withdrew his psychic powers, preparing to make his escape.


    But then, his expression shifted.


    The thunder tribulation above Amber Hill had ended.


    Through the dissipating arcs of lightning, he saw Chuck''s eyes snap open.


    And then, in the blink of an eye, a powerful aura, crackling with the energy of the storm, appeared beside him.


    Standing between Hudson and escape was none other than Chuck, newly ascended to Basic Mastery.


    "Hudson!"


    Bill Daoist, who had been fighting a surprisingly tough battle against Hudson, who had clearly been hiding his true strength, laughed.


    The death of the other projections had only served to empower the remaining ones.


    But now, reinforcements had arrived.


    "Young friend Chuck, join me! Let us finish him together!"


    "Gladly!"


    Chuck didn''t waste words.


    His Primordial Spirit emerged, taking the form of a colossal, primeval elephant that seemed to weigh down the very sky.


    Hudson''s eyes narrowed.


    He unleashed his torrent once more, knowing that these two, these insignificant ants, now blocked his path.


    He would have to carve his way through if he wanted to survive.


    His psychic powers surged, and he sneered at them.


    "You think you can stop me? A mid-stage Basic Mastery, who crawled out from whatever hole he was hiding in, and a newly ascended one, still wet behind the ears?!"


    "You honestly believe Blackwood''s schemes can change anything?"


    "Get out of my way, or die!"


    Chuck, though weakened from his tribulation, merely smiled.


    "Do you know why I broke through to the fourth level of Basic Mastery?"


    Hudson frowned.


    "I spent many years in Azure Cloud," Chuck continued, his voice soft but steady.


    "I faced many challenges alongside Blackwood. We thought the Druid invasion was unstoppable, that without the Emerald Empire''s help, we would never reclaim our homeland. But we did."


    "I thought Basic Mastery experts were invincible. But at Azure Cloud''s border town, I, alongside Blackwood, drove back three Druid elders."


    "I thought the Heavenly Path Venerable was unbeatable. But during my tribulation, I saw¡­"


    He looked down, his gaze piercing through the clouds, settling on the Azure Cloud forces below.


    They had driven back or killed all the remaining Heavenly Path Venerable projections on the ground.


    Just like in Azure Cloud, after repelling the Druids, they were calmly cleaning the battlefield, collecting the bodies of their fallen comrades.


    As if sensing his gaze, the Azure Cloud forces looked up.


    A cold wind whipped through the air, ruffling Chuck''s hair.


    They stood in silence, united in that single moment, even Hudson.


    Finally, Chuck looked back at Hudson, a small smile playing on his lips.


    "I learned something from Blackwood. We must all acknowledge our insignificance, especially when facing an enemy as terrifying as you."


    "But we are willing to try. We, the insignificant ants, will fight until we can face you head-on!"


    "And now, I will see if I can¡­"


    "Shake¡­ the¡­ heavens!"


    Bill Daoist finished, his voice echoing Chuck''s words, his gaze hardening with resolve.


    As the last word left his lips, the sky roared.


    The pressure of their combined Basic Mastery power swept across the land, a raging tempest unleashed.

 Chapter 392 You will see an even stronger Blackwood!

    Half an hour later.Within the Imperial Domain, Hudson dragged his battered body to Brody''s manor, his face pale and expressionless.


    Brody stood at the entrance, his teeth gritted as he watched Hudson approach.


    As he passed by, Hudson stiffly turned his head to meet Brody''s gaze.


    "Brody," he said, his voice low and heavy with humiliation, "I think I know why the Blackwoods let you go. It''s because you''re one of the few failures in our Order. You''re ranked third, yet you''ve received so much of the Order''s power. You should be able to advance by leaps and bounds in a short time."


    "But..." Hudson paused.


    "Once a man compromises, he''ll do it countless times. Once a man gives in to fear, he''ll be consumed by it. If I were you, I wouldn''t be a burden to the Master. I''d end it all."


    With that, he slowly entered the manor and found a secluded spot to meditate, his brow furrowed.


    Outside, Brody clenched his fists, his face a mask of frustration and shame.


    Inside the Sunshine Palace, the Heavenly Path projections who had rushed to Mount Kylin were gathered with Austin, their faces grim as they watched the countless AI Bionic Robots scattering in all directions.


    They had all heard Chuck''s words on Amber Hill!


    They were reminded of a time, many years ago, when they, like the Blackwoods, were treated like ants, struggling even to break through to the Developing Skill level.


    But now... they looked down upon the world, their arrogance blinding them to the true heroes.


    And today, Mount Kylin ran red with blood.


    The sacred beast Qilin''s body had been stolen, the treasury emptied.


    The Heavenly Path projections of the Sunshine Palace were left reeling, played for fools by the Blackwoods.


    In the Imperial Domain, on Amber Hill... few projections remained.


    "Hah..." Austin''s jaw was tense as he pondered the situation.


    Finally, he let out a breath, a faint smile playing on his lips.


    "Interesting. It seems we''ve stumbled upon a group of opponents worthy of our attention."


    ...


    On Amber Hill, Ethan appeared on the battlefield, his face impassive.


    There was no trace of joy in his demeanor.


    He knew that everything that had transpired in the Imperial Domain was but a prelude.


    This time, his family had given the Heavenly Path Venerables a taste of defeat, but it didn''t mean they had been truly vanquished.


    What didn''t kill them would only make them stronger.


    The Heavenly Path Venerables they faced in the future would be even more formidable.


    "But..." Ethan''s eyes glinted with cold determination.


    At that moment, Blackwoods all over the world learned of their family''s victory.


    As if sensing their Forebearer''s will, they raised their heads to the sky, imagining they could see his gaze, hear his voice.


    "You will see an even stronger Blackwood!"


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has rescued a large number of Rising Stars from Mount Kylin, completing the special event ''Rescue the Rising Stars Plan''.]


    [Family Will +5]


    ...


    [After Declan threatened Chuck, your family located the Oracle Chamber and its guardian, Jimmy. From the Oracle Chamber, you obtained information about National Advisor Lance''s attempt to recruit Chuck and Declan''s embezzlement of sixty percent of the treasures gifted to Chuck by the National Advisor.]


    [You dispatch Gary to Pineview County to recover the embezzled treasures.]


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has completed the special event ''Chuck''s Breakthrough''.]


    [With the combined efforts of your family and the Azure Cloud, Chuck has successfully overcome the tribulation and reached the fourth-level Pinnacle Apprentice realm of Basic Mastery Psychic!]


    [Family Will +8]


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has slain over a hundred Heavenly Path projections and captured twelve more.]


    [Obtained a large number of spoils of war...]


    ...


    Outside Amber Hill, Ethan stood with Donna and the Azure Cloud members.


    The bodies of a dozen Azure Cloud comrades lay scattered on the ground, surrounded by their belongings.


    There was no joy of victory, only the somber weight of their sacrifice.


    Many Azure Cloud members had chosen to self-destruct or trigger their own thunder tribulations to protect Chuck during his breakthrough.


    "Sob... sob..."


    A muffled sobbing broke the silence. Stay connected with empire


    It was Declan!


    He was still trapped by the ability weapon, unable to utilize half of his Heavenly Energy.


    His tongue had been cut out, leaving him to whimper pathetically in his cage.


    "What should we do with him?" Donna frowned.


    Chuck pondered for a moment before releasing the barrier.


    Declan glared at them, his eyes filled with hatred.


    He had resigned himself to death, but while he had been too afraid to resent the destruction of his family in Pineview County before, now he directed all his rage at the Azure Cloud.


    However, the Azure Cloud members simply stared back at him calmly.


    "Now, get back to your Imperial Domain," Chuck finally said.


    "And take a message to your National Advisor."


    Declan stared at them in disbelief as they turned to leave.


    It was only when they were gone that he realized he wasn''t dreaming.


    Ignoring his injuries and his hatred, he dragged his battered body towards the Imperial Domain.


    He endured the strange looks from passersby until he finally stumbled back to the National Advisor''s mansion, feeling like he was in a daze.


    He reached the main hall and saw National Advisor Lance seated on his throne.


    Then...


    Before he could even speak, before he could tell the National Advisor everything, a blade materialized out of thin air and shattered his Competent Force.


    His head rolled across the floor, his eyes still wide with confusion.


    He had returned to what he thought was the safest place, only to die here.


    His blood stained the hall crimson.


    On the throne, National Advisor Lance, his usually dignified face creased with a frown, waved his hand dismissively.


    On Declan''s back, words were carved into his flesh:


    [Thank you for your patronage, National Advisor. But what you gave me was nothing to you, while my comrades were willing to give their lives for me.]


    "Crash!"


    A teacup shattered on the floor.


    The National Advisor''s subordinates exchanged uneasy glances as they stared at the bloody message on Declan''s headless corpse.


    "Go to Pineview County," Lance ordered, his voice heavy.


    "This greedy fool has ruined my plans. I want his entire family line extinguished!"


    "But..."


    His subordinates hesitated, exchanging nervous looks.


    Finally, one stepped forward.


    "National Advisor, the Hill family... they''re already dead."


    "He must have other relatives!"


    ...


    Spring arrived once more.


    Strangely, it was as if nothing had happened on Amber Hill.


    The Heavenly Path projections weren''t consumed by their previous day''s rage, and the Blackwoods didn''t make any further moves against them.


    The nobles of the Imperial Domain carried on as if nothing had changed.


    The only topic of conversation was the explosion at Radiant Sky Grotto. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    On Crystal Crest, Ethan lay on the grass behind the mountain, gazing up at the sky.


    He realized he had changed.


    In the past, he would have been ecstatic about their victory, eager to launch the next attack.


    But now...


    He was more patient, more cautious than ever before.


    And it wasn''t just him.


    His entire family had undergone the same transformation.


    They were like slumbering beasts, no, something more than beasts.


    They were a coiled spring, their rage waiting for the moment to be unleashed.

 Chapter 393 The ninety-nine thunder tribulation

    "The only way to kill a terrifying opponent like Heavenly Path Venerable is to become even more terrifying than him." Ethan let out a long breath and slowly sat up.He admitted that after their last encounter, which had cost Heavenly Path Venerable dearly, they had also awakened a true monster.


    Now, he had no idea what the monster''s next move would be.


    Fortunately, he and his people were fully prepared.


    As he pondered, a message appeared: [Your descendant, Julian, is cultivating his psychic abilities in Radiant Sky Grotto and is ready to break through to the Competent Force level!]


    "Julian is about to break through?" Ethan''s eyes lit up, and he vanished in an instant, reappearing within Radiant Sky Grotto.


    The last time he was here, Julian had blown the grotto to smithereens.


    Two years had passed, and it was still under repair.


    Meanwhile, the culprit, who had once only been able to do odd jobs in Radiant Sky Grotto, had now set up a large courtyard in the back mountain.


    In front of the courtyard stood a tree.


    This was a secret realm created by Ancestor Reid within this blessed land, where Ancestor Reid was currently cultivating his psychic abilities.


    Within the courtyard were many familiar faces, the same people who had fought alongside Ethan against Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections at Amber Hill.


    After Julian became Ancestor Reid''s closed-door disciple, Radiant Sky Grotto naturally became their base of operations.


    Even Benjamin had come here to seek refuge, bringing with him everything Forebearer had plundered.


    When Julian had told Ancestor Reid about Heavenly Path Venerable and asked if he was afraid of this monstrous anomaly, Ancestor Reid had simply rolled his eyes...


    "Great-Grandpa, are you about to break through?" Sensing Julian''s aura, Donna barged into Julian''s forging room.


    Their original purpose in coming here was to rescue Julian.


    But life was full of twists and turns.


    Who could have predicted that the accident during Chuck''s breakthrough would lead to such a battle with Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections?


    And who could have imagined that Julian, once so reckless, would learn to plan every step of the way?


    "Yes, I''m about to break through." Julian''s appearance was still the same.


    Apart from his eyebrows and body hair, he was completely bald.


    However, he was much calmer than his usual boisterous self, finally displaying the demeanor of an elder.


    "Congratulations, Great-Grandpa!" Donna was overjoyed.


    She presented Julian with all the spoils of war from the Amber Hill battlefield and what Benjamin had brought from Sunshine Mansion.


    "Great-Grandpa, see if there''s anything here you can use."


    At that moment, within the Forebearer space, Blackwood descendants from all over the world gathered in spirit, watching Julian''s every move through the images Olivia projected using her psychic powers.


    However, this kind of psychic projection could only be maintained for two to three days each year.


    As Julian opened his Storage Ring, the Blackwood descendants practically drooled.


    They had been too well-behaved in recent years.


    Amelia was wealthy, but all she had was medicine...


    Ethan also looked at the items inside.


    They were, after all, spoils of war obtained from Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections and the treasures from the Kylin Mountain branch of the Roberts family, one of the seven great families of Sunshine Mansion.


    There were quite a few treasures.


    There were also many things that particularly caught Ethan''s eye.


    The most important of these was the ''Kylin Heavenly Crystal'' that had appeared in Kylin Mountain that day!


    [Fifth-grade treasure: Kylin Heavenly Crystal]


    [Made from the special material ''Eternal Crystal,'' it contains the corpse and bound remnant soul of a Kylin.]


    [The Kylin remnant soul can be summoned and possesses the peak strength of the Competent Force level. As long as the crystal remains intact, the remnant soul will not be destroyed. The corpse within is preserved by the crystal and can absorb the world''s energy to create ''Kylin Essence Blood'' once every five years.]


    It was indeed a fifth-grade treasure!


    When the Kylin phantom had appeared, it had suppressed even the Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    The creature''s true combat power could even be ranked on the Pinnacle Apprentice list.


    Unfortunately, the Kylin remnant soul felt a strong sense of loyalty to the Roberts family and had been playing dead ever since it fell into the hands of the Blackwoods.


    However, simply summoning the Kylin phantom did not make it worthy of being a fifth-grade treasure.


    Its true value lay in its essence blood!


    [Kylin Essence Blood]


    [Those who absorb Kylin Essence Blood will gain varying Kylin characteristics. Only one drop can be absorbed in a lifetime.] S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the past two years, the Kylin Heavenly Crystal had produced one drop of essence blood.


    As the junior, Benjamin naturally got the first taste.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has consumed a drop of Kylin Essence Blood and gained the trait: Kylin Arm]


    [By focusing his essence blood power, his right arm can possess the strength of a top-grade Psychic Gear. As his strength increases, his right arm can eventually possess the strength of a top-grade ability weapon.]


    "Every five years, each member of the family gets a drop of blood. No wonder the Kylin Mountain branch could become one of the seven great families." Ethan smiled faintly and then looked at the other spoils of war.


    [high-level ability weapon: Frostgold Bell Mirror]


    [The wielder of this mirror can summon frost to kill enemies within a hundred miles and control the power of frost. In times of danger, the mirror can transform into a golden bell for protection.]


    A high-level ability weapon!


    The Blackwoods had been longing for something like this for who knew how long.


    Ethan''s Celestial Pole Energy Spear was powerful enough, but it was purely an offensive weapon.


    This Frostgold Bell Mirror, on the other hand, allowed the user to control psychic powers and protect themselves.


    It could be used for both offense and defense.


    This high-level ability weapon was seized from Heavenly Path Venerable''s Basic Mastery projection, Hudson, by Bill Daoist and Chuck.


    Bill Daoist already had a high-level ability weapon, and this one didn''t suit him, so he gave it to Chuck.


    Chuck... that arrogant fellow said that his physical body was comparable to a lower-grade high-level ability weapon, so this thing was useless to him, and he gave it to Donna.


    However, Ethan guessed that Chuck saw how much effort the Blackwoods were putting in during his breakthrough and decided to give it to them.


    Besides these, there were many other treasures, all below the fifth grade.


    They would be distributed to the family members during the next grand ceremony. Continue your journey on empire


    However, looking at the many treasures in the Storage Ring, Julian didn''t want any of them.


    He simply bowed towards the ancient tree outside the courtyard.


    "Master, your disciple is about to face the thunder tribulation. Please keep an eye out and don''t let your precious disciple get ambushed."


    "..."


    The ancient tree shook, and Ancestor Reid, who was inside, remained silent.


    The old man''s phantom face twitched slightly, as if he wasn''t quite used to his disciple''s shamelessness.


    Before long, Julian walked out of Radiant Sky Grotto with his head held high, not taking a single item with him, not even a hair.


    This display of confidence made the Blackwoods frown.


    Donna wanted to ask Forebearer, but seeing that Ancestor Reid was closer in the ancient tree, she didn''t want to bother him with such a trivial matter.


    She bowed and asked, "Senior, what kind of thunder tribulation is my Great-Grandpa facing?"


    Ethan and Ancestor Reid, who was inside the ancient tree, both smiled.


    "The ninety-nine thunder tribulation."

 Chapter 394 The iron had finally revealed its edge

    "It seems Julian has truly found a good master."Watching Julian undergo the tribulation outside Radiant Sky Grotto, Ancestor Reid casually waved his hand, summoning a protective talisman for his disciple.


    Ethan was happy for Julian too.


    In the two years since Julian had become Ancestor Reid''s disciple, he hadn''t learned many techniques directly from his master.


    Only when Julian encountered something he couldn''t understand in his various professions would Ancestor Reid''s avatar appear to enlighten him.


    Ethan remembered a conversation he had overheard between the master and disciple.


    "The path is walked by oneself. People say we cultivate the Unorthodox Path, but there are countless ways to cultivate psychic abilities. Who decided that the way the majority cultivates is the right way? There is truth in the world, and that is the Great Way. Everyone sees the Great Way differently, but ultimately, they all lead to the same destination."


    Several days passed.


    On Amber Hill, the site of the great battle two years ago was still scarred and broken.


    Julian sat cross-legged at the spot where Chuck had undergone his breakthrough.


    Many eyes still watched Amber Hill, but when they saw Ancestor Reid''s protective talisman, none dared to cross the line.


    As thunderclouds gathered, the Blackwoods watched anxiously as Julian underwent his tribulation.


    This time, Julian''s tribulation was a surprise to them all, even Ethan.


    Julian rose into the air, and Ancestor Reid''s talisman appeared beneath him, transforming into... a gigantic furnace!


    Pieces of ore materialized from all directions.


    The thunder tribulation in the sky intensified, changing from a nineteen-fold tribulation to a thirty-nine-fold tribulation, and finally... a ninety-nine-fold tribulation!


    The ores slowly melted and integrated into Julian''s body.


    "This..."


    Having cultivated their psychic abilities for over two hundred years, the Blackwoods naturally knew something about forging techniques.


    Watching Julian transform himself into a furnace for his breakthrough, they began to understand.


    Ethan was equally astonished by this strange sight.


    [Your descendant, Julian, aided by Ancestor Reid, is using his great psychic powers to conceal his true potential. Each profession can conceal one level of the thunder tribulation, allowing him to progress step by step, integrating ores and using the Unorthodox Path to transform himself!]


    ...


    Radiant Sky Grotto had existed since the founding of the Emerald Empire.


    Although Ancestor Reid rarely appeared in person, his name was known throughout the land.


    The news that such a powerful figure had taken on a closed-door disciple naturally attracted the attention of many factions within the Emerald Empire.


    They all witnessed the commotion on Amber Hill.


    Not far from Amber Hill, Quinn Daoist, the master of Radiant Sky Grotto who had intercepted Owen that day, watched the thunder tribulation in the sky with a complicated expression.


    Every Psychic in Radiant Sky Grotto dreamed of becoming Ancestor Reid''s disciple and inheriting his legacy, but they rarely even caught a glimpse of the legendary figure.


    After all these years, they had never seen Ancestor Reid fight.


    And now, an unknown individual had become his disciple?


    "Fellow Daoist Quinn." Experience tales with empire


    A figure appeared beside Quinn Daoist.


    It was Hudson, the Heavenly Path projection who had been besieged by Chuck and Bill Daoist before fleeing in disgrace after Owen and the black mist figure came to his rescue.


    Hudson seemed to be somewhat acquainted with Quinn Daoist.


    His presence didn''t alarm the latter.


    He chuckled and said, "Ancestor Reid is indeed a mighty figure. Julian was originally destined for a sixty-nine-fold tribulation, but he''s actually undergoing a ninety-nine-fold one! It''s a pity he didn''t pass on his legacy to you, the Grotto Master."


    Quinn Daoist remained silent.


    Soon, even Hudson fell silent.


    They, along with everyone else in the empire, witnessed a breakthrough method they had never seen before!


    "He''s... using his own body as a furnace and the heavenly thunder and earthly fire as his tools!"


    Beneath the raging thunder, the iron ore surrounding Julian melted away, transforming into molten metal.


    Under the increasingly powerful lightning, the liquid metal encased Julian in a giant black cocoon!


    Formations, talisman scripts, AI Bionic Robot patterns...


    These Unorthodox Path techniques were etched onto the surface of the cocoon, one by one!


    "Impossible? He''s mastered all the Unorthodox Paths... every single one!"


    Hudson gritted his teeth, his face dark.


    He could sense Julian growing stronger.


    In the near future, this young man would become their most formidable obstacle.


    And there was nothing they could do about it.


    Behind Julian stood Ancestor Reid!


    He turned to Quinn Daoist and said in a low voice, "Fellow Daoist..."


    But before he could finish, Quinn Daoist scoffed.


    "I know what you''re going to say. You want me to help you deal with Julian. Don''t be ridiculous. Even if Julian hadn''t come along, Master would never have chosen me as his heir. Your problems are your own. I only do what I believe is right."


    ...


    The black cocoon endured the thunder tribulation for three whole days, wasting none of its power.


    The powerful figures of the empire watched in awe.


    The Blackwoods did the same.


    Within the ancient tree in Radiant Sky Grotto, a gratified smile appeared on Ancestor Reid''s face.


    "Good disciple."


    Although he rarely left the ancient tree, nothing that happened in Radiant Sky Grotto escaped his notice.


    He had noticed Julian''s unique qualities the moment he stepped foot in the grotto.


    He watched as Julian entered Radiant Sky Grotto and knelt in his room for half a month, clutching a Storage Ring and weeping.


    But after those fifteen days, he saw Julian rise to his feet, his eyes filled with determination.


    And then... he watched as Julian began doing menial tasks.


    At first, he could clearly sense the anger within Julian.


    But slowly, Julian grew accustomed to his humble existence, disguising himself as nothing more than an ordinary person.


    However, the boy never stopped secretly learning within Radiant Sky Grotto.


    Every time he was alone, Julian would practice the Unorthodox Paths he had observed. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ancestor Reid had never met a child so unwavering in his determination.


    In Julian, he saw a reflection of his younger self.


    It was then that he decided to take Julian as his disciple.


    But it wasn''t enough.


    For decades, in his eyes, Julian was like a piece of crude iron, slowly being stripped of its rough edges.


    Radiant Sky Grotto became a crucible, tempering the iron and infusing it with the world''s energy.


    And in that explosion, Julian didn''t disappoint him.


    The iron had finally revealed its edge.


    It was then that Ancestor Reid knew he had finally found someone worthy of inheriting his legacy.

 Chapter 395 I will live on, well

    "Crack!"Three days had passed, and all those watching Amber Hill gazed with solemn expressions.


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    They clearly saw that the black cocoon had absorbed all the power of the thunder tribulation.


    The formations on the cocoon were dimming, and a restrained aura emanated from within as cracks spread across its surface.


    As the cocoon shattered, Julian, his body bare, floated in the air, not a trace of aura leaking out!


    While undergoing the tribulation, his limbs had been silver, but now, Julian had returned to flesh and blood.


    The muscles on his body weren''t as exaggerated as a bodybuilder''s but rather like a work of art sculpted by the heavens and earth!


    "Larry... everyone..."


    In the past, Julian would have roared with excitement, showing off to his clan members.


    But now, he frowned, glancing at the Storage Ring in his hand ¨C the one he had received upon arriving at Radiant Sky Grotto.


    His voice was calm, but a flicker of pain crossed his eyes. "I will live on, well."


    Then, without a moment''s hesitation, he sped towards Radiant Sky Grotto.


    His speed was frightening, comparable to the fastest warp shuttles!


    This single action alerted all the experts in the Emerald Empire that the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings needed updating.


    "Damn it, damn it!"


    Inside the Hall residence, Brody, who was meditating in his secret chamber, withdrew his Competent Force that was scouting outside.


    He abruptly stood up, cold sweat dripping down his back. "How can he be so strong? He just broke through to Competent Force, how is this possible?!"


    He still hadn''t forgotten Donna, who had fought him that day.


    She was already a match for him, and if she had fought with all her might, she might even have perished alongside him.


    But from the probe of his Competent Force just now, he was certain.


    Julian, who had just broken through to Competent Force, could already fight him!


    Even though... he himself, after the deaths of many projections, now possessed the strength to compete for the top spot on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings.


    Besides him, the Venerable projections of the Heavenly Path all over the world frowned.


    They were beginning to think that perhaps their intrusion into Glory City that day hadn''t been such a good idea after all.


    ¡­


    After his breakthrough, Julian returned to Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He bowed towards the ancient tree where Old Ancestor Reid was in seclusion and then immediately returned to his room, stepping back into the Forebearer Space.


    At this moment, all the Blackwood people were waiting for news of Julian.


    Amidst the joyful congratulations of his clan members¡­


    Julian knelt before Ethan. "Forebearer, your descendant has broken through to Competent Force!"


    [Your descendant, Julian, using the power of the thunder tribulation, has fused various ores and numerous previous special traits, gaining the trait: Unorthodox Path Body.]


    [His body, tempered by heavenly lightning and earthly fire, has become like tempered steel, possessing the speed, strength, and hardness of the strongest top-grade ability weapons. His body can serve as a formation base, with himself as the array. He can transform into an AI Bionic Robot, multiplying his combat power¡­]


    The information on the ''Unorthodox Path Body'' trait stretched long in the event log, dazzling Ethan''s eyes!


    The Blackwood people were simply overjoyed that Julian had overcome the nine-nine thunder tribulation.


    Most of them could only sense Julian''s soul and couldn''t truly comprehend how powerful he had become.


    Only Ethan knew clearly.


    Julian was now a true human weapon!


    Every part of his body was as strong as a top-grade ability weapon.


    Even an ordinary peak Competent Force expert wouldn''t be able to completely destroy a common top-grade ability weapon even with all their might.


    Moreover, Julian''s trait allowed his body to accommodate formations, enabling him to become an AI Bionic Robot¡­


    He was proficient in Unorthodox Path techniques, and his strength would continue to grow as he learned more in the future, further enhancing his power.


    "Peak Competent Force¡­ He broke through directly to peak Competent Force."


    "As long as he can successfully temper himself to the Basic Mastery level and cultivate his Unorthodox Path techniques to the Fifth-Grade, he can then summon the Basic Mastery tribulation!"


    Looking at Julian, who was laughing with his clan members, Ethan''s eyes gleamed.


    He felt sincere joy.


    Heavenly Path Venerables were monsters, but the Blackwoods¡­ also had their own monster!


    ¡­


    With the great battle at Amber Hill and Julian''s breakthrough through the nine-nine thunder tribulation, the entire Emerald Empire was reminded once again of the Blackwood clan in Cloudview County.


    But time had a way of making people forget.


    The Emerald Empire continued to function as usual.


    [Year 258 of the Blackwood Clan]


    Three years passed in the blink of an eye.


    After his breakthrough, Julian continued to cultivate psychic powers and study Unorthodox Path techniques under Old Ancestor Reid''s guidance.


    Donna and the others had already appeared.


    It seemed someone was always watching them, so they decided to settle down in Radiant Sky Grotto as well.


    Clan members from all over the world became even more motivated by Julian''s breakthrough.


    They also avoided any further conflict with the Heavenly Path Venerables.


    Ethan''s figure appeared in the sky.


    He stood on an ability vessel, with nine other vessels flying behind him.


    They flew over a vast forest, their speed gradually slowing down as they headed towards Amelia''s location!


    "Sir, we have bypassed the Endless Forest, avoiding the areas guarded by the Druids. A hundred miles ahead lies the Golden Empire."


    Edward, who had been trapped in Kylin Mountain, stood at the bow of the vessel as a young man reported to him.


    Aboard these ten ability vessels were all the Rising Stars rescued from Kylin Mountain that day!


    After escaping from Sunshine Mansion, the numerous projections of the Heavenly Path Venerables had been like ants on a hot pan, constantly trying to capture them.


    They were no longer safe within the Emerald Empire''s territory and had no choice but to embark on a long journey to the Golden Empire.


    "I understand."


    Edward faced the wind and responded softly.


    His expression was blank as he gazed ahead.


    Though there was nothing there, his gaze remained deep and unreadable.


    Ethan, standing beside him, observed Edward''s demeanor, a deep worry flashing in his eyes.


    Five years had passed since they were rescued.


    Whether it was during their escape or now that they had reached safety, Edward remained like this, his face an emotionless mask.


    Even after returning to the Forebearer Space, he had only cried his heart out once.


    After that, he hadn''t spoken an unnecessary word.


    [Your descendant, Edward, fell into Austin''s hands the moment the Heavenly Path Venerable invaded Cloudview County. He witnessed with his own eyes the Venerable''s projection slaughtering his clan members, one by one, dying before him, while he was powerless to stop it. He has gained the trait: Numbness.]


    [He had screamed until his voice was hoarse, cried until he had no more tears, until he had no strength left. Few things in the world could stir his emotions anymore.]


    [Your descendant, Edward, was imprisoned by Austin for decades, gaining the trait: Caged Bird.]


    [A caged bird, facing a confined environment, experiences a 50% increase in fear. To avoid such a predicament again, his psychic power cultivation speed increases by 20%.]


    In addition to these traits, everything that had happened was changing Edward.


    But he remained silent and expressionless, like a block of ice.


    Even Ethan couldn''t fathom what was going on in the child''s mind.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan let out a long sigh.


    Edward was like this, and who among the rest of the family had truly recovered from the events of that year? Stay tuned with empire


    Even he, the Forebearer, was no exception. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But life had to go on.


    They had to keep moving forward.

 Chapter 396 How could he just die like that?

    [Blackwood 262 Year]The grand ancestral sacrifice was long over, and the Blackwood clan continued their diligent cultivation of psychic powers.


    [Your descendant, Julian, has forged a high-grade ability weapon: Cloud Thunder Sword.]


    [It can gather the thunderclouds of heaven and earth, summoning heavenly lightning.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, has refined a Sixth-Grade Ability Pill: Tribulation Pill.]


    [It can be used to negate 10% of the power of a thunder tribulation.] Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Congratulations! Your descendant, Benjamin, has broken through to the Transcendental Seed stage. Your descendant, Alexander, has broken through to the peak of Emerging Ability.]


    The descendants continued their cultivation as usual.


    The resources from Kylin Mountain Roberts had solved the Blackwood clan''s resource problem, providing them with enough to last for at least a century.


    However, what truly concerned Ethan this year was an event displayed on the panel before him.


    It was an event that once again brought all the clan members together within the Forebearer Space.


    [Special Event ¨C News from Venerable Phil of Crystal Crest]


    [Venerable Phil has never ceased his investigation into the Heavenly Path Venerable. The Blackwood''s decisive victory at Amber Hill, the rescue of numerous Rising Stars from Kylin Mountain, and Julian''s breakthrough to become a Nine-Nine Competent Force have given him hope for defeating the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    He has begun searching for the location of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary to help the Blackwoods rescue their kin trapped within.]


    "The location of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary?"


    Ethan couldn''t suppress the joy on his face.


    Over the years, they had never given up searching for the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The thirteen clan members trapped inside desperately needed rescuing.


    The clan constantly worried for their safety, especially since it was the Heavenly Path Venerable''s territory!


    In an instant, Ethan appeared at Crystal Crest.


    ¡­


    At that moment, on Crystal Crest, Venerable Phil had summoned his closed-door disciple, Samuel, and Mary.


    Mary had been cultivating on Crystal Crest all these years out of necessity.


    Crystal Crest was located within Sunshine Mansion, and according to Venerable Phil, his every move was monitored by the Heavenly Path Venerable, making it impossible to send Mary away.


    Now, Mary, too, was on the verge of breaking through to Competent Force but had yet to face the Six-Nine thunder tribulation.


    However¡­


    She had already reached the peak of Developing Skill at over two hundred years old, considered her prime in terms of Developing Skill cultivation.


    She had been a picture of strength and vitality.


    But now, her hair was dry and white, her once dark skin had turned pale, and her eyes held an inextinguishable rage.


    Only Ethan knew.


    On the night she received news of the Blackwood clan''s supposed annihilation, Mary''s hair had turned white overnight.


    After all, those who had perished were her and Julian''s descendants.


    She couldn''t even bring herself to leave Crystal Crest to pay her respects to the children one last time.


    "Master, didn''t you find news about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary? Where is it?"


    Samuel glanced at Mary beside him.


    It had been so many years, and she had been cultivating on the mountain this whole time.


    He remembered when they first arrived; Mary had been fearless and full of life.


    Now, she resembled her white hair ¨C devoid of vibrancy.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable originated from their sect, causing such immense suffering.


    It was their responsibility to clean up this mess.


    "Do you truly wish to find the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary?"


    Venerable Phil gazed at Mary intently.


    Hearing this, Mary nodded resolutely.


    Her children were still trapped inside!


    "Then, let us begin."


    ¡­


    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary¡­


    Years had passed, and the number of Sunshine Mansion Rising Stars who had initially entered the sanctuary had dwindled to less than a thousand after countless battles.


    After years of fighting over resources, the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had been thoroughly depleted.


    The initial scramble for resources had subsided, and now they each guarded their own small territories.


    On this day¡­


    All the experts within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, except for the Blackwoods, gathered inside a sealed cave.


    They stared at a¡­ remarkably simple stone archway tomb before them.


    Dust covered the tombstone.


    Neil, who had once besieged Marcus, stood among the crowd, his gaze fixed on Kyle, who had become the de facto ruler of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Kyle knelt on one knee, gently wiping away the dust from the tombstone.


    "Evan Torres'' tomb?"


    The inscription on the tombstone caused everyone to exchange puzzled looks.


    This cave was located in the deepest part of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, protected by a powerful formation.


    It had taken them decades to break through.


    They had expected to find some hidden treasure or a way out, but to their surprise, it was just a simple tomb?


    "Evan Torres?"


    Hidden underground, Joseph, one of the Blackwoods, frowned.


    "This cave, located in the deepest part of the sanctuary, can''t be this simple. The Heavenly Path Venerable''s Psychic Sanctuary¡­ Perhaps Evan was his true name."


    As expected¡­


    Through Neil''s eyes, they witnessed a collective gasp from the Psychics within the cave.


    A phantom image appeared above Evan''s tomb, flickering with scenes like a slideshow.


    Marcus whispered, "These are the scenes I saw within the Heavenly Path Tear."


    Everyone focused their attention.


    The scenes were identical to what Marcus had seen, but they moved faster, also experiencing a gap around a thousand years ago.


    When the images resumed, the Heavenly Path Venerable had already created the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    He then took the sanctuary and traveled everywhere he had been, from his mortal days to his journey in cultivating psychic powers.


    By the time he returned to the sanctuary, he had shed a single ''Heavenly Path Tear.''


    "Karma, such karma! In my lifetime, I have committed countless wrongs. It seems I am not fated to undergo the tribulation."


    "Master¡­ You said I lacked the aptitude and should not have resorted to killing. I should not have harmed my fellow disciples, creating such karma. In the end, I am nothing but a withered old man, ah¡­"


    Then¡­


    He actually¡­ died!


    His body began to decompose, transforming into every part of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!


    "How is that possible? How could he just die like that?"


    Joseph''s expression shifted drastically.


    "Then¡­ then what destroyed our clan? Wasn''t it the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projection?!"


    The Blackwoods were all stunned.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable was dead?


    Then, the numerous Heavenly Path projections outside¡­ were they all fake?


    At that moment¡­


    Ethan''s face darkened, mirroring the expressions of the other Blackwoods. Explore more adventures at empire


    They watched as¡­


    After the Heavenly Path Venerable''s death, a figure entered the newly formed Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    He lingered within for many years until one day, he seemed to have a revelation.


    Step by step, he gathered the scattered remnants of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s soul.


    The soul remnants, composed of black energy, dispersed from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary in all directions!


    A sinister smile spread across the man''s lips.


    "With such a magic formula, as long as I have enough time, the world will be mine!"

 Chapter 397 We will live each day as if it were our last Part 1

    At that moment, on Crystal Crest, Venerable Phil turned to Luna and said in a grave tone, "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary¡­ it lies within Sunshine Mansion. It is the Heavenly Path''s true body.""I have found a way to kill him. If we eliminate all his projections and gather their power, he will be forced to undergo the tribulation."


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary will also open, and that is when he will be at his weakest."


    His voice echoed with determination.


    Venerable Phil''s expression was solemn. "At that time, I will personally take action and cleanse this stain from my Crystal Crest!"


    Mary''s eyes glinted with a cold light.


    "When?"


    "In a hundred years!"


    As Venerable Phil''s words fell, the Heavenly Path Venerable projections scattered across the Emerald Empire let out cold laughter.


    ¡­


    Ethan listened intently as Phil explained everything.


    After the Heavenly Path had used his fellow disciples from Crystal Crest to trigger their thunder tribulations, boosting himself to break through to Basic Mastery, Phil had begun investigating everything about him.


    When he discovered the existence of the Heavenly Path''s projections, he had deduced the truth.


    Someone like the Heavenly Path would never be content with mediocrity; he constantly challenged the heavens.


    It was then that Phil uncovered the terrifying truth ¨C the Heavenly Path had devised a cunning plan to divide himself into countless fragments.


    However, even the most heaven-defying techniques had their flaws and consequences.


    During the decades of clashes between the Blackwoods and the Heavenly Path, Phil had managed to deduce the weaknesses of the Heavenly Path''s technique.


    In order to reincarnate, the Heavenly Path needed a core, his most vulnerable point.


    While his soul fragments underwent countless reincarnations, experiencing hundreds, even thousands of lifetimes, his core had to remain stationary, hidden within the void¡­ within Sunshine Mansion!


    Phil needed a hundred years.


    During that time, he would use his deductions and immense psychic powers to force the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary to reveal itself.


    This was not only to rescue the thirteen Blackwoods but also to completely destroy the Heavenly Path. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    On that day, the Heavenly Path would never allow his core to be destroyed.


    His projections would stop at nothing to protect it!


    Within the Forebearer Space, silence fell upon the clan members.


    They understood the gravity of the situation.


    Finally, Joseph spoke, "Forebearer¡­ a hundred years¡­"


    He trailed off, noticing the resolute expressions on everyone''s faces.


    A hundred years¡­ it was too short!


    Even if the Heavenly Path Venerable would be weakened, even if Phil was going to take action, they would still face the Heavenly Path''s powerful projections.


    Over the years, as they had eliminated one projection after another, the remaining ones had grown even stronger.


    "For us, a hundred years is not a short time," Olivia said, her voice low. "After their defeat at Amber Hill, the Heavenly Path will not rest. We must seize the initiative."


    The Blackwoods nodded in agreement.


    They couldn''t just sit back and wait for things to happen.


    Just like before, when they had been caught off guard, unaware of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s plans, he had already made his move!


    Moreover, they knew that the Heavenly Path was not like any ordinary enemy they had faced before.


    His projections would also devise ways to deal with the Blackwoods.


    Perhaps they had already begun their counterattack.


    As Olivia finished speaking, all eyes turned towards the Forebearer standing at the center.


    Ethan''s face remained impassive, but black mist swirled around him like raging flames.


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal in his eyes spun wildly, forming a vortex that seemed capable of devouring everything in its path!


    He had once been powerless to save his clan.


    He had wallowed in despair for five years.


    For decades, he had harbored the same burning hatred as the rest of his clan.


    But over time, he had calmed down.


    He and his clan had proven time and again that the Heavenly Path was not invincible.


    They could be even more formidable.


    Now, it was not his clan who should be afraid, but the Heavenly Path!


    "From this day forward," Ethan''s voice rang out like a chilling wind amidst a blizzard, "we will live each day as if it were our last. In a hundred years, we will either fade into obscurity, or¡­ it will be the end of the Heavenly Path!"


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    The Blackwoods responded with unwavering determination.


    Their souls vanished from the Forebearer Space like wisps of smoke.


    Soon, only Olivia and Joseph remained.


    Joseph, always cautious, couldn''t help but feel uneasy.


    Even ten thousand years wouldn''t be enough, let alone a mere century.


    He pondered for a moment, recalling the final scene he had witnessed through Neil''s eyes in the cave within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    "Forebearer," he said cautiously, "the Heavenly Path Venerable should be dead. Then who was that person who appeared afterward? I suspect there might be someone else pulling the strings behind the scenes."


    Ethan and Olivia exchanged glances.


    With a nod from Ethan, Olivia sighed.


    "Perhaps, a long time ago, our clan became entangled in matters we should never have interfered with."


    Joseph was taken aback.


    ¡­


    After emerging from the Forebearer Space, the clan members immediately resumed their cultivation.


    Meanwhile, across the Emerald Empire, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections were converging!


    Brody, leading a group of projections, sped towards Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He had received intel that Donna and the Azure Cloud members had left.


    "Julian, Donna!" Brody growled through gritted teeth.


    Years had passed, but he hadn''t forgotten his humiliating escape from the Azure Cloud''s pursuit, nor the humiliation he had suffered at the hands of the Blackwoods.


    However¡­


    He had also learned something from the Blackwoods ¨C in the world of psychic cultivation, one either progressed or regressed.


    Hudson had called him a failure, a burden to the Heavenly Path, and had even urged him to end his own life.


    This had made Brody realize that the danger he faced came not only from the Blackwoods but also from the countless other Heavenly Path projections.


    He had to confront his fears, become stronger, and rise above the rest to become the true inheritor of the Heavenly Path''s legacy!


    The Heavenly Path had resided within him for three years before departing.


    During those years, Brody had relearned the meaning of perseverance.


    Lost in thought, he arrived at a mountain, sensing the presence of numerous Azure Cloud members.


    One by one, the Heavenly Path projections charged towards the mountain.


    But Brody frowned, a sense of unease washing over him.


    He hovered in the sky, muttering under his breath, "Something''s not right¡­ This feels familiar¡­"


    Before he could finish his sentence¡­


    "Boom!"


    A blinding flash of light erupted, engulfing his vision.


    He watched in horror as the Heavenly Path projections that had entered the mountain transformed into AI Bionic Robots disguised as Azure Cloud members, exploding one after another!


    The firelight painted the sky crimson.


    "It''s a trap! Those are AI Bionic Robots created by Julian!"


    "Cunning Blackwoods! Good thing we sent projections to other locations as well¡­" Your journey continues at empire


    "No! The other locations are also swarming with Julian''s AI Bionic Robots! They planned this escape meticulously!"


    Brody watched as the remaining projections fled from the inferno below, their enraged curses echoing through the air.


    In the past, he would have joined their outrage.


    But now, as he felt his power grow with each dying projection, he simply stared impassively in the direction Donna and the Azure Cloud members had escaped.

 Chapter 398 We will live each day as if it were our last Part 2

    "You spent years preparing, yet you still let them escape?" Brody scoffed, gazing at the gradually forming domain in his hand, his eyes cold."But I should thank you for making me stronger. When we meet again, I will repay every bit of humiliation you inflicted upon me. And you¡­ you will regret ever letting me live!"


    Meanwhile, high in the sky, Donna flew alongside her Azure Cloud comrades, a triumphant smile playing on her lips.


    "The Forebearer was right. We must live each day as if it were our last. I''m glad I was cautious every step of the way; otherwise, leaving Radiant Sky Grotto would have led us straight into the Heavenly Path''s trap."


    "Hahaha, those AI Bionic Robots must have taken out quite a few Heavenly Path projections!" Sam burst into laughter, then turned to Donna with a curious glint in his eyes.


    "Donna, where are we headed?"


    "To cultivate," Donna replied, her gaze fixed on the horizon.


    She knew that in a hundred years, they would face a decisive battle against the Heavenly Path Venerable, a battle even more perilous than the one at Amber Hill.


    "There''s no better place for us to train than the Five Elements Forbidden Zone."


    "The Five Elements Forbidden Zone? What is that place?" Sam''s face paled slightly at the ominous-sounding name.


    ¡­


    As Donna and the Azure Cloud members made their escape, the Heavenly Path projections within Sunshine Mansion were also gathering.


    Their destination¡­ the Druids'' territory, where Nathan was cultivating!


    They arrived at the edge of the Endless Forest and waited patiently.


    One by one, Psychics rose into the air, their formidable auras on full display, creating an intimidating sight.


    It wasn''t long before their expressions turned grim.


    An old man clad in black robes approached, his face etched with Druidic markings.


    "Shane, where is Nathan?" Austin demanded, his gaze fixed on Shane.


    He had spent years scheming, uncovering Shane''s secrets to force his cooperation.


    Their deal was simple: hand over Nathan!


    But Shane stood before him empty-handed.


    The Druid elder sighed.


    "He''s gone. He''s been secluding himself within the Psychic Sanctuary for months, cultivating. I set up formations around his cultivation spot, alerting me to any movement. But¡­"


    Shane''s face contorted with a mixture of anger and humiliation.


    "But I never expected him to have been hiding his true strength all these years. He saw through all my formations. Moreover, our deal¡­ the White Rising Star of the Druids, Arnold, discovered everything. Two months ago, Nathan slipped away. When I arrived, all that remained was a message inscribed with psychic power."


    "What did it say?" Austin asked, surprisingly calm about Nathan''s escape.


    He seemed more interested in the message itself. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shane spat out the words through gritted teeth.


    "He said¡­ that he would have both our heads one day!"


    "Hahaha, I eagerly await that day!" Austin threw back his head and laughed, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    The anger he had felt over the escaped Rising Stars had long faded.


    Instead, he felt a surge of exhilaration.


    Throughout his rise to power, he had overcome countless obstacles, clawing his way from a branch family to become the head of the Roberts family, wielding absolute authority over Kylin Mountain.


    But as the years passed, he had begun to crave a worthy opponent.


    Now¡­


    Those Rising Stars sought to tear him limb from limb, and the Blackwoods had a prodigy who dared to threaten his life.


    The thrill of the hunt had returned!


    Unbeknownst to Shane and Austin, however, a pair of eyes watched them from atop a distant mountain, observing Austin''s gleeful expression.


    "Mr. Nathan, it seems you''ve attracted the attention of some rather¡­ peculiar individuals."


    Over the years, Nathan''s friend, Mike, had broken through to Basic Mastery.


    He eyed the distant Austin with a mixture of amusement and disgust.


    If someone like that were after him, he wouldn''t be able to meditate peacefully.


    Nathan nodded slowly.


    "That is the man who invaded my Glory City, the enemy of my clan."


    Seeing Nathan''s calm demeanor, Mike and Arnold exchanged glances, a flicker of hope igniting within them.


    Although Nathan had dedicated himself to cultivation these past few years, they could sense the lingering resentment within him, threatening to consume him.


    But now¡­ the Nathan they knew was back.


    Moreover, things were different now.


    They no longer saw the Blackwoods as enemies.


    In fact, they wouldn''t mind having them as allies, offering a helping hand to a friend in need.


    ¡­


    Just as Ethan had predicted, the Blackwoods were now incredibly cautious.


    They knew that the Heavenly Path Venerable would stop at nothing to exact his revenge!


    However, their constant vigilance also fueled their growth.


    [Blackwood Year 265]


    Donna, leading the forty-three survivors of Amber Hill, arrived at a strange and desolate land.


    It was the northern edge of the continent, the coldest region in the entire Emerald Empire.


    A pristine expanse of snow and ice stretched before them, a world of pure white.


    When the twelve border cities had been ceded to the Druids, many factions had initially considered migrating north to establish a new haven.


    But even their most ambitious plans hadn''t taken them this far¡­


    "Legend has it that further north, the cold is so extreme that even Emerging Ability Psychics can''t withstand it. And beyond that¡­ even Developing Skill Psychics would need to expend their psychic power to survive. This place is also home to snow beasts that attack on sight."


    Sam had only read about such places in books.


    But since leaving the Azure Cloud, he had journeyed to countless locations, albeit for brief periods.


    Still, he had experienced the vastness of the world firsthand.


    Gazing at this world of snow and ice, he couldn''t help but shiver, even though he felt no cold.


    "Donna, is the Five Elements Forbidden Zone located in a place like this?"


    "Yes," Donna replied, nodding slightly.


    She took out an energy locator.


    "General Owen gave me this. He visited the Five Elements Forbidden Zone with the Grand Tutor during their military campaigns. It''s the ideal place to train one''s physique. My master also cultivated there."


    "Here, we should be able to avoid the Heavenly Path''s gaze while you train in peace. Then, in a hundred years, you can join me in our assault on Sunshine Mansion."


    "Alright!" The Azure Cloud members voiced their agreement without hesitation.


    They had learned from the Blackwoods that if the Heavenly Path wasn''t stopped, the Azure Cloud would eventually face annihilation.


    Having witnessed the Heavenly Path''s ruthlessness firsthand, they didn''t doubt the Blackwoods'' words.


    They continued their journey until they reached a valley blanketed in snow, the sky ablaze with colorful aurora borealis.


    Sam stopped abruptly, his eyes narrowing.


    He sensed an incredibly dense concentration of elemental energy emanating from the valley ahead.


    He cautiously extended his hand, his expression shifting drastically as his psychic power surged forth.


    There was nothing there, yet a wave of multicolored light erupted, attempting to devour his hand!

 Chapter 399 wimps

    "This is¡­ the Five Elements Forbidden Zone?" The Azure Cloud members gasped.Even Ethan, who had received prior notice, was astonished.


    [Five Elements Forbidden Zone]


    [Grand Tutor Gilbert once stumbled upon this place during a fierce battle with a demon realm powerhouse. He ventured inside to search but found nothing. This place is filled with an extremely aggressive force of natural laws. The deeper one goes, the stronger this force becomes. The weak will have their bodies torn apart, making it a natural training ground for body cultivators.]


    [This place possesses even stronger supernatural energy than other locations, but the environment is harsh, with frequent appearances of snow beasts, making it desolate.]


    "There''s nothing fun here. How about we play a game? Let''s all enter the Five Elements Forbidden Zone. Whoever covers the shortest distance is the ''wimp''," Donna said with a grin, stepping onto the Buddha-Demon Disk and entering the Five Elements Forbidden Zone.


    Immediately, the force of natural laws began to assail her.


    "..." The Azure Cloud members all rolled their eyes and didn''t move a muscle.


    The male cultivators exchanged glances and decided that if none of them entered, then none of them were "wimps."


    Compete with Donna? They had witnessed her battle with Brody that day; she was the most powerful body cultivator they had ever seen!


    The Five Elements Forbidden Zone lived up to its name.


    They had only explored a little and already sensed its terrors.


    This place was an abyss that lured people in step by step.


    The deeper one went, the richer the supernatural energy became, but¡­


    "Sister Donna," Sam, her relative, called out worriedly, "Don''t go too deep. Once entangled by the force of laws within, it''s like a mortal stuck in quicksand, extremely difficult to escape."


    Donna paused and gave Sam a mischievous smile.


    "You should worry about yourselves."


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    Before they could inquire further, the Azure Cloud members'' faces darkened.


    They heard wolf howls from outside the Five Elements Forbidden Zone, and pairs of scarlet eyes stared at them through the wind and snow.


    Donna ignored the Azure Cloud members behind her.


    She knew those snow beasts couldn''t harm them.


    As she ventured deeper into the forbidden zone, she allowed the cosmic energy to assault her body.


    Gently stroking the black and white radiant Buddha-Demon Disk behind her, she whispered, "Charles, Christopher, when the time is right, I will bring you home."


    "I will bring our brothers, sisters, and descendants home."


    ¡­


    [Blackwood Year 267]


    Riverton.


    Thanks to Amelia, a Sixth-Grade alchemist and pill master, this city had transformed from a marketplace into a place filled with the fragrance of medicine.


    The influx of Psychics bringing resources for alchemy had attracted many alchemists and pill masters.


    However, when the Psychics arrived this year, the supernatural medicine and pills no longer had their original potency.


    One day, ability vessels arrived from an unknown origin, and Riverton''s most renowned Medical Saint departed the city, escorted by thousands of Rising Stars.


    It was said that the Golden Empire and the Emerald Empire once shared the same lineage, but the Endless Forest had divided them.


    The Golden Empire frequently engaged in conflicts with another nation, the Mystic Empire.


    Ethan had some understanding of these two nations.


    They were more vast than the Emerald Empire, but the Emerald Empire seemed more prosperous, with richer supernatural energy.


    At least only the Emerald Emperor dared to claim the title of ancient god.


    The Golden Empire''s ruler called himself "Emperor" but was not favored by the heavens, while the Mystic Empire''s ruler was essentially a puppet controlled by religious sects.


    When the Emerald Empire''s grand hall discussed the rulers of these two nations, it was as if they were giving them the middle finger.


    At this moment, the ten ability vessels soaring freely within the Golden Empire landed on a floating island at the edge of the Golden Empire''s battlefield!


    On the island stood a grand hall.


    The Rising Stars who had followed them sat cross-legged, cultivating their psychic powers, as Psychics who had ascended to the floating island walked past them.


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    Most of the richly dressed Psychics from the Golden Empire would exclaim in astonishment upon seeing these Rising Stars.


    One person walked forward and asked the gloomy young man sitting behind the desk, "Fellow Daoist, I heard that we can hire capable individuals here to carry out missions for us or fight for our Golden Empire? I am here under the general''s orders, seeking ten Developing Skill experts to help us conquer a Competent Force sect from the Mystic Empire!"


    Edward slowly looked up at the newcomer and said in a deep voice, "We don''t accept Energy Stones, only supernatural medicine and supernatural ores. Also, all mission rewards belong to us. If anyone dares to play tricks, don''t blame us for being ruthless. As for injuries or the need for supernatural medicine and pills below Sixth-Grade, you are welcome to purchase or refine them here."


    With a wave of Edward''s hand, someone else arrived shortly after.


    [Your descendant, Edward, has come to assist Amelia. He sees the endless conflict between the Golden Empire and the Mystic Empire as a great opportunity for profit. By becoming mercenary Psychics, they can obtain a large amount of resources to support their people. At the same time, it allows the thousand Psychics they brought from Sunshine Mansion to grow through missions.


    In a hundred years, they will become seasoned veterans.]


    [New identity acquired: ''Demonic Monarch''.]


    "Edward truly understands how to manage things."


    Amelia alone had already earned a considerable income in Riverton.


    Now, with Edward bringing a thousand Psychics, they were seizing a golden opportunity to profit from the war.


    Moreover, Edward had once been a Duke behind the scenes in Azure Cloud.


    Even after years of imprisonment, he had not forgotten how to deal with major forces and survive in the cracks.


    However, this was not a long-term solution; it was only a temporary means of survival and development.


    Ethan also observed the thousand Rising Stars.


    They truly lived up to their name!


    In fact, most of them were not very high in cultivation level.


    It seemed that Austin, many Heavenly Path Venerable projections, and Joseph had something in common: they would never allow Rising Stars to truly rise.


    The only difference was that Joseph would eliminate them completely, while the Heavenly Path would treat them like birds to be admired.


    "No wonder there are so few Rising Stars in Sunshine Mansion and Azure Cloud. In recent years, even ordinary forces or the mortal world in the Emerald Empire have rarely seen Rising Stars emerge."


    Ethan let out a long breath.


    He didn''t pay much attention to these Rising Stars, and the Blackwood people didn''t reveal too much information about Blackwood to them either.


    He knew that the reason these Rising Stars were currently willing to obey the Blackwood people was because they had a common enemy in the Heavenly Path.


    However, Rising Stars were all proud individuals.


    No matter the outcome of the war with the Heavenly Path in the future, most of these Rising Stars would likely choose to leave.

 Chapter 400 We definitely will…

    "Let them be," Ethan shrugged.In the past, the family might have used some tactics on these Rising Stars, but after all these years, even Olivia understood that building good relationships might be more beneficial for the family.


    That day, Amelia emerged from her alchemy practice, frowning.


    Edward stood at the edge of the floating island, Energy Stone light illuminating the area.


    Yet, even so, Edward shivered, several Psychics by his side.


    Almost every night, Edward was like this.


    "Edward¡­ you''re in the Golden Empire now, you don''t need to be afraid anymore."


    Amelia stopped herself.


    The Forebearer had told her that during Edward''s imprisonment, nighttime was when he was most afraid.


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    "Great-grandmother," Edward said, feeling a little calmer upon seeing Amelia.


    His eyes were misty.


    "I can''t help but be scared. The cage in the courtyard was so small, every time I moved, I would bump into the cold bars. I¡­"


    Edward clenched his teeth, then looked out into the night with Amelia.


    He wanted to say that every time he touched those cold bars, he would remember the day Austin had lifted him up, the cold blade piercing his kin right before his eyes.


    He could only close his eyes.


    But Austin would still slap him with the sword dripping with his people''s blood, as if showing off.


    Every night, it was like that day, eyes closed, unable to see.


    Touching the cold bars was like that sword still slapping him.


    It reminded him of the bloody scenes from that year.


    "Edward." Amelia placed her hand on Edward''s shoulder, feeling him flinch.


    Her voice was firm.


    "We will go back."


    "We definitely will¡­"


    ¡­We will go back, back to our homeland, back to Glory City where time stood still. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That night, Blackwood people all over the world looked towards Cloudview County, their eyes burning.


    But they all knew that only they would return.


    Time flowed like sand.


    Ethan cultivated his psychic powers beside his children.


    He was slowly making progress.


    Only by breaking through to Basic Mastery could he stand in Sunshine Mansion and face Blackwood''s most powerful enemies.


    Basic Mastery allowed a Competent Force to leave the body and transform into a spirit, roaming freely between heaven and earth.


    Their most significant characteristic was the construction of their own domain, where they could freely control the rules within.


    This was the true power of Basic Mastery.


    Back then, if it weren''t for the people of Azure Cloud Border Town providing him with psychic powers, Ethan wouldn''t have been able to kill the Moon God.


    [Blackwood Year 270]


    [You are attempting to form a domain with the light and shadow diagram.]


    Rules gradually integrated into the light and shadow diagram, like constructing a world.


    The clansmen were not idle either.


    Amelia and Edward continued their ''mercenary'' business in the Golden Empire.


    Thousands of Rising Stars were also growing through missions, and Amelia''s medicine and alchemy skills were also improving.


    In the depths of the northern Five Elements Forbidden Zone, Donna ventured deeper every day, now having traveled for 600 miles.


    Psychics from Cloudview County also cultivated their psychic powers in the outer areas.


    Every time a blood beast was killed, the Azure Cloud Psychics would leave the corpse for Donna.


    Her ''Buddha-Demon Disk'' already possessed some Rogue cultivator techniques, and absorbing the flesh and blood of blood beasts could also increase her cultivation.


    [Your descendant, Donna, absorbed a large number of blood beast corpses, lived in the north, and comprehended part of the ''ice'' elemental rule. Cultivating psychic powers in the Five Elements Forbidden Zone, under the tempering of cosmic energy, her compatibility with the Buddha-Demon Disk grew higher and higher.


    She began to comprehend the Buddhist and demonic techniques of Charles and Christopher.]


    The more Buddhist and demonic techniques Donna comprehended¡­


    Ethan discovered that the girl''s cultivation became even more ruthless, almost to the point of recklessness.


    Several times, the Azure Cloud Psychics had to risk their lives to rescue the exhausted Donna from the depths.


    ¡­


    After Austin took many Heavenly Path projections to the Endless Forest to hunt him down, Nathan did not flee.


    However, it was precisely because of this that he escaped the control of the two elders.


    However, the Endless Forest was vast.


    With the help of Mike and Arnold, he found a hiding place.


    It was the most barren place in the Endless Forest.


    Long ago, a great battle took place here between the Druids and the human cultivators.


    Countless people died here, and the land was soaked with the blood of living beings, making it difficult for even a blade of grass to grow.


    Many years ago, this place was also explored by many Druids and human adventurers, but nothing of value remained, only endless death energy.


    This was also the most suitable place for Nathan to cultivate his psychic powers.


    Several death energy cultivating tribes within the White tribe and the Druids also considered this place a sacred ground for cultivation.


    After cultivating here for several years¡­


    One day, Nathan, who was meditating in the center, suddenly opened his eyes, filled with shock.


    He no longer relied on the Death Coffin.


    After years of cultivating White psychic powers, he had a new understanding of ''death.''


    Arnold and some elders of the White tribe had told him that ghost cultivators who cultivated psychic powers communicated with heaven and earth, corpses, and souls.


    They could speak.


    This time, Nathan truly understood the true meaning of these words.


    He saw it.


    As his cultivation progressed, the death energy in this ancient battlefield transformed into scenes that appeared before his eyes.


    It was the great battle that took place on this ancient battlefield.


    Countless Druids and humans clashed, blood and sand covering the ground.


    [Your descendant cultivated psychic powers on the ancient battlefield and began to gradually comprehend the true meaning of the technique left behind by the Death Coffin.]


    [Cultivation speed increased by 20%.]


    ¡­


    In the icy land, Lucas was on the move.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, traveled thousands of miles through the snowy land, comprehending natural energies every day, enriching his swordsmanship cultivation. His injuries have recovered to 100%!]


    [He possesses the Five Elements Rule Sword within his body.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has become accustomed to living in the snowy land as an ordinary person and has become accustomed to the ordinary attack methods of swordsmanship, gaining the trait: Return to Simplicity.]


    [Swordsmanship cultivation increased by 100%, comprehension increased by 30%.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has broken through to the middle stage of Competent Force!]


    Even after so many years, Diana was still unable to get up.


    Lucas had asked, and Diana had told him what happened that day.


    She had sensed an extremely powerful Druid within the Druid tribe who was prepared to completely annihilate Blackwood.


    Having recovered 10% of her strength, she had misjudged her own power, as well as the strength of the Druid Divine Bird Tribe.


    She hadn''t expected the Divine Bird Tribe to have an Ability Master Psychic, nor had she expected to encounter a Druid gathering that day.


    The ensuing battle left her more severely injured than she had been many years ago, but it also deterred the Druids, making them afraid to advance.

 Chapter 401 White Tiger

    At this moment, Diana, resting in a tent made of animal hide, looked at Lucas, her voice faint."Perhaps it was because I made a move that day that your family suffered such a disaster. That day, I could sense Psychics from the Emerald Empire watching."


    At Diana''s words, Lucas''s movements paused.


    His brow, dusted with snowflakes, twitched slightly before he resumed his sword practice.


    A flicker of guilt crossed Diana''s eyes.


    "Even they couldn''t fully discern the extent of my battle with those so-called ''elders.'' But there''s no doubt they''re aware of my existence. Only those who have reached at least the Advanced Mastery level are qualified to negotiate with the Druids, and that''s made Blackwood a thorn in their side."


    "Heavenly Path is the forerunner of certain forces within the Emerald Empire, exploring and bringing disaster upon Blackwood. Perhaps¡­ that day, I shouldn''t have intervened."


    With a sweep of his sword, the falling snowflakes seemed to freeze in time, the chill in the air intensifying.


    Only after a snap of his fingers did everything return to normal.


    Lucas sighed.


    "It has nothing to do with you. If you hadn''t acted, Blackwood would have been in grave danger."


    "Ultimately, it boils down to our lack of strength. We''ll discuss your situation later. Right now, I just want to become stronger. I believe everyone in the family, like me, needs to become stronger."


    In truth, he had never forgotten what happened to his family in Azure Cloud.


    He couldn''t even hold a sword when he was bedridden.


    He glanced at Diana.


    The Demon Lord still wore a guilty expression.


    "Demon Lord," he said, "you said that at the end of this journey, at the place of your birth, my strength would be restored. I haven''t reached the end, yet I''ve fully recovered, and my swordsmanship has even improved. You''ve done more than enough."


    A smile graced Diana''s face.


    "I''ve examined your injuries. It was the force of a Basic Mastery expert. Your swordsmanship is not weak, but it''s too flashy. This natural energy, combined with my remaining psychic powers, is precisely what''s suppressing your injuries. Your swordsmanship has improved, and walking like an ordinary person is the path to returning to simplicity. It''s only natural that your injuries have healed."


    All these years, Lucas had been carrying her on his back.


    She knew he must have realized long ago that she had lied.


    But Lucas''s perseverance surprised even Diana.


    She had never met anyone like him, someone who would pursue a goal so resolutely, even knowing it was false.


    Perhaps it was precisely because of this, coupled with Lucas''s extraordinary talent, that he had come so far.


    She looked at Lucas, who had resumed his sword practice.


    In this icy land, he was like a long sword, unsealed from its sheath of ice and snow.


    After a long moment of contemplation, she seemed to have thought of something.


    "Lucas, there was once a Psychic known as the Sword Saint. With a single sword, he made the world tremble before him. I know where he rests. Many years have passed, but his sword should remain. I''ll take you to find his inheritance."


    Lucas sheathed his sword.


    Always decisive, he hoisted Diana onto his back once more and rose into the air, standing on his sword case.


    "How do you know where he rests? And how can you be sure his sword remains?"


    Diana rested her head on Lucas''s shoulder.


    "Because I met him."


    "¡­" Lucas rolled his eyes.


    If he didn''t have a vendetta to fulfill, he wouldn''t even want the Sword Saint''s inheritance.


    ¡­


    Within Radiant Sky Grotto¡­


    Since breaking through to Competent Force, Julian had finally gained some recognition.


    In Old Man Reid''s eyes, he had become a treasure.


    Old Man Reid was an eccentric character.


    Radiant Sky Grotto was a powerful force, with numerous talented individuals, some even more prestigious than Owen, the ever-victorious general.


    Yet, according to Old Man Reid, even if Julian was only at the Developing Skill level, he was still stronger than those guys.


    Apart from Julian, only those who could innovate unorthodox techniques were qualified to meet Old Man Reid.


    There was once a Psychic in Radiant Sky Grotto who had created a new technique that could instantly tidy up a messy room with a single use.


    The other Psychics scoffed at him, but Old Man Reid appeared personally and praised him as a "good disciple."


    [Your descendant, Julian, under the guidance of Old Man Reid and with the abundance of Sixth-Grade Psychic materials in Radiant Sky Grotto, used an Eighth-Grade Psychic vein to refine his first Sixth-Grade Psychic Puppet!]


    In the back mountains¡­


    Julian and Old Man Reid gazed with delight at the colossal creature before them.


    It was a white tiger, six feet tall and sixteen feet long, with sleek muscles.


    It looked no different from an ordinary tiger, nuzzling Julian affectionately.


    Who would have guessed that it was an AI Bionic Robot?


    [Sixth-Grade Psychic Puppet: White Tiger]


    [Its body is crafted from various Psychic materials, its flesh and blood refined from the remains of an unruly Competent Force level Psychic beast. It contains an Eighth-Grade Psychic vein, providing it with boundless Psychic energy. Its soul is forged through ghost control techniques¡­]


    [Possessing the physical strength of a top-grade ability weapon, it can manipulate the metal elemental rule and wields the peak-level Profound techniques ''Golden Forest Kill Formation'' and ''Thousand Shadows.'']


    [The Psychic Puppet can transform into a top-grade ability weapon: White Tiger Sacred Armor.] S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [When transformed into armor, its two peak-level techniques become available to the wearer.]


    "Good, good, good! What a good disciple!" Old Man Reid stroked the Psychic Puppet as if it were a priceless treasure.


    "Quickly, quickly! Let your Psychic Puppet carry me for a stroll around Radiant Sky Grotto!"


    After the white tiger carried Old Man Reid on a wild run through Radiant Sky Grotto, throwing the disciples into chaos¡­


    Old Man Reid was overjoyed.


    "Quick, disciple! Have this Psychic Puppet transform into armor. I want to try it on!"


    "Hahaha! Another unorthodox path has emerged in this world, originating from my Radiant Sky Grotto!"

 Chapter 402 So thats it, so thats it!

    After Elder Reid''s initial excitement, his power puppet, White Tiger, curled up beside the ancient tree.It was Julian''s first time inside the tree, and the space within was like a vast starry sea.


    Elder Reid explained that it was a high-level power equipment that had accompanied him for tens of thousands of years.


    Elder Reid had also suppressed his earlier childlike demeanor upon encountering something new.


    His brilliant disciple had serious matters to discuss, and he had a good idea what they were.


    Julian had been working so hard all these years, and now he was even showing him the power puppet technique.


    He must want his master to take him seriously.


    "Master," Julian said, gazing at Elder Reid, his voice deep.


    "I have something to ask. Why... why was my Blackwood family met with such a disaster?"


    His gaze was calm, but a raging fire burned in his heart, directed at both the Emerald Empire and the Sunshine Mansion''s Heavenly Path.


    He refused to believe that the Venerable of Heavenly Path attacking his family that day was a coincidence.


    Becoming Elder Reid''s disciple wasn''t just about learning skills; it was about gaining knowledge.


    He believed that with Elder Reid''s power, he would surely have answers.


    Perhaps, for the sake of his talent, he might even help him deal with Heavenly Path.


    Elder Reid hesitated for a long time before letting out a long sigh.


    "My disciple, your Blackwood family should never have risen in Azure Cloud, and they should never have risen in Sunshine Mansion."


    Julian frowned.


    Elder Reid continued, "Everything in this world has a cause and effect. In truth... the ancient god is nearing the end of his lifespan. Long ago, factions began to form within the Emerald Empire. Our empire is different from other places. Our ancient god, our officials, they are all blessed by heaven and earth, bestowed with divine laws.


    They are the rightful rulers of humanity."


    "For example, when the ancient god ascended to his position, he was already at the Advanced Mastery level. When one becomes the ruler of a prefecture, they immediately attain Competent Force. This is why there are struggles for power."


    Julian knew this.


    Back then, Edward had sought the position of Duke and was almost bestowed with divine law, but the ancient god had refused.


    When the Oracle Chamber had appeared, the Blackwood family had also learned of the ancient god''s severe injury.


    It turned out the injury was a lie, but his approaching end was very real.


    He frowned.


    "Then... what does that have to do with my Blackwood family?"


    "There are many things your master doesn''t know," Elder Reid said.


    "I only know that the empire''s two largest factions are the Grand Tutor and the national advisor. Grand Tutor Gilbert has been away on expeditions for many years, while the national advisor manages domestic affairs. When the ancient god''s lifespan began to dwindle, the struggle for the throne also began."


    "Initially, the national advisor supported one of the princes. This prince was eager for achievements, and when the Druids invaded, he ceded the twelve border prefectures in exchange for a millennium of peace."


    "..."


    Julian knew this.


    That prince had been killed by William.


    Unaware of Julian''s thoughts, Elder Reid continued, "Later, Lance supported another prince, the current Twelfth Prince. This one possesses Competent Force cultivation but is known for his eccentric, violent, and suspicious nature. With Lance''s help, more and more people sided with the Twelfth Prince. However, your Blackwood family... you subtly aligned yourselves with the Grand Tutor."


    "Even so, the Twelfth Prince didn''t consider the Blackwoods a threat. You were just in that small place, Cloudview County, unable to cause him any trouble."


    "But then, for some unknown reason, someone emerged within your Blackwood family who could actually intimidate the Druids into inaction. Such a powerful individual must be of Advanced Mastery level, and not just an ordinary one! Such a figure would definitely catch the attention of both Lance and the Twelfth Prince!"


    Julian understood. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It turned out that the seeds of disaster had been sown for his family long ago!


    His eyes widened, and he gritted his teeth.


    "Then why Heavenly Path? I sensed that many within the Emerald Empire knew of Heavenly Path''s existence!"


    "Within the Emerald Empire, Basic Mastery Psychics are forbidden from taking action. Otherwise, the empire will surely know. This is the empire''s rule, for a single strike from a Basic Mastery Psychic can level a city and cause irreversible damage to a thousand miles. Ordinary Basic Mastery duels are always held in the sky."


    Elder Reid said solemnly, "Your Blackwood family wouldn''t have been attacked by a Basic Mastery Psychic otherwise. The ancient god would have restrained them. Any Psychic above Basic Mastery wouldn''t be able to escape his notice. Unfortunately, you went too far."


    "The ancient god remained silent, secretly observing which of his children would excel. But that doesn''t mean he''s truly weak or without temper. He let the twelve border prefectures go because he wanted to see what those princes could accomplish. But your Blackwood family interfered..."


    "In the grand hall, your Blackwood family made the ancient god lose face. Edward even proclaimed himself king during the court assembly, provoking the ancient god. He wouldn''t protect the Blackwoods anymore, nor would he restrain anyone from acting against them."


    "This gave Lance the opportunity to make a move against your Blackwood family. However, he couldn''t do it directly. The Grand Tutor held your Blackwood family in high regard, and Lance didn''t want a direct conflict with him."


    "That''s where Heavenly Path came in."


    When Elder Reid mentioned Heavenly Path, a look of shock flashed across his eyes.


    "As for Heavenly Path, I only learned of them after the Blackwood incident."


    "This person can assume countless forms, reincarnating thousands of times. It''s astonishing. But such a heaven-defying method might escape the eyes of someone like me, who lives in seclusion, but how could it escape the notice of the national advisor and the Grand Tutor?"


    "I suspect that Heavenly Path must have joined one of the factions long ago, most likely Lance''s."


    "However, someone like Heavenly Path, with such ambition, Lance would never allow them to grow unchecked."


    Upon hearing this, Julian''s body trembled.


    "Lance sent Heavenly Path to destroy my Blackwood family?!"


    "He set a trap," Elder Reid shrugged.


    "Someone in your Blackwood family could intimidate the Druids. Lance probably didn''t know what other trump cards your family held, and he probably didn''t know what Heavenly Path was truly capable of. Moreover, Heavenly Path was right there in Sunshine Mansion. A conflict between them and your Blackwood family was inevitable. That''s how that disaster came to be."


    "That was your Blackwood family''s great tribulation."


    "I doubt Lance expected Heavenly Path to breach your Blackwood defenses so easily, nor did he expect them to win so effortlessly."


    Then, Elder Reid smiled faintly.


    "He also didn''t expect that your Blackwood family would have the strength to fight back after a few years, and now you''ve played right into his hands."


    "So that''s it, so that''s it!" Julian felt like all the strength had drained from his body.


    After all these years, he finally understood everything!


    Back in Azure Cloud, they had been so naive, truly believing they could remain untouched with the strength of a single prefecture.


    They never imagined that the Emerald Empire was like an abyss, slowly swallowing them whole.


    At this thought, Julian''s expression suddenly changed.


    "Master, what about Radiant Sky Grotto...?"

 Chapter 403 Tell me, what brings you here?

    "What''s this?" Elder Reid chuckled, stroking his long beard.He was somewhat pleased to see his disciple concerned about Radiant Sky Grotto being dragged into the conflict, but his words were dismissive.


    "Do you think these power struggles can affect Radiant Sky Grotto? Levi dared to defy the imperial decree and returned to the imperial capital unscathed. Now, I''ve merely taken on a disciple. What can they possibly do to me?"


    "However..." Elder Reid suddenly sighed.


    "My disciple, I advise you and your Blackwood family to let go of thoughts of revenge. Even I cannot interfere in this empire''s struggle. That Heavenly Path is no simple matter. Let it go."


    "Let it go?!" Julian''s face flushed red.


    Seeing Julian''s reaction, Elder Reid knew his disciple couldn''t let go of the hatred.


    He said, "My disciple, Lance won''t allow Heavenly Path to grow stronger unchecked. That person is too ambitious. Otherwise, their projections wouldn''t be spread throughout the empire. Now that you''ve forced them to reveal themselves, even the ancient god will eliminate them for the sake of his princes."


    But as soon as he finished speaking, Elder Reid felt a pang of worry.


    Julian was fiddling with the Storage Ring on his finger, the one left by Larry.


    He knew the Blackwoods would never truly let go.


    ...


    The Blackwoods were now privy to these behind-the-scenes machinations.


    It turned out they had never escaped the whirlpool of the empire''s power struggles.


    Those high and mighty royals and officials had merely treated them as pawns, even Heavenly Path...


    They were like spectators to a cruel game, watching the Blackwoods and Heavenly Path tear each other apart.


    But at this point, the Blackwoods couldn''t afford to care about any of that.


    They continued to cultivate their psychic powers, waiting for the decisive battle with Heavenly Path in Sunshine Mansion a century later.


    Among them, the fastest cultivators were the younger generation, Benjamin and his father, Adam.


    [The North]


    It was a military camp, unlike any other in Azure Cloud.


    Massive ability vessels were stationed at the edge of the Endless Forest, stretching towards the north.


    Aboard them, numerous Psychics clad in silver armor stood in neat rows, far surpassing the Azure Cloud army of Cloudview County. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    These soldiers were worthy of being called "celestial warriors."


    Countless high-level power equipment, talismans, formations, and even hundred-meter-tall Giants could be seen.


    A palace floated in the sky.


    Inside, a young man stood beside an old man reading a book.


    The old man, though his hair was streaked with gray, had a resolute face and an air of authority that commanded respect with every move.


    He was the Grand Tutor, Gilbert!


    "Grand Tutor Gilbert," Benjamin said respectfully.


    "Thank you for saving me during my training in the demon realm. I would have died without your help."


    "Saved you?" The old man lowered his book slightly and glanced at Benjamin, a hint of amusement flickering across his wrinkled face.


    "You jest. You were being chased by a Developing Skill beast in my army''s territory, and after being rescued, you claimed to be a Blackwood and an old acquaintance. Isn''t that a bit too convenient?"


    Benjamin scratched his head, the awkwardness of a young man caught trying to be clever evident on his face.


    "I can''t hide anything from the Grand Tutor''s discerning eyes."


    "I know about the Blackwoods. The empire''s struggle hasn''t been kind to your family. I must admit, I bear some responsibility for that." Grand Tutor Gilbert didn''t bother with trivialities.


    "Tell me, what brings you here?"


    "Grand Tutor, I wish to cultivate under your guidance!"


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, after years of training and with his family facing a decisive battle against Heavenly Path in Sunshine Mansion, seeks to rapidly increase his strength. He decides to try his luck with Grand Tutor Gilbert.]


    [Receives a blessing from Grand Tutor Gilbert: Earth-rank technique: Heavenly Fire Tempering Formula]


    [Uses psychic powers to summon heavenly fire to temper his bones, meridians, and psychic powers]


    [Receives a treasure from Grand Tutor Gilbert: high-level power equipment: Divine Fire Banner]


    [Due to his diligence in cultivation, earns Grand Tutor Gilbert''s appreciation and gains a new identity: adopted son of the Grand Tutor!]


    One night, Benjamin stood at the bow of an ability vessel, gazing at the grand hall where Grand Tutor Gilbert read.


    A dangerous glint flickered in his eyes.


    "Foster father, it''s best if you have nothing to do with Glory City."


    ...


    Benjamin now served as a scout in Grand Tutor Gilbert''s army in the north.


    Under the starry sky, Ethan watched his son, who had pulled himself out of despair, amidst the icy plains of the north.


    Benjamin, who had once wandered alone for five years, had matured.


    Standing at 1.75 meters tall, he was strikingly handsome.


    He might seem carefree and easygoing, but at night, or when facing adversaries, his mind was sharp and calculating.


    Looking at Benjamin now, clad in armor, with a hint of stubble on his face, on the verge of breaking through to Developing Skill, Ethan felt a mix of pride and concern.


    This boy had been through so much from such a young age.


    He had faced hardship since he was ten, constantly on the run, encountering danger at every turn.


    He had found a brief respite in the fishing village, only to be forced to flee once more.


    Year after year, Benjamin had made his mark in various prefectures and counties of the Emerald Empire, astonishing Rising Stars everywhere with his talent.


    At Benjamin''s age, other Blackwood youths would be safely cultivating within the family estate, protected from harm.


    But Benjamin was different.


    He had experienced more than any of his peers, traveled to more places than even his elders.


    He seemed to have grown accustomed to it.


    Even now, becoming one of Gilbert''s thousand adopted sons didn''t seem to faze him.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, accustomed to a life of solitude, adventure, and combat since his youth, gains the trait: Lone Wolf]


    [Unafraid of loneliness, mental fortitude increased by 50%, strength increased by 10% when alone]


    He might put on a carefree facade, acting casually among his kin, but Ethan could see the loneliness in Benjamin''s eyes.


    Ethan had come to understand his descendant.


    Loneliness was Benjamin''s armor.


    Deep down, he yearned for companionship, but... he had learned to live without it.


    "Forebearer, I''ve been by Gilbert''s side for a long time."


    Under the cover of night, Benjamin took out the Forebearer Psychic Position and spoke into it.


    "Although Gilbert is conquering new territories in the north, his faction in the imperial capital is also supporting a prince. He''s just not as obvious as the national advisor. I''ve tested the waters. Even though I''m his adopted son, getting Gilbert to help us deal with Heavenly Path is impossible."


    "Just like back in Amber Hill, the Grand Tutor''s faction and the national advisor''s faction are keeping each other in check, content to let us fight Heavenly Path."


    Ethan nodded slightly, the Forebearer Psychic Position illuminating Benjamin''s face.


    Sensing that his message had been received, Benjamin tucked the Forebearer Psychic Position back into his robes and melted into the darkness.

 Chapter 404 ...Well, Ill have to live that long first!

    After becoming the Grand Tutor''s adopted son, Benjamin didn''t let it go to his head, nor did he use it to seize power.He knew deep down that he wasn''t cut out for these power struggles.


    He pressed onward on his journey.


    "A century is but a blink of an eye for us psychics," Benjamin said with unwavering determination.


    "The Forebearer said to live each day as if it were our last, and so should I, if I want to face the Heavenly Path. I must be at least as strong as Elder [Frenzied Blood, please provide translation], to even stand on the battlefield."


    Years passed.


    He continued his journey, meeting elders and entering the Forebearer space, yet he never spoke of the hatred he held from that fateful day.


    But he never forgot the day his father, Oliver, sent him away from Sunshine Mansion.


    Nor did he forget his father''s words, urging him to keep moving forward, never looking back.


    These words became the guiding principle and belief that carried him to where he was now.


    He had to keep moving forward, because the Heavenly Path was right behind him!


    Fortunately, he wasn''t alone on this journey; many of his kin walked alongside him.


    ...


    Panoram State.


    Unlike Benjamin, Alexander and his father, Adam, were taking a break atop a tall building.


    Ruins surrounded the building, and numerous psychics huddled around bonfires amidst the debris, bartering and sorting through spoils of war.


    It was clear that a battle had just transpired.


    Adam, as meticulous as ever, couldn''t stand the dust that clung to him.


    He showered furiously, then used his technique to cleanse himself further before finally stopping.


    [Your descendant, Adam, after years of seafaring and battling psychics in Panoram State, has developed a penchant for the finer things in life. He has acquired the trait: Clean Freak.]


    [Becoming dirty will send him into a frenzy, increasing his combat power by 20% but decreasing his sanity by 50%.]


    Dressed in fresh clothes, Adam stood on the rooftop, the cool night air whipping at his clothes.


    He looked down at his son, Alexander, who was tearing into a beast leg, his face smeared with grease.


    Adam couldn''t help but wrinkle his nose in distaste.


    He tore his gaze away from the unkempt psychics below and looked towards the Emerald Empire.


    "How has the family been all these years?"


    His initial goal in setting out to sea was to seek treasure, but he never expected to become a pirate or discover this new continent.


    Since arriving in Panoram State, he had to engage in battles every so often to defend their territory.


    The new friends he made in Panoram State all said that he and his son were fearless, daring to oppose the Panoram State empire...


    Everyone praised them as the most valiant father-son duo in the world.


    But only Adam knew that everything they faced here was nothing compared to...


    "I heard that back in Azure Cloud, the family faced enemies that were nothing short of extraordinary."


    "The Azure Cloud Pavilion, standing for tens of thousands of years in Azure Cloud, single-handedly challenged an entire county. Duke Michael, who maintained his disguise for centuries, even deceiving his own children. The Druids... and now, the Heavenly Path..."


    "Any one of these individuals is more formidable than the entire Panoram State."


    Adam''s expression was a mixture of emotions as he spoke.


    On the one hand, he yearned to experience all of this alongside his kin.


    On the other hand... he was afraid.


    Ever since discovering his true identity, he learned about his father Nicholas''s experiences and understood why his mother had chosen to raise them in a small fishing village.


    He understood his mother''s fears, her worry that he would sacrifice his life for the family, just like his father.


    He wasn''t afraid of that; no matter what anyone said, he knew his father did the right thing.


    He was just afraid...


    Afraid that he wouldn''t be good enough, that he wouldn''t be able to keep up with the rest of his family, just like when he first set sail.


    His mother had pleaded with him not to become another ''valiant Nicholas,'' but he... he wanted to be even better!


    "A hundred years... to conquer the entire Panoram State. That''s the most I can achieve."


    Adam let out a long breath.


    "Although I''ve never met the Heavenly Path, nor do I know how powerful he truly is, if it were my father, he wouldn''t cower in the face of an unknown enemy. He would fight with everything he had to secure a future for the family."


    Adam inherited Nicholas''s handsome features, bearing a striking resemblance to his father, but with an added touch of elegance and meticulousness.


    The cool night breeze ruffled his soft hair, momentarily obscuring his determined features.


    Down below.


    Alexander, who was laughing and joking with the other psychics, seemed to sense his father''s gaze.


    He slowly lifted his head and rolled his eyes at his father.


    "What are you looking at, Brother Alexander?" chuckled a psychic beside him.


    "By the way, I heard you mention wanting to go on an adventure, to explore the entire sea?"


    "Just a thought," Alexander waved his hand dismissively.


    He took after his mother in appearance, lacking Adam''s refined features.


    Instead, he possessed the rugged charm of a seasoned sailor.


    "Look at my old man, always itching for a fight. As his son, I can''t just abandon him. But hey, I''ll take you guys to my hometown someday, show you around. Hehehe, I''ve got some enemies back home, you guys can help me out."


    "You got it, hahaha! Just say the word, when do we set off?"


    "About a hundred years from now."


    "...Well, I''ll have to live that long first!" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Alexander and Benjamin, the only two descendants of the seventh generation, possessed contrasting personalities.


    [Your descendant, Alexander, has befriended many like-minded individuals in Panoram State, addressing everyone as ''brother.'' He has acquired the trait: Gregarious.]


    [The probability of gaining favor with others has increased by 10%.]


    ...


    The descendants of Blackwood were scattered across the globe, each living their lives, growing stronger, all for a common goal.


    Decades, even a century, was an eternity for ordinary people.


    But for most of the Blackwood clan, it was but a blink of an eye.


    Nathan, for instance, had been cultivating his psychic powers in the ancient battlefield, only seeing Mike and Arnold a handful of times over the years.


    It was only when he saw his kin in the Forebearer space that he would inquire about their children and steal a moment with Luna.


    Luna, too, had grown in her abilities.


    Cultivating alongside the Fox Saint had imbued her with an ethereal aura.


    The couple, one radiating deathly energy, the other an ethereal beauty, made for a rather peculiar pair.


    Lucas, on the other hand, hadn''t changed a bit.


    Every time they met, Amelia would pester him about Diana, but all Lucas would offer was a gruff "She''s alive," much to Amelia''s annoyance.


    Julian and Mary, however, were a different story.


    The events of that day had hit them the hardest.


    Julian was a changed man, and Mary''s hair had turned white.


    They were once the most formidable couple in the family, but now they were shadows of their former selves, always clinging to each other in the Forebearer space.


    No one dared to disturb them during these moments, hoping that they would find solace in each other''s arms.

 Chapter 405 Such potent deathly aura!

    [Blackwood 300 Years]That day, within the Patriarch''s Realm, the Forebearer vanished.


    It wasn''t until a full ten days later that the Forebearer reappeared within the Patriarch''s Realm, resuming their usual position observing the Blackwood clan.


    "Forebearer, your... your aura..."


    Though Olivia no longer possessed a physical form, she remained a unique presence within the Blackwood clan.


    The moment Ethan reappeared, she detected his change.


    While unable to sense the Forebearer''s aura directly, she perceived a subtle shift, as if he had grown... stronger!


    Over the years, she had entertained countless theories about the Forebearer''s true nature, but eventually, she ceased speculating.


    She understood that despite the Forebearer''s enigmatic nature, their dedication to the clan was absolute, mirroring the unwavering loyalty of every Blackwood member.


    The Forebearer''s will was the clan''s will.


    Olivia would obey any command without hesitation.


    "Indeed."


    Ethan offered a slight nod, acknowledging Olivia''s delighted expression.


    Exhaling slowly, his gaze swept across the clan members within the space, carrying an almost palpable weight.


    "I am ready."


    ...


    [Blackwood 360 Years]


    Only two years remained until the century mark prophesied by Elder Phil.


    As the deadline approached, a strange and somber atmosphere descended upon Sunshine Mansion.


    Even within the Emerald Empire, countless eyes watched the mansion closely.


    It seemed everyone knew that in two years'' time, the monstrous prodigies of Sunshine Mansion would clash with the Blackwood clan in a battle for the ages.


    Yet, strangely, aside from Julian at Radiant Sky Grotto and Mary at Crystal Crest, there was no news of any other Blackwood members.


    Even those two seemed solely focused on honing their psychic powers, making no other moves.


    The Rising Stars rescued from Kylin Mountain Roberts had also vanished without a trace.


    "Two years... No matter what, I will open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    Atop Crystal Crest, intricate formations materialized above Phil, layering upon each other before ascending into the clouds.


    It was a display of Advanced Mastery, a celestial manipulation of wind and cloud.


    The formations vanished into the sky, leaving no trace.


    Mary and Samuel sat beside Phil.


    "I can feel it," Phil said to Mary, "the Heavenly Path''s projection is encroaching upon Sunshine Mansion. The century mark is upon us. Are you Blackwoods prepared?"


    He knew that despite Mary''s presence at Crystal Crest, she possessed a secret means of communication with the rest of her clan.


    "Yes."


    Mary''s curt nod and subsequent silence drew Phil''s brows together.


    "I don''t know what you Blackwoods have been planning these past years, nor if you can truly aid me. But know this: we have only one chance. Once I open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, if the Heavenly Path achieves Advanced Mastery, neither you nor I can stop them."


    Mary simply nodded again, her silence fueling Phil''s frustration.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the ancient battleground of Endless Forest, a pair of eyes opened, so black they seemed to devour all light.


    Taking the eyes as their epicenter, a wave of dark energy rippled outward, emanating a terrifying aura.


    Druids cultivating psychic powers around the battlefield felt the shift.


    Their faces paled, and they hastily ceased their practice, taking to the skies to escape the epicenter of the terrifying energy.


    "Such potent deathly aura!"


    "This isn''t our Druidic aura, it''s human psychic power! Curse them, who dares use our sacred grounds for their own ends?"


    "Quickly, report back to Lord Apostle and the elders!"


    As the Druids fled, the dark energy above the battlefield coalesced, forming a swirling mass of black clouds.


    Within the clouds, a pair of colossal eyes materialized, their gaze fixed upon a lone figure meditating at the center of the battlefield.


    Nathan!


    He had been meditating for years, his clothes now little more than tattered rags that seemed ready to disintegrate at the slightest breeze.


    The man once known as the ''Steadfast Patriarch'' in Azure Cloud now exuded an even greater sense of composure and serenity.


    His dark eyes slowly returned to their normal state as he murmured, "Forebearer, your child is ready. The Death Coffin is ready to return."


    As if responding to his words, the Patriarch''s Soul Brand resting on his chest gently rose into the air.


    A single word materialized before him: "Good."


    "Yes, Forebearer, I will retrieve the Death Coffin now."


    Nathan reached out, taking the Soul Brand back into his hand.


    He rose to his feet and turned towards a specific direction ¨C the location where the two Druid elders cultivated their psychic powers.


    With each step he took, the entire battleground trembled.


    Wisps of dark energy rose from the ground ¨C the restless broken soul of the fallen warriors.


    These broken souls, one after another, joined the procession behind Nathan, forming a vast army that stretched as far as the eye could see.


    The storm clouds above mirrored his movements, gathering and churning with increasing intensity.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared across the sky.


    ...


    The world was in constant flux.


    The Druids residing near the Three Realms of Azure Cloud had also undergone significant changes over the years.


    After countless battles against Azure Cloud, with tribes both falling and rising, they had gradually formed larger communities beyond the borders of the Three Realms.


    However, instead of launching further attacks on Azure Cloud, they adopted a defensive stance.


    The Divine Bird Tribe had suffered losses, and their revered Forebearers were in seclusion, recovering from their wounds.


    Naturally, the responsibility of guarding against human Basic Mastery Psychics at the borders of the Three Realms of Azure Cloud fell upon the shoulders of Elders Shane and Lester.


    This Druid alliance, led by Shane and Lester and comprised of twenty-some tribes, had established a Druid city ¨C Oakdale City.


    Unlike human cities, Oakdale City embraced nature.


    Its walls were formed by massive vines, woven together by Druidic rituals that commanded the power of the forest.


    The Druids lived within this living fortress, resembling ants bustling within their intricate nest.


    Totems, both floating and grounded, were scattered throughout the city.


    At the heart of Oakdale City, several figures opened their eyes.


    Each one was a Druid Apostle or High Priest.


    "Mr. Nathan has finally caught up."


    Within a pool of lightning, Mike opened his eyes, arcs of electricity dancing within them.


    His prime spirit had long been observing the ancient battleground. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he watched the lone figure and the tempestuous storm clouds gathering above, a smile spread across his face.


    He had not remained stagnant over the century.


    His strength had grown, and his breakthrough to Basic Mastery had earned him the esteemed position of an elder.


    He no longer feared the Blackwoods as enemies.


    He had known for a long time that a family like theirs, facing such circumstances in Azure Cloud, would eventually turn against the Emerald Empire.


    And so it had come to pass.


    The enemy of his enemy had become his friend, which was why he had been aiding Nathan all these years.


    As for Arnold... Mike knew that the talented Rising Star had simply been frightened by the Blackwoods.

 Chapter 406 I will have your life!

    "Mr. Nathan should take back what belongs to him." Mike slowly rose to his feet.As soon as he moved, Mike raised an eyebrow. Beyond the energy barrier, he sensed two powerful auras. In the blink of an eye, Shane and Lester appeared!


    Lester still wore his large black robe, his withered face visible beneath the hood, one sleeve still hanging empty. It was difficult to discern Lester''s thoughts, at least for Mike.


    Shane, the short, rat-faced old man, glared at Mike with fury. "Mike, why was Nathan in the Ancient Battlefield? And in the central zone, no less? Don''t tell me you don''t know, only those above Adept can enter the central zone of the Ancient Battlefield!"


    He couldn''t help but be furious! He felt like he had been played. Back then, he wanted to hand Nathan over, but he hadn''t expected Mike and Arnold to hide him.


    This had made him break his promise to the Basic Mastery Psychic from Sunshine Mansion, costing him a hefty reward. But this dirty business he had done behind the backs of humanity, he could only swallow his anger.


    And now... he had just found out that Mike had actually hidden Nathan in the Ancient Battlefield!


    "I did it." Mike tightened his clothes, only glancing at Shane before looking at Lester. "Master Lester, Nathan has been living in our tribe with your permission for a long time, and he even married nine wives. He''s practically one of us."


    "I gave Nathan the right to cultivate his psychic powers in the Ancient Battlefield. Is there a problem with that?"


    "No problem." Lester replied without hesitation.


    "You..." This answer made Shane even angrier, but he didn''t dare to rebuke Lester. Instead, he shouted coldly at Mike, "Mike, you were just a commoner back then. You think that becoming a Basic Mastery allows you to ruin my plans again and again? You dare to disrespect me?!"


    As his voice fell, his aura pressed down on Mike.


    But now, Mike was also a Basic Mastery, and he had been stable for a hundred years. Although he was far from being a match for Shane, who had been immersed in the Basic Mastery realm for many years, he was not afraid of mere pressure.


    His short black hair swayed as he sneered, "You should worry about yourself. Nathan is here to settle the score with you."


    Then he looked at Lester. "Master Lester, Nathan is practically half a member of our Druids. If his belongings are taken, according to our Druid rules, we must take them back. What do you say?"


    "To the victor goes the spoils." Lester was as straightforward as ever. He shook his head at Shane, whose face had turned ugly.


    "That coffin is half mine, but I haven''t been able to research anything from it all these years. I give up."


    "Shane, what happens next has nothing to do with me."


    "Lester?!" Shane didn''t finish his sentence. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lester turned to Mike and said, "I''ve returned the things Nathan left with me. That doesn''t make me his enemy, does it?"


    "Of course not." Mike nodded quickly, relieved. It was just as Shane had said, Basic Masteries were also ranked.


    As an ancient existence among the elders, he really didn''t want Nathan to have another enemy like Lester.


    "I believe Mr. Nathan will also thank Master Lester for keeping his advanced psychic equipment safe."


    "You..." Shane was dumbfounded. He hadn''t expected Lester to give up the Death Coffin so easily! It seemed that in Lester''s eyes, Nathan was now more valuable than him!


    Just as he was about to say something...


    A calm, deep voice rang out from the sky above Oakdale City, reaching everyone''s ears.


    "Shane, I told you all those years ago, I will have your life!"


    As the voice faded...


    Shane''s face changed drastically. He couldn''t suppress the terror in his heart!


    Because... Nathan, who was in the Ancient Battlefield, had disappeared in an instant, obviously having broken through.


    Not only that...


    "Thump! Thump! Thump!"


    He looked in horror at the place where he cultivated his psychic powers in Oakdale City, at the place where his totem suppressed his cultivation.


    A silver coffin was trembling violently, as if responding to its master''s call.


    Then, the coffin broke free from its restraints and soared into the sky!


    Shane couldn''t help but be afraid. Nathan had been terrifying all those years ago. Now, if Nathan had broken through to Basic Mastery, coupled with this coffin...


    Moreover...


    What he feared even more were the Blackwoods who had driven them away from Azure Cloud. Many of them were still alive!


    Gritting his teeth, Shane was about to give chase.


    However, Mike blocked his path and sneered, "Shane, where are you going?"


    Nathan''s voice rang out again from the sky.


    "Please wait a moment. I won''t keep you waiting long."


    ...


    Adept Force practitioners value subtlety, using psychic powers to control natural energies. A Peak Apprentice can reach a thousand miles.


    If one wants to become a Basic Mastery, they need to project their Adept Force out of their body.


    This projection is not about letting the soul leave the body, a method even some Developing Skill practitioners can do.


    This projection refers to the crucial step between Adept Force and Basic Mastery, which requires one to directly inject their Adept Force into their soul sea.


    At this point, one can perceive the rules of heaven and earth, and a Psychic can observe how certain things are formed.


    For example, a Psychic who cultivates the earth element rules can see how the soil on the earth is formed and use it for their own purposes.


    Compared to Adept Force, it''s like the difference between an ordinary person holding a spear and a sniper who is proficient in spears.


    Some say that there is a third eye in the human body that can see things that ordinary people cannot. Achieving Adept Force projection is probably like this.


    Most of the Psychics on the Emerald Empire''s Peak Apprentice rankings have reached the Adept Force projection realm.


    Ordinary Adept Force practitioners summon natural energies, but they can already manipulate natural energies with ease, naturally making them more powerful than ordinary Peak Adept Force practitioners.


    And if one wants to become a Basic Mastery?


    Then they need to use the rules they understand to construct a domain and then integrate it into their Adept Force.


    For example, when Marcus wielded the Sky Hall, which transformed into a halberd, the pressure that formed around him was a shadow of a Basic Mastery domain.


    The stronger the rules integrated into the Adept Force, the stronger the domain. Only in this way can one withstand the five levels of thunder tribulation that come with breaking through to Basic Mastery!


    At the same time, these five levels of thunder tribulation are also a gift from heaven and earth, helping Psychics who have achieved Adept Force projection to construct their domains and transform their Adept Force into prime spirit.


    This prime spirit will also be continuously perfected through cultivation, making it even stronger, even to the point of constructing a unique paradise in a place invisible to others.


    Places like the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary and the Radiant Sky Grotto are paradises created by extremely powerful individuals, and they consumed a great deal of their creators'' effort.


    However, most of the time, Basic Mastery Psychics prefer to strengthen their domains with psychic powers rather than construct paradises.


    This is also why Basic Mastery Psychics are so rare. Projecting one''s prime spirit is already a difficult hurdle for many.


    Integrating rules into one''s Adept Force not only requires a deep understanding of the rules but also sufficient opportunity.


    For example, fire-type Psychics can easily find places that contain the power of fire-type rules, such as volcanoes.


    However, many times, even after they have absorbed all the rule power of a volcano, they are still unable to become Basic Masteries.


    This is because the rule power within the volcano may not be compatible with them.


    After all, even fire has different rules, such as the difference between ghost fire and ordinary flames.

 Chapter 407 Such a familiar aura

    Meanwhile, at the ruins of the Boulder tribe, once eradicated by Blackwood and his Azure Cloud forces, the air crackled with ominous energy.The sky churned with thunderclouds as countless spectral figures formed from death energy drifted haphazardly across the tribe''s former territory, Crestwood Hills.


    Their presence was chilling, their silent screams and howls enough to send shivers down the spine of even the bravest Psychic.


    These lost souls, dead for who knows how long, their consciousness long faded, still crawled from their final resting place, forming a spectral guard around the heart of Crestwood Hills.


    And there, at the center of it all, stood a man. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The wind whipped around him, his tattered clothes billowing like flames. He reached out a hand, gently caressing a silver coffin.


    "It''s been over a hundred years. We meet again. Is this your spirit?"


    Nathan could sense the Death Coffin''s joy. At his current level, he could even see its spirit!


    It was a skull. Ability weapons possessed psychic powers, and advanced psychic equipment could even develop sentience.


    But a spirit was formless, voiceless, visible only to its master. To see the spirit meant that he had truly earned its recognition.


    The Death Coffin''s spirit chattered excitedly, likely complaining about how Shane and Lester had poked and prodded it for years, urging Nathan to teach them a lesson.


    But Nathan had no time for such trivialities now.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared, and he slowly raised his head, the pressure of the approaching tribulation intensifying.


    Nathan took a deep breath, slowly knelt, and took out the Forebearer Psychic Position. "Forebearer, your descendant has prepared for over a hundred years, cultivating diligently. Now, with the Death Coffin returned, I am ready to break through to Basic Mastery. Please grant me your protection!"


    The Forebearer Psychic Position pulsed with light, and Nathan settled into his meditation, heart at ease. He knew the Forebearer was watching over him.


    And he was right.


    Beside him, a young man stood with his hands clasped behind his back, gazing at Nathan with pride. His eyes flickered to the rapidly gathering thunderclouds above and then to the numerous gazes focused on Crestwood Hills ¨C the watchful eyes of powerful Druids, all Developing Skill practitioners or above.


    Ignoring the prying eyes, Ethan knew Nathan had a plan. He dared to attempt a breakthrough in the Endless Forest, and besides¡­ his Forebearer was here.


    Ethan glanced at Nathan''s personal timeline.


    [Blackwood Year 280: Your descendant, Nathan, cultivates in the Druids'' Ancient Battlefield. He struggles to grasp the rules without success, lacking the aid of the Death Coffin.


    He begins to recall his time wielding the Death Coffin, using the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation to absorb numerous Sky Corpses, and the domain he formed from the Death Coffin''s psychic powers during his battle with Mike. He begins to explore the rules of souls and death...]


    [Blackwood Year 286: Nathan delves into the rules of souls, gradually understanding how the souls of Sky Corpses are formed during the creation of Zombies.]


    [He secretly communicates with the Death Coffin, using its spirit to investigate the four Sky Corpse bodies in the boundless Sea of Death. He begins to have the spirit convert the body of the Druid elder, ''Moon God,'' observing the process of soul formation during Zombie conversion.]


    [Blackwood Year 295: Using the rules he has learned through cultivation in the Ancient Battlefield, Nathan awakens the first unconscious soul in the Ancient Battlefield with the ''Natural Disaster Soul Summoning Technique.'']


    [Blackwood Year 302: He gathers more and more souls from the Ancient Battlefield, further enriching his understanding of the rules of death and souls. He breaks through to the peak of Adept Force! He develops his own understanding of corpse control techniques and the Death Coffin''s abilities, no longer bound by the cultivation methods of its previous owner, Elias.


    He gains the trait: Master of Dead Souls.]


    [He can control the souls of the dead and gradually learns to create Zombies independently. His control over dead souls enhances his power, allowing him to command them.]


    What followed was an endless cycle of cultivation.


    Nathan was a diligent individual. In the Ancient Battlefield, he spent every day comprehending the rules and communicating with the souls there.


    [Blackwood Year 350: Your descendant, Nathan, controls one-tenth of the dead souls in the Druids'' Ancient Battlefield! Using these souls, he integrates the rules of death and souls into his Adept Force, constructing his own unique domain ¨C the Domain of Dead Souls. With each dead soul he controls, his domain expands.]


    [Blackwood Year 360: With the time to confront Sunshine Mansion drawing near, your descendant, Nathan, decides to reclaim the Death Coffin and attempt a breakthrough to Basic Mastery, even without perfect preparation!]


    Looking at the thunder tribulation in the sky and the image of a Vajra gradually forming within it, Ethan frowned.


    "A third-level Basic Mastery tribulation?"


    Nathan had already informed him through the Death Coffin about this. Even with the psychic medicine the family had prepared for him over the past year, it would only be enough for him to overcome a third-level Basic Mastery tribulation.


    Given enough time, the countless dead souls in Crestwood Hills could gradually be integrated into Nathan''s Adept Force, making his domain even more powerful. He might even be able to attempt the fourth-level Basic Mastery tribulation that Chuck had overcome.


    But right now, the family was about to face Heavenly Path. This was their chance to destroy them, and they needed a Basic Mastery!


    "If only we had another hundred years¡­" Ethan sighed.


    Sensing the increasing number of observers, Ethan frowned. Overcoming a third-level Basic Mastery tribulation was already good; he couldn''t ask for more. The most important thing now was to protect Nathan!


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, figures were converging on Crestwood Hills from all directions.


    Crestwood Hills was once home to the Boulder tribe, but after years of war between the Druids and Azure Cloud, with constant battles between Oakdale City and Cloudview County, the Druids had long since retreated.


    Now, Crestwood Hills had become a place where Druids and Cloudview County Psychics occasionally clashed.


    The news of a Basic Mastery breakthrough here had attracted the attention of not only the Druids but also figures from Border town!


    A dozen individuals from Border town hovered in the sky miles away, their expressions grave as they felt the pressure of the tribulation emanating from Crestwood Hills.


    "Such a familiar aura."


    Among the Cloudview County group, a man in black robes raised an eyebrow. This was Old Ancestor Ralph of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate.


    Over 140 years had passed since Blackwood''s incident. Chuck of the Arcane Society had vanished without a trace.


    Although the three realms of Azure Cloud had merged into one, and more and more capable individuals from all over the Emerald Empire had fled to Cloudview County, his Ghost Eye Demonic Gate could still be considered the number one sect in Cloudview County.

 Chapter 408 The thunder tribulation is about to begin!

    Over a century had passed, enough time for many to forget, but Old Ralph still reminisced about the days he''d fought alongside the Blackwood clan.Feeling the energy emanating from Crestwood Hills, a flicker of anticipation ignited within him. "Back then, Mr. Nathan could already manipulate spirits. What a shame..." he murmured, a sigh escaping his lips.


    "That''s impossible, it couldn''t be Nathan," a stern voice interjected.


    Standing beside Old Ralph was a middle-aged man in purple robes, his face radiating righteousness. "I may have only arrived in Azure Cloud a century ago, but even I''ve heard of this Nathan. Wasn''t he the Blackwood Steadfast Patriarch?"


    "His talent was mediocre at best. It was a feat for him to even break through to the Adept Realm. And breaking through the ninety-nine thunder tribulations? That was all thanks to his coffin, a high-level psychic artifact. Even his fight with Mike was the same story."


    Old Ralph''s brow furrowed as he glanced at the speaker.


    The Blackwood clan, through their various branches, had established a powerful presence in Azure Cloud, contributing to its current prosperity and attracting numerous experts.


    Yet, these newcomers seemed to hold no respect for the Blackwoods. This Grant, currently ranked 89th on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking under King Phillips, was a prime example!


    Despite Old Ralph''s attempt to suppress his anger, Grant continued his relentless chatter. "With such limited talent, how could he possibly break through to the Master Realm in just a century? If he truly did, his comprehension would be unparalleled. "


    "Alas, even with such comprehension, it wouldn''t be enough. Where would he find the opportunities and resources? Back then, in Azure Cloud, they sucked Azure Cloud dry for years, leaving it barren."


    "Look at Azure Cloud now, after they''re gone. It''s more prosperous than ever! They can''t steal resources from Cloudview County anymore. I bet Nathan hasn''t even reached the middle stage of the Adept Realm." S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Grant is right. Azure Cloud is truly flourishing."


    "With the Blackwoods gone, King Phillips, through the Fortune Sanctum Parker family, has established trade routes with other states and counties. We no longer have to risk being hunted to trade precious materials."


    Azure Cloud had indeed attracted many talents over the past century.


    The natives, witnessing these outsiders rambling on, remained silent but exchanged knowing glances, their eyes reflecting shared anger.


    Only they knew that the current prosperity was built upon the foundations laid by their predecessors. Where would these newcomers be without their hard work?


    Old Ralph silently took note of Grant and the others who spoke so carelessly.


    He decided to have a word with Kenneth and Old Walker''s people upon his return. Once the war with the Druids was over, they wouldn''t need these fools anymore. It was time for some fresh blood in Cloudview County''s psychic forces.


    Fortunately, their mindless chatter didn''t last long.


    As the energy within Crestwood Hills intensified, Grant sensed the approaching aura of the Druids. "Many Druids," he said, his voice grave, "even Master Realm experts. The one breaking through within Crestwood Hills is using psychic powers. It must be one of our human predecessors. "


    "Thankfully, I''ve already sent word to Senior Phillips and Senior Holy Flame. Everyone, if the Druids dare to disturb our predecessor''s breakthrough, it will mean war!"


    Seeing everyone nod in agreement, and with more and more Azure Cloud psychics arriving, a hint of a smile touched Grant''s lips.


    He didn''t care who this breakthrough senior was; he wouldn''t mind owing a Master Realm expert a favor.


    Half a month passed quickly.


    For some unknown reason, the Druids were gathering in increasing numbers. Normally, they would stop at nothing to prevent Azure Cloud from gaining another Master Realm expert. Yet, they remained strangely restrained, showing no signs of aggression.


    For many Azure Cloud psychics, witnessing an Adept Realm expert breaking through to the Master Realm was an incredibly rare opportunity.


    "The thunder tribulation is about to begin!"


    They stared at Crestwood Hills in awe as the thunderclouds in the sky grew denser, their pressure mounting.


    The thunder tribulation formed a roaring, wrathful King Kong, and arcs of lightning crackled in the air.


    And then, beneath the thunder tribulation...


    They saw it. From the heart of the black mist that shrouded the center, an intricate magic circle gradually emerged, spiraling outwards.


    Ghosts wailed, their agitation amplified by the pressure of the thunder tribulation. They began to float, swirling around the center, unleashing a ghostly wind that swept across the land.


    "Since when did Azure Cloud have such a powerful ghost cultivator?"


    "Is this the Astral Projection of the Adept Realm? This senior must have cultivated psychic powers for over fifteen hundred years to accumulate such a profound foundation. How else could they control so many ghosts?"


    "That wrathful King Kong... It''s the tribulation of the Master Realm, designed to suppress the breakthrough of the Adept Realm expert. It has already taken form. "


    "I''ve witnessed Master Realm breakthroughs before. It seems our senior''s Astral Form, the embodiment of their Master Realm psychic understanding, is about to emerge... Look... That''s..."


    As the thunder tribulation reached its peak, all the observing psychics held their breath.


    Witnessing an Adept Realm expert breaking through to the Master Realm would be beneficial for their own cultivation!


    But in the next moment, their expressions turned grave.


    "It''s a third-level Master Realm tribulation!"


    Above the black mist, the Dead Souls, swirling like a storm, began to coalesce.


    An Astral Form emerged!


    It was...


    Two gates, massive and imposing!


    Even from afar, they could sense the ancient and mysterious aura emanating from the closed gates.


    The two black gates radiated deathly energy. Two bronze rings adorned their surface, which was engraved with the image of a ferocious Asura.


    The gates simply floated there, as if an unspeakable horror awaited anyone who dared to pull the rings and open them.


    "This..."


    Unlike the others, who were simply astonished, Old Ralph was stunned as he gazed at the two gates.


    He remembered a time when he had led the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate disciples back to Azure Cloud and participated in the border war.


    Back then, they had combined their powers to unleash the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s secret technique, the "Gates of the Underworld," summoning millions of souls from the underworld to vanquish their enemies...


    These gates... they looked eerily similar to the Gates of the Underworld.


    "A third-level Master Realm tribulation."


    The sky churned, filled with ghostly energy and crackling lightning.


    The wrathful King Kong formed by the thunder tribulation slammed its fist against the ghostly gates.


    A deafening boom echoed as psychic energy rippled outwards.


    On the Druids'' side, Shane, who was being held back by Mike, breathed a sigh of relief despite his apprehension.


    His companion, Moon God, had died at the hands of the Blackwoods.


    He knew that Nathan, even at the early stage of the Adept Realm, had been able to fight Mike.


    He also knew that the Death Coffin, a high-level psychic artifact whose secrets he had never been able to unravel, had returned to Nathan''s possession.


    His greatest fear was that Nathan, blessed with extraordinary talent, had stumbled upon some incredible opportunity or enlightenment in the Ancient Battlefield, allowing him to break through to the fifth level of the Master Realm.


    But if it was only the third level...

 Chapter 409 That... That... Senior... Holy shit!

    Shane himself had endured a third-grade Master Realm tribulation. Moreover, he had spent many years honing his strength in the Master Realm, reaching the middle stage. Even if Nathan had that strange coffin, it wouldn''t be enough to bridge the gap!However, as half a day passed...


    Shane''s face turned ashen.


    "BOOM!"


    The thunder roared once more. This time, the Master Realm thunder tribulation was even more intense, the dark clouds swirling with greater fury.


    Torrential rain poured from the darkened sky.


    At the heart of the maelstrom, upon the ancient Ghostly Gates, intricate runes began to appear, etching themselves onto the surface. A frame emerged, encasing the imposing doors.


    The three-headed King Kong, the embodiment of the third-grade tribulation, transformed, sprouting an additional pair of arms.


    "Fourth-level... a fourth-level thunder tribulation?!"


    Beside Shane, Mike was ecstatic. He recognized the aura of this tribulation. He had witnessed Nathan breaking through the third-grade tribulation and knew that with Nathan''s talent, he shouldn''t be limited to the fourth level.


    However, he also understood the Blackwoods'' predicament, the reason why Nathan had to settle for the third. Yet now, for some inexplicable reason, Nathan dared to challenge the fourth-level tribulation! sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But Mike''s joy was tinged with worry. Nathan''s foundation wasn''t stable enough for the fourth-level tribulation. Those Dead Souls hadn''t even reached the Adept Realm. How could they possibly withstand the might of a fourth-level tribulation?


    As if to confirm his fears, within half an hour, the four-armed King Kong''s relentless assault on the Ghostly Gates had left them on the verge of collapse, riddled with cracks.


    "Hahaha!"


    Shane burst into laughter, but his amusement was abruptly cut short.


    The four-armed King Kong in the sky transformed once more, now boasting eight powerful arms!


    "This... This is insane! Mr. Nathan, have you gone mad?!"


    Mike roared towards Nathan at the heart of the tribulation, his fists clenched tight. The fourth-level tribulation had been a near-death experience, with Nathan''s Astral Form, the Ghostly Gates, almost shattered. And now...


    He had actually provoked a fifth-grade tribulation!


    The eight-armed King Kong exuded an overwhelming pressure that made the air crackle. Bolts of lightning rained down from the sky like pillars of celestial wrath.


    It wasn''t just Mike.


    Even Shane stared in disbelief at the fifth-grade tribulation. Nathan''s Ghostly Gates were already damaged. Even if they were intact, they wouldn''t last ten seconds against the eight-armed King Kong.


    "This doesn''t make sense. Why would he choose to break through to the fifth grade? Challenging the fourth-grade tribulation was already a gamble, but the fifth..."


    Shane felt his wrinkled hand trembling within his sleeve.


    He couldn''t see Nathan''s expression within the tribulation, but he knew that someone who could push the Druids to their limits, endure years of humiliation within their ranks, and then disappear into the Druids'' Ancient Battlefield for a century was no suicidal fool!


    A chilling realization dawned upon him. His greatest fear was coming true.


    "No, I don''t believe it... Is it... Is it that coffin?"


    The tribulation raged on, but Shane felt a surge of danger. Without hesitation, he activated his domain, enveloping Mike within its protective embrace.


    "Shane?!"


    Mike reacted instantly, but before he could question Shane''s sudden attack, he activated his own domain, summoning three thousand bolts of lightning to shield himself from the onslaught of psychic constructs within Shane''s domain.


    But as he prepared to counterattack, he froze.


    Shane had vanished. His aura, now miles away, was rapidly receding.


    Yet, even this shocking turn of events paled in comparison to the awe-inspiring spectacle of Nathan summoning a fifth-grade tribulation!


    Everyone, mirroring Mike''s initial astonishment, stared in disbelief at the eight-armed King Kong wreaking havoc within the tribulation.


    "He''s lost it! He probably realized he couldn''t survive the fourth-grade tribulation and decided to die a spectacular death!"


    "Alas, his ambition exceeded his grasp. We thought Azure Cloud would have another Master Realm expert, but he let his arrogance lead to his downfall."


    "Let''s go, everyone. It''s a shame. He could have easily overcome the third-grade tribulation. Why risk it all?"


    The Azure Cloud psychics sighed. If it had been a fourth-grade tribulation, they might have held some hope, seeing the Ghostly Gates crumbling but still holding on. But a fifth-grade tribulation...


    They turned away, unable to bear witness to the inevitable tragedy. They felt a pang of regret for the fallen expert and vowed to learn from his mistake, to never court such reckless risks. Sometimes, what seemed like an opportunity was nothing more than a path to destruction.


    Grant''s face darkened. He had been prepared to fight the Druids, to earn the favor of a Master Realm expert, but it had all been for naught.


    He turned and headed back towards Azure Cloud with the other disheartened psychics.


    They had traveled for about sixty miles when...


    Old Ralph, his brow still furrowed in thought, muttered, "That familiar ghostly energy... and the Gates of the Underworld from our Ghost Eye Demonic Gate. I thought it was Mr. Nathan breaking through to the Master Realm within the Druids. Now it seems... I just hope it isn''t him..."


    He glanced back, his gaze widening in disbelief as a wave of shock washed over him. He froze mid-air, unable to comprehend what he was seeing.


    "Bro Ralph..."


    An Adept Realm psychic, who had been approaching Old Ralph to discuss something, followed his gaze and gasped, his eyes wide with astonishment. "Everyone, look! That... That... Senior... Holy shit!"


    His exclamation drew everyone''s attention.


    Above the roaring thunder tribulation, above the floating Ghostly Gates, a silver coffin had appeared!


    "Creak¡ª"


    The Ghostly Gates slowly swung open, the sound of ancient hinges grating against time itself, yet strangely ethereal, like an echo from an era long gone.


    From within the gates, countless grotesque, skeletal hands, resembling a macabre blooming chrysanthemum, shot out, grasping the eight-armed King Kong''s descending fist in a vice-like grip!


    "Mr. Nathan?!"


    Old Ralph cried out. The moment he saw the Death Coffin, he knew. Nathan was back!


    And...


    He was actually confident enough to withstand a fifth-grade thunder tribulation!


    Nearby, Grant stared at the unfolding spectacle: the transforming tribulation, the black-wreathed skeletal hands grappling with the eight-armed King Kong''s lightning, the overjoyed Old Ralph, and the silver coffin hovering above the Ghostly Gates.


    The stories he had heard countless times during his years in Azure Cloud, the tales that had become almost mythical in his mind, came flooding back.


    "Gulp."


    Grant swallowed, his throat suddenly dry.

 Chapter 410 Beneath the Ghostly Gates

    Ethan watched in awe as countless ghostly hands emerged from the Ghostly Gates in the sky. His Competent Force avatar, already weakened by the thunder tribulation, was now being held back by the ghostly hands pouring out from the open Ghostly Gates."It''s the Death Coffin!"


    Nathan, who had been grimacing in the center of the lightning pillar, now had a peaceful expression on his closed face. Ethan could clearly sense that the aura of the Death Coffin beside him had changed while Nathan was undergoing the third level tribulation.


    The coffin trembled, seemingly expressing its dissatisfaction that its master was content with only enduring a third level thunder tribulation. This dissatisfaction had somehow transformed the third level tribulation into a fifth level one!


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has begun communicating with the Death Coffin Spirit. He has entered the fifth level of the Death Coffin and gained recognition from the sixth level.]


    [With the help of the Death Coffin Spirit, your descendant Nathan has projected his Competent Force and received an influx of rule power from the ''Death Rule'' of the Death Coffin''s fifth level.]


    [Sixth Level Space - Elias'' Death Domain]


    [The domain left behind in the sixth level by the previous owner of the Death Coffin after his death. It was also Elias'' cave dwelling during his lifetime, possessing everything formed by the Death Rule. With the consent of the Death Coffin''s master, new corpses can be generated here using psychic powers to refine Zombies below the Zombie Emperor level (Basic Mastery realm).]


    [Using the Death Rule and the corpses of the dead, within Elias'' Death Domain, a Zombie Emperor can be refined every 3,000 years without any other materials, a Sky Corpse every 800 years, and a Zombie King every 300 years. Using the Death and Soul Rules, only 30% of the materials are needed to quickly refine Zombies above these levels.]


    [Using the Soul Rule, ghosts can be refined... Lesser Ghosts, Malignant Ghosts, Ghost Kings, Sky Ghosts, Ghost Emperors...]


    [Fighting alongside Zombies and ghosts within Elias'' Death Domain. These undead creatures, within the domain, are empowered by the Death and Soul Rules, their injuries heal faster, and their psychic powers are slightly enhanced...]


    [Elias'' Death Domain respects not gods or immortals, only the dead. Those who enter Elias'' Death Domain will face the most ferocious counterattack from the dead.]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has formed two domains and his prime spirit has been established. He has obtained the prime spirit technique: Soul Calamity.]


    The Death Coffin was as powerful as ever!


    Ethan finally understood. At the beginning, Nathan possessed the ''Dead Souls Domain,'' which wasn''t even complete. However, with the help of the Death Coffin, the opening of the fifth and sixth levels of the Death Coffin had not only completed Nathan''s ''Dead Souls Domain'' but also granted him Elias'' Death Domain.


    With these two complete domains, how could he not break through to the fifth level of Basic Mastery?


    And then there was the ''prime spirit technique.'' As far as Ethan knew, ordinary Basic Mastery realm cultivators needed to continuously perfect their own domains to obtain such a prime spirit technique. This was another aspect of their power, besides being able to use rules to enhance their techniques.


    However, many Basic Mastery realm experts were unable to cultivate a ''prime spirit technique'' in their entire lives. The more powerful the Basic Mastery thunder tribulation they endured, the more they were recognized by heaven and earth, and the greater their chances of cultivating a prime spirit technique.


    This was also the reason why many Competent Force cultivators pursued higher-level spirit tribulations when breaking through to Basic Mastery.


    What Shane had said before about Basic Mastery being divided into three levels was true.


    "Has Nathan also cultivated a prime spirit technique?"


    Looking at the information on the semi-transparent panel, Ethan finally breathed a sigh of relief. He knew that Nathan''s Basic Mastery tribulation was no longer a problem!


    "Impossible, his Competent Force was almost shattered just now, how is this possible?!!"


    Around Crestwood Hills, the Psychics who had thought Nathan was about to die were staring at the scene in the sky in disbelief!


    As the Ghostly Gates opened wide, and ghostly hands reached out, the gates themselves began to change!


    Beneath the Ghostly Gates.


    A series of steps began to appear, nine in total.


    The aura of the Ghostly Gates continued to grow. At first, the eight-armed King Kong, entangled by the ghostly hands, was still able to struggle slightly. But as these steps appeared, the gigantic, lightning-wreathed King Kong began to roar towards the heavens, as if struggling. Ghostly energy began to stain its lightning body, and everyone watched as the eight-armed King Kong...


    Shattered!


    "He... He passed?" Grant stared at everything in front of him in disbelief. The arcs of lightning still crackled in the sky, but the eight-armed King Kong was gone. The silver coffin slowly descended, and a wave of Basic Mastery pressure swept out from it across Crestwood Hills, heading closer and closer to where they, the Azure Cloud members, were!


    He suddenly remembered what Fellow Cultivator Ralph had just said. He wanted to say something, but in a flash, a figure appeared before all the Azure Cloud members!


    The man carried a coffin on his back, his old and tattered clothes flapping in the wind. His long hair fluttered, and the vicissitudes of time were etched on his resolute face.


    Patriarch Ralph froze in mid-air as if petrified, memories flashing through his mind in an instant, bringing tears to his eyes. "Mr. Nathan."


    "Brother Ralph."


    Nathan looked at his old friend from many years ago. Seeing his expression, he simply said, "I''m back." The words spoke volumes.


    He had learned from Daniel that even though their Blackwood family had been away from Azure Cloud for many years, their former friends had been protecting everyone related to them.


    "We... We greet the Blackwood Master!"


    Grant and the other Azure Cloud members'' voices rang out. It was as if they had never said anything before. Now that Nathan had returned as a Basic Mastery expert, although they were in disbelief, it didn''t stop them from trying to curry favor.


    Nathan merely glanced at them.


    Ralph frowned, not bothering to expose the slander these insignificant people had uttered against the Blackwood family before. Just as he was about to speak, Nathan shook his head at him. "Brother Ralph, let''s catch up with you and our old friends some other time."


    With that, he cupped his hands towards Patriarch Ralph and, as if he had heard something, headed off in the direction Shane had fled.


    Watching Nathan''s departing figure, his foot on the Death Coffin, Patriarch Ralph finally smiled. He had forgotten how many years it had been since he had smiled like this.


    "Mr. Nathan is back, those freaks from the Blackwood family must still be alive."


    Then, a cold glint flashed in his eyes as he looked towards Grant and the others, staring so intensely that it sent shivers down their spines. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 411 These were the rules of the Druids!

    As Nathan achieved Basic Mastery in the sky, unlocking the sixth level of the Death Coffin, the coffin''s aura intensified, carrying him through the air with almost blinding speed.A hint of melancholy flickered in Nathan''s eyes as he stood atop the Death Coffin.


    Having broken through to Basic Mastery, he could sense his old friends from Cloudview County. That''s why, after the tribulation, he didn''t even bother with the fleeing Shane and immediately appeared before Patriarch Ralph.


    Yet, when he actually saw his old friend, the joy of reunion unexpectedly vanished.


    He thought he was still the same person, but after over a century, he realized he had truly changed. He had become more timid, even... afraid to connect deeply with his old friends.


    Because before them stood the Heavenly Path, the old grudges. What lay ahead was a battle for the survival of his family!


    With this thought, his eyes flashed with black light, and he shot forward once more.


    Meanwhile.


    Above the Endless Forest, Shane was also making his escape using his techniques. His prime spirit had sensed Nathan breaking through the fifth level thunder tribulation.


    He had even witnessed the ghostly hands from the Ghostly Gates crushing the eight-armed King Kong. That was... a human prime spirit technique!


    "How is that possible? He cultivated a prime spirit technique right after breaking through? And his domain, his aura... he''s already at the mid-stage of Basic Mastery? How... how is this possible?!!"


    He understood now. It was all because of that coffin!


    The third level Basic Mastery tribulation transforming into a fifth level one, the bestowal of rules upon Nathan, it was all the coffin''s doing.


    Such fortune was beyond his imagination. He had cultivated psychic powers for over thirty thousand years and had only managed to master two prime spirit spells.


    Moreover, prime spirit spells varied in strength. He could sense a dangerous aura from Nathan''s prime spirit technique, one that surpassed his own.


    "What exactly is that coffin?!! I''ve investigated it for over a hundred years, but I couldn''t figure it out. Yet, it granted Nathan such immense fortune and made a fool of me!"


    Shane frowned in frustration. But just then, a figure blocked his path, startling him. When he saw who it was, rage filled his aged face.


    "Lester?!!"


    Lester, who had participated in the massacre of the Blackwood family at Azure Cloud Border Town, now stood in the sky, his domain fully unleashed. Numerous magic formations completely blocked Shane''s path.


    As the formations shimmered, Lester''s face remained expressionless beneath his hood, the wind ruffling his empty sleeve.


    His thin lips parted slightly. "Within the territory of my Divine Bird Tribe, there are few places you can escape safely. If I were you, facing such danger, I would flee back to the Bird Totem''s base without hesitation. Or... towards another Tribe. The Moon Dragon Totem is the closest from here."


    That direction... wasn''t that towards the Moon Dragon Totem?


    Cold sweat dripped down Shane''s forehead. He hadn''t expected his long-time companion to block his escape route, nor had he anticipated Lester''s meticulous planning in intercepting him on his only path. "Lester, we''ve been together for years, and you''re stopping me for an outsider? I am an elder, a Tribe elder!"


    "I know."


    Lester''s voice was devoid of emotion as more formations materialized around them. "But you are foolish. You still fail to see Nathan''s value to us Druids. The Blackwoods were destroyed, and Nathan''s enemies are not only the Heavenly Path of Sunshine Mansion but also the national advisor of the Emerald Empire. That''s why I agreed when Mike asked me to save him back then."


    "Don''t... Don''t act like you''re so high and mighty for the Bird Totem!" Shane roared in anger. "Didn''t you also agree to take Nathan''s coffin back then?"


    "Value requires assessment."


    Lester remained calm as water. "The coffin couldn''t be opened, so naturally, it lost its value. You''ve been trying to get rid of Nathan for over a century to obtain the Death Coffin, haven''t you? Unfortunately, you made another mistake by making a deal with Austin of Kylin Mountain. Austin is a Heavenly Path projection. I''ve heard stories about him.


    If he grows powerful, I fear he will endanger our Bird Totem."


    "Nathan is different. He owes our Bird Totem a debt, and he will repay it. As a Basic Mastery expert, he will seek revenge, and I am happy to witness it. It''s just a shame..."


    "You don''t understand."


    Clouds drifted past, and despite the bright sun, Shane felt a pervasive chill as Lester''s words reached his ears.


    At this moment, Shane knew with certainty that Lester, this emotionless bastard, was truly going to help Nathan kill him!


    Lester saw greater value in this, and after weighing his options, he, a Tribe elder... was expendable. Moreover, in Lester''s eyes, he was no longer pure, just a petty man willing to disregard the Bird Totem''s future for his own selfish gain by colluding with Austin!


    "I..."


    Shane wanted to speak, but sensing Lester''s killing intent, he choked back his words, his face ashen.


    Behind him, the sound of something tearing through the air! S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan and Mike arrived side by side!


    ...


    In the vast expanse of the sky, Nathan stared at Shane silently.


    Over a hundred years had passed. After being rescued by Mike and falling into the hands of the Druids, he had to endure everything he once despised for the sake of avenging his family one day.


    He had to linger on within the Druids Tribe, a group he once considered his sworn enemies. He had to marry nine burly wives just to survive.


    He knew the truth.


    The day he was brought back to the Druids, except for Mike who genuinely wanted to save him, all the other Druids were secretly delighted by his misfortune. He was like a caged beast, and they enjoyed seeing him, the one who had once repelled millions of Druids at Azure Cloud Border Town, being treated like a clown within their midst.


    Even Shane had been toying with him, manipulating his soul, and crushing his once proud spirit.


    But today...


    Like the Dead Souls buried deep within the Ancient Battlefield, he had risen from the depths of darkness, standing tall before these three Basic Mastery Druids!


    He looked at Shane, who was feigning composure. However, Nathan''s Soul Rule allowed him to sense a terrified soul within Shane''s body, a soul that yearned to beg for mercy but couldn''t overcome its final shred of pride.


    "Thank you, Master Lester. I will repay my debt to the Druids, to Mike, and to you."


    Nathan smiled at Lester and Mike. "I will handle the rest myself. I owe you both too much, a debt I can never repay."


    Lester''s lips curled up slightly in response, and he simply nodded.


    Mike, however, frowned, worry filling his eyes. "Mr. Nathan, you''ve just broken through to Basic Mastery. Are you sure about facing Shane alone?"


    But Nathan''s resolve was firm, leaving Mike no choice but to relent. He and Lester retreated into the distance, setting up a grand formation to prevent Shane''s escape... and Nathan''s.


    This was the way of the Druids, settling internal disputes within a sealed arena. The victor lived, the loser perished, and right and wrong were decided.


    As their totems rose, Shane, who had been ashen-faced, finally cracked a smile upon seeing Nathan choosing to face him alone. He saw a glimmer of hope!


    He had fled because he feared Mike joining forces with Nathan.


    But in a one-on-one battle, what did he have to fear?


    The totems were revealed, their fates sealed. No outsider could interfere. These were the rules of the Druids!

 Chapter 412 Youre courting death!

    "Hahaha, Nathan, you''re still the same arrogant human!" Shane roared with laughter."Just stepping into the Basic Mastery realm, and you think you can withstand the tribulation of a fifth-level Basic Mastery like me? You dare challenge me to a duel after cultivating your prime spirit technique? You''re courting death!"


    His words barely finished before Shane made his move!


    As expected of a Basic Mastery Psychic steeped in power for thirty thousand years, Shane''s psychic domain was vast, instantly encompassing the entire sky.


    Just like when he fought Daoist Bill, he trapped Nathan within his domain in the blink of an eye.


    This was Shane''s Sacred Spirit Domain.


    Within it resided psychic constructs he had generated over thirty millennia.


    The more constructs he had, the stronger he became.


    Druids had longer lifespans than humans.


    Although their psychic power cultivation was slower, it meant they had more time to perfect their abilities at the same level!


    Now, facing Nathan, a novice who had just entered the Basic Mastery realm, Shane unleashed even greater power than he had against Daoist Bill.


    The entire domain was teeming with psychic constructs, each radiating immense pressure, causing the Sacred Spirit Domain to shimmer with a seven-colored radiance.


    Within the domain, a chain materialized in space, clinking with the sound of clashing metal.


    Druidic runes were etched onto the chain, emanating a sinister and powerful aura.


    It snaked through the Sacred Spirit Domain like a dragon, quickly weaving a complex web that ensnared the psychic constructs.


    "This Slaughter Chain hasn''t been used in ten thousand years. Consider it an honor to die by its hand!" Shane declared.


    As his voice faded, the Slaughter Chain began to whir like gears in a machine, exuding the aura of a high-level psychic artifact!


    The psychic constructs within the Sacred Spirit Domain surged toward Nathan in a dense wave!


    A totem rose within the space, and Shane''s various spells, no longer requiring psychic power, bombarded Nathan from the constructs.


    Nathan remained silent.


    The Ghostly Gates that had appeared during his tribulation reappeared, their doors flung wide open.


    Ghostly hands reached out, intercepting the incoming chains.


    Shane, who had nearly killed Daoist Bill, lived up to his reputation.


    Unleashing his full power, he forced Nathan to deploy the Death Coffin to block the relentless assault of the Slaughter Chain, even as the Ghostly Gates absorbed most of the attacks.


    Nathan was left dodging and weaving within the Sacred Spirit Domain.


    But Shane''s attacks were too swift, suppressing him in a short amount of time!


    "Soul Scourge!" Nathan chanted, his fingers moving in a magic formula.


    His prime spirit technique, awakened after breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm, manifested!


    Nathan''s domain surged outward, and ghostly figures crawled out from within, engaging Shane''s psychic constructs.


    Even the four Sky Corpses from the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation appeared, charging into battle under Nathan''s command.


    The battlefield within the domain became a chaotic clash between Shane''s army of psychic constructs and Nathan''s forces of zombies and ghosts, all entangled with the Slaughter Chain.


    Despite his efforts, Nathan was losing ground.


    He was forced to rely on the Death Coffin for defense.


    "Can he really not defeat Shane?" Ethan, standing beside Nathan, watched with a grave expression as Nathan desperately evaded the attacks.


    He was ready to intervene at any moment.


    However, for Nathan to have reached this point was already remarkable.


    Moreover...


    Nathan''s prime spirit technique, Soul Scourge, wasn''t primarily offensive.


    [Prime Spirit Technique: Soul Scourge]


    [Summons Dead Souls with the technique, locking onto the enemy''s energy flow.


    While the enemy cultivates psychic power, it gradually unravels their soul, and when their mind wavers, it allows the Dead Souls to gradually erode their soul like poison until they permeate it entirely, ensuring a fatal blow or causing their cultivation to regress.]


    This technique was terrifying, capable of silently killing an enemy. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Given a hundred or a thousand years, as long as the enemy showed weakness, it could even kill a Basic Mastery Psychic.


    However, it wasn''t a technique suited for direct combat.


    Currently, the greatest effect of Nathan using Soul Scourge was to enhance the combat prowess of the Dead Souls and zombies under his control.


    ...


    "Mike, this is a life-or-death battle. You cannot interfere," Lester said, frowning as he saw the killing intent surface on Mike''s face.


    "It''s not beneficial."


    "But Master Lester..." How could Mike not see that Nathan was clearly losing?


    However, seeing Lester''s serious expression, he could only feel anxious.


    If Nathan were truly killed by Shane, Lester wouldn''t even bat an eyelid.


    He would simply believe that Shane''s value outweighed Nathan''s!


    The battle raged for an entire day.


    Nathan was covered in wounds within the domain, and Mike felt as if a thousand ants were gnawing at his heart.


    Shane laughed wildly.


    "Nathan, hahaha, you should regret your arrogance! If you and Mike had joined forces, I might have held some respect for you. But you chose to fight alone, and now my Sacred Spirit Domain will gain another psychic construct!"


    He was ecstatic!


    His greatest fear had been Nathan''s prime spirit technique.


    However, after their confrontation, he discovered that it was a technique that affected the soul.


    He was also wary of the Death Coffin, but apart from its durability, it hadn''t displayed any other techniques.


    Shane had even peered into the Death Coffin''s interior.


    It was nothing more than a high-level psychic artifact used to aid in psychic power cultivation!


    Moreover...


    "Surrender your Coffin and let it acknowledge me as its master! You and the Coffin are a mismatch! We are the true match!" Shane''s face was flushed with excitement.


    With a flick of his Slaughter Chain, it struck Nathan''s chest, nearly knocking his prime spirit out of his body.


    While manipulating the Slaughter Chain, he used his prime spirit technique and shouted at the Death Coffin, "Spirit, can you not feel it? My Sacred Spirit Domain, with thirty thousand years'' worth of accumulated psychic constructs! You are also a high-level psychic artifact that creates zombies and ghosts!"


    "Follow me! He only broke through the fifth-level thunder tribulation and became a Basic Mastery because of you, a talentless waste! I am different! If we become one, I can break through to Advanced Mastery!"


    However, his words did not elicit a response from the Death Coffin.


    It simply moved to protect Nathan once more.


    This enraged Shane.


    He even sensed... disdain in the Death Coffin''s aura?


    "You''re courting death! Once your master is dead, let''s see how long you can remain sealed!" Shane unleashed his prime spirit technique once more.


    But at that moment...

 Chapter 413 He didnt have the courage to become Nathans enemy

    Shane''s expression shifted.Nathan, hunched over, suddenly lifted his head.


    Despite being wounded multiple times, his psychic essence fracturing, and the zombies and ghosts released from the Death Coffin being destroyed, Nathan''s gaze remained resolute.


    A slight, bloody grin even played on his lips.


    "It''s called the Death Coffin," Nathan''s voice echoed through the clashing domains.


    "What?" Shane faltered, not catching Nathan''s words clearly.


    "I said," Nathan boomed, "it''s called the Death Coffin! It''s been with me for two hundred years. From the start, it knew I wasn''t anything special, but it still followed me. Know why?"


    Shane didn''t answer.


    He didn''t know how to.


    Fear gripped his heart.


    He saw the mocking smile on Nathan''s face!


    "Because it only recognizes me!" Nathan roared.


    His name was Nathan, and he had been pushing his limits within the Death Coffin since the Emerging Ability phase!


    No one knew how many times he had died within the Coffin, nor how he had overcome each of its trials.


    The Death Coffin had accompanied him for two hundred years.


    Even during his years among the Druids, it still obeyed his commands.


    The Death Coffin had witnessed his growth, and he had witnessed the Coffin transform in his hands, gradually breaking free from its seal as an ability weapon to become the powerful high-level psychic artifact it was today!


    Moreover¡­


    As Nathan''s cold shout rang out, the lid of the Death Coffin creaked open, and a wave of deathly energy surged out!


    "Impossible!" Shane''s face paled, and he stumbled backward.


    Even the speed of his Slaughter Chain faltered.


    Then, a figure wreathed in deathly energy emerged from within the Death Coffin!


    As the graceful figure slowly opened her pitch-black eyes, even the composed Lester couldn''t help but gasp.


    "Moon God?"


    "When did you refine the Moon God into a zombie?!"


    ¡­


    The most crucial words in "Death Coffin Corpse Control Techniques" were "Death Coffin."


    When Nathan had reached the Competent Force level and refined Sky Corpses, he didn''t need to exert himself.


    The boundless Dead Sea on the fourth level of the Death Coffin could automatically refine Sky Corpses using the souls, flesh, and bones of the deceased in a formation.


    The same went for the Zombie Emperor.


    Such corpse refinement techniques were rare, whether among the Druids or in the Emerald Empire.


    White, a Druid, was skilled in refining corpses and souls.


    The formation Arnold had used to break through to the peak of the ninth level of Competent Force had also required the blood of a million living beings.


    Even for Psychics, such techniques for refining corpses and souls were horrifying.


    They had once been forbidden arts in the world.


    However, as these taboo techniques gradually faded into obscurity, there were no longer any true forbidden arts.


    It was because of Rising Star Arnold, who possessed the White Spirit Manipulation technique, that the Druids had placed such importance on him.


    And now¡­


    A Basic Mastery corpse puppeteer had appeared, commanding a Zombie Emperor.


    Only then did the world remember why such techniques had been deemed forbidden!


    Even Shane, a master of psychic arts, felt a chill run down his spine!


    "Moon God?!"


    As the Death Coffin opened, a figure gracefully emerged.


    Wasn''t it the Moon God?


    Her figure was as graceful as ever.


    Once clad in a white dress, the Moon God now wore a black, translucent gown.


    Her hair was styled with two hairpins that shimmered with starlight, accentuating her elegance and nobility.


    The long gown flowed down, covering her feet, and her hands, peeking out from her sleeves, revealed black fingernails, making her resemble a black lotus blooming in the mortal realm.


    All exposed skin was deathly pale, etched with flower-like runes that added an air of mystery to her cold, pure beauty.


    As the Moon God appeared¡­


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    With her at the center, a Basic Mastery domain spread outward, forming layers of frost that swiftly encased the double domain where Shane and Nathan were battling.


    The psychic constructs under Shane''s control were frozen one by one!


    The frost the Moon God had once wielded had been more offensive, colder than the ice sculptures she now created.


    But now, as a Zombie Emperor, her ice sculptures exuded a chilling coldness, as if the deathly energy within the black ice would seep through skin, flesh, and bone, reaching even the soul.


    [Moon God]


    [Level: Early Zombie Emperor]


    [Materials: Blood and bones of millions of beings, numerous materials, Danny''s corpse, Druid corpses, large quantities of Druid totem powder, Pure Land without Roots, a large portion of the boundless Dead Sea¡­]


    [Zombie Emperor Ghost Technique: Soul-Devouring Eternal Freeze]


    [Freezes the enemy''s physical body from the outside in, eroding their domain and psychic power until it reaches their soul. Transformed from the Moon God''s Basic Mastery spell, Thousand Miles Ice Seal, into a zombie ghost technique.]


    ¡­


    The true terror of the "Death Coffin Corpse Control Techniques" lay in the Death Coffin''s ability to allow these zombies to inherit some of their former techniques, magic formulas, and even Basic Mastery techniques.


    These were then transformed into different techniques and formulas due to the infusion of ghostly energy.


    Sensing the aura emanating from the Moon God, Mike''s expression was a mixture of emotions.


    When Nathan had broken through, he had thought Nathan had caught up to him.


    But now, not only could Nathan fight Shane for an entire day, but he had also somehow refined the former Moon God into a Zombie Emperor!


    Beside him, Lester stared at the Moon God.


    A flicker of killing intent crossed his eyes, but he let out a sigh and made no move.


    Lester couldn''t afford to act rashly.


    He had initially wanted to use Nathan.


    But with the appearance of the Moon God, he sensed the terror of Nathan''s "Death Coffin Corpse Control Techniques" and the strangeness of that Coffin.


    He knew that Nathan was a truly monstrous existence! S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No wonder, no wonder some in the Emerald Empire wished for the Blackwood family''s swift demise, and the Heavenly Path wanted to eliminate the Blackwood prodigy as soon as possible. Perhaps I should have¡­" he murmured, glancing at Nathan, who seemed not to notice him.


    At least for now, he didn''t have the courage to become Nathan''s enemy.


    On the battlefield¡­


    Neither Nathan nor the Moon God had any intention of wasting words on Shane!


    With the Moon God''s arrival, the battle against Shane resumed.


    In an instant, within the formation Lester had erected, the Moon God''s Soul-Devouring Eternal Freeze transformed the battlefield into a domain of ice.


    Back in Azure Cloud Border Town, the Moon God had felt that Owen and Daoist Bill had countered her.


    But now¡­


    The Moon God no longer possessed her former consciousness.


    As the ice domain spread, her face was as beautiful as a blooming white lotus.


    Her psychic power might not surpass Shane''s, but her ice domain could freeze all of his psychic constructs.


    Even Shane''s Slaughter Chain was now encased in black ice, its gears jammed.


    "Damn it!" Shane cursed.


    He had been pursuing Nathan, confident in his numerous and powerful psychic constructs.


    But with the Moon God''s arrival, the Slaughter Chain could no longer lock onto Nathan.


    He now faced Nathan, who was simply and directly swinging the Death Coffin at him!


    Zombies and Dead Souls crawled out of Nathan''s domain, relentlessly trying to block his path.


    The Moon God''s Soul-Devouring Eternal Freeze and Nathan''s Soul Scourge constantly eroded his body and soul.


    With each passing moment, he could feel himself weakening¡­

 Chapter 414 The Blackwoods… had never truly left!

    Three hours passed.Shane''s domain vanished, leaving only a frozen wasteland in the sky.


    Zombies and Dead Souls faded back into the icy landscape.


    Mike and Lester, having composed themselves, couldn''t help but sigh as they saw Shane, frozen mid-air like a specimen, his psychic power holding him in place. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Shane''s psychic power was gone, the rules of death eroding his body and soul. Lester''s formation prevented even his prime spirit from escaping.


    He looked down at Nathan with unwillingness, meeting his calm gaze.


    As death approached, a strange peace settled over him. "All these hundred years among the Druids¡­ you were waiting. You weren''t afraid of us taking your Coffin because it wouldn''t recognize anyone but you as its master. I''m afraid its level is even higher than Lester and I imagined."


    "The Moon God''s body¡­ it contains the blood of millions of Druids, harvested by the Blackwoods on the battlefields of old. There are countless other materials within, accumulated by the Blackwoods over a century ago. You¡­"


    As Shane''s voice faded, Mike and Lester''s expressions shifted.


    The answer dawned on them.


    They understood how the Moon God had been refined into a zombie!


    "All these years," Shane sighed, "it wasn''t us keeping you captive. You never truly submitted, never had any intention of becoming one of us Druids. You only needed a hundred years, until the Moon God was refined into a Zombie Emperor within your Coffin. Then, the world would be yours to roam."


    Nathan didn''t deny it.


    Half of what Shane said was true.


    After obtaining the Moon God''s corpse, he had begun refining her into a Zombie Emperor. Unfortunately, the Heavenly Path had arrived too soon. Back then, he had left all his accumulated resources within the Death Coffin, along with a final command for it to follow in Azure Cloud Border Town.


    He had instructed the Death Coffin to find his family''s descendants after his death. He hadn''t expected to be rescued by Mike and the two Druid elders.


    "With such a technique at your disposal, we couldn''t hold you, nor could the Heavenly Path. Given enough time, you would become even more terrifying than them."


    Shane''s pupils dilated. He looked at Lester, a sneer twisting his lips. "Lester, you love to weigh values. You''ll regret this decision."


    With that, his prime spirit shattered, his body and dao extinguished.


    His last vestiges of psychic power activated the high-level Druid soldier psychic artifact he wore, sending it floating toward Nathan. Even in death, he wore a sneer directed at Lester.


    Lester felt a chill course through him as he watched Shane''s dying smile.


    Nathan collected Shane''s corpse.


    The Moon God returned to the Death Coffin.


    Nathan slung the Coffin over his shoulder and turned back to Mike and Lester, a faint smile on his face as if nothing had happened. "Thank you both for your help. As I said before, I owe the Druids a debt, and I owe you both as well. So¡­"


    "I''ll repay the Druids'' debt first."


    Lester and Mike exchanged glances.


    At that moment, Nathan seemed like a stranger to them, a terrifying stranger. It was as if the gentle and kind Nathan they had known for over a century had suddenly become incredibly calculating, his entire being radiating a deathly, somber aura!


    "Nathan," Lester asked, bewildered, "given the current state of the Blackwoods, how do you intend to repay your debt to the Druids?"


    Nathan didn''t answer.


    He turned away, gazing toward the border of the Azure Cloud Tri-Region.


    "Woo¡ª"


    Just then, the sound of a psychic retreat horn echoed from the Azure Cloud border!


    "What''s that?!"


    Mike and Lester''s expressions changed drastically.


    Their prime spirits swept toward the border, where they saw a massive cloud of dust rising into the air!


    It was the Azure Cloud Psychic army stationed at the border of the Azure Cloud Tri-Region by Martinez¡ªover a thousand ability vessels, millions of Psychics, the entire might of Cloudview County accumulated over centuries. They hadn''t expected that while Nathan and Shane were battling, their attention diverted, millions of Azure Cloud Psychics would gather.


    And they were heading toward¡­ Oakdale City, the heart of Druid territory!


    Cold sweat dripped down their backs.


    They couldn''t imagine what would happen to Oakdale City, caught completely off guard, if these human Psychics attacked.


    "You¡­" Lester''s face darkened. He glared at the impassive Nathan, fury burning in his eyes. "How could there be so many Psychics? Nathan, what are you planning? When did they gather?!"


    Besides anger, a chilling realization dawned on him as he watched the retreating Psychics.


    "The tribulation, your tribulation!" Mike stared at the unfamiliar Nathan, his expression complex. "Your Basic Mastery tribulation, it drew our attention. And you, using some unknown method, gathered the Azure Cloud Psychic army. If you had failed your tribulation today, or if we had stopped you from killing Shane, or if you had lost to Shane¡­ the Azure Cloud Psychics would have¡­"


    "Taken Oakdale City!"


    Recalling the events surrounding Nathan''s breakthrough, Mike suddenly felt naive.


    No, it was Nathan who had changed. He had become crueler, more cunning.


    Perhaps Nathan had never truly trusted Lester, nor him.


    Even if they hadn''t intervened today, Nathan had already made thorough preparations for his tribulation! With the Azure Cloud army on the move, Nathan would still have achieved his goals of reclaiming the Death Coffin and killing Shane.


    What terrified them even more was the realization that they had assumed the Blackwoods had lost control of Cloudview County. But in reality, the Blackwoods, through unknown means, still held the reins of Azure Cloud from the shadows.


    The Blackwoods¡­ had never truly left!


    Nathan ignored Lester and Mike''s reactions. He sensed his old friend''s anger but remained indifferent. His gaze was fixed on Sunshine Mansion, and he let out a long sigh.


    Mike had been sincere to him all these years.


    But gradually, he could no longer be the person he once was. He had to be prepared for every eventuality, even if it meant resorting to unpleasant methods, even if he had once despised those who played dirty.


    He raised his head slightly. Having reached the Basic Mastery realm, his prime spirit detected someone observing them, spying on them!


    A powerful soul in the sky was watching everything unfolding within Druid territory through psychic power.

 Chapter 415 It was a silent declaration of war!

    "Nathan¡­ Nathan Blackwood"On Kylin Mountain within Sunshine Mansion, Austin sat in his room.


    Outside in the courtyard, numerous Heavenly Path Venerable projections watched a scene unfold¡ªeverything happening in Crestwood Hills, Druid territory!


    Panic filled the faces of the Heavenly Path projections.


    They had witnessed Nathan''s Competent Force transforming into Ghostly Gates, his breakthrough from the third level of the thunder tribulation to the fifth level of Basic Mastery, and his ability to kill Shane, a seasoned Basic Mastery Psychic, upon entering the realm.


    And then there was¡­ Nathan''s forbidden corpse refinement technique!


    It had been over a century since the Blackwoods had last revealed themselves, and it just so happened to be two years before Phil would use his psychic power to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Nathan, now possessing Basic Mastery power, had sensed their observation.


    But instead of stopping them, he¡­


    ¡­simply stared back at them, his expression unreadable.


    It was a silent declaration of war!


    "How is this possible? He''s been hiding among the Druids, cultivating, for all these years? The Ancient Battlefield must have been his opportunity!"


    "What is that Coffin? It allowed him to break through to Basic Mastery at the age of three hundred and eighty! And his corpse refinement technique¡­ he created a Zombie Emperor in a mere century! What kind of inheritance is this?"


    "He''s provoking us, Austin! The main body''s mark is on you. Give the order! Nathan must die! Otherwise, his forbidden techniques¡­ no matter who becomes the main body, once he goes into hiding, he''ll be a threat to us all!"


    "¡­"


    The Heavenly Path projections were grave.


    In their shared memories, they had encountered countless terrifying beings.


    But very few had truly made them feel threatened.


    Nathan was undoubtedly one of them.


    Achieving Basic Mastery in a mere century, refining a Zombie Emperor¡­ that Death Coffin clearly held an extraordinary inheritance.


    If Nathan went into hiding, who knew if even their combined projections, forming the main body, could defeat him after a thousand, ten thousand years?


    However, Austin remained silent.


    He fiddled with the teacup on his table.


    A red crystal was embedded in his forehead, pulsing with light.


    It gave him a divine, inviolable aura, making him appear even more imposing than he had a century ago.


    This was the Heavenly Path mark, the symbol of the Heavenly Path''s reincarnated soul residing within the projection.


    Through the mark, he could sense the calls of all the projections, know what they were doing.


    Every second, he processed a vast amount of information.


    He also sensed their fear.


    Even the reincarnated soul was telling him: the Blackwoods were now worthy adversaries.


    Austin didn''t dare give the order lightly!


    They knew very little about the Blackwoods'' movements over the past century. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    All they knew now was that Nathan had become a Basic Mastery Psychic.


    But what about the other Blackwoods?


    Moreover, there were others he had to consider¡­


    Phil, who was attempting to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary on Crystal Crest, the true rulers of the empire, those truly powerful Psychics¡­


    After much deliberation, Austin looked at Nathan in the scene before him.


    He slowly rose to his feet.


    His prime spirit shot towards Crestwood Hills.


    ¡­


    Crestwood Hills.


    Nathan waited patiently, now dressed in clean clothes, just like the farmer he once was.


    But Ethan, standing beside him, knew that Nathan was no longer that farmer.


    He glanced at the Forebearer space.


    All their clansmen were gathered inside, talking amongst themselves.


    For a hundred years, they had been waiting to return to Azure Cloud, to storm Sunshine Mansion.


    In those hundred years, they had learned many things.


    An entire day passed.


    Nathan''s brow twitched.


    In the distance, a familiar figure appeared¡ªAustin!


    It was Austin''s prime spirit.


    Even though Austin had worn a mask back then, Nathan would never forget his figure, even if he were turned to ash!


    He was the first Heavenly Path projection to invade the Blackwoods, crushing anyone in his path like ants, descending upon them like a god!


    "Nathan."


    Austin frowned, seeing how quickly Nathan had composed himself.


    After a long hesitation, he spoke, his words nearly making Nathan erupt in fury.


    "Let''s call a truce, Nathan. I swear on the Heavenly Path''s reincarnated soul, as long as you Blackwoods agree to let go of this grudge, I will have nothing to do with you for the rest of eternity. No matter what happens, it won''t involve either side. What do you say?"


    "Let go of my ass!" Ethan couldn''t help but curse, despite years of cultivating.


    Even Nathan, now much calmer, couldn''t contain his rage.


    Veins bulged on his forehead as he suppressed his fury, his voice a low growl.


    "A truce?! You barged in all those years ago, slaughtering my Blackwood descendants when we were weak, and now you want a truce?!"


    Austin knew how furious Nathan was.


    He took a deep breath, waiting for Nathan to calm down before speaking again.


    "There are many things you don''t understand. It''s not that I''m truly afraid of you Blackwoods. I just don''t want to be burdened by the grudges of others."


    Nathan frowned.


    Austin chuckled.


    "Did you really think there would be a good outcome if you fought me to the death? When I left Crystal Crest all those years ago, my master pursued me relentlessly. I was less than two thousand years old then. Let me tell you what happened."


    Nathan, though still angry, remained silent, listening as Austin continued.


    "Crystal Crest, that sacred land¡­ I used schemes to make my fellow disciples help me break through to Basic Mastery. The entire world knows this."


    The crystal between Austin''s brows pulsed.


    His voice was low.


    "I had a way to escape. After my tribulation, even my master couldn''t find me. I escaped my master, but I couldn''t escape the eyes of the other powerful beings in the Emerald Empire."


    "Back then, I met someone. He was the only one who could save me."

 Chapter 416 From that day forward, I was exposed...

    At that moment.High above, on the floating island in the northern sky, Grand Tutor Gilbert, the second most powerful man in the Emerald Empire, sat quietly at his desk.


    His adopted son poured him some tea.


    "Adopted father, please have some tea."


    "Yes."


    Gilbert nodded slightly, then frowned and asked, "How is Sunshine Mansion faring these days? Phil is about to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. It''s been two years; if Blackwood wants revenge, they should be making their move soon, shouldn''t they?"


    As he spoke, he looked towards the Psychic Sanctuary in the distance.


    Blackwood Benjamin was cultivating psychic powers inside, his energy extraordinary.


    The young man, who appeared to be in his twenties, replied respectfully, "Adopted father, news from Sunshine Mansion says that Blackwood Nathan has been hiding among the Druids. He revealed himself when he broke through to the fifth level, Basic Mastery. He practices the Corpse Control forbidden technique from hundreds of thousands of years ago."


    "He possesses a high-level psychic equipment and has spent many years refining a Zombie Emperor. He recently killed ''Shane,'' a Druid elder of the Basic Mastery realm. He is truly extraordinary and will likely reach Advanced Mastery in the future, perhaps even higher."


    "Oh?"


    Gilbert''s interest was piqued.


    "You have such a high opinion of him? This Blackwood patriarch is truly a dark horse."


    "Indeed, Adopted father. Nathan rose from humble beginnings. He was but a slave, a farmer by birth. To have come this far, he must be truly blessed by the heavens."


    The young man glanced at the increasingly dense psychic energy emanating from where Benjamin was cultivating his psychic powers.


    He asked with a puzzled expression, "But Adopted father, there''s something I don''t understand. Why are you so concerned about that small place, Azure Cloud, and the feud between Blackwood, Heavenly Path, and the Druids?"


    "How can I not be concerned?" Gilbert held his teacup but did not drink.


    He stared at the steam rising from the hot tea and murmured, "The empire is filled with those who only seek power and profit. The princes within the empire are constantly fighting for the throne, truly believing that His Majesty is about to ascend to immortality. Lance is far too rebellious. They are like birds in a cage; no matter what they do, it amounts to nothing."


    "The Blackwoods are righteous. They dare to fight the Druids, Lance, and even the ancient gods."


    "Heavenly Path..."


    Gilbert blew on his tea, watching the ripples on the surface.


    "Heavenly Path also dares to fight, to fight against people, against heaven. It is often only such people who can defy fate and possess unparalleled talent."


    The young man frowned.


    Hearing the Grand Tutor''s words, it seemed he was very familiar with the ambitious Heavenly Path Venerable.


    Grand Tutor Gilbert took a sip of tea and waved his hand at the young man.


    "Benjamin is a good lad. His ninety-nine thunder tribulation is now stable. Go to the warehouse and fetch a drop of ancient god blood for him. Consider it a gift from his godfather to celebrate his breakthrough."


    "Yes, Adopted father."


    ...


    "Grand Tutor Gilbert?!"


    On Crestwood Hills, Nathan heard a name from Austin that sent a chill down his spine.


    "Yes."


    Austin didn''t seem to notice Nathan''s astonishment.


    His voice was heavy.


    "I met Grand Tutor Gilbert when I was truly desperate. Countless people within the empire wanted me dead, hoping to curry favor with my master. But the Grand Tutor offered me a way out, and I became his... adopted son."


    "At that time, he was already leading the northern expedition to slay demons and expand the empire''s territory. I became one of his soldiers. I truly believed he admired me. He saved my life and even spared no expense in teaching me and gifting me rare treasures from this world, even... ancient god blood."


    Ancient god blood!


    When these three words were spoken, both Nathan and Ethan''s expressions changed.


    Austin continued, "Everyone who consumes ancient god blood experiences different effects. Those who are unworthy will surely die. I consumed the ancient god blood and cultivated the ''Grand Dream Ancient God Technique.'' I dreamt for a thousand years, and my cultivation base soared!"


    But when he spoke of his cultivation base soaring, Austin showed no joy, only a wry smile.


    "However, I served under him for so long that I forgot that everything we gain comes at a price. I also cultivated my master''s technique. I once tried to calculate my fifth level Basic Mastery tribulation, and I could sense that ever since I consumed the ancient god blood, a pair of eyes had been watching me!"


    "It was as if... those eyes were delighted by the items purchased with a shopping list. That''s when I knew Gilbert wasn''t saving me; he was choosing a perfect vessel for those eyes!"


    At this point, Austin''s face was contorted with rage.


    "That''s why I fled. I created my own magic formula. I am worthy of the title of Rising Stars. I was born to defy the heavens! This is the Heavenly Path!"


    "I reincarnated and cultivated again. I wanted to spread my projections throughout the land and one day take my revenge. But I never expected..."


    "My projection, Michael, clever as he is, would take advantage of my inattention during each reincarnation and try to make the Rising Stars consume the ancient god blood. He wanted to seize the body of a Rising Star who had consumed the ancient god blood, break free from my control, and even become the original. But he never expected that there was a spy from the Oracle Chamber by his side!"


    "From that day forward, I was exposed..."


    Austin said, looking at the pale-faced Nathan with a sardonic smile.


    "It was you Blackwoods who forced my hand. Your biggest mistake was letting Joseph, who had consumed the ancient god blood, enter the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Everything about me was exposed to those eyes. You left me no choice. You ruined my millennia-long plan!"


    ...


    Silence hung heavy over Crestwood Hills.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable, who the Blackwoods believed to be incredibly powerful, who had orchestrated the downfall of Sunshine Mansion for millennia and even driven all of Blackwood to despair with his projections throughout the Emerald Empire, now had a ferocious expression, as if silently railing against the injustice of fate.


    Nathan remained silent.


    After a long while, Austin sighed.


    "It was you Blackwoods who forced me into a corner. I could have had more time. Perhaps in another thousand years, two thousand years, I would have become even stronger and escaped the Grand Tutor''s notice. But you forced my hand and exposed me completely. I had no choice but to jump from the frying pan into the fire."


    "Lance."


    Nathan uttered a name without hesitation.


    Above the entire empire, besides the ancient gods, there were only two individuals who sat at the pinnacle of power, manipulating everything within the empire.


    From the moment they ascended to their positions, they held the authority of heaven in their hands.


    "Hahaha, Lance!" Austin laughed maniacally.


    "I had to exhaust every means to please him. Do you know what he sees me as? He sees me as a dog, a dog that can be discarded at any time! I''ve done so much for him, yet he''s always wary of me..."


    "And the things you''ve done for him include that day you intruded upon my Glory City?"


    At this point, Nathan''s anger seemed to have dissipated.


    There was a time when the Blackwoods viewed the Heavenly Path Venerable as an insurmountable mountain, an invincible being. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now it seemed they were all wrong.


    Heavenly Path was no different from anyone else.


    He was just stronger, his psychic cultivation techniques more unorthodox.


    "I''ve done so much for him, yet he wants me to reveal the location of all my projections. He wants me to swear an oath on my core, to serve him loyally for all eternity!"

 Chapter 417 Ridiculous, what do we have to fear from him?

    Austin finally calmed down. Enjoy exclusive content from empireHe saw pity in Nathan''s eyes.


    Perhaps the Blackwoods would never understand the unimaginable hardships he had endured, rising from a small family to his current position.


    For a moment, he no longer wished to dwell on the past with Blackwood.


    His gaze turned solemn.


    "Nathan, let''s call it a truce between me and the Blackwoods. You''re just like me!"


    "You think you belong to the Grand Tutor''s faction? Your Blackwood Joseph has already become a vessel ripe for possession. The Grand Tutor doesn''t even care for the lives of his adopted sons. You''re all just fish in a barrel, waiting to be devoured."


    "You constantly oppose Lance. He sees you as a thorn in his side, a pain in his neck."


    "We face the same fate. There''s no need to continue this pointless feud over past grievances. Let''s spare each other and live to see another day. Perhaps in the future, we can even work together. We can break free from the Emerald Empire''s control!"


    "We rose from obscurity, let us ascend to the heavens together!"


    "..."


    In an instant, the wind howled and clouds churned. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The two figures standing high above the earth seemed like puppets controlled by the vast, boundless sky.


    Austin, in his madness, yearned to ascend to the heavens in a single bound!


    However, to Austin''s astonishment, Nathan merely frowned slightly and said softly, "After all this, why didn''t you simply come to Blackwood and explain your situation when you were in such dire straits? Perhaps we could have stood together then. I might even have helped you."


    "You..." Austin was speechless.


    Nathan continued, "Oh, right, back then, you saw Blackwood as nothing but ants. You speak of the dangers you''ve faced, yet you slaughtered my Blackwood children. If we were still as weak as we were then, would you be standing here saying these words to me?"


    With that, Nathan vanished and reappeared right in front of Austin in the blink of an eye!


    His eyes narrowed, and Austin''s projection in his gaze seemed lifeless.


    "Don''t you dare feign pity in front of me, and don''t you dare think your struggle against the world is somehow extraordinary or noble!"


    Nathan made no attempt to hide the coldness and anger emanating from him. "For over a hundred years, I haven''t forgotten the hatred in my heart, not for a single day. Two years remain until the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary opens. You should remember that day, and you should have expected this day to come!"


    "Foolish!"


    Austin''s eyes widened. "Have I not made myself clear enough? Come to your senses! The past is the past. The dead cannot be brought back to life. If you continue to fight me, it will only lead to mutual destruction!"


    Nathan remained unmoved. "Mutual destruction it is then. I will make you live in fear. Even if we both perish and descend to the underworld as Malignant Ghosts, I will become your nightmare. Besides, we have a special gift prepared for you."


    ...


    On Kylin Mountain, Austin''s face was dark.


    Nathan had not continued their confrontation but had chosen to shatter his projection!


    "Madman, shortsighted fool!"


    Austin roared.


    He couldn''t believe that even after he had laid everything out so clearly, Nathan still clung to his old hatred!


    They could have simply let bygones be bygones.


    Both he and Blackwood had extraordinary futures ahead of them, perhaps even godhood!


    "A special gift, what gift? What have the Blackwoods been up to all these years?!"


    Thinking of the icy gaze in Nathan''s eyes when he shattered his projection, Austin''s heart was filled with trepidation.


    He sensed the Blackwoods'' determination.


    They would stop at nothing to kill him.


    All the projections in the courtyard were aware of the exchange between Austin and Nathan, and they were all furious.


    "He refuses a toast only to be given a forfeit!"


    "Ridiculous, what do we have to fear from him?"


    "If Blackwood wants to play with fire, we can unleash another bloodbath upon them!"


    "..."


    But before their words could fade, they froze!


    It was the imperial capital.


    Their projection, Brody, was still within the imperial capital when he saw Blackwood Donna, who had not been seen for over a century, appear!


    For Blackwood, the imperial capital was fraught with danger, yet Donna strolled through the city with an air of arrogance.


    It was a suicidal move, yet Austin and the other projections felt no joy.


    They remembered what Nathan had said about a special gift!


    Hall Manor.


    "She''s shown herself again?"


    Brody shot to his feet.


    Over a hundred years had passed.


    He had long since broken through to the Basic Mastery realm after the deaths of the other projections, and with their assistance, he had even overcome the fifth level thunder tribulation!


    He leaped into the air and flew straight towards Donna''s location!


    "I am not the same person I was back then. I haven''t even come looking for you Blackwoods, and you dare to deliver yourself to my doorstep? Very well!"


    ...


    Stepping into the imperial capital once more.


    After a century of cultivation, Donna looked no different than she did all those years ago, except for a more composed demeanor and attire.


    Behind her were several old friends who had accompanied her to the forbidden zone.


    These individuals, weathered by time and experience, seemed like they had stepped into another world upon entering the bustling imperial capital.


    "Brody? You''ve reached the Basic Mastery realm?"


    On the bustling street, Donna and her companions immediately noticed Brody tailing them from a distance.


    Brody even sent a voice transmission to Donna, challenging her to a duel!


    However, upon hearing Brody''s provocative transmission, the Azure Cloud group merely glanced at him before continuing on their way.


    By the time Donna and her companions reached their destination, Brody''s expression was one of astonishment.


    The place Donna and the others had gone to was¡ª


    Peaceful Loft!


    This elegant building stood out amidst the bustling city with its tranquility.


    Even carriages and passersby would slow down out of respect.


    The sounds of stringed instruments drifted from within, and occasionally, when the doors opened slightly, one could catch glimpses of dancing figures.


    Everyone in the imperial capital knew that Peaceful Loft belonged to the Twelfth Prince, Prince Jace.


    Prince Jace, barely six hundred years old, was known for his eccentric and tyrannical nature, yet he had a peculiar fondness for such extravagant affairs.


    "Why would they... seek out Prince Jace?"


    Brody was filled with doubt and a sense of unease.


    He was part of the national advisor''s faction within the imperial capital, loyal to Prince Jace.


    And now, Donna and her companions had entered Peaceful Loft, clearly having made prior arrangements.


    Yet, he was stopped at the entrance by guards!


    The guards informed him that Prince Jace was entertaining distinguished guests!


    "Distinguished guests? What distinguished guests?" Brody''s heart raced.


    Weren''t the Blackwoods at odds with both the national advisor and the Twelfth Prince? Why...


    Meanwhile, the projections on Kylin Mountain witnessed this scene, and they were all filled with suspicion.


    A sense of impending crisis gripped their hearts.


    ...

 Chapter 418 I require information

    Inside Peaceful Loft.Donna and her companions had already met with Prince Jace, and Ethan was also present.


    In the largest private room on the third floor of Peaceful Loft, low, long guest tables and cushions were arranged in two rows on either side.


    Seated on the cushions were several men dressed in court attire, clearly officials from the grand hall.


    Surprisingly, the courtesans of Peaceful Loft were seated alongside these officials as equals.


    The four officials wore grim expressions, though it was unclear whether they were angered by being grouped with the courtesans or by some other matter.


    Seated in the main seat was a strikingly handsome young man dressed in white, a truly exceptional prince.


    This young talent was currently playing a guzheng, his brow furrowed in concentration.


    The music was elegant and serene, calming the listener''s heart.


    This was the Twelfth Prince, Jace!


    Only Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster entered the private room.


    Prince Jace continued playing until the last note faded away.


    He then pressed down on the strings, turned to Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster with a smile, and gestured for them to enter.


    "Welcome, esteemed guests from the far north. Please, have a seat."


    "..."


    Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster frowned slightly and looked around.


    All the seats were occupied.


    They exchanged glances, about to find a place to stand.


    Prince Jace suddenly slapped his forehead and exclaimed in mock distress, "Oh dear, my apologies. I was so engrossed in my music that I didn''t notice the room was full."


    He shook his head with a wry smile.


    Prince Jace turned to Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster apologetically.


    "Please wait a moment."


    As his words left his lips, his previously refined demeanor transformed into one of ferocity.


    With a flash of his Storage Ring, he drew a longsword, his Competent Force radiating outwards!


    The four officials paled at the sight and immediately dropped to their knees, begging for mercy.


    However, Prince Jace remained unmoved by their pleas.


    He slowly killed two of the officials as their terrified colleagues watched on.


    The room echoed with pleas for mercy, but the remaining two officials could only tremble and beg for their lives.


    The courtesans, however, seemed unfazed, their expressions blank.


    Blood splattered on Prince Jace''s face.


    He casually wiped it away and smiled at Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who were frowning deeply.


    "There, now we have seats. Please."


    ...


    "This world is full of fools. Yesterday, I sent for a few of my subordinates, telling them there was an important position available in Fairview City. I instructed them to come to Peaceful Loft in their court attire."


    The courtesans, unafraid, began clearing away the bodies and wiping the blood from the floor.


    The two surviving officials, weeping and terrified, scrambled out of Peaceful Loft.


    Prince Jace took a handkerchief from a servant and wiped the blood from his face, as if nothing had happened.


    "Those four were the most foolish. I asked them what they would do if they were given the position. They spoke eloquently, their every word about serving the country and its people, but they offered no real solutions. The two who are dead now, I had intended to appoint them as magistrates in charge of psychic affairs in Fairview.


    One was to unify the psychic cultivation techniques, and the other was to eliminate all dissenters."


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    "Ever since I became a prince and set my sights on the throne, I''ve encountered countless fools trying to take advantage of me."


    As he spoke, a courtesan served Prince Jace tea.


    He took a sip and turned his attention to the young woman in the yellow robe before him, her brows slightly furrowed.


    "Donna, your Blackwood clan has not dared to show its face for a century. And now you emerge and seek me out. I do hope you''re not here for the same reason as those two fools. Otherwise, I''m afraid Peaceful Loft will cease to be a place of peace."


    "I require information."


    Donna stated calmly.


    ...


    "How did the Blackwoods gain an audience with Prince Jace?"


    As night fell, Brody, who was waiting anxiously outside Peaceful Loft, grew increasingly impatient.


    The people from Cloudview County had been inside for most of the day.


    He knew a fair bit about Prince Jace.


    Rumor had it that the prince was a creature of habit.


    With the national advisor''s support over the years, his schedule was practically public knowledge. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He would fish by the river from dusk till dawn, indulge in food and wine at Peaceful Loft during the day, and attend court at noon.


    Brody could only recall a handful of times when Prince Jace had deviated from his routine in the past century.


    The most recent instance was when Jace''s younger sister was forced into a political marriage with the Golden Empire by the Empress.


    And now, Prince Jace had altered his schedule for the Blackwoods?!


    Laughter even emanated from within Peaceful Loft.


    "What could they possibly be discussing?"


    Brody clenched his fists.


    After all these years, the Blackwoods had resurfaced, and their purpose was undoubtedly to eliminate Heavenly Path!


    The memories of being repeatedly visited and blackmailed by the Blackwoods over a century ago came flooding back, filling him with resentment.


    What infuriated him the most was that Donna, the body cultivator who was once a complete lunatic, hadn''t charged at him with reckless abandon as he had anticipated.


    He had even prepared to conceal his true cultivation level and then unleash his Basic Mastery psychic powers to crush Donna.


    But now, everything had caught him off guard.


    Meanwhile, on Kylin Mountain, Austin, observing through Brody''s eyes, was also deeply troubled.


    Over a century had passed, and he had heard tales of the Blackwoods'' ferocity.


    They were known for their direct confrontations and brutal tactics.


    Even their schemes revolved around violence.


    But now, their every move seemed unreadable.


    He had just confronted Nathan not long ago, and now the Blackwoods, instead of being wary of Lance, had sought out Prince Jace!


    "The special gift Nathan mentioned..."


    Austin murmured, and then a terrifying thought struck him.


    "Jace! Blackwood!!!"


    A barrage of messages from his projections flooded his mind, causing his veins to bulge and his face to contort in rage!


    ...


    The imperial capital was a city that never slept, its streets illuminated by countless lanterns.


    Donna and the Azure Cloud group strolled through the streets without a care in the world, their faces filled with joy.


    Brody continued to follow them.


    If they dared to leave the imperial capital, they would face his most relentless pursuit!


    However, Brody was rooted to the spot, as if petrified.


    In Donna''s hand, he saw... an energy locator!


    "How could this be? Prince Jace, how could he give such a thing to the Blackwoods?!"


    He was certain that all his other projections were witnessing the same thing, and feeling the same shock.


    For the first time, Brody felt true fear.


    After consuming the ancient god blood and realizing he was being watched, he had broken free from the Grand Tutor.


    He had escaped one cage only to enter another ¨C that of the national advisor, Lance!


    To gain Lance''s trust, he had to offer something of value, and this energy locator...


    It could lock onto the energy signature of all his reincarnated bodies through his original soul, revealing the approximate locations of his projections!


    Only with this assurance could Lance trust him and offer him protection within the Emerald Empire, shielding him from Grand Tutor Gilbert''s grasp.


    Without it, Lance would never have allowed him to grow to his current strength.


    Now, the Blackwoods possessed his lifeline, the key to his survival.


    His numerous projections scattered throughout the Emerald Empire would have nowhere to hide!


    This also meant... he had become Prince Jace''s abandoned pawn!

 Chapter 419 I bring you good news

    "How is this possible? In Prince Jace''s eyes, am I truly worth less than Blackwood?"Brody didn''t dare delay for even a moment. His face pale, he flew out of the imperial capital.


    He knew that even with his Basic Mastery cultivation, being abandoned by both Lance and Prince Jace meant he was no longer safe within the imperial capital, not with his methods.


    From this moment forward, they were on the run.


    "Blackwood has always opposed Lance, how could they possibly sway Prince Jace and Lance to their side?!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, inside Peaceful Loft, Prince Jace dismissed all the courtesans.


    Before him stood a bronze mirror. In the mirror''s reflection appeared a middle-aged man dressed in elegant robes, resembling a scholar. It was the national advisor, Lance!


    "Twelfth Prince, you gave Heavenly Path''s lifeline to the Blackwoods?"


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    Lance''s brow furrowed deeply. "Austin from Kylin Mountain just contacted me, begging me to persuade you to reconsider. He''s even willing to swear an oath of allegiance to you."


    "Teacher, you still trust him?" Jace responded with a cold voice. "Back then, in order to break through to his current realm, he sacrificed all his fellow disciples, letting them perish under his thunder tribulation. To survive, he willingly became Gilbert''s adopted son. And to escape Gilbert''s clutches, he turned to us."


    "A man like him will never be content serving under another. Sooner or later, he will betray us as well."


    Lance fell into deep thought.


    After a long silence, he finally spoke. "It''s a pity about his talent. With him on our side, we could have claimed Sunshine Mansion and its wealth. His projections control the entire region. By abandoning him, you''ve abandoned Sunshine Mansion as well. As for Blackwood, they''re nothing but ignorant fools.


    If I were you, I would never choose to help them."


    At the mention of Blackwood, Lance couldn''t suppress his anger. The twelve border regions were impoverished and desolate. He still couldn''t understand why the Blackwoods insisted on clinging to that worthless land, making him lose face time and time again. He wished for nothing more than to bury them all in a ditch.


    "Teacher, there are no absolute enemies, and there are no absolute allies. That''s what you taught me."


    Jace took out a map and smiled. "Years ago, you had Heavenly Path test Blackwood, and they suffered a crushing defeat. Did they ever lower themselves to seek my help? Besides, continuing to support Heavenly Path carries the risk of backlash. As for Sunshine Mansion, it''s still within our grasp if we desire it. We might as well seize this opportunity for greater gains.


    Take a look at this map."


    Lance glanced at the map Jace was holding and raised an eyebrow. "This is..."


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    Within the Forebearer space.


    Ethan sat on the ground, his fingers interlocked beneath his chin, his elbows resting on his knees. His expression was calm and composed.


    Over a century had passed, and their approach was no longer as reckless as it once was.


    In this world, their enemies were far more formidable than they had imagined. Gilbert, Lance, even Heavenly Path... these individuals who held the reins of power were far more terrifying than any opponent he had encountered before. They would never allow any potential threat to grow unchecked.


    Long ago, the Blackwoods had believed that as long as they held onto Azure Cloud, they had nothing to fear. They even dared to defy the ancient gods in the grand hall, their arrogance knowing no bounds. They thought they could withstand the Druids, as if the world were truly that simple.


    Reality had dealt Blackwood a heavy blow, a blow that Ethan would never forget.


    Before Ethan, a group of Blackwood clansmen stood silently, awaiting their Forebearer''s command.


    He raised his head slightly, his gaze sweeping over the faces of his clansmen.


    Over a hundred years had passed.


    They were like caged beasts, ready to break free and tear their enemies to shreds!


    A translucent panel appeared before him.


    [Your descendant, Donna, reports that she has met with Prince Jace and reached an agreement. Prince Jace will hand over ''Heavenly Path''s lifeline'' to Blackwood in exchange for two gifts: a peace treaty with the Druids and the continent of Panoram State!]


    To eliminate Heavenly Path, they needed to find his projections. Otherwise, he would simply reemerge in another location, stronger than before!


    The Blackwoods had been searching for Heavenly Path''s projections for years, but their efforts had yielded little success.


    However, Ethan was certain that Lance possessed a way to control Heavenly Path. Otherwise, he would never have kept such a dangerous individual under his wing!


    "Heavenly Path''s lifeline... with this, his projections will have nowhere to hide!"


    Nathan''s eyes gleamed with excitement. The Druids and Panoram State were of little consequence in the grand scheme of things. However, during the struggle for the throne, they represented political achievements, which were invaluable. Prince Jace, eager to bolster his own position, would surely agree to certain conditions in exchange for such achievements.


    This was the special gift Nathan had prepared for Heavenly Path!


    However, Nathan hadn''t anticipated that Prince Jace''s gift would come as such a pleasant surprise.


    "My apologies for the sacrifice you''ve made."


    Luna turned to Daniel, Adam, and Alexander, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Daniel, you''ve spent years in Azure Cloud, claiming vast territories from the Druids. Now, all your efforts will be attributed to Prince Jace. And Adam, Alexander, you''ve fought tirelessly in Panoram State for over a century, finally uniting the entire continent. Yet, you''re willing to relinquish it to another."


    Daniel smiled faintly. "It''s just land and titles. Besides, after two hundred years of constant warfare, we Azure Cloud folks deserve a rest."


    Adam shrugged nonchalantly. "Alexander and I went to Panoram State seeking experience and challenges. We''ve gained what we sought, and more. We''ve even earned the allegiance of Panoram State''s most powerful psychic and claimed their most prized treasures."


    "Indeed."


    Ethan, seated in the main seat, narrowed his eyes. He turned to Amelia, who stood among the crowd. "Amelia, from the edges of the empire inwards, leave no stone unturned. Heavenly Path''s projections will have nowhere to run!"


    "As you command, Forebearer!"


    Meanwhile, a fleet of nearly a hundred ability vessels, originating from the Golden Empire, sailed across the Endless Forest, heading straight for the Emerald Empire!


    Onboard were numerous psychics, their faces etched with the hardships of countless battles. Their very presence radiated a chilling aura that would make even the bravest souls tremble. These were the thousand Emerald Empire Rising Stars who had been rescued from Kylin Mountain!


    For over a century, they had fought tirelessly on the battlefields of the Golden Empire, facing unimaginable dangers and witnessing the deaths of many comrades. Now, they returned to their homeland with a single purpose: to eliminate Heavenly Path!


    At the forefront of the fleet, Amelia, clutching a Psychic Position, suddenly opened her eyes. Her gaze pierced through the distance, towards the Emerald Empire. Just a few thousand miles ahead lay Cloudview County, the place they once called home.


    Her voice, filled with a mix of sorrow and determination, echoed through the minds of every Emerald Empire Rising Star.


    "I bring you good news."


    As Amelia''s words faded, the eyes of every soul aboard the fleet snapped open, their gazes burning with anticipation.

 Chapter 420 The road ahead will not be easy

    That day, all the Blackwoods within the Forebearer space were in a frenzy.They knew that the opening of the Skywalking Psychic Sanctuary was still two years away, but from the moment Nathan broke free from the Druids'' control, their confrontation with the Heavenly Path had already begun!


    Years of family hatred made them eager to capture the Heavenly Path, skin him, and break his bones!


    At this moment, they had received Ethan''s order and had already returned to their true bodies, beginning to take action.


    Ethan opened the clan member panel and found Amelia''s information.


    He instantly disappeared from the Forebearer space and appeared beside Amelia.


    Amelia stood at the bow of the ability vessel.


    Behind her, a total of more than thirty people were waiting for her command.


    More than a hundred years had passed.


    Amelia had been lost for five years, only finding herself again when Ethan''s abilities manifested once more.


    It was then that she rediscovered her purpose, refining medicine in Riverton until she became a renowned alchemist in the Golden Empire, and then spending a hundred years refining medicine on the border battlefield of the Golden Empire.


    Now, she still had the same dirty appearance as before, always wearing the same yellowed alchemist robe, her hair a mess, and her face plain, appearing somewhat naive and dull.


    A medicine gourd still hung at her waist.


    As the thirty-two powerful Psychics behind her approached Amelia, they all took a deep breath, a strong fragrance of medicine assaulting their nostrils.


    Ethan knew that these thirty-two powerful individuals represented the most elite among the Rising Stars!


    After escaping from Kylin Mountain, on the battlefield of the Golden Empire, all of these thousand people had broken through to the Developing Skill realm.


    There were those with accumulated potential and those with lofty aspirations who vowed not to break through to Competent Force unless they had undergone ninety-nine thunder tribulations.


    Such a force of Rising Stars would cause a sensation wherever they went.


    This was also thanks to Austin''s eccentric hobby of collecting and nurturing Rising Stars.


    One must know that these Rising Stars were the most talented and unaffiliated individuals in the entire Emerald Empire.


    Gathered together, one could imagine how terrifying they would become if given time to grow.


    It was no wonder that Austin was alarmed and felt a great calamity approaching after these people were rescued.


    Among the thirty-two powerful individuals, their cultivation might not be the strongest, but they were carefully selected by Amelia and Edward.


    They possessed formidable talent, and after years of nurturing, they were absolutely loyal to the Blackwoods.


    Under the Blackwoods'' command, they led the other Rising Stars.


    The most impressive one to Ethan was the childlike figure standing in the center.


    This person had his hair tied in pigtails, looking no more than five or six years old.


    He wore a red bellyband and shorts, his chubby face flushed red.


    But in reality, he was already over twelve hundred years old.


    His name was Isaac.


    A thousand years ago, Isaac was hidden by a sect, intended to be used as an ingredient for alchemy.


    He was born unable to grow, and even his intelligence was somewhat underdeveloped.


    However, he was blessed by heaven with a natural jade-like physique and a Heaven-grade technique, allowing natural energies to gather within his body.


    He reached Emerging Ability at fifteen, Developing Skill at thirty, and by the age of eighty, he had already undergone ninety-nine thunder tribulations and reached Competent Force.


    Just as he was about to be used for alchemy, he fell into the hands of the Heavenly Path.


    From then on, Kylin Mountain had one more dog, barking madly at the Heavenly Path every day...


    According to Isaac, the Heavenly Path liked to keep people like him, who were blessed by heaven, as dogs, so that he could feel superior to heaven.


    Now, Isaac had reached Basic Mastery, fifth level Basic Mastery!


    The Blackwoods had once discussed Isaac''s talent.


    Within two thousand years, or with enough resources, he would definitely break through to Advanced Mastery.


    And Isaac also regarded the Blackwoods as his benefactors.


    This child was single-minded and particularly obedient to Amelia''s commands.


    Other alchemists would capture him for alchemy, but only Amelia fed him medicine.


    In his simple mind, Amelia was the best person in the world.


    It was also because of Isaac''s existence that these Rising Stars followed the Blackwoods'' orders without question.


    Among them were many prominent figures from within the Emerald Empire.


    There was the cold and elegant woman named Angela, rumored to be the reincarnation of a powerful being, awakening memories of her past life from time to time. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There was the renowned Go player, a Rising Star in the Way of Go, who had no equal in the entire Emerald Empire.


    There was Gregory, who rose from humble beginnings, spending a thousand years honing his blade.


    With a single swing of his sword, his enemies would either die or be dismembered...


    In the past thousand years, Rising Stars were rare in the Emerald Empire.


    The Blackwoods, upon their breakthrough, could easily defeat those on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings.


    It was not because the Competent Force Psychics of the Emerald Empire were too weak, but because those with true talent had become caged birds!


    And now, this force was being used by the Blackwoods, waiting for Amelia''s command!


    "The Heavenly Path has been plotting for ten thousand years. His projections, starting from Sunshine Mansion, are spread throughout the state capitals of the Emerald Empire. Almost one projection every year. Now, we, the Blackwoods, have obtained his lifeline, allowing us to trace the approximate whereabouts of the Heavenly Path''s projections.


    The identities of each projection are recorded in this jade slip."


    Amelia''s voice was low.


    A jade slip appeared beside her.


    As she channeled her psychic powers, cyan natural energies emanated from her body.


    In front of those Rising Stars, there were ability jades.


    The information about the Heavenly Path Venerable was rapidly imprinted into the ability jades.


    Those were the locations of the Heavenly Path''s projections!


    "A total of 4,218 projections, scattered across the Emerald Empire!"


    A fierce wind surged upon the ability vessel.


    All the Rising Stars frowned as Amelia''s icy voice reached their ears.


    "During this time, with the death of each Heavenly Path projection, the others will become stronger. No one knows how powerful the enemies we encounter next will be."


    "You were trapped in Kylin Mountain by the Heavenly Path for many years. Now that you have finally regained your freedom, you have a bright future ahead of you."


    "The road ahead will not be easy. You can still back out now."


    As a healer, Amelia couldn''t help but feel a pang of sympathy as she looked at these Rising Stars from the borders of the Golden Empire.


    After a hundred years of companionship, she remembered each of their names.


    These Rising Stars were strong, but even the Heavenly Path''s projections were full of uncertainty!


    With the death of other projections, the power of the Heavenly Path''s projections would dissipate, and some projections might even inherit the physique and techniques of their predecessors.


    Even though these Rising Stars were aware of the current strength of the Heavenly Path''s projections, once the battle began, no one knew how powerful a seemingly weak Heavenly Path projection could become!


    However, as Amelia finished speaking, all the Rising Stars smiled.

 Chapter 421 It was equivalent to... taking on the entire state!

    Isaac grinned."Amelia, for over a hundred years, I''ve been fighting tooth and nail in the Golden Empire, nearly dying several times, all to kill those Heavenly Path bastards!"


    "We''ve been mercenaries in the Golden Empire for over a century, taking on countless dangerous missions, all for this day, haven''t we?" Angela said with a charming smile.


    "Amelia, if I really do meet an untimely end, you guys who make it out alive better write on my tombstone that I escaped the cage."


    "To hell with the cage!"


    "Every single one of us is exceptionally talented. We''ve been suppressed by Heavenly Path for centuries. Now that we''re working together, I don''t believe he can win!"


    "Hahaha, we''ll fight to the death! Who''s afraid of him?!"


    "..."


    The Rising Stars laughed heartily, each accepting their mission!


    They leaped from the ability vessel one by one, heading towards their assigned locations, scattering across the Emerald Empire.


    All of them were filled with rage, having been dormant for a hundred years.


    Today, they would overcome this insurmountable chasm!


    The sky was filled with streaks of light, like sparks scattering from a falling meteor.


    Amelia stood quietly at the bow of the vessel.


    As each person departed, they would say to Amelia, "See you at Sunshine Mansion."


    She watched silently as the Rising Stars left.


    Only Isaac remained by her side.


    Isaac tugged at Amelia''s sleeve.


    "Amelia, what about you? Where are you going?"


    "Sunshine Mansion."


    Amelia rose into the air with an expressionless face, Isaac following closely behind.


    They hadn''t gone far when Isaac stopped in front of Amelia, his lips twitching.


    "Amelia, you''re going the wrong way. This isn''t the way to Sunshine Mansion. Why are you lost again?"


    Isaac couldn''t help but feel speechless.


    Over the years in the Golden Empire, Amelia would always get lost whenever she traveled.


    There was even one time when she received a request from a powerful figure in the Golden Empire to save someone, but she ended up running in the opposite direction for three months.


    Unable to find her way, Edward had to ask Isaac to bring her back.


    Isaac vaguely remembered Amelia hiding in a cave, trembling and red-eyed, as if she had been crying.


    She was muttering, "I''m lost again. Something must have happened. Whenever I get lost, they all die..."


    Who would have thought that the respected Healing Hand of Apricot Forest would have such a problem?


    If Isaac hadn''t seen it with his own eyes, he wouldn''t have believed it.


    Amelia''s voice reached Isaac''s ears.


    "Many years ago, Edward was at the edge of the floating island. He told me he was sick and could no longer bear to be alone in confined spaces or touch cold metal. It was a lingering effect of being trapped in a cage for many years."


    "Can it be cured?" Isaac asked doubtfully.


    He had his own issues too.


    He was afraid of chains... Back in Kylin Mountain, when Heavenly Path transformed him into a dog, the chain around his neck nearly choked him to death.


    "It''s a heart ailment. Every single one of you has this heart ailment."


    Amelia sighed, a flicker of fear in her eyes.


    "I''m the same, Isaac. You should lead the way. If I get lost, it''ll be very difficult for me to find my way back."


    "You..."


    Isaac puffed up his cheeks.


    Although he wasn''t very bright, he could tell that Amelia, like them, had a heart ailment.


    He couldn''t help but frown.


    "Amelia, aren''t you a medical genius? Last time I was beaten half to death, you healed me in ten years. When will your illness be cured?"


    "..."


    Amelia remained silent for a long time.


    Led by Isaac, their speed towards Sunshine Mansion increased. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a long while, she finally raised her eyes.


    "I lost my way from Cloudview County and was terrified by Heavenly Path. Once he''s dead, our heart ailments will be gone."


    Once he''s dead... our heart ailments will be gone...


    Amelia didn''t notice that the Forebearer had already appeared beside her.


    He felt a pang of sympathy, as he had an idea of how Amelia''s ailment came to be.


    [Your descendant, Amelia, heard Olivia shout "Run" when Heavenly Path invaded Glory City. She didn''t hesitate to use the Celestial Botanical Technique to escape. She had intended to seek help from Blackwood''s friends, but she couldn''t find anyone who could save her family. Panicked and lost, she wandered to the Golden Empire. Trait acquired: The Lost.]


    [Her soul is damaged, her sense of direction reduced by 99%, her cultivating psychic powers speed reduced by 50% when alone, and her temperament reduced by 50%.]


    ...


    "The Lost..."


    Looking at the panel above Amelia''s head, who in this world hasn''t lost their way?


    After experiencing great calamities, it''s natural to have some trauma.


    Even Ethan was lost for five years.


    The truth is, as long as one is human, they will have their vulnerabilities.


    It was fortunate that Amelia had Isaac by her side.


    Under Isaac''s guidance, they headed towards Sunshine Mansion in Cloudview County.


    It took half a month for Amelia and Isaac to reach Sunshine Mansion.


    At the heart of Sunshine Mansion lay Stonelake City.


    In reality, Sunshine Mansion had two main cities.


    One was primarily inhabited by ordinary people, while the other was Stonelake City.


    Initially, it was a Psychic marketplace, but it gradually expanded as various sects and races from all over Sunshine Mansion came to establish shops, buying and selling ability weapons and pills.


    This place gradually became the true main city in the hearts of Sunshine Mansion''s Psychics.


    Even the Emerald Empire''s government offices were established here.


    One could see Psychics traversing the sky on their swords, and tall towers stood around the city.


    If one used their psychic sense, they would know that there was a formation protecting the city.


    If one wanted to enter the city, they had to throw ten low-grade Energy Stones to activate the formation, which would then leave a mark on their body.


    After that, if they were to engage in any killing within the city, the authorities would be alerted.


    This contributed to the harmonious atmosphere within Stonelake City.


    Coupled with the fact that Sunshine Mansion was located in the prosperous south and emphasized "courtesy," Stonelake City had always been a model of etiquette for the entire Emerald Empire.


    However.


    Only after paying the Energy Stones and entering Stonelake City did Amelia clearly realize that this prosperous Sunshine Mansion was actually a single person''s domain!


    Inside an ordinary inn.


    Sitting cross-legged within the inn''s energy-gathering formation, Amelia''s expression was grave, while Isaac couldn''t help but exclaim in shock.


    Within the Heavenly Path energy locator between them were the identities of all the Heavenly Path projections in Sunshine Mansion!


    With the emergence of numerous Rising Stars, the Heavenly Path projections scattered across the Emerald Empire were fleeing, and a significant portion of them were heading towards Sunshine Mansion.


    There were over four thousand Heavenly Path projections, but the number of projections in Sunshine Mansion alone... exceeded thirteen hundred!


    Moreover, each of their identities was extraordinary.


    "Head of the Roberts family in Kylin Mountain, Austin, peak Basic Mastery."


    "Supreme Elder of the Parker family in Fortune Sanctum, Griffin, mid-Basic Mastery."


    "Current heir to the Duke''s Mansion in Golden Valley County, Ian. Competent Force projected."


    "Celestial Sect scholar, Owen! Boulder Mountain''s direct disciple, Mason! Crimson Gate Syndicate''s Order Sanctum Hall Master...."


    The identities of the Heavenly Path projections flashed before Amelia and Isaac''s eyes, sending shivers down their spines!


    Even though they knew they were going to fight Heavenly Path, upon arriving at his base and truly understanding the identities of his projections, they couldn''t help but be astonished.


    Heavenly Path''s claws were like a giant web, enveloping the entire Sunshine Mansion!


    This was what they were up against.


    It was equivalent to... taking on the entire state!

 Chapter 422 It had all happened so swiftly, so unexpectedly

    Kylin Mountain Roberts.Once prosperous, Roberts had been reduced to a ghost town after the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s massacre and the theft of the Kylin Heavenly Crystal, the family heirloom.


    Some Roberts fled, while those who remained met a grim end, slaughtered for condemning Austin.


    Now, only numerous Heavenly Path projections remained in Roberts.


    Austin sat in the main hall, his brow furrowed with worry even after a fortnight.


    Through the perspectives of all his projections, he had witnessed the unfolding chaos.


    From the edges of the Emerald Empire, Rising Stars began hunting down his projections.


    Some, driven by madness, had even resorted to capturing his projections, aiming to inflict upon them the same humiliation they had once suffered.


    In just half a month, over twenty projections had perished.


    Their fear, the agony of their torment, the shame of their humiliation, and even the anguish and sorrow of their kin being slain - all these emotions converged within Austin''s mind.


    Were it not for his suppression of certain human emotions, he would have succumbed to madness by now.


    One reaped what one sowed.


    The bitter fruit of his actions had ripened.


    The caged birds had broken free, and after centuries of cultivating psychic powers, they returned seeking retribution, each more formidable than the last.


    Regret and remorse gnawed at Austin''s insides.


    Yet, he had no choice but to swallow this bitter pill.


    "Come then, come all of you!"


    Heavenly Path''s hand, resting on the table, clenched into a fist, his eyes blazing with icy fury.


    "I kept you under my thumb for so long, turning you into objects of my amusement. You''ll never rise above me, not in this lifetime, not in any lifetime!"


    "Kill them, kill all my projections! It will only make me stronger!"


    "Do you truly believe you can truly harm me? My true enemies are the most powerful beings in the Emerald Empire. You, and Blackwood, you''re nothing but insects!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, within the Forebearer Space.


    While the other clan members were occupied with their tasks, only Ethan and Olivia remained.


    Olivia, her soul inhabiting the Forebearer Space, drifted through the world with the clan''s Destiny Tablets, her ethereal form visible only within this sacred space.


    Both of them were observing Heavenly Path''s lifeline.


    Outside the Sunshine Mansion, all of Heavenly Path''s projections were on the run, hunted relentlessly by the Rising Stars.


    Some had even fled the Emerald Empire entirely, like stray dogs with no home to return to.


    However, the majority sought refuge within the borders of the Sunshine Mansion.


    This was Heavenly Path''s true sanctuary.


    "The Sunshine Mansion, it''s Heavenly Path''s stronghold. For millennia, he may have scattered his projections throughout the Emerald Empire, but it''s the ones within the Sunshine Mansion that hold his true attention."


    Olivia, in her spectral form, retained the appearance of her youth.


    Clad in white robes, she resembled a delicate beauty, her voice soft as she spoke to Ethan about Heavenly Path.


    Despite being a soul for all these years, Olivia had not been idle.


    Her soul had not only been locked in a battle of fate with Heavenly Path''s projections, but she had also been seeking to unravel his secrets.


    The emergence of Heavenly Path''s lifeline had allowed Olivia to pinpoint the locations of all his projections.


    [Your descendant, Olivia, now a soul, has spent years battling the fate manipulation of Heavenly Path''s projections, her spirit carrying the clan''s Destiny Tablets as she travels. ]


    [Gradually, more and more Psychics attempt to pry into the Blackwood''s energy, making it increasingly difficult for Olivia to shield their fate. However, this struggle has also led to further progress in her "Scripture of All Under Heaven".] S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Through her soul cultivation, she has created a peak Spirit Tier technique: Heaven''s Concealment.]


    [By drawing upon the energies of heaven and earth, this technique allows the user to blend their own energy with the surroundings, concealing their cultivation level. Those at the Competent Force realm and below can remain hidden from Psychics within one major realm above.]


    [Due to her years spent as a soul, resisting intrusions and engaging in battles of fate manipulation, Olivia has gained the trait: Divine Concealment.]


    [Increases the speed of fate-based psychic power cultivation by 10% and enhances the ability to shield oneself from fate''s prying eyes.]


    Over the years, every member of the Blackwood clan had faced their own trials, yet they had all grown stronger through adversity.


    The Druids had attempted to convert Nathan, but he had silently mastered the power bestowed upon him by the Death Coffin.


    Amelia, alone in the unfamiliar Golden Empire, had carved out her own legend.


    Lucas, in the snowy plains, silently healed his wounds, his swordsmanship growing ever sharper...


    Olivia was no different.


    She had become a soul, perhaps as a consequence of the lives she had taken in the past, her sins too heavy to allow her to regain a physical form.


    Yet, she had found her own path, striving to forge a new future for her clan.


    No one knew the true extent of Olivia''s struggle against Heavenly Path''s projections and the countless others who sought to pry into the Blackwood''s secrets.


    Lost in thought, Olivia''s wandering soul seemed to sense something, and a smile graced her lips.


    "Forebearer, Heavenly Path''s projections across the Emerald Empire are being hunted, yet Austin, within the safety of the Sunshine Mansion, remains unfazed. "


    "This only reinforces the fact that his projections within the mansion are far more potent. It''s the reason for his indifference, the Sunshine Mansion is where his power is most concentrated."


    "A century has passed, and he still views us with such disdain. He believes the Sunshine Mansion to be his impenetrable fortress, a place where he holds absolute control!"


    It was as if Olivia could sense Heavenly Path''s every thought and action!


    Ethan couldn''t fathom how Olivia accomplished this, but it was clear that she had not been idle these past hundred years.


    Her cultivation techniques were beyond his comprehension.


    She had always been brilliant, her quiet intelligence often providing crucial support to the clan from the shadows.


    "Heavenly Path believes himself to be untouchable within the Sunshine Mansion."


    Ethan, pushing aside thoughts of Olivia''s hardships, focused on Heavenly Path, who remained complacent in Kylin Mountain.


    A cold chuckle escaped his lips.


    "Let''s see if this scheming bastard can maintain his composure as he always has!"


    Olivia nodded slowly in agreement.


    Her eyes glinted with a cold fire.


    She had waited for this day for far too long.


    In the past, she rarely returned home, spending her days stealing the Druids'' fortune.


    She had believed that the Blackwood clan''s abundant fortune would ensure their safety.


    However, Heavenly Path''s sudden appearance had shattered that illusion.


    She had been siphoning the Druids'' fortune for decades, but Heavenly Path had been plundering the Sunshine Mansion''s fortune for millennia.


    It had all happened so swiftly, so unexpectedly.


    But now, she was ready.


    And so was her clan.

 Chapter 423 Did you understand what I just said?

    At the edge of Stonelake City''s bustling marketplace stood a government building, bearing the inscription "Stonelake."In the Emerald Empire, government buildings held significant importance.


    With the existence of ancient gods and their divine blessings, it was said that humans, in their inherent weakness, had received divine mercy.


    This mercy manifested as official positions, a unique profession in this world.


    Becoming a mayor instantly granted one the initial strength of the Emerging Ability realm.


    Similarly, there were county executives, governors, and a hierarchical system of five official ranks, all bestowed with divine blessings.


    Upon receiving this divine infusion of power, individuals could further cultivate their psychic powers, akin to a sudden enlightenment.


    These officials served as guardians of the ancient gods, expanding their territories and safeguarding the human realm from chaos.


    However, perfection was an illusion in this world.


    As humans cultivated their psychic powers and grew stronger, they gradually began to disregard the Emerald Empire''s officials.


    This disregard, coupled with the conflicts arising from the pursuit of resources, which often contradicted the principles of governance, deepened the rift between the two sides.


    The role of the Sunshine Mansion''s governor was to oversee the dukes of each county, as well as the numerous sects, clans, and independent cultivators within the mansion''s domain.


    Governor Miles, hailing from an ordinary family, had been the envy of his peers ever since he ascended to the position of a fourth-level official, tasked with overseeing the entire mansion.


    They considered it an eight-lifetime blessing to be appointed governor of such a prosperous Dragon''s Favored Land like the Sunshine Mansion.


    With the divine blessing already granting him Basic Mastery, achieving Advanced Mastery was well within reach, given sufficient precious materials.


    However, at this moment, the usually composed middle-aged man, envied by all, found himself plagued by a throbbing headache, sensing that his comfortable days were coming to an end.


    Seated before him was a disheveled woman, accompanied by a lively child who seemed as clueless as a simpleton.


    Their expressions were vacant, and their words, when they finally came, were even more baffling.


    "Greetings, Governor Miles. I''m here to kill Heavenly Path. We''d appreciate your cooperation. Otherwise, I''ll have to kill you."


    As soon as the words left her mouth, the seemingly dim-witted child leaped down from the rafters, his expression turning icy cold as he brandished a gleaming silver spear.


    Their madness was undeniable!


    ...


    Heavenly Path had been orchestrating his plans within the Sunshine Mansion for millennia.


    Many influential figures within various factions were, in fact, his projections.


    With a single thought, Heavenly Path could bend the entire Sunshine Mansion to his will.


    This was the source of both fear and apprehension towards him, as well as the reason for his own unwavering confidence.


    If he so desired, he could mobilize all the major forces within the Sunshine Mansion in an instant.


    For the Blackwoods to even consider assassinating Heavenly Path, they needed to be prepared to face the combined might of the entire mansion.


    And within the Sunshine Mansion, there was only one major force that remained untouched by Heavenly Path''s influence:


    The government!


    The Blackwoods knew all too well that they stood no chance against Heavenly Path alone.


    "..."


    Within the heart of the government building, Miles, one of the most powerful figures in the entire Sunshine Mansion, found himself blatantly threatened by Amelia, without a shred of courtesy or pretense.


    Observing Isaac''s unwavering loyalty to Amelia, ready to strike at a moment''s notice, Miles became convinced that any hint of refusal would be met with swift and brutal death.


    Despite his initial shock, Miles was a shrewd man.


    He quickly deduced Amelia''s identity and, after a moment''s contemplation, fixed his gaze upon her, his brow furrowed.


    "A Blackwood, are you? Which one might you be?"


    "Amelia."


    Having revealed her identity, Amelia settled into a guest seat with a sense of ease.


    Beside her, Isaac, relieved that the initial tension had subsided without bloodshed, also relaxed, shooting a bewildered glare at the alchemist.


    He couldn''t comprehend where she found the audacity to threaten Miles so boldly, especially since he could sense that she was no match for the governor.


    "Amelia Blackwood?" sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Miles was taken aback upon learning the identity of this audacious woman.


    The Blackwoods had a renowned alchemist, sought after by countless individuals seeking to heal old wounds and ailments.


    Rumors of Amelia''s extraordinary medicine and her exceptionally high success rate in alchemy were widespread.


    Over a century had passed, and Amelia''s legend had faded into obscurity.


    Miles only remembered because, during his visit to the imperial court two years prior, the ailing ancient god had mentioned a divine healer residing in the Golden Empire.


    Several Basic Mastery Psychics had been cured under her care, and it was said that if she were to break through to Basic Mastery herself, even those at the Advanced Mastery realm would treat her with utmost respect.


    His Majesty had also lamented that if only the Blackwood''s Herb Saint had survived and grown stronger, she might not have been able to prolong his lifespan, but she could have at least alleviated his suffering in his twilight years.


    "Excellent, excellent, excellent!" Miles couldn''t help but exclaim in delight.


    He had assumed Amelia to be dead, but to think that the Herb Saint had survived.


    Given time, Amelia could potentially ease the ancient god''s pain.


    But then, a sigh escaped his lips.


    He feared that he wouldn''t live to see the day the ancient god regained his vitality.


    Amelia frowned, puzzled by Miles''s erratic behavior, alternating between laughter and sighs despite being threatened.


    However, she brushed it aside and addressed him in a serious tone, "Governor Miles, did you understand what I just said?"


    Snapping out of his reverie, Miles pushed all other thoughts aside.


    Amelia''s threat was the most pressing matter at hand.


    He pondered for a moment.


    While the majority of the world remained oblivious to Heavenly Path''s true nature, how could he, as governor, be unaware?


    "I''d heard tales of the Blackwoods'' decisiveness, but to witness it firsthand is truly something else. Miss Amelia, your arrival has been quite...eventful, to say the least."


    Miles forced a wry smile as he slowly settled into his seat.


    "But tell me, even if I were to agree, how did you come to seek my help?"


    The Forebearer had sent her.


    However, she couldn''t reveal that.


    Instead, Amelia replied, "Governor Miles, you''ve held this position for two thousand years. Your duty is to oversee the Sunshine Mansion. To be unaware of Heavenly Path''s existence would be a dereliction of your responsibilities."

 Chapter 424 Because hes a madman

    "You..." Miles instantly bristled with anger.In all his years as an official, this was the first time anyone had dared to compare him to a dog.


    However, seeing Amelia''s apparent lack of social graces and needing her help, he decided not to make a fuss about it.


    Yet, Amelia''s next words left him utterly embarrassed.


    "When Blackwood defied the Celestial Emperor''s decree and went to war with the Druids all those years ago, I''m afraid they also offended you, Lord Miles.


    The Celestial Emperor didn''t trouble Blackwood, which means he must have held you accountable.


    We investigated you. You only pledge allegiance to the Celestial Emperor.


    The Imperial Advisor is not on your side. He once pointed his finger at you in the Grand Hall and berated you for your incompetence in controlling your subordinates."


    After centuries of refining elixirs and pills, Amelia had truly forgotten how to interact with people.


    She was now a straightforward person, but that didn''t mean she was foolish.


    Her voice carried a hint of coldness. "Pressure from above is always passed down.


    If I were you and had been scolded by my superiors, I would definitely take it out on those below me.


    That''s what Blackwood would do. But Lord Miles, you didn''t. I don''t believe you are truly kind-hearted."


    "..." Miles''s face turned grim.


    It was exactly as she said!


    Amelia continued, "Because Lord Miles, like me, doesn''t like to talk to dead people.


    You''ve long..."


    "Say no more!" Miles waved his hand dejectedly, unable to meet Amelia''s gaze.


    Amelia had hit the nail on the head!


    He was the Lord of the Radiant Residence.


    His lifelong mission was to serve the Celestial Emperor and to be loyal to him.


    He should not have any personal desires.


    But everyone had their own selfish motives, such as admiration, anger, and pity.


    He had known for a long time that the Imperial Advisor wanted to test Blackwood, that the Celestial Path wanted to make a move against Blackwood.


    But he didn''t stop it, nor did he warn them.


    Amelia didn''t say much else.


    She was angry, but she had no reason to harbor murderous intent.


    Because Miles had no obligation to tell Blackwood that disaster was about to strike.


    People couldn''t blame their tragedies on the indifference of others, otherwise, how many enemies would there be in this world?


    She was here to threaten Miles.


    Her voice turned deep and serious. "But this time, Lord Miles, your indifference has caught up with you.


    We have already made contact with Prince Jace.


    He has abandoned the Celestial Path.


    I believe Lord Miles can also see that the existence of the Celestial Path has become a potential threat to the empire.


    It has reached the point where it must be eliminated.


    And my Blackwood is willing to become a blade for the empire."


    "Lord Miles, you should also become a blade for the empire."


    Miles furrowed his brow. "You have the support of Prince Jace?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Amelia simply nodded slightly.


    Miles, however, believed her without a doubt.


    The Blackwood people wouldn''t try to deceive him with something so easily verifiable.


    He frowned and said, "Since you want to kill the Celestial Path, how much do you know about him?


    Two thousand years, I have been an official here for two thousand years.


    I don''t have a deep hatred for the Celestial Path like you and Blackwood, but I know no less about him than you do.


    And there hasn''t been a single day that I haven''t wanted to kill him."


    Amelia raised her eyebrows slightly.


    Miles continued, "It was only a thousand years ago that I discovered his existence.


    At that time, I always felt that there was a strange aura permeating the Radiant Residence.


    The Radiant Residence was terrifyingly peaceful.


    Benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness had made this place the most civilized land.


    But when I was an official in other places, I knew that Psychics needed to fight, that no matter how hard I tried to manage them, I couldn''t control them.


    Yet, here, I didn''t need to."


    "Especially the Rising Stars here, I''ve met every single one of them, but I feel like I know them all so well."


    "Later, I found out that they were all the same person, the Celestial Path!"


    Seeing the disbelief in Miles''s expression, Amelia wasn''t surprised in the slightest.


    It was only natural that anyone who witnessed the Celestial Path''s abilities would be shocked for a long time.


    Miles''s tone turned grave. "I went to the Emperor.


    The Emperor knew about him too, but he turned a blind eye.


    I''m not afraid to tell you this as a joke, but I fought him."


    "You fought him?" This time, Amelia was truly surprised.


    Miles let out a bitter smile. "Yes, I fought him for less than a year."


    "..."


    Ignoring Amelia''s speechlessness, Miles seemed to have recalled something terrifying.


    His voice trembled, unsure whether it was from fear or anger.


    "That day, outside my residence in Ralph, there were countless projections of the Celestial Path, a whole day''s worth of people.


    They just stood there, staring at my residence, not saying a word.


    But I could feel it, they were mocking me.


    As long as they wanted to, they could mobilize the entire Radiant Residence to tear me to pieces!"


    The more he spoke...


    The more agitated Miles became.


    His eyes were bloodshot. "That day, I knew that the Celestial Path was no good.


    The Emperor wouldn''t kill him, the Imperial Advisor let him be.


    One day, they would suffer the consequences!


    He wouldn''t obey orders.


    He was alone and had no attachments.


    All he needed was an opportunity."


    "You Blackwood people are different.


    At least you are loyal to your homeland, willing to fight the Druids for your home!"


    "I will help you Blackwood, just like I helped you before."


    "I''ve been waiting for this day, waiting for a long time!"


    He seemed to have gone mad!


    At this moment, seeing Miles acting so strangely, Amelia was taken aback.


    For some reason, as she listened to his every word, she felt a chill run down her spine!


    But before she could ask any further questions...


    Footsteps came from outside the official residence.


    It was a Psychic from the government.


    The man was so panicked that he was incoherent. "L-Lord Miles... outside... outside there are so many Masked Men..."


    At the same time, powerful auras emanated from beyond the official residence.


    "Alchemist! It''s Basic Mastery, the aura of Basic Mastery!" Isaac''s eyes widened as he alerted Amelia.


    Sensing the murderous aura coming from outside, he too was filled with killing intent, glaring at Miles!


    But Miles didn''t seem surprised at all.


    He silently looked at the wary Amelia, his madness transforming into a fanatical grin!


    "I''ve spent a thousand years exploring, searching for a way to kill the Celestial Path.


    The Imperial Advisor and the Emperor both think he''s a pawn in their hands.


    Only I know that a man like him has already figured out a way to survive."


    "I knew that as long as you Blackwood people weren''t stupid, you would come to me sooner or later!"


    "How can we truly kill him?


    I''ll only demonstrate it once!"


    "Now..." Miles chuckled coldly as he walked towards the outside of the official residence.


    "Run, Amelia. Deliver the news of his death to my grave, or come find me in the underworld."


    "Madman!" Amelia''s expression changed drastically.


    She took a deep look at Miles as he walked out of the official residence and quickly fled with the bewildered Isaac.


    Isaac scratched his head, feeling the terrifying aura behind him, and asked Amelia in confusion, "Alchemist, what''s going on?


    How... how did he bring the Celestial Path here himself?"


    "Because he''s a madman." Amelia''s face was grim.


    "The Celestial Emperor has truly raised a good dog."

 Chapter 425 Come now, Austin wishes to see you

    High above the floating imperial capital, within a magnificent palace, the aged Celestial Emperor knelt on the floor, his frail figure enveloped in a swirling white mist that seemed to mirror the setting sun.His face, framed by long white hair, was as withered as a dead tree.


    Who would have thought that this was the most exalted being in the entire Emerald Empire, the Celestial Emperor?


    A psychic energy signature announced someone''s arrival outside the palace.


    The Celestial Emperor opened his eyes, his voice a deep, resonant boom. "Whose message is it?"


    "Your Majesty, it is from Lord Miles of the Radiant Residence," a high-pitched voice, clearly that of a eunuch, responded from beyond the palace doors.


    "Present it to me."


    As the Celestial Emperor''s command echoed through the palace, a scroll materialized in his hand.


    The large characters that filled the scroll caused the Celestial Emperor''s pale face to contort further.


    [Letter of Apology]


    [Without Your Majesty''s grace, I, your humble servant Miles, would still be nothing more than a descendant of an insignificant family, destined for obscurity. Yet, by your favor, I stand above millions in the Radiant Residence...]


    The lengthy words of reminiscence masked the true weight of the message, hidden within a few inconspicuous lines.


    [Confession One: I have wronged a loyal subject. The Imperial Advisor instructed me to test Blackwood, but I instead used his command to seek out the Celestial Path.]


    [Confession Two: I have deceived my Emperor. I swore to guard Sunshine eternally for Your Majesty, yet my lifespan is nearing its end, and I will soon depart for the afterlife.]


    [Confession...]


    Each line detailed a transgression, yet each one also revealed unwavering loyalty.


    Until the final words.


    [Your Majesty, Azure Cloud cannot be abandoned. It is the face of our human race, and by extension, your face. The Celestial Path cannot be trusted. Neither the Imperial Advisor nor Lance can truly control him. I had to take matters into my own hands to show Your Majesty the truth. It is a shame that I, who have never done anything wrong in my life, have harmed the Blackwood clan.]


    [The Blackwood clan is unruly and defiant, but they are not disloyal or wicked. At the very least, they are willing to fight to the death against the Druids for Azure Cloud. Both jade and gold require polishing. Now... the Celestial Path can be eliminated, and Blackwood has had its edges smoothed.]


    [May Your Majesty live as long as the heavens and enjoy eternal celestial bliss!]


    ...


    Run, run like mad!


    This time, however, Amelia wasn''t running with her clan at her back.


    She didn''t have to worry about them being killed.


    She wasn''t desperately seeking help.


    She was running, her mind a whirlwind of confusion and dawning horror as she replayed the events that had led her to this point, her face ashen with the weight of it all.


    "Alchemist! What in the world did that madman mean? Who harms themselves like that?"


    "He fought the Celestial Path, and now he''s claiming we conspired with him. The Celestial Path is paranoid right now, he''ll definitely kill him!"


    "How can someone dig their own grave like that?!!" Isaac was losing his mind.


    They had come to find someone they had never met, only to have that person sell them out in an instant, and himself along with them!


    Judging by his demeanor, the man was actually trying to die!


    A fierce battle was already raging in Stonelake City!


    Amelia didn''t answer.


    She didn''t know how to answer.


    She had only just met Miles for the first time.


    Before today, she hadn''t even heard his name.


    The Lord of the Radiant Residence had been a phantom, a non-entity.


    But now, having met him, she was struck by a chilling realization: Miles was the one who had brought ruin upon Blackwood! S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It seemed he had long been wary of the Celestial Path, but for some reason, both the Celestial Emperor and the Imperial Advisor had prevented him from eliminating the threat.


    To ensure the Celestial Path didn''t become an uncontrollable force, Miles needed someone capable of killing him!


    That was why Miles was filled with regret, regret that Blackwood hadn''t possessed the strength to resist the Celestial Path back then.


    But he was also pleased with the current Blackwood, because now they had begun their revenge!


    "These nobles!" Amelia gritted her teeth, unable to comprehend why they were so fixated on Blackwood.


    Perhaps the Celestial Path was right.


    From the moment they had risen to prominence, the nobles had placed their bets on them, turning them into pawns in their twisted games!


    And now, the "stakes" were closing in from behind.


    "Blackwood Amelia, you can''t escape. Let''s stop this pointless chase and have a civilized conversation."


    Amelia didn''t recognize the voice.


    She didn''t know any of the Celestial Path''s projections.


    She didn''t turn around, didn''t speak.


    The Celestial Path wanted to talk?


    She understood.


    They shared a similar fate, puppets manipulated by the self-righteous schemes of the nobles.


    But the wounds of the past ran deep, and there was no chance of forgetting.


    The Forebearer had said it best: the clan would repay tooth for tooth, blood for blood!


    "Alchemist, there''s a huge battle happening in Stonelake City! There are thirteen of them chasing us, all of them at least Competent Force level, and... their auras are getting stronger!" Isaac, oblivious to Amelia''s thoughts, was focused on flying them to safety with his psychic powers.


    They were fast, but their pursuers were relentless.


    He had caught a glimpse of the Basic Mastery elder leading the chase, and his face had paled.


    He was a prodigy, but he had only recently reached Basic Mastery.


    The elder, however... he was at least mid-Basic Mastery, and his aura was surging, pushing towards its peak!


    "We can''t outrun them, Alchemist."


    They had been flying for what felt like an eternity, the dense forest sprawling beneath them, the sky above a clear, endless blue.


    Finally, they were forced to stop, surrounded by thirteen figures who had them completely boxed in.


    In an instant, the air shimmered with energy as countless formations materialized, talismans erupting from the thirteen Celestial Path projections like a shower of deadly confetti.


    Each and every one of them was at least Competent Force level.


    Isaac''s gaze was fixed on the Basic Mastery elder, his entire being on high alert.


    If Donna and the others from the imperial capital were here, they would recognize him as Hudson, the one they had faced all those years ago!


    This Hudson was far more powerful than he had been a century ago.


    He commanded the very wind itself, his domain a swirling vortex of air currents that allowed him to appear anywhere within it in the blink of an eye.


    There was nowhere for Isaac and Amelia to run, nowhere to hide!


    The wind domain now encompassed the entire sky.


    Isaac could sense Hudson''s energy signature with terrifying clarity.


    The man commanded at least three different prime spirit techniques!


    "Amelia, it''s been over a hundred years, and Austin has always been wary of you Blackwood people.He believes you have great potential, great strength."


    "But from where I stand, your true strength lies not in your power, but in your ability to run.Back then, Donna and the others from Azure Cloud escaped my pursuit time and time again."


    "It''s a shame you, their elder, aren''t as skilled as they are." Hudson sneered.


    "Come now, Austin wishes to see you."

 Chapter 426 Who the hell allowed you to be afraid?!

    If not for Austin''s order, Hudson would have killed Amelia on the spot, to vent the frustration he had endured for years, being toyed with by Donna and beaten into a sorry retreat by Bill Daoist and Chuck!Unfortunately, the mark of Heavenly Path was on Austin, not him.


    However, to Hudson''s surprise, Amelia showed no fear in the face of his threat, her expression remaining as impassive as ever.


    Suppressing the killing intent in his heart, he said impatiently, "Amelia, you can''t escape. Within the boundaries of Sunshine Mansion, no one can help you, not even Miles, the Mansion Master, whom we can kill at will... If not for Austin''s need for your cooperation, you would be dead the moment you showed your faces..."


    Hudson''s voice faltered as a sudden chill surged through him!


    It was a chill emanating from his other projections!


    Amelia, still calm in front of him, slowly opened her mouth, "When we came to Sunshine Mansion, we never thought of escaping. It''s just that over the years, we''ve come to understand that we can''t fight against an entire state government, at least not on our own. So, we sought out Miles, not because we wanted him to fight you alongside us."


    "What we wanted was for him to stop those who have nothing to do with this matter."


    "Although we don''t know how Miles did it, it seems he was prepared. From now on, even within Sunshine Mansion, you are isolated and without help!"


    As Amelia finished speaking, Hudson''s eyes widened!


    Just as Amelia had said, he received news from his other projections.


    This time, the Blackwood people did not run!


    They chose to attack!


    "Damn it!"


    Hudson glared at Amelia and Isaac in front of him. He knew that even he couldn''t kill Isaac in a short time. The most important thing now was to return to Kylin Mountain!


    Unfortunately, a murderous aura descended!


    Although the sky remained unchanged, vines suddenly sprouted out of thin air. A green light emanated from Amelia, and a powerful suppressive force, a life force Hudson had never seen before, emanated from her!


    It was just as Amelia had said, she never seemed to have thought of escaping. The vines around her spread towards the other Competent Force practitioners, surrounding them!


    Her voice was terrifyingly calm.


    "Six Basic Mastery projections. Two of you died in my Glory City. Now, that power is distributed among the rest of you. You are fewer in number, your overall strength more concentrated."


    "But in fact, at this stage, you are at your most vulnerable. Because in a hundred years, only Brody has achieved Basic Mastery, which means there are five of you left!"


    "Your technique and talent are terrifying, but you also have many weaknesses. You can transform into thousands. Given enough time, even the entire world wouldn''t be able to suppress you. But the more projections you have, the more you''ll find yourself in a predicament."


    "Once your powerful projections die, their power will be evenly distributed among the rest."


    At this moment, Hudson felt nothing but panic!


    As if his weakness had been exploited, he could only watch as the psychic powers Amelia unleashed formed vines that covered the sky. Amelia didn''t have a domain, but her Celestial Botanical Technique turned the entire sky into a chaotic web. From the outside, it looked as if a green sphere had formed in the sky!


    Thunderclouds gathered and struck the green sphere. This was Heavenly Retribution.


    Amelia''s voice grew more and more mocking, "You are not as strong as we imagined! As long as we kill your powerful projections, your power will be divided. One Basic Mastery, how many Competent Force practitioners can it create? Ten? Twenty?"


    "And if your projections are left with only Competent Force, they won''t pose a threat. We have plenty of ways to deal with you!"


    "Isaac, hold him back!"


    ...


    A grand formation rose on Kylin Mountain!


    The grand formation here had once been shattered from within. It was unclear if Austin had developed a psychological shadow, but this time, the formation had layer upon layer, a thousand layers in total.


    Outside the grand formation, a figure appeared. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It was Nathan, carrying his coffin!


    Within the formation, Austin and his many projections gathered, a hundred of them in total. Yet, they dared not venture out!


    The scene seemed peaceful. In their eyes, Nathan was alone. He was clearly at the Basic Mastery realm, yet there was no sign of any extraordinary phenomena. He had only just broken through to Basic Mastery. As long as Austin willed it, he could kill Nathan within half a day. But he...


    was afraid.


    He had every right to be afraid. Amelia''s words from afar, transmitted through Hudson''s ears, reached his very soul.


    At the same time, it also reached all the Heavenly Path projections.


    Austin could clearly sense that at this moment, all the weaker Heavenly Path projections were restless and excited. These weaklings sensed an opportunity...


    If not for the restriction in the Heavenly Path projections'' souls that prevented them from killing or harming each other, he would have loved to kill all the other projections as a sacrifice to heaven!


    Besides the drawbacks Amelia mentioned, this was the biggest drawback of the Heavenly Path. But it was also something that had to be done. Otherwise, after he projected himself, he would be putting on a show of killing himself.


    "Why are you hiding?"


    Even after more than a hundred years, seeing the many Heavenly Path projections cowering within the grand formation, Nathan still couldn''t suppress the rage in his heart. He looked at the many projections and roared, "Are you afraid? Why are you afraid?!"


    "Who the hell allowed you to be afraid?!"


    "Back then, my children died at your hands one by one because we were weak. In our eyes, the Heavenly Path was an insurmountable chasm!"


    "You bastards, show the demeanor of the strong! Our Blackwood children should not die at the hands of cowardly waste!"


    "Get out here, you bastards!"


    But the Heavenly Path projections continued to cower. Austin''s eyes flickered!


    How could he dare to go out? He didn''t believe that Nathan would come looking for him alone. Every single one of his Basic Mastery projections was facing a predicament, even his Competent Force projections were no exception. He suddenly understood. For the past hundred years, he had been searching for traces of the Blackwood people.


    But for the past hundred years, the Blackwood people had been searching for a way to kill him.


    He thought his real opponents were those people in the grand hall. He was wrong. It turned out that danger had been approaching him step by step with each passing day!


    Austin just wanted to escape now, but not like how the Blackwood people had escaped back then.


    He glanced at the projections around him. Once they were dead, he wouldn''t seek revenge for them. He just wanted to slowly break through to Advanced Mastery and become the true embodiment of the Heavenly Path, never to have anything to do with those Blackwood lunatics again!

 Chapter 427 Would you be willing to swear an oath?

    At the same time.At the foot of Echo Mount, beneath Crimson Gate Syndicate, stood a figure in black robes, as straight as a sword.


    In his hand, he held a black longsword, seemingly formed from shards held together by some unknown force.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster!


    He gazed at the Crimson Gate Syndicate, its grand formation activated.


    The Celestial Sword, returned to his hand after his brother Lucas was gravely injured, had been reforged by Julian of Radiant Sky Grotto nearly two hundred years ago, becoming a weapon of exceptional ability.


    And the aura of The Celestial Star Swordmaster...


    A Competent Force projection.


    Over the past hundred years, the Emerald Empire''s Pinnacle Apprentice rankings had shifted, and among them was the name Celestial, ranked third.


    He had even become a guest elder of the Divine Hall Edge Hall in the imperial capital.


    Back then, a Crimson Gate Syndicate elder, a Basic Mastery expert, had severely injured Lucas right before his eyes.


    Now, relying on his status as a guest elder of the Divine Hall Edge Hall, he had blockaded the entire Crimson Gate Syndicate, and no one dared to touch him!


    At this moment, the members of Crimson Gate Syndicate could only look on helplessly at The Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had been standing at the foot of their mountain for thirty years.


    Thirty years ago, The Celestial Star Swordmaster, having joined the Divine Hall Edge Hall, began standing outside Crimson Gate Syndicate.


    Whenever a Crimson Gate Syndicate disciple dared to descend the mountain, The Celestial Star Swordmaster would severely injure them, but he would never kill.


    He had just left a few days ago, and now he was back.


    With his status, no one dared to touch him.


    He had even declared that he was here to bully the weak.


    If he couldn''t defeat their Basic Mastery elder, couldn''t he bully their disciples?


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate''s sect master had gone to the Divine Hall Edge Hall to complain, but they said that there was a reason for this.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster had been humiliated by a Crimson Gate Syndicate elder back then, so it was only right and proper for him to seek revenge.


    Moreover, The Celestial Star Swordmaster hadn''t gone too far.


    He only severely injured their disciples without causing permanent damage, and they could recover within three to five years.


    Unlike that shameless Crimson Gate Syndicate elder, a dignified Basic Mastery expert, who had beaten his brother to within an inch of his life.


    He hadn''t recovered after over a hundred years, and his cultivation had stagnated.


    He had even almost gotten their guest elder killed.


    A top-tier Competent Force psychic, ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings, had narrowly escaped with his life.


    It was clear that they were protecting their own.


    Crimson Gate Syndicate had to suck it up and endure it.


    If they were truly unhappy, they could try to kill The Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    But they better not let him escape.


    Crimson Gate Syndicate better have a perfect escape route planned, otherwise, the Divine Hall Edge Hall would make them understand what kind of people the swords of the Divine Hall Edge Hall, passed down since ancient times, were meant to cut down.


    Later, the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master went to Miles, the Mansion Master, but Miles said he couldn''t afford to offend The Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "Elder Celestial."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master, who looked young and was also on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings, descended the mountain with a bitter smile, stopping a thousand meters away from The Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "It''s been thirty years. My elder has pleaded with you and said all the right things. What will it take for you to leave my Crimson Gate Syndicate?"


    Thirty years.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate disciples had endured being severely injured, and eighty percent of them had run away.


    Even the sect master couldn''t take it anymore.


    "Wait."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was as arrogant as ever.


    He didn''t even look at the sect master.


    "When the opportunity for me to break through to Basic Mastery arrives and I can kill your elder, I will naturally leave. But it''s best not to wait until then, because I am also waiting."


    He didn''t say that he was waiting for two people.


    Lucas was still alive.


    He had been powerless back then, but now he was waiting for his brother, with whom he had once vowed to conquer the world with their swords, to return and take revenge together.


    There was one more person.


    He had heard from Donna that Olivia was only a soul now.


    But it didn''t matter, a swordsman cultivated his heart, not his body.


    "..."


    Although he didn''t know what The Celestial Star Swordmaster, that stubborn mule, was thinking, the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master swallowed the word "bastard" that was on the tip of his tongue.


    After so many years, he was afraid that even he wouldn''t be able to hold on and would run away, let alone his disciples.


    He hadn''t expected that The Celestial Star Swordmaster, ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings, would be so vindictive. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The most hateful thing was that this guy was not only arrogant but also thick-skinned and patient.


    He was afraid that he wouldn''t be able to find another person like him in the entire world.


    "I''ll give you top-grade Energy Stones, and a psychic vein!"


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master gritted his teeth, having made a difficult decision.


    "And a high-grade psychic weapon. It''s the only high-grade psychic weapon my elder has, and the only one left in the sect. As long as Elder Celestial promises to stop harassing us after receiving these things, how about it?"


    "Good."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster nodded without hesitation.


    "..."


    He agreed too quickly.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master didn''t look happy at all.


    After a moment of silence, he said, "Are you serious, or are you just trying to trick me? At our level, we should keep our word. But given Elder Celestial''s behavior these past few years... would you be willing to swear an oath?"


    "Sure."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster nodded slightly.


    He knew he couldn''t easily fool the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master.


    However, the Divine Hall Edge Hall had plenty of disciples.


    As a guest elder, he could issue tasks and send people to continue keeping watch.


    The more he thought about it, the brighter his eyes became.


    He realized that his cultivation growth over the years was nothing compared to his wit, which was slowly approaching Olivia''s level.


    "We may be worlds apart, but our hearts are drawing closer, aren''t they?"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster smiled, overjoyed.


    But how could the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master know what The Celestial Star Swordmaster was thinking?


    A hint of joy flashed in his eyes.


    He thought that if he had done this earlier, his sect wouldn''t have suffered such a calamity.


    He immediately went to find his elder and report this bittersweet news.


    He didn''t notice the uncontainable joy on The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s face!


    "She''s really back, hahaha, she''s back!"

 Chapter 428 So be it

    High atop Crimson Gate Mountain, within the Crimson Gate Syndicate, Elder Jayden sat cross-legged.Once a man devoted to his cultivation, his mind was now in turmoil, hindering his progress for years.


    The cause of his distress was a junior at the foot of Echo Mount, a bully who was slowly chipping away at his legacy.


    This junior had seized their Ore Fields and herb gardens, leaving Crimson Gate Syndicate vulnerable.


    If this continued, Jayden feared that within a century, the Crimson Gate Syndicate would cease to exist, and he would be reduced to a wandering cultivator.


    Even if he were to abandon the Crimson Gate Syndicate, peace would elude him.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s potential was far more terrifying than he had imagined.


    This was not someone who would simply give up.


    To think that he had been lurking under the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s nose for thirty years!


    Even if Jayden fled to the ends of the earth, the Celestial Star Swordmaster would hunt him down after breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm.


    "To think I, Jayden, would be subjected to such humiliation!" he despaired, trapped in a dead end.


    Not a day went by that he didn''t regret injuring Lucas at the Azure Cloud border.


    Now, it wasn''t just the Celestial Star Swordmaster at the foot of the mountain that he feared.


    He also dreaded Nathan, rumored to have broken through to Basic Mastery within the Druids, and the Blackwood people who had escaped all those years ago.


    "How did a small place like Azure Cloud become such a hub of fortune?" he wondered.


    Even the Celestial Star Swordmaster had found his opportunity there, becoming a disciple of the Divine Hall''s Edge Hall.


    As he pondered, the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader hurried in.


    "Elder Jayden," he announced, "the crisis facing our Crimson Gate Syndicate has been resolved. The Celestial Star Swordmaster has agreed to a deal. He will cease harassing us in exchange for our sect''s legacy treasure, the [Energy Condensing Cauldron]."


    Jayden stared at the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader, speechless.


    Mistaking his silence for reluctance, the Leader sighed.


    "The Energy Condensing Cauldron holds no offensive power. It''s used to refine talismans, pills, and elixirs. It''s the most inferior among high-level mystical artifacts, far less valuable than a single top-grade ability weapon. To trade it for our sect''s safety, surely this is a worthy exchange, Elder Jayden?"


    "It''s not about worth," Jayden sighed.


    "When has our Crimson Gate Syndicate ever suffered such humiliation? This isn''t just giving away a treasure; it''s my face, our Crimson Gate Syndicate''s face that we''re handing over. That man down there is relying on his power to bully us. If it weren''t for the Divine Hall''s Edge Hall, I would have killed him already.


    I regret it, I regret not joining those mysterious people all those years ago, not charging into Blackwood and wiping them all out."


    "I would have done it more cleanly and efficiently than they did," he seethed. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader frowned.


    Regret was pointless.


    If Elder Jayden had gone to Blackwood back then, there was no guarantee he would have returned alive.


    What good were empty boasts now?


    He suddenly thought that perhaps if Elder Jayden had died in Blackwood, the Crimson Gate Syndicate wouldn''t be in this predicament.


    He took the Energy Condensing Cauldron from Elder Jayden and headed down the mountain.


    Even though it was the weakest of the high-level mystical artifacts, the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader couldn''t help but feel a pang of regret as he handed the storage ring containing it to the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "Hahaha, excellent!" The Celestial Star Swordmaster accepted the storage ring without hesitation.


    With a booming laugh, he declared, "I, the Celestial Star Swordmaster, hereby vow to never again involve myself with the Crimson Gate Syndicate. From this day forward, I will no longer dwell on past grievances. Should I break this oath, may I die a gruesome death!"


    "Such conviction?" The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader was taken aback.


    He had asked for an oath, but he hadn''t expected the Celestial Star Swordmaster to be so agreeable.


    It was a relief, but he couldn''t help but say, "Celestial Star Swordmaster, if I may?"


    "Oh?" The Celestial Star Swordmaster, still reveling in his victory, nodded slightly.


    "Speak freely."


    "Elder Jayden is truly old now. He injured Lucas all those years ago. While you, Celestial Star Swordmaster, have settled your grudge with our Crimson Gate Syndicate, it doesn''t mean the Blackwood people will let it go." The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader sighed deeply.


    "I implore you, Celestial Star Swordmaster, to inform the Blackwood people that Elder Jayden''s actions were his own and had nothing to do with us."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s expression turned mocking.


    "If it had nothing to do with you, why didn''t you say so then? Why wait until now? If I hadn''t become an elder of the Divine Hall''s Edge Hall, if I wasn''t ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, would you be speaking to me like this? I saw it with my own eyes when the Druids attacked. You, the people of Sunshine Mansion, were a laughable bunch."


    "This..." The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader flushed with shame.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s words had stripped away his last shred of dignity.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster didn''t belabor the point.


    With a cold snort, he said, "Don''t waste your breath on me. Tell it to the one who matters."


    "What?" Before he could comprehend, the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader''s face contorted in horror.


    A sharp, piercing aura descended from Echo Mount.


    A sword fell from the sky!


    It was a simple, unadorned sword, its edge seemingly concealed, yet it demanded attention.


    Though it appeared minuscule against the vastness of the sky, it captivated the mind, drawing all eyes towards it.


    "This is..." The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader looked at the smile on the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s face and understood.


    There was a sword cultivator of unparalleled talent in Azure Cloud''s Blackwood!


    As the sword descended, a cold voice echoed from the heavens.


    "Jayden, you old thief, come out and face your death!"


    At that moment, every disciple on Echo Mount looked up in unison.


    The sky was serene, with only an ordinary-looking sword hanging in the air, slowly descending towards Echo Mount.


    Yet, despite its simplicity, they all raised their heads in awe, as if welcoming a being of supreme reverence.


    A humming sound filled the air as the swords of every sword-wielding disciple on Echo Mount began to vibrate.


    "It''s him? How is he still alive?" Jayden was shaken to his core.


    He recognized the voice.


    Back at the Azure Cloud border, it was this person, a mere Competent Force cultivator, who had dared to challenge his Basic Mastery authority.


    With a flick of his sword, Lucas''s Blackwood swordsmanship had unleashed a torrent of blades, even managing to pierce a corner of his domain!


    The sharpness of Lucas''s swordsmanship was like nothing he had ever seen.


    He knew then that within five hundred years, Lucas would surely reach Basic Mastery.


    He hadn''t dared to kill Lucas back then, but he had placed a restriction on him, ensuring that this threat would never break through to Basic Mastery, leaving him to die a slow, agonizing death from the restriction.


    But he had never expected that after a hundred years, Lucas would still be alive.


    To think that Lucas, with his grievous injuries, had survived the Blackwood calamity!


    "And that sword." Jayden''s initial terror gave way to a strange calmness.


    He slowly rose to his feet.


    Lucas was back, but only to kill him.


    The sword hung in the sky, a seemingly insignificant black dot in the vast canvas, yet it pulsed with the essence of swordsmanship.


    As the sword hovered, Jayden knew that Lucas''s thunderous strike was imminent.


    "So be it, so be it!"

 Chapter 429 Danger was approaching

    Jayden lifted his head, looked directly at the sky, and responded coldly, "Lucas, all those years ago, I spared your life because cultivating psychic abilities was no easy feat.""Now that you''ve just entered the Basic Mastery realm, you think you can come to Echo Mount and act recklessly?"


    "I''ll spare you once more. Leave now, and I''ll let bygones be bygones!"


    There was no further response from Lucas in the sky.


    The sword was still gathering psychic energy, and the killing intent remained.


    However, Jayden''s heart was now filled with joy.


    That Lucas, who had somehow become a Basic Mastery after all these years, couldn''t wait to kill him.


    This was precisely his opportunity!


    This time, Lucas had acted recklessly and come directly to kill him.


    If he were to win the battle and let Lucas go, their grudge could be settled.


    "Seven thousand years of cultivating psychic abilities, and I''ve never had a real fight with anyone."


    "Today, I''ll let you see that the Daoism of Echo Mount is not to be trifled with!"


    With his cold shout...


    All the Echo Mount disciples looked in shock at the place where the Echo Mount Grand Elder was cultivating in seclusion.


    Having cultivated psychic abilities in Echo Mount for so many years, even though the gate of Echo Mount was closed, the Grand Elder was still the most mysterious existence in their hearts!


    Now, they finally witnessed the Grand Elder fighting someone.


    They saw a formation suddenly rise above Echo Mount, and a Daoist figure slowly floated into the air.


    It was Jayden of Echo Mount!


    In midair above Echo Mount, due to the condensation of Jayden''s psychic energy, natural energies gathered, forming tornadoes that caused strong winds to blow.


    From all ten thousand locations within Echo Mount, pillars of light surged up, one after another, and poured into Jayden''s body.


    With Jayden as the center, a brilliant light shone.


    The rules of wind permeated the entire Echo Mount, transforming into countless mystical birds, displaying auspicious signs, yet not lacking the power of Basic Mastery.


    At this moment, the pressure of Basic Mastery was fully displayed.


    A Basic Mastery Psychic who had cultivated for many years, using his full strength, was actually this terrifying!


    Lucas''s sword seemed so insignificant beneath the countless mystical birds in the sky.


    "Basic Mastery, middle stage?!!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had originally returned with Lucas, was horrified.


    He could sense the aura of the entire Echo Mount.


    Jayden, who was originally at the early stage of Basic Mastery, had his aura strengthened as the mystical pillars of light appeared on Echo Mount!


    How could Lucas, who had just entered the Basic Mastery realm, be a match for a middle-stage Basic Mastery Psychic?


    "It''s our Echo Mount''s grand formation."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master frowned.


    "The Grand Elder was not destined to reach Basic Mastery."


    "Back then, if the previous Grand Elder hadn''t infused him with his own cultivation base, allowing him to comprehend the rules, the Grand Elder would have at most reached the peak of Competent Force in this lifetime."


    "The Grand Elder knew that it would be difficult for him to make further progress after becoming a Basic Mastery, so he has spent the past few thousand years using his psychic energy to fill the sect''s formation."


    "With Echo Mount''s energy infusing his body, he is almost invincible within Echo Mount."


    "Lucas... he shouldn''t have come."


    "But he said back then..."


    A trace of worry flashed in the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s eyes.


    He knew very well that if Lucas died in Echo Mount, it would be a disaster.


    "If it were anywhere else, it wouldn''t be a big deal."


    "But within Echo Mount, even if a middle-stage Basic Mastery, or even a peak Basic Mastery expert came personally, he wouldn''t be afraid!"


    "Echo Mount''s energy is enough to temporarily grant him the psychic power of a middle-stage Basic Mastery."


    "The entire Echo Mount can provide him with two more prime spirit techniques!"


    "That technique in the sky, the Heavenly Birds, is one of them."


    "Once trapped within the formation, there''s nowhere to escape, and one''s energy will be locked onto by the Heavenly Birds."


    "The other one is..."


    As the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s voice fell, Jayden''s aura in the sky erupted once more, instantly transforming into a streak of light and shadow!


    At this moment, pressure descended, and a fierce wind swept through the entire Crimson Gate Syndicate.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s face turned pale with horror.


    "No good, this is the Grand Elder''s second prime spirit technique, Light Splitting Wind Shadow!"


    "This technique is a killing technique."


    "Even the Grand Elder can''t control it once it''s used."


    "I''ve seen him test it before."


    "It''s over... We''re all doomed!"


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s face was ashen.


    If Lucas died, the Crimson Gate Syndicate would surely be destroyed!


    "What?!!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was also extremely anxious.


    He could sense the terror of this technique.


    The speed of wind was already fast enough, but the speed of light and shadow was even faster!


    ...


    "Damn it!"


    At this moment, Jayden couldn''t help but curse inwardly!


    He transformed into a streak of light and shadow, charging towards the sword in the sky.


    He had thought that using the Clear Wind Formation would be enough to suppress Lucas, but he hadn''t expected that once his Heavenly Bird technique was unleashed, he wouldn''t be able to suppress the sword.


    The oppressive killing intent forced him to use his full strength.


    Once this [Light Splitting Wind Shadow] was unleashed, even he couldn''t control it!


    This technique could penetrate everything, including domains, high-grade mystical artifacts...


    "Kill Lucas, and kill that arrogant Celestial Star Swordmaster as well."


    "Then escape!"


    Jayden gritted his teeth, no longer caring about the consequences!


    Under the cover of light and shadow, his eyes turned cold as he locked onto Lucas''s energy signature.


    High up in the sky, tens of thousands of feet above...


    There was a man carrying a sword case.


    That was Lucas!


    "You''re the one who''s courting death!"


    ...


    High above, tens of thousands of feet in the air.


    Lucas was floating.


    Over a hundred years had passed, and now, returning to the Emerald Empire, returning to Sunshine Mansion, he seemed a little more world-weary.


    He was wearing a coat that seemed to be made from the fur of a bear he had skinned, his messy long hair casually scattered over the bear fur on his shoulders.


    He carried the sword case he had taken with him when he left Glory City. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Cultivating in the snowy region for many years hadn''t made him too lonely, probably because he had company.


    As Jayden rose into the air below, countless mystical birds locked onto his energy signature, surrounding the long sword that had fallen from the sky earlier.


    Then, Jayden disappeared.


    The mystical birds shattered one by one.


    Jayden had reached the speed of light.


    A domain formed below, slowly destroying the mystical birds and continuously rising!


    With every snap of his fingers, he ascended ten meters.


    Within a radius of ten miles, wherever Jayden passed, everything would be destroyed by his technique.


    Even...


    The psychic energy, domains, and high-grade mystical artifacts of a Basic Mastery Psychic.


    But Lucas still didn''t move, and it wasn''t because he was suppressed by the psychic energy of the Heavenly Birds.


    He remained calm and composed, gently stroking the sword case behind him.


    Danger was approaching.


    A gentle female voice came from within the sword case, "Lucas, this person''s prime spirit technique borrows power from the entire Echo Mount."


    "The mystical birds suppress the surroundings, while he transforms into light and shadow, sweeping across the area below."


    "His killing power is extremely strong."


    "However, this person is a good-for-nothing."


    "While his attacks are powerful, he himself is vulnerable in his light and shadow form."


    "If he really crashes into you, his physical body won''t be able to withstand it, and he will surely die."


    "Listen to me."


    "I''ll lend you some of my psychic energy."


    "Break through the mystical bird formation and avoid his edge for now."


    "When his technique ends and he''s weakened, you can kill him..."

 Chapter 430 Lucas killed Jayden?

    However, Lucas paid no attention to the female voice coming from the sword case.Below him, the streak of light and shadow soared upwards, getting closer and closer, occasionally revealing flickering points of light.


    Lucas unleashed the full force of his swordsmanship, his eyes narrowed slightly.


    The sword, which had been summoned upon his arrival, continued to float within the light and shadow below.


    "Are you even listening to me? You..."


    The sword case continued to chatter, but it didn''t affect Lucas''s concentration in the slightest.


    He simply replied, "I know."


    But he didn''t escape from the formation!


    Instead...


    He swooped down!


    The sword case trembled, as if something inside was radiating anger, dissatisfied with Lucas''s perfunctory response and stubbornness.


    But now, seeing that Lucas was really going to charge straight in, it didn''t say anything more, so as not to disturb his focus.


    Lucas fell towards the light and shadow in the sky!


    There was no aura emanating from him at all.


    Facing the fierce wind, he closed his eyes.


    Just like when he had arrived, there was nothing remarkable about him, nor was there the magnificence of his Sword King days, when All Swords Returned to the Sect, and sword shadows filled the sky.


    Compared to Jayden''s wind technique below, he was like a rock in a raging torrent.


    No matter how dazzling the light and shadow, how violent the wind, he remained unmoved.


    Until... he grasped the most ordinary-looking sword!


    After years of cultivating psychic abilities in the snowy region, Diana had said that the swordsmanship techniques he had cultivated before were wrong, too flashy and impractical.


    She was right, of course.


    Day and night in the snowy region, he had cultivated with this in mind, no longer bound by sword moves, but instead, infusing the rules of the world into his sword.


    Everything in the world had its own laws to follow.


    Find the law, and you''ll find the weakness!


    Amidst the fierce wind, the mystical birds, and the light and shadow...


    Lucas opened his eyes.


    "Found you."


    He gripped the sword!


    He continued to descend, until he was submerged in the mystical birds and the light and shadow.


    "What?!!!"


    Jayden, who had transformed into light and shadow, didn''t even know where he was himself.


    He had become part of the formation, like a stream of light.


    But as Lucas descended, in that instant, his expression changed!


    Lucas... had broken through his formation that soared into the sky, had broken through the suppression of his mystical birds!


    Until... he landed outside the Crimson Gate Syndicate!


    "What?!!"


    At this moment, outside the Crimson Gate Syndicate, both the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master and the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had been lost in their own thoughts, were shocked.


    There was no collision in the battle in the sky, nor was there the magnificent scene they had imagined.


    Countless mystical birds remained, the stream of light continued to flicker, the pressure of the formation still lingered, but...


    Lucas appeared before them!


    "Long time no see, Celestial."


    Lucas looked at the Celestial Star Swordmaster, whom he hadn''t seen in many years, and managed a smile.


    But the Celestial Star Swordmaster was still staring at his brother in a daze.


    At this moment, an angry roar suddenly erupted from the sword case.


    "Lucas, you idiot! Do you know you could have died?"


    "When will you ever listen to me? You idiot, you idiot!"


    "Did a donkey kick you in the head? Did the ice in the snowy region freeze your brain?"


    "!#£¤!#&!#...&"


    Lucas didn''t say a word, nor did he look back.


    He walked slowly forward, looking at the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had finally come back to his senses, his heart filled with mixed emotions.


    I have come from the snowy region.


    The snowy region is my sheath, my body is my sword, I have wandered for a hundred years, only to shed all worldly distractions.


    I have returned to my homeland.


    To slay my enemies with my sword, to drink the blood of the wicked, to unleash a single sword strike that will overcome all their tricks!


    "Clang!"


    The long sword hummed with mystical energy, its sound echoing through the air!


    "That''s..."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master and the Celestial Star Swordmaster wanted to speak to Lucas, but they suddenly stared blankly behind him.


    He walked slowly forward.


    But behind him, in the sky, a long sword transformed into a stream of light and shot downwards.


    The sword case behind Lucas opened, and the sword fell into it!


    The sword case closed.


    High in the sky...


    "Boom!"


    The dazzling light and shadow shattered, and a blinding white light spread out in all directions like ripples.


    One by one, the mystical birds exploded!


    Jayden''s battered body fell from the sky like a fallen leaf.


    ...


    "One sword... just one sword?!!"


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s body trembled.


    The Grand Elder had said that his formation was the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s last line of defense, capable of slaying even a peak Basic Mastery expert who dared to trespass on Echo Mount!


    But today...


    A man had come and killed the Grand Elder with a single sword strike!


    The explosion in the sky had disappeared, the Grand Elder''s body had been taken away, and everything in the sky seemed as if it had never happened.


    "Clang!"


    The sound of the long sword still echoed in his mind, and the image of the man in the bearskin coat walking towards him was still vivid in his memory.


    By the time the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master came to his senses, the man had already left with the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "Gulp."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master swallowed hard, stiffly turned around, and looked in the direction where Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster had left.


    He let out a breath of relief, as if he had survived a disaster.


    His eyes were unfocused as he murmured, "Sword King Lucas? No, from now on, he can be called the Supreme Sword Sovereign of the world."


    ...


    [Special Event - Killing Jayden]


    [Your descendant Lucas has returned and killed the Daoist with a single sword strike, avenging the near-fatal blow he suffered all those years ago.]


    [Family Will +20]


    [Obtained a large number of spoils of war, including a large amount of resources from the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s treasury.] S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Obtained a high-grade mystical artifact: Energy Condensing Cauldron]


    [Gathers mystical energy from all over the world for its own use. Can be used for alchemy and medicine refinement, increasing the success rate by 20%. Can also be used to nurture ability weapons, talismans, AI Bionic Robots, and other Unorthodox Path items.


    Special effect: Gathers the vitality of the world, nourishes the soul, strengthens the soul. By using the Energy Condensing Cauldron to refine objects with rules from all over the world, there is a certain chance to refine ''Soul Technique Orbs'', which can bestow Soul Techniques.]


    Ethan, who was on Kylin Mountain, constantly guarding Nathan and waiting for the opportunity to kill Austin once he emerged from the Kylin Mountain formation, noticed the change on the panel before him.


    "Lucas killed Jayden?"


    Ethan was stunned for a moment before instantly appearing beside Lucas.


    At this time, Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster were rushing from Echo Mount towards Kylin Mountain.

 Chapter 431 What secret could there be?

    "Fuck! @%#!&#!£¤..." the voice inside the sword case continued to curse.Lucas, having finished eliminating his enemies and disposing of their bodies, headed straight for Kylin Mountain.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, flying alongside him on his sword, stared at Lucas incredulously, as if trying to figure something out.


    He recalled the time when Lucas had sparred with him, only to be chased around the world.


    Lucas had even been forced to endure his Celestial Sword and embark on adventures with him, only to be defeated with a single move that left him bedridden for over a hundred years.


    He had hoped that breaking through to Basic Mastery together with Lucas would be a tale for the ages.


    Who would have thought that while he was secretly delighted to have become the third on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings and eager to share his joy with his good brother before joining forces to challenge Jayden...


    Well.


    Upon returning from the Snowy Plains, Lucas had slain Jayden with a single stroke of his sword.


    "What are you staring at me for?" Lucas frowned, sensing the gaze upon him.


    He felt a flicker of displeasure.


    After over a century in the Snowy Plains, he had grown accustomed to being observed by a pair of clear, innocent eyes.


    Being scrutinized by the Celestial Star Swordmaster in this way felt unsettling.


    It was like always drinking sweet beverages, only to have a mouthful of bitter water suddenly thrust upon him.


    "Ah? It''s nothing." The Celestial Star Swordmaster snapped out of his daze, finally pushing the astonishing sword strike on Echo Mount to the back of his mind.


    He glanced at the sword case behind Lucas and asked suspiciously, "Brother, why have you been so fixated on your sword case this whole time? Are you hiding something inside?"


    As the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s eyes locked onto the sword case, Lucas quickly shook his head. "No."


    His words were barely out before a furious voice erupted from within the sword case, still fuming over Lucas''s recklessness on Echo Mount. "Were you deliberately seeking thrills? Or did cultivating psychic powers in the Snowy Plains make you think you''re invincible? What if your judgment had been off and that fool''s light and shadow had struck you?


    Do you think you can see through everyone''s techniques every time? You really..."


    "Enough! I get it!" Lucas snapped impatiently, startling the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster eyed the sword case suspiciously. "Brother, you must be hiding something in there. After a hundred years, you''re still keeping secrets from me."


    "...."


    Seeing the ''you''ve got something up your sleeve'' look on the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s face, Lucas ultimately chose not to reveal the secret of his sword case.


    He changed the subject. "Celestial, what are you doing with the Crimson Gate Syndicate? And with their leader? Did you get your hands on their advanced psychic equipment?"


    "Ah, that?" The Celestial Star Swordmaster chuckled and recounted how he had joined the Divine Hall Edge Hall and used his position to bully Echo Mount for thirty years.


    He then proudly declared, "Although I am merely a guest at the Divine Hall Edge Hall, their Swordmaster holds my swordsmanship in high regard. I have studied all the sword techniques within the Divine Hall Edge Hall, but I disdain their methods. Once I have mastered them all, I shall create my own style."


    "The Swordmaster said that if I can truly comprehend an Earth Tier swordsmanship magic formula, I can enter the Sword Pavilion with my swordsmanship and challenge his eight Sword Mountains of the Divine Hall Edge Hall. I would then become the next Swordmaster."


    "The world knows nothing of my agreement with the Swordmaster, but my status is more than enough to suppress a mere Echo Mount." sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas was astonished. He hadn''t expected Celestial to have such an experience in the past hundred years. "Congratulations, Celestial. You''ve dedicated yourself to the way of the sword. You created a Spirit Tier sword technique before; Earth Tier is certainly within your reach."


    "Naturally. I already have some ideas. I was saving them for when I killed Jayden, but I didn''t expect you to do it yourself." The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s tone was calm, but a flicker of gratitude flashed in Lucas''s eyes.


    He hadn''t realized that in his absence, the Celestial Star Swordmaster had been seizing every opportunity to avenge him.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster suddenly exclaimed, "Brother, your swordsmanship wasn''t like this before. Back then, your aura was extraordinary. I heard you were in the Snowy Plains all these years. What kind of psychic powers did you cultivate? You''ve reached Basic Mastery, and your swordsmanship is completely different. That strike was truly impressive.


    Does it have a name?"


    "Nameless." Lucas chuckled awkwardly.


    He couldn''t very well tell him that Diana had once dismissed the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s swordsmanship as utterly worthless.


    He explained, "The Snowy Plains are nothing but endless snow. I was gravely injured at the time, and as I journeyed, I received help from a noble person. She told me that my sword should be used to slay, and only by returning to simplicity could I absorb the world''s psychic energy into my body and suppress my injuries."


    "Later, I recalled the strike at Azure Cloud, when my ancestor slew the Moon God with a single blow."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster nodded slowly.


    He had been present for that battle, and the Blackwood ancestor''s sword strike had amazed him to this day.


    Lucas continued, "A sword is inherently a tool for taking life. As I cultivated psychic powers in the Snowy Plains, I aimed to replicate my ancestor''s strike. For over a century, I used the method of returning to simplicity to suppress my injuries and cultivated a sword momentum that could shatter all techniques.


    By comprehending the world''s fundamental principles, I could slay any enemy with a single strike. Fortunately, the Snowy Plains have snowflakes, and I discovered that each snowflake is unique, just like the psychic technique patterns of every Psychic..."


    As they journeyed, the Celestial Star Swordmaster listened intently to Lucas''s account of his cultivation in the Snowy Plains, his eyes growing brighter with each passing moment.


    He was gaining invaluable insights.


    "Then what about your sword case..." The Celestial Star Swordmaster pointed at Lucas''s sword case after he finished speaking.


    However, whenever the topic arose, Lucas would always change the subject, as if there was some great secret hidden within.


    What secret could there be?


    At least, in the eyes of Ethan, the Forebearer, there was no secret at all.


    He chuckled to himself, watching Lucas''s shifty-eyed demeanor.


    The sword case held Diana!


    Lucas''s breakthrough to Basic Mastery and his return from the Snowy Plains were all thanks to Diana!


    They had spent over a century together in the Snowy Plains, just the two of them.


    Lucas had learned a great deal from Diana, the Demon Lord of the Abyss.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has cultivated psychic powers in the Snowy Plains for many years, gathering the five elements of heaven and earth to form a ''sword foundation'' within himself. He has broken through to the peak of Competent Force.]


    [Under Diana''s guidance, your descendant Lucas has begun cultivating the swordsmanship of returning to simplicity. Recalling your single-strike victory against the Moon God, he has begun to contemplate the art of shattering all techniques with one sword. With Diana''s reminder, he observed the patterns of snowflakes. After ten years of observing snow, he has gained the trait: Insight.]


    [He can now more easily perceive the essence of all things, identify weaknesses, and exploit them. His perception has increased by 20%, and his combat power has increased by 10%.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, led by Diana, has found the resting place of the Sword Saint and inherited his legacy. He has gained a new identity: Inheritor of the Sword Saint.]


    Ethan''s expression turned strange as he read the information on Lucas''s status panel.

 Chapter 1 - 1: After school

    April 3024.


    At the top Psychic Academy in Federal California.


    On his way home from school, unlike other students who jump around, use psychic powers, anti-gravity boots, or personal flyers, Ethan Blackwood just twitches his ring, and voila¡ªa sports car pops up on the avenue.


    "Hey, not even of age and already burning rubber, no worries about traffic jams after school."


    He presses a token onto the car''s steering wheel to fire it up, "Magical world, huh?"


    Even after three years, Ethan still occasionally marvels at the wonders of this world.


    Originally, a thousand years ago, this world was pretty similar to the Earth he came from.


    But then, cosmic rays triggered mutations, transforming the world into a hybrid of technology and superpowers. After years of conflict, a federation was finally established. There are no longer separate nations on Earth; it is unified under a federal system.


    Everyone''s cultivating psychic powers, aiming for immortality, and Earth even started interstellar travel in no time.


    "Look, isn''t that young Master Ethan?"


    "Out with his psychic gear again. Heard crafting that gear ate up a ton of Energy Stones, costs at least three basic ones just for a school round trip. Nice to be loaded, huh?"


    "Pfft, what''s there to brag about? He''s just an ordinary F-grade Psychic like us. Heard he got booted from the Blackwoods, they say he''s the family''s disgrace!"


    "..."


    Many students on the roadside, unable to use psychic powers for travel and too broke to buy Psychic Gear, watch.


    Ethan, cruising in his energy-stone guzzling sports car, naturally becomes the center of attention.


    Listening to the bystanders, Ethan isn''t bothered.


    He puts on his sunglasses, glances in the rearview mirror at a few students still jealously whispering, grips the steering wheel with one hand, flips them off with the other, and zooms off.


    Why waste time bickering when he could be home gaming?


    ...


    Soon, Ethan has finished shopping and drives back to Psychic Gear, where the guard at the Advanced Psychic Sanctuary, John Smith, is munching on KFC, gnawing on a chicken leg. Hearing the roar of the engine, he puts down his chicken leg and warmly activates the portal for Ethan.


    "Mr. Ethan, did you travel far for groceries again? Aren''t the high-grade Energy Pills tasty enough?"


    "Mr. John."


    Ethan replies with a smile, "No matter how fancy those Energy Pills get, they still taste like wax. We''re cultivating psychic powers here, not torturing our taste buds, right? What''s the point if we can''t enjoy real food?"


    Hearing this, Mr. John''s eyes light up, and he gives a thumbs up, "You got that right. Eating Energy Pills for body purity? That''s nonsense. No point in cultivating powers if it cramps our style."


    "Well, Mr. John, I better get back to cooking."


    Ethan drives towards the villa area, greeting familiar faces and ancient folks with a smile.


    The Psychics here in Psychic Gear are different from those students.


    Years have made them wiser and more worldly, and they don''t mind that Ethan is young or rumored to have a mixed Psychic Constitution. They''re all friendly, knowing well that anyone living here is no ordinary person.


    The Psychic Sanctuary in the villa area is just like any other villa, but with its unique charms.


    And Ethan''s Psychic Sanctuary¡ªPsychic Gear Number One¡ªis at the very end.


    As Ethan''s car pulls in, a heavenly young girl in a white maid outfit catches his eye, her long, slender legs in white stockings are particularly striking, especially her charming face framed by bangs. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even after three years, Ethan still nearly loses his composure under her seemingly smiling eyes.


    "Welcome home, Commander," says the AI Bionic Robot in a voice as refreshing as a spring, instantly soothing his school-day irritations.


    "Lisa, park the car in the garage."


    Ethan tosses a set of keys to the AI Bionic Robot, "The groceries are in the front trunk, got quite a bit today. You handle dinner, just bring it to my room. Planning to spend the holiday gaming."


    "Right away, Commander."


    As Ethan steps towards the villa, Lisa adds, "By the way, Commander, your family hasn''t sent this month''s Energy Stone Allowance yet. Our account is running low. Should I contact them?"


    This AI Bionic Robot, whose level Ethan can''t even fathom, has been taking care of him since he was born, far surpassing any advanced AI he knew of in his previous life.


    "Not yet?"


    Ethan frowns, "Make a call and hurry them up. Start with Chris, he''s one of us. Let''s see what''s up."


    "Yes, Commander."


    Hearing Lisa''s response, Ethan heads back to his room without further concern.

 Chapter 2 - 2: Man, what the heck?

    All over California, there are plenty of families known for cultivating psychic powers, and the Blackwood family is definitely top-tier.


    But Ethan doesn''t know much about the Blackwood; ever since he was born, for reasons unknown¡ªmaybe because of his lackluster talents or his missing parents'' rocky relationship with the family¡ªhe''s been living at Psychic Gear, raised by Lisa.


    He''s seen folks from Blackwood fewer times than he''s hung out with the uncles and aunties at Psychic Gear.


    As a direct descendant of his family, even though he didn''t grow up with them, he still gets a decent allowance every month for his expenses, all thanks to his parents'' significant contributions to the Blackwood.


    As long as the Blackwood name lives on, his lineage will always be well taken care of.


    So, Ethan''s not sweating the small stuff when it comes to life.


    Back in his room, Ethan plops down in front of his computer, zoning out for a good while.


    "Guess this life''s all about chilling," he mutters to himself with a chuckle as he boots up his computer.


    This kind of life, living off his parents'' legacy, is exactly what he''s always wanted¡ªno worries about food or clothes. He''s happy with his life, you know? knowing that as long as he doesn''t mess up, his life is pretty enviable.


    Ethan even has a laid-back, carefree future all planned out.


    "Although..."


    Ethan pauses, thinking about those powerful psychics in the world who lead epic lives, seeing vast new worlds among the stars, while he''s stuck at Psychic Gear for life.


    "Dude, I need to chill. This life''s already pretty sweet."


    Ethan scoffs at himself, but by now, his computer is up and running. Even though this world is all about cultivating psychic powers, there are still games around, a perfect pastime for a laid-back guy like him.


    Mostly, it''s VR games that also help train psychic reaction speeds¡ªa kind of alternative education.


    But Ethan prefers the old-school games from his past life, like the one he''s playing now with an actual mouse, an antique by today''s standards. After all, modern VR games are mostly about fighting and killing, and that gets old fast.


    He fires up an ancient game that Lisa had managed to dig up from an antique market, copied from a millennium-old computer, just as ancient as his.


    Looking left and right, Ethan hesitates to click on any game; he''s pretty much played them all to death.


    Thinking it over, Ethan opens a folder to see if there''s anything new forgotten in there.


    Just as he''s searching, a game file catches his eye!


    Ethan, always up for some new kicks, fired up a game called "Cultivating Psychic Powers Family Simulator." Was it some kind of management game? He was about to find out.


    The screen loaded in a flash, revealing an old-school art style that would''ve been considered retro even in Ethan''s past life. A landscape painting slowly materialized into view, showing a small cabin.


    A young man was setting up a memorial cards and burning incense in front of a bronze furnace.


    [Today, your only descendant left in the world is paying tribute to you. As a slave without even a last name, he heard that kneeling before the Forebearer could bring blessings.]


    [Please establish a surname for this family, which might rise to prominence or fade into obscurity.]


    [___ Family]


    "Pfft," Ethan, sipping on his Coke, nearly spit it out. Was the game starting off this tragic? Just one person in the whole family registry?


    Still, he went along with the game''s prompt and typed in "Blackwood."


    After entering the surname, the game''s interface began to change, though it remained straightforward.


    Ethan glanced around and noticed a "Time Rate" slider on the left, set to 1 hour/year¡ªreal time.


    "Is there no pause button?" Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It seemed that only during Ancestral Communion or special events would the game pause, automatically resuming after 5 minutes.


    And right now, it was the first Ancestral Communion.


    It seemed like a tutorial, as the Blackwood name magically appeared on the memorial cards.


    The sole descendant of Blackwood saw the change and a message appeared above his head.


    "The Forebearer has manifested! My surname is Blackwood, haha!"


    Watching the descendant''s ecstatic reaction, Ethan didn''t know whether to laugh or feel moved, as he couldn''t really empathize with a game NPC.


    Meanwhile, on the right side of the screen, a large black interface popped up with a message.


    [Your descendant feels your presence and is overjoyed. He has named himself Nathan Blackwood.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +1]


    And in the family tree section...


    Ethan even saw a genealogy...


    [First Generation: Nathan]


    He could even check Nathan''s personal info¡ªyep, totally ordinary.


    "So, ''Cultivating Psychic Powers Family Simulator'' means I just watch the family grow?"


    Ethan was still puzzled by the game.


    [Your descendant is participating in Ancestral Communion, a major tribute every ten years.]


    [Tribute Offering: A pile of burnt paper ashes]


    [Retrieve it?]


    "What do I need this stuff for?"


    Though he didn''t see an inventory, Ethan clicked ''no.''


    [You have canceled the Tribute Offering.]


    A gust of wind blew across the screen, scattering the ashes.


    But Blackwood''s sole descendant panicked.


    "Forebearer, calm your anger, your unworthy descendant failed to present a pleasing Tribute Offering!"


    [Do you intend to Divine Gift your descendant during this Ancestral Communion?]


    Staring at the screen, Ethan froze, his Coke can suspended mid-air, his hand trembling slightly, his eyes widening, his mouth agape.


    Not because of the game screen, but...


    A Mystic Burner, which shouldn''t exist, appeared right next to his cluttered desktop computer.


    Ethan could even smell the scent of burnt paper that had just been on the Mystic Burner!


    This Mystic Burner was identical to the one he had just seen on the game''s altar.


    "Man, what the heck??"

 Chapter 3 - 3: Nathans Gift

    "Game, Mystic Burner... Game, Mystic Burner..."


    Ethan stared at his computer screen, his brain in overdrive!


    This world was already all about cultivating psychic powers, where anything could happen, and since he was a time-traveler, he''d seen his fair share of weird stuff.


    He quickly realized this wasn''t just any game.


    This computer had been dug up from an ancient tomb.


    Meaning, it''s likely this game was a cheat code that accidentally became his.


    The options "Tribute Offering" and "Divine Gift" were channels through which this cheat code could benefit him.


    Through "Divine Gift."


    The descendants in the game would grow stronger, snagging precious items from the game world to give back.


    And he could get "Tribute Offering" through the Mystic Burner.


    "So now, I gotta do everything possible to help Nathan level up!"


    In his room, aside from the familiar music, Ethan could even hear his own heartbeat.


    But still.


    Ethan kept his cool, his demeanor chillingly calm. In this Psychic Gear world, even if the whole planet exploded, Ethan wouldn''t sweat it.


    Watching the game timer.


    "Please place your Divine Gift into the Mystic Burner."


    "3:45"


    Time was ticking. If it hit zero without a gift for Nathan, the next Ancestral Communion wouldn''t be for another ten years, and by then, 20-year-old Nathan might starve!


    Ethan suddenly stood up, scanning the room while thinking of what could be useful.


    "What should I give him? Food? Nah, he''s a runaway, he''ll figure out how to eat."


    "An Energy Stone? Nope, Nathan''s just a regular dude, and that could bring him trouble!"


    "The way of cultivating psychic powers, yes, that''s it! Strengthen himself, and he can survive and grow the family over these ten years!"


    Ethan frantically searched his room.


    Finally, he found a dark book, trembling as he placed the stone carefully into the Mystic Burner with just 1:00 left on the "Divine Gift" timer.


    And then, the game system''s message appeared again.


    "Detecting your Divine Gift¡ª"


    "Psychic Arts Manual"


    "Would you like to send it?"


    Ethan didn''t hesitate and clicked ''yes''!


    This "Psychic Arts Manual" was modern tech fused onto an abandoned Energy Stone.


    It combined the essence of Psychic Arts Manuals condensed over a millennium by numerous Psychic professors globally, a prenatal-level textbook for all psychic power cultivating academies!


    Without a doubt.


    This was the perfect study material for Nathan. Only by mastering power could Nathan improve his survival odds in the game world and lay a solid foundation for his family''s future!


    "This is..."


    At that moment, Nathan on the screen, clutching the "Divine Gift," seemed to have an epiphany. He knelt before the altar, declaring, "Unworthy descendant thanks the Forebearer for this gift, I will not let you down!"


    "Glug glug..."


    Ethan casually threw his legs up on his gaming chair and took a big swig of Coke, "You better live up to my expectations, survive and fiercely multiply, expand our clan!"


    Ethan cranked up the game''s time speed to max in a flash!


    Soon, the altar in the game vanished, leaving just a shabby little hut.


    But under Ethan''s intense gaze, Nathan''s living conditions started to improve bit by bit. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A field began to form next to the house.


    The original wooden hut slowly started to be rebuilt with stones.


    Outside, there were poles for drying meat.


    And more trees started popping up around.


    A whole hour passed.


    It was like peeping into someone''s life, and Ethan found it all pretty wild.


    "Your descendant Nathan has adapted to living solo in the mountains, diligently studied the ''Psychic Arts Manual,'' and finally became a Foundational Energy!"


    "Forebearer bless!"


    Ethan saw Nathan bowing at the altar again.


    "Spiritual Tribute +2"


    "He finally broke through!"


    Ethan was just as thrilled, checking Nathan''s stats.


    In a long list of data, he found the key info.


    "Trait: Striving Hard"


    "Though his talents are poor, he works harder than anyone."


    "That''s my boy, facing life head-on just like me!" Ethan praised.


    Then, Ethan set the game''s time speed back to normal, realizing it was about time for dinner.


    He headed to the dining room where the table was already set with two dishes and a soup.


    He poured himself some soup, took a sip, then started loading his bowl with food, turning to Lisa with a puzzled look, "Did you get in touch with Chris? What did he say?"


    Lisa replied, "I reached out, but no word from Chris or the others from Blackwood."


    "Huh?"


    Ethan paused, frowning, "Even if they wanted to delay my allowance, they wouldn''t dare ignore me. Here''s what you do, go to Psychic Sanctuary No. 8 in person and leave a message. John Smith there goes out daily, ask he to inquire when he''s out."


    "Yes, Commander."


    After giving the orders, Ethan rushed back to his room to continue the game.


    Allowance is allowance, but Ethan knew a huge opportunity was right in front of him, and taking the ''cultivating psychic powers family simulator'' seriously was what mattered most, everything else could wait!


    At the door, Ethan stopped, looked at Lisa who was clearing the table, and said, "Oh, pack up this food."


    Lisa was already prepared with the packaging.


    "Understood, Commander. Same as before, deliver it to the gatekeeper Mr. John."


    "Right."

 Chapter 4 - 4: Nathans Trials

    Ethan got back to his room and noticed the game time was synced up with real time.


    When he clicked on his family tree and selected Nathan, the game interface switched to a new environment, showing everything but the location of the clan. Up in the right corner, it flashed "Map - Mystic Boar Forest." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The screen was set in a dense forest where Nathan''s animated character appeared, surrounded by a few wild boars.


    The bottom right corner had a big note about Nathan''s actions, saying, "Some wild boars keep wrecking the veggie patch, Nathan''s got skills now and is out for revenge."


    Ethan sped up the game time a bit, but then slowed it down again. A pop-up appeared: "Special Event: Descendant Nathan has encountered the Boar King in battle and got slightly injured. Would you like to use ''Forebearer''s Blessing''?"


    Options included:


    1,Love of the Forebearer


    2,Charge, my children


    ...


    15,Revive my descendant


    "What in the world is this mess?" Ethan scratched his head and quickly checked the options. It seemed like these were powers he could use as a Forebearer by spending ''Spiritual Tribute'' when his descendants faced enemies.


    Right now, he could only use "Love of the Forebearer," which cost 2 Spiritual Tribute points and would slightly heal his descendant. The option "Revive my descendant" was way too expensive and complicated.


    Without hesitation, Ethan spent some Spiritual Tribute to heal his only descendant. "Forebearer to the rescue again!"


    Nathan''s character was visibly grateful. Soon after Ethan sped up the game time, he saw Nathan bowing at the altar again. "Nathan is grateful for the Forebearer''s Blessing. Spiritual Tribute +2."


    Ethan breathed a sigh of relief. Nathan was his only descendant; if he died, it would be game over. "Is this what it feels like to be a Forebearer? Always worried about continuing the bloodline. My grandpa was just like this. I was just in high school, and he was pushing me to be the school tough guy, telling me to find a wife..."


    Ethan chuckled at the memory, then felt a bit melancholy, "Wonder how the family''s doing in the other world?" He shook his head, not wanting to dwell on it.


    He then grabbed a flat bench, took a high-grade Energy Stone, and sat down to cultivate psychic powers while watching the game. Time in the game slowly passed.


    Nathan''s humble abode turned into a stone house, the garden began to sprout, and thanks to his hunting skills, there was more and more dried meat. Nathan even started raising a dozen pigs.


    By the third year, Nathan had advanced to the second level of Foundational Energy. During this time, Ethan gained 4 more Spiritual Tribute points. This kid wasn''t slow at all; Nathan started from scratch, had poor talent and no resources, but he was making the most of his diligent efforts.


    Suddenly, while meditating, Ethan''s eyes snapped open, his gaze brightening. "Nathan''s in town selling animal hides, planning to swap some for money to buy pills that help with cultivating psychic powers, and he''s met a farmer''s daughter. They''ve taken a liking to each other."


    "Smart move, kid! Don''t just like her, marry her and get to the honeymoon!" Ethan wasn''t worried whether she was a farmer''s daughter or a rich girl, as long as Nathan was happy. Ideally, he''d become a baby-making expert on the spot and continue the Blackwood Spiritual Tribute!


    The scene shifted quickly. On the screen, Nathan was holding a girl''s hand, standing in front of the family altar. Both were dressed in red wedding attire. "Unfilial descendant Nathan marries Luna Bennett from the Bennett village today, earnestly requesting the Forebearer''s Blessing!"


    Blessings, lots of blessings! Ethan was overjoyed and immediately found the "Forebearer''s Blessing" on the interface, spending 2 Spiritual Tribute points to use "Love of the Forebearer."


    "Thanks to the Forebearer for making this happen!"


    As Nathan bowed in thanks, the scene quickly turned to night, and Blackwood''s only descendant was having his wedding night. "Today Nathan gets married. Spiritual Tribute +4."


    The house was decorated with festive symbols, clearly setting the stage for a sleepless night. Ethan watched the screen, more excited than if he were the groom himself.


    "Go make babies, my boy, make them fiercely, let the world see the might of the Blackwood!"

 Chapter 5 - 5: Awesome!

    Ethan was totally stoked as he watched the time roll on.


    Nathan and his wife were living the dream, the old-school way with him farming and her weaving. Meanwhile, Nathan was also hustling to level up his psychic powers.


    Year Five:


    Nathan, through sheer grit, broke through to level three of Foundational Energy.


    That same year, Luna was pregnant and gave birth to a boy named Lucas Blackwood!


    "Congrats! Your family just got bigger, Spiritual Tribute +10!"


    "Finally, he''s here!" Ethan couldn''t contain his excitement and took a huge swig of Coke.


    In the game, Nathan was outside the house, dancing with joy, "Forebearer''s magic at work, it''s a boy! The Blackwood line continues!"


    The scene quickly shifted.


    Nathan, holding his newborn, was crying tears of joy in front of the Forebearer altar.


    "Forebearer, check out our family''s chubby little champ, my boy Lucas has the makings of a sage!"


    Rewards were definitely in order!


    "Using ''Forebearer''s Blessing - Love of the Forebearer,'' consuming 4 Spiritual Tribute points."


    In a flash, a radiant light enveloped Nathan and his son.


    "Son, see that? The Forebearer''s shown up again, blessing my boy to be healthy and trouble-free!"


    "Spiritual Tribute +2"


    After the celebration,


    Ethan quickly checked the newborn''s stats.


    Compared to Nathan''s mixed Psychic Constitution, Lucas seemed to have a better start.


    "Wood Psychic Constitution: 56"


    Though it''s still a mixed Psychic Constitution, each type has its strengths, and reaching 100 points means a complete Psychic Constitution. 56 points is pretty decent.


    It''s way better than Nathan''s Metal Psychic Constitution at 38 points.


    "The Blackwoods are on the rise!"


    Then Ethan, feeling good, had Lisa whip up some late-night snacks. After munching down, he continued his all-night gaming session.


    That''s the perk of cultivating psychic powers, you can pull an all-nighter without feeling beat.


    He quietly watched the Blackwoods thrive.


    Since the baby arrived, there were noticeable changes in the Blackwood household in the game.


    Nathan fixed up the house, making it much bigger, and even expanded the farmland.


    It seemed like the game had seasons too, and Ethan could see the fields lying fallow at times. But since Nathan was a psychic power cultivator and a hunter, they weren''t worried about going hungry.


    Before long,A new action on the dashboard caught Ethan''s eye.


    Nathan wiped out all the wild boars in Mystic Boar Forest and snagged the ''Boar Slayer'' trait!


    "Whaaat?" sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What kind of wild trait is that?


    Ethan checked it out.


    [Boar Slayer: Combat power up by 10%, damage to pig-like creatures increased by 200%.]


    "Badass."


    Ethan gave a thumbs up, looking like his descendants were making some serious strides in their niche.


    After adding another member to the family,The little Blackwood homestead was buzzing with life.


    Ethan even saw little Lucas, barely crawling, being taken by Nathan to the altar for a blessing, clearly starting ''em young on that Ancestral Communion thing.


    [Spiritual Tribute +3]


    Next thing,Ethan noticed Luna''s belly was growing again!


    He glanced at the game''s timeline, Year Seven.


    "That''s what I''m talking about! My boys are getting it done!"


    Soon after,


    [Luna successfully gave birth to a girl, named ''Amelia Blackwood''!]


    [Congrats on the new addition to the Blackwood family, Spiritual Tribute +10]


    Then, the same scene at the altar,


    "Nathan, crying his eyes out, seemed to think he''d let the Forebearer down by not having another boy, ''Please forgive me, Forebearer!''"


    He was holding clueless Lucas, while Luna held the newborn girl, looking pretty down.


    "What''s this? Preferring boys over girls?"


    Ethan frowned, to him, as long as the descendants brought blessings to the family, the gender didn''t matter. Favoring one gender over another was not cool.


    After a moment of thought,


    [Using ''Forebearer''s Blessing - Love of the Forebearer,'' consuming 2 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    But this time, the skill was used only on Amelia, not on anyone else!


    In that moment,


    Nathan seemed to get Ethan''s point, his next prayers were a bit sheepish.


    "Forebearer, calm your wrath, Nathan gets it now, all Blackwood kids are cherished, thanks for blessing Amelia!"


    [Spiritual Tribute +3]


    Seeing this, Ethan''s expression eased a bit. Although he couldn''t talk to the game characters directly, he could make his point known in other ways.


    Last time he used ''Love of the Forebearer'' on everyone, this time just on Amelia, couldn''t be clearer.


    Later, as the family kept going,Ethan checked out Amelia''s stats.


    This kid''s talents were a bit lower, even less than Nathan''s, with just a mere 20 points in Mystic Water Psychic Constitution.


    But no biggie, as long as the family grew, they''d contribute to the family''s efforts, more hands for farming too.


    Ethan then glanced at the top right corner.


    Year eight rolled around, and the Blackwood descendants kept hitting up the altar with their prayers.


    Ethan was getting the hang of this ''Spiritual Tribute'' thing¡ªit seemed to rack up points whenever the kids showed some serious devotion or when something big went down.


    Now, his Spiritual Tribute was sitting pretty at 38 points.


    By this time, Lucas was running all over the place. Only three, but maybe thanks to a steady diet of meat, he was bulkier than most kids his age. Nathan even handed him a wooden sword to start his training early.


    Gotta start ''em young on those psychic powers, though three is hardly the age to get the hang of it.


    Little Amelia, just a year old, wasn''t too keen on training. Instead, she was often seen crawling towards the veggie garden, curiously watching Nathan irrigate the fields.


    Then,Under Ethan''s amazed gaze, Nathan''s wife, fresh from childbirth at the start of the year, was expecting again!


    "Forebearer bless us, unworthy descendant Nathan and wife bow before you, grateful for another son you''ve bestowed upon us!"


    Awesome!


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to shower Nathan with ''Love of the Forebearer.''


    "Thank you, Forebearer, always watching over your unworthy descendant. Rest assured, with your blessing, my wife will surely bear more children to glorify our Blackwood line!"


    [Spiritual Tribute +2]


    Ethan was pretty pleased.


    Look at Nathan''s lineage¡ªmight not be the sharpest tools in the shed, but they sure knew how to keep the family growing, making a Forebearer proud.

 Chapter 6 - 6: Please, spare me

    After the screen cut, something funky popped up in the member action list.


    "Big drought this year, kids multiplying like rabbits, and Mystic Boar Forest''s all out of critters. The kiddos are sick of pork, so he decided to venture further out for some new grub. Planning to hunt big time, stock up for the fam."


    Check out this responsible kid, huh?


    Ethan whipped out the map.


    Soon enough, he spotted Nathan trekking through a place called Silver Ironwood Forest on the map.


    Before long, Ethan saw Nathan in a standoff with a horse on the screen.


    "Nathan battled a mystical Silver Ironwood horse, wounded it, and after a three-day chase, he caught it. But seeing the horse''s pleading eyes, he sensed its humanity and let it go, quietly reaching into his backpack, thinking, ''Better walk away before the blood splatters on me.''"


    "Little did he know, grateful for the human''s gesture with the bow, the Silver Ironwood horse followed Nathan all the way back to Blackwood and became his ride!"


    After snagging a mystical beast.


    Nathan built a stable, and now there''s a horse joyfully galloping around their place.


    And soon after,


    Blackwood got more good news, making Ethan super stoked.


    "Luna gave birth to a boy, named ''Julian Blackwood''!"


    "Congrats to Blackwood for the new addition, earning a Spiritual Tribute +10"


    Three kids now!


    At this rate, Nathan could pop out a basketball team, or heck, a whole class!


    Nathan''s family was all gratitude towards the Forebearer.


    The new kid Julian, he''s got some decent stats.


    Metal Psychic Constitution: 42


    Fire Psychic Constitution: 51


    Especially this little guy, must''ve eaten something wild in the womb, came out with a trait, even yanked out a strand of Nathan''s hair!


    Trait: Sturdy Bones


    "Bigger bones than most kids, strength increased by 5%."


    "Forebearer, you seeing this? My boy Julian''s got some serious muscle, he''ll be great at hauling dung!"


    Thanks on behalf of your son Julian...


    Ethan was thrilled about the family addition. Nathan was clearly hard at work hunting in Silver Ironwood, though it seemed to be crawling with mystical beasts. Once, Nathan even got a minor injury.


    But Ethan quickly hit Nathan with some ''Love of the Forebearer.''


    What surprised Ethan was the ''severe drought'' in the game world lasted a long time, even affecting the fields next to the house. Blackwood''s only daughter, Amelia, was seen clutching the dry soil, crying her eyes out.


    Time quickly moved to year nine.


    The drought hadn''t ended, but Nathan was prepared. His three kids and wife weren''t starving, and the well hadn''t dried up.


    As Ethan watched the family slowly thrive and waited for the tenth year to roll around so he could use the "Divine Gift" from the Mystic Burner,


    He furrowed his brow.


    "Special Event: Bandits"


    "In the drought year, crops failed, many folks turned to banditry. Thirteen thieves hit Blackwood one night. One of them, clueless, tried to steal the Silver Ironwood horse, got kicked to death by it, waking Nathan!"


    In the screen, the night lit up Blackwood, and under Ethan''s gaze, Nathan, machete in hand, burst from his room.


    Yelling at the thieves outside the stable,


    "Get off our property, or don''t blame me for getting rough!"


    In the game, it was Ethan''s first time seeing someone barge into the family''s turf.


    "Looks like farming ain''t all peace and quiet; there''s some real danger lurking around."


    Ethan squinted his eyes, quietly watching how Nathan would handle the situation unfolding in the game.


    Above the heads of the bandits, a message popped up.


    "Hand over all your cash and grub, or we''ll make you regret it!"


    The bandits were feeling bold due to their numbers. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But their arrogance didn''t last long.


    After ten years of honing his psychic powers, Nathan had reached the fourth level of Foundational Energy. The ''Psychic Arts Manual'' Ethan gave him included combat skills and some basic magical martial arts. Plus, Nathan had been scrapping regularly in Mystic Boar Forest and Silver Ironwood, so his combat prowess was no joke.


    This ragtag group of bandits, hungry and desperate, was no match for Nathan.


    And then,


    Out of the stables charged the Silver Ironwood horse!


    Nathan''s wife, Luna, also showed her fierce side. Usually busy farming and taking care of the kids, she now burst out of the kitchen wielding a kitchen knife, ready to defend her home.


    Even young Lucas, armed with a wooden sword, dashed out of his room, a message appearing above his head, "Come to our house to steal? We''ll beat you to a pulp!"


    "They''ve got a Psychic, stop fighting, mercy, we won''t dare again!"


    As the family charged, along with a horse causing chaos among the bandits,


    The bandits quickly lost the battle and ended up kneeling in front of the Blackwood residence.


    "Today, I''ll spare your lives. But if you dare come back, I''ll break your legs!"


    Nathan bellowed with fierce eyes.


    "Thank you, sir, we won''t dare again!"


    In a moment, the bandits, grateful for their lives, scurried away.


    Watching Nathan''s merciful act, Ethan furrowed his brows deeply.


    Clearly, up until now, Nathan had been peacefully developing his family, engaging in combat only with wild animals and mystical beasts.


    These bandits were still human, and Nathan showed a considerable amount of mercy towards his own kind.


    But Ethan felt that Nathan''s decision to let the bandits go was a grave mistake.


    "These bandits, no matter how they found Blackwood, now know there''s enough food here during this severe drought. Even if they don''t dare come back, what if they spread the word to other bandits?"


    Ethan took a deep breath, muttering to himself, "Even if Nathan is strong enough to defeat these ordinary people, he has to leave home to hunt sometimes. The three kids aren''t grown up yet, and Luna is just a bit stronger than average. What if they get attacked?"


    The mouse slowly moved to the "Forebearer''s Protection."


    Ethan found a skill¡ª


    "Forebearer''s Wrath: Attack from the Forebearer''s cards. The more family members, the stronger the skill, the more Spiritual Tribute it consumes."


    "Using ''Forebearer''s Wrath,'' consuming 20 points of Spiritual Tribute!"


    Suddenly,


    The cards of the Forebearer on the altar shone brightly, floated up, and shot out of Blackwood''s gate, tracing a beautiful purple arc in the game''s night sky.


    This time, Ethan discovered he could control the cards!


    "The Forebearer shows his power again!"


    The people of Blackwood immediately knelt down, even the Silver Ironwood horse mimicked Nathan and knelt.


    "What''s this?"


    "Looks like a spirit cards!"


    The bandits turned their heads in surprise, staring at the cards.


    Without a second thought, Ethan controlled the cards, targeting the bandit who ran the farthest.


    Then,


    The cards pierced right through the bandit''s chest!


    "Weren''t we promised no killing? Run!"


    "Help, I don''t want to die."


    "Please, spare me."


    Ethan frowned, still maneuvering the mouse, targeting the bandits daring to flee.

 Chapter 7 - 7: The Mysterious Iron Spear

    Forget it''s just a game, if Ethan himself was in this pickle, he''d make the same call!


    Since these dudes had shady plans for him, he had to nip it in the bud, or else it''s just trouble sprouting back up!


    But Ethan didn''t wipe out all the bandits.


    He only took out the ones bold enough to try and run.


    Only five bandits were left on screen, and Ethan''s focus shifted to Nathan.


    "The Forebearer''s cards has stopped."


    Nathan looked around, seemingly unsure of what to do next.


    But soon enough, he stood up, grabbed the knife he''d just put down, and charged at the bandits.


    "The Forebearer is ticked off, honey, I''ve figured it out."


    "We gotta wipe them out to protect our home!"


    "Thanks for the wisdom, Forebearer!"


    Smart move!


    Ethan really admired this about Nathan; the guy was quick on the uptake. These five bandits were left just for Nathan!


    The Forebearer cards returned to its place.


    Under Ethan''s watchful eye, Nathan, in front of his wife and kids, took out all the bandits and even moved their bodies out of the yard overnight.


    And Lucas, who had just run out with a wooden sword, watched his dad move the bodies with a mix of awe and respect in his young eyes.


    [Your descendants have averted a family crisis, gaining Spiritual Tribute +12]


    [Loot acquired: A small amount of silver, worn clothes, a dung fork...]


    [Watching Nathan eliminate the family''s enemies, the young child seems to grasp something, a strange concept imprinted deep in his memory.]


    [Lucas gains the trait: Killing Potential]


    [Killing Potential: Becomes more ferocious in combat, strength increases by 20%, and insight into attack techniques improves by 5%]


    "Huh?"


    Ethan was taken aback; he hadn''t expected that this bout of violence would solve more than just their immediate problems, and that it would bring more than just loot to Blackwood.


    The biggest gain.


    Turned out to be Lucas, this 4-year-old kid, a natural-born killer, a warrior!


    After that night''s carnage.


    Blackwood returned to its usual peace, of course, Ethan couldn''t see the full picture of what changed deep inside Blackwood''s descendants after killing their enemies.


    He sped up the flow of time again.


    Blackwood continued to develop.


    Blackwood''s stone houses became more refined, and the wooden fences, due to previous thefts, were gradually replaced with stone, forming a sizable courtyard.


    They even built a training ground specifically for practicing magical martial arts.


    What surprised Ethan the most.


    Was that Nathan, on a hunting trip in the Silver Ironwood Forest, brought back flat stones and built a small temple in the most conspicuous part of the courtyard to honor the Forebearer''s cards, ensuring the Spiritual Tribute remained bright.


    [Nathan and his descendants built a temple for you, gaining Spiritual Tribute +20!]


    "Such a dutiful kid."


    Ethan touched his chin in satisfaction, then paused, feeling a bit odd about having descendants build a temple for him while he was still alive.


    While Ethan was eagerly waiting, the big festival that comes once every decade finally popped up on the screen!


    Nathan, his wife, their three kids, and even their Ironwood horse, all showed up at the little stone temple to light up the Spiritual Tribute and start the worship!


    "Sorry, Forebearer, for the weak sauce tribute, but thanks to your blessing over the past decade, our family''s been thriving."


    Nathan kept bowing non-stop, then turned to his eldest, Lucas, "Lucas, hurry up and toss the gold and silver dad prepared into the copper furnace for the Forebearer."


    [You''ve received a Tribute Offering: 10 pounds of silver, 1 pound of gold] sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Wanna take it out?]


    Nah, bro!


    Ethan rolled his eyes in front of his computer. In his time, gold and silver were so last season, even diamonds were just street pebbles.


    Ethan''s sports car hood? Made of pure gold. His villa''s bathtub? Lined with diamonds.


    He clicked no.


    Nathan stared at the Forebearer''s cards, "Huh? No warm Divine Gift from the Forebearer!"


    "Does the Forebearer not dig gold and silver or what?"


    Luna chimed in.


    "Yeah, must be it!" Nathan nodded vigorously. "Forebearer''s too cool for school, ordinary stuff just doesn''t cut it. Lucas, go check the storeroom for something pricey, we gotta please the Forebearer!"


    "Uh?"


    Watching the hustle on the game screen, Ethan just shrugged.


    He wasn''t really in the mood for gifts.


    After all, Blackwood was just getting off the ground, what valuable stuff could they possibly have?


    But he had already prepared this round''s Divine Gift as an investment in Blackwood''s growth. Only if Blackwood got stronger could they possibly have something that caught his eye.


    Soon, Lucas was hauling a bunch of stuff in front of the temple.


    [You''ve received a Tribute Offering: King Boar''s tendons, two pounds of Blackrock ore...]


    [Wanna take it out?]


    A whole bunch of weird items.


    He wasn''t keen, but it was the thought that counted, right? Ethan rummaged through the items, raising an eyebrow.


    "Huh?"


    One item caught his eye, a rusty old spear he remembered seeing Nathan train with when he switched screens.


    [Mysterious Iron Spear (Sealed)]


    The game even recorded the spear''s backstory¡ªit was snagged by Nathan while hunting in the Mystic Boar Forest, from a pile of human bones in the Boar King''s cave!


    "A sealed weapon?"


    Ethan''s expression turned serious. In the world of cultivating psychic powers, anything worth sealing had an extraordinary origin and could be extremely dangerous. Clearly, Nathan''s limited skills hadn''t clued him into the spear''s value.


    "Take out the spear!"


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to pull out the spear, even he was intrigued by it.


    [You chose to take out the Tribute Offering from your descendants¡ªthe Mysterious Iron Spear!]


    In an instant, a rusty spear appeared in front of the Mystic Burner on Ethan''s computer desk, and he could smell the rust coming off it!


    But at the same time, Ethan was drawn to the faint patterns on the spear, inscribed with strange characters, and he suddenly realized that his limited knowledge couldn''t make heads or tails of it.


    He set aside the spear for now.


    Ethan held a brocade box, placing it in front of the copper furnace.


    [You''ve Divine Gifted your descendants¡ª36 various elixirs.]


    [Wanna send it?]

 Chapter 8 - 8: Psychic Sanctuary 12

    Ethan had a stash of 12 Nourishing Pills, a real game-changer for any Iron Will Psychic. These bad boys could cram a year''s worth of cosmic energy absorption into just one day.


    He also had 12 Heavenly Origin Pills on deck, perfect for any Iron Will Psychic looking to detox. Pop one of these, and the next six months of powering up your psychic abilities would be a walk in the park.


    And don''t even get me started on the Heavenly Mechanism Replenishing Pills!


    These last 12 pills were like gold dust in the psychic cultivation game world, and even on modern-day Earth, they were as rare as hen''s teeth. These puppies could potentially jack up someone''s Psychic Constitution for up to three years, luck depending.


    The only cats who knew how to whip up this magic were the folks at Blackwood. After years of tinkering at the Blackwood Pill Manufacturing Company, the record boost was from a dude who amped his Psychic Constitution from a measly 24 points to a whopping 50. And that''s not even counting the other unrecorded boosts.


    Talk about a psychic jackpot!


    Naturally, the stronger the pill, the more your body gets used to it. You only get one shot with a Heavenly Mechanism Replenishing Pill in your lifetime.


    "36 pills, nearly a tenth of my stash," Ethan thought, not sweating it.


    These were just hand-me-downs from his family, totally useless to him now! sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan and his family were over the moon with gratitude, vowing to use the Divine Gift to strengthen the clan.


    [You''ve received a Spiritual Tribute+16]


    Ethan shifted his gaze from the computer screen.


    His hand rested on the mysterious long spear, giving it a gentle stroke, sending a wave of energy across its surface, stirring up the room.


    Soon, a prompt popped up on the screen.


    [Spend 1,000,000 Spiritual Tribute to unseal the ''Mysterious Long Spear''?]


    "???"


    He had barely scraped together 80 points of Spiritual Tribute, and they''re asking for a million? Might as well just rob him!


    But this only convinced Ethan more of the spear''s power.


    He took a deep breath, glanced at the computer clock showing 4 AM.


    "Been gaming all night, huh?"


    Ethan slowly stood up and stretched. Normally, he''d hit the sack, but not tonight. He was still wired, "Looks like I need to step out for a bit."


    Games are cool and all, but real life wasn''t on pause. Plus, over a late-night snack, Lisa had dropped some not-so-great news on him.


    Especially about...


    Ethan placed the long spear into his storage ring, having tested its seal to find it unbreakable.


    Then, he set a detection stone in front of his computer and released a wooden dummy from his spatial ring onto his gaming chair, making sure he could remotely control his computer before finally stepping out of the room.


    "Commander, need me to whip up some breakfast?"


    Just as Ethan closed the door and walked into the living room, Lisa, who was meditating in the hall, opened her eyes and flashed the first smile of the dawn at Ethan.


    "Nah, I''m good."


    Ethan returned the smile and then asked, "Hey, is Granny Quinn at Psychic Sanctuary 12 around?"


    "She''s been there the whole time, came back from her retreat two months ago and hasn''t left Psychic Sanctuary since," Lisa said as she watched Ethan put on his shoes, blinking, "Commander, you heading out? Want me to tag along?"


    "Just a quick trip, I''ll be back soon. Get the car ready."


    Ethan instructed as he pulled out his phone to check the computer screen through the monitoring Energy Stone.


    In no time, all the Blackwood folks who got those pills began their intense sessions of cultivating psychic powers, looking like they wouldn''t step outside until they''d eaten all their food.


    Nathan, flipping through the "Iron Will Psychic Powers Handbook," clearly figured out what those pills were all about.


    Almost every member of Blackwood, even the Iron Forest Horse, had popped one of those Heavenly Mechanism Psychic Pills.


    Their talents got a boost, but no major changes just yet.


    Meanwhile, on the member list, aside from Nathan who was at the fourth level of Foundational Energy, Blackwood gained two new Psychics.


    Nathan''s wife, who seemed like she might never become a Psychic, managed to reach the first level of Foundational Energy after taking the pills and following the prenatal training methods from the "Psychic Arts Manual."


    Lucas also became an Iron Will, a bright future ahead for the 5-year-old at Foundational Energy level one!


    The Blackwood members were full of fighting spirit, determined to honor the Forebearer''s gift in the next decade.


    Ethan nodded in satisfaction, then pocketed his old-school phone.


    "Commander seems really happy today," Lisa''s laughter pulled Ethan out of his game thoughts.


    "Whip up a feast for lunch, and I might be even happier."


    Ethan grinned, taking a box from Lisa''s hands and peeking inside¡ªit was a cake.


    Then Ethan drove off, leaving the villa.


    The car journey was short, and as he arrived at Psychic Gear 12, dawn was just breaking. The weather should have been a bit chilly, but there was a warm vibe around Psychic Sanctuary 12.


    After checking his phone again and seeing no special events triggered in the game and that the family was still developing smoothly, he finally knocked on the door of number 12.

 Chapter 9 - 9: Granny Quinn

    "Ding-a-ling!"


    "Granny Quinn, it''s Ethan, came to check on ya!"


    With that shout, the door to Psychic Sanctuary 12 swung open. Unlike Ethan''s place, this sanctuary was like stepping into a furnace¡ªthe heat blasted out the moment the door opened, whipping up Ethan''s jacket and hair.


    An old lady, leaning on a cane and hunched over, appeared before Ethan like a ghost.


    Ethan, used to this fiery welcome, flashed a warm smile, "Granny Quinn, hope I didn''t catch you in the middle of crafting some crazy psychic gear?"


    Granny Quinn, with her white hair and wrinkled face, chuckled warmly, "How could you? An old hag like me? I''m just thrilled to have a young visitor."


    "Come on in, Ethan, let''s have some tea."


    Granny Quinn grabbed Ethan''s hand and led him inside the sanctuary.


    As they entered, the fiery glow dimmed, and everything turned normal with wooden tables and chairs. They sat down, and a pot of hot tea was already on the table. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan and Granny Quinn chatted about life for a good half hour, mostly Granny asking questions, just like the caring nagging of the elderly.


    But Ethan knew well, Granny Quinn had lived for at least three hundred years, a master psychic gear crafter. Anyone in Psychic Gear needing gear would seek her out.


    "Granny Quinn, I''ve run into a bit of trouble."


    Ethan looked deflated.


    "Oh?"


    Granny Quinn frowned, "Some young punk causing trouble at school? Or is it something at home?"


    "No, nothing like that, you know I stay out of trouble."


    Ethan didn''t beat around the bush. With a flick of his space ring, a long spear appeared in his hand. Granny Quinn''s eyes lit up at the sight of the patterns on the spear. Ethan grinned, "Got this from a buddy, couldn''t make heads or tails of it, thought of you right away."


    "At least it''s a high-grade psychic piece!"


    Granny Quinn took it, and a gust of wind stirred up, the quaint surroundings burst into flames then settled down. After holding the spear for ten seconds, Granny nodded, "Definitely a top-tier psychic weapon, though the sealing technique is so-so. If you trust this old hag, come pick it up the day after tomorrow at dawn."


    "Who else would I trust if not Granny Quinn?"


    After buttering her up for another ten minutes, Ethan left the mysterious spear with her and walked out of Psychic Sanctuary 12.


    He checked his phone; no family crises, so he breathed a sigh of relief and drove off.


    "Yo, Mr. John, wake up, man! I gotta head out for a bit!"


    Reaching the gate, Ethan hollered at the snoozing Mr. John in the guard booth.


    Soon, Mr. John, groggy and bleary-eyed, poked his head out, "Mr. Ethan? Heading out this early?"


    "Yep."


    Ethan sighed, slowly opened his car door, and lifted a cake from the passenger seat, handing it to Mr. John, "Woke up super early today, like 4 AM."


    "Whoa, cake? Look at Mr. Ethan living the high life."


    Mr. John grinned at the cake, "What''s the rush this morning?"


    "Nothing much."


    Ethan grinned, "Just dropped off a sealed weapon at Granny Quinn''s over at Psychic Sanctuary 12, asked her to check it out. Oh, and I forgot to ask when I can pick it up. Mr. John, could you check on that when you do your rounds?"


    "No biggie, I''ll ask her. Whatever you gave her, she''ll get it back to you."


    Mr. John tapped his fingers on the desk, "You didn''t have to rush out for that, man."


    "Oh, it''s just some family drama. The head of our Blackwood family fell in an interstellar battle in outer space. Some elders are seeking revenge, and the new head is a troublesome character¡ªhe cut off my allowance. I might not even have enough money for food soon."


    Ethan sighed deeply, the news delivered by Lisa last night.


    If it weren''t for the need to eat, he wouldn''t have left his desk for a second!


    "What?"


    Mr. John''s eyes widened, "That''s serious, man. You better handle it quick. Mr. Kieran at Psychic Sanctuary 82 knows his stuff, hit up his law office, maybe he can help."


    Looks like even in this world, lawyers are a thing. Ethan was ready to take his family to court.


    He nodded slightly, "Thanks, Mr. John. I''ll check it out. Lisa''s cooking a big lunch, I''ll have her bring you a plate."


    "Hey, sounds good."


    Ethan''s car sped off, and Mr. John waved at him, then yawned and headed towards Psychic Sanctuary 12, banging on the door.


    "Bang, bang, bang!"


    The sound echoed through the villa complex, lights flickering on in several houses.


    "Residents of Psychic Sanctuary 12, good morning! Your friendly neighborhood guard at your service!"

 Chapter 10 - 10: Olivia Blackwood

    Bright and early, Ethan floored it to 160 mph, zooming down the empty streets until he pulled up at a towering skyscraper. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He hung around up there for a solid two hours before heading back down.


    "Man, looks like I gotta sue somebody."


    Ethan shrugged, kinda shocked that the real-world Blackwood family drama was this intense. Out with the old, in with the new¡ª the new head honcho was playing favorites, funneling his allowance straight to his own kids...


    "Guess I''ll head back and figure it out."


    Glancing at his phone, Ethan noticed the time had really flown by, and the Blackwoods were in the midst of major changes.


    He frowned, pocketing his phone.


    Suddenly, the sky cracked with the sound of breaking air, and he looked up.


    Above the skyscraper, about thirty lawyers in suits were flying on swords, whipping out some high-tech psychic gear.


    From the clouds, Ethan caught snippets of a conversation.


    "Tell the rest of our company, Mr. Kieran orders us to surround Blackwood!"


    "Go tell the governor, the head of Blackwood is suspected of murder... no, conspiring with alien bug tribes."


    "Check if any of our clients are in jail, tell them to get ready. The boss wants to discuss something, don''t ask why. If you do, just say the jail might get deadly soon, we''ve got business to handle."


    "You think this is a raid? Heck no, we''re off to court, we''re a legit law firm!"


    Yeah.


    Looks like they were off to help with the lawsuit.


    With these justice-driven lawyers on his side, getting his allowance back seemed pretty solid.


    Ethan''s worries eased, and he headed home with a relieved smile.


    "Finally, I can chill with the system!"


    ...


    "Welcome back, Commander."


    Back home, the sun was shining bright, and Lisa''s smile was even brighter, "Commander, you could''ve just called, no need to go yourself. Oh, and Mr. Jackson from Psychic Sanctuary 7, Miss Clara from 39, and Mr. Leo from 92 stopped by, wanted to see you."


    "I had to make the trip, or they''d think I was dead."


    Ethan grinned, "I''m off to play some games in my room. Give all the good food to Mr. John, I''ll just make do with some spaghetti. If anyone comes looking for me, just say I''m not home. I owe too many favors already, can''t afford to rack up more. Once things settle down outside, they''ll stop coming."


    "Got it, Commander." Lisa nodded and left.


    Ethan quickly headed to his room and plopped down on the couch, legs crossed.


    After hustling around for five hours, coming home and staring at his computer screen felt like it had been five years.


    In the game "Cultivating Psychic Powers Family Simulator," the Blackwood estate had transformed drastically. What started as a humble cabin now boasted six houses and several other buildings.


    The action list was packed with updates.


    "Luna has successfully given birth to a daughter, named ''Olivia Blackwood''!"


    Now three years old, Olivia was energetically running around the yard.


    Lucas, another of the children, was now ten. Ethan was thrilled because, thanks to some herbal pills improving his talents, Lucas''s Psychic Constitution had reached 62, and his cultivation level had soared to the third layer of Foundational Energy.


    "Psychic Arts Manual: Progress 12%."


    The other two kids were doing well too. Eight-year-old Amelia, despite her lesser talents and even after consuming a special psychic-enhancing pill, hadn''t managed to push any of her Psychic Constitution stats over 50. Yet, she had still reached the first layer of Foundational Energy, especially with a unique trait she possessed.


    "Trait: Plant Affinity"


    "Born with a keen intuition for planting and cultivating plants, significantly increasing success rates."


    Despite a severe drought, perhaps due to Amelia''s presence, the vegetable garden remained unaffected and the plants thrived.


    Then there was Julian, previously the most gifted. His mixed Psychic Constitution had three attributes over 50. Although only six, he had already become a first-layer Psychic.


    Compared to the early days when Nathan was all alone, Blackwood was now bustling with life.


    However, perhaps due to her age, Luna hadn''t become pregnant again.


    That wasn''t much of an issue, though. After all, she had already delivered four kids, a true heroine, and Ethan couldn''t really ask for more.


    As Ethan moved the mouse over to Nathan''s name in the member list, the screen shifted.


    Ethan frowned.


    In the room, Nathan, who had reached the sixth layer of Foundational Energy after five years of cultivating psychic powers, was now lying in bed with one leg wrapped in bamboo splints and secured with white cloth.


    "Nathan"


    "Status: Severely Injured"


    Despite Ethan''s busy morning, he had kept an eye on the game screen.


    Over the years, Nathan had proven to be one of the most dedicated members of the Blackwood family, frequently traveling to the Silver Iron Forest and bringing back meat while never forgetting his duty to teach the children.


    But life is never smooth sailing for anyone.


    "In the 15th year, Nathan went to Forest Town to sell exotic beast materials. On the way, he saved a child about to be hit by a reckless young noble on horseback. Seeing Nathan''s skills, the young master of Forest Town Heath tried to recruit him."


    "Nathan, citing his need to care for his children, politely declined and thus incurred the wrath of Dexter Heath, who sent an eighth-layer Foundational Energy master to severely injure Nathan."


    "Damn it."


    Ethan clenched his teeth in anger. He had been monitoring the situation when the incident occurred and had used ''Forebearer''s Love'' to save Nathan''s life!


    "Just a close call, and my precious descendant, whom I''ve nurtured for fifteen years, almost died!"

 Chapter 11 - 11: Dexter must die

    Ethan was itching to head over to Forest Town and unleash some ''Forebearer''s Fury''. Meanwhile, back at the screen showing Nathan''s sickbed, all the Blackwood clan members were eyeing Nathan''s injuries, with their thoughts popping up in speech bubbles above their heads.


    Lucas was all fired up, "Time for some payback! Remember five years ago when those raiders hit us? We kicked their butts, Heath included!"


    Luna tried to cool things down, "Ease up, kiddo. I''ve done some digging, and Heath''s got this old-timer with Emerging Abilities who''s been around for over a century. We''re not in their league yet."


    Amelia chimed in, "Mom''s right, now''s not the time to lose our heads. Dad, just focus on getting better."


    Lucas was still riled up, "So we''re just gonna let this slide?"


    Nathan calmed the storm, "Kids, don''t worry about me. Forebearer already took out the big shot who hurt me, so that''s half the revenge done. Revenge is a dish best served cold, and as long as the Blackwood lineage grows strong, we''ll make the Heath folks pay one day."


    Watching the Blackwood family''s exchange, Ethan managed to suppress his own rage.


    Indeed, the ''Forebearer''s Fury'' skill was impressive.


    But Ethan realized when he previously saved Nathan that it could barely take out someone with Foundational Energy level eight, let alone an Emerging Ability master.


    Rushing in would only bring disaster upon the Blackwoods.


    Keeping their power hidden, slowly growing stronger, and then blowing everyone away was the best course of action.


    With that in mind, Ethan activated ''Forebearer''s Blessing'' and used a new skill on the injured Nathan¡ª


    ''Forebearer''s Embrace!''


    Above the Blackwood shrine, a phantom image appeared on the Forebearer''s cards. As the Blackwood members watched in awe, it merged into Nathan''s body, and in no time, Nathan''s legs healed at a visible rate, allowing him to get out of bed and walk.


    "Forebearer''s Embrace used, consuming Spiritual Tribute: 100"


    Compared to the minor healing of ''Forebearer''s Love'', this skill was far more powerful, even healing internal injuries!


    "Forebearer has shown his powers, I''m as good as new!"


    "Thanks to Forebearer for saving my life!"


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, one day Nathan will lead all Blackwoods to avenge today''s disgrace!"


    Seeing his descendants'' fighting spirit, Ethan gave Nathan another dose of ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    Instantly, everyone was overjoyed.


    "Although faced with a crisis, the Blackwood clan will strive harder, feeling your encouragement."


    "Spiritual Tribute +30"


    Ethan felt a deep satisfaction.


    Then, a little red dot in the member list caught his attention.


    Clicking on it¡ª


    "Family Buff: Revenge''s Fury"


    "Training speed increased by 20%, will continue until enough strength is gathered for revenge."


    Such a Buff seemed to appear after a special event.


    "Strive in cultivating psychic powers, fight for revenge, my descendants!"


    Ethan cheered for his descendants in front of the screen.


    He then clicked through the Blackwood members'' statuses to see if the event had triggered any other traits, but unfortunately, there were none.


    However, when he clicked on Lucas,


    Ethan paused for a moment, the screen shifted, and he was now at the Blackwood training ground where Lucas was fiercely cultivating psychic powers, using the basic sword techniques from the ''Psychic Arts Manual''.


    This kid was training intensely and ruthlessly, each sword strike filled with lethal intent, even chopping a deep ''kill'' mark into a stone slab.


    "That''s the spirit."


    Ethan nodded slightly, already imagining how wild it would be when this kid grew up and stormed into Heath''s territory.


    Right now, high above the vast, boundless ocean, a psychic-powered airship was soaring, filled with Psychics operating their special gear.


    They were dressed in unique white outfits, each marked with the ''Federation'' emblem.


    These folks were from the New Age Federal Historical Research Team, tasked with investigating why psychic abilities began to emerge and spread a thousand years ago.


    And... they were also on a quest to uncover histories that had been submerged for tens of millions, perhaps even billions of years.


    "I found it! Down below, I discovered a stone buried deep in the ocean, chronicling the ancient times.


    There might be a vast land beneath where Psychics once lived, or possibly the ruins of a family power too immense to imagine!" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    An excited scout, clutching a large stone, burst through the ocean surface and flew up to the psychic-powered airship.


    In a flash, all the scouts aboard the airship converged around the stone, employing their specialized skills to clear away the algae and debris that obscured the carvings.


    After a full day and night...


    They finally saw the true face of the stone, and everyone exchanged glances.


    "Such a strong aura of menace."


    Faintly visible on the stone were the ancient words¡ª "Dexter must die!"

 Chapter 12 - 12: Beast Affinity

    Under the weight of their grudge, the Blackwood clan was grinding harder than ever to boost their psychic powers.


    Ethan was super focused when he noticed on the screen that Nathan had rallied all the Blackwoods, except 3-year-old Olivia, and they were heading towards the Silver Iron Woods.


    He quickly clicked on Nathan''s icon.


    The screen instantly started tracking the family''s movements.


    "The elixirs given to us by our Forebearer are almost gone, but last time I was in the Silver Iron Woods, I stumbled upon some super tempting fruit trees!"


    "This time, I need all my family to pull together!"


    The family was united in their resolve.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was on the edge of his seat in front of the screen, ready to use his skills if the family encountered any danger.


    The Silver Iron Woods were no Mystic Boar Forest; this place was crawling with strange beasts.


    Even though Nathan had been in and out of the woods, he always stuck to the edges and moved alone, which was way easier.


    But this time, it was a full family expedition, and most of them didn''t have much hunting experience.


    Yet, Ethan didn''t stop them.


    If the Blackwoods wanted to grow, they had to face tough challenges. If they just wanted to wait around the altar for his Divine Gift, they might as well be destroyed.


    ...


    Before long, the family entered the Silver Iron Woods.


    And they encountered their first battle.


    A cat demon with a tail blazing like fireworks and a body covered in golden fur!


    Ethan maneuvered the mouse and clicked on this bizarre cat demon, instantly pulling up its info.


    [Flame-tailed Psychic Cat (Common)]


    [Description: It''s small but super fast, allowing it to survive on the outskirts of the Silver Iron Woods. Watch out for its speed, and... its tail]


    Ethan was surprised; after the resurgence of psychic powers, this planet also had its share of strange beasts, even forming large species.


    But Ethan hadn''t seen this type in his school lessons.


    A quick online search turned up zilch.


    But Ethan knew that common class beasts were mostly within the Iron Will range.


    At that moment.


    The Flame-tailed Psychic Cat was frantically trying to escape Nathan''s pursuit.


    "Swoosh!"


    The sound of an arrow slicing through the air rang out, shot by 6-year-old Julian of the Blackwoods, bending his bow!


    "Meow!"


    The Flame-tailed Psychic Cat narrowly dodged the arrow, turning back to hiss and meow, probably throwing some choice words.


    But it couldn''t curse for long!


    In its path of escape, the Blackwoods had already set a trap.


    Luna and Amelia, the dynamic mother-daughter duo, burst out from between two trees, clutching a massive brown net, and swooped down on the fleeing Flame-tailed Psychic Cat. They were smeared with dirt, probably to mask their scent.


    The cat''s tail flames flared up like crazy, but their net seemed prepped for just this scenario¡ªit wasn''t burning up at all.


    Just as the Flame-tailed Psychic Cat started clawing and biting at the net.


    Lucas stepped up, fingers twisted in some mystical gesture, and the net shimmered with a blue glow, trapping the fiery feline for good!


    "Meow, meow, meow!!!"


    When the whole family circled around, looking down at the trapped Flame-tailed Psychic Cat, the critter''s curses got even dirtier.


    [Captured a common beast¡ªFlame-tailed Psychic Cat. It glares at all the Blackwoods in fury, but after Luna feeds and pets it, it shows a barely noticeable hint of comfort.]


    "Planning to make this Flame-tailed Psychic Cat a house pet?"


    Ethan eyed the cat caged up, raising an eyebrow. Clearly, this cat wasn''t even enough for a snack, but keeping it as a pet to guard the house might not be a bad idea.


    However, the game screen didn''t reveal what the family was thinking.


    They were already gearing up for the next hunt.


    In Ethan''s memory, Nathan had encountered plenty of beasts before, but usually solo, and often the beasts got away. Now, with the family working together, things seemed a lot easier for Nathan.


    Before long.


    Ethan watched as the family took on beast after beast in the Silver Iron Woods, mostly smaller ones, as the size of the beasts usually indicated their strength.


    This time they stayed in the Silver Iron Woods for five days.


    [Captured a common beast¡ªShadow Hound. After a beating from Luna, it stuck out its tongue, looking all buttery. But once Luna walked away, it started barking madly again.]


    [Captured a nest of common beasts¡ªMile Pigeons. Luna pulled out a flute, and as the weird tunes played, the Mile Pigeons got all dizzy and confused.]


    [Captured a common beast¡ªAnteater...]


    Huh?Caught that many beasts?


    Ethan scratched his head, watching this unfold. Looks like this family was planning to catch and raise a whole menagerie of beasts, but taming them takes skills, and it all seemed to hinge on Luna.


    "Dang, Luna, you''ve been holding out on me! You secretly learned beast taming?"


    He opened up the profile for Nathan''s wife.


    Ethan suddenly realized.


    [Luna]


    [Level: Foundational Energy, Tier 1]


    [Skills: Qi Gathering, Beast Taming]


    [Trait: Beast Affinity]


    [Can sense the emotions of beasts, making it easier to get close and tame them. Taming success rate increased by 100%!]


    S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 13 - 13: Forebearer, bless us

    While Ethan was scratching his head in confusion, the Blackwood clan was chilling around a campfire in the Silver Iron Woods. Under the moonlight, Nathan whipped out an old Forebearer card, lit some incense, and started paying his respects.


    "May the Forebearer bless this journey," Nathan murmured, feeling the power of the Divine Gift that had guided their cultivation. He vowed silently to master the ''Psychic Arts Manual'' and settle old scores with the Heath clan.


    Luna also took a knee, her heart filled with gratitude. After years of taming beasts, she felt the Forebearer''s guidance in every step.


    [Your family benefits from your blessings, gaining the ''Beast Taming Technique'' from the ''Psychic Arts Manual''.]


    [Spiritual Tribute+100!]


    Ethan was stunned. "The ''Psychic Arts Manual'' can do that?" He quickly pulled up the course materials he studied for a whole year at school on his computer.


    And sure enough, he found a bunch of documents.


    [Best Practices for Cultivating Psychic Medicines], [How to Communicate and Build Trust with Psychic Beasts], [Division of Labor and Flow in Pill Making]...


    The ''Psychic Arts Manual'', that''s like middle school textbooks from a past life.


    But in this world, psychic medicines, psychic beasts, and pills are handled by special talents or monopolized by corporations. The planet''s resources have been heavily developed over the past thousand years, leaving no extra resources for ordinary students to practice.


    Only those with D-level psychic abilities or higher have the privilege to travel to other planets for development and cultivation.


    "This knowledge might be useless to me, but for the Blackwood folks, the ''Psychic Arts Manual'' packs a ton of practical knowledge that could really make a difference."


    Ethan gasped, "I''ve been underestimating this basic textbook all along!"


    Turns out, this cultivation manual, a distillation of a thousand years of psychic ability resurgence history of the Federation, is considered a supreme treasure for newbies in the world of psychic powers!


    ...


    Time flies when you''re gaming.


    While Ethan was still geeking out over how the "Psychic Arts Manual" was a game-changer in the virtual world, the Blackwood crew was already hustling through a thick fog.


    Before long, the game screen flashed a massive tree decked out with fiery red fruits!


    Ethan moved his mouse and boom¡ªinfo on the tree popped up.


    [Beast Blood Fruit Tree]


    [This tree, only sprouting in lands swarmed by mystical beasts, is cultivated using the blood of various creatures. The more potent the beast''s blood, the stronger the resulting fruits, packed with mystical powers. Powerful beasts often hog these trees, slaying others to use their blood for breakthroughs!]


    Typical Ethan, he searched up the tree but nada, no info elsewhere.


    But he could feel the tree''s worth. The stronger the beast blood, the more powerful the fruits¡ªmeaning this tree had no real level cap!


    Just as Ethan was sizing up the value of the Beast Blood Fruit Tree, a giant serpent with glowing red eyes suddenly appeared on the tree in the game, its massive horns crackling with lightning as if warning the Blackwoods to back off or become fertilizer for the tree!


    "Shoot, that''s a peak ordinary beast!"


    "Last time I saw it, it wasn''t this fierce!"


    "Let''s bail, Dad, it''s not messing with us yet."


    [Lightning Python (Ordinary Beast)]


    [A powerhouse among ordinary beasts, soon to transform once it sheds its skin.]


    The Blackwoods were ready to retreat, but Ethan spotted not one, but two Lightning Pythons in the tree.


    "Retreat? As if! We''re not backing down!" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan glanced at his Spiritual Tribute points¡ª180 left.


    "Screw it, I''m burning through all the Spiritual Tribute if I have to, but I''m not giving up on those Beast Blood Fruits!"


    [Using ''Forebearer''s Fury'', consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    In a flash, Ethan''s Forebearer ability card flew out from Nathan''s clothes, charging at the Lightning Python.


    "Forebearer''s powers, activate!" Nathan was pumped. "Yeah, we''ve got the Forebearer''s blessing, don''t fear the snake, let''s take it down!"


    Together, Ethan and the Blackwoods rallied.


    But this time, Ethan realized the limits of ''Forebearer''s Fury''. Against a peak ordinary beast like the Lightning Python, his ability couldn''t one-shot it. These beasts, even at their peak, could hold their own against newbies with Emerging Abilities!


    The Forebearer ability card clashed with the lightning shooting from the python''s horns.


    The Blackwoods tried to help, but Julian''s arrows couldn''t even scratch the python, and the others couldn''t get close enough.


    Before long, Ethan''s once fail-proof ability to instantly take down bandits was overwhelmed by the python''s assault.


    "Dang, it''s that tough?!"


    Ethan gritted his teeth. "Fire two more!"


    He rapidly clicked ''Forebearer''s Fury''.


    The ability card split in two, streaking purple light across the sky as it charged again.


    "Don''t be scared, the Forebearer hasn''t given up on us, and neither will we, his descendants. We''re fighting this to the end!"


    "We''re claiming those mystical fruits, no matter what!"


    Nathan was fierce, rallying Lucas as they charged at the other two smaller snakes.

 Chapter 14 - 14: Beast Blood Fruit tree

    "Let''s battle, my Forebearer cards!"


    Ethan was all fired up in front of his screen, ready to throw down for those Beast Blood Fruits.


    [Forebearer''s Fury]X5!


    Ethan was juggling five Forebearer ability cards in the game, and he got it¡ªthese cards were like having the peak power of Foundational Energy. Clicking on an ability card let him control its path, hit A to attack, and press R for the big move¡ª


    Boom!


    Every time a Forebearer ability card dimmed against the Lightning Python, it meant the energy was almost spent, and it was time to hit R.


    Though this Lightning Python was tough as nails with shocking electric energy,


    it couldn''t withstand the relentless assault of the Forebearer cards.


    When all five cards were spent, the Lightning Python was riddled with wounds.


    "Roar!"


    After the last ability card exploded, the python was totally ticked off, hissing at the Blackwoods, vowing to swallow them whole to soothe its rage.


    "Still acting tough?!!"


    Ethan glared.


    Another ability card popped up right in front of the python. The previously furious python stopped dead in its tracks, intimidated by the card that was only as big as an arm.


    Then, surprisingly human-like, it bowed down to the Forebearer card, its eyes filled with a desperate will to live.


    Meanwhile,


    The Blackwoods weren''t just standing around.


    "Forebearer won, this giant snake''s got nothing on our Forebearer!"


    "Long live Forebearer!"


    As the Blackwoods cheered over the defeated python,


    they had also captured the python''s two offspring in their giant net from earlier hunts.


    [Blackwood descendants felt the might of Forebearer, Spiritual Tribute +30!]


    "Hiss~"


    The python''s eyes were even more defeated.


    At the center of its head, a diamond-shaped crystal filled with lightning arcs emerged.


    [Lightning Python is terrified, begging you to spare its life and its children''s, offering its life core.]


    [Would you like to spend 50 Spiritual Tribute points to contract the Lightning Python as a temple guardian beast?]


    "Hmm?"


    Ethan raised an eyebrow at the message on the screen, this was a first.


    The python''s life core appeared when it touched the card, and it seemed this game still had many features for him to discover!


    "Yes!"


    Ethan clicked ''Yes'' without hesitation, the Spiritual Tribute offered by his clan just enough for him to contract the Lightning Python.


    [You have contracted the Lightning Python as a temple guardian beast; it will guard your temple, protect your ability cards, and convey messages from Forebearer!]


    Above the cards,


    Purple light shone on the python, and a circular icon appeared in the top left corner of the game screen, depicting a python roaring skyward. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Check this out, the Lightning Python''s deets just popped up!"


    Ethan was stoked when he saw one feature in particular¡ª


    [Enter the message you wish to convey¡ª]


    "Can I actually chat with the Blackwood descendants?!!"


    Ethan couldn''t wait to give it a whirl.


    He immediately sent a message: "bring back those Beast Blood Fruit trees and start planting them."


    It seemed like the Lightning Python got the memo too. It paused, then started dragging its wounded body, circling around the Blackwoods at the Forebearer card spot.


    Finally, it stopped in front of a totally baffled Nathan and affectionately nuzzled him with its massive head.


    Then, it began circling around the Beast Blood Fruit tree!


    The Blackwoods exchanged puzzled looks.


    "Forebearer tamed this giant snake."


    "Dad, it seems like it''s trying to tell us something."


    "Long live Forebearer!"


    Finally, 8-year-old Amelia, pulling at Nathan''s sleeve, said, "Dad, is Forebearer telling us to take this tree back home to plant?"


    At her words, the python''s head instantly lit up with lightning, nodding vigorously.


    "It''s nodding, it can communicate with Forebearer!"


    Nathan was thrilled, "Let''s pick the fruits first, and take all the spoils of this trip home. This tree is huge; we''ll need a solid plan!"


    Nice!


    Seeing his descendants catching on to his message, Ethan stood up excitedly.


    He had always been limited to expressing himself roughly through ''Forebearer''s Love.''


    But now, with the Lightning Python,He could do so much more!


    ...


    Next, the Blackwoods returned home with their rich spoils.


    The action section on Ethan''s screen was a blur of loot.


    And in the days that followed,


    The Blackwoods began their wild development!


    [Blackwood Year 16, Luna has completely tamed all the mystical beasts, bringing them to ''Mystic Boar Forest'' for breeding, renaming Mystic Boar Forest to¡ª]


    [Mystical Beast Park]


    Since marrying Nathan, Luna had been quietly having kids and doing farm work, but now, her contributions to Blackwood were on par with Nathan''s!


    She quietly developed her skills in beast taming, and even Ethan was amazed.


    Now, the [Mystical Beast Park], with Luna and Nathan frequently entering the Silver Iron Woods, housed over thirty species.


    But after the chickens, ducks, cows, sheep, and the crops, as well as the herbs in the mystical medicine garden weren''t enough for these mystical beasts, Luna was wary of taming any more.


    Yet, these beasts had become Blackwood''s hidden strength!


    They weren''t just being raised; they were also a big help in the development of Blackwood.


    Iron-hoofed cows plowed the fields, Buzzing birds watered them, Hundred-mile pigeons and Anteater beasts handled pest control, expanding Blackwood''s farmlands and saving the people a lot of effort.


    Tracking hounds hunted with Nathan, along with a swift leopard for catching prey, and with Silver Iron horses pulling carts, Nathan always came back from the Silver Iron Woods with a bounty!


    Now 11, Lucas wasn''t just sitting around.


    He was more into martial arts, with a dozen strong mystical beasts as his sparring partners, his combat skills improving daily.


    Amelia continued her interest in plants.


    Inside the Mystical Beast Park, under the protection of mystical beasts, she started a medicinal herb garden.


    The most prominent plant there was the Beast Blood Fruit tree!


    Amelia built a hut right under the tree, monitoring its growth daily. For some reason, this tree, which had been fruitful in the Silver Iron Woods, hadn''t flowered even after a year.


    She drew blood from the mystical beasts daily, just managing to keep the tree alive.


    Instead, under the tree, various herbs began to sprout and thrive robustly.

 Chapter 15 - 15: Grab it quick!

    Julian, the most talented of the Blackwood bunch and only 7 years old, isn''t into the rough and tumble like his big bro. Instead, after meeting a wandering blacksmith, he''s all about crafting gear.


    Nowadays, in the big yard at Blackwood, they''ve set up a simple forge just for Julian to hammer away.


    By his side, a Flame-tail Psychic Cat snagged from the Silver Iron Woods and a Fire-breathing Rage Lizard use their beastly flames to help Julian temper the iron. There''s also an Ice Psychic Fish kept in water, ready to spit out a chunk of solid ice into the trough to cool down the red-hot iron.


    The whole fam is pitching in to boost Blackwood.


    Only little Olivia, at the tender age of two, enjoys her peaceful days. Already holding a pen and scribbling crooked letters on stones, you can hear Olivia''s milky voice, slightly muffled, reading aloud every morning.


    [Blackwood Year 17, Nathan breaks through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy!]


    [After over a decade of hunting, during one hunt, Nathan felt as if he merged with the forest environment. Trait gained: Forest Ranger!]


    [Trait: Forest Ranger] S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Wood Psychic Constitution slightly enhanced in the forest. Years of hunting experience make him more familiar with the forest, doubling his combat effectiveness there!]


    Even though Nathan''s talents were still lacking after being enhanced by the Psychic Power Pills, after consuming five Beast Blood Fruits and digesting them over two years, he began to break through!


    Especially with three traits, it seems to compensate for Nathan''s lack of innate talent.


    And it''s not just him.


    This year, everyone in Blackwood has leveled up!


    Aside from young Olivia, who''s already writing quite a bit and reading clearly, everyone in Blackwood has advanced a minor realm.


    And their stash of Beast Blood Fruits, even after giving twenty to the Lightning Python, still has plenty left!


    "Things are looking good."


    Ethan has been watching the progress of the Blackwood folks on his screen, a fatherly smile on his face.


    He occasionally deals with bandits and robbers who come to Blackwood during the drought years, encountering only two psychic power cultivators in two years, and using [Forebearer''s Wrath] just once.


    "Wonder when the Lightning Python will wake up."


    The family shrine they built for him has become the best structure in the residence, with the high cards beneath which the Lightning Python is sleeping, its skin splitting as it undergoes a breakthrough!


    This period also prevents Ethan from sending messages to his family.


    Of course, Ethan could wake the Lightning Python, but he''s unsure if disturbing its molting would cause any adverse effects.


    [Blackwood Year 18, after a decade-long drought, the fields around Blackwood remain lush, and Mystic Boar Forest is gradually reviving. More and more people recognize this as a land of prosperity, and despite the terrifying rumors that no bandit who enters Blackwood survives, a large number of bandits have set their sights on this wealthy area!]


    "Dad, someone''s broken into the Psychic Beast Park!"


    In the screen, Amelia, stationed at the Psychic Medicine Garden, rushes home with the psychic beasts, "They started eating everything they saw in the garden, I''ve harvested all the psychic medicine, and they''re heading our way!"


    The Blackwood crew was all gathered up.


    A savvy Homing Pigeon landed on Luna''s shoulder, squawking right into her ear.


    Luna turned to her fam with a grim look, "We got a Psychic in the mix, tougher than any of those troublemakers who''ve messed with us before."


    "Hmph! Let ''em come, they won''t know what hit ''em!"


    Nathan stepped up, standing at the gate with a pair of massive cleavers, looking like a one-man army.


    Behind him, the Blackwood folks were pumped, ready for a fight, with all sorts of bizarre beasts prowling around, keeping an eye out for any intruders.


    A strange wind whipped through the compound, kicking up dust but not even close to shaking off the battle spirit that Blackwood had built up over the years.


    The cards in the Blackwood family shrine were shining bright.


    Nathan raised his cleavers high.


    "May the Forebearer bless us Blackwoods¡ª"


    "To victory in every battle!"


    "Momma mia? This many folks?!!"


    Ethan, chilling in front of the screen, hadn''t been sweating this invasion gig too much. After all, it was just another day, another bunch of wild refugees driven mad by famine¡ªno biggie.


    But this time, Ethan''s face went pale.


    The Blackwood compound was lit up with tons of red dots on the screen¡ªlike, thousands of people!


    Last time, facing a beast nearly at the Emerging Ability stage had Ethan all fired up, but now? Pure jitters, man.


    Thousands of people scattered all over the map.


    The power of his Forebearer cards? Not looking so mighty now. If he had to manage each Forebearer move himself, he''d be busy till Christmas!


    "Even for refugees, isn''t this a bit much?"


    Seeing these folks armed with pitchforks and clubs, with that bloodthirsty look, Ethan''s scalp was tingling.


    He took a deep breath, eyeing the ready and scattered Blackwood kin, his brow furrowed, "It''s all on you guys now."


    What comforted Ethan was this:


    The Blackwoods weren''t scared. They sprang into action at the first chance!


    "Forebearer, as long as one Blackwood stands, no one steps foot in our shrine!"


    Ethan''s ability was already hovering over the shrine.


    Nathan knelt down, feeling the Forebearer''s blessing, banged his head three times against the cards, then stood with his blades outside the Blackwood yard!


    "Sssssss¡ª"


    Beyond Blackwood, there was an open field, and further out, the current beast park!


    As the wind rustled the grass and shook the trees, one by one, ragged refugees sprinted from the beast park.


    These starving refugees seemed blind to Nathan.


    Their eyes were all fixed behind him, where lush fields full of crops stretched out, next to a large fenced area teeming with plump livestock!


    In the center, a little girl with twin ponytails sat on a big rock, book in hand, her voice ringing clear:


    "I have fields aplenty, each blade of grass hard-earned."


    "When foes invade our soil, now only wolves and tigers remain."


    "Why this hardship... why?"


    A cool breeze blew, and Olivia''s crisp little voice cut through the moment''s silence.


    But her innocent tone couldn''t stir any mercy in these crazed refugees.


    "Food, it''s food!"


    "Don''t anyone dare fight me for it, I wanna eat meat, eat meat!"


    "They''ve only got one adult and a kid, all this is ours, no grabbing!"


    Madness, total madness!


    Even starving, the refugees burst forth with incredible speed towards the Blackwood compound.


    But what they met wasn''t food.


    It was¡ª


    "Whoosh!"


    A fierce wind blew as Nathan stepped forward, his twin cleavers swinging out, sending out two slashes of air that cut the leading refugees in half!


    Blood and gore flew!


    At that moment, the charging refugees regained some sense. Nathan''s air slashes carved a wide gash in the ground, like a chasm, stopping the refugees in their tracks!


    Nathan roared,


    "This is my home! You want food, I can give it, but cross this line, and you''re done for!"


    As Nathan''s words fell,


    The loyal Ironwood horse, a longtime companion, burst from the house, pulling a cart loaded with prepared food.


    The Ironwood horse delivered the food just outside the beast park, then quickly bit through the ropes and ran to Nathan''s side.


    "It''s food, thank goodness, finally something to eat."


    "Thanks for the big boss''s generosity!"


    "Grab it quick!"

 Chapter 16 - 16: Forebearers Fury

    Seeing these refugees rush out from the beast park and start grabbing food, Ethan frowned a bit.


    Nathan''s move of giving a stick then a carrot was pretty slick.


    After getting spooked, these refugees got what they wanted and probably wouldn''t dare to make a move again.


    But...


    In the midst of pondering.


    In the game, as the refugees were looting the food, suddenly a group of people appeared in the psychic garden, the Psychics!


    "What are you doing?"


    "We''re so many here, after we eat this meal, what about the next one?!!"


    "Look at their fields, then look at their livestock, if we ration it, it could last a month! And their house might have loads of food stashed, taking over their land, we could even survive a year!"


    Human greed knows no bounds!


    With these words from the Psychic, most of the looting refugees stopped their actions, drooling over the Blackwood''s fields and livestock.


    "Yeah, the big guy''s right!" S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If he can give us this cart, he might have ten more hidden away."


    "You have so much food, why only give us this little? Why not give us all the livestock?!!"


    The refugees angrily questioned Nathan.


    At this moment, Nathan gripped his machetes tighter.


    Ethan, who was drinking water, almost crushed his cup!


    "Man, seriously?!"


    He slammed the water cup down.


    [Consuming 20 points of Spiritual Tribute, using ''Forebearer''s Fury''!]


    In a flash.


    The Forebearer cards burst into light, charging towards the group of Psychics!


    He realized that these refugees coming to Blackwood must have something fishy going on, related to these Psychics!


    Otherwise, why would Psychics in a disaster year wade into this mess?


    Through the crowd of refugees.


    The Forebearer cards charged at the Psychics, causing the instigating Psychic''s face to change dramatically, "What is this bizarre psychic equipment?"


    But before he could finish.


    "Thump!"


    The cards had pierced through his chest, blood spurted like a fountain, also signaling the refugees to charge towards Blackwood!


    A massive wave of refugees rushed towards Blackwood.


    "Forebearer''s divine might!"


    Seeing the Forebearer enraged, Nathan hesitated no more.


    He closed his eyes and bowed his head, as if feeling the rhythm of the ground, and when the refugees got close, he suddenly looked up, his true energy stirred up the dust around, his twin blades swung, cutting through the air, once again chopping the advancing refugees at the waist.


    He then charged into the battlefield with his blades, showing no mercy, and roared to the sky.


    "I gave you a chance, you forced my Forebearer''s hand!"


    "Wife, kids, today we of the Blackwood clan, must show no mercy."


    "Strike!"


    Nathan hopped on his horse, and wherever he went, nobody was left standing.


    As his words echoed.


    All around the Blackwood settlement, there was a stir.


    Those refugees, already freaked out by Nathan''s fierce fighting, started looking around in panic.


    "Monsters... beasts!"


    "Help, this kid''s gone nuts!"


    "Run for it!"


    These folks were just here to snatch up food, aiming to take over this rich land, but they had no clue...


    Nathan was slashing wildly, the Forebearer cards glowing purple as it chased down those Psychics.


    Other Blackwood folks started showing up on the battlefield from the outskirts!


    Lucas appeared right behind the refugees.


    Sword in hand, he charged, followed by his trained beasts, moving like a graceful dancer through the crowd, easily claiming lives, blood splattering on him without a hint of fear, his eyes blazing with madness!


    "Ah."


    To the west, a giant eagle flew by, Amelia riding atop, looking down at the carnage below, she sighed deeply.


    Then slowly opened the bundle on the eagle''s back, black dust scattering over the crowd, landing on the refugees.


    Soon after, the eagle dumped a black liquid from a bamboo tube it carried.


    Before long.


    These refugees started scratching their reddened skin in discomfort, those touched by the black liquid even had smoke rising from their skin!


    Amelia, having cultivated psychic medicines for years, knew their properties better than anyone at Blackwood!


    And to the east.


    Luna and her son Julian also appeared, surrounded by a host of beasts, mercilessly charging into the crowd.


    This seemingly ordinary farmwoman had a fierceness rare among women.


    Any refugee missed by the beast charge would face her ruthless machete!


    Beside her, young Julian, though still a kid, was no slouch in combat.


    His fire lizard struggled to pull a cart filled with bows and arrows. Every time Julian fired an arrow, the flame-tailed psychic cat would bring him another.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!"


    An arrow every three seconds, Julian, the little blacksmith with no small amount of strength, was like a mobile artillery!


    These refugees didn''t realize.


    Today''s Blackwood had the strength to protect their clan and a fierce resolve!


    One by one, the crazed refugees began to regain their senses, seeing the bodies and blood all around, they stopped in their tracks, kneeling and begging for mercy.


    "Don''t kill me, I was wrong!"


    "Help, I won''t dare again, please spare me!"


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    Julian''s arrow struck down a kneeling refugee.


    "So, the family I''ve raised has become this strong."


    At this moment, Ethan, watching the screen as he controlled the cards to kill twelve Psychics, finally relaxed his tense heart.


    He smiled, a family''s strength wasn''t just in their power, but also in their strong hearts.


    Ethan was glad there were no overly sympathetic saints in Blackwood; they were decisive and efficient!


    Just then.


    "Boom!"


    Ethan frowned as his cards was suddenly shattered by a flying sword.


    Then a black-clad Psychic emerged from the psychic medicine garden, the flying sword that shattered the cards floating beside him!


    "Never thought there''d be a family like yours outside of Forest Town, hahaha!"


    Ethan just frowned.


    [Forebearer''s Fury]X10!

 Chapter 17 - 17: Take down this jerk

    "Oh snap, it''s a top-tier Emerging Ability master!"


    Nathan blurted out, freezing mid-action.


    Feeling the power of this Psychic, the Blackwood crew quickly rallied to Nathan''s side.


    "Oh? What''s this funky ability gear? Splits into ten? Looks kinda magical, pretty cool."


    The Emerging Ability Psychic eyed the ten cards in front of Blackwood with interest.


    "Who are you, dude? Why you messing with my Blackwood?!"


    Nathan, rough around the edges but sharp-minded, could tell this refugee invasion had something to do with the Psychic before him.


    But with the Forebearer''s cards in front, he felt somewhat reassured.


    "Yo, your family''s kinda interesting."


    The Psychic raised an eyebrow, "Refugees from Forest Town, you tell me who I am?"


    "Heath?!?!"


    Nathan gritted his teeth, the only person he could think of was Dexter, with whom he had beef.


    "Smart guy, got it in one."


    The Psychic grinned, not taking the Blackwood folks seriously. In fact, he hadn''t moved yet, just wanted to see what Blackwood had up their sleeve.


    Now it seemed to him that Blackwood was just a big family with some basic beast power, nothing scary, "Coming out this time, my grandson told me there''s a family in these deep woods that killed his Foundational Energy level eight guys. I didn''t believe it at first, but now, looks like it was you guys."


    "Dexter." Nathan''s face darkened, "I''ve never crossed you Heaths, even got seriously hurt by your Heath''s Dexter, why you gotta press us like this?"


    "Pressing you? That''s an overstatement."


    The Psychic dusted off his clothes, looking disdainfully at the Blackwood folks, "With you guys, really not worth my attention. I was just checking your background, curious how a slave like you became a Foundational Energy level seven master in less than twenty years. And your kids, sheesh, more ambitious than mine."


    "Look at your beasts, could fetch a pretty penny. This is really interesting, my useless grandson finally did something that pleases me."


    The Psychic''s mocking tone suddenly turned cold.


    "Now, tell me, what secrets are you hiding? Hand over your treasures, and I might spare your lives!"


    "And this junk cards of yours, you don''t think this useless ability gear can protect you, do you?"


    The Blackwood folks were silent, just glancing at the Forebearer''s cards.


    They had a secret, a mysterious Forebearer!


    But then...


    "I curse your Forebearer''s eighteen generations!"


    Nathan''s eyes blazed red as he suddenly snatched a longbow from Julian, strung it, and poured all his psychic energy into the arrow, the metal bow even creaking with internal stress!


    He didn''t know how the Forebearer existed.


    Nor the shocking secrets of the Forebearer''s cards.


    All he knew was, as a descendant of Blackwood, even in death, he wouldn''t reveal a shred of the Forebearer''s secrets, and he would fight for the Forebearer''s honor!!!


    "Whoosh!"


    The qi-infused arrow whistled violently through the air.


    Symbolizing the resolve of the Blackwood folks!


    As Nathan''s arrow flew, all of Blackwood tightened their grip on their weapons, Lucas even unleashed a sword qi strike.


    But...


    To no avail!


    Nathan''s arrow, powered by nearly all his psychic energy, weakly caught in the hands of Heath''s Elder Psychic, and Lucas''s sword energy couldn''t even break through the opponent''s protective aura!


    "I think it''d be wise for y''all to hand over everything, secrets included."


    Heath''s Elder Psychic looked down on Nathan as he drew his bow again, toying with him like a cat with a mouse, casually blocking the attacks and advancing towards the Blackwood folks.


    As long as these chumps were scared enough, he wasn''t worried about getting the info he wanted!


    ...


    "Not bad, the folks I trained."


    Watching the game, seeing the descendants of Blackwood still standing fearless against an Emerging Ability master, even when drained of all their psychic energy, Ethan felt oddly proud. For a moment, he didn''t see them as just characters in a game, but as real, genuine clan members.


    He even wished these Blackwood folks were his real-life kin.


    Then.


    His gaze fixed on Heath''s Elder Psychic, and he smirked, "Feeling cocky, huh?"


    The ten cards floating in front of the Blackwood folks finally moved!


    The first one flew towards Heath''s Elder Psychic, who was just about to block.


    Press R, explode! S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Not good!"


    This time, Heath''s Elder Psychic finally staggered back, hastily using his psychic energy to block. He hadn''t expected these weird cards to have such a trick up their sleeve!


    "Forebearer''s showing off now!"


    Seeing the cards push Heath''s Elder Psychic back, the Blackwood folks'' eyes lit up, their spirits renewed.

 Chapter 18 - 18: Twisted skin

    "Got that kind of power, huh?"


    Heath''s Elder Psychic frowned at another moving cards, snorted coldly, "I want to see what this useless thing can really do to me!"


    This time, Heath''s Elder Psychic used a flying sword to strike!


    "Boom!"


    Ethan, controlling the cards, made them explode again, blasting the flying sword away.


    Then quickly maneuvered two more cards towards Heath''s Elder Psychic, and then, press R!


    "Let''s see how cocky you really are!"


    In the midst of explosions, Heath''s Elder Psychic retreated again!


    A strand of hair got messed up, blocking Heath''s Elder Psychic''s vision, and he grimaced as he brushed it aside, "Only six left, what will you do after they''re gone?"


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Ethan, in front of the screen, paid no mind to the small words popping above Heath''s Elder Psychic''s head.


    He kept controlling the cards, pressing R!


    Until the last time, this cards finally blasted open Heath''s Elder Psychic''s psychic energy, sending him flying back!


    Blood trickled from the corner of Heath''s Elder Psychic''s mouth, his clothes in disarray.


    But his face was filled with a mocking smile, "Hahaha, no more, your weird ability gear is gone..."


    But the next moment, his laughter stopped abruptly.


    [Consume 20 points of Spiritual Tribute, use ''Forebearer''s Fury''!]


    Another cards suddenly appeared in front of the Blackwood folks!


    "How come there''s more? Isn''t this over yet?!! I..." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Heath''s Elder Psychic''s mouth twitched, he stared at the plaque, caught in a dilemma!


    He had just boasted, if he retreated now, he''d probably blush even in his dreams. But if he didn''t retreat... now that he''d been blasted nine times, only half his psychic energy remained, who knew how much more this thing had???


    Ethan whipped out this card not to smack down old man Heath, but to shield the Blackwood descendants.


    Because...


    In the Blackwood ancestral hall, under the Forebearer card, the Thunder Python finally opened its eyes!


    It got even bigger, hogging half the hall, its once dark skin fading to a deep purple with slick, mysterious patterns that looked pretty rad!


    Its horns, post-shedding, bent forward like it was ready to charge.


    "Roar!"


    Waking up, the Thunder Python let out a roar to the sky, not the usual hiss but a beastly bellow!


    Its lightning spread across the floor, reaching ten meters out, the purple arcs so clear even the folks outside the hall could see!


    "What in the world?!"


    If Ethan''s Forebearer card just spooked old Heath a bit.


    Now.


    He was downright terrified!


    He stared in horror towards the Blackwood hall, feeling a crushing presence just from its aura!


    "Run!"


    As cocky as he was coming in, that''s how ragged Heath looked now.


    He didn''t dare take another peek at Blackwood, just bolted towards the mutant garden!


    Didn''t even look back.


    But...


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The sound of trees crashing followed him, getting louder and closer.


    Until he reached the beast-blood fruit tree.


    He could smell a foul stench, frozen in fear, he looked down to see purple lightning at his feet, but it didn''t strike.


    Of course, the arc sent a clear message¡ªif he moved, he was a goner!


    His head stiff, he swallowed hard and turned around.


    Then.


    He was overshadowed, smooth scales filled his vision.


    "What is this thing?!"


    Heath''s head shook slightly, and it seemed to take an eternity for him to look up and see what was chasing him.


    A snake.


    A nearly twenty-meter-long, dark purple python!


    On its head stood the card that had just mocked him, now terrifying him!


    Meanwhile.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, was grinding his teeth staring at Heath, who looked like a mouse in front of the Thunder Python!


    He slowly clicked on the Thunder Python''s image.


    Then typed¡ª


    Finish him, make it painful!


    In a flash, the Thunder Python coiled around Heath, zapping him slowly, squeezing tighter!


    "Ah!"


    Gotta say, Heath had some guts, didn''t beg even while running, but when caught...


    "Mercy, mighty mutant beast!"


    "..."


    Ethan glared at Heath, now vein-popping terrified, "Keep up your arrogance, go on!"


    He had been waiting for the Thunder Python to wake up!


    No.


    Now it should be called¡ª


    The Purple Thunder Serpent!


    [Purple Thunder Serpent (Mutant Beast)]


    [Description: Possesses immense strength and innate thunder fire, waiting for its next transformation!]


    After its breakthrough, unlike humans, the Purple Thunder Serpent evolved, reaching the peak of mutant beasts!


    Under its grip, Heath''s bones soon cracked, his blood bursting from his veins, trickling down the smooth skin of the Purple Thunder Serpent, dripping under the beast-blood fruit tree.


    Soon, the once arrogant Heath was nothing but a twisted skin.


    Ethan finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Clicked the Purple Thunder Serpent''s icon again, typed¡ª


    Send his skin to Heath...

 Chapter 19 - 19: Psychic Breath Sword

    "Your clan successfully stopped the refugees from invading."


    "Scored a Spiritual Tribute +300!"


    With the old Heath ancestor gone, the invasion was totally squashed.


    Nope.


    Or should I say, it''s just kicking off!


    In the Blackwood family hall, all the Blackwood descendants gathered, except for Lucas who was outside dealing with the surviving refugees. These folks hadn''t joined the mob storming the Blackwood base, and it seemed like Nathan had some other plans for them.


    At this moment.


    A still-living Psychic was tied up tight, facing the Blackwood crowd and a massive Purple Thunder Serpent, shivering in fear!


    "Useless descendants, making the Forebearer step in himself, please don''t blame us, Forebearer!"


    Nathan, with his family, knelt before the Forebearer''s shrine.


    Ethan, watching from his screen, why would he blame the Blackwoods?


    Their performance this time really pleased Ethan, though he still frowned, "Better check on Heath first, they''ve been a nuisance twice now."


    He clicked on the Purple Thunder Serpent''s icon and typed¡ª


    "Check on Heath."


    In a flash, the temple guardian beast received Ethan''s message, human-like, it bowed towards Ethan''s shrine before addressing the Blackwoods.


    "Sss¡ªhiss¡ª"


    Compared to its previous roars, the serpent now whispered in a low hiss.


    "???"


    Hearing the sound in the game, Ethan scratched his head, weirdly reminded of Voldemort talking to snakes in "Harry Potter," "Am I Voldemort myself?"


    "Is the Forebearer delivering a warning?"


    Nathan immediately understood that the temple guardian beast, the Purple Thunder Serpent, was conveying Ethan''s instructions!


    Luna, at least, was a beast tamer.


    Just by closing her eyes and reflecting for a moment, she clearly understood the message from the serpent, "Forebearer says, let''s handle the Heath trouble!"


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, your children will handle it properly!"


    Nathan got it right away.


    Don''t be fooled by Nathan''s brawny appearance; he''s actually sharp as a tack, quickly starting to interrogate the captured Psychic for precise information.


    This Psychic was a pushover, spilling everything he knew without Nathan even having to press hard.


    Listening to the Psychic''s account.


    Ethan began to ponder.


    Turns out, during the decade-long drought, the Psychic of Forest Town had been helping with relief. But this time, old ancestor Heath deliberately withheld porridge from the starving refugees, luring them to test the Blackwoods, leading to this invasion.


    And Heath, being one of the four major families of Forest, had four Forebearers, all reclusive masters of Emerging Ability, with deep roots.


    "Sir, seeking revenge on Heath is impossible!"


    The Psychic, pale-faced, "The four major families of Forest Town are the foundation of the town. Although they occasionally have minor disputes, they always cooperate to prevent outsiders from seizing their resources. Even the town mayor won''t allow chaos in Forest Town. If you mess with Heath, the mayor will brand you as rebels!"


    "Sss¡ªhiss¡ª"


    The massive head of the Purple Thunder Serpent suddenly appeared in front of the Psychic, nearly scaring him out of his wits, "Don''t... don''t eat me, I''ve told you everything, I can even offer you advice. I..."


    "I''ve turned over a new leaf!"


    Luna knew that the temple guardian beast wasn''t just intimidating the Psychic. She smiled and stepped forward, "Don''t be scared, our Forebearer just wants to know if Forest Town will seek revenge for us killing old ancestor Heath."


    "No, they won''t!"


    The Psychic quickly said, "With old ancestor Heath dead, they wouldn''t dare send anyone. The other three families are probably gloating, they won''t stir up trouble, but they won''t let you into the city to kill either. Heath wouldn''t dare, but be careful, they might not storm in, but without this great serpent''s protection, they''ll move against you!"


    Hearing this, everyone looked solemn.


    ...


    "Man, they totally blocked the door."


    Ethan grumbled a bit after getting the lowdown on the Blackwood situation. He cranked up the game''s time flow and told the Blackwood folks to be extra cautious, advising them to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.


    Right after that.


    Ethan started checking out the loot from this round. They wiped out thirteen Psychics this time.


    Usually, the Blackwood crew didn''t have much in the way of high-level psychic gear, but this time, they hit the jackpot with gear scattered everywhere!


    "Got loot, Heath''s old man skin."


    "Got loot, Psychic Breath Sword (psychic gear)"


    "Got loot, Black Storage Ring (psychic gear)" S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Got loot..."


    "Big thanks to Heath for the startup funds for the family business!"


    Ethan was all smiles watching the game''s progress.


    The family had seriously upgraded their arsenal!


    Before, Nathan was just swinging around a couple of big machetes, but now this dude was sporting a bizarre ancient weapon with spear heads on both ends, striding down the path to the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Silver Ring Yin Hand Double-Headed Snake (mid-grade psychic gear)"


    "Can split in two, connected by a chain. Extracted daily from the mouths of a hundred silver ring snakes, soaked in iron imbued with psychic powers for forty-nine days. From then on, the psychic gear can generate silver ring snake venom, stored on the double spears. Psychic power enters the spears, calling on the snake''s psychic powers!"


    Ethan was a bit jealous looking at Nathan''s psychic gear.


    This type of psychic gear was clearly made using ancient techniques, something pretty rare in Ethan''s world nowadays, where most people used psychic handguns, psychic bombs, psychic mechs... Over the millennia, technology and cultivating psychic powers had slowly merged.


    And Lucas was using the ''Psychic Breath Sword'' he got from old man Heath.


    "Psychic Breath Sword (high-grade psychic gear)"


    "Forged from high-grade psychic breath stones, can harness the psychic powers of heaven and earth into the sword for personal use. This sword possesses psychic powers, forming its own sword-flying technique, usable even by those who haven''t learned the technique, killing invisibly."

 Chapter 20 - 20: The family head has fled

    Ethan had seen what this sword could do.


    With a whoosh, it shattered his cards...


    The other Blackwoods also had psychic gear, but unlike Nathan and Lucas, who loved the thrill of battle, the others had different tasks to attend to.


    Time flew by.


    The Blackwoods didn''t recklessly head to Forest Town looking for trouble. Although Forest Town occasionally sent folks to harass them, they never got close to the Blackwood base without getting decapitated.


    "Blackwood Year 19."


    "Those who invaded the Blackwood base that year, half survived, gifted by Blackwood, they cultivated fields outside Blackwood, gradually forming a village..."


    Nathan had asked him about this.


    It was also Ethan''s idea to spare these people. Killing is always the last resort.


    Blackwood had enough psychic beasts that could summon water with their talents to irrigate the fields, and their dung was the best fertilizer!


    In this year of disaster, the refugees sheltered by Blackwood could farm, raise chickens and ducks, and after paying taxes, they could also save the Blackwood people some farming time. Soon, the food they produced could sustain the family''s psychic beasts!


    Plus...


    These refugees were also a solid workforce.


    By now, outside the Blackwood base, large areas of fertile land had been cultivated. Between the fields, livestock could be seen running joyfully, and the once emaciated refugees were gradually putting on weight, smiles on everyone''s faces.


    "Not only that".


    After scoring a workforce of nearly 500, Blackwood''s base got a major facelift.


    Their old stone-built yard has been swapped out for buildings with blue bricks and white tiles, sprawling over a massive area and looking pretty majestic. You might catch a glimpse of some psychic beasts hopping on the walls or soaring above.


    Even so, villagers kept grinding stones, shaping them up, and laying them down outside Blackwood!


    The once lonely Blackwood.


    Now, it''s kinda shaping up like a big family dynasty, with the area around Blackwood buzzing with activity.


    "Forebearer, check this out, the big tree I planted in the psychic beast garden is blooming!"


    While admiring the evolving Blackwood, a joyful voice from the ancestral hall snapped Ethan out of his thoughts.


    There was Amelia, bouncing into the ancestral hall.


    "Beast Blood Fruit Tree? Is it finally showing some action?!!"


    Ethan was thrilled.


    He quickly clicked on Amelia''s avatar, and the Forebearer''s view followed her perspective to the psychic medicine garden!


    Sure enough.


    The towering Beast Blood Fruit Tree was sprouting bright red flowers!


    "Sweet!"


    After bringing back the Beast Blood Fruit Tree, there had been no movement, and Ethan was worried it might have been a bust, but now he finally saw hope!


    [Beast Blood Fruit Tree]


    [Status: After being watered with the blood of hundreds of human corpses and nourished with Psychic blood, it has absorbed enough nutrients, and the fruits this year will be even more vibrant!]


    "??????"


    After clicking on the Beast Blood Fruit Tree and seeing the status, Ethan was stunned, then looked under the big tree at Amelia, who seemed innocent and was gently touching the fruits with a tender face, "Girl, your killing intent is way too strong, kinda freaky."


    Since that invasion incident, he hadn''t paid much attention to how the Blackwood folks handled corpses.


    Now he got it!


    Hundreds of bodies, all bled by this young lady to nourish the Beast Blood Fruit Tree!


    Ethan couldn''t even think about doing such a thing.


    If he dared to do this in reality, he''d be globally condemned the next day...


    "Hmm... but the results are good."


    Ethan immediately dropped a skill, giving Amelia a shot of ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    "Thanks for the Forebearer''s reward!"


    Feeling the warmth on her body, Amelia instantly knew that the mysterious Forebearer was watching over her, and a broad smile appeared on her face, "Amelia will definitely grow the Beast Blood Fruit Tree bigger... no, Amelia will grow many, many Beast Blood Fruit Trees!" sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Just don''t do anything too heartless for the sake of growing trees... otherwise, us Blackwoods with our little arms and legs, being seen as demon-possessed psychics, really won''t cover it."


    Ethan wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    Checking the game world''s time, the next decade was almost upon them, he raised an eyebrow, "Granny Quinn hasn''t come knocking yet? Looks like I need to check if my stuff is ready."


    He had already prepared for this Divine Gift!


    Ethan was just getting up when his antique phone rang.


    Call¡ªKieran Law Firm.


    "My family''s business, Uncle Kieran got it done so fast?" Ethan''s eyes lit up, only with the family continuously giving him pocket money could he comfortably play games!


    He answered the call.


    Just about to speak, Ethan was completely stunned.


    "Ethan, I''m afraid I really can''t help this time, your new family head, flew off in a spaceship overnight with all of Blackwood..."


    Ethan was dumbfounded.


    It took him a long while to mutter as if in a dream.


    "Dang, I haven''t even boarded the spaceship yet!"

 Chapter 21 - 21: Forebearer

    "Chill for a sec, I kinda sorted things out for you."


    "Listen, there''s a rumor going around that your family head was blown to bits by a galaxy-destroying cannon in The Radiant Imperial Starfield. I don''t believe it. That guy''s a slick operator, a top-tier big shot. No way he went down that easy. He probably faked his own death."


    "Then, your top brass bolted, claiming revenge or something, but maybe they just cut and run early."


    "Next, your new boss cut off your money. It wasn''t intentional. He was too busy moving assets around and didn''t think about your funds. "


    "Even if he''s taken out, your group will survive. But don''t underestimate him; he took his entire team and all the assets and left quietly without anyone noticing."


    "So, bottom line, your Blackwoods are moving wealth, and you... congrats, you got ghosted by your own fam and turned into a broke joke."


    "Congrats my foot, huh?!"


    "Thanks a bunch, Kieran." Ethan forced a grin.


    "No biggie. Oh, and if you''re strapped for Energy Stones and thinking of selling your villa, hit me up first."


    "Beep beep."


    Ethan was shook!


    He thought today Kieran would send his law firm''s sharks to circle Blackwood, fight a flashy lawsuit.


    Maybe even take out the clueless new head and double his pocket money.


    But who knew it''d spiral into this mess?


    "What the heck??"


    Ethan still couldn''t grasp it, tearfully staring at his once grand home, now truly cut off from cash. In this vast universe, finding his family seemed next to impossible... S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Overnight, he turned into a total brokester, his only asset being everything inside this villa.


    "Knock knock."


    Just then, the door rang. Ethan, face all gloomy, opened up, and not even Lisa''s smile could thaw his numb heart, felt kinda hollow instead.


    Darn new head, bolted and forgot him!


    "Commander, there''s a letter for you at home," Lisa said, noticing Ethan''s mood, and handed him an envelope.


    Ethan tore it open.


    Sender, Mark, that darn new head!


    "Ethan, remember when you beat me up as a kid, said I''d never make a good head, better you than me. I think you had a point. Now you''re the last of the Blackwood blood on Earth, I''m making you the head of the Blackwoods. Please, make our family proud!"


    "Mark, you better hope I never see you again in my life!"


    Definitely premeditated, had to be!


    Ethan took a deep breath, no longer dwelling on it, frowned at Lisa who was still clueless, "What do we do if I go broke, us two?"


    Lisa furrowed her brows, pondered seriously for a while.


    "Commander, we could do this, there are 108 households in Psychic Gear, we could crash one house a day for a meal, scrounge some Energy Stones to get by. Won''t be too often, won''t be too annoying."


    "You''ve got lots of classmates, could crash at their places too."


    As she spoke, her Storage Ring flashed, waving a book in front of Ethan, "Worst comes to worst, I''ve got this secret manual here."


    [Thief''s Secret Techniques]


    Hmm, thoughtful.


    Ethan managed a strained smile, left the house, and headed to Granny Quinn''s place.


    "Knock, knock, knock!"


    The door echoed as Ethan faced it.


    This time around, Granny Quinn wasn''t the warm cookie she was last time. She eyed Ethan like she wanted to explode but held it back, "Ethan, here for your stuff? It ain''t ready yet."


    Ethan wasn''t in the mood for chit-chat with the old bird, so he just reached out his hand.


    "Come on, everyone knows everyone around here. Granny Quinn''s skills are legendary, how could it not be ready?" Ethan grinned, "Plus, the gatekeeper Mr. John has been raving about your craftsmanship."


    "You..."


    Granny Quinn''s face turned beet red for a moment, her cane thumping the ground hard, "Don''t think just because you''ve got Mr. John on your side, you can push me around!"


    "That''s a bit much, not trying to threaten, just being cautious. You know I''m careful, Granny, just covering my bases."


    Ethan kept up his smile, though it couldn''t look faker.


    "Hmph!"


    With that, Granny Quinn wasn''t up for more talk. She tossed Ethan a ring and scoffed, "Kid, you used to have the Blackwoods backing you, and that''s why folks in Psychic Gear respected you. But I''ve heard..."


    She paused, watching Ethan turn to leave, and sneered, "Without the Blackwoods, you''re nothing! Remember, the world''s a cold place. When Psychic Gear kicks you out, no one will give you the time of day. Let''s see what you do then!"


    "Bang!"


    Granny Quinn''s door slammed shut.


    Ethan''s face darkened; he knew he''d completely burned bridges with Granny Quinn. No, maybe it was doomed when he handed over that mysterious spear to her.


    Everyone in Psychic Gear knew Granny Quinn''s tech skills were insane, but she was no saint.


    The reason Ethan had talked so long with Granny Quinn was to feel out whether she''d swap his mysterious spear, and well... it didn''t go great, so he had to bring in gatekeeper Mr. John!


    "Dang, no home and now I''ve ticked off a tough old lady!"


    He cursed under his breath.


    Ethan suddenly looked up at the sky, rubbed his face, "Granny Quinn''s right, without the Blackwoods, I''m nothing. But now..."


    "It''s time to hustle!"


    He remembered the struggles of the Blackwood folks in the games.


    He was a Forebearer.


    How could he let his people down?


    "Starting today, I''m gonna be a chief who hustles!"

 Chapter 22 - 22: War AI Bionic Robot

    "Commander, you got knocked around? You good?"


    At the swanky Villa No. 1, Lisa caught sight of Ethan bouncing back home, all pumped up, and couldn''t help but get a bit jittery.


    Ethan was all smiles, "What do you take me for? So what if I''m out of a house and pocket money? Do I look like the kind of dude who just throws in the towel when things get tough?"


    Lisa pondered for a long while before hesitantly replying, "No."


    "..."


    Done with the sad talk, Ethan commanded, "Hit up No. 104, tell Andrew to meet me in two hours."


    Then he hustled back to his room.


    Ethan knew, with Blackwood gone, his only backup was the psychic powers family simulator, his golden ticket!


    Right then, Ethan was all in.


    On his computer, Blackwood''s development was booming, the villagers were gearing up, even spawning a couple of Psychics, and a twenty-man soldier squad formed by the villagers was patrolling the village.


    "Blackwood Year 19, the refugees sheltered by Blackwood have formed a sizable village named Gratitude Village. The villagers are protected by Blackwood and worship it."


    "Spiritual Tribute +200!"


    "What the heck? I was gone just for a bit, and it''s already come this far?" S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan was thrilled, silently praising his past decisions.


    Soon.


    The game scene shifted¡ª


    "Blackwood Year 20, your descendants have prepared the altar to commence the second of the grand decennial ceremonies!"


    "Your descendants have prepared a Tribute Offering for you¡ª"


    "Fifty Tier-One Beast Blood Fruits!"


    "One male and one female Hundred-Mile Pigeon chicks!"


    "Detection: Hundred-Mile Pigeon chicks are live creatures. Would you like to spend 10 Spiritual Tribute points to retrieve them?"


    "Knew it could be done!"


    Ethan''s eyes lit up.


    These Tribute Offerings, all conveyed through the temple guardian beast, were sent by the people of Blackwood.


    Though his real-world family had bolted, Ethan was hardly flustered, because these offerings could still bring him massive benefits, giving him a shot at turning things around!


    "Retrieve!"


    Soon, fifty beast blood fruits appeared next to the Mystic Burner on his desk.


    The fruits were vividly colored, their bloody scent hitting his nose.


    Ethan''s face lit up with joy.


    "Tier-One Beast Blood Fruit"


    "Cultivated with blood and the essence of psychic powers from nature, each fruit contains 50 psychic points, with a human absorption rate of 80%!"


    Awesome fruit!


    Ethan couldn''t help but grin, the psychic powers simulator was smarter than he''d imagined.


    In the game world, psychic abilities weren''t quantified.


    But in the real world, with the help of technology, the psychic energy absorbed during psychic cultivation was quantified. A Psychic at the Foundational Energy level only needed 100 psychic points to break through!


    And each additional level only required 10% more psychic energy.


    The worse the aptitude, the slower the absorption rate of natural psychic energy, but such fruits could directly store psychic energy for gradual digestion.


    Ethan could hardly imagine how much the rich kids would scramble for such divine fruits.


    Then came the Hundred-Mile Pigeons!


    "Chirp chirp..."


    Two chicks in the nest, eyes not yet open, chirping away. Normally, such common psychic beast chicks wouldn''t be worth mentioning.


    But...


    For the present world, these two Hundred-Mile Pigeons were a brand-new species!


    Just take them to a psychic beast scholar, and those freaky scientists lurking in the field would probably break their necks trying to get these little guys, maybe even award Ethan with a ''Psychic Beast Discovery Award''.


    But Ethan had no plans to handle these little ones that way.


    "Stuff''s already here, looks like I won''t have to mooch meals for a while."


    Ethan breathed a sigh of relief.


    So there Ethan was, chilling with a beast blood fruit in hand, when bam! A pop-up appeared on his computer screen.


    "wanna speed up absorbing this beast blood fruit''s powers? It''ll cost ya 1 Spiritual Tribute point per pop."


    Ethan was like, "Dude, what the heck?!"


    His jaw dropped. Speedy absorption? That''s a thing now?


    Absorbing the essence of these fruits into his system was no joke, usually a tough gig.


    In a flash, Ethan realized how wild this feature was!


    With enough Spiritual Tribute points and a stash of these fruits, he could skyrocket his psychic powers in a snap!


    But he held back, clicking ''No''.


    "This little power boost? Ain''t enough to fill a tooth gap."


    He shrugged it off.


    Glancing back at the game screen.


    "Tribute Offering delivered, wanna bless your descendants with a Divine Gift?"


    Ethan jumped up, clearing stuff around him.


    He peeped at the mystical spear in his Storage Ring, unsealed by Granny Quinn, now shining bright.


    But that wasn''t all.


    There was something else in there, a big no-no for regular Psychics in this world!


    After a long chat with Granny Quinn, she agreed to gift it to him in a moment of joy, though things got a bit sour later. But a promise was a promise, and she delivered!


    "Teleport."


    With a click of his mouse, suddenly, a massive object thundered into the room!


    "Delivering your Forebearer''s Divine Gift¡ª"


    "War AI Bionic Robot..."

 Chapter 23 - 23: Blackwoods ace

    "Hisssss¡ªSssss"


    The massive Purple Thunder Solar Python hissed at the Blackwood clan during their ritual, channeling the will of the Forebearer from beneath the sacred spring.


    Ethan was becoming more convinced that he was the real deal, the big bad Voldemort himself...


    Meanwhile, in the game, the Blackwood folks were dropping to their knees in gratitude.


    "The Forebearer has accepted our Tribute Offering," Nathan announced, feeling a surge of pride. "Looks like he''s pleased this time."


    After Nathan finished his homage, he asked the temple guardian beast, "Could you check with the Forebearer if he has any messages for us?"


    Ethan thought for a moment and then typed in the game¡ª


    "Keep pushing, develop the clan well."


    "Hisssss¡ªSssss"


    Watching the Purple Thunder Solar Python let out another Voldemort-esque hiss, Ethan couldn''t help but wonder if the game''s setup really made him the mysterious villain?


    "The Forebearer said he''s pleased," Luna quickly relayed. "He told us to focus on strengthening our family."


    "Forebearer be assured..."


    Nathan was about to continue when he suddenly froze, quickly pulling his family to kneel backward as golden light began to shimmer above the Forebearer''s cards.


    "The Forebearer is showing his powers again!"


    With a loud ''boom'', right in front of the Blackwood ancestral hall''s cards, a massive creature appeared in the courtyard, standing as tall as the stunned Purple Thunder Solar Python, 10 meters high!


    The intense sunlight shone on this giant, its dazzling brilliance making it hard for everyone to keep their eyes open.


    When they finally got a good look at it, they were utterly shocked.


    This creature stood like a human, its body angular and defined, with a smooth metallic sheen on its silver exterior, its veins seemingly exposed, and various parts of its body appeared to be glowing!


    [Basic War AI Bionic Robot]!


    Watching the descendants'' puzzled and shocked gazes, Ethan was even more pleased.


    This thing, in the present world, is called a supernatural mech!


    Inside, it uses biotechnology that allows it to move with human-like agility and operate like human supernatural meridians. Its exterior, however, is pure tech armor, connected at the core by nanotechnology to its flesh.


    Just swallow an Energy Stone, and those stones will continuously power the mech, even actively recharging it!


    This basic mech possesses the peak of Emerging Ability, even capable of going toe-to-toe with a newbie D-level master!


    And such mechs.


    They were initially developed in the U.S. during the resurgence of supernatural powers to combat exotic beasts. After continuous development and updates by the federation, it evolved into this form.


    Similarly, due to its high lethality, it became a prohibited item for ordinary people on Earth!


    But for Grandma Quinn, such contraband is just another tool at her disposal.


    "What the heck is this? Such an intense vibe!"


    "Could this be the real deal of our Forebearer?"


    The Blackwood descendants were totally hyped!


    Just seeing it, they could already feel the power of the War AI Bionic Robot!


    Even the Purple Thunder Solar Python was freaking out a bit, staring at the War AI Bionic Robot like it knew it was no match!


    "The real deal?"


    At his computer, Ethan''s lips curved into a slight smirk.


    Initially, he just wanted to gift the mech to the descendants, teaching them step by step how to operate it.


    But now.


    He realized that the "Family Cultivating Psychic Powers Simulator" had more features and was more user-friendly than he had imagined!


    "Your Divine Gift¡ªBasic War AI Bionic Robot has been delivered!"


    "War AI Bionic Robot control system detected, would you like to establish a connection?"


    "Operating the Basic War AI Bionic Robot will cost 5000 Spiritual Tribute points!"


    "Ding!"


    "Spiritual Tribute points insufficient, War AI Bionic Robot entering autonomous combat mode."


    Meaning.


    He could control the War AI Bionic Robot in battle from outside the game, just like using VR!


    "I can literally feel every blade of grass in the game world!" sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan''s eyes widened, the more he played the "Family Cultivating Psychic Powers Simulator," the more capabilities it seemed to develop!


    Holding back his excitement.


    Ethan glanced at his Spiritual Tribute points.


    "From this grand ritual, your descendants felt the power of the Forebearer, Spiritual Tribute points +100!"


    Looking towards the top right corner.


    Spiritual Tribute points¡ª2106.


    He had been accumulating Spiritual Tribute points over the years, but it still wasn''t enough to establish a connection with the War AI Bionic Robot.


    "A long road ahead."


    Ethan wasn''t in a rush, his original idea wasn''t to control the mech directly, but to let this mech become Blackwood''s ace in the hole, especially since Blackwood still had Heath as an enemy, and if not handled properly, the whole of Forest Town could become their enemy.


    That was also why Ethan sent the War AI Bionic Robot over!


    And...


    Besides the elixirs, this was the best thing Ethan could send over right now.

 Chapter 24 - 24: Getting married

    "After Blackwood''s big 20-year celebration..."


    "As Gratitude Village thrived more and more, 15-year-old Lucas started hanging out there a lot. He got a little crush on Karen, the daughter of Thomas, the village chief and a newbie in Foundational Energy. One starry night, they got a bit too cozy on the grass, and well, one thing led to another. Karen got pregnant..." S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Whoa..."


    Ethan spit his drink all over his screen when he saw the update in the game''s event list.


    He quickly wiped his screen and clicked on Lucas''s profile to see what the eldest Blackwood son had gotten himself into.


    It was a dark and windy night.


    Two figures were wrapped up in each other on the grass, with some pretty obvious text floating above their heads.


    "Karen, you''re so beautiful... your hands are so small, let me see... your eyes are gorgeous too... and your nose is so cute..."


    "Yikes..."


    "..."


    "Dang!"


    Ethan''s face darkened. Who would''ve thought? Lucas, usually just into sword fighting and looking like a madman in battle, had such smooth moves with the ladies?


    He was totally making Karen swoon!


    Ethan thought for a moment, his expression turning mischievous.


    "Using ''Forebearer''s Love'', costing 20 Spiritual Tribute points."


    Suddenly, a purple light shone in the night, hitting Lucas, who was holding the girl''s hand, and he just froze.


    "Yikes! Lucas, what''s this light?" Karen jumped.


    "Huh?"


    Lucas finally snapped out of it and immediately knelt down in the dark, looking guilty as sin, "Forebearer... thanks for the Divine Gift, please don''t tell my dad, he... he''d kill me if he knew I messed up!"


    He wouldn''t dare!


    Ethan glared. Nathan hadn''t had kids in years, and if he tried to stop Lucas, Ethan was ready to let the Purple Thunder Solar Python break Nathan''s legs.


    Besides... the deed was done.


    Ethan switched the view, leaving the young couple alone.


    He fast-forwarded the scene, eagerly waiting for the third generation of Blackwoods to make their debut!


    Sure enough.


    The next day, Lucas, knowing he''d been caught, didn''t sleep all night, tossing and turning until dawn.


    He bravely faced his parents and spilled the beans about him and Karen.


    Lucas was immediately dragged to the shrine.


    "Forebearer, please calm down, marriage is the parents'' decision, the matchmaker''s word."


    Nathan knelt on the ground, terrified, "My son Lucas acted without consent, behaving disgracefully towards the daughter of the Brown family, please punish him, Forebearer!"


    Lucas was pale and also knelt down, "Please punish me, Forebearer, I won''t dare again!"


    "Huh?"


    That''s when Ethan finally realized, the game world was a bit old-fashioned.


    Not like the weird stuff he''d seen in his past life, where messing around led to new trends.


    Even in the real world, embryo parenting was becoming trendy.


    "Forebearer, please calm down!"


    In the game, Nathan, seeing no immediate response from the Forebearer, thought the Forebearer was angry. He gritted his teeth, raised a knife, and glared fiercely at his eldest son, "Unfilial son, take off your pants! How did I raise you? How dare you disgrace the Brown family''s daughter, how will I face the Forebearer after I die, or explain to Thomas?"


    "Dad, what are you doing?"


    Lucas, terrified, saw his father raising the knife and panicked, "I... I only have one thing!"


    "Stop!"


    Seeing the scene in the game, Lucas wasn''t the only one panicking, Ethan was too.


    He muttered ''dang'', never expecting Nathan to go so far as to threaten to cut off his son''s dignity!


    Ethan quickly clicked on the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s icon, urgently saving Lucas from a dire fate.


    "Yikes!"


    Lucas clutched his pants tightly, relieved when he saw the temple guardian beast speak up, "Dad, look, the Forebearer''s sending us a sign!"


    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python shook its head at Nathan.


    Nathan finally put down the knife, glaring at Lucas, "The Forebearer spared you, now get on your knees and thank him! And later, follow me to the Brown family with a proper dowry to ask for their daughter''s hand! You''ve embarrassed the Blackwoods enough, you beast!"


    "Thank you, Forebearer, for saving me!"


    Lucas''s sweat soaked the ground.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, wiped the cold sweat from his forehead. That was a close call; his quirky descendant nearly had to learn some bizarre sword techniques to defend his honor.


    As for losing face for the Blackwoods?


    He wasn''t as conservative as Lucas. In fact... he was kind of curious to learn a thing or two from his quirky descendant.


    Soon enough.


    The Blackwoods presented the dowry, and Thomas from the Brown family wasn''t so conservative either. He was actually thrilled about the alliance with the child of a benefactor.


    Finally.


    The screen lit up with festive lights, big red lanterns hung at the door, and the character for ''happiness'' plastered all over the homes in Gratitude Village and on the Blackwoods'' doors and windows.


    The whole village turned up at the Blackwoods'' to celebrate, laying out a grand feast.


    A pair of slightly youthful newlyweds walked up to the ancestral hall to the sound of gongs and drums.


    "First bow to heaven and earth."


    "Second bow to the high hall!"


    "Today Lucas is getting married, in front of the ancestral hall, please have some tea."


    "Spiritual Tribute +30!"


    The second generation of Blackwoods finally had someone getting married, the third generation was about to arrive, and the Blackwoods were truly flourishing!


    "Sweet!"


    Ethan took a big swig of his Coke.


    "The couple bows to each other, entering the bridal chamber!"

 Chapter 25 - 25: Talking business

    Man, Lucas and Karen tying the knot really got the whole Blackwood buzzing with joy.


    Even the folks over at Gratitude Village were throwing down, happy as heck for the Blackwoods'' big day.


    But the Blackwoods weren''t about to hit pause on moving forward!


    "Blackwood Year 21, Nathan spots a Psychic from Forest Town lurking around Gratitude Village daily, and he knows Forest Town hasn''t forgotten what went down before. Feeling the heat, he hits up Forebearer, asking for some wisdom on what to do next."


    "Don''t stop the hustle."


    Ethan took a deep breath. After the whole Blackwood crew bailed in the real world, he''s taking this game way more seriously now, "Right now, Blackwood''s pretty much getting the cold shoulder from Forest Town. Step one foot towards them, and Heath will probably rally the Forest folks to come at us."


    "I''m not even sure we''d stand a chance in a throwdown."


    Finally, Ethan clicks on the Purple Thunder Solar Python icon and types in a message.


    "Hiss¡ªSss¡ª"


    The temple guardian beast hisses.


    Luna kneels before Nathan, instantly getting the beast''s message, "Forebearer says, tough times push us to level up. As Blackwood folks, we gotta keep pushing forward, always looking for that breakthrough. Heath may block one path, but we''ve got more than one way to roll!"


    Hearing this, Nathan''s eyes light up.


    He bows repeatedly, "Thanks for the enlightenment, Forebearer, I got it!"


    "Babe, round up our crew. We can''t trade with Forest Town or buy their elixirs, but we''ve got a whole Silver Iron Forest behind us! Plus, with the temple guardian beast on our side, we can go deeper than ever and have more folks joining our fight!"


    Soon enough.


    Ethan watches as Nathan rallies all of Blackwood''s current combat power!


    By now, the folks at Blackwood have come a long way.


    Nathan''s been chugging beast blood fruit, hitting Level 8 Foundational Energy. Lucas, even post-wedding, is still grinding hard, reaching Level 5 Foundational Energy.


    Everyone''s been leveling up.


    Especially Julian, the most talented, at thirteen years old and Level 3 Foundational Energy, built like a bull, even bulkier than Nathan, wielding a giant iron hammer, shirtless.


    Amelia''s flying around on a giant eagle, also at Level 3 Foundational Energy.


    Only Olivia, now 6, seems to have a decent Psychic Constitution but hasn''t turned Psychic yet. The family girl, supposed to be cultivating psychic powers, is as weak as ever. Her only plus? She''s getting prettier and smarter by the day.


    She''s got a trait, but it''s a negative one.


    "Weak Constitution"


    Olivia stays out of all the fights, as always, chilling at home with her books, reading poetry, and being the cheer squad.


    Besides the Blackwood folks and their mystical beasts, Gratitude Village also rallied a squad of eighteen!


    Over the past two years, Gratitude Village has seen four Psychics emerge, with the rest being hunters trained for two and a half years. These folks have been key players in building up the village and have been rewarded by Blackwood with beast blood fruit.


    Though Nathan never asked anything of them, they''ve been loyal to Blackwood on the down-low.


    "Hiss¡ªSss¡ª" sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With the Purple Thunder Solar Python slithering out from the Blackwood estate, Nathan, holding the Forebearer cards, leaps onto the beast''s head and raises his right hand high.


    "Let''s roll out!"


    ...


    Watching the Blackwood crew head towards the Silver Iron Forest, Ethan lets out a long sigh.


    Even though Blackwood has been booming lately, even scoring a village and a few hundred villagers working for them, and their buildings getting fancier, Ethan can tell it''s just a facade!


    Gratitude Village wouldn''t stand a chance in a real scrap, even the Psychics, untested in battle, are just for show.


    This trek into the Silver Iron Forest is also a drill, a test to see what they''ve got.


    And to snag a bunch of resources, beef up Blackwood, and break through Forest Town''s blockade!


    Soon enough.


    Ethan watches as the Blackwood folks clash in the Silver Iron Forest. Nathan, already a seasoned hunter, is super cautious, even with a big group. He spends a whole week guiding the villagers in hunting mystical beasts.


    Everything''s going smoothly, with the Purple Thunder Solar Python providing protection, there''s no danger on the outskirts of the Silver Iron Forest.


    Ethan feels a bit more at ease.


    Just then.


    There''s a knock on the door.


    "Commander, Alan''s here."


    Lisa''s voice comes from outside the door.


    Ethan takes another look at the screen, squints his eyes, "With all the descendants in the game working this hard, I, as Forebearer, can''t let Blackwood down!"


    "Lisa, invite Alan in for a sit-down, get some milk tea ready."


    ...


    "Glug¡ª"


    In a cozy living room, Ethan is sitting across from a middle-aged dude who''s a bit on the hefty side. The guy''s thinning ''do barely covers his lumpy scalp, shining a bit too much under the light.


    Right now, this well-known businessman from the villa district, Alan, is sipping on some milk tea.


    Then he frowns, something about the taste seems off... takes another sip.


    "Mr. Ethan, I hear you''re here to talk business," Alan says, his focus more on the milk tea than on Ethan.


    Look at him go.


    Ethan raises an eyebrow. Back in the day, this guy wouldn''t dare speak to him like this, probably got wind of the whole Blackwood crew skipping town.


    "You could say we''re talking business."


    Ethan''s calm demeanor suddenly grabs Andrew''s full attention.

 Chapter 26 - 26: Baili Pigeons

    The greasy middle-aged man''s chubby cheeks quiver as he stares at Ethan, all smiles now, "I knew it! The Blackwood family''s too big to just up and vanish. Must be some strategic move, huh?"


    Having lived two lives, Ethan can tell Alan''s just fishing for info!


    Ethan keeps his cards close to his chest.


    Since Blackwood did skip town, but even on the run, he can still wave the Blackwood flag¡ªafter all, no one really knows what went down!


    He chuckles softly, "Alan, you''re asking too many questions. Can''t a small fry like me do business with you?"


    "Of course, of course!"


    Alan grins, "Please, Mr. Ethan, go on."


    "It''s not about talking, it''s about seeing."


    Ethan tosses a Storage Ring to Alan.


    When Alan catches it, a red fruit appears in his hand. He feels the strange energy within, frowns, then his watch lights up and scans the beast blood fruit.


    His expression freezes, "This... we''ve never seen anything like this on our planet! Each one contains 100 points of strange energy, can be stored and digested in the human body, but... the fruit is full of blood, probably cultivated with fresh blood, kinda illegal, Mr. Ethan."


    "Ah? Illegal? I''m all about following the law, so if it''s illegal, let''s forget it, huh."


    Ethan reaches out smilingly.


    Seeing this, Alan''s mouth twitches. He was hoping to haggle, but Ethan''s not biting!


    "Ha... Mr. Ethan, you''re too serious. It''s a bit, but it''s all above board. I''ve been in business for years, I know how to handle it."


    "That''s good to hear. My folks say this stuff is like candy for Iron Will Psychics. One isn''t much, but a bunch, or even more, and its effects grow. Rich kids eat these, and even the ones with no talent might break through the Emerging Ability phase before they''re even grown."


    Ethan grins, "Alan, how much do you reckon that''s worth?"


    As Ethan lays out the fruit''s benefits and value.


    Alan grips his milk tea tighter, feeling like he''s being played by this young Blackwood chap!


    "Got more?"


    Alan cuts to the chase, knowing there''s no point in dragging this out with Ethan, who''s clearly got the upper hand, "If you trust me, Mr. Ethan, I can find buyers for you. I want a 20% cut."


    "20%?"


    Ethan''s expression cools, he slowly extends his hand forward, "3%, or no deal."


    "15%!"


    "3%, I''ve got more where that came from."


    "10%!"


    ...


    "Alright," so after some tough haggling, Ethan got Alan to settle for a 5% broker''s fee. Alan lets out a wry chuckle, "Mr. Ethan, I''ve dealt with your new head honcho before, thought you''d be just like him. Guess I was wrong. Now, to me, Mark''s nothing but a pig."


    Ethan''s fists clench instantly. He realizes that Mark had been dealing with Alan when the family took off!


    Keeping his cool, Ethan responds, "Oh? He did business with you? That''s news to me."


    "You''d make a better leader than the new one," Alan shrugs, stuffing the Storage Ring into his pocket, "I''ll sell these twenty pieces for you as a trial run for our partnership. I believe we can make a fortune together."


    "Sounds good."


    As Alan turns to leave, Ethan stops him, "Hold up, Alan, got something else you might wanna see."


    "Oh?" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Alan raises an eyebrow, growing more suspicious that the Blackwoods hadn''t really fled but found some resource-rich planet to secretly develop. And here''s Ethan, probably plotting something big on the down-low!


    Soon enough.


    Ethan brings out... a bird''s nest from the room!


    Scanning it with his watch, Alan''s expression turns intrigued, "A new species... with abilities?"


    "Yep."


    Ethan knows that look. With interstellar development, new species are dime a dozen, but beasts with abilities are rare in the cosmos.


    "Alan, you understand the value of this. I don''t want you selling it to some freaky beast scientist," Ethan says with a grin, "But make sure it brings in a hefty load of Energy Stones, got it?"


    "Understood."


    Alan snaps out of his initial shock, exhaling deeply, "Mr. Ethan, don''t worry. I won''t let this opportunity slip. Everything will be done in secret, no one will suspect you''re doing business on this planet. And I''ll figure something out for your future Energy Stone expenses."


    "Please, Alan."


    Ethan smiles, ushering Alan out of the house, then breathes a sigh of relief, "Finally can keep myself afloat and get back to gaming!"


    He hurries back to his room, keeping an eye on Blackwood''s progress.


    Outside.


    Alan rubs his face, "Damn, I knew Blackwood hadn''t fled. No wonder they left Ethan behind, the kid''s sharp as a tack, acts like he''s lived centuries, didn''t let slip a thing."


    "All this new stuff, fresher than anything Blackwood''s pharma company ever sold, can tap into new markets, we''re gonna be rolling in it! And those creatures called Baili Pigeons, man... Blackwood''s really about to take off on the sly!""

 Chapter 27 - 27: Marcus

    "Cha-ching! I''m gonna make some bank now!" Ethan thought, his heart racing as he headed back to his room. This was his first time wheeling and dealing, despite having lived two lifetimes. Those seemingly casual chats with Alan had him mentally sweating bullets!


    He had to play it cool, making Alan believe that the mighty Blackwood was still backing him, all while pretending he couldn''t spill any beans about Blackwood. Plus, he had to dangle some juicy profits in front of Alan.


    If he had lost his cool, things could''ve gone south real fast. Alan might''ve figured out he was flying solo and nabbed him on his way to school to grill him about where he got his stuff.


    It was like walking a tightrope without a net!


    But hey, it turned out alright.


    "Wait, what?" Ethan suddenly realized something crucial. "On my way to school? Heck, I ain''t going to school, I''m out here starting my own gig!"


    No more worrying about that stuff.


    He''d handed it off to Alan. As long as there was money to be made, Alan would hustle for him.


    Ethan quickly shifted his focus to gaming!


    No matter what.


    He had to keep tabs on the game''s dynamics. Although Blackwood was still in Iron Will, the stuff they produced had a unique market in the current Iron Will world, especially the beast blood fruits from the beast blood fruit trees, which were his ticket to riches!


    [Nathan, along with Blackwood members and Gratitude Village villagers, went hunting and brought back a ton of loot.]


    [Caught a wild beast: Berserk Tiger]


    [Acquired special ability herb: Gather Energy Grass]


    [Acquired...]


    In the game, Nathan and the Blackwood crew were returning with their prey.


    Ethan watched as the Blackwood base grew stronger.


    He saw that Blackwood could now sustain itself and even had a thriving ecosystem!


    The villagers of Gratitude Village farmed and raised livestock, which supported the current fifty special ability beasts in the beast park, gradually meeting their needs.


    Every day, Amelia drew blood from the beasts, which was now enough to support the growth of first-stage beast blood fruits from the beast blood fruit trees, which bore fruit once every ten years, yielding about 80-100 fruits each time.


    Now, Amelia, after years of research, had started planting another beast blood fruit tree.


    "To have more beast blood fruit trees, we need more people to plant more crops and raise more livestock," Ethan realized.


    He clearly understood the importance of the beast blood fruit trees. Not only could they sell for a good price, but as long as he had enough Spiritual Tribute points, they could even help him break through his current limits!


    Ethan quickly called Nathan over.


    "Please, Forebearer, guide us!"


    Nathan bowed devoutly to the shimmering purple cards, not believing in gods or Buddhas, only in the Forebearer.


    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python hissed,


    Luna quickly translated, "Boss, the Forebearer commands that we need more people. Only then can we plant more fields and use my beast-taming skills to raise more special ability beasts!"


    "Nathan understands, Forebearer is wise!"


    Nathan''s eyes lit up as he knelt before Ethan''s cards, "Wife, I get what the Forebearer means now, he''s not as simple as you said!"


    "Huh?"


    "Huh?"


    Both Luna and Ethan on the screen were momentarily stunned.


    Then Nathan said, "The Forebearer wants more than just fields and special ability beasts! He sees the blockade from Forest Town and knows that once we have more people, we can develop even more prosperously than Forest Town!"


    "That way, we can attract merchants, attract powerful guests, and we... can dominate the region, and soon, completely crush Forest Town!"


    Nathan looked almost crazed, "All hail the Forebearer, long live the Forebearer!"


    "..."


    Ethan just popped a peanut into his mouth, but as he opened wide, it fell right out. He smacked his lips and muttered, "Eh... it''s not totally out of the question."


    The sound of keyboard clacking filled the air.


    The Purple Thunder Python let out a low growl again, and a ''Forebearer''s Love'' hit Nathan, showing Ethan''s appreciation.


    Nathan got moving quickly after that.


    He sent elders from Gratitude Village in all directions. In these times, just having a meal to eat could make countless disaster victims grateful. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan figured it wouldn''t be long before Gratitude Village saw a population boom.


    Not much later, another piece of good news came from the game!


    "Karen has given birth to a boy after being pregnant for nine months, named Marcus!"


    "Congrats! You''ve earned Spiritual Tribute +10."


    Ethan noticed that as the Blackwood power grew stronger, he was getting more Spiritual Tribute each time!


    A third-generation member of Blackwood was born.


    The whole Gratitude Village threw a huge feast to celebrate, and the entire Blackwood was decked out in lights and decorations. Everyone gathered around Marcus in his cradle, joyful for the new Blackwood member.


    Ethan was joyful too.


    This newborn had a Psychic Constitution better than anyone in Blackwood¡ªthree Psychic Constitutions!


    Though it was still a mixed Psychic Constitution, the speed of cultivating psychic powers was multiple times that of a five-element mixed Psychic Constitution!

 Chapter 28 - 28: Ninth-grade pharmacist

    As days went by, Blackwood continued to develop methodically.


    Ethan quietly watched a family grow.


    Then he smiled again.


    "Blackwood, Year 23, Gratitude Village population reaches 1548."


    "Amelia, with a Foundational Energy level four, has been cultivating herbs in the beast park for years, deeply studying ''Iron Will cultivating psychic powers manual'' about ''special methods of psychic medicine and cultivation'', achieving great results. "


    "By a stroke of luck, she got a book ''Thousand Herbs'' from an old doctor in Gratitude Village and made her first medicine powder ''Coagulation Powder''."


    "Amelia has achieved the profession¡ªninth-grade pharmacist!"


    "Moved by her achievement, her Wood Psychic Constitution value reached 60, breaking through to Foundational Energy level five!"


    "A profession? A pharmacist has appeared!"


    Ethan slapped his thigh. In modern times, you hardly see pharmacists around, replaced by petri dishes due to technological advancement. But that''s just one reason; becoming a pharmacist, even more complex than becoming a Dan master, was another.


    It was said that when psychic abilities first resurged, pharmacists had once replaced doctors, powerful enough to revive the dead or kill invisibly!


    He clicked on Amelia''s profile in a rush.


    At that moment, Amelia, in front of a beast blood fruit tree, was joyfully touching a packet of medicine powder, darting around a large copper furnace, "I did it, Forebearer bless, I made it!"


    Only 16, in the prime of her youth, yet Blackwood''s daughters somehow didn''t like interacting with outsiders. Olivia was like that, always reading at home, and so was Amelia.


    She wore a simple black robe, her hair in a ponytail, her exposed skin dirty, not as beautiful as Olivia, but with a simple elegance.


    She spent almost all her time in Blackwood''s medicinal garden, tending to the psychic plants.


    "Amelia (second generation)"


    "Profession: Ninth-grade pharmacist"


    "Level: Foundational Energy level five"


    "Psychic Constitution: Five-element mixed Psychic Constitution"


    "Techniques: Qi absorption technique, Thousand Herbs, Swift Steps"


    "Trait: Plant affinity"


    Ethan was also delighted with Amelia''s growth.


    As Amelia grew, many in Gratitude Village with injuries and illnesses began seeking her medical treatment, gradually boosting her reputation and advancing her pharmacist level.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was really starting to see how crucial Amelia was!


    "Your descendant Amelia has cured ''Steven'' from Gratitude Village of a hidden ailment, and now he can finally get cozy with his wife like normal. Blackwood earns some good karma, Spiritual Tribute +1."


    Besides special events, descendant worship, and births, Ethan found another way to rack up Spiritual Tribute!


    He glanced at his Spiritual Tribute tally.


    Over time, it had ballooned to over 3000 points.


    Soon, he''d be able to control the war AI Bionic Robot!


    ...


    "Year 25 in Blackwood, a ''black iron'' ore vein was discovered in the Silver Iron Woods, just when it was about to be developed, a Gratitude Village Psychic and three guards were killed!"


    Special event!


    "Dang it!"


    When the vein was discovered, Ethan was thrilled.


    Black iron, though a common type of iron, was super resistant to rust and perfect for making weapons and tools in the game world. Ethan had even hashed out plans with Nathan on how to use the black iron, but in a blink, it was snatched away!


    In the Blackwood shrine.


    "Forebearer, cool it, Nathan didn''t guard the black iron ores well, letting folks from Forest Town, led by Gonzalez, snatch it and even got people from Gratitude Village killed. It''s Nathan''s fault, please punish him, Forebearer!" sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s not your fault."


    Ethan had the Purple Thunder Python relay the message.


    He squinted his eyes, "Forest Town folks again?"


    It seemed like Blackwood folks had always run into people from Forest Town, and aside from Heath, other families generally kept the peace with Blackwood.


    But when interests clashed, friction like this was inevitable.


    And this time, for the black iron ores, blood was shed!


    "As Blackwood grows stronger, Forest Town will see us as a thorn in their side, a pain in their neck, and that''s just unavoidable."


    Ethan remained cool as a cucumber, tapping away at his keyboard.


    "Head to the black iron ores, take out four of their guys too, leave the rest of Gonzalez''s folks alive, send them back with a message for their chief to come talk. We might just make a big deal."


    "Talk... business?" With his wife translating, Nathan got the gist of Ethan''s plan, puzzled.


    Then Ethan filled Nathan in on more details, and Nathan''s eyes lit up.


    Soon.


    He walked to the gates of Blackwood, where the relatives of those killed at the black iron ores had already gathered, weeping.


    Nathan looked at the villagers of Gratitude Village.


    "For years, we at Blackwood have sheltered Gratitude Village, and I hope Gratitude Village can always be happy and safe, because we''re all honest, well-meaning folks."


    "But things in this world often go against our wishes, and we can''t predict who might bring disaster or bad news our way."


    "But what I can assure you is, whoever it is, they''ll pay a price they can''t handle!"


    "Maybe today, maybe tomorrow."


    "I, Nathan, promise you, their nightmare..."


    "Has just begun!"

 Chapter 29 - 29: Instant takedown!

    Under Nathan''s leadership, everyone in Gratitude Village felt the power of Blackwood, winning over hearts and boosting their rep big time. They scored a whopping +100 Spiritual Tribute!


    "This dude''s really stepping up his game," Ethan mused, watching Nathan command respect. Behind the scenes, Ethan was the puppet master guiding Blackwood''s growth, but the villagers were clueless about him. Having a leader with solid skills was crucial. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Over the years, Nathan had grown from a mere hunter to a leader worthy of his tribe in Blackwood, where time flies in the game world.


    Ethan checked the map and spotted thirteen new white dots outside Gratitude Village! As the game evolved, so did the map, showing allies in green and neutrals in white. Enemies, like those from Garcia in Forest Town, were marked in red.


    "Forebearer, the Gonzalez crew from Forest is here!" Nathan rushed to the shrine, tucking Ethan''s spiritual Cards into his pocket for protection, ready to battle with the Forebearer''s blessing.


    Meanwhile, on the road to Blackwood, a group of thirteen, led by the Gonzalez clan leader Brandon and a senior elder, approached in fancy threads. "Can''t believe how fast Blackwood''s grown," Brandon noted, wary yet dismissive of Blackwood''s depth, despite their capability to take down Garcia''s ancestor.


    Brandon was convinced Blackwood was too green to mess with Forest Town, especially since they just started and already had beef with Garcia. He figured Nathan might want to cut a deal over the incident, maybe even co-develop the iron ores.


    But as they reached Blackwood, instead of a warm welcome, they found four coffins and mourning banners at the gate¡ªa chilling sight.


    "Set up with coffins? We''ve been duped! These Blackwood maniacs never wanted to talk business; they''re out for blood!" The Gonzalez folks panicked, realizing Blackwood didn''t care about their rep¡ªno one would dare deal with them after this.


    Even Brandon, who thought he had all angles covered, was shocked by Blackwood''s blunt approach. They weren''t trying to break Forest''s blockade, just luring them in for revenge over an Iron Will and three regular folks.


    "Damn it, split up and run!" Brandon ordered, planning to rally the major families to crush Blackwood once back home.


    As they fled, a massive python appeared, with Nathan standing on top, holding the Forebearer''s Cards and smirking at them disdainfully.


    "Man, you''ve got some nerve!" Ethan watched the screen with a smirk, clearly amused and a bit baffled by the mental state of Gonzalez''s crew at this moment.


    Initially, he had Nathan invite Gonzalez''s folks over just to see what would happen, kind of testing the waters.


    But his real plan was to have Nathan wipe out all of Gonzalez''s people at the iron ores, one batch after another.


    But who would''ve thought... Old Gonzalez''s people were this straightforward? When asked to come, they really showed up!


    "I was planning to lure Gonzalez''s folks to the iron ores and take out a few key players, scare the rest stiff," Ethan shrugged helplessly, "Well, turns out every kind of fool exists."


    He didn''t ponder further and switched the view on the screen.


    The battle had already kicked off!


    Gonzalez''s people didn''t have the guts for a fight and scattered, but they underestimated Blackwood''s combat strength and readiness!


    Gonzalez''s three strongest elders, who had reached the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, were using some freaky fast movement techniques, darting towards the silver iron forest like phantoms.


    With Blackwood''s current combat power, no one could stop him.


    Sure, the Purple Thunder Solar Python was strong, but its speed was a major drawback, and its massive size meant it wasn''t as agile as human Psychics.


    "Forebearer''s Wrath" X5! Ethan didn''t hesitate to use the skill.


    "No one''s getting away!" Five Forebearer cards appeared in front of the elders, instantly charging at them and beginning to self-destruct as they got close.


    Boom! "What in the world is this? Psychic equipment???" The elder, who had lived for 150 years, had never seen such a bizarre thing.


    He could clearly feel there was no psychic energy in the cards, yet their destructive power was shocking!


    It seemed no matter how fast he ran, the cards could block his path.


    "Wow, running pretty fast there," Ethan grinned, the advantage of his skill being that he could use it through the screen.


    As long as the elders were still on the map, he just needed to move his mouse to block their path accurately!


    Soon after, Nathan finally arrived with the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    The beast, now far stronger than before, roared, its bent horns sparking with electricity, forming an electric cage around the elder.


    "Have you lost your minds? Dare to mess with us Gonzalez, and the whole town of Forest will be against you Blackwood, you''ll struggle to move an inch!" the elder, feeling the terrifying presence of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, gritted his teeth, desperately looking for a way out.


    "Sss¡ªshh¡ª" Having communicated with the Purple Thunder Solar Python multiple times, Nathan understood some of its intentions.


    He looked at the elder trapped in the electric cage and scoffed, "My Forebearer is kinda curious, what were you thinking messing with us in the first place?"


    "Just for an Iron Will, three ordinary people?" the elder still couldn''t believe it.


    "Regular folks?" Nathan scoffed, shaking his head. "You''re just like Garcia, huh? Back in the day, they used disaster victims as guinea pigs at Blackwood, and now you Gonzalez folks don''t give a hoot about regular people either! "


    "When did your ancestors stop being regular? Since you''ve forgotten, maybe it''s time to send you to the underworld for a little pow-wow with them!"


    "Spot on!" Ethan cheered, throwing a thumbs up from in front of the screen.


    Seeing Nathan gaining the upper hand, he switched the view.


    Meanwhile, Brandon, the so-called ''strategic'' clan leader, was hightailing it like there was no tomorrow. Man, he was in a real pickle.


    "Whoosh whoosh!" Two arrows zipped past him, fired by an 18-year-old girl perched on a giant eagle, brandishing an iron bow.


    And there he was, a full-grown man, scampering like a frightened mouse from a kid barely at Level 5 Foundational Energy!


    But wait, it gets better. There was also a hefty dude on a tiger, slinging arrows his way.


    "Ha ha ha, Chief Gonzalez? That''s all the courage you''ve got? You''re cracking us up!"


    "Thought you had some tricks up your sleeve coming to our Blackwood, turns out you''re just a sitting duck!"


    "Being clueless is one thing, but seriously, you''re shaking in your boots facing me and my sis, and we''re just Level 5 Psychics?"


    Brandon felt like his head was gonna explode ¨C these kids were driving him nuts!


    But no stopping now; he knew these troublemakers chasing him weren''t just on a wild goose chase ¨C this was another setup by the Blackwood crew!


    "Not even gonna turn around after all that trash talk?" Ethan frowned, eyeing the game interface where another icon popped up under the Purple Thunder Python avatar ¨C a robot!


    Then, he clicked.


    "Whoosh!" "Deploying War AI Bionic Robot!"


    Suddenly, Amelia''s space ring glowed, and a massive mech materialized in the sky!


    The mech, with fireworks shooting from its back and legs to stay airborne, was quite the spectacle. "Flying always guzzles the most juice," Ethan muttered.


    He''d stashed the AI Bionic Robot in the space ring because there was no way Amelia and Julian could catch an early-stage Emerging Ability expert otherwise.


    The War AI Bionic Robot was burning through energy, especially for flying, and though it could recharge, a full power-up took at least half a month. Ethan had hoped to conserve some energy, but it looked like Brandon had finally caught on.


    "What in the world?!!" Brandon felt an ominous pressure from behind and spun around just in time to see the colossal War AI Bionic Robot bearing down on him!


    Then, "Boom!" As the mech''s fireworks ignited, it surged towards Brandon.


    While soaring, its back-mounted guns shifted, and two massive cannons targeted Brandon!


    Even in free-action mode, the War AI Bionic Robot retained basic combat capabilities.


    "Zap!" A brilliant light burst from the cannons, and a purple lightsaber, sharp enough to slice through metal, materialized in the robot''s right hand.


    "Boom!"


    "Oh snap!"


    The laser cannon blasted instantly, and Brandon, eyes bulging, whipped out a copper bell ¨C a relic that had saved his hide more times than he could count. The bell chimed, wrapping him in a protective bubble.


    But a moment later, "Boom!" The laser cannon struck the bell, and the sound it emitted was like a death knell for Brandon!


    The relic that had saved him time and again was now as flimsy as tissue.


    Dust swirled.


    In a flash, the War AI Bionic Robot, wielding the lightsaber, streaked across the sky in the blink of an eye.


    Brandon''s torso, cleaved in two at the waist, plummeted from the dust cloud to the ground.


    His eyes were filled with despair, likely pondering why he ever thought tangling with Blackwood was a smart move...


    "Is this... the power of the Forebearer?" Amelia and Julian, siblings, gazed up at the god-like figure in the sky, completely dumbfounded.


    Instant takedown!

 Chapter 30 - 30: Iron in the Soul

    "Run for it, man, they''re all nuts!"


    On Blackwood turf, a real-life battle royale was going down!


    The remaining eleven Gonzalez folks were booking it in every direction.


    But nowadays, Blackwood''s no small fry!


    As the Blackwood crew grew, they''ve racked up about seventy assorted regular beasts, even including two power beasts.


    And over at Gratitude Village, with its thousand-strong population.


    A hundred strong adults have been hunting with the Blackwood folks, all aiming to beef up and guard Blackwood, including six at the Foundational level!


    "Take ''em out, Miller said whoever offs a Gonzalez gets to guard Blackwood and snag some sweet rewards!"


    "Serious? No one better hog this from me!"


    "Charge, bros!"


    At that moment, twenty strong adults cornered a Gonzalez Psychic, unleashing a barrage with twenty bows.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh¡ª"


    Long after, these twenty adults dug through a pile of arrows to find the Psychic''s body, squabbling over who landed the kill shot.


    It wasn''t until Julian swung back with a hammer, smashing the last Psychic against a wall where he couldn''t be pried off.


    Ethan finally took a sip of water.


    "Congrats, Blackwood has led your forces to defeat the invading enemy."


    "Gain Spiritual Tribute +200!"


    "Counts as an invading enemy, huh?"


    A hefty Spiritual Tribute in the bank, Ethan felt pretty good.


    And in the event log, one entry caught Ethan''s eye!


    "Your descendant Lucas battled a Level 6 Foundational Energy Psychic, striking a deadly blow with minor injuries, gaining deep insights into swordplay."


    "Basic swordplay progress hits 50%, earning the skill, Sword Glow!"


    "Sword Glow: Use light and power in battle to blind your enemy and strike a deadly blow."


    ...


    "What a sneaky revelation."


    Despite the gripes, Ethan had some respect for Lucas. The dude figured out the basic sword moves on his own, hitting 50% proficiency, which is pretty sharp.


    Others barely scratched 20%.


    Then Ethan watched the Blackwood folks clean up the battlefield, scooping up the loot.


    "Scored some loot, power gear: Mystic God Pendant"


    "Scored some loot, technique martial arts: Autumn Wind Step"


    "Scored some loot..."


    Equipment exploded all over the place!


    No wonder folks say war''s the fastest way to wealth.


    Ethan checked out the haul, nothing much he wanted, but it was a big deal for the Blackwood crew.


    "Thought I might stumble upon another epic spear, but looks like that''s a long shot."


    He suddenly remembered that mysterious spear.


    Fiddling with the space ring on his index finger, inside was a spear glowing blue, covered in mysterious runes, quite the standout.


    ...


    "Forebearer, all Gonzalez folks have been wiped out, Amelia''s taken them to nourish the beast blood fruit tree!"


    Nathan reported as usual in the ancestral hall.


    Ethan sped up the game time, letting Blackwood keep growing.


    He pondered a bit.


    The final call was to hold off on developing the iron ores; they just didn''t have the muscle to defend it yet. Coveting more iron ores would just rack up casualties. Better to grow slowly with what they''ve gained.


    As for whether Forest Town would launch a major attack on Blackwood?


    Ethan wasn''t sweating it, just like he wouldn''t dare send the Purple Thunder Python or the War AI Bionic Robot to Forest Town. The four big families of Forest Town didn''t know Blackwood''s real strength and wouldn''t dare come knocking!


    After all, every Psychic that came to Blackwood bit the dust.


    Their families were too big to risk it all, not knowing what the other side had up their sleeve.


    And as time went on, until Blackwood Year 26, Forest Town hadn''t dared invade Blackwood, just kept poking around.


    "Blackwood Year 26, Gratitude Village hit by a plague, solved by Amelia after discovering it was a revenge act by Forest Town''s Gonzalez. Amelia used her medical skills to cure it."


    "Congrats, Amelia''s efforts in curing the villagers and solving the plague earned you Spiritual Tribute +200!"


    "Amelia gains the trait¡ªMiraculous Healing."


    "Miraculous Healing: Success rate of treating patients increases by 20%!"


    ...


    "Gratitude Village hit by a psycho killer, and 9-year-old Olivia, book in hand, dashed to the crime scene. She pieced together the clues and nailed the perp sent by Forest''s Garcia to mess with folks'' heads."


    "Scored Spiritual Tribute +30!"


    "Olivia gains the trait¡ªKeen Insight."


    "Keen Insight: Keeps her head cooler under pressure."


    Trouble keeps rolling in from Forest Town, but it all just boosts Blackwood''s experience...


    "The young''uns can handle most troubles themselves now."


    Ethan was pretty stoked about that.


    But while watching the Blackwood crew level up, he kept an extra eye on Olivia.


    This Blackwood sickly kid still hadn''t managed to muster any special abilities.


    "Olivia, take care of yourself, no need to stress over family stuff."


    Under the beast blood fruit tree, which had grown another sibling under Amelia''s care, reaching human height. Amelia, busy planting special herbs, saw her sister coming and cracked a smile, "Got a beast blood fruit here for you, sis. Eat it, and you might just break through to Iron Will, get your health back on track."


    Young Olivia stubbornly shook her head, "Can''t do it, sis. I''m following the path of Heaven and Earth, reading the sage''s books. My body is a temple. I heard the modern literary sage thrived on grains alone, and enlightenment came naturally."


    "How many literary types are out there?" Amelia patted her sister''s head, "Sis, we''ve got resources, maybe take the easier path."


    Olivia shook her head again, clearly not ready to give up her quest.


    "Ah? Going for the literary path?"


    Watching the sisters'' exchange pop up in little text bubbles above their heads, Ethan finally got why Olivia hadn''t become a Psychic.


    Turns out the kid wasn''t into cultivating psychic powers or munching on special pills and resources!


    Even he knew about literary types...


    But from what he remembered, in a thousand years of psychic resurgence history, successful literary types were few and far between...


    As for before the psychic resurgence, whether folks like the sage Confucius were real, Ethan couldn''t say.


    But from the sisters'' chat, it seemed literary sages did exist in this game world.


    And Olivia, always a bookworm, aimed to follow that path.


    "Hope she makes it."


    Ethan shrugged. After all, everyone''s got their own gig, and he should respect that.


    Time marched on.


    "In Blackwood, year 27, Nathan chugged a ton of beast blood fruits and stumbled upon a freaky power herb in the Silver Iron Woods. After munching on it, he blasted through to the ninth level of Foundational Energy!"


    "Lucas, rolling deep with the Blackwood crew, raided a black iron ores operated by Forest''s Gonzalez gang, snagging a hefty haul of black iron ore!"


    "Ha, think you can ores under my watch? Hand it over, buddy!"


    Ethan couldn''t help but crack up at the game updates.


    He might''ve ditched mining himself, but that didn''t mean he wasn''t interested in those veins!


    He''d already tipped off Nathan to keep an eye on the ores, letting the folks from Forest Town do the heavy lifting. Sure enough, the Gonzalez crew developed the vein, and although they sent some heavy hitters to guard it, they slipped up now and then.


    Grinning, Ethan watched as Lucas and his squad carted off the ore back to base.


    His phone rang.


    Ethan grabbed it and answered the call.


    "Mr. Ethan, great news, found a buyer for your blood fruits, 3000 Energy Stones."


    Alan''s voice came through, "And if you''re cool with my speed and the price I got, there''s bigger deals ahead. Just a heads-up, you might wanna launder that incoming cash, you know, being a student and all, sudden big bucks might raise eyebrows."


    3000 Energy Stones for just 20 fruits? Ethan was floored by the price! S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    These were just 100-point power fruits, usually, a potion offering that much power would barely fetch 20 Energy Stones!


    If he could pull 100 beast blood fruits a day...


    Thinking of the massive sum made Ethan''s heart race!


    But he kept his cool, "Pleased with the deal. As for the Energy Stones... we''ll talk. Just wondering if Alan could score some contraband?"


    "Contraband?"


    Alan paused, then seriously added, "Mr. Ethan, you know, if you''re after a star-destroying cannon, that''ll take some time to get back here."


    "..."


    A star-destroying cannon? Does he think I''m gearing up for a space war???


    Ethan hung up, shot Alan a text, then stepped out. After gaming all day, it was time to grab some grub.


    Glancing around his place, he momentarily couldn''t tell if he was still in the game or back in reality.


    "Man, got way too sucked into the game."


    Ethan shrugged.


    Just as he was pulling a cake from the fridge, he noticed Lisa peeping through the peephole. "Lisa, what''s up?"


    Lisa turned, waving her hand, "Commander, you stir up some trouble?"


    "Huh?"


    Something felt off.


    "Old lady Quinn''s been pacing outside, eyeing our place."


    Ethan''s mouth twitched, "Let her watch."


    Great, wasn''t stalked by classmates at school, now an ancient lady''s camping at my door, probably steamed about something earlier. If old lady Quinn catches me, won''t I be in for a world of hurt?


    Shaking his head, Ethan went back to his room. If anything came up, he''d just call the security guard, Mr. John.


    He''d just sat down and taken a bite of cake when...


    Ding ding dang! Sparks flying, Julian was hammering away!


    "Your descendant Julian, after snagging some black iron ore, kept refining it and had an epiphany while hammering the iron. He crafted his first iron sword using the blood of a mystical beast to unlock the sword''s potential, drawing the power of the universe into the blade."


    "Julian crafted his first power-enhanced gear, earning the title¡ªNinth Grade Power Equipment Craftsman!"


    "Earned trait: Iron in the Soul..."

 Chapter 31 - 31: An idea

    [Julian (Second Gen)]


    [Occupation: Ninth Rank Ability Equipment Craftsman]


    [Level: Foundational Energy Level Five]


    [Psychic Constitution: Mixed Five-Element Psychic Constitution]


    [Techniques: Qi Gathering, Mega Hammer Technique]


    [Traits: Strong Bones, Iron Precision]


    [Iron Precision: When forging metal weapons, speed +100%, proficiency with weapons +100%!]


    ...


    "Third Young Master, did you... did you just craft some psychic gear?!!"


    At Gratitude Village''s blacksmith shop, amidst the heat of the forge, four veteran blacksmiths cheered for Julian.


    "What kind of psychic gear is this supposed to be?"


    If Amelia became a pharmacist by following her own path of cultivating psychic powers, Julian here relied purely on luck. He even disdainfully tossed aside the freshly forged iron sword, "You guys haven''t seen anything truly awesome, but I have!"


    "That thing is all metal, as tall as several buildings. Don''t even talk about Foundational Energy warriors, even Emerging Ability experts can''t scratch its iron. It emits blue light, flies through the sky, is decked out with weapons, can shoot psychic powers from its shoulders, and can even conjure divine swords out of thin air!"


    As Julian spoke to the blacksmiths, his eyes sparkled with envy. He remembered the day the Forebearer unleashed the War AI Bionic Robot, its majestic form instantly taking down Elder Gonzalez!


    That was the day.


    He realized that was the true romance of a real man!


    "My goal isn''t to make this kind of psychic equipment. They''re just for gaining experience in crafting. My real target is crafting those powerful AI Bionic Robots!"


    "Clang!"


    With the hammer''s fall, sparks flew.


    Julian, holding a steel plate with tongs, slowly moved towards the back.


    Behind him, there was actually a wooden model of an AI Bionic Robot!


    Julian, using a black iron plate, slowly placed it on the wooden figure''s shoulder, securing it with chains.


    ...


    "Dreaming of crafting War AI Bionic Robots, huh?"


    Watching Julian chat with the craftsmen in the game, Ethan didn''t quite know what to make of it, just hoping Julian really pulls it off someday.


    And Ethan got it.


    The characters in this game, they all got their own minds, picking their paths as they grow. The four kids of the Blackwood second gen, Lucas is more like Nathan, a solid pick to take over the family reins.


    Loner Amelia went down the path to become a pharmacist, diving deeper into the world of psychic plants, now a legendary healer in Gratitude Village.


    Olivia, dragging her sickly self, chose a tough road. As she''s getting older, her smarts are leveling up, just like that time she cracked a case wide open with ease.


    And Julian, he''s running a shop in Gratitude Village, crafting psychic gear with four blacksmith masters, beefing up the whole crew''s metalwork.


    [Blackwood Year 28.]


    [Nathan led Gratitude Village folks and Blackwood youngsters to the Silver Iron Forest, heard a beast roar deep inside. The terrifying presence in the depths warned the Purple Lightning Python protecting humans, to back off or face annihilation!]


    "We can''t go any deeper, the temple guardian beast said the monster king is ticked off!"


    As Luna translated solemnly for the Purple Lightning Python, the crew had to halt their deep dive into the Silver Iron Forest.


    The monster king, now as powerful as a human D-class!


    "Can''t go any further, huh?"


    Ethan let out a long sigh, recalling what the Purple Lightning Python had told the Blackwood folks about the forest.


    Seems like the forest''s monster king cut the Python some slack, so it hadn''t attacked Blackwood''s people. But now, with Blackwood digging too deep too often, they were threatening the monster king''s turf.


    "But that''s enough for now, we''ll just slowly explore the outskirts from here on."


    Ethan didn''t mind.


    These years of growth had boosted Blackwood''s strength up a notch!


    Now, Gratitude Village''s population hit three thousand.


    Just think, even Forest Town only had forty thousand before the disaster, and that''s probably halved by now.


    Take another look at Blackwood''s current digs.


    The whole place spans ten thousand square meters, with pavilions, towers, flying eaves, and blue tiles, all classy yet grand. The ground''s all cobblestone, surrounded by lush greenery and flowers, even the four-meter-high walls are carved with dragons and phoenixes.


    Further out, there''s the psychic beast park, now part of Blackwood''s back hills. Looking into the distance, you can see the thick branches of the beast blood fruit trees standing tall like giants, with psychic beasts occasionally leaping from limb to limb, birds screeching.


    Beyond the psychic beast park is the psychic herb garden, plus some simple houses.


    The old psychic herb garden was inside the beast park, but as another beast blood fruit tree grew, it gradually squeezed out space for the psychic herbs, so Amelia moved the garden.


    Those houses are home to a dozen teens from Gratitude Village, helping to plant herbs, giving Amelia more time to cultivate psychic herbs, and maybe even train a few pharmacists for Gratitude Village.


    And before all of Blackwood, there''s Gratitude Village.


    They''re spread all around Blackwood, like guards protecting the whole place.


    Ethan was still keeping an eye on Blackwood''s progress, feeling a whole lot of pride. Even though they couldn''t push further into the Silver Iron Forest, Blackwood was still growing in an organized fashion.


    In their ranks, they now boasted over a dozen Psychics.


    Especially Julian, that dude, always dreaming about making War AI Bionic Robots, but never slacking off when it came to arming Blackwood!


    He led the Gratitude Village blacksmiths, working day and night to forge gear, even the tailors were hustling.


    Now, Blackwood''s guards were all decked out in chainmail made from black iron, looking mighty fine under the sun. They each wielded a long sword forged from black iron and carried a triple-strength bow made from black iron and beast sinew on their backs.


    With over a hundred guards firing these bows at once, even someone at the Emerging Ability stage would have to think twice about taking all those arrows head-on.


    Just as he was admiring the family''s progress, a notification popped up on the screen¡ª


    [Your descendants have a matter to consult you about.]


    The family cultivating psychic powers simulator game was getting more human-like by the day. Whenever someone from Blackwood needed him at the ancestral hall, time would automatically slow down, and the game would alert him.


    He quickly switched perspectives.


    "Lucas and Olivia, huh?"


    By now, Nathan had reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy and had started a strict retreat, vowing not to emerge until he broke through to Emerging Ability. Amelia and Julian, those workhorses, spent nearly all their time on alchemy and crafting psychic gear, only showing up in Blackwood if there was something they couldn''t handle.


    As for Luna, she was currently taming a psychic beast in the beast park.


    "Hiss¡ªSss¡ª"


    The Purple Lightning Python in the ancestral hall opened its eyes and hissed.


    The siblings quickly knelt before the Forebearer cards, "Greetings, Forebearer!" Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia said, "Forebearer, I have a bold idea I''d like to discuss."


    "Oh? An idea?" Ethan raised an eyebrow. It had been a while since anyone in Blackwood had come to him with their own suggestions.


    He typed into the computer, saying.


    As the temple guardian beast hissed, Olivia continued:


    "Since we can''t continue to develop the Silver Iron Forest, maybe we should shift our focus and start doing business with Forest Town. After all, over the years, we''ve accumulated a large stockpile of beast hides and picked a lot of useless psychic herbs in the Silver Iron Forest, filling up our warehouses."


    "Ah?"


    Lucas''s eyes widened in disbelief, looking at his sister, "Sis, we''ve already tricked them once, Forest Town can''t possibly fall for it again, right?"

 Chapter 32 - 32: Beast Tamer

    "Doing business with Forest Town, huh?" Ethan''s face lit up with interest as he kept tabs on Blackwood''s growth. Olivia had always been a bookworm since she was a kid, and now it seemed that this girl was really something special.


    He quickly typed into the game, encouraging Olivia to continue.


    With the go-ahead, Olivia ignored her shocked brother and began speaking softly, "Forebearer, I know we have blood feuds with the Heath and Gonzalez families of Forest, but that doesn''t mean we can''t trade with the other two families."


    "People are selfish and greedy."


    "They say the four big families of Forest Town are united, but at the end of the day, they''re not one big happy family. I''ve checked, and because of the drought over the years, each of their families is facing troubles, many industries are struggling to continue, especially since they''re afraid of us in Blackwood going on a rampage, they don''t even dare to hunt in the Silver Iron Forest."


    "Moreover, our feud with the Heath and Gonzalez families has nothing to do with them."


    "Our trading terms are valid."


    Listening to Olivia, Ethan took a swig of his Coke and then sent another command to the Purple Lightning Python, signaling Olivia to continue.


    Olivia took a deep breath, "We should try to trade with them, show them our sincerity, this is just the beginning."


    "What will the Heath and Gonzalez families think next?"


    "Their relationship will start to crack irreparably, and the Su and Chen families will gradually realize that we, Blackwood, could replace the Heath and Gonzalez families!"


    "The alliance of Forest Town will crumble on its own, and we will have our revenge!"


    Slap!


    Ethan smacked his thigh; Olivia''s years of reading hadn''t gone to waste. Although she had no combat power, Olivia''s intelligence could match that of someone at the Emerging Ability stage!


    But Olivia''s next words made Ethan twitch.


    "This is all an open strategy, next we can completely step back behind the scenes when the conflicts in Forest Town escalate!"


    "It would be best if we secretly eliminate their heirs and frame others."


    "Without their descendants, they will be utterly desperate, they will fight each other to the death, and we will dominate Forest Town without lifting a finger!"


    "Without the presence of Psychics, chaos and death will descend upon Forest Town, forty thousand civilians will gradually die in this year of drought, and vengeful spirits will take over the city, we will get a lot of corpses to nourish the beast blood fruit trees!"


    ???


    Ethan''s face darkened, sometimes he felt a bit unscrupulous, but now, looking at the text above Olivia''s head, he felt relieved.


    Not just Ethan.


    Even Lucas incredulously looked at his sister, even moving a step away and swallowing hard.


    Next.


    Ethan and Olivia talked in detail for a moment, then continued to check on the family''s development. Schemes are just schemes, but everything needs to be seen in actual operation.


    No matter what kind of cunning plan, it all depends on the premise of strong power.


    It''s been 29 years since the Blackwood clan started their gig, and they''ve built up a self-sustaining village. Lucas is still the head honcho, running the family operations like a boss.


    He''s got a crew of 150 guards, all decked out in thick black iron chainmail and each packing fifteen iron arrows. Seriously, any one of these guys could go head-to-head with a Psychic at the Foundational Energy level.


    Ethan reckons that if all 150 of these dudes fired at once, any newbie Psychic just stepping into the Emerging Ability phase without any fancy defensive tricks would end up looking like a hedgehog. That is, if they don''t manage to dodge.


    Even though Lucas is busy managing the family biz, he hasn''t slacked off on powering up his psychic abilities.


    Lucas (Second Generation)


    Level: Foundational Energy, Level 8


    Skills: Qi Gathering Technique, Autumn Wind Steps, Basic Swordsmanship, Sword Glow


    Traits: Killing Potential


    Gear: Psychic Breath Sword, God Confusing Pendant, Black Iron Beast Blood Set sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    That Autumn Wind Step is a slick move he picked up from a scrap with Elder Gonzalez. It''s quick like a gust in fall, but every step packs a deadly punch. And that''s just one of the many skills the Blackwood crew has in their arsenal now, with a whole library of six or seven skill manuals.


    Most of their gear, including the trippy God Confusing Pendant that messes with your head and boosts your psychic powers, came from the Heath and Gonzalez families.


    Now, about that Black Iron Beast Blood Set...


    Julian, after becoming a psychic gear craftsman, has a pretty wild way of making gear, full of randomness. The randomness comes from this dude mixing all sorts of beast heart blood in a big pot and sealing it with magic.


    He calls this mix in the pot the ''Blood Altar''.


    Whenever he needs to make some psychic gear, he tosses the materials in the Blood Altar and lets them soak for 49 days. Then he starts hammering away, crafting gear whose powers even he can''t predict. And all the gear he makes is pretty basic; he calls it ''Destiny Forged Psychic Gear''.


    The Black Iron Beast Blood Set is Julian''s masterpiece, and every member of Blackwood rocks a set! When Lucas wears his set, it shows a dark red hue, including a robe, underarmor, gloves, belt, pants, and boots.


    Its special trick is a chameleon-like blending with the environment, and when powered up with psychic energy, it can summon two blood tigers to attack the enemy.


    Next up are Julian and Amelia.


    Both have reached Level 6 in Foundational Energy. Julian might be obsessed with blacksmithing, but don''t underestimate his strength.


    If you''re wondering who''s the toughest in Blackwood, it''s definitely Julian. All that hammering not only shapes metal but also his physique. He wields two hammers; the smaller one, made entirely of pure black iron and weighing about 50 pounds, he swings with one hand as easily as pointing a finger.


    The big hammer...


    The handle is as tall as a man, and the hammerhead is thicker than Julian''s broad shoulders. Ethan believes that if anyone in the Emerging Ability phase dared to take a direct hit from Julian''s hammer, they''d be smashed into the ground like a nail.


    Of course, using that monster in a fight is out of the question. Julian made it for blacksmithing, and swinging it more than three times would totally wipe him out, let alone hitting anything.


    Amelia, this gal, might be a pharmacist, but she''s way more than just your average healer.


    The "Thousand Herbs Scripture" details the art of potion-making, and whipping up poisons is like the cherry on top in that book.


    So, this one time, some baddies decided to invade.


    They thought they had an easy target when they stumbled into the supernatural garden and saw Amelia, just a lady on her own.


    Ethan caught on but hadn''t yet whipped out his ''Forebearer''s Fury'' to come to the rescue.


    Before he could, a level eight Foundational Energy assassin had already fallen into Amelia''s trap. She had a swarm of purple bees, and getting stung meant slowly losing your strength until all your supernatural powers were drained¡ªtotally kaput.


    As for Nathan, that dude was still cooped up in Blackwood''s secret chamber, been two years without a breakthrough.


    He''s been hoarding his supernatural powers, trying to bust open all his body''s energy points.


    Of course, jumping from Foundational Energy to Emerging Ability ain''t as easy as it sounds. Each major level up is like cracking open the human genetic lock, a complete transformation.


    Before Foundational Energy, you''re just mortal. Reach Emerging Ability, and you can rejuvenate your body, bagging over two hundred years of life, and your Psychic Constitution gets a nice boost too.


    A perfect Emerging Ability is like flipping fate on its head.


    [Luna tamed her spirit beast ''Heavenly Moon Fox'' with beast-contracting skills!]


    [Achieved the profession: Beast Tamer!]


    [Gained trait: Fox Handler]


    [Gained Spiritual Tribute +100!]


    Outta nowhere, the game throws out this great news.


    In the beast garden, there''s Luna, surrounded by creatures, sitting cross-legged with a ghostly white fox appearing around her!


    "Who would''ve thought, Luna, you''re a tough cookie, keeping it real low-key!" Ethan was all lit up, just when he thought Nathan was defying fate.


    Turns out Nathan''s better half has already nailed it!


    [Luna (Nathan''s wife)]


    [Profession: Beast Tamer]


    [Level: Foundational Energy Level 5]


    [Skills: Energy Gathering, Beast Taming]


    [Trait: Fox Handler]


    [Fox Handler: Contracted with the supernatural beast ''Heavenly Moon Fox'' as her spirit beast, sharing its lifespan and magical powers!]


    Being a Beast Tamer is kinda niche.


    In Ethan''s memory, throughout the thousand-year history of supernatural resurgence, Beast Tamers were once top dogs, always drawing various powers from their beasts.


    And now.


    By bonding with a supernatural beast, Luna''s basically got the strength of someone in the Emerging Ability phase. With the Heavenly Moon Fox''s combat prowess, she''s even hit mid-Emerging Ability, making her the strongest in the Blackwood crew!


    She''s even surpassed the two-hundred-year lifespan mark. These beasties live long, and blessed by the moonlight, the Heavenly Moon Fox can live up to a thousand years!


    "Wowza."


    Ethan was amazed and happy to see Blackwood''s daughter-in-law thriving.


    But compared to Luna, Lucas''s wife Karen is just plain Jane.


    Karen''s dad, Thomas, is a Psychic, but Karen''s just a mortal. Even with Blackwood''s resources, she''s only at Foundational Energy level one, pampered and lazy. Since marrying Lucas, she''s put on some weight, but now she''s showing again.


    At least their kid Marcus is doing alright.


    At 8, Marcus has hit Foundational Energy level two. His triple Psychic Constitution makes his psychic power cultivation faster, plus with Blackwood''s current resources and past experiences, he''s well-supported.


    Good thing the kid''s been soaking up the Blackwood vibe since he was little, not picking up his mom''s bad habits. He''s not as hardworking as the other Blackwood members, but he''s doing alright.


    "The next big ritual''s about to kick off."


    Ethan, looking at the screen, was feeling pretty nostalgic.


    He''d only been playing for a bit over a day.


    But in the game world, nearly thirty years had passed, and he''d watched the Blackwood kids grow up.


    Just as he was about to stretch and prep for the upcoming Divine Gift,


    Olivia appeared in the temple on the screen.


    "Forebearer, after a year, Olivia finally gained the trust of the Rodriguez and Martinez families!"

 Chapter 33 - 33: The ceremony begins!

    "Got the trust?" Ethan squinted his eyes; sometimes, setting up a plan also required a lot of time.


    However, playing this game, Ethan was more focused on the development of the Blackwoods.


    With time accelerated, he had no idea what Olivia had done, so he had to ask the Purple Thunder Python.


    With the temple guardian beast making an inquiry, Olivia immediately understood. She respectfully said, "Forebearer, we have our people in Forest Town. I''ve always had them watch the actions of the four major families. Finally, three months ago, I dispatched a maid from the Martinez family who brought news that the young master of the Martinez family had secretly gone to a brothel."


    "So, I had my sister prepare a drug that incites lust, and that night, Garcia Dexter, who once severely injured our father, was also there, drunk to the point of oblivion."


    "I had someone take him to the lustful young master Martinez''s room..."


    Ethan slid off his chair in shock, utterly blown away by the events of that night, too beautiful to imagine.


    "The next day, Dexter woke up and scoured the world for Parker Martinez, vowing to fight him to the death."


    "Later, Parker fled Forest Town, and under my arrangement, he encountered danger and came to our Gratitude Village."


    "The fourth brother of the Martinez family head has been secretly contacting me to save Parker''s life."


    Ethan was full of emotions. He deeply admired Olivia''s step-by-step planning, at least he couldn''t think of such... unique ideas.


    And while Olivia was recounting all this, her face didn''t turn red, and her heart didn''t skip a beat; it seemed she felt that as long as the goal was achieved, the process no longer mattered.


    She was even somewhat dissatisfied with the current outcome.


    "Forebearer, Olivia still miscalculated. I thought Dexter would sober up earlier and kill Parker, after which we could then proactively contact his father. But unexpectedly, Parker is still alive."


    Ethan was speechless, silently typing¡ª


    "Life is unpredictable, just watch as it unfolds."


    As the Purple Thunder Python responded, Olivia''s eyes lit up, "Olivia understands now, Forebearer means we can strike again. While the Martinez family is sending people for a deal, we can have someone take Parker to meet the Martinez family. At the same time, we secretly inform Garcia. Dexter, a man who never forgets a grudge, will not let Parker go!"


    "That... will make things even bigger!"


    "This is the unpredictability of life, a plot within a plot. Even if the Martinez family knows it was us, they have already seen blood. We have become enemies of Garcia just like them, and the enemy of our enemy is our friend!"


    Ethan took a deep breath.


    This second-generation descendant was definitely the most ruthless person he had ever met in his life.


    "Go ahead."


    Ethan had nothing more to say. Olivia had clearly planned everything, and his interference would only backfire.


    His goal was also simple.


    That was to break through Forest Town''s blockade against the Blackwoods and conduct trade!


    If they could completely resolve the two enemies of the Blackwoods and swallow the whole Forest Town, the progress of the Blackwoods would be even more rapid!


    Ethan was checking the map when he noticed that outside Gratitude Village, Lucas was fleeing back to the village with a couple of psychic beasts and a group of battered people.


    Nowadays, Blackwood had five psychic beasts, excluding the one contracted by Luna, leaving four.


    These were all products of the Silver Iron Forest, and with the help of the Purple Thunder Solar Python and Luna''s persistent taming, they had no choice but to submit.


    The Hundred-Eye Demon Spider, the Gale Wing Tiger, the Morning Sun Beast, and the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon were among them.


    At this moment, Lucas was accompanied by the latter two.


    The Morning Sun Beast, a bird-like psychic beast resembling a crane but with red feathers, could turn its demonic energy into fierce fire when flying. It usually helped Julian craft psychic equipment.


    The Eight-Leaf Flower Demon was a floral psychic beast that had gained psychic intelligence over the years and had taken on a beast form.


    It could move with its roots and take root as soon as it touched the ground, injuring people with its flying leaves and bewildering their minds.


    It was also the weakest psychic beast Luna had ever seen... As long as one wasn''t beguiled by it or injured by its eight leaves, even an Iron Will could burn it with a single fire.


    At that moment, outside a house, pink dust fluttered from the blossom of the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon. Unbeknownst to them, the injured inside the house being treated by Amelia were full of sorrow and anger.


    "Garcia Dexter, you killed my people, this enmity is irreconcilable!"


    "If it weren''t for the timely rescue by Young Master Blackwood, we might have also lost our lives."


    "I can''t believe Dexter could be so heartless!"


    Watching the words above the heads of those animated characters in the house, Ethan''s eyebrows raised slightly. He knew Olivia''s plan had succeeded, and even better than expected!


    As Ethan watched with interest, a maid outside pushed the frail Olivia into the room.


    "This is..."


    Of the Martinez family members saved, four were present, led by a middle-aged man known to Ethan as Jerry, the third brother of the Martinez family head, with a cultivation level of nine in Foundational Energy.


    As for Parker... that kid and his father were ambushed and killed by Dexter''s traps on the road.


    Having already met the Martinez family members on the road, Lucas smiled and introduced, "Friends of the Martinez family, this is my younger sister, Olivia."


    After the introductions, Olivia furrowed her brows and said in a serious tone, "Uncle Jerry, I want to ask if your Martinez family has had a longstanding grudge with the Garcias?"


    "A longstanding grudge? Why do you ask, niece Olivia?" Jerry pondered for a moment before responding, "If we''re talking about grudges, there are indeed many. To be honest, you might have heard that the four major families of Forest Town are united against a common enemy, but that''s just an outsider''s perspective. "


    "Twenty years ago, my Martinez family was competing with the Garcias over a stone ores, and both families suffered many casualties. Dexter''s uncle also died in that accident."


    "I thought so," Olivia sighed deeply.


    Seeing Olivia like this, Jerry was even more puzzled. "Why do you sigh, niece?"


    "Not to hide anything from you, when Parker fled to our Blackwood, he mentioned that he was dazed that night and didn''t know what happened. The next day, Dexter was already calling for his head, and Dexter seemed to have the upper hand," Olivia explained.


    "Dexter had the whole town hunting Parker, yet Parker still managed to escape Forest Town. Isn''t that curious?" Jerry''s expression changed. "What are you trying to say?"


    "I''m saying, all this could very well be a trap set by the Garcias!" Olivia looked somewhat relieved.


    "A trap?" Jerry seemed to realize something.


    "Yes, a trap!" Olivia continued passionately, "Over the years, we Blackwoods have had a blood feud with the Garcias, and you know that, Uncle Jerry. But your relationship with the Garcias isn''t good either. So, behind the scenes, the Garcias have been plotting to wipe us out in one fell swoop." S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They deliberately created the conflict between Dexter and Parker, and intentionally let Parker escape, all for today!"


    "Think about it, Uncle Jerry. If your Martinez people were all killed on their way to Blackwood to pick up Parker, what would the Martinez family think?"


    Jerry finally turned pale.


    "Our Martinez family would think it was your Blackwoods who did it, especially since you had previously... lured Gonzalez''s people to Blackwood and killed them."


    "Exactly," Olivia said, frightened by the thought. "This way, the Garcias could kill your Martinez people and also make your Martinez family resent us. Then, they could incite you to be our enemies!"


    With a bitter smile, Olivia concluded, "If that happens, being enemies with three major families of Forest Town at the same time, our Blackwood would indeed face a great disaster."


    "Man, that''s some cold-blooded strategy!" Jerry gritted his teeth, and even with a broken leg, he struggled to stand up. "I''m heading back now to tell our old man, and make Garcia pay the price!"


    But Olivia shook her head, "Hold up, Uncle Jerry. You think Dexter played you dirty, do you really think they''ll let you get back alive? I bet the road to Forest Town is already crawling with Garcia''s traps."


    Jerry finally cooled down a bit.


    Olivia continued, "You should stay here in Blackwood and get better, Uncle. We''ll keep on with our business dealings in the meantime. As for making Garcia pay, we should play the long game. "


    "After all, this family feud is a matter of life and death. You really need to think about whether it''s worth putting your Martinez and Heath families in such grave danger."


    Jerry sighed deeply, "These days, both Garcia and Gonzalez are saying you Blackwoods are ruthless, really gives one the chills."


    It''s all you, huh!


    Watching the game screen, Ethan felt a bit of admiration.


    At such a young age, Olivia was almost devilishly clever! She had grasped all the details, step by step drawing Garcia and Martinez into a deep pit of hostility, even making Blackwood appear as a benevolent and charitable family in front of Jerry.


    After Olivia was pushed out of the room, Ethan immediately sent some ''Forebearer''s Love'' her way.


    "Thanks for the Forebearer''s blessing!" Olivia''s face was full of smiles, delighted by the Forebearer''s reward, a reward she had received countless times before. She was frail and easily fell ill, often suffering from colds or fevers, and it was always the Forebearer''s grace that cured her ailments.


    Otherwise, Olivia wasn''t even sure if she could have lived to her current age.


    This was also why Olivia dared to pursue the arduous path of scholarly cultivation with her frail body, believing that the Forebearer would protect everyone in the family. The Forebearer had supernatural abilities and cared for her more than her own parents.


    Meanwhile, on the screen.


    Ethan watched as Lucas and the Martinez family discussed business inside the house. Blackwood had a wealth of herbs, exotic beast materials, food, and even young exotic beasts.


    The Martinez family, on the other hand, had various resources and even owned a trading company in the county town.


    It wouldn''t be long before Blackwood gained a massive amount of resources for the family''s development through this deal!


    Before long.


    The deal was sealed, and Jerry was recuperating in Blackwood. As the heavy snow fell, all of Blackwood gathered in the ancestral hall.


    Even Nathan, who had been in seclusion, temporarily broke his meditation, his face covered in stubble.


    The once-in-a-decade grand ceremony began!


    [Your family has sent you a massive Tribute Offering!]

 Chapter 34 - 34: Golden Psychic Bath

    [Your descendants offer you a Tribute Offering¡ª]


    [50 Beast Blood Fruits!]


    [Top-grade psychic equipment, the Breath Sword!]


    [A set of Black Iron Beast Blood Armor...] Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan looked at the various Tribute Offerings on the game''s altar. Although he had communicated earlier that he only wanted the Beast Blood Fruits, it seemed the Blackwood descendants really thought these items were being sent to the underworld, sending over their most precious treasures all at once.


    [You choose to take out the Tribute Offering¡ªBeast Blood Fruits.]


    After checking everything, Ethan only took out the Beast Blood Fruits.


    "The new Beast Blood Fruit tree has grown, and it looks like we can harvest again in the next ten years."


    Ethan calculated the harvest; he left half of these Beast Blood Fruits for Blackwood and took half for himself, knowing that the growth of the Blackwood descendants was essential. Only if they were strong enough would he benefit more in the future!


    "Harvest every ten years, I can harvest twice a day, next time 100 pieces each, 30,000, I can get 30,000 Energy Stones a day!"


    Even Ethan drooled over this calculation.


    You know, even as a member of Blackwood, he only gets 300 Energy Stones a month for pocket money!


    Isn''t this a direct flight to wealth?


    While excited, Ethan still kept his cool, even planning what to do in the future.


    Then his gaze returned to the game.


    [For this grand ceremony, do you want to use the ''Forebearer''s Divine Gift''?]


    He rubbed the space ring in his hand.


    He had already prepared the Divine Gift for this occasion!


    Given the current situation in Blackwood, they had already formed their own forces and were self-sufficient, protected by the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the War AI Bionic Robot, seeming very powerful, but it was not enough!


    If the four major families of Forest Town invaded Blackwood, Ethan could at most use his skills to deal with one enemy.


    With a thought,


    An ancient book covered in dust appeared in his hand.


    [Detecting your Divine Gift¡ª]


    [Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map!]


    [Delivering Divine Gift!]


    "Forebearer Divine Gift has arrived!"


    "Every grand ceremony the Forebearer sends us great stuff, but we descendants can only send some useless things, this... how can we be at peace with this."


    "Thanks to the Forebearer Divine Gift!"


    The family was moved to tears.


    [Your descendants feel valued.]


    [Received Spiritual Tribute +300!]


    "Quick, let''s see what the Forebearer has sent."


    Nathan quickly instructed Lucas to fetch it.


    Lucas was spellbound the moment he opened the ancient book next to the altar''s bronze furnace.


    "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map!"


    ...


    Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map!


    Watching the descendants'' joyful expressions when they received the book, Ethan was not surprised.


    This formation map, a relic from a thousand years ago when psychic abilities resurged in the real world, has enabled Blackwood to develop and grow over the millennium, becoming one of the leading forces in the federation!


    As for how this thing came about?


    Ethan had only heard about it.


    It is said that when psychic abilities resurged a thousand years ago, Blackwood''s Forebearer seemed to have an overnight enlightenment, gaining a wealth of powerful knowledge and leading the entire Blackwood clan to grow from the very beginning.


    This Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map, based on the Forebearer''s cards, can gather the power of all members loyal to Blackwood and protect a piece of land.


    Because of this formation map, Blackwood has turned danger into safety time and again.


    This formation map is only available to the most core direct descendants and is a closely guarded secret of Blackwood.


    But now...


    "Damn it, Mark took everyone and ran off, leaving just me. Do I still care about the Forebearer?"


    Ethan complained, obviously still resentful about being abandoned by all of Blackwood.


    He began to focus on the game.


    Time was maxed out again, Ethan waited for Blackwood to figure out how to use the "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map" while also waiting for the trade between Blackwood and the Martinez family.


    Actually, what Olivia said before was quite right.


    Blackwood had encountered a development bottleneck because they feared the unknown demon king of the Silver Iron Woods, preventing them from developing it, and the direction towards Forest Town was already blocked by the Heath and Gonzalez families.


    It''s not just about not being able to get more resources.


    But...


    Ethan also had a small goal, to dominate the entire Forest Town and become the landlord directly!


    The game world''s time also reached the freezing point, a year of severe drought in winter with no snow, only cold wind and dryness.


    The Martinez family had already been sent back to Forest Town and returned to Gratitude Village within a few days.


    And they brought a lot of resources!


    This time the Martinez family was still led by Jerry, who was trading with Lucas and Olivia, also because Lucas had saved Jerry last time, the Martinez family had enough trust in Blackwood, they even brought resources directly.


    [Your family is trading with the Martinez family.]


    [Acquired a large amount of ''Jinling Grass'']


    [Acquired a large amount of ''Black Glint Essence Stone'']


    [Acquired...]


    Seeing these traded items, Ethan was overjoyed.


    Time flies in the game world, and for the Blackwoods, having the power to protect and develop their family has become crucial over the past thirty years. As the family grew, the importance of resources also increased!


    Amelia''s progress in potion-making had hit a snag. She could only cultivate four types of herbs from the Silver Iron Forest, and from the "Herbal Compendium," only four potions could be made.


    These included a clotting powder for external injuries, a body-strengthening powder for those under level five Iron Will Psychic, a seven-flavor soup to speed up the acquisition of psychic abilities, and a lethal potion that worked on contact with blood.


    The foreign psychic medicines seemed very valuable now.


    If they could get the "Golden Spirit Grass" from the Martinez family, combined with some of Blackwood''s psychic medicines, Amelia could even concoct a "Golden Psychic Bath" that could boost a Psychic''s constitution by 1-8 points¡ªa potent potion easily made from the "Herbal Compendium."


    The Martinez family also owned two ore fields.

 Chapter 35 - 35: Betrayal Unveiled

    One was the Black Gleam Crystal Ores, which produced a significant amount of black stones every five years, forming the foundation of the Martinez family. These black gleam crystals could be used to pave the floor of a training room, enhancing the speed of psychic power cultivation by 50% and aiding in meditation. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The other was the Moonlight Stone, an energy stone used in forging psychic gear, typically embedded to enhance the power of psychic equipment and save on psychic energy consumption.


    "Hmph, I knew Garcia and Gonzalez were just spouting nonsense. You Blackwoods really keep your word," Jerry said, clearly satisfied with the transaction, as Ethan noticed the text above his head.


    "Rest assured, from now on, you are our partners. The potions your alchemists make and the psychic gear your craftsmen forge can be traded through our family to other towns!"


    Of course, Ethan could see that the Martinez family''s eagerness wasn''t just because the Blackwoods kept their promises. It was because of Amelia and Julian''s presence. Though only ninth rank, they were hot commodities wherever they went.


    As the Martinez family left, the Blackwoods were overjoyed.


    "This is great! Trading with the Martinez family means we can get all sorts of resources. We''ve finally broken the blockade of Forest Town. My Golden Psychic Bath has a future now. Just need to partner up with the Su family, and I can make even more potions!" Amelia seemed only to get this excited about potion-making.


    "The Black Gleam Crystals sold to us by the Martinez family can be used to build a training room that can accommodate a hundred people. I''ll handle this," Julian licked his lips. "And the Moonlight Stones, hand over your psychic gear, and I''ll give them a refresh. Big bro, even your high-grade psychic sword can take a stab at it."


    "Give it a shot, take it. I''m really not used to this psychic breath sword," Lucas grinned.


    "And Julian, remember my 150 sets of Black Iron Beast Blood suits, Black Blood Bows, and Black Blood Knives. Once we have a 150-person Iron Will guard squad, these items will come in handy. I''ve even thought of a name for them¡ªThe Black Blood Hall!"


    "150 sets? Big bro, you''re really greedy. These items will keep me busy refining for years. You better check if we have enough Black Iron ores first."


    "Once we take over the whole of Forest Town, everything will be within our reach," Olivia said lightly from her wheelchair, drawing the attention of her siblings.


    But they had no doubts about their youngest sister''s capabilities.


    Neither did Ethan, watching from his screen.


    Congratulations! Your descendants have acquired a wealth of resources, and they know it was with your approval that Olivia implemented the plan to secure the deal with the Martinez family. They hold you in even higher esteem now.


    [You''ve earned a Spiritual Tribute +100!]


    In the days that followed, the Blackwoods began a bustling period of development. With Lucas''s promise, the guard team, upon becoming Iron Will Psychics, would be granted psychic equipment, and they started intensely cultivating their psychic powers.


    As Ethan continued to decode the "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map" from his Divine Gift, Lucas began gathering a hundred people from Gratitude Village every day... for tattooing! The ink was made from the blood of the Blackwoods, mixed with various other materials.


    Ethan saw a villager lift his shirt to reveal a beautifully inscribed ''B'' on his chest, followed by another villager who had the same letter inscribed on another part of his body, and some even wanted it on their buttocks.


    It turns out that the first step to completing the "Forebearer''s Psychic Formation Map" was to mark all those loyal to Blackwood with a symbol made from Blackwood blood. This was to gather everyone''s strength around the Blackwoods in times of crisis.


    The second step was even more complex than the branding. It involved engraving a huge formation map within the range of the big array, which would take years to complete across the entire Blackwood residence.


    Finally, as spring arrived, all the people of Blackwood gathered together, anxiously awaiting in the birthing room. With the cry of a newborn baby, everyone burst into joy.


    [Karen has successfully given birth to a son after ten months, named Daniel!]


    [Congratulations, you''ve earned a Spiritual Tribute +10!]


    Karen, who had always been a bit lazy, didn''t have a child as outstanding as Marcus, even though the child also had a mixed Psychic Constitution of five elements.


    The strongest, the Fire Psychic Constitution, only reached a score of 48.


    However, what surprised Ethan in the game was that.


    Daniel had just been born, and Lucas was holding the child in the room, but he didn''t even glance at Karen, who had just given birth. The other Blackwoods also looked at Karen occasionally, their expressions mocking or even disgusted.


    "Lucas, let me hold the child," Karen pleaded, her eyes red.


    Lucas thought for a moment and then handed the child to Karen, then said coldly, "Karen, I''ve been good to you over the years. But time and again, you''ve taken advantage of our Blackwood resources, even stealing psychic medicines and beast blood fruits from our treasury for your brother and father."


    "After Daniel''s birth, we are no longer husband and wife, and you no longer have any ties with us Blackwoods."


    "Considering our past relationship, from now on you can live in Gratitude Village under my protection, and you can see Marcus and Daniel. I don''t want them to be without a mother. But remember, sparing your lives is already a great mercy. I only hope that you and your Brown family will live quietly and obediently."


    Karen cried out, "Lucas, give me another chance, I will change, I dare not do it again."


    "You''ve already had many chances," said Olivia, caressing the handles of her wheelchair, her face expressionless. "Did you Brown family really think you could get away with these deeds under my watch? But you''ve gone too far. We Blackwoods can accept mediocrity, but we cannot accept betrayal and deceit."


    As she spoke, Olivia looked towards Marcus, who was standing with his head bowed, and said softly, "Nephew, you''ve grown up, and you should know the truth about these matters."


    "Uh-huh," Marcus murmured, choking up, his head still bowed, his eyes red.

 Chapter 36 - 36: Mark of Humiliation

    "Man, what a mess," Ethan sighed heavily, reflecting on the whole debacle with Lucas and Karen.


    Lucas had once confessed at the Forebearer''s shrine, regretting his youthful ignorance in choosing a partner like Karen and lamenting his poor judgment.


    Every family has its own set of challenges, and no one can predict how the people they cherish might change over time.


    However, Lucas handled the situation pretty well, considering the circumstances. Human ambition knows no bounds, and had Lucas allowed the Brown family to run wild, it could have led to unbearable losses.


    Unfortunately, the ones who really got the short end of the stick were Marcus and Daniel, the kids caught in the middle of this mess.


    In the game interface late at night, Marcus, who had been holding back tears all day, was seen cradling Daniel in his arms, weeping under the candlelight before Ethan''s Forebearer shrine.


    "Forebearer, my mother... is a traitor!" he cried out. "From now on, everyone in our family and all our friends in Gratitude Village will know that my brother and I are the children of a traitor."


    No one knows the deep psychological scars a failed parent can leave on their children. The actions of Karen and the Brown family might very well become a shameful mark, forever branded on Marcus and Daniel.


    Bearing immense pain, Marcus acquired a new trait: the Mark of Humiliation. This would make him more self-conscious, reducing his mental state by 10%. To escape this humiliation, he would work harder than anyone else, using his inner shame as a baseline to boost his psychic power cultivation speed by 20%!


    Ethan watched as Marcus acquired these traits and shook his head, unsure of how to comfort him. All he could do was cast a warm light using the ''Forebearer''s Love'' to soothe Marcus. Sensing Ethan''s intentions, the Purple Thunder Python extended its tongue from the darkness. It licked Marcus''s face, offering him a small comfort..


    "Thank you, Forebearer," Marcus whispered.


    In the dark of the night, the fragile soul nestled against the Purple Thunder Python and fell asleep. In the days that followed, Ethan made sure the Blackwood members took extra care of Lucas''s two children. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the year passed, the 31st year of Blackwood marked the end of a long drought, with a heavy rain that rejuvenated the earth. "Has this twenty-year drought finally ended?" Ethan breathed a sigh of relief. He had never experienced such a disaster on Earth, only hearing tales of extreme hardship from the refugees of Gratitude Village.


    After the rain, all the villagers ran out of their houses, soaking in the long-awaited rain as if thanking the heavens for finally forgiving their sins, celebrating the much-needed downpour.


    After three years of intense focus, Nathan had an epiphany and successfully unlocked his Emerging Ability, becoming an early-stage Psychic!


    "Ha ha ha, it''s done, Forebearer, your foolish descendant Nathan has finally made it!"


    In the secluded room, Nathan, now 51 and previously showing signs of aging with streaks of white in his hair, had undergone a transformation. Post-breakthrough, his hair turned black again, and the wrinkles on his face smoothed out, making him look like a determined man in his thirties, much more youthful and vibrant than before.


    Even standing next to Lucas, one might mistake them for brothers!


    [Nathan]


    [Stage: Early Emerging Ability]


    [Techniques: Qi Intake Technique, Basic Swordsmanship, Dragon Step]


    [Traits: Determined, Boar Slayer, Forest Hunter]


    The breakthrough to the Emerging Ability stage was truly a metamorphosis, a process known as the ''Hundred Days of Emerging Ability,'' where they cleanse their bodies of impurities to create better conditions for cultivating psychic powers.


    Every limb, every organ, purified. The Iron Will ability resides in the governing and conception vessels, while the Emerging Ability stage works through the meridian pathways!


    Even the Psychic Constitution strengthens during this phase!


    After three years of Emerging Ability cultivation, Nathan''s Psychic Constitution now comprised only the metal, fire, and earth elements, each quality exceeding 60.


    The strength of the Emerging Ability also comes from breaking the physical human limitations.


    They possess more diverse abilities, including ''Insight,'' which allows them to see others'' energy flows and roughly gauge the strength of their abilities. They can also gather ''Spiritual Sense,'' not just sensing their surroundings through their senses but feeling everything in a 360-degree radius without blind spots.


    They can even ''Perceive the Minute,'' seeing the smallest details. Their bodies harbor a ''Pill Fire,'' essential for condensing their psychic energy into a pill, a crucial step for breaking through to the D-level!


    This is why the Heath and Gonzalez families'' Psychics, upon entering Blackwood territory, looked down on these Iron Will Psychics.


    Because these two were practically from different dimensions.


    It''s also why they didn''t hesitate to flee when they encountered the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the War AI Bionic Robot, sensing the formidable power of these beings.


    "We finally have a true Emerging Ability Psychic in Blackwood," Ethan declared, sending Nathan a ''Forebearer''s Love'' without hesitation.


    The reason Nathan is considered a true Emerging Ability Psychic in Blackwood, unlike Luna¡ªwho doesn''t count since she''s a Beast Master, having bonded with the Heavenly Moon Fox¡ªis that she''s more akin to a demonic cultivator.


    As Nathan broke through, the people of Blackwood gathered once again to celebrate him!


    However, their celebration was not open to outsiders; only they knew about it.


    After all, only hidden strength is the real trump card.


    "Thanks to the Forebearer for all the help, otherwise, silly me could never have broken through to Emerging Ability. The Divine Gift from the Forebearer has always been aiding me."


    More expressions of deep gratitude followed.


    After the ceremony, Luna looked at her husband joyfully. As time passed, Luna, who had bonded with the Heavenly Moon Fox, seemed to grow more beautiful and even noble, making it hard to believe she was once just an ordinary farmer''s daughter. "Honey, this is great! With your breakthrough, our Blackwood family will be even stronger."


    "Honey, your..." Nathan looked bewilderedly at his wife, "Your strength..."

 Chapter 37 - 37: Blood Fruits Strategy

    Nathan was aware that Luna had bonded with the Heavenly Moon Fox. However, it was only now that he truly felt the overwhelming extent of his wife''s formidable power. Luna''s aura was towering, nearly thirty feet high. In contrast, his own aura was merely two feet high.


    "Beast Mastery..." Luna slowly shared her experiences. Over the years, while Nathan was in seclusion, she didn''t want him to follow her path to Emerging Ability, as everyone''s journey to Emerging Ability was unique.


    After hearing about the wonders of Beast Mastery, Nathan finally understood. Filled with emotion, he exclaimed, "So that''s it, the Beast Mastery passed down by the Forebearer is truly extraordinary."


    Saying this, he looked at his increasingly beautiful wife, stood up straighter, his old face blushing slightly, "Honey, there are some things I''d like to discuss back in our room."


    "You old flirt!" Luna playfully scolded, pulling Nathan into their room.


    "..."


    Ethan grimaced as he watched the screen. He quickly switched the view and muttered through gritted teeth, ''If you two keep flaunting your love in front of me, I''ll bury you apart, one in the Antarctic and the other in the Arctic!"


    He took a moment to compose himself.


    Ethan then continued to monitor the game screen, soon focusing on the values on the right side of the screen.


    [Spiritual Tribute: 5121]


    "Finally enough."


    He grinned, having watched the Spiritual Tribute value grow during this period in Blackwood.


    Reaching 5000 was also fulfilling another condition!


    The screen shifted to a cellar behind the Blackwood ancestral hall, where a huge mech was stored!


    He clicked on the War AI Bionic Robot.


    A long-awaited dialog box popped up on the screen.


    [To activate the War AI Bionic Robot operating system, 5000 Spiritual Tribute points are required.]


    [Detected that you have sufficient Spiritual Tribute.]


    [Would you like to establish a connection now? You will be able to control the mech and enter combat mode!]


    He had been waiting for this moment for a long time. He was eager to control the mech, see the first-person view in the game, and fight alongside the game''s clan members!


    He excitedly clicked¡ª


    [Yes!]


    "Mr. Ethan, here are the 3000 Energy Stones from our last deal, and the 500-inch LCD screen you asked for."


    As soon as the operating system was up, Alan had already arrived at Blackwood.


    Talk about perfect timing!


    Ethan collected the items he needed from Alan, who was sipping tea. He tossed him a Storage Ring and remarked, "Alan, those 20 blood fruits from last time were just a start. You handle things efficiently. Now, I''m giving you 80 more to see how you manage."


    "80 fruits?"


    Alan paused, then smiled, "Seems like Blackwood still doubts my capabilities. But alright, Mr. Ethan''s Blood Fruits do have a market. Give me three days, I can sell these 80 fruits."


    "Only three days to sell them?" Ethan asked, frowning in skepticism.


    He had calculated that Blackwood would give him at least 3000 Beast Blood Fruits a month. Selling just 80 in three days, how long would it take to sell them all?


    Seeing Ethan''s expression, Alan was not angry but pleased, which meant Ethan might have a large quantity of Blood Fruits. He quickly said, "Yes, first off, Blood Fruits are a new product, so I need to let buyers know about their effects and benefits. Buyers will introduce more buyers, creating market competition, and eventually, the volume sold will increase, and even the price... might go higher!"


    "So that''s how it works," Ethan said, finally relaxing as he acknowledged his lack of experience in sales.


    When sending Alan off, Ethan asked, "Alan, what about... that thing we agreed on?"


    "No worries, but it''s pricey. I''ve already had it sent over from outside the domain," Alan said with interest.


    "How many Energy Stones?"


    Alan held up two fingers, and seeing that Ethan didn''t mind, he added, "But let me say this upfront, once Mr. Ethan gets that thing, just play around with it, don''t let it be found out, or I really can''t cover for you."


    "Don''t worry." Ethan grinned, "If I get caught, I''ll tell them I didn''t get it from Alan."


    "..."


    Alan decided not to discuss these matters. He glanced at an old lady lingering outside the Blackwood gate, puzzled, "Isn''t that the psychic equipment artisan from number 12? Mr. Ethan, have you gotten yourself into trouble?"


    Ethan nonchalantly said, "Oh, I had her make some psychic equipment before, you know her, right?"


    "That explains it." Alan clearly knew of Grandma Quinn''s ''glorious deeds'', "Did Mr. Ethan make her suffer a loss? She couldn''t get a bargain from your psychic gear?"


    "I got someone to help, she didn''t dare. Look at me, weak and helpless, she only dares to trouble me."


    Ethan waved his hand.


    "No worries, Mr. Ethan, just be at ease, I have my ways."


    Alan then left the room.


    As Ethan closed the door, he faintly heard Alan''s laughter outside.


    "Ah? Psychic Auntie? What are you saying? How could I possibly know Ethan? No no, I don''t know him, right right, it''s none of my business."


    "..."


    Ethan''s facial muscles twitched violently. He thought Alan had a way to calm Grandma Quinn down, turns out this cunning businessman had a way to escape being affected by her, right?


    "Fine then."


    He wasn''t in a hurry, after all, Alan and he were just business partners, no need to get tangled in his troubles. Besides, these days, if you''re not targeted by a few masters, you really can''t claim to be mixing in the outside world!


    ...


    Back in his room, Ethan busied himself setting up the massive 500-inch LCD screen, which now covered an entire wall. This piece of tech was considered a relic in these times and required custom ordering.


    Ethan''s gaming was getting more serious, and a small screen just wouldn''t cut it anymore. A larger screen not only allowed him to see a broader map but also made navigation much easier.


    Especially when...


    **[You have activated the War AI Bionic Robot operating system!]**


    **[Autonomous activation available!]**


    In an instant, Ethan chose to activate it.


    sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 38 - 38: Powerhouse Woman

    Suddenly, Ethan felt a moment of disorientation, and his vision appeared in a pitch-black cellar. He couldn''t feel his surroundings, yet he could sense the status of the War AI Bionic Robot!


    It was like being in a school, taking a course on mech operation.


    What was most peculiar was that he had another perspective¡ªthat of the real world¡ªwhere he was also using a mouse and keyboard, shifting views!


    He looked down.


    He could see mechanical arms. With just a thought, Ethan could manipulate the arms to move, then the legs... the whole body!


    Moreover, on the War AI Bionic Robot, he sensed the presence of hidden weapons.


    **[Laser Sword/A]**


    **[Left Arm Laser Cannon/S]**


    **[Right Arm Laser Cannon/D]**


    **[Flight Mode/Q]**


    **[...]**


    "Can it really do this? This is so cool!"


    Ethan suddenly burst out of the cellar, startling Julian who was worshiping in the shrine. This burly man, weighing over 200 pounds, was dumbfounded as he watched the robot take flight, "Forebearer''s showing off his powers, now this is what I call a man''s romance!"


    Not just him, everyone in Blackwood saw the mech soaring!


    Ethan then piloted the mech around the Blackwood residence, breaking through the clouds. Although he couldn''t precisely feel the world''s air or see the people who still looked animated, Ethan''s sensations became more and more vivid.


    He even stood in front of the descendants, observing them as if they were tiny animals, listening to their conversations, watching their astonished expressions¡ªit was increasingly wondrous.


    "It''s like a real world."


    Finally, after using up most of the War AI Bionic Robot''s special abilities, Ethan piloted the mech back to the cellar, his consciousness returning to the real world.


    But what Ethan was really focused on wasn''t just the perspective¡ªafter all, many VR games could achieve that.


    What he truly cared about was that in this way, he could personally operate the War AI Bionic Robot, maximizing its combat capabilities, rather than letting it fight automatically against enemies, firing two laser cannons and activating the lightsaber, wasting energy.


    Soon, the in-game year reached [Blackwood Year 33.]


    After many years of severe drought, the world outside Blackwood was getting better.


    The farmlands of Blackwood could now expand outward, although they couldn''t delve deeper into the Silver Iron Forest. However, Blackwood occasionally hunted on the outskirts of the Silver Iron Forest, and the number of exotic beasts was increasing.


    Yet, Gratitude Village didn''t add any more villagers. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This was another downside of the drought ending.


    Wasn''t farming in Forest Town better than in a place like Gratitude Village? Especially since Forest Town was also becoming vigilant, starting to help civilians recover their livelihoods, and the Heath and Gonzalez families were spreading rumors that Gratitude Village was a gathering place for demons and monsters.


    At the same time, cracks appeared among the four major families of Forest Town. The dealings between the Martinez family and Blackwood angered the Heath and Gonzalez families, but the Martinez family continued to do as they pleased.


    Over these three years of trade, the Martinez family had already reaped considerable benefits.


    Amelia''s concocted ''Body Fortifying Powder'' and ''Seven-Flavor Soup'' greatly benefited their Psychics. Julian would sell them parts dispersed from ''Black Iron Beast Blood Armor'' every so often, even some exotic beasts, which they could buy from Blackwood, along with various psychic herbs.


    The cooperation between the two families deepened.


    The Martinez family even wanted to form a marriage alliance with Blackwood, but unfortunately... When Nathan and the invincible Martinez family head planned to introduce Amelia to the young master of the Martinez family and cultivate a romantic relationship,


    During a dinner with the young master of the Martinez family, Amelia would ask if he understood psychic medicines? Why not take psychic medicines? Taking pills increases drug resistance, is harmful to the spirit, what do you think about taking potions?


    While shopping, she would ask, what psychic medicine is good to grow in an alley without sunlight? In a noisy market full of dust, what psychic medicine can change the noisy environment?


    You don''t understand psychic medicines, how can you understand me? Will our children be born with defects?


    After just three days, the young master of the Martinez family no longer wanted to see Amelia, even feeling that marrying Amelia would disrupt family harmony.


    Then, the poor young master of the Martinez family was matched with Blackwood''s fourth young lady, Olivia.


    Ah, now the young master of the Martinez family''s spring had come.


    Olivia was extremely beautiful, and the young master of the Martinez family fell in love at first sight. Although Olivia was frail and often ill, she was knowledgeable, gentle, and kind. Everyone who met her felt refreshed.


    The young master Bradley of the Martinez family even had names picked out for their children.


    Olivia even agreed to the marriage with the young master of the Martinez family.


    But before the dowry was settled, three maidservants and a concubine of an elder from the Martinez family, all pregnant with the young master''s children, approached the Bradley, and the news spread throughout Forest Town, infuriating Nathan who immediately refused the marriage.


    Bradley felt utterly disgraced and even more guilty towards Blackwood, breaking the young master''s legs that very day as a grand gesture of apology to Blackwood.


    He dared not mention marriage with Blackwood again.


    "Just with the Martinez family, they thought to marry into our Blackwood? Wishful thinking."


    In the ancestral hall, Olivia proudly reported to Ethan''s Forebearer cards, "Forebearer, Olivia has followed your instructions and cunningly cut off the Martinez family''s intentions."


    "Ha ha ha, right!"


    The once furious Nathan, now all smiles, said, "They''re all flawed goods. Forebearer was right, even in talks of marriage, we prioritize character over background, appearance, and potential."


    Lying in bed, watching a 500-inch screen, Ethan revealed a sinister smile.


    Marriage alliances were really not desirable... Few were based on genuine feelings, mostly just interests, full of deceit and intrigue.


    Ethan didn''t want to bring these things into the family, as they would cause unnecessary trouble.


    Today, what Blackwood really needs is stable development!


    Though they managed to dodge a marriage alliance with the Martinez family,


    Lucas, even after splitting from Karen, had no plans to tie the knot.


    The last person Ethan expected to see was hiding behind a big tree, gazing admiringly at a woman sprinting with a rock in hand. This lady, nearly 6''3" tall, was dressed in a sleeveless top showing off her biceps, even her eight-pack abs were on display, her dark skin glistening with sweat in the blazing summer heat.


    A total powerhouse of a woman.


    Julian, spying from his hideout, drooled.


    "Man, what a buff chick! If she had kids with me, we''d definitely have some real tough sons and warrior princesses."


    "Slurp~"

 Chapter 39 - 39: Olivias wisdom

    "Finally, the kid''s catching on!" After gaining a bit of strength, Julian started blacksmithing.


    As the third young master of Blackwood, countless pretty girls from Gratitude Village had loitered outside his shop on hot days, yet Julian never spared them a glance.


    Ethan had even wondered if Julian was disinterested in continuing the family line and had planned to have Nathan give him a talk.


    But now, Ethan finally understood. It wasn''t that Julian wasn''t interested in women; his taste was just different!


    Check out the woman Julian is spying on now, look at those muscular arms, look at that square face¡ªshe looks like a fitness coach!


    [Your descendant Julian, while passing by his home, saw a woman lifting a huge stone, effortlessly pulling up willows, and realized that she was his true match, a couple made in heaven.]


    "Go chase her!" Ethan showed a fatherly smile, "This kid hasn''t interacted with girls much, wait, I''ll send the Purple Thunder Python to give him some tips..."


    "Girl, be my wife!" Before Ethan could figure out how to teach him, he watched Julian jump out from behind a tree, along with the words above his head, his expression gradually solidifying.


    What kind of first meeting is this???


    [Your descendant Julian was once again rejected by Mary, but he became more determined and faced the challenges head-on!]


    [Julian gained the trait: Never Give Up!]


    [With each setback, his insight, combat ability, and vitality increase by 10%.]


    "Holy smokes, that''s a god-tier trait!" While Blackwood''s descendants kept gaining traits, this was the strongest Ethan had seen, with a total attribute increase of 10%!


    Even with the trait, in Ethan''s view, Julian was still a bit of a blockhead in his pursuit of Mary.


    He heard Mary had just moved to Gratitude Village and was building a house, suggesting she share a bed with him, which scared the nearly 6''3" tough woman into pulling out a knife.


    Mistaken for a pervert with peculiar tastes, he remained undeterred, following Mary around 24/7, becoming a qualified protector.


    When Mary went shopping, he used his psychic abilities to carry the vendor and several hundred pounds of groceries back to Mary''s new home...


    "Are you trying to hammer Mary into submission with love?"


    Ethan had already called the people of Blackwood together to talk to Julian.


    But Julian seemed to have his own ideas about pursuit, elevating it to another dimension.


    However, what surprised Ethan was that previously, Luna had a bad relationship with Lucas''s ex-wife, Karen, and didn''t even want to look at her directly. But now, Luna happily went to check out Julian''s potential future wife.


    Nathan only had one comment, "Big hips, good for childbearing."


    As for sisters Amelia and Olivia, they also had a good first impression of Mary.


    In the days that followed, all of Blackwood was busy helping Julian chase his bride-to-be and going about their daily development.


    In the springtime, when Blackwood was full of joy, a major event darkened everyone''s mood, and Ethan''s brow furrowed as he watched the screen.


    On the road to Gratitude Village, Jerry, who had been trading with Blackwood for years, came running for his life with a large group of people... sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    About thirty people, with several members of the Martinez family seriously injured.


    "It''s the Gonzalez and Heath families!"


    Jerry looked defeated, but his expression still held deep resentment towards these families, "Over the years, our conflicts with the Garcia family have deepened, but it was always minor skirmishes. Just three days ago, our two elders went to Tranquil City for some business, and they..."


    With a long sigh, Jerry continued, "The two elders competed for a secret treasure and met their demise. We, the Martinez family, hadn''t even received the news yet, but Garcia and Gonzalez knew before us. Without any hesitation, last night..."


    So, life is unpredictable.


    In recent years, the trade between Blackwood and the Martinez family has benefited both immensely. But with the death of the two old ancestors of the Martinez family, they became easy targets in Forest Town.


    Similarly, the business between Blackwood and the Martinez family could no longer continue, as all of the Martinez family''s assets in Forest Town had become part of someone else''s dowry.


    At this time, Garcia and the two families were probably chuckling at home.


    Blackwood of Gratitude Village was once again left isolated and without support!


    "Forebearer, I wonder how the surviving members of the Martinez family should proceed?"


    Inside the ancestral hall.


    Nathan was quite troubled about how to deal with Jerry and his group. After his breakthrough, leading Blackwood had once again fallen on his shoulders, as Lucas was indeed lacking in managing the family.


    "The Martinez family members?"


    Ethan stroked the edge of his keyboard.


    The surviving members of the Martinez family were almost all Psychics, with the strongest being an old ancestor of the Martinez family, in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, and the rest of the thirty-one people were all Iron Will Psychics.


    But don''t think that just because they''ve fallen on hard times, there''s an idea of subduing the Martinez family members.


    Even if the family was destroyed and their assets became someone else''s, the Martinez family was still one of the four major families in Forest Town. How could they possibly submit to Blackwood of Gratitude Village? In a world like cultivating psychic powers, family interests are of utmost importance.


    Now maybe Blackwood has taken in the Martinez family, but what about later?


    Maybe now the Martinez family is immensely grateful to Blackwood, but what about later? Cases of usurping are not uncommon.


    "Forebearer, maybe now is not the time to consider whether or not to take in the Martinez family."


    As Ethan pondered, Olivia''s ethereal voice echoed in the hall.


    "Hmm?"


    Everyone couldn''t help but turn their heads. As time passed, everyone in Blackwood felt Olivia''s wisdom.


    Ethan was also focused, wanting to hear what this smartest descendant had to say.


    Olivia said: "We have always been afraid to go to Forest Town because we feared that the four major families would unite against us, the outsiders. But now the situation is different, one of the four major families is gone, and the Martinez family can become our support."

 Chapter 40 - 40: True courage is in perseverance

    Olivia said:"Moreover, we can go to Forest Town under the guise of helping the Martinez family reclaim their assets for revenge, and by then even the Rodriguez family might not get involved in this matter."


    "People like to fend for themselves, and as long as there is a sufficient reason, the Rodriguez family will not want to lose family power over internal hatred in Forest Town."


    "This is our opportunity, and now we..."


    "Are not without the power to fight!"


    As her voice faded, the ancestral hall fell silent.


    They had been suppressing their hatred for the Heath and Gonzalez families for too long!


    Nathan''s four children still vividly remembered the day their father appeared at the doorstep covered in blood, and the agonizing cries from his sickbed.


    It was the first time they experienced the greatest fear of their lives, even contemplating what would become of their family if Nathan were to die.


    This fear fueled their relentless pursuit of mastery in their skills.


    The Heath and Gonzalez families, who looked down upon the Blackwoods rising from the rural areas, never respected them.


    Elder Garcia from the Gonzalez family once arrogantly visited the Blackwoods, treating everyone there like insects, as if they could do whatever they wanted on this land.


    The Gonzalez family coveted their iron ore, ruthlessly killed their friends, and then, as if nothing had happened, came to their land wanting to discuss business...


    "To hell with the Heath and Gonzalez families, we''ve got to take them down!" Julian burst out angrily.


    "Watch your language!" Nathan glared at his third son, "This is the Forebearer''s shrine, how dare you speak so crudely here? The Forebearer won''t tolerate such vulgar words!"


    "Yes, dad." Julian, fearless of everything except his father''s whip, calmed down.


    Seeing his son settle down, Nathan bowed to Ethan, "Please forgive him, Forebearer, Julian is still a child."


    "Forebearer, at your command, Nathan is ready to wipe out both families!"


    Little did they know.


    Ethan didn''t find Julian''s words crude at all.


    Olivia was right; now was a golden opportunity, otherwise, once the Heath and Gonzalez families acquired the Martinez family''s assets and grew stronger, seeking revenge would be even more challenging!


    Fingers tapping on the keyboard produced a crisp and forceful sound.


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python opened its crimson eyes and roared towards the sky!


    Nathan slowly stood up, looking at his wife and children, seeing the fighting spirit in their eyes, his expression gradually becoming stern.


    "Let''s fight a good fight, don''t disgrace the Forebearer!"


    Soon.


    Nathan led the Blackwoods out of the Forebearer''s shrine to meet with the Martinez family.


    Upon learning that the Blackwoods wanted to avenge the Martinez family, the old patriarch of the Martinez family did not show joy but a solemn expression.


    "The Martinez family appreciates your intentions, but the Heath and Gonzalez families are deeply entrenched; we need to plan carefully," he said, somewhat intimidated. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Watching the scene, Ethan couldn''t help but roll his eyes, "Big brother, your family is nearly wiped out, and you''re still being so rational, really?"


    The elder Martinez continued:


    "It''s not that I am cowardly, but the strength of the Heath and Gonzalez families is greater than you know. The destruction of my Martinez family has shown me their true power."


    "Garcia has been passed down through generations in the Great Forest, with a five-hundred-year foundation. Just the Emerging Ability elders alone number five."


    "This time, they even have an elder who has emerged from seclusion, at the Transcendent Seed stage!"


    Transcendent Seed!


    The Blackwoods were shocked to find that they were just one step away from reaching the Developing Skill stage, having already attained the Transcendent Seed stage.


    Even so, its formidable power was not something ordinary Emerging Ability Psychics could compare with.


    "Gonzalez is no ordinary family; though they lack such top-tier experts, both their first and second elders are at the peak of Emerging Ability, and despite losing one, six remain, with the clan possessing a protective psychic device!"


    "A psychic device... With one in hand, even those at the peak of Emerging Ability dare to challenge Transcendent Seed!"


    Martinez''s family elder grimaced, "As long as the green hills are there, one need not worry about firewood."


    "To put it bluntly, from what I''ve seen, your Blackwood has just started rising. I heard there''s a beast capable of killing mid-level Emerging Ability, and because neither of our families want to waste our forces on this, allowing our families to be weaker than others, that''s why Gratitude Village has been able to develop peacefully."


    "Psychic cultivating psychic powers, not long in a century, you Blackwoods should recuperate with us, the Martinez family. United by a common enemy, that''s the way. Once their experts are gone, we can return to Forest Town. Why bother fighting day and night?"


    After all, he felt that Blackwood''s foundation was shallow!


    But Nathan just smiled and shook his head at the elder of the Martinez family.


    "Elder, you make sense, but we Blackwoods will not wait any longer!"


    The Blackwoods followed their father and left.


    Lucas burst into laughter, "Hahaha, right, we Blackwoods aren''t fighting for day and night, but for a life-and-death struggle with them!"


    "Damn it!"


    "Third brother, your language is getting dirtier, keep this up and Mary won''t bother with you."


    "What do you know, you a mere potion maker? Mary likes a man with my flavor. I''m going to find her now, tell her I might die soon, maybe... she could bear me a child."


    "Third bro, you''ve gotta clean up your act, man. Don''t be that guy with no class. Keep this up, and Mary won''t give you the time of day, let alone think about marrying you."


    The people of the Martinez family watched as Nathan and his family left, the elder only able to sigh deeply.


    How could he not see the fervor of the Blackwoods?


    He even admired the courage of the Blackwoods.


    But in this world, courage alone is never enough; true courage is in perseverance!

 Chapter 41 - 41: Psychic Battle Lines

    "We can fight, but the losses might be big," Ethan heard from the Martinez family''s intel, who knew their enemies'' strength all too well after being wiped out by those two families. He could see the fighting spirit in the people of Blackwood.


    "Why should I, the Forebearer, be afraid if even our descendants aren''t?" If there''s a fifty percent chance of defeating them, it''s worth a shot!


    Those two families had an elder with the power of a Transcendent Seed realm and a special psychic weapon, but Blackwood''s combat power was nothing to scoff at either. They had the temple guardian beast, the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Ethan had only realized the full extent of the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s power after operating the War AI Bionic Robot. It was definitely one of the top psychic beasts, with strength comparable to the Transcendent Seed!


    As for Developing Skill... surviving under it might be possible, but winning a fight was out of the question. The difference between each major realm was like night and day.


    Next up was the War AI Bionic Robot. Its primary use was for large-scale interstellar wars, but it also had the power to fight against Transcendent Seed realm psychics, especially since Ethan was confident in his ability to control it to victory!


    "Now, what we really lack are Psychics in the Emerging Ability phase, Iron Will Psychics, and a confrontation with those two major families," Ethan frowned. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At Blackwood, only Nathan and his wife possessed Emerging Ability strength. Over the years, Blackwood still only had four psychic beasts, including the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon, which was the weakest among them.


    As for Iron Will, they were far behind compared to Forest Town. Lucas was the strongest, having reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy through the cultivation of beast blood fruits and various psychic medicines.


    Amelia and her brother Julian were at the seventh level of Foundational Energy, while Olivia... was negligible.


    Among the third generation, 12-year-old Marcus was exceptionally talented but only had the strength of the third peak level. Their current psychic beast academy was decent, with 102 beasts capable of fighting at the Foundational Energy level.


    As for Lucas''s trained guard team of 150 people, only about 12 had become Iron Will... the strongest among them only at the second level of Foundational Energy.


    Ethan was confident about the top-level combat power. But the middle and lower levels... even if the Martinez family was willing to fight alongside Blackwood, they were still likely to be crushed.


    "Is this what the Martinez family elder meant by ''foundation''?" Ethan felt the challenge deeply, and this was just the difference in the number of Psychics.


    The Heath and Gonzalez families had developed for hundreds of years, possessing a large amount of psychic equipment, family formations, and various other means.


    As for blocking Forest Town with the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the War AI Bionic Robot, that was even more unrealistic. Their movements weren''t as flexible as those of psychic abilities, and being surrounded by Forest Town would be a losing battle.


    "I just hope I''m fast enough when the time comes to operate the War AI Bionic Robot and use the ''Forebearer''s Fury'' simultaneously," Ethan squinted his eyes.


    This battle was inevitable no matter what. Blackwood''s current resources were limited, and without extra resources, their growth would be slow, even reaching a limit.


    But Forest Town could only get stronger, and the longer they waited, the more passive they would become.


    "If only we could draw them all to Forest Town once the Forebearer''s psychic formation is ready," Ethan pursed his lips.


    ...


    While Ethan was sizing up the strengths of both sides, the people of Blackwood didn''t rush towards Forest Town immediately. They still maintained enough rationality, clearly understanding the gap between them and Forest Town.


    Yet, none of them were cowards! As soon as the hope for revenge appeared, they could no longer suppress it.


    Perhaps this was the spirit and will that Blackwood had gradually developed over the years.


    That day, everyone in Blackwood seemed to be doing their usual daily activities as if nothing was amiss.


    Olivia sat under the peach tree in the large courtyard of Blackwood, still holding a scroll, seemingly unconcerned about the life-and-death battle Blackwood was about to face.


    However, her grip on the book tightened more and more. "If ignored, Blackwood will slowly die, and sooner or later will be settled by Forest Town. If we lose, I will be the sinner of Blackwood."


    No one knew the burden in the heart of this seemingly calm woman when she proposed a battle in the Forebearer''s temple hall!


    Yet, she had to seize the best opportunity to make the best choice for her family.


    Just like her family and the Forebearer, they did not scorn her for her physical weakness and her inability to fight, but supported her as always!


    While pondering, several maids loyal only to Olivia brought a gloomy young man and a child before her.


    "Auntie," Marcus greeted Olivia with his brother.


    Olivia nodded slightly, "Marcus, the family has to handle a big matter. If something really goes wrong, you take Daniel and run. They will take care of you, but remember, you are always people of Blackwood."


    "Auntie... what happened?" Marcus, though young, also knew that his aunt would not say such words unless there was a truly catastrophic event happening.


    "Nothing much, just a big battle," Olivia waved to the two brothers and patted their heads, "Go on, children. The Forebearer will always protect the children of Blackwood, don''t worry."


    Watching the maids take the two children away, Olivia finally took a deep breath.


    Even with a formidable enemy ahead, she had made arrangements for the worst-case scenario.


    "Let''s hope so."


    In the Psychic Beast Park, Amelia was as usual mixing her psychic medicines.


    She caressed the massive Blood Fruit Tree, watching the psychic medicines she had cultivated day by day in the garden.


    Footsteps sounded behind her.

 Chapter 42 - 42: Battle Preparations

    Fifteen young men and women approached, "If I don''t come back, burn the Blood Fruit Tree and all the psychic medicines in the garden, and go into hiding. But remember, when the two young masters of Blackwood grow up, they will be your masters."


    "Yes, master!"


    Watching the children she had raised nod, Amelia felt somewhat relieved.


    She reluctantly looked at the psychic medicine garden.


    Her life had almost been devoted to these psychic medicines, but some things were more precious than these medicines, her beloved family, her clan!


    Recalling these years.


    Amelia couldn''t help but smile faintly, everyone in Gratitude Village said she was a loner, only liking psychic medicines.


    But those people didn''t know, her interest in herbs and seeds.


    It was because after her father had her, she had already experienced a year of severe drought.


    That year, the vegetables that were finally grown at home withered day by day before her eyes. Her father and mother said, if they couldn''t eat vegetables, her older brother wouldn''t grow tall, and her younger brother would be like a short winter melon.


    So she cried out of fear, it was hard to imagine her brothers turning into winter melons, how terrible would that be?


    As she grew up bit by bit, she wanted to grow the tastiest vegetables, so her family wouldn''t go hungry. Fortunately, her older brother grew taller than her, and her younger brother was like a wild ox, only her sister... her sister had been frail and sickly since childhood.


    So she started growing psychic medicines, wanting her sister to have the best psychic medicines and never get sick again.


    "Olivia still hasn''t taken my medicine."


    Amelia shook her head, took another look at the entire psychic medicine garden, her expression gradually turning grim, "But with no home left, outsiders won''t get to taste these psychic medicines!"


    ...


    "Hey, Mary, your hubby''s here looking for you, open the door!" As dusk fell, Julian had been waiting outside Mary''s door for a long time. He could feel that the woman, as beautiful and robust as a black panther, was leaning against the door, seemingly afraid to barge in. He chuckled, "Mary, I might not have much longer to live."


    The door moved slightly but didn''t open. Julian''s gaze was hazy.


    "The folks in Talin Town have always been bullying our family. I''m definitely going to deal with them. Sister Four is right, the Martinez family was wiped out. If we don''t act, our family will be next."


    "I''ll be honest with you, I really want you to have a houseful of kids with me. They could grow up strong like me and help protect the family."


    "Heh, I know you don''t think much of me. I''m just a brute, shameless all day long, doing nothing but forging."


    "But do you know, when I was little, I knew I had to have weapons because my dad had to go into the dangerous forest to get us meat. He had a kitchen knife, and it got all nicked up in the forest, and he didn''t replace it for two years. My sister had to cut grass, do you know how she did it? With a little knife."


    "I grew up strong, all thanks to their meat and vegetables. Back then, I thought, when I grow up, I must provide them with sturdy iron tools."


    "When I grew up a bit more, I realized that weapons alone weren''t enough. It had to be psychic equipment, powerful psychic equipment, preferably like the Forebearer, fighting like a person. Otherwise, those mongrels outside would ruin our lives in Blackwood. I''d also train my strength, otherwise, if my sister couldn''t fight, it wouldn''t be right if she got bullied."


    "Heh, you see, I''m thoughtful..."


    He was about to continue when¡ª


    "Creak¡ª"


    The door opened, and Julian turned his head to see Mary''s face, furrowed brows, probably hadn''t washed her hair or face, not as pretty as yesterday. But Julian was still overjoyed, "Mary, you... you didn''t kick me after opening the door this time!"


    "Have you said enough?"


    Mary seemed to be facing a huge life decision, and after a long time, she kicked Julian''s foot, "Come inside."


    "Huh?"


    Julian was stunned.


    "Come inside and have kids!"


    "Huh?"


    ... S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Attack!"


    In the Blackwood training grounds, Lucas was practicing with his sword, using the movements to vent the emotions swirling inside him.


    It wasn''t long before he finally stopped cultivating psychic powers and wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    Having reached his current level of skill, he could sense the slightest disturbances nearby.


    He sensed his two sons had arrived.


    "Marcus, Daniel, come here," Lucas said as he sat on the edge of the training grounds, watching his sons approach with their heads bowed in reverence. He didn''t mind; since Karen''s incident, these two had grown closer to their aunt than to him.


    He spoke softly, "I know you blame me, blame me for driving your mother and her family out of our home."


    "Father, no," Marcus said, still looking down, shaking his head.


    Lucas smiled, "I''m sorry I haven''t been a proper father, especially to you, Marcus. I was only fifteen when your mother was pregnant with you, too young to understand right from wrong. If it weren''t for the Forebearer, your grandfather would have disowned me."


    "These years..."


    As he spoke, Lucas''s smile faded, and he frowned, "Time hasn''t helped me become a better father."


    "But now, Marcus, I need your help. If anything happens, you must protect your brother no matter what."


    At this, Marcus finally looked up, a trace of worry crossing his face, "Father, aunt has asked for me, and now you too. Has something happened? I''ve reached the fourth level of Foundational Energy, I can contribute to the family!"


    Lucas''s gaze softened.


    "Just grow strong, and you''ll be the greatest asset to our family. Go now, take Daniel and wait for news."


    Marcus wanted to say more, but Lucas dismissed him.


    There were a thousand things Lucas wanted to say to Marcus, but the words stuck in his throat, his own guilt making it hard to face his sons.

 Chapter 43 - 43: Villages Valor pr Part 1

    These boys, they must be scared of me, right?"


    Lucas''s expression was calm, "If something really happens, Marcus, you must take up your sword, just like I did back then."


    He remembered the day bandits entered Blackwood, back when it was just a small shack and they had to scrounge for food.


    Both his parents had rushed out, and he, too, had naively picked up a sword.


    It was the first time he saw his gentle mother kill a man as if she were slaughtering a chicken.


    Later, his father said that by taking up the sword, he had become a man, capable of protecting his sister and brother.


    Just like now, he could not let their hard-earned family suffer even the slightest harm. Even if it was his wife, any threat to the family had to be completely eradicated at its inception!


    He picked up his sword again, fiercely cultivating psychic powers.


    "If I could be stronger, I could take on more of the family''s burdens!"


    ...


    In the bedroom, Nathan and Luna were snuggled up together, silent for a long time.


    "Honey, after all these years, our family has grown stronger. Have you ever despised me for being a farm girl? Ever thought about marrying some high-class ladies?" Luna looked at Nathan critically.


    "Sure have!" Nathan grinned, "Don''t think just because I''m getting older. Every man dreams of having multiple wives, and since we share the same bed every day, who wouldn''t want a change of pace?"


    Luna was glaring at him.


    Nathan chuckled, "But a thousand, ten thousand pretty girls couldn''t compare to you. Where else could I find such a wonderful woman who could bear me four great kids? Just seeing you makes all other women seem like chaff, and then I don''t feel like it anymore."


    "You old rascal." Luna rolled her eyes, "You''re just scared I might beat you up, right? After all, I''m stronger than you."


    "Luna, you''re tough," Nathan couldn''t help but laugh, "When I came out of seclusion, I thought I was the main support of the family, but how did you end up being the stronger one?"


    Luna smiled without answering.


    Her smile gradually became proud, yet somewhat bitter. She still remembered those days when she was just a farm girl in the village, when she met Nathan on the street, a strong-looking hunter. He was rough around the edges, but much better than those slick, powdered guys.


    He was honest, kind-hearted, and had a manly charm.


    The days that followed proved how right she was to go against her family''s wishes to marry Nathan.


    After they got married, her husband was incredibly attentive to her, the only downside being that Nathan always felt inferior, saying he was born a slave and a hunter, unable to provide the life she wanted.


    So, he went hunting every day to improve their situation.


    Every time he returned, he was covered in scars, which was heartbreaking to see. Even as their home gradually became wealthier and they had children, she still felt pain seeing her husband covered in scars. If it weren''t for the Forebearer''s blessing, her husband might have...


    Luna didn''t want to think about it.


    But thanks to the Forebearer, although she didn''t have the talent to cultivate psychic powers, the "Psychic Arts Manual" allowed her to find another way.


    She began to interact with chickens, ducks, pigs, and dogs. Wasn''t this the innate talent of a farm girl? Gradually, she could understand the animals'' thoughts.


    Now, she was finally able to stand on her own and face future dangers with her family.


    Even if it meant dying for her family and children!


    "Honey, do we have a chance to win this time?" Luna hugged Nathan tighter.


    Nathan frowned, unsure how to respond, when suddenly a noise came from outside.


    The couple got up.


    "What''s that noise outside?"


    Nathan and Luna dressed quickly and stepped outside, only to see that the young and old of Blackwood had already come out of their houses, looking outside with them.


    It was deep into the night.


    Yet outside Gratitude Village, the lights were bright.


    When the Blackwood folks reached their front door, they saw the villagers of Gratitude Village gathered in front of Blackwood''s gate, each holding a torch, turning the sky a bright red!


    The elderly village chief of Gratitude Village stepped forward. After Thomas Brown was dismissed from his position as village chief due to corruption, the chief had already been replaced by the most beloved elder in Gratitude Village.


    The chief, with his pale face and white hair, looked furious and said:


    "Mr. Nathan, I heard that Blackwood is going to fight a deadly battle with Forest Town. Why were we, the people of Gratitude Village, not informed?"


    Hearing the chief''s question, Nathan was stunned. He remembered the old chief as always being gentle and soft-spoken, rarely so aggressive.


    Just as he was about to say something, the old man continued:


    "For many years of drought, our Gratitude Village, with over three thousand mouths, has been robbed of our food by bandits, chewed on bark, and which family hasn''t lost friends and relatives? If not for Blackwood''s kindness, giving us a place to live and providing us with food and livestock, where would today''s Gratitude Village be?" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Now that Blackwood is going to fight a deadly battle in Forest Town for the fate of our clan, without making a sound, where does that leave us, the people of Gratitude Village?"


    "We in Gratitude Village have strong men. If Blackwood is going to war, we have weapons too, and if not, we have kitchen knives and dung forks!"


    Nathan finally understood the villagers of Gratitude Village''s intentions.


    He looked at the villagers in front of Blackwood Manor, torches in hand, a hint of gratitude showing on his face.


    Yet he shook his head at them, raising his voice:


    "Your kindness is appreciated, folks. But our journey to Pine Town is a dangerous one, facing Psychics, a matter of life and death, fighting for the fate of the Blackwood clan. Please, head back home."


    "What a joke!"


    The village elder was not pleased, his eyes wide with anger, "We owe a great debt to the Blackwoods. If my kids knew their benefactor was in such peril and I did nothing, sitting silently, they''d think their old man was heartless and cold, disgraced in death!"

 Chapter 44 - 44: Villages Valor pr Part 2

    With that said,The villagers burst into laughter.


    "The elder''s right, it''s just a measly life. If Mr. Nathan''s heading out, then I, Steven, am going with Mr. Nathan to kick some ass!"


    "Yeah, count me in, I can hunt, I can kill!"


    "When I was starving on the streets, thinking I''d die there, it was Mr. Nathan who fed me. Now I''ve got a house, some good land, and I wake up to the sounds of chickens and ducks. My wife gave me three kids, I''ve lived a full life. Mr. Nathan, it''s time I repay you!"


    Gratitude Village was noisy, but Nathan wasn''t bothered; his eyes were red.


    Just before, his wife had asked if he could win this time, and he was scared, scared that a moment of recklessness could destroy decades of the Blackwood family''s hard work.


    But now...


    He wasn''t afraid!


    Remembering his life, he was just a slave, never imagining he''d see this day.


    But blessed by the Forebearer, he learned to cultivate psychic powers, could hunt in the mountains, fill his belly, no longer under anyone''s thumb.


    He married the best girl in the world, had kids that made him feel his life wasn''t wasted, and two well-behaved grandkids.


    And there was Gratitude Village.


    Their kindness that day, these good villagers ready to face death with him.


    He had a life beyond what most dare dream of, surrounded by people who supported him, what was there to fear?


    At that moment,


    Nathan''s eyes narrowed, he found the feeling he had on his first hunt, facing those fierce beasts!


    "Ha ha ha!"


    "Alright!"


    Nathan raised his arm, "Folks of Gratitude Village, laugh if you will, but I, Nathan, just a country bumpkin, I get scared too. Seeing you all here tonight, shouting your support, I realized I''m really getting old!"


    "To hell with Forest Town!"


    "To hell with the Gonzalezes and Garcias!"


    "Grab your weapons, folks, I''m not looking back. I want their blood to pave our way forward!"


    The stars were bright, the moon clear.


    All of Gratitude Village shouted along with the Blackwoods.


    Their torches almost turned the night bright red.


    The Martinez family, slowly recovering from their injuries, were stunned by the fervor of these ordinary people, enough to scare a Psychic!


    The old patriarch of the Martinez family let out a breath, "Get ready, we''re heading to Pine Town with the Blackwoods!"


    Hearing this,Jerry hesitated, "Grandpa, our Martinez family is so few..."


    But before he could finish, the old patriarch slapped him across the face.


    "Are we, the Martinez family, less spirited than these villagers?"


    Jerry dared not say more.


    The elder of the Martinez family then smiled, looking at the still shouting Blackwoods and the villagers of Gratitude Village, "I take back what I said before, this..."


    "This is the true spirit of the Blackwoods!"


    [Congratulations, Blackwood has earned the loyalty of all the villagers of Gratitude Village, who are willing to die for Blackwood!]


    [Earned Spiritual Tribute +300!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, beloved by the people, has won the faith of the villagers of Gratitude Village, earning the trait: Hope of the Village]


    [When fighting for the family''s power, combat power +20!]


    In front of the screen, Ethan was watching everything about the family.


    He was also fired up, having never considered the villagers of Gratitude Village as a fighting force until now, he realized that Blackwood had already earned the loyalty of the entire village!


    This battle for the family''s fortune was not just Blackwood fighting, but also three thousand villagers!


    "What''s there to fear from Gonzalez and Garcia? Let''s do this, kick their butts!"


    "Ding-dong."


    Caught up in the excitement.


    His phone rang, a message from school asking why he was late, and looking outside, he realized he had been playing the game for two days.


    Just thinking about shutting down, his teacher''s call came.


    "Ethan, has something happened at home? Even so, don''t drop out of school, only by studying hard can you change your life..."


    "Sorry, teacher, please help me drop out, don''t you think it''s a waste of time for someone with my abilities to still be in school? Can''t talk now, busy with big things, I''ll have someone handle the withdrawal procedures later."


    "What nonsense are you talking..."


    The teacher didn''t finish speaking, Ethan had already hung up the phone, and turned off his mobile.


    Screw school.


    As the ancestor of Blackwood, I''m going to lead my family to a glorious battle!


    ...


    Ethan was intently focused on the screen. As time sped up, the once bustling Gratitude Village gradually quieted down. Normally, it was the men who took their families to farm or raised chickens and ducks on the streets.


    But now.


    Only the elderly, women, and children could be seen in the village. Some women were even sharpening knives at their doorsteps, guarding their homes.


    In the entire Blackwood, only a group of maids were guarding the carriages, with the Marcus brothers sitting atop them.


    "Brother, don''t be afraid. The Forebearer has always been protecting us Blackwoods. Our family will surely return safely," Marcus said, patting his brother''s head.


    Suddenly.


    He and Daniel were both startled as they looked towards the direction of the ancestral hall.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion sounded, and a massive object burst from the ground, shining brilliantly under the daylight!


    "This is... the Forebearer showing his powers!"


    Marcus was right!


    Ethan had manifested his powers!


    Now, he was sitting in a room, staring at a 500-inch screen, his eyes white, his expression solemn, his hands on the keyboard and mouse, ready to act.


    [You are now operating the War AI Bionic Robot.]


    [Check, arm function 100%, laser cannon charge 100%, laser sword 100%, war barrier ready to activate...]


    [Psychic power consumption low energy mode activated, psychic power reserve¡ª99%!]


    Ethan had used the War AI Bionic Robot to wander in this world before.


    But this time, it was his very first real combat operation!


    "Open the map!"


    With a click, a map appeared in the top right corner.


    Thousands of small green dots had already appeared around the [Forest Town] map, with Blackwood''s team having gone to Forest Town before him!


    He focused on the location of Gonzalez on the map.


    "It''s you guys!"


    Ethan''s eyes narrowed slightly, the psychic powers on the War AI Bionic Robot activated instantly, and with tail fins, it headed towards Gonzalez!


    The war had not yet started, but the strongest had already moved.


    He planned to use the War AI Bionic Robot to attract the attention of all the experts in the town of Gonzalez for Blackwood!


    In the heart of Forest Town.


    In the Garcia hall, masters from the Forest Heath and Gonzalez families were seated. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The heads of both families were sharing tea, smiles on their faces.

 Chapter 45 - 45: Villages Valor pr Part 3

    The head of the Garcia family said, "Heaven helps our families. The Martinez dared to collaborate with Blackwood, and their retribution has come. They had no idea that among us Garcias, there is an inner disciple in the Heavenly Lake Sect of Tranquil City. With just a little scheme, the Martinez elder made an enemy of the Heavenly Lake Sect and died in Tranquil City!"


    "Ha ha ha!"


    The head of the Gonzalez family laughed loudly; "Thanks to Head Garcia, with the Martinez gone, Blackwood is nothing to worry about! I thought it would take ten years, waiting for Brother Hu''s family elder to break through Developing Skill, or for a Gonzalez to produce a Transcendent Seed, to probe into Blackwood. That rumored peak psychic beast, the great snake, is nothing to worry about!"


    "Who would have thought, Blackwood would also be such reckless folks, coming to our Forest Town to die."


    It turns out these two families had long known about Blackwood''s arrival, they never stopped sending spies to Gratitude Village.


    "This time, with our two families setting up a net in Forest Town, once Blackwood is gone, we can sleep without worries!"


    The head of the Garcia family could hardly hide his joy.


    The development of Blackwood in Gratitude Village was too rapid, even they felt threatened, but now, everything has settled.


    "Come, let''s drink tea, just waiting for the mountain villagers of Blackwood to fall into our trap, everything they have will be ours!"


    Everyone was just raising their glasses.


    "Boom!"


    A loud boom in Forest Town changed their expressions drastically, spilling the tea in their hands.


    "What''s going on?"


    As they stepped outside.


    The Gonzalez folks were already wide-eyed, in the sky above Forest Town, a monster made of steel was bombarding Gonzalez.


    "Not good, this thing''s energy is strong, it''s twelve yards high, enough to match aTranscendent Seed realm!"


    The head of the Gonzalez family couldn''t believe that Blackwood had such a monster, not daring to think further, he quickly led his family members towards home for rescue, "Head Garcia, go inform your family elder, bring this monster down!"


    "Right!"


    Head Garcia did not dare to delay, he looked solemnly at the war AI Bionic Robot in the sky, telling his clan members, "Go call the elder, didn''t expect Blackwood to have this up their sleeve, they want to distract us. Other clan members be alert, Blackwood might have other tricks!"


    ...


    Meanwhile.


    Outside Forest Town, people from the Martinez family and Gratitude Village had already gathered, they had yet to make a move.


    Even if they were to wage war against the two major families of Forest, they knew to scout the town first.


    But they found that Forest Town was full of arrays, both families were well-defended, clearly already aware of their planned attack, waiting for them to fall into the trap.


    Just as they were unsure of what to do.


    "Look, what is that?"


    A villager armed with a scythe, kitchen knife, hoe, machete, and dung fork pointed at the sky above Forest Town, his eyes wide as brass bells.


    The people of Blackwood had already noticed!


    "It''s the Forebearer taking action!" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The Forebearer has shown his psychic abilities, he''s controlling the war AI Bionic Robot, he''s helping us in his own way."


    "Ha ha ha, with the Forebearer''s blessing, what do we have to fear?!!"


    The people of Blackwood were overjoyed.


    Over the years, the Forebearer had been with them as they grew, always giving them great courage, and now, after many years, the Forebearer was taking action again, heading towards the most dangerous place!


    "Boys, the Forebearer has made his move, he''s helping us break the traps of Forest Town, get ready, the moment of life and death has come!"


    ...


    "Boom!"


    Piloting the War AI Bionic Robot, Ethan launched the first strike above the skies of the Gonzalez estate in Talin!


    The shoulder-mounted cannon fiercely fired a laser at Gonzalez.


    But at the same time,


    Gonzalez, a family with centuries of heritage, was prepared. As the laser cannon fired, a powerful defensive array appeared over Blackwood, capable of instantly neutralizing a mid-stage Emerging Ability laser cannon. It only caused a crack in the yellow light shield of the Gonzalez defense array, which quickly repaired itself!


    [Second-level array detected.]


    [Detecting psychic wave fluctuations, consuming 5% psychic energy, opponent is recovering psychic energy at a rate of 3 seconds/5%!]


    Ethan closely monitored the detection data.


    This was the advantage of the War AI Bionic Robot; it could monitor the opponent''s energy, allowing him to find the best combat strategy!


    "A second-level array that can withstand a full-force attack from a peak Emerging Ability?"


    Ethan snorted coldly, "Well, I''d like to see how long you can hold out and how many Energy Stones you can burn through!"


    Ethan knew well that such arrays usually required a continuous supply of Energy Stones or some powerful psychic equipment.


    "Boom!"


    He fired the shoulder-mounted laser cannon again!


    [Remaining energy of the laser cannon, 97%.]


    The War AI Bionic Robot had independent energy sources all over its body, and Ethan calmly operated it, bombarding from the sky while maintaining minimal energy consumption.


    Gradually,


    He noticed red dots appearing on the map around him!


    Wherever he looked,


    In the courtyard of the Gonzalez estate, several Psychics were looking up at him in terror, clearly intimidated by the massive form and combat power of the War AI Bionic Robot flying in the sky.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Ethan continued the bombardment.


    Finally,


    "Hmph, I didn''t expect such a rural home to have the means to operate such an AI Bionic Robot,"


    "No wonder you dared to come to the Gonzalez, but coming alone shows not just confidence but also arrogance!"


    Two elderly men accompanied by three Psychics flew on swords, quickly surrounding the War AI Bionic Robot!


    [Detecting enemies¡ª¡ª]


    [Two peak Emerging Ability, one mid-stage Emerging Ability, three early-stage Emerging Ability!]


    [Detecting weapons and equipment¡ª¡ª]


    The eyes of the War AI Bionic Robot flickered with light, its internal AI capable of analyzing everything for Ethan, who was far away in the real world.


    Ethan could even see the opponents'' energy.


    Not only that.


    Ethan in the real world was also clicking his mouse, seeing some information about these enemies.


    All of this was the heritage of the Gonzalez!


    In the center of the two peak Emerging Ability elders, a human-head-sized seal floated.


    [Detecting a primary psychic device, analyzing psychic energy and material structure¡ª¡ª]


    [Space, weight, hardness...]


    Information appeared before his eyes.


    But after the Gonzalez people surrounded the War AI Bionic Robot, they quickly launched an attack!


    The techniques of the Emerging Ability period warriors blasted towards Ethan!


    "Hmph!"


    Ethan was not flustered at all; with a click of the keyboard, the core of the War AI Bionic Robot activated, a pale blue energy shield enveloped his body, blocking all the Emerging Ability period techniques!


    [Using war shield, laser sword, laser cannon!]


    [Combat mode activated!]


    "Emerging Ability period, huh? Psychic devices, huh?"


    Ethan looked at the solemn eyes of the Gonzalez people, his mouth twisting into a grin, "Times have changed!"

 Chapter 46 - 46: The Thunder Sun Python

    "Is the Forebearer really that powerful when it strikes?"


    "Totally!"


    "Long live the Forebearer!"


    At this time, outside the town of Blackwood, the people of Blackwood were still not moving; they were waiting for the right moment.


    But above the town, the War AI Bionic Robot was already engaged in a fierce battle with Gonzalez''s Psychic in the sky!


    Fireworks soared into the sky.


    Swords flew through the air, clashing in an attempt to break through the War AI Bionic Robot''s defenses, while at the same time, the sound of gunfire boomed!


    This was the first time they had seen such a battle.


    However, the people of Blackwood were only spectators from a distance.


    Only Gonzalez''s people knew just how tough and terrifying the War AI Bionic Robot was!


    "What on earth is this thing? It''s all weapons!"


    "Dodge, don''t get stabbed by its sword!"


    "It has no weaknesses; it''s still attacking me from behind!"


    Five Emerging Ability experts were dodging. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They had previously thought that the War AI Bionic Robot could only shoot blue psychic power waves from its shoulders, but then, laser swords appeared on both hands of the War AI Bionic Robot.


    Attempting to sneak attack from behind the War AI Bionic Robot, they discovered that the backplate of the AI Bionic Robot contracted, revealing several dark cannon ports!


    Although these cannon ports did not emit as powerful as the laser cannons, they still possessed fierce attacking power!


    Even the eyes of the War AI Bionic Robot...


    This was truly a mobile artillery platform!


    [Back cannon ports, automatic enemy targeting and shooting, activated!]


    [Shield defense, small-scale defense system, activated!]


    [Spinal armor separation, low-load operation, using skill¡ªBlade Storm!]


    The War AI Bionic Robot was armed from top to bottom.


    At this moment, it was spinning wildly, creating a storm in the sky above the town where Gonzalez was.


    An Emerging Ability mid-stage Psychic didn''t have time to escape and was instantly swept up in the storm formed by the lightsabers, leaving no trace of his body!


    "Damn, really tricky!"


    But Ethan''s eyes showed no joy. Perhaps for these Emerging Ability stage Psychics, the War AI Bionic Robot was an invincible entity, but in reality, Ethan also couldn''t effectively strike.


    Because this thing was originally developed for interstellar wars, to slaughter weaker races, a technology obtained from a tech planet by Earth.


    To actually fight these extremely fast-moving Psychics, it was easy to get bogged down!


    Especially the two Emerging Ability peak experts from Gonzalez used psychic devices.


    That seal, which could enlarge and had formidable attacking power, even the War AI Bionic Robot''s laser swords couldn''t destroy the seal. Especially since that seal could even form a special attack method, splitting into ten seal attacks.


    Ethan had also thought he could kill more of Gonzalez''s people.


    But at that moment, the centuries-old family heritage of Gonzalez seemed to show, as if they had some knowledge of the heritage of the seals.


    The ground-based Psychics were also using seals.


    Metal, wood, water, fire, earth, the five elemental energies kept attacking, and the sky above the town looked like a colorful fireworks display!


    [Psychic power consumption, 20%!]


    Even though Ethan was trying to conserve the War AI Bionic Robot''s psychic power consumption, the rate of consumption was still high.


    "It''s your turn to make a move!"


    Ethan squinted his eyes; he was never fighting alone!


    While controlling the War AI Bionic Robot.


    His vision was also observing the map.


    As he had already tied up Gonzalez''s top combat power, the people of Blackwood also began to move.


    At the town gate of the town.


    "Boom!"


    The ground roared.


    After expanding the map, Ethan clearly saw hundreds of Psychics dressed in Garcia uniforms already appearing on the rooftops of Forest Town. Most notably, each of them carried several long spears on their backs!


    At this moment, the Garcia Psychics were on high alert.


    A giant snake charged from the distant parts of Forest Town, its body darkening under the scorching sun, roaring as it rushed towards the town!


    Yet even as the snake brought with it clouds of dust, the Psychics remained unmoved, clearly not targeting the snake.


    "Peak mutant beast!"


    Suddenly, an elderly figure from the Garcia camp flew out on a flying sword, "I haven''t made a move in two hundred years, but today I will let this monstrous creature see that the old masters of the Garcia clan are not yet feeble!"


    Before he arrived, the snake moved forward, the ground collapsed, and long spears broke through the soil, forming a formation that blocked the snake''s path!


    At the same moment, the snake launched an attack on the Garcia elder.


    Thunder Cage!


    Lightning arcs emitted from the snake, which had once easily trapped mid-stage Emerging Ability experts, and it also spat out thunder flames.


    But the Garcia elder was truly a master of the false pill stage.


    "Mystic Dao of the Spear, the formation turns into soldiers!"


    With a fierce shout, the countless long spears that had blocked the snake''s path suddenly appeared in front of him, instantly forming a giant spear, carrying a powerful spear force, and shot out, breaking through the snake''s thunder flames!


    Even as the snake hastily dodged, the giant spear still slashed through its tough skin.


    "Hiss!"


    It was the first time the snake had been injured since its transformation, and it couldn''t help but howl skyward, sending electric arcs sweeping out in all directions. This time, mixed with scorching flames, even the sun in the sky cast halos on the snake.


    The so-called Thunder Sun Python was never just capable of manipulating thunder and battling humans¡ªit also controlled flames!


    "Such a monstrous creature!"


    The Garcia elder knew well the strength of the Thunder Sun Python and dared not delay any longer, but he also knew that if the Python fought him in Forest Town, it would inevitably bring an irreparable disaster to his clan, so he led the Thunder Sun Python out of the town.


    In an instant, dust and smoke billowed, and the battle site was filled with electric arcs, flames, and spears that broke through the ground at any moment.


    ...

 Chapter 47 - 47: Mystical beasts

    "Neither superior nor inferior, the battle between the temple guardian beast and Elder Garcia could go on forever."


    While fighting with Gonzalez''s top fighters, Ethan frowned as he watched the distant battle between the Purple Lightning Python and Elder Garcia.


    The only difference between an Emerging Ability master and a Foundational Energy master.


    Is that Emerging Ability masters can already harness the extraordinary powers of nature for their own use, fly with swords to some extent, and cast spells. Their abilities are versatile, making it tough to determine a winner among equals.


    "Boom!"


    Though he was observing the distant battle, Ethan didn''t slack in his attack on the Gonzalez base!


    By now, one of the five Emerging Ability masters, a mid-stage, had been killed by him.


    Under the wide-ranging attack of the Blade Storm, the remaining four masters had to temporarily retreat, even the imprint of a basic ability device couldn''t stop it.


    Another cannon blast.


    Ethan completely blasted open Garcia''s defensive array!


    "You ruin my family, and you will pay with your life!"


    Although most of the Gonzalez members had already evacuated, the two elders of the Garcia family, watching their family reduced to ruins, were still uncontrollably furious.


    "Keep him busy, none of those Blackwoods will survive!"


    But no sooner had he spoken than Ethan found an opportunity, firing another laser cannon, killing the weakest Emerging Ability beginner of Gonzalez.


    With another death.


    The attacks from the Gonzalez people grew fiercer, they gradually discovered the drawbacks of the War AI Bionic Robot, taking advantage of its smaller size, they kept moving with Ethan, after all, the laser cannon needed to charge.


    Ethan also understood their tactic, minimizing the operation cost of the mech, using the laser sword and the relatively energy-efficient cannon.


    "The War AI Bionic Robot and the Purple Lightning Python have already held off some of their top fighters, it''s all on you now!"


    ...


    "Is this the true power of Blackwood?" Outside Forest Town, more than thirty members of the Martinez family also joined the battle!


    At the beginning, they held no hope for the fight. After all, Blackwood had only risen to prominence over the past twenty or so years, starting from rural roots with all resources coming from the Silver Iron Forest.


    But the moment the Purple Thunder Solar Python appeared, they were stunned. It was a monstrous creature capable of battling a False Core!


    Not only that. Especially the silver figure soaring above Forest Town, almost single-handedly holding off most of the Gonzalez clan''s Emerging Ability masters, even managing to kill two Emerging Ability Psychics under the joint attack of two peak Emerging Ability devices!


    "We truly knew nothing of Blackwood''s real strength," Jerry muttered, rubbing his face. But these two from the Martinez family realized they knew far too little!


    "It''s our turn to strike!" Nathan''s call came from nearby.


    Jerry and the family elder looked to the right, just in time to see Nathan give the order, and the ready and waiting people of Blackwood suddenly rose to their feet.


    However, the armed villagers of Gratitude Village didn''t move immediately. An unexpected figure stood up alone.


    That rarely seen woman from Blackwood, a farmer''s daughter from the countryside, who spoke softly and was usually seen as nothing more than a Level 5 Foundational Energy.


    "May the Forebearer bless Blackwood with invincible might!" With Luna''s fierce shout, a phantom image appeared around her¡ª the Heavenly Moon Fox! This fox was all white, with a crescent moon mark between its eyebrows and a pair of fluffy tails standing tall, as if drawing strength from the heavens.


    "Spiritual beast taming, Mid-Emerging Ability!" The Martinez family elder, experienced and knowledgeable, immediately recognized Luna''s capabilities, which shocked him even more.


    With Luna''s fierce cry, the winds stirred and the trees swayed in the forests outside Forest Town. Suddenly, various mystical beasts appeared!


    "Hundred-Eyed Demon Spider, Gale Wing Tiger, Sun Beast!" Jerry''s face drastically changed. These mystical beasts, known to them as creatures of the Silver Iron Forest! Countless young members and subordinates of the four great families of Forest Town had died at the hands of these beasts, yet they had no way to deal with them.


    Little did they expect, these fearsome beasts had silently become the guardian beasts of Blackwood!


    Not only the few from the Martinez family were incredulous. At that moment, the people of Garcia, who had set up traps all over Forest Town, also showed faces of terror.


    "Quick, the mystical beasts are attacking the city!"


    "Garcia''s Spear Formation, ready!"


    "Damn it, Blackwood, how could they have so many mystical beasts?!"


    As Luna, now in her fox form, charged with over a hundred mystical beasts between heaven and earth, she rushed towards Forest Town amidst dust and smoke.


    On the other side of Forest Town, long spears floated in the air, raining down like a storm towards the beast horde!


    The real battle began at that moment!


    "Kill!" Nathan squinted his eyes. On this battlefield, he had no time to worry about his wife''s safety.


    As the mystical beasts countered the first wave of traps at Forest Town.


    Watching beast after beast fall in pools of blood.


    He led all the people of Gratitude Village in a desperate attack towards Forest Town!


    "Screw it!" Seeing this, the Martinez family elder, his eyes red, flew on his sword, leading the last thirty or so people of the Martinez family into their homeland!


    In the midst of the clashing sounds within Forest Town, a maid from Gratitude Village was pushing Olivia along the deserted streets. Olivia, with an expressionless face, stared ahead at the grand mansion. She slowly raised her head, looking at the sign above the courtyard.


    "Is this the Rodriguez house?" she asked.


    Several guards stationed in front of the Rodriguez house were vigilantly observing their surroundings, ready to question the intentions of the woman in the wheelchair.


    Olivia, however, was already smiling as she said, "Olivia of the Blackwood sisters, here to see the head of the Rodriguez family, to offer the Rodriguez family a way to survive." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 48 - 48: Forebearers Charge

    "Phew!"


    A gust of wind blows through as Garcia''s forces surround EthanEmerging Ability. Suddenly, a mid-level Emerging Ability expert from Garcia''s side is cut in half!


    [Energy consumption has reached 56%!]


    [Severe damage to the left arm, shoulder armor laser cannon ability depleted!]


    [Warning, do not use Blade Storm again, it will cause severe damage to the mech!]


    Gonzalez has proven to be more troublesome than Ethan had anticipated! They have all sorts of tricks up their sleeves. Just now, Gonzalez even brought out ten psychic equipment pieces, placing them in a large formation, causing significant damage to Ethan''s War AI Bionic Robot. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Fortunately, now that the War AI Bionic Robot is heavily damaged, the remaining two peak Emerging Ability experts from Gonzalez are also heavily scarred.


    On the map.


    In Ethan''s view, the Blackwood members are also caught in a fierce battle.


    Luna leads the mystical beasts in the first charge, just to break through the traps of Forest Town. They face Garcia''s ancestral Spear Forest Formation, a formation that links all of Garcia''s members'' abilities, raining down spears like a covering sky.


    In just an instant, a dozen slow-moving mystical beasts are caught off-guard and perish.


    Then, it''s hand-to-hand combat.


    Facing the various traps and formations set up by Garcia and Gonzalez in Forest Town, such as spells, symbols, and psychic equipment... Under the centuries-old family heritage of these two families, Blackwood''s years of nurtured mystical beasts seem so fragile.


    But soon after breaking through the Spear Forest Formation of Forest Town, the villagers of Gratitude Village, led by Nathan, launch their attack!


    The Blackwood guard squad initiates the first wave of attack.


    Although most of them are still ordinary people, years of training and a lot of equipment make them capable of effectively attacking the Iron Will Psychic.


    They stand their ground, bending their bows and setting arrows.


    Forged from black iron, their arrows rain down like a storm, each archer equipped with 15 iron arrows!


    As they fire in unison.


    The nearly thousand villagers of Gratitude Village also show their mettle.


    When there are no more attacks coming out of Forest Town, they quickly rush nearby. Instead of foolishly engaging in close combat with the Psychic, under Julian''s leadership, they take out all their weapons.


    In a flash, there''s a scene of villagers hurling kitchen knives, machetes, and other sharp weapons in the direction of the recent Psychic attack.


    Following that.


    All of Blackwood''s Emerging Ability period Psychics, along with Blackwood''s three mystical beasts, seize the opportunity to charge into Forest Town!


    Ethan can no longer take care of everyone!


    He can only deal with the two peak Emerging Ability opponents.


    While waiting for notifications from the game interface!


    [A villager from Gratitude Village is in critical condition...]


    [One of your family''s mystical beasts is severely injured!]


    [Villager deceased...]


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan, operating the War AI Bionic Robot in his room and monitoring the game interface with his body, clenches his teeth.


    Having played this game for so long.


    He has come to realize that these might very well be real people!


    Lives are being lost right before his eyes, but he knows he must keep his cool at such times.


    [Spiritual Tribute value: 1342]


    The harsh reality is, even though he has a considerable amount of Spiritual Tribute value, he can''t help everyone. He can only keep an eye on Blackwood''s members to prevent any mishaps!


    [Use skill ''Charge, My Children'', consuming Spiritual Tribute 115!]


    This isn''t the first time Ethan has used this skill, which can increase all attributes of family members by 10%!


    However, the cost of the skill increases as the members'' strength increases.


    Using this skill on an Emerging Ability period expert consumes 50 points, while Iron Will only needs 5 points!


    "It''s Forebearer!"


    "My power has increased!"


    "With Forebearer''s help, I want to see how you die!"


    The Blackwood members who have already broken into Forest Town feel a powerful psychic ability transmitted to them from the Forebearer cards they carry!


    Yes.


    Now, all Blackwood members carry a cards of Ethan, fighting alongside their Forebearer!


    Although... Ethan could use his skills without the cards, fighting with the Forebearer cards has become a fine tradition of Blackwood.


    ...


    "Boom!"


    Inside Garcia, amidst a fierce battle, the elder Martinez, along with the entire Martinez family, broke through Garcia''s protective formation using a secret family technique!


    At that moment.


    The Garcia talisman formation exploded, and Dexter, who had previously sent men to severely injure Nathan, was now looking over the ruins with several Foundational Energy experts.


    "Ha ha ha! Overestimating yourself, the Blackwood kid still wants to avenge his father, not even checking if he''s up to the mark!"


    Within the ruins.


    Lucas could be seen struggling to stand atop the debris, sword in hand. The moment he entered Garcia, he didn''t hesitate to draw his sword and seek out Dexter.


    He had not spent a day without thinking of avenging his father!


    But what he hadn''t expected was that after killing a Foundational Energy level nine Psychic protecting Dexter, and breaking through the encirclement, he couldn''t escape the deep-rooted powers of Garcia, who possessed various kinds of formations!


    "Someone, kill this ignorant fool, a mere country bumpkin thinks he can kill me?"


    Dexter looked coldly at Lucas.


    Facing the charging Psychic, Lucas, despite his severe injuries, remained undaunted.


    He stretched out his left hand, bones gruesomely visible, clutching the Forebearer cards tightly in his embrace, suddenly grinning, making him look like a demon crawling out of hell.


    "Do you think only you have a foundation? Blackwood has one too!!!"


    "What?"


    Dexter''s color changed.


    As Lucas roared, the Forebearer cards he held emitted a white light, and his wounds began to heal at a visible rate!


    [Consume 100 points of Spiritual Tribute, use ''Embrace of the Forebearer'', heal Lucas''s injuries!]


    His injuries healed significantly!


    Lucas, holding his sword and with a grim expression, walked towards Dexter, "Today, I take your head to avenge my father''s near-death!"

 Chapter 49 - 49: Forebearers Cards Part 1

    "Lord of Blackwood, just a country bumpkin, only knows a mundane sword technique and a step technique learned from my Garcia, and dares to act wildly in my Garcia!"


    Inside Garcia.


    Nathan, holding a long knife, was facing the fierce attacks of a mid-stage Emerging Ability expert!


    Though he possessed four traits, as the Emerging Ability expert said, Nathan''s Emerging Ability stage was indeed diluted.


    The techniques he learned were all common, and after reaching Emerging Ability, he hadn''t even managed to learn some spells, not a match for a typical Emerging Ability stage opponent, merely having a unique ability.


    At best, he could only match an early-stage Emerging Ability.


    Now facing a mid-stage Emerging Ability, his original chaotic techniques suddenly became more composed, which made the Garcia Psychic wonder, "Still daring to counterattack, where do you get the courage?"


    Nathan grinned.


    "Courage given by the Forebearer!"


    In an instant.


    The Forebearer cards in Nathan''s embrace floated out, appearing in front of him!


    "What kind of supernatural equipment is this?"


    The mid-stage Emerging Ability expert was stunned.


    This thing looked just like a cards, who would bring a Forebearer''s cards to a deadly fight?


    But then a terrifying scene occurred!


    The Forebearer cards split into ten, each rushing towards him and then exploding!


    Equivalent to the peak of Foundational Energy explosion, even he had to defend against it.


    The same scene also occurred with all the Blackwood descendants!


    Luna was initially struggling against a mid-stage Emerging Ability expert, naturally falling behind.


    But her Forebearer cards suddenly appeared from her embrace, delivering a critical strike to her opponent!


    Julian, wielding a hammer, roamed the battlefield.


    He was a complete brute, charging wherever he found an Iron Will expert equal to him, daring to rush into a crowd of a hundred if no one stronger opposed him.


    The Forebearer cards also appeared beside him, always killing any Iron Will expert trying to ambush him!


    Compared to the family''s battles.


    Amelia was obviously more relaxed, sitting on a giant eagle at the peak of strange beasts, aiming and shooting arrows at the enemy.


    Even with an early-stage Emerging Ability Psychic constantly tracking her from behind, he dared not approach, as Amelia''s poison powder kept drifting backward.


    She was also engaged in a harvesting operation.


    "Hmph, despicable Blackwood scoundrel, you think you can escape?"


    That Emerging Ability Psychic was so anxious he was about to jump, finally using a secret technique to appear in front of Amelia like teleportation.


    But Amelia remained unmoved, quietly drawing her bow and arrow.


    Then.


    Two Forebearer cardss flew out from Amelia''s embrace, launching a deadly attack on the early-stage Emerging Ability Psychic, followed by Amelia''s poison-drenched arrows!


    ...


    On the battlefield, Forebearer cardss rose one after another. The two elder Gonzalezes, locked in combat with the war AI Bionic Robots, quickly caught on to something.


    "Special high-level psychic gear, huh?" One of the Gonzalez elders remarked, still launching attacks towards Ethan, who remained unfazed.


    The appearance of these Forebearer cardss wouldn''t shift the tide of battle. Their side was numerous and skilled, and the scales of victory would inevitably tip in their favor over time!


    "I''ll admit, we underestimated you folks at Blackwood. None of the families in our Forest Town could match you in battle," laughed a Gonzalez elder, trying to rattle Ethan.


    "Too bad, your Blackwood is too foolish, daring to walk into our well-set trap in Forest Town alone. You''re doomed to be wiped out today!"


    On the screen, Ethan remained stoic. He acknowledged that entering Forest Town for a battle was reckless and tough.


    But then...


    He slowly clicked on the map, checking on the only Blackwood family member not yet in combat. "It''s all on you now. If you don''t show up soon, I really won''t last much longer!"


    As his words fell, figures suddenly appeared darting along the rooftops in the houses of Forest Town!


    In the sky above the battlefield, several masters flew on their swords, rushing towards the fray to join Blackwood''s ranks!


    A flying dagger whizzed through the air, and even though a Gonzalez elder dodged in time, he still lost his right arm.


    The elder turned his head to look behind him.


    A middle-aged man in a purple robe retracted the flying dagger that had just severed the arm of the Gonzalez elder.


    "What are you doing, you scoundrel?!" he exclaimed.


    Watching the scene, Ethan breathed a sigh of relief.


    In the distance, at the Rodriguez household.


    Olivia, pushed by a maid in her wheelchair, wore a relaxed smile.


    Around her, armed members of the Rodriguez family surged forth!


    "The Rodriguez reinforcements have arrived!" someone shouted.


    "Wait, we''ve got backup?" another voice chimed in with surprise.


    "Charge! Let''s wipe these scumbags off the map!" The battle instantly tipped in their favor as the Rodriguez family experts entered the fray.


    The head of the Rodriguez family, a refined middle-aged man dressed in a flowing cloud-patterned robe, appeared beside Nathan.


    He saw a cards explode in front of Nathan''s opponent, a flicker of surprise in his eyes, and without hesitation, joined Nathan in combat against a mid-stage Emerging Ability expert.


    With their combined efforts, the already injured opponent was quickly dispatched.


    "So, you must be Nathan, my brother?" Mark forced a smile. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That''s me," Nathan replied, catching his breath. He seemed to have anticipated the Rodriguez family''s intervention and naturally bowed to Mark. "Thanks for the solid backup, Mark."


    "Don''t mention it," Mark replied, his smile twitching. This reluctant assistance was a necessity!


    Before coming to Blackwood, Mark had already received invitations from two other families to join forces against external threats. The Rodriguez family had never wanted to get involved, preferring to avoid any damage to their own.


    But Mark had never expected that as soon as the battle in Forest Town began, Olivia from Blackwood would show up at his doorstep, offering him three choices:


    Stand with the Heath and Gonzalez families against Blackwood, in which case Blackwood would abandon their base and Gratitude Village, leaving behind all resources.


    Align with Blackwood, ensuring the Rodriguez family''s dominance in Forest Town with a powerful ally. Remain onlookers, which would lead everyone to view them as opportunists, likely facing retribution after the battle.


    "Nathan, we can''t let Garcia and Gonzalez escape this time; it would only lead to future troubles," Mark said to a battered Nathan before heading off to assist him.


    As he moved, Mark looked up at the war AI Bionic Robots flying towards the outskirts of Forest Town and the Purple Thunder Python wreaking havoc in the streets, still visibly shaken.

 Chapter 50 - 50: Forebearers Cards Part 2

    "Blackwood... truly formidable," he muttered in fear.


    Initially, despite Blackwood''s attempts over the years to trade with the Rodriguez family, Mark had never taken them seriously. But today''s siege revealed Blackwood''s terrifying strength. Having risen to power in just two or three decades, they now rivaled great families that had taken centuries to establish, even standing up to two families alone.


    This was why, after Olivia gave him three choices, he chose to side with Blackwood. Even if Blackwood lost today, their members could escape, and no one could stop them. What about the next few decades, or even a century later?


    "Master, if we help Blackwood, might they eventually absorb us?" a clan elder asked Mark, his expression grave.


    Mark shook his head. "In just a short time, Blackwood has become this powerful. Previously, Garcia and Gonzalez blocked their progress, suppressing their development. Now that they can access resources, they will reach new heights. As long as we keep to ourselves from now on, we''ll be in the shade of a great tree."


    [Congratulations, you''ve led your clan and its forces to break through the economic blockade of Forest Town, defeating two major families. Your clanspeople are cheering for you!]


    [You''ve earned a Spiritual Tribute +5000!]


    "We won!"


    Ethan finally stopped controlling the war AI Bionic Robot and joyfully waved his fist,


    He had prepared for the worst and hoped for the best in this battle.


    If he had lost, he wouldn''t have just sat around waiting for doom; instead, he planned to take all members of Blackwood and retreat, breaking down and then rebuilding, abandoning the years of accumulation at Gratitude Village. Once the members developed successfully elsewhere, they would return for revenge.


    And the best plan involved the Rodriguez family.


    That was the key to this battle!


    He still remembered the day Olivia went to the Rodriguez family on his orders, offering them three choices, essentially giving the Rodriguez family a way out!


    "This was a total blast!"


    Ethan couldn''t hide his joy.


    As the battle ended, the cleanup of the battlefield began.


    In the event tab, a delightful list appeared.


    [You''ve obtained loot, a basic psychic ability rapid-fire spear.]


    [You''ve obtained a "Pill Scripture" book.]


    [You''ve obtained a "Spear Formation Diagram" book.]


    [...]


    Who says war isn''t the simplest way to accumulate wealth?


    As Blackwood searched, the Heath and Gonzalez families'' psychic scriptures were all seized by Blackwood.


    Not only that.


    [Your clan has occupied two gold mines.]


    [Your clan has occupied a ''Sky Blue Stone Mine''.]


    [Acquired ''Psychic Fish Lake'', discovered ingredients that can enhance human psychic abilities...]


    All sorts of resources dazzled Ethan.


    [Your clan leader has obtained a basic psychic ability device¡ªHeavenly Balance Seal!]


    The basic psychic ability device that had repeatedly troubled Ethan during the fight with the war AI Bionic Robot was now in Nathan''s hands!


    This device, which could enlarge and attack enemies with extreme weight, and even form seals, was something Ethan knew was incredibly powerful. A Psychic in the Emerging Ability phase could use a psychic ability device to jump a minor stage in combat.


    While the harvest was rich.


    Blackwood also had to face severe casualties.


    In Gratitude Village, thousands of civilians were injured or killed. Hundreds of Blackwood''s psychic beasts were also heavily damaged in the first wave of attacks by Garcia''s spear formation, leaving only about twenty.


    Only the weakest of the four psychic beasts, the Eight-Leaf Flower Demon, survived.


    Even Blackwood''s members were not without incidents.


    Even though Ethan did his best to help the Blackwood clanspeople avoid danger, Julian still nearly died in combat, ultimately losing his left arm. The ''Forebearer''s Embrace'' could only heal injuries, but could not regenerate limbs.


    "Once the clan develops, we''ll think of a solution for him."


    ...


    Soon, the scene in the game shifted.


    Everyone had already returned to the Blackwood base with their spoils of war.


    At this moment, Nathan was comforting the deceased villagers of Gratitude Village, promising them that as long as Blackwood existed, it would protect the entire Gratitude Village.


    From this moment on, every newborn child in Gratitude Village would receive guidance from those skilled in cultivating psychic powers, gaining more farmland and resources, and even seeds for psychic-enhancing medicines.


    "Next up, it''s time for Blackwood''s rapid development!" Ethan grinned.


    This war had also touched him deeply.


    He increasingly felt that the descendants in the game were genuinely human, possessing emotions and admirable qualities that even he had to respect. Often, Ethan even thought that if the real-world Blackwood were like the one in the game, he might dedicate himself to the whole of Blackwood.


    Lost in thought.


    [Your descendant Julian has returned with a severed arm, and seeing this, Mary is heartbroken and proposes to Julian!]


    The game lit up again, and the entire village of Gratitude Village came to Blackwood to attend the wedding.


    Not just them.


    The Martinez family, now back in Forest Town, and the head of the Rodriguez family, Mark, also came to the wedding.


    One-armed Julian and Mary, dressed in wedding attire, stepped into the hall of matrimony.


    Then they proceeded to the Forebearer''s shrine.


    "Woah, Forebearer, Julian''s finally married. If I''d known losing an arm would get me Mary, I would''ve chopped mine off a long time ago," Julian cried, his heart aching.


    "..."


    Before, Ethan had been worried that losing an arm would affect Julian''s spirit, but now it seemed...


    [Your descendant''s grand wedding, congratulations, you''ve received a Spiritual Tribute+50!]


    This joyous occasion dispersed the sorrow of the heavy casualties in Gratitude Village.


    A new round of development began for both Blackwood and Gratitude Village.


    [Blackwood Year 34.]


    This year began with Blackwood reaping the benefits from Forest Town, showing early signs of success!


    [Lucas has killed his enemy Dexter, his spirits lifted, and he has now grasped the path of Emerging Ability, beginning his retreat!]


    "The third period of Emerging Ability in Blackwood."


    A smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    However, the only downside seemed to be that after his separation from Karen, Lucas was heartbroken and had no plans to marry.


    "Children will have their own blessings," Ethan thought, not planning to force Lucas into marriage.


    Just pondering this.


    "Forebearer, I''ve done it, I''ve done it again!"


    The game screen suddenly switched to the psychic medicine garden.


    Amelia, holding a tablet, joyfully ran in circles. The previously cold and merciless Amelia, who had used poison arrows to kill enemies in Forest Town, was now like an innocent child back in the psychic medicine garden.


    [Your descendant Amelia, after years of research, has finally developed a new medicine, Golden Psychic Powder!]


    [Golden Psychic Powder (Grade 9 Medicine): Increases 1-8 points of Golden Psychic Constitution.]


    "I''ve finally developed it!" S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Watching this message, Ethan almost jumped on the spot.


    This Grade 9 medicine was simply a miracle drug for beginners, capable of changing a person''s talents.


    Even in the real world, it could fetch a sky-high price!


    It also meant that the talents of Blackwood members would be further enhanced. The biggest beneficiary would be Nathan, whose Golden Psychic Constitution had reached 68 points after the Emerging Ability period. With a bit of luck, he could break through 70!


    "Forebearer, we can now obtain a lot of resources from Forest Town, and I''m ready to develop two new medicines!"


    After bowing to the cards, Amelia began to work on her new medicines.


    Ethan took a quick look.


    Qingfeng Powder, a medicine that helps clear the mind during cultivation, essentially enhancing one''s understanding!


    Heiyu Continuation Paste, a powerful healing medicine, capable of treating internal and external injuries, and even capable of reattaching limbs if they were severed no more than 30 seconds ago.


    "Amelia, you really are my treasure!"


    Ethan''s smile almost reached his ears.


    As long as Amelia increased her efforts in refining, once Blackwood grew stronger and she taught more disciples, Ethan could even start a real-world pharmaceutical company.


    Making a fortune!

 Chapter 51 - 51: The Sky Sect

    However, the surprises for Ethan weren''t just from Amelia.


    Julian, the blacksmith, wasn''t left behind either.


    Though he had lost an arm, it wasn''t a dead end for a Psychic.


    On the day he married Mary, the Rodriguez family gifted him a prosthetic limb, an arm that could be easily maneuvered with psychic power, though it had its drawbacks. The silver limb was somewhat unsightly and couldn''t perform psychic actions, consuming psychic power with every movement.


    But this was enough for Julian to continue crafting psychic equipment!


    [Your descendant Julian has forged a mid-grade psychic equipment set from ''Azure Stone'', ''Heavy Sand'', ''Gale Tiger Bones'', and ''Gale Tiger Inner Alchemy'' using the Black Iron Beast Blood Armor Suit!]


    "Done, hahaha!"


    After crafting his first set of mid-grade psychic equipment, Julian couldn''t wait to report the good news at the shrine, "Forebearer, although we only have one Gale Tiger, as long as I keep working hard to find materials from Emerging Ability period beasts, I can continue to forge mid-grade psychic equipment!"


    Looking at the freshly made set of equipment, Ethan nodded slightly.


    It must be said, if a person has a bit of talent and pursues a hobby, success comes quite easily.


    Julian was just such a person.


    Look how happy the kid is... like he''s gotten married again.


    "Right, and the bodies of the Sunrise Beast, the Hundred-Eyes Demon Spider, and those experts buried under the beast blood fruit trees in Forest Town, soon they''ll be reduced to bones, and I can use them to craft psychic equipment, hahaha!"


    Hearing this, Ethan didn''t find it strange at all, as using human bones to craft psychic equipment was quite normal.


    Soon, Ethan''s attention turned to the armory in Gratitude Village.


    With Blackwood and Gratitude Village acquiring a lot of spoils of war, they were rapidly developing every day.


    In Gratitude Village, there were already over a dozen psychic equipment craftsmen, all Julian''s apprentices.


    He gradually realized that one person crafting psychic equipment was always limited in energy, and began to cultivate a force for Blackwood to craft psychic equipment.


    ... sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Huh? They''re starting to cultivate psychic fields already?"


    Ethan was surprised as he watched the game screen.


    Originally, Gratitude Village was all farmland, raising livestock as well.


    But after the battle, only a portion of these farms remained, just enough to meet daily needs. The rest of the land had been cleared, and Ethan watched as the villagers of Gratitude Village buried Energy Stones in the ground.


    And some newcomers were drawing formations on the fields!


    Looking at the event bar, Ethan finally understood why.


    [After the great battle, Gratitude Village faced a shortage of labor, and since there was no longer a need to worry about food, Nathan decided to stop farming. He found a method from the spoils of war to plant psychic rice from Gonzalez, and hired a formation master from the county town to cultivate psychic fields.]


    [One acre of psychic field requires ten thousand Energy Stones and can operate for ten years.]


    [Your descendants have used 300,000 Energy Stones to cultivate 30 acres of psychic fields.]


    Nathan had consulted him about this.


    Psychic fields also exist on Earth, producing rice and corn filled with psychic energy, which can enhance physical strength and prolong life!


    Ordinary people live less than a hundred years, but if they regularly eat psychic rice, their lifespan can reach over 120 years.


    It can also slightly increase the speed of cultivating psychic powers.


    This stuff is usually eaten by the wealthy, and it was perfect timing to use the massive amount of Energy Stones obtained from Garcia and Gonzalez to cultivate psychic fields, whether for sale or personal use.


    "Once the family makes more money, it would be great if Gratitude Village was all psychic fields."


    Clearly, thirty acres of psychic fields were not enough for Ethan''s appetite.


    Then Ethan continued to watch the event bar.


    [Gratitude Village''s villager Steven, advanced to the first level of Foundational Energy!]


    [Villager Tate, advanced to the first level of Foundational Energy, your descendant Olivia rewarded him with the ''Body Forging Technique''.]


    [Villager...]


    Meanwhile, in a courtyard in Gratitude Village, Olivia was sitting under a peach tree, with villagers of Gratitude Village lining up in front of her.


    "Miss Fourth, this is this year''s tax silver."


    "Is it from Gonzalez? Last year your family''s Steven was sacrificed in Forest Town, so you don''t need to pay tax silver. Here, your family has two children, go and get a copy of the ''Body Forging Technique''."


    "Thank you, Miss Fourth."


    "Next."


    "Miss Fourth, I''m applying to join the guard squad, I''ve become Iron Will."


    "Application denied, your Liu family only has you left. Here''s what, you go be a coach first, teach the village kids to cultivate psychic powers, with medicinal soup as your salary, which can speed up your cultivating psychic powers. Once you have children, then apply again."


    "Thank you, Miss Fourth."


    "Next..."


    After becoming an Emerging Ability, Nathan had clearly become a strategic master and hardly showed himself, leaving many matters to Olivia.


    But this was normal for the family, as masters always need to stay hidden.


    They often spent their time cultivating psychic powers, while also keeping a trump card for the family.


    However, entrusting the family to Olivia was clearly the right choice.


    Under Olivia''s arrangements, both Gratitude Village and Blackwood could develop so peacefully and steadily, with everything well-planned.


    ...


    [Blackwood 35 Years.]


    [A Daoist from Sky Sect in Tranquil City passed through Gratitude Village and happened to see Marcus, who was training in combat with a beast. Impressed by Marcus, who at 14 was already at the peak of Foundational Energy level five and had mastered marksmanship, he wanted to take him as a disciple.]


    "Sky Sect, huh?"


    Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    In the game world, Forest Town is like a beginner''s village, while Tranquil City is a county town, governing thirteen towns beneath it.


    This world isn''t just about families; there are also sects.

 Chapter 52 - 52: Sect or Family

    Generally speaking, sect powers are stronger than family powers, and they control more resources. Ethan heard that the mayor of Forest Town, even the lord of Tranquil City, all obey the commands of the large sect powers.


    These sect powers are firmly behind the scenes, dominating the entire world, even the imperial court.


    "Forebearer, your unworthy descendant plans to join Sky Sect. At Sky Sect, I will learn more powerful techniques, and once I have achieved something, I will return to serve the family!"


    Marcus rushed to the ancestral hall.


    But as soon as he stepped in.


    Amelia followed right behind, "Hmph! What''s so good about joining a sect? Doesn''t Blackwood have resources, don''t we have techniques? Have you mastered all the techniques and martial arts from Gonzalez and Garcia?"


    "Auntie..."


    Marcus hung his head; in the family, in Gratitude Village, he always felt like people were calling him a traitor to Blackwood, always reminded of his mother''s betrayal of the family.


    Amelia continued, "You don''t know the methods of those sects. Once you join, they''ll tell you that to cultivate psychic powers, you must first sever worldly ties! They''ll use all sorts of methods to make you forget your past identity. You''re young, you might think you won''t believe their nonsense, but what about when you''re actually at Sky Sect?"


    "Ten years, twenty years? Will you still remember that you are a Blackwood?"


    Seeing the stubborn look in Marcus''s eyes, Amelia narrowed her eyes.


    She knelt in front of the ancestral hall, "Forebearer, let me break this unfilial descendant''s legs, then we''ll see how he goes to Sky Sect!"


    Watching the argument on the game screen.


    Ethan fell into thought; what Amelia said was the reality after joining a sect.


    But Ethan also understood Marcus''s current situation. This third-generation descendant had witnessed his mother being expelled from the family, likely harboring some demons. Otherwise, with his talent and the resources provided by Blackwood, he would probably be more than just at the peak of level five.


    The kid was already 14; maybe seeing the outside world would be better. Although the map hadn''t developed the location of Sky Sect, Ethan had heard that within the sect, there were even Nascent Soul elders!


    Going to Sky Sect, Marcus might become stronger than all of Blackwood, and besides, descendants have their own pursuits.


    As a Forebearer, he had no reason to stop him.


    "Go ahead."


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python and typed in some text. In a flash, the Purple Thunder Solar Python opened its eyes and hissed.


    With Ethan''s approval, Amelia didn''t stop him, only scolding Marcus, "You spineless thing, you''ll regret this," before letting it be. Despite the harsh words, the folks from Blackwood still saw Marcus off, with Amelia even giving him a Storage Ring filled with medicines for protection.


    Soon after Marcus left, a cry rang out, "Ahh!!!"


    [Mary gave birth to a son after being pregnant for ten months, and named him Thomas!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute+10!]


    "Damn, this kid looks huge right out of the gate!"


    The newborn cried out as he entered the world!


    At this moment, the people of Blackwood gathered again in the courtyard, with Julian spinning around holding the child!


    Ethan rubbed his hands together. This guy, after getting married, was seriously into it¡ªhis wife got pregnant in just a couple of months.


    Speaking of Mary, this formidable woman was no simple character. After becoming a member of Blackwood, Ethan got her personal information. Mary was only 20 years old this year, yet she had already reached Level 8 Foundational Energy, with a talent of dual Psychic Constitution!


    Their son Thomas also had good potential, almost on par with Marcus, especially considering his size at birth¡ªhe was definitely a mini-Julian!


    Soon, a feast was set up in the scene.


    After the wedding, the people of Forest Town came to Blackwood again to join the feast.


    Mark, the head of the Rodriguez family, seeing the astonishing changes in Blackwood, was even more certain that his initial choice was correct. This time, he brought a piece of jade.


    "Nephew, this jade can nourish children. Keeping it close will ward off all diseases. It''s engraved with the history of our two families, from when we first met, to fighting side by side, to now being as close as brothers!"


    Seeing this, the faces of the Martinez family darkened.


    Jerry gritted his teeth, "Sucking up already? Engraving the jade with the friendship of the two families, they''re grooming this kid to have a good impression of the Rodriguez family from a young age, that old fox!"


    ...


    In the real world, on the ocean surface.


    Two days had passed since the excavation of the underwater ruins began.


    The vastness of the ruins below was astonishing!


    At the same time, various products from unknown eras were gradually being cleaned up by the staff.


    In the history research lab.


    A woman wearing glasses and a white science coat was looking at a piece of jade, her face filled with indescribable joy.


    "This piece of jade was probably a special psychic equipment piece, but due to the passage of time, its psychic powers have long since faded. However, the text engraved on it is very well preserved!"


    "The Great Battle of Forest... The Rodriguez family gave their all to help Blackwood win a great victory... Grandson Thomas has the potential of a great emperor..."


    Orion burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha, as long as I record everything about this family, my discovery will shock the world!"


    Before Ethan realized it, he had been gaming for several days, especially during the takeover of Forest Town, which took up a good chunk of his day.


    Now, he was munching on lunch while scrolling through the news on his phone.


    "Another archaeological site discovered, huh?" S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan looked at the top news story with interest. Discoveries like this were no longer rare; with humanity''s exploration of Earth and outer space, it was already known that human civilization had many epochs.


    As for other news, Ethan wasn''t too interested.


    With human development, there had been both cooperation and conflicts with alien civilizations. He heard that the neighboring magical civilization had relocated from Earth after their psychic powers were depleted, and now, Earth''s top experts were expanding light-years away. Now, they''ve come back making noise.


    And Blackwood Pharmaceuticals... he was currently the only descendant of Earth''s Blackwood.

 Chapter 53 - 53: Anthony and Linda

    "Commander, your teacher called," Lisa''s voice interrupted Ethan''s thoughts.


    Ethan then remembered the call from the school.


    He had been busy with battles and had temporarily blocked his teacher.


    "If you don''t go back to school, your teacher is going to be worried," Lisa said with a smile.


    "The California Hundred Schools Alliance competition is just a week away, and the school''s strongest Transcendent Seed stage expert has already been defeated outside the competition. I heard the opponent is a dark horse from the Second Academy, with a Mutant Thunder Psychic Constitution, truly a favored child of heaven."


    "So what if he lost?"


    Ethan shrugged indifferently. "Besides, what good does it do me to help them win the competition? There''s nothing the school can offer that I care about, let him have his fun."


    Noticing Lisa''s hesitant expression, Ethan chuckled, "Don''t worry about the Energy Stone, Alan owes the family a debt, he''ll send it over. Alright, I''m off to play my game."


    Lisa finally breathed a sigh of relief, watching Ethan''s retreating back, she murmured softly.


    "As long as the Commander doesn''t starve, it''s all good."


    ...


    [Blackwood, Year 37.]


    [Mary carried for ten months and gave birth to twins, named Anthony and Linda!]


    [Earned Spiritual Tribute +20!]


    "Forebearer, my daughter-in-law has given birth again, hahaha, to twins!"


    No sooner had he sat down, Ethan''s eyes were wide with excitement.


    In the shrine hall, young Julian was holding one baby in each arm, both of considerable size.


    "May the Forebearer bless us, Nathan''s family is flourishing, this life is truly blessed. Forebearer, just look at these kids, aren''t they sturdy? They''ll surely be great hunters one day."


    "Head of the family, look at what you''re saying, our family has prospered, no need for hunting anymore."


    "Hunting, we must go hunting! My Blackwood offspring can''t lose my craftsmanship!"


    Above each family member''s head floated tiny words.


    Ethan could see the joy in his family, and he shared in their happiness.


    Unknowingly, what was once just Nathan''s family had now grown into a large clan!


    He also sent out a collective ''Forebearer''s Love'' to the members.


    Amidst the joy,


    Ethan looked at the increasingly prosperous Gratitude Village.


    "First, let''s check the dinner time, see what Blackwood has become."


    He quickly scrolled through the member list.


    Lucas was still in seclusion, seeking a breakthrough in the Emerging Ability phase. Ethan even hoped Lucas''s seclusion would last a bit longer, as the longer the Emerging Ability phase, the better the transformation might be.


    Of course, there were also some naturally gifted individuals who achieved Emerging Ability instantly, and their transformations were impressive, but those were rare cases.


    Amelia and Julian had both reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy, but they planned to teach the disciples they had gathered over the years before going into seclusion again.


    Meanwhile,


    In this member list, Ethan also noticed some new additions, their personal information now included a position!


    [Your family, under Olivia''s planning over the years, has developed a unique family power.]


    Nathan, family head.


    Luna, head of the Psychic Beast Institute, with 30 caretakers.


    Lucas, head of the Black Blood Hall, with 150 family guards.


    Amelia, head of the Psychic Medicine Garden, with 15 apprentices.


    Julian, head of the Forge, with 20 apprentices.


    Olivia, head of Internal Affairs, with 3 deputies, maids... coachmen... drivers...


    "Things are getting more organized."


    In the real world, these family members, some small traders, had no specific positions. When a family has a specific plan, it also means that the family has moved up a level.


    Pleased that Blackwood was on the right track,


    He then saw Olivia in the shrine hall, reporting on the family''s progress.


    "Forebearer, in the year you did not show your psychic abilities, Olivia has taken full control of Forest Town under your trust!"


    Ethan tapped his head.


    Time accelerated to the fastest, one hour in reality is one year in the game world, his descendants had gotten used to his occasional disappearances and displays of psychic abilities.


    "They must think I''m quite mysterious, huh?"


    Ethan thought mischievously.


    Then he patiently listened to Olivia''s report.


    It turned out that after that time, Ethan had a long talk with Olivia, who had shown great wisdom, and Nathan had essentially handed over the management of family affairs to her.


    In the years that followed, after taking over the heritage of the two major families in Forest Town, Olivia began to plan in the town.


    Blackwood did not take over the dozen or so mines in Forest Town.


    Ethan''s plan was to settle in Gratitude Village quietly, developing through Forest Town, mainly staying behind the scenes. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    These mines were entirely managed by the Martinez and Rodriguez families, who developed them, while Blackwood received 50% of the output.


    And with the families of Forest Town, Blackwood had also become secret allies, supporting each other.


    But in reality,


    Both the Rodriguez and Martinez families knew that Blackwood was the true ruler of Forest Town.


    Now, Blackwood was able to earn between 20,000 to 50,000 primary Energy Stones each year, enough for internal consumption.


    "Forebearer, we have also recruited a rune master and an alchemist."


    Olivia said this without a smile, instead frowning, "Both are ninth grade, but seeing our family''s recent rise, they demanded a high price, which the children agreed to. I planned to arrange for apprentices to learn under them, but these two old foxes didn''t teach our apprentices any skills!"


    "The children are prepared to capture them, and if they do not train alchemists and rune masters for us, we will have them killed!"


    "..."


    Watching the text above Olivia''s head, Ethan held his forehead in exasperation.


    "If we really go down this route, what will become of Blackwood? If word gets out, we can forget about attracting any new members."


    Eventually, he let the Purple Thunder Sun Python speak on his behalf.


    "Forebearer has finally responded to his child!"


    As the Purple Thunder Sun Python, which had healed from its injuries over the years, opened its eyes and hissed, Olivia joyfully said, "Forebearer is indeed far-sighted. I''ll go find the disciples they brought. Not all of them can be old foxes; surely some will be tempted to pledge their loyalty to us!"


    Ethan nodded slightly.


    Nowadays in Blackwood, as long as one doesn''t lack a Psychic Constitution, and with the help of beast blood fruits and medicines concocted by Amelia, one could cultivate an Iron Will master in just three to five years.

 Chapter 54 - 54: Death Coffin Part 1

    In terms of weaponry, the forge owns seven ''Blood Altars'' crafted by Julian, meeting the ''Enchantment'' conditions in forty-nine days.


    After a few days of hammering, a set of beginner psychic ability equipment can be forged.


    This already meets the equipment needs.


    But for further progress, an alchemist is essential.


    Especially for those in the Emerging Ability phase, who, while absorbing psychic abilities from the environment, also need to compress these abilities.


    Nathan has been in the Emerging Ability phase for several years now, with slow progress. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Currently, Blackwood buys pills every year to help Nathan compress his psychic abilities, and those pills are expensive.


    In the future, as more people enter the Emerging Ability phase, having someone capable of concocting these pills becomes crucial.


    Besides,


    Ethan also understands that if Blackwood is to advance further, there are many other issues to handle.


    Especially with Luna.


    When she came to worship at the Forebearer''s temple, Ethan also asked her how to advance, since Luna is one of the most powerful in Blackwood.


    The answer he got was that as a Beast Master, Luna''s path to increasing her strength is different from ordinary people.


    Besides a large amount of psychic abilities, she also needs to evolve her bloodline.


    [Nathan''s wife learned from the Celestial Fox''s bloodline the conditions for its evolution.]


    [Condition one: Demon King Blood Pill]


    [Condition two: Ten Thousand Foxes Worship]


    [Condition three...]


    The various conditions left Ethan dizzy.


    The Demon King Blood Pill is naturally equivalent to the essence of power from a D-level Demon King.


    As for the Ten Thousand Foxes Worship...


    Ethan had no idea what that entailed.


    The same breakthrough applies to the Purple Thunder Sun Python, the guardian beast of the temple.


    This guy also needs a Demon King Blood Pill, as well as to be forged by both heavenly thunder and earthly fire.


    "Ah, what a headache, developing a clan is so difficult."


    Ethan scratched his head.


    But for now, he had no better plan, only to slowly look for any good opportunities.


    While watching over the clan''s development, he pondered how to advance further.


    [Your descendant Amelia, while planting new beast blood fruit trees and breaking open ancient boulders in the psychic medicine garden, discovered an ancient coffin...]


    ...


    "Whoa, why is there a coffin here?"


    "I don''t know, this spot... I was here about thirty years ago, it was just a cave then, and I found some junk."


    "What should we do? Should we open the coffin?"


    As soon as the coffin appeared, Amelia had already gathered all the family members.


    Everyone stared at the coffin, clueless.


    Ethan was also watching everything unfold.


    Unlike everyone else''s confusion, he was more solemn!


    He couldn''t help but stroke the Storage Ring on his index finger, which held the mysterious spear Nathan had retrieved!


    And this spear, which required a million Spiritual Tributes to unlock, was the treasure among the junk Nathan had originally found.


    Only Ethan and Grandma Quinn, who unlocked the spear, knew the value of this spear, and it had even caused a direct fallout between Grandma Quinn and Ethan!


    "This is the old site of Mystic Boar Forest, maybe the commander of the coffin is the same as the commander of the mysterious spear!"


    Initially, Ethan thought it was odd that such a treasure would appear in such a place.


    Now, with the appearance of this coffin, all of Ethan''s doubts were resolved.


    In no time.


    Nathan had already opened the coffin.


    Ethan, who was intently looking to see what was inside the copper coffin, was stunned¡ªit was completely empty!


    "What''s going on?"


    Ethan frowned, puzzled.


    In the crowd, Olivia wheeled herself forward, "Father, there are inscriptions on the coffin!"


    As everyone deciphered them.


    A prompt also appeared on Ethan''s screen!


    [Your clansmen have opened the copper coffin and discovered the epitaph of the tomb owner¡ª]


    [In the eighth year of Celestial Warrior Epoch, in the realm of the Azure Dragon, the gods keep no records.]


    [...During the great battle of the twin emperors, the mountains and rivers shattered, and I was unfortunately severely injured by the aftermath. Even a Supreme being is but an ant. Thus, I returned to my homeland, but alas, as I faced death, the world had changed, and I was left alone.]


    [This coffin contains all my life''s achievements, forming its own universe. Those destined may take them.]


    "It''s been almost forty years, and the opportunity has always been right here at Blackwood."


    Ethan''s eyes widened, wishing he could slap himself. When he first discovered the spear was extraordinary, why didn''t he think of this?


    This was a treasure from the Supreme era!


    Even in the real world, this was something incredible!


    Meanwhile, the people of Blackwood were staring at the inscriptions on the coffin, baffled.


    "We can''t understand it at all, it''s ancient text."


    "The structure inside the coffin is similar to a Storage Ring, this coffin might just form its own universe!"


    "What kind of craftsmanship is this?"


    Seeing that his clansmen couldn''t understand, Ethan immediately realized that it seemed only the game interface could translate it.


    He then instructed the Purple Thunder Celestial Python resting in the ancestral hall to come over.


    "Yikes!" With the appearance of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, the folks at Blackwood were momentarily stunned, but they''ve been around long enough to know that Forebearer is always watching over them, and it seemed Forebearer had also spotted the coffin.


    Quickly, Ethan entered everything he knew from the game interface on the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s profile.


    Nathan bowed repeatedly, "Truly Forebearer, even ancient texts are like the back of your hand!"


    Olivia, clearly more knowledgeable, exclaimed, "Celestial Warrior Epoch Year Eight, Azure Dragon Fairy Realm... Forebearer, I''ve read about it in the classics! Celestial Warrior Epoch Year Eight, from the current era, it''s been ten thousand years.


    The former Azure Dragon Fairy Realm, now in the land of the Southern Barbarians, was rumored to have been destroyed overnight, and no one knows what happened!"


    "This is the Supreme period! The legacy of the world''s top masters, we at Blackwood are really going to strike it rich!" Nathan cried with joy.


    Immediately, the Blackwood folks hurriedly looked for the real way to enter the coffin, and then they discovered that to enter the space of the coffin, one simply had to lie in the coffin and close it.


    Nathan lay down inside.


    [Your descendant Nathan is entering the treasure tool¡ªDeath Coffin!]

 Chapter 55 - 55: Death Coffin Part 2

    "Treasure tool!" Ethan''s eyes lit up. The world''s weapons and equipment are divided into Psychic Equipment, Psychic Devices, Advanced Psychic Equipment, and Psychic Treasure Tools.


    Psychic Treasure Tools are already the most powerful existence in this world, and this particular Psychic Treasure Tool is obviously a special type, forming its own space, no different from a Psychic Sanctuary.


    When Ethan unlocked the mysterious spear, he was already ecstatic to find it was a top-notch advanced psychic equipment.


    He hadn''t expected that the real treasure was the coffin!


    Ethan quickly suppressed his excitement.


    He clicked on Nathan''s profile, following Nathan''s perspective, and entered the scene inside the Death Coffin.


    "Hmm?" Just as he entered the space of the coffin, Ethan frowned.


    In the game screen, he saw a desolate and silent space, covered in fog.


    Looking at the game interface map¡ª


    [Direct Death Space Level One]


    [Introduction: The first layer of relics left by the Supreme Peak Psychic Shen Wuliu, gain recognition of the first layer to enter the second layer!]


    Soon after.


    On the map, he saw several red dots, converging on a bewildered Nathan standing in place.


    It wasn''t long before Ethan could clearly see what those things were.


    Corpses!


    Their eyes were blood-red, and their bodies emitted a bloodthirsty desire, seemingly sensing that Nathan was the only living person on the first layer, they crazily pounced on Nathan, wanting to devour his flesh!


    "Hmph!" As the head of the Blackwood family, how could Nathan be frightened by these dry corpses?


    He snorted coldly, psychic equipment dual spears appeared in his hands, "Dead bodies should just lie nicely in the ground!"


    In an instant, Nathan was fighting with the zombies.


    These zombies were endless, and Ethan could clearly see on the map that those red dots kept appearing continuously.


    "What in the world is this Death Coffin?" Seeing Nathan enter the Death Coffin, the imagined treasures did not appear, but instead endless zombies, Ethan frowned.


    However, it was also Ethan''s first time encountering a treasure tool of this level.


    And it seemed the Death Coffin might recognize its master, and had not acknowledged the identity of the Blackwood people''s Commander, maybe there was something special about it.


    "Maybe you need to clear the levels of the Death Coffin to truly gain its recognition as the master?"


    With a puzzled heart, seeing that Nathan was not in any danger.


    It seemed Nathan could also exit the Death Coffin on his own, Ethan then exited Nathan''s perspective, to see if there was anything unusual about the Death Coffin.


    Sure enough.


    As soon as the game screen appeared in the Psychic Herb Garden, Ethan saw all the Blackwood folks covering their mouths in surprise.


    "So much psychic power!"


    "Did father gain any benefits from entering the ''Death Coffin''?"


    "May the Forebearer bless my Blackwood!" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly.


    The psychic powers between heaven and earth were all converging towards the ''Death Coffin''!


    Ethan quickly realized, "The first layer''s zombies aren''t really there; they''re formed by the ''Death Coffin'' absorbing the psychic powers of the universe."


    However, the other uses of the ''Death Coffin'' couldn''t be seen in such a short time.


    Ethan then sped up the passage of time.


    It seemed like two days had passed in the game screen.


    Nathan was still in the coffin, fighting the zombies of the first layer of the ''Death Coffin''!


    Strangely.


    After two days, Nathan''s psychic powers hadn''t diminished at all!


    Even when Nathan got slightly injured, he recovered in no time.


    Looking at Nathan''s personal information:


    [Swordsmanship: 82%]


    [Gale Step: 62%]


    [Dragon Spear Technique: 16%]


    [Lightning Summoning: 12%]


    [Palm Fire: 6%]


    [...]


    "This..."


    Ethan''s eyes widened. He had checked Nathan''s personal information before he entered, and now, all of Nathan''s skills had improved!


    "Does this mean the ''Death Coffin'' provides unlimited psychic powers, continuously heals injuries, and allows Psychics to keep fighting, using it to cultivate psychic powers and martial skills?!!"


    Ethan couldn''t help but be amazed.


    For Psychics, combat experience is crucial. Often, their skills and martial arts progress during battle.


    A Psychic in the early stages of Emerging Ability, if they master a certain martial skill to 100% perfection, might even challenge higher levels.


    The life-and-death cultivation of psychic powers might even lead to breakthroughs through enlightenment.


    "Is this the power of a top-tier psychic treasure?"


    Even Ethan was tempted to use this artifact.


    But Ethan also knew.


    It''s best to leave this psychic treasure for Blackwood to use, to enhance their combat experience.


    And...


    Ethan glanced at the Blackwood folks'' skills and martial arts.


    He casually clicked on one of Nathan''s skills, Gale Step!


    [Would you like to learn the skill, Gale Step?]


    [Consume 500 points of Spiritual Tribute to gain all the insights Nathan has learned.]


    He doesn''t even need the ''Death Coffin''!


    This game not only allows him to take treasures out of it, but he can also learn the skills autonomously without consuming Spiritual Tribute points.


    He could even use Spiritual Tribute to gain all the insights of his descendants!


    And the skills and martial arts are divided into ordinary and five levels.


    Ethan is no longer interested in ordinary and yellow-level skills and martial arts.


    "How nice, let the Blackwood folks slowly cultivate psychic powers through the ''Death Coffin''. With this treasure, Blackwood''s development is bound to be rapid."


    While pondering.


    The game screen again provided a prompt that made Ethan''s mouth drop open.


    [Your descendant Nathan, in the first layer of the ''Death Coffin'', continued to fight all the way to the end of the first layer.]


    [The ''Death Coffin'' recognized Nathan as the master of the first layer!]


    [Yellow-level skill imparted¡ªCoffin Corpse Driving Technique]


    [Congratulations, your descendant Nathan has obtained the profession¡ª]


    [Coffin Corpse Driver!]


    The bronze coffin opened.


    Nathan, who walked out of the coffin with black light flashing in his eyes, knelt towards Ethan''s cards under the joyful expressions of the Blackwood folks.


    "Forebearer bless, my child has discovered the secret of the ''Death Coffin'', my Blackwood is going to thrive!"


    When Nathan emerged from the Coffin of Dire Death,


    this seemingly ordinary coffin transformed into a dazzling silver, adorned with mysterious patterns.


    Without Nathan saying much, Ethan could see the information about the Coffin of Dire Death!


    [Coffin of Dire Death]


    [Tier: Supreme Psychic Relic]


    [Unsealed, First Layer!]


    [The first layer''s owner can open the coffin, battling endlessly with the Iron Will zombies inside. The challenger is immortal, with infinite psychic powers.]


    [Coffin Master can use the Coffin Driving Technique to place dead bodies inside the coffin, refining zombies!]

 Chapter 56 - 56: Swordsman

    "Holy smokes!"


    This was just the first layer, yet its powerful features still shocked Ethan.


    It can be said that after acquiring this opportunity, his family began to soar!


    "If I need to, I can take out the coffin for use."


    One day in the real world, one year in the game world, he could send it back to Blackwood the same day he took it out!


    "Phew."


    Ethan could even feel his heartbeat at this moment, this was a supreme psychic relic, after all, which could cause a bloodbath in the real world in an instant!


    "Calm down, calm down."


    Suppressing the excitement in his heart, Ethan calmed down.


    Watching Nathan re-enter the Coffin of Dire Death, but this time to challenge the second layer.


    Again, a space without light or sun.


    But this time.


    Nathan faced countless jumping zombies!


    These creatures, stronger than the previous zombies, could even emit black psychic powers, jumping several meters high, each possessing the strength of the Emerging Ability phase.


    He had just entered when he was overwhelmed by these jumping zombies, dying several times in just one minute, forcing him to exit the Coffin of Dire Death. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Too terrifying, even a Transcendent Seed phase might not be able to open the second layer''s permissions!"


    Exiting the coffin.


    Nathan was still shaken.


    ...


    After acquiring the Coffin of Dire Death, the people of Blackwood liked to lie in the coffin and play for days, continuously accumulating combat experience.


    [Blackwood Year 39.]


    [Your family has established the ''Forebearer Psychic Array'' at the family residence!]


    "Is this the power of the Forebearer Psychic Array?"


    "Thanks to the Forebearer''s blessing, with the Forebearer Psychic Array, our family has another trump card against enemies!"


    "Even if a Transcendent Seed master invades our home, as long as we gather the power of the whole clan, we can strike and kill in one blow!"


    In the Blackwood ancestral hall, all the clan members gathered together.


    The ground was glowing, mysterious ancient texts appeared on the floor, forming a diagram of the Nine Palaces and Eight Trigrams.


    At the same time.


    All the clan members'' psychic powers emerged, converging towards Nathan, who was raising his right hand high, forming a sword as dazzling as the sun!


    This sword, gathered the power of all Blackwood clan members.


    "Finally completed."


    Ethan was also delighted with the completion of the Forebearer Psychic Array, and this was just Nathan gathering the clan''s power.


    As long as the psychic array gradually covers the entire Gratitude Village.


    All the people of Gratitude Village can gather their power on the sword, undoubtedly the strongest protective measure for the clan.


    But the surprises of this year were not yet over.


    [Mary carried her child for ten months and gave birth to a boy named Kevin.]


    [Received Spiritual Tribute +10]


    The folks at Blackwood were already kneeling in the shrine, with Julian bowing his head repeatedly while holding the chubby little Kevin.


    "May the Forebearer bless us, I''ve had four kids already, hahaha, and I''m not stopping!"


    Mary rolled her eyes at her husband, "Did you give birth? Or was it my big behind that did the work?"


    "Hahaha!"


    In no time, the Forebearer''s shrine was filled with laughter and joy.


    Ethan couldn''t help but laugh too.


    Speaking of which, Mary, this daughter-in-law of Blackwood, was way better than the previous one, Karen.


    This girl''s personality and physique were both formidable; she was straightforward and blunt, which the folks from Blackwood, being from the wilds themselves, greatly appreciated. Plus, Mary was incredibly hardworking; she started helping out with family chores right after getting married.


    They say women are weak, but Mary was different. When she heard that people from Gratitude Village were robbed by horse bandits while she was still showing her pregnancy, she picked up a double-bladed axe and went to settle the score, capturing a bandit stronghold and handing them over to the authorities in Forest Town.


    Fast forward in time.


    Ethan was already preparing for the grand decennial festival.


    Yet this year, Blackwood continued to bring him new surprises.


    [Your descendant Amelia has successfully concocted the ''Black Jade Continuation Ointment''!]


    "Forebearer, Amelia has finally done it!"


    An ointment that can regenerate limbs!


    This stuff was pitch black, stored in a specially made little gourd.


    "Genius!"


    Ethan sincerely admired, then sent Amelia a ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    Maybe Amelia''s talent for cultivating psychic powers was poor.


    But when it came to understanding medicine, she was a genius among geniuses. Real-life pharmacists were rare, but they existed and had their own prescriptions. However, concocting medicine wasn''t easy even with a prescription.


    It required using one''s own psychic abilities to purify and refine the medicine, a complex process.


    "Thanks for the Forebearer''s gift, Amelia is going into seclusion now, waiting to reach the Emerging Ability stage to try concocting a grade-eight potion!"


    After saying this.


    Amelia in the shrine headed to the training room to seclude herself.


    Following Amelia''s seclusion, Julian also came to the Forebearer''s shrine.


    "Great ancestor, your child is also going into seclusion. Once I have my psychic fire, I''ll try to concoct my arm!"


    Julian showed his teeth in a grin.


    This kid had always wanted to forge a War AI Bionic Robot, but he never quite got the hang of it, especially the biotech involved in War AI Bionic Robots, which was beyond Julian''s understanding. But after his arm was severed and he used a prosthetic, he started thinking differently.


    "So you''re taking the path of mechanical abilities, huh..."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow, but he knew he was just joking. Transforming oneself into a machine, the most crucial part was still the chips and such. However, Julian always had some ideas that were quite surprising.


    Like Julian''s forged equipment... the attributes were very random...


    The same forging technique, two sets of Black Iron Beast Blood Armor, could have two different attributes.


    These siblings had just entered seclusion. Suddenly, at the Blackwood residence, a surge of psychic power shot up into the sky, revealing its force.


    [Your descendant Lucas has successfully broken through the Emerging Ability phase and emerged from seclusion!]


    [After years of seclusion, his Psychic Constitution has transformed, shedding the weakest Earth and Fire Psychic Constitutions.]


    [His basic swordsmanship has reached a divine level. With years of insight, he has integrated the ''Sword Glow'' technique into his swordsmanship, creating the peak ordinary sword technique ''Hundred Shadows Sword Glow''!]


    [Achieved the profession¡ªSwordsman!]

 Chapter 57 - 57: Break the restriction?

    "Damn!" Ethan slammed the table, finally understanding why Lucas had been in seclusion for so many years.


    Turns out the kid was holding back a big move! Coming up with his own sword technique was like founding a whole new school. Although the sword technique he realized was just peak ordinary, when used by Lucas himself, it could likely reach the level of a Yellow-tier technique!


    Looking at Lucas''s Psychic Constitution, his strongest Wood Psychic Constitution had even jumped to 83 points.


    "With the sword as my heart, Forebearer, I have realized it. My son Lucas will henceforth be the sword of Blackwood!"


    Lucas stood upright, standing tall.


    Ethan also felt proud for this eldest son of Blackwood. This kid was never the most talented member of Blackwood.


    However, due to his age, Lucas had experienced more than anyone else and was more diligent than anyone, which is why he always managed to stay at the forefront despite having a five-element Psychic Constitution.


    Even now, 9-year-old Daniel, although very afraid of Lucas, took him as a role model and practiced day and night.


    As for Marcus...


    "What''s that kid up to?"


    Ethan suddenly remembered Marcus, who had gone to Sky Sect to cultivate psychic powers, and couldn''t help but click on Marcus''s avatar.


    Time flies, the once stubborn child had grown up, truly a handsome young man.


    But at this moment...


    He was sitting alone in a cave, meditating. Was there a stele at the cave entrance, a Cliff of Reflection?


    "Huh???"


    Ethan scratched his head. Wasn''t this kid favored by a Taoist master from Sky Sect?


    And now he''s gone to face the wall in reflection?


    He thought maybe Marcus had gone to the wrong place, but at a glance, the map was indeed Sky Sect. This sect was not small, occupying an entire towering mountain, a place of jade towers and fairyland on earth.


    [Marcus (third-generation member)]


    [Realm: Foundational Energy, peak of the sixth layer]


    [Techniques and martial skills: Heaven''s Secret Manual (prohibitions), Basic Swordsmanship,Body Refining Technique, Swift Steps...]


    [Trait: Humiliated Self-Proof]


    Years had passed, and Marcus, who had hoped to advance his studies in Sky Sect, had only moved up a minor realm.


    Confused.


    Ethan opened Marcus''s character history events.


    [Blackwood Year 35, joined Sky Sect.]


    [The same year in September, during a battle between Sky Sect and Black Shell Sect, his master was tragically killed.] S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Blackwood Year 36, relegated to an outer sect disciple.]


    [Blackwood Year 37, disregarded his own life to retrieve his master''s corpse, killed a disciple of Black Shell Sect, nearly reigniting a major war between the two sects, and was punished to face the Cliff of Reflection for five years.]


    "..."


    Ethan suddenly regretted letting Marcus join the Sky Sect; he might as well have stayed in Blackwood cultivating psychic powers!


    Now, with Marcus part of the Sky Sect, there wasn''t much he could do, especially since the Sky Sect had a competent elder at the helm!


    "Ah well, everyone chooses their own path, and fate differs for each," Ethan mused. "Marcus, you''re on your own now, buddy."


    Ethan shook his head but still sent a wave of ''Forebearer''s Love'' Marcus''s way.


    Feeling the warmth in his body, Marcus, facing the wall at the Cliff of Reflection, recognized the sensation all too well, and his eyes quickly reddened.


    "Forebearer, are you watching over me from the heavens?"


    "I have no regrets, I''ve never forgotten that I''m part of Blackwood."


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, I will make a name for myself in the Sky Sect and won''t let dad down!"


    Ethan could only sigh and shake his head again.


    But soon, his attention was caught by the techniques and martial skills Marcus was developing.


    "Sky Sect''s secret texts? Are they restricted? I wonder if I could..."


    [Sky Codex]


    [It records twelve techniques and martial arts of the Inner Gate of the Sky Sect, including ''Blood Explosion Technique'', ''Azure Wind Method'', and ''Thunder Drawing Heavenly Scripture''...]


    As Ethan gazed at the various techniques and martial arts in the Sky Sect Codex, his eyes widened.


    Even in the real world, the value of these techniques and martial arts remains high, and for many powers, martial arts are closely guarded secrets.


    Even the original Blackwood.


    Family members had to spend contributions to learn within the family, and Ethan learned what he knew from school.


    But in the game world''s Blackwood.


    What they learned was basically common stuff, though they did get three or four mid-tier techniques from Garcia and Gonzalez, but their power was just mediocre.


    However, in the Sky Sect Codex.


    The power of these techniques and martial arts was truly formidable!


    Ethan had his eyes on three of them.


    Blood Explosion Technique, a method that stimulates the body''s potential, temporarily boosting one''s level by a small realm.


    Thunder Drawing Heavenly Scripture, which involves drawing lightning to oneself and then using the power of heavenly thunder to attack the enemy.


    "Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps"


    Especially this technique, Ethan was quite envious; it was the only mystic-tier technique in the codex!


    It uses steps as a formation, not only moving like a ghost but also creating illusions, each illusion possessing a fraction of the original body''s strength, and at the highest level of mastery, it might even summon a thousand illusions!


    "Even among mystic-tier techniques, this is a powerful one."


    Ethan suddenly laughed, "Though you''re not doing well, Marcus, you really chose the right path!"


    [You have selected the technique and martial art ''Sky Codex'' of descendant Marcus!]


    [Checking now, technique and martial art restrictions: if the learner verbally explains or teaches it to others, and the explanation of the codex is less than a hundred words, they will suffer the penalty of soul annihilation!]


    [Break the restriction?]


    [Cost of Spiritual Tribute points: 5000!]


    [Current Spiritual Tribute points: 7650]


    Ethan quickly calculated that with the increase in Blackwood descendants, even without special events, he could gain thousands of Spiritual Tribute points, and over the years, he had accumulated so much.


    He took a deep breath.


    He pulled out a black stone that recorded techniques and martial arts from his Storage Ring!


    "Hehehe, all mine now!"

 Chapter 58 - 58: Heavenly Principle Expansion

    [The Blackwood Clan''s Decennial Grand Ceremony Begins!]


    [Your Descendants Offer You a Tribute!]


    Finally, the fortieth year at Blackwood has arrived!


    Apart from Marcus, everyone in Blackwood gathered at the ancestral hall.


    Time flies; Nathan and his wife are nearly sixty but look middle-aged. The second generation has matured over the years.


    The third generation, lined up from tallest to shortest, consists of five members. Their youthful vigor and naivety are evident, but they all gaze with reverence at the Forebearer''s memorial Cards, knowing from childhood that the Forebearer, with supernatural powers, has watched over and protected all of Blackwood.


    "Twenty years have flown by since I came here alone and took root!"


    Nathan''s eyes were red with emotion.


    "It was the Forebearer who provided me the means to establish myself and gave Blackwood its land to thrive."


    "We''ve faced natural disasters and droughts, thieves have invaded our homes, but the Forebearer has repeatedly helped us descendants avoid calamity."


    "In the past, the Gonzalez and Heath families looked down on us, calling us uncultured villagers of Blackwood, but it was the Forebearer who showed us that we, his descendants, are second to none."


    "Now, Blackwood is flourishing."


    "With my descendants, I come to pay respects to you, Forebearer!"


    The people of Blackwood bowed repeatedly.


    Ethan, too, was moved; it had been forty years in the game world, just a few days in the real world.


    But it seemed he had also gradually invested his emotions in Blackwood.


    [Your Descendants Offer You a Tribute!]


    [You Receive 100 Beast Blood Fruits!]


    [You Receive 10 Portions of Black Jade Restorative Ointment.]


    [You Receive 30 Portions of Golden Psychic Powder!]


    [You Receive...]


    [Would you like to retrieve them?]


    Looking at the antique bronze furnace beside him.


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to choose ''Yes''!


    Soon.


    The entire room was filled with Tribute Offerings from Blackwood.


    These were exactly what Ethan wanted; he planned to sell all these items to acquire more Energy Stones. He was even ready to approach Andrew to buy the Demon King''s Blood Elixir to enhance Blackwood''s strength!


    [At this Grand Ceremony, would you like to Divine Gift your descendants?]


    Ethan didn''t hesitate.


    A dark stone appeared in his hand.


    This jade stone contained all he had seen of the "Sky Codex" after he had just unlocked the restrictions on Marcus''s techniques.


    He hadn''t learned the "Sky Codex" from Marcus because learning such a profound technique would have cost him no less than a hundred thousand Spiritual Tribute points. But merely copying it required no Spiritual Tribute points.


    And this was his Divine Gift this time.


    With the "Sky Codex," Blackwood would reach new heights!


    [You Divine Gift the ''Sky Codex'' to Your Descendants!]


    Moments later.


    The Grand Ceremony concluded.


    A jade stone appeared on the altar of the ancestral hall.


    "The Forebearer has Divine Gifted!"


    Nathan saw the jade stone, but instead of joy, there was guilt in his eyes. He quickly said to his children and grandchildren, "Quick, bring over the Direct Death Coffin to offer to the Forebearer!"


    "Please, Forebearer, you must accept it. Otherwise, it''s always you who has been contributing to the family, and we, your unworthy descendants, have nothing worthy of your regard. How can we bear this shame?"


    Ethan scratched his head, touched by his descendants'' devotion but found the "Direct Death Coffin" they offered of no use to him. He wasn''t one to pick fights; the coffin could cultivate psychic powers, sure, but it was less hassle just to copy those abilities directly from his descendants using Spiritual Tribute.


    As for the "Corpse Driving Technique" from the coffin, he could replicate that too. But using such techniques in reality? No way. He wouldn''t dare; the National Crisis Management Bureau would be knocking on his door if he started messing with corpses.


    "Shh..." After typing into the Purple Thunder Solar Python chat, the folks at Blackwood finally got Ethan''s point. Nevertheless, the Direct Death Coffin was placed in the ancestral hall, which Nathan said was the most important spot. From now on, it would stay there.


    The crowd quickly opened the jade stone.


    "Dad, it''s a technique, the Sky Codex!" Lucas exclaimed, eyes wide as he saw the twelve martial arts techniques recorded inside, "Eleven yellow-tier techniques, and one mysterious-tier!"


    "Sky Codex?" Olivia was astonished. "That''s exactly where Marcus went¡ªto the Sky Sect. I''ve checked through connections; Sky Sect has menial disciples, outer disciples, inner disciples, and true disciples. His master is an elder, and Marcus is an inner disciple. They cultivate psychic powers using the Sky Codex! But after their disciples cultivate, they place restrictions under their spirits.


    How did our forebearer get his hands on it?"


    "I get it now!" Amelia''s eyes lit up.


    Luna paused, "Get what?"


    "When Marcus went to the Sky Sect, I wanted to break his legs, but Forebearer stopped me. He was the one who supported Marcus going to the Sky Sect!" Amelia slapped her thigh. "Forebearer had planned it all along. He intentionally sent Marcus to the Sky Sect to get their martial arts techniques. Years ago, he had already set up the plan to acquire the Sky Sect techniques!"


    "Shh¡ª" Everyone gasped in awe.


    Olivia looked up at Ethan''s memorial Cards in admiration, "Worthy of Forebearer."


    "..." Watching his clan getting carried away, Ethan was dumbfounded and finally coughed, "You guys are really laying it on thick. I''m blushing here." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He quickly sped up time, no longer daring to listen to his descendants'' praises. It was all an unexpected windfall that almost made him lose his head.


    [Blackwood, Year 40.]


    It was a peaceful year. Blackwood had basically dominated the entire Forest Town; they had no troubles at all.


    Nathan and Lucas spent most of their time in the coffin, cultivating their martial arts.


    [Your descendants have opened a variety of general stores around Forest Town, named ''Heavenly Principle Hall''.]


    As the family grew, Olivia was no longer satisfied with just the resources of Forest Town.


    The reason for opening stores was simply to expand the family''s business channels. Many families did this, essentially exchanging goods with other towns to develop their clan.


    And each manager of the Heavenly Principle Hall was selected from Gratitude Village for their business acumen and loyalty to Blackwood.

 Chapter 59 - 59: The green color meant allies

    [Blackwood, Year 41, your descendant Julian broke through, entering the early stages of Emerging Ability!]


    [His Psychic Constitution transformed, shedding the Earth Psychic Constitution and retaining only the Metal, Fire, and Wood Psychic Constitutions!]


    Compared to Nathan and Lucas''s transformations, Julian''s was rather ordinary.


    Nathan emerged with a four-foot aura, Lucas with an impressive eight feet, while Julian only had a mere two feet.


    But in Ethan''s view, that wasn''t a big deal.


    Julian was an ability equipment artisan, and every time he crafted ability equipment and gained insight, he would breakthrough.


    That was one of the perks of his profession.


    And just two months after coming out, Mary was expecting again...


    [During Taylor''s 200th birthday celebration in Lantian Town, Olivia was invited by Taylor to join a coalition of seven major families from various towns to campaign against the Silver Iron Forest.]


    "Special event?"


    Ethan furrowed his brows at the mention of this special event.


    He still remembered that a demon king lived in the Silver Iron Forest. The Blackwoods had been developing the area, but the demon king had shown respect only to the Purple Lightning Python, merely warning the Blackwoods away.


    If the demon king decided not to show restraint and attacked the Blackwoods directly... Ethan didn''t even want to think about the disaster that could ensue.


    Thus, over the years, the Blackwoods had never ventured deep into the Silver Iron Forest, only occasionally hunting on its outskirts, and even then, they did so with moderation.


    As Ethan was pondering this.


    Mary had already arrived at the ancestral hall.


    To Ethan''s surprise, Mary, a strong woman who had never cried even during childbirth, now had tears in her eyes and a choked voice.


    "Forebearer, I have no other options but to turn to you."


    "I really don''t want Pete, the Boar Monarch, to be killed..."


    The people of Blackwood gathered in the ancestral hall. Everyone looked at Mary, who for the first time showed a demure daughterly demeanor, with complex expressions.


    "So you mean to say, sister-in-law, that you''ve been an orphan since childhood, abandoned in the Silver Iron Forest, and were raised by the Demon King of the forest until you left at 18 to live among humans?" Lucas said gravely, "No wonder you''re somewhat clueless about many things. Now we understand."


    Julian hugged his wife tenderly, "It''s okay, honey. You didn''t have to keep this a secret; none of us mind where you come from. Even if you popped out of a rock, you''re still my beloved wife."


    "What did you say?" Mary suddenly glared.


    But Julian managed to calm Mary down. She knew well that many people harbored hostility towards mystical beasts. It was only after seeing the peaceful coexistence of mystical beasts and humans in Gratitude Village that she settled down there.


    Yet, she was also afraid that her origins would prevent Blackwood from accepting her. This was actually why she had taken a liking to Julian, the brash and rough man, but had hesitated to accept his courtship.


    "Hahaha, I come from a line of slaves myself," Nathan laughed heartily.


    "My dear daughter-in-law, I''ve spent more time with mystical beasts than with the head of the household," Luna added with a laugh.


    "What are you saying?" Nathan was not pleased this time.


    In an instant, the people of Blackwood burst into laughter, and Mary too broke into a smile.


    Seeing this heartwarming scene in the game, Ethan also felt joyful.


    This was what Mary had come to the Forebearer Hall to say, and Ethan, knowing well that his descendants were not old-fashioned, had gathered everyone together.


    As expected, there was no deviation from what he had in mind.


    After the laughter, Nathan frowned, "So, that means the Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest is practically our in-law. We can''t just ignore this. Olivia, what was the reason behind Taylor from Bluefield Town campaigning against the Demon King?"


    Olivia nodded slightly and explained the situation with the Silver Iron Forest. It turned out that there were three towns near the forest, and the families in these towns were aware of the Demon King''s existence.


    Due to years of severe drought, these towns lacked resources, leading to increased exploitation of the Silver Iron Forest. Gradually, their actions became excessive; they hunted extensively and began to destroy the forest''s environment, eventually angering the Demon King. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Last year, the Demon King killed hundreds of people from Taylor who were mining in the forest.


    Bluefield Taylor took advantage of the 200th birthday of an old ancestor to invite seven major families to campaign against the Silver Iron Forest, and Blackwood was among them.


    "The seven families have agreed to campaign next year," Olivia said gravely, "including our family. Sister-in-law, I hope you understand, I had to agree at the time, or our shop would have no standing in their towns."


    "I understand," Mary was reasonable.


    "Now, the most important thing is how to resolve this matter," Nathan shook his head, "Although our family''s power has grown over the years, even if Forebearer agrees to help, we can''t compete with the six major families. Daughter-in-law, you just focus on preparing for childbirth, and let us figure out a solution."


    "Thank you all," Mary''s eyes welled up with tears. Having married into Blackwood, she now truly felt how good her family was to her.


    "This is getting tricky," Ethan muttered, rubbing his temples as he watched the dialogue unfold in the game at Blackwood.


    First off, there was no way Blackwood could beat the alliance of six families. Moreover, even if Blackwood did side with the Demon King, if word got out, Blackwood would be toast. Those high and mighty major sects would definitely brand Blackwood as traitors aiding the demon race in harming humanity.


    You see, the Demon King was no ordinary beast anymore!


    Beasts already possessed high intelligence, but the Demon King could actually speak human language and rule over territories.


    Immediately, Ethan commanded the Purple Thunder Solar Python to head towards the Silver Iron Forest. When he checked the map again, the Silver Iron Forest had turned green!


    "Does this mean the Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest knows about Mary marrying into Blackwood? So, the Demon King didn''t attack Blackwood before because he was prepared for Mary to enter human society."


    "Blackwood''s Gratitude Village is undoubtedly the best place for Mary to settle down, and the Demon King can keep an eye on her," Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    Soon, the Purple Thunder Solar Python was on the move in the Silver Iron Forest, and Ethan wasn''t worried about its safety¡ªthe green color meant allies!


    Sure enough.

 Chapter 60 - 60: Bluefield Taylor

    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python ventured deeper, Ethan saw many psychic beasts!


    These beasts'' nests were right in the center of the Silver Iron Forest, in a valley, seemingly serving the king inside.


    Upon entering the valley, a huge pig came into view, resembling more a mammoth!


    It was covered in black fur, and only its bloated body and pig nose gave away some semblance of a pig. Its four strong legs made one wonder what kind of immense force would be needed to knock it down. Its face was also covered in black fur, making this massive creature seem like a benevolent old man.


    Only the two sharp, thick tusks protruding from its mouth revealed the Demon King''s edge.


    [Boar Monarch Pete]


    [Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest, also the guardian of the forest''s birds, beasts, flowers, and trees!]


    "Little snake, I know you, the snake from the beast blood fruit tree. Captured by the humans of Blackwood, you brought humans into the Silver Iron Forest to hunt psychic beasts."


    The voice of Blackwood''s in-law was deep and ancient.


    "Sssss~"


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python was clearly terrified of the Boar Monarch Pete, its massive body cowering in extreme fear.


    "Don''t be afraid, you haven''t caused too much slaughter. With my warning, you''ve made the Blackwood outside the forest restrain themselves, and for that, you have my gratitude."


    Hearing the Boar Monarch Pete''s forgiveness, the Purple Thunder Solar Python finally relaxed.


    Ethan watched the exchange between the snake and the pig.


    In truth, he didn''t know what the Purple Thunder Solar Python was saying, but he could guess from the Boar Monarch Pete''s words and was amazed at the Demon King''s wisdom¡ªit was his first time encountering such a being.


    Then, through the conversation between the Purple Thunder Solar Python and the Boar Monarch Pete, Ethan brought up the matter of Mary marrying into Blackwood.


    "I am aware of this," the Boar Monarch Pete''s black fur quivered, and Ethan could swear the creature seemed to smile, "Please thank Blackwood for me. They''ve been very kind to my daughter, and her offspring are healthy. If possible, I hope my daughter can bring her spouse and children to visit me."


    "Sssss~"


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python nodded repeatedly.


    Seeing that the Boar Monarch Pete had a favorable impression of Blackwood, Ethan also dropped his reservations and shared the news that the seven major families were planning to attack the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Hmph! Greedy and selfish humans!" The Boar Monarch Pete roared in anger. "What''s this about an attack? They''ve been pushing the limits of the Silver Iron Forest time and again, challenging my patience. Let them come; the Silver Iron Forest will be ready for anything!"


    Ethan frowned, continuing to communicate through the Purple Thunder Solar Python, expressing Blackwood''s desire to have the mystical beasts of the Silver Iron Forest avoid the brunt of the conflict.


    But the Boar Monarch Pete sighed deeply.


    "Thanks to Blackwood for their kindness, but the Silver Iron Forest is not only a habitat for mystical beasts; it is also a sanctuary for trees and pure land. It''s said among humans, ''to put down roots,'' and countless mystical abilities have already taken root here. Our lives are intertwined with the Silver Iron Forest."


    "Even during years of severe drought, we have sustained the vitality of the Silver Iron Forest with our lives. Now, facing another drought, everyone in the Silver Iron Forest is prepared to defend the land of myriad mystical abilities with their lives!"


    Ethan also sighed deeply. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he sent the Purple Thunder Solar Python back, his face showed a look of admiration.


    Ethan understood that this was not a matter that could be easily persuaded, just like the outside world''s repeated invasions of Blackwood. Blackwood would also fight to the death for their homeland.


    It wasn''t just about the land; it was about the emotions that generations of families had poured into this land. The purest memories, the laughter and tears, were something that could never be abandoned.


    "This is something we must help with!"


    Suddenly, Ethan narrowed his eyes. Aside from the Boar Monarch Pete being a relative by marriage, he also saw a huge benefit!


    The Boar Monarch Pete''s high regard for Blackwood was evident.


    If Blackwood helped the Boar Monarch Pete through this difficult time, then Blackwood would essentially have the Boar Monarch Pete as an ally by marriage.


    At the same time.


    The previous problem of not being able to mine deep into the Silver Iron Forest would be resolved, and the Silver Iron Forest would become Blackwood''s backyard, which was also more suitable for Blackwood''s cultivation of mystical beasts!


    As for the risks?


    "Hahaha, when has Blackwood not faced risks over the years?" Nathan said with a laugh after sharing his plans through the Purple Thunder Solar Python, "The forebearer is right, with so many benefits, how could my Blackwood not help our in-laws?"


    "Thank you, Forebearer, thank you, father!" Mary cried with joy.


    In the days that followed, Blackwood was busy dealing with the affairs of the Silver Iron Forest and was also developing vigorously.


    Ethan was also pondering solutions.


    And Julian, that kid, after becoming an Emerging Ability, also gave Ethan a bit of a surprise.


    [Your descendant Lucas, after establishing the Black Blood Hall, trained 50 Foundational Energy warriors!]


    [After years of training, they have completely mastered the ''Spear Forest Formation''!]


    Spear Forest Formation.


    That was the formation used by Garcia during the attack on Forest Town. They held long spears, using the spears as a formation, their mystical abilities connected, possessing great lethal power!


    In one wave.


    Nearly eighty percent of Blackwood''s hundred mystical beasts died.


    This shows the formidable power of the spear formation!


    At that moment.


    On the martial arts field of Gratitude Village, fifty young men dressed in black iron beast blood suits, all equipped with mystical ability gear including long bows, quivers, long spears, and waist-mounted long knives, were holding long spears and throwing them towards the distance.


    "Whoosh!"


    As the sound of tearing through the air rose, those long spears carrying mystical abilities formed a net in the sky!


    "50 people are this powerful?" Ethan slightly opened his mouth in awe, "If it were 500 people, or even 5000, what about Bluefield Taylor..."


    Thinking this, Ethan narrowed his eyes.


    "Bluefield Taylor, huh? You''re asking for it!"


    He suddenly had a bold idea in his mind. Having already dominated Forest Town, dominating another town like Bluefield wasn''t really a big deal.


    If they could swallow the entire Tranquil County, that would be even better.

 Chapter 61 - 61: Master Jacob

    Ethan got it.


    Actually, solving this issue wasn''t as troublesome as it seemed.


    He could treat the situation like an unfair brawl. The Boar Monarch Pete was alone and getting ganged up on. But what if the Boar Monarch Pete ignored everyone else and just grabbed the leader, Bluefield Taylor, and gave him a thrashing?


    A beating wouldn''t do much, but what if it turned deadly?


    Unless those major families were truly bound by life and death, having experienced the past events at Forest Town, Ethan didn''t think they were the type to play fair!


    Ethan quickly clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    He informed the folks at Blackwood of the next steps.


    In no time, the descendants of Blackwood sprang into action.


    Time in the game kept ticking.


    [Blackwood Year 42.]


    [This year, the psychic fields have grown to about 40 acres, and it''s another bumper harvest year.]


    [Children in Gratitude Village have been eating psychic rice from a young age, starting to attend schools established by Blackwood to learn culture, martial arts, and physical training.]


    In the scene.


    You could see that Gratitude Village had built a school, from which the clear voices of children reading aloud could be heard.


    In the distance, there was a training ground.


    An experienced Psychic was imparting combat skills to the children.


    Gratitude Village, once a gathering place for disaster victims, was brimming with vitality.


    Ethan could feel it.


    In twenty or thirty years, these children of Gratitude Village would become the strongest pillars of its development.


    However, the powerful figures of Gratitude Village were not training at the training ground as usual.


    Even the Blackwood courtyard was missing the figures of Blackwood experts.


    In the birthing room.


    Mary, who was about to give birth, lay on the bed, surrounded by midwives from Gratitude Village. This was the fourth time these midwives were helping Mary with childbirth, and they were very experienced.


    "The young master really, his wife is about to give birth, and he''s nowhere to be seen."


    The midwife was rambling.


    Mary just smiled faintly, if not for the sweat on her forehead and the noticeable bulge on the bedding, one might not even realize she was about to give birth.


    A trace of worry flashed in her eyes as she looked out the window.


    "It''s all up to you guys now, everyone must be safe!"


    ...


    [Your descendants have entered the Silver Iron Forest!]


    "Have they arrived?"


    Looking at the information in the event column, Ethan clicked on Nathan''s icon and switched the view.


    Outside the Silver Iron Forest.


    Representatives from three nearby towns, totaling seven major families, had gathered together, resting in the woods on the outskirts of the forest, setting up camps to discuss definite strategies.


    "The Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest has lived for nearly a thousand years, we must be cautious!"


    "Equivalent to the mid-stage of Developing Skill, we''ve invited Master Shanzai from the Green Pine Temple, who can match the Demon King in battle. Plus our eight pseudo-dan, the Demon King is surely doomed this time."


    "After the Silver Iron Forest, resources will be divided among our families, and we shall thrive!"


    ...


    This high-level battle attracted experts from various families and clans, with over a hundred people present.


    The Blackwood couple, Nathan and Lucas, along with Julian and several Emerging Ability experts borrowed from the Rodriguez and Martinez families, were also among them, standing conspicuously on the massive body of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Even with such a lineup, these major families still had their complaints.


    They had heard of Blackwood''s exclusive victory over the two major families of Forest Town and thought Blackwood had extraordinary strength. Now, seeing only a Purple Thunder Solar Python impressed them, but many thought Blackwood was hiding its true capabilities. With the great battle imminent, it was not a good time to challenge Blackwood.


    Ethan observed their movements.


    What amused Ethan was.


    He could actually eavesdrop on the conversations of these family forces, their animated characters all displayed subtitles.


    Ethan found it amusing that he could eavesdrop on the conversations of these family powers, their animated characters all displaying small text bubbles, especially on the side of Taylor from Lantian.


    Inside their tent, Taylor''s ancestor, who was over 200 years old but looked merely like a youth, was rumored to have spent ten years of his lifespan to alter his appearance to remain charmingly handsome. This Taylor was also the overlord of Lantian, thanks largely to Ryan, who years ago made sure no one in Lantian dared to defy Taylor.


    At that moment, Ryan was secretly gathering the heads or elders of the other three major families, deep in discussion.


    "Once the Silver Iron Forest is breached, I have already made arrangements with Master Jacob of the Green Pine Temple to claim the corpse of the Forest Demon King," Ryan declared.


    No one objected; they all nodded in agreement.


    Ryan continued, "All seven families have come together, but once the Demon King is dead, how do you all view the distribution of benefits?" S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The others looked at each other.


    Ryan added, "Let me be frank, the reason I called you all here is to discuss this matter. Our seven families have long agreed to develop the Silver Iron Forest together and to distribute the benefits evenly. But exactly how this ''even distribution'' should be implemented is another matter. What do you all think?"


    The other three families were delighted with his words.


    "Senior Ryan speaks wisely. Even if we work together, we should differentiate based on the effort contributed."


    "Exactly, our four families have sent the most experts. Why should we share equally with them? In my opinion, once the Demon King is dead, we should take the most valuable parts!"


    "Especially Blackwood, whose experts are all at the early stages of Emerging Ability, some just having broken through. I see them as just making up the numbers, such friends I can do without!"


    The so-called secret discussion quickly lost Ethan''s interest after a while.


    He was scrutinizing these powers'' experts.


    Soon, Ethan''s gaze fixed on a monk.


    This monk sat under a giant tree, quite plump with a shiny bald head marked with a scar from his vows, hardly recognizable as a monk if not for his shaven head. He looked more like a kitchen old-timer who sneaks food all day, greasy from overeating.


    Around his neck hung beads the size of plums, and he wore a beige monk''s robe embroidered with gold threads, holding a golden staff. It was clear that the Green Pine Temple where he resided, known far and wide in Tranquil County, was not short of Spiritual Tribute money.


    [Master Jacob]


    [Abbot of Green Pine Temple, a renowned expert in Tranquil County.]


    Ethan frowned.


    The Boar Monarch Pete of the Silver Iron Forest had a thousand years of cultivation, but facing this abbot, the odds of victory were slim.


    After all, no matter how much gold and silver he wore, his cultivation was of Buddhist teachings, which were especially effective against demonic energies.

 Chapter 62 - 62: A mole among

    Before long, the seven families gathered to discuss the encirclement and eradication of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    The discussion lasted half a day, as the seven major families had already sent experts to thoroughly scout the entire Silver Iron Forest.


    Olivia, seated in a wheelchair, suddenly spoke up. "Elders, with the strength we possess now, why bother with a plan? Why not just march straight into the heart of the Silver Iron Forest and take the Demon King''s head?"


    As soon as she finished speaking, everyone turned to look at Olivia, seeing the young girl in the wheelchair, the fourth beloved daughter of Blackwood, and rumored to be the one managing internal and external affairs for Blackwood. Although there was dissatisfaction, no one dared to openly reprimand her. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan, seeing this, snorted coldly, "Lucas, take this nonsense-spewing thing out!"


    As Lucas pushed Olivia out of the tent where the discussion was held, Nathan turned to the others with an apologetic smile, "I''m terribly sorry, the young lady is inexperienced and always aiming too high in managing family affairs. Her jest should not be taken seriously."


    Seeing Nathan''s sincerity, the others did not say much.


    This made Taylor Ryan from the Bluefield family frown. He had intended to suggest a direct assault as well. But now that Olivia had voiced his thoughts and Nathan had dismissed them as high-minded nonsense, he found himself unable to speak up, his expression turning sour.


    At that moment, Elder Moore from the Clearfield family chuckled, "We are well aware of all the situations within the Silver Iron Forest."


    "The Demon King resides in the center, with its subordinate beasts guarding all around. Given this, we should attack from all sides to engage the beasts guarding the Demon King."


    "Master Jacob''s Buddhist teachings are boundless, and he surely has the confidence to defeat the Demon King."


    "When the time comes, whether it is the Master aiding us or us aiding the Master, we shall surely succeed!"


    After he finished speaking, Elder Moore looked towards Master Jacob, who was meditating in the distance, "Master, what do you think?"


    "Good," Master Jacob replied with a smile, not taking the Demon King lightly.


    With this strategy set, the seven major families each began their preparations, needing only a single Sky-Piercing Arrow to encircle the Demon King!


    Two days passed.


    The families went their separate ways, each riding towards their designated positions.


    The people of Blackwood did the same, though they were closer to the designated location. However, they did not wait there but headed deeper into the Silver Iron Forest!


    It was everyone''s first time seeing the Boar Monarch Pete, and for a moment, they were stunned.


    After all, no matter how demonic, the appearance of the Boar Monarch Pete was still somewhat frightening...


    Eventually, it was Nathan who burst into hearty laughter, facing the challenge head-on, "Hahaha, this is our kin, impressively... impressively mighty. I am Nathan, Julian''s father!"


    "Father-in-law???"


    The usually cheerful Julian appeared very restrained and a bit bewildered at the moment.


    The Boar Monarch Pete stood up, its massive body even causing the dust on its body to scatter in the air, and it spoke softly, "I never thought I''d have a day to be kin with humans, I''ve heard of you all. This time, Blackwood''s help in dealing with the crisis in the Silver Iron Forest will never be forgotten."


    "Well said, well said! Since he''s family to Blackwood, how could we let outsiders bully him?" Nathan grinned.


    Watching the Boar Monarch Pete and the people of Blackwood talking amicably, Ethan pursed his lips.


    To be honest, when he first discovered that Blackwood''s kin was a pig, and a Demon King at that, he was just as stunned as Julian, who was now gaping in disbelief.


    Looking at Lucas beside him, the young man was scratching his head, blinking continuously and looking around as if questioning his life.


    My brother''s father-in-law... is a pig?


    As the people were discussing.


    In the scene.


    "Whoosh!"


    A Sky-Piercing Arrow shot straight into the sky!


    Everyone looked up, watching the arrow in the sky, the wind rustling through the Silver Iron Forest, a storm was approaching!


    "Kin, we should get busy too," Nathan said sharply.


    The Boar Monarch Pete nodded slightly.


    "May Blackwood''s martial fortune prosper!"


    Ethan was glued to the screen, eyeing the map of the Silver Iron Forest. After Blackwood made it freely explorable, the fog had cleared, and with a simple click, Ethan could view any scene from anywhere on the map.


    At this moment, white dots from six directions were converging towards the Silver Iron Forest. "The game is on," Ethan muttered, squinting slightly.


    Ever since he found out that the Boar Monarch Pete was actually Blackwood''s in-law, this had all been a setup by Blackwood, a scheme that had already cost them a lot of time. And Ethan knew very well that within this grand scheme, Landon Taylor was doomed to lose years of his family''s legacy right here in the Silver Iron Forest!


    On the map, the essential path leading deep into the Silver Iron Forest was completely undefended. Because...


    "Disaster strikes! Landon Taylor is wiped out!" someone shouted.


    "The Demon King of the Silver Iron Forest appeared; it knew about our seven families'' plan to attack and intercepted Taylor early to defeat us one by one!"


    "Landon Taylor''s people are asking for help. Our elder sent me to see if you guys want to save them?"


    These families had barely reached the midpoint when they stopped in their tracks. On the map, four green dots moved towards the four major families, spreading the news of Landon Taylor''s demise.


    These four green dots represented people from Blackwood and the Moore clan!


    The four families hesitated for a moment, then almost simultaneously sent four Iron Will experts to investigate before reluctantly retreating the way they came. They had to believe it; after all, this was a warning from two allies. Better safe than sorry.


    After all, what would their families do if they died?


    "How did the news leak? Could there be a mole among us?"


    "Either way, all we can do now is wait for more news."


    "What about Master Jacob... Right, when we get back, we''ll say it was Landon Taylor''s mess that disrupted everyone''s plans, and it has nothing to do with us."


    In front of the screen, Ethan cracked a smile.


    Indeed, there were moles, and not just one but two! Otherwise, the allied forces of the seven families would have marched straight in, without such strategic positioning.


    Everything... was under Blackwood''s control!

 Chapter 63 - 63: Blackwoods Rise

    "Boss, we''re back!" At that moment, from the direction of the Silver Iron Forest, they had actually stayed put, not moving an inch. And the two who had returned were messengers for the other two major families!


    "Right." Clan leader Moore, who appeared scholarly and gentle, always had a hint of darkness in his expression. He coldly said to the people of his clan, "This matter is of great peril to the world, and we must keep it under wraps. Do you all understand?"


    "Understood!" Everyone frowned in agreement.


    However, one elder in the clan questioned, "Boss, why harm the Bluefield Taylors? You know our Moore clan has suffered from drought for many years, and we really need the resources from the Silver Iron Forest."


    Clan leader Moore was not annoyed. His composure was indeed rare.


    "A season ago, Lucas from Blackwood came to see me, and he asked me something quite intriguing."


    "Oh?" The crowd was puzzled.


    Clan leader Moore continued, "The young Blackwood asked if we were to venture into the Silver Iron Forest, would there be casualties? And if the elders we''ve spent a century nurturing die because of it, would it be worth it?"


    "That''s..."


    The crowd looked at each other, knowing well that where there is conflict, there is harm. But they were all advanced in years, seeking more resources merely to nurture the future generations of their families.


    "Not worth it. But we have an opportunity, an opportunity to seize a fortune of a centuries-old great family without spending a single soldier!"


    Clan leader Moore sneered, "Do you understand now?"


    "Bluefield Taylor!"


    "Most of their skilled members have died in the Silver Iron Forest, and Bluefield Taylor is very close to our Moore Town. They are like fat meat ready for the taking!"


    "So, the Taylors are like lambs to the slaughter, I see!"


    The many elders of Moore realized this and could hardly contain their joy. Why not rejoice at food that comes without a fight?


    One elder suddenly had a realization, "No wonder that girl from Blackwood dared to propose ideas in front of us. She had planned it all along, suggesting we go straight into the Silver Iron Forest to shut up that old man Ryan! Then, we say we''ll attack the forest from seven directions and spread the news that Taylor is to be annihilated, making all families leave."


    With this statement, the previously skeptical elder looked solemn, "If that''s the case, then we must leave no survivors from Bluefield Taylor, otherwise if this gets out, our Moore will be treated as traitors to humanity. Boss, who will handle the Taylors?"


    "Naturally, it''s Blackwood." Clan leader Moore said casually.


    "Blackwood?"


    The Moore elders all frowned, skepticism in their eyes.


    After all, with all the clans gathered, Blackwood''s little force seemed insignificant.


    But Clan leader Moore just laughed.


    "You don''t think that Blackwood, who I even respect for being able to annihilate two clans with his own power, is overly arrogant, do you? When I spoke with young Lucas, I saw absolute confidence in him!"


    "Absolute confidence?"


    Ethan quietly observed the small text above the head of the Moore family leader, his expression calm.


    Yes.


    Absolute confidence!


    Blackwood was no longer the trembling entity it once was in front of the Heath and Gonzalez families!


    Looking at the map.


    The people of Blackwood had already met with Taylor from Lantian.


    Clicking on Nathan''s avatar.


    The scene had already appeared on the road through the depths of the Silver Iron Forest, with a gentle breeze blowing and the shadows of trees swaying.


    Taylor''s group of sixteen had already stopped in their tracks, all with expressions of shock and suspicion.


    In front of them.


    Nathan, carrying a silver coffin engraved with mysterious patterns, alone blocked the way of Taylor''s people!


    A Forebearer badge floated next to Nathan, shining brightly!


    "Nathan, why are you blocking our way instead of attacking from the southwest with Blackwood?!!"


    Although Ryan did not know why Nathan did this, he already felt something extraordinary.


    Taylor''s people were also on high alert.


    From Nathan, they sensed a murderous aura!


    "Boom!"


    Nathan did not reply, but silently unstrapped the straight-death coffin tied to him, and as the heavy coffin landed on the ground, he stared at Taylor''s people as if looking at the dead.


    "Whoosh!"


    Just then, a breaking sound came from afar!


    "Not good!"


    Ryan''s face changed drastically, and he coldly said, "It''s a trap, release the formation!"


    As he shouted, Taylor''s people all looked up.


    Above them in the sky, a network of long spears formed and fell towards them!


    The Spear Forest Array.


    This was a formation that Blackwood had acquired from Garcia, and now over sixty people in Gratitude Village practiced the Spear Forest Array.


    But the spears in the sky were not just from the Spear Forest Array; there were also long spears and arrows thrown by other Psychics from Gratitude Village.


    Taylor''s people were also formidable.


    An Emerging Ability master had already risen into the air with his sword, using his magical power to block the falling spears.


    However, spears and arrows continued to fall from the sky.


    The magical barrier of the Emerging Ability master soon showed cracks.


    It was known that those from Blackwood who went out to fight were equipped with weapons forged by the Forge Pavilion, which were quite powerful!


    "How dare you, Nathan, to set a trap to ambush us, Taylor, you''re seeking death!"


    Ryan was furious.


    With a wave of his hand, a peak Emerging Ability member of the Taylor clan understood and unleashed a powerful surge of ability towards Nathan.


    But with a thunderous noise.


    The earth, fragrant with the scent of summer, scattered in mid-air, and the Purple Thunder Solar Python, wielding the power of heavenly thunder and earthly fire, burst forth from the ground.


    With a roar, the Purple Thunder Solar Python blocked the strike from the Emerging Ability master and charged directly at Ryan, the 200-year-old Transcendent Seed stage master of Taylor!


    "Hmph! I''ve long heard that you Blackwood have a special ability beast, and even an AI Bionic Robot?"


    Ryan was undaunted, clearly confident.


    "As you wish."


    Seeing Ryan so arrogant.


    Ethan had already clicked on the War AI Bionic Robot!


    "Boom!"


    As Ethan''s eyes turned white. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His consciousness appeared in the game world, where the War AI Bionic Robot, already prepared in the Silver Iron Forest, had risen into the air, its weapons erupting as it moved towards Ryan!


    This War AI Bionic Robot, which had even lost an arm in a major battle in Forest Town.


    But after five years, by collecting the fragments of the War AI Bionic Robot and the biotechnology inside the War AI Bionic Robot, its injuries had already healed, although some fragments could not be found, making it look externally old and scarred!


    "Not good!"


    Laser cannon fire roared, and the thunder and fire power of the Purple Thunder Solar Python erupted, but it did not cause Ryan to panic.


    What truly frightened him.


    Was the appearance of the War AI Bionic Robot, and the beasts from all directions rushing towards them!


    These.


    Were all special ability beasts guarding the Silver Iron Forest Pig Demon King, and with the major families having already left, they also surrounded Taylor, creating a deadly situation for Taylor!


    This was the current strength of Blackwood.

 Chapter 64 - 64: Forest Ambush

    Blackwood has formed an alliance with the Boar Monarch Pete, and now owes a debt of gratitude to the Boar Monarch Pete. The exotic beasts of the Silver Iron Forest have long been at Blackwood''s disposal!


    Gathering the full force of the Silver Iron Forest.


    A total of 50 psychic beasts, a power Blackwood dared not dream of before, including four beasts with strength comparable to the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    "Run!"


    Seeing these psychic beasts, Ryan was terrified, "Whoever it is, spread the word, the trip to the Silver Iron Forest is a trap set by Blackwood, they are conspiring with the Demon King, they are traitors to humanity!"


    "Ha ha ha, run? I''d like to see how you run!"


    Nathan finally spoke.


    The arriving psychic beasts were already on the branches, blocking their path of sword flight.


    Taylor, terrified, fled from the Psychic on the ground in all directions.


    But soon.


    Their hopes of escape were shattered!


    "Crack, crack!"


    The ground was moving, Nathan had opened the Death Coffin!


    After acquiring this psychic treasure, Nathan dug up all the bodies buried under the beast blood fruit trees during the great battle of Forest Town.


    These bodies, all driven by the coffin driving technique and refined by the Death Coffin into zombies!


    One by one, dry hands broke through the soil, revealing their dry hair and bark-like faces, crawling out from underground, even with maggots on their bodies.


    Thousands of zombies blocked the way for Taylor and his people to leave!


    The people of Blackwood also joined the battlefield with the psychic beasts, blocking the escape of the strong Taylor.


    Luna transformed into a two-tailed fox, holding the psychic device Tianjun Seal taken from Gonzalez, even capable of fighting against the peak of Emerging Ability.


    "Thunder Leading Scripture!"


    This technique summons heavenly thunder, learned from the Sky Secret Manual by Luna. The heavenly thunder is drawn into the Tianjun Seal, even the peak of Emerging Ability must avoid its edge.


    "Misty Shadow Heavenly Cluster Step!"


    "Hundred Shadow Sword Glow!"


    Lucas fought the enemy, his movements elusive and seemingly illusory.


    His Misty Shadow Heavenly Cluster Step had already been learned in the Death Coffin while continuously cultivating psychic powers, and now it had transformed into ten avatars each possessing a layer of the original body''s strength.


    Hundred Shadow Sword Glow, even more, was a stab of a hundred sword shadows. Under the combination of these two martial arts techniques, the sky was full of sword shadows, both illusory and real, even capable of a fight in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability!


    "Quick, quick, quick, tie him up, I''ll hammer him to death!"


    Only Julian, the kid, seemed a bit out of place, holding a hammer thicker than his body, calling on a tree demon to help tie up a mid-stage Emerging Ability.


    His left arm, originally a powerless prosthesis, had been refined with pill fire after his breakthrough, and now his left arm had become a psychic equipment, easily lifting a thousand pounds!


    With both hands on the hammer, he felt no pressure at all!


    With each hammer, blood plasma burst forth.


    "Thud!"


    The bright spear pierced into Ryan''s abdomen. This man, who loved beauty throughout his life and made Taylor the overlord of Bluetown with his pseudo-dan expertise, saw his eyelids droop as the last breath of life escaped him, with Nathan''s psychic fire burning within his soul.


    This also marked the downfall of Bluetown''s Taylor.


    In this battle, Blackwood suffered no casualties. The villagers from Gratitude Village, who had initially depleted their forces using psychic-equipped weaponry and formations, now headed back to Gratitude Village.


    The elite masters of Blackwood, those above the Emerging Ability stage, cleaned up the battlefield, fully equipped, and headed towards the center of the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Good!"


    Ethan, still engrossed in the game, stood in his home facing the large screen, vigorously slapping his thigh in satisfaction.


    Blackwood, once timid, was now striking hard!


    Compared to the two major families of Bluetown and Forest Town, Blackwood was stronger in every aspect, but now?


    The battle was over in ten minutes!


    Yet, with the joy in his heart,


    Ethan''s expression gradually turned solemn.


    He was already feeling the powerful aura emanating from afar as he controlled the War AI Bionic Robot towards the center of the Silver Iron Forest.


    This signified the intense pressure from the battle between the demon king and the Developing Skill masters!


    The realm of Developing Skill is the true threshold of Psychic powers, hence the existence of the pseudo-dan stage. With their full power, they could turn a kilometer into ash!


    Pseudo-dan was extremely close to Developing Skill.


    But a pseudo-dan master would hardly last a few moves in front of a Developing Skill master!


    It was said that in the entire Tranquil County, aside from those two secretive sects of Tranquil, there were no more than a handful of Developing Skill masters.


    ...


    Soon.


    Ethan had maneuvered the War AI Bionic Robot, along with Blackwood''s masters and numerous psychic beasts, to the central area of the Silver Iron Forest.


    The valley they arrived at had been flattened, resembling a huge iron pot. The dense psychic energy made it difficult for anyone to approach, and the high-level pressure had already weakened their combat abilities.


    The Boar Monarch Pete was dueling with Master Jacob, both floating in the air, creating an aura around them!


    [Warning, psychic output ahead exceeds the robot''s load capacity, do not enter!]


    As soon as it approached, the War AI Bionic Robot issued a warning.


    Ethan knew the power of a D-level force; it was not something the War AI Bionic Robot could contend with.


    He frowned, watching the battlefield.


    The true form of the Boar Monarch Pete was that of a Mingtu Yinluo Pig, based on earth psychic and dark energies. Huge spikes emerged all around the valley, causing the ground to seem alive, with these earth spikes moving towards Master Jacob like limbs.


    Especially since these spikes carried a highly corrosive aura, attempting to erode Master Jacob''s protective Buddha light.


    Master Jacob was profoundly skilled in Buddhism.


    His right hand held a golden Zen staff, and his neck beads had fallen into his left hand. Tapping the beads lightly, he chanted scriptures, and behind him appeared a golden-bodied Arhat of the same size as the Boar Monarch Pete. This Arhat could easily crush the earth spikes with his bare hands, and the dark-energized spikes dissipated easily upon contact with their nemesis. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Instead, huge palm prints appeared on the ground!


    Ethan could see.


    Neither was using their full strength yet, both testing each other with their magical powers, but it was clear that the Boar Monarch Pete was already at a disadvantage!


    "Forebearer, should we go help now?"


    Nathan asked, feeling the aura of the battlefield and shivering.


    "Wait a bit."


    Ethan typed on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    The battle of a mid-stage Developing Skill master was not something that ordinary Emerging Ability stage masters could participate in, even the aftermath could cause injuries. But Ethan was sure that with so many psychic beasts on the scene, equivalent to six pseudo-dan masters, they definitely had the power to defeat Monk Jacob.


    However, it was just a victory; if Monk Jacob decided to flee, no one could stop him, and Blackwood would never have peace again!

 Chapter 65 - 65: Battle of Iron Forest

    Ethan waited, a seasoned hunter biding his time. Half an hour had already passed. Beside him, the psychic beasts and the Blackwood clan members waited anxiously under his command, not daring to breathe.


    "Mercy be upon us," chanted Monk Jacob, his voice echoing through the valley. He floated on a golden lotus in mid-air, his right hand gripping a staff adorned with jingling golden rings. Despite the prolonged battle, he appeared unscathed, only slightly winded. A compassionate smile graced his face.


    "You have caused much suffering, yet the Buddha''s mercy knows no bounds. I implore you, with a thousand years of cultivation, why not join me at Qing Song Temple and cleanse yourself of these sins by embracing the Buddhist teachings? Let us not bring further ruin upon this forest of silver and iron."


    This marked the first time Monk Jacob had spoken during the battle. Now, he spoke of Buddhist teachings, his heart clearly troubled. The plan had been for the seven great families to unite and decisively defeat the Boar Monarch Pete. But half an hour had passed, and there was no sign of reinforcements.


    Though the Boar Monarch Pete was not his equal, Jacob hesitated to risk a fight to the death.


    "Hmph!" The Boar Monarch Pete grunted, his only response.


    Though heavily wounded, it still carried itself with the dignity of a king. With a surge of demonic power, knowing it was no match for Monk Jacob, it unleashed all its remaining strength!


    The valley trembled violently as a frigid wind swept through. Giant stone pillars erupted from the ground around the Boar Monarch Pete, their jagged edges radiating the corrosive power of the wind as they hurtled towards Monk Jacob.


    Bristling with fury, the Boar Monarch Pete launched itself into the air. A demonic shadow unfurled in the cloud-choked sky, its shadowy hand reaching out to seize Monk Jacob.


    "Blinded by ignorance, today the Buddha will not ferry you across; I, in place of the Buddha, will cast you into the eighteen levels of hell, where you shall never be reborn!" Monk Jacob declared, his expression grave.


    He knew this was the Boar Monarch Pete''s final gambit. If he didn''t give his all, his life would hang precariously in the balance. He tossed his Buddhist rosary into the air. The eighteen beads blazed with a brilliant light, forming a radiant circle that dispersed the clouds above¡ªa truly extraordinary psychic tool.


    "Buddhist teachings, the eternal golden pine, the compassionate Vajra, appear!" Monk Jacob roared.


    As his words echoed, his monk''s robe, also a psychic tool, shimmered with golden edges that extended skyward, transforming into golden vines. With astonishing speed, the vines intertwined, forming a radiant golden Arhat Vajra!


    Monk Jacob''s meditation cushion rose into the air, growing larger as it ascended, finally landing in the hands of the Vajra Arhat.


    The Arhat''s roar and the clinking of the rings on the staff reverberated through the valley.


    A deep bell tolled from an unknown location.


    This renowned Master Jacob of Tranquil County was truly extraordinary!


    Master Jacob had played his final card.


    He could almost envision the ignorant Boar Monarch Pete meeting its end at the hands of the Buddha!


    But just then, his expression shifted, morphing into one of alarm. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Now!" a distant voice commanded.


    Monk Jacob watched in disbelief as dozens of psychic beasts charged recklessly into the fray, their combined demonic powers raining down on him from afar!


    He even saw...


    "It''s Blackwood, that Purple Thunder Sun Python from the seven great families!"


    "Damn it!" Monk Jacob raged, the realization hitting him like a thunderbolt. He had unwittingly walked into a trap he should have avoided. He had initially hoped to capture a Demon King as a mount or obtain materials for crafting psychic tools, but he had never anticipated being drawn into such a perilous situation!


    But he understood that any words he uttered now would be futile.


    Even with his profound Buddhist teachings, he was no match for these reckless psychic beasts and the Boar Monarch Pete combined.


    "Run!" Monk Jacob swept aside the psychic tools with the Vajra Arhat, his mind set on escape.


    "Boom!" He squinted, his eyes widening in surprise.


    A colossal AI Bionic Robot, flames erupting from its feet and back, was hurtling towards him at an astonishing speed, wielding not a weapon, but...


    A silver coffin?


    [Mech armor engine consumption has reached 100%...120%, the body is about to be damaged!]


    [Warning! You have entered the attack domain of a mid-level expert in Developing Skill!]


    [The target is launching an attack on you, detection, please dodge immediately, supernatural power far exceeds the load...]


    "Darn it! Go!"


    Operating the War AI Bionic Robot, feeling the seemingly suppressed supernatural power surrounding him, and the sixteen-foot-wide palm print that Jacob the monk and the golden Arhat behind him had unleashed, Ethan remained remarkably calm!


    He turned his head and spun!


    The War AI Bionic Robot narrowly dodged the attack of the palm print, but the aftershock still managed to shatter the right arm and right leg of the War AI Bionic Robot.


    The War AI Bionic Robot could even see the flesh on its body that had been ripped open!


    [The body is severely damaged, please leave the battlefield immediately for automatic recovery!]


    Ethan ignored the warning.


    He knew that if the corpulent monk didn''t die, Blackwood''s future would be bleak!


    Compared to the lives of the Blackwood clan, this valuable War AI Bionic Robot meant nothing!


    Pushing past the palm print, the roaring sound echoing behind him, Ethan pressed on.


    Monk Jacob launched another palm print towards him.


    But this time.


    Ethan didn''t dodge.


    "It''s up to you now!"


    Ethan, clutching the Death Coffin, could feel the tremors coursing through it as it encountered the Buddhist power!


    On the screen interface, a message flashed:


    [The Death Coffin''s supernatural ability encounters the Buddhist power it detests!]


    From the moment he had arrived on the battlefield, Ethan had seen the game interface''s prompt.


    And he had already planned to use the Death Coffin as his trump card.


    Otherwise, Nathan wouldn''t have entrusted him with this treasure!


    "The distance is enough!"


    Seeing that the War AI Bionic Robot had enough strength to smash the Death Coffin towards Monk Jacob, Ethan didn''t hesitate.


    He hurled the Death Coffin with all his might!


    "What... what is this thing?!!"


    Monk Jacob''s face contorted in horror, a look he had never shown even when facing the full force of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    The silver coffin effortlessly smashed through his Vajra Arhat''s palm print!


    Even...


    As it approached the Vajra Arhat behind him, the Vajra Zen staff couldn''t even budge the silver coffin. The coffin bounced off the staff, and under his desperate gaze, it slowly opened, revealing a dark void that swallowed the entire Vajra Arhat.


    Like a beast from ancient times, it devoured everything in its path with endless greed!


    At that moment, even he, using the Arhat''s golden body, was affected.


    The silver coffin was unleashing its fury on him, the pressure of the top-grade supernatural treasure making it impossible for him to take flight again!


    And at the same time.


    The Boar Monarch Pete, those dozens of supernatural beasts, and all the Blackwood clan''s magical martial arts, were all converging on him!

 Chapter 66 - 66: Divine Transformation

    [Congratulations, your family has helped the Boar Monarch protect his homeland!]


    [You''ve earned Spiritual Tribute+2000!]


    [Seeing you risk your life to control the War AI Bionic Robot against Master Jacob, your family''s admiration for you has greatly increased.]


    [You''ve earned Spiritual Tribute+1000]


    3000 Spiritual Tribute points!


    Ethan disengaged from the War AI Bionic Robot and glanced at the top right corner. The Spiritual Tribute value had once again surpassed 7000. A satisfied smile spread across his face.


    Victory was theirs.


    Once again, he and Blackwood had overcome a crisis together. A mid-level Developing Skill expert had perished, thanks to the combined efforts of Blackwood and the Boar Monarch!


    Who would believe this was the work of a small family from the countryside?


    "The Forefather''s divine might! He knew the Death Coffin could restrain Monk Jacob!"


    "The Forefather is invincible!"


    "If not for the Forefather, that fat monk would have escaped!"


    The Blackwood clan members gazed at Ethan with reverence.


    Only when the battered Boar Monarch approached did their expressions return to normal.


    The Boar Monarch expressed his gratitude. "If not for your family''s help, the Silver Iron Forest might have been destroyed by my own hand. Words cannot express my gratitude. From this day forward, the Silver Iron Forest will be Blackwood''s staunchest ally. You are free to mine here, with the eternal gratitude of the Silver Iron Forest''s myriad demons." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As soon as he finished speaking, a green glow enveloped the land of the Silver Iron Forest, washing over the Blackwood clan members!


    Instantly, they felt a warmth spread through their bodies, and even their psychic abilities were slightly enhanced!


    [Your descendants are protected by the Silver Iron Forest. The Boar Monarch, guardian of the Silver Iron Forest, has granted Blackwood 50% of its life-giving psychic power!]


    [Congratulations, Blackwood has gained a group trait: Guardians of the Silver Iron Forest!]


    [When Blackwood''s descendants fight in the Silver Iron Forest, those below D-level will have their combat power increased by 50%. When cultivating psychic powers in the Silver Iron Forest, protected by its flora, those below D-level will have their cultivating speed increased by 10%. All exotic beasts of the Silver Iron Forest will feel an affinity towards Blackwood''s descendants.


    Your descendants with a Wooden Psychic Constitution will have their Psychic Constitution increased by 2 points.]


    "Group trait!"


    This was the first time Ethan had seen such a thing. It shone brightly on the member list.


    Such a trait was incredibly powerful.


    A 10% increase in the speed of cultivating psychic powers meant that Blackwood''s training room could be moved to the Silver Iron Forest, since they weren''t far apart!


    And...


    Every descendant born with a Wooden Psychic Constitution receiving an increase of 2 points might seem insignificant, but it meant that even the newborn children of Blackwood would experience a slight increase in their talents!


    "This is huge!"


    Ethan was overjoyed.


    Such a group trait was already incredibly powerful.


    But for now, the most significant benefit was that Blackwood had gained the Silver Iron Forest as an ally and the protection of a mid-level Developing Skill expert, with all the psychic beasts of the entire Silver Iron Forest at Blackwood''s disposal.


    The hidden combat power that Blackwood now possessed was enough to sweep any town in Tranquil City!


    This battle had provided Blackwood with a solid foundation of real combat power.


    The Blackwood clan members quickly cleaned up the battlefield and bid farewell to the Boar Monarch, promising to bring Mary''s descendants to meet their grandfather in a few days.


    ...


    The task was accomplished. The mature descendants of Blackwood were now capable of developing autonomously. Ethan instructed Lisa to roast a chicken as a reward for his efforts.


    The Blackwood clan members were hurrying home.


    "Honey, we won! Hahaha! The Forefather exerted his power and saved the Boar Monarch... I mean, Father-in-law!"


    Julian laughed heartily as he strode towards home.


    But just as he reached the birthing room...


    "Wah¡ª"


    A loud cry rang out, as if adding color to Blackwood''s joyous day!


    [Mary was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a son named Paul!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute+10!]


    "Hahaha! Forefather, not only did my child save my father-in-law, but he also brought a new child into the family!"


    Julian lifted the baby high. The nearly six-foot-seven-inch tall, strong man was moved to tears.


    "Excellent!"


    One joyous event followed another. Ethan picked up the walkie-talkie. "Lisa, two! I want to eat two roasted chickens!"


    The family was ecstatic.


    Ethan then watched as the Blackwood clan members carried the bodies of the deceased Bluetown Taylor and Master Jacob to the psychic medicine garden, intending to drain their blood to cultivate the beast blood fruit trees.


    There were now three beast blood fruit trees.


    The first transplanted beast blood fruit tree, its branches and leaves becoming more lush, had reached almost one hundred feet tall!


    But now, Ethan wasn''t as interested in the beast blood fruit trees as he once was.


    Beast blood fruit trees could generate income, but the potions Amelia concocted were also incredibly valuable. Most importantly, there was no risk of anyone replicating the potion formulas, because the necessary materials didn''t exist on Earth!


    As Ethan pondered how to utilize the large sum of Energy Stones he had earned, something unexpected occurred.


    Nathan was in the process of draining Master Jacob''s blood, letting it drip onto the largest beast blood fruit tree.


    Suddenly, roots from the beast blood fruit tree burst through the ground and pierced into the body. The roots acted like the mouthparts of a creature, greedily sucking the blood!


    The beast blood fruit tree underwent a mutation.


    Rain began to fall from the sky, and the raindrops, making contact with the lush branches and leaves, produced a mysterious yellow essence!


    [Congratulations, your descendants have cultivated the beast blood fruit tree with the blood of a mid-level Developing Skill expert. The beast blood fruit tree has mutated, absorbed the power of Developing Skill, and begun to advance¡ª¡ª]


    [Eighth grade, blood psychic fruit tree!]


    [The blood psychic fruit tree has developed a faint psychic intelligence. It senses the offerings from Blackwood and its roots will remain within the territory of Blackwood, protecting it with its life!]


    [Blood psychic fruit tree, bears fruit every thirty years.]


    "What the...?"


    Ethan was stunned. This was the first time he had witnessed the transformation of a psychic tree!


    The blood psychic fruit tree swayed its branches, like a child who had been starved for centuries and had finally eaten, conveying its joy.


    "The Forefather has exerted his great power once more, allowing the beast blood fruit tree to transform! The might of the Forefather is almost divine!"


    Witnessing this scene, Nathan immediately took out a Forefather Card and bowed repeatedly in worship.


    Ethan, observing from behind the screen, paid no mind to Nathan''s eccentric behavior.


    He casually picked up the walkie-talkie. "Lisa, three! I want to eat three chickens!"


    "Commander, there are only two chickens."


    Lisa''s helpless voice came through the walkie-talkie.


    "Then roast a duck!"


    Ethan hung up the walkie-talkie, a satisfied smile on his face.

 Chapter 67 - 67: Lone Wolfs Path

    The Blood Beast Fruit Tree had transformed into a Blood Psychic Ability Tree, meaning its fruits would now possess doubled potency! The evolution of plants was a wondrous phenomenon, often requiring years of meticulous growth.


    Even the oldest known tree on Earth was only a sixth-grade, and that tree had already lived for nearly ten thousand years, its existence coinciding with the resurgence of psychic abilities!


    Ethan, filled with a sense of accomplishment, continued to accelerate time, observing Blackwood''s steady growth.


    He glanced at the event column.


    This time''s harvest included a surprising amount of equipment!


    [Your family has defeated 16 experts from Horizon Falls Taylor and obtained a large amount of spoils of war!]


    [Obtained a primary psychic ability device, the Psychic God Xin Sheng Robe!]


    This robe, once worn by Horizon Falls Taylor''s Ryan, now appeared no different from ordinary clothing.


    But its appearance was deceiving. When Ryan had been surrounded by numerous psychic beasts, this robe had allowed him to withstand the full brunt of their attacks before succumbing. Though pierced, the robe could recover in the time it took to drink a cup of tea.


    [Psychic God Xin Sheng Robe]


    [Capable of automatic recovery and autonomous shape-shifting. In times of crisis, the robe protects the wearer, withstanding a full-force strike below the level of a Transcendent Seed. It maintains the wearer''s mental clarity and wards off all ailments!]


    Blackwood had acquired another primary psychic ability device.


    Nathan, recognizing its value, gifted the Psychic God Xin Sheng Robe to Olivia. After all, she was often out and about, frequently encountering danger. On several occasions, Ethan had even used his Forefather position to eliminate assassins targeting her.


    [Obtained primary psychic ability equipment...]


    [Obtained medium-grade psychic ability equipment...]


    [Obtained a yellow-grade technique, the Life Breath Longevity Technique!]


    Of all the acquired techniques, it was the one from the Taylors that truly piqued Ethan''s interest. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This technique, while faster than standard psychic cultivation techniques and not as potent as the Sky Secret Manual''s technique of converting Qi into essence, possessed a unique advantage: it could slightly extend the lifespan of those who cultivated psychic powers!


    Apart from that, there was nothing particularly noteworthy for Blackwood at the moment.


    [Congratulations, your family has defeated Horizon Falls Taylor.]


    [After days of meticulous planning by your descendant Olivia, in collaboration with Silverwood Moore, they have subdued a family cultivating psychic powers in Horizon Falls Town. They now represent both your families in managing all of Taylor''s industries in Horizon Falls Town!]


    [Obtained a large amount of mineral resources!]


    Ethan quickly opened the map.


    On the map of Forest Town, in the northwest direction, the area marked [Horizon Falls Town] was now awash in green!


    "Forefather, this is incredible! Half of Horizon Falls Town is now under our control! Silverwood Moore occupies forty percent, and the subdued family occupies ten percent!"


    Olivia, seated in the ancestral hall, reported the good news to Ethan.


    Despite wearing a primary psychic ability device that could alter the shape of her clothing at will, she still donned the same Confucian robe as before. Though her frail constitution was a thing of the past thanks to the psychic ability device, she still preferred to use a wheelchair, claiming it was a strategic display of weakness to their enemies.


    "Elder Brother now possesses one top-grade psychic ability equipment, two high-grade psychic ability equipment, and faces no challenge in the early stages of Emerging Ability!"


    "When Second Sister emerges from seclusion, she will be overjoyed. Horizon Falls Town has a medicinal garden, providing us with eight additional types of psychic medicines. Second Sister can finally attempt to concoct the eighth-grade medicine from the ''Thousand Herb Scripture''¡ªthe Heavenly Origin Returning Psychic Powder!"


    "And Third Brother, we now have access to five new types of mineral materials, as well as the vast reserves accumulated by Horizon Falls Taylor over the years. This is enough to sustain our forging pavilion for a decade or two!"


    "We have even gained the loyalty of a ninth-grade pill master!"


    Blackwood''s power had expanded once more!


    With the resources of two towns at their disposal, Blackwood no longer had to worry about supplies for at least twenty years.


    Ethan let out a sigh of contentment.


    They could even refine pills now. With the addition of the greedy pill master, Blackwood now had two pill masters!


    A fruitful year passed in the blink of an eye.


    [Blackwood Year 43.]


    [Your family has had a productive year, with an abundance of resources awaiting utilization.]


    [Your descendant from the Sky Sect, Marcus, has achieved a breakthrough!]


    [After five years of solitary contemplation, he has advanced to the seventh level of Foundational Energy, earning the trait: Silent Lone Wolf!]


    [Regardless of the circumstances, he maintains an impassive demeanor, like a lone wolf. In battle, his strength increases by 10%, and when cultivating psychic powers alone, his speed increases by 10%.]


    Ethan watched as Marcus emerged from his breakthrough, now sporting a beard but more composed than ever. A faint smile touched his lips.


    It seemed this young man had matured greatly during his five years of cultivating psychic powers.


    "Silent Lone Wolf, is it? I like the sound of that."


    Marcus was now twenty-two. With his natural talent, he should have been the pride of Blackwood. But life, in its unpredictable and often cruel way, had other plans for him.


    Not only had Marcus faced countless hardships, but he had also endured solitary reflection, lacking any special abilities and reaching the seventh level of Foundational Energy through sheer willpower.


    This transformation in Marcus''s character, from his previous impulsiveness to a newfound depth of stability and restraint, earned Ethan''s admiration.


    "Life can break you, but it can also forge you anew," Ethan remarked, bestowing upon Marcus the ''Love of the Forefather'' and offering words of encouragement. "May you continue to strive for greatness."


    As Marcus stepped out from his cliff-side retreat, he felt a warm current surge through his body. After five long years, he once again felt the Forefather''s encouragement!


    He knelt on one knee, his reaction no longer as emotionally charged as it had been five years ago. Instead, it was a gesture of quiet respect. "Thank you, Forefather. After five years of reflection, I have come to understand. Perhaps I should never have joined the Sky Sect, but I harbor no regrets."


    "Where I stumble, I shall rise again, ascending step by step to the highest peak!"


    "I will never disappoint the Forefather or my family!"


    With those words, he turned and made his way back towards the Sky Sect, his resolve unwavering.

 Chapter 68 - 68: Immortal Embryo

    How does this sound so familiar?


    But Ethan didn''t care, as long as Marcus didn''t do anything that would harm the family''s interests, Ethan would support Marcus''s decision at this time.


    Among the third generation descendants, only Marcus had such a hard time.


    As for the others...


    Ethan switched the screen. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this time, outside Gratitude Village, there was an area enclosed by a huge wall, which is now the special training ground for the children of Gratitude Village!


    These children possessed the bravery inherited from the villagers of Gratitude Village.


    Many children were engaged in intense training, truly a case of fist to flesh.


    The descendants of Blackwood were also cultivating psychic powers on this ground with the village children.


    According to Nathan, the children of Blackwood should grow up with the children of Gratitude Village from a young age so that they could integrate into the village and not indulge in luxury like those spoiled children outside, thus cultivating the temperament of Blackwood''s future generations.


    The children of Blackwood already had enough resources.


    If they wanted to secure a place in Blackwood''s increasingly large influence, they had to gain the recognition of the family and the power circle and integrate into Blackwood''s forces.


    If they had neither talent nor virtue and only knew how to waste family resources and harm the family''s reputation, they should be kicked out of the house to experience the dangers of society.


    Ethan agreed with this view.


    Fortunately, the third generation of Blackwood descendants had received a good education.


    "Especially this kid Daniel."


    Ethan grinned.


    He clicked on Daniel''s avatar, and the game screen changed.


    "Body cultivators, take the energy of heaven and earth, the essence of the sun and the moon, then burst through the meridians, break through the body, endure the pain of the body and skin!"


    "This is the lower realm, the body as tough as vines, resistant to swords and blades!"


    "Energy bursts in the flesh, the body suffers the pain of a thousand needles, this is the upper realm!"


    "The body of hard rock, a hundred pounds of equipment feels like nothing in hand."


    "The five viscera and six entrails resonate, psychic meridians flow at will, this is the ultimate realm, the body becomes a primary psychic equipment!"


    Daniel, only 13, was already a teacher for children on the training ground.


    His face was slightly youthful, as handsome as his older brother Marcus, but his eyes had an indescribable purity and psychic ability, his voice crisp.


    "This method was once the ''Gonzalez Body Cultivation Secret'', also a yellow-grade body technique, now used by everyone in Gratitude Village, you must not waste time, you need to cultivate psychic powers often. Whoever enters the lower realm can get a position in the Black Blood Hall when they come of age."


    Many children below, even two or three years older than Daniel.


    But their expressions when looking at Daniel were full of admiration.


    A slightly older child asked Daniel doubtfully; "Instructor, what realm have you reached?"


    "My aunt won''t let me say."


    Daniel shook his head sincerely, then began to teach the children to cultivate psychic powers.


    Watching this scene, Ethan''s eyes brightened.


    "Daniel has great potential to surpass Marcus."


    He had already opened Daniel''s personal information.


    [Daniel (Third Generation Member)]


    [Realm: Foundational Energy, Sixth Layer Peak]


    [Techniques: Shadowy Steps of Heaven, Body Cultivation Decree, Longevity Breathing Technique, Thunder Drawing Scripture]


    [Trait: Childlike Heart]


    Daniel was born with four Psychic Constitutions, not as talented as his brother Marcus, but he had the support of family resources, yet it was still impressive for someone so young to reach the peak of the Sixth Layer of Foundational Energy.


    The key was...


    Talent!


    [Childlike Heart]


    [Innocent and kind, free from distractions, thus when cultivating psychic powers, he is less disturbed by external affairs, more likely to have insights. Technique comprehension increased by 80%, speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 30%!]


    Clearly.


    He was not troubled by the fact that his mother Karen was kicked out of the house, and he had understood the reasons behind it early on.


    The only downside was...


    Ethan flipped through his past event log.


    [At age 3, was tricked by a peer into giving away candy, and cried his heart out.]


    [At age 5, felt pity for an assassin disguised as a beggar, nearly got killed, but was fortunately saved by Forebearer''s magic.]


    [At age 7, received the Heart of Innocence.]


    [At age 9, was told by Nathan that practicing the "Gonzalez Body Strengthening Technique" was painless, but after practicing, he was in so much pain he thought it was his own fault, thus he trained even harder in cultivating psychic powers...]


    [At age 12, was told by Lucas that practicing "Mystic Shadow Steps" in the Straight Death Coffin was easy, so he died for 27 days on the first level before he finally got a glimpse of the method.]


    "Ah, one of Blackwood''s rare fools."


    Ethan massaged his forehead and smiled bitterly, unsure whether Daniel''s personality was a blessing or a curse.


    Then he switched the screen again.


    Julian now had five children, and since the Silver Iron Forest was close to Blackwood, all five kids were there now.


    "Oh, Grandpa, look, I''m flying!"


    "Grandpa, Grandpa, today I''m definitely going to run faster than Uncle Turtle!"


    "Five is bullying people, she knocked my nose crooked... but no worries, Grandpa, I''m tough, I straightened it out myself."


    "..."


    Ethan witnessed a bizarre scene, Julian''s children perfectly inherited the genes of Julian and Mary, each one incredibly strong, almost as if cast from the same mold.


    Even Linda, the little girl, was like a young cheetah.


    Take the eldest, Thomas, for example.


    At just 8 years old, he was already 1.5 meters tall, bare-chested with dark skin, he bent his arm to straighten his bleeding nose, his biceps clearly defined...


    From the other children''s unusual physiques for their age, one could predict how robust they would grow as they aged.


    At this moment, the center of the Silver Iron Forest was like their playground, playing extreme sports with psychic beasts, the main theme being fierce.


    The Pig Demon King, now the overlord of the Silver Iron Forest, watched the children play in front of him with a benevolent smile.


    "Julian and Mary really have a knack for raising such kids."


    Ethan didn''t quite know what to say.


    But he was very reassured, since the Pig Demon King who raised Mary had excellent character, and now Julian''s five children were being raised jointly by the Pig Demon King and Blackwood, it would be strange if anything went wrong.


    He was eating the roasted chicken Lisa had brought into the room.


    While switching screens.


    Ethan''s gaze was suddenly caught by a line of text in the event column, his mouth full of meat curved into a smile as he began clicking the mouse.


    [Your descendant Amelia has broken through the initial stage of Emerging Ability.]


    [Her talents have transformed, a mix of four types of Psychic Constitution!]


    [After nearly five years of insight, she suddenly discovered in the "Thousand Herb Scripture" the method of cultivating psychic powers, finding that ancient pharmacists all used plant spirits within their bodies to become divine infants, cultivating their primordial spirits, thus obtaining the great Dao of medicinal body.]


    [Thus, she obtained the family''s psychic beast ''Eight-Leaf Flower Demon''s'' agreement, casting the ''Eight-Leaf Flower Demon'' within her, coexisting and obtaining the "Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Divine Technique"!]


    [The Eight-Leaf Flower Demon, thus transformed into a Nine-Leaf Dan Embryo!]


    [Trait gained: Immortal Embryo]


    "I..."

 Chapter 69 - 69: Amelias Transformation

    Ethan was wide-eyed and dumbstruck as he watched Amelia, who had just emerged from her seclusion and immediately rushed to the Forebearer''s shrine to kneel and shout, "Blessings of the Forebearer."


    At this moment, Amelia had undergone a transformation. Although she was 38 years old, she looked as young as a little girl, yet her appearance remained unchanged, still dressed in her dirty robes, unkempt and crying profusely.


    "Forebearer, it''s been years since I last offered incense to you. Please don''t blame me," she pleaded.


    Ethan, moved by her devotion, bestowed upon Amelia the ''Love of the Forebearer.''


    With trembling hands, he opened Amelia''s profile.


    [Amelia (Second Generation Descendant)]


    [Profession: Ninth Grade Pharmacist]


    [Realm: Early Stage of Emerging Ability]


    [Techniques: Thousand Herb Scripture, Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique] S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Traits: Plant Affinity, Immortal Fetus]


    Amelia had transformed not just superficially; the gains from the ''Thousand Herb Scripture'' could even surpass those from the legendary psychic relic, the '' Death Coffin''! After all, Earth had seen the resurgence of psychic abilities for a millennium, even producing immortals.


    Anything related to ''immortal'' was extraordinary!


    He clicked on [Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique] and [Immortal Fetus], finding that the descriptions of the technique and trait were the same, and related to the ''Nine-Leaf Dan Fetus'' formed inside Amelia''s body.


    [Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique, cultivating the Nine-Leaf Dan Fetus, breaking through one realm at a time, can become an Immortal Fetus!]


    [Speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 30%, speed of growing herbs increased by 100%. From now on, the effects of all herbs in the world can be recognized.]


    The summary was concise.


    From Ethan''s understanding of the introduction so far, each time Amelia broke through a major realm, an additional leaf would sprout on the Dan Fetus, enhancing her aptitude each time, ultimately forming an Immortal Fetus.


    Now, Amelia''s Nine-Leaf Dan Fetus had already formed two leaves, changing her aptitude to four Psychic Constitutions.


    Three leaves would change it to three Psychic Constitutions.


    Four leaves, to two Psychic Constitutions.


    And so on.


    With each breakthrough, Amelia''s aptitude would increase, and her strength would also grow due to the enhancement of her aptitude!


    Ethan had never heard of such an abnormal constitution.


    Undoubtedly, as long as Amelia could steadily make breakthroughs, she would one day become an immortal. Even if her current strength was inferior to others, once her aptitude reached two Psychic Constitutions, one Psychic Constitution, or even the stronger Heavenly Psychic Constitution...


    Her strength would double.


    Moreover, her ''Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique'' was also strengthening. It now possessed two levels of techniques, the first being of ordinary grade, and the second of yellow grade.


    If she could break through these levels one by one, Amelia could possess heavenly, or even stronger techniques.


    The most terrifying part was that once broken through, the technique''s progress in cultivating psychic powers would reach 100%, achieving a transcendent level!


    "Abnormal."


    Ethan swallowed, clicking on the ''Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique.''


    A bold idea occurred to him.


    [You have chosen the descendant''s technique, ''Heavenly Punishment Herb and Wood Technique''.]


    [Would you like to replicate the technique?]


    [Cost of Spiritual Tribute: 9999999....]


    "???"


    "Even more abnormal."


    Observing the astronomical values of Spiritual Tribute needed, Ethan could no longer gauge the level of techniques contained within the "Heavenly Retribution Herbal God Technique." Nor could he estimate Amelia''s current potential.


    Ethan suppressed the shock and excitement in his heart. He clearly understood that no matter how strong Amelia''s potential was, at present, she was just slightly stronger than someone with an initial Emerging Ability, and a gifted pharmacist at that.


    What needed to be done now was not to fantasize about the future but to focus on the current development. If development couldn''t proceed, everything else was just empty talk!


    Ethan began to accelerate the flow of time. After acquiring a vast amount of resources, and as Blackwood''s strength continued to grow, Blackwood did not become complacent but instead kept these secrets hidden, quietly developing.


    [After consulting with your descendant Olivia, Olivia decided to hide the family''s large stock of Energy Stones, gradually increasing the family''s psychic fields by ten acres each year.]


    [Gratitude Village no longer plants ordinary crops. Amelia gifted the psychic medicinal seeds, which any ordinary person could plant, to the villagers, slowly teaching them how to cultivate.]


    [As every household in Gratitude Village became increasingly prosperous, more and more ordinary residents and those cultivating psychic powers flocked to the village. Incidents of petty theft increased, and there were even cases of people deceiving the villagers of Gratitude Village. The people of Blackwood decided to build walls around Gratitude Village to prevent disturbances from outsiders.]


    "Has the prototype of a city already begun to form?" Ethan mused as he watched.


    In the game screen, the villagers of Gratitude Village, once again numbering 3,000, volunteered to build the city. With the ability to eat psychic rice periodically, the villagers'' strength grew stronger, reaching the level of ordinary martial artists, and lifting a hundred pounds of stone was no longer a problem.


    Under the accelerated time rate, these game characters were engaged in infrastructure construction.


    However, this city was somewhat different, mostly inhabited by the original villagers of Gratitude Village. Each household had a ''B'' tattoo, inked with the blood of Blackwood people, making it clear who truly owed allegiance to Blackwood.


    For those wanting to join Gratitude Village, Blackwood also took measures, screening them carefully. Unless a person was marked with the ''B'' by someone from Blackwood, they could not truly gain Blackwood''s trust.


    [Your descendant Amelia successfully produced the eighth-grade medicinal potion ''Heavenly Origin Psychic Recovery Powder,'' which can restore a significant amount of psychic power for those in the Emerging Ability phase or below!]


    [Your descendant Amelia has successfully advanced to an eighth-grade pharmacist!]


    [Under her years of cultivation, a ninth-grade pharmacist has emerged in the psychic medicinal garden.]


    Soon, Amelia, as usual, came to the shrine to pay her respects. Ethan also sent her a ''Forebearer''s Love.''


    However, this guy becoming an eighth-grade pharmacist so quickly was expected, and indeed, with enough medicinal materials, Amelia could refine all eighth-grade medicinal potions in a short time!


    This was the terrifying aspect of her current talent. Amelia even wanted to see if others could cultivate psychic powers like her using the "Heavenly Retribution Herbal God Technique," but the result was...


    A bolt of heavenly thunder struck from the sky, nearly killing the newly cultivated ninth-grade pharmacist. She dared not try again.


    "Is it a unique existence? But as long as I have enough Spiritual Tribute values, it''s not a problem for me."


    Ethan pondered deeply but still couldn''t clarify the reason. This technique had already surpassed his current understanding.

 Chapter 70 - 70: Chaos Ascending

    [With the increase in resources, the members of Black Blood Hall in Gratitude Village have grown to 300!]


    [The Forge Pavilion has been working overtime and has finally crafted enough black iron beast blood suits, the effects of which rival mid-grade psychic gear.]


    After receiving support from the Silver Iron Forest, the Forge Pavilion and the Psychic Medicine Garden benefited the most!


    The Silver Iron Forest has a plethora of exotic beasts and psychic creatures at Blackwood''s command, and Luna periodically leads teams into the forest to extract blood from these psychic and exotic beasts.


    Julian now owns over twenty ''Blood Altars'' used for soaking equipment.


    The remaining beast blood can support the cultivation of ten beast blood fruit trees!


    When the exotic beasts need to breakthrough, they too can benefit from the beast blood fruit trees¡ªa truly win-win situation.


    [Your descendant Lucas is cultivating psychic powers in the Death Coffin, and his magical martial skills have improved.]


    [Nathan is cultivating psychic powers in the Death Coffin....]


    [Luna is in the Death Coffin...]


    Nathan and his wife, along with Lucas who is deeply engrossed in swordsmanship, often spend time in the Death Coffin cultivating psychic powers, occasionally coaxing Daniel to train in the coffin as well.


    Their cultivation of the ''Sky Codex'' is also progressing.


    However, Blackwood dares not use the magical martial arts from the ''Sky Codex'' outside carelessly, as these are the secret techniques of the Sky Sect and could cause trouble if leaked.


    The villagers of Gratitude Village are still cultivating psychic powers using the magical martial arts obtained from the three annihilated families.


    Their progress is also quite rapid.


    Now, the training hall built by Blackwood has ten units.


    [Blackwood Year 46.]


    [Mary, after being pregnant for ten months, gave birth to twins, named Andrew and Nancy!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute+30!]


    Mary is undoubtedly the most hardworking daughter-in-law in Blackwood, and as the cries of the newborns echoed again in the delivery room, the midwife skillfully handed the two children to Nathan and his wife, filling the people of Blackwood with indescribable joy.


    "Forebearer, look at me, I''ve given birth to two more children, much better than my older brother!" Julian exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement as he looked at the children cradled in his parents'' arms.


    Lucas glared at Julian, but was used to his younger brother''s brashness, his face darkening as he scolded, "What kind of talk is that? Do you think just because we''re all grown up, I won''t beat you up?"


    "Ahaha, I''m just happy, really happy today."


    Julian scratched his head.


    Watching the screen showing the joyful family, Ethan spontaneously sent a ''Forebearer''s Love'' to each of them.


    "Their time sure flies."


    Ethan said with a beaming smile.


    Soon, the scene shifted, and Blackwood was hosting a grand feast to celebrate the new births.


    Over the years, Ethan noticed that Blackwood had made many friends, with guests filling the hall.


    The Rodriguez and Martinez families from Forest Town, the Moores from Silverwood Town, the Anderson family supported by Horizon Falls Town, and other major families from nearby towns who had business dealings with Blackwood all brought gifts.


    Just as he was counting Blackwood''s friends, a line of text suddenly appeared in the event column, clashing with the festive atmosphere.


    [Special Event]


    [The two major sects behind Tranquil County Town have reignited their old feud after many years, reaching a point of no return, with a great battle imminent and chaos approaching.]


    "???"


    Ethan was momentarily stunned. He remembered that when Marcus joined the Sky Sect, there were hints of the conflict between the Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Gate, and Marcus''s master had died amidst their disputes. These two factions had been clashing every so often, battling for hundreds of years.


    However, he had always focused on his family''s development and hadn''t realized the chaos outside had escalated to this extent. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Looking at the game screen.


    They were discussing this very issue at the dinner table!


    Jerry shook his head and sighed, "Ah, the strife between sects, it''s always us families, even the common folk, who suffer."


    The head of the Moore family also looked troubled.


    "I have a friend in the Sky Sect, she shared some insider details with me. Originally, it was the discovery of an ancient stele by the two major sects that revealed there had been an ancient battle around Tranquil County. A Supreme-level master had fallen, leaving behind treasures like a Heavenly Coffin."


    "So, they found the ancient tomb and cast spells that triggered the tomb''s grand formation, causing nearly twenty years of severe drought in Tranquil County and the surrounding areas."


    "They said they were searching for some Heavenly Coffin, but it turned out to be a joke. In that tomb, there was nothing but a fart left by an ancient power with great magical force preserved over the ages."


    "For a joke, they completely disregarded the lives of the common people and us. Now with both sides at war, how are we to stay wise and protect ourselves?"


    Upon hearing this, everyone in Blackwood remained composed, but inside, they were already in turmoil!


    Even Ethan felt the same way!


    "Holy crap?!!"


    In an instant, Ethan understood!


    No wonder Nathan had found that mysterious long spear in the Mystic Boar Forest at the beginning of the drought.


    No wonder the Heavenly Coffin had appeared.


    "That means, they got the location wrong, activated the magic, and it was only then that the mysterious long spear and the Heavenly Coffin in Gratitude Village emerged, eventually coming into our possession at Blackwood."


    Ethan''s scalp tingled.


    But fortunately, both the Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Gate believed that the ancient legends were non-existent, a mere play by the powerful from the past. As long as they kept it under wraps, no one would suspect that the Heavenly Coffin was with Blackwood!


    "Phew..."


    Ethan let out a long sigh of relief.


    He was now grateful for his caution, always having the people of Blackwood keep the secret of the Heavenly Coffin. Otherwise, just a hint of a clue would have the two sects, mocked by the ancient powers, tearing Blackwood apart!


    Soon, the banquet on the game interface was over.


    And the descendants of Blackwood walked worriedly towards the ancestral hall.


    The most pressing matter now was, if the two major sects were to fight, they too would be affected!


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, asking everyone for details.


    Olivia spoke gravely:


    "Forebearer, for a long time, our Tranquil County and the twelve towns have been dominated by these two major sects. Tranquil County is just one of them, and each of the two sects also occupies two other county towns."


    "For many years, Tranquil County has been jointly owned by the two sects, with taxes split evenly. Now with both sides at war, Tranquil County might also fall into their scramble."


    "When that happens, even the county government won''t be able to manage much. Tranquil County will become a land of chaos! We could be ordered around by the two major sects at any time, and we could also be vulnerable to those who fish in troubled waters."


    "Mr. Moore said, their conflict is irreparable. According to the books my son has read, this war could very well last for decades, even a century!"


    Ethan rubbed the mouse.


    He could feel that the days ahead were likely to be anything but peaceful.

 Chapter 71 - 71: Forebearers Wisdom

    In the midst of a great war between two sects, the future was uncertain for everyone.


    Ethan, however, knew clearly that if he wanted Blackwood to survive and even profit from this potential century-long disaster, strength was paramount. Without it, what right did Blackwood have to speak of anything else?


    But the sharp blade of adversity is also a catalyst for progress.


    [In the news of the war between the two sects, your descendants sensed the unknown dangers. To ensure the family''s survival through this disaster, they began to cherish every moment to strengthen their family''s power.]


    [Your family gains the trait: Steadfast Progress] S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Until the crisis ends, your family members'' speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 10%, their insight increases by 10%, making it easier to seize opportunities to develop the family. The current generation will remember this crisis and permanently enhance the ''Steadfast Progress'' trait by 10%.]


    BUFF!


    Ethan''s tense mood began to ease. After resolving the troubles in Forest Town, the revenge BUFF had already disappeared, and now Blackwood had gained a collective trait once again.


    "Indeed, no matter the challenge, opportunities coexist with it, don''t they?" Ethan mused.


    He suddenly slapped his thigh.


    "Right, if I don''t view this as a danger but as an opportunity, everything changes!" Ethan then focused intently on the screen.


    Indeed, the war between the two sects could plunge Blackwood into unpredictable peril.


    But as Olivia had said before, in such circumstances, the two major sects were busy fighting each other, leaving them no time to attend to other matters. It was for this reason that some forces or individuals could fish in troubled waters and seize advantages.


    Then...


    Why should Blackwood wait to be exploited by others instead of becoming the hunter themselves?


    "My thoughts just cleared up all of a sudden."


    Ethan was about to summon his descendants via the Purple Thunder Solar Python to discuss his realization.


    Just as he clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, he paused.


    His descendants had entered the Forebearer''s shrine.


    As usual, after their bows, Nathan, with a joyful expression, said, "Forebearer, today Daniel emerged from cultivating psychic powers in the Death Coffin. He said he had been constantly attacked by zombies on the first level, but after he took the initiative, the path to the end of the first level became much easier."


    "So he asked me, why can''t our Blackwood take the initiative in the disaster of the war between the two sects?"


    "Forebearer, I don''t know if this foolish child''s words are right or not, please enlighten us!"


    "..."


    Ethan''s smile gradually faded, and he stared numbly at Daniel in the game screen¡ªthe guy with innocent eyes that seemed to scream ''I''m a fool, come deceive me!''


    He was motionless for a long time.


    Nathan in the screen also didn''t receive any response from Ethan, which made him almost urge, ''Forebearer, please speak.''


    "I ended up thinking the same as Daniel, who''s always being deceived in the family?"


    Ethan clenched his teeth and clicked on the Purple Thunder Solar Python''s icon.


    [Good.]


    After entering the text, the people of Blackwood received the response from the Purple Thunder Solar Python and burst into joy.


    "Forebearer agrees, haha!"


    "I told you Daniel isn''t stupid; he can also think of useful methods."


    "Follow me, grandson."


    Ethan clenched his teeth, gripping the flesh of his thigh tightly.


    Stay calm!


    Absolutely must stay calm, no smashing the keyboard!


    Then, looking at the time flow speed on the screen, Ethan felt relieved.


    "It''s okay, why should I doubt myself? Days have passed in the game, and I figured it out quickly."


    "Yes, that''s right, my descendants can think like me, I should be happy, it shows he has grown up."


    "I need to smile!!!"


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    The phone rang, and Ethan answered it, immediately hearing Alan''s joyful voice, "Mr. Ethan, I''ve sold the goods, made a big profit..."


    "Alan, do you think I look like a fool?"


    "Ah? Why would you suddenly ask that?" Alan''s voice faltered, then he said solemnly, "I know I had a bad reputation before, but Mr. Ethan, rest assured, I swear on my life that from the time I started working with Mr. Ethan, I will never take kickbacks."


    "Hahaha."


    Ethan finally showed a smile, "Talking to a smart person is just simple."


    After hanging up the phone, Ethan finally felt at ease.


    ...


    [During the chaos in Forest Town, the Blackwood family, led by Nathan and his wife, decided to secretly eliminate the Lightning Legion. They borrowed a psychic beast, the Wind Shadow Psychic Bird, from the Silver Iron Forest for this mission.]


    Ethan, while sipping on his drink, paid close attention to this special operation. As he delved deeper into the game, he understood that each special operation had its specific reasons¡ªeither a significant threat to Blackwood or an opportunity to gain benefits.


    Although Ethan was always focused on the growth of Blackwood''s power, he was aware of the details of this mission.


    The Lightning Legion, located within Forest County''s Listening Wind Town, had its strongest member only at the mid-stage of Emerging Ability.


    This small sect, supported solely by Emerging Ability, was relatively weak. However, to eliminate the Lightning Legion, Blackwood had prepared for two months and even utilized the connections of the Forest Rodriguez family.


    The reason was that the Lightning Legion was loyal to the Xuanwu Gate, and without thorough preparation and avoiding the eyes and ears of the Xuanwu Gate, Blackwood could face significant troubles.


    The ultimate goal was to obtain the superior psychic equipment within the martial arts hall¡ªthe [Performance Psychic Pearl].


    [Emerging Ability practitioners could engrave techniques on the Psychic Pearl, which others could use to cultivate psychic powers.]


    While this item might seem ordinary, Blackwood went to great lengths because they learned that after decades of experiments, placing the Performance Psychic Pearls in a building similar to the Gratitude Village training room could further accelerate the speed of cultivating psychic powers in the training room!


    By now, Blackwood had already started dismantling those ten training rooms and was combining them into one large training room, preparing to place the Performance Psychic Pearl under the dome.


    Soon, under the cover of a deep night, Nathan and his wife, along with the psychic beast, headed towards the small mountain outside Listening Wind Town where the Lightning Legion was located. In the ancient building complex, the intent to kill surged instantly!


    Luna, holding a primary psychic device and already capable of battling the peak of Emerging Ability, together with the peak Emerging Ability-level Wind Shadow Psychic Bird, which was as elusive as a sparrow, found no match in this small sect.


    The Lightning Legion had only a mid-Emerging Ability stage leader and two early Emerging Ability stage elders.


    The couple from Blackwood, along with their psychic beast, clearly knew exactly where to go and whom to kill. It was a night perfect for a swift and decisive action.


    Ethan intended to switch the screen to check on other descendants, but his hand paused on the mouse.

 Chapter 72 - 72: Nathans Past

    When Ethan saw the people of Blackwood swiftly subdue and capture the leader of the Lightning Legion, dragging him to a cliff miles outside the town, Nathan tightly gripped the man''s neck.


    "What''s going on?" Ethan munched on a melon, noticing the complex emotions in Nathan''s eyes¡ªhatred, relief, and perhaps liberation?


    "Do you remember who I am?" Nathan''s voice was haunting, slightly trembling.


    "My friend, I... I don''t know how I have offended you all. Let''s talk this out. Are you after the Performance Psychic Pearl? Take it, it''s yours. I...


    I have many Energy Stones, I can give you all the valuable things from our martial hall!"


    The leader of the Lightning Legion wasn''t foolish; knowing these people dared to come, he wasn''t concerned about the backing of the Black Shell Sect. He simply begged for mercy, prioritizing his survival.


    "You don''t remember." Nathan sighed deeply. "It''s been forty-nine years. You don''t remember me, but I remember you."


    "Who... who are you?!!" The leader grew more terrified.


    Nathan ignored him, continuing on his own:


    "You, the Lightning Legion, claim to be a reputable sect in this town of Whisper, but in reality, you are utterly vile. Back then, you were at the peak of Foundational Energy, just when you founded the Lightning Legion. Oh, and you had another role¡ªstealing children and selling them as slaves."


    "You..."


    The leader tried to speak, but the veins on his forehead bulged as Nathan''s grip silenced him, and with a casual slap, he disabled the leader''s internal strength!


    "Children with good potential, you would sell to major sects."


    "Those with poor potential, you used as cauldrons!"


    Nathan calmly broke the leader''s limbs.


    "Do you know, when we twelve cauldrons reached the age of twenty, just when you were about to use us to nourish your Gu insects, to save our lives from the hell that was the Lightning Legion, only I managed to escape alive. I still remember my companions yelling for me to run faster!"


    "Run faster... Number 7, you must escape..."


    "I escaped, my companions died, and I could only follow the memories of my childhood to find my former home, only to find my parents'' graves. The thatched cottage was abandoned, only the Forebearer cards remained."


    "When you kidnapped me, I was young, I didn''t remember my own name, you named me Number 7."


    "I know I''m not capable, but I''ve dreamt of your death, of your martial hall''s ruin!"


    Nathan exhaled deeply, and only when Luna placed her hand on his shoulder did Nathan show a reassuring smile to the worried Luna, finally staring coldly at the leader, "Now I''m not called Number 7, the nameless one who once fled with his tail between his legs. I have a name, Nathan. Remember me in your next life, my name is Nathan!"


    "It''s time to let go of the past."


    Nathan truly let go, dropping the leader off the cliff, then borrowing a psychic weapon from Luna, he flew down and bombarded the area until the leader''s flesh mixed with the filthy soil.


    Watching everything on the screen, Ethan felt as if he stood beside Nathan, the cold night wind blowing on him.


    He felt a bitter sweetness in his heart.


    It was his first time learning of Nathan''s tragic past, perhaps the reason Nathan gained the trait ''Strive for Strength'', and why, after acquiring new techniques, he continually changed, seeking a better life.


    Years ago, Blackwood had the power to avenge Nathan.


    But Nathan hadn''t sought revenge, perhaps knowing already that the Lightning Legion had powerful backers, suppressing his hatred for the sake of his family''s development. Even today, it was because the family needed the Performance Psychic Pearl, otherwise Nathan might still not risk acting on personal desires.


    As the booming sounds filled the game screen.


    [Your descendant Nathan has broken free from years of suppressed inner demons, the trait ''Strive for Strength'' has evolved¡ª]


    [Trait: Destined for Greatness!]


    [Your descendant Nathan has advanced¡ª]


    [Mid-stage Emerging Ability!]


    Nathan''s resilience is truly rare.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t have been able to lead his family to such prosperity from the countryside during a year of severe drought, armed with nothing but a copy of the "Psychic Arts Manual."


    If it were anyone else, Ethan reckoned he''d have to constantly invoke the ''Forebearer''s Fury.''


    [Trait: Destined for Greatness]


    [Late Bloomer, cultivating psychic powers speed increased by 20%. Due to breaking through mental barriers, an open mind, and enhanced comprehension, mastering mystical arts and martial skills becomes easier!]


    After returning from Listening Wind Town, Nathan was also quick to burn incense and bow in prayer.


    Ethan glanced at his current Spiritual Tribute¡ª S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    27650.


    "Still a long way to go."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow, as with more descendants in Blackwood, he could generally gain 3000 Spiritual Tribute annually, sometimes more during special events.


    And he had long coveted the profound technique "Mystic Shadow Celestial Steps" from the "Sky Codex."


    Now, after years of cultivating psychic powers, the most advanced, Lucas, had only reached 28% proficiency.


    "By the time Lucas truly masters this technique to a divine level, it''ll probably take 100,000 Spiritual Tribute points to replicate."


    Ethan pondered how to utilize these Spiritual Tribute points.


    [Your family has built a large training hall, named the Three-Tiered Combat Tower!]


    Following the event log''s prompt.


    There it was.


    In the center of Gratitude Village, a three-tiered spire stood tall. Ethan learned that this combat tower, constructed by a master hired at a high price by Blackwood, had become a major psychic equipment facility. As long as no one dug into the combat tower, the existence of the Performance Psychic Pearl would remain undiscovered.


    The tower could manifest master phantoms, continuously demonstrating mystical arts and martial skills day and night, as long as there were enough Energy Stones, also enhancing the tower''s psychic energy.


    Entry to the first layer required Foundational Energy, and so forth.


    The people of Blackwood immediately transferred the mystical arts and martial skills they had collected over the years, including "Gonzalez''s Body Forging Technique," "Wandering Dragon Steps," and "Breeze Technique," totaling thirty-six arts, into the combat tower using their magical powers.


    As for the people of Blackwood, they now placed even greater emphasis on cultivating psychic powers from the "Sky Codex."


    After dealing with the combat tower, the people of Blackwood gathered together, for them, eliminating the Lightning Legion was just the beginning!


    Olivia, sitting at the head of the family table, said to Nathan, "Father, the matter with the Lightning Legion was handled cleanly, no one suspects us. You used the Sky Sect''s Thunder Summoning Scripture, and now the Black Shell Gate suspects it was the Sky Sect''s doing."


    "Indeed."


    Nathan nodded slightly, his past as fleeting as the wind, and now he stood firm like an ancient tree in the wind, "Let''s drop the matter, and speak no more of it. Our Blackwood is but a small family, and that is our best disguise."


    "Understood, father."


    Olivia took a sip of tea, her voice firm, "We had planned to go to Whisper River Valley, but that must now be canceled."


    Before Nathan could respond.


    Amelia interjected anxiously, "Why? Has something changed? What about the Dayheart Herb?"


    In these days, Blackwood''s scheming wasn''t just about the Lightning Legion.


    The family had developed and conducted business far and wide, making both friends and enemies.


    Now was the time for reckoning.

 Chapter 73 - 73: Amelias Resolve

    Olivia mentioned that Whisper Valley is one of them, and their sect''s residence has a large amount of Tianxin grass.


    This is also the main herb lacking in the new medicine Amelia wants to concoct!


    "Demons with psychic abilities."


    Olivia''s simple words caused a change in the expressions of everyone at Blackwood.


    In this world, there are those with demonic psychic abilities, who often differ from ordinary psychics. In their quest for rapid cultivation of psychic powers, their methods often harm the natural order.


    Some use human blood as a sacrifice, or even use humans as cauldrons to cultivate their psychic powers.


    This is akin to cannibalism, the raw and unrefined kind, similar to eating human brains raw. Such methods of cultivating psychic powers, as Ethan knows, can lead to diseases just like cannibalism does, making them become mad, irritable, bloodthirsty, and greedy.


    They can be considered psychics who are constantly high on drugs.


    "I got the news from the Rodriguez family; the small sect we were interested in was already claimed by others."


    Olivia continued, "The scene retained the unique aura of those with demonic psychic abilities, and their methods were unorthodox. They are extremely cunning, taking advantage of the major sects'' war to achieve their goals and then disappearing without a trace."


    "My Tianxin grass!"


    Amelia knew well that once the Tianxin grass fell into the hands of those with demonic psychic abilities, it would be hard to retrieve, and she immediately felt disheartened.


    Just then.


    A guard from Blackwood''s affiliated Black Blood Hall hurriedly came to report, especially since he was holding a token that made everyone at Blackwood''s expressions suddenly become solemn.


    A token from the Sky Sect!


    Nathan took the token, and a white light entered his mind.


    It was a message left by a master of the Sky Sect within the token.


    In just a moment, Nathan''s eyes narrowed.


    "There''s news about the Tianxin grass."


    ...


    [Special Event]


    [Disaster Caused by Demonic Psychic Abilities]


    [Due to the war between two major sects, the masters of the Sky Sect couldn''t attend to the mundane matters of Tranquil City. Hearing about the chaos caused by those with demonic psychic abilities, the disciples of the sect have descended the mountain to train and sincerely invite masters from all forces to help the Sky Sect eliminate the demons!]


    After receiving the command from the Sky Sect, Nathan went to report at the Forebearer''s shrine.


    Ethan also saw the information.


    "Eliminating demons and defending the path, huh?"


    It''s kind of interesting to talk about it, sects like the Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Sect, each claiming to be reputable and orthodox.


    But look at how many lives are lost when they open ancient tombs?


    The two sects fight every so often, stirring up storms.


    But to say they are bad...


    As soon as the matter of those with demonic psychic abilities harming others came out, they became quite self-aware.


    While pondering, Nathan had already knelt down to worship, "Forebearer, I bid you farewell on this journey. Next year at the grand ceremony, your child can only offer incense to our ancestors from afar!"


    With these words.


    The people of Blackwood were stunned.


    Ethan also frowned, listening to Nathan''s words, it seemed he was going to participate in this mission to eliminate those with demonic psychic abilities.


    Then small characters appeared above Nathan''s head.


    "The disciples of the Sky Sect have found the location of those with demonic psychic abilities in the Thunderfire Demon Cave! If the temple''s guardian beast is to transform, it needs the heavenly thunder and earthly fire from within the Thunderfire Demon Cave!"


    No wonder Nathan got involved in this matter.


    Ethan was also somewhat tempted.


    The Purple Thunder Solar Python wants to advance to the rank of Demon King, and heavenly thunder and earthly fire are one of the conditions!


    But...


    The location of this mission is very far, not a day''s work. It''s already difficult to eliminate demons, and the disciples of the Sky Sect who come to train are just novices, not even knowing the specific numbers and strengths of those with demonic psychic abilities, making the danger level very high.


    "Enough!" Suddenly, Amelia, who was usually quiet, raised her voice, silencing everyone.


    Feeling everyone''s gaze, Amelia ruffled her messy hair, her dirty face breaking into a smile, her bright white teeth more evident. "Dad, you really shouldn''t go. Big brother is right, over the years, it''s always been you and sister four showing your faces. The families we control in secret only recognize you. If you''re away for too long, chaos will ensue."


    "Mom definitely can''t go either. With your demonic cultivation, it''s just not convenient."


    Glancing at her elder brother, whose expression had softened, Amelia said, "Big brother, you shouldn''t go either."


    "Hmm?" Lucas furrowed his brows.


    "The plans set by sister four involve the Black Blood Hall, and you''re the most familiar with its people. Besides, you can''t expect dad to be running around with the Black Blood Hall, can you?"


    As she finished speaking, she looked towards Julian, who by now was standing tall and proud.


    Amelia rolled her eyes, "Third brother..."


    "You have seven children, they''re not grown up yet. Do you want to come back and have them not recognize you? And the Forge Hall, after all these years, you''re the only psychic equipment craftsman. Everyone at home is waiting for you to produce top-quality psychic equipment."


    Her words hit Julian right where it hurt.


    All eyes were on Amelia.


    "Second sister, are you going?" Olivia looked troubled. Everyone in the family was volunteering, yet she, with no cultivation, could only watch helplessly as her family faced danger.


    Whenever this happened, she questioned whether the path she had chosen was the right one.


    "What? You look down on your second sister?"


    Amelia joked, her usually carefree face suddenly turning serious as she looked at her many relatives. "I''m the most suitable one to go. I can''t make medicines anymore. My psychic medicine garden has fifteen apprentices who can prepare ordinary potions, and I''ve raised a ninth-grade pharmacist from childhood, which is enough to meet the family''s needs."


    "Amelia..."


    Nathan wanted to persuade her.


    But Amelia cut him off, "Father, you know, I''m not as capable as you, but with potions and some new skills I''ve acquired recently, surviving won''t be a problem."


    "In terms of intelligence, I''m not as good as you all... except for the third brother. But having experienced so much over the years, I understand how to deal with outsiders."


    "Especially being a woman, outsiders will underestimate me, which is the best disguise."


    "Besides..."


    "I''m not foolish. My goal is to find the demon cave and investigate the situation with the heavenly thunder and earthly fire, not to court death. If I encounter danger, won''t I run? Those demon-possessed psychics even stole my Tianxin grass, I have to avenge that too!"


    With sound reasoning, the people of Blackwood were left speechless. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Amelia then bowed deeply to the Forebearer''s cards, her voice firm:


    "Please, Forebearer, allow your child to undertake this great task!"


    [Good.]


    Ethan silently clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, Amelia had convinced him.

 Chapter 74 - 74: Magic Little Pill

    As the year drew to a close, with the grand festival of Blackwood on the horizon, Amelia braced against the chilly wind. Dressed in her everyday attire, she walked to the entrance of Gratitude Village, accompanied by four psychic beasts borrowed from the Silver Iron Forest. From her bosom, she retrieved the Forebearer cards.


    Turning to her family who had escorted her to the village entrance, she smiled reassuringly, "Don''t worry, I''m taking the Forebearer with me. Whether it''s the Sky Sect or demon-possessed psychics, with the Forebearer''s blessing, I''m not heading to my doom. I''ll let them know that in Tranquil County, there''s a Blackwood."


    "Blackwood has a daughter, Amelia!"


    At her words, the people of Blackwood laughed.


    "Well said!" Nathan squinted his eyes, "Amelia, there will be people from various major forces of Tranquil County on this journey. Don''t be afraid of trouble, and if any arises, just send a letter back."


    "Dad, I''m forty-two, not a child," Amelia said with a wry smile.


    Then, under the watchful eyes of her family, she slowly turned and headed towards Tranquil County, waving her hand. Under the lingering glow of the setting sun, her usually dirt-stained clothes from working in the psychic medicine garden, along with her slender figure, shone like a radiant fairy.


    ...


    Amelia left Gratitude Village half a month ago.


    Sitting in his room, Ethan took a deep breath.


    He could feel that with the two major wars, Tranquil County was becoming more chaotic, which was why the usually cautious Nathan dared to venture into the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Everyone in Blackwood knew.


    Only by continuously becoming stronger and rapidly enhancing the family''s power could they prevent the family from being affected by the two major wars!


    "As the Forebearer, it''s time for me to exert some effort."


    While keeping an eye on the progress in the game, and seeing that there was only one day left until the 50-year grand ceremony of Blackwood, Ethan let the game world''s time run as usual.


    He dialed Alan''s phone.


    "Alan, can you come to my house within an hour? This time I''ll give you 200 blood fruits and some new stuff, but I hope you can bring what I want."


    Shortly after.


    Just five minutes later, the doorbell at home rang.


    After walking out of the room and opening the front door, Ethan saw Alan''s panting face, "200 pieces? Quick, a customer wants them! And new stuff, it can''t be worse than blood fruits, right? My customers are very picky."


    "Don''t rush. Come in and have some milk tea first."


    Ethan shook his head and smiled, what does ''very picky'' mean?


    He could tell that Alan''s clients must really like the blood fruits.


    But in reality, beast blood fruits are nothing special in Blackwood!


    After bringing Alan into the house and giving him some milk tea, Ethan extended his hand towards Alan, "Let me see what I want first."


    "Ouch, my Mr. Ethan, I must say first, I did get the stuff. But please don''t misuse it, if you want to prank a classmate or something, just tell me. If you want to deal with the psychic old lady, once we''ve earned enough Energy Stones, dealing with her wouldn''t take a minute, right?"


    While Alan was still talking, he took out the Storage Ring and threw it to Ethan.


    Ignoring Alan''s advice.


    Ethan glanced at the items in the Storage Ring and frowned, "Only two?"


    "Yes, two." Alan shrugged, "These things are not easy to get, and where could I find more for you in such a short time? I got these from an extremist organization for you."


    "How many more can you get?"


    Ethan also felt he was being presumptuous, it was already not simple for Alan to get contraband, yet he still wanted more.


    Alan thought for a moment, "I''ll make some more contacts, as you know, the kind of stuff you want can''t be guaranteed. But I''m sure, the amount I get next time won''t be less than this time."


    "Good."


    Ethan wasn''t demanding, he smiled and said, "Drink your milk tea first, Alan, I''ll go to the room to get your stuff."


    Saying this, Ethan entered the room.


    He quickly accelerated the game''s flow of time.


    In the game.


    The descendants of Blackwood gathered in the Forebearer''s shrine, kneeling before his cards. The Mystic Burner in front of the altar was already prepared with their Tribute Offering for this trip! sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Blackwood 50 years, the grand ceremony that happens every ten years begins!]


    [Your descendants offer you a Tribute Offering¡ª¡ª]


    [First-order beast blood fruits, 200 pieces!]


    [Gold psychic powder, 20 portions!]


    [Penis Enhancement Pills, 10 portions!]


    [You choose to take out!]


    Soon, the Tribute Offering appeared on Ethan''s table.


    Ethan didn''t delay.


    He directly placed the Storage Ring in the copper furnace, and the Storage Ring made a clinking sound.


    [Detected that you are using a Divine Gift on your descendants, granting¡ª¡ª]


    [Celestial Star Psychic Seeker x2!]


    After transferring the items.


    Ethan immediately left the room, as Alan was still waiting outside!


    ...


    "Is this a potion from Mr. Ethan?" Alan blinked, "A new product from Blackwood Group?"


    "Yes."


    Ethan pointed to the golden psychic enhancer, "It boosts your Psychic Constitution by 1-8 points."


    "What?!!"


    Alan''s eyes widened in disbelief. If it weren''t for the fact that he was dealing with Ethan and knowing that Blackwood had previously released incredible potions, he would hardly believe it was true. "Are there any side effects? Is it as miraculous as your family''s Destiny Psychic Enhancement Pills?"


    He was well aware of the Destiny Psychic Enhancement Pills from Blackwood; such pills were incredibly hard to come by in the market.


    And this golden psychic enhancer, although not as potent as the Destiny Psychic Enhancement Pills, was still considered miraculous!


    "1-8 points, specifically targeting the golden psychic constitution," he could imagine how crazy the wealthy young masters with such psychic constitutions would go for it.


    "Yes, there are no side effects. I''m giving you twenty doses, hoping you can sell them for a good price."


    Ethan was very pleased with Alan''s reaction at the moment; the bigger the reaction, the harder Alan could sell.


    "Twenty doses?" Alan was delighted again, "And the remaining ten doses..."


    "Penis Enhancement Pills."


    Seeing the expectant look in Alan''s eyes, Ethan gestured in the air with his hand.


    His expression was somewhat mischievous as he gestured with his hands, starting with a size of about one centimeter, and under Alan''s shocked gaze, the size kept increasing... then the diameter...


    "This kind of effect, and it''s permanent, with no side effects. I think, Alan, you must have friends who need this, right?"

 Chapter 75 - 75: Marcuss Emergence Part 1

    Upon hearing Ethan''s words, Alan swallowed nervously and then hesitated before asking with a serious tone, "Mr. Ethan, I want to ask, if I have a friend... oh, I really do have a friend who can''t last much longer, could using it possibly..."


    "Yes, it could extend it by that much," Ethan replied, stretching out three fingers.


    Alan''s eyes nearly popped out of his head, "Three hours???"


    "What are you thinking? Three hours, and even a bull would have plowed the field to ruin!" Ethan''s facial muscles twitched, "At least three minutes."


    "That''ll do, I guess."


    Alan looked a bit disappointed, but soon smiled again, "Mr. Ethan, I guarantee it will sell well."


    Ethan nodded slightly, "In the future, we will have many collaborations. But as you know, my family isn''t suited for public appearances, so I hope to establish a company under your name. This will solve my Energy Stone storage issues and tax matters, and with your connections, it should be feasible."


    "I''ll give you an additional 3%."


    As Ethan stretched out three fingers again, any momentary hesitation in Alan disappeared.


    Ethan continued, "After this, the company''s daily expenses will be deducted from the books. Oh, and here''s a list I''ve given you, I hope you can help me find these items through the company."


    Alan took a long strip of paper.


    He frowned again, "Elixirs, martial arts techniques, talismans, war AI Bionic Robots... and they''re all quite rare."


    But Alan didn''t dare ask too much, after all, these were items requested by the powerful Blackwood. He even suspected that Blackwood had secretly left Earth to find a new habitable planet and build a new world.


    "Can you manage it?" Ethan asked.


    Alan came back to his senses and pondered for a moment, "The items Mr. Ethan wants, I think we need to start from ancient civilizations. In that case, I have many friends who study ancient epochs."


    "I even have friends in the deep sea, and even on extraterrestrial planets, digging up relics from past epochs. I''ll see if I can get these level of items, but it might take a long time."


    "Thank you," Ethan nodded slightly.


    He knew that the rapid development of this world, with the resurgence of millennium-old abilities, was still due to the unearthed relics of ancient civilizations.


    As Ethan was seeing Alan off.


    Alan suddenly called out to Ethan, "Mr. Ethan, when I was in your villa area, I saw your teacher. He seemed to be asking the gatekeeper Mr. John to find you. He was asking you to participate in a school competition, I found out that the opponent seems to be a Transcendent Seed..."


    "They''ve chased me to my doorstep?"


    Ethan rolled his eyes, "Tell him to stop bothering me, will helping not suffice?"


    Alan grinned, "Right, with the realm of Transcendent Seed, it shouldn''t be a problem for Mr. Ethan to intervene."


    "Who said I was going to take action? I don''t even want to leave my house."


    Ethan shrugged, "In that case, Alan, do me a favor. Before the competition starts, capture that Transcendent Seed, and release him after the competition is over."


    "..."


    Speechless, Alan left Psychic Gear Villa No. 1, suddenly feeling that he was still quite upright and honest.


    ...


    [Blackwood''s 50th Grand Festival Concludes!] sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Congratulations! Your descendants have gathered together, receiving your Divine Gift with gratitude.]


    [You''ve earned +300 Spiritual Tribute!]


    Looking at the nearly 30,000 Spiritual Tribute points on his account, Ethan estimated that if he continued to help develop Blackwood, he might see some returns in about twenty more years of game time.


    Of course, that''s if he doesn''t spend a lot of Spiritual Tribute points in the meantime.


    [Special Event]


    [Lucas, with the Black Blood Hall, stealthily moves at midnight, preparing to intercept the ''Heavy Sand'' minerals escorted by Silverwood Wilson, alongside Qingping Moore.]


    Right after the grand festival, Blackwood was already in action.


    Silverwood Wilson, Ethan had learned about him, was Moore''s longtime enemy. Now, Moore, who had once helped save the Silver Iron Forest for Blackwood, had become an ally of Blackwood, with frequent collaborations.


    Now, even the cautious Silverwood Moore family was seizing opportunities in these chaotic times.


    "Even the cautious Silverwood Moore is fishing in troubled waters now?" Ethan felt the chaos of Tranquil County more than ever.


    Fortunately, he had just sent some items to Blackwood, which could also lend some strength to them.


    In the game.


    Gratitude Village hadn''t encountered any trouble yet, still consuming the resources previously obtained, and the cooperation between Lucas and Moore was going smoothly.


    Ethan decided to check on his two descendants abroad.


    Amelia had already reached the assembly point of the Sky Sect, gathering in Listening Wind Town where Nathan had once destroyed the Lightning Legion. Currently, there were over fifty people, not yet in action, but waiting for more to join the demon-removal team.


    Amelia''s character was also one of not causing trouble, acting low-key, and she was quite safe at the moment.


    Ethan then clicked on Marcus''s avatar.


    Map transition.


    [Sky Sect]


    The scene appeared inside a cave, especially where a milky, dense pool filled with psychic energy made it clear that this was no ordinary place, filling the entire cave with thick fog.


    And Marcus, who had left the Cliff of Reflection just seven years ago.


    Now, he was meditating mid-air above the psychic pool!


    Opening his past experiences, Ethan learned that Marcus had been living as an outer disciple in the Sky Sect for these seven years, unremarkably, but never stopped cultivating psychic powers.


    He had been waiting, waiting to reach the peak of Foundational Energy.


    Then he could inherit the psychic pool left by his master, break through to Emerging Ability, and make a stunning debut!


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly.


    A burst of energy exploded beneath Marcus, causing the psychic fluid in the pool to scatter, and all the psychic energy in the cave entered Marcus''s body.


    He opened his eyes, flames bursting forth!


    Especially from within him, the alchemical fire emerged from his body.


    Raging flames burst around him, completely evaporating the psychic pool, leaving only fierce flames in the cave!


    Emerging Ability, achieved!


    "Twelve years."


    Marcus whispered softly, "Twelve years since the master died. I came here as a youth, and now I''m nearly thirty."


    "Coinciding with the great war between the two sects."


    His voice gradually became colder, his gaze piercing, "Today, I emerge with the body of the Nine Psychic Fires, re-enter the inner door, and reclaim everything of my master. I want everyone in the Sky Sect to know, Blackwood has a son¡ª"


    "Marcus!"

 Chapter 76 - 76: Marcuss Emergence Part 2

    Marcus walked towards the grand halls of the Sky Sect''s temple. Despite having broken through to the Emerging Ability stage, his joy was not apparent on his face. His handsome features remained as calm as if the past twelve years had never happened, resembling a gentle and steady orchid.


    "Truly worthy of being my descendant, even more composed than Lucas. He takes after me," Ethan felt immensely comforted. It was he who had agreed to let Marcus venture into the Sky Sect, and had watched as Marcus faced setbacks time and again.


    Now, at last, he had weathered the storm and saw the light of day!


    [You have used ''Forebearer''s Love'' on Marcus, consuming 20 points of Spiritual Tribute!]


    Ethan did not hesitate to use the level 2 skill.


    "Forebearer!"


    After many years, receiving the grace of the ancient ancestor again, the usually composed Marcus couldn''t help but feel a lump in his throat. He took out the Forebearer cards from his chest and knelt before it,


    "Seven years of arduous cultivation of psychic powers, not only did I break through with the help of my master''s psychic pool, but once I break through the Developing Skill, I will find a way to lift the sect''s restrictions!"


    "The ''Sky Codex'' that has been passed down through the Sky Sect for thousands of years will be used for our Blackwood!"


    Hearing this, Ethan''s expression became even gentler. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He remembered when Marcus had insisted on coming to the Sky Sect, Amelia was worried that Marcus would forget his original intentions, but Marcus had never changed!


    It was just...


    "My child, I have already obtained the ''Sky Codex'', your intentions... you have my appreciation."


    Ethan warmed his heart once more.


    Soon, he saw Marcus rise.


    As time flowed, Marcus had arrived outside a magnificent palace.


    Here, many disciples dressed like Marcus in white robes stood in a square formation, surrounding a spacious square arena that protruded outwards, with a light screen rising straight into the sky at the edge.


    Inside, eight Psychics were fighting, with elders judging beside them.


    [The Sky Sect is holding its once-in-a-decade outer gate martial contest, to allow elders to assess the disciples'' potential and take them as apprentices!]


    "What is he doing here?"


    Ethan furrowed his brows, thinking of Marcus''s master''s tragic death outside and Marcus''s own oppressive experiences upon returning to the sect, Ethan''s mouse quietly moved to the position of the Forebearer cards.


    "Twelve years of cultivating the heart, even Patrick Star would have his edges worn down, Marcus is likely not to act impulsively."


    Watching Marcus''s still calm eyes, Ethan chose to trust his descendant this time.


    But just to be safe, he was always ready to use the Forebearer cards.


    "Go ahead, your ancestor is still strong!"


    ...


    Marcus gently touched the Forebearer cards in his chest.


    In such a situation, and with what he was planning to do, only the Forebearer could soothe his tense emotions.


    Then.


    Marcus looked around, at this Sky Sect martial contest, the sect leader sat in front of the grand hall, surrounded by elders.


    The scene was bustling, but he seemed out of place.


    He suddenly remembered the day thirteen years ago when his master had brought him to the Sky Sect, his master had been very kind to him, almost teaching him everything he knew. Although entering the Sky Sect, his three Psychic Constitution talents were only considered mediocre, his master had said that with his temperament, he was most suited to inherit the Nine Psychic Strange Fires.


    A person''s talent can change, but their nature is fundamental.


    Only now did Marcus understand, perhaps at that time his master already knew that the battle with the Xuanwu Gate was a fight with no survival.


    "My master was right."


    "I carry the blood of Blackwood, and as long as I live, I am a person of the Blackwood clan."


    "I have received my master''s teachings, and I should protect my master''s legacy, those who want to destroy my master''s teachings¡ª"


    "Kill!!!"


    All the previous words were murmurs, until the word ''kill'' was shouted out fiercely by Marcus!


    His father had given him the psychic flying sword thirteen years ago.


    Under everyone''s sidelong glances.


    The psychic flying sword flew straight towards an Emerging Ability early stage Psychic watching the contest at the edge of the arena.


    In that instant.


    Nine palm-sized golden lotuses of flame appeared around him, the raging fire howling, making the air within ten meters intensely hot.


    "Who is this madman? Daring to fight in front of the sect leader and elders, has he lost his mind?!"


    "I know him, he''s Marcus, a disciple brought back by Elder Huolin over a decade ago. The person he''s targeting seems to be his best friend and also an inner disciple, Silas."


    "I heard that Marcus was able to bring back Elder Huolin''s body thanks to information provided by Silas. This is a clear case of repaying kindness with enmity."


    "Hey, where are you going... What? To help Silas make a good impression in front of the sect leader? You better wake up, do you think Marcus could have walked ten meters if the sect leader hadn''t stopped him?"


    A bizarre scene unfolded.


    The Sky Sect''s extremely important sect competition was disrupted by Marcus, yet no one dared to block his way, a situation unprecedented in the over ten thousand years since the Sky Sect was established!


    Marcus was already clashing with Silas.


    Silas was extraordinary, likely having been stuck in the early stages of Emerging Ability for many years, his techniques dazzling to behold.


    He must have practiced the AI Bionic Robot technique, using a formation of twelve bronze figures from his Storage Ring, then invoking heavenly thunder with the ''Thunder Seal '' previously enhanced by Blackwood''s psychic powers.


    Twelve bolts of heavenly thunder struck the bronze figures, directing the thunderous assault at Marcus.


    But that was not all.


    A hundred flying swords emerged from the Storage Ring, gathering above Marcus''s head to form a giant sword that plummeted down, its blade aiming straight for him.


    Silas launched his killing move without a word, likely aware of the peculiar circumstances of Marcus''s unrestrained behavior and the lack of rescue, knowing this battle was a matter of life and death, and that Marcus had to die quickly!


    ...


    "Amazing."


    Ethan commented calmly, praising Silas who was battling Marcus.


    In the scene displayed.


    The heavenly thunder channeled through the twelve bronze figures was already blasting towards Marcus. Logically, the power of heavenly thunder should be a level above that of fire, and the game''s graphics confirmed this as the fireworks bursting from Marcus could not devour the lightning. The thunderbolts surged towards Marcus from the ground formation.


    It seemed to have paralyzed Marcus.


    The blade above him also rushed down at high speed, and Marcus could only become a target.


    But Silas, who was clearly about to kill Marcus, suddenly widened his eyes as if he had seen the King of Hell!


    The heavenly thunder passed through Marcus''s body, only causing a flame pattern to burst forth. The sky-blade cleaved Marcus in two, yet there was no scene of blood and flesh flying.


    The blade then dispersed into hundreds of pieces, weaving through Marcus''s body with a clinking sound.


    The fireworks on Marcus''s body scattered even more, but those flames quickly reformed into Marcus''s body.


    At that moment, Marcus was the embodiment of fireworks!

 Chapter 77 - 77: Marcuss Emergence Part 3

    Especially...


    Ethan was rummaging through the event log for Marcus''s breakthrough notifications.


    [Your descendant bathed in the Heavenly Pool''s Psychic Spring, harnessing this Emerging Ability, leaving only the Golden Fire Psychic Constitution!]


    [Heavenly Pool''s Psychic Spring: As the Fire Scale Elder''s life reaches its limit, a century''s worth of heavenly treasures have gathered to form this psychic fluid. When the time comes to break through the Emerging Ability, this fluid will cleanse the marrow and wash away the vast impurities within the body''s energy sea!]


    [Marcus''s Golden Fire Psychic Constitution, breakthrough at 85 points!]


    At 29 years old, possessing a highly complete dual Psychic Constitution, he is already a rare genius, and breaking through to Developing Skill before his life''s end is unquestionable!


    [Your descendant Marcus has acquired a psychic item, the Nine Psychic Strange Fires, integrating it within himself, his body like flames. The Lotus Fire never extinguishes, his physical body never perishes!]


    [Nine Psychic Strange Fires: Nine paths of Lotus Fire, which can be nurtured by psychic abilities, forged with the abilities of Developing Skill.]


    This psychic item alone is comparable to the finest psychic instruments, and it directly coexists with Marcus.


    Given the chance, Marcus might even break through to the Competent realm.


    This is also why Marcus dared to act recklessly at the Martial Arts Conference!


    Not only that.


    Marcus made a deliberate show for everyone in the Sky Sect, letting them know that he, Marcus, is now the treasure of the Sky Sect!


    He was also showing it to Silas''s master.


    Only by killing Silas on the spot would those old men, who would love nothing more than to pamper Marcus, be wary of Silas''s master!


    It''s not just about whether Silas''s master would move against him for his disciple''s sake, Marcus suspects that if he tripped on the street, they might blame Silas''s master.


    As expected.


    Amidst the pleas of many elders, Master Zhenyang glanced at Silas''s master, "Elder Logan, what do you think? Should we kill this boy?"


    Elder Logan, middle-aged and seemingly honest and simple, forced a smile, "Sect Master, that must not be done, alas, my disciple has become a scourge, but Marcus cleaning up for me is actually a blessing."


    "Hmph, no matter his motives, committing murder in public is a heinous crime, how can our sect forgive him?"


    Master Zhenyang snorted coldly, his gaze icy as he looked at Marcus.


    "Though death is unavoidable, a lesser punishment cannot be escaped, I sentence you to reflect at the Cliff of Contemplation." sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Five days!"


    [Your descendant Marcus has been recognized by the Sky Sect and has been granted the status of a true disciple!]


    "Has this kid, who was bullied for twelve years, become so meticulous?" Ethan felt a pang of emotion as he watched Marcus, who had been punished to face the wall in contemplation for five days, carefully setting up an altar inside the contemplation cliff and gently cards his tablet on it.


    He still remembered everything from before.


    When Marcus was driven out of his home by his mother, he cried all night in his ancestral hall. Every so often, Marcus would come to his ancestral hall to cry, even on the day he was taken away by the Fire Scale Taoist.


    Looking at Marcus now, in the grand hall of the Sky Sect, daring to draw his sword in front of hundreds of masters, his madness was evident.


    He was like a true lone wolf, exploding in silence!


    "Forebearer."


    With the cards set up, Marcus finally showed a smile, his eyes reddening, "My child has done it. Now that I have a place in the Sky Sect and have received the master''s teachings, I am like the master in the sect, adding another helping hand to our Blackwood!"


    The thought was good.


    But Ethan never really considered the Sky Sect a trump card, not even a friend. When Marcus was lonely, he made no mistakes and was sentenced to five years of facing the wall. Now that Marcus has shown his potential, even committing a major fault, he was only punished for five days.


    In the end, it''s all about interests, and all feelings between powers are false. But if the feelings towards one''s own people are also false, then... honestly, Ethan really dislikes this facade.


    However, seeing the growth of his descendants, Ethan was already at peace. He only hoped that Marcus would not be blinded by momentary adulation.


    He then switched the screen to Gratitude Village, bringing back the news about Marcus.


    The people of Blackwood were also happy for Marcus.


    Then, while observing Amelia, Ethan frowned.


    [Your descendant Amelia, following the team of Sky Sect disciples, has found the Thunderfire Demon Cave!]


    Ethan immediately clicked on the map of the [Thunderfire Demon Cave].


    It''s called a demon cave.


    But it''s not much different from a normal city, except that while the weather outside is clear, the Thunderfire Demon Cave is covered with dark clouds, with skeletons scattered around the cave, not a blade of grass growing, and the ruins covered with moss.


    Ethan clearly saw the demon-hunting team of a hundred people already assembled, all frowning and wrinkling their noses, presumably due to a foul smell coming from inside the cave.


    It was calm just a moment ago.


    But as two Emerging Ability swordsmen wanted to take to the air, holding compass-like ability equipment to scout for information, a female cultivator with red silk on her sleeve was drawn into the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared as if there were dragons in the dark clouds. Ghostly fires rose from the ground around the cave.


    They had no choice but to retreat.


    After several more attempts, the assembled hundred people retreated, no longer wasting their efforts.


    Amelia had been slacking off in the team all along, occasionally looking at some unfamiliar herbs on the grass near the cave, clearly finding these unfamiliar herbs easier to deal with than the strangers.


    "Forebearer, looks like we''re going to be here for a long time."


    Amelia took out her token, giving a wry smile.

 Chapter 78 - 78: Dragon Tiger Gate

    [The demon-hunting team encountered difficulties. The demon lair, arranged over countless years, was filled with leftover formations and demonic barriers. Every plant and tree here was fraught with danger. ]


    [Amelia, your descendant, speculated that eradicating the demonically possessed and finding the entrance at the bottom of the lair would be a task for a Developing Skill master, taking years to accomplish.]


    [Disciples of the Sky Sect are urgently inviting masters of formations, masters of talisman scripts, and assistance from various temples.]


    Seeing this, Ethan was not surprised.


    In the world of Psychic abilities, Emerging Ability was just beginning. Sensing the anomalies of the world, using spells, and flying through the air.


    But once a power possessed a Developing Skill master, that was a different story.


    Their methods were numerous.


    If the Boar Monarchof the Silver Iron Forest hadn''t insisted on guarding the Silver Iron Forest, Monk Jacob probably wouldn''t dare to touch a speck of dirt in the Silver Iron Forest.


    As for human races with Developing Skill powers... they were even tougher to deal with.


    They had thousands of years of heritage, not something ordinary small powers could compare with. Who knows what kind of formations or psychic objects were hidden within their territories?


    Thus, the two major sects had been battling for a century.


    Just as Ethan was considering having Amelia return and leading people to the demon lair himself.


    A message on the screen made Ethan pause.


    [Your family''s properties in Forest Town are under attack!]


    [Special Event]


    [From Jubilee County''s Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, leading three towns and six families of double sects from Jubilee County, they have come to Tranquil County to plunder resources, with your Forest Town and Redleaf Town bearing the brunt!]


    Ethan narrowed his eyes and casually asked Lisa to get a fridge full of milk tea.


    "Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, huh? Gratitude Village grand stage, bring it on if you dare!"


    ...


    The perspective switches to Blackwood''s base.


    He quickly relayed the message to the people of Blackwood.


    In the ancestral hall, the people of Blackwood were fully equipped.


    Olivia looked guilty, "Forebearer, it''s Olivia''s negligence that we didn''t receive the news of Jubilee County''s attack, and you had to use great magic to divine good and bad omens."


    Ethan gave Olivia a ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    This wasn''t Olivia''s fault. In these chaotic times, how could Blackwood have enough power to monitor Jubilee County?


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    [If they dare come, let them come without return!]


    As the Purple Thunder Solar Python conveyed the order.


    The people of Blackwood felt as if they had found their backbone.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    Immediately, everyone in Blackwood, young and old, took a Forebearer cards into their arms within the ancestral hall, boldly preparing to handle the upcoming trouble.


    Olivia was also prepared, having the villagers of Gratitude Village dig cellars.


    In such situations, the elderly, women, and children all hid.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, wasn''t too nervous.


    Because after Blackwood was ready, as time sped up to midnight, the shadows in Gratitude Village began to bustle, and the game lit up with a reminder again.


    [Jubilee County enters Tranquil County city, splitting up with purpose!]


    [Dragon Tiger Gate is approaching Gratitude Village!]


    [They have long known that this village is not simple, fully aware that Blackwood once single-handedly destroyed two major families. Although they also heard the exact intelligence, knowing that Blackwood won a great victory by despicably persuading the Rodriguez family, Dragon Tiger Gate still decided to go all out and fight a beautiful battle in front of their companions from Jubilee County!]


    Ethan took a big sip of Coke.


    "The news is outdated, brother."


    "Our family is already prepared to face Developing Skill."


    In the game screen, the Forebearer cards was jumping, its purple light even more intense than before, and even dark shadows emerged behind the Forebearer cards, furiously punching!


    ...


    Gratitude Village was exceptionally quiet at night. Above the night sky, clouds drifted by, faintly revealing the figures of two swordsmen floating in the air. These were the Dragon and Tiger brothers from the Dragon Tiger Gate. Both brothers were strikingly similar, with robust physiques and rugged faces.


    Wild Dragon, his face adorned with a twisting beard, listened to the chirping of insects in the forests surrounding Gratitude Village. He watched the sparse smoke rising from the chimneys into the night sky, feeling increasingly confident in their plan.


    Yet, he remained cautious, waiting a long time until he saw the night watchmen of Gratitude Village making their rounds and the lights in the houses gradually going out. Still, he felt it wasn''t secure enough.


    "Too wealthy, Dragon bro, can you believe this is a family power that has only risen in the past fifty years?" Wild Tiger drooled as he looked down at the psychic fields of Blackwood shimmering in the night below. "They all seem to be asleep; let''s finish them off quickly! Once we reap the rewards and accumulate wealth, we can even buy elixirs to try and break through to the Developing Skill stage!"


    "Wait a bit longer," Wild Dragon was still doubtful. "Gratitude Village is too wary of outsiders. We came a month early to scout, and still, no one has been able to enter the inner parts of Blackwood in Gratitude Village. We don''t have complete information on them yet."


    "What''s there to know?" Wild Tiger raised an eyebrow. "If you ask me, we''ve already seen through them! Isn''t it just that they''ve wiped out two families and made a fortune? Let me detail it for you, their city has a large formation arranged by a ninth-grade formation master. Their Black Blood Hall has the spear Forest Formation, all made up of Iron Will..."


    Wild Tiger had almost memorized all the intelligence on Blackwood!


    "By night, they have no idea we''re coming," Wild Tiger continued. "With our strength, we can prevent them from even activating their formations, especially since Blackwood only has one Purple Thunder Sun Python left with the strength of a false core. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hehe, Dragon bro, both of us are at the false core stage, and after a hundred years of cooperation, our strength has long surpassed ordinary false core Psychics."


    "In my opinion, Dragon bro, you''re just being too cautious."


    Hearing this, Wild Dragon turned a deaf ear. It was his caution that had gradually led the Dragon Tiger Gate from a minor sect to its current status!


    Finally, during the night, Wild Dragon''s eyes lit up!


    In the innermost part of Gratitude Village''s vast territory, outside the Blackwood compound adorned with pavilions and towers, a robust young Psychic emerged from the martial arts tower of Blackwood, washing off his sweat in a pool.


    Especially in the main bedroom of the Blackwood compound, a man emerged. If not Nathan, then who?


    Wild Dragon clearly remembered Nathan''s appearance from the intelligence!


    Then, he saw Nathan entering a rather mysterious house.


    "Boom!" A sound of a bronze bell colliding rang out, seemingly adding color to the quiet night.


    Immediately afterward, tiny psychic lights, centered on Blackwood, spread out towards the entire Gratitude Village.


    "Hahaha, Little Tiger, did you see?" Wild Dragon joyfully patted his brother''s shoulder, pointing at the psychic lights covering a large area in the sky and nearby Gratitude Village, laughing, "It''s been too long since we''ve attacked a power; you almost forgot, they''re still very cautious even in the deep of night!"


    "This is a psychic device used by Blackwood to sense if there are outsiders. I guess it''s a top-grade psychic device. They are most cautious when they haven''t activated this psychic device because all their defenses might still be up."


    "Once they activate it, they actually lower their guard."


    "As long as we strike like lightning, giving them no time to react, that''s the safest method!"


    Looking at his delighted big brother, Wild Tiger was finally convinced, "You truly are the big brother."


    Wild Dragon slightly opened his mouth, inhaling the cold air under the moonlight in the high night sky.


    Tonight was truly wonderful, softening even his voice.


    "This Blackwood, capable of elevating our Dragon Tiger Gate, also deserves to be buried in the dust of history."

 Chapter 79 - 79: Dragon-Tiger Fall

    "Dang! Finally decided to come in, huh?" Ethan watched the little figures enter the village on his screen, his mouth twitching slightly.


    Under the accelerated time, he was almost done with his second bubble tea, and only then did the Dragon-Tiger brothers issue the command to attack.


    He could even see the Dragon-Tiger brothers'' exchange clearly through the screen.


    Soon enough, the Dragon-Tiger brothers, along with more than two hundred of their disciples, burst into Blackwood in the dead of night. They charged precisely into the location of Blackwood''s top experts, as identified from the intelligence.


    The Dragon-Tiger brothers stormed directly into the ancestral hall, attempting to assassinate the strongest Purple Thunder Celestial Python of Blackwood. A dozen dazzling flying swords erupted with powerful psychic abilities!


    Then...


    [The Purple Thunder Celestial Python stood in front of the ancestral hall, launching the first attack, and the Dragon-Tiger brothers immediately sensed trouble.]


    [Your descendant Lucas, leading three hundred members of the Black Blood Hall, emerged from the cellar, forming a spear formation with Luna, instantly killing 58 members of the Dragon-Tiger sect. Lucas is now asking you if you should spare the remaining 42 lives?]


    [Your descendant Julian, along with eight others from Blackwood and the remaining Psychics of Gratitude Village, formed a ''Gathering Psychic Trap Formation'' with nearly two hundred psychic weapons, blocking all escape routes within Gratitude Village. Julian is asking you if you should gradually trap everyone?]


    [Inside Gratitude Village, the eighth-grade Blood Psychic Fruit Tree sensed danger, its roots breaking through the soil and dancing in the night! It could feel the hostility of the opponents, asking your Forebearer''s cards if it could feast on the blood of the living tonight?]


    "What the heck???" Ethan was also stunned for a moment, knowing that the Dragon-Tiger sect could not pose a threat.


    But... the attack of the Dragon-Tiger sect had just begun and was already over! Only the torches lit within Gratitude Village illuminated the Dragon-Tiger brothers, now sweating profusely and trapped.


    "Impossible... How could this be???" Wild Dragon gritted his teeth, looking at the situation before him. With all the experts of Gratitude Village and Blackwood appearing, he knew that even if he had been cautious, it was all an illusion shown by Blackwood!


    Moreover, the lower-level strength of Blackwood far exceeded his intelligence. Also... Nathan, Luna, and twelve psychic beasts had surrounded them in the sky, while the Purple Thunder Celestial Python Tiger attacked with thunder on the ground.


    "Tiger, let''s run, as long as we live, the Dragon-Tiger sect won''t perish!" Ethan, in front of the screen, immediately realized the Dragon-Tiger brothers'' thoughts.


    Honestly... Blackwood''s current strength, without the repaired War AI Bionic Robot and without the help of the Silver Iron Forest, might not be able to stop the escape of two Transcendent Seed stage experts.


    But... "Thinking of escaping?!!" Ethan''s mouse moved to the clan''s skill on the game¡ª [Forebearer''s Wrath, skill level Lv.1, has reached the 50-year family development condition.]


    [Would you like to spend 5000 Spiritual Tribute points to advance the skill?]


    This skill was also one of Ethan''s main offensive methods. It had already advanced when it reached 50 years.


    It was also the reason he dared to let Blackwood actively attack the outside world in the chaotic era, although Blackwood had always been very stable.


    Today, finally, it was time to use it! "Advance!" Ethan clicked ''Yes'' without hesitation. In an instant...


    In the entire Gratitude Village, something stirred in the arms of all Blackwood descendants, and the brilliant purple light was particularly bright in the night!


    "Hey? It moved, it moved, the Forebearer''s cards moved!"


    "Forebearer has shown his psychic abilities again, he has always been fighting alongside us!"


    "Dad was right, the Forebearer''s Cards can fly on its own. This is our mysterious, brave, and invincible Forebearer!"


    "..." S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The people of Blackwood were ecstatic, especially Julian''s seven robust children, who looked somewhat naive as they stared intently at the sky, their eyes filled with fervor as if they had encountered a true deity.


    [Your skill ''Forebearer''s Wrath'' is advancing to ¡ª¡ª]


    [Forebearer''s Raging Wrath!]


    [Using the skill ''Ancestor''s Raging Wrath'', consuming 500 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    "My Spiritual Tribute points!"


    Ethan felt a pang of pain; after all, the skill ''Forebearer''s Love'' had already advanced.


    It had become ''Forebearer''s Warmth'', but the advancement only cost Ethan 500 Spiritual Tribute points, and using it only cost 20.


    As expected, advancing an attack skill really hurts!


    "You owe me Spiritual Tribute points!"


    Ethan didn''t hesitate to click on the Dragon-Tiger Brothers on the screen, and with a small dot pulsating on the Dragon-Tiger Brothers, all the floating Forebearer cards burst into light, leaping into the night sky one by one!


    "What is that?"


    The Dragon-Tiger Brothers, who were already hastily fleeing from the Blackwood people''s attack, changed their expressions as they looked at the Forebearer cards surrounding them in the sky, a hint of panic in their demeanor. Wild Dragon exclaimed, "These aren''t ordinary cards; these are Blackwood''s special psychic items, each possessing the peak power of Emerging Ability!"


    They wanted to escape.


    But these dozen or so Forebearer cards seemed to have eyes, crazily tracking their location, and even invisibility spells couldn''t help them escape!


    Especially since the Forebearer cards, originally ordinary items, now possessed the hardness of top-tier psychic equipment, making them difficult to destroy even with false pills!


    "What kind of psychic equipment is this?!!"


    "Not good! What is this thing?!!"


    The Dragon-Tiger Brothers revealed their trump cards, desperately resisting the cards, but their livers and gallbladders trembled again.


    Within this psychic equipment, a shadowy figure shrouded in black mist emerged, leaping up and punching towards them.


    In just one minute of resistance.


    They even figured out the pattern, Wild Dragon shouted, "Tiger, be careful, this thing manifests a shadow every four finger snaps, swinging fifteen punches, each with the mid-stage power of Emerging Ability!"


    To hell with Blackwood''s demise, Wild Dragon realized at this moment that Blackwood was a den of demons!


    ...


    Five minutes later.


    The Dragon-Tiger Brothers, who had come from Jubilee County and even managed to escape after twenty moves under a Developing Skill Psychic, had fallen from the sky.


    [Under the prolonged tracking of the Forebearer cards, even using their boiling blood combination technique, the Dragon-Tiger Brothers were still unable to destroy the Forebearer plaques.]


    [Eventually, Wild Tiger was pierced through the chest by a Forebearer cards, and a dozen shadowy figures pummeled him into a pulp. Wild Dragon was surrounded by the people of Blackwood who arrived, his body disabled by Nathan, and captured by Blackwood.]

 Chapter 80 - 80: Sex education cannot be delayed

    Nathan was utterly shocked as he gazed at the Forebearer cards floating in the sky, kneeling down with his descendants to worship it. This scene, witnessed by Wild Dragon who was trapped in psychic gear, left him weak and delirious. "So it was you who had the Forebearer? These Forebearer cards are manipulated by the powerful... then I, I am not wronged in losing."


    He knew that if the Blackwood people dared to utter ''Forebearer'' in his presence, there was no chance they would let him live. He thought of ending his own life to avoid further torment.


    But then, he saw the Blackwood temple guardian beast roar, and Nathan instantly understood something, saying coldly, "Wild Dragon, tell us everything you know."


    "Kill me," Wild Dragon scoffed with disdain.


    But his laughter soon faded as Nathan coldly snorted, "You could choose to say nothing and die clean. But think about it, if you can come to my Blackwood, we can just as easily go to your Dragon Tiger Gate. You wouldn''t want your disciples wiped out, would you?"


    Wild Dragon then relented, "I can tell you what I know, but you have to promise me one thing¡ªsend a message to let the disciples of Dragon Tiger Gate escape."


    "Agreed."


    Soon, the Blackwood people had extracted useful information from Wild Dragon and left him to be drained dry by the blood psychic fruit tree. Afterwards, Nathan threw Wild Dragon''s body into the Coffin of Eternal Death for refinement. It was all about being thrifty.


    After cleaning up the battlefield, the Blackwood people gathered at the Forebearer shrine, the hall filled with the smoke of Spiritual Tribute.


    "Forebearer, your child is useless. If not for the Forebearer''s intervention, the Dragon Tiger brothers would have escaped," Nathan repeatedly kowtowed.


    [You used ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' on descendant Nathan, consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute.]


    Ethan casually bestowed a skill on Nathan.


    Actually, it wasn''t really Nathan''s fault. The Dragon Tiger brothers were as formidable as rumored, stronger than any Transcendent Seed encountered by Blackwood before.


    If not for ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury,'' it might not have been possible to capture them.


    "This skill is really powerful!"


    Ethan was still a bit excited after checking the skill. This move was more convenient than at level one, not requiring any mouse control.


    A single click, auto-tracking, the enemy doesn''t die, the skill doesn''t end!


    And the most terrifying part was...


    During the use of the skill, all cards would increase the skill-using cards by +1, equivalent to having an additional Emerging Ability master''s combat power!


    "It''s totally worth it." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan suddenly felt that the 5000 Spiritual Tribute was very cost-effective.


    This special event also allowed the Spiritual Tribute to regenerate quickly!


    [You led the family in defending the Rooting Grounds, displaying divine powers that all of Blackwood witnessed.]


    [You gained 3000 Spiritual Tribute.]


    Ethan was reassured.


    The family members had already begun reporting the information extracted from Wild Dragon.


    "Forebearer, this time at Jubilee County, ten forces came, and the weakest among the remaining nine forces each had two Emerging Ability masters. They were ordered by an elder of the Black Shell Gate to plunder a large amount of Energy Stone," Nathan reported.


    Amelia pondered, "The original goal of Dragon Tiger Gate was to first annihilate our Gratitude Village, then Forest Town. In less than a month, Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will likely hear of the annihilation of Dragon Tiger Gate. We have a month to prepare. As long as Developing Skill does not appear, backed by the Silver Iron Forest, we need not fear."


    "But now..."


    She smiled, "Father, you said you would help send a message to Dragon Tiger Gate, and we should do what we promised. But once they escape, we can still kill them. The resources of Dragon Tiger Gate are also very important to us."


    Listening to the descendants discuss how to survive and seek development in this chaos.


    Ethan knew the truly important things were not these.


    He clicked on the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Letting the Purple Thunder Solar Python emit a ''hiss.''


    In an instant.


    All the Blackwood descendants turned their heads to listen to the Forebearer''s teachings.


    Julian''s grown children might not know the art of beast control, but they still looked on with admiration.


    Thomas scratched his head, nudging Daniel with his elbow, "Second brother, what did Forebearer say?"


    Daniel, with a naive face, replied, "Forebearer told you to plant the seeds of life."


    "Ah???"


    Thomas''s mouth twitched.


    Only Daniel still looked puzzled as he turned to Luna and asked, "Grandma, don''t we have many psychic fields at home? We have enough food, so why do we still need to plant the seeds of life?"


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 51]


    Watching the time in the game, then looking at Daniel who is now 21 years old, Ethan''s mouth twitched slightly.


    The people of Blackwood were also stunned.


    Daniel was good in every aspect, but his ''innocent heart'' trait meant he rarely went out, either cultivating psychic powers or being thrown into the Coffin of Eternal Death for training.


    At a young age, he had already reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy and was about to retreat for a breakthrough!


    Among Julian''s seven sons, even 9-year-old Paul knew about the birds and the bees. Daniel, however, was clueless.


    "Sex education cannot be delayed."


    Ethan stroked his chin, pondering whether to replicate the scene of a little movie on the Energy Stone, to benefit the descendants at the next grand ceremony, and let the Blackwood descendants bravely venture into the Western regions.


    Soon, Nathan and Lucas pulled Daniel aside, whispering something to him.


    Daniel looked baffled, nodding solemnly and seriously...


    Ethan suddenly wished Daniel could be a bit more cunning, now somewhat worried about Daniel''s future problems.


    Meanwhile, Julian had already started gathering his five sons.


    "As someone who''s been through it, let me teach you how to find a wife. It''s simple. See a girl you like, squat at her doorstep for a few days, don''t be shy. We''re not afraid of battling powerful enemies, why fear entangling with women?"


    Julian even lifted his head proudly, "Once they get used to your presence, tell them you might die tomorrow. That will overflow their sympathy..."


    "Ah!!!"


    Before he could finish.


    Julian''s ear was already pinched, and Mary glared at the screaming Julian with a dark face, "Are you trying to die? Okay then, so that was your method back then, you''re not sleeping in bed this month!"


    "Wife... I definitely didn''t, I''m teaching the kids, really, I''m sincere with you! Besides, back then it was you who let me into the house!"


    "You dare bring that up?"


    For a moment, all of Blackwood watched the couple''s playful fight, laughter filling the hall.

 Chapter 81 - 81: Might have been destroyed

    Ethan, as the Forebearer, was deeply concerned about the prosperity of his family, and seeing Nathan and his wife also pushing for marriages, he finally felt relieved.


    Moreover, with the emergence of the ''Forebearer''s Roaring Rage''.


    He understood even more the importance of Blackwood''s progeny. Currently, the dozen or so members could fend off two Transcendent Seed with their cards, and if there were a hundred...


    Instantly defeating Transcendent Seed and looking down on Developing Skill was no longer a dream!


    Not only that.


    Ethan had calculated that now, including his wife, the family had 16 members, which could increase his Spiritual Tribute by 4000 every year.


    Now, his consumption of Spiritual Tribute points was increasing.


    Creating offspring was urgent!


    After pushing for marriages.


    Ethan began to check the profits from this major battle, guessing that Olivia''s dispatch of troops across counties to snatch the Dragon Tiger Gate would bring many benefits, but due to the distance, their psychic mines and medicinal fields could not be harvested.


    The people from Dragon Tiger Gate didn''t have much that the Blackwood people valued; their weapons were all psychic equipment.


    However, their techniques still surprised Ethan.


    "Good stuff!"


    [Yellow Tier Technique: Lifeblood Drawing Technique]


    [The closer the bloodline, the more powerful it becomes, the deeper the practice, the stronger the power!]


    "So the Dragon Tiger brothers were practicing this technique, haha, you guys are really Blackwood''s lucky stars!"


    Just now, during the cards battle, Ethan could feel it.


    Those Dragon Tiger brothers, using some unknown technique, created a blood-boiling combo move, almost shattering one of his Forebearer cards!


    And they were only two people.


    Blackwood... with nine children, Julian''s seven children had the closest bloodlines, practicing this technique together would be immensely powerful!


    Julian also passed this technique to his children for cultivating psychic powers, and Daniel also practiced it.


    Even Marcus, far away in Sky Sect, received a copy.


    At this time.


    Sky Sect.


    Marcus was already a direct disciple. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In his courtyard, outer disciples served him, and inner disciples ran errands for him.


    At this moment, he received a thick stack of family letters.


    Only in the dead of night did Marcus dare to open the family letters to check.


    Seeing his family''s concern, Marcus''s eyes moistened.


    He had already known about the invasion of Blackwood by the Dragon Tiger Gate, and had even left the sect to return home that day, but on the way, he received news of the mysterious disappearance of the entire Dragon Tiger Gate, so he gave up.


    And now...


    Inside the family letter, not a word about the difficulties at home, just telling him to study peacefully at Sky Sect, that Blackwood would always be his strongest support.


    Even his father, in the letter, told him not to come back if it wasn''t necessary.


    How could Marcus not know that his father was afraid he would be ambushed by the Xuanwu Gate on his way back!


    Inside the family letter, there was also the technique of Lifeblood Drawing.


    Besides that.


    It was a letter from his third uncle, saying how easy it was to deceive women, telling him to quickly get married and have children, if he really couldn''t catch up with a wife, just say he was dying tomorrow... such nonsense, probably all his brothers had heard about it, who knows which fool would believe it.


    That night, Marcus experienced the effects of psychic wine for the first time, getting utterly drunk and vomiting profusely.


    "Forebearer, grandparents, dad, and my aunts and uncles, Marcus will return. The Sky Sect isn''t my true home; they only value my talents, which I understand."


    "But it''s only in the Sky Sect that I can secretly learn everything and bring it back to our family. In these chaotic times, I must also make use of the Sky Sect to avert disaster for our Blackwood family."


    "Child... may the Forebearer bless..."


    In the splendidly decorated room, Marcus looked around at the many precious items. Yet, he felt that the family letter he held while sleeping was more valuable than the entire Sky Sect¡ªit was indeed the most peaceful night he had ever had.


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 52]


    Another New Year has arrived.


    Ethan''s push for marriage indeed had its effects!


    Among Julian''s seven children, Thomas, now 17, truly resembled his father. Not just in stature¡ªas all of Julian''s lineage were robust, the women included¡ªbut in temperament as well, each vividly mirroring their parents.


    Thomas took his father Julian''s words to heart.


    [Your third-generation descendant Thomas fell in love at first sight with a beautiful woman in the village and impulsively asked her to bear his child, resulting in a slap. He was also reported to Blackwood, where Olivia punished him with three lashes and made him kneel before the Forebearer for seven days.]


    [Thomas, undeterred, professed his love again, claiming he would die the next day and begged the woman to take him into her room, only to be beaten again and suspended in the village for three days as punishment.]


    [In October, Thomas reached the seventh level of Foundational Energy.]


    [While the Martinez family was troubled by the Jubilee, they joined forces with the Black Blood Hall to assist the Martinez family, defending against enemies together.


    During this time, pursued by an early-stage master of Emerging Ability, Thomas and Dorothy Martinez faced life and death together, ultimately saved by the grace of the Forebearer''s Cards, during which their affection for each other grew.]


    [In November, Blackwood proposed a marriage alliance to the Martinez family.]


    "Finally, someone from the third generation is making us proud!"


    Ethan was so excited he jumped on the spot!


    No wonder he was anxious.


    Marcus, now 31 from the third generation, showed no signs of settling down. Despite the Sky Sect having many women as beautiful as celestial beings, Marcus didn''t spare them a glance, and if it weren''t for the fact that Marcus didn''t even look much at handsome men, Ethan might have misunderstood!


    Daniel listened but was naturally shy and reserved, rarely mingling with outsiders. Some women, attracted by Daniel''s status and looks, threw themselves at him, but were they really the kind you''d want?


    Before long.


    The scene was festively decorated, and even amidst the chaos outside, Blackwood still led a procession to Forest Town for the wedding.


    The Martinez family was even more eager than Blackwood, as their family had nearly been wiped out once and could only stabilize their footing in Forest Town because of Blackwood''s righteousness.


    Now, with the two families united by marriage, a perfect match of a golden boy and a jade girl, the Martinez family was so thrilled they nearly changed their surname to Blackwood on the spot.


    At the wedding feast.


    Jerry, who had formed a bond with Blackwood, now had white hair and was the current head of the Martinez family, as well as Dorothy''s grandfather.


    It was supposed to be a joyous occasion, yet he looked worried. Taking advantage of the banquet, he said to Nathan.


    "The people from Jubilee County are becoming more rampant. Our Martinez family''s mines outside Forest Town have been completely monopolized by them, and their greed is only growing. Our Martinez family... I fear we may not last much longer."


    Beside him, the head of the Rodriguez family also shook his head and sighed, "My Rodriguez family is in the same boat. Just a few months ago, they even sent two Transcendent Seed masters to disturb us at night. "


    "Our Rodriguez family''s great formation was severely damaged. If not for another ace up our sleeve, the Rodriguez family might have been destroyed by my own hands, Ronald."

 Chapter 82 - 82: George

    Nathan squinted his eyes slightly. He knew these two families must have had their reasons; otherwise, they wouldn''t be lamenting in front of him. He chuckled and said, "Speak plainly, we''ve known each other for years, and we know each other inside out. We''ve faced adversaries together; there''s no need for secrecy. You know my nature."


    "Alright, since you put it that way, I won''t hold back!" Jerry clenched his teeth and said, "I want the Martinez legacy to continue, Nathan. I don''t care about Forest Town anymore; its foundation and heritage are almost destroyed. I want to take my people and leave Tranquil County!"


    Nathan''s frown deepened as he turned to look at Mark.


    Mark gave a bitter smile, "Same for me."


    "You''re leaving?!" Nathan was taken aback. He thought they needed something from him but didn''t expect such news. His eyes widened as he exclaimed, "Can you really abandon the family business of many years?"


    "What else can we do? Wait for our demise?" Jerry downed a pot of wine in one gulp. "We can start over if we lose our property, but if we die, that''s the end. After we leave, Blackwood must be cautious. Everything we leave behind, and all of Forest, will belong to Blackwood. I hope Blackwood will take good care of the people of Forest.


    This place isn''t our root; it''s theirs."


    Hearing this, Nathan saw their determination and had no words to persuade them otherwise. Now that his old friends were leaving, he could only focus on his grandson''s wedding to distract himself.


    At the wedding banquet, Thomas, who was only as tall as Dorothy''s chest and wore a red veil, suddenly burst into tears.


    The people of Blackwood frowned, wondering why a man was crying like this.


    This towering man, looking pitifully aggrieved, shouted at his brothers and sisters, "Old man is really no good, don''t believe him, you''ll just follow in my footsteps!"


    "He also said that if you pester a girl and tell her you''re going to die tomorrow, you can win her over."


    "It''s all lies, I''ve suffered so much this past year..."


    "Finally, I met Dorothy!"


    Julian, who was sitting in the distance, seemed to be laughing, but now his face gradually darkened, and he held his wine, unsure whether to drink it or put the glass down.


    Finally, under the gaze of everyone at the banquet, he gritted his teeth and glared at the newlywed Thomas.


    "Stop talking, don''t fucking make me beat you on such a happy day!"


    The banquet erupted in laughter.


    Hearing her husband''s complaints, Dorothy lifted her veil, revealing a face as delicate as a snow lotus, and then fiercely pinched Thomas''s ear, "What did you say? You dare to flirt with other girls?"


    "Ah!" Thomas grimaced, "No, that was the old man deceiving me, I definitely haven''t now!"


    The laughter filled the faces of everyone at Blackwood and the banquet guests.


    Ethan, watching everything from behind the screen, saw the words ''The couple bows to each other, entering the bridal chamber'' light up, and his smile almost reached his ears.


    "Congratulations, your descendant Thomas has married Dorothy!"


    "Spiritual Tribute+100!"


    And as the newlyweds entered the bridal chamber, the candlelight inside mingled with the moonlight outside.


    "Your descendant Thomas enjoys his wedding night, proving that ''seven times in one night'' is not just a legend, surpassing the battles Thomas and Dorothy fought in Forest Town."


    "At the crow of the rooster, Dorothy, the third-generation daughter-in-law of Blackwood, is carrying the Blackwood seed!"


    "Real man indeed!" Ethan was ecstatic, as the ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' was launched, piercing through the roof tiles directly into Thomas''s room. Soon after, noises from inside startled the birds that had just perched on the trees outside.


    The young couple quickly got dressed and started serving tea around Blackwood. Earlier, at the Forebearer''s shrine, after Nathan and his wife had offered incense to their ancestor, they had just received tea from their grandson and his wife. Nathan, with a big smile on his face, paused for a moment before turning to Luna, "Daughter-in-law, our daughter-in-law... is pregnant!"


    "What?" Both Thomas and his wife were stunned.


    Having reached the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, one could see the vitality and blood of others, not to mention Nathan who was nearing the peak of his powers!


    "So, it seems I''m going to be a great-grandmother," Luna said, her face lighting up with joy. She quickly knelt before the Forebearer''s cards, "Forebearer bless us, may our Blackwood family see four generations under one roof."


    Afterward, the newlyweds were taken around by Nathan and his wife.


    Especially when they reached the Silver Iron Forest and first encountered the Boar Monarch Pete, the new bride of Blackwood was so shocked that she couldn''t adapt to the fact that her husband''s family had a demon king, who now could dominate the region and was also her husband''s maternal grandfather!


    "Hahaha, I''m a grandfather now! Who would have thought that I would enjoy the blessing of having many children and grandchildren." The Boar Monarch Pete of the Silver Iron Forest had been waking up laughing in his sleep for nearly twenty years since he had the Blackwood family as relatives.


    Being a king of demons is very lonely. Despite the many exotic beasts in the Silver Iron Forest, none dare to misbehave due to bloodline suppression. Only the seven grandchildren from Blackwood could make this lonely old demon king smile every day, a feeling of openness he hadn''t experienced in hundreds of years.


    He never tired of these children and even wished for more, hoping to fill his valley with them.


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 53]


    [The two major families of Forest Town had been planning for a long time and quietly left their hometown with their clans. As they left, the heads of the two families looked back step by step, under the watchful eyes of everyone in Blackwood.


    Jerry earnestly requested Blackwood to take good care of his granddaughter Dorothy and the unborn grandchild, gifting them top-grade psychic ability equipment¡ªHeavenly Heart Jade Pendant.]


    [Blackwood reciprocated by gifting the Martinez family 30 sets of Black Iron Beast Blood Armor, wishing the Martinez family success in their endeavors abroad.]


    [Congratulations, your family has successfully taken control of Forest Town!]


    [You have gained +1000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    The people of Forest Town eventually left, just as they had said at the wedding, decisively. With this, Blackwood became the only major family in the vicinity of Forest Town.


    This also meant that if people from Jubilee County continued to invade Forest Town, Blackwood would be the only target!


    Yet another few months passed in this year.


    Blackwood was even prepared to clash with the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, but Forest Town did not encounter any major invasions. Only some petty thieves from Jubilee County tried their luck.


    Until...


    [Dorothy gave birth to a son after ten months, naming him George!]


    [Congratulations, you have gained +50 Spiritual Tribute!]


    [The child, born with the enlightened heart of a Demon King during pregnancy, has a Developing Skill that is gentle, protected by the power of the first layer of the Straight Death Coffin led by Nathan and his wife, and illuminated by the power of the blood pills accumulated over many years from the eighth-grade blood psychic fruit tree.


    The child, not yet born, coincidentally received a sword intent realized by Lucas, gaining a special trait¡ª]


    [Pure Psychic Body!] S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [No threshold before Developing Skill, speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 100%!]


    "Wah~"


    Inside the delivery room, the midwife, who had delivered for Blackwood at the age of thirty and was now nearly sixty, trembled as she handed the child to Nathan and his wife, even she could feel the extraordinariness of the child, murmuring, "Master, madam, our family''s child..."


    "Great-grandson George, he has the talent of a celestial being!" The people of Blackwood rejoiced, as they could all see the natural phenomena that occurred at George''s birth, with psychic abilities gathering around!


    Ethan, in front of the screen, also suddenly stood up, excitedly staring at the child in the game.

 Chapter 83 - 83: Forebearers Gift

    "Blackwood has finally produced a prodigy!" Even Ethan couldn''t help but envy the kid''s luck.


    He remembered because she was a daughter of the Martinez family, with a Foundational Energy of level five, and given the decline of the Martinez lineage, Dorothy had always fought alongside her family.


    Over the years, she had accumulated many hidden injuries, and six months into her pregnancy, she nearly lost the child.


    It was only through the concerted efforts of many in Blackwood using magical powers to activate the ''Death Coffin'' to save the fetus, and Ethan''s use of the ''Forebearer''s Embrace'' technique, that the child was saved.


    Moreover, George was incredibly lucky. The Boar Monarch had a breakthrough in his state of mind, and Lucas had an epiphany; he arrived just in time. Especially notable was his Psychic Constitution; born with three Psychic Constitutions, and these were not ordinary.


    Apart from the usual dual Psychic Constitutions of metal and wood reaching a natural score of 60, he also possessed a wind Psychic Constitution, reaching an impressive 78 points!


    "Awesome!" Everyone in Blackwood rejoiced at George''s birth. Especially the Boar Monarch of the Silver Iron Forest, who was so happy that he carried the child and jumped around the valley for a long time.


    Julian and his wife, along with their seven children, were used to such occurrences, but it scared Dorothy into a cold sweat.


    This news even reached Amelia and Marcus who were away.


    [Blackwood''s hundred-mile pigeon delivered a letter, Amelia paying respects outside the Thunderfire Demon Cave.]


    Following the event tab, Ethan once again saw the scene of the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    This place of demonic ability users was riddled with holes, clearly the result of Psychic attacks.


    Moreover, at the site of the cave, over 500 Psychics had gathered, all demon slayers from Tranquil County and the surrounding counties.


    At that moment, Amelia was still dressed simply, her hair unkempt. However, outside the room where Amelia was, there were injured people waiting for rescue.


    Despite Amelia always being at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, Ethan occasionally checked on her current situation; this kid... now had a not-so-simple identity!


    Flipping through the character history tab.


    [Blackwood Year 49, Amelia arrived at the Demon Cave.]


    [Blackwood Year 50, unremarkably.]


    [Year 51, Amelia began to save the dying and help the injured, becoming a famous pharmacist in the demon slaying team, due to her trait ''Miraculous Medic'', always managing to save her companions.]


    [Year 52, a demon with severe injuries among those with demonic abilities took a risk to enter the demon slaying team to seek Amelia''s help. She wrote back to Blackwood, Olivia gave her an idea, from then on Amelia saved demon slaying team members by day, and demonic ability users by night, her medical skills becoming increasingly profound.]


    [For saving lives, she received a reward, a junior psychic equipment, Shadowless Pin.]


    [Received a reward, Heavenly Heart Grass.]


    [Received a reward, ordinary technique, Heavenly Mystery Circling Step.]


    [Received...]


    [As she continued to treat and save people, and came into contact with more toxic herbs within the Demon Cave, her trait ''Miraculous Medic'', transformed into¡ª]


    [Great Doctor Without Borders: Becoming increasingly intuitive about the properties of unfamiliar herbs, medical skills increased by 100%, poison skills increased by 100%.]


    If one were to say who gained the most during the years of the great wars. It was not Marcus, who became a direct disciple in the Sky Sect, but Amelia! She thrived by adapting to both sides, reaping substantial benefits. Even to the extent that...


    [Blackwood Year 53, Amelia concocted hundreds of medicines, refined hundreds of poisons, gained insights, and with the integration of medicine and poison into her body, she absorbed the earth''s herbs and the land''s profound energy to correct her body, breaking through the mid-stage of Emerging Ability!]


    And not just that. At this moment, Amelia was kneeling before Ethan''s cards, her face innocent, devoid of the previous scheming and caution, just like the child who happily touched the beast blood fruit under the beast blood fruit tree, "Forebearer, the child has learned, the child has a remarkably talented grand-nephew, with George, Blackwood has a continuation of a thousand years."


    "Hehe."


    Ethan''s mouth twitched slightly as he began to understand why there were more and more Psychics around the edge of the Demon Cave, and why there were hardly any casualties. "The trait ''Boundless Healer'', truly a Boundless Healer."


    "It''s just like something Olivia would come up with."


    Seeing the current situation, Ethan felt relieved about Amelia''s condition and then turned his attention to the Sky Sect.


    A location appeared on the map.


    [Sky Temple]


    Upon closer inspection, it seemed that only the successive leaders of the Sky Sect could enter this place, a Psychic Sanctuary shrouded in darkness yet dotted with stars like the dark universe itself.


    Marcus and Sect Leader Wesley were sitting in meditation facing each other.


    Sect Leader Wesley, seeing Marcus mastering the sect''s secret techniques more profoundly, furrowed his brows and asked, "Marcus, I heard you received another family letter today?"


    Marcus slowly opened his eyes.


    His expression calm, he said, "Yes, I burned it. Marcus has already severed worldly ties; it''s just people from Blackwood trying to climb the social ladder, no need to bother with them."


    "That''s very good." sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sect Leader Wesley nodded slightly, no longer doubtful, "I heard you often carry the Forebearer cards?"


    "Yes."


    Marcus, unflappable, silently took out the Forebearer Cards from his bosom and casually shattered it, "Always with me, it''s also a part of severing worldly ties. Now, even looking at the Forebearer cards, Marcus no longer reminisces about mundane days. If you find it displeasing, I can destroy it."


    "Huh." Sect Leader Wesley finally breathed a sigh of relief, smiling, "That''s very good, my disciple. You must know, for cultivators, the blink of an eye is like a year, and only by severing worldly ties can one cultivate psychic powers¡ªthis is the true principle of the Great Path!"


    "Marcus understands."


    When night fell.


    Marcus returned to his sleeping quarters, cautiously sensing his surroundings to ensure there were no other presences before entering his room. He slowly lifted his bed, unlocked thirty-six talismans, and revealed a large stack of cards inside, picking one out to burn incense and kneel before.


    "How dare Old Thief Wesley disturb my true heart?"


    "Please rest assured, Forebearer, he recognizes me as his disciple, but I have never called him ''master''."


    "In my years at Sky, the elders have already respected me as the next Sect Leader. Last year, when Jubilee County tried to invade our family''s residence, I dispatched three loyal inner disciples to divert them."


    "This time, hearing that the third brother Thomas has a son, the gift I sent will arrive by the full moon, serving as a safeguard for our Blackwood in this great war between two sects!"

 Chapter 84 - 84: Julians Forge

    "Good, good kid!"


    Ethan''s face was full of approval for Marcus.


    Every time he opened the Sky Sect area before, he saw Taoist Wesley brainwashing Marcus with all that nonsense about ruthless love and cutting off worldly desires, almost like a cult member.


    Fortunately, Marcus, after years of silence, had not forgotten his original intentions.


    Looking back at Marcus''s past experiences, indeed, a few days ago, he had sent a loyal disciple to deliver a treasure. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon.


    As time sped up.


    The full moon celebration for Blackwood''s newborn, George, also arrived.


    However, this full moon celebration was not as lively as before. The two major families of Forest Town used to bring their direct descendants to the banquet to look for marriage opportunities, usually bringing dozens of people, but now they had left Forest Town.


    Moore, far away in Silverwood Town, and other friends of Blackwood who had business dealings, only sent a few somewhat important figures.


    This was already giving enough face to Blackwood, as their clan members were risking being ambushed and robbed at any time.


    Just waiting for the banquet to end.


    A group of people from Gratitude Village entered Blackwood, making a grand entrance with about a hundred people, among them the strongest being Developing Skill!


    Among those people, there was one Ethan still remembered.


    [Declan]


    [Mayor of Forest Town, ignored the twenty-year drought, indulged in luxury behind closed doors. During the great battle of Forest, he stayed out of it, waiting for things to settle before stepping forward. Both sects caused disasters, Jubilee County invaded, people were displaced, yet he entertained experts from Jubilee County.]


    This man had the appearance of a ''gentle, respectful, frugal, and yielding'' gentleman, which left a good impression at first glance.


    But in Ethan''s view, whether it was for self-preservation or not.


    Just this bird sitting in the mayor''s position, so incompetent and opportunistic, he didn''t deserve the title ''human''.


    Watching the newcomers.


    Ethan''s hand was already on the mouse, ready to activate the Forebearer cards at any moment, he even glanced at the last major offering sent to the Forebearer shrine¡ªthe Celestial Star Seeker.


    Those were two humanoid AI Bionic Robots, expressionless, standing in the Forebearer shrine with closed eyes for over three years, already covered in dust!


    Developing Skill?


    The Developing Skill coming to Blackwood, Ethan was not afraid at all!


    ...


    As for Declan bringing people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, the people of Blackwood were also very nervous, and in an instant, the whole of Blackwood was on alert.


    But the old man from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, with Developing Skill and a youthful face, occasionally raised his eyebrows lightly, then furrowed them, looking very complex.


    Not yet at Gratitude Village.


    He spotted the blood psychic fruit tree that had grown to nearly 40 feet!


    This thing had already borne fruit, with specks of psychic power, and its branches swayed.


    "An eighth-grade psychic tree, already possessing psychic intelligence, a newly born demon plant, if given enough resources for hundreds of years, it could become seventh-grade, if only Developing Skill."


    Just as he had a crooked thought.


    Dennis stepped on the ground, already sensing a formation in the earth, his Developing Skill spirit entered the void, and he sensed that the entire Blackwood, even Gratitude Village, was enveloped by a large formation, this formation made his Developing Skill abdomen tremble slightly. He could no longer probe this formation deeply, only feeling danger.


    "This... How could such a small family have such a formation?"


    Dennis squinted his eyes, continuing to follow Declan inside.


    Within a walled compound, there were children cultivating psychic powers, and he recognized from the intelligence the one leading the children. His name was Daniel, also mentioned in the intelligence as a breakthrough point for invading Blackwood, a rare fool.


    But...


    He practiced a technique of observing fate through qi, although only learning the basics, even the elders of the Black Shell Sect came to ask him about the future. He was also adept at calculating celestial fortunes, sacrificing his lifespan to secure a place for Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    Now, however, he could see that this child Daniel had a fate and opportunity like white stone, like the legendary golden boy and jade girl, pure and untainted, naturally suited for cultivating psychic powers, such a person... was extraordinary, if killed, endless troubles would follow!


    "Sss~"


    Dennis took a sharp breath.


    Moving forward, I came upon the Blackwood Hall of Black Blood. This year, they already had five hundred members, all clad in black iron beast blood armor, trained in the ways of the military. If I wasn''t mistaken, they were all armed, and each one of them carried a fierce vitality...


    Although their highest cultivation was only at the seventh layer of Foundational Energy, facing them in battle would mean preparing to confront a group of battle-hardened warriors.


    I even saw a ''B'' phantom image floating above these people. For Blackwood, they seemed ready to disregard everything.


    I was just surprised at how fanatical a group of ordinary people could be.


    Then I saw seven black bears... oh no, those were people.


    The seven kids of Blackwood Julian!


    Among them, regardless of gender, their aura was not as strong as Daniel''s, but their vital energies were connected, their destinies intertwined, each possessing the potential for a Transcendent Seed. If resources were available, there was hope for Developing Skill!


    "A family of eight with Transcendent Seed realms, capable of contending with Developing Skill."


    Dennis swallowed hard.


    "Clang!"


    Just then, the sound of iron forging rang out, and before he knew it, he had followed Declan to the front of the Gratitude Village Forge. The intense heat of the atmosphere was evident, with craftsmen at work.


    On the second floor, a man with a tiger''s back and bear''s waist, his face full of curly beards, stood by the window. This man, bare-chested, revealed a left arm that had become a top-grade psychic ability prosthetic limb, staring intently at him without any fear, clearly aware of his identity.


    Beside him stood a robust woman, her face square and kind, yet not lacking the spirit of a heroine.


    "Julian, the father of those bears? And that woman, nearing Emerging Ability, harboring the Demon King Pill, aspiring to soar to the heavens."


    Dennis just glanced and turned his head as if nothing had happened.


    But inside, he was profoundly shaken!


    "A natural psychic equipment master, his aura compared to the elders of the Qi Sect I met in the county town, is not in the least inferior."


    He saw Julian''s hammer formed from his aura!


    Approaching the Blackwood family home, he could even feel Julian''s hammer, clanging away at the forge, crafting weapons he himself wouldn''t dare to covet!


    Finally, a voice interrupted Dennis''s thoughts.


    A woman approached.


    Her beauty seemed to gather the favor of heaven and earth, her body possessed a psychic ability device that was gentle, yet her complexion was pale, only able to be pushed by a maid.


    "Blackwood Olivia, I have heard of Mr. Dennis, the master of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion. Olivia has long heard that Mr. Dennis is a great power of Jubilee, with Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion''s eyes and ears spread across many counties. Now that I see you, sir, you must possess the wisdom of a sage."


    Her words were like a gentle spring rain.


    But Dennis remained silent for a long time. Olivia''s aura was as weak as that of a dying person. But that slight aura, like a demon looking at people, he always felt that he was about to be torn apart by Olivia!


    Above this woman''s aura, there were dense heavenly thunders, a struggle between man and heaven, this was the cultivation of a method that wrested the creation of heaven and earth, making her aura so faint!


    "Sir?" Olivia asked again.


    "Oh, oh."


    In an instant, Dennis dared not neglect her in the slightest, changing his usual demeanor upon arrival, somewhat softly spoken and restrained, he actually bowed to Olivia, "Miss is too kind, if I''m not mistaken, you must be Olivia, the fourth daughter of Blackwood?"


    "Known by Mr. Dennis, Olivia is fortunate." Olivia was polite and gracious.

 Chapter 85 - 85: Denniss Fear

    Dennis''s palms were sweaty as he felt the malevolent aura above Olivia''s head drawing closer as she became more gentle.


    "How strange, this woman is like a plague."


    Dennis was on high alert, not daring to stay any longer in Olivia''s presence. He always felt a sense of danger, but just before leaving, he couldn''t help but say to Olivia, "Niece Olivia, your literary talent has arrived. You observe the heavens and earth, all things, and the joys and sorrows of many families, perhaps gaining some insights."


    After saying this, he quickly led his people towards the venue of the full moon feast, not daring to linger any longer.


    Beside him, Declan saw Dennis''s demeanor and couldn''t help but laugh, "Master Dennis, even when facing enemies, treats them with such gentleness, haha, if Forest Town were to be incorporated into Jubilee County, it would indeed be a blessing for Forest Town!"


    But no sooner had he spoken than his expression changed.


    Dennis stared at him lightly, "Are you trying to guess my thoughts?"


    "I..."


    Before Declan could explain himself, sweating profusely, Dennis had already hurriedly left with his people.


    Meanwhile, Olivia was still standing there, frowning as she watched Dennis''s retreating figure, "He sees my dilemma, does he think the same as I do? Is this to please me, Blackwood?"


    She quietly took out the Forebearer Cards, murmuring, "Forebearer, should this man be kept?"


    ...


    The full moon feast was crowded, including elders from Gratitude Village.


    As Dennis arrived with his people, everyone fell silent.


    Nathan and his wife were still in the main hall, and upon learning of Dennis''s arrival, showed no respect.


    "Hmph!"


    Seeing the arrogance of the Blackwoods, Declan squinted and said, "Master Dennis, I am also a town leader, and if the Blackwood couple won''t show respect, then I need not show it either. Please wait, Master Dennis, I will go..."


    Before he could finish.


    Dennis, ignoring everything, shouted towards the main hall with a smile, "I am Dennis, the owner of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion! Passing by, I heard that the Blackwoods have a new blessed child, so I shamelessly came to visit and make some friends."


    "Here are three gifts, wishing the Blackwood family prosperity and a smooth path for the blessed child!"


    With these words.


    Everyone at the full moon feast was stunned; they thought Dennis had come to cause trouble or to intimidate, but he was just there to give gifts!


    Meanwhile, outside.


    Hidden in the Forebearer shrine, Lucas, who had placed two Sky Star Psychic Ability AI Bionic Robots at the entrance and was ready to activate the treasures given by the Forebearer at any moment, was even more vigilant to prevent any mishaps.


    Julian and his wife had already taken out the psychic equipment to summon the Silver Iron Forest, where the Boar Monarch Pete and psychic beasts had already gathered at the edge, ready to assist and bury the enemy with a single sound of the suona!


    Daniel and the Seven Warriors were ready for battle, prepared to activate the great formation!


    But they had originally thought Dennis was bringing some bloody gift.


    They even prepared for gifts like human heads or murderous spells.


    But unexpectedly.


    "This is the first gift, wishing that between my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and Blackwood, there are no such opportunistic, talentless scoundrels!"


    Dennis''s voice echoed around Blackwood.


    At the full moon feast, a head fell.


    It was the head of Declan from Forest Town, beheaded by Dennis with a single palm strike, his eyes still filled with confusion and disbelief.


    "This second gift, the sword of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, whoever receives this sword, the people of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will consider them a friend, not an enemy!"


    As Dennis smiled and lightly waved, a long sword at his waist floated up, its blade engraved with a nine-story building under the psychic power.


    "This third gift."


    "A sand table map, Jubilee''s three gates are about to completely occupy Forest, Horizon Falls, and Silverwood towns, all attack plans are included!"


    As he finished speaking, the wind stirred around him!


    Above Dennis, a psychic diagram was drawn, showing the three gates'' attack routes on Tranquil County, visible to everyone''s eyes!


    His face was all smiles, full of confidence.


    But no one knew the turmoil he was facing!


    In the grand hall of Blackwood, Nathan and his wife presided with an air of terrifying authority. Dennis glimpsed something formidable¡ªa rock that seemed unbreakable, atop which a fox demon snarled menacingly.


    And then there was the newborn...


    Barely a month old, yet already exhibiting Developing Skill!


    To be enemies with Blackwood meant being prepared to annihilate them completely, or else face a future fraught with peril.


    Just moments ago,


    He had also seen his own aura, which had been on a steady rise, suddenly plummet, nearly costing him his life...


    "Blackwood... what kind of cursed place is this?"


    Dennis watched as the couple emerged from the hall, holding their child, and managed a strained smile.


    Surrounded by crowds, with red lanterns and streamers everywhere, Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He felt no joy, only a longing to return to his pavilion and resume his role as its master.


    "Boss, are we just leaving like this?"


    After a long conversation in the inner hall at the Blackwood full moon feast, Dennis and his wife Nathan had just left. In the sky, a psychic-powered flying craft carried Dennis at the prow, who dared not look back at the seemingly ordinary little mountain village below.


    His subordinate couldn''t help but wonder. Their boss, Dennis, was extraordinary in his actions; every battle usually ended with a massive haul of resources, or a bloody cleansing on the spot. It was rare for them to leave empty-handed like this.


    Standing against the wind, Dennis exuded an aura of a sage, "The way of survival for Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is to make friends all over the world. The people of Blackwood are wise to the times; they are now willing to serve our Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion."


    "So that''s it, our boss truly has unmatched wisdom!"


    Hearing this, Dennis''s silhouette seemed even more imposing to his subordinates. He continued, "Send the word down, inform all the families in Jubilee County about this trip. Blackwood is no longer a threat, and the matter of the Dragon Tiger Gate''s destruction will no longer be pursued. Blackwood will offer up... one hundred thousand primary Energy Stones every year."


    His subordinate was stunned again, "One hundred thousand primary Energy Stones? Boss, the tributes from other families have never been this low."


    "..."


    Where could his subordinates see Dennis''s expression?


    At that moment, he was sweating profusely, far from the transcendent and detached appearance seen from his silhouette, gritting his teeth, only managing to keep his voice calm and light, "It''s just a small favor for my appreciation, next year it will be two hundred thousand."


    "Our boss''s wisdom is unparalleled in the world!"


    The massive psychic-powered craft flew faster and faster.


    But everything Dennis encountered in Blackwood, and when he met Lucas of Blackwood, the hundred-meter-tall azure blade above his head was still vivid in his mind. And that deep within Blackwood, the Forebearer''s shrine where dragons and phoenixes sang together, such celestial and strange phenomena were unseen even in the Xuanwu Gate.


    There were two unknowable beings inside; he merely wanted to peek, but in an instant, it cost him ten years of his life.


    Having toured around Blackwood, he lost twenty years of his life!


    And those two AI Bionic Robots brought by Lucas, each one was a freak capable of taking his life.


    As the psychic-powered craft soared through the high sky and clouds, like encountering wild waves, Dennis watched as his energy increased after leaving Blackwood, and finally, he smiled.


    "Let the world''s storms and disasters come; they will always be just a step away from me!"

 Chapter 86 - 86: Energy Stone Pact

    [Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion''s leader Dennis entered Blackwood and felt a warm, instant connection with the members there.]


    [He had a detailed conversation with Nathan and his wife, expressing his willingness to form an alliance with Blackwood, considering each other as allies in life and death. He generously offered to pay 100,000 Energy Stones annually to the Black Shell Gate on behalf of Blackwood.]


    [Congratulations! Your family has successfully resolved the crisis from Jubilee County, earning +1000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    "Was Dennis actually telling the truth?"


    Watching Dennis''s flying vessel speed away, Ethan finally released the mouse button he had been holding over the icon of the Purple Thunder Solar Python.


    Even a D-level master has some skills.


    He thought Dennis was just playing along with Blackwood to fend off the threats from the Celestial Star Seekers and the Boar Monarch Pete, but he didn''t expect a pop-up on the game interface indicating that the crisis troubling Blackwood from Jubilee County had indeed been resolved!


    Pondering the reasons.


    Ethan paused, a notification appeared in the event column.


    [Your descendant Marcus has secretly sent a medium-grade psychic device¡ªthe Eight Directions Array Plate!]


    [Eight Directions Array Plate: Can be activated by mana and Energy Stones, harnessing the Earth''s power to protect a region.]


    "Hmm? Was this the trump card Marcus was planning to bring back to the family?"


    A flicker of joy passed through Ethan''s eyes.


    Blackwood had plenty of psychic equipment, and Julian could even make medium-grade psychic equipment himself. But there were only two psychic devices, and those were the lowest grade: the ''Thousand Jun Seal'' used in rotation within the family and the ''Psychic God Xin Life Robe'' protecting Olivia.


    At that time, Monk Jacob also had two psychic devices, but they could only be activated by Buddhist power.


    Julian had been trying to melt those two devices for who knows how many years.


    But with the strength of the people in Blackwood, they couldn''t melt it with alchemical fire. Boar Monarch Pete had tried, but its demonic fire was repelled as soon as it touched the Buddhist psychic devices.


    A medium-grade psychic device could now become the treasure of Blackwood!


    "Very good, very good!"


    Nathan, holding the array plate, was overjoyed, "Our grandson Marcus has learned to bring gifts to his elders, the child has truly grown up."


    He and Luna were both smiling broadly; they didn''t care whether the device Marcus sent was a medium-grade psychic device or not. Even the lowest grade of psychic equipment could delight these two elders, who were over seventy years old.


    The others felt the same, filling the room with warmth.


    ...


    In the days that followed.


    With the backing of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and the presence of the Silver Iron Forest, Jubilee County''s attacks hardly damaged Blackwood, and Gratitude Village became the most stable place in the entire Tranquil County.


    As for the Sky Sect, that was even less of a problem. Marcus was a true disciple of the Sky Sect, and even if he couldn''t bring the news back to Blackwood.


    Ethan could still get updates through Marcus''s images.


    [In the 54th year of Blackwood, Julian''s seven kids, while cultivating the psychic powers of the ''Lifeblood Drawing Technique'', made some progress. The seven began to travel around Tranquil County under the Blackwood Commerce Hall ''Heaven''s Principle Hall'', often performing acts of chivalry, earning the honorable title ''The Seven kids of Blackwood''!]


    [Trait gained: United Effort] S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [When fighting together, strength increases by 10%]


    [Your descendants have gained some fame, earning +100 Spiritual Tribute]


    "These seven little guys have achieved something as well."


    Ethan was relieved for them; although the youngest of the seven was only eight years old, all had inherited the chivalrous spirit of Julian and Mary.


    [That same year, Nathan ventured alone into the second layer of the Death Coffin, dying nearly ten thousand times, gained insight, and secluded himself to break through the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    [Daniel, nearing the peak of Foundational Energy, began his seclusion to break through to Emerging Ability!]


    [Blackwood Year 55.]


    [Your descendant Lucas, after years of fighting alongside the family, obtained over a hundred enemy swords and mastered more than ten sword techniques. His swordsmanship matured in the Death Coffin, and he began his seclusion, vowing not to leave unless a major event occurs, aiming for the Transcendent Seed stage!]


    ...


    After securing the friendship of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, the masters gradually went into seclusion. Mary, who had been producing for many years, also recovered her health and was ready to break through at any moment. The only one still struggling in the early stages of Emerging Ability was Julian!


    Just clicked on Julian''s avatar. Inside the forging pavilion, fireworks were blazing, and Julian, despite being scorched red by the hot air, continued to forge tirelessly.


    [After years of forging, Julian gradually realized a certain hammering technique, but he also faced constraints that prevented him from forging ironware as sturdy as the Forebearer''s ''War AI Bionic Robot'', nor could he forge a left arm that satisfied him.]


    [The trait ''Never Admit Defeat'' keeps him from giving up until he hits the south wall!]


    "Just a little more, and I can become an eighth-grade psychic equipment master. Superior psychic equipment, top-grade psychic equipment, I could make them with ease!"


    Julian looked like a madman, and although he was usually carefree, he took the crafting of psychic equipment very seriously.


    "Keep it up, Julian."


    Ethan knew that people obsessed with a profession were usually like this; their love for their profession was as fervent as that of a believer, and they were true craftsmen.


    Now, at Blackwood, it wasn''t Olivia but Thomas who was in charge of the family business.


    Don''t think Julian''s children are all brutes; brutes aren''t stupid, especially with Luna watching over them, Blackwood''s development was also thriving for the time being.


    As for Olivia...


    At 40, Olivia was even more charming, her hair up in a bun, dressed in a white gown, sitting in a wheelchair like a falling white lotus, pushed by Blackwood''s maidservant.


    Ever since Blackwood was out of trouble, Olivia had already started traveling and had not returned home for two years.


    The maidservants following her, all in their thirties or forties, each carried weapons.


    Occasionally, when in the woods, there were masters moving through the shadows to protect them.


    "Miss Four, if we go out again, we''ll be out of Tranquil County," a maidservant reminded.


    Olivia smiled, "What? Is Tranquil County our prison?"


    The maidservant shook her head repeatedly, "It''s just that once we leave Tranquil County, we''ll be out of our family''s territory."


    "You still say it''s not a prison?" Olivia''s smile deepened, "You think it''s not a prison, but you''re unwilling to step out of Tranquil, in reality, you''re already staying inside a prison. In fact, the world is vast, there''s nowhere you can''t go, nothing you can''t do. Only if you''re not afraid, can you break out."


    "Miss Four is divine, I don''t understand," the maidservant still shook her head.


    Olivia didn''t say much more, leading Blackwood''s maidservant out of Tranquil County.


    Only Ethan, in front of the screen, widened his eyes.


    "Holy smokes!"


    With a shout, Ethan almost knocked over the milk tea next to him, "Is it really happening???"

 Chapter 87 - 87: Generational Challenges Part 1

    Ethan remembered Olivia wasn''t unable to cultivate; no matter how poor her talent, she still had a five-element mixed Psychic Constitution. But she had always wanted to cultivate the literary path, to read all the books in the world!


    And now...


    [Your descendant Olivia, already sufficiently knowledgeable. With guidance from Dennis of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, she began to step out of Blackwood''s comfort zone, observing the world''s myriad things, watching the joys and sorrows of humanity.]


    [Over the years, gathering the works of saints and talented mortals from all over the world, she has already written ''The World Scripture'', divided into nine chapters, totaling ninety-nine thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine¡ªthe ultimate number.]


    [Your descendant is now enlightening herself and writing, ''The World Scripture'' first chapter¡ª]


    [''The Common People'']


    [Your descendant Olivia, her calamity is near!]


    Ethan gasped.


    The game''s prompt came out, and Ethan took a cold breath.


    Although he didn''t know much about literary cultivation, he knew a little, and Olivia... it seemed she had been plotting something significant all along!


    People in literary cultivation usually study the books of saints or the righteous poetry.


    But Olivia?


    She directly created her own chapter using the world''s writings, no wonder she hadn''t been able to cultivate the literary path all these years!


    She was directly practicing to provoke a heavenly calamity...


    Ethan scratched his head, never expecting that in just a few years, his descendant would have angered the heavens.


    [Blackwood, Year 58]


    [Daniel Emerges, Breaking Through the Emerging Ability Phase!]


    [During Thomas''s tenure as one of the seven kids of Blackwood, he convinced everyone in Gratitude Village to become warriors. The entire village, with over four thousand people, trained in martial arts daily, clamoring to take up arms and dominate Tranquil County, creating a chaotic and smoky atmosphere.]


    [Upon seeing Daniel emerge, Luna took the opportunity to take her seven descendants to the Forebearer Shrine for a severe beating, releasing three years of pent-up frustration. Afterwards, she temporarily handed over the position of family head to Daniel.]


    "Finally, a sane person has emerged!"


    Seeing Daniel emerge, and with a Dual Psychic Constitution no less, Ethan actually breathed a sigh of relief.


    With all the Blackwood experts in seclusion, Julian and these seven kids had been a real handful for him and Luna.


    These guys weren''t dumb, that''s for sure, but they were definitely not cut out to be family heads, at least not at this time!


    Their brains, it seemed, were probably as developed as their muscles. The all-out militarization was Thomas''s idea, and everyone else had their own plans, all aimed at bolstering Blackwood''s military power!


    Just look at the previous incidents...


    [Your descendant Anthony recruited a large number of followers, most of whom Luna found to be ulterior-motivated and had them all killed.]


    [Your descendant Linda coveted a family treasure and attempted to emulate her great-aunt''s plan for a night raid, nearly plunging Blackwood into chaos during a turbulent era. Luna dragged her to the Forebearer Shrine for a severe beating, finally calming her down.]


    [Your descendant Kevin, while wandering the world, saved a woman who then favored him, leading to a marriage proposal...]


    Hmm... Kevin truly is a Blackwood descendant!


    "Indeed, brutes are not suited to be family heads."


    Ethan, looking at Daniel now seated in the family head''s position, felt much better, murmuring, "All the experts are in seclusion, and this is a critical period for the family''s development, just waiting for the experts to emerge and soar. These few brats always thinking about showing off their muscles, it''s better to have the simple-minded Daniel in charge, he won''t cause trouble."


    Looking at the scene.


    Daniel and Luna sat in the main and deputy positions, with the seven kids of Blackwood at the deputy seats. Thomas''s wife Dorothy was applying medicine to the freshly beaten Thomas and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.


    Now 5-year-old George, unlike the burly seven kids of Blackwood, resembled more his mother Dorothy. Despite his young age, he already had the graceful demeanor of a jade-like young master, and he immediately jumped into Thomas''s arms.


    "So I''m not the family head, so what?"


    Thomas, stroking George''s head, complained with a hint of grievance, "Was it necessary to beat me so hard? Grandpa never hit us like this."


    "It''s because your grandpa spoiled you, turning you all into reckless bears!"


    Mentioning this made Luna furious.


    With so many children and grandchildren in the Blackwood family, her own children gave her peace of mind, with those in seclusion doing so, the blacksmiths forging, and Amelia in the Thunderfire Abyss continuously bringing good news. Even Olivia, who had no cultivation, managed to send back a million Energy Stones recently. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Look at Lucas''s two children, Marcus turned out well, a proud member of the Sky Sect. Daniel was incredibly obedient and wise, very much like Nathan.


    And then look at these seven...


    She had never been as worried in her life as she had been these past two or three years, despite having a lifespan of a thousand years, she had grown more than a dozen white hairs during these days.


    "Grandma..."


    Thomas wanted to say more, but little George lifted his head and said in a babyish voice, "Daddy, stop talking, if you''re not obedient, not only will Great Grandma beat you, but I''ll also tattle to Great Grandpa, and he''ll beat you too."


    "Ah, such a good great-grandson, come, let Great Grandma pat you."


    "George is not a puppy."


    George pouted but still walked towards his great-grandma.


    Thomas immediately became unhappy, his face swollen and in pain, he gritted his teeth and said fiercely, "Alright, you little rascal, daring to threaten your dad..."


    "Why are you being harsh with the child?" Dorothy immediately disapproved, "If you keep scolding George, don''t even think about coming to bed tonight!"


    "Blah blah blah."


    George, sitting in Luna''s lap, stuck his tongue out at his father, infuriating Thomas until his face turned dark.


    The Blackwood family, with their seven kids and the little prodigy among them, sure is a lively bunch.

 Chapter 88 - 88: Generational Challenges Part 2

    As the commotion settled, Daniel cleared his throat, glanced at everyone, and casually mentioned, "Now, it''s time to arrange Kevin''s wedding. I''ve checked the timing, and he can get married next month. "


    "Thomas has also reached the ninth level of Foundational Energy. I''ll have someone from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion bring over some elixirs so you can go into seclusion and break through."


    As soon as Daniel spoke, everyone turned their attention to him, nodding repeatedly.


    Having just taken over as the family head, Daniel still had an innocent look on his face.


    "Actually, our family really shouldn''t be causing trouble outside anymore. Whether it''s our father or our uncles and aunts, if they''re not in seclusion, they''re out and about. "


    "Our family has few Emerging Ability masters, and with the world in such chaos, we should rely on Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and Sky Sect to recuperate and thrive in these troubled times."


    At these words, everyone looked sideways.


    Especially Thomas, who had once tricked Daniel out of his candy as a child!


    Daniel didn''t care about the gazes of others and continued with an oblivious expression, "Also, the Black Blood Hall. Thomas has expanded it to 500 members, almost all above the third level of Foundational Energy. "


    "We can''t let them idle around. Send them to Forest Town to take over the mines there and let the new town mayor know that Forest Town belongs to us now."


    "Grandma, and your beast academy. Aren''t there Wind Spirit Eagles in the Silver Iron Forest? Could you trouble yourself to find 500 of them, the kind Auntie used to ride? "


    "With Black Blood Hall coordinating from the skies with the Spear Forest Formation, they will be even stronger."


    "Recently, our connection with Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion has been getting tighter, and Elder Dennis is trustworthy. We at Blackwood want to take advantage of the chaos to dominate Tranquil, but we''re already stretched thin in terms of intelligence. So, I''d like to invite Elder Dennis over, hoping he could send someone to guide us."


    Everyone at Blackwood was utterly stunned by his words!


    Thomas, in disbelief, stood up, walked over to Daniel, and grabbed his head to mess it up, "Speak, who are you? Who has taken over my second brother?!!"


    "Stop it."


    Daniel, unconcerned, shrugged off Thomas''s hand and continued:


    "Actually, our family already qualifies to become a Developing Skill family, but we lack a solid foundation. Once grandfather emerges from the Direct Death Coffin, and our father and uncles and aunts all return, I believe we will have enough upper-level strength."


    "What we need to do now is to enrich our family''s foundation and prepare for the future."


    Saying this, Daniel looked somewhat worriedly at the third generation of Blackwoods, "When you guys are free, go check on Uncle Three. He''s been crafting psychic equipment for three years now, and if this continues, even the Emerging Ability phase won''t hold up."


    At this, the third generation of Blackwoods finally stopped their frolicking.


    "We understand."


    ...


    "The family is finally on the right track!" Ethan wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.


    Daniel continued to discuss the family''s affairs in an organized manner, and Ethan wasn''t surprised at all!


    Although Daniel was naive and made silly mistakes as a child, even lacking understanding of matters between men and women, this didn''t mean he was truly foolish.


    A naive heart simply signifies purity and kindness, and also indicates a strong ability to perceive, otherwise, he wouldn''t have mastered most of the martial arts techniques from the ''Sky Codex'' to a very high level in the Coffin of Eternal Death!


    Moreover... Because Lucas rarely paid attention to his children, this kid was raised by Olivia from a young age.


    With such perceptiveness, even learning a little from Olivia meant he was extremely clever.


    It''s this appearance, and his always somewhat confused eyes, that are highly deceptive...


    He seems born to play the fool to catch the wise.


    Even more so, Daniel did better than Nathan and Lucas, more outstanding!


    He had Nathan''s steadiness, Lucas''s decisiveness, and Olivia''s big-picture perspective!


    "It''s you, from now on you''re the one who''ll do this, don''t even think about running away!" Ethan rubbed his hands, deciding then and there who would take over as the head of the family.


    Seeing the Blackwood family finally sort out the chaos caused by the second generation of Blackwoods, Ethan felt at ease, finally having time to consider his own matters.


    Then, he looked at the Spiritual Tribute value in the upper right corner of the game¡ª 113654!


    "The Spiritual Tribute value is enough." Ethan excitedly clicked on the martial arts techniques of Lucas and Marcus.


    [You have chosen Marcus''s technique, the Profound Grade skill ''Shadowy Sky Steps''.]


    [Detected that the skill progress has reached 90%, consuming 90000 Spiritual Tribute value!]


    [You have chosen Lucas''s Yellow Grade sword technique, ''Hundred Shadows Sword Glow''.]


    [Detected that the skill progress has reached 100%, consuming 20000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    [Would you like to learn?]


    In an instant.


    Ethan felt his mind clear, the memories and understanding of these two techniques flooding into his mind like a tide!


    Bright text appeared on the screen.


    [Congratulations, you have spent 110000 Spiritual Tribute points to learn the techniques ''Shadowy Sky Steps'' and ''Hundred Shadows Sword Glow''!]


    Ethan felt an indescribable mystery, he had heard of ''instant enlightenment'', perhaps this was it.


    As he learned the techniques.


    Even the avatar of the Forebearer appeared in the game interface!


    His personal information also came into view.


    [Ethan]


    [Stage: Transcendent Seed Period]


    [Psychic Constitution: Yin-Yang]


    [Techniques: Shadowy Sky Steps, Hundred Shadows Sword Glow, Yin-Yang Diagram]


    [Trait: Twin Fish Harmony Seal]


    Transcendent Seed, that was his stage! S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, he was a direct descendant of the Blackwood family, able to consume the heaven-defying ''Destiny Altering Ability Pill'', enjoying the most precious resources every month.


    Even a dog could train deeply with such resources!


    The students at school thought he was of ordinary talent because they were using their heads as urine bags!


    Otherwise.


    In places like Psychic Gear, even with his complicated identity, those uncles and aunts wouldn''t look at him differently.


    He wouldn''t deserve to live in the first house at the end of the road!


    The teachers at school wouldn''t be begging him to compete in competitions either!


    And... Anyway, he had never seen anyone with better talent than himself.


    Glancing at Daniel in the game, who was playing the fool to catch the wise, Ethan felt a bit envious.


    He also had the ability to play the fool to catch the wise, but he didn''t have the opportunity...


    "I''ll break through the Developing Skill when I''m free." Ethan grinned, looking at another skill in the game¡ª


    [Forebearer Moment]


    [Use skill, the soul of the Forebearer enters the game world, cannot be attacked, cannot be selected, consumes 1000 Spiritual Tribute points per year, the ratio of real-world time to game-world time remains the same!]

 Chapter 89 - 89: Grandma, wheres my baby?

    Ethan had mastered several skills over these days.


    [Forebearer Moment]


    According to the detailed description, it''s when his soul enters the game, manifesting in a special form, akin to entering a training room in the real world where time flows faster.


    For breakthroughs that could take years, even decades, this skill couldn''t be more suitable!


    "Let''s hold off for now, my Spiritual Tribute points are running low, and with the chaos in Blackwood, there''s no rush in these next few days."


    Ethan resisted the urge to break through in the game world.


    After all, with the big shots of Psychic Gear protecting him and Andrew handling the business, he was in no danger unless aliens invaded!


    The 60th Great Festival of Blackwood was just around the corner.


    During this time, quite a few good things happened.


    [Your descendant Anthony, seeing his brother marry and start a family, was inspired to marry Amanda, a renowned beauty from Gratitude Village.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +10]


    [Linda asked the family head Daniel to set up a contest to choose a son-in-law, and Brian, a level eight Psychic from Gratitude Village, won her heart.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +10]


    [Your descendant Kevin fell in love with Janet, a wealthy heiress he saved. Although initially rejected by Janet''s Lopez family, persistent efforts paid off when family head Daniel invited Dennis from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, and the Lopez family head was finally moved by Kevin''s sincerity, agreeing to their marriage.]


    [Spiritual Tribute...]


    These kids were indeed rash, but their daring spirit also made it easier for them to establish families and businesses.


    Ethan could imagine that soon, the descendants of Blackwood would flourish like bamboo shoots after a rain.


    As for Marcus and Daniel... they still hadn''t met their soulmates.


    But that seemed to be hereditary. When Luna asked their father Lucas about this during his retreat, Lucas merely brushed it off with a few words, showing no interest.


    Nathan even came out of retreat for nearly a month to investigate whether Daniel had any peculiar habits or health issues.


    In the end, it turned out that this grandson was a competent family head and wasn''t troubled by any issues; he just wanted a future wife who would be gentle like his grandmother, sensible like his second aunt, highly capable, and as intelligent as his youngest aunt...


    Knowing his grandson''s wishes, Nathan went back to his coffin with a dark face, thinking this grandson might end up alone for life.


    This worried Luna so much that her hair turned a few shades whiter, and she spent days praying at the Forebearer shrine for Ethan.


    "Pray for the Forebearer''s mighty power to bless my grandson MarcusDaniel to marry and have children soon, to strengthen our Blackwood family."


    "???"


    Ethan''s hand rested on the head of the Purple Thunder Solar Python, and he was stunned for a long time, not knowing how to help them marry and have children. Maybe he could drop a few silicone dolls during the festival.


    Soon, at this year''s Great Festival, the Blackwood ancestral hall was packed to the brim.


    [Blackwood celebrates its 60th year with the decennial grand ceremony!]


    [Your descendants offer you a sacrifice, the Blood Psychic Fruit...]


    [You bestow upon your descendants the Divine Gift¡ª12 Miracle Psychic Pills.]


    "Forebearer Divine Gift, my descendants, quickly kneel before the Forebearer!"


    Even though Nathan was very familiar with such ceremonies, he was still immensely excited. Anything given by the Forebearer, even if it were mere scraps, was treasured beyond measure.


    He then led his descendants in successive kneelings, "Rest assured, Forebearer, the progeny of Blackwood are extraordinary, truly the cream of the crop."


    "Marcus has entered seclusion in the Sky Temple. Daniel has managed the family affairs impeccably. The seven sons of Blackwood are all heroes, and the women are just as formidable!"


    "..."


    Ethan was well aware of all these matters, but Nathan still proudly recounted them in front of the children.


    At that moment, he resembled an elder during Qingming Festival, meticulously recounting to the Forebearer at the ancestral temple in his hometown village.


    Everyone looked devout.


    However, this year''s grand ceremony was different from the past.


    The seven sons of Blackwood were present, but their wives were excluded. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No other reason, but as the family grew stronger and the sons displayed their father''s traits, Kevin and Anthony, still immature, had wives who were already pregnant, and it was uncertain how many children they would have. Moreover, with the elders of Blackwood needing to cultivate psychic powers, there was no time to educate, leaving the future dispositions of these children uncertain.


    During this grand ceremony, Ethan had already instructed Daniel to establish family rules.


    After Nathan finished the sacrificial speech, he held up a scroll.


    "Blackwood family rules, please, Forebearer, review them!"


    "First, those not recognized by the Forebearer are outsiders and may not enter the Forebearer''s temple."


    "Second, the descendants of Blackwood must not reveal family secrets to outsiders, violators will be expelled from the family!"


    "Third, descendants who indulge in luxury and idleness, not striving for improvement, shall not enter the Forebearer''s temple."


    "Fourth..."


    After laying down these rules, Nathan asked Ethan to review them.


    Ethan looked on seriously.


    He clearly understood that as the family grew larger, strict rules were necessary to prevent chaos!


    Once the grand ceremony was concluded, Blackwood had new rules.


    Nathan and Lucas and others continued to go into seclusion.


    ...


    [The 60th Grand Festival of Blackwood has concluded.]


    [In the same year, Amanda was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a son, Larry.]


    [Janet was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a daughter, Amy.]


    [Congratulations, your descendant Linda was pregnant for ten months and gave birth to a son, Justin...]


    [...]


    "Holy smokes, they sure can pop them out!"


    The year hadn''t even ended, and Ethan was already so excited that he stood up from his chair.


    Especially since the event log also included prompts about family development.


    [Your descendant Paul, now eighteen, seeing his siblings married, is quite anxious. Thus, he found Laura, a childhood friend from Gratitude Village, and after some discussions about the bedroom secrets taught by his siblings...]


    [With love blossoming, Paul brought Laura to meet his parents and grandparents, openly declaring his intention to sleep with Laura. Luna thought it was a child''s play and casually agreed. Paul, daring as he is, decided to seal their lifelong commitment that night in the cattle shed.]


    "That''s the fifth pair."


    Ethan was a bit dazed.


    Previously, there was a pressing need to have children, but now... one after another, he couldn''t even remember who was who.


    And it wasn''t just Ethan who was confused at Blackwood.


    Luna sat in front of the hall.


    Once a fierce woman who fought alongside her husband with a knife in hand, the strongest woman behind Blackwood, now seemed a bit lost and pained. She held a chubby boy in her left arm, another chubby baby in her right, and in front of her, a wooden pushcart.


    The three babies formed a choir.


    Previously, when she took care of the children one by one with help, watching them cry was a joy, but now...


    "You, Amanda, come take Larry to Linda, let her take the baby to his grandfather."


    The woman shoveling manure on the side wiped the sweat from her forehead, "Grandma, I''m not Amanda, I... I''m Janet, my husband is Kevin!"


    "Grandma, I''m Amanda! This is my child, Larry."


    "Grandma, where''s my baby? I can''t tell which one is mine."


    Just a month after giving birth, Linda, clad in black iron beast blood armor, was lifting up each baby''s diaper to check.


    The scene was extremely chaotic.

 Chapter 90 - 90: A special profession

    Luna, her face etched with despair, ignored the cries of her daughters-in-law and granddaughters behind her. She set down her child and walked straight to the closed sanctuary, violently pulling shut the stone door next to Nathan''s Psychic Sanctuary.


    Inside, Nathan, who was in deep meditation, heard the noise and asked, "My dear, why have you come to meditate too? Aren''t you a demon cultivator currently seeking opportunities?"


    "What kind of good days have I lived before?" Luna muttered something Nathan couldn''t understand, then smiled broadly, "Head of the household, it''s so peaceful in the human world now, truly wonderful."


    ...


    "Ha ha ha! My Blackwood is finally going to grow strong, these kids are truly amazing!" Ethan was overjoyed, naturally unable to feel Luna''s pain.


    As long as he wasn''t the one taking care of the kids, they were definitely adorable.


    He was now keenly aware of the terrifying speed of population growth when it reached a certain number and was unchecked.


    "Wait until Paul, Andrew, and Nancy start having kids, tsk tsk."


    Ethan felt that by then, the family would be even stronger.


    Soon, it was the second year.


    [Blackwood Year 61.]


    [Your descendant Paul has married Laura.]


    [Received Spiritual Tribute +10]


    As the children''s marriages became more frequent, the people of Blackwood grew accustomed to it. The elders would temporarily come out of their meditations to drink the tea offered by the younger generation, then return to their seclusion.


    And Laura was showing her pregnancy. Luna, coming out of seclusion, just glanced at Laura''s swollen belly and her face changed dramatically. She only drank half her tea before hurriedly returning to the Psychic Sanctuary and shutting the stone door.


    [Your daughter-in-law Mary has broken through and reached the Emerging Ability stage!]


    That year, Blackwood gained another person in the Emerging Ability stage, and Mary, the female knight, joyfully came out.


    She helped take care of the family for a couple of days.


    Initially, she was elated, telling everyone about becoming a grandmother, but later her face turned dark and she ran back to meditate.


    [Your daughter-in-law Mary, containing the Beast King Pill, vows not to leave seclusion until she reaches the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    "My daughters-in-law in Blackwood, have they all been working so hard?" Ethan felt deeply gratified.


    One piece of good news followed another this year.


    Especially Julian!


    This guy, who had been forging for several years, finally stopped swinging his hammer madly in the forge and collapsed on the ground, gasping for breath.


    [You used ''Forebearer''s Warmth'', consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    "Thanks to Forebearer''s Divine Gift, Forebearer, my child has succeeded, ha ha ha, an eighth-grade psychic equipment master!"


    Julian laughed and then cried.


    After many years of forging, who knew how many times he wanted to give up?


    He suddenly realized, he was like an iron tree, all his perseverance and effort were waiting to bear fruit today!


    "Forebearer, look at my hands, look at this AI Bionic Robot, woo~"


    Following the direction Julian pointed.


    Ethan saw his silver prosthetic limb, and standing still nearly two meters tall, its eyes flashing golden light... a copper-colored AI Bionic Robot!


    [Your descendant, after years of forging, never admitting defeat, blacksmith profession, advanced to¡ª¡ª]


    [Eighth-grade Psychic Puppeteer Blacksmith!]


    The second generation at Blackwood was the craziest yet.


    You could even say they were the craziest people Ethan had ever seen.


    Lucas was killing people at a young age, and with only mediocre skills, he dared to enter the Garcia stronghold alone and killed Dexter. He even created his own martial arts techniques, already possessing the qualifications of a swordsmanship grandmaster.


    Amelia practiced both medicine and poison, directly achieving a celestial fetus.


    Olivia simply refused to cultivate psychic powers, instead achieving enlightenment and writing major literary works on her own. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And then there was Julian, the third child...


    He was the most talented, hopelessly addicted to blacksmithing, his cultivation progress far behind others, but now it was finally time for his fervor to bear fruit!


    [Psychic Puppeteer]


    [Transforming zombies with the Straight Death Coffin, combined with the forging methods of Energy Stones and Storage Rings, and the craftsmanship of AI Bionic Robots, this is a special profession.]


    Ethan had never seen such a profession in the real world!


    Ethan even hesitated to say whether this technology was superior or inferior to that of war AI Bionic Robots because... Julian was only at the eighth rank now, what about the seventh, sixth, or even later ranks?


    But this was also an extremely difficult path.


    After all, Julian was like walking on a road no one else had crossed, groping his way forward.


    "Forebearer, look!"


    As Julian presented the Ethan tablet, it floated up, and Julian, like a child showing off to an adult, excitedly introduced the psychic puppet.


    "My child knows he can''t manufacture the renewable flesh inside a war AI Bionic Robot, but he thought of the zombies in the Straight Death Coffin!"


    Julian lifted the copper-colored AI Bionic Robot mask, reminiscent of an ancient heavy cavalry warrior, revealing a zombie inside that looked somewhat familiar...


    Wasn''t this the mummified corpse of Wild Dragon from the Dragon and Tiger brothers?


    "This guy was a Transcendent Seed in life, drained of blood, lost his psychic abilities, but his body''s strength still reached the peak of Foundational Energy. With a special kind of eerie silk, the zombie can manipulate the outer armor!"


    Then Julian tapped the armor, and in a flash.


    The armor sci-fi-like expanded.


    From two meters tall, the psychic puppet grew to five meters, brimming with a sense of power!


    Another tap, and the formations on its body activated, returning it to its original size.


    "The materials on its body, made by smashing Sumi stones used in Storage Rings and primarily using celestial iron from Garcia mines, reach up to the eighth rank!"


    "And..."


    Julian, like a mad scientist, frantically introduced, his whole body trembling.


    "My child has forged movable top-grade psychic equipment!"


    He shouted out loud, and Julian, happy and splendid, fainted.


    Scared, Ethan quickly sent him a ''Forebearer''s Warmth''.


    "Genius... no."


    Ethan shook his head, his eyes filled with awe, genius was no longer enough to describe this muscular man.


    [Your descendant Julian, through an unyielding spirit, has forged top-grade psychic equipment after years of forging, achieving the eighth rank psychic puppet.]


    [Breakthrough, mid-stage Emerging Ability!]


    [Trait acquired: Ancestor of Psychic Puppets]


    [When using psychic puppet equipment, combat power increases by 20%. Knowledge of psychic abilities and AI Bionic Robots significantly enhanced.]


    "Awesome."


    Even after Julian was revived by the pharmacist of the psychic medicine garden, drank medicine to recover his body, and continued blacksmithing, Ethan was still incredibly shocked.


    He had witnessed the birth of a special profession.

 Chapter 91 - 91: Valley Victory

    In Ethan''s view, this generation wasn''t the main stage for the family''s second generation; even when they were not at home, they had already become the foundation of the family. Only the elders and Daniel knew about Julian''s cultivation of psychic puppetry.


    The third generation was prominently displayed in the Blackwood family.


    "May the Forebearer bless, my seven sons of Blackwood, victorious in battle, vanquish all foes!"


    "Form the array!"


    In a valley, the seven sons of Blackwood leapt up, pulling out the Forebearer''s cards from their bosoms and tossing it into the sky.


    They surrounded a dozen people with the Seven Stars Array, and under the connection of psychic powers, seven massive psychic-powered equipments in the array obliterated the enemies.


    This was their years of cultivating the "Lifeblood Drawing Technique," where the seven acted as one in the array.


    They even had their exclusive POSS.


    "..."


    Let''s not mention it; it was the seven black bears that were embarrassing, but Ethan, watching the screen, was the one who felt awkward.


    In the distance.


    Daniel, holding the position of family head, stood on the mountain, not embarrassed by the scene at all, looking like a dazed fool.


    Beside him was Holden Moore, who had been collaborating with the Blackwoods for years, ambushing Taylor from Bluefield in the Silver Iron Forest.


    At that moment.


    This middle-aged man, with a few strands of white hair but still handsome and scholarly, twitched his mouth upon seeing the operation of the Blackwood seven sons, "Daniel, your seven brothers, they really are... truly... heroic."


    "Thank you for the compliment, Grandpa Holden."


    Daniel nodded blankly, "Is it over on your side?"


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    Holden looked up, and in the distance, a psychic power floated up, "It''s over, the harvest is as usual, half for each of our families."


    Ethan, in front of the screen, looked at the small text above their heads.


    A prompt appeared in the event column.


    [Blackwood Year 63]


    [Your descendant Daniel has been interacting with the Moore of Silverwood for years. Silverwood Moore has allied with the Sky Sect, under the control of the Rodriguez family affiliated with Sky Sect. Blackwood has allied with the Xuanwu Sect affiliated Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.]


    [Congratulations, your family has once again cooperated with Silverwood Moore to intercept the outer disciple team of Sky Sect returning from Yangqing County with trophies.]


    [Special event reward received: Spiritual Tribute, +200]


    Two years had passed in the game.


    Daniel was becoming clearer on how to be a family head, now a 33-year-old middle-aged man, yet still youthful, making him seem inexperienced at first glance.


    Among the Blackwood seven sons, Thomas and Anthony had already broken through to Emerging Ability.


    The other five were between the seventh layer of Foundational Energy and its peak.


    Two years had not stripped them of their youthful naivety. Now in the family, the seven sons of Blackwood were utterly obedient to Daniel.


    "Grandpa Holden was wrong," Daniel shook his head slightly.


    Hearing this.


    A hint of wariness flashed in Holden''s eyes, "Did Blackwood ask for too little? Indeed, Blackwood contributed more this time."


    After others in Blackwood rarely appeared, he had been collaborating with Daniel over the years, intercepting other forces together, obtaining resources, and developing together, which was also their way of survival in these chaotic times.


    At first, he was somewhat dissatisfied, complaining that Blackwood had sent such a young lad, wouldn''t that hold him back?


    But later, he gradually realized.


    This young man was much more terrifying than Nathan he had dealt with before! Nathan was steady, honest, and responsible.


    Daniel was different.


    This guy was very straightforward; he only recognized one dead principle: Blackwood must not suffer losses. For this, he could go to any lengths, fight for anything!


    Holden even saw that Daniel, to extract information from an enemy, could still maintain his current expression, slowly hoist the opponent up, gradually roast the opponent''s flesh, and feed it into the opponent''s mouth.


    "No, Grandpa Holden, last time we cooperated, you lost people, this time Blackwood will not take the harvest," Daniel said innocently.


    "Hmm?"


    Holden became even more cautious, "Daniel, don''t be polite, Moore and Blackwood have been life-and-death allies for many years, I, Holden, cannot accept this batch of resources."


    Daniel said no more, "Then it won''t be given."


    "..."


    Holden''s facial muscles twitched suddenly, feeling as if Daniel''s straightforwardness left no room for refusal, almost as if he should just accept it outright!


    Sure enough, Daniel said, "Grandfather Holden has been loyal to the Rodriguez family, but how much do you really know about them?"


    "You..."


    Holden''s eyes gradually widened, and he swallowed, "What are you going to do?!" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Years ago, my elder brother was under the tutelage of the Fire Scale Taoist at Sky Sect, a core disciple who received great kindness from him. Unfortunately, there was a direct descendant of the Rodriguez family in Sky Sect named Silas, who nearly caused my brother''s death, and for twelve years he was obliterated from memory."


    Daniel let out a long breath, "I thought that was the end of it, but the Rodriguez family harbored a grudge, repeatedly opposing my brother. I, from Blackwood, had no choice but to send the entire Rodriguez family to their demise."


    "This..."


    Holden panicked, his back drenched in sweat in a short time. Having reached the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, he hadn''t felt this nervous in a long time. After hesitating for a moment, he finally said, "Lord Blackwood, the Rodriguez family has an ancestor with Developing Skill!"


    "Daniel knows."


    "Lord Blackwood, does your family elder know about this?!"


    "I''ve asked the family elders, they all know."


    "I... ah, in recent years, my Moore family has also been troubled by many problems, let me think about this significant matter..."


    "Grandfather Holden is a life-and-death friend of mine in Blackwood. If you don''t want to go, then forget it, Daniel will leave."


    "Wait, our Moore and Blackwood are inseparable, what concerns Blackwood concerns Moore too, I''m in!"


    Holden deflated like he was truly frightened. Daniel dared to tell him such a life-and-death matter so boldly. If he refused, would someone like Daniel let him leave with the information???


    "Daniel will remember this favor, Grandfather Holden, let''s go home together."


    Watching Daniel''s retreating figure, Holden weakly followed by sword.


    He let out a long breath, "I should have just accepted it earlier."

 Chapter 92 - 92: Psychic Sanctuary

    Ethan had been watching Daniel''s screen intently. Soon, the scene shifted back to Gratitude Village.


    The village remained as peaceful as ever, with men and women working the fields, crows flying into the woods, and few travelers passing by. It was a picturesque rural scene, now surrounded by an abundance of psychic abilities.


    The Blackwood estate at the end of the village had grown even more magnificent, with pavilions and terraces, and villagers from Gratitude occasionally entering, especially the martial arts tower which now saw the most visitors. However, compared to before, Blackwood now had strict rules in place.


    The Black Blood Hall, with its 500 members, still clad in armor, had its weakest members at the fourth level of Foundational Energy, with a hundred of them soaring in the sky on giant eagles, monitoring the vicinity of Gratitude Village.


    In the Silver Iron Forest, the animals were not afraid of humans, occasionally coming to Gratitude Village to be fed by the villagers or to fertilize the psychic fields, creating a harmonious environment.


    Inside the Blackwood estate, a dozen maids and as many wet nurses were taking care of children. The changes over the past two years had been significant.


    Ethan checked the event log:


    [In the 61st year of Blackwood, Laura gave birth to a daughter named Melissa after being pregnant for ten months.]


    [15-year-old Andrew and Miss Skylar Moore fell in love and got engaged, with plans to marry in three years.]


    [In the 62nd year of Blackwood, Dorothy gave birth to a son named Riley after being pregnant for ten months.]


    [...]


    [Fourth generation descendants of Blackwood: Nine members!]


    In just three years, nine descendants were born, and in just three hours, Ethan became most familiar with young George.


    Meanwhile, Daniel had already taken Holden inside for a detailed discussion. Soon after, a special event occurred:


    [In the 62nd year of Blackwood, your descendant Marcus made a breakthrough to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability at the Sky Sect Palace!]


    [The master of the deceased Silas, Mason, feeling increasingly threatened by Marcus, hired a Transcendent Seed assassin from the county town to kill Marcus during a sect mission, but he was saved by your skill ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury''!]


    [Marcus reported to the sect master Wesley, who dismissed the accusations as baseless and warned against reckless actions.]


    [Special Event]


    [To eliminate the lingering threat from Silas''s death, Marcus decided to ask Elder Dylan and twelve inner disciples to eradicate the Rodriguez family and remove Mason''s influence outside the Sky Sect.]


    [You decide...]


    "I decide? I decide to take him down!" Ethan exclaimed, his eyes wide with determination. Marcus was the most precious of the third-generation descendants, and just an hour ago, he had almost lost him due to a slow reaction.


    Although Marcus had no intention of involving the family and even kept silent in his letters, fearing that Blackwood might act rashly and bring disaster upon themselves, look at what a good kid he was!


    This was the decision he and the family had made after much consideration. No matter where you are, as an important part of Blackwood, don''t try to handle everything on your own!


    Ethan moved his mouse over to the skill option.


    [Fight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Remaining Spiritual Tribute points¡ª38,650.]


    "We''re Blackwood; why should we fear a mere D-level? Kid, your family is your biggest support!"


    [Green Garden County¡¤Mount Five Peaks]


    Ethan opened the map and saw the location of Blackwood''s adversaries.


    The Rodriguez family''s Mount Five Peaks appeared to be a mountain peak sliced in half, with its residence at the summit adorned with splendid buildings, a significant site for the family''s growth and prosperity.


    At this time, Blackwood was already preparing to attack the Rodriguez family.


    After receiving intelligence from Qingping Moore and Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, Ethan was also observing the entire Mount Five Peaks to gather more useful information.


    The details on the map became complete as Ethan observed.


    [Rodriguez family has thrived for 722 years.]


    [Family members: 3286]


    [Founding ancestor with Developing Skill, name: Liam, lifespan: 342 years] S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Emerging Ability experts: 121, including 4 at the Transcendent Seed stage, 13 at the peak of Emerging Ability...]


    [Family''s grand formations¡ªFive Unique Psychic Traps, Hundred Psychic Bluebird Totem...]


    "Is a Developing Skill family that has only risen in the last century already so deeply rooted?" Ethan looked solemn.


    A Developing Skill family is truly considered a house of cultivating psychic powers, with D-level members having a lifespan of 500 years and formidable strength, allowing their family to possess vast resources.


    A family survives for 500 years, basically undergoing a qualitative change.


    That is, facing the newly risen Rodriguez family, if it were an ancient Developing Skill family, Ethan wouldn''t dare boast about annihilating them.


    Before this.


    Ethan had learned about an old Developing Skill family existing for over two thousand years, with dual Developing Skills, a family membership exceeding 120,000, nearly twenty at the Transcendent Seed stage alone, and always on the verge of achieving triple Developing Skills.


    Such Developing Skill families often possess a strong foundation, with descendants spread throughout the entire Cloudview County, even those in the Competent stage must show respect.


    After all, with the full strength of the family and numerous resources, and being ancient, who doesn''t have some formidable friends outside? Blackwood is the best example, with a Developing Skill in-law during their Emerging Ability phase, Marcus is a direct disciple of the Sky Sect. A family of a thousand years, potentially reaching over a million descendants, who knows what such a family hides.


    "Over three thousand family members, I wonder when Blackwood will reach this stage."


    Ethan looked forward with anticipation.


    He then shifted his gaze towards the Blackwood residence.


    At this time, the family members had also temporarily ended their seclusion.


    ...


    [Silver Iron Forest]


    Deep within Blackwood lies the Psychic Sanctuary, part of the Silver Iron Forest domain. Here, the disciples of Blackwood engage in cultivating psychic powers, aided by the group trait ''Guardians of the Silver Iron Forest,'' which boosts their cultivation speed by 10%!


    They had long sensed this, and the important members of Blackwood chose this place for their secluded cultivation, laying out the Psychic Sanctuary with precious Energy Stones.


    Beneath the ground, millions of basic Energy Stones and tens of thousands of intermediate Energy Stones were deeply buried.


    As time passed.


    Inside Gratitude Village, the Blackwood estate openly served as the living quarters for Blackwood. However, over the years, important items such as the ancestral hall where Blackwood worshipped their Forebearer, the psychic treasure ''Direct Death Coffin,'' and the eighth-grade blood psychic fruit trees were gradually moved to the Psychic Sanctuary in the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Boom!"


    After nearly ten years of seclusion, Nathan stepped out of the Psychic Sanctuary. He breathed in the fresh air outside the Psychic Sanctuary before opening his eyes.

 Chapter 93 - 93: Fox Master Ascends

    This elder, who had led Blackwood for over fifty years, appeared middle-aged but was actually eighty years old. Time had deepened his eyes, giving him an ethereal aura that made him seem like a majestic mountain.


    "Being in seclusion felt like the blink of an eye."


    Watching the words above Nathan''s head, Ethan slowly opened his historical information to see Nathan''s gains.


    [Blackwood Year 55, amidst his seclusion, he reminisced about the days of struggle within his family, wrestling with wild boars, wandering in the forest, and the killings over the past fifty-plus years, his traits undergoing some transformation.]


    [Year 58, watching his descendants grow, Nathan gradually realized that the days of constant fighting would become the past, and what he needed now was to gain greater strength to protect his descendants.]


    [Year 61, after a grand ceremony and witnessing the emergence of the fourth generation, he finally understood the significance of being the first-generation family head, his traits changed¡ª]


    [Traits: Wild Boar Slayer, Forest Huntsman transformed into¡ª]


    [Family Guardian!]


    [When battling enemies, all attributes increase by 100%, and when the family is cultivating psychic powers, the speed of cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%!]


    [Year 63, Nathan had an epiphany, ready to break through the peak of Emerging Ability.]


    "Truly a man who could slaughter his way through Mystic Boar Forest."


    Ethan gave Nathan a thumbs up.


    Nathan knocked on Luna''s Psychic Sanctuary, shouting, "Wife, it''s time to come out. You''ve been in seclusion without the kids for years now, and frankly, you''ve been quite the irresponsible grandma."


    It wasn''t long before Luna''s voice, filled with dissatisfaction, echoed from the Psychic Sanctuary. "Irresponsible? Those kids breed faster than rabbits. I can''t even tell who''s who anymore. You know, as the head of the family, you should understand that we''re getting old. It''s not possible to be close with every child."


    The Psychic Sanctuary opened, and Luna appeared, looking younger than ever. The white hair she had grown over the past few years from raising children had turned black again.


    Especially outside her Psychic Sanctuary, where it was now filled with fox dens. The foxes, upon seeing Luna, bowed as if they were in the presence of a deity.


    Nathan understood Luna''s words. It wasn''t just Luna; as he aged, he too felt a growing distance from the newer generations of their descendants.


    He didn''t dwell on the closeness between the couple and their great-grandson, instead, he pointed to the thousands of foxes outside Luna''s Psychic Sanctuary and blinked, "Wife, these foxes outside your Psychic Sanctuary..."


    "Head of the family, let''s see which one of us breaks through in Developing Skill first," Luna said with a smile, her eyes curving downwards.


    "Come on, aside from the fox inside you, your main body hasn''t even reached the peak of Foundational Energy yet," Nathan rolled his eyes.


    But Ethan, observing their conversation, didn''t feel the same way. He clicked on Luna''s profile.


    [Blackwood Year 61, a fox sensed the presence of the Fox Master and came to worship.]


    [100 foxes came to worship...]


    [Luna gradually meets the conditions of the Fox Master.]


    [Progress of Ten Thousand Foxes Worshiping¡ª13%]


    Luna had found a way to break through by becoming a Fox Master. As more and more foxes came to worship, and once she met the condition of possessing a Demon King''s Blood Pill, Luna''s life-bound psychic beast could transform into a Demon King!


    All that was missing now was the Demon King''s Blood Pill.


    However, she didn''t discuss it further with Nathan, planning to surprise him.


    Soon after, the couple walked towards a clearing near the Silver Iron Forest. The ground there was covered with sword marks, and iron swords encircled the area. The wind passing through would carry the sound of the swords'' hum.


    Outside the sword formation, both could feel the sharp sword energy emanating from deep within.


    "Lucas''s sword intent..." Nathan''s face lit up with a smile, "Good, good, good. This child has a heavy heart for killing, but after nearly ten years of seclusion and sword cultivation, there''s no longer such violent murderous intent in this sword intent. That''s a good thing."


    Over the years, Nathan was comforted by Lucas''s growth and his filial piety. He still remembered how the boy had ventured alone into Garcia to avenge him. But as the enemies of Blackwood grew, so did Lucas''s intent to kill.


    Now, it seemed, a weight had been lifted from his heart.


    "Dad, Mom!" S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A breeze passed, and Lucas appeared before his parents. Though nearly sixty, he still looked youthful, with sharp eyebrows and bright eyes. Now, there was more tranquility in his gaze. However, as he bowed in greeting, his eyes occasionally darted elsewhere, sharp as a sword blade, and a leaf was cut through by the wind.


    [After years of seclusion cultivating psychic powers and practicing over ten sword techniques, Lucas began to abandon his previous sword techniques, focusing on basic swordsmanship.]


    [He began to understand that a sword is not only about killing moves or blinding Sword Glow; swordsmanship should be simple.]


    [After observing hundreds of swords for nearly a decade, Lucas realized that a long sword must have psychic abilities to be wielded as if it were part of one''s own body.]


    [His profession transformed, from a swordsman to¡ª]


    [Sword Sect!]


    [Interacting with the sword, holding the sword, his psychic power and combat power increase by 100%!]


    In Ethan''s view, Lucas becoming a Sword Sect was a natural progression.


    On Earth too, equivalent to a master of swordsmanship, each individual has a unique understanding of sword techniques, with the most significant feature being the creation of their own sword technique.


    As these three emerged from seclusion, Julian''s wife Mary also broke through her own barriers.


    From a distance, in Gratitude Village, Julian arrived with eight descendants of the Blackwood family.


    His left arm, a shiny silver prosthetic, was particularly eye-catching. After he finished crafting the psychic puppet, he lost the fervor he once had in the forge and returned to his carefree self.


    Just look at the laid-back nature of the Blackwood sons; you can tell exactly who they got it from.


    "Dad, Mom, big brother, sister-in-law, haha, come check out my arm. Losing an arm has its perks!"


    "Now our family won''t ever have to worry about missing arms or legs again!"

 Chapter 94 - 94: Psychic Nanny

    Everyone unconsciously ignored Julian''s nonsensical remarks. Daniel, the current head of the family, walked up to the elders and bowed. Having been the head for several years, he now felt a sense of relief seeing the family elders taking charge again.


    "Daniel, you''ve done well as the head these past years, but remember, never neglect cultivating psychic powers," Nathan patted his grandson''s arm.


    The others also looked at Daniel with smiles on their faces. Over the years, while they were secluded and cultivating psychic powers, Daniel had always managed to use the family''s influence and his own ventures to procure the necessities they needed.


    "I''ll keep that in mind," Daniel nodded repeatedly.


    This time, even Lucas looked at his second son with new respect, touching Daniel''s head, "Son, you''ve grown up, just like me."


    A simple sentence brought tears to Daniel''s eyes. Growing up, he had spent more time with anyone else than with his father, once thinking his father disliked him because of his mother''s issues.


    But as he grew older, his aunt told him it was because his father felt guilty. As Daniel grew further, he understood. Perhaps since the day his mother was driven out of the house, the one who suffered the most was his father.


    From that day on, his father never sought another woman. Every time his father looked at them, it was as if he saw their mother, awakening past memories, and he could only keep cultivating psychic powers and practicing swordsmanship relentlessly.


    "Dad, I''m already thirty-four," Daniel said, showing a rare childlike side after becoming the head of the family.


    "Hahaha!" Lucas suddenly burst into laughter, "Even if you were three hundred and four, you would still be my good son!" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Daniel watched his father, who stood as straight as a sword, with a goofy smile.


    Past grievances dissipated in the laughter between father and son. The Blackwood family, witnessing this, all showed warm smiles.


    ...


    Soon, the group arrived at the location of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    Now, the Boar Monarch Pete seemed to have grown even bigger.


    Julian''s lineage, the fourth generation, was being led by the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest, circling around the Boar Monarch Pete.


    It must be said, the Boar Monarch Pete was really good at taking care of kids; whenever the children cried, the psychic beasts always managed to make them laugh.


    He was practically Blackwood''s best nanny.


    Occasionally, he would feed the children raw meat, after all, the third generation of Blackwood''s children were raised on raw meat, each as robust as a black bear.


    "Grandpa! No, don''t let the psychic beasts take my brother up into the sky, what if he falls?"


    "You, yes you, the big rooster, what are you doing? Are you feeding my sister milk? What? Spiders can feed, why can''t you? Spiders have milk, you don''t, you''re still just a male!"


    "Please, Grandpa, that giant toad swallowed my brother, nurturing the body isn''t supposed to be like this, I''m scared."


    "..."


    Just as they arrived at the Silver Iron Forest Valley.


    The people of Blackwood saw George, the eldest of the fourth generation, frantically running around, while the psychic beasts around the Boar Monarch Pete were taking care of the children, they seemed to have their own way of doing things.


    But it seemed like the people of Blackwood were used to it.


    The Boar Monarch Pete lowered his head and said softly, "George, weren''t you also brought up this way by Grandpa?"


    "..."


    Little George was on the verge of tears; indeed, he was raised this way, but only those who have experienced storms understand the desire to shelter others from bad weather.


    He really didn''t understand how his dad and six uncles had managed back then.


    Anyway, once he knew a bit about things, he realized that raw meat wasn''t tasty, being eaten by psychic beasts was a bit terrifying, there was also the risk of being dissolved, falling from the sky was unpleasant, breaking a leg hurt, he had counted, since he could remember, his bones had broken 26 times.


    Nowadays, George was extremely worried about his younger brothers and sisters, spending all day with Grandpa, fearing that the siblings would be played too rough.


    "Ha ha ha, my dear in-law, it''s been many years since we''ve seen each other!"


    A deep voice made George very happy, he turned around and saw his family members, "Great-grandfather, great-grandmother, grandpa, you''re out of seclusion?!!"


    It had been too long since he had seen these elders in his family.


    Then he went one by one to greet his family members, letting the elders take turns patting his head.


    Just as he was about to complain to his great-grandparents about a sister who was carried away by a monkey jumping in the trees and suddenly disappeared, his little face fell.


    Nathan looked on contentedly at the fourth generation children playing with the psychic beasts.


    "Thanks to you, old in-law, our whole family is busy, these kids are being raised by you, they''re all quite happy and growing up strong."


    "..."


    As George stood petrified, observing the satisfied expressions of the elders, he found himself confused. "Am I being too sensitive? Or is it truly the right way to raise the children of Blackwood like this? But isn''t this... dangerously reckless?"


    Meanwhile, Nathan had approached the Boar Monarch Pete and shared Marcus''s current predicament.


    The Boar Monarch Pete was furious, "I looked after that boy Marcus for two years. I''ve always told you, the Sky Sect is no good place. Marcus should never have gone there. Now, someone from the Sky Sect''s elders has even sent assassins after him. That elder is audaciously bold!"


    "Are we going to wipe out the Rodriguez family this time? My dear friend, allow me some time to prepare. With the exotic beasts from the Silver Iron Forest, crushing the newly rising Developing Skill family will be a breeze!"


    "Hold your horses, my friend," Nathan interjected, stopping Pete from summoning the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest. "This time, we hope you can help us by looking after our family''s enterprises while all the Blackwood experts are mobilized."


    Pete was about to say more.


    Nathan continued, "After all, the Rodriguez family is just a pawn of the Sky Sect elders. Deploying the Silver Iron Forest would create too much of a spectacle. If you go, your demon aura will linger, and if the Sky Sect accuses you of bringing calamity to humanity, it would escalate the situation."


    Pete then relented, nodding in agreement, "That makes sense. Go ahead, with me here, no one will dare to touch my great-grandchildren!"


    "By the way, do you need any exotic beasts?"


    Nathan shook his head, "Thanks for the offer, my friend, but the Rodriguez family is manageable. Blackwood is no longer as isolated and vulnerable as it once was!"

 Chapter 95 - 95: Fatal Pharmacist

    Ethan''s screen switched to this location. The folks from Blackwood were on their way to Green Garden County. The Rodriguez family, after all, came from a lineage of Developing Skills. Although confident, they still needed extensive preparation.


    The place, once a hellish demon cave, now surprisingly harmonious, had been cleared to reveal an entrance under a large peach tree, with eerie ghostly fires flickering within. Far off, Psychics from various regions had set up camp, which had grown into a town complete with strategic formations.


    "It''s been nearly eighteen years," Ethan muttered, his lips twitching. Over the years, he had kept an eye on Amelia and understood the situation well. A glance at the map clarified everything.


    [Thunderfire Demon Cave]


    [In Tranquil County, demonically possessed psychics are causing trouble. The Sky Sect has taken the initiative to send people to the Thunderfire Demon Cave to eradicate these beings. As time passed, the Psychics discovered that the formations above the cave were not simple, and even those of D-level could not easily break them.]


    [They gradually realized that this cave was a gathering place for demonically possessed psychics in the entire Cloudview County. Over five thousand years, these beings had congregated, forming an underworld. The cave''s natural formations harnessed the collective resentment of Cloudview County''s human population for their own use.]


    [Knowing they were outmatched, the Sky Sect had, over the past seventeen years, gathered righteous Psychics from around Cloudview County to guard the cave, yet dared not enter, to prevent the demonically possessed from harming the world. Over time, the Psychics above the Thunderfire Demon Cave formed alliances, creating the Demon Subduing Alliance.]


    "This situation is getting out of hand," Ethan said helplessly, waving his hand. The Sky Sect had initially only intended to remove ordinary demonically possessed psychics, but had unwittingly stirred up a much bigger issue.


    Meanwhile, in the dead of night, Amelia, who had been away from home for many years, was in a grass hut on a mountain outside the Demon Subduing Alliance, preparing herbs to treat a demonically possessed psychic...


    The possessed psychic looked no different from a regular Psychic, except for the red eyes and mysterious black markings on his face.


    "Thank you, sir. I was severely injured by those despicable old Taoists from the Demon Subduing Sect in this battle. Without you, sir, it might have taken me over a decade to recover."


    The demonically possessed psychic smiled at Amelia, but his dark energy surged violently, his gaze turning fierce!


    Amelia, now 56 years old yet showing no signs of aging, casually waved her hand, her eyelids drooping as if she could never muster any energy. "You demonically possessed psychics are all the same, always pulling this stunt after being treated."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the murderous intent vanished from the possessed psychic, his face twisted in agony as he retracted his dark energy, remaining silent.


    Vines had unknowingly entwined around the possessed psychic.


    "Sir, I..." The possessed psychic''s face was filled with remorse, clearly feeling the poison Amelia had silently administered during the treatment. Even with his Developing Skill level, he was doomed by these mysterious vines.


    Amelia didn''t even glance at him. "That''s enough, no need to apologize. I''ve seen this too many times. The poison will dissipate if you circulate your energy for half a month. Leave the payment and remember, you owe me a favor, and I can call it in anytime." S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Understood..."


    The possessed psychic watched the vines disappear and finally breathed a sigh of relief, leaving a bag of demonic herbs from the cave and walking out the door.


    Amelia soon heard the voices of the possessed psychic and his companions outside.


    "Damn it, why are you laughing? Did you know Amelia had that trick up her sleeve?"


    "You didn''t ask. If you had asked earlier, I would have definitely told you we''ve all been through it."


    "What if I don''t repay the favor?"


    "Those of us in the demon cave who owe Mr. Amelia a favor? There aren''t a thousand, there are at least eight hundred. What do you think?"


    "..."


    Shortly after, three demonically transformed psychics entered the grass hut and bowed respectfully to Amelia. "Reporting, sir, as per your instructions, we have sent the Purple Thunder Solar Python deep into the Thunderfire Demon Cave for the tempering of heavenly thunder and earthly fire. Now, the Purple Thunder Solar Python has entered the volcano''s mouth and is undergoing transformation."


    "Thank you," Amelia waved her hand, dismissing the three demonically transformed psychics.


    She then took out the Forebearer cards, her face full of grievance, "Forebearer, Amelia misses home. Amelia has missed the grand ceremony twice now, please don''t be angry, elder."


    Seeing this, [You have used ''Forebearer''s Warmth'', consuming 20 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    Feeling the warmth in her body, the fatigue of the day vanished instantly, and Amelia was revitalized. "Forebearer, you have shown your psychic powers again, wonderful!"


    Watching Amelia kneel in ecstatic worship, just as she had every time she received warmth before, and start talking about the recent days in front of the Forebearer cards, Ethan couldn''t help but smile.


    In this realm, Amelia was truly thriving, growing rapidly!


    She was also the greatest contributor to her family, even managing to meet the conditions for the transformation of the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    [Blackwood Year 55, Amelia saved countless lives, earning a reputation in the Thunderfire Demon Cave among demonically transformed psychics and the Demon Subduing Alliance as the ''Fatal Pharmacist''.]


    [Year 57, she concocted an eighth-grade medicine¡ªBoundary Breaker Powder, increasing the probability of an Iron Will Psychic breaking through to the Emerging Ability stage by ten percent!]


    [Year 61, Amelia figured out the situation in the demon cave, using the demon cave Psychic''s human relations as leverage, she had the demonically transformed psychics take the Purple Thunder Solar Python deep into the Thunderfire Demon Cave for a heavenly thunder and earthly fire bath!]


    Now, the hard-working Purple Thunder Solar Python of Blackwood was also beginning its transformation, just one Demon King Blood Pill away!


    "Forebearer, I''ve heard there''s trouble at home, please rest assured, at your command, Amelia will flatten the Rodriguez family!"


    Amelia''s voice suddenly turned fierce.


    Even far from home, Amelia still knew the affairs of her family, and no one could touch her home, not even the Sky Sect!

 Chapter 96 - 96: Strongest support

    The scene appears at [Cloudview County City¡¤Southeast Corner School].


    In the largest city of Cloudview County, there is a school that teaches impoverished children to read and write.


    At this moment, in the simple school, the children''s tender voices recite loudly.


    The teacher is none other than Olivia, seated in a wheelchair!


    Olivia is now 48 years old. Once a beauty as pristine as a snow lotus, even the psychic medicines from Blackwood couldn''t prevent her from aging terribly.


    But now...


    After years away from home, she suddenly began to age rapidly, wrinkles appearing on her face, her hair dry and white hairs growing along the vines of time. Somehow, her eyes were also covered with a white cloth.


    [In the 55th year of Blackwood, Olivia had seen all the beautiful sights of Cloudview County.]


    [In Cloudview County, using the experts she brought from her family, she established an assassin organization named ''Dawn'', to amass wealth and send it back to her family.]


    [In the 56th year, Olivia became a zither player, playing in teahouses.]


    [In the 57th year, Olivia became a vegetable-selling farmwoman.]


    [In the 58th year, Olivia became a...]


    [In the 62nd year, a calamity from heaven tormented her soul, rendering her blind.]


    These students had just left the school.


    "Cough, cough!"


    Olivia coughed, her handkerchief covered in a frightening shade of blood.


    "Fourth Miss!" In this small school, a dozen maids appeared, the leader full of concern upon seeing Olivia''s condition.


    Olivia shook her head.


    "It''s nothing serious. How is everything at home?"


    The maid replied, "We checked; Young Master Marcus was assassinated, currently leading the Developing Skill mid-term elders to eliminate the Rodriguez family. But it seems Young Master Marcus has fallen into a trap set by the Rodriguez family."


    "Fortunately, the family''s experts have already gone to rescue him. Fourth Miss, should we deploy the forces of Dawn to annihilate the Rodriguez family?"


    Olivia''s expression remained unchanged, simply dismissing the maids.


    She slowly pulled out the Forebearer cards.


    The next moment.


    On the screen, Ethan saw a pop-up in the game.


    [Your descendant Olivia is reporting to you all the intelligence on the Rodriguez family, including the distribution of traps...]


    [Your descendant Olivia has sent you intelligence, stating that within two months, Dawn''s assassins will be ready to die for the family.]


    [Your descendant Amelia has sent you intelligence, and she is asking if you need assistance from the Thunderfire Demon Cave.]


    Seeing the messages from Amelia and Olivia coming through various channels, a smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    He suddenly felt the charm of his family.


    Amelia and Olivia, both far from home, face daily demonic attacks due to Amelia''s poor communication skills, previously only interacting with plants, but now she adeptly handles threats from all sides.


    Olivia, already struggling against the calamities bestowed by the heavens, even with his use of ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' and ''Forebearer''s Embrace'' to sustain her life, appears close to her end, yet with her frail body, she has established a powerful organization.


    They both contribute to the family in their own ways!


    No matter where or when!


    "I have received your sentiments, and though you are not here, as Forebearer, I will take your place and win this battle, Blackwood is invincible!"


    Ethan, more focused than ever, suddenly sat up from his bed, even the roasted duck beside him no longer seemed appetizing as he stared intently at the giant 500-inch screen.


    ...


    "Goo-goo!"


    Above the clouds, a line of thirteen black-clad figures flew on their swords, but a bird''s call from afar halted the leader, a handsome young man, who waved his hand to stop his companions.


    The Bai Li Dove, known for traveling thousands of miles a day to find people by their qi, landed in the young man''s hand. Who else could it be but Marcus?


    "Marcus, how did this mystical beast come to find you?" An elderly man beside Marcus expressed his surprise.


    Marcus''s expression was complex, "Elder Dylan, this is our clan''s Bai Li Dove, capable of traveling thousands of miles a day to find people by their qi, it must be carrying a message from our clan."


    "Oh."


    Elder Dylan was not surprised, as Marcus was a favored son of heaven, deeply versed in the true teachings of the Sky Sect, and expected to reach the peak of Emerging Ability within ten years, especially gifted with nine unique abilities and fire, with no Transcendent Seed at his breakthrough.


    The next sect leader would undoubtedly be Marcus.


    It was only natural for a small family like Blackwood to aspire to connect with him, a mere delusion.


    But he still used his psychic powers to check what message Blackwood had sent.


    A moment later, Elder Dylan''s face showed a playful expression, "Marcus, your clan members are quite interesting."


    If it weren''t for the fear of creating friction with Marcus, Elder Dylan might have burst out laughing.


    Blackwood actually sent a message saying, let Marcus do whatever he wants to do, remembering that he has Blackwood behind him?


    What is Blackwood?


    A mere upstart from the wilderness, established only sixty years ago, a family of just over twenty descendants?


    A clown indeed.


    "It is interesting."


    Marcus replied unemotionally, noticing the mockery in Elder Dylan''s expression and the disdain in his words.


    He then released the Bai Li Dove, glanced at Elder Dylan, and moved forward.


    His gaze flickered subtly.


    "I didn''t send the message, how did my family know about my predicament? Is Forebearer watching over me?"


    "This letter is from Daniel, and he''s gradually mastering Aunt Si''s exquisite methods. He should know that all incoming letters can''t escape the elders'' eyes, so he usually doesn''t say everything outright, implying a deeper meaning, which means..."


    "The family has sent me help!"


    Marcus pondered the meaning of the message, touching the Forebearer cards in his pocket, suddenly feeling immensely reassured.


    He always knew, the family was his strongest support!


    ...


    "Interesting? It''ll be even more interesting when you meet us."


    Ethan glanced at the text above their heads and didn''t pay much more attention to it. He felt somewhat relieved; Marcus was right to keep a low profile. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, Marcus was in the Sky Sect, akin to being undercover, with the qualifications to be a boss. Every move he made was under scrutiny, and the pressure he faced daily was certainly no less than what Amelia and Olivia had to endure.

 Chapter 97 - 97: I gave you a chance

    Seeing Marcus and the Sky Sect approaching, Ethan''s gaze shifted towards the Blackwood group.


    At this moment, they had entered Mount Five Peaks!


    In Mount Five Peaks, much like Blackwood''s Gratitude Village, it had already become a town in its own right. The Rodriguez family had over three thousand descendants, and together with the Rodriguez family''s vassals, the entire Mount Five Peaks housed over twenty thousand people.


    Nathan and his wife headed straight into Mount Five Peaks, and as soon as they approached, they triggered the Rodriguez family''s formation. It seemed they also had a method similar to the Blackwood people, who tattooed markings on their own to identify each other.


    The couple quickly stated their purpose, openly seeking to negotiate with the Rodriguez family, and were soon taken inside Mount Five Peaks.


    As for the others, they were outside the great formation of Mount Five Peaks that sensed enemies.


    "The formation is of the eighth rank, a bit troublesome."


    Julian grinned, seeing the entire Mount Five Peaks protected by the mysterious yellow energy, with various formation symbols emerging on the ground of Mount Five Peaks, forming a huge circular formation diagram.


    Suddenly, a formation disk appeared in his hand, within which a spherical bead moved across various mysterious scripts, eventually settling on one spot, "But no big deal, we should make it in time."


    [Your descendant Julian is using the top-grade psychic equipment ''Formation Annihilation Psychic Disk'' to locate the formation core and break the eighth-rank formation ''Five Peaks Protective Clan Formation''!]


    [Formation Annihilation Psychic Disk]


    [Specialized in breaking formations, the Formation Annihilation Psychic Disk will issue a warning when encountering a formation!]


    "It was Amelia who made the effort."


    Ethan grinned; this thing wasn''t originally owned by the family, but Amelia had been managing the Thunderfire Demon Cave for over a decade. Due to the various formations previously present in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, there were also many formation masters there, and this item was a reward Amelia received after saving an eighth-rank formation master.


    Moreover, the people of Blackwood could also slightly feel the presence of formations outside the Rodriguez family.


    Reaching the Emerging Ability stage, most Psychics actually have some knowledge of formations, alchemy, and talismans. However, mastering these items requires a vast reserve of knowledge, and to refine them further also requires talent and years of accumulation.


    This also presents a problem, an Iron Will Psychic wanting to become a psychic equipment craftsman might not succeed in forging psychic equipment because there''s no time to cultivate psychic powers, unable to break through, and might die.


    For instance, a D-level Psychic might not necessarily become a seventh-rank psychic equipment craftsman, but a seventh-rank psychic equipment craftsman is definitely a D-level Psychic!


    They are often beings of exceptional talent.


    And Julian just happens to be such a gifted individual. While crafting psychic equipment, he also needs the support of formations, and he is also a ninth-rank formation master!


    "Just waiting for you guys to break through the formation."


    Ethan, seeing Julian breaking the formation, then shifted his gaze to Nathan and his wife.


    After all, Ethan certainly didn''t want the previous incidents of leading people to Blackwood to kill, to fall upon his own people.


    ...


    [Rodriguez Family Estate]


    The scene shifts to the grand estate of the Rodriguez family, a lineage that has lasted over seven hundred years. Under the guidance of the Rodriguez family members, Nathan and his wife were led into the grand hall of the estate to meet with Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family.


    Observing the atmosphere in the hall, Nathan, and through him Ethan, gathered intelligence on the Rodriguez family. The head of the family, Landon, was at the Transcendent Seed stage.


    There was also an elder at the Transcendent Seed stage, one person at the peak of the Emerging Ability stage, three Emerging Ability experts, and several younger members of the Rodriguez family.


    After introductions and some small talk, Nathan, sitting next to the main seat, got straight to the point with a sigh, "Ah, Brother Landon, I have come to apologize."


    "Apologize?" Landon was momentarily taken aback.


    "Yes," Nathan replied with a bitter smile. "Years ago, my grandson Marcus had a feud with your family''s Silas. Young people are hot-blooded, and their fights can get out of hand. But if we clear this up, it can be resolved. "


    "Silas was at fault first, and my grandson was also wrong to kill. How about this: 500,000 Energy Stones, and we settle this matter. You promise on behalf of the Rodriguez family not to interfere with my grandson anymore. What do you say?"


    "What do you mean?" Despite being over a hundred years old, Landon remained composed, continuing to sip his tea.


    Moreover, the Rodriguez family was currently setting traps to kill Marcus. The arrival of the Blackwood family at the Rodriguez estate was suspicious!


    Now he was even more puzzled; his intelligence had not indicated that the Blackwood family would come, and he did not believe this was a coincidence.


    "At this moment, my family''s Marcus is coming here with Elder Dylan from the Sky Sect," Nathan continued, not mincing his words. Knowing the ways of the world at his age, he understood that some things did not need to be hidden.


    "Elder Dylan, at the mid-stage of Developing Skill, would not find it difficult to kill your family''s ancestor who has just entered the Developing Skill stage."


    Seeing Landon frowning, Nathan slowly picked up his teacup and drank leisurely, "I know even more. The assassination attempt on my Marcus was actually orchestrated by Elder Felix of the Sky Sect, who hired your Rodriguez family to find the assassin."


    Landon''s expression grew even darker.


    Nathan continued, "It''s really interesting, this Sky Sect. The leader, Wesley, knew about Marcus being assassinated but turned a deaf ear, unwilling to kill Elder Felix, who is at the peak of Developing Skill within the sect.


    Such negligence has now led Elder Felix to suspect that my grandson is coming to eliminate your Rodriguez family, so he has set traps in advance at your place¡ªa classic case of waiting for the rabbit."


    These simple words caused Landon''s face to lose color!


    "In the eyes of the Sky Sect, we are all but ants. Why sacrifice the lives of your Rodriguez family for some past events and for an Elder Felix?"


    At that moment, Landon was sweating profusely.


    Nathan was speaking of past events.


    But Landon understood the deeper meaning, which was to tell him that all the dealings of his Rodriguez family and Elder Felix had not escaped the eyes of Blackwood.


    And that Blackwood''s visit this time was not about so-called ''apologies,'' but rather to offer his Rodriguez family a way out.


    Even...


    All the traps set by his Rodriguez family and Elder Felix were under the watchful eyes of Blackwood.


    But...


    How could this be possible?!


    He stared intently at Nathan and his wife. This guy was merely at the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, with an ordinary aura. According to the intelligence Landon knew, the Blackwood from Forest Town in Tranquil County was just a small family that had risen over sixty years, with their strongest being a Purple Thunder Solar Python and an AI Bionic Robot comparable to the Transcendent Seed stage.


    The most astonishing feat this family had achieved was merely eradicating the Dragon Tiger Gate and becoming a subordinate of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion...


    Suddenly, Landon seemed to understand, his expression easing, even letting out a long breath.


    He stared at Nathan with amusement and suddenly burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha, Nathan, you''re ridiculous! The person behind you is from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, that charlatan Dennis from Jubilee County? So that''s how you knew all this?"


    "Did you bring people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion here secretly? Thinking my Rodriguez family, which has only been a Developing Skill family for a mere hundred years, could be deceived?"


    "Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous!"


    "Do you really think that with the backing of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, you can oppress me, Landon, inside my own Rodriguez family? Do you really think you hold the winning cards?!"


    Suddenly, all the powerhouses in the hall summoned their psychic equipment!


    They looked at the couple as if they were fools.


    "Boom!"


    A loud noise came from outside Mount Five Peaks, striking the Rodriguez family''s grand formation.


    The sound was like thunder, shaking the earth and mountains.


    Seeing Landon''s triumphant laughter, Nathan stood up along with Luna, who had been sitting silently beside him.


    Frowning, he summoned the basic psychic device, the Thousand Jun Seal. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Landon, I gave you a chance."

 Chapter 98 - 98:Talisman Masters Fury

    Ethan heard the rumbling outside the Rodriguez family town and had already switched the screen, knowing that Nathan and his wife could handle the trouble they were facing.


    On the screen, above the clouds of Mount Five Peaks, Elder Dylan of the Sky Sect''s robes fluttered without wind, and thousands of talisman seals burning behind him made it seem as though the sunset had arrived even under the bright sun.


    At this moment, Elder Dylan looked like a phoenix spreading its wings! With a wave of his hand, he unleashed thousands of talisman seals, their power so immense that Marcus and others, merely feeling the aura, hurriedly kept their distance.


    In the Rodriguez family town, the Rodriguez family members all looked up to the sky, feeling the mid-stage Developing Skill pressure from Elder Dylan above, and the talisman seals that looked like fiery clouds, their faces filled with shock and despair.


    Ethan clicked on Elder Dylan''s avatar.


    [Sky Sect Elder ¡¤ Dylan]


    [Seventh Grade Talisman Master]


    "Still a Seventh Grade Talisman Master? If you started a company on Earth, you''d make a fortune!" Ethan couldn''t help but praise as he watched the spirited Elder Dylan on the screen.


    In this world, no matter what special profession, it should not be underestimated.


    The profession of a talisman master, their mode of attack is more violent and direct. Simply put, they imprint martial arts and spells on talismans, which can be activated with just a tiny bit of magical power.


    Theoretically, as long as they have enough materials and time to prepare, talisman masters could even handle many more experts of the same realm!


    "No wonder this Elder Dylan is so arrogant, bombarding with talismans without any preparation."


    But Ethan still shook his head, remembering the intelligence Amelia and Olivia had sent back. Marcus had been tricked, and all their actions had not escaped the eyes of Sky Sect Elder Felix.


    As expected.


    As the talismans neared the Rodriguez family town, in Ethan''s view, the people of the Rodriguez family in the town scrambled like ants encountering heavenly fire under the hundreds of talismans falling from the sky.


    Above their heads, small words appeared.


    "A Class extermination is here, someone help!"


    "Forebearer, come out, our clan depends on you now!"


    "Where is the clan leader? Quickly report to the Forebearer!"


    "..."


    Check it out, even the Developing Skill clan has a fine tradition of calling it the Forebearer.


    Ethan suddenly stood tall and proud, his expression even a bit arrogant, remembering the several times they were invaded at the Blackwood residence. The descendants of Blackwood were not as timid as those of the Rodriguez family; the people of Blackwood didn''t run, they picked up their weapons and fought the enemy!


    However, the panic of the Rodriguez family was obviously unnecessary.


    Amelia and Olivia''s intelligence was not wrong!


    Suddenly.


    "Screech!"


    A sharp bird cry echoed continuously, around the Rodriguez house, nine totems each 27 meters tall and engraved with giant birds rose from nine directions!


    In an instant, in the town of the Rodriguez house, a hundred huge green psychic bird shadows appeared, blocking the hundreds of eighth-grade talismans issued by Elder Dylan.


    The next moment, three psychic devices appeared out of nowhere, floating in the air, consisting of a psychic gourd, a psychic halberd, and a red silk ribbon, blocking Elder Dylan''s path in a pincer move, with two men and one woman from Developing Skill appearing!


    Elder Dylan''s face changed drastically, and another great formation began at the Rodriguez house.


    Five Transcendent Seed stage Psychics seemed to be prepared, appearing from around five high mountains outside the town of the Rodriguez house.


    Although these five had lower cultivation levels, they cut their palms, and just a bit of blood floating up formed a blood-red sky curtain, trapping these four Developing Skill masters within, clearly creating a separate battlefield for them.


    At the same time, the Emerging Ability powerhouses of the Rodriguez family rode their swords, surrounding Marcus and many disciples of the Sky Sect from all directions!


    ...


    The information previously reported to the Forebearer cards by Olivia came into view.


    [Sky Sect Elder Felix is cunning and deep in planning.]


    [That day, at the Sky Sect martial arts conference, he saw Marcus kill someone in public and already saw that Marcus was vengeful. Therefore, he specifically had the Rodriguez family go to Cloudview County to invite an assassin to kill Marcus, and then leaked a trace of clues.]


    [The narrow-minded Marcus will surely harbor hatred and will eventually come to the Rodriguez family to exterminate them in revenge.]


    [He had someone from another county invite the famous ''Trinity Assassin'' from the Killing Hall, with the nine unique fires in Marcus''s body as a reward, setting an ambush early at the Rodriguez house.]


    [This could avenge his disciple, eliminate Marcus, a vengeful competitor for the next sect master, and since Marcus brought trouble on himself, it has nothing to do with him.]


    "Sky Sect Elder Felix, he really is a big shot."


    Ethan, looking at the previous information, couldn''t help but sigh deeply, Elder Felix really had everything planned out, sitting in Sky Sect and already leading Marcus step by step into the trap.


    Looking at the screen again, Elder Dylan, who was just now spirited and impressive, is now in the blood curtain fighting with three Developing Skill opponents.


    The Trinity Assassins, probably also veterans of many years of cooperation, one mid-stage Developing Skill and two early-stage Developing Skills, used a combination technique similar to the earlier Dragon and Tiger brothers. However, Elder Dylan is no ordinary person and holds his own.


    [Elder Dylan, caught in the encirclement of the Trinity Assassins, is trapped by the Rodriguez family''s Hundred Unique Ability Bluebird Totem Array and the Five Extreme Unique Ability Array, unable to escape!] S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon, Marcus in the sky, along with 11 fellow sect brothers, were surrounded layer by layer.


    "Phew!"


    With a gust of wind, a figure emerged from the ground within the Rodriguez family town, the first to appear in front of the Sky Sect disciples!


    This person is the Developing Skill ancestor of the Rodriguez family¡ª


    Gideon!


    Facing the pressure of this Developing Skill ancestor, the Sky Sect disciples, true to their heritage as disciples of a great sect, showed no fear despite the Developing Skill aura emanating from Gideon.


    In this moment of crisis, they gritted their teeth and deployed their unique ability equipment, warily watching the hundreds of Rodriguez family Emerging Ability experts gradually surrounding them, looking for a sliver of a chance to survive.


    Ethan''s hand was tightly on the mouse.

 Chapter 99 - 99: Your life, belongs to me now

    Ethan watched the Blackwood clan fight time and again, and he gradually realized that the people in this game world were truly insane. In life-and-death struggles, many didn''t even utter half a sentence, not a single curse word, just straight into action!


    Just meeting meant unleashing killer moves.


    Look at Gideon in the game, who merely glanced at Marcus and other disciples of the Sky Sect, and had already slapped out a casual palm strike, forcing Marcus and other sect disciples to defend with all their might.


    Then, a giant water dragon appeared out of nowhere, soaring through the sky!


    But Gideon''s actions also paused; he furrowed his brows, looking towards the direction of the Rodriguez family estate.


    "Boom!"


    A thunderous roar, dust and smoke everywhere, Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family who had just been talking with the Nathan couple, emerged with his clan members from the Rodriguez family hall!


    In the center of the Rodriguez family estate, the grand hall turned into ruins.


    Four gigantic King Kong AI Bionic Robots appeared through the dust and smoke to the Rodriguez family''s sight.


    The Nathan couple stood on the shoulders of the foremost ascending War AI Bionic Robot!


    The three ground AI Bionic Robots moved somewhat slowly, unable to hover, charging straightforwardly.


    Those three AI Bionic Robots, if not crafted by Julian''s psychic abilities, what else could they be?!!


    [Eighth Grade Psychic Puppet Number One, with Master Jacob''s zombie as the core, made from eighth-grade thousand-catty psychic iron, strength defense up to the Transcendent Seed stage!]


    [Eighth Grade AI Bionic Robot Number Two and Three, with the Dragon and Tiger brothers'' zombies as the core... strength can reach the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    Ethan couldn''t help but praise Julian''s genius.


    However, these three imitations of the War AI Bionic Robot had many areas where they were inferior to the War AI Bionic Robot.


    They couldn''t achieve 360-degree attack angles without blind spots, nor could they move their psychic abilities freely, and they lacked an intelligence brain. The Energy Stones piled inside them made their movements consume a lot of energy. The flying stiffness inside them didn''t allow them to fly quickly; they were somewhat sluggish when hovering.


    But these three AI Bionic Robots were still powerful enough for combat!


    And at that moment on the battlefield.


    "Grandpa, Grandma!"


    Seeing the Nathan couple on the War AI Bionic Robot, Marcus, who was surrounded, had his eyes red with emotion. Although he had guessed from the family letters that his clan would come to the rescue, seeing them in person, he still couldn''t suppress the excitement in his heart.


    The Nathan couple just smiled at their grandson.


    Just then.


    Landon, who had just been talking with the Nathan couple in the hall, had already reached the side of the Rodriguez family''s ancestor. Although he had just scorned them limitlessly in the hall, the appearance of Blackwood''s three AI Bionic Robots had indeed given him a shock!


    He immediately reported to Gideon: "Great-grandfather, be careful, the information Elder Felix gave us was wrong! Not only did Elder Dylan and the Sky Sect disciples come, but Blackwood..."


    "Has brought people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion with them!"


    "Oh?"


    Gideon, with his brows furrowed, used his Developing Skill to probe all around, but he didn''t sense the presence of any experts from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, only a few unfamiliar, yet not frightening, auras within the Rodriguez family residence.


    He glanced at the Nathan couple and simply said, "Dennis, those in Jubilee County pretend to be gods and ghosts, but are actually as timid as mice. Let''s see if he dares to show himself today."


    With a mere wave of his hand, Gideon commanded the water dragon behind him to attack Marcus, paying no heed to Nathan and his wife. He was confident that if Dennis dared to show up, he would ensure his adversary''s downfall, especially since this was Rodriguez territory!


    But at that moment, Gideon''s expression finally changed. The massive water dragon, roaring towards Marcus, suddenly turned around to shield itself!


    It wasn''t them¡ªNathan and his wife had easily broken through his casual Developing Skill attack. Instead, two AI Bionic Robots appeared beside them! These robots, looking like ordinary humans but with expressionless faces and dusty bodies, opened their eyes as Nathan and his wife channeled psychic powers into them.


    They stared directly at Gideon, their bodies radiating a threatening aura without any psychic powers. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What... what is this?!!" Gideon was certain that these two beings possessed a combat prowess equal to the Developing Skill, and were potentially lethal!


    Just as he thought to use the water dragon to block the robots, he was taken aback once more. The AI Bionic Robots had no intention of fighting him; instead, they rushed towards Elder Dylan in the distance, clearly aiming to rescue him.


    As everyone was puzzled, a gust of wind blew.


    All eyes turned to the people of Blackwood, whose Forebearer badges began to emit a purple glow from their chests, rising into the air. In front of Gideon, these badges gathered to form a massive, five-meter-tall emblem, mysterious and sacred, engraved with the word¡ªBlackwood!


    "The Forebearer is showing its psychic powers!"


    "This... this is really showing psychic powers!"


    "Is this the enigmatic Forebearer of mine???"


    Gideon''s ears twitched, his psychic sense scanning the Rodriguez estate, faintly catching several rough voices excitedly nearing madness.


    But he had no time to attend to other matters now.


    He stared intently at the huge emblem in front of him. The emblem''s psychic powers flared like burning flames, causing black smoke to rise continuously, which gradually in front of the emblem...


    Formed into a human shape! Despite being at the Transcendent Seed stage, this figure formed from black mist posed a significant threat. Seemingly delighted by his arrival, he didn''t even glance at Gideon, who was only at the initial stage of Developing Skill.


    Instead, he spread his arms wide, looking up at the sky as if he were enjoying breathing the air and embracing the world.


    His presence seemed to bring an unparalleled calm to the entire Rodriguez estate.


    Nathan and his wife, along with Marcus, who was surrounded, trembled as they looked at the figure enveloped in black mist, their eyes red, nearly kneeling as if in the presence of a supreme deity.


    As the rubble from the recently destroyed hall fell again with a noise, the figure slowly turned, a cold glint flashing across his eyes as he stared at Gideon. His hoarse voice was calm, yet it sent shivers down the spine of everyone present.


    "Your life, belongs to me now."

 Chapter 100 - 100: Forebearer Descends part 1

    I felt it, felt the essence of this world.


    I saw them, my dear descendants, united and fighting against all enemies for the sake of our family...


    Ethan greedily breathed in the air around him. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even in the sky, with the war AI Bionic Robot behind him and the Nathan couple standing on its shoulders, and in front of him a crowd of about a hundred Rodriguez family members flying around Marcus and a dozen from the Sky Sect.


    Yet, Ethan didn''t feel crowded at all.


    He wanted to imprint the faces of everyone from Blackwood in his heart, experiencing them in the world and in the game are two different things.


    Here, the psychic abilities were filled with a murderous intent due to the great war. The ground fires ignited by Elder Dylan''s talismans filled the air with smoke, like entering a kitchen burning firewood.


    But Ethan was still greedy, deeply feeling that this air was sweeter than that of the real world!


    He believed that beyond this world, it must be filled with the songs of birds and the fragrance of flowers. If he could return to the Blackwood base, that would be even better. He wanted to meet the Boar Monarch Pete and see how the fourth generation of Blackwood children drove the strong Luna mad.


    He wanted to use a clean towel to wipe Amelia''s always dirty face, urging this family-devoted child to take better care of herself. He wanted to tell Olivia, who seemed fragile but was more stubborn than Julian, that if she couldn''t continue on the literary path, it wasn''t necessary; the Forebearer would protect her.


    Even the Nathan couple in front of him, he wanted to talk to these two about how much he wanted to strangle them when they flaunted their love in front of him.


    And Lucas... Marcus... Daniel...


    And give the second generation of Blackwoods a beating for always pulling those embarrassing poses that made him cringe even through the screen.


    "Eh."


    Ethan let out a long sigh, regretting that his time was really running short.


    He could only do his best, in this brief time, to eliminate all threats for his family!


    [Using skill¡ª¡ª]


    [Fight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Unranked skill, family development condition of 50 years achieved, available game world time: 5 minutes!]


    [For every additional family member, time increases by one second!]


    [Detected player at Transcendent Seed stage, consuming Spiritual Tribute value per minute: 1000!]


    [Current available time countdown¡ª¡ª]


    [5:23]


    ...


    "What... what are you exactly?!"


    When Gideon learned from his grandson that people from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion might be coming, he didn''t panic. But now, although his face remained expressionless, his heart was already in turmoil, otherwise, he wouldn''t waste words with this mysterious figure who suddenly appeared!


    Coming out of a cards? That was unheard of.


    And this person, shrouded in mist, was merely at the Transcendent Seed stage, yet Gideon could only sense his realm and not how high his energy was. He only felt waves of threat, a sense of crisis that numbed him from head to toe!


    But the mist in front of him did not respond, seemingly intoxicated.


    "Hmph, playing tricks and pretending to be a god!"


    Gideon didn''t want to admit he was panicking. He thought of that nauseating fortune-teller from Jubilee County. In his youth, he had been tricked by Dennis, who was in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, using such deceptive methods, which made the entire Rodriguez family remember Dennis, that old thief.


    He suddenly narrowed his eyes, his hands forming seals, and the aura of the water dragon in the air became more solid, roaring towards the mist in front of him!


    Then he moved the seals again.


    Rodriguez family''s secret technique, Instant Movement, forced Gideon to be extremely solemn. The Developing Skill mana formed a raging river in mid-air, the several tens of meters long water dragon becoming several times more powerful, within which soldiers formed from the water Psychic Constitution, wielding swords and spears, charged forward.


    The dark mist formed by Ethan in front of him, and the five-meter-tall cards behind him, seemed so fragile under this river''s power.


    But...


    "Indeed, the gap between Developing Skill realm and Transcendent Seed stage is insurmountable, but..."


    Ethan suddenly raised his head, his eyes flashing brilliantly, with the Twin Fish Harmony Seal swirling within.


    The grand and destructive Developing Skill attack, which seemed poised to destroy everything, came to an abrupt halt in front of Ethan!


    He slowly extended his hand.


    In the space before him, a silver spearhead appeared, followed by a spear shaft engraved with various patterns!


    It seemed to sense a crisis coming from afar.


    The patterns on the spear shaft flowed with white light, slowly brightening, and like an emperor descending, it suppressed Gideon''s mana. The great river in mid-air, now a hundred meters long water dragon, faced its nemesis and returned to its origin.


    In an instant, the disintegrated water mana turned into a torrential downpour over the Rodriguez family''s residence!


    Everyone watched this scene in horror.


    Even Elder Dylan, who was still in the midst of a blood-soaked battle far away, and the Three Talents assassin from another county town, instinctively stopped their movements, staring in astonishment at the brightly shining long spear, their eyes filled with caution and a bit of... greed!


    "High-level psychic ability equipment, that''s the aura of high-level psychic ability equipment!"


    "And it''s not just any ordinary high-level psychic ability equipment, it can... suppress and decipher psychic powers!"


    "That figure emerging from the cards, what kind of creature is it?!!"


    ...


    Holding the long spear, Ethan felt an immense power surge through him!


    "Sing!"


    After breaking Gideon''s magical powers, the spear''s body trembled. It seemed angry, outraged at the audacity of the weak creatures before it, daring to challenge the dignity of a top-tier psychic weapon! It was as if urging Ethan to end the life of the disrespectful.


    [Celestial Axis Breaker Spear]


    [Top-Tier Advanced Psychic Weapon]


    [Psychic Spear Protection, under the spear tip, all magic can be broken. With this advanced psychic weapon as the core, the Celestial Axis Spear Formation can suppress all things under heaven!]


    This was the mysterious long spear found by Nathan above the deeply buried Mystic Boar Forest, a top-tier advanced psychic weapon! Even after countless years, the restrictions on this spear required a million Spiritual Tribute points to unlock.


    With the power of a top-tier advanced psychic weapon, combined with the characteristics of the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear, it could continuously suppress the Mystic Boar Forest, unknown to outsiders.


    This was also why Ethan, with only a Transcendent Seed stage realm, dared to enter the game world using the skill [Fight, dear Forebearer!] and face a D-level challenge.


    It was also the reason he had never feared that Marcus would encounter trouble at the Sky Sect!


    If it were just about Developing Skill, with the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear, there was nothing to fear.


    Just the magical power from the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear entering his body had already made his strength comparable to the peak of Developing Skill!


    As for Competent? Ethan dared not try, although the spear''s power could suppress the opponent''s magic, a Competent''s physical strength was already at its peak.


    In everyone''s gaze, he, shrouded in this dark mist, holding the Celestial Axis Breaker Spear, shot towards Gideon like a meteor, carrying a terrifying oppressive force.


    Meanwhile,


    Gideon also launched attacks towards Ethan continuously, but no matter how powerful Gideon''s Developing Skill magic was, and no matter what tricks he had up his sleeve, he couldn''t even touch Ethan''s true form. He could only watch in panic as his magic was dismantled inch by inch by the spear.


    "Puff!"


    A streak of blood trailed down from the sky, dripping down the spearhead. Ethan placed his hand on Gideon''s face, black flames crawled over Gideon''s body, entering through his orifices, destroying Gideon''s body and soul, leaving no chance for survival.


    Instant kill!


    "Is this the strength of our Forebearer?!!"


    "No, I can feel it, this isn''t the Forebearer''s true form, otherwise, why would it be a black mist? It must be just a minor part of the Forebearer''s soul!"


    "Hisss~ With such a Forebearer, what more could his descendants ask for?"

 Chapter 101 - 101: Forebearer Descends part 2

    The descendants of Blackwood were as if possessed, finally sensing a hint of the divine might of the mysterious Forebearer!


    On the other hand, the Rodriguez family was in utter despair. Especially Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family, who watched helplessly as his great-grandfather fell from the sky.


    He still remembered the choice given to him by the Blackwood couple, Nathan and his wife, in the hall; he thought Blackwood''s trump card was the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    He guessed wrong and chose poorly!


    As he watched the Forebearer of Blackwood charging towards him, he closed his eyes, expecting death to come at any moment.


    But instead, Ethan passed by him. His target was not Landon, a mere Transcendent Seed stage; such men were left to the family''s younger generation, and as a family head, this man had other values.


    His target was...


    "Run!"


    "Split up and run, he has top-tier advanced psychic equipment, we''re no match for him even if we unite! How could such a miraculous piece of advanced psychic equipment appear in such a humble rural area?!"


    "Brother, sister, you go first, I''ll hold him off, see you in the next life!"


    The human assassin from the trio of heaven, earth, and man was also deeply loyal and righteous. He held a long spear and did not flee with the others. Instead, he faced Ethan directly. The fleeing one was Elder Dylan!


    "Damn it!"


    Dylan watched as the mysterious man who was getting closer knocked the human assassin''s spear flying with one shot and impaled him. He cursed under his breath.


    He had helped Marcus, hoping to wait until Marcus became the sect master so he could gain enough resources to break through the peak of Developing Skill.


    If managed properly, he could even control the future sect master. But now, he realized he was terribly wrong!


    Blackwood was not the mere Emerging Ability family they thought it was!


    Look at the people of Blackwood, all cards on the table.


    Various AI Bionic Robots, two with the power of early Developing Skill, that mysterious person, and the top-tier advanced psychic equipment...


    Such a family, let alone him, this level of strength was enough to catch the eye of the Sky Sect, which only had one junior advanced psychic equipment, a treasure of the sect!


    Especially...


    "Pfft!"


    While fleeing, Elder Dylan spat out a mouthful of blood, "Madmen, a whole family of madmen!" His face pale, he cursed again.


    The people of Blackwood had long considered him a target too.


    Just now, during his battle with the assassin of the trio of heaven, earth, and man, when the two Developing Skill AI Bionic Robots appeared, he was initially pleased, but he didn''t expect that one of the AI Bionic Robots, when it got close to him, took the opportunity to strike him too!


    Elder Dylan had strategized all his life, but now, within a single day, he had fallen into two traps.


    One was Elder Felix''s trap, setting up an ambush to kill him, which was still okay; he was confident he could escape, and after Marcus''s death, he could switch allegiance to Elder Felix.


    But the second trap...


    It was Blackwood''s trap, clearly intending to wipe everyone out, including him!


    "Escape, this vengeance must be avenged, the sect master and the supreme elder will definitely be interested in the top-tier advanced psychic equipment."


    Elder Dylan looked coldly at the mysterious figure behind him and at Marcus, who had already joined Blackwood and was now turning against his own sect brothers. "Indeed, these family scions can never truly be tamed!"


    "Though that mysterious person possesses top-tier psychic ability equipment, he can''t fully control the power of the Developing Skill. He can''t catch up to me; this is a problem of Blackwood''s own making."


    Dylan had never run so fast, empowered by more than a dozen talismanic scripts entering his body.


    But suddenly, his expression changed again.


    The mysterious man behind him seemed not to care at all about his escape, remaining calm and indifferent. "Close the gates, release the blood ability fruit trees!"


    As he spoke, Elder Dylan looked in horror toward the center of the Rodriguez family residence.


    There, Blackwood Lucas, with the power of the Sword Sect, was furiously slaughtering the Rodriguez family members with a hundred flying swords, charging toward the center of their home.


    He held a scroll, which he threw into the air.


    In an instant, roots burst forth from the scroll, clawing their way out, followed by a massive tree nearly sixty feet tall that appeared before everyone''s eyes. This bizarre tree seemed to be dancing, especially its roots, thick trunk, and branches, all densely covered with runes.


    As it danced madly in the center of the Rodriguez home, the talismanic symbols on his body burst forth in brilliant light, the roots spreading throughout the entire Rodriguez residence, and a disc above its head gradually enlarging¡ªthe Eight Directions Array that Marcus had once sent back to his family!


    "Phew,"


    Looking at the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree and the appearance of the Eight Directions Array, under their combined effect, an array of formations enveloped the entire Rodriguez residence, allowing Ethan to breathe a sigh of relief.


    [You are using ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'', consuming 500 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    Behind him, the massive Forebearer cards transformed into over a dozen cards, blocking Elder Dylan who was trying to break through the formation''s restrictions!


    Ethan charged towards Elder Dylan once again.


    There was one thing Elder Dylan really guessed right.


    Blackwood''s visit to the Rodriguez family was a trap within a trap!


    Neither Ethan nor anyone in Blackwood ever intended to let go of the Heaven-Earth-Man Assassin or the Sky Sect experts brought by Marcus because...


    "The Heavenly Moon Fox on Luna and the Purple Thunder Solar Python want to break through to become Demon Kings, and the quickest way is to obtain the Demon King Blood Pill. A D-level expert''s Developing Skill should also suffice as a substitute!"


    "After all, the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree became a rank eight by the same means before."


    Ethan narrowed his eyes, revealing the true purpose of his risky venture with all of Blackwood.


    Otherwise, Ethan wouldn''t have come out at all; he could have simply paid a hefty sum for the services of the people from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    In view,


    The roots of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree had already taken hold across the entire Rodriguez family''s territory. The ordinary people and Iron Will experts of the Rodriguez family had virtually become supplements for the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, and even Ethan could feel the tree''s joyous thrills!


    And Lucas was no slouch either, leaping directly onto the top of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, dropping millions of Energy Stones to maintain the tree''s psychic abilities and activate the array.


    Looking at the various engravings on it and the array plate above it, this was the key to Blackwood trapping everyone present after receiving the intelligence, allowing no one to escape.


    Because... this thing almost carried half of Blackwood''s foundation!


    Just as Ethan had known before, a psychic tree of this sort is a truly unique existence. When the Dragon-Tiger Brothers invaded Blackwood, the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree hadn''t even shown its full capabilities!


    [Year 43 of Blackwood, the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree absorbs blood daily, its roots spreading to a hundred meters.]


    [Year 44, Blackwood begins to engrave arrays on its roots.]


    [Year 47, the Psychic Energy Gathering Array is fully engraved.]


    [Year 48, its roots spread to a kilometer...]


    [Engraving the Evil-Banishing Array... Engraving the Thousand Swords Killing Array... Engraving the Forebearer Psychic Array... Engraving...]


    [Year 60, the roots extend ten thousand meters!]


    Blackwood rarely saw arrays because the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree itself was the embodiment of Blackwood''s arrays, wherever it was located, that was where Blackwood''s accumulated arrays were! S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Blackwood, with years of development, was not only a family under the protection of the Forebearer cards.


    The people of Blackwood were born from the Direct Death Coffin and grew up on the bloody roots of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree!

 Chapter 102 - 102: Forebearer Descends part 3

    "Kill!" The Blood Psychic Fruit Tree summoned a hundred magical formations, each powered by a mid-grade psychic device from all directions. Its profound yellow magical power trapped an area nearly 12 miles wide. From beneath the ground, eight ancient stone gates emerged, their appearance majestic.


    The Developing Skill realm also utilized psychic devices, and the eight formations used in this device were comparable to the power of a seventh-grade formation master. Even Elder Dylan couldn''t break the formations with his talismans in a short time. He was being relentlessly pursued by Ethan.


    After the appearance of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, the people of Blackwood demonstrated to the Rodriguez family, who hailed from the humble town of Forest, the formidable strength of a seemingly ordinary rural household.


    "People of Blackwood are demonically possessed psychics!" they exclaimed. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Kill him, kill Nathan, he''s controlling that coffin!"


    "We can''t get close, he''s surrounded by zombies, and that coffin is no ordinary item, just like that mysterious person''s high-grade psychic equipment, it''s impenetrable!"


    Nathan, shrouded in dark energy, handed the basic psychic device, the Heavy Seal, to Luna. The Direct Death Coffin emerged from the Storage Ring! Over the years, Blackwood had slain countless enemies, nourishing the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree with their corpses, which were then refined in the Direct Death Coffin.


    Zombies possessed Foundational Energy. Flying zombies were akin to those with Emerging Abilities, capable of aerial movement and killing with deathly energy!


    And this was merely the power obtained from unlocking the first seal of the Direct Death Coffin!


    No one knew the true power of the Direct Death Coffin.


    After countless zombies surged out of the coffin, Nathan, carrying the silver coffin, chased after a Rodriguez family elder at the peak of the Transcendent Seed stage, using it in a straightforward and rustic manner.


    Luna, though only possessing mid-stage psychic beast power, seemed to have recently received some legacy. Fox shadows emerged from her, fighting with the Heavy Seal and two pieces of psychic equipment Amelia had sent back, against another Transcendent Seed stage opponent.


    Lucas, the eldest son of Blackwood, surprised Ethan the most. Originally commanding a hundred swords to guard near the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, he had to coldly snort when an opponent at the peak of Emerging Ability attacked. Swords floated around him within a hundred meters, and in an instant, thousands of swords were launched!


    As for Julian...


    This guy used to be a drag on the people of Blackwood during battles. But having acquired the profession of a psychic puppet smith and crafted high-grade psychic equipment for his arms, he had completely transformed!


    No wonder Julian had been bragging about his arms these days.


    With a loud laugh, his arm, just like the psychic puppet he had created before, began to change shape. A massive armor enveloped his body, allowing him to control an eight-meter-tall psychic puppet, as if piloting a mech!


    His body possessed the strength of an eighth-grade psychic puppet but was more lively than a psychic puppet, wielding a massive hammer measured in tons, truly a reaper on the battlefield.


    Julian''s wife, Mary, was no less extraordinary. A dazzling blood pearl emerged on her, boosting her from the initial stage of Emerging Ability to the peak of Emerging Ability. That was the Demon King Blood Pill given to her beloved daughter Mary by the Boar Monarch Pete!


    Looking at the third generation of nine people in Blackwood who interacted with outsiders...


    Only Marcus transformed into flames, fighting enemies with nine fire lotuses around him.


    Daniel and the second generation of Blackwoods, being slightly weaker, slowly approached the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, picking up the mid-grade psychic equipment longbow crafted by Julian and firing wildly.


    Their eyes glanced towards the Forebearer chasing after Developing Skill in the sky and the elders showing their divine powers on the battlefield, their faces full of admiration.


    "My God, does our family have so many secrets?"


    "I thought that coffin was just for training, but grandpa has released so many zombies from it... I finally understand why we''ve been told to bring back the bodies of our enemies all these years!"


    "Hey, number eight, what are you doing? Why are you gesturing with a knife at yourself?"


    "I''m thinking about where to cut. After that, I''ll ask dad to fit me with that kind of psychic equipment too."


    "We''ve taken beatings over the years, and it''s not unjust at all. Look at grandma and mom, they''ve started helping uncle chase after those at the Transcendent Seed stage."


    "I''ve decided, I want to train with the sword... Why? I want to launch thousands of swords like uncle, damn that''s cool!"


    "..."


    Only Daniel was quietly observing the devastated Rodriguez household, contemplating the shortcomings of this emerging Developing Skill family. He summarized the experiences, preparing to address the weaknesses he observed in the Rodriguez family to strengthen Blackwood further.


    "Psychic devices are crucial. If they had powerful clan-protecting psychic devices, this wouldn''t have happened."


    "The personnel are too scattered. If all the clan members in the territory united, with the enhancement of formations, they could have put up a fight against Developing Skill. Actually, Thomas''s plan to arm all members wasn''t bad, especially since we''ll have plenty of resources after this."


    "It seems that our Blackwood''s trump cards are still too few. If we had ten more direct-death coffins like psychic treasures, we would be safer."


    In the distance, Marcus, although touched by his family''s rescue efforts, was puzzled and slightly embarrassed when he discovered that everyone was using the Sky Sect techniques.


    He had struggled for years in the Sky Sect, waiting to reach Class D and bring back the Sky Sect techniques to strengthen his family. Now...


    "It must have been the Forebearer''s doing, right?"


    When Marcus thought of this, the embarrassment in his heart vanished. Looking at the mysterious figure of the Forebearer fighting in the sky, he was full of admiration, "This is my Marcus''s Forebearer. Not to mention acquiring the Sky Sect''s techniques, even annihilating the Sky Sect would be considered normal!"


    ...


    Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Step.


    Hundred Shadow Sword Glow.


    In the sky, Ethan also used his magical martial skills. In an instant, the Developing Skill power he obtained from the celestial psychic spear caused his shadow to split into thousands in the air, and the original hundred sword shadows turned into long spears, about ten thousand in total!


    These spear shadows targeted the Earth-class assassin among the Heaven, Earth, and Man trio.


    However, Ethan still held back, only shattering the protective psychic energy around the woman''s body.


    Then he pierced through her skull and burned her soul, wanting her complete corpse to turn into a zombie, a psychic puppet!


    "Fellow Daoist, you can''t catch up with me anyway."


    The Heaven-class assassin from the trio, unlike his sister and brother, wasn''t as loyal. However, his movements were quite strange, even comparable to Elder Dylan using a dozen talismans for swift movement. For a moment, Ethan couldn''t catch him.


    At this moment, the man gritted his teeth and negotiated with Ethan, "But I can catch up with Dylan. Now, this thief wants to break the formation and escape, which isn''t good for either of us. How about we make a deal? "


    "If you swear to let me go, I''ll help you catch him and kill him. I can also swear to withdraw the memories of today and from then on, forget each other in the vast crowd, how about that?"

 Chapter 103 - 103: Hidden Ability Blueprint

    Upon hearing this, Elder Dylan was furious, his heart clogged with frustration as he released ten more precious talismans, continuing to bombard the magical formation and running even faster. Ethan, however, turned a deaf ear. He furrowed his brows and stared at the blue screen in front of him¡ª


    [Remaining Time: 1:45]


    Time was running out.


    But he also realized his shortcomings; indeed, just as the top-tier assassin had said, continuing the chase was futile!


    He suddenly stopped in his tracks, calmly watching the top-tier assassin and Elder Dylan fleeing in the opposite direction.


    In an instant.


    As Ethan closed his eyes, everyone in the town of Rodriguez felt a majestic aura, one that was urgently contradictory!


    It contained an extremely sinister aura of death, yet also the vigorous vitality of the rising sun.


    Especially the two in the middle stage of Developing Skill, who felt it most profoundly, targeted by the aura emanating from Ethan''s body¡ªa supreme pressure that made their Psychic Constitution tremble!


    They looked towards Ethan in horror.


    A Twin Fish Harmony Seal emerged from beneath Ethan''s feet, with profound darkness on the left and intense light on the right!


    Under the power of Developing Skill, the Twin Fish Harmony Seal formed a vast domain, covering the sky trapped by the eight-directional formation, enveloping the two!


    "What is this?!!"


    Elder Dylan stared at the spinning Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the mysterious figure in the center shrouded in black mist.


    Then...


    His expression gradually became vacant, his head stiffly lowered, looking at his abdomen, overshadowed by darkness.


    That silver, top-quality psychic weapon had pierced right through him.


    Ethan appeared before him!


    Instant kill!


    Elder Dylan was bewildered; he didn''t even know how Ethan had appeared, nor what high-level power Ethan had used.


    "Light and shadow interact, two sides of the same coin, no fixed direction, within my Twin Fish Harmony Seal, I am omnipresent."


    This was his life''s method of cultivating psychic powers!


    [Twin Fish Harmony Seal , First Layer, Heaven and Earth]


    Ethan slowly withdrew the long spear, no longer caring about the dead Elder Dylan.


    He slowly glanced towards the top-tier assassin with a deathly pale face.


    In just a blink, he was already in front of him, staring into his eyes full of despair.


    Ethan smiled.


    "Weren''t you going to trade with me? The conditions of the trade just now aren''t valid, try another."


    "I..."


    The formidable top-tier assassin, at the middle stage of Developing Skill, was already trembling with fear, looking at Elder Dylan still falling to the ground, unable to utter half a word.


    Ethan regretfully said, "It seems your value isn''t high either."


    With those words, he casually plunged the psychic spear of Tian Shu Town into the chest of the top-tier assassin, the psychic fire burning his soul.


    Ethan took a deep breath, retracting the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the psychic spear of Tian Shu Town back into his body.


    He quietly watched his descendants still fighting the enemy.


    A gentle smile appeared on his face.


    "Until next time, I hope I can exist a bit longer next time, to take a good look at this world."


    As Ethan''s body slowly disappeared, merging into the Forebearer''s position.


    All the descendants of Blackwood looked up in the direction where the Forebearer had vanished, their eyes moist.


    Nathan led the cry.


    "May the Forebearer bless us!"


    Thomas, on the blood psychic fruit tree, wept bitterly, "Farewell, Forebearer!"


    In just a moment.


    He trembled under the scrutinizing gaze of his elders and siblings, ready to clean house...


    ...


    Just moments ago, Ethan was battling at the Rodriguez residence. Now, he''s back in his familiar room. Although he only spent less than five minutes in the game world, he felt an inexplicable sense of being worlds apart, his emotions complex and tangled.


    He felt a profound sense of loss, like an elderly man who could only stay at home and receive phone calls to catch up on his children''s lives, unable to join them in their struggles.


    He longed to meet again, to gather with these descendants he had never lived with, to chat about everything under the sun and discuss life''s significant matters.


    Ideally, he''d share a meal with them, perhaps offering each a cup of milk tea.


    Sometimes, it seems, relationships form in just such a way¡ªnever having met, yet already deeply connected by emotions, like an invisible thread stretching across space and time, linking them together.


    "Ah, it''s like a real world, my descendants, even if they are characters in a game world, they are real to me," Ethan sighed deeply.


    Suppressing the urge to dive back into the game world, his eyes suddenly widened in shock.


    Seeing the "Rest in Peace, Forebearer" above Thomas''s head in the game almost drove him to go back and give the kid a piece of his mind.


    "That little rascal, I''ll remember this, Forebearer here is waiting for the next time I come over!"


    Thomas interrupted.


    Ethan snapped back to reality. As for returning, that was a matter for later. What he needed to do now was to focus on the battlefield.


    After all the Developing Skill masters were killed, the Rodriguez family was beyond redemption.


    With Nathan crushing a Transcendent Seed stage enemy with a coffin, the battle had completely turned one-sided. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The town of the Rodriguez family, with over twenty thousand people, couldn''t withstand the mass attack of the blood ability fruit trees, along with the zombies and flying zombies.


    The potions Amelia sent back also allowed the people of Blackwood to maintain the recovery of their abilities.


    [You have used ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'', consuming 500 Spiritual Tribute.]


    Although he had returned.


    Ethan was still fighting, slaying enemies under the control of the Forebearer cards!


    "Landon, you''re on the wrong side."


    Half a day later, the town of the Rodriguez family had turned into ruins, all the corpses of the Rodriguez family were collected back into the Coffin of Direct Death, and the blood ability fruit trees were returned to that picturesque blueprint¡ª


    [Premium Ability Equipment: Hidden Ability Blueprint]


    [Contains ability beasts, treasures, harboring the peak abilities of Emerging Ability, nurturing the entities within the painting]

 Chapter 104 - 104: Directly striking it rich!

    The people of Blackwood stood before Landon, the head of the Rodriguez family, who was already bound by chains that sealed his magical powers.


    "Ah."


    As the head of the family, even as he watched the downfall of the Rodriguez family and seven hundred years of legacy destroyed in an instant, he did not curse or even show regret for his own wrong decisions. Instead, he let out a long sigh that spoke volumes of his weariness.


    He understood Nathan''s purpose for leaving him alive and said with a bitter smile, "Mr. Nathan, I will tell you everything about the Rodriguez family''s remaining techniques, martial skills, and the locations of our treasuries. But you must promise me one condition."


    "The children of the Rodriguez family in this town are innocent; they know no better. Let them go."


    "And the branches of my family in other towns and cities, they are unaware of this matter."


    Nathan, hearing this, looked towards the corner of Blackwood where the young children were.


    They had been planning for two months and were fully prepared. They were responsible for annihilating the Rodriguez family and Elder Dylan''s group, while Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and the serene Moore were tasked with eliminating any future threats.


    He frowned, "I''m sorry, Mr. Landon, but your branches in other towns and cities are already finished. As for these children... I will not harm them. I will use magic to extract their memories. As for their future, it depends on whether they can survive on their own."


    "Ah, that''s for the best."


    Watching this scene, Ethan had nothing to say. Although Nathan was fierce towards his enemies, he ultimately had a compassionate side.


    Moreover... killing children, no matter who''s faced with such a decision, would feel a pang of conscience. It''s a dilemma no one wants to face. For Ethan, whether it was a moment of compassion or a decision to eliminate future threats by killing them, it would be an incredibly tough choice.


    However, Ethan still respected Nathan''s decision, even if these children grew up seeking revenge.


    Isn''t that just the way of the world?


    But just as Nathan finished speaking, Ethan swallowed hard as a new message appeared in his event log.


    As Landon revealed the valuable secrets of the Rodriguez family.


    [Your descendant Olivia, knowing well the kindness of her family, suspected that the Rodriguez family might use their secret techniques and valuables to negotiate, causing her father Nathan to hesitate and ultimately spare the children out of compassion.]


    [To eliminate future threats, she has issued an order, and Dawn assassins are already on their way to the Rodriguez family residence.]


    "..."


    Ethan was momentarily speechless. This girl had always been sharp, not only thoroughly understanding the intelligence on enemies but even anticipating the thoughts of her own family members. Yet, he also felt a certain heaviness for Olivia.


    That''s just how it was in Blackwood. Often, people like Nathan would feel compassion, and sometimes they showed kindness, because that''s just human nature. Whenever such moments arose, Olivia would make choices in the shadows that were starkly different and most beneficial for the family.


    Some aimed to be virtuous, standing in the sunlight, while others bore burdens in the shadows.


    Olivia always stood in the darkest backstage, doing the dirtiest work, unnoticed.


    Perhaps, the deep calamities she now bore in her heart, which delayed her becoming a scholar of the literary path, were also due to the heavy sins she carried.


    Soon after, the people of Blackwood obtained their spoils of war and headed back to Blackwood.


    [Congratulations, your family has completed the special event¡ªElimination of Elder Felix''s minions]


    [You have gained 10,000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    [In this battle, you demonstrated divine prowess, instantly defeating a Developing Skill master with the mysterious posture of controlling the Yin-Yang diagram, earning praises from your descendants as if you were a deity!]


    [You have gained 5,000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    "A total of 15,000 Spiritual Tribute points from one battle," Ethan noted, a smile spreading across his face.


    However, Ethan felt a pang of regret as another message appeared.


    [Your two Celestial Seekers have been destroyed.]


    [Celestial Seeker: A body possessing the power of Developing Skill, impervious to pain and soul attacks. Upon activation, it detects the scent and sight of its target, designating the opponent as an enemy to be relentlessly pursued until the mission is completed, after which the Celestial Seeker becomes ineffective.]


    This device was the AI Bionic Robot he had once sent to Blackwood, also brought back by Alan from an extremist organization. It had been developed long ago, responsible for the deaths of many important figures, thus becoming a banned item.


    But no worries, Alan, with his vast connections, could probably get more, though they were quite expensive.


    Yet, the gains from this time far outweighed the costs! sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your family has obtained a seventh-grade formation blueprint¡ªthe Hundred Abilities Azure Bird Totem Formation, and nine supreme totem ability equipments, the Azure Bird Totem Pillars!]


    [Your family has obtained low-level ability devices, the Wind-Fire Halberd, the Heaven Sand Gourd, the Prison Life Red Cloud Silk, the Great River Dragon General Diagram, and the Formation Symbol Ability Pen!]


    [You have gained eighth-grade medicinal herbs...]


    War is always the best way to accumulate wealth!


    After this battle, Ethan could feel that Blackwood was on the brink of a revolutionary change!


    A seventh-grade formation had the power to resist masters of the Developing Skill realm.


    And as for ability devices, those were things only D-level masters were qualified to possess. A single low-level ability device could allow someone in the mid-stage of Emerging Ability to fight against someone in the Transcendent Seed stage, and these devices could only truly unleash their power in the hands of those in the Developing Skill realm.


    Originally, Elder Gonzalez had kept a low-level ability device very securely, using it as a treasure to stabilize his clan.


    Five low-level ability devices were akin to adding five Transcendent Seed stage masters to Blackwood!


    There were also various pills, ability herbs, ability items, and that found under the peach tree, filling a Storage Ring with Energy Stones, various ores...


    "Directly striking it rich!"

 Chapter 105 - 105: He... was kidnapped!

    As time sped up, the people of Blackwood had returned to their clan, where everything was well. The group squeezed into the Forebearer''s shrine.


    Marcus, a child who hadn''t been home for many years, looked around at the unfamiliar surroundings of his family''s estate, his eyes misty with tears that he had always held back while at the Sky Sect.


    Kneeling before the Forebearer cards, he was overwhelmed by the ceremonial feeling that he remembered from his time in the clan. Remembering the past, he couldn''t help but cry on the spot, just like the child who had cried in the Forebearer''s shrine years ago.


    "Forebearer, your child..." he began.


    "I''m back!"


    After the great battle, as usual, Nathan, like an old man guarding a temple in the village, sang praises and the family''s devotion grew even stronger.


    Once it was all over, Lucas looked at Marcus, now grown up, and took a deep breath, hesitating. He wanted to pat Marcus on the shoulder but withdrew his hand, saying emotionlessly, "Now that you''re back, don''t go back to the Sky Sect."


    Daniel also advised his brother, "Yeah, big brother. This time you brought out more than a dozen disciples from the Sky Sect, including Elder Dylan. Now they''re all dead, and the Rodriguez family has been destroyed. "


    "If you go back, they''ll definitely be suspicious. Stay here. What does it matter if the Sky Sect finds out? We now have the support of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, and Forest Town is under the jurisdiction of the Xuanwu Gate!"


    "You''re right," Nathan said, satisfied, looking at Marcus. "Grandson, the Sky Sect may be large, but our Blackwood heritage is not to be taken lightly. Under the protection of the Forebearer, one day the Sky Sect will have to bow down to us."


    But no matter how they tried to persuade him, Marcus stubbornly shook his head. "I must return to the Sky Sect."


    "What nonsense are you talking about?!" Lucas burst out in anger, his hand raised to slap Marcus, but looking into Marcus''s defiant eyes and thinking about the years of estrangement, he couldn''t bring himself to do it.


    Grinding his teeth, yet unable to hide the pain in his eyes, he said, "In your eyes, is my Blackwood really inferior to the Sky Sect? Is the status of a direct disciple really worth your concern?"


    Marcus knelt before his elders, his tone firm. "I must return to the Sky Sect. I will always know that this is my root, Marcus''s safest home. But Marcus has already caused enough trouble for the family. Even if it means death, I won''t bring the troubles of the Sky Sect back home to endanger the family!"


    "I am a man, and I will always remember the day when the adults of Blackwood fought towards Forest Town. We didn''t know if we would win that battle. Daniel and I waited at home, and I kept thinking about what my aunt and father told me. What would Daniel and I do if everyone didn''t come back?"


    "From that day on, I didn''t want to wait anymore, nor did I want to bear the burden that my mother bore."


    Listening to Marcus''s words, the people of Blackwood sighed deeply. They all understood that both Marcus and Daniel were deeply troubled by the events of that year.


    Marcus clenched his fists, his expression resolute. "As long as I am a son of Blackwood, I will not hide like a coward. I will face all difficulties just like my grandparents, my father, my second aunt, and my fourth aunt!"


    "I also have a goal. I told the Forebearer that I want to be the sky of the Sky Sect. "


    "I want to return to the clan with honor and achievements. "


    "I want to make a career that will make my family proud. "


    "I want to tell the people of Gratitude Village that I, Marcus, am worthy of being a son of Blackwood!"


    No longer trying to persuade him, they looked at the boy with only admiration and pride in their eyes. This was their son of Blackwood!


    Only Julian scratched his head, wondering if the child had forgotten to praise him. "I heard that Uncle Three has been forging for decades without giving up. I can endure for decades, even a hundred years!"


    "My elders, let me go," Julian said, standing tall and proud, his chin held high.


    "Hmph! If you want to go, then go!" Lucas snorted coldly and turned away.


    Nathan shook his head with a smile, helping Marcus up, though worry still lingered in his eyes, "Marcus, do you have an explanation for returning to the Sky Sect?" sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes," Marcus nodded, his lips pursed as he watched his father walk away.


    Nathan saw the thoughts crossing Marcus''s mind, "Your father is like that when he speaks; don''t hold it against him."


    "I understand," Marcus replied.


    Moments later, under the watchful eyes of his family, Marcus set off again towards the Sky Sect.


    Suddenly, Lucas appeared among the crowd, watching the firm back of his son. His eyes reddened, but he couldn''t suppress a smile, prouder than even when he had mastered his swordsmanship.


    "Marcus has grown up, just like me."


    ...


    Ethan could tell that Lucas cared about Marcus, but unfortunately, Lucas was never good at expressing himself. However, Blackwood really didn''t need to worry about Marcus''s safety because someone had already thought of a plan!


    Ethan stared intently at the screen. Time sped up to the maximum, and just as Marcus had left Blackwood and hadn''t yet left the boundaries of Tranquil County, he... was kidnapped!


    Assassins from Cloudview County had come, knocking him out halfway and taking him away, passing through Mount Five Peaks Rodriguez Town.


    When Marcus woke up briefly, he caught a glimpse of Rodriguez Town, where over a dozen demonically possessed psychics were bombarding everything, the land was withered, and demonic energy filled the air.


    Before he could understand what was happening, he was knocked out again and sold to the demonically possessed psychics.


    When he woke up again, Marcus was inside a straw hut in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, surrounded by demonically possessed psychics. He saw...


    "Aunt Amelia???" Marcus, bound by ropes that suppressed his magical powers, opened his eyes.


    The whole ordeal had left him bewildered, and seeing Amelia squatting in front of him with a smile, looking just like she did when he was a child, felt like a dream.


    Amelia waved her hand, and the bloodthirsty, crazed demonically possessed psychics, whom Marcus knew to be utterly evil, respectfully bowed and then walked out of the hut.


    While Marcus was still pondering whether his aunt had secretly become a demon lord, Amelia''s hand, just like when he was a child, touched his head, and Marcus finally came to his senses, though he was still utterly confused.


    "Aunt, where is this? What happened? These demonically possessed psychics..."


    Amelia shook her head, "Don''t ask anything, just listen to your aunt." As she spoke, Amelia opened a thumb-sized porcelain bottle, pinched Marcus''s mouth open, and poured a purple liquid into it.


    In an instant, Marcus''s already bewildered eyes whitened, and his consciousness began to emerge during the time he and Elder Dylan attacked Mount Five Peaks Rodriguez family.


    Amelia''s voice, as if bewitching, whispered in his ear. "Because you were assassinated by a hitman, after many searches for the assassin, it was discovered that Elder Felix had asked the Rodriguez family to send the hitman, so in a fit of rage, you tried every means to remove Elder Felix''s minions."


    "Is that right?"


    Marcus nodded unconsciously, "Yes, that''s right."


    "That was a room, Elder Dylan took you to meet the hitman from the county town, there were beauties, a table, and psychic tea in the room... you discussed with the hitman about wiping out the Rodriguez family, is that right?"


    In this unconscious state, Marcus''s mind, according to Amelia''s words, actually conjured up precise images!


    "Yes."


    "Do you remember what you talked about? The hitman asked you for a price, their eyes were cold, greedy, and cunning..."


    "I remember now, it was like that."


    "..."

 Chapter 106 - 106: Two more were born!

    "You led the sect''s Elder Dylan and assassins to attack the Rodriguez family, only to find that they were well-prepared. In a critical moment, a group of demon-possessed psychics suddenly appeared and saved you, but then they turned around and, with the assassins you had bribed, killed your sect disciples."


    "The assassins sold you to the demon-possessed psychics, who had long had their eyes on your talents. You were taken to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where they planned to sell you to a powerful figure deep within the cave for a possession ritual... Along the way, you were rescued by a righteous warrior from the Demon-Slaying Alliance... and then..."


    Amelia saw Marcus nodding repeatedly, her excitement growing as she jumped up and down on the spot.


    "Then, that so-called righteous warrior developed evil intentions halfway through, and you were sold again, this time to a female demon-possessed psychic who practices the art of cultivating psychic powers through dual cultivation, and the demon-possessed psychics wanted to use you for breeding!"


    ...


    Ten minutes later.


    Four female demon-possessed psychics took Marcus away, and the tightly bound Marcus opened his eyes to clearly see his situation.


    He was expressionless.


    But inside, he had already understood everything¡ªit was just for breeding! Reflecting on his journey to the Rodriguez family, being sold multiple times, he now could only wait to use his useful body to escape from the Thunderfire Demon Cave and plan his next move.


    With this thought, Marcus clenched his teeth, resignedly closed his eyes, and muttered to himself that such is life, and one must accept it.


    Look at what they call ''the silent lone wolf''? This kid was still thinking about turning the tables.


    ...


    Watching the game scenario Marcus was in, Ethan vigorously rubbed his face, speechless for a long time. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon, two elders from the Sky Sect arrived.


    Shouting ''How dare these demon-possessed psychics capture a true disciple of my Sky Sect,'' they rescued Marcus.


    [Your descendant Marcus has returned to the sect, and upon being questioned by Daoist Wesley about the cause of the events, he explained everything without showing any signs of lying. The Supreme Elder Competent, who came out of his spiritual retreat, also sensed nothing unusual. ]


    [People were sent to the Rodriguez family at Mount Five Peaks and saw the demonic energy swirling; Cloudview County also reported that the timing of the assassins'' arrival was just right, as was the situation at the demon cave.]


    [Because Marcus took the sect''s elder and disciples out to kill without permission, Daoist Wesley was furious and punished him, forbidding him from leaving the sect for fifty years and ordering him to face the wall at the Cliff of Reflection for ten days!]


    [Daoist Wesley, knowing about Elder Felix''s attempt to assassinate Marcus, was unmoved, only giving a meaningful glance at the two, seeing Elder Felix kneeling and begging for mercy but with a fleeting cold look in his eyes, merely smiled slightly and sentenced him to twenty years of reflection in the dungeon.]


    Two days later.


    During his seclusion, Marcus suddenly had a realization, and memories flooded into his mind.


    "?????"


    His expression gradually became complex, filled with relief, admiration, gratitude, and a bit of inexplicable shame, finally letting out a roar suppressed in his heart alone in the Cliff of Reflection, "Ah!!!"


    Moments later, he numbly smiled, "It''s just like Aunt Four, thinking of everything. Those assassins must have been sent by Aunt Four. I heard Aunt Four had arrived in Cloudview County, but I didn''t expect her to have gained such power. Did she break through her literary cultivation?"


    "Such a boring thing, Aunt Four definitely wouldn''t do it. The demon cave''s Psychic was used by Aunt Two, and when I left the family to join the Sky Sect, Aunt Two was the one who scolded me. Her vengefulness is really strong."


    "At this age, still so childish."


    After saying this, Marcus just showed an indifferent face, it was just a small matter.


    Until a few days later, while cultivating psychic powers at night, he suddenly opened his eyes wide.


    Then skillfully pulled out the Forebearer cards, knelt down with a thump, his words full of grievance and sorrow.


    "Forebearer, your child... your child... please manage Aunt Two!"


    ...


    "Yep, the kid''s safety is no issue now. Amelia and Olivia didn''t let me down, they''ve handled everything flawlessly." Clearly, he knew that Amelia and Olivia had already sent people ahead of time to take care of the post-battle cleanup.


    Seeing Marcus tattling, Ethan quickly switched the screen, adopting a ''don''t ask me, I can''t manage it, nor do I want to, you''re just out of luck'' demeanor. He chuckled to himself.


    Ethan then switched the view to Blackwood, where, after acquiring a wealth of resources, the family began its vigorous development once again.


    [Your descendant Nathan has entered the Coffin of Absolute Death, this time armed with three primary psychic ability devices, vowing to break through the second layer of the Coffin''s limits!]


    [Luna took two Developing Skills, trying to see if they could replace the Demon King''s Blood Elixir. Around her Psychic Sanctuary, two thousand foxes gathered.]


    [In the great battle at the Rodriguez family, Lucas obtained nearly two hundred enemy swords, which he planted near the land of cultivating psychic powers, calling it¡ªSword Tomb.]


    [Cultivating psychic powers near the Sword Tomb, swordsmanship comprehension increased by 10%!]


    Soon, the game time changed again.


    [Blackwood Year 64]


    [Your family members have increased by 2.]


    Two more were born! A smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    He glanced at the family member list in the top right corner.


    [Fourth generation family members: 11]


    However, Ethan rarely paid attention to new members anymore, especially since Julian''s lineage had too many children.


    Not just him, even the couple Nathan felt distant from descendants three generations removed, unless they were truly outstanding members.


    That would be Blackwood''s pride, George.


    Not only was the guy smart and hardworking, but he was even busier than the family head, Daniel.


    Every day, he had to look after his ten younger siblings, rush to the teacher in Gratitude Village to learn cultural and music theory lessons, meditate to absorb the essence of the sun and moon, and practice martial arts... a true master of time management.


    However, it was expected that not all members could be attended to.


    As the years passed, the people of Blackwood, having seen how other families operated, understood that their descendants would continue to increase¡ªa natural result of human reproduction and also key to the family''s strength!


    Sufficient continuation of the bloodline allowed them to confidently delegate business outside their family''s territory to their descendants.


    And since the talents of descendants varied, having more descendants increased the chances of producing exceptionally talented offspring.


    This is also why large families often have thousands, if not more, members.


    The increase in offspring also signifies the true growth of Blackwood.


    And it begins to move into the next phase!

 Chapter 107 - 107: To be the leader or to be the tail

    "By the time the fourth generation grows up, we''ll be able to gradually take control of Tranquil


    County,"


    Ethan said with a slight smile. Blackwood had always been unable to move beyond Forest Town, simply because even if they controlled other areas, there were no personnel to guard them.


    He restrained his thoughts and then shifted his focus to the family head, Daniel.


    [Your descendant Daniel is currently watering the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree. It is digesting a large amount of blood, its roots are spreading and expanding, and it is beginning to undergo some changes. This will be a lengthy process.]


    [The formation obtained from the Rodriguez family is searching for materials to imprint onto the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.]


    [Julian is forging more psychic puppets...]


    [A large amount of herbs has been delivered to your descendant Amelia. She is happily spinning around, knowing it must be a reward from the Forebearer, and is expressing her gratitude to you.]


    Under Daniel''s leadership, Blackwood''s development was well-organized.


    Moreover, Blackwood now essentially had no external enemies. Although the two major wars were still ongoing, things in Tranquil County were gradually quieting down, and this was clearly recorded in the special events section.


    [As the two major wars continue, the resources of Tranquil County are gradually being divided up by the forces of Xuanwu Gate and Sky Sect, with all forces choosing sides.]


    [Because Sky Sect has lost two Developing Skill elders in succession, they have begun to shrink back in defense.]


    "With this, the previously chaotic Tranquil County has actually become worthless. Forest Town was originally just a rural area, and it''s unlikely that the fighting will reach here. I might as well break through," Ethan licked his lips.


    Class D!


    He had been wanting to break through for a while, and this time, during the great battle at the Rodriguez family, he seemed to have become a bit obsessed with the power.


    Moreover, without breaking through, there was nothing else for him to do but watch Blackwood slowly digest what it had gained.


    [You are using the Forebearer moment¡ª]


    [Detected that you are in the Transcendent Seed stage, consuming 1000 points of Spiritual Tribute per year!]


    [Would you like to enter?]


    Ethan clicked yes without hesitation!


    The next moment.


    His eyes turned white, and his consciousness fell into chaos...


    "Oh, here we go again!"


    Stepping back into the game world, a hint of nostalgia flashed across Ethan''s face. It had only been an hour since his last visit, yet it felt like ages had passed.


    And this time, it was different.


    Last time he was just a swirl of black mist, seeing nothing but black mist around him. But now... he was solid!


    He finally felt the fresh air of this world, the psychic powers that dwarfed those of Earth by multiples, and the very real people.


    Even... the big guy in front of him.


    This dude was about six and a half feet tall, built like a bull, with dark red armor clanking crisply as he moved. Seemingly with nothing better to do, he was striding along, casually picking his nose!


    Ethan recognized this guy, Thomas, a fool who spoke without thinking.


    Just as Ethan was about to swing a punch at him, he froze.


    Thomas''s body passed right through his.


    "Can''t select, can''t attack. Thomas is in the Emerging Ability phase, he can sense spirits at the very least, which means I''m not even considered a psychic entity here, just existing within a specific range of this world, absorbing psychic powers to break through?"


    Ethan suddenly understood why entering the world for combat cost so many Spiritual Tribute points every five minutes.


    And why existing in this world cost only a thousand a year.


    Even so.


    Ethan looked off into the distance, within a ten-thousand-meter radius of the Forebearer''s shrine, a circle formed, and he felt he couldn''t step outside it.


    "There''s a reason it''s cheap."


    Ethan didn''t mind.


    He took a deep breath and simply sat down next to the blood psychic fruit tree to meditate, confirming his suspicions. When he had previously arrived as a misty figure, the blood psychic fruit tree had been the most excited, seemingly having some sort of pact with his cards. Now, however, there was no response from the tree.


    "I exist in this world for a year, and only an hour passes outside, my skills are already defying the heavens, no need to fret over it anymore."


    Ethan stopped pondering.


    And in a moment, he began to meditate for a breakthrough.


    ...


    Breaking through to Emerging Ability is the easiest step.


    As long as one''s Psychic Constitution reaches over 60 points, they can accommodate enough extraterrestrial abilities to forcefully open the body''s acupoints.


    Transforming the internal energy into a sea of qi, obtaining the Dan Fire, and beginning the process of purifying the body''s impurities and undergoing a transformation in aptitude.


    Even discarding the fragile and excess Psychic Constitution.


    The reason why the previous members of Blackwood, despite their mediocre talents, could break through one by one to Emerging Ability, was because they consumed Ethan''s ''Heavenly Mechanism Supplement Ability Pill''.


    Which essentially served as a ticket to the breakthrough of Emerging Ability. Otherwise, it wouldn''t be called a divine medicine in the real world.


    The duration of the breakthrough is long because they need to gather enough extraterrestrial abilities in their Psychic Constitution to strive for the best possible realm, a process that is complex and even requires repeated deductions.


    The stages that follow are like crossing a chasm!


    From the early stages of Emerging Ability to the peak, it involves condensing the internal sea of qi into a Dan pellet, while the psychic abilities also become more solid and powerful.


    After becoming a Dan pellet, it is refined with the Dan Fire, marking the Transcendent Seed stage.


    During this period, the Developing Skill being tempered also varies in strength. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This process involves engraving a certain technique or martial skill onto the Developing Skill. The more completely it is engraved, the stronger the technique or martial skill, and the higher the quality of the Developing Skill formed. It is divided into three grades of Dan pellets: heaven, earth, and man.


    These different grades of Dan pellets relate to how much extraterrestrial ability the Developing Skill can store, the speed of absorbing extraterrestrial abilities, the speed of casting techniques, and other innate conditions.


    The stronger the Dan Fire formed by the Psychic Constitution, the easier it is to refine the Developing Skill.


    Ethan also heard that during the refining of Developing Skill, if one has an epiphany about the universe, the Developing Skill can even surpass the three grades and advance further!


    Like Elder Dylan before, his Developing Skill was of the earth grade, hence he could single-handedly match three individuals with Developing Skills and still manage effortlessly.


    At this moment, Ethan is in the process of refining at the Transcendent Seed stage!


    Within his body, flames blaze fiercely, and the Twin Fish Harmony Seal has become his meditation mat.


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal, this is his strongest technique, far more powerful than the Shadowy Heavenly Cluster Steps, and it is also the technique he intends to engrave on the Transcendent Seed stage.


    Ethan is ambitious and still young. If he cannot engrave the Twin Fish Harmony Seal technique before the end of his life, then he might as well spend a year engraving a worthless technique and resign himself to mediocrity for life.


    To be the leader or to be the tail, that is his philosophy in life.


    Otherwise, he would have already broken through the Developing Skill.

 Chapter 108 - 108: Forebearers Grace

    As Ethan refined his skills, the area around the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree became a hub of gathered psychic energies, drawn by the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, coinciding with his breakthrough in Developing Skill.


    In just one year,


    The psychic energies grew more formidable.


    And such events did not escape the eyes of the people of Blackwood.


    11-year-old George, holding another child of his uncle, ran to where Daniel was handling family affairs, his face alight with joy, "Uncle, the Forebearer has shown psychic abilities!"


    "What?!!"


    Daniel was overjoyed, having previously consulted the Forebearer in times of indecision, though the Forebearer had not responded to him for a year, "Quick, take me to see!"


    Soon, Daniel followed George to the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.


    The tree''s canopy towered sky-high, and the people of Blackwood, who had been in seclusion, had already emerged, gathering together, all eyes filled with surprise and delight.


    Because...


    The psychic energies at the site of the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, glowing faintly, had almost solidified!


    They remembered the Twin Fish Harmony Seal used previously by the Forebearer, an aura full of contradictions, profound darkness on the left, intense light on the right, forming its own cosmos.


    And now.


    The psychic energies of the Five Elements converged, and to those with the Emerging Ability to see, a pentagram formed by the Five Elements'' light columns enveloped the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree, with the interactions of the Five Elements becoming increasingly apparent.


    Everyone in Blackwood could feel it.


    Cultivating psychic powers here would yield twice the result with half the effort!


    "I understand now!"


    Nathan exclaimed, startling everyone, his eyes wild with excitement as he grabbed Daniel''s shoulders, "Daniel, you came to me a few months ago, unable to contact the Forebearer, right?"


    "Uh, it''s been a year."


    Daniel nodded, still dazed.


    "The Forebearer is right here!"


    Nathan stared at the space above the light columns, his eyes red, "I understand now, that above must be the legendary Ability Realm. The Forebearer is an Ability Master; last time he descended with a strand of his soul, he couldn''t stay long."


    "He saw that we couldn''t defeat the Rodriguez family with our own strength, and we also lack Developing Skill, so he specifically found a way from the Ability Realm to communicate with us, transmitting his understanding of the Five Elements to us, aiding us in cultivating psychic powers!"


    "So that''s why we couldn''t feel the presence of the Forebearer from his shrine."


    With these words, all of Blackwood fell silent.


    Tears welled up in the eyes of the people of Blackwood, now it all made sense, no wonder there were such celestial phenomena in Blackwood, with this explanation, they understood.


    "Forebearer!"


    "The unworthy descendants have worried you, Elder. We will definitely not fail your expectations and will strive in cultivating psychic powers!"


    In a moment, Nathan led the people of Blackwood to take out their Forebearer cards and sit down in positions that matched their Psychic Constitution to cultivate psychic powers.


    ...


    Ethan''s eyes drooped as he watched the Blackwood clanspeople one by one sit down to meditate around him, each placing his cards in front of them, their devotion unmistakable.


    The family had already disturbed him when they arrived.


    Nathan''s shout, "The Forebearer is right here!" had given him quite the start.


    Turns out...


    "What on earth are you imagining?" Ethan couldn''t help but laugh and cry at the same time, somewhat admiring Nathan''s wild train of thought.


    But Ethan was also somewhat pleased; when he came, he would occasionally check on his descendants, and now that everyone was gathered, it gave him a sense of familial joy.


    lthough having so many people meditating in seclusion was somewhat novel, it wasn''t unacceptable. Cards were placed on the ground, and a group of people meditated with their eyes closed¡ªit was slightly eerie, yet harmless.


    Especially when a translucent light blue notification appeared, just like a pop-up in a game.


    [Your descendants have felt the grace you brought from the Ability Realm, moved to tears by your efforts.]


    [Congratulations, you''ve earned Spiritual Tribute+2000!]


    [Blackwood gains the group trait: Forebearer''s Grace]


    [In order to live up to your expectations, your clanspeople, attracted by the psychic powers you''ve gathered, increase their speed of cultivating psychic powers by 20% and their insight by 10%!]


    The moment the notification appeared.


    Ethan suddenly felt a clarity of mind, even the alchemical fire he was refining burned fiercer!


    "Hmm???"


    His eyes brightened, "What''s this good news?"


    In this world, even as a virtual existence, it seemed he could still be judged, after all, he was Blackwood''s Forebearer!


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 65, you have inscribed the '' Twin Fish Harmony Seal First Layer: Heaven, Earth, and Humanity'' on the Transcendent Seed stage, progress reaching 10%]


    [At the same time, you are also comprehending the second layer, the Five Elements of Heaven and Earth. Observing the fifth generation descendants'' mixed Psychic Constitution cultivating psychic powers.]


    [You discover their Psychic Constitution of water and fire are incompatible, leading to an understanding of the mutual generation of the Five Elements, progress 5%!]


    As the second year of cultivating psychic powers passed, Ethan opened his eyes again, a trace of joy crossing his face.


    He found that having these descendants around him cultivating psychic powers brought more benefits than he had imagined.


    In this center, he could feel the ways his descendants'' Psychic Constitutions were cultivating psychic powers, and what his Twin Fish Psychic Constitution, cultivating the second layer, most lacked was an understanding of the Five Elements!


    Now he was also slowly finding the method.


    He was growing along with his descendants.


    [Your descendant Nathan observes the mutual generation and overcoming of the Five Elements, suddenly gains insight, his Metal-Wood Psychic Constitution begins to generate, the psychic powers in his body''s energy sea condense, breaking through to the peak of Emerging Ability!]


    "Hahaha, Forebearer, Nathan has done it!"


    "Emerging Ability peak, I thought it would take ten years, but in just one year, he has already made the breakthrough, Forebearer truly has extraordinary powers!"


    Ethan slightly opened his eyes, also delighted for Nathan. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon, he closed his eyes again.

 Chapter 109 - 109: The Straight Death Pill!

    [Blackwood Year 67]


    [Your descendants harmonize with the five elements... Progress of the cosmic elements is at 15%!]


    [Your descendants are together cultivating psychic powers, amassing a great amount of psychic abilities, gathered by your elemental psychic powers, enhancing the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 5%, forging the first layer of the technique, reaching a progress of 20%]


    As the forging progresses, Ethan becomes increasingly skilled.


    The people of Blackwood also continuously cultivate psychic powers near him, with Nathan even moving the Coffin of Eternal Death over, simply lying in the coffin to cultivate psychic powers.


    With all the Forebearer Cards laid out on the ground... it looks quite eerie.


    Daniel is busy with important matters every day, coming and going repeatedly.


    The others are mostly the same.


    Especially Julian.


    He moved his forge over, and to avoid disturbing others cultivating psychic powers, had the blood ability fruit trees create a soundproofing array around him. As soon as Ethan opens his eyes, he can see him swinging his large hammer, sparks flying everywhere.


    As time goes on.


    Ethan also sees the splendid buildings rising throughout Blackwood.


    Rain and snow fall from the sky, the sun rises and sets, and although it seems like Blackwood''s descendants exist in another dimension, everyone is still experiencing the changes in weather.


    The blood ability fruit trees grow taller each year, just like the children of Blackwood growing up.


    Everything about Blackwood comes into his view, and he actually starts to watch it all without closing his eyes!


    [You are observing the cosmic elements, which are closely related to the operation of all things. You realize that humans can establish earth, control metal and fire, humans and plants all grow, the four seasons affect humans...]


    [You begin to merge with the cosmic elements!]


    [Blackwood Year 70, the Grand Ritual begins!]


    This year''s Grand Ritual, everyone in Blackwood worships right where they are, offering the same Tribute Offering.


    He still clicked ''Yes''.


    As the Grand Ritual ends.


    He closes his eyes.


    The speed of Developing Skill is faster than ever before.


    Even the second layer of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal of the cosmic elements begins to be engraved onto the Developing Skill!


    [Congratulations, you have an epiphany!]


    [You have comprehended the cosmic elements, under which humans exist and are influenced by, and can also control the power of the cosmic elements. You feel the power of the cosmic elements!]


    [Your engraving of heaven and earth among humans is complete, your cosmic elements are beginning to be engraved.]


    This year''s Grand Ritual, the offering from Blackwood''s descendants, is not just the Tribute Offering.


    He feels it, his Developing Skill¡­


    Is unprecedented!


    ...


    [Blackwood, Year 79]


    The sky was clear and bright, and the blood psychic fruit trees had reached a height of about 98 feet, with their sturdy branches hosting various psychic beasts from the Silver Iron Forest leaping about.


    As the roots of the blood psychic fruit trees spread further, the Silver Iron Forest and Blackwood had become indistinguishable, even allowing the Boar Monarch Pete to shrink down and enter Blackwood.


    Beneath the trees, numerous Blackwood clanspeople were sitting in meditation, cultivating their psychic powers by absorbing the spiritual energies of heaven and earth.


    A wall had been erected around the area, inscribed with magical formations, making this place Blackwood''s top secret during this period.


    But they hadn''t noticed.


    Their Forebearer, weathered by time, had a numb expression on his face.


    "Fifteen years, heaven knows how I''ve made it through. If it weren''t for my descendants around me, I would have gone mad!" Ethan vigorously rubbed his head, clueless about how those who secluded themselves for centuries managed it.


    He missed the days of playing games in front of a computer screen and longed for the braised pork Lisa made, even though only 15 hours had passed on Earth, he still felt overwhelmingly lonely.


    Ethan stretched lazily.


    The fire still burned within him, and he estimated that it might take a few more years to completely master the engraving of the Developing Skill technique.


    Just then.


    A voice sounded beside him, and the Straight Death Coffin suddenly opened, with a disheveled Nathan crawling out.


    Nathan, now 99 years old, still had the honest and simple demeanor of a middle-aged man, though the years had made him appear more composed. Yet at this moment, he seemed almost mad, laughing uncontrollably, waking up the others who were in deep meditation.


    "Ha ha ha, Forebearer, Nathan has done it! The second layer of the Straight Death Coffin, after dying over and over, I''ve finally cracked it!"


    "What?!!"


    As everyone joyfully gathered around Nathan, Ethan also joined in the excitement.


    He was extremely delighted; the Straight Death Coffin was undoubtedly one of Blackwood''s most precious treasures. Just the first layer alone had the ability to refine zombies and flying zombies, allowing Blackwood''s descendants to reach high levels of martial and psychic prowess without years of cultivating psychic powers.


    Over the years, Ethan had watched one Blackwood descendant after another lie down in it, each emerging with enhanced combat abilities.


    Then, a pale blue screen appeared in front of the Straight Death Coffin.


    Entering the game world in "Forebearer Mode," it was a complete VR god-like perspective.


    [Your descendant Nathan has reached the end of the second layer of the Straight Death Coffin.]


    [He has obtained the identity of the second layer''s coffin master!]


    [He has received a legacy left by the previous coffin master¡ª]


    [The Straight Death Pill!] S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Damn it."


    Ethan''s facial muscles twitched violently, watching Nathan interacting with his relatives, Ethan felt envious, "If I had known about the legacy in the second layer of the Straight Death Coffin, why did I bother painstakingly forging the Developing Skill?!!"


    [Inheritance of the Direct Death Developing Skill]


    [Upon becoming the inheritor, the Coffin of Heaven will continuously nurture his False Core stage, independently forming a superb Developing Skill. The Direct Death Developing Skill, imbued with divine powers of fate, allows for three lives within one Developing Skill. ]


    [In one''s lifetime, three Developing Skill cores can be formed, two of which can be stored elsewhere. As long as the Developing Skill remains, one can reconstruct their body and be reborn!]


    [Contains a profound-grade technique¡ªSoul Hooking Calamity Formation]


    [Used to harness the souls of the deceased, forming arrays with this method to command and battle with the souls of the dead.]


    This means that Nathan doesn''t have to do anything; he just needs to lie in the coffin and wait for its nurturing warmth to be fed into possessing a miraculous, superb Developing Skill!


    Nathan instantly became the strongest combatant in Blackwood, possessing three lives!

 Chapter 110 - 110: Heroic Tyrant

    "Well, Blackwood is about to see a Developing Skill emerge," Ethan grinned. It was just a moment of envy, after all. After fifteen years of cultivating psychic powers and crafting pills, his Developing Skill was stronger than any heavenly Developing Skill!


    After the excitement among the clan members subsided, Daniel smiled and said, "That''s great, Grandpa. Once you achieve Developing Skill, our family will truly become a Developing Skill lineage."


    Ethan looked towards Daniel, who was now 49 years old. Time really was a butcher''s knife; he still remembered when Daniel was just an innocent little kid, repeatedly tricked by others, his naive heart making him a fool for a long time. Even when he took over as the family head, he was a young and talented leader, yet his intellectual growth never changed his simple and pure gaze.


    But now, Daniel, burdened with responsibilities, had gradually neglected cultivating psychic powers. Even the celestial phenomena caused by Ethan''s breakthrough to Developing Skill had only advanced him to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability in the past few years.


    Time had stripped away his naive expression, replacing it with a calm as still as an ancient well. The once youthful face had matured, sporting a long goatee and many more wrinkles, with strands of silver threading through his neatly tied long hair.


    He looked even older than Nathan and Luna, who were nearly a century old. This kid, laboring day in and day out for Blackwood, seemed to bear all the white hairs and wrinkles for everyone in Blackwood.


    Upon accessing Daniel''s historical information, Ethan saw the hard work he had put in over the past fifteen years.


    [In the 65th year of Blackwood, Daniel completed the distribution of substantial resources brought from the Rodriguez family, with plans well set for assimilation.]


    [The formidable strength owned by the family no longer satisfied him; he knew that to elevate his family to a lofty status, he had to do more to not let down the expectations and trust of his elders.]


    [Desire crept into his heart, gradually filling it with schemes and plots, and he no longer harbored mercy in the face of slaughter.]


    [The trait ''Innocent Heart'' began to deteriorate, acquiring a new trait¡ª]


    [Ambitious.]


    [Acquired Trait: Heroic Tyrant.]


    Power can indeed change a person. Daniel''s Innocent Heart allowed him high comprehension skills but also led him to another extreme.


    "From an Innocent Heart to a Heroic Tyrant," Ethan sighed deeply. Everyone was busy cultivating psychic powers, and all the family''s pressures were placed on Daniel''s shoulders.


    Perhaps if Daniel had not become the family head, things might have been different. He might have been happier, growing up carefree in Blackwood, continuing to be naive all his life, not engaging in conflicts or paying attention to any schemes.


    Moreover, as everyone in Blackwood went into seclusion, Daniel had almost no time to rest.


    [Black Blood Hall Members: 500, strongest at the initial stage of Emerging Ability, weakest at the fifth level of Foundational Energy.]


    [Psychic Medicine Garden: Three 9th-grade pharmacists, 100 apprentices. Cultivating 21 types of 8th-grade psychic medicines, over 100 types of 9th-grade psychic medicines.]


    [Psychic Beast Institute: 200 caretakers, 2 beast tamers.]


    [Pill Crafting Pavilion: 4 pill masters, 50 apprentices.]


    [Scripture Pavilion: 5 formation masters, 7 talisman masters, 1 musician...]


    [...]


    In the Blackwood family, Daniel holds sway over all internal powers, except for the Forge, which is still dominated by Julian. Over the past fifteen years, he has shaped Blackwood into a qualified Emerging Ability family, enriching every aspect of the family''s foundation.


    "Daniel."


    Nowadays, Luna looks even younger. Even her loose black robe cannot hide her graceful figure. Standing next to Nathan, she looks like a case of an old man with a much younger wife. She patted her grandson''s head, her heart aching as she looked at him, "Let''s not be the head of the family anymore, let George do it."


    Lucas, carrying a sword case on his back, also felt sorry for the child and nodded, "Yes, Daniel, you''ve been the head of the family for many years, it''s time for you to step down. George can handle it on his own."


    How could he, as a father, not feel heartache?


    Look at Lucas, who has been practicing swordsmanship for many years, he too seems to be getting younger, at the peak of Emerging Ability, youthful in appearance. Standing next to his second son Daniel, it''s hard to tell who is the father and who is the son.


    These words, heard by George, made his eyes widen in shock.


    This boy is truly handsome, a real beauty, with a flute tucked at his waist, clearly a man of elegance.


    Over the years, the children of Blackwood have been growing in number and maturing, but 26-year-old George remains the undisputed first of the fourth generation of Blackwood.


    With his own strength, not only has he suppressed the heads of the fourth generation of Blackwood descendants, but also all the young talents of Tranquil County. It''s just that this young man, although talkative, naturally prefers solitude and is not known to outsiders.


    Hearing his great-grandmother and great-grandfather suggest he take over as head of the family, he almost ran away from home.


    "No, don''t make me the head of the family!"


    George clenched his teeth, "I... I can''t do it! To be honest, I''m a scoundrel, I like to rob houses, the notorious flower thief mentioned everywhere is me, I even have peculiar habits, I... I have homosexual tendencies! If I become the head of the family, our Blackwood''s reputation will be ruined!"


    "Yes, that''s right, after becoming the head of the family, I would use my power to oppress others. Hahaha, I''ve had my eye on a little princess from a Developing Skill family for a while now, once I''m the head, that poor girl will suffer."


    After bursting into laughter, George saw that the elders still had smiles on their faces, and his own smile gradually faded. "My old illness has flared up again," he said.


    With that, he closed his eyes and dramatically lay down on the ground, pretending to be dead. Unfortunately, none of his elders paid any attention to his antics.


    Daniel laughed and said, "Grandparents, father, I won''t be at ease handing over the family affairs to the younger generation until there''s a suitable candidate in the family."


    Hearing this, the others didn''t persuade him further. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 111 - 111: Elder Brother Killer

    "Oh, the great-grandfather is taking the great-grandson out for some fun." A joyful voice rang out, looking into the distance, only to see a pig the size of a person, carrying a 1-year-old child running around wildly, becoming more and more joyful.


    "In a few more years, the special ability pool that the great-grandfather is casting in the Silver Iron Forest will be ready, then my children will be able to grow up fast, ahahaha!"


    Who else could it be but the Boar Monarch Pete? As for the child...


    Ethan glanced at the family member list.


    [Fourth Generation Descendants: George, Larry, Justin.....]


    [Total number of people: 36]


    [Fifth Generation Members: 1 person]


    Fifteen years have passed, and the fourth generation members have gradually grown up, some even getting married and having children.


    The family is developing, and in twenty to thirty years, there will be a new generation.


    The talents of these children vary, but under the protection of the Blackwoods, they are all growing up healthy, yet few have experienced any major trials and tribulations, and even those with special traits are rare.


    Even George, the most outstanding, who reached the Emerging Ability phase at the age of 26, cannot compare with the rich life experiences of the previous three generations.


    It is clearly not prudent to let a fourth-generation member be the head of the family.


    Soon after everyone congratulated Nathan, they went back to their own business.


    Then George stood up.


    Under Ethan''s gaze, this kid walked to a corner, patted his chest, "Dodged a bullet, I''m busy enough, and now they want me to be the head of the family..."


    After speaking.


    George rolled his eyes, pulled out a black cloth from his Storage Ring, covered his face, and his eyes narrowed, his laughter gradually becoming unrestrained.


    "How would I have time to do what I want to do?"


    Dressed in black, George flew away on his sword.


    "?????"


    Ethan''s mouth twitched, remembering what George had just said about having tendencies like burglary and stealing fragrances, previously thinking the kid was just making excuses, but now...


    "My descendant George, couldn''t really be a weirdo, could he?"


    ...


    Seeing George transform into a creature of the night and leave home, Ethan quickly opened George''s historical events panel, fearing another disgrace to the family''s reputation.


    [At 12, George reached the sixth level of Foundational Energy, attended school, and developed a passion for music theory.]


    [At 15, while helping his uncles and aunts with their children, he became increasingly serious and responsible. Since the parents were not good at childcare, over the years he became a father figure to his siblings, earning the trait: Nagging Big Brother]


    [Always nagging, he corrected his younger siblings'' mistakes. When his siblings faced danger, his combat power increased by 50%.]


    [At 18, with strong family support, he received a wealth of resources for cultivating psychic powers. Since his second uncle managed the family business, only outstanding descendants received more resources. He distributed most of his resources to his younger siblings, receiving the least for himself.


    Yet, he still reached the peak of Foundational Energy through his exceptional talent and began seclusion.]


    [At 21, George emerged from seclusion. Despite family reasons making him sound like a nagging old man, his siblings were always wary of his lectures. In reality, he was a person who cherished tranquility, loved quiet music theory, and under the tutelage of a librarian musician, he gained the profession¡ª]


    [Pianist]


    [At 25, still caring for his grown siblings and gradually getting involved in the family business, he received a reward from his second uncle, a primary psychic device: Dragon of the Great River Map]


    "??? There''s no scandalous event, and his profession is quite elegant."


    Ethan scratched his head. From the historical events, although George had never encountered anything unusual from childhood to adulthood and had always been proper, Ethan really couldn''t figure out why this kid would go out masked.


    [Forebearer Moment]The most troublesome thing is that he can''t see everything that happens to his descendants.


    No wonder Ethan was worried about this.


    For fifteen years, his descendants had indeed produced a deviant.


    [Fourth Generation Member¡¤William (Father: Anthony)]


    [Age 8, hid from his family, found the family''s exotic beasts cute, and strangled them to death. Acquired trait: Born Bad Seed]


    [His intelligence was unusual, and he was meticulous in his actions. His talent would grow with age, and his evil deeds would enhance it. He would also more easily acquire traits and opportunities.]


    [Age 9, he became increasingly obsessed with the thrill of killing exotic beasts, and to prevent his family from discovering his odd behavior, he slowly learned how to hide himself.]


    [Age 11, over two years, he only killed a few cute creatures, but he could no longer restrain his desires and was no longer satisfied with killing exotic beasts. He began to plan murders, using the opportunity of attending the Silverwood Moore birthday feast with his family to drown a girl of the same age as Silverwood Moore, and no one suspected his actions. Acquired trait: Thrill of Killing.]


    [After each murder, he would gain a certain degree of enhancement.]


    [Age 13, he watched his brother George become increasingly favored, and he was jealous and envious. In just a few hours, he had thought of twelve ways to kill his brother, but when he saw George tenderly wiping his wounds and anxiously searching for psychic medicine for him during a planned injury, he ultimately dismissed the idea of killing his brother.]


    [Age 15, he could no longer suppress the malice in his heart, and just as he was about to strike at other family members again, Olivia from faraway Cloudview County discovered his secret, leading to his imprisonment by the family. Under the disappointed gazes of his family, and seeing the pained expression on his brother George, he cried for the first time in the lonely dungeon, repenting.


    Acquired trait: Brother''s Warning]


    [He finally understood that he could not kill his own family, only outsiders. He set George as his goal, not wanting to disappoint his brother again, hoping to be forgiven by his brother and family, and his speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 10%.]


    [Age 18, through three years of planning, even from the dungeon, he was able to obtain resources brought by George, breaking through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy. One night, after two years of planning, he escaped from the dungeon and left the family.]


    This is the deviant of the Blackwood family.


    His talents were sharp, no less than George''s, and William''s appearance was as innocent as Daniel''s back in the day. Ethan had seen this young man several times but had never noticed anything unusual.


    The latest news... S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan clicked on a family member''s profile.


    [19-year-old William entered Cloudview County and became a schoolteacher. A legend of the ''Elder Brother Killer'' emerged in the city of Cloudview County, where any elder brother who was unkind to his younger siblings would be killed.]


    [Age 20, due to his extraordinary talents, reached the peak of Foundational Energy, and became a son-in-law in a Developing Skill family...]


    "Condolences to that Developing Skill family."

 Chapter 112 - 112: All Swords Return to the Sect!

    Ethan wore a peculiar expression; George probably never knew that he had almost died at William''s hands. Although William was a bit twisted, Ethan still found some aspects of him admirable.


    No matter how wicked he was, one couldn''t help but respect his intelligence. He had committed so many misdeeds within the family, and yet, no one in the Moore family suspected him of murder. Only Olivia could really handle William.


    As for the other descendants, none were particularly impressive, nor were they twisted. They were all diligently cultivating psychic powers, following Daniel and George''s orders.


    "Well, even if it involves burglary or stealing treasures, that''s still better than William." Thinking of William, Ethan suddenly felt that George''s nocturnal adventures in black were not so bad after all.


    ...


    Soon, the 80-year Blackwood grand ceremony passed, with the same Tribute Offering. Now, Blackwood had six beast blood fruit trees, offering up 300 blood fruits. Ethan guessed that his room was now filled with a massive amount of resources. And this time, there was something special!


    The blood ability fruit tree had finally bloomed and bore fruit, producing fruits that were larger than before. There were 50 in total, each the size of a fist, emitting a deep red color yet exceptionally sweet.


    [Eighth Grade Psychic Medicine: Blood Ability Fruit]


    [Each fruit contains 1500 points of psychic ability, with a slight chance of increasing Psychic Constitution by 1 point upon consumption.]


    "Divine!" Ethan grinned, the blood ability fruit tree had finally bloomed, and the fruits it produced were incredibly powerful¡ªthat was the 1 point of Psychic Constitution!


    Whether it was Ethan''s ''Heavenly Mechanism Psychic Ability Pill'' or Amelia''s ''Golden Psychic Ability Powder'', and the subsequently developed ''Water Psychic Ability Dew'', ''Earth Psychic Ability Pill'', ''Wood Psychic Ability Powder'', or ''Fire Psychic Ability Liquid'', one could only consume one in their lifetime.


    But the blood ability fruit could be consumed indefinitely!


    That meant, as long as there were enough blood ability fruits, even if the chances of enhancing Psychic Constitution were slim, one could potentially max out a person''s Psychic Constitution. Of course, such luxury was beyond Ethan''s wildest dreams.


    Time flies.


    At this moment, Ethan''s Developing Skill was nearly fully mastered.


    [Blackwood, Year 83]


    Ethan had started to move around, waiting for the Developing Skill inside him to slowly complete. The number of children in Blackwood was increasing. The sons of Blackwood, those guys, had a fertility that was rare in the world, and their children also inherited their penchant for procreation, starting to take wives as they came of age.


    However, their marrying was also due to Daniel''s urging, because Daniel felt that only with enough members could they meet the conditions to establish branches of the Blackwood lineage in various towns across Silverwood County.


    The most delighted was the Boar Monarch Pete.


    He would carry the children around Blackwood and the Silver Iron Forest every day.


    "Where''s the Boar Monarch Pete today?"


    Ethan frowned, it had been nearly 20 years, and the one he saw most was the Boar Monarch Pete. This famous demon king, day in and day out, was either transporting children or on the way to transport them.


    But after all, he was a demon king, and he was busy after frequent visits to Blackwood. It seemed he was casting a psychic pool in the Silver Iron Forest that would allow Blackwood''s children to bathe in it from a young age, thus growing in stature and strength...


    It seems he was truly dissatisfied with the gradually smaller statures of the descendants of the Blackwood sons, this old pig always liked big and mighty kids.


    As he pondered, a dark aura burst forth beside him, coming from the Straight Death Coffin.


    On the Straight Death Coffin, he could feel that Nathan, because of the inheritance of the Heavenly Pill, was also about to complete his psychic pill.


    "Ying! Ying! Ying!"


    While strolling around Blackwood, admiring the now splendid buildings and ten-meter-high city walls, and the Gratitude Village villagers tending to the psychic fields, rejoicing in the family''s growth, a series of sharp cries came from the Silver Iron Forest.


    All of Blackwood looked towards the direction of the Silver Iron Forest, and Ethan also glanced sideways.


    In the sky, a three-tailed fox apparition appeared, a phenomenon between heaven and earth!


    Ethan''s face lit up with joy, and he hurried to watch.


    From a distance.


    He saw a dense circle of foxes, worshipping!


    And in the center was Nathan''s wife, Luna!


    Now Luna was even more enchanting, with three fox tails about two meters long appearing behind her, swaying like the plumes of a peacock. Luna was forming hand seals, making her final breakthrough, and anyone who saw her from afar could feel her allure!


    "Ah?"


    Ethan looked towards the area with the blood psychic fruit trees. Nathan was still lying in the Straight Death Coffin, and at this moment, he could feel how happy Nathan''s future days would be.


    "The body of a fox demon... the fortune of King Zhou, enjoyed by you, kid." Ethan was extremely envious.


    [Your daughter-in-law Luna, unable to absorb Developing Skill, has instead refined it with the unique Wanhu psychic fire!]


    [Wanhu worship condition has been met.]


    [Developing Skill replaces the Demon King''s blood pill!]


    [Absorption of the jungle''s essence is complete!] S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Her virginity has been broken...]


    [The Heavenly Moon Fox on her is transforming into a Demon King¡ª]


    [Moon Shadow Psychic Beast!]


    While blessing Luna and Nathan''s future happy life, Ethan went back to meditate. He glanced at his own Developing Skill, which wouldn''t take many days for him to break through as well, and Blackwood was about to experience a major surge in upper-level power!


    And with the family''s centennial approaching, his skills would also advance to the next stage.


    As he pondered what to give to Blackwood upon his return.


    "Yin!"


    The sound of sword chanting rang out, and several descendants using swords were also meditating beside Ethan, cultivating psychic powers. Their swords, influenced by the sword chant coming from the Silver Iron Forest, floated up, their tips pointing towards the Sword Tomb!


    "This is..."


    A sword shadow appeared above the Silver Iron Forest!


    In the Blackwood residence, all the swords were levitating, their tips pointing towards the Sword Tomb, as if worshipping the King of Swords!


    [Your descendant Lucas, after many years of cultivating psychic powers and sword intent, has achieved something extraordinary!]


    [Accompanied by the sword for fifty years, from professional sword sect, transformed into¡ª]


    [Sword King!]


    [He has obtained a sword intent¡ª]


    [All Swords Return to the Sect!]

 Chapter 113 - 113: Olivias life is nearing its end

    [Your descendant, still in the Transcendent Seed stage, has already forged his sword into a pill!]


    [His body is like a sword, and the pill is also like a sword, integrating the swords he has acquired over the years into his body to form the sword body, gaining the trait¡ª]


    [Thousand Swords Forged Body!]


    [His body is like a primary psychic device, using pill fire to melt swords, and the more swords and sword energy he melts, the closer he gets to a Body of Ten Thousand Swords!]


    "...Freak."


    Returning to the Silver Iron Forest, seeing thousands of long swords swirling around Lucas, these two words were Ethan''s most heartfelt praise.


    The second generation of the Blackwood siblings, each more extraordinary than the last.


    Look at Lucas, still in the Transcendent Seed stage.


    But...


    With a thousand swords merged into his body, and the physique of a primary psychic device, he already possesses the strength to wrestle with D-level abilities. How strong he would be if he reached D-level, Ethan couldn''t even guess.


    As far as he knew, there was a big shot on Earth five hundred years ago.


    That person''s parents seemed to have found a legacy, which they implanted in him, giving the child a natural sword body, a Tomb of Swords physique, and from then on, he soared to great heights, and to this day, the legend of the Sword People is still told on Earth.


    "How are Amelia, Olivia, and Marcus doing lately?"


    Ethan muttered, lately he could only get news of them through the mouths of the Blackwood folks around him, years had passed, and he was unable to observe them.


    Although their abilities were definitely among the top in Blackwood, time had also gradually taught them how to survive and deal with crises. But as a Forebearer, Ethan was always worried.


    "I''m still a young man, I don''t even have kids, why am I acting so old and decrepit? Young people should be full of energy."


    Ethan shook his head.


    Then, with his hands behind his back, he walked, shaking his head with each step, sighing with each step, his demeanor filled with kindness, his silhouette like a weary old song, deep and moving.


    He wanted to see his descendants, even if it was just animated characters in a game screen, but now he could only follow the developments of his beloved descendants through the blue panel in front of him, wondering if they were in any crisis.


    [In the 70th year of Blackwood, your descendant Amelia consumed a large amount of herbs, breaking through to the peak of Emerging Ability, and began to condense her pills.]


    [In the 73rd year, the largest battle in history occurred between Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Subduing Alliance, which was her busiest year, and she met the true ruler of Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Blood Sea Demon Lord.]


    [The Blood Sea Demon Lord, a demon who had been sealed for many years, heard of Amelia''s compassionate healer''s heart, knowing that this strange ultimate poison doctor was different from other righteous Psychics, thus he agreed to meet her.]


    [Seeing Amelia''s extraordinary talent, he decided to nurture her carefully, hoping to use her one day to break out of the demon cave, and Amelia became the Holy Maiden of the Demon Cave.]


    [In the 78th year, due to her superb medical skills, approaching the seventh rank, and even mastering the skills of a seventh-rank pharmacist, her potions could heal D-level injuries and pose a threat to Developing Skills, making her one of the twelve elders of the Demon Subduing Alliance.]


    [In the 82nd year, under Amelia''s secret negotiations, both sides finally ceased hostilities. They secretly agreed that Thunderfire Demon Cave would no longer engage in large-scale slaughter, and both sides must occasionally engage in small battles. ]


    [The Demon Subduing Alliance would gradually become a sect force, and Thunderfire Demon Cave would occasionally send some damned demons to the Alliance.]


    Nothing too special happened.


    Originally righteous people going to subdue demons, with the prolonged battle with Thunderfire Demon Cave, it seemed like their original intentions had deteriorated...


    They seemed to realize that if the demon cave was gone, they would also lose their reason for existence, and the power controlled by the big shots would also vanish into thin air.


    When Ethan saw this operation, he couldn''t help but think of the road next to his house...


    Every time Ethan saw Amelia''s messages, he couldn''t help but tease, "The family just asked you to check out the situation with the thunder and underground fire, yet you became a saint... And that''s not enough, you even became an elder???"


    Ethan was impressed; this girl looked demure, but her actions always surprised him.


    He then checked on Olivia''s information. This girl, although she controlled an assassin organization with the power she brought from her family, was still a mortal in the marketplace.


    Almost periodically, she would try out other professions, which had become her routine; now, she had opened a tea house specializing in debt collection. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendant Olivia, her life is nearing its end.]


    A couple of years ago, Blackwood spent millions of Energy Stones to buy Olivia life-extending elixirs, but ultimately they couldn''t delay the problems of her mortal lifespan and the heavenly tribulation she was enduring.


    And then there was Marcus. Initially leading people out to exterminate the Rodriguez family, but the punishment seemed more like a reward.


    [52 years old, nine unique psychic fires, lotus fire release, acquired the technique, Heavenly Fire Lotus.]


    [54 years old, broke through the peak of Emerging Ability inside the Fire Pool controlled by the Sky Sect.]


    [Received the Sky Sect''s profound-level sect-defining secret technique, Sky Profound Technique, taught by the Supreme Elder Warren Taoist.]


    [To this day.]


    [Warren Taoist is currently in the Sky Hall, assisting Marcus with the nine unique psychic fires to forge the Developing Skill, not breaking through until the heavenly pill is perfected.]


    From this information alone, Ethan could see the dedicated cultivation Sky Sect was providing Marcus, clearly sparing no effort.


    The levels of profound techniques and martial arts vary, and the secret techniques of the Sky Sect are of the highest grade, much more powerful than the "Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps."

 Chapter 114 - 114: The Primordial Blood Tree

    Another day passed, and Ethan had roamed all over Blackwood, witnessing its development firsthand.


    Now, in the depths of winter, he sat cross-legged once again beneath the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.


    "Twenty years, and I''ve finally made it," he thought. Inside him, the flames that had fueled his power were slowly extinguishing. Looking inward, Ethan could clearly see the intricate patterns on his Developing Skill.


    Only one step remained.


    Ethan exhaled deeply, stretching out his hand as winter snowflakes drifted through his palm.


    Nearby, the children of Blackwood, bundled up in thick coats with their cheeks red from the cold, played around the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree.


    They grew up happy and protected under the watchful eyes of their forebearers and the Boar Monarch Pete, feeling the psychic powers bestowed from ''above''.


    In the past, the Boar Monarch Pete often brought noise and chaos with the children, which Ethan found unexpectedly disruptive. But now, as he prepared to leave, he found these moments endearing.


    [Your Developing Skill, fully imprinted!] S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the final pattern was etched onto the Developing Skill by the psychic fire, Ethan''s aura surged powerfully!


    [Congratulations, you have successfully forged the Divine Pill!]


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal reappeared, spinning beneath him, with the Five Elements psychic powers forming its perimeter. The scope of his Twin Fish Harmony Seal expanded, eventually enveloping all of Blackwood!


    It was a pity, though.


    After twenty years of effort and forging the Developing Skill, Ethan''s immense talent went largely unnoticed, just as few had known the true extent of his capabilities before.


    "It''s time to leave."


    Ethan reached out, feeling the winter of Blackwood one last time. He took one final look at Blackwood, only to see the snow turning a deep red.


    Looking up, he saw the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree undergoing a transformation, its vital essence dyeing the entire Blackwood, affecting the sky above!


    [With your card position contract, the family''s sacred tree, after absorbing the blood of tens of thousands and devouring the power of the Developing Skill, under the influence of your Twin Fish and Five Elements, sensing the cosmic forces for twenty years, has finally undergone a new transformation!]


    [A Seventh-Grade Primordial Blood Tree!]


    [It has awakened its spirit, recognizing any child of Blackwood after years of companionship, and now, it will reciprocate¡ª]


    At that moment, not only was Ethan looking up at the sky, but the entire population of Blackwood and Gratitude Village were also witnessing this extraordinary phenomenon.


    Initially, they were frightened by the blood-red snowflakes, which seemed quite eerie. However, once they realized that the blood snow was harmless and actually beneficial, they stepped outside in amazement.


    People spread their hands to catch the snowflakes.


    Bizarre and eerie, yet the blood snow made the harsh winter feel incredibly warm, and extraordinary events began to unfold among them.


    Some even began to breakthrough on the spot!


    [The Primordial Blood Tree, after years of accumulating excess blood essence, will transform it into psychic power, merging it into the clouds to become snowflakes. All who bathe in it will receive the psychic power gifts of the Primordial Blood Tree!]


    [All descendants of Blackwood, protected by the Primordial Blood Tree, gain a collective trait¡ª]


    [Primordial Clan!]


    [Wherever the roots of the Primordial Blood Tree spread, the descendants of Blackwood will forever enjoy its protection, with a 10% increase in the speed of cultivating psychic powers!]


    [The power of the Five Elements, fundamental forces that govern the universe''s trajectory, will reveal parts of destiny. The Primordial Blood Tree can sense the talents of any Blackwood descendant, foreseeing moments of their future destinies, making the best choices for them.]


    At this moment, the Primordial Blood Tree had truly become a divine tree!


    Ethan''s face lit up with joy. He hadn''t expected that the blood tree he had nurtured for years would give him such a surprise upon his departure from this world. It was a testament to the years of hard work at Blackwood, dealing with demonically possessed psychics, feeding the tree with blood, drop by drop.


    Soon, the people of Blackwood gathered around, floating in the air, astonished as a gigantic human face gradually emerged from the massive trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree. It was the face of an old man, entirely formed from bark, lifelike in every detail.


    "Forebearer... has shown his psychic powers again?!"


    "Nonsense, that''s the Blood Psychic Fruit Tree developing sentience! But you could also say it''s the Forebearer showing his powers¡ªI can feel the Forebearer''s elemental forces in it!"


    "What? Good heavens, its eyeballs moved... huh? Staring at me? My bad!"


    The older generation at Blackwood, however, smiled broadly. They had long noticed the oddities of the Primordial Blood Tree, and its breakthrough was within reason.


    Unexpectedly, after surveying the crowd at Blackwood, the Primordial Blood Tree spoke in an ancient, somewhat heavy voice, "I can hear."


    Sensing the depth in the tree''s tone, they all sobered up, and Thomas dared not act rashly.


    More blood-red snowflakes fell from the sky, landing on the hair and shoulders of the people of Blackwood. The entire place, as if stained red, was filled with a bloody, sweet scent. They felt today''s wind was unusually cold.


    The eyes of the Primordial Blood Tree then turned towards the sky beyond Blackwood. "I can see."


    Everyone followed the gaze of the Primordial Blood Tree''s eyes to see George, dressed in his night suit, returning on his sword. He seemed utterly oblivious to the strange phenomena at home and unconcerned about what was happening at Blackwood.


    He was wailing loudly, yet his voice never reached Blackwood.


    The Primordial Blood Tree closed its eyes. "Next year''s earth should be as red as today''s snow. May Blackwood slaughter millions."


    Its words were as bloody as the sky above Blackwood today.


    Today at Blackwood was supposed to be filled with joy.


    Whenever someone made a breakthrough, the clan would gather together, bubbling with excitement.


    There would be a pet pig, much like a family member, running around with the Blackwood children, promising them that next year he would forge a psychic pool in the Silver Iron Forest to help them grow quickly.


    For twenty years, the laughter of old pig Pete and the children had been a noisy but welcome presence for Ethan.


    However, today, as the Primordial Blood Tree underwent its transformation, there was no sign of the old pig Pete, nor were there any sounds of children''s laughter.

 Chapter 115 - 115: Psychic Springs Part 1

    Once warmed by the red snow, Blackwood was gradually growing colder. The people of Blackwood seemed to have become mere mortals again, shivering in the biting winds of the harsh winter days.


    Luna clung to Nathan''s arm, her eyes moistening uncontrollably as she watched George battling the snowstorm, rushing back to the family.


    As Luna buried her head in her husband''s chest, she could feel his heartbeat pause for a moment, then his muscles slowly tensing, her only way to keep Nathan calm.


    Lucas and Daniel, father and son, stood side by side, their brows furrowed tightly as they watched George return. The air around them seemed to freeze.


    Until we reach where Julian and his wife were.


    Mary''s eyes flickered with fear, shaking her head in disbelief as her body began to sway, falling from the sky. But Julian did not catch his wife, despite the vivid red scenery around them.


    In Julian''s eyes, however, it was as if dark clouds were overhead, the world had lost its color, and the fire of his blacksmithing abilities blazed fiercely, lighting up the world.


    Yet, the fire on him brought no warmth to the people of Blackwood; the winter felt even colder.


    "It''s not like this, it can''t be like this," Thomas''s eyes were bloodshot, his veins bulging as he faced the reality before him, yet subconsciously refusing to believe it.


    At this moment, the second generation of the Blackwood family was not as talkative as before.Each of them stared blankly in the direction of George.


    That child.


    In a black robe.


    Crossing the distinct boundary between Blackwood and the outside world, he carried a massive object that kept him from standing straight, blood dripping from where he had flown back. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He couldn''t afford to care much, only fiercely shouting for the family''s doctor to come out, for the elders to go to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, to call back the highly skilled grandmother, shouting for the elders to fetch the elixirs.


    Anyone could see his hysteria, the madness and despair of this moment etched deep into everyone''s hearts.


    A scream erupted from someone.


    Ethan felt the chill of this winter, unable to tell if it was snowing or raining blood from the sky. But this year, like all seasons for the descendants of Blackwood, was surely devoid of warmth.


    He and the Primordial Blood Tree closed their eyes, teeth clenched.


    They all saw it, George in black returning from outside, carrying back the corpse of the Boar Monarch Pete!


    They also heard it, George''s voice hoarse with exertion.


    And they saw even more.


    The Primordial Blood Tree not only glimpsed the land of the coming year as snowy as today, but it also saw a trace of the past.


    The red snow falling from the sky, endowed with special abilities by the Primordial Blood Tree, also allowed the people of Blackwood to see everything.


    The Boar Monarch Pete, who rarely stepped out of the Silver Iron Forest, entered Blackwood and then, over the course of this year, repeatedly ventured into the outside world to find special items for the children of Blackwood, bringing them home time and again, personally crafting a pool of special abilities for the children.


    It eagerly anticipated the children born to Blackwood in the future, hoping they would grow up faster and taller than the second generation of Blackwoods.


    This was also his last time stepping out of the Silver Iron Forest, his last time coming home.


    In the heart of the Silver Iron Forest, a massive pit was excavated, within which a dan fire burned fiercely. All the psychic beasts of the Silver Iron Forest gathered here, witnessing the fall of a legendary demon king, turning to dust.


    Julian''s lineage knelt towards the soon-to-be-completed tomb.


    Mary had awakened from her coma, yet unable to accept reality, she fainted several times.


    The second generation of Blackwoods, who had never shed a tear even when limbs were lost, now wept like despairing children.


    The grown descendants were sobbing uncontrollably. Even the younger ones understood they might never see the Boar Monarch Pete again.


    "Great-grandma, what happened to Grandpa?" asked a two-year-old child, tugging at Mary''s sleeve. A sense of inexplicable loss suddenly filled his heart; he couldn''t understand why everyone was crying just because Grandpa had fallen asleep.


    Yet, there was also a sense of loss he couldn''t grasp, a sadness creeping from the soil of the Silver Iron Forest into his heart, as he sobbed along with the adults.


    Luna gently stroked the child''s head, "Your grandpa... he''s very tired. He''s going to sleep for a very, very long time."


    Ethan, who had already made a breakthrough, did not return.


    He saw everything. Although he had never met the Boar Monarch Pete, since the Boar Monarch Pete became related to Blackwood, he had always paid attention to the Boar Monarch Pete playing with the children.


    Generation after generation, the Boar Monarch Pete cherished the children more than Blackwood''s elders did.


    Nathan and Luna, due to their age, had grown distant from the children, but not the Boar Monarch Pete. It remembered every child''s name.


    It also remembered what each child liked and wanted.


    He looked into the distance.


    There lay a psychic pool. For this very pool, the Boar Monarch Pete had spent almost all his life''s savings, and ultimately... his life.


    When the Boar Monarch Pete was buried, the people of Blackwood found a Storage Ring in his mouth, containing some rare psychic materials.


    Inside that Storage Ring were also materials needed for the construction of a building called the ''Heaven and Earth Psychic Pool.''


    The death of the Boar Monarch Pete did not prompt a game notification; he was not a blood relative of Blackwood.


    But to Ethan, as well as everyone in Blackwood, the Boar Monarch Pete was considered a member of the family.


    "I don''t know, on my way back I saw Grandpa, and he was covered in wounds, all bloody," George knelt at the grave, still stained with the blood of the Boar Monarch Pete, yet the desperate cries he had when he brought back the Boar Monarch Pete were long gone.


    Instead, there was a numbness that came after extreme sorrow; he had exhausted all his psychic powers carrying the corpse of the Boar Monarch Pete back. Now, he looked pale and weak, unaware of his own frailty.


    He just numbly stared ahead, subconsciously answering his uncle''s questions, "When Grandpa came back, he was in the jungle outside Forest Town, he had lost his psychic powers, crashing through the jungle. "


    "So many people were shouting to eliminate the demon, and many psychics surrounded Grandpa, he killed so many people, and he kept charging towards home."


    "I carried Grandpa back, and Grandpa said..."


    "Take him home."


    "He wanted to see his children one last time, that would make his life worthwhile."


    "But."


    As he spoke, George''s expression seemed to cry and laugh at the same time, but more than anything, it was filled with endless guilt, "He didn''t deserve this! I don''t want any psychic springs, I want Grandpa back! We already have plenty of resources, we can''t even use up all the good stuff, he didn''t need to get us more."


    "It''s all my fault, if... if I could have flown faster, Grandpa definitely could have been saved, right?"

 Chapter 116 - 116: Psychic Springs Part 2

    Daniel furrowed his brows and simply shook his head. He didn''t want to tell George that when Grandpa Pete returned, his spirit was already nearly exhausted. By the time he met George, his spirit was probably at its last moments.


    Soon after, Daniel stopped concerning himself with George and the younger generation''s grief.


    As the head of the family, his responsibility told him that he must maintain enough rationality to handle this matter.


    He had a nagging feeling that something was amiss and immediately went to his father and grandparents, who were still calm.


    Lucas''s eyes were fixed on the ceremonial fire in the tomb, a method of dignified end for Class D entities, otherwise their bodies would be stolen.


    He had long been able to suppress the anger in his heart, but his expression was unusually cold. Feeling Daniel''s approach, he had only three words to say, "Who did it?"


    Years ago, the Boar Monarch Pete had already started planning to build this ''Heavenly and Earthly Ability Pool'', and the people of Blackwood knew about it, even providing considerable help. Lucas had also gone out with the Boar Monarch Pete a couple of times. But this time...


    Daniel let out a long breath, "All the intelligence forces of Blackwood have returned. The current intelligence only knows that Grandpa Pete went to the Golden Dou Forest outside Tranquil County. There were no signs of battle where Grandpa Pete had been, and none of the forces hostile to Blackwood had any experts traveling."


    "My child has already asked Mr. Dennis to come, and messages have been sent to the fourth aunt and second aunt," Daniel continued. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan, standing by, watched the children in front of the grave, overwhelmed with grief. He slowly closed his eyes; he had never imagined this day would come. The sudden cause of the Boar Monarch Pete''s death was also unbearable for him. He couldn''t even imagine the pain these children of his family would have to endure.


    "Find the murderer, no matter who it is."


    "Yes, Grandfather," Daniel nodded slightly, turned to leave to take care of things, but looked back at the Boar Monarch Pete''s grave one last time.


    In that moment, he suddenly remembered the words of the Primordial Blood Tree, "Next year''s earth should be as red as today''s snow."


    He could only sigh deeply. Daniel understood that the prediction of the Primordial Blood Tree was probably correct.


    Once they found out who was responsible, they would face the full wrath of Blackwood, because from the third generation onwards, every person in Blackwood had grown up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    The relationship between the Boar Monarch Pete and the children of Blackwood was closer than any of their elders.


    No matter the cost, no matter who the opponent was, or how long it took, the descendants of Blackwood would avenge this.


    Suddenly, Daniel''s hair turned a bit whiter. The sky of Blackwood continued to snow red.


    In this blood-filled winter day, the fire burning the body of the Boar Monarch Pete grew hotter, just like the raging fury of the people of Blackwood.


    Ethan watched quietly all along. The greatest hope of the Boar Monarch Pete was to fill the valley with Blackwood''s children, to have endless descendants.


    He couldn''t do it anymore.


    But Blackwood would always remember, deep in the Silver Iron Forest, there was a demon king, their in-law, who had accompanied Blackwood through a long period of time.


    Blackwood''s children would also remember, they had a grandfather, a great-grandfather, and even a great-great-grandfather who once carried them around, and even future children would remember, Blackwood had an ancestor who was a pig demon, also one of the most important family members of Blackwood.


    "Phew."


    Ethan let out a long breath, and after the funeral, he bowed deeply towards the grave of the Boar Monarch Pete. As his body gradually became ethereal, his tone was firm, "You will always be a member of the family, the children will carry on with the memories of your existence, grow into the eagles and tigers you liked, and become the proud descendants of Blackwood."


    As Ethan''s figure returned to reality, the fire in the grave of the Boar Monarch Pete flared up in the deep night.


    [Forebearer Moment, Over!]


    [Spiritual Tribute Spent: 20000!]


    In a daze, Ethan found himself back in the familiar room, next to the Mystic Burner in front of the 500-inch screen, already filled with Tribute Offerings from two major ceremonies.


    Ethan was still lying in bed, pillow behind his back, legs bent, a keyboard resting on his stomach, and a mouse by his side.


    He seemed stunned, stiffly glancing over to check the time.


    20 years in the game world, not even a full day in reality.


    But he knew clearly that these 20 years, like a ghostly ability, cultivating psychic powers, were real. The divine pills inside him still shone brightly, engraved with a Twin Fish Harmony Seal and dual-layer techniques.


    Also, the joys and sorrows he had shared with his clan over the years were real.


    Finally, he came to his senses.


    On the screen, everything at the Blackwood residence was displayed¡ªthe descendants of Blackwood still kneeling at the tomb of the Boar Monarch Pete, the red snow of Blackwood still falling, landing on the shoulders of these animated characters, yet never as real as in the game world.


    A popup appeared.


    [Special Event: The Sacrifice of the Boar Monarch Pete]


    [The Boar Monarch Pete, who has looked after the third, fourth, and fifth generations of Blackwood, has been sacrificed. Your family is furious, secretly resolving to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete at any cost!]


    [Sadness spreads, the fury for revenge burns. Your family gains the group trait¡ª]


    [Year of the Red Snow!]


    [Your descendants will strive harder in cultivating psychic powers, constantly influenced by towering fury, increasing the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 30% until the revenge is complete. The possibility of mental state changes increases, which could be negative or positive.]


    [Your descendants will forever remember this day, alerting future generations, singing of this event, permanently increasing the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 5% for future generations.]


    If it were before, Ethan would have been delighted by the emergence of a group trait, but now...


    For twenty years, Ethan had watched the Boar Monarch Pete carrying children back and forth beside him, even getting used to the Boar Monarch Pete''s noise. Not to mention the anger of the Blackwood people, there was also an unquenchable fire in his heart!


    He seemed to have grown wolf-like sharp fangs, wanting to tear apart an unknown enemy.


    But the years had also made Ethan more composed.


    He took a deep breath and dialed the phone, "Hello, Alan, can you get a nuclear bomb?"


    "Ah? Are you planning a rebellion?"

 Chapter 117 - 117: A Marriage Alliance

    Ethan watched the screen, having already arranged for Lisa to deliver gourmet food at the scheduled time. Now, looking at the barbecue beside him, he really wasn''t in the mood to eat.


    The Hundred-Mile Pigeons of Blackwood sliced through the sky, spreading messages in all directions.


    Soon, the scene shifted to where Olivia was.


    It had been twenty years since Ethan had last seen Olivia.


    Seeing her again, Ethan felt a pang of heartache. The woman was 68, merely mortal, inevitably nearing her end.


    She aged more easily than most elderly women, her sparse white hair like dry grass, her body skeletal, her skin so loose it seemed it might fall off her body.


    Sitting in a wheelchair, her breath was faint, only her cloudy eyes looking up at the sky in the courtyard.


    Ethan sent her a ''Forebearer''s Warmth''.


    Feeling the sudden surge of psychic power within her, Olivia, like a withered plant rekindled with life, spoke in a hoarse and weak voice, yet could not hide her excitement, "Forebearer... cough, cough, cough, after so many years, Olivia... feels your presence again."


    Just speaking a little made Olivia cough incessantly. An AI Bionic Robot sent by the family was wiping the blood from the corners of her mouth with a handkerchief. Despite her disheveled state, she was still smiling, "Forebearer, don''t worry, my child, the path of literature shall be fulfilled!"


    Hearing this, Ethan still didn''t look relieved. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He knew Olivia well; she had always been like this. Even when sending messages home, she would say she was fine, but no one believed her. Olivia was the type who silently endured, not wanting her family to bear the burden of her suffering.


    Even if she fell and bled profusely, she would message home, telling her family she was well, had eaten well, letting her family breathe a sigh of relief, but perhaps it was all just her own fabrication.


    "The family matters, my child already knows."


    Olivia''s smile faded, perhaps the years had made her see many things more clearly. There was no trace of sadness in her eyes, only a cold sharpness, "Dawn is already investigating. Now that your child has some power, perhaps we can find some clues."


    "My child has also seen that someone wants to destroy my Blackwood. Let them see whose path is higher!"


    "A thousand of Dawn''s intelligence agents are already gathering in the Golden Battle Forest."


    Ethan nodded slightly and drew the characters for ''be well'' in front of Olivia with a plaque.


    ...


    Over at Marcus''s side, Ethan had also checked in, but ultimately Blackwood didn''t send Marcus any messages.


    The guy was in seclusion, with the Nine Nether Daoist aiding him in forging the Heavenly Pill, so Ethan didn''t disturb him.


    Soon, the scene shifted to the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Time hadn''t left any marks on Amelia''s face. Everyone in Blackwood was slowly changing, except for Amelia, who remained just as she had been years ago.


    She only showed spirit when concocting medicines, saving people, gardening, or interacting with her family. It was night at that moment.


    Amelia sat deep within the Thunderfire Demon Cave, right where the heavenly thunder and earth fire were located.


    Lava flowed, and thunder, coming from nowhere, pierced through the soil and struck the molten rock, turning the entire river of magma into a spectacle of flashing lightning.


    Beneath the waterfall-like flow of magma, the Blackwood''s temple guardian beast, the Purple Thunder Solar Python, was shedding its skin!


    The newly shed body was pitch black, and its head began to change, sprouting two slightly soft reversed horns, with long, lightning-fire flickering tendrils at the corners of its mouth.


    Especially notable was its back, which, though serpentine, had grown armor resembling that of a crocodile''s back. Soon, it would transform into a dragon.


    Ethan sent Amelia a burst of warmth, and the girl instantly tensed up, pulling out a Forebearer cards, spinning around joyfully on the spot, "The Forebearer has finally shown his supernatural abilities, Amelia can listen to the ancient ancestral melodies again!"


    It took a while for Amelia to calm down.


    "Don''t worry, Forebearer, although Uncle Old Pig at home isn''t very familiar with Amelia, I know the children all consider him family. Forebearer coming to see the child proves that Forebearer also regards him as family, and so he is family to the child too."


    "The demonically possessed have many tricks, and the child has already ordered them to investigate. The Demon Subduing Sect has an observatory with six skilled old Daoists who can also trace the slightest clues."


    After saying this, Amelia knelt expectantly in front of the Forebearer cards, hands pressed together under her chin, her dirty little face staring at the cards, full of hope.


    Ethan sent her another burst of warmth.


    Amelia suddenly got up, bouncing around.


    Ethan, rubbing his face helplessly, thought to himself... this guy... she''s 76 years old. She doesn''t look at all like a demon cult''s holy maiden or elder.


    Back at the Blackwood residence, they had summoned all the external forces under their control to investigate the matter.


    Among them, Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, with whom Blackwood had forged the deepest ties, was also present, with Dennis himself attending.


    Over the years, it was unclear just how much trust Blackwood and Dennis had built. Nathan and his wife even took this old friend to the tomb of the Boar Monarch Pete.


    "Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is one of the top intelligence agencies in Jubilee County. I think with my clairvoyance, we might uncover something," Dennis said, exhaling deeply and hesitating for a moment. "But Mr. Nathan, are you sure you want to continue this investigation?"


    Upon hearing this, Nathan frowned. "What do you mean, Mr. Dennis?"


    "It''s not that I want to stop Blackwood from seeking revenge," Dennis sighed. "Actually, when I received the message, I had my suspicions. And I figured out that it wouldn''t be hard to investigate further."


    "Over the years, although Blackwood doesn''t have the heritage of a Developing Skill family,Silverwood County has gradually recognized your dominion as the overlord of Blackwood. After all, those who have opposed you have all disappeared from this world."


    "Though it hasn''t been rumored, after many years of investigation by various forces, anyone with a bit of sense could guess that the Silver Iron Forest is your Blackwood''s backbone, not my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion. Honestly, although we''re close, Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is also a power in its own right and can''t possibly handle so many things for Blackwood."


    "Do you think it''s normal that now the Silver Iron Forest Boar Monarch Pete is dead, and your trump card is gone?"


    Nathan wasn''t surprised; he had thought of this too but remained silent. He knew all too well that Dennis could never fully understand the deep bond between Blackwood and the Boar Monarch Pete.


    Seeing Nathan''s lack of response, Dennis continued, "Then Mr. Dennis, you need to think carefully. After the investigation, Blackwood might face a power or person with the capability to kill someone with mid-stage Developing Skill Psychic powers."


    "And the troubles you face might increase. After all, I''ve also heard the intelligence that the wounds on the Boar Monarch Pete were deliberately inflicted. Otherwise, wouldn''t it have been easier for the enemy to destroy the body and erase all traces? Every item on the Boar Monarch Pete is a treasure."


    "That means, this powerful opponent deliberately left clues, not valuing the body of the Boar Monarch Pete, just waiting for Blackwood to react angrily, with schemes and plots within."


    "Have you, Blackwood, really thought about entering this game?"


    Nathan still did not respond.


    But as the cold night wind blew, Dennis, looking at Nathan''s firm silhouette and clenched fists, understood Nathan''s decision.


    Bathed in moonlight, the thirty-meter-tall tree at Blackwood shone a bloody red, reflecting the remnants of the moonlight.


    Dennis could only chuckle bitterly, "I do envy the courage and decisiveness of you people from Blackwood."


    He calculated with his fingers.


    Suddenly, with interest, he said to Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, Sister Luna, now that Blackwood is in imminent danger, my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion is not cowardly either. "


    "I have a female disciple, my adopted daughter, who is exceptionally talented and in the prime of her youth. I wonder if your Blackwood would consider forming a marriage alliance with my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion?"

 Chapter 118 - 118: Born Bad

    "Is it not hard to investigate?"


    Ethan took a deep breath, his expression gradually returning to normal, transitioning from initial sadness to contemplation. He seemed to have a hunch about something.


    Perhaps Blackwood had indeed fallen into some kind of trap; otherwise, it wouldn''t make sense that the Boar Monarch Pete had been safe on his travels for years, only to not survive this one time.


    Dennis was spot on.


    After so many years of development, although Blackwood had never boasted about it publicly, the various powers were not fools; they couldn''t have failed to notice Blackwood''s growth.


    After all... Daniel''s ambitions were growing, and in Tranquil County, Blackwood was invincible because its enemies had been secretly wiped clean by Blackwood.


    But Blackwood thought it was well-hidden, yet it was as obvious as hiding a leaf in the forest.


    Anyone might think of clearing out Blackwood, this sneaky enemy, to devour this big piece of fat.


    Just as Ethan was pondering.


    Nathan and Dennis had already left.


    In the crimson night, at the entrance of the Boar Monarch Pete''s tomb, a figure caught his eye.


    Ethan frowned, "Why is he here?"


    It was a young man.


    William, the Blackwood renegade, was the only traitor of Blackwood, which made Ethan wary, fearing he might impulsively kill a few siblings for fun, always ready to purge his own ranks.


    After all, this guy... Despite Blackwood''s tight security, he had managed to silently enter the home and reach the tomb, showing his skill.


    Unexpectedly.


    This time William did nothing out of line but stood dazedly in front of the Boar Monarch Pete''s tomb for a long time, then suddenly knelt down. His nature was supposed to be cold and numb, yet there was a hint of sorrow in his eyes as he continuously kowtowed.


    "Granduncle, William is back! Please forgive William for not being able to see you one last time."


    "Does this kid really have such a side?"


    Watching the small text above William''s head, Ethan was also stunned, especially when he saw his historical event column.


    [Blackwood Year 83, hearing of the death of the granduncle who had raised him, William was devastated and killed his unfaithful wife that night, fleeing to Cloudview County. Gained Trait: Wife Slayer]


    [Attack damage against wife increased by 200%]


    It had to be said, his [Born Bad] trait was incredibly strong, causing emotional fluctuations and gaining another trait.


    [Kneeling before the granduncle''s grave, William was overwhelmed with emotions. Only two people in his life could stir his heartstrings: the granduncle who raised him and the elder brother who always nagged him. Now one is dead, and his malice grows, gaining Trait: Avenger]


    [He is like a honey badger and viper combined, lurking in the darkness, never resting until his enemies are dead!]


    "Even if he''s twisted, he''s still family."


    Ethan murmured, as long as this guy didn''t kill his siblings, it was somewhat acceptable, especially since the people he recently killed weren''t exactly saints.


    Treat him like an outsider.


    William continued to bow.


    Footsteps sounded behind him, causing his expression to change. Seeing the newcomer, his initially defensive demeanor suddenly turned joyful, "Big brother!"


    But before he could finish.


    All he saw was his big brother''s flying sword, his brother no longer as gentle as before, his face pale, actually threatening him!


    "Beast."


    "Are you here to rob the tomb? You won''t even spare Granduncle, will you?"


    This startled William, who waved his hands frantically, "Big brother, aren''t you the one who wears black and goes tomb raiding every day?"


    ...


    George retracted his flying sword. Looking at his younger brother, who seemed indifferent to life and death, he felt a pang of guilt. William had been sickly since childhood, and George, as the elder brother, felt he had failed to take care of him properly.


    "Why have you come back? You killed someone in Qingping Moore, and two villagers from Gratitude Village died by your hand. The elders will not let you off," George said as his Storage Ring flickered, revealing a zither table, an ancient zither, and a Mystic Burner.


    He slowly picked up the ancient zither and walked to the front of the ancestral tomb. The tombstone, a full ten feet high, barely contained the contributions of the ancestor to the Blackwood family, yet it lacked a statue. He didn''t want his younger siblings, nieces, and nephews to forget the ancestor''s face in the years to come.


    In an instant, his formidable psychic power surged, and stones beside the tomb rose from the ground. He gently tapped the premium psychic-powered Yunxi ancient zither, and as the music started, a side panel opened, revealing tools like a grave-digging shovel, chisel, and pickaxe...


    He levitated, using his psychic power to sculpt a statue. Soon, the outline of the Boar Monarch Pete was formed, and he picked up a chisel to carve the details.


    "Big brother, let me help you," William said, also rising into the air. When he left, he was at the seventh level of Foundational Energy, but now he had reached the realm of Emerging Ability!


    Holding a dagger, he began to carve. In the gloomy night, the two brothers were like children again, playing in the mud in front of their grandfather. But this time, there was no rough laughter from their grandfather, nor could they hear his encouraging praises.


    "I heard about grandfather''s death when I was in Cloudview County, and I know I did wrong. Both you and grandfather must be disappointed in me," William said, tightly clutching the dagger, his eyes misty as he tried to smile. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I''m sorry, big brother, and I''m sorry to grandfather. I really don''t know what came over me. I know many things I did were wrong, and I tried to control it..."


    "After killing, I was also at a loss. I told myself I couldn''t go on, but I still did," he continued.


    George remained silent.


    "I thought I was sick, so I went to see Great Aunt," William said with a laugh that held tears. "I really hoped it was just an illness, that Great Aunt could cure me. But she said I wasn''t sick, just purely bad."


    "When I heard of grandfather''s death, I even laughed. Because, I realized that here," he pointed to his heart, "it could still feel pain."


    George looked at his brother, tears streaking down William''s cheeks. It was the first time he had seen William cry like this.

 Chapter 119 - 119: Will of the Boar Monarch Pete

    William wiped away his tears, revealing a handsome smile as if he hadn''t said anything just moments ago, his face beaming with joy.


    "I was supposed to be the son-in-law of the Jones family in Cloudview County, blessed with immense wealth and power, where even murder could be handled by others. But I had to come back; I couldn''t see my great-grandfather for the last time, but at least I need to know who the murderer is."


    The cold winter wind grew even more fierce.


    Snow began to fall from the sky, and stone chips knocked from the statue of the Boar Monarch Pete floated down with the snowflakes, adding to the gloom of the icy day.


    George felt a hint of warmth as he took a deep breath, gritting his teeth as he looked at his brother, "What are you doing?! Is that how great-grandfather''s eyes looked? The tuft of hair on top of his head is completely covering his eyes, you..."


    "Ah? Got it, stop yelling, stop yelling!"


    William''s face showed hurt, but as he turned back to his carving, he smiled happily, enduring another lecture from his brother.


    Until the moon hid itself away.


    The statue of the Boar Monarch Pete, completed with the combined efforts of the brothers, looked lifelike, just as it had in days past, lying on the ground watching children play deep in the Silver Iron Woods.


    George sat by the guqin table, the ancient strings of the guqin lightly vibrating, the melodious sound echoing from the Silver Iron Woods, reaching all of Blackwood, falling into everyone''s ears.


    William stood quietly behind his brother.


    The moon was gone, but William knew that soon, like his brother''s guqin music, the daylight would illuminate all of Blackwood.


    ...


    [Due to the death of the Boar Monarch Pete, George was heartbroken. With his brother William returning home, although he couldn''t understand his brother''s actions, he felt a human connection, and was slightly moved.]


    [He suddenly realized the impermanence of life, and the constancy of human nature. Years of guqin skills broke through to a great achievement, gaining a hint of the essence of the guqin, acquiring the trait¡ªHeart Sound as Guqin]


    [The heart''s intent and the guqin''s sound merged, using the guqin music to enhance attack power by 10%]


    Ethan watched the scene.


    The two brothers under the moonlight, so serene, formed the most beautiful picture in the world, listening to the guqin music that appeared in the game, Ethan also quieted down a lot.


    This guqin music, melodious, as if celestial music echoed throughout Blackwood.


    In the residence of Blackwood.


    Everyone gathered in the ancestral hall, under Ethan''s cards, the plaque of the Boar Monarch Pete had been placed.


    Julian held his wife Mary, who by now had no more tears, because¡ª


    Outside the Forebearer''s ancestral hall, there was a line of text, left by the passing of the Forebearer''s Cards through the sky, a display of psychic power! S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [The sad ones should be the enemies]


    Right, why be sad?


    "Intelligence says, the Boar Monarch Pete charged back, killing anyone who stood in his way."


    Lucas, with his sword sheath on his back, came forward, seeing his brother and sister-in-law so grief-stricken for the first time, he too was filled with rage.


    Seeing the body of the Boar Monarch Pete, he remembered the first time he met the Boar Monarch Pete, the initial confusion, and eventually, the respect he had for him, "Younger brother, sister-in-law, we don''t have time to grieve for the Boar Monarch Pete''s death."


    "When facing Monk Jacob back then, the Boar Monarch Pete didn''t back down a step, and when our family faced difficulties, he thought of leading all the beasts of the Silver Iron Woods. Now it''s our turn, carrying the will of the Boar Monarch Pete to charge forward, we should make the unknown enemies feel the pain of Blackwood now."


    In the distance, under George''s guqin music.


    Julian and his wife looked at their elder brother, seeing the psychic power left by the Forebearer, they nodded slightly.


    Lucas knew he had said enough, he quietly retreated into the darkness, the sword in his sheath humming, he was like a sword hidden in the darkness, ready to strike at the enemies of Blackwood.


    The couple huddled together, warming each other in the cold, dark night.


    In Mary''s hand appeared a bead striped in yellow and black, shimmering with light. Her expression was sorrowful, but recalling her brother''s words, she gradually calmed down. "Julian."


    "Mm." Julian, who spent his days forging and was rough with all things, now held his wife delicately, as if cradling a doll that might break at any moment, his tenderness fully displayed. It was the only way he could accompany his wife.


    Mary said, "I grew up following Boar Monarch Pete around since I was little. The first time I met people, I felt like an outsider, afraid to blend in with humans. It was Boar Monarch Pete who told me that it should be them I feared, not myself. ''Boar Monarch Pete''s daughter should fear nothing; I will always have your back.''"


    "From now on, he can''t protect me anymore. Without Boar Monarch Pete, will you end up like Steven from the village, beating your wife?"


    "I will." Julian grinned, but under the candlelight in the ancestral hall, it somehow seemed warm. "If you don''t eat well, drink well, and stay by my side forever, I''ll have to beat you. It hurts me more than it hurts you, so to make it easier, I might as well beat myself to death."


    After so many years of marriage, this was still the first time Mary heard such cheesy words from her husband. If it had been earlier, she would have suspected him of infidelity. But now, Mary pressed tightly into Julian''s embrace. "Then I have nothing to fear. Boar Monarch Pete died, and everything Forebearer and my brother said was right. Boar Monarch Pete always charged forward and died a hero."


    "I shouldn''t be sad, nor should I fear the days without Boar Monarch Pete. If I were to die, Boar Monarch Pete would have the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest avenge me."


    "Now..." Mary took a deep breath and slowly popped the bead into her mouth¡ªit was the blood pill of the Boar Monarch Pete. Her eyes flickered red, "It''s my turn to fight fiercely for Boar Monarch Pete. I will carry on his will and avenge him. I will protect our children just like he did."


    In an instant, Mary''s psychic powers surged!


    Julian still held his wife tightly, his gaze lost on the spiritual tablet of the Boar Monarch Pete. "Father-in-law, rest in peace. I won''t let anyone bully Mary or our children. I will bring back the heads of our enemies and make a blood oath to you."


    [Your daughter-in-law Mary has swallowed the second Demon King''s blood pill. The blood pill of the former ruler of the Silver Iron Forest is merging with the new one.]


    [Trait gained: Will of the Boar Monarch Pete]


    [She will inherit part of the Boar Monarch Pete''s power.]


    [Trait gained: Lord of the Silver Iron Forest]


    [With the blood pills of two generations of Demon Kings merging, her bloodline is transforming, and her presence will suppress all creatures of the Silver Iron Forest!]


    Seeing the couple, Ethan finally felt at ease.


    His greatest fear was that Mary would despair, for there was no greater sorrow than hers, yet Mary proved herself a heroine of Blackwood.


    Outside the ancestral hall.


    The second generation of Blackwoods stood before the Primordial Blood Tree. Since their birth, Ethan had never seen them so quiet. They too saw the psychic powers Ethan left behind and heard George''s music.


    Behind them, their numerous descendants.


    Each one had grown up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete, and not one of them hadn''t broken a limb in play¡ªperhaps that''s why their grief was profound.


    "The Divine Tree."


    In the deep night, they stood under the shadow of the Blood Tree, the distant candlelight casting each of them in a blood-red glow.


    The eldest, Thomas, looked resolute, a far cry from his former self, who might have been likened to a dumb, clumsy black bear.


    But at this moment.


    Like all the children who grew up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete, he was like a lion awakened from a deep slumber, fierce and wild!


    "You said, next year the land will be dyed red, please tell us."


    "Where should we go from here, and whose blood should stain the earth?"


    At these words.


    As the crimson leaves of the Primordial Blood Tree trembled, it opened its calm yet bloody eyes.

 Chapter 120 - 120: Boar Monarch Petes Legacy

    [Primordial Blood Tree]


    [Rank:Seventh Grade]


    [Abilities:Fruit Bearing,Omens,Blood Realm Formation...]


    Ethan was also observing the Primordial Blood Tree.Due to the issues with the Boar Monarch Pete,he hadn''t had the time to check on the growth of this blood tree.


    [Fruit Bearing:Blooms and bears fruit every hundred years.All blood trees in Blackwood are its offspring.The Primordial Fruits it bears,twenty in total,significantly enhance psychic abilities and randomly increase Psychic Constitution values.]


    [Omens:Can reveal a strand of fate of Blackwood''s descendants,limited to one-time use.If the power of omens is used again,it will consume a great amount of blood energy and the cost will be in lifespan.]


    [Blood Realm Formation:Possesses the power of a seventh-grade magical formation.]


    The Primordial Blood Tree surveyed the second generation of Blackwoods,listening to Thomas''s words.


    Its eyes turned towards the Forebearer''s shrine.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree is asking if you would like to respond.]


    [Yes]


    Ethan made his choice without hesitation.


    Response received.


    The voice of the Primordial Blood Tree was deep.


    "United as seven,perhaps you should head to the Pine Temple,where there is a bronze bell.Ring it."


    The seven looked at each other,then bowed towards the Primordial Blood Tree. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They glanced back at the many descendants behind them,without a word,knowing that these younger ones should understand.


    If such matters arise and the younger generation cannot be inspired to move forward and strive in cultivating psychic powers,then it would truly be questionable if they were of their lineage.


    After speaking a few words to the younger ones,they left home.


    Subsequently,one by one,the younger ones stepped forward.


    Their eyes were red,showing a defiance like that of mystical beasts,though they had never experienced hardships.The education from Boar Monarch Pete from their childhood had already influenced them.


    They too were asking the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Primordial Blood Tree could clearly see that the days to come would be soaked in blood,so they hoped that some of this blood on the land would be from their enemies they had slain,perhaps the only thing they could do for Boar Monarch Pete.


    Let Boar Monarch Pete know,these descendants had never lost face for him,nor for the family,and the Forebearer!


    Their anger should be like a spark that sets the prairie ablaze!


    "Larry,have you thought it through?"


    "I have thought it through!"


    "Then you should head to the swampy jungles in the nearby barbaric lands to the south.I see it,I hear it,your body is bleeding,you are in agony."


    "I,Justin,have also thought it through!"


    "Deep Heart Lake...perhaps you may never return."


    "Jessica!"


    "Go,marry into the Jones family of Cloudview County under a concealed identity,you will kill your husband."


    "..."


    The descendants of Blackwood,each one of them,were embracing the future foretold by the Primordial Blood Tree¡ªa future fraught with danger.Yet,they chose to face it head-on,with not a single one backing down.Ethan watched quietly.


    On this day,these Blackwood descendants,who had never faced hardship before,grew up overnight.They became fearless,truly embodying the form that the Boar Monarch Pete had hoped for.


    Perhaps they didn''t inherit the bloodline of the Boar Monarch Pete,but each one of them carried his memories and will¡ªjust as they had learned to stand up again after falling as children,or how they straightened their own noses after being broken by siblings.


    That night.


    Nathan and Luna stood in the Forebearer''s shrine.


    They handed over the Forebearer Cards to the children,watching as the kids tucked the Cards into their chests,bid farewell to their families,and stepped out the door.


    The future might claim their lives on their quest for power,but the couple was still content.


    Nathan bowed towards the plaque of the Boar Monarch Pete,"Boar Monarch Pete,you see,none of my Blackwood children are weaklings.You once hoped that my children would fill the Silver Iron Forest,and that day will come.Until then..."


    "The children of Blackwood will carry endless glory,marking the Silver Iron Forest,right in front of your grave."


    "I swear to you,down in the netherworld,you can proudly boast to anyone that these kids were raised by you."


    Then.


    He knelt before the Forebearer''s Cards,"Forebearer,your children will not disappoint you either.They are carrying all of Blackwood forward,striving towards the future!Any enemy will bleed beneath the feet of my Blackwood!"


    That night.


    The wives and sons-in-law of these children stood outside the home,watching as their husbands and wives departed,tears in their eyes.They had tried to stop them before,but no longer,because the departing clan members had spoken of a benevolent elder in the Silver Iron Forest who wished them to be eagles,to be hunting dogs.


    They should be even stronger.To be Jiaolong,to be fierce tigers,they are the proud people of Blackwood,and even if they can''t become qualified husbands and wives,please forgive their pride,for they are children raised on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete!


    ...


    [Your descendant,the second generation of Blackwoods,is heading to the Pine Temple.]


    [Larry is heading to the Swamp Forest.]


    [Justin is heading to the Deepheart Lake.]


    [...]


    One by one,these notifications caught Ethan''s eye,and he finally laughed heartily.


    On the map,the descendants of Blackwood were like buds about to bloom,flourishing in all directions beyond Blackwood.


    The years of effort by the Boar Monarch Pete were not in vain.The children of Blackwood,carrying the will of the Boar Monarch Pete,were spreading out.They did not disappoint the Boar Monarch Pete!


    Before.


    It was the Boar Monarch Pete who carried the children everywhere,but now,the children of Blackwood,bearing the hatred and beliefs of the Boar Monarch Pete,were also running beyond Blackwood.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan let out a long breath.


    As time accelerated,the lingering sound of George''s piano,and the first light of Dawn began to dispel the darkness,illuminating all of Blackwood,making it thrive.


    Suddenly,Blackwood quieted down,like a suppressed volcano,or a hidden blade,ready to reveal its sharp edge at any moment.

 Chapter 121 - 121: The sad ones should be the enemies

    Mr. Dennis from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion has also settled down in Blackwood. He stands at the pinnacle of Blackwood''s architecture, looking over everything in Blackwood, from the people''s sorrow to their silence, and then to the descendants leaving their homes one by one. Dennis felt a chill run down his spine.


    As the phrase "The sad ones should be the enemies" suddenly appeared, a dragon seemed to burst forth from the soil of Blackwood. "I thought the great war between the two clans would slowly end, and Cloudview County would be peaceful again. But... everything has just begun, who knows which scoundrel has stirred up such a disaster."


    With a long sigh, something flew towards him from afar. Dennis caught the paper crane, and a white light flowed into his brain. He squinted his eyes, hesitating. The paper crane turned to ash in his hand. He then took a deep breath, seemingly making up his mind, before flying towards the great hall of Blackwood.


    Inside the great hall, he saw Mr. Nathan and his wife, Luna. Although Daniel is the head of the Blackwood family, Dennis knew clearly that Nathan might not be as cunning as Daniel, nor as ambitious, but Nathan was truly the rock of Blackwood.


    Even now... his technique of reading energies could no longer discern Nathan''s details, a mummy completely obscured his vision.


    "Mr. Nathan, Sister Luna," Dennis took a deep breath, then sighed deeply. At this moment, he no longer hesitated. He took out an Energy Stone and threw some memories towards Nathan, with a bitter smile, "Mr. Nathan, let''s forget about this matter."


    Mr. and Mrs. Nathan quietly took the Energy Stone, then shook their heads at Dennis, waiting in silence. Dennis no longer persuaded them and quietly sat down, calling a maid to pour him some tea.


    He knew that from the moment he shared everything he knew with Blackwood, he was in the same boat as Blackwood.


    He had always been cautious and used schemes throughout his life.


    But this time, he wanted to gamble.


    He couldn''t see the future, but he believed in everything he saw in Blackwood.


    He believed that Blackwood would fight for the spirit of a demon king and believed in the eagles flying out of Blackwood''s gates.


    Soon, a mist drifted in from outside Blackwood, turning into a human figure. This person was dressed in black, wearing a hat, and exuded a chilling murderous aura.


    When he landed in Blackwood, Dennis was startled. He remembered a group of assassins that had suddenly appeared in Cloudview County in recent years. No one knew who their leader was, only that they recruited miserable children from the poor and trained them bit by bit.


    They hid within the common folk, with eyes and ears spread across all places in Cloudview County. Perhaps the beggar seen on the street was one of them.


    They also recruited experts, always watching the major forces. They liked to gently guide those oppressed experts. If someone was being hunted, they would find ways to rescue them. If someone was in mortal danger, their people would appear before the dying person soon, to provide aid.


    Those who harbored hatred and had to hide among the common folk were also found by them, promising to help them seek revenge at all costs.


    These sufferers would soon join them, and this assassin organization grew like a snowball rolling down a hill. Its name was Dawn. But those who encountered Dawn usually never saw Dawn again.


    The assassin came in, glanced at Dennis, making him sweat profusely and quickly lower his head to drink tea. "One of us," Nathan nodded at the man in black, then touched the Forebearer''s Cards placed next to the main seat.


    Seeing the tablet, the assassin nodded, knelt on one knee towards the tablet, and with a flash of his Storage Ring, threw an Energy Stone to Nathan, "The message from Dawn has been delivered. If there are no orders, I''ll be busy."


    Nathan simply waved his hand, and the assassin turned into smoke and left.


    "Mr. Nathan."


    Dennis was about to say something but quickly silenced himself, suppressing the surge of his psychic powers as he sensed... a familiar demon-possessed psychic!


    An old man arrived at Blackwood, riding the clouds in the sky, landing on the ground, he picked up a wooden gourd, poured liquor into his mouth, and staggered into the great hall. His body reeked of alcohol, his nose particularly red and swollen, his small frame seeming like it could topple at any moment. Finally, he belched loudly, his eyes bleary but playfully staring at Dennis.


    Dennis, feeling helpless, sniffed, quickly looking around, picked up a teacup and wiped away the tea leaves with the lid, sipping the tea quietly.


    Yet, even trying to keep such a low profile.


    The drunken old man still approached him, a wave of alcohol fumes hitting Dennis''s nose, making his expression turn sour. Worst of all, the drunkard patted his shoulder, causing tea to drip onto his clothes.


    "Yo, isn''t this the old shaman from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion? Tsk tsk, you were so proud back in the day, unbeaten across Jubilee County, none in Cloudview County could match you, and what were you ranting about? Oh, right, looking down on everyone from the clouds."


    "Tsk tsk, it''s been a hundred years since we last met, and you''re still at the Developing Skill mid-stage, no progress? Oh dear, is your lifespan nearing its end?"


    There, all secrets laid bare.


    He gritted his teeth in frustration, "Drunken Fool, don''t push it! If this weren''t Blackwood, do you believe I..." S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Drunken Fool rolled his eyes, his fingernails caked with dirt, pointing at Dennis, "This kind of old slick, he''s one of us?"


    One of us???


    Hmm???


    Dennis stared at Mr. Nathan and his wife, blinking rapidly, as if to say, buying off is one thing, but insiders? Collaborating with such notorious villains, aren''t you afraid of dying?


    But unexpectedly.


    Mr. Nathan nodded, quickly stood up and bowed, then touched the Cards beside him, "Elder, did you bring something?"


    Drunken Fool glanced at the plaque, which only had the character ''B'' on it, correct, it felt right.


    He looked a bit more respectful, suddenly gulping down some liquor.


    "Of course, I brought it. I reckon you and your wife must have received quite a bit of news too, let''s lay it all out. This matter has really blown up, we''ll need six diviners to figure it out."


    Mr. Nathan didn''t hesitate, his Storage Ring flickered.


    Dennis looked up, watching as several Energy Stones floated up, shimmering with various lights, his previously distressed expression suddenly becoming intrigued.


    For the first time, he felt like swearing.


    One assassin, one demon-possessed psychic bringing news was one thing, but he was the first to bring the news. But now...


    You Blackwoods have kept deep secrets, how many friends have you secretly made over the years???


    Seemingly heartbroken, he sighed deeply, no longer caring about Drunken Fool, just drinking his tea on his own.

 Chapter 122 - 122: Blackwoods Dilemma

    Over the years, Blackwood had made countless friends. Among them were folks like the Moore family, who had been dirtying their hands with Blackwood in plundering two powerful factions to strengthen their own family.


    Then there were allies like the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, who slowly discovered the immense benefits of Blackwood''s unique Beast Blood Fruit and five kinds of talent-enhancing potions for their descendants. And like the Silver Iron Woods, some had faced disasters but received Blackwood''s grace.


    They all went out of their way to gather intelligence for Blackwood.


    Floating in the hall were a dozen Energy Stones carrying intelligence information, including news about the assassination of the Boar Monarch Pete, catching the eyes of Nathan and his wife, Dennis, and Drunken Fool.


    As the whole picture became clear, Nathan tried to remain calm, but the throbbing veins on his forehead betrayed the turmoil inside him.


    At that moment, Ethan, who was drinking water in front of the screen, bit his glass into pieces.


    [Your family has obtained intelligence, triggering a special event: Elder Felix''s Revenge.]


    [Twenty years ago, Marcus, along with Elder Dylan, annihilated the Rodriguez family, causing Elder Felix to lose his minions, and his other powers were divided up while he was imprisoned for twenty years.]


    [Over these twenty years, he has been investigating the incident, and despite Blackwood''s flawless handling, there are no secrets that time doesn''t reveal. From Moore, who had a share in dividing the Rodriguez family''s power, he found out that Blackwood was the mastermind behind the annihilation of the Rodriguez family.]


    [Elder Felix, instead of striking out, went to the Azure Cloud Pavilion to seek his century-old companion, Elizabeth, to plot his revenge. He traveled to a secret realm, met with Elizabeth from the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and revealed everything, but was spotted by the Boar Monarch Pete who was gathering materials in the secret realm.]


    The intelligence wasn''t just in text.


    In a piece of intelligence sent by a major sect, there was also a video clip.


    In the clouds, Elder Felix and a stunningly beautiful woman were chasing an Boar Monarch Pete!


    Despite having the peak power of Developing Skill, Elder Felix did not use his full strength, merely toying with the chase.


    Elizabeth, in the intermediate stage of Developing Skill, dressed in a red palace gown, her face exquisitely beautiful, struck fiercely, her phoenix embodiment swinging a hundred-meter blade shadow, slashing repeatedly.


    The Boar Monarch Pete didn''t fight back at all; everyone could see his stubbornness as he desperately fled towards Blackwood.


    They also realized that the Boar Monarch Pete knew he couldn''t escape; he had put all his psychic power into flying speed. If he had chosen to defend, he might have had more chances to survive, but he was still fleeing. He was trying to bring the message back to Blackwood!


    It was a brutal long-distance chase, and no one knew how many cuts the Boar Monarch Pete had endured, nor did they know under Elizabeth''s slashing, what kind of belief the Boar Monarch Pete held to reach Tranquil County.


    In the end, it was Elder Felix who stopped Elizabeth, allowing the crazily burning soul of the dying Boar Monarch Pete, with only a half-life left and certain death, to fall in the forests of Forest Town.


    "So the Boar Monarch Pete''s death, the game''s alert of a special event indicated it was a sacrifice, not a disaster."


    Ethan wiped the glass shards from his mouth, the room''s contents swirling around due to his unconscious psychic power.


    So, when the Boar Monarch Pete met George, he was actually already dead, it was his last willpower that let him utter the words ''take him home.''


    He wasn''t trying to get one last look at the kids; he was trying to tell the people of Blackwood that their enemy was coming!


    Disaster was imminent!


    "Elizabeth... no matter who you are from the Azure Cloud Pavilion, I will take Blackwood''s children to find you."


    ...


    "Felix, Elizabeth, Azure Cloud Pavilion!" Nathan squinted his eyes, muttering these words like a beast growling through clenched teeth. Then, he destroyed those Energy Stones. Dennis, standing nearby, no longer wanted to mess around with Drunken Fool; he was on high alert. "Azure Cloud Cloud Pavilion. Mr. Nathan, Luna, this is...


    well." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With just a sigh, he knew that more words were useless; Blackwood wasn''t going to let this slide.


    Drunken Fool seemed to sober up instantly, "Do you guys know what''s most important about an era?" As everyone looked at him, Drunken Fool murmured, "Memories."


    "Azure Cloud Pavilion represents the memories of Cloudview County. Before it was called Cloudview County, this place was known as the Azure Cloud Mountains during a previous era."


    "In those war-torn years, Azure Cloud Pavilion was established, even becoming the last remaining force. The survivors from the Azure Cloud Mountains all gathered at Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "After the wars, those survivors from Azure Cloud Pavilion stepped out of the mountains, proliferated, and thus Cloudview County was born, along with its 24 major counties today."


    "The original heritage of this era began with Azure Cloud Pavilion and was born because of it."


    "Generation after generation, the masters of Azure Cloud Pavilion fell one by one, and the strongest among them were only at level D. But let me tell you a fact, it''s easy to kill someone in the Developing Skill stage, but fighting against an era... that''s tough."


    Drunken Fool bowed slightly, "I''ll take my leave now. How Blackwood chooses to act is up to them."


    After saying this, he vanished into the clouds.


    "Mr. Nathan, Elizabeth... she''s off-limits."


    Dennis sat back down, fumbling with his cup, "That Felix, he planned this all along. He intentionally let the Demon King return. He wanted to provoke Blackwood into making a move on Elizabeth. If you strike at Elizabeth, then you''re striking at Cloudview County."


    "For years, the ancient powers of Cloudview County have had an agreement. No matter how Azure Cloud Pavilion changes, as long as it doesn''t violate basic human decency, anyone who opposes Azure Cloud Pavilion is opposing the entire Cloudview County."


    "And your family''s Demon King..."


    Dennis didn''t want to say more.


    But both Ethan and the Nathans understood that in the eyes of the world, demons could be killed or enslaved; this wasn''t against human decency, even if the Boar Monarch Pete was a relative of Blackwood!


    Even if someone from Azure Cloud Pavilion ''accidentally'' killed someone, as long as it didn''t cause public outrage, they could minimize the incident!


    No matter how desolate, Azure Cloud Pavilion still represented memory and heritage, and countless powers and families would serve Azure Cloud Pavilion for the sake of reputation.


    They all remained silent, even knowing that using assassination tactics on Elizabeth would be futile.


    In fact, all of this was no longer a conspiracy, but a blatant scheme by Elder Felix, the old fox!


    He must have already calculated that Blackwood, in a fit of rage, would make a foolish move, and he had all the countermeasures ready.


    24 counties, no need for a Competent to take action, Blackwood would become a thing of the past.


    "Ha ha ha, what a concept of human decency, what an Azure Cloud Pavilion, what a cunning Elder Felix!" Nathan suddenly laughed, for the first time in over a hundred years, he laughed so wildly.


    Seeing Nathan''s unusual behavior, Dennis''s color changed.


    "Mr. Nathan..."


    He seemed to have a premonition of what Nathan was about to do.


    From the moment he knew Blackwood, he had witnessed the growth of this family step by step, and watched them face their enemies fearlessly.

 Chapter 123 - 123: Secrets Unveiled Part 1

    "Mr. Dennis, thanks for looking after Blackwood all these years. Without you, we would have faced endless troubles, maybe even at odds with Jubilee County by now. On behalf of Blackwood, I''m deeply grateful." Nathan bowed slightly to Dennis.


    "Mr. Nathan, you''re too kind. We''ve been through life and death together," Dennis sighed deeply, seemingly out of nowhere.


    "Since we''re brothers in arms, no thanks are needed." Nathan smiled, his anger from old grievances gone. He pulled out two rank-eight blood psychic fruits and various herbal powders from his pocket, handing them to Dennis.


    Even a beginner psychic device was among the gifts.


    "Mr. Nathan, what''s this?" Dennis asked, puzzled.


    "It''s a betrothal gift. Didn''t you say you wanted to tie the knot with Blackwood? My family has a young child, just a baby. He could easily hide away at Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion under a different name. You can decide later if this arrangement suits you," Nathan explained softly.


    "Does Mr. Dennis perhaps disdain Blackwood?"


    In a moment, Dennis''s eyes reddened, perhaps from years of friendship mixed with ulterior motives. Maybe for profit, he might make selfish choices. But he couldn''t deny his respect for the people of Blackwood.


    He looked up to the sky and sighed, "What kind of man do you take me for, Mr. Nathan? Everyone says I''m a lowlife, cunning and deceitful, but your Blackwood... it''s worth being capricious for once. I''ll accept this marriage proposal!"


    That day, Dennis left with a child in his arms, not even knowing which Blackwood youngster it was. A group of Blackwood daughters-in-law cried as they handed the child over to him.


    As he flew away on his sword, carefully shielding the child with his psychic power, he laughed when the baby in his arms cried loudly, "Little Nicholas, huh? Must be one of your family''s seven bears who named you. Don''t be scared, from now on you''re my kin, and I at Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will find you the prettiest bride, alright?"


    The baby cried louder, distressed by the unfamiliar surroundings.


    ...


    Nathan and his wife chatted leisurely for a long time. Soon, they headed to the Forebearer''s temple with the Blackwood family descendants. They all knelt before Ethan''s Forebearer Cards.


    Even the rebellious William came along with George. This was the first time this quirky kid had visited the family temple built in the Silver Ironwood Forest, and his first encounter with the "Death Coffin" and various Blackwood secrets, which dazzled him momentarily.


    As everyone entered, the Forebearer Cards shone brightly. "Huh? Is that a psychic device?" William stared blankly at the Cards.


    George glared at his brother and gestured for him to be quiet. He dared to bring William here because their great-grandparents didn''t recognize William. Their great-grandfather was even more of a mystery.


    It was said that in his early years, he killed his wife and ate children daily. Whenever sword light shone in the depths of the Silver Ironwood Forest, another child was devoured by their great-grandfather. George knew these stories were exaggerated; a child would last at least three days.


    As for their grandfather, Julian, he was known to have seen him as a child. Julian was said to forge iron all day, fierce, with a silver arm¡ªrumored to have been chopped off by their great-grandfather. Unable to defeat him, Julian vented his frustration through his blacksmithing.


    "George, what are you looking at?"


    Noticing George''s gaze, Lucas turned his head. Despite years of sword training, he tried to appear gentle, but his slightly messy hair and the cold look in his eyes, which seemed to merge with his sword, still frightened George.


    George tried to keep a well-behaved appearance. "Nothing, nothing, great-grandfather truly is... a divine being."


    Lucas frowned. "Flattery is unnecessary; do not continue this in the future."


    "Yes, great-grandfather, George won''t dare again!" George quickly turned his head and pushed down William''s head, who was still staring at Lucas. The two brothers knelt before the Forebearer''s tablet.


    Only Daniel took an extra look at William. Although William had grown a lot, Daniel still faintly remembered his madness but chose to ignore it, thinking to himself, "These foolish boys, still not grown up, thinking they can hide their cultivation levels with secret techniques."


    At the forefront, Nathan, seeing all the family members had arrived, bowed deeply. "Forebearer, your child understands what the divine tree said, next year the land must be dyed red in Cloudview County. Forebearer, this time, your child must be unfilial!"


    In front of the screen, Ethan had already recovered from the anger of the Pig Demon King''s death and the anxiety of the Blackwoods facing a powerful enemy.


    He took a deep breath, and though the Purple Thunder Solar Python was not present, he still had a way to express warmth.


    "Forebearer sends warmth, one hair per person!"


    The Forebearer''s Cards transformed into psychic power, inscribing a word in front of the Blackwood people.


    [Approved!]


    If the descendants of Blackwood were all cowards, that would be the greatest unfilial act!


    He was relieved, the descendants all had courage!


    ...


    Half a month later.


    Inside the screen.


    The people of Blackwood once again emerged from the Forebearer Hall, this time taking with them all the precious things inside.


    Their eyes no longer held the sorrow of half a month ago, only suppressed anger and fearlessness towards the future.


    "The sacred tree, sorry to trouble you."


    Nathan, holding top-notch psychic gear, approached the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Primordial Blood Tree opened its crimson eyes, somewhat reluctantly.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree is used to rooting in Blackwood. It feels this will be a long separation and is asking if it can stay alone at the family residence to guard everything. It is willing to give its life for this.]


    "What time is it now? You''re such an old tree, stop being homesick."


    Ethan unhesitatingly chose ''No''.


    After the denial.


    The word ''approved'' appeared above the Primordial Blood Tree''s head, learned from who knows where, making it look very imposing.


    Then came the Psychic Sanctuary of the Silver Iron Woods, which were directly taken back into the Storage Ring.


    Dozens of psychic beasts from the Silver Iron Woods gathered under Mary''s Demon King Blood Pill.


    About a hundred psychic beasts, including four peak psychic beasts, were each taken into the psychic gear map.


    At this moment, the psychic gear map had become an ancient scroll, depicting an ancient sky-reaching tree filled with psychic beasts on its branches, which were dynamically moving around, causing the branches and leaves of the Primordial Blood Tree to shake irritably.


    Everything within the family that reached grade eight or above was taken into everyone''s possession.


    George and William followed along.


    William was somewhat better, his mouth agape as he watched the elders take things away.


    George was different, nagging the elders all the way, not afraid of them getting angry now.


    "Ah? Grandpa, I''ve never been able to enter your forging hall, only now do I know what''s inside."


    George gritted his teeth, "Grandpa, thirty grade eight psychic puppets, equivalent to thirty Emerging Ability peaks. And there, six Transcendent Seed stage strength psychic puppets. My God, isn''t that the legendary Forebearer-gifted War AI Bionic Robot? How come it has a Developing Skill aura?"


    "Didn''t you tell me back then? You said our family wasn''t strong enough, never to provoke others, and to take good care of my younger siblings, right?" S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I really believed it, poor me, I''ve worked hard all my life, painstakingly keeping my siblings from causing trouble, afraid they''d provoke someone else. I got scolded by the neighboring Developing Skill family''s Foundational Energy eighth layer, and I didn''t even talk back, all because I was afraid our family couldn''t handle it?"


    "With this strength, what am I still afraid of? Grandpa, you''ve kept me in the dark for so long!"

 Chapter 124 - 124: Secrets Unveiled Part 2

    Listening to his grandson''s chatter, Julian pretended not to hear anything, silently retracting his psychic puppet back into his Storage Ring. Meanwhile, he casually kicked George into the wall. The kid was alright, but boy, could he talk your ear off.


    Finally freeing himself from the wall, George walked over to Lucas. He wasn''t worried about Lucas eating kids anymore.


    He watched as the old man opened hundreds of small magic arrays from a cellar, revealing treasures that dazzled the eyes.


    "Basic psychic tools... eight? Medium psychic tools, two? I thought our family only had one medium psychic tool array for protection?" George was dumbfounded.


    Lucas, still aiming to leave a good impression on the younger generation, tossed a medium psychic tool that shimmered like pearls. "Oh, you mean this Harmony Bead? Your uncle brought it back again, it''s decent."


    Indeed, it was decent.


    Lucas then opened a large array within the hundreds of small ones, unleashing a torrent of psychic energy as two items caught everyone''s eye.


    "High-grade psychic tools... top-grade psychic tools?!!"


    George suddenly felt a pang in his heart, his expression quickly turning to one of distress, helplessness, and despair.


    Lucas frowned slightly, "It''s just that you youngsters aren''t ready to know too many secrets yet. Psychic tools have become the treasured protectors of the Emerging Ability families, and we too must avoid the covetous gaze of outsiders. This high-grade psychic tool was sent back by your great-aunt, and the top-grade one by your second great-aunt."


    "...Oh." George was numb.


    If he didn''t know better about his great-grandfather''s temper, which was even fiercer than his grandfather''s, he''d probably have a few complaints.


    When it was time to complain to his great-grandparents.


    The great-grandparents were sorting through various psychic items, elixirs, herbs, potions, array diagrams, techniques...


    "Five Xuan-level martial arts techniques, I thought our family only had two Xuan-level techniques, one Shadowy Steps and one Rain-to-Soldiers from the Rodriguez family."


    George scratched his head vigorously, "And these elixirs, seventh-grade Boundary Breaking Pills that can help D-level breakthroughs to higher realms, there are three of them! And these potions, two types of seventh-grade potions. Herbs... why are there so many seventh-grade natural treasures?"


    "Why... why didn''t I know our family was this wealthy???"


    George was in tears, others might be thrilled by sudden wealth, but all he felt was sorrow.


    He even suspected that his family was richer than the legendary Sky Sect.


    Yet he had always thought that his family was poor, only having the potions sent back by his second great-aunt and the blood psychic fruit trees that bore 50 fruits every ten years, along with the natural treasures from the Silver Iron Forest.


    "Hmm?"


    Nathan noticed his great-grandson crying and paused, "You didn''t know?"


    "Kid, our family has always been wealthy."


    Then looking at Daniel, who was glancing around, "Second grandson, didn''t you tell George?"


    "Cough, cough." Daniel coughed lightly, "Grandma, Grandpa, you''ve always taught us since we were young that our family''s children should be raised frugally. George having a Great River Dragon Diagram in his early Emerging Ability stage is already quite good. My seven younger siblings have also been raised this way."


    "That''s the idea."


    Nathan shook his head and smiled, "Kid, it''s alright. When your great-grandfather was your age, he was still slaughtering pigs in the mountains. Your elders were also struggling for the family at your age. Just work hard, and you''ll have it too."


    "..."


    Watching the elders busily packing up things again, George pursed his lips, walked to the corner, faced the wall, buried his head in his left forearm, and furiously pounded the wall with his right arm, "I''m such an idiot, the biggest idiot in the family!"


    Seeing George''s behavior, William became anxious, "Big brother, why... why are you crying so heartbrokenly?"


    George cried even louder, reaching a state of silent despair.


    "William, you don''t understand! I always... always thought our family was poor, so I started tomb raiding when I was twelve. I heard from Grandpa Steven in the village that tomb raiders have the most Energy Stones!"


    George pounded the wall even harder, "If I had known our family was this wealthy, not lacking in special abilities or heavenly treasures, why would I have bothered working so hard? The key is... over the years, the best thing I''ve stolen is just some special equipment!"


    "In the tomb passages, it''s really dark. The ghosts and zombies there are really terrifying."


    "..."


    Listening to his big brother''s grievous complaints, William felt pity and decided to comfort him, "Big brother, you don''t have to be sad, you could have asked me."


    "Huh?" George suddenly turned his head, looking at William with tear-stained cheeks, gritting his teeth, "They told you, but not me?"


    "No, I figured it out myself, I''m not stupid."


    "...Get lost, ah!!!"


    That day at the Blackwood residence, there was one more heartbroken person.


    George finally understood why the family didn''t give resources to his younger siblings unless he did something significant to earn rewards. It turns out... this was a special educational method by the family, rewarding those who work hard enough.


    He foolishly went tomb raiding, foolishly giving all the resources to his younger siblings.


    No wonder the elders in the family didn''t make a fuss when their children had no resources, but instead always encouraged his siblings to venture out. Every time he brought resources, those elders would send them back and scold him, and he had to sneak them like a thief.


    "Sigh."


    Listening to George''s tragic screams outside, Daniel let out a long sigh, yet filled with relief and comfort, "Back in the day, everyone called me a fool, and I was known as the biggest fool in the family. Now, my youth has passed, but there''s someone to follow in my footsteps."


    Hearing this, Julian, with his silver arms, gave a thumbs up, his expression serious and shining brightly:


    "The new waves push the old waves forward."


    "..."


    "???"


    In front of the screen, Ethan was also baffled. Twenty years had passed, and it was his first time seeing the true depth of the Blackwoods.


    After all, the Blackwood descendants came and went, and he couldn''t leave the house, mostly cultivating psychic powers.


    Then he opened the game history to see.


    [Blackwood Year 72, your descendant Amelia received the Demon King''s reward, obtained the top-grade special ability device Sky-Annihilating Needle, and sent it back to the family to worship the Forebearer.]


    [Blackwood Year 76, your descendant Olivia sent Dawn assassins to assassinate a Developing Skill realm expert, obtained the high-grade special ability device Sky Fire Returning Wheel, and sent it back to the family to worship the Forebearer.]


    [Blackwood Year 77, your descendant Olivia sent assassins home, gathered millions of Energy Stones, and purchased three seventh-grade special ability pills at the auction...] S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 125 - 125: Secrets Unveiled Part 3

    They were moving silently, already enriching the family''s foundation through various means. Plus, it was a chaotic year, making it easier to acquire resources, no wonder they say war is the best time to make a fortune.


    Ethan let out a long sigh.


    Looking at his family members, they had already emptied the house of valuables. Gratitude Village and the Blackwood residence were left with only the dense psychic energy.


    Then they moved to the darker areas of the Blackwood residence.


    Silverwood Moore,Horizon Falls Anderson, and friends of Blackwood over the years had all arrived.


    In front of them were Blackwood''s children, not yet twelve years old.


    Nathan gave each child a Storage Ring.


    He stared solemnly at the friends of Blackwood, bowed deeply, and expressed his gratitude: "Ladies and gentlemen, these children are now in your care. For this, Nathan and our clan are deeply grateful. In the future, Blackwood will repay your kindness."


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Holden Moore, the head of the Silverwood family and Blackwood''s closest friend, even a relative by marriage, laughed loudly, hiding his worry, "Although I don''t know what troubles Blackwood has encountered, rest assured, Mr. Nathan, our two families have been as close as brothers!"


    "Moreover, over the years, the secrets that our two families have kept from outsiders are countless."


    "For these reasons, I, Holden, will not sell out Blackwood''s children!"


    With these words, the other leaders echoed in agreement.


    "Indeed, it''s clear that Blackwood is about to undertake a tremendously risky venture. If you need anything, just ask!"


    "Let me say this upfront, my Horizon Falls Anderson owes what I have today to Blackwood. Today''s matter is a secret, and Blackwood''s children are my family''s greatest secret. Whoever dares to spill the beans will be an enemy of my Anderson family!"


    "Ah, it seems my temple will have another meat-eating monk. May Buddha forgive me."


    "..."


    As everyone spoke one by one, Nathan, along with the Blackwood clan, bowed deeply. "Such kindness, the Blackwood clan will remember," he said. Soon, the children were led away. Some of the younger ones didn''t understand why and were still crying, but Nathan believed that when they grew up, they would understand everything.


    Some of the older children, already aware of the situation, showed defiance. As they left, they told the elders not to worry, to confidently seek revenge for the Boar Monarch Pete, and that when they grew up, they too would contribute to the family.


    After saying goodbye to the children, Nathan and his wife felt a sense of loss. Due to their age, they had rarely paid attention to the fourth and fifth generations of Blackwoods. Luna was even more confused by these children whose names she couldn''t keep straight.


    Now, however, they were filled with satisfaction. The children of Blackwood were indeed Blackwood''s children; they should flourish everywhere, leaving their eternal stories on this land.


    As the children left, everyone gathered in the center of Gratitude Village. The daughters-in-law and sons-in-law of two generations of Blackwoods had already assembled, tears streaming down their faces.


    Half a month ago, the Boar Monarch Pete had died, and their husbands and wives had resolutely left their homes. Today, the family was dispersed. There would no longer be laughter and arguments over which child belonged to whom at Blackwood. The familiar pet pig would no longer come from the Silver Iron Forest to help them care for the children, and Blackwood''s mystical beasts had disappeared.


    The Forge would no longer hear Julian''s incessant hammering through the night, nor would there occasionally be sword shadows breaking through the air from the direction of the Silver Iron Forest. The family residence would no longer see strange foxes running in. Their odd grandfather and great-grandfather would no longer climb out of their coffins, bringing back foul-smelling corpses.


    "What''s there to cry about?" Luna angrily said for the first time in front of the younger generation, "We have important things to do, we''re not going to die. There will be a day when we reunite."


    Dorothy, Thomas''s wife, was fierce. Biting her lip, she said, "Grandpa, Grandma, where are you going? I... I can go too. I''m at least at the Emerging Ability stage."


    "Go home. The Martinez family is doing well now," Nathan smiled at his granddaughter-in-law. "This time, we Blackwoods are not fighting against a single noble family or sect. We are fighting against the memory of the entire Cloudview County."


    "Right," Julian and his wife, holding a stack of Forebearer Cards, handed them to these younger wives and husbands. "Remember, the Forebearer will always protect you. We don''t know when we''ll be back, if..." Julian hesitated, struggling to continue.


    Mary crisply said, "If you can''t wait, then feel free to seek other alliances. We left the divorce papers when the kids left. You''re still young, and however you choose, Blackwood won''t blame you."


    "We at Blackwood will always see you as children of our family, remembering the good you''ve done for us. If you can''t stand the loneliness and want to get married, I, on behalf of the children, will send the betrothal gifts and dowry when the time is right."


    "Mom!"


    "Grandma!"


    "We''re not leaving!"


    With these words, everyone''s eyes were red with emotion. They realized that the family was truly ready to fight to the end.


    "Get out! Stay at home and wait to die? Remember, the moment you leave Blackwood, if anyone asks, you''re no longer one of us!" Lucas squinted his eyes and swept his sword out.


    Under the fierce sword energy, everyone left by carriage, continuously looking back.


    As the carriages departed, the villagers of Gratitude Village, nearly ten thousand in number, all knelt down, watching the Blackwood family expel their own. How could they not understand the choices made by the people of Blackwood?


    Nathan had tried to persuade them, but the village chief still led the villagers in kneeling, their eyes brimming with tears.


    In Gratitude Village, generation after generation of Blackwood, who should have been high and mighty, never oppressed the villagers. Occasionally, if there was an issue, it was swiftly dealt with by Blackwood. Under Blackwood''s grace, they learned skills, and the young ladies and gentlemen of Blackwood, who had good things to eat, would even share with familiar villagers on the streets.


    Many villagers had even helped Blackwood raise their children.


    "After we leave, the people from Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will take Gratitude Village under their wing. If anyone tries to harm Gratitude Village, a long sword planted at the village entrance will be their answer."


    Daniel helped the village chief up, looking at his aged face still crying profusely, he smiled, "Grandpa Chief, we leave Gratitude Village in your hands. I hope when we return, I can see that Gratitude Village has its own special ability veins, our forge has a group of special ability equipment masters, and there are special ability medicine gardens, alchemy rooms, and libraries..."


    "Blackwood''s wish is to control Forest Town, and even the whole of Tranquil City!"


    The village chief clenched his teeth, "I know, over the years we''ve been dragging the masters'' legs. Please rest assured, when you return, the children of Gratitude Village will not disappoint Blackwood. Blackwood''s goals are Gratitude Village''s goals!"


    "Right!"


    "Big Master Nathan, just wait, my child will be working in the special ability equipment forge next year!"


    "When my son reaches the Emerging Ability stage, whatever Master Daniel wants to do, I''ll have my son take the lead!"


    "All members of the Black Blood Hall, along with all the villagers of Gratitude Village, respectfully see off the masters and ladies¡ª"


    "May Blackwood shine for generations!"


    A thousand giant eagles soared into the sky, and the Psychic of the Black Blood Hall soared at the village entrance.


    In their eyes.


    These familiar people of Blackwood, riding their swords into the sky, just as they had fearlessly rushed out when Gratitude Village faced threats in the past. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They could break through the clouds.


    They could break through the darkness.


    And one day in the future, they would return in the same way, under the sunlight, with endless glory!

 Chapter 126 - 126: Azure Cloud Betrayal

    Ethan was sitting on the bed, staring at the game interface with a look of madness following his anger. The family had temporarily abandoned their residence in Forest Town, which had been developed over nearly a century.


    At that time, Nathan''s idea was to take the entire Blackwood family out for revenge. Getting involved with the Azure Cloud Pavilion meant that their residence became an obvious target. No matter the protective spells, once Blackwood was surrounded, it truly became a sitting duck.


    Of course, abandoning the residence had its downsides; resources couldn''t be produced, and the wealth accumulated by Blackwood over the years couldn''t be rapidly developed.


    Ethan knew very well that the best way to handle this situation was similar to how they dealt with Nathan''s severe injury years ago¡ªturn a blind eye now and plan revenge over centuries, letting Elizabeth and old Felix die off could also be an option.


    Under his leadership, Blackwood, with resources from two worlds, was bound to thrive.


    But...


    The fake Forebearer endured humiliation for the greater good, while the real Forebearer could feel the sincere emotions of his descendants. For the important people in his family, if he couldn''t exact an unbearable revenge on the opponent, he swore he wouldn''t rest!


    To hell with the resources.


    To hell with the memories of Cloudview County.


    To hell with the Spiritual Tribute and Energy Stones.


    Those bastards had messed with a family full of vigor and a Forebearer with authority overhead!


    ...


    Soon, Ethan opened the map.


    [Cloudview County]


    The descendants of Blackwood were scattered everywhere, flourishing in various places.


    The only group gathered was slowly heading towards [Cloudview County].


    [Your descendant Nathan, along with others, is heading to Cloudview County incognito, always ready to receive any information on Elizabeth from Azure Cloud Pavilion being alone, to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete!]


    Even in their quest for revenge, the people of Blackwood were not reckless.


    They were waiting for the perfect moment and were prepared for the worst.


    But the first wave of Blackwood''s retaliation had already begun.


    Ethan zoomed in on the map, clicking on the two closest white dots near Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    [Azure Cloud Pavilion Back Mountain¡¤Ancestral Burial Site]


    Two game characters were seen under a large mountain, one holding a disc, looking at the inner sphere to find direction.


    "Big brother, are you sure you want to dig up the ancestral graves of Azure Cloud Pavilion''s forefathers?"


    The exceptional psychic equipment that Blackwood had used to break the Rodriguez family''s formation, the Array-Destroying Mystic Ability Disc, had somehow ended up in William''s hands, which was also why he could easily enter Blackwood.


    George looked serious, "Yes, otherwise I wouldn''t be able to exert any strength in the early stages of my Emerging Ability. There must be many treasures in the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s ancestral graves."


    "Once I hide them all, let the elders see the wealth I''ve accumulated. That''ll show them, huh!"


    William didn''t stop him, knowing his big brother was definitely a bit off, "Alright, I''ll find the path first, but be careful, big brother."


    Hearing this.


    George frowned, "Aren''t you digging with me?"


    "For some reason, whenever big brother walks in front of me, I always feel like stabbing him in the lower back."


    William grinned, "Besides, I have my own things to do."


    He looked towards the inner gates of Qingyun.


    After parting with George, he walked to a distant part of Qingyun Gate, soared into the sky with his sword, took out a thumb-sized porcelain bottle, and poured the blue liquid inside into his mouth. His psychic abilities erupted instantly! sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boom!"


    In an instant, a blood mist spread around him, his body riddled with holes, tilting as he fell towards the direction of Qingyun Gate, barely alive.


    But his eyes were white, and he was still muttering.


    "I am a Blackwood traitor, I know where the people of Blackwood are, they are scattered, to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete..."


    "Blackwood is so unfair, I''ve been bullied since I was a child, enduring endless humiliation. From old to young, all Blackwoods are my enemies, my hatred grew during the days they imprisoned me, not killing them all would not quench my resentment..."


    "The people of Blackwood are very cunning, I know valuable information, the assassin organization Dawn in Cloudview County, is Blackwood''s force. Besides that, Blackwood has no other trump cards."


    "If big brother wants to kill me, please ask Azure Cloud Pavilion to help me take revenge..."


    A flood of memories entered his mind.


    "Bang!"


    With a loud explosion, a dying young man smashed into the ground in front of Qingyun Gate, creating a deep pit and stirring up dust, finally catching the attention of the guards at Qingyun Gate.


    ...


    George was busy digging up the first ancestral grave at Azure Cloud Pavilion, getting the hang of grave robbing.


    [Warning, William is critically injured and near death, please use your skills to heal him immediately.]


    [Your descendant William drank the soul-cleansing liquid he got from Amelia, and even as he was dying, he still hypnotized himself. He was taken back by the guards of Azure Cloud Pavilion, and a master of Emerging Ability used his powers to sustain William''s life...]


    Ethan gasped at the brothers'' antics; no wonder they ended up together.


    George was digging up graves, and William was not only ruthless when it came to killing others, but he was also harsh on himself. That self-destruction move he pulled could have easily been the end of him, not to mention crashing into the ground while critically injured.


    Ethan didn''t bother to keep tabs on them after that.


    George was safe enough digging graves. As for William, given his tactics, Ethan figured the guy''s most likely cause of death would be his own reckless actions. Since he dared to infiltrate Azure Cloud Pavilion like that, he must have been pretty confident about his undercover work.


    The scene shifted.


    As time sped up.


    The older generation of Blackwood had already arrived at a small courtyard.


    [Cloudview County¡¤Benevolent Tea House]


    It was a small room, and as soon as Nathan and his wife, along with the brothers Lucas and Julian, and Daniel walked in, they saw Olivia.


    In an instant, three generations of five people had tears in their eyes.


    The Olivia they saw was a far cry from the charming woman who had left home.

 Chapter 127 - 127: Frenzied Blood Demon

    "Olivia, let''s not pursue this path of scholarly cultivation anymore!" Luna hurriedly walked up to Olivia, intending to embrace her, but Olivia''s body seemed as fragile as a skeleton that might shatter upon touch. She feared that a little too much force might break Olivia apart.


    The whole family gathered around Olivia.


    Yet Olivia still wore a smile.


    With the family reunited.


    "Huh?" Ethan let out a light exclamation, a hint of joy beginning to creep into his eyebrows.


    Olivia''s current state was indeed pitiful, but compared to last time, she had become younger. Last time she was practically one foot in the grave, now she was just on the brink of decay.


    [Your descendant Olivia is battling against a heavenly tribulation, her life is nearing its end!]


    "That''s not right, why is the description still the same?" Ethan frowned, checking again, and when he opened Olivia''s information, he noticed something different.


    Still a mortal body.


    But now there were two additional techniques or martial arts skills¡ª


    [Heavenly Scripture¡¤Commoners: Contains a trace of the world''s laws, can borrow life from the common people]


    [Heavenly Scripture¡¤Four Seasons: Borrow power from the four seasons]


    It seemed that opening Olivia''s information triggered an event.


    [Your descendant Olivia is borrowing life from millions in Cloudview County to withstand the heavenly tribulation]


    "So that''s it." Ethan suddenly understood. The path of a scholarly Psychic like Olivia was beyond his comprehension, especially for someone like her, who was even more mystical than fortune-tellers like Dennis, always pursuing some profound cosmic rule rather than mere power.


    Afterward.


    Ethan saw the Blackwoods gathered together, discussing plans for revenge, just like they had back in the days at Gratitude Village.


    Only now, they had all grown more mature and powerful.


    First, they placed the Forebearer''s Cards at the front hall, and everyone bowed respectfully.


    Ethan gave them a warm nod.


    "Indeed, even though we''ve left the Forebearer''s shrine, the Forebearer is still blessing us from the heavens." Nathan''s eyes brimmed with tears.


    Soon, they began discussing their future plans in front of the tablet.


    Olivia took over the conversation with a raspy voice, "Elizabeth already knows that all of us Blackwoods disappeared overnight. She and Elder Felix are hiding out in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, seemingly in fear."


    "They say these sect folks are all about the path, cutting off worldly ties."


    "I want to see just how lightly they regard these worldly ties."


    Hearing this, everyone turned to look at Olivia.


    Her gaze was calm, unfazed.


    At this moment, all the Blackwoods narrowed their eyes, listening intently to Olivia''s plan.


    If it had been before, they might have resisted Olivia''s plans, as they were... too inhumane.


    But now...


    [Special Event]


    [After deliberation by your descendants, they have decided to annihilate Elizabeth''s entire clan!]


    Ten clans!


    Time had not made Olivia kinder; on the contrary, she had become more indifferent to the lives of others.


    The matter with the Boar Monarch Pete had also caused the Blackwoods to temporarily bury their kindness, even Nathan, who was normally compassionate, did not refuse this time!


    He handed over all command of the family''s revenge to Olivia.


    Because he knew, there are times when it''s more appropriate for certain people to wield power.


    But Olivia did not act immediately.


    She held the Forebearer''s tablet.


    Propelled by an AI Bionic Robot, she moved to the courtyard, watching the winter snow melt away and spring arrive, with birds singing and flowers fragrant.


    "Forebearer, rest assured, even without our family''s stronghold, Olivia will not let the family''s development be delayed. I heard that the family''s blood ability fruit trees have become divine trees, and they say that starting next year, the land of Cloudview County will be filled with blood, and they were right."


    Olivia''s voice was haunting.


    "They say the Azure Cloud Pavilion is the memory of Cloudview County, then we Blackwoods will make the people of Cloudview County remember the Azure Cloud Pavilion with fear in the days to come!"


    Thunder rumbled in the sky, as if even the heavens could sense the murderous intent in the words of this dying old woman.


    Olivia remained unafraid.


    Then, in the courtyard of this teahouse, birds flew out towards all directions of Cloudview County, those directions where the Blackwood descendants were located.


    Ethan, watching from the screen, seemed to understand Olivia''s intention.


    The people of Cloudview County regard the Azure Cloud Pavilion as the orthodox authority, so... what if they were all struck with fear?


    He seemed to see it.


    Under Olivia''s leadership, the entire Cloudview County seemed about to be engulfed by a plague, a plague called fear.


    ...


    [Blackwood 84 Years]


    As the descendants of Blackwood began to scatter, each of them growing, Ethan found his mouse almost smoking from the rapid movements, making him the busiest Forebearer in all of Blackwood!


    The Primordial Blood Tree sent the Blackwood descendants scattering towards their destinies, each facing their own dangers.


    [Your descendants, the second generation of Blackwoods, rang a copper bell located above a dried well at the Pine Temple. However, when nothing happened, Thomas, infuriated, thought the Primordial Blood Tree was deceiving him and split the bell with a halberd, breaking the seal inside the well!]


    [The second generation of Blackwoods is now entering¡ªFrenzied Blood Demon Realm!]


    [Upon entering, they encountered the Lord of Frenzied Blood, sealed by the Pine Temple twenty thousand years ago. Drowned in a blood altar as a child, it had become a path of external demons, an immortal existence.


    Your descendants, the second generation of Blackwoods, battled the demon lord for seven days and nights with diminished psychic powers and dwindling physical strength, killing the opponent ten thousand times.]


    "Long live the Forebearer!" sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With Ethan''s use of ''Forebearer''s Roaring Fury,'' the second generation of Blackwoods finally got a chance to breathe, sealing the Lord of Frenzied Blood into a psychic equipment.


    "What in the world is that thing?"


    Ethan ignored the grateful and admiring looks the second generation of Blackwoods gave towards the Forebearer''s tablet, still somewhat shaken.


    That Lord of Frenzied Blood was no ordinary creature; smashing it into pieces, it would grow flesh buds and reassemble its body. Burning it to ashes with psychic fire, it would reappear as if nothing had happened, especially if it were at its peak...


    [With your help, your descendants have sealed the Lord of Frenzied Blood!]


    [After battling for seven days and nights, their bodies were stained with the demon lord''s blood. Within the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm, they found a blood pool where the demonic energy of the demon lord had gradually dissipated into the world over twenty thousand years, along with the broken pieces of a high-level psychic equipment ''Blood-Drinking Mad Blade.'']


    [Your descendants are asking if they can jump into the blood pool for a soak? They sensed a sweet aroma.]

 Chapter 128 - 128: Swamp Walker

    Ethan hesitated for a moment, his heart was truly enormous. The demonic energy from the Demon Lord of yesteryears had transformed into a blood pool, and it had been accumulating for twenty thousand years. Who knows if it was still within its shelf life? What would happen if one were to lie down in it?


    While Ethan was pondering this, the second generation of Blackwoods knelt before his cards. It was the first time Ethan had seen these seven guys look so serious. In the past, they might have even posed with his cards pretending to transform into Ultraman.


    "Forebearer, Thomas thinks it''s worth a try."


    "I feel the same."


    "The child feels an irresistible temptation; just a dip could greatly enhance our powers. The child also knows the risks of becoming demonized."


    The words exchanged among them were serious.


    But what truly moved Ethan was something Kevin said.


    "The child is not afraid of becoming demonized. We know about the situation at our second aunt''s place. There are many demons there, and isn''t that more interesting than those so-called righteous sects? At least, the demons didn''t kill Grandpa Pig Pete."


    "Big brother joined the Sky Sect, and for decades, the Sky Sect kept telling him to sever worldly ties, but big brother considered their words nonsense. My seven brothers can do the same, so what if we become demonized? Besides..."


    "Mr. Dennis from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion predicted for us seven brothers that we are inherently stubborn and of mediocre talent. We are not like our grandparents, not like our four elders, nor like our eldest and second brothers. If there''s no opportunity in this lifetime, even dying wouldn''t get us past the Transcendent Seed stage."


    "The child doesn''t want to stay in the Transcendent Seed stage; the child wants to challenge the Azure Cloud Pavilion. If anyone dares to say no, then we, the second generation of Blackwoods, will slap them hard!"


    The seven of them stared intently at the cards.


    Thomas''s eyes were bloodshot, "Forebearer, this is the only chance for us seven brothers to personally avenge Grandpa Pig Pete!"


    That was the truth.


    For the sake of revenge, what harm was there in becoming demonized?


    Seeing the stubborn expressions on the faces of the second generation of Blackwoods, Ethan suddenly realized that despite their decades of age, having been childish all their lives, it was finally time for them to grow up.


    Ethan sighed deeply and finally drew a ''yes'' in front of the seven brothers with the Forebearer Cards.


    Watching the seven brothers walk towards the blood pool and resolutely soak in it, Ethan squinted his eyes.


    "Just soak, fear nothing. We''re going to erase the memories of the entire Cloudview County, are we still afraid of a demon emerging from our home?"


    "Soak vigorously!"


    As he spoke, Ethan''s voice became ethereal and distant, "If Boar Monarch Pete were still here, he would definitely say the same, let you guys soak well and grow up fast, right?"


    ...


    As the seven brothers entered the blood pool, Ethan began to wait for the expected developments. The current Blackwood clan members were numerous:


    - Fourth generation: 32 people


    - Fifth generation: 6 people


    - Total members: 52 people


    This count didn''t even include their spouses or sons-in-law. Ethan had to keep an eye on their situations at all times.


    [Your descendant Larry has entered the Swamp Forest. Under the protection of her parents and the care of her elder brother, she, who was once frail, encountered bloodshed for the first time. She fought against exotic beasts and struggled against the ever-changing weather, barely surviving the poisonous miasma of the Swamp Forest time and again.]


    [As you repeatedly healed her with ''Forebearer''s Embrace,'' her physique grew stronger, and she gradually mastered the ''Beast Mastery'' passed down from her great-grandmother, the ''Medical Compendium'' from her second great-aunt, and various family techniques and martial skills, becoming increasingly adept at surviving in the Swamp Forest.]


    [Trait gained¡ªSwamp Walker!] S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Moving effortlessly through the swamp, she will become the most graceful psychic in the marsh.]


    In the scene, a pretty girl dressed in animal skins and barefoot stood on a protruding rock in the middle of the swamp, her eyes, wild as a beast''s, scanning her surroundings for opportunities, much like a crocodile.


    She gripped her spear tightly, leaped forward, and plunged it into the head of the beast leader, severing the crocodile''s head. Holding the crocodile''s head aloft, she roared skyward, surveying the surrounding crocodiles, "Submit, or..."


    "Die!!!"


    [Your descendant Larry has gained the submission of the Swamp Crocodiles.]


    [Trait gained: Crocodile Queen]


    [All crocodiles in the Swamp Forest will feel intimidated by her and gradually submit.]


    Standing on the back of a crocodile, Larry headed towards a distant area rich in psychic energy, clutching the Forebearer Cards in her arms, she felt reassured, "With the Forebearer''s blessing, I fear nothing. Next, it''s time to face that psychic crocodile."


    ...


    It was a vast lake shimmering with sparkling waves, yet eerily, at the center of this lake, the water was completely still, without a single ripple. A bird flying over it seemed to be crushed by an invisible force, plummeting rapidly into the lake''s depths.


    That was the true Deepheart Lake.


    During a calm moment at Deepheart Lake,


    "Splash!"


    Suddenly, a man burst forth from the surface of the lake, bare-skinned and riding a flying sword, hovering as if weighed down by a heavy burden, his waist bent, dripping with a mix of water and sweat.


    Forebearer Cards emerged from his Storage Ring, floating beside him. He managed a weak smile towards the Cards.


    "Forebearer, I''ve seen it, there''s treasure in Deepheart Lake!"


    "It''s a turtle shell covered in runes. The Divine Tree was right; the immense pressure in Deepheart Lake is all because of that shell."


    "It''s noticed me, it seems to be telling me, ''If you can carry me ashore, I will acknowledge you as my master!''"


    Watching the excited Justin on the screen, Ethan couldn''t muster any enthusiasm. Each ''Embrace of the Forebearer'' cost 100 Spiritual Tributes, capable of healing the severe injuries of an Iron Will Psychic.


    He had already saved this grandson from the brink of death nearly fifty times.

 Chapter 129 - 129: I dont want to hear Lopez again

    It seemed Justin had inherited the typical Blackwood stubbornness, setting his sights on a goal and stopping at nothing to achieve it.


    But it wasn''t without its rewards.


    [Your descendant Justin, after nearly fifty near-death experiences, has gained the trait: Numbness of the Reaper]


    [The chances of escaping death have greatly increased, each near-death experience grants a slight increase in strength, and the probability of gaining traits slightly increases.]


    [Your descendant has survived death multiple times, breaking through the seventh layer of Foundational Energy.]


    [Gained trait: Walking with Death]


    [He has gradually grown fond of the feeling of nearly dying, and his luck increases when he courts death.]


    "..."


    Ethan rubbed his temples, suspecting that in the trait ''Numbness of the Reaper,'' the Reaper was probably referring to himself.


    Fortunately, with these stacked traits, it seemed he wouldn''t need to save the boy as often.


    Sure enough.


    A couple of days later.


    Ethan saw Justin, a young man about 5 feet 7 inches tall, emerging from the lake carrying a turtle shell about 4 feet 11 inches long.


    [Your descendant has acquired a special ability item¡ªHeavenly Heavy Turtle Shell]


    [Symbiotic with the turtle shell, capable of releasing a pressure several times greater than his physical strength, and can withstand attacks several times his body strength.]


    Ethan felt relieved; with such a special ability item, the boy''s chances of survival when courting death had increased again.


    ...


    Over the past year, the fourth generation of Blackwood, always under George''s protection, finally left the eagle''s nest, making a name for themselves across Cloudview County. They''ve adapted to solitude and embraced growth, much like fledglings spreading their wings for the first time.


    The Primordial Blood Tree, revered by the Blackwood clan as a divine entity, stands testament to their legacy. Yet, the lands of omen where the Blackwood descendants roam are fraught with peril. Ethan''s most frequently used skill these days is ''Embrace of the Forebearer.''


    The only one who never needed Ethan to use this skill, the one who always gave him peace of mind, was...


    [Cloudview County¡¤Jones]


    Atop a high mountain, majestic buildings stretch under a haze of psychic energy. Ethan''s memories of this place are vivid, especially of William, who had been a son-in-law in Jones, murdered his wife here, and fled to the Thunderfire Demon Cave to seek refuge with Amelia.


    It seems fate has intertwined Jones and Blackwood after all.


    In a courtyard, a stunningly beautiful woman, fox-like in her allure, pours tea in scant attire. Beside her, a very honest-looking young man.


    [Your descendant Jessica, hiding her true identity, entered Jones as a maid, puzzled by the divine tree''s prophecy of killing her husband. One day, a direct elder of Jones noticed Jessica''s beauty and decided to betroth her to his son, Jack.]


    [Discovering her father-in-law''s sinister plans, she called upon an expert from Dawn, killed the father-in-law, and later married Jack. Amidst the treachery of a great family and the troubles caused by her beauty, she gained the trait: Fatal Beauty.]


    [Her beauty is her most dangerous weapon, always managing to eliminate enemies with her growing wisdom and means beyond violence. Her chances of romantic encounters increased.]


    "Jessica, I... I think..."


    Jack, facing his wife, blushed, hesitating to speak his mind.


    But from the desire in Jack''s eyes, Jessica understood what her husband wanted. She covered her mouth with a coy laugh, her voice soft, "Didn''t we agree? Once you become the head of the family, I''ll give you everything you want."


    "Jessica, how can I become the head of the family? My father is gone, I... I''m not qualified."


    Jessica looked serious, "I want my husband to be the most capable and respected man in town. They say you''re not worthy, but I can see the potential in you."


    "I''ll help you!"


    As they spoke, a carrier pigeon arrived. Jessica caught it under her husband''s gaze, accustomed to such scenes.


    Glancing at the chaotic, almost nonsensical words in the letter.


    Jessica''s lips parted slightly.


    [The operation begins, take your husband and Jones'' servants, and kill the descendants of the Elizabeth family branch.]


    [Location, Peaceful County, Green Poplar Town Lopez.]


    "I want to go to Peaceful County, Green Poplar Town. I hear the scenery is beautiful there."


    Jessica didn''t even glance at her husband as she stroked the Cards in her arms.


    With her husband''s agreement.


    She looked into the distance.


    "Jack, what color do you think the snow will be this year?"


    Jack paused, "Isn''t snow always white?"


    Jessica shook her head; she had seen red snow before and never wanted to see it again. But she wanted to go to Green Poplar Town, to see the blood-stained earth, which would surely be more beautiful than red snow, ideally hearing Elizabeth''s anguished cries from the Azure Cloud Pavilion in the distance.


    Ethan watched as each child, under the influence of the Primordial Blood Tree, cultivated psychic powers in specific areas, growing wildly.


    Without exception, they all developed a wildly fierce nature over the year, with various traits infiltrating their bodies.


    Ethan called the fourth generation the wildest yet.


    If the first three generations were endowed with courage by his Forebearer Cards, then the fourth generation, thanks to the old boar, possessed a fearless madness.


    And now, this madness was descending like a cleaver upon their enemies.


    ...


    [Green Poplar Town ¡¤ Lopez Estate]


    This branch of the Green Poplar Town, with a two-hundred-year heritage, emitted its final dull chant.


    The gates of the Lopez estate opened.


    Blood-stained guards and servants were escorting the eighth young master and his grandmother of the Jones direct line out.


    The guards and servants, with fleeting glances at the grandmother, quickly lowered their heads.


    This girl, who rose from a maid to become the grandmother of the Jones'' eighth young master, always became an indispensable figure in the dreams of men and some women.


    "Hmph, the audacious rural home dares to covet our Jones'' woman? Using Azure Cloud Pavilion to scare me, disturbing my good mood."


    Jack spat on the ground, and no matter how naive and honest he was, he was still of the Jones direct line.


    "The young master is right."


    An aged servant at the peak of Emerging Ability chuckled while stroking his beard, "Lopez is nothing, even if Azure Cloud Pavilion has an old Lopez ancestor, they are ultimately detached from worldly affairs and pose no threat."


    Jessica nodded slightly, returning with Jack to Cloudview County. Before leaving, she paused, looking at the servant, "Make it clean, the next time I come to Green Poplar Town, I don''t want to hear ''Lopez'' again."


    "Yes, young madam." S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The servant bowed deeply, watching Jessica''s departing figure, he stroked his beard and sighed, "Such a demoness, if old Jones mishandles this, he''s truly bewitched."


    He faintly felt that ever since this grandmother entered their family, the branch they controlled was gradually growing stronger with time. Regrettably, what made everything savagely grow was not Jack, but this maid-born, clean-background young grandmother.


    As his words fell, blood flowed out from the Lopez estate gates, endlessly streaming through the gutters.

 Chapter 130 - 130: Lopez Clearance Plan, completed

    On the same day, in different places, extraordinary events unfolded!


    [Special Event¡ªThe Lopez Purge Plan]


    Your descendant Larry, emerging from the swampy jungles, received the family''s command! Leading thousands of crocodiles, various wolves, tigers, leopards, and countless birds and beasts, she headed to a village where a disciple of Elizabeth was born!


    Your descendant Justin, clad in heavy turtle shell armor, received orders to head to a Lopez mine vein!


    Olivia, commanding Dawn assassins, divided into twelve teams, ready to start exterminating various Lopez branches at dawn!


    Amelia ordered the demons of Thunderfire Demon Cave to emerge...


    A bloody purge was silently underway.


    Like a widespread unknown plague, it was budding, carrying the towering rage of Blackwood, manipulated by Olivia, and began to spread.


    [Cloudview County]


    As dawn broke, a group of odd figures walked through the morning mist.


    There was a burly middle-aged man at the forefront, his honest and simple face bearing an expression as solid as rock, marked by the years, dressed in simple cloth clothes.


    Most notably, he was leading a rope tightened around something in front of him, and carrying something covered with a white cloth on his back, which looked like a huge coffin.


    Beside him was a slightly petite woman, extremely enchanting yet possessing a rustic simplicity, her hair done up in a style only old ladies would wear, adorned with antique jewelry, and dressed in a simple, loose peasant skirt.


    Following them were four people.


    A young man in a black robe, extremely handsome, with locks of hair framing his face, his sharp gaze barely concealed. His hands, hidden in his sleeves, swung as the black box behind him clinked with the sound of metal clashing, as if something inside was fighting for dominance.


    A muscular man, bare-chested, his muscles bulging, walked barefoot, wearing only shorts torn at the knees. His eyebrows, hair, and beard seemed to have been burned off, giving him a fierce look, especially with his silver left arm, clearly not to be trifled with.


    Yet this fierce man was pushing an old woman in a wheelchair, his careful demeanor somewhat amusing.


    Beside them, there was a woman with a ponytail, tall, wearing clanking armor. The front of her armor was carved with a ferocious boar''s head with sharp fangs, and at her waist hung a large ghost-headed saber, like a general.


    In this thick fog, any passerby who encountered them fled as if they had seen a ghost.


    Just then, they halted their journey as a woman emerged from the mist ahead. She was dressed in a disheveled Taoist robe, her long hair a tangled mess, revealing a dirty little face.


    Then the group moved forward again, silent, just smiling slightly as they watched the Taoist-robed woman quietly join their ranks.


    On the streets of Cloudview County, they seemed to emerge from the mist and disappear back into it.


    Generations later, the early descendants of Blackwood finally began to gather.


    For some reason, at this moment, their minds simultaneously recalled the wild lands outside the Silver Iron Forest of old.


    Like today''s George, carrying Forebearer Cards, they faced crises together. They drove off bandits together, ventured into the Silver Iron Forest together, and with the hope of their family, they charged into Forest Town.


    Now, each of them had aged, experienced the passage of time, and the various phases of life. Time had imposed the trials they had to endure, changing their youthful hearts, but what it could never change was the courage they had when they stood together¡ªa courage called family.


    Until, taking advantage of the morning mist, they reached the outskirts of a high mountain, before a stone monument¡ªLopez.


    "Who goes there?!!"


    As they first stepped in front of the Lopez mountain gate, the Blackwood descendants looked up at the sprawling buildings atop the mountain, and the guards at the gate were already on high alert.


    No one responded.


    The guard saw it.


    A card rose slowly from the bosom of the middle-aged man at the front, replacing the sun that should have risen this morning! sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The disheveled woman casually threw a gourd, and from it emerged a giant black serpent, tens of meters long, with its soft horns trembling, flashing with the power of thunder and fire!


    It glared with blood-red eyes, opened its huge mouth, revealing its fierce and uneven fangs, and roared at them!


    That was also the last scene the guard saw in his life.


    "Roar!!!"


    Watching the family''s guardian beast break through from the demon cave and charge up Lopez, Nathan unlocked the Direct Death Coffin, leaped into the sky, and as the coffin opened, zombies screamed and rushed out, activating the great Lopez formation.


    Nathan looked at the card in front of him, his family also staring at him.


    The corners of his mouth lifted slightly.


    "Leave none behind!"


    ...


    [Your family, the first and second generations, collectively went to Lopez in Cloudview County.]


    [Half an hour later, they left Lopez, bringing back a large amount of spoils of war.]


    [After this battle, they silently dispersed.]


    Ethan also saw the terrifying strength of the first two generations of Blackwood, and even he was a bit thrilled.


    "Holy smokes."


    Ethan wiped the cold sweat from his forehead; it was a total crush. What half an hour? That was just collecting spoils!


    The strongest in Lopez, merely a beginner in Developing Skill, didn''t even have a chance to fight back. Under the evolved Purple Thunder Solar Python, their clan''s protective formation was like paper!


    He saw countless zombies crawling out of Nathan''s Direct Death Coffin, and ghosts appearing from Nathan''s formation.


    Luna, with her demonic fox form, left the people of Lopez standing dumbly waiting for their demise.


    Lucas''s sword, Amelia''s vines that almost covered the Lopez base, Julian controlling the war AI Bionic Robot he had crafted over and over, and...


    Olivia, who could manipulate the seasons at will!


    Even Mary, with her False Core stage power, could summon a wisp of the remnant soul of two generations of demonic kings to form a magical body!


    "Have they all become this strong?"


    Ethan remembered the battle at the Rodriguez family''s place; if it were the current Blackwood going there, it would be a crush!


    He had been ready to descend into the game world again to help his descendants fight, but this Spiritual Tribute was saved.


    Not to mention not asking for his help, even the Primordial Blood Tree wasn''t summoned in this battle.


    Now, Blackwood, in his twenty years of secluded cultivation, already had the strength to crush any ordinary Developing Skill family!


    And that too, without even going all out!


    [Congratulations, special event¡ªLopez Clearance Plan, completed.]


    [You have earned 10,000 Spiritual Tribute points.]


    [Your descendant Olivia is sending a major gift to Elizabeth at the Azure Cloud Pavilion¡ªthe heads of Lopez people.]


    "Good! Elizabeth, this is just the first account!"


    Witnessing such slaughter, Ethan instead showed a satisfied expression.


    He couldn''t forget the cold, ruthless look on Elizabeth''s face when he saw the old pig being tortured in the Energy Stone at Blackwood while gathering intelligence!


    He believed that the people of Blackwood would never forget that image over time, their hatred only accumulating as time passed.


    Now was the time to vent their fury!


    He took a deep breath.

 Chapter 131 - 131: The presence of death!

    Ethan switched the view to the Azure Cloud Pavilion,curious to see if Elizabeth had truly severed her earthly ties.He glanced at the member list and saw William''s avatar.


    "Through William,the map of Azure Cloud Pavilion must have been unlocked."


    Ethan grinned.William was indeed a bit twisted,but this time the kid did well,fighting for the family.


    Ethan believed that with William''s twisted intelligence,his undercover operation must be a success,maybe even climbing the ranks within the Azure Cloud Pavilion...


    "Huh???"


    The view shifted to William''s perspective.


    Ethan''s smile twitched.


    He saw it.


    In the center of the Azure Cloud Pavilion,hanging from a pillar,was a black iron cage.Below,on the bluestone pavement,disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion walked back and forth,occasionally glancing up at the cage as if watching a monkey.


    Inside the cage.


    William''s hands tightly gripped the iron bars,his face almost squeezed between two bars,his lower lip protruding in distress.


    Above his head,a few words appeared.


    "Let me out!!!"


    Ethan:"..."


    ...


    [In the year 84 at Blackwood,a series of mysterious disappearances among the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion led to a grim discovery behind the mountains¡ªthree disciples were found buried alive.The head of the Pavilion decided to make an example of William by having him recite scriptures in public daily,hoping to reform him.]


    [Your descendant William has acquired the trait:The Pretender]


    Half a year of scriptures did nothing to soften his twisted heart.He memorized the texts and pretended to heed the master''s teachings,but his resolve only grew stronger.


    "Are you freaking kidding me?"Ethan was speechless,holding his forehead in frustration."Great,just great.The more we try to''educate''him,the more of a psycho he becomes.Now he''s even more set on murder."


    Ethan had hoped that being around George would gradually change his deranged descendant for the better,and indeed,William had not committed any heinous acts for months and had even started working undercover for the family.


    But now...this descendant,surpassing even George in talent,seemed utterly hopeless.


    Ignoring William,Ethan shifted his view,observing various locations within the Azure Cloud Pavilion.As an ancient sect with many disciples and secret spots for cultivating psychic powers,it was rich in heritage.


    Some areas,thanks to William''s investigations,provided Ethan,the Forebearer,with valuable information.


    [Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Twelve Guardian Towers]


    [The Pavilion has been a place of passing down skills from Competent and Developing Skill elders for generations,ensuring the legacy of the Azure Cloud Pavilion does not fade.]


    "Could such a sect lack Competent members?"Ethan squinted,considering the information known to Blackwood.It was said that the Pavilion only had Developing Skill elders,but with a history spanning thousands of years,including the sect leader,there were seven Developing Skill members.


    This level of expertise was almost on par with the Sky Sect and the Black Shell Gate.


    The more Ethan delved into the situation at the Azure Cloud Pavilion,the more he realized the depth of its hidden strength.Even without trying hard,he could sense that the Pavilion was concealing its true capabilities. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just then...


    "Boom!"


    A disciple in a cloud-patterned robe,riding a crane,hurriedly descended from the sky into the sect,his face filled with terror.He had lost control of the crane,and both he and the bird tumbled to the ground upon landing.


    The disciple,ignoring the crane''s mournful cries,stumbled towards the main hall.


    "Master,Elders!It''s...it''s terrible!"


    "Something horrifying is happening at the base of Azure Cloud Mountain!"


    At that moment...


    In the main hall,the back mountains,the Twelve Guardian Towers,and even beneath the Pavilion,all the Psychics opened their eyes.


    They all heard the disciple''s terrified shouts,and...


    They also sensed the thick scent of blood coming from below Azure Cloud Mountain!


    Sitting on a lotus platform,the Pavilion''s leader,Master Yixian,calculated the situation with a cold gaze,observing the patterns in the hall before sighing deeply,"A great disaster is upon us,but why?"


    As he spoke...


    In one of the towers,a stunning woman sitting opposite Elder Felix opened her beautiful eyes.In an instant,her eyes turned blood-red,and she leaped up,her phoenix form emerging and breaking through the top of the tower in a burst.


    She felt it¡ªa blood connection,no matter how faint,all converging outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    And...


    The presence of death!


    In the center of the Pavilion,William,who was gripping the iron bars and putting on a pitiful act,slowly lifted his head,watching the fiery figure rushing out.He raised an eyebrow,also sensing the blood scent from below Azure Cloud Mountain,sweet and overwhelming.


    "Tsk tsk,must be the work of Great Auntie.Truly a divine figure in my eyes."


    ...


    Ethan stared at the screen,his eyes wide with horror.Below Azure Cloud Mountain,the air was thick with a dark,sinister mist formed from the mingling of blood and the dark resentment of the dead.Within just a few minutes,the sky in the distance had turned a dark crimson due to these malevolent energies.


    At the base of the mountain,a chilling sight unfolded¡ªa tower built entirely of human heads!For Ethan,the image on the screen was already terrifying.The tower,several feet high,was composed of heads all frozen in expressions of terror.


    But for the disciples gathered at the Azure Cloud Pavilion,this sight could very well become a deep-seated phobia,haunting them for a long time to come.


    They saw it.


    Outside this gruesome tower,as the wind blew,the hair on these severed heads fluttered in the breeze.Most of the hair was still,dripping with blood.The eyes in all the skulls retained the horrified expressions of their final moments,many filled with confusion,as if they couldn''t understand why disaster had befallen them even in death.


    Because of this,the heads on the tower seemed to look in every direction,as if emitting an endless stream of resentment.


    Blood,not yet dried,trickled down from the gaps between the heads at the base of the tower,slowly flowing towards the gate of Azure Cloud Mountain.


    Some Psychics,using their techniques,witnessed an even more terrifying scene!

 Chapter 132 - 132: Elder Felix, do you have an explanation for this?

    Outside the mountain gate, spectral figures in pairs and groups, headless and stiff, wandered towards the crowd. They were seeking the missing parts of their bodies to continue their cycle of reincarnation.


    Fear spread among the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, who were unaware of the sinister forces at play or who could have constructed such a malevolent spectacle outside their pavilion.


    The foul wind that blew even caused some of the more faint-hearted disciples to faint, a wind that carried a deathly aura capable of shattering the psyche!


    Following this, many elders from the Azure Cloud Pavilion arrived. Among them, a stunning woman in red, Elizabeth, appeared numb as she stood before the spectacle, lost in a daze. However, at this moment, no one paid attention to Elizabeth''s unusual behavior.


    Their brows furrowed as they looked towards the sky above the spectacle, where at the very top, a human head held an Energy Stone in its mouth. As more disciples gathered, the Energy Stone began to glow, revealing a scene to all present.


    They saw in the vision a Boar Monarch Pete, once gentle and playful in a valley with children who naively called him ''Old Pig Pete'' and ''Great Grandpa''. Despite their inability to understand how a Boar Monarch Pete could harmonize so well with children, they could feel the warmth of the scene. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But then, the scene shifted to show the Boar Monarch Pete''s grave and the children''s mourning in that same valley.


    The vision changed again.


    Felix, an elder from the Sky Sect, along with Elizabeth from the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Phoenix Hall, were seen chasing after the Boar Monarch Pete. They pursued him like a cat after a mouse, with Elizabeth relentlessly slashing at the Boar Monarch Pete.


    It was a long and dehumanizing chase marked by brutality. Stephen, the aged and venerable leader of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, with his white hair and youthful face, stroked his beard and sighed as he watched the scene.


    Looking at the petrified Elizabeth on the ground and then back at the vision, he realized everything. He understood why, upon leaving, he had foreseen a great disaster approaching.


    "The Pavilion Master, this..." an elder who had also witnessed the entire event frowned and said, "It''s a humanity-destroying act. Just for a Boar Monarch Pete, building such a grand structure in our Azure Cloud Pavilion is akin to walking the path of demons."


    "Our Azure Cloud Pavilion, no matter what, is a major power with a heritage of over a hundred thousand years. Anyone who provokes us so blatantly in front of our pavilion is seriously underestimating us."


    "Perhaps... we should handle this mundane matter by discussing it with the other party. I don''t want to get involved."


    "It''s common for grudges to lead to more grudges, but this family has gone too far."


    The elders spoke one after another, each with their own opinions.


    Stephen remained deep in thought, glancing at Elder Felix from the Sky Sect, who was avoiding eye contact. His voice was somber, "Elder Felix, do you have an explanation for this?"


    "Pavilion Master."


    Elder Felix was also heavily burdened. He had thought that after killing the pig Boar Monarch Pete, it would drive the people of Blackwood mad. He had even stayed in Forest Town with Elizabeth, waiting for Blackwood''s people to attack her, after which he could escape with his partner.


    He expected that the news of Elizabeth being attacked and the backlash from the entire Cloudview County against Blackwood would follow, and he wouldn''t even need to lift a finger!


    But unexpectedly, Blackwood''s people did not react at all. In a very short time, they abandoned their Blackwood residence and disappeared completely!


    Over the past year, he had no idea what Blackwood''s people were up to.


    He had set a trap, but Blackwood''s people had no intention of falling into it; instead, they completely overturned his chessboard!


    Now, he glanced at the grand structure and at the stupefied Elizabeth, even his heart trembling. He hadn''t expected Blackwood''s people to be so ruthless, nor had he expected their decisiveness in such a genocidal act, something no ordinary power could do!


    He suddenly realized that even after years of sending people to gather intelligence on Marcus and Blackwood, he had still vastly underestimated Blackwood''s power and strength.


    They were not just a simple developing skill family!


    "I''m asking you a question." Stephen, at the mid-stage of Developing Skill, looked at the distracted Felix, his tone calm, showing no regard for Felix, who was at the peak of Developing Skill, "For these two hundred years, as an elder of the Sky Sect, you have repeatedly used Elizabeth and exploited the reputation of our Azure Cloud Pavilion for your own ends."


    With that, he sighed deeply, "It''s also my fault, considering your identity in the Sky Sect and your special relationship as cultivation partners, I''ve been reluctant to intervene."


    "But now, you think you''re so clever, but you''ve led our Azure Cloud Pavilion elders into such a disaster."


    Upon hearing this, Elder Felix''s expression changed, "Pavilion Master, what do you mean by these words?"


    "You''ve brought this upon yourself."


    Stephen exhaled deeply, "Arrest him."


    "Yes!"


    As Stephen''s words fell, four or five elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion moved instantly, and a golden bowl from the Sky Sect, a piece of primary advanced psychic equipment, easily captured the fleeing Elder Felix.


    Elder Felix''s face changed dramatically, "Pavilion Master, I am an elder of the Sky Sect, this matter has nothing to do with me, and besides, it was Elizabeth who killed the Boar Monarch Pete, not me! Arresting me is hardly fair, is it?"


    "Don''t use the Sky Sect to pressure me, you are nothing."


    Stephen shook his head and waved his hand, "Arrest Elizabeth as well, this woman has been cultivating psychic powers for over three hundred years, her heart is not pure, and today she will be locked up with Felix until I discuss matters with Blackwood''s people and decide what to do next."


    "Yes!"


    The elders furrowed their brows, somewhat puzzled. Although Blackwood''s strength was formidable, capable of annihilating the Lopez family overnight, it still didn''t seem worth it for the Azure Cloud Pavilion to bow down for this reason, let alone offend the Sky Sect by arresting Elizabeth and Elder Felix.


    As Stephen watched the two being taken away, he shook his head and turned to walk to the center of the Sky Sect, his right hand calculating.


    Just as he walked under William''s cage and floated up to look at William''s confused gaze, Stephen heard a heart-wrenching scream behind him.


    "Ah!!!"


    It was Elizabeth''s cry of despair.


    Stephen shook his head, "Disaster."

 Chapter 133 - 133: He had foreseen it; he couldnt stop this disaster.

    "Huh?"


    Watching the leader of the Azure Cloud Pavilion arrest that couple, Ethan was stunned. He had thought that a sect with over a hundred thousand years of heritage like the Azure Cloud Pavilion would be furious at the Blackwoods'' provocation, but he didn''t expect the Pavilion''s leader to be so reasonable!


    It wasn''t just Ethan.


    Even Olivia, who was watching everything happening at the Azure Cloud Pavilion through images sent back to her in Cloudview County, was taken aback. She quickly breathed a sigh of relief, but this didn''t make her lower her guard.


    Instead, she furrowed her brows even more, "Such a sensible leader."


    She then waved her hand, signaling someone to come over, "Go, find out if there''s anyone in this world still connected to Sky Sect Felix, and eliminate all his friends and relatives."


    "Yes, leader!"


    A dark shadow floated up from the ground and disappeared.


    ...


    "He must have foreseen something. Places like the Azure Cloud Pavilion, their leaders have strong cards to play, no wonder they have lasted till now."


    Watching the screen, Ethan also realized that Stephen''s actions were unexpected.


    But at least for now, this seemed like a genuinely reasonable person.


    "We still need to keep an eye on him, otherwise, who knows what weird things might happen."


    In the image.


    Stephen was now face to face with William, who was still pretending to be clueless, "Leader, what''s happening outside? Why did all the brothers rush out?"


    "..."


    Stephen was silent for a long time, finally saying something that made William''s face change, "Did you think you could fool me for long with your soul-cleansing liquid?"


    William was dumbfounded.


    [Your descendant William is on the verge of a breakdown.]


    "..."


    Ethan twitched the corner of his mouth, finally getting it. This Stephen probably had the same fortune-telling skills as Dennis from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, and was even more formidable.


    William stood before Stephen, as if stripped bare.


    Above Stephen''s head appeared a line of text.


    The master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion sighed deeply, "There are bad seeds in the world, my child. From the moment you entered the Azure Cloud Pavilion, I knew you harbored ill intentions. Yet, I spared your life, also giving the Azure Cloud Pavilion a chance to survive."


    William finally snapped out of his shock, but he didn''t understand Stephen''s words and dropped the act, "Old man, what are you playing at? I don''t understand."


    "You will," Stephen said slowly, opening the cage, "Go back and tell your elders at Blackwood that the disaster has only just begun. It''s not just your disaster, but also ours at the Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    William rubbed his head irritably, "What do you mean? I''ve been exposed, you should have killed me!"


    Stephen remained calm, "It''s my time to die."


    "Huh???"


    Not only was William stunned, but Ethan watching the scene was too.


    Stephen still looked indifferent to life or death, still smiling, "Don''t think I just had Elizabeth and Felix locked up. If I wanted them dead, that would be impossible."


    "The Azure Cloud Pavilion is no longer what it once was. The once great pavilion sheltered psychic abilities during times of chaos, accumulating great merit over a hundred thousand years, allowing it to survive to this day."


    "Now, the elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, blinded by greed, exhaust all means to restore its former glory."


    "That''s why there''s the union of Elizabeth and Sky Sect''s Felix. You think the Azure Cloud Pavilion is above it all?"


    "No, inside, it''s filled with forces from Sky Sect, the Black Shell Gate, and even the entire Cloudview County. The Azure Cloud Pavilion has long been a microcosm of the entire Cloudview County."


    "Do you believe they''ve already walked out of their cells?"


    "And me, haha, I''m tired, I also want to live. Tonight, I will leave the Azure Cloud Pavilion with some of my disciples." S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Watching William walk out of the cage.


    Stephen waved his hand, "Go on, tell your elders to stop fighting. If you want to kill the elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, you''re opposing the entire Cloudview County. They''ve been corrupt for many years, it''s better to leave Cloudview County as soon as possible."


    "By the way."


    Watching William walk away with his hands behind his head and swagger in his step, Stephen shouted, "Be careful of the Sky Sect at Blackwood, think about why Felix was only locked up for twenty years, while your Blackwood''s Marcus was confined for fifty?"


    His words fell.


    He had already walked back to the main hall, packing up with two elders and dozens of disciples, and took to the skies that night.


    Stephen stood above the clouds.


    He looked down at the Azure Cloud Pavilion on the ground, brightly lit, filled with psychic energy, worthy of a sect that had survived for over a hundred thousand years, and also the memory of the entire Cloudview County. But the higher it rises, the easier it is to lose its nature.


    He still remembered the Azure Cloud Pavilion of old, all members devoted to the path.


    But now...


    "Without destruction, there can be no construction; ruin brings rebirth."


    Stephen''s gaze was profound, as if containing a brilliant galaxy, "Cloudview County also needs a thorough reshuffling. I hope you at Blackwood can achieve it."


    He took a deep breath and soared into the clouds, a trickle of fresh blood running from the corner of his mouth.


    He had foreseen it; he couldn''t stop this disaster.


    And Blackwood...


    They were a group of thoroughly enraged beasts. Despite years of cultivating psychic powers and the Six Lines of Divine Calculation, he couldn''t fully predict the specific locations of the people of Blackwood.


    He only knew that these beasts were spread across Cloudview County, like a great tree spreading its vines, guiding their way.


    A fog protected all descendants of Blackwood.


    He couldn''t see through the descendants of Blackwood, nor could he see through Blackwood''s future.


    But he knew, what you can''t see through is always the most dangerous.


    Stephen wiped the blood from his mouth, and despite having spent fifty years of his life, he still wore a smile.

 Chapter 134 - 134: We can be more cruel than you

    In Cloudview County, Olivia was stargazing at night. She had been relaxed, but then she noticed a dark mist swirling in the distance. Shaking her head, she soon saw William escaping from the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    As soon as he laid eyes on the legendary Great Aunt, he was filled with admiration, "Great Aunt, I finally get to see you in person. You are a role model for our generation..."


    Before he could finish, a cage fell from the sky, trapping William again, leaving him utterly baffled. He clung to the bars of the cage, sticking his head out just like he did at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, "Great Aunt, what are you doing?"


    Well, the only good thing was that his feet touched the ground, so he wasn''t swaying.


    Olivia ignored William and asked herself, "Did you see the capital at the Azure Cloud Pavilion?"


    "I did," William replied. "The Pavilion Master caught that couple, but he also took off himself, said something mysterious. In short, we still have to deal with the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and even the whole Cloudview County."


    "Right, and there''s the Sky Sect..."


    Olivia waved her hand, and although William''s mouth moved in the cage, his voice couldn''t be heard.


    She pulled out the Forebearer Cards from her pocket.


    Olivia sighed deeply, "Forebearer, your child is useless, I couldn''t resolve this matter easily."


    On the screen, Ethan was manipulating the Forebearer Cards, writing down the words ''no worries''.


    His expression didn''t change much.


    Originally, Ethan and Olivia''s plan was to use Lopez''s capital, along with the old pig''s murder, to reason with the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Indeed, they made their point, and Stephen was very cooperative, but...


    That''s just how things are, disappointing. Stephen seemed to have predicted that it was unstoppable, and he didn''t even want to try to hand over the couple.


    The situation in the whole Cloudview County and the Azure Cloud Pavilion was more complicated than they expected. All the forces and sects in Cloudview County seemed to have already formed a closely-knit yet cautious group around the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    And now, because of the establishment of the capital, Blackwood had become an outlier among them.


    This contradiction was going to grow.


    Ethan took a deep breath.


    His eyes were filled with danger.


    He seemed to understand that the signs from the Primordial Blood Tree were very accurate, so accurate that his attempts with Olivia to change the future did not alter its course.


    "If we must bring about slaughter, then so be it."


    [Initiate Plan B]


    Ethan manipulated the Cards, leaving a supernatural ability in front of Olivia.


    Seeing this, Olivia bowed respectfully, "Yes, Forebearer!"


    As Olivia moved, pigeons flew in all directions.


    That night, all the descendants of Blackwood received a letter from the family. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They looked up, already aware of the capital''s situation. That night, the people of Blackwood all smiled, some even wished they could personally visit the Azure Cloud Pavilion to see what the capital was like.


    Then they laughed, tears mingling with their smiles.


    In that letter, Olivia had left a supernatural power.


    They saw it, they saw Elizabeth frantically searching for descendants'' heads in the capital at night!


    Following that.


    The entire Good People Tea House was deserted, leaving only William dryly waiting in the cage.


    When dawn came.


    He emerged from the cage with a face full of grievances, "Why? Why didn''t you include me?"


    He was furiously pounding the ground.


    Suddenly, a Forebearer Card floated up from his chest, and a warm light fell on him.


    William was overjoyed, jumping up from the ground and tightly hugging the Forebearer Card.


    "Big brother was right, only Forebearer truly cares about us descendants, Forebearer really didn''t abandon me!"


    "Let''s go, Forebearer, I''ve learned some new tricks recently. On the way back, someone dared to glare at me, let''s go find him!"


    The Forebearer Card suddenly lost its luster.


    On the screen.


    [You have canceled the skill ''Forebearer''s Warmth'']


    "..."


    Ethan switched his perspective to another descendant and sped up the time.


    He knew that from this moment on, the real test for Blackwood was about to begin.


    ...


    Inside the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    As Pavilion Master Stephen fled with two elders and numerous disciples, a new elder took his place on the Pavilion Master''s lotus seat.


    "Send a message, Forest Blackwood has built a capital outside our Azure Cloud Pavilion, attempting to kill our Pavilion elders. Find any of Blackwood''s descendants, show no mercy."


    Just as the disciples were about to leave.


    The new Pavilion Master stopped them, adding, "The former Pavilion Master Stephen, he stole treasures from our Azure Cloud Pavilion. Reward anyone who finds him."


    "Yes!"


    As the disciples departed.


    The new Pavilion Master looked around at everyone, "Where is Elder Elizabeth?"


    "She''s... outside. She was released last night and has been searching through the capital all night, no one knows what she''s looking for."


    In the dead of night.


    Elizabeth''s eyes were bloodshot, tears streaming down her face. The capital was already in ruins, but she continued to search frantically, her beautiful face marred by messy hair and continuous cold sweat, strands sticking to her face, making her look like a madwoman, muttering as if in a trance.


    "My child, where is my child?"


    "My grandson... my grandson!"


    "Damn Blackwood, I will have my revenge, revenge!"


    "Where are they? I''ll take you home, back to our old home. I''ll build you the finest graves and leave your favorite things as Tribute Offerings..."


    Inside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, disciples were sending messages in all directions.


    Under the cover of night, Elizabeth continued her search in the crowded capital, but there were too many heads, some already unrecognizable, mangled beyond recognition. She couldn''t find them; her body was covered in the blood of the Lopez people, and with her twisted face, she looked like a ghoul crawling out of hell, no matter how beautiful she once was.


    Finally.


    She found it, the severed head of her younger son from her youth!


    "My child, mother has found you, haha, mother has found you!"


    She laughed madly under the moonlight, holding the head with its eyes wide open in horror, "Mother will take you home, find your body, and you will be whole again..."


    Then...


    "Boom!"


    The head exploded right before her eyes.


    Elizabeth''s initially joyful expression gradually froze, her expression becoming lifeless, like a soulless puppet, still holding the head, her body trembling slightly.


    The face of her younger son laughing in her arms as a child, the scenes of her playing with her child, all appeared before her eyes, then shattered bit by bit.


    An old woman''s voice faintly echoed in her ear¡ª


    "Do you feel the pain of losing a loved one? We can be more cruel than you."


    This malicious voice echoed incessantly in Elizabeth''s ears.

 Chapter 135 - 135: Asking you if it could be further modified?

    From a distance, Felix watched everything unfold, his body trembling. Even though he had been released as expected, fear still gripped him. The ruthless tactics of the Blackwood clan were on full display!


    Previously, Felix had only thought about annihilating Blackwood, but now... he realized that the people of Blackwood were far stronger and more merciless than he had imagined.


    They were even willing to abandon the family business that had been built up over nearly a century, now adopting a stance of having nothing to lose.


    He could even feel that the Blackwoods were lurking in the dark corners around him, ready to make him pay an irreversible price.


    Elder Felix couldn''t deny it¡ªhe regretted it. He realized that he had made the most foolish decision of his life by killing the Boar Monarch Pete of Blackwood.


    He took a deep breath and slowly walked forward, embracing Elizabeth. She was his partner, promised to him two hundred years ago by the Azure Cloud Pavilion and Sky Sect to foster friendly relations.


    With Elizabeth, he had risen to his current status. Only he knew how innocent Elizabeth was; even three hundred years of cultivating psychic powers at the sect hadn''t matured her mind.


    "Elizabeth, it''s okay, I''ll always be by your side. We can continue to cultivate our psychic powers to Competent level, or even higher. Over the years, we''ve practiced the dual cultivation techniques and searched for medicines and potions to increase our chances of having children..."


    Before he could finish, Elizabeth broke free from his embrace, her face twisted into a mad smile as she pulled a piece of flesh from her mouth¡ªit was from their son''s head, which had exploded just moments ago.


    "Felix, look, which part of our child is this? It''s all your fault. If you hadn''t sent me after that pig, this wouldn''t have happened."


    "It''s okay, Elizabeth, we will have our revenge, definitely!" Elder Felix quickly embraced her again, squinting into the distance, feeling a chill as he sensed Elizabeth''s apparent mental breakdown.


    But he knew all too well that Blackwood had already set their sights on him. Only by facing this together with Elizabeth could he be safer.


    Under the moonlight, the couple shared a tender moment, marred only by the gruesome spectacle behind them...


    ... S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Special Event]


    [Your family has erected a notorious monument at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and this news has spread throughout Cloudview County. The people of Cloudview County are now called upon to hunt down the descendants of Blackwood, making the Blackwood members public enemies, renowned far and wide.]


    [Congratulations, your family has acquired the trait¡ªOutlaw Dynasty]


    [Most forces in Cloudview County admire the courage of Blackwood and are always ready to ''play'' by killing a member of Blackwood. Your family members have become outlaws in Cloudview County, with a popularity and favorability rating of -99%, escape speed increased by 20%, and combat power increased by 5% when fighting desperately.]


    "What kind of congratulations is that?"


    Ethan scoffed at the notification on the screen.


    However, Blackwood had already resolved to become outlaws when they left the monument at the doorstep of the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    For this, Blackwood had even conducted various experiments.


    That is, having Cards on them, even a Psychic with fortune-telling abilities couldn''t locate the descendants of Blackwood.


    The dispersed members of Blackwood.


    They were as free as the vast sky, able to soar anywhere.


    Ethan even found that this way of living as outlaws allowed the individual members of the Blackwood family to develop faster than farming at their family base, the only hassle being that he occasionally had to use his skills to protect the descendants of Blackwood.


    As for the Blackwood base...


    Ethan switched views to check on it; it was still developing. The Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion had taken charge of the Blackwood base but had handed over the authority to the people of Gratitude Village. The Azure Cloud Pavilion even went to the Blackwood base, and Dennis had only one word for them.


    That was ''Scram''.


    After all, they had the support of the mysterious Xuanwu Gate.


    The entire Cloudview County was searching for the people of Blackwood.


    Time in the game passed bit by bit.


    In Ethan''s view, it was just a few short hours.


    [Blackwood 89 Years]


    In these years of fleeing, the first two generations of Blackwoods basically had no trouble.


    After leaving the family residence and wandering around, they even got... high?


    [Your descendant Nathan, with his wife Luna, went to the South Sea. For decades in the family, in front of their descendants, they were shy and rarely affectionate. Now finally free from the annoyance of their descendants, they are affectionate all day long. Nathan took out the Forebearer Cards, asking Forebearer to look at their happy times.]


    [Trait: Shy Moments]


    [Away from descendants, affection +100%, dual cultivation speed +5%]


    "Are you torturing me through the screen?" Ethan gritted his teeth, fiercely sending ''Forebearer''s warmth'' to the old couple sitting by the coast looking at the sea.


    [Your descendant Lucas is wandering the world, finally able to fulfill his youthful dream of traveling the world with his sword. He began to hide his cultivation and challenge sword cultivators everywhere, his swordsmanship growing day by day, and the number of swords in his scabbard increasing.]


    [His reputation is growing day by day, known in the martial world as ''Sword Stealing Demon'', wherever he goes, sword cultivators hide their treasured swords.]


    "That''s more decent."


    Ethan was very satisfied, this kid always thinking about cultivating psychic powers, much more decent than his shameless parents.


    [The Julian couple, led by Amelia, went to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where the natural thunder and fire are natural forging tools. Julian is preparing to break through to a seventh-grade artisan.]


    [He took out the War AI Bionic Robot, asking you if it could be further modified?]


    Ethan watched Julian continuously kneeling towards the Cards.


    Actually, he had already had Andrew prepare the Intermediate War AI Bionic Robot, and with the next grand ritual, getting a few million basic Energy Stones from Blackwood to buy the Intermediate War AI Bionic Robot would be no problem at all.


    This basic War AI Bionic Robot, letting Julian play with it was no big deal.


    He clicked on the temple guardian beast''s avatar.


    At this time, the temple guardian beast was no longer the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    With the enhancement of thunder and fire, it had previously tried to absorb Developing Skill, to no avail, but fortunately, Amelia gradually became capable and found a Boar Monarch Pete blood pill for the Purple Thunder Solar Python!


    As he typed.


    A giant serpent appeared in front of Julian, becoming the Boar Monarch Pete''s temple guardian beast, now able to speak human language through its psychic powers!


    Its crimson gaze fixed on Julian, "The Commander has responded to me, go ahead and use it."

 Chapter 136 - 136: Dirty tactician

    "Thanks, Forebearer, Julian will definitely make the War AI Bionic Robot into a more powerful seventh-grade psychic puppet!" Julian, brimming with excitement, picked up a hammer and hoisted the huge War AI Bionic Robot, running towards the Thunderfire area.


    As for Mary, this daughter-in-law of Blackwood, she became even more diligent in cultivating her psychic powers, always ready to seek revenge.


    Ethan still remembered the joy on her face when she saw Elizabeth in distress.


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, there were two others.


    [Your descendant Amelia is in retreat with the help of the demon king, beginning to attempt the creation of real seventh-grade potions!]


    [Your descendant Daniel has entered the Thunderfire Demon Cave, becoming Amelia''s military advisor, responsible for managing her forces in the Demon Subduing Alliance and the Thunderfire Demon Cave during her retreat.]


    [He slowly realized the chaos and vastness of the place where his aunt was, discovering that she actually had many forces under her control. This place was simply the best paradise for him to show his prowess. His ambitious ambition expanded again, determined to help his aunt''s forces!]


    [Trait ''Ambitious'' transformed into¡ª''Dirty tactician'']


    [He thought daily of various ways to control people''s hearts, charisma +100%, popularity -30%]


    They were all doing very well.


    Especially pleasing to Ethan was that Olivia was getting younger, evolving from a decrepit old lady into a hunched old woman!


    After Dawn''s assassins withdrew from Cloudview County.


    She actually appeared in Jones, staying by Jessica''s side, becoming Jessica''s housekeeper. Jessica would command Olivia to serve tea and water during the day, but at night, she had to kneel in front of Olivia and apologize frantically.


    However, since Olivia arrived in Jones, Jessica''s days were getting better and better.


    Her husband Jack''s path to becoming the next family head was becoming smoother, and those who mocked Jack would mysteriously disappear. Jack''s luck was on the rise; he could find top-notch psychic equipment even after falling off a cliff, and he could unearth mysterious techniques from a roadside vendor.


    No one knew why, but the people of Jones felt that Jack was like a rising star.


    That night.


    Olivia took an Energy Stone from a maid''s hand in the darkness.


    She took out the Forebearer Cards and knelt down. "Forebearer, your child has discovered the whereabouts of Felix and Elizabeth. They are in the Valley of Healers, hoping to conceive a new child through dual cultivation and secret medicines. Your child will lend a hand."


    "But now, your child is ready to let Cloudview County feel the fear that Blackwood brings them."


    Ethan nodded slightly in front of the screen.


    He knew that all Blackwoods, though seemingly happy wandering outside, were waiting for a moment, a moment for Blackwood to fully seek justice.


    No matter what faced Elizabeth, or the damn Azure Cloud Pavilion, or even the entire Cloudview County!


    A gleam flashed in his eyes as he manipulated the Forebearer Cards.


    [Initiate Plan B, all units move!]


    As his words fell, he connected a call, and Alan''s voice came from the old phone, "Mr. Ethan, the stuff you wanted has arrived, it cost a lot of Energy Stones, we need to settle the accounts properly!"


    ...


    In the living room, after many days, Ethan meets Alan again.


    While sipping on milk tea, Alan stares at the young man in front of him, puzzled. Although he doesn''t know what''s changed, he can feel that Mr. Ethan from a few days ago seems different.


    The former Mr. Ethan, although a clever and cautious fox, now carries an added air of maturity and steadiness.


    In his eyes, there''s a hint of the weariness that only comes with age, and even a touch of the aura of a leader, making Alan treat him with increased respect.


    "Mr. Ethan, the price for the various drugs you gave me previously doesn''t cover what I''ve brought back for you," Alan casually mentions.


    "But that penis enhancement pill you have, it really sells well."


    As he speaks, he tosses a Storage Ring to Ethan. "About that Sarmat nuclear missile you mentioned, I really couldn''t find one. But I got you some new stuff that should be fine for dealing with the average Competent, though that psychic old lady, maybe not. Oh, and there are four C7-type Star Seekers."


    Ethan glances at the Storage Ring and sees a ghost head badge inside. He takes it out, puzzled, "What''s this?"


    "Oh, because we''ve bought contraband from them multiple times, they think my boss behind the scenes has potential, possibly becoming a top-level criminal."


    Alan gives a wry smile, "They said they hope you''ll join them, become a member of the family." S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan, feeling somewhat appreciated by a strange group, ignores it and tosses another Storage Ring to Alan. "This time, I''m only giving you ten beast blood fruits. Take these to auction; those rich kids who get a taste will probably be crying out to buy them."


    Alan frowns, but Ethan''s next words cheer him up. "These ten are even higher grade than the ones before, with 1000 points of psychic power and a chance to increase Psychic Constitution by 1 point. Needless to say, they''re valuable."


    "Besides, there are 50 doses each of drugs that enhance various Five Elements Psychic Constitutions. Penis enhancement pills, 500 doses."


    "And for helping during the Emerging Ability phase to break through Psychic, a 5% chance to remove mixed Psychic Constitution with ''Psychic Cleansing Scatter'', 30 doses!"


    Alan suddenly leans forward on the table, looking earnestly at Ethan. "Mr. Ethan, from today onwards, I officially join this revolutionary organization. I''ll do my best to find powerful weapons for you!"


    After bidding farewell to Alan, Ethan returned to his room and casually tossed the Storage Ring, then turned his attention to the screen.


    [Blackwood 90 Years]


    On this day, the entire Blackwood was in action again, marking the first time the Great Festival of Blackwood was postponed. Under the scrutiny of Cloudview County, the Baili Pigeons of Blackwood could no longer serve as a means of communication, but that didn''t matter to Ethan, who still had his Cards.


    The descendants of Blackwood emerged from swamps, forests, continuous mountains, or the streets of the city. Once naive in front of the Primordial Blood Tree, they followed the signs of the Primordial Blood Tree to their destined places. Over these seven years, they had experienced various challenges and no longer needed guidance.


    The siege by Cloudview County did not trouble them; instead, it served as a catalyst for their growth. The only downside was...


    "No new offspring have been born," Ethan said, supporting his forehead with his hand.


    When stationed in Blackwood, the children were safe and joyful. Each year, Ethan''s biggest concern was that they would go looking for spouses and have children, to the point where Luna was scared. But now, they simply had no time to deal with romantic relationships, being either in battle or on their way to one.


    This also led to another problem. From the Emerging Ability period, the likelihood of having children decreased, and the stronger they became, the lower the probability.


    However, it didn''t matter.


    Ethan entrusted the task of propagation to the fifth generation of members.


    [Gratitude Village Town ¡¤ Blackwood]


    Today, the Blackwood station, developed over many years by the villagers of Gratitude Village, had become a town. At this moment, in the Blackwood compound, Dennis was playing with a child. Drunken Fool had once said Dennis''s time was near, and now the old man indeed seemed much older.


    The child was Nicholas, whom Dennis had been tasked to take care of. Nearby, a young woman was gently watching young Nicholas swing.


    "Grandpa Dennis, you said my family members are all heroes. Why haven''t they come back to find me yet?" the adorable child asked with innocent wide eyes.


    "They all have things to keep them busy," Dennis replied dismissively, turning away with a long sigh.


    It wasn''t until the people of Blackwood left and constructed the Azure Cloud Pavilion, displaying the gruesome spectacle of the Lopez family''s heads and bodies, that he truly realized just how deranged Blackwood was.

 Chapter 137 - 137: what kind of guys did you bring out?

    Nowadays, Blackwood has completely turned against Cloudview County. In every village and town within the county, you can spot wanted posters for members of Blackwood.


    The major sects and families have long-standing missions to capture anyone from Blackwood.


    Killing a member of the Blackwood bloodline could even earn someone a piece of top-tier psychic gear. As for taking out descendants from the first two generations of Blackwood, that''s a guaranteed bounty of psychic weapons.


    Many young talents in Cloudview County see capturing Blackwood members as a rite of passage and a way to gain glory.


    "Dennis always says they''re busy," Nicholas glanced at the woman beside him. "Sister Helen, can you tell me what my family is like?"


    With Dennis nodding in approval, Helen walked over to Nicholas, gently touching the young boy''s head. "Your family, they are the most terrifying and feared people throughout Cloudview County."


    "Your great-grandfather carried a coffin on his back, where all his enemies would eventually find their resting place. Your great-grandmother was the most beautiful woman in the world, a three-tailed fox spirit, the greatest protector of your family."


    "Your four great-great-grandparents include Lucas, the foremost swordsman of the Azure Skies, the saint of flora, the ancestor of psychic puppetry Julian, and the elusive master of the Corpse Landscape, Lord Dawn."


    "And then there are your fearless grandparents..."


    Listening to the titles of his family elders, young Nicholas''s eyes filled with admiration and anticipation.


    Dennis squatted in front of Nicholas. "Child, do you resent them for leaving you?"


    Nicholas shook his head, spreading his arms wide, earnestly saying, "Heroes like them have big, important things to do, much bigger than the sandcastles I build."


    Soon after, Nicholas jumped up excitedly. "Oh! My ancestors and many elders are all great heroes, and I am too!"


    Watching the child''s innocent excitement, Dennis sighed. "Helen, have you received any recent news about Blackwood?"


    Helen replied, "The latest news came two months ago. The second generation of Blackwood emerged from the Pine Temple, slaughtering all the monks who had tried to capture them. It seems..."


    "It seems what?"


    "It seems... the second generation of Blackwood has been possessed. They were surrounded by other forces, but when Swordsman Lucas appeared and joined forces with them, they fought off three Developing Skills. With a single motion of Lucas''s sword case, he beheaded a Developing Skill and escaped with the others from Blackwood, disappearing once again. "


    "Now, many forces have quietly withdrawn their missions to hunt down Blackwood, terrified by the mere mention of them."


    "Ha ha ha, excellent!" Dennis was overjoyed, and immediately gathered several friends of Blackwood for a three-day and three-night celebration in the Blackwood estate, recounting the deeds of Blackwood people in Cloudview County over the past seven years.


    Such as Blackwood Larry, who with the beasts of the Swamp Jungle, annihilated an oblivious Emerging Ability family.


    William, the rebellious son of Blackwood, sneaked into the Black Shell Gate and beheaded a once-in-a-millennium genius, hanging his head at the main gate before leaving unscathed.


    And Jeffrey, a rare beauty of Blackwood, a veteran of love affairs, who seduced an entire generation of women from a Developing Skill family, plundering nearly half of the family''s century-old wealth, reportedly not even sparing the family head''s chamber pot.


    The demonically possessed in the Thunderfire Demon Cave? They''re no longer anyone''s concern. Now, Cloudview County has only one public enemy...


    Seeing that Blackwood''s friends were still loyal, allowing several of Blackwood''s descendants to live a stable life, Ethan was very relieved. "I hope the fifth generation grows up quickly and settles down to marry and have children," he murmured softly.


    Ethan switched the screen view.


    The landscape of corpses from years ago was just the beginning. Both Ethan and the people of Blackwood had to admit that it was merely a way to vent, and at that time, they simply didn''t have the strength to make an effective counterattack.


    They also had to admit that leaving their family stronghold was a necessity.


    Ethan wasn''t even sure if he could face a peak Developing Skill opponent if he were to return.


    Blackwood had developed too quickly, they were too weak.


    But now...


    Seven years had passed, and they had found a new round of opportunities!


    And... Ethan had saved all the beast blood fruits, and the family was ready with many elixirs he needed. Over these seven years, his many descendants outside had completed special events almost every year, each starting with at least 1000 points of Spiritual Tribute. He had enough Spiritual Tribute!


    "It''s time to really teach Cloudview County a lesson," Ethan exhaled deeply.


    Looking at the game screen, it was the back hill of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, just like that day, with snow drifting from the sky, a beautiful scene.


    A scruffy guy emerged from the ground.


    He took out a knife, shaved the stubble off his face cleanly, then reached out to catch the snowflakes from the sky, his blurry eyes flashing with a sharp light, "The snow this winter, is white."


    George!


    This fourth generation of Blackwood... had been tomb raiding for seven years!


    Just as Ethan was about to issue commands using Cards, wisps of an old man''s soul emerged from behind George.


    These souls gradually took human form, looking in the direction of the Azure Cloud Pavilion with a hint of reminiscence, starting to whisper in front of the tomb, gathering like the Sunset Red Army group in front of a plaza speaker.


    "Ah, thirteen thousand years, the sea has changed into mulberry fields, things are not what they used to be. Who would have thought, Azure Cloud Pavilion only has a few strands of luck left, how sad, how lamentable."


    "Azure Cloud rose up ninety thousand feet, this is the legacy of Azure Cloud, now it''s plummeting ninety thousand feet."


    "The old man has calculated, alas, now only a little bit of soul remains, my Azure Cloud Pavilion still has one true transmission left, named Stephen. Hmph, a cowardly lot, they abandoned the Azure Cloud''s hundred thousand years of family business and fled!"


    "..." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Watching these twenty-three old men, Ethan was baffled for a long time before shaking his head, "Huh???"


    "What was supposed to be a tomb raid, what kind of guys did you bring out???"

 Chapter 138 - 138: She was pregnant!

    [Your descendant George has been determined to become the King of Tomb Raiders. For seven years, he has plundered the tombs of the ancestors at Azure Cloud Pavilion, yet he found nothing of value, only encountering various traps.]


    [Sighing at the miserliness and lack of filial piety among the disciples of Azure Cloud Pavilion, he finally opened a grand door in the last of the tombs, only to find twenty-three old men floating mid-air with their eyes wide open, leaving everyone dumbfounded.]


    [From communicating with these lingering spirits, it was learned that Azure Cloud Pavilion had a legacy.


    Those nearing the end of the Competent phase would enter deep into the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s tomb to practice the Six Ren Divine Calculation, shielded by the ancient Azure Cloud Pavilion formations from heavenly secrets, allowing their spirits to escape reincarnation, waiting for a descendant to ascend and extend the lifespan of their ancestors.]


    [Upon learning of the current state of Azure Cloud Pavilion and the great trouble it now faced, the ancestors decided to break and then rebuild Azure Cloud Pavilion, taking George as their disciple.]


    [With the help of the old predecessors in cultivating psychic powers, George cleansed his other Psychic Constitutions, retaining only the Single Wind Psychic Constitution, breaking through to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, nearing the peak of Emerging Ability! He gained the trait¡ªSon of Azure Cloud.]


    [With many old predecessors guiding him, his speed in cultivating psychic powers increased, as did his opportunities.]


    "..."


    Ethan stood agape.


    They say ignorance is bliss, and after years of fruitless tomb raiding, George finally unearthed twenty-three old men...


    Especially when looking at George''s information panel.


    A technique caught Ethan''s eye, the Earth-level technique "Azure Cloud Unfallen," a coveted skill even among those in the Competent phase!


    As for the Six Ren Divine Calculation of Azure Cloud Pavilion, that was truly the authentic teaching of Azure Cloud, though for some reason, these old timers hadn''t passed it on to George.


    Even so, it was a great opportunity, whether it was Sky Sect or the Xuanwu Gate, those cultivating psychic powers only had techniques of the Xuan level.


    It seemed Azure Cloud had it, but rumors said only the sect leader''s lineage could cultivate psychic powers, and after Stephen fled, he became a target for capture, because he took the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s ancestral Earth-level technique with him!


    "Our Blackwood can finally cultivate Earth-level techniques, we''ve won at the transfer station."


    Ethan noted down this technique, planning to distribute it to everyone in Blackwood during the grand ceremony.


    He also arranged George''s next mission, but with these ancient relics around, Ethan increased the difficulty of the task.


    Suddenly, George felt the Cards in his pocket stir!


    "After so many years of tomb raiding, the Forebearer is finally showing its powers!"


    George hurriedly invited the old men back into his body, eagerly bowing to the rising Forebearer Cards, "Forebearer, your child has truly unearthed their ancestors, souls and all."


    "Your child has avenged Grandpa Pete!"


    "Now that the predecessors have officially made your child the legitimate head of Azure Cloud Pavilion, all we have to do is drive everyone out of Azure Cloud Pavilion, and it will be ours!"


    "..."


    Ethan was speechless, feeling like the poor kid had been played. If they wiped out everyone from Azure Cloud Pavilion, what was the point of sealing those twenty-three old geezers?


    But Ethan did glean some intel¡ªthat the twenty-three old monsters were likely in a state of lingering souls, unable to take action themselves. Their main utility was aiding George in cultivating psychic powers.


    There was a silver lining, though. Blackwood had snagged a technique, "Azure Cloud Unfallen," for free.


    Ethan didn''t dwell on these thoughts for long and quickly boosted George with a new skill set.


    Using the Forebearer Cards, he issued a command¡ª


    [At the foot of Azure Cloud Mountain, in front of the mundane Azure Cloud Martial Hall, Ancestral Communion!]


    Seeing the words appear mid-air, George quickly bowed. Over the years, their descendants occasionally received tasks, and he had learned some family news from the Forebearer''s Cards. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He knew that when a task arrived, it was time for family members to shed blood!


    And this time...


    The Tribute Offering that the Forebearer demanded was the blood of Cloudview County, just like the red snow that had once fallen over Blackwood, only now the blood was to stain the earth.


    "My child understands!"


    George bowed deeply, tucking the Cards into his chest, and headed down towards Azure Cloud Mountain.


    Meanwhile, descendants of Blackwood across Cloudview County also received their orders.


    They all paused in their activities, looking at the Forebearer Cards before them.


    Then, without hesitation, they accepted the orders.


    Heading to specific locations.


    They all knew this was a mad bloodbath, even more brutal than the Lopez Purge seven years ago. Because this time, they weren''t just fighting Lopez¡ªthey were up against the entire Cloudview County!


    On this day, as snow blanketed all of Cloudview County, Blackwood folks instinctively placed their Forebearer Cards at their doorsteps, staring down their opponents across the way...


    ...


    [Valley of Healers]


    It was a valley filled with the chirping of birds and the fragrance of flowers, where even in the harsh winter, the heavy snow couldn''t penetrate the magical barrier protecting the Valley of Healers.


    Supernatural energies lingered in the air, and from miles away, one could smell the medicinal scents wafting from within.


    In this beautiful valley, so out of place in the snowy winter, a powerful protective array had been activated.


    Because outside... a group of odd folks had appeared, nonchalantly setting up an altar in front of the Valley of Healers, placing a large bronze furnace there¡ªit was a ritual for Ancestral Communion!


    The pharmacists and alchemists of the Valley of Healers gathered, many taking to the skies on their swords. This force, dedicated to aiding the world, was even more formidable than the Rodriguez family that Blackwood had once faced. Yet, even so, they watched the overwhelming dark energies outside and the swords soaring into the sky with great apprehension.


    Suddenly, a path was cleared through the crowd of the Valley of Healers.


    The valley''s leader was an extremely beautiful woman, dressed in a long gown, ethereal as a fairy, known in the martial world as the Miraculous Medic. Behind her were Elder Felix from the Sky Sect, and Elizabeth!


    Something had happened to Elizabeth¡ªher hair had turned half white, yet her face remained unchanged.


    And there was something unusual¡ª


    She was pregnant!

 Chapter 139 - 139: Demonic Possessor

    "Blackwood!" Seeing eight people outside the Valley of Healers, Elder Felix''s face turned pale. He had been hiding his tracks with Elizabeth, but somehow the Blackwood folks had still found them and blocked their way out!


    "Felix, kill them, go kill them, avenge my children!"


    At the sight of the Blackwood group, pregnant Elizabeth seemed to lose it, pointing at the people outside, her supernatural powers erupting, a phoenix aura manifesting around her.


    But Elder Felix didn''t move; his gaze darted around, fear evident in his eyes.


    For seven years, Cloudview County hadn''t stopped searching for Blackwood, with Sky Sect lending a hand, but... to no avail. Instead, those seeking Blackwood had suffered heavy losses.


    And now, these maniacs had shown up!


    Valley of Healers'' leader Carolyn slowly stepped forward, staring at the Blackwood group outside, and sighed deeply, her expression one of sorrow for the world, "Folks, I know the buzz around Blackwood, why keep this grudge going? Back in the day, Lopez''s people were wiped out, your grudge should be settled by now, when will this cycle of vengeance end?"


    "Get out of here, you''re not breaking into my Valley of Healers. Now that you''ve shown up, other allies will come too, consider this my good deed for the day."


    The Blackwood visitors were none other than Lucas, who two months ago had mastered the Thousand Swords Skill, and the third generation of Blackwoods he''d brought back!


    A group of eight.


    "Playing the saint, huh?"


    Ethan squinted, cursing for the first time today, then moved his mouse over a skill. If this were in-game and not just on the screen, he''d be up in arms without a word, spear blazing.


    In the scene, the Blackwood group ignored Carolyn.


    If it had been the old third-generation Blackwoods, they probably couldn''t have held back and would have unleashed a lifetime''s worth of insults.


    But now...


    They simply ignored her, quietly arranging Forebearer Cards in front of the altar, placing the Boar Monarch Pete''s Cards under Ethan''s Cards.


    Their bodies, bull-like, were etched with black demonic patterns, even spreading across their faces, with demonic energy slowly rising into the sky, causing the clouds above to thicken with dark energy.


    Each one carried a massive weapon¡ªhalberds, swords, hammers, spears, meteor hammers, columns, maces¡ªall previously used weapons also engraved with demonic patterns.


    [Frenzied Blood Demon Realm, soaked in the blood pool for seven years, your descendants, the third generation of Blackwoods, united in heart, all seven received the peak inheritance of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, breaking through the Transcendent Seed stage together!]


    [Inherited the primary and advanced supernatural equipment of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, fragments of the Blood-Drinking Mad Blade, which merged into the weapons of the seven sons. Their weapons became their life-bound supernatural weapons, reaching the high grade of supernatural weapons.]


    [Acquired the innate technique of the Blood-Drinking Demon Lord, the earth-level ''Undying Demon Technique'', constantly absorbing supernatural energy from the environment, injuries heal in the blink of an eye, refining to the point of resurrection from a drop of blood.]


    [Acquired trait: Demonic Possessor]


    [Inherited the madness, bloodlust, and brutality of the Lord of Frenzied Blood]


    [Acquired trait: Symbiotic]


    [Each of the seven inherited the undying power of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, divided and passed down, only gaining the ability to recover quickly, their supernatural powers never depleting, the battle never ceasing. As long as one lives, all seven endure.]


    This is the current state of the third generation of Blackwoods, possessing all the inheritance of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, which is why two months ago, they were able to hold out against three Developing Skills until Lucas came to their rescue!


    Indeed, mastering the Developing Skill is a formidable challenge for those at the Transcendent Seed stage, but what if one doesn''t perish and possesses both a high-grade mystical technique and superior psychic weapons?


    Moreover, the potential of the third generation of Blackwoods might even surpass that of the Lord of Frenzied Blood. The demon lord alone, once sealed, is finished. But the seven descendants, scattered in seven places, can self-destruct and resurrect where their brothers are located.


    Even as these seven turn into demonically possessed psychics, a trace of clarity remains in their eyes¡ªperhaps a benefit of sharing the demonic nature of the Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    They set up the altar.


    Under the watchful eyes of everyone in the Valley of Healers, led by Lucas, they knelt towards the Cards.


    Lucas unlocked his sword case, letting dust swirl up from the ground. He and the third generation of Blackwoods each placed three sticks of incense for the Forebearer and one for the old pig Pete. Unlike Nathan, Lucas didn''t recite any sacrificial words.


    "Forebearer, here are only your son and these seven demon-touched nephews. Please bless us, may the Blackwood descendants triumph and avenge the old pig Pete! Your son will surely bring back the enemy''s head for you!"


    As the eight Blackwoods knelt in worship, the people of the Valley of Healers looked on with faces filled with shock and a bit of... shame!


    "You Blackwoods!" Carolyn couldn''t contain her anger. A celestial lotus floated up, furious at those worshipping without regard for the Valley of Healers, "I am naturally kind-hearted, yet you disregard me and persist in your delusion? Do you really think the Valley of Healers is afraid of you Blackwoods?"


    Lucas seemed not to hear her.


    He simply patted the sword case, and in an instant, swords like fountains shot towards the sky from the case, their ringing almost drowning out all other sounds in the Valley of Healers, the swords still soaring!


    These swords, like rainbows shimmering with the light of silver and iron, formed a rainbow bridge between the altar and the Valley of Healers!


    Lucas, leading the third generation of Blackwoods, slowly rose, casually picked up the Forebearer Cards, his eyes gleaming with Sword Glow, and looked towards the crowded Valley of Healers.


    He tucked the Forebearer Cards into his chest, kicked off with his right foot, and charged with a thousand swords towards the Valley of Healers!


    "May the ancestor bless me to slaughter the Valley of Healers!" S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 140 - 140: Now showing its sharp claws

    [Your descendant Lucas has been journeying as a swordsman for seven years, battling swordsmen alone with equal skill, and his mastery of the All Swords Return to the Sect technique has grown more proficient. He has achieved a breakthrough with the Hundred Shadows Sword Glow, creating a new sword technique¡ªSword Traveling a Hundred Miles!]


    [He has acquired two thousand swords, and has fused five hundred into his body, making his sword body even more robust.]


    [Over the years, Lucas has been cultivating psychic powers and has now become a Sword Pill!]


    At this moment, Lucas, carrying ten thousand swords in the sky.


    His sword case, crafted by Julian, is nothing but top-notch psychic equipment, capable of holding countless swords, similar to a Storage Ring, and also possesses the ability to nurture swords.


    The protective great array of the Valley of Healers has been activated, named the Hundred Flowers Array, a seventh-grade magical formation, currently being bombarded by ten thousand swords.


    Lucas simply stands quietly beside the sword rainbow that rushes like a Wild Dragon.


    Over the years, he hasn''t made many moves, but he is known as the number one swordsman of Azure Cloud, which shows his strength. In the realm of Developing Skill, his body has even reached the level of a primary psychic device, and controlling swords no longer requires any psychic power.


    He is on par with the mid-stage of Developing Skill!


    The third generation of Blackwood also shows no signs of weakness.


    "Ah!!!"


    They roar together, rising into the sky with demonic energy, standing high above the Valley of Healers from seven directions, crazily attacking with their top-grade psychic devices tainted with demonic energy.


    They even threw out a formation disk.


    That was the Eight Directions Formation Disk given to them by Marcus, with the Xuanhuang magical formation rising, the Eight Directions Formation Doors sprouting from the ground, surrounding the entire Valley of Healers!


    Faced with these eight from Blackwood, the Valley of Healers did not strike back.


    The previously fierce Carolyn was now without her earlier toughness.


    Because...


    Elder Felix had been staying in the Valley of Healers for seven years, and the Valley of Healers had not exposed their whereabouts for seven years, but... when enemies came to the Valley of Healers, Elder Felix, without saying a word, holding the frenzied Elizabeth, as the Blackwood Eight Directions Formation Disk opened...


    Ran away?!!


    "Felix, what are you doing?!!"


    Carolyn looked in disbelief at the two people who were already escaping on a psychic shuttle, shaped like a small boat, using a talisman, with Elizabeth still baring her teeth and claws, wanting to rush down.


    She didn''t understand.


    She dared to confront these seven years of terrifying rumors, crazier than demonic psychics, the eight from Blackwood, entirely because of the presence of Felix and Elizabeth.


    Felix at the peak of Developing Skill, and Elizabeth, even though pregnant, was at the mid-stage of Developing Skill, along with a mid-stage and an early-stage Developing Skill master from the Valley of Healers, could completely crush the so-called number one swordsman of Azure Cloud!


    With such an advantage, they actually ran away?!!


    Elder Felix zipped away without looking back, and soon he was out of sight. Meanwhile, Carolyn began to sweat profusely from her forehead. She saw the Cards that the people of Blackwood had just worshipped starting to rise into the air. From eight, they multiplied into forty, and began to fiercely attack the protective formation. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Forebearer''s wrath, times five!" Carolyn swallowed hard.


    "Gulp."


    She swallowed again, regretting her actions too late. Now, all she could do was grit her teeth and prepare the people of the Valley of Healers for battle.


    Standing on a lotus platform beside her, Carolyn looked through the formation with a feigned calmness at Lucas, who was still bombarding the formation with thousands of swords.


    "Sword King, my Valley of Healers has aided the world, countless owe us favors. We only helped Felix and Elizabeth out of kindness, why must you persist in opposing us?"


    Carolyn''s voice was filled with sorrow and compassion. "Now that Felix and Elizabeth have left, we in the Valley of Healers wish no longer to be involved in these worldly troubles. Just leave us be."


    It was a mix of threats and face-saving words.


    But...


    These words might have worked on kind folks like the Nathans or George, but to Lucas...


    Lucas found it laughable. From a young age, he trained in the sword, and as a young man, he vowed to be the sword of Blackwood, known in Cloudview County as the foremost Azure Cloud Sword.


    No.


    Lucas scoffed at such vain titles. He knew his role was to be the sharp sword at Blackwood''s gate, discerning exactly whom to cut down!


    He didn''t even spare Carolyn a glance, only looking briefly at the third generation of Blackwood, noticing their gaze following the direction in which Elder Felix and Elizabeth had left. He shouted angrily, "Don''t bother with them, someone will take care of it! The task Forebearer and your four aunts have given us is¡ª"


    "To stain the whole Cloudview County with the blood of these hypocrites from the Valley of Healers!"


    The third generation of Blackwood snapped back to reality.


    Their eyes gleamed with a bloodthirsty madness as they responded in unison, "Yes."


    They understood. They just wanted to see how desperate Elizabeth, who had killed their grandfather, was, and how much Elder Felix regretted his actions!


    "Crazies, you Blackwood crazies!!!" Carolyn finally screamed, her face contorted with rage, but even that couldn''t hide the panic in her eyes.


    She regretted it.


    If she had known it would come to this, she would have handed over Felix and Elizabeth, that cowardly couple, much earlier. She shouldn''t have spent the last seven years helping them conceive by all means possible!


    "Put me down, let me kill those Blackwood folks, I need to avenge Lopez, I want revenge!" Elizabeth''s eyes were bloodshot as she struggled to break free from Felix''s embrace, eager to rush back to the Valley of Healers and take down those eight from Blackwood.


    Felix, gritting his teeth with fear still evident in his eyes, gently said, "Elizabeth, calm down. If they knew our strength, do you think they''d only send Lucas and those seven indestructible demons? Think about it, they''ve already got our intel. We should head back to Azure Cloud Pavilion, or better yet, come with me to Sky Sect!"


    "With the Competent Elder protecting us, they wouldn''t dare come."


    The old Felix saw Blackwood as mere ants, destroying Blackwood was a means to ruin Marcus. But now, all he had left was fear. Even while cultivating psychic powers, the thought of Blackwood became his inner demon, hindering his progress over these seven years, even causing some regression.


    Especially over these years, he kept hearing news about Blackwood.


    Every force that tried to deal with Blackwood was destroyed.


    Talent after talent emerged from Blackwood. Blackwood wasn''t a sick cat; the impoverished rural area of Forest Town had always been a cage, imprisoning a sleeping lion, which was now showing its sharp claws!


    Marcus was exceptionally talented, possessing the nine unique psychic fires, but compared to the emerging masters of Blackwood like Sword King Lucas, the Saint of Flora, the Ancestor of Psychic Puppets, or the Lord of Dawn, Marcus was just average!


    He even feared returning to Sky Sect, worried that Daoist Wesley, who used him as a pawn, might discard him at any moment!


    Every so often, his inner demons grew stronger, to the point where now, all he wanted to do was flee, unsure of the incredible depths this twisted family might possess.

 Chapter 141 - 141: Why? Why kill us?!

    "You''re a complete and utter failure!" Elizabeth screamed as she turned around and started hitting Felix.


    "Didn''t you tell me to chase that Boar Monarch Pete back then? Why are you only thinking about running away now?!! "


    "You''re still the same loser from over two hundred years ago, always hiding behind me, and now you want to hide behind your Sky Sect elders?!!" S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I... I am a failure, Elizabeth, I did it all for you!"


    Felix clenched his jaw, his muscles tight as if he was reliving the days when everyone called him a pretty boy. He even thought about killing Elizabeth to stop her from dragging him down, but then he glanced at her swollen belly and took a deep breath instead.


    He knew he was truly done for, unable to rid himself of his inner demons, and realized that only their unborn child might represent hope for his future.


    Just then, Felix''s expression changed as Elizabeth looked ahead at the flying ship, her eyes turning blood red.


    Suddenly, a gourd appeared in front of them, and beneath it was a drunken old man with tattered cloth shoes, his black toenails peeking out.


    "Yo ho? Isn''t this Elder Felix from Sky Sect and Elder Elizabeth from Azure Cloud Pavilion? You weren''t this pathetic when you were chasing me back in the day. What happened? Fallen on hard times?"


    It was Drunken Fool from Thunderfire Demon Cave, who had gotten a jar of thousand-year-old fine wine from Nathan and was happily drinking it, blocking their path with his drunken gaze.


    One hand poured wine into his mouth while the other tapped a broken bowl tied to his waist, complete with a set of shabby chopsticks, a perfect beggar''s outfit.


    Yet these items were shining with golden light, rising into the air, and the golden chopsticks struck the golden bowl, producing a clear sound that echoed through the heavens, instantly trapping Felix and Elizabeth within a square golden barrier!


    "Top-grade psychic weapon, the Golden Source God Bowl, and the Universe Psychic Pivot Chopsticks. Drunken Fool, have you received the legacy of the Divine Beggar?!!"


    Elder Felix looked distressed. Back in Cloudview County, there was a Divine Beggar at the peak of Developing Skill, nearly breaking through to Competent, using these very psychic weapons, and no one within Developing Skill could escape them!


    But what truly frightened him was not Drunken Fool; he was afraid that Drunken Fool was working for Blackwood!


    Elder Felix trembled nervously, looking around.


    "Sharp eyes."


    Drunken Fool grinned, "Now guess why I''m stopping you?"


    But before Drunken Fool could finish, he rolled his eyes.


    Someone was approaching from afar, riding the clouds alone.


    Carrying a large coffin covered with a white cloth, who else could it be but Nathan?


    Drunken Fool grumbled, "The only interesting folks in Blackwood are the saint and that traitor William. Everyone else, from the old to the young, is just so dull. Why do you have to be so ruthlessly efficient? Doesn''t even let me have a little fun with these two mutts."


    "Blackwood people!"


    Seeing Nathan, Elizabeth lost it again. She had received the news about the day Lopez was rushed in, and in that scene, it was Nathan who had commanded the Blackwood folks to execute the kill order!


    "Felix, kill this bastard! Go kill him for me, avenge Lopez!" Elizabeth, in her phoenix form, despite being pregnant, still dragged Felix forward.


    But...


    Felix was sweating bullets, his worst fear had come to pass!


    Nathan just glanced at the couple nonchalantly, then, scratching his head in his usual honest and straightforward manner, he awkwardly responded to Drunken Fool, "Elder, enemies meet with particularly red eyes. Next time you bring some good wine, it''ll be more interesting."


    "Well said!" Drunken Fool''s eyes lit up.


    "Then, elder, help me hold back this Elder Felix."


    "Sure thing."


    Drunken Fool took another swig of his drink, but this time he didn''t swallow it. Instead, he sprayed it towards Elder Felix in the distance, and after spraying, he complained, "Ah, what a waste of good wine."


    Despite his words, Drunken Fool, at the peak of his Developing Skill, turned the sprayed wine into nine roaring dragons that charged at Elder Felix!


    The two were already battling elsewhere.


    Drunken Fool even had the leisure to look back at the phoenix form Elizabeth, who had already launched an attack, and Nathan, who was unhurriedly unwrapping a white cloth, "Lord Blackwood, can you handle it? That''s a mid-stage Developing Skill."


    Ethan was also watching all this. Over the years, Nathan and Luna had been inseparable, not neglecting to cultivate their psychic powers, but upgrading to a D-level wasn''t that easy.


    But...


    "No, can''t beat her."


    Nathan honestly replied, watching the phoenix shadow approaching, he slowly opened the coffin, his gaze and voice both cold, "But I have the protection of the Forebearer, and..."


    The attacking Elizabeth suddenly froze in her psychic powers.


    Under Nathan''s feet, a magic circle rose, and an endless death aura filled the air, as ghosts climbed out from the circle!


    It was the inheritance of the Direct Death Coffin, the Soul Hooking Calamity Formation!


    He could see.


    See the terror in Elizabeth''s eyes, and the momentary pause in her gaze.


    Those ghosts of the dead...


    "I fight with the souls of those Lopez took with him!"


    Nathan''s voice was deep with a chilling undertone, like a death god from the underworld, his eyes filled with satisfaction, an Energy Stone floating in the air, recording this moment, "Elizabeth, you killed our Blackwood kin. And now, we Blackwood have slain your entire clan."


    "You might not know what happened that day, but I can tell you, the Lopez folks didn''t even know why we stormed into their house, why we had to be so cruel. "


    "Do you know the old ancestor of Lopez? Right, I checked later, it was your second son. "


    "Do you know how he questioned me when he saw the Lopez family destroyed?"


    "He said, ''Lopez and us have no grudges, why did we commit such slaughter?''"


    At the Rodriguez house, Nathan couldn''t even bear to kill the children.


    Now.


    His words, like the most ruthless reaper from the underworld, watching Elizabeth become increasingly terrified and panicked, brought him an indescribable pleasure, "I couldn''t answer, maybe you can explain to them. By the way, we Blackwoods are still kind, at least we didn''t torture them all the way, they died cleanly."


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    More and more souls of the Lopez people gathered, moving towards Elizabeth from the formation, their claws outstretched, like spirits coming to claim lives.


    "Why? Why kill us?!!"


    "Help! You are the Forebearer, our Forebearer at the Azure Cloud Pavilion! Tell me, why did they want to kill me? Bring me back to life, Forebearer!"


    "How did I die? It''s so dark here, I''m so scared."


    "..."


    The demonic voices of the dead broke into Elizabeth''s ears one by one.


    During the Lopez massacre, Nathan had already used the Heavenly Coffin technique to detain the souls of the Lopez people. That day, at the corpse scene, he had placed the souls of others, and these... were reserved for today!


    Elizabeth trembled all over, desperately covering her ears, watching the souls of the Lopez people approaching, her second son leading the way, reaching out to her, she finally went mad.


    "No! It''s not my fault, don''t come for me!"


    Beneath the crazed Elizabeth, conspicuous blood slid from the red shoes, dripping drop by drop towards the ground.

 Chapter 142 - 142: With great power comes great responsibility.

    "If only I knew then what I know now."


    The spirits rushed towards Elizabeth, the renowned Elder Elizabeth, whose expression twisted due to past accusations from her family.


    From terrified disbelief to uncontrollable fear, she finally went mad and slaughtered the remaining spirits of the Lopez clan.


    A flicker of pity crossed Nathan''s eyes, quickly concealed.


    He silently shouldered the Coffin of Eternal Rest. Having become the second layer''s coffin master, this object had long become one with him.


    To outsiders, the Coffin of Eternal Rest was merely a mid-grade psychic artifact.


    Taking advantage of Elizabeth''s distracted mind, Nathan, gripping the coffin, viciously smashed it towards Elizabeth''s belly!


    In the distance, Elder Felix, engaged in a fierce battle with Drunken Fool, was surrounded by swirling maple leaves, clearly no ordinary matter, exchanging blows evenly.


    Seeing Nathan, seemingly a simpleton, strike at his partner''s swollen belly, his eyes bulged with rage, "Nathan! You''ll not die a good death!!!"


    That was his future, and the hope of all his life''s legacy!!!


    ...


    In Ethan''s mind, Nathan had always been the kindest member of the Blackwood family. Otherwise, Blackwood wouldn''t have garnered so many trustworthy friends over the years.


    Yet now, Ethan was witnessing Nathan''s ruthlessness and madness. He saw Nathan''s coffin swung towards a pregnant woman''s belly! Perhaps the Blackwood family''s elder, kind for over a century, had harbored enough rage over the years.


    The scene abruptly stopped. Ethan clicked on Olivia''s avatar.


    [Your descendant Olivia has set up an altar in front of Azure Cloud Pavilion, asking for your blessing!]


    That day, Blackwood faced more than just their enemies, Felix and Elizabeth! The price to be paid was no longer just by the murderers but also by those who abetted them.


    It was they who forced the Blackwood family to leave their home of nearly a hundred years, to make the world their home.


    The scene shifted.


    In front of the lofty gates of Azure Cloud Pavilion, where Olivia once built a gruesome display of Lopez family corpses, a bent old woman sat in a wheelchair, guarded only by an AI Bionic Robot resembling a maid.


    Before her, the many elders of Azure Cloud Pavilion, as well as countless disciples moving on flying swords, faced what seemed like a harmless old lady.


    Yet, the entire Azure Cloud Pavilion''s protective array opened without hesitation, and the gold bowls used to subdue Felix and Elizabeth with beginner and advanced psychic equipment were already suspended high above.


    The entire Azure Cloud Pavilion fell into a suppressed silence.


    Everyone''s wary gaze was fixed on the old lady who struggled to stand, her trembling hands lighting a Spiritual Tribute and placing it on the Mystic Burner, looking like she might collapse from exhaustion at any moment.


    Yet, the people of Azure Cloud Pavilion still did not feel they had lost face.


    They had reason to be afraid, for this old woman was the master of Dawn, and for many years, the only time anyone in Cloudview County had seen her true face was the day Lopez was destroyed!


    Also, because of her presence, no one had been able to find where the Blackwood people were hiding. In these seven years, she silently annihilated two Developing Skill families, leaving no survivors wherever the Dawn assassins went.


    To exterminate one of the Developing Skill families, this seemingly kind old woman used every trick in the book, plunging her rival''s family into a storm of power struggles.


    Over two years, plagues, ghostly night walks, and flash floods followed them like shadows... she stopped at nothing, and by the time the Dawn assassins covered the walls of that great family, it was already too late.


    And now, here she was, alone in front of Azure Cloud Pavilion, a sight more terrifying than any other!


    Whenever there was the slightest disturbance outside Azure Cloud Pavilion, those masters flying on their swords felt that a great terror was lurking outside.


    The winter wind blew through.


    Snowflakes mixed with the white smoke rising from the Spiritual Tribute in the Mystic Burner, the Forebearer''s Cards, and the pig Pete demon king''s Cards endured the frost. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia tightened her coat, breathed warm air onto her wrinkled hands, then stiffly knelt before the Cards, bowing in worship.


    In a low murmur, she said, "Forebearer, Uncle Pig Pete, there are so many of them, it''s quite frightening."


    "..."


    Ethan quietly sipped his bubble tea. Scary, right? Even Ethan was spooked!


    The Azure Cloud Pavilion was bustling with at least ten thousand people.


    Olivia had arrived at the Azure Cloud Pavilion on her own, with nothing but an AI Bionic Robot by her side. Dawn''s assassins had already been dispatched elsewhere.


    But from what it looked like, the people at the Azure Cloud Pavilion were pretty scared too...


    Among the descendants, Justin had a penchant for courting disaster, but Ethan hoped that Justin would never follow in Olivia''s footsteps.


    After the ceremony.


    Olivia finally settled back into her wheelchair. She looked at the top five Developing Skills in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, especially the central figure, an elderly man with a broad back and a bear-like stature, dressed in a long robe that added to his imposing presence. This man was the new Pavilion Master, Frank.


    Frank caught Olivia''s gaze. Staring into Olivia''s cloudy eyes from afar, he felt a chill run through him.


    "Greetings to the seniors of Azure Cloud Pavilion," Olivia''s voice was calm, barely louder than the howling wind and snow, yet it clearly reached the ears of everyone at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, "Do you know what kind of family my Blackwood is?"


    The crowd at the Azure Cloud Pavilion furrowed their brows.


    They hadn''t known before; they only knew that Blackwood was supposedly a rural home in Cloudview County, deluding themselves with dreams of lasting for thousands of years on their meager land, proud of their minor abilities.


    But that wasn''t the case.


    Over these seven years, they had come to understand that the people of Blackwood harbored all the evils of the world, showing utter indifference to life, using forbidden and sinister methods, engaging in practices that outraged both gods and men, deserving of universal condemnation!


    "My Blackwood is a great benevolent house. In the twenty years of severe drought in the counties, my Blackwood sustained thousands, tens of thousands."


    "In the years when the Sky Sect and the Black Tortoise Sect were at war for decades, my Blackwood wandered everywhere, sheltering over a million common folk."


    "My father used to say, ''With great power comes great responsibility.'' He said that once my Blackwood gains control over the Great Forest and even the Great Clear powers, we should accumulate good deeds for the people, leaving behind a legacy of a hundred generations, accumulating virtues for my Blackwood."


    "My elder brother once said, his sword is the Blackwood sword, a sword that cuts down all enemies, but also protects millions. I have a second sister, whom I admire the most. She is a saint of medicine. Under her, there were dozens of doctors, extending to hundreds."


    "Later, all the doctors in the Great Forest Town came from my Blackwood. They went to various towns and counties, healing hundreds of thousands."

 Chapter 143 - 143: Be careful

    Olivia was discussing the charitable acts of the Blackwood family, which left the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion exchanging puzzled looks.


    Frank scoffed coldly, interrupting Olivia, "The great leader of Dawn comes to our Azure Cloud Pavilion to speak of these deeds? The Blackwoods have done good, but which clan or family under the heavens hasn''t?"


    Olivia ignored Frank''s remark. She detailed the benevolent deeds of the Blackwoods and then said, "The Blackwoods should be a family of great virtue, which is why I left and have not returned for a long time. I have committed many wrongs in my life, probably too many to contribute any virtue to my family."


    "At that time, I felt that I should die outside, to avoid bringing calamity to my family that has accumulated great virtue over a century."


    "But then..." Olivia sighed deeply, "Old Pig Pete died."


    "It turns out my father was always wrong; great kindness does not receive good rewards. People like you, who are high and mighty, seem like gods. The Sky Sect and the Xuanwu Gate commit atrocities without retribution.


    Old Pig Pete never committed great atrocities in his life, only killing a hundred Psychics who invaded the Silver Iron Forest, yet he was tortured to death by Elder Elizabeth of your Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "Actually, when Lord Stephen left, you released Elizabeth and Elder Felix, and I was relieved."


    "This has taught the people of Blackwood a lesson. What kind of Heaven? It''s blind. We Blackwoods will be the heaven of Cloudview County."


    "Spring is coming."


    Olivia''s voice was calm, causing a change in the expressions of everyone at the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    What audacity!


    "Boom!"


    Thunder exploded.


    With a casual wave of her hand, Olivia changed the seasons; the ice and snow melted, dead branches bloomed, and a light rain fell!


    Frank exclaimed in shock, "Wenxiu? Words become laws, what kind of Wenxiu is this?!"


    This was a heavenly tribulation suppressed by some unknown force of the literary path, ready to descend whenever Olivia wished.


    His words had barely finished when a Psychic flew in on a sword from outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, not caring about the sudden spring weather, and hurriedly brought news: "Bad news, Lord! At the foot of our mountain, a man named George has set up an altar and then stormed into our martial hall, slaughtering our disciples!"


    "What?!"


    The elders of the Azure Cloud Pavilion were furious.


    Then, paper cranes, Energy Stones, and other items arrived one after another with more news.


    "Lord, it''s the Valley of Healers! The Sword King with the third generation of Blackwoods, those seven demons, are attacking the Valley of Healers, asking for our support!"


    "Crystal River County''s Hernandez family is asking for help! The ancestor of the psychic puppets, with dozens of psychic puppets and many zombies, has invaded!"


    "The enchantress Luna and Mary, along with the Beast King Larry, are leading thousands of beasts to attack the Hundred Tools Sect, Lord, they are asking for help from the nearest Sky Sect!"


    "Pale River County..."


    One piece of news after another reached the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Frank was overwhelmed, looking at the changing weather and the old lady sitting calmly in her wheelchair, feeling the sweat on his back.


    In an instant, he realized the significance of the Blackwood''s targets.


    Valley of Healers, the Hernandez family, and the Hundred Tools Sect... these places are where the Azure Cloud Pavilion can provide rapid support.


    They are also located far from the powerful sects and noble families, and even for a Developing Skill expert, it would take half a day to provide support.


    Now is the best time to send disciples to support these areas and deal a heavy blow to the Blackwood family.


    However, he is well aware that this is a targeted operation against the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    If the Azure Cloud Pavilion does not provide support, their reputation will be severely damaged.


    If the Azure Cloud Pavilion does go to provide support... it won''t just be a matter of losing face.


    With Olivia''s heavenly tribulation descending, that''s the power of Competence, and the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s protective great formation would be as good as non-existent. The entire Azure Cloud Mountain would suffer the baptism of the thunder tribulation!


    He is even afraid now that this reckless and malicious woman might rush into the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    Frank glares angrily at Olivia. Olivia grips the handles of her wheelchair, her head held high and eyes squinting towards the high and mighty Psychics of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, revealing a gentle smile.


    "You can''t go anywhere." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "After today, the reputation of the Azure Cloud Pavilion will be in ruins, and my Blackwood will be the sky of this Cloudview County. Everyone will know that it was the Azure Cloud Pavilion that brought disaster to the entire Cloudview County just to save one Elizabeth."


    "But don''t worry, elders, I, Olivia, cherish my life, and you cherish yours too. Today is not the day for the Azure Cloud Pavilion to perish."


    "In the past, you Azure Cloud Pavilion watched as Elizabeth caused trouble; today, you should watch as my Blackwood causes trouble."


    "In the past, you protected Elizabeth, but whether it''s today or in the future, in front of us Blackwoods, none of you can protect her."


    "This is the price you have to pay."


    Upon hearing this, Frank furiously destroys all the intelligence reports. Suddenly, he is no longer angry. He looks up to the sky, inhaling the fragrance of flowers that permeates the air as the seasons change around Olivia, and he sighs deeply.


    "I''m old, it''s time to step down as the sect leader."


    Upon hearing this, the elders behind him frown deeply and take a step back. Their eyes flicker; they feel it. From today onwards, the Azure Cloud Pavilion can no longer hold itself above others. The fear brought by Blackwood slowly creeps into their hearts.


    [Olivia''s celestial tribulation is imminent, with the power of all four seasons manifesting. Such an act challenges the very laws of nature, and the heavens are furious!]


    "Phew, lucky for us the elders at the Azure Cloud Pavilion are too fond of their own lives."


    Watching the scene unfold from winter to spring within the bounds of Azure Cloud Mountain, even the Sky Sect from top to bottom stepped back at the sight of the celestial thunder, Ethan finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    For seven years, he and Olivia had been plotting!


    This entire operation was premeditated, meticulously planned in every aspect.


    One of its purposes.


    Was to bring the Azure Cloud Pavilion to its knees, to tarnish its reputation. What use are memories of Cloudview County, rotten memories, memories of cowardice? Are they even memories at all?


    This is the price that the Azure Cloud Pavilion has to pay now!


    Olivia, alone, used her impending tribulation as leverage, intimidating the entire Azure Cloud Pavilion so much that the Developing Skill elders didn''t dare step outside their temple gates!


    "Forebearer, there are still more traces of Developing Skill within the Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    Olivia continued to stare emotionlessly at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, gently stroking her cards and whispering softly.


    Meanwhile, the Psychics of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had previously soared through the skies on their swords, now hid back inside under the orders of their leader, Frank, and were constantly on alert for Olivia. With the situation as it was, if Olivia took even one step forward, the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion would scatter to the winds.


    [Be careful.]


    Ethan left these two words on the cards.


    "Yes, Forebearer, if they act rashly, the child is not foolish; fleeing is the option."


    Olivia merely smiled lightly.


    [Forebearer sends warmth x2]

 Chapter 144 - 144: Blackwoods Rising

    On this day, 90 years after Blackwood was founded, for the entire Cloudview County, it was truly like a harsh winter storm.


    At the foot of Azure Cloud Mountain, the town of Azure Cloud, a land of prosperity where the people were skilled in martial arts, countless young talents from across Cloudview County hoped to catch the eye of the legendary Azure Cloud Pavilion and become its disciples.


    [Azure Cloud Martial Hall]


    Amidst the heavy snowfall, young talents from twenty-four counties of Cloudview County, none older than 50, gathered here at the prime of their youth for a martial contest.


    The victor would be personally mentored by an elder of the Azure Cloud Pavilion. Even those within the top ten could leap directly into becoming inner disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    After several rounds, it was time for the final showdown on the platform. It was a thrilling moment indeed.


    Suddenly¡ª


    "Boom!"


    George, still scruffy even after shaving his beard, dropped from the sky, stirring up dust and drawing the attention of the thousands gathered.


    Scanning the crowd, George, who had been digging graves for the past seven years, was somewhat unaccustomed to seeing so many people. "Ten breaths, those unrelated to Azure Cloud Martial Hall leave immediately. You won''t find a future at Azure Cloud Pavilion, because Azure Cloud Pavilion has no future itself."


    His words were like hot oil, setting off a frenzy within the Azure Cloud Martial Hall.


    There were curses, some who sensed something amiss and left, and others who immediately surrounded George.


    Unmoved, George silently took out his Cloud Tide Zither, with the image of the Great River Dragon appearing behind him.


    More people fled the hall.


    He quietly watched the crowd around him, the noise no longer reaching his ears as he solemnly set up an altar and lit incense.


    When the people of Azure Cloud Martial Hall saw the character "B" and the name of the Pig Demon King on the cards, their faces turned pale!


    George remained respectful and bowed solemnly.


    Years ago, when he was still a child, his grandfather had told him that one day, with his talents, he would stand proud among his peers, and his grandfather would watch him become the greatest genius of Tranquil County.


    At that time, he didn''t take these words to heart. More than being a genius, he was concerned about whether his younger siblings would survive the play of the psychic beasts in the Silver Iron Forest.


    Being a genius didn''t really matter to him; the safety of his siblings was paramount.


    And now...


    "Ten breaths have passed."


    In an instant, there were cries of agony!


    From the Great River Dragon image, the techniques once used by the Rodriguez family''s ancestors emerged, with dragons and shrimp soldiers and crab generals wreaking havoc!


    Twenty-three elders appeared behind George, entering the bodies of the dragons, shrimp soldiers, and crab generals to help George fight. Even as mere spirits, these elders had once been above the Competent level. The Azure Cloud Martial Hall, merely a local site revered as a sacred place for cultivating psychic powers, had no experts at the Transcendent Seed stage who could match them.


    George played his zither.


    The music sounded, and the zither strings slashed across the necks of the so-called prodigies!


    Clouds fell from the sky, trapping the entire Azure Cloud Martial Hall.


    This was the Earth-level technique "Azure Cloud Unfallen," trapping enemies with the power of Azure Cloud!


    For half an hour, except for George, there were no survivors in the Azure Cloud Martial Hall. The zither strings returned to the Cloud Tide Zither, and George played the final note.


    Then he packed up the Great River Dragon image, held his ancient zither, and set up the altar again on the martial platform amidst the corpses, lighting incense and kneeling once more.


    "Grandfather, do you see?"


    "Your grandson is truly a prodigy, not just in Tranquil County, but also the greatest in the whole Cloudview County!"


    "From today onwards, everyone will know your grandson, and know that he is your great-grandson."


    George bowed deeply, his forehead hitting the platform.


    It seemed he wanted to knock all regrets back into the world of the living.


    Meanwhile, around the Azure Cloud Pavilion, many descendants of the Blackwood family, like George, were also completing their missions. Many had started to loot the spoils of war, sorting through useless pills and precious materials, placing them in front of the altar. Ethan was also receiving various updates.


    [Your descendant Julian, leading a group of mutants and zombies, attacked the Hernandez family and discovered that the strongest members of the Hernandez family were only at the Transcendent Seed stage. Olivia''s claim that the Hernandez family might have a Developing Skill expert was completely false.


    He deeply suspects that his younger sister spread this false information out of spite, and while besieging the Hernandez family, he was hopping mad and requested to be sent to a more dangerous location.]


    Julian, the fierce man, was seen kneeling and lamenting, "Forebearer, this is too much, how can a sister bully her brother like this? I..."


    [Proceed to the Valley of Healers for support.]


    Ethan immediately blocked the screen, not because he had no other tasks for him, but because he was too far away.


    [Luna, Mary, and the fourth-generation descendant Larry, together attacked the Hundred Tools Sect. Countless beasts from the Silver Iron Forest and the Swamp Jungle emerged, completely surrounding the Hundred Tools Sect.


    The elder of the Hundred Tools Sect, Scott, activated the sect''s protective array, swearing to defend the Hundred Tools Sect to the death, and furiously hurled the secret ''Hundred Tools Manual'' at Luna.]


    [Under Luna''s demand, Scott, along with the sect''s disciples, took a blood oath never to oppose the Blackwood family, sent two eighth-grade mutant equipment masters to Gratitude Village as technical advisors, and handed over a medium-grade mutant device, after which Luna ceased her assault.]


    [Following Scott''s suggestion, Luna learned that the neighboring Mystic Guild, which had long oppressed the Hundred Tools Sect, was closely linked with the Azure Cloud Pavilion. The Blackwood folks asked you whether they should immediately join forces secretly with Scott and three Transcendent Seed stage members of the Hundred Tools Sect to attack the Mystic Guild...]


    Scott, a fierce man with bulging muscles and fiery red hair, looked puzzled as he watched the three fierce women of Blackwood still kneeling before the previously arranged Cards, but he refrained from commenting further.


    Only urging, "What do you say? I''m truly scared of you Blackwoods now. Besides, the reason we posted your wanted posters was because we couldn''t defy the Azure Cloud Pavilion. We never ordered anyone to hunt down the Blackwoods." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Now, if we take down the Mystic Guild together, you''ll have leverage over my Hundred Tools Sect, and I can rest easy."

 Chapter 145 - 145: Proceed with Divine Gift?

    Until Cards gestured a [good]sign in front of Luna, she turned back and nodded slightly, "This time, my Blackwood clan has contributed significantly, so we''ll pick first and take seventy percent. You, Hundred Tools Sect, will take thirty percent. From now on, Hundred Tools Sect is a friend of Blackwood."


    "If it''s a trap..."


    Scott''s mouth twitched, "Buddy, this Azure Cloud Pavilion has yet to send any masters to rescue, and with so many experts in your Blackwood, seeing only the three of you has already put my Hundred Tools Sect in jeopardy of life and death."


    "Moreover, every one of you from Blackwood is a desperado. If you fall into our trap, wouldn''t your family''s monsters ensure my entire clan is wiped out? Even I, Scott, know better than to make that choice."


    Luna nodded slightly again.


    The group headed towards the Mystic Guild, and Scott hesitated before asking, "Why still give us thirty percent?"


    Luna replied, "Even the most wicked, my Blackwood has its principles. Blackwood never shortchanges a friend."


    "Never shortchanges a friend, huh?"


    Scott paused, looking at the figures of the notorious Blackwood clan, more infamous than demons over the past seven years, and grinned, "Then I, Scott, really didn''t stand on the wrong side this time. Damn that Azure Cloud Pavilion, treating our Hundred Tools Sect like dogs!"


    He glared at the three disciples behind him, all bulging with muscles and whispering among themselves, "If you dare whisper again that I''m a coward, I''ll hammer you three traitors into psychic gear!"


    "..."


    Seeing these four, moving slowly and dressed in beast skins, showing off their wheat-colored skin, Larry frowned, "Elders, we should hurry. We''ve already wasted a lot of time, and my Blackwood has urgent matters to attend to."


    "Hey!"


    ...


    What a harmonious achievement indeed. But this was also thanks to Ethan and Olivia''s conspiracy.


    They even calculated the timing to deal with the enemies, as well as the intervals at which other enemies besides the Azure Cloud Pavilion might come to support.


    Half a day''s time was enough for Blackwood to seek advantages and avoid disadvantages. Of course, this was under the assumption that the Competent masters still followed their old rules and did not make a move against Blackwood. If Competent really came, Ethan was not afraid!


    [Your descendant Amelia, carrying the Primordial Blood Tree, the Temple Guardian Beast, and two Developing Skill members from Thunderfire Demon Cave, stormed Mystic Isle. In one hour, they annihilated the members of Mystic Isle, and the Primordial Blood Tree drank their fresh blood, conveying supreme respect to you!]


    [Your descendants Justin, Jeffrey, Jessica, along with a hundred masters from Dawn, headed to Silvercrest Mountain!]


    [Your descendant...]


    This time, with the Azure Cloud Pavilion at the center, disaster was descending!


    [Your descendant William entered the Azure Cloud Pavilion, taking advantage of everyone''s focus on Olivia outside the mountain, and secretly slaughtered a 52-year-old genius at the mid-stage of Emerging Ability, holding Forebearer Cards, asking you to praise him.]


    "..."


    Ethan quickly opened the screen, watching William holding a dagger, his face covered in blood, excitedly staring at the corpse with the Forebearer Cards, his facial muscles twitched, "You little rascal, you took action too?"


    This operation, he hadn''t brought William along, nor did he know how this guy had learned the family''s secret actions.


    After all... William, this unfilial descendant was too unstable, and it would really be bad if he accidentally caused some trouble.


    But he never expected that this kid had sneaked back to the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Seeing William had exerted effort, Ethan casually gave William a ''Forebearer sends warmth X1'', making William excitedly spin around.


    Watching the Blackwood descendants complete their slaughter missions at twelve locations, Ethan knew, from this day on, the whole Cloudview County should have a realization!


    Azure Cloud Pavilion was no longer the savior from tens of thousands of years ago.


    And the people of Blackwood, just like ghostly abilities, could annihilate any force in front of Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    They should remember, this day Blackwood brought fear to Cloudview County.


    But...


    This was still far from enough; this was just a part of Blackwood''s revenge plan!


    He began to scroll the mouse, clicking on the portraits of Blackwood''s descendants one by one.


    At this moment, Cards floated up in front of them!


    Everyone knelt at the altar, beginning the grand ceremony that was once only held at the family''s residence. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Blackwood Year 90, the decennial grand ceremony begins!]


    [Your descendants are offering you a Tribute Offering¡ª¡ª]


    [Hundred Ability Pills X10]


    [Red Lychee Fruit X5]


    [Vitality Azure Cloud Pill...]


    Each kind of pill and heavenly material and earthly treasure, their sole purpose, was to increase supernatural abilities!


    Ethan watched the room filled with heavenly materials and earthly treasures and pills that increased supernatural abilities.


    He frantically clicked the mouse.


    [Would you like to consume 50 points of Spiritual Tribute to immediately assimilate the supernatural power of a Hundred Ability Pill?]


    [Yes!]


    [Congratulations, you have gained 50 points of supernatural ability.]


    As Ethan clicked, he could clearly feel his body growing stronger!


    At the same time.


    The Blackwood descendants withdrew from the altar, withdrew the Spiritual Tribute.


    They all headed towards the direction of the Valley of Healers, rushing forward!


    As Blackwood made their move again, their location became known to all! Every ancient power in Cloudview County, with histories spanning over a hundred thousand years, had disciples reporting in.


    "The Saint of Flora from Blackwood, wielding a seventh-grade demonic tree, is wreaking havoc in Mystic, and Mystic Isle has requested assistance from our Emerald Phoenix Peak!"


    "News from Azure Cloud Pavilion: the mortal leader of Dawn possesses the power of literary cultivation and is currently undergoing a breakthrough, summoning a thunder tribulation that suppresses Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "Our Mystic Guild, a subordinate power of Heavenly Palace, is besieged by the witch of Blackwood. We request the Palace Master to order a siege against the Blackwood scourge!"


    "..."


    As the people of Blackwood headed towards the Valley of Healers, Cloudview County was like a powder keg ignited by Blackwood''s swift and decisive havoc.


    Without exception, all major powers in Cloudview County sent forces to besiege them.


    Even...


    The Competent period!


    These ancient demons, living up to two thousand years, one by one opened their eyes from seclusion, their spirits leaving their bodies to roam the heavens and earth.


    ...


    In the room.


    Ethan was still tapping on the screen, each tap causing the heavenly treasures and elixirs displayed in his home to gradually disappear!


    This was a feature Ethan had since the start of the game, allowing him to quickly assimilate the power of the medicines.


    Previously, during the False Core stage, only a small amount of heavenly treasures and elixirs caught his eye.


    But now...


    Both he and Olivia knew that Blackwood''s current actions would also encounter sieges from all over.


    What Blackwood would face was the pressure coming from the entire Cloudview County.


    Even from the Competent period!


    [You are assimilating the power of the Beast Blood Fruit, gaining 100 points of psychic ability, consuming 100 points of Spiritual Tribute!]


    Feeling the strength in his body.


    He also took the opportunity to pass this ''Divine Gift'' to Julian, who was closest to the Valley of Healers.


    [Your Divine Gift detected, containing the jade slip of the earth-level technique ''Azure Cloud Unfalling''!]


    [Proceed with Divine Gift?]


    "Yes!"


    [You are initiating Divine GiftC7 model celestial seeker X4!]

 Chapter 146 - 146: My child... has turned into a demon!

    As Ethan kept busy, the game world''s visuals showed the Blackwood folks quickly gathering under Forebearer and Olivia''s plan. They had to seize the moment, or else experts from major powers would besiege them, and they might also lose the chance to avenge the Boar Monarch Pete themselves!


    [Valley of Healers]


    It must be said that the Valley of Healers was no ordinary place, protected by the mid-grade psychic device "White Lotus of Heaven''s Pond" and the seventh-grade magical formation "Hundred Flowers Formation."


    Although Lucas was a sword body, he was only at the early stage of Developing Skill, with formidable physical strength and extraordinary sword intent, he couldn''t break through the defenses of the Valley of Healers just yet.


    The third generation of Blackwoods could withstand attacks, but only with the power of the Transcendent Seed stage, and even struggled to activate top-grade psychic devices.


    On their own, without a month-long siege or waiting for the Valley of Healers'' Energy Stone to deplete, it was impossible for them to break in.


    Carolyn even showed a smile, just waiting for the major powers to come and capture all the Blackwood people in one fell swoop.


    But such luck lasted no more than half an hour.


    In the distance, a bald, muscular man with iron arms descended from the sky, dropping dozens of AI Bionic Robots, among which the mecha spewing tail flames as it rose was particularly terrifying!


    "Ha ha ha, great! Big brother, and my seven little bunnies, take a break, I''ve been stuck in that Hernandez family for half a day, and it was suffocating!"


    As soon as Julian arrived, he wielded a human-sized iron hammer and smashed fiercely.


    Then there was a giant sky-reaching tree, on which stood a woman covered in vines, her gentle voice audible, "Big brother, third brother, killing is fine, just don''t destroy the psychic medicines in the Valley of Healers, I have great use for them."


    Following that, countless exotic beasts arrived!


    George came with twenty-three residual souls.


    Assassins from Dawn came from all directions, along with the descendants of Blackwood''s fourth generation!


    Even William rushed over, this guy had killed someone in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and when Olivia left, he was chased, holding up the head of a once-in-a-millennium genius from the Azure Cloud Pavilion, knocking on the Pavilion''s magical formation, asking his idol, Great Aunt, to take her away.


    Carolyn looked up blankly.


    The shadow of Blackwood completely enveloped the entire Valley of Healers.


    She thought standing with Sky Sect and Azure Cloud Pavilion put her next to the victors. She thought her contributions to the real powerhouses would bring rich rewards. She thought standing on the side of justice in Cloudview County would bring her ultimate victory and both fame and fortune. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unfortunately, her luck was not on her side.


    When the Blackwood people overwhelmed the magical formation of the Valley of Healers, she saw the ferocious faces of the Blackwood people.


    She still thought she was righteous and roared,


    "Don''t be afraid! Evil cannot overcome good, Valley of Healers stands, get ready, let''s fight them!"


    Ten minutes later.


    No corpses were seen inside the Valley of Healers, only Blackwood people, and those nailed to the wall in a spread-eagled position by Blackwood''s psychic devices, unable to move. Carolyn''s eyes no longer saw any brilliance, as if she had lost her soul.


    She saw it.


    A blood-red crowned blood tree appeared in the Valley of Healers, its roots piercing through each psychic ability in the Valley. She saw countless zombies and numerous mad exotic beasts, these beasts and demons tearing at the people of the Valley of Healers, the zombies slowly dragging the dried corpses into a silver coffin.


    From the silver coffin emerged a demon shrouded in dark aura, yet devoid of any intellect. This demon and the demonic tree of Blackwood nearly came to blows over a dispute for blood, and Carolyn observed the demon growing stronger, advancing from Foundational Energy to the Transcendent Seed stage.


    "Demons, all of them!" Carolyn murmured to herself.


    She saw these heartless fiends gathered together, showing no remorse for their previous slaughter, putting on a pretense right before her eyes.


    The first four generations of Blackwood gathered together, building an altar and kneeling before cards marked with a ''B'', chanting, "Bless us, Forebearer."


    The murky eyes of the seven demons of the Iron Gate flickered with a moment of clarity as they knelt before the first two generations of Blackwood.


    "My child... has turned into a demon!"


    "If we ever lose our minds one day, Grandpa must throw us into the coffin and let Dad and Mom beat us until we come to our senses."


    "Don''t worry, Mom, as long as we have blood to drink, we''ll be fine. I believe we can keep our sanity."


    "Yes, we have memories. For some reason, just looking back on our days in Gratitude Village helps suppress the demonic thoughts."


    The seven demons revealed naive smiles.


    Carolyn couldn''t understand; these demons deserved to be exterminated for their lack of humanity!


    But little did she know, it was those she previously thought had humanity who were committing the most inhumane acts, forcing the third generation of Blackwood to choose to lose their humanity, now struggling to maintain what humanity they should have.


    "Dad, Uncle, Uncle!" The children of the fourth generation of Blackwood knelt before the third generation, tears streaming down their faces even though they had long known about their descent into demonhood. They deeply understood that their forebears, like them, had endured unspeakable trials.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s signs were never just a trial.


    Whenever they had free time, they would reminisce about Forest Town and Gratitude Village. There, they had fields of special abilities, good-hearted villagers, and family gatherings.


    In that place, they could freely enter any villager''s home for a meal, spar with peers using wooden swords, every day filled with laughter and joy.


    Sometimes, they even took pride in being from Blackwood, which had led the entire Gratitude Village to its current prosperity. At least in Gratitude Village, they were born into endless glory.


    But now, having left the village and Forest Town, they no longer saw those familiar faces, and were often separated from their families.


    They had to fight fierce beasts and contend with nature, only then realizing how much deception existed in the world. Who wouldn''t want to live naively? Shedding naivety and immaturity, slowly becoming mature and strong, was never easy.


    Growing up was so painful; they felt like naked mortals running through a thorny forest, far more painful than falling off their grandfather''s back.

 Chapter 147 - 147: Let me out

    The children of the fourth generation felt the pain of growing up for the first time.


    Their seven ancestors, who in their day could even enforce absurd rules like ''no relieving oneself in the outhouse'', should have been more childish than them.


    Now, they should be raising their voices, questioning loudly why they were crying and whining here, and ideally, kicking them so hard against the wall they couldn''t be scraped off.


    For the first time.


    They began to miss this feeling.


    But now.


    The third generation of Blackwoods just stood quietly, their faces covered in demonic tattoos, their eyes blood-red.


    Their forebears had finally become the responsible, mature figures they had hoped for in their childhood, not cursing or noisy, but quiet. Sometimes, the things hoped for in childhood turn out to be truly naive; their forebears had endured much more.


    "Dad, uncle, uncle!"


    The children of the fourth generation called out again, and this time the third generation of Blackwoods managed a strained smile.


    Olivia seemed to notice the children''s plight; with a gentle wave of her hand, the children were up. Olivia smiled and said, "Alright, with your great-aunt here, they''ll be fine."


    "Mm!"


    Everyone nodded slightly.


    "You demons, you are all demons!!!"


    The pinned Medicine Fairy finally shouted out loud; she realized that these Blackwood people never cared whether their family was possessed or not, they only cared about whether they could invade peaceful places like the Valley of Healers and kill her good disciples!


    In the midst of her howling, he saw a glint in Lucas''s eyes in the distance, and the sword in front of him growing larger.


    Then came endless pain.


    "Ah!!!"


    Lucas was literally flaying her with his sword!


    No one paid attention to Carolyn''s screams; the Blackwoods gathered together, still remembering the Forebearer''s words¡ªthe sad should be the enemy, the pained should also be the enemy, not them.


    They looked towards the distance, where Nathan, Elder Felix, and Elizabeth had fought before.


    "I came back because I felt your presence."


    As the head of the family, Nathan looked calmly towards the distance, "Amelia, thanks for bringing Drunken Fool here, he''s very strong."


    Amelia nodded slightly, "Even in a demon''s den, Drunken Fool is a top expert."


    A cold light flashed in Thomas''s red eyes among the seven children, "Grandfather, are they... still alive?"


    With this statement.


    All eyes were on him.


    They knew that as long as Olivia was willing, with the presence of the Forebearer and the current strength and control of the Blackwoods, eliminating Felix and Elizabeth without drawing attention would be a piece of cake! Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But they were still gathered here because they wanted to avenge together, to fully repay the pain Blackwood had experienced!


    "They''re still alive."


    Nathan said with a smile, voicing everyone''s hopes.


    They hoped their enemies were alive; if they died easily, that would be a great disrespect to the demon king!


    The coffin of the direct death soared into the sky, gradually enlarging, becoming big enough to hold all the Blackwoods.


    Nathan led his family onto the coffin, soaring into the sky.


    It seemed as if the Blackwoods were bringing a coffin to their enemies on a cloud; the enemies would be forever trampled under the feet of the Blackwoods, their bodies tormented endlessly in a dark, sunless space.


    "Ah!!" Inside the golden transparent barrier, Elder Felix was battered and disheveled, driven to madness. Before this, he could summon thousands of maple leaves with his Developing Skill, each leaf capable of slaying those at the peak of Emerging Ability!


    But his once-prideful secret technique was now nothing but a delusion against Drunken Fool.


    Drunken Fool took a swig of his drink and kicked out, his dirt-caked shoe flying off and leaving another print on Elder Felix''s face, "You know, if you were really at your peak, with your strength and that mystical ''Dance of the Whirling Leaves'' fused into your body, you could actually fight me for days."


    This only drove Elder Felix further into madness. Behind him, his spiritual manifestation, a maple tree, was riddled with holes yet still swayed its branches, striking at Drunken Fool.


    "Scum, you scum ruined my hopes!" Felix''s fingers turned into silver claws, instantly reaching Drunken Fool''s side, but Drunken Fool had already vanished from the spot, slowly putting on his shoe.


    Drunken Fool frowned. Not only had Felix become mad, but Elizabeth was even crazier... Remembering his recent clash with Nathan, even he, a demonically possessed ability user, felt a chill.


    In his memory, though he had only met Nathan a few times, he could tell Nathan was a genuinely kind and polite man, like a cultured, mature farmer.


    But that guy, he was really ruthless.


    Drunken Fool glanced at the distance; Elizabeth was still alive, sitting on a shuttle, her hair disheveled, her lower dress stained with blood. Her hands and face were covered in blood, especially... she was holding a bloody lump in her arms, crying and laughing, trembling all over, shouting, "My child, my child, the Lopez have someone again!"


    This was Nathan''s handiwork, a coffin that had forced Elizabeth''s child out, making Drunken Fool, a two-hundred-year-old demonically possessed ability user, think Nathan was more suited to be a demon.


    A single strike had driven two people mad, the only difference being one was real, the other fake.


    "Let me out, I want to find Nathan, I want to find the Blackwood people!" Felix was howling, the leaves on the maple tree turning the sky golden.


    "Do you really want to find the Blackwood people, Felix? I know you." Drunken Fool laughed, making Elder Felix''s face change color, "Time hasn''t made you a warrior; it''s made you more dependent on the petty schemes of women. You''re the type who will never go mad."


    His voice was haunting.


    "You''re the type who likes to hide behind others. When you were young, you hid behind the poor woman Elizabeth, and when you got old, you hid behind the Sky Sect."


    "Even when planning to assassinate Blackwood Marcus, you hid behind the unfortunate Rodriguez family. Even these years, though you''re at the peak of Developing Skill, you dare not face Blackwood directly, still hiding with your partner in the Valley of Healers."


    Drunken Fool''s words seemed to stab at Elder Felix''s heart, and even the mad Elizabeth''s eyes flickered with a moment of clarity as he continued; "You''re pretending to be mad in front of me, you coward, where else do you think you can hide?"


    During this speech, he felt the Energy Stone in his crotch move, he raised an eyebrow, and suddenly opened the barrier of the premium ability device, spreading his hands, "Go on then, you wanted to escape, right? Oh, and don''t think about running back to the Azure Cloud Pavilion. If they really could save you, they would have sent someone from such a close distance by now."

 Chapter 148 - 148: He was a warrior, and you, you are a coward

    Watching him start drinking again, it seemed like he really let the Drunken Fool go. Felix wanted to roar to the heavens; he had been thoroughly seen through by this demon-possessed psychic!


    He was really feigning madness, even thinking of using his Developing Skill to scare the Drunken Fool, but now...


    Looking at the opened magic circle, it seemed like he saw a gateway!


    For some reason.


    It looked to him like the chilling Bridge of Helplessness, the gateway to the underworld.


    "Let''s go, you still want to drink my booze?"


    Ferrywoman... no, it was Lord Ferrywoman waving at him!


    For the first time, he resisted the urge to flee.


    Then he boarded the flying shuttle, that basic psychic device, not bothering about the crazy old lady behind him, and piloted the psychic shuttle towards Sky Sect!


    "Ancestor, only the Ancestor can protect me, Blackwood wouldn''t dare go to Sky Sect!"


    ...


    Elder Felix had just escaped with Elizabeth when the silver coffin arrived right behind them. The people of Blackwood calmly watched the direction of Elder Felix''s escape, but they couldn''t hide the hatred and fury in their eyes.


    "Holy Maiden, head of the Blackwood family."


    Drunken Fool bowed to the people of Blackwood, something he definitely wouldn''t have done before; he wouldn''t even bow to a Holy Maiden. But facing a man who could swing a coffin at a pregnant woman''s belly, and the family led by such a man, was enough to make him show respect.


    Especially...


    Beside the coffin, William, who seemed to enjoy killing people for fun, was holding a pole covered with human skins, which, with his experience in skinning, were clearly taken from living people, three Developing Skills, a group at the False Core stage.


    Looking above the coffin, strands of silk were wrapped around the skinned Psychics, who were still alive, wailing in agony.


    "They''re still alive?" Amelia casually asked.


    "Let go, they''re escaping towards Sky Sect, their psychic powers beaten down to barely a tenth, their realm dropped to the early stages of Developing Skill."


    Drunken Fool couldn''t help but glance at Blackwood''s handiwork, he seemed to have learned to restrain the urge to imitate, he frowned and said: "You really want to go to Sky Sect? Now all the sects and clans won''t let you off, especially those Competent forces."


    "You Blackwoods have gained such strength in just a century, once you rise again, the major forces of Azure Cloud will be even more eager to destroy you, Blackwood. It''s no longer just about your feud with that couple."


    "The resources here are limited, the rise of a powerful family is like taking away their livelihood."


    "If I were you."


    Drunken Fool said with a bitter smile: "Having taken your revenge, you might as well leave Cloudview County. I guarantee, the sects and clans have already started to surround your location, heading to Sky Sect is like tying your own noose."


    Nathan shook his head, bowed to Drunken Fool, "Thank you for the warning, senior. This time your help was invaluable, Blackwood will remember this. From here on, we Blackwood dare not trouble you further."


    "You''re... still going?!!"


    Drunken Fool stared wide-eyed.


    Although Blackwood hadn''t said much, only asking him to stop Felix and Elizabeth and to let people go, he could see that the Blackwoods were intentionally heading towards Sky Sect.


    He still didn''t know where Blackwood got the courage to actively head towards Sky Sect.


    In the midst of conversation.


    The people of Blackwood had already bowed to him, the silver coffin chasing into the distance!


    "Crazier than us damned demons in this hellhole!"


    Drunken Fool took a swig of booze, watching the direction Blackwood''s people were heading, unable to express his admiration, he followed them.


    ...


    "Run, we must run back!"


    On the shuttle, Elder Felix''s face was pale with sheer terror. He vaguely understood why Drunken Fool had let him go, but he had no choice!


    A ghostly voice echoed from behind.


    "Drunken Fool wasn''t wrong about you, you still want to run." Elizabeth seemed to regain a moment of clarity, but quickly reverted to madness, lifting a lump of rotten flesh, her face bloodied and bearing a horrific smile, "Look Felix, the child is calling for mommy, haha, we have a child now!"


    Felix gritted his teeth, but he had no time to deal with this madwoman.


    Suddenly, his expression drastically changed.


    Above the clouds, a sound like a great bell, filled with resentment!


    "When you chased my Blackwood in-law, did he run like this too?"


    He saw him¡ªNathan!


    That bastard who smashed all his hopes into a lump of rotten flesh with a coffin, was chasing after him!


    Nathan''s psychic coffin was even faster than his shuttle. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Seven years, Elizabeth felt the pain of a relative''s death, do you know why we Blackwoods left you alive for seven years?"


    Nathan slowly drew a large ghost-headed saber, his voice as grim as Yama, "Because only she felt it, while you, the mastermind behind it all, hardly felt it, unfortunately, your family is all dead. Hearing you want another child, we waited seven years, you should feel the pain my children felt losing their relatives."


    "Do you feel it?"


    Hearing this, Elder Felix''s eyes bulged in fury, he finally understood.


    Seven years ago at the Azure Cloud Pavilion, he thought the Blackwood''s revenge had ended with the display of the Lopez family''s decapitated bodies, but... that was just the beginning!


    For these seven years, they had been waiting for this day, waiting for Elizabeth to give birth, waiting to pin their hopes on this unborn child.


    The Blackwoods intended to destroy not just their lives, but their souls!


    And now...


    "Run with all your might, just like the Boar Monarch Pete ran back then!"


    Nathan''s face was ferocious, he exhausted his psychic power, pouring it into the ghost-headed saber, and a huge saber shadow slashed towards the psychic shuttle!


    Amidst the sound of breaking air, Nathan''s roar echoed, "Only you would slaughter mercilessly! Now, you coward who only knows how to run, and that madwoman beside you, remember, remember how you chased the Boar Monarch Pete that day!!!"


    "Beasts, Blackwood beasts!"


    Elder Felix, his liver and gallbladder split with rage, cursed loudly, his Developing Skill began to burn, frantically driving the psychic shuttle to fly rapidly.


    He really remembered.


    He remembered that day, the pig demon king, like them today, was battered and chased towards Forest Town.


    He felt it.


    The desire to live, the desire to return to the Sky Sect!


    But...


    "Boom!!!"


    The huge saber shadow struck the psychic shield Elder Felix had erected in an instant, the tremendous force pushing the psychic shuttle to accelerate forward, and in that moment, Elder Felix actually felt fortunate, fortunate that he was running faster!


    Looking ahead where the psychic shuttle was heading, Nathan, standing on the Straight Death Coffin, squinted his eyes and shook his head,


    "Pity, you''re not the Boar Monarch Pete , you don''t deserve it. When the Boar Monarch Pete came back, it wasn''t to flee for his life, he came to bring news back to our Blackwood. For that, he didn''t even defend, he used all his psychic power to escape."


    "He was a warrior, and you, you are a coward."

 Chapter 149 - 149: What has happened to the sect?

    "Damn it, damn it!!!" Felix, while escaping with Elizabeth, was growling lowly.


    Drunken Fool had let him go, but it turned out there was never a way out for him¡ªit was just an opportunity for the Blackwoods to slaughter him! Maybe he shouldn''t have run; Drunken Fool would have let him die swiftly. But...


    "I don''t want to die!"


    Behind him came the shadow of a blade; he no longer wanted to see who was striking at him. Drunken Fool was right; he wasn''t the type to go mad¡ªhe was a coward, seizing any chance to survive!


    It was Luna.


    She, in her fox form, swung her blade down with all her might, a strike that poured out the empathy of an elder. She could feel it¡ªperhaps when the Boar Monarch Pete died, he must have worried whether the children would be saddened by it.


    Lucas and Amelia''s powers followed one after another, their blades were the guardians'' rage, because of these two scoundrels, the peaceful days of the Blackwoods had come to this fragmentation! S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Olivia, despite her old age, still maintained her graceful demeanor. With a single word, ''the masses,'' she shattered Felix''s shield.


    She seemed to be sneering.


    Mocking the coward and the madwoman ahead for their reckless actions, mocking their regret after fantasizing about overthrowing the Blackwoods and killing their people!


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Julian had become an AI Bionic Robot, and on his shoulders stood Mary, her eyes blood-red, her body veined with rage. Julian was laughing wildly, "Why run? Face us, you mongrel!"


    His massive fist struck, hitting Felix and Elizabeth on their backs, stripping them of any means to escape. Punch after punch, the two still tried to resist with their powers, Felix holding Elizabeth as they fled!


    But where did they have enough power left? Mary, in her frenzy, was chopping at them with the long blade left by the Boar Monarch Pete.


    It was chopping their backs to a bloody mess.


    Then, looking at their wounded bodies, Mary seemed to lose all her strength and collapsed crying on Julian''s shoulder.


    This was the cathartic weeping of children avenging their parents.


    Then, the third generation of Blackwoods and their offspring leaped up, madly pursuing them.


    Seven years.


    Seven years of anger and hatred, seven years of dangers encountered in their wanderings, seven years of growth, all unleashed at this moment.


    They had truly gone mad.


    These children, who had grown up on the back of the Boar Monarch Pete, came with past resentments, unknown what feelings they harbored at the moment. They only knew that when the Boar Monarch Pete returned that day, his body was beyond recognition, and all this should be returned in full.


    No, it should be returned a hundredfold, a thousandfold!


    They would no longer be smashed to a bloody mess on anyone''s back, nor did they need to be carried by anyone anymore, nor did they need the elders to teach them the great truths of life bit by bit, nor did they need to cry out when alone.


    Because.


    Once in the Silver Iron Forest, there was a pig that had accompanied them through their childhood.


    And now they had grown up, weathered from all sides in Cloudview County, facing the enemy with the stories they had shared with the Boar Monarch Pete , avenging the Boar Monarch Pete!


    In an instant.


    The entire sky was filled with the children''s screams of killing, just as they had learned from the intelligence reports, gradually torturing these two once proud D-rank individuals!


    The many elders of the Blackwoods came to their senses, standing on the Coffin of Straight Death, watching the children''s frenzied slaughter.


    At this moment, in Ethan''s room, there were no longer any heavenly treasures or elixirs visible. He watched calmly as the children on the screen carried out the most brutal revenge.


    As the scene rapidly progressed, it seemed like a cloud in the game transformed into the shape of an Boar Monarch Pete, seemingly content with the children''s growth, as if to say that everything he had invested was worthwhile. He had a group of children who were fiercer and more loyal than any psychic beast.


    Meanwhile, in Sky Sect, within the Sky Hall, Marcus was experiencing a surge in his psychic powers under the guidance of Daoist Warren, who had been helping Marcus break through to the Developing Skill level.


    Daoist Warren wiped the sweat from his forehead, looking up proudly as he witnessed Marcus''s extraordinary abilities. Inside the Sky Hall, which originally looked like a magical river of stars, it now seemed as though nine suns had risen. These were Marcus''s nine unique psychic fires!


    The nine fire lotuses gradually grew larger and bloomed, and Marcus, sitting in the center, appeared like a Fire God incarnate. His flames soared within the Sky Hall, forming a column of fierce fire. The intense heat would have required any ordinary Developing Skill practitioner to defend themselves with their psychic powers immediately.


    The fiery air wave spread throughout the entire Sky Hall.


    "Ha ha ha, at 69 years old, in the early stages of Developing Skill, possessing the heavenly elixir, and with the Sky Sect''s secret techniques¡ªSky Mystic Abyss Art, Shadowy Heaven Steps, and Thunder Leading Heavenly Script¡ªthese three profound techniques, it was not in vain that I spent two hundred years of effort helping you grow to this point over the last twenty-eight years!" Daoist Warren looked at Marcus, a D-level practitioner, with extreme excitement.


    In Cloudview County, breaking through to Emerging Ability before the age of 50 was considered genius. But Marcus? He broke through Emerging Ability before he was even thirty.


    Not only that, he possessed the unique item, the nine psychic fires, coveted even by D-level practitioners, which could potentially reach the height of a sixth rank if it continued to grow.


    Moreover, Marcus''s temperament was extremely resilient, and he had experienced things far beyond ordinary people. Now, it seemed that Marcus had indeed lived up to Daoist Warren''s expectations.


    At 69 years old, a D-level practitioner with nine psychic fires, Marcus was destined to break through to Competent before his life ended. This also meant that for the next two thousand years, Sky Sect would be safe and sound!


    Daoist Warren even planned to pass on all his knowledge to Marcus when his life was nearing its end. Marcus might even break through to B-level, leading Sky Sect to new heights!


    "Phew." Seeing Marcus still stabilizing his cultivation, showing a slightly pained expression, Daoist Warren, with a face full of joy and anticipation, walked out of the Sky Hall.


    But as soon as he stepped outside, he saw a disciple who had been waiting there. Normally, no one would wait outside the Sky Hall without urgent matters.


    "What has happened to the sect?" Daoist Warren asked.


    The disciple hurriedly reported the events that had occurred outside while Daoist Warren was busy cultivating Marcus over the past twenty-some years.


    Starting from the killing of the Blackwood Boar Monarch Pete seven years ago, to the entire Blackwood clan fleeing Forest Town to live incognito, to the construction of a human head corpse landscape outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and finally to today''s rampant slaughter, people everywhere were seeking help from Sky Sect.


    "Supreme Elder, in twelve places, rivers of blood have flowed, including many major families, with an estimated death toll exceeding three hundred thousand."


    The disciple''s eyes flashed with terror, "In these seven years, the Blackwood''s slaughter has already claimed nearly two million lives."

 Chapter 150 - 150: You think youre clever?

    Warren Daoist''s eyebrows were tightly furrowed, and he remained silent for a long time. A flash of anger crossed his eyes as he glanced at the Sky Hall behind him, his neck even stiffening. Clenching his teeth, his spirit left his body, flying towards the distance, his anger intensifying, before finally returning to his physical form.


    He took a deep breath, his face visibly angry.


    "Where''s the sect leader?"


    "In... in the great hall."


    Upon learning that Daoist Wesley was in the great hall, a sharp look flashed in Warren Daoist''s eyes as he transformed into a wisp of smoke.


    When he reappeared, he was already in the spacious great hall.


    There, on the steps, Daoist Wesley looked solemn, his right hand gripping the armrest of the sect leader''s throne, his fist clenched as if grappling with a difficult issue.


    Seeing Warren Daoist appear, Daoist Wesley''s expression changed, and he quickly stood up to bow, "Disciple greets Master, congratulations on your emergence from seclusion, Marcus must have already been..."


    But before he could finish,


    Warren Daoist had already appeared in front of him.


    "Snap!"


    A crisp sound echoed in the hall, Daoist Wesley''s hair disheveled, his originally straight head now slapped to one side by Warren Daoist, his eyes vacant. With a kick, Warren Daoist sent him crashing into a pillar, blood seeping from the corner of his mouth.


    Only then did Warren Daoist take his seat on the sect leader''s throne, his gaze coldly fixed on Daoist Wesley as he struggled to his feet, "I was in seclusion for twenty-eight years, and this is what you''ve done."


    "Disciple admits his fault."


    Daoist Wesley quickly bowed again, "Disciple..."


    Warren Daoist coldly said, "What else can you do? Your skill is manipulating your authority, keeping Marcus from leaving the sect for fifty years, and you specifically locked up that useless Felix for twenty years?"


    "Disciple..."


    "You think you''re clever? Felix, imprisoned in the dungeon for twenty years, being the sneaky rat he is, will surely seek revenge. He will destroy the Blackwood family, your sinister plan."


    Daoist Wesley looked at his angry master, finally gritting his teeth and lifting his head, "Master, wasn''t it all for the sect? Marcus possesses a rare talent with the Nine Unique Fires, a prodigy, but I also know the Blackwoods, anyone of them puts family first! As long as Blackwood exists, Marcus will never truly belong to the Sky Sect!"


    "Disciple also knows Felix, he''s just a sneaky rat, always plotting from behind, nothing can be traced back to our Sky Sect. Then, Marcus, alone and without ties, would have his worldly connections severed."


    "But, disciple didn''t expect..."


    Seeing the regret in Daoist Wesley''s eyes, Warren Daoist understood.


    Everything was for the sect, as the sect leader, dirty deeds done thoroughly, done to the extreme.


    Warren Daoist sighed deeply, suddenly understanding his disciple''s thoughts, but...


    Unexpectedly, the Blackwoods had such strength, such determination.


    This small family in Forest Town, after the death of the demon king, went mad, wanting to drag the entire Cloudview County down with them.


    Daoist Wesley''s decision was a mistake, it was already too late.


    "How could there be such a family in the world."


    When he heard the news from his disciple this year, even he was scared!


    He had thought Marcus was a prodigy, but for the Blackwoods, Marcus''s talent was probably just mediocre.


    Nathan and his wife, coming from humble beginnings, had honed their skills to perfection over a hundred years. Nathan''s martial arts were unparalleled, and it was said his skills were divine. Luna, with her fox spirit, had reached the mid-stage of skill development...


    The four of the second generation of Blackwoods, each extraordinary, Sword King Lucas was the number one swordsman of Azure Cloud, born with a sword body. Amelia, known as the Saintess of Flora in Azure Cloud, her techniques unmatched in her realm. Julian was a genius in psychic power equipment and AI bionic robotics, crafting psychic automatons with boundless creativity.


    News of Olivia also came through, single-handedly suppressing the entire Azure Cloud Pavilion, her literary skills manipulating the laws of nature and seasons, with a thunder tribulation approaching, if she could survive it, she would leap through the dragon gate, straight into Competence!


    Even the younger George, had within a day at the Azure Cloud Martial Hall, slaughtered the prodigies of twenty-four counties, what an extraordinary talent?


    Madman William, Beast King Larry, desperado Justin...


    One name after another, almost too overwhelming to bear.


    The Daoist of the Netherworld took a deep breath and suddenly said expressionlessly, "I have just used my soul to probe, and the Blackwoods are already on their way."


    "Master!"


    Daoist Wesley looked at the Netherworld Daoist, who seemed to have aged suddenly. Clenching his teeth, he said, "Marcus has not yet finished his retreat. As long as we kill all the Blackwoods, and let Marcus focus solely on his cultivation in the future, nothing will change. Moreover, masters from all major forces have already arrived.


    The Blackwoods are arrogant and will bring about their own destruction!"


    Before he could finish speaking.


    Both the Netherworld Daoist and Daoist Wesley frowned.


    Suddenly, a booming and murderous noise came from above the entire Sky Sect.


    "Wesley, you old thief, come out!"


    "Pay with your life!"


    Following an unknown roar.


    "Boom!"


    Outside the great hall, dust and smoke rose, and two blurred figures smashed into the Sky Sect.


    Elder Felix raised his hand.


    "Netherworld Ancestor, save... save your disciple!"


    The Daoist of the Ninth Abyss, WesleyDaoist, along with all the disciples of the Sky Sect, stood tall and proud.


    They gazed bewilderedly at the silver coffin that had appeared outside the already activated magical formation.


    Above the coffin, eerily empty of any person, stood the Cards at the forefront, looking so insignificant. Yet, the blood-stained ''B'' on it was strikingly conspicuous in the silvery surroundings!


    Above, like a spiderweb, an array of psychic equipment hung, from which dangled hundreds of flayed individuals.


    Their eyes gouged out, the icy snow and cold wind mercilessly lashed against their exposed flesh, and no one dared to imagine the intense agony they were enduring. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Pieces of human skin were stitched together like sails by threads. Names were inscribed all over it, though nearly all had been slashed with sword marks.


    Among them, the names Felix and Elizabeth were particularly noticeable, also crossed out, leaving only one name untouched¡ª


    Wesley Daoist!


    Such a horrifying scene made some of the less experienced disciples of the Sky Sect tremble all over. Even the seasoned disciples shuddered at the sight.


    They had never seen anyone dare to provoke the Sky Sect in such a manner!

 Chapter 151 - 151: Thats not something you can say lightly

    "Who''s got the guts to knock down that coffin with the fancy gadget in their mouth?" That''s Carolyn from the Valley of Healers, one of the top ten beauties of Cloudview County. I''d recognize her even without her skin. Who''s with me to help her out?"


    "Damn! Can''t you see Blackwood is out for revenge?!!"


    The disciples of the Sky Sect could feel it¡ªthe dead of winter was upon them!


    In front of the great hall, Daoist Warren and his disciple, Daoist Wesley, were too preoccupied to pay attention to Elizabeth and Elder Felix, who lay at the doorstep. The couple had been slashed so badly at the back that their flesh was flayed open, revealing their innards¡ªa mere superficial wound compared to the real horror.


    Their souls had been burnt to a mere thread of life, driving them to madness, making living worse than death.


    "Follow me to meet the people of Blackwood."


    For some reason, Daoist Warren seemed unusually calm as he ascended into the clouds.


    Daoist Wesley''s eyes flickered with a hint of terror, but after glancing at his fellow disciples still screaming for help, he took a deep breath and followed Daoist Warren to the coffin of eternal death.


    But...


    The people of Blackwood were nowhere to be seen!


    Daoist Warren furrowed his brows. When he had emerged from seclusion, he had used his Competent ability to survey the world and had clearly seen the people of Blackwood arriving. But now, he couldn''t sense their presence at all!


    The coffin of eternal death stood solitary like a lone sail.


    Instead...


    "Greetings, Elder Warren. Three hundred years ago, I benefited greatly from your teachings!"


    "Where are the culprits from Blackwood? Why are they not showing themselves?"


    "Ha ha ha, to think that in pursuit of mere Blackwood, I would meet an old friend unseen for a millennium. How are you all doing?"


    At Sky Sect, masters from all directions have arrived, and in an instant, the disciples of Sky Sect were wide-eyed with astonishment. These were the renowned masters of Cloudview County!


    Daoist Warren looked around and sighed imperceptibly before bowing to the crowd, "Fellow Daoist Gary, Master Williams, Abbot David."


    As Daoist Warren greeted each one, Daoist Wesley was overjoyed. He knew these people; even if he hadn''t met them personally, their images still existed in his intelligence reports. This was a compulsory course for the leaders of various sects and clans because these individuals were the heavens of Cloudview County!


    In the whole of Cloudview County, there were only twelve known Competent masters, and now, three of them had come for Blackwood!


    Gary, who looked as adorable as a little girl but was actually the senior elder of Emerald Phoenix Peak, was dressed in a green robe, revealing smooth calves and wearing green cloth shoes that showed her clean feet. Her hair was tied in twin ponytails, and her face was impeccably carved, evoking a sense of pity at first glance.


    The middle-aged man, rugged yet majestic, was Donald, the only Competent patriarch in Cloudview County from the Williams family.


    Master Abbot David, the head of all Buddhist sects in Cloudview County, had kind and compassionate eyes. His monk''s robe was extremely worn, revealing a pair of black feet, and he was chanting Buddhist scriptures at the moment. One could tell he was a monk who had recited millions of Buddhist scriptures and traveled millions of miles.


    Moreover, around thirty Developing Skill masters from various sects and clans had gathered. It seemed that the top thirty percent of Cloudview County''s Psychics had assembled!


    "Blackwood truly brought disaster upon itself!" Daoist Wesley said quietly, his lips curling slightly. The fear he had felt when he walked out of the grand hall with his master had vanished, and he even felt like finding a secluded place to laugh wildly.


    However, after Daoist Warren and the other masters finished their greetings, his expression changed when he heard what was said next. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Fellow Daoists, please return. The people from Blackwood have come seeking revenge; this is a matter of enmity between Sky Sect and Blackwood, and we need not trouble you to go to such lengths," Daoist Warren said coldly, issuing an order for the guests to leave.


    "That''s not something you can say lightly."


    Donald smiled, "Blackwood has been reckless at Azure Cloud Pavilion, insulting all of us in Cloudview County. Ten thousand years ago, my Williams family received help from Azure Cloud Pavilion, allowing us to continue our legacy. If Blackwood is an enemy of Azure Cloud Pavilion, then they are an enemy of my Williams family."


    Hearing this, Abbot David brought his palms together, "Amitabha, Blackwood has committed too many killings. Our Buddha said we should not stand by idly,"


    Gary showed her small silver teeth, "Then Blackwood cannot remain in Cloudview County. Even if other Daoists do not come, having us here is enough. Consider it as if I, Gary, have come out of hundreds of years of seclusion just to relax. Moreover, Carolyn of the Hundred Flowers Valley is my disciple, and Blackwood has already created karma with my Emerald Phoenix Peak."


    Outside Sky Sect, the thirty-plus Developing Skill individuals were silent in the presence of these four Competent masters¡ªthey had no place to interject.


    As Donald glanced over them, everyone echoed in agreement.


    "Elder Warren, with such a demon emerging in Cloudview County, it is time for us Psychics to unite and exorcise the demon to protect the path!"


    "Yes, the affairs of Sky Sect are also the affairs of us Psychics!"


    "Until Blackwood is eradicated, we cannot rest easy!"


    "..."


    Hearing these words, Daoist Warren simply shook his head without saying much, as he saw his disciple laughing. How could he not know that the so-called exorcism and guarding the path were all pretenses!


    At his level, he generally stayed out of worldly affairs. Moreover, above the Competent level, Psychics have an unspoken agreement not to interfere in the feuds of the younger generations, not to bully the weak, and not to intervene unless there is a catastrophe that could lead to the annihilation of a sect.


    But today, these old timers had all emerged from seclusion, talking about exorcism and guarding the path?


    If they truly had this intention, why were they not seen at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where demonically possessed Psychics gather?


    It''s simply because they fear the Demon Lord sealed within. Such events of clan annihilation are not uncommon; the Blackwood have killed nearly two million, but those were all Psychics.


    His own Sky Sect has fought with the Xuanwu Gate in recent years, causing the deaths of no less than a million ordinary people.


    As for the Blackwoods, the real reason they want to eliminate them is simply because they see the exceptional talents of the Blackwood clan and fear that they will become too powerful in the future!

 Chapter 152 - 152: Truly worthy of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal!

    "Thanks to all the seniors for their help, Cloudview County is clear and bright with you folks around," Wesley said, bowing deeply with genuine eyes.


    "Now that the Blackwood folks are out of sight, with the help of the seniors and fellow Daoists, I''ll mobilize the disciples of Sky Sect to scour the entire Cloudview County to find where these Blackwood folks are hiding!"


    The Competent ones nodded slightly without much conversation, while other Developing Skill masters eagerly agreed to gather the forces of Cloudview County for a thorough search of the Blackwood people.


    But Gary suddenly pouted, slightly confused, "Where is Daoist Warren going? Why not summon the Competent with us, form a square formation to prevent the Blackwood people from escaping?"


    Daoist Warren , already turning away and heading back inside the sect, didn''t turn back, only leaving behind the sound of hearty laughter. "Hahaha, please feel free, my fellow Daoists! I have an old feud with that old geezer from the Black Shell Sect. If I make a move today, he''ll surely come after me. At my age, I''ve become cautious, please bear with me." sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Daoist Warren sat back inside the grand hall like a phantom, he smiled slightly, "That turtle Daoist from Black Shell and I have been at odds for a thousand years, neither of us yielding to the other. It''s good he didn''t join this fray today. When winter comes, I should bring a jug of wine and share a drink with that old thief."


    Everyone frowned as they watched Daoist Warren''s retreating figure. But in a moment, within the grand hall of Sky Sect, Daoist Warren''s voice echoed, and the disciples looked respectfully towards the grand hall as the long-sealed sixth-grade protective formation of Sky Sect rose, with dragons soaring in the sky.


    "Sky Sect is a place apart from the world, my Competent spirit wanders, Black Shell Sect harbors wild ambitions. Today the sect is closed, guarding against an attack from Black Shell Sect. Disciples are not to leave, focus on protecting the sect, be vigilant of external enemies. Those who disobey will be expelled from the sect!"


    The disciples of Sky Sect looked at each other, then all turned their eyes towards Daoist Wesley outside the formation.


    Seeing these unusual looks, Wesley, locked out of the formation, flashed a look of confusion, "Expelled from the sect... Master, what did I do wrong? Isn''t everything I do for the sake of the sect?"


    He was outside the formation now! Ever since Daoist Warren brought him out, he had felt it¡ªhis master was going to hand him over to Blackwood!


    "Om Mani Padme Hum, it seems Daoist Warren already has a plan," Abbot David said, bringing his palms together, though a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes.


    "Ha!" Donald scoffed, "Daoist Warren really thinks highly of himself, above the mundane world."


    As they mocked and vented their anger at being rejected by Sky Sect, a Developing Skill master''s expression suddenly changed.


    "Look, that coffin..."


    Everyone looked over. On the silver coffin, under Wesley''s name on the Blackwood hit list, it seemed someone was about to add a name¡ª


    Donald. Gary. The fake monk...


    "Om Mani Padme Hum, such trickery, the tactics of heretics," Abbot David squinted at the words ''fake monk,'' his purity disturbed.


    As each name was written on the human skin, a mist gradually formed above it. A bright silver spear appeared, its pressure dispersing the clouds, its blade piercing the sky.


    A card, rising from the coffin, grew to the height of a man, its ''B'' glowing brightly. Below in the black mist, a yin-yang symbol formed, slowly rotating, encompassing a ten-mile radius, with five beams of light corresponding to the five elements forming a pentagram in the sky.


    The humanoid black mist remained silent, the spear tip flashing coldly.


    "Whoa!"


    Ethan, with his mastery of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the spell "Heaven and Earth Among Us," could move effortlessly between the two sides of the diagram.


    He had been waiting in front of the screen for this moment!


    In an instant.


    It wasn''t until he took down a Developing Skill with a single shot that the pale blue screen of the game appeared before his eyes.


    [Use Skill¡ªFight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Detected: You currently possess mid-stage Developing Skill strength, consuming 15,000 Spiritual Tribute points per minute!]


    [Current Spiritual Tribute points¡ª105,200!]


    He drew his Celestial Pivot Psychic Rifle, already vanished from the spot, while the mid-stage Developing Skill Psychic still looked bewildered, incredulously staring at his own abdomen, not understanding why he couldn''t even react before the mysterious figure appeared before him.


    In front of that long rifle shimmering with silver light, he had instantly released a psychic shield, yet it was as flimsy as paper?


    ...


    Instant kill!


    "Truly worthy of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal !"


    Vanishing in an instant, Ethan looked at the Celestial Pivot Psychic Rifle in his hand.


    Only he and the people of Blackwood knew that they had already planned everything!


    The clan''s visit to the Sky Sect was merely a bait. Ethan and Olivia both understood that Blackwood, having developed over ninety years to the point of acting recklessly in Cloudview County, even a Competent master wouldn''t allow Blackwood to continue existing, eager to eliminate these geniuses swiftly!


    So.


    Only the death coffin came, others had already hidden, and Blackwood''s real trump card was Ethan!


    "Phew!"


    In the Yin-Yang fish diagram, he could almost teleport, and in an instant, another Developing Skill master died by Ethan''s Celestial Pivot Psychic Rifle.


    Now, he was no longer the person he used to be.


    These seven years, the people of Blackwood had been fugitives, and this time, the twelve massacres at Blackwood were also part of the plan.


    Apart from avenging the constant pursuit and killing of Blackwood, another purpose was to obtain a large amount of elixirs and heavenly materials and treasures!


    So, the people of Blackwood sacrificed elixirs and heavenly materials and treasures at the same time.


    It was to give Ethan even greater strength.


    And now.


    Ethan was confident, invincible within Developing Skill!


    Those who pursue the quality of third-grade Developing Skill do so because higher quality Developing Skills grant stronger psychic powers, allowing them to accumulate more psychic power, making it easier to advance to C-level in the future. And his Developing Skill was top-notch!

 Chapter 153 - 153: I need a chance!

    "Back off!"


    A stern shout rang out. Ethan teleported again, aiming to take down a top-tier Developing Skill expert, even catching a glimpse of the terror in his opponent''s eyes. But in an instant, Ethan vanished from the spot.


    Where he had just been, a semi-transparent golden bell illusion now enveloped the Developing Skill expert. At the same time, Abbot David appeared in front of the man. The monk, with his kind and gentle eyes, furrowed his brows, vigilantly scanning the surroundings.


    Faced with Abbot David, Ethan had no choice but to retreat!


    "He''s truly Competent, a chasm-like presence."


    Feeling the threat from Abbot David''s use of his powers, Ethan instantly sensed a massive danger and decisively pulled back.


    He even realized that even while using ''Heaven and Earth Among Men'' within the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, constantly shifting positions within a six-mile radius, these three Competent masters could sense him and were always ready to deliver a lethal blow!


    A Competent master''s spiritual sense could reach thousands of miles, almost as if equipped with radar. Within the reach of their spiritual sense, they could freely manipulate the natural energies of the world, possessing nearly limitless powers.


    Ethan was sure that even though he was invincible at the Developing Skill level, he couldn''t withstand a hit from a Competent phase master¡ªafter all, even a Developing Skill couldn''t survive a missile strike!


    In less than a second, they could mobilize the natural energies to attack him, fortunately, his ''Heaven and Earth Among Men'' was a teleportation ability.


    But that wasn''t the scariest part.


    The most terrifying aspect of the Competent was that if they charged up their techniques, their martial skills would grow increasingly stronger. If they were to charge up for three months...


    "I need a chance!"


    Even while rapidly teleporting, Ethan maintained enough clarity not to attack the Competent masters. He knew all too well that getting too close to a Competent could mean that even the residual waves from their burst of power could injure him.


    He was waiting for an opportunity to inflict a fatal wound on these nearly invincible beings.


    Otherwise, even if he truly had a nuclear weapon like the Tsar Bomba, it might not explode before these three experienced Competent masters had already fled!


    Thus, the outcome of this operation would be greatly diminished!


    In just thirty seconds, with Ethan''s arrival and his elimination of a fourth Developing Skill Psychic, the scene was already in shambles.


    The three Competent masters and numerous Developing Skill Psychics unleashed their powers, causing the ground outside the Sky Sect to sink from the impact, with rocks tumbling and dust flying. Soon, the entire sky would be covered in dust.


    Sky Sect managed to dodge a bullet by activating their protective array early, preserving the mountain gate atop the cliff. But now, it looked more precarious than ever...


    "Dammit!" Donald couldn''t help but curse within the yin-yang fish diagram.


    In the sky, a golden dragon illusion appeared, manipulating the natural forces and summoning hundreds of celestial fires. But... it was like an elephant swatting flies. Even though they had located Ethan, they couldn''t hit him.


    Not just him.


    Abbot David chanted Buddhist sutras, his golden Buddha body influencing minds, potentially converting those in the Emerging Ability phase directly to Buddhism. But the black mist was still darting around within the yin-yang fish diagram.


    "Pop!" Another crisp sound rang out as another Developing Skill master was killed.


    "Amitabha, fellow practitioners, this Blackwood demon wields a weapon that can break all spells! And that silver coffin, it protects his mind," Abbot David suddenly seemed troubled.


    "Top-tier psychic equipment!" Gary stared at Ethan''s spear, knowing that Abbot David and Donald hadn''t given their all. More than their worries, Gary was greedy, "What are you still considering?"


    "No matter how Blackwood obtained this top-tier psychic equipment, whether they are a branch of some major family from elsewhere, or whatever backing they have, our situation with Blackwood has reached this point. Where is the chance for redemption?" S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This man''s origins are unclear, kill him and then plan the rest!" With these words, Abbot David and Donald both nodded.


    In an instant, these individuals unleashed their powers, each revealing some of their trump cards!


    "Looks like I''m really being pushed to the limit here," Ethan noted calmly as the psychic powers of his opponents grew more formidable, converging within the entire win Fish Harmony Seal.


    He continued to dodge using the ''Heaven and Earth'' technique and utilized the power of the ''Five Elements'' to trap several Developing Skill experts in a Five Elements Star Formation, taking out another unlucky master in the process.


    It seemed he was running circles around the three Competent masters, but Ethan was well aware that he was nothing but an ant in front of them!


    The trio of Competents started to coordinate their efforts. "Golden Dragon Descends, the spell is cast!" Donald''s voice fell, and the golden dragon he had been controlling in an attempt to kill Ethan roared in the sky. Its scales dispersed, surrounding the win Fish Harmony Seal and gradually forming a wall, trapping the entire area in a dazzling golden light. The space was shrinking rapidly!


    Even Ethan''s Yin-Yang fish diagram was contracting, and his Five Elements vanished. Fortunately, those Developing Skill experts were trapped as well!


    "May Buddha vanquish the demon!" Abbot David, his muscles bulging, tore through his monk''s robes, revealing his bronze skin covered in bulging veins.


    "Boom!" With a sound of an air explosion, he suddenly appeared at Ethan''s next teleportation spot, throwing a punch.


    "Spit!" Even though Ethan vanished in an instant to another location, he was still hit by the residual force of the rapid punch, coughing up blood!


    He dared not hesitate any longer, "Boom!" As expected, upon teleporting again, the now golden-eyed Abbot David appeared once more at his location!


    "This is insane, his speed matches my teleportation!" Ignoring his injuries, Ethan cursed under his breath, not daring to slack off. He focused intensely, knowing that as the space for movement shrank, Abbot David''s pursuit would leave him with even less room to survive!


    And moreover...


    In just a short time, he had already used up a third of his psychic power!

 Chapter 154 - 154: The arrival of a new era

    "Looks like there''s no way out, huh?" Gary let out a very healing and cute laugh. A woman, from nowhere, was sitting on the head of a mystical bird, leisurely swinging her feet under her long robes, gathering her strength for an attack!


    When she strikes, her powerful psychic abilities might just cover the entire Twin Fish Harmony Seal, leaving him no escape.


    At this moment, not only was Ethan extremely solemn, but also the many Developing Skill Psychics trapped with him were like lost souls, staring at the techniques of the three Competent masters, almost scared out of their wits!


    "What do you three seniors mean by this?!!"


    "We''re still in here!"


    "Doing this, how are you any different from the demon-possessed psychics? If we are killed, how will the world speak of you?!!"


    "..."


    They realized then, these three Competents intended to kill them all!


    Under Gary''s mystical bird''s gathering strike, they all couldn''t escape a fate of turning to ash!


    "Amitabha Buddha."


    Abbot David paused for a moment, then continued to pursue Ethan, with booming sounds following, but Ethan dodged again, causing the attack to hit another Developing Skill Psychic instead.


    And then... the next one!


    Previously, Abbot David would use techniques to protect them, but after Gary spoke those words, what about karma, what about compassion? Those deceiving words couldn''t be paler.


    The space covered by golden scales visibly narrowed at a rapid pace, Abbot David''s speed increased, making it even harder for him to escape, and in the sky, Gary''s imposing pressure grew stronger.


    Having lived a privileged life for many years, Ethan had never encountered such a crisis.


    But at this moment, he laughed.


    He couldn''t help but think of the Blackwood descendants who, over these seven years, had fought desperately time and again, facing life and death crises.


    People as good as Nathan, who had set aside their compassion to fight.


    Amelia, risking being discovered, participated in this great battle.


    Olivia, outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, faced thousands of Psychics, unafraid of the dangers of thunder tribulation possibly falling.


    And now.


    It was time for him, the Forebearer, to fight desperately!


    A cold light flashed in his eyes, and in this space confined by golden scales, a hint of green appeared.


    "You think you''ve trapped me, but you''ve actually trapped yourselves!"


    ...


    "What the heck is that?!!"


    Abbot David, who had been sensing Ethan''s teleportation direction and was ready to attack, suddenly froze in his tracks.


    At that moment, Gary, who was manipulating the golden scales to compress space and was ready to unleash a powerful strike from above that could obliterate everything within a six-mile radius, also changed his expression.


    Ethan, who was in the midst of teleporting, had suddenly hoisted a massive object.


    It looked like a huge green pointed cylinder!


    "Boom!"


    Ethan''s body was ablaze with alchemical fire, quickly heating the object until it was glowing red.


    The three Competents simultaneously sensed that the seemingly ordinary object was bursting with tremendous energy!


    Without a second thought, they fled!


    "Both of you, run! That monster is carrying something too big, we can''t use our distance-nullifying techniques on it!" Donald shouted.


    Hearing this, Ethan squinted his eyes.


    They were right; carrying a missile, Ethan could only teleport a little over a mile.


    But...


    The often-overlooked Coffin of Death opened!


    Hands, like blooming flowers, extended from the opened coffin.


    Among them, six figures enveloped in demonic aura formed a flesh wall to block Abbot David''s path, but he easily shattered them into ash, although this also delayed him for at least 0.01 seconds!


    Then there was a mummy, its eyes blazing with black fire, blood flowing over its body.


    This was the Lord of Frenzied Blood, brought from the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm by the third generation of the Blackwoods. It had lost its mind, no different from a zombie. And Nathan was just the master of the Coffin of Death, the coffin''s corpse driver!


    The blood of those thirty-some Developing Skill Psychics was completely absorbed by the Coffin of Death, entering the body of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, allowing it to unleash the peak of Developing Skill psychic powers in that moment. It charged at Donald, who was attempting to retract his golden scales, and then...


    It exploded!


    The last one was Nathan; he grabbed the coffin lid and charged into the sky, directly facing Gary!


    Ethan even teleported to kick Nathan, giving him a boost!


    Bringing the Coffin of Death was always planned, and now, it was time to unleash its bizarre effects!


    Meanwhile, Ethan''s alchemical fire was burning, and a smile appeared on his lips.


    His body slowly faded from the spot.


    Today, he was emulating Zhuge Liang''s borrowing of the eastern wind! S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boom!"


    As the light flared up, the sky and earth changed colors, and everyone in Cloudview County saw a mushroom cloud rising in the direction of the Sky Sect.


    "Boom!"


    The ground trembled!


    On this day, everyone in Cloudview County was looking in terror towards the direction of the Sky Sect. Cloudview County had never seen such a bright day.


    In this snowy winter, a fireball hotter and brighter than the sun rose into the sky.


    They saw a wave of air sweeping around, followed by an even stronger surge spreading out.


    A mushroom cloud rose rapidly from the ground, then slowed down, covering the sky!


    "What is that... what is that?"


    On the streets of Cloudview County.


    Stephen, who had once left the Azure Cloud Pavilion, was levitating, calculating with his fingers. He looked down at the astonished people, then raised his head to look around. He could sense that at this moment, many masters, just like him, had risen into the air, looking towards where the Sky Sect was located.


    They must be guessing what happened at the Sky Sect, but they didn''t know that there was a family fighting with the Sky Sect, battling with masters coming from all directions of Cloudview County.


    A flicker of relief passed through his eyes, grateful that on the day the landscape of human heads and bodies was built, he had already left the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    That mushroom cloud signified.


    "The arrival of a new era."


    "Just wanting to pioneer an era is fraught with difficulties, just like thirteen thousand years ago when this land was destroyed and brought back to life by the Azure Cloud Pavilion."

 Chapter 155 - 155: If only these were my disciples...

    [Hundred Tools Sect]


    The Hundred Tools Sect has allied with Blackwood, and together they''ve taken down Mystic Guild''s Scott, who soared into the sky. He looked at the mushroom cloud with a face full of joy.


    "Blackwood has gone to the Sky Sect, maybe they''ve already wiped them out, haha, I definitely made the right choice!"


    As soon as he finished speaking, a disciple said, "Elder, what if a Competent master gathers strength and wipes out Blackwood?"


    "Shut your trap, don''t mess with my focus! Blackwood is a worthy ally!"


    Scott gritted his teeth, glaring so fiercely that the disciple quickly lowered his head.


    [Azure Cloud Pavilion]


    Originally suppressed by Olivia to the point where they dared not move, the sect members all looked towards the direction of the Sky Sect. At this moment, the Developing Skill masters within their ranks gathered, revealing that there were actually over a dozen of them¡ªAzure Cloud Pavilion had always been hiding their true strength!


    Inside the grand hall of Azure Cloud Pavilion, the sect leader''s command had been set down, and Frank, preparing to flee back to his family to live out his days as an elder, furrowed his brows, "Azure Cloud Pavilion is done for. Thirteen thousand years, alas, who knows who the next Pavilion Master will be."


    He ran off without looking back, just like Stephen did.


    "Smart folks like Stephen have fled; who knows what will happen next. It''s too risky."


    "After I get back, I''ll immediately have my family sever all ties with Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    [Gratitude Village]


    "Grandpa Dennis, what''s happening over there?"


    Above the clouds, Nicholas pointed in the direction of the mushroom cloud rising from the Sky Sect, right after the earthquake, and Grandpa Dennis took him up to the sky to see.


    "Sky Sect?"


    Dennis stared in the direction of the Sky Sect for a long time, then suddenly burst into laughter, lifting Nicholas into his arms, "Hahaha, Nicholas, a new era for Cloudview County has begun, and this era belongs to Blackwood!"


    Yes.


    This era belongs to Blackwood!


    Inside the Sky Sect.


    At this moment, all the disciples and the Supreme Elder are using their psychic powers to maintain the Sixth Grade Protective Formation, a formation that hasn''t been activated for thousands of years. It is now being assaulted by extreme high temperatures and powerful explosive shockwaves, melting and shattering!


    Even though measures were already in place to block the intense light and sound, some of the less skilled disciples still suffered, bleeding from all orifices in the moment of the explosion. They saw only a bright light; the world appeared pale, and the sonic boom left them unable to hear anything.


    Only the Warren Daoist and some D-level elders could keep their eyes open!


    As the huge green pointed cylinder exploded, transitioning from white light to firelight.


    He saw it.


    Ethan, holding the missile, was disintegrating, followed by the Blackwoods emerging from the Coffin of Direct Death... This explosion was a force capable of threatening the lives of Competent masters!


    "Is that a hidden weapon... or a one-time psychic equipment?"


    Warren Daoist swallowed hard, glancing at the Sixth Grade Formation of the sect being impacted, spiderweb-like cracks emerging.


    While using his psychic power to repair the formation, a smile appeared on Warren Daoist''s face.


    He was feeling fortunate!


    If he had really chosen to go against his conscience and stand with the disciples and the three Competents, he might have had to face all this!


    "After today, Azure Cloud Pavilion will become a thing of the past, Blackwood oh Blackwood, wanting to replace Azure Cloud Pavilion is not so easy."


    Warren Daoist murmured softly, then he looked at the sect that was now suspended in the air, and the mountain peak still crumbling and rolling down stones from about thirty feet high, as well as the sea of fire on the ground.


    "Blackwood... formidable."


    Warren Daoist sighed deeply, he saw it.


    In the sky above the sea of fire, the first coffin was still floating.


    On the ground, figures were soaring above the sea of fire!


    They were the Lord of Frenzied Blood, the third generation of Blackwoods, including Nathan. Their figures emerged from the dark, breaking through the sea of fire, entering Warren Daoist''s sight.


    "Men who cannot be killed."


    Warren Daoist exhaled deeply, having witnessed the bravery of these few Blackwoods during the explosion. With their flesh and blood, they desperately blocked the three Competents, but now, they reappeared in the world.


    They were not only unafraid of death, their cultivation in front of Competents was like ants, yet they were fearless, which is truly terrifying!


    Then.


    Above the clouds shrouded in white mist, one after another, Blackwoods appeared!


    The three-tailed fox demon Luna.


    Sword King Lucas, a giant red-crowned tree taller than today''s Sky Sect, a giant serpent wrapped around the trunk flashing with lightning.


    A woman entwined with vines standing on the branches, the Julian couple cuddling on a silver AI Bionic Robot, Olivia flying in the sky in a wheelchair...


    The first two generations of Blackwoods were not surprised by such a scene.


    They seemed to control everything.


    No.


    Not because of this confidence, but because of the Cards in their hands, the Cards that could make a mysterious person appear like fog.


    The scenes just now were vivid in their minds, the Yin-Yang fish diagram, teleportation, the five elements of heaven and earth... and that weapon that could destroy everything.


    Their confidence came from that Cards, and also from their most sincere belief!


    Following that.


    Information indicated that the fourth generation descendants of Blackwood were coming from all directions, compared to the composure of the Blackwood elders, the fourth generation was more excited, seemingly witnessing such mighty power for the first time!


    When the Daoist from the Nine Shadows first laid eyes on the young elites of Blackwood mentioned in the reports, a flicker of envy passed through his gaze. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Sky Sect had its share of promising youths, but compared to the Blackwood progeny, they seemed somewhat lacking. It wasn''t a matter of talent, but rather... their vision, their temperament!


    These were merely Emerging Abilities, and yet a few among them possessed Iron Wills. Facing the current scene, they showed no fear whatsoever. In their eyes, there was only a murderous intent, as if facing a Competent was no big deal at all.


    This was a family that had tread a path stained with blood, built upon a foundation of corpses. Any one of them, placed in any other faction, could extend its influence for a hundred, even a thousand years!


    "If only these were my disciples..." the Nine Shadows Daoist murmured, then turned his head to glance at the panic-stricken disciples of the Sky Sect.


    Looking back at the protective great formation outside the sect, spared by the people of Blackwood, only to see Daoist Wesley, who had been left with only his upper body, dragging his intestines in front of the sect gate, he shook his head and sighed.

 Chapter 156 - 156: Bloodstained Household!

    Surrounded by the Blackwood descendants, a card appeared beside each of them. Perhaps this was the source of their strength and courage. At that moment, Daoist Warren frowned.


    Nathan, bare-chested, emerged from a sea of flames and landed at the entrance of the Sky Sect. Luna quickly draped a robe over him.


    The Blackwood descendants gathered around the vast Sky Sect, ready to make their move. Nathan slung a silver coffin on his back and stepped towards the front of the Sky Sect.


    "Save me, master, save me..." Daoist Wesley was still crawling, but before he could finish, Nathan had already grabbed him by the hair, lifting him up as his intestines spilled out. In front of everyone''s eyes, Nathan extracted the soul of the wailing Daoist Wesley and threw it into a dark fire array at his feet.


    Nathan and his wife stood tall, looking up at Daoist Warren and the many elders of the Sky Sect floating above, and he smiled.


    "Nathan, along with the descendants of Blackwood, greets Elder Warren!"


    "All of Blackwood greets Elder Warren!"


    The members of Blackwood were polite, albeit slightly imposing.


    "Elder, this is not the place to talk outside the Sky Sect. Why not let us come in and discuss this with you?" Nathan proposed.


    Daoist Warren glanced at the cards floating beside the members of Blackwood, then at a little girl chained next to Olivia, suppressed by various symbols and psychic tools. That was Gary!


    When Ethan was trapped, Gary, who was gathering his strength, was blocked by Nathan with a coffin board. Now, Gary was severely injured and hanging by a thread.


    Daoist Warren exhaled deeply. He knew that since the weapon had exploded outside the Sky Sect, with three Competents escaping and one captured, the situation had changed.


    No power would want to provoke Blackwood lightly unless they were absolutely sure. Otherwise, these madmen would surely cause another disaster like the one they had caused today in Cloudview County.


    Perhaps the best choice for him now was to step out of the Sky Sect and kill the people of Blackwood, but...


    "Boom!"


    Thunder shook the heavens, and pressure descended. He glanced at Olivia, the wheelchair-bound Lord of Dawn, who was again invoking a heavenly wrath.


    Blackwood still had cards up their sleeve!


    This family was like an abyss; no one knew what terrifying things might emerge from this bottomless black hole. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And such fear would spread throughout Cloudview County following today''s explosion outside the Sky Sect.


    What Azure Cloud Pavilion?


    It could no longer compare to the fear that Blackwood brought to the world.


    What Competent period?


    At least Daoist Warren did not want that powerful weapon, with its wide attack range, to fall on the head of the Sky Sect.


    "Please come in."


    Daoist Warren forced a smile, revealing an awkward grin. He had a feeling that if he dared to say no, the people of Blackwood would not hesitate to storm into his Sky Sect.


    Nathan, holding Luna''s hand tightly, walked into the Sky Sect.


    He swallowed hard as he looked at the disciples gathered from all directions, the many Developing Skills, and Daoist Warren, a Competent in front of them.


    He whispered to Luna, "Wife, Olivia told us to come and talk to Daoist Warren. If anything happens, you take the kids and run first. I''ll hold them off."


    Luna gripped his hand tighter, "Husband, we have to trust Olivia, and besides, Forebearer said it''s going to be alright. Don''t be scared, we have Forebearer."


    "Forebearer bless!"


    [Skill use complete!]


    [Congratulations! With your family''s cunning and brave coordination, you''ve annihilated over two million psychics from Cloudview County, killed 36 Developing Skill Psychics, and captured one Competent Psychic!]


    [You''ve obtained a plethora of spoils of war.]


    [7 complete Developing Skill Psychic bodies, 17 psychic devices. Various fragments of Developing Skill Psychics, +1 Competent thigh fragment, various fragments of psychic devices...]


    [Seeing the Forebearer valiantly struggle, your family members express their utmost respect, earning a Spiritual Tribute value of 20,000!]


    *Sigh*


    In the room, facing the screen, Ethan numbly manipulated the computer mouse until he saw Nathan enter the Sky Sect, which slightly eased his pale complexion.


    This was his second entry into the game world, and this time he died!


    Although it didn''t affect the real-world him, the instant pain and fear were still vivid in Ethan''s memory.


    "It''s no big deal, just died once."


    Ethan rubbed his face, watching the Blackwood descendants surrounding the Sky Sect on the screen, the still-rising mushroom cloud, and... Olivia controlling the little girl beside her.


    A smile finally appeared on his face, "I won!"


    He clearly saw the last scene of the missile explosion, which he ignited with a fire pill.


    He watched Abbot David struggle to escape, his muscles bulging impressively. The old monk, truly a Competent and a rare body cultivator, managed to punch Donald''s golden scale barrier while escaping, just as Ethan had predicted. The trap set by the three Competent ones ended up backfiring on them!


    That Donald, momentarily resisted by the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s self-destruction, his golden scales likely his life-bound psychic device. Abbot David''s punch also made Donald curse loudly.


    Eventually, Donald used a talisman to disappear from the spot.


    Not bad for a Competent expert, despite Ethan''s best efforts, he couldn''t keep the two of them.


    The only one left...


    Ethan glanced at the little girl controlled by Olivia.


    "Gary!"


    Ethan grinned, in that battle, Gary was undoubtedly the most unlucky.


    She was just giving up on charging up, right when she was hit by the backlash, Nathan''s coffin lid blocked her path momentarily, and she also endured the brunt of the nuclear strike!


    Clicking on Gary, Ethan saw her important information.


    [Gary]


    [Stage: Early Competent]


    [Status: Severely injured, Competent greatly damaged, suppressed]


    "She''s still not dead, typical of a Competent."


    Ethan exhaled deeply, only then realizing how hard it is to kill a Competent. But now, with Gary''s recovery suppressed, she might as well be dead.


    If it weren''t for the family having a big use for her, she would have been burned as a Competent by now.


    Soon, a series of pop-ups appeared before Ethan, also signifying the victory of this battle!


    [Special Event¡ªThe family''s brave counterattack.]


    [Your family has lain low for seven years, slaughtering those opposing the Blackwoods, killing over two million, suppressing Azure Cloud Pavilion, setting traps outside Sky Sect to annihilate thirty-two Developing Skill experts, repelling two, and capturing one Competent expert.]


    [Congratulations, your family has established a formidable reputation in Cloudview County, the trait ''Doomed Household'' has evolved into¡ªBloodstained Household!]


    [People across Cloudview County saw the rising mushroom clouds, news of Blackwood''s great victory spread, instilling fear in the hearts of Cloudview County''s people. Original amplification changed, family members gain +20% intimidation, -50% popularity, +8% desperate fighting strength.]


    "..."

 Chapter 157 - 157: Thunderfire Raging Python

    Ethan was momentarily stunned. The Blackwood family''s popularity had shot up from -99%, making them public enemy number one, to 50%. This meant that even though they had captured Competent, they still had plenty of enemies in Cloudview County.


    "They might fear Blackwood''s might, but that doesn''t stop them from playing both sides," he mused.


    "That means Blackwood is still in deep water, and we''re out of missiles. Even if we had any left, Competent wouldn''t fall for the same trick again," Ethan frowned.


    Soon, another pop-up appeared. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Sacrifice of the Boar Monarch Pete, Completed!]


    [Group Trait ''Year of the Crimson Snow'' has evolved into¡ª''Year of Bloodstained Snow''!]


    [Your descendants will forever remember the ''Year of the Crimson Snow'', boosting their psychic power cultivation speed by 5%. As long as they are on the lands of Cloudview County, they will honor the family''s valor today, and the Spiritual Tribute value during worship increases by 20%.]


    [You''ve earned +20000 Spiritual Tribute!]


    A smile crept across Ethan''s face.


    He had figured it out; each Iron Will descendant of the family contributed about 300 points of Spiritual Tribute annually. During the Emerging Ability phase, it was about 1000 points, and at D-level, around 3000 points.


    Using all the accumulated Spiritual Tribute for cultivating psychic powers, plus the rewards from entering the game world, meant that only the awarded Spiritual Tribute remained.


    An increase in Spiritual Tribute was a significant boon for him.


    Meanwhile, Ethan glanced at the Blackwood descendants surrounding the Sky Sect.


    After their continuous revenge, they had lost the initial anger and resentment.


    After a bout of loud crying, they had come to terms with their emotions.


    The emergence of the ''Year of Bloodstained Snow'' trait also meant they had moved on from the grief of the Boar Monarch Pete''s death. Hatred can drive a person''s growth, but continuous, unending hatred only leads to madness.


    The past is gone with the wind, and with their enemy dead, Blackwood would proceed with respect for the old pig on their future path.


    Just as Ethan felt reassured by this,


    A sudden pop-up appeared.


    [Your descendant Nathan and the Daoist of the Warren are getting along famously, and the feud between Blackwood and Sky Sect has dissolved. At Luna''s friendly suggestion, the Daoist of the Warren happily decides that once Marcus emerges from seclusion, he can inherit the position of Sect Master!]


    [Your descendant Marcus, after many years in hiding within the Sky Sect, aspires to climb to the highest ranks. Unbeknownst to him, with the family''s help, he has acquired a new identity¡ªSect Master of the Sky Sect!]


    "Ah?" Ethan blinked, clicking on Nathan''s icon.


    Indeed, inside the Sky Sect, Nathan and his wife were laughing and chatting with the Daoist of the Warren, who easily agreed to hand over the position of Sect Master to Marcus, still in seclusion.


    Ethan had no idea what Marcus would feel when he came out of seclusion.


    Soon, the Daoist of the Warren escorted Nathan and his wife out of the sect.


    As they passed outside the grand hall, the trio stopped in their tracks.


    Two bloody figures caught their eye.


    It was Elizabeth and Felix, pursued by Blackwood.


    But now...


    Elizabeth had completely lost her mind, tearing into Felix''s flesh bite by bite, laughing foolishly as she did, "Eating you, eating you will bring back my child!"


    "Coward! I can''t believe I was such a fool for you!"


    "Ha ha ha, Felix, we''re going to have another child."


    Luna was about to pull Nathan away, intending to let the crazed Elizabeth continue her painful existence.


    However, Nathan shook his head, decisively beheaded her and Felix, and placed their heads back into the Storage Ring, sighing deeply.


    "Let it be, she was just being used. Let her enter the cycle of reincarnation early."


    The Warren Daoist looked at Nathan appreciatively. From the intelligence he had gathered, all he knew were the brutal deeds of the Blackwood people.


    Yet, after talking with Nathan, he could see that this head of the Blackwood family was fundamentally a man of deep loyalty and good intentions.


    He pondered for a moment and asked, "Head of the Blackwood family, what about Wesley..."


    "He''s dead," Nathan replied, slightly squinting his eyes as he told a lie. Only he knew that Wesley Daoist''s soul, thrown into the formation by him, would never enter the cycle of reincarnation. For the past seven years, the souls of the deceased in Cloudview County had been tormenting Wesley Daoist''s soul incessantly!


    "That''s good, that''s good," sighed the Warren Daoist.


    After Nathan and his wife left the Sky Sect, the Blackwood folks no longer lingered. They gathered together, bowing before Ethan''s Cards.


    Watching the screen as successive words of praise from his descendants appeared, Ethan stood tall and proud. His descendants were also filled with pride.


    They vividly remembered how perilous the past seven years had been in Cloudview County, with the entire county hunting them down, always on alert.


    Now, thirty percent of the top fighters outside the Sky Sect had been killed, two Competents had fled with serious injuries, and one Competent had been captured.


    From now on, anyone in Cloudview County thinking of targeting the Blackwoods would have to consider whether they had the strength to do so!


    Those forces that had once pursued the Blackwoods would now live in the shadow of the Blackwoods, constantly vigilant about when the Blackwoods might strike.


    Even Ethan could guess that by now, quite a few forces were probably fleeing Cloudview County, taking their families and leaving their homes, or seeking protection from more powerful forces.


    "Forebearer, I believe it''s not yet time to return to our family base," Olivia''s words appeared above the heads of the clan members, standing out amidst the words of praise.


    The Blackwood people suddenly fell silent, all eyes turning to Olivia, whose behind-the-scenes help had kept the family safe over these seven years.


    Ethan clicked on the top-left corner icon of the temple guardian beast.


    [Thunderfire Raging Python]


    [Please enter your message.]


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Purple Thunder Solar Python had already completed its transformation.


    In this operation, it was also because of the presence of the demon king, the Thunderfire Raging Python, that Blackwood easily broke through a Developing Skill force''s protective great formation.


    As Ethan typed, the deep voice of the Thunderfire Raging Python sounded, "Commander, let''s hear your thoughts."


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Olivia nodded slightly, "Forebearer, you''ve severely injured Abbot David and Donald, and they will not let this go! There are known to be twelve Competent masters in Cloudview County. If we return to our base, they will have an opportunity to strike."


    Hearing this, Ethan nodded slightly, and the Blackwood clan members all frowned, clearly aware that this great battle had not truly allowed Blackwood to rest easy.


    He typed, letting Olivia continue speaking.

 Chapter 158 - 158: Williams Offering

    Olivia said, "We need to spread out. Only by taking control of the entire Cloudview County can we truly be safe. Now that Marcus is about to emerge from his seclusion, he''ll be the head of the Sky Sect. With Daniel''s help, it''s time for my sister to slowly take control of the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Subduing Alliance."


    "Our parents are still turning many bodies into zombies, especially the bodies of competent fighters like Gary, which can become our family''s trump card. The blood of many masters can slowly revive the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and our family''s sacred tree can grow stronger."


    "We also have many friends, like the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and the Hundred Tools Sect, along with many families from the Forest... What we need to do now is wait and gather more and more strength, and then..."


    "Make ourselves invincible throughout Cloudview County!"


    This time, even Nathan didn''t object, and a glint of longing flashed in the eyes of the Blackwood clan members.


    After years of drifting, they all waited to return home. Olivia was right; the only way home was to carve a bloody path!


    "The Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion will help us manage our family affairs. Our family''s fifth-generation descendant, Nicholas, is already eight years old. We''ll have someone send the child back to our family''s residence."


    "We can slowly gather resources. As long as we don''t show ourselves, no one dares to touch the younger members of the Blackwood family."


    It was all Olivia.


    Ethan couldn''t help but smile affectionately at Olivia, who looked like an old lady. With her around, Ethan always felt at ease, and his mind seemed less burdened.


    Olivia continued to make arrangements for the younger Blackwoods.


    "Jessica, you are the eighth lady of the Jones family in Cloudview County. You''ve done well in the Jones family over the years. Next, you need to help your husband ascend to the position of family head." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Larry, you control the exotic beasts in the Swamp Forest. I hear there are two demon kings dividing the territory there. Take them down, and the Swamp Forest will become a power base for our family."


    "Justin, I know you like seeking thrills. Go to the Black Tortoise Gate as a member of the Blackwood family, defeat all the geniuses there, and ask the Black Tortoise Gate to take you as a direct disciple."


    Listening to their great-aunt assign tasks one by one, George quietly stepped back, turned around, and sneakily prepared to slip away.


    "Where are you going?"


    Olivia called George back and whispered something in his ear.


    Soon.


    The Blackwoods again bowed to Ethan''s Cards, each taking one, and scattered into the sky, leaving only the Sky Sect still rising and spreading smoke around.


    One could imagine that for a long time to come, the Sky Sect would be radiating...


    Stepping outside would require the protection of psychic powers.


    William looked bewildered as his relatives decisively left, only the table where the Cards had just been placed indicating the traces left by his family.


    "Hey, great-aunt! You haven''t assigned me a task yet. I can do anything, really! I could even be a pretty boy like Jeffrey!"


    No response, and the cards weren''t flashy either. Suddenly, a noise from behind startled William, and two daggers shot out from his sleeves as he swiftly turned to face the rear.


    His daggers were quickly caught between fingers. Seeing who had made the noise, William froze, "Drunken Fool? What happened to you?"


    Over the years, while on his killing sprees, William had occasionally encountered Drunken Fool, the old drunkard who always wanted to learn a few of his lethal techniques.


    Now, Drunken Fool looked a bit shabby, his clothes torn and ragged, holding a bowl and chopsticks, with both shoes split at the middle of the foot, limping and blood-stained.


    Drunken Fool remained silent for a moment, unable to say that he had been injured by the residual effects of a mysterious weapon used by someone from Blackwood, almost killed in the chaos by Abbot David who was fleeing.


    In the distance.


    George walked slowly forward, head down and dejected, with twenty-three old men, moaning like a widow, "Ah! I wanted to go tomb raiding, to play the piano in the legendary brothels, not to go to Azure Cloud Pavilion!"


    Perhaps because he had always taken care of his younger siblings, he too wanted to experience what freedom felt like, but his great-aunt had bluntly shattered his dreams.


    The twenty-three old men were still laughing.


    "George, your great-aunt is a bit hot-tempered, but she''s really sharp-eyed."


    "Ha ha ha, she wants to make you the master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, our future is secured!"


    "I always thought Blackwood was reasonable, I was really worried they''d ruin Azure Cloud Pavilion, but your great-aunt is actually quite nice."


    The twenty-three old men chattered away, while George was speechless and choked up.


    How could they know what those outside really thought of his great-aunt?


    He had wanted to refuse, to wander the world like his great-grandfather, living freely. But his great-aunt had quietly told him, if he didn''t want to, then she would take all twenty-three of his old men to replenish the souls in the ancestral tomb...


    "Do we really have to leave our hometown behind?" Ethan sighed deeply. Indeed, their recent rampage in Cloudview County had shocked the world, but the county itself was fraught with danger.


    In the past, his family fought for revenge, but now, they were battling for the allure of returning home.


    Ethan also saw that the fourth generation of Blackwoods, at the time of separation, each returned to their family''s base, kneeling before the tomb of the demon king in the back mountains, recounting their stories over the years, and then departing one by one.


    It was clear that as their enemies were vanquished, they also let go of the hatred in their hearts.


    Ethan was relieved by this.


    As the Forebearer, he hoped each of his descendants could live happily. If it weren''t absolutely necessary, no one enjoyed fighting and killing, after all, his descendants were all good, kind people...


    [Special Event¡ªWilliam''s Offering]


    [Your descendant William, not sensing your presence, thinks it''s because he hasn''t killed enough people recently, disappointing the Forebearer. He decides to take Drunken Fool to Emerald Phoenix Peak, watering the Cards daily with the blood of his enemies to win your favor.]


    "You really have to pull this weird special event while I''m getting sentimental, huh?" Ethan grimaced, promptly switching his computer screen back to the Blackwood residence.

 Chapter 159 - 159: Greenhouse Flower

    [Blackwood Residence]


    "Not bad."


    Ethan''s mood finally eased as he observed the development of Blackwood. Over the years, the residence had not slowed down in progress despite Blackwood''s absence.


    Gratitude Village still formed a semicircle, neatly encircling the residence together with the Silver Iron Forest.


    Now, the area was filled with fields of special abilities. Over the years, Blackwood had provided Dennis with numerous Energy Stones.


    Dennis, a man of his word, had used all these stones to procure various items for Blackwood.


    The entire residence was brimming with powerful abilities.


    At this moment, Dennis was standing in the center of the courtyard, accompanied by the six children of Blackwood''s fifth generation.


    The Primordial Blood Tree had returned to the Blackwood Residence overnight!


    [The Primordial Blood Tree, nostalgic, had refused Amelia''s daily offer of ten corpses for tasting at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, requesting Nathan to send it back to the family residence. Overnight, its roots had spread ten miles beneath the family''s land.]


    "Grandpa Dennis, come look! I peed here yesterday, and today a huge tree has grown!"


    "..."


    Dennis was very familiar with this tree!


    He had seen it during his first visit to Blackwood, back when it was a blood ability fruit tree. Now... he had heard rumors that at least a million lives lay beneath its roots.


    Everything was unfolding just as he had predicted years ago; the tree could reach at least the sixth rank, but he hadn''t expected it to happen so quickly.


    While Nicholas was delighted that his urine had sprouted a towering tree, Dennis was deep in thought.


    The tree swayed, and the Primordial Blood Tree revealed an ancient face with crimson eyes!


    "Ah! A monster!"


    Nicholas clung tightly to Dennis''s leg in fright.


    "Family''s fifth generation child, Nicholas."


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s eyes flashed with blood, and it sighed, "I see, you are a coward. Perhaps sending you to the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion was a mistake. Overprotection will only lead to your downfall. However, you will be a kind family head."


    "Nicholas is not a coward, not!"


    The frightened child, with tears in his eyes, looked defiant.


    This made Dennis furrow his brow, "Divine Tree, what do you mean by that? I, Dennis, assure you, Nicholas has grown up listening to the stories of his elders. He will not disgrace Blackwood!"


    The Primordial Blood Tree paid no heed.


    It turned its gaze to the other somewhat fearful children.


    "Matthew, you grew up in Moore, and you are Moore''s future. One day, you will return there."


    "Donna, the Fist of the Hundred sect has made your life miserable from the start. I only see your future."


    As the Primordial Blood Tree''s eyes fixed on Dennis while addressing the girl among Blackwood''s six children, it said, "Tell your story to this friend, he will take you back to the Fist of the Hundred sect, where justice will be served."


    As the girl with braided hair recounted her story of being tormented at the Fist of the Hundred sect, being pricked with needles by her nursemaid and called a ''Blackwood bastard'' daily,


    Dennis calculated quickly, then picked up Donna, "Don''t be afraid, you''re not some bastard. Your Grandpa Dennis will take care of the Fist of the Hundred sect for you."


    Little Donna pursed her lips, not understanding what ''taking care of'' meant, only knowing it was something bad. She shook her head, "No, Grandpa, the sect leader is kind to me, it''s just the nursemaid..."


    Dennis listened quietly.


    With his calculations, he had figured out the misunderstanding. Donna''s nursemaid, misled to believe Donna was the illegitimate daughter of the sect leader of Baiquan, acted under the sect leader''s wife''s orders, harboring malice and even nearly drowning her. Young Donna dared not speak to outsiders about it.


    He took a deep breath before leaving with Donna, frowning at the Primordial Blood Tree, "Divine Tree, you can predict the future, can you see through me?"


    A cool breeze blew.


    The Primordial Blood Tree stared at Dennis''s aged face and white hair, pausing long before uttering two words, "Ten years."


    "Thank you."


    Dennis, relieved, laughed heartily as he carried Donna away, softly saying to the frightened girl, "Child, Grandpa Dennis will take you to seek revenge."


    Primordial Blood Tree then turned its gaze to the remaining three children.


    "Edward, the eldest son of the fifth generation, you will not sit on the throne of this family, but I see you ascending to a lofty throne."


    "A throne?"


    Edward, a twelve-year-old boy with an ordinary appearance, fell into deep thought. "Divine Tree, I''ve heard your stories, but I do not wish to ascend to any throne. I want to be like the Sword King, my great-grandfather, and conquer with my sword."


    The Primordial Blood Tree paid no heed to the boy''s dreams.


    "Charles, Christopher, you siblings returned from the temple, now ten years old. Years of burning incense and worshiping Buddha have not diminished your Buddhist nature. You should head to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, start your journey today."


    "Amitabha."


    A little monk and a little nun.


    Watching the two set off on their own, Ethan clicked his mouse. Initially, Blackwood had sent them to the temple because they were facing the entire Forest Town, and he hadn''t expected them to turn out as Buddhist disciples.


    However, the Primordial Blood Tree, not only capable of omens, had always provided favorable prophecies for the Blackwood children.


    Of this fifth generation''s six,Only Nicholas and Donna had distinctive traits, and neither were particularly favorable. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your descendant Nicholas has been pampered at the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion for seven years, receiving a child bride ''Helen'' and reaching the second layer of Foundational Energy. Dennis, alone for three hundred years, has doted excessively on little Nicholas, who grew up spoiled and acquired the trait¡ªGreenhouse Flower.]


    [His starting point is high, yet he is sensitive and fragile, unable to withstand the trials of life. The opportunities gifted by his elders significantly increase, but his speed in cultivating psychic powers decreases by 10%.]

 Chapter 160 - 160: The Great Sect War has ended!

    [Your descendant Donna, despite being tormented from a young age, still diligently cultivates psychic powers at the Fist of the Hundred Sect, enduring silently and striving for progress. At just 9 years old, she has already reached the third layer of Foundational Energy. She has acquired the trait¡ªStriving Victim.]


    [Years of torment have made her more self-conscious and fearful of others'' bullying. She hesitates in everything she does. Her speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%, but her combat power decreases by 10%.]


    "Eh."


    Ethan sighed deeply, recognizing how crucial a child''s upbringing is. If Boar Monarch Pete were still around, perhaps the Blackwood elders could have raised them better.


    One child had it too easy, the other too harsh; both ended up with their issues. Ethan could only hope that the future would bring changes. Nicholas wasn''t much of a concern; worst case, he could be sent to the Thunderfire Demon Cave or Dawn to experience real life.


    But Donna, this child had been tormented for years, yet when Dennis wanted to seek revenge, she still spoke in favor of the Fist of the Hundred Sect, showing her inherently good nature.


    Glancing once more at the well-developed residence,


    Ethan sped up time.


    Soon, spring turned to autumn.


    [Blackwood Year 92]


    [Special Event¡ªThe Great Sect War has ended!] S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [The leader of Sky Sect, Wesley Daoist, has passed away. Black Tortoise''s elder, Leo, along with the sect leader Turtle Daoist, paid their respects together. The two thousand-year-old elders had a grand drink, and years of enmity between the two sects dissolved into nothing.]


    After watching the screen for two hours,The entire Cloudview County, after the chaos caused by Blackwood two years ago, miraculously calmed down.


    Apart from the nuclear radiation that filled Sky Sect, it was as if nothing had happened. All sects and clans had withdrawn their bounties on the Blackwoods.


    Two years had passed, and the Blackwoods were no longer pursued, even... the two great sects that had fought for decades were now showing mutual respect.


    The days when Blackwood built landscapes of human corpses, when Blackwood fiercely cut down twelve forces, and when they fought the top masters of Sky Sect in the great battle of Cloudview County, became the least spoken of by the people of Cloudview County.


    With Dennis''s help, the descendants of the fifth generation of Blackwoods were slowly growing up. The elders who were scattered abroad occasionally sent back treasures, rapidly developing the family''s residence.


    World peace?


    No!


    Ethan''s fingers tapped continuously beside the bed, and on the screen, a new message appeared.


    [Your descendant Daniel, in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, has once again taken control of a faction of the Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors, the strongest being at the peak of Emerging Ability. Your family now controls twelve factions of the Celestial Warriors. Daniel joyfully sends you this message, slowly growing fond of the feeling of power, hoping for your blessing for smooth sailing.]


    [Your descendant Larry, in the swamp jungle, has once again acquired a mutant beast ''Ancient Giant Chicken''. The two demon kings occupying the swamp are becoming increasingly wary of her. She decides to leave the swamp jungle with her mutant beast and head to the Golden Battle Forest. On the way, her mount finds an Orion fruit, and she breaks through to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability!]


    [Your descendant Justin, standing on the platform of the Black Tortoise''s decennial competition, looks at the 49-year-old youth at the peak of Emerging Ability on the stage, then at his own near mid-stage Emerging Ability strength, feeling he hasn''t courted death enough. He decides to bide his time, court death for another ten years, and then explode across the entire Black Tortoise.


    He acquires the trait¡ªNever Say Die.]


    [He begins to obsess over the thrill of near-death experiences, slightly increasing his chances during such moments.]


    [...]


    All the descendants of Blackwood are well aware that although things seem calm, there are dangerous undercurrents brewing!


    He slowly opened the large map of Cloudview County.


    Most of it... was marked with hostile red dots!


    [Your descendants swear to you that one day, they will return to their homeland in broad daylight!]


    The calmer it is, the more terrifying it becomes.


    Ethan doesn''t believe that the entirety of Cloudview County has truly accepted the presence of Blackwood, even if they were to target Blackwood to curb its growth, Ethan wouldn''t be so worried, because that would be normal.


    He even asked the Primordial Blood Tree, but the Primordial Blood Tree said that it wasn''t really that powerful; it was just at a breakthrough moment, able to see more of the future.


    The more he thought about it, the more vigilant Ethan felt.


    Especially those little red dots on the map, they were so striking.


    He wished he could turn all these red dots green, or white.


    Just as he was pondering this.


    A pop-up from Olivia appeared.


    [Your descendant Olivia requests a consultation with you, Thunderfire Raging Python.]


    Ethan felt inexplicably reassured and clicked on Olivia''s avatar.


    Nowadays, Olivia was in the Divine Mountain, leisurely observing the mountains, rivers, and lakes. In just two short years, she seemed a bit younger, while others aged, Olivia was aging in reverse.


    Her organization, Dawn, spread throughout Cloudview County, could relay messages for the family, and Thunderfire Raging Python stayed by her side.


    A burst of ancestral love came to Olivia.


    Forebearer Cards surfaced, and Olivia knew the Forebearer had shown his powers.


    Olivia quickly knelt, "Child disturbs Forebearer, please forgive me."


    As Ethan typed the text for Olivia to discuss matters, Thunderfire Raging Python''s voice was deep and resonant, making Ethan miss the times when this big beast hissed, making him feel less like Voldemort now.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    Olivia''s aged face showed a hint of suspicion, "Forebearer, these past two years have been too quiet. Child can faintly feel that the two Competents who escaped two years ago will not just let things be. Child sent people to check, and their families are as usual, as if the Competent ancestor had never appeared outside the Sky Sect, nor ever failed."


    "They haven''t left, haven''t formed alliances, they know our family can''t tolerate sand in our eyes, there should still be actions."


    Thinking along the same lines!


    Ethan took a deep breath, if it were just him, he might think he was being a bit paranoid. But Ethan, he absolutely trusts Olivia''s intuition!


    "Everyone says it''s the era of my Blackwood, but Forebearer, child does not wish it so. The tree that stands out in the forest is the first to be destroyed, those people will think, why could Blackwood rise in a century? Without some earth-shattering secret, how could it be?"


    "Just so, our Blackwood does have many secrets."


    Ethan nodded slightly.


    Olivia was right, the secrets of Blackwood weren''t just him.


    There were also the Direct Death Coffin, Lord of Frenzied Blood, Primordial Blood Tree... any of which were coveted.


    Now some secrets were already in front of others, Blackwood was like a big piece of fat meat, countless families wanted to slowly uncover the secrets of Blackwood, to devour Blackwood.


    "Child believes, they are lying in wait, waiting for a chance to strike a fatal blow to my Blackwood!"


    This time, Ethan and Olivia talked for a very long time.


    But now the problem is, Blackwood is now in the shadows, with major forces led by Donald, Abbot David, also in the shadows!


    Even though they tricked them once at Sky Sect, Ethan still dared not relax at all.


    In fact, they are very frightening.


    Frightening enough to flee at the slightest hint of something wrong, to kill those Developing Skills without hesitation, and to abandon Gary without hesitation.


    That day, Dawn''s assassins conveyed messages to the descendants of Blackwood throughout Cloudview County, without exception, all to keep the descendants of Blackwood vigilant.


    Ethan could feel it.


    In the bright appearance of Blackwood today, there were still dark clouds.


    The war is far from over, only this time, the enemies of Blackwood are fewer, and this time, it''s the peak struggle of Azure Cloud!


    At the end of the conversation, Ethan and Olivia both laughed.


    Hasn''t the family always struggled up this way over the past century?


    Only this time, the enemy is stronger, more troublesome.

 Chapter 161 - 161: Greetings, Commander!

    After discussing with Olivia, Ethan also set the future policy. They knew a confrontation was inevitable! And what better place for this showdown than at the Blackwood stronghold.


    Ethan was well aware that places like the Sky Sect could partially neutralize the impact of a nuclear bomb with their sixth-grade magic formations. Inside their sect, there were also formidable attack formations.


    According to the Warren Daoist, in the whole of Cloudview County, the Black Tortoise''s defensive formation was the strongest, having once withstood the full force of a Competent master''s three-month buildup... its power was comparable to the nuclear bombs Ethan had.


    After some thought, Ethan made a call, "Hey, Alan? I need more nukes."


    There was a long pause, and it seemed like the news was turned on at the other end, and an AI voice chimed in.


    [Commander, there have been no nuclear explosions on Earth these past few days, just an antimatter bomb with a 0.5 gram yield deployed at sea.]


    "..."


    Ethan''s face darkened.


    Then came Alan''s laughter.


    "Ahaha, Mr. Ethan, look at this, I''ve become the old uncle selling nukes. Let me think of a way for you; there are only so many people who can handle this stuff now, gotta look around."


    "Thanks."


    Ethan was polite, "By the way, I just heard about the antimatter bomb..."


    "..."


    When Alan hung up, Ethan thought he heard Alan cursing at the AI.


    With Alan''s help, Ethan breathed a sigh of relief. The current strength of Blackwood was still lacking, and nuclear bombs were crucial, but if they could get an antimatter bomb, that would be even better.


    Just after hanging up, Ethan saw a pop-up notification and quickly adjusted the time rate.


    [Your descendant Nathan heard that the family needed a formation master to inscribe formations, so he returned, bringing with him 18 loyal Psychics from places like Dawn, Thunderfire Demon Cave, Sky Sect, and the Demon Subduing Alliance, including two eighth-grade and sixteen ninth-grade formation masters!]


    To avoid drawing attention, Nathan had returned secretly.


    Soon, Nathan met with Dennis. Because Charles and Christopher were at the Thunderfire Demon Cave, only four of the fifth generation children were present. Nathan gave each of them a piece of psychic equipment. These children, having grown up listening to the stories of the Blackwood elders, saw their great-grandfather as if he were a deity.


    "Mr. Nathan, I''ve long heard of the great deeds you''ve accomplished outside, hahaha, truly heartening!" Dennis had already sighed with emotion, remembering when he first came to Blackwood with the intention of bringing it down.


    But now, Blackwood was beyond reach.


    "Mr. Dennis is too kind. It was a necessity, and even now, we are still hiding like rats in the streets," Nathan shook his head and smiled, then gratefully said, "Let''s not talk about that. I owe a lot to Mr. Dennis over the years, and I''ve thanked him on behalf of the children."


    He stood up and bowed to Dennis.


    "No, no, no!" Dennis quickly helped Nathan up, "Honestly, I helped Blackwood with my own agenda, it was a big gamble, and winning it meant that my Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion could soar to the heavens."


    That was indeed the truth, Nathan laughed, "Regardless, Mr. Dennis has been a great benefactor to Blackwood. I hear Mr. Dennis has encountered some trouble."


    "What trouble could I possibly have?"


    Dennis''s eyes darted around.


    "Your lifespan, Mr. Dennis. The technique you practice predicts life expectancy, and now you have only eight years left."


    Seeing Dennis''s bitter smile, Nathan continued, "Mr. Dennis, rest assured, we Blackwood folks are not ungrateful. Over the years, we''ve indeed found some heavenly treasures. These three items can extend your life by twelve years."


    Two pills and a fruit appeared in Nathan''s hand, but Dennis still smiled bitterly, "Thank you, Mr. Nathan, but there''s no need. I recently met Stephen, the former head of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and he told me my life was short, just like the divine tree of Blackwood. It''s fate, and fate cannot be defied."


    "This..."


    Nathan was taken aback, encountering these psychics who all seemed to believe in destiny.


    "Let''s not talk about that," Dennis said with a smile. "Mr. Nathan, how long do you plan to stay this time?"


    "It''s uncertain. My wife has left me, and I might as well go home to cultivate psychic powers and look after the family."


    "Huh?"


    Dennis''s eyes widened in surprise. "Mr. Nathan, please tell me more."


    Seeing Dennis''s eager eyes, Nathan casually said, "At my age, what are you expecting? My wife found a secret spot, perfect for cultivating psychic powers."


    "I see."


    Dennis nodded slightly.


    Unbeknownst to them, Ethan in front of the screen had already started frantically searching the family event tab, worried about any issues that might arise with Nathan, this year''s best couple.


    [Family Power Dawn has found a secret realm of the Heavenly Fox! Inside, there are demonic clan heritage techniques. Luna has gone to cultivate psychic powers, hoping to break through to the peak of the demon king realm!]


    "That scared me."


    Ethan rolled his eyes and quickly sped up time.


    Nathan returned to the Ironwood Forest as usual.


    But with all the beasts of the Ironwood Forest now following the man known as the Beast King Larry on adventures, the place had been renamed.


    [Blackwood Secret Realm]


    Upon arrival, Nathan found a cool spot and lay down in a coffin, covering it...


    In an instant.


    Ethan followed the scene into the space of the Death Coffin. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This space was different from what Ethan had seen before!


    The first two layers of the Death Coffin were filled with countless zombies and flying corpses, at the levels of Foundational Energy and Emerging Ability. The third layer was a vast expanse of white.


    [Third Layer of the Death Coffin]


    [Every kilometer forward, there is a dense psychic pressure, and at the end, the pressure reaches Competent.]


    The first two layers were for cultivating combat experience, and the third layer was for psychic abilities!


    Seeing the scene inside, a smile appeared on Ethan''s face.


    Inside, there was the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and... 12 corpses, all of whom had been at least at the Developing Skill level in life.


    And what delighted Ethan was seeing an old friend¡ª


    Gary!

 Chapter 162 - 162: Who is Betty Martin?

    As Nathan entered, Gary, still in his original form, opened his blood-red eyes and knelt on one knee, speaking human language.


    "Greetings, Commander!"


    "Truly a legacy left by the Supreme era!"


    Once high and mighty, attempting to annihilate the Blackwoods, Gary became a zombie!


    [Your descendant Nathan has been collecting the corpses of enemies for years, now refining them through ''Celestial Coffin Corpse Driving Technique'' and ''Soul-Calling Calamity Formation''.]


    [He has taken control of Gary''s zombie. After capturing both his soul and body, Gary is left with only the strength of a D-level body. Zombie King achieved!]


    [Through the ''Celestial Coffin Corpse Driving Technique'', your descendant Nathan is working to make Gary even stronger. Using Tribute Offering, hearts of the deceased x1 million, Psychic skeletons x200,000, souls of the Psychic...]


    Zombie King is a Developing Skill, while Celestial Zombie is Competent!


    Nathan has always only refined zombies and flying zombies, as refining higher-level Zombie Kings or Celestial Zombies requires various materials and extremely intricate methods.


    After two years of refining, today''s Gary has finally gained a nascent intelligence, serving the Blackwoods!


    "Another ace up our sleeve."


    Ethan could hardly suppress his laughter, feeling immensely moved by the terrifying legacy of the ''Death Celestial Coffin'' after Nathan took control of Gary.


    He could already sense that if the zombies from the ''Death Celestial Coffin'' and the souls collected over the years were to appear in the world, the enemies of the Blackwoods would hardly sleep well.


    As Nathan continues to refine zombies and spirits, his supernatural abilities are also growing day by day. It won''t be many years before he breaks through the mid-stage of Developing Skill.


    ...


    Delighted about Gary being controlled, Ethan blinked.


    "What''s going on?"


    Suddenly, a pop-up appeared on the screen.


    [Congratulations, Betty Martin has given birth to a son for the Blackwoods, he has not yet been named by the family elders, please bring the child to the ancestral hall to name him soon.]


    [Spiritual Tribute +3]


    "Which little rascal secretly had a child without telling me???"


    Ethan scratched his head frantically. Over the years, the Blackwood descendants have been busy growing and strengthening, and even the most charming Jeffrey, despite his flirtations, was always discreet, using fish bladders... It''s been a long time since anyone in the family got married, so where did this child come from?


    And who is Betty Martin???


    Ethan didn''t know whether to be happy about the birth of the newborn or angry about it.


    He searched the entire family residence, clicking on the profiles of Blackwood members, but couldn''t see anyone around. Since the guy didn''t even have a name, he couldn''t even search the member list, and Betty, who wasn''t married, was unclickable!


    "Ah? Where did this child come from?"


    This completely baffled Ethan.


    That day, the adult descendants of the Blackwoods scattered across Cloudview County all looked up, bewildered as Forebearer Cards floated by, tracing a question through the air.


    [Do you know Betty Martin?]


    [Have you had a baby recently?]


    Luna was so scared she almost came out of the Sky Fox Secret Realm to ask Nathan for clarity. Julian, who was forging in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, frantically explained to Mary.


    It took half a month before Olivia''s message arrived, her intelligence network in full operation.


    "Forebearer, there aren''t many people with the surname Martin in Cloudview County."


    Olivia rarely showed difficulty, "I don''t know how Edward got involved with such a dignitary."


    As Olivia elaborated in detail.


    A pop-up appeared on the screen.


    [Special Event¡ªDescendant Stranded Abroad]


    [In the year 91 of Blackwood, your descendant Edward, aged 13, while purchasing goods for Gratitude Village at an auction in Tranquil County, meets Betty, the young princess of the Duke''s Mansion''s estate. Edward, carrying the air of a wanderer and looking up to Lucas as his role model, though ordinary in appearance, is greatly favored by Betty.]


    [Betty, aged 15, is in the bloom of youth when she bids farewell to Edward the night before returning to the lord''s estate. That night, in the inn, the candlelight flickers behind thin curtains, and shadows dance behind beaded screens. The sounds of nightingales fill the room, and the shy moon hides behind clouds.


    After this night, the young lovers part ways, with Betty returning to the lord''s estate with her guard, promising to be together when they grow older.]


    [In the year 92 of Blackwood, no one knows that Betty has given birth to a son. The Duke''s Mansion, furious and unable to get Betty to reveal the father''s identity, confines her. Betty threatens suicide, and the child survives.]


    "..."


    Ethan fell silent, always proud of his descendants'' strength.


    He was just about to suggest that Olivia formally ask for Betty''s hand in marriage.


    Then Olivia said, "Forebearer, this matter is intriguing. The Duke''s Mansion''s estate kept the birth of the child secret, surely there must be another reason. That girl Betty dared not tell the Duke''s Mansion''s estate that the father of her child is one of us Blackwoods. But I believe, the Duke''s Mansion Michael probably already knows."


    Hearing this, Ethan frowned.


    He searched for the Duke''s Mansion''s estate on the map and gathered information.


    The Duke''s Mansion''s estate, also the guardian of the southern barbarian lands. When it was called Cloudview County, the Duke''s Mansion''s estate was already there, different from those controlled by sects like county and town chiefs. Most of Cloudview County''s taxes go to the Duke''s Mansion''s estate and are protected by the dynasty.


    They are very special, having ignored the affairs of Cloudview County for tens of thousands of years, living off the land without contributing...


    The only time they took action was tens of thousands of years ago when a Competent family foolishly challenged the Duke''s Mansion''s estate, and in one night, the Grim Reaper wrote their family history.


    Regardless of the strength of the Duke''s Mansion''s estate, at 13, getting a 15-year-old girl pregnant, the Blackwoods are definitely at fault here.


    Ethan relayed the situation to Nathan.


    After a moment.


    Nathan was so angry he practically jumped out of his coffin. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 163 - 163: Twenty years, huh?

    The Blackwood family''s descendants, along with Nathan, arrived at the family shrine. Charles and Christopher were still in Thunderfire Demon Cave practicing Buddhism.


    As for Matthew, he had gone back to Moore, where he had grown up and was now collaborating with the head of the Moore family, Holden, who was nearing the end of his life.


    Nathan discussed with Holden the possibility of Matthew marrying into the Moore family to ensure the continuation of the Blackwood lineage, even if it meant becoming a branch family.


    Nathan, with a stern face, confronted Edward, who had been summoned along with his siblings by their great-grandfather, expecting some family matters to be discussed.


    However, Nathan''s questioning left Edward stunned, taking a while to respond, "Great-grandfather, I... I know I was wrong, but Uncle William took me out recently, and I swear I didn''t join him in any wrongdoing. I ran away!"


    Nathan''s expression darkened even more as he gripped his iron staff tighter, "Do you remember Betty? She bore you a child." At this revelation, Nicholas and Donna looked incredulously at their older brother, filled with shock and confusion.


    "Big brother, was what you said before true?"


    "What''s going on? I became an aunt at just eleven?"


    Edward, looking completely dazed and his muscles tensing as if time had slowed down, finally came to his senses and faced his furious great-grandfather, "I... I''m a father?"


    Seeing his great-grandson in such a state, Nathan sighed deeply, "At a time when our family is surrounded by enemies, you''ve committed such a foolish act. Do you know who she is? She''s Betty, the young princess of the Duke''s Mansion! What kind of place do you think the Duke''s Mansion is? "


    "Even if she wasn''t the Duke''s daughter, as a descendant of the Blackwoods, you should not forget moral principles. Have you thought about how this will affect Betty, who is so young and now pregnant, and how she will face society?"


    After speaking, Nathan bowed deeply to the ancestral tablets, "Please, Forebearer, punish me for not disciplining my descendants properly and causing such a disaster." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No! It''s not great-grandfather''s fault!" Edward quickly kowtowed, "Betty and I truly love each other, and I am willing to take responsibility!"


    Nathan and Ethan, watching from the screen, stared at Edward. Whether they truly loved each other was known only to the heavens, but it was clear that Edward had been led astray by desire.


    Despite the strict family discipline and repeated warnings, youthful impulsiveness, especially regarding romantic entanglements, was hard to control.


    After a moment of thought, the ancestral tablets in the Forebearer''s shrine rose.


    [Propose Marriage]


    The deed was done, and now they had to follow the old rules...


    The Duke''s Mansion was formidable, but if truly angered, it wouldn''t be a big deal. At worst, the young ones could hide deep in the mountains with their elders.


    Meanwhile, Olivia was tasked with figuring out a way to secretly bring back the family''s daughters-in-law and children.


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Seeing the command from the Forebearer, Nathan quickly nodded.


    Within half a day, Nathan had enlisted Dennis''s help. Upon hearing the news, Dennis, after a long pause and considering Edward''s unremarkable appearance and mediocre talents, smiled at Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, after all, she is the Duke''s young princess. I''ll do my best."


    "Thank you, Mr. Dennis."


    Soon, Dennis, carrying a high-quality psychic device, a million Energy Stones, and a plethora of heavenly materials, headed to the Duke''s Mansion. Then...


    After accelerating time, the scene shifted to the outskirts of the Duke''s Mansion, which was quite imposing, with two Emerging Ability guards at the gate. After explaining their purpose, Dennis and a very nervous Edward were led inside by an imposing general.


    D-level!


    Ethan followed their perspective into the Duke''s Mansion and was already preparing his skills.


    Soon, he saw the most prestigious person in the entire Cloudview County, a portly middle-aged man in a black python robe, exuding a powerful aura as he walked.


    Entering the hall, Dennis and Edward stood up.


    Duke Michael glanced emotionlessly at Edward, "A Blackwood child? Did you impregnate my daughter?"


    "..."


    Edward was trembling with nerves until Dennis nudged him, prompting him to quickly respond, "Yes. Can I... can I see Betty and our child?"


    "Oh, you come now!" Duke Michael scoffed, slowly settling back into his seat. He picked up his teacup, brushed off some tea leaves, blew on the steam, and took a sip before speaking, "Do you know how old I am this year?"


    Edward shook his head, not daring to speak, sensing that Michael, though appearing calm, was likely very irritated behind this facade.


    "Seven hundred and twenty-nine years old," Michael said evenly.


    "Do you also know how many children I have in my line? Six. Four of my children have lived out their lifespans, leaving only a son and a daughter. Guess how much effort it took me to conceive Betty? She is in my palace, cherished above all. You''re quite something, a D-level guard couldn''t keep you from causing trouble with my daughter."


    "I''ve heard your great-grandfather Nathan was most concerned with family reputation, and everyone in Gratitude Village speaks well of him. How did they produce a rebel like you?" he continued, taking another sip of his tea.


    Looking at the bowed head of Edward and the trembling Dennis, Michael suddenly smiled, "I know young people are impulsive, and I''m not some old fuddy-duddy. You Blackwoods, and you young man, if you achieve something, Betty will certainly not marry a mediocrity."


    "I''ll give you twenty years. Your uncle George once killed all the talents at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion. In twenty years, the same Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion will gather heroes from all over, even from other counties. If you can''t defeat these prodigies, I will have done all I can, and I''ll send you a wedding invitation."


    "Understood, I''ll take the child and go back to report," Dennis quickly pulled Edward away.


    Ethan, watching this unfold in the empty hall, saw Michael begin to smash things in anger, cursing, "Ah! Scoundrel, ruining my Betty, damn fool, bastard!"


    Ethan was momentarily speechless, empathizing¡ªif Nathan had a daughter at his old age and someone treated her that way, he''d probably be crazier than Michael.


    "Twenty years, huh?" He glanced at Edward''s potential, his lips curling slightly, "If you really just want someone worthy of Betty, why wait twenty years? Wouldn''t now be better?"

 Chapter 164 - 164: Yes, not afraid, Im no coward!

    [Edward]


    [Psychic Constitution: Metal, Wood, Water, Earth]


    [Level: Foundational Energy Level Five]


    [Techniques and Martial Arts: Azure Cloud Unfallen, Shadowy Heaven Steps, Thunderous Golden Scripture]


    The talents of Blackwood''s fifth generation descendants were mediocre at best, with only Nicholas being slightly better, possessing a dual Psychic Constitution.


    They weren''t like the first three generations, nor did they have access to Ethan''s top-tier ''Heavenly Mechanism Psychic Enhancement Pills''.


    The potions Amelia concocted to enhance the quality of the Five Elements in their Psychic Constitution only slightly improved their talents.


    The worst part was that they weren''t nurtured by the family from a young age.


    You see, the fourth generation kids basically grew up living with mystical beasts, and when they had nothing else to do, they would even enter the Deathly Coffin to battle.


    [Your descendant Olivia has important matters to discuss.]


    Time sped up, and about three days passed. Edward hadn''t even returned home when Olivia''s message arrived.


    After switching the screen.


    Olivia saw the shimmering Cards and quickly knelt, "Forebearer, I have heard that Edward has gone to meet the County Prince."


    Ethan seriously suspected that Dawn''s people had infiltrated the royal residence...


    "Michael gave us twenty years, and this is also an opportunity for us!" she exclaimed.


    "What he meant was for us, Blackwood, and Edward to achieve something together, there''s an implication in his words."


    Hearing this, Ethan slightly raised an eyebrow.


    He had sensed something amiss when he heard Michael speak, especially since Michael, a man of such high status, had done nothing since Betty became pregnant, which was quite odd.


    "My child has checked, and in fact, for tens of thousands of years, the successive County Princes of the Duke''s Mansion did not lack the intention to care for the people of Cloudview County."


    " However, whenever the Duke''s Mansion was about to act, forces like the Azure Cloud Pavilion always seemed to be forming alliances."


    "Michael''s deeds over the years have shown me his extraordinary nature. He is a great man who loves his people like his own children, which is also why the county town is increasingly thriving. He is also the most distant from the sect powers among all the County Princes in history. "


    "When the two sects fought, the common people suffered, and I heard that Michael was so angry that he couldn''t sleep for three years. Whenever the major powers caused trouble, he was always furious."


    "Our family... when our family was slaughtering all around, Michael both laughed and raged."


    As Olivia recounted, Ethan understood.


    The reason Michael hadn''t moved against Blackwood because of Betty''s issue was not as simple as Betty threatening with her life; he also wanted to use Blackwood, to turn Blackwood into a weapon in his hands to completely reshuffle Cloudview County!


    Now, not only was Blackwood powerful, but they also had good relations with Sky Sect and even the Black Tortoise. The two sects had thus ceased fighting and formed an alliance. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "By forming a marital alliance with the Duke''s Mansion, our family could gain the most powerful ally."


    "I''ve got a plan..."


    "..."


    Ethan ignored Olivia''s scheme.


    Well, that was to sell off the Duke''s Mansion and then profit from the chaos, while pinning the blame on the neighboring county.


    "Stop scheming, will ya? If we actually did that, who knows if the imperial court would come knocking, or if we''d get busted. If Nathan heard about this kind of backstabbing, he''d definitely give her a thrashing."


    After clearing up Michael''s intentions with Olivia, Ethan cracked a smile.


    When the scene switched to Edward, Ethan suddenly felt a warm familiarity.


    Soon, Dennis brought Edward back to the ancestral hall.


    Nathan also heard about Michael''s words from them, which made the honest and straightforward Nathan muse, "Twenty years? If it''s about finding a prodigy, why would it take twenty years? With the grandeur of the Duke''s Mansion, why should they give my Blackwood a chance?"


    "Forebearer, I understand now!"


    Nathan immediately knelt down, joyfully saying, "It''s not that Michael thinks our Blackwood isn''t worthy of the Duke''s Mansion, but rather they need something from our Blackwood. They can''t lower their pride, so they resorted to this tactic! He''s trying to win over our Blackwood."


    "If it weren''t for needing a legitimate reason to show the other major powers, he''d probably push his daughter onto our Edward right now!"


    Ethan took a sip of water, suddenly recalling Michael''s angry yet composed demeanor in the scene just now.


    Hmm, he really looked dignified.


    But now that old man, it seems like he''s been stripped clean by the Blackwoods. Edward looked like a ghostly youth, with the ghost fire stopping at his doorstep, just waiting for him to send his daughter on a broken motorcycle.


    Hearing Nathan''s words, Edward, who had been nervous, suddenly became excited, "Great-grandfather, so I haven''t brought trouble to our family? Am I about to marry Betty?"


    At these words, Nathan''s face darkened. Although he was the great-grandfather, he couldn''t understand for the life of him how that girl Betty could fancy his no-good grandson?


    He immediately took out a rattan cane.


    "Kneel down!"


    As Edward was being punished, the Blackwood elders had already planned his training regimen.


    Twenty years, to beat all the prodigies under fifty in the entire Cloudview County, was indeed a challenge.


    Just after being beaten.


    [Your descendant Edward has been thrown into the first layer of the Dire Death Coffin.]


    Nathan was fair to all.


    [Your descendants Nicholas and Donna, enjoying the spectacle, have been thrown into the Dire Death Coffin.]


    ...


    ...


    [In the year 93 of Blackwood, your descendants Edward, Nicholas, and Donna, after enduring six months of constant death in the Coffin of Dire Death, have improved their martial arts and psychic techniques, significantly enhancing their combat experience.]


    It was only their martial arts and psychic techniques that improved; when they emerged from the coffin, their eyes were vacant, nearly broken.


    "Our great-grandfather said that our ancestors all cultivated their psychic powers coming out of that coffin."


    Edward rubbed his face, "I didn''t expect it to be so terrifying."


    Right?


    Their strength was merely at the fourth or fifth level of Foundational Energy. In front of the endless zombies in the Coffin of Dire Death, they were basically dying every three seconds. Even after spending six months inside cultivating psychic powers, they never survived past thirty seconds.


    "I can feel my psychic abilities getting stronger, I''m not scared anymore!" Donna puffed her cheeks, the eleven-year-old dressed in a sleek black outfit, standing about 4 feet 7 inches tall, slim and rather cheeky in appearance.


    She remembered three years ago when Dennis took her to the Fist of the Hundred sect, and Grandpa Dennis had her kill the nursemaid and the wife of the sect leader of Fist of the Hundred.


    But facing those who had bullied her before, she just couldn''t bring herself to do it. After killing zombies in the Coffin of Dire Death for half a year, she felt sure she wasn''t afraid anymore!


    "Yes, not afraid, I''m no coward!"


    Nicholas, also just eleven, a dashing young boy dressed in fine clothes, flashing a big white smile, "The Divine Tree Grandpa called me a coward, I want to prove him wrong!"


    Amidst their conversation.


    Nathan''s voice startled them, "This is just the beginning."


    Edward turned around, "Great-grandfather, is there more training? Let us rest..."


    Before he could finish.


    The three youngsters suddenly felt a heaviness in their heads.


    A figure in black appeared behind them, bowed to Nathan, flashing the Dawn badge, and with Nathan''s nod, whisked the three youngsters away on a cloud.

 Chapter 165 - 165: I fear there might be a misunderstanding

    When they woke up, they saw a sect with a stone sword piercing the sky, a grand sight, and the place was crowded with people. There was a fighting platform below, seemingly in the midst of a duel.


    "Is this a secret realm?" Edward looked around blankly.


    "I... don''t know."


    Nicholas swallowed.


    Donna quickly pulled her brothers behind a large tree, her face tense, "It''s okay, they can''t see us."


    But they were soon captivated.


    A young man with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes was particularly eye-catching. He stood on the platform like an unyielding pine, with the sword case behind him emitting a sound of sword cries. The young man seemed to glance at them faintly.


    Then...


    One by one, the swordsmen below the platform stepped up to duel with the young man. Although the swordsmen who stepped up were flashy in their moves, they were continuously defeated by the young man''s plain swordsmanship!


    It seemed that no matter the sword move, he could break it with a single strike.


    With each swordsman he defeated, he would collect their long swords into his sword case.


    Until...


    Everyone in the sword pavilion was utterly disheartened!


    The young man, expressionless, took a cup of water from a stunned servant, drank it, and then turned around.


    "He... he''s walking towards us!"


    "Ah? No, why are we here?"


    "Is this really a secret realm? Great-grandfather, I can''t tell anymore!"


    In their confusion,


    The handsome young man had already approached them, his smile seeming forced as if he hadn''t smiled in a long time, "I am your great uncle, and I will lead you in cultivating psychic powers."


    "Great... great uncle?!!"


    Edward was instantly excited; he had grown up listening to stories about his great uncle, his hero.


    The great uncle was a heroic figure, rumored to have refined his sword with the blood of children in the Silver Iron Woods, sacrificing a hundred boys and girls a day.


    It was the great uncle who had chopped off both hands and feet of the third uncle, causing him to lose all his power and resort to refining an AI Bionic Robot to regain his psychic powers.


    The reason why the fourth grandmother was wheelchair-bound was also due to the great uncle''s beating, which caused her to lose all her cultivation.


    He always wanted to follow in the great uncle''s footsteps!


    Nicholas and Donna both looked up to him; the great uncle was a true legend of the family, even capable of slaying an Ability Master!


    Seven days later...


    Their dream was shattered. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The three children watched as the great uncle, who had taken them to a noodle shop and casually asked them for silver to pay for the meal, spoke to them less than ten times in those days. They thought the great uncle would take them to some fairyland to cultivate psychic powers, but...


    Lucas pulled out a long list, filled with all the rare treasures needed for cultivating psychic powers.


    The next day, he took them to raid a sect.


    Indeed, they raided under the cover of night, and there wasn''t even a guard in sight.


    Fortunately, things returned to normal on the eighth day.


    The great uncle took them to a place called Emerald Phoenix Peak. Strangely, as soon as the great uncle arrived, Psychics flew up in the sky above Emerald Phoenix Peak, and the protective great array was activated.


    "I''m just borrowing the Heavenly Pool of Emerald Phoenix Peak to help my descendants, don''t wait for me to come again, then it won''t be just me."


    "Could it be that your Emerald Phoenix Peak has a Gary too?"


    The sword case behind the great uncle trembled, and the sword cries could be heard, the disciples of Emerald Phoenix Peak showing fear in their eyes.


    The array opened, and the disciples of Emerald Phoenix Peak greeted them with various psychic equipment.


    "Great uncle, where is this? And who is Gary?" Edward was curiously inquisitive.


    Lucas patted each child''s head one by one.


    "They are all the same, all stepping stones for my Blackwood."


    Ethan was glued to the screen, watching the trio delve into the mystical powers at Emerald Phoenix Peak''s Heavenly Pool. The pool was thick with psychic energy, with about a hundred meditation cushions floating mid-air.


    [Emerald Phoenix Heavenly Pool]


    [Effect: Enhances the foundational energy of those cultivating psychic powers within. Strengthens their core and refines their meridians, significantly speeding up the cultivation process. Water Psychic Constitution may increase by 2-6 points. The pool gathers psychic energy every thirty years and can sustain a hundred users for a hundred days.]


    As soon as the trio entered, they were amazed by the pool''s magical properties, but they also chatted casually about the legendary grand elder''s disappointing reality.


    "Still as terrifying as ever," Ethan mused, now able to discern details just from the screen.


    Lucas, who seemed ordinary in his swordplay compared to the Sword Pavilion folks, had not even drawn his sword while approaching Emerald Phoenix Peak.


    However, above the clouds where Lucas stood, sword shadows constantly appeared around him. Standing at the gate of Emerald Phoenix Peak, his sword case was trembling, ready to reveal its sharpness.


    That was... a certain artistic conception.


    **Your descendant Lucas is honing his sword intent, having concealed 5000 swords. These swords are learned from others'' techniques, integrating their moves into his own.**


    **With 10,000 concealed swords, one can break through to ''Ten Thousand Swords Body'', and the sword pill can rival the heavenly pill, making the body as strong as a mid-grade psychic weapon!**


    A body as strong as a mid-grade psychic weapon could rival the peak of Developing Skill.


    Lucas was definitely not the most talented, nor did he have the same opportunities as other descendants; his sword skills were self-taught through hard work. Young Lucas practiced sword fighting daily, and now he was like a dedicated Psychic, wielding his sword across the world in search of sword intent.


    Days passed in a flash.


    Emerald Phoenix Peak, once the sect of Gary, was now under Lucas''s watch as he brought the trio into the mountains. Initially, the elders of Emerald Phoenix Peak sent people to monitor them, but now...


    An old woman with a frown approached Lucas, who was sitting in meditation at the entrance of the Psychic Sanctuary by the Heavenly Pool, a sword resting on her knees, its edge once sharp now concealed.


    Despite being at the peak of Developing Skill and this being her territory, and even though Gary from Blackwood had been killed, she felt somewhat hesitant to speak.


    "Sword King, I have a matter to discuss," she said.


    Lucas opened his eyes and stood up, polite as ever, "Please speak, elder."


    The old woman said, "This Heavenly Pool is a possession of Emerald Phoenix Peak. This year, it is also the prize for our disciples'' grand competition, meant for cultivating psychic powers. I wonder..."


    Lucas immediately understood her implication, sat back down, and closed his eyes to continue absorbing the unprocessed sword intent from his sword case, "The elder jests. Emerald Phoenix Peak is your domain. "


    "I am merely borrowing it for the benefit of my family''s younger generation, with no intention of usurpation. Afterwards, I will compensate Emerald Phoenix Peak with a substantial amount of Energy Stones, essentially a transaction. "


    "The Blackwoods are well-taught; I fear there might be a misunderstanding."

 Chapter 166 - 166: You still have one chance

    The old lady''s mouth twitched slightly, her feelings a mixed bag, feeling like something was off but unable to put her finger on it. She managed a strained, "Thanks."


    Hesitating, she asked again, "Sword King, previously at Emerald Phoenix Peak outside the Sky Sect..."


    Before she could finish, Lucas spoke up. "Let''s keep things separate. I''ve learned something from years of sword practice: things change. If you''re trying to say that Gary''s issue has nothing to do with Emerald Phoenix Peak, that''s a bit of a stretch."


    "If I say that Blackwood has forgotten about Emerald Phoenix Peak, you wouldn''t believe me either. What if one day, someone asks Emerald Phoenix Peak to attack Blackwood? What then? That''s what really matters."


    Lucas grinned, "That''s all there is to it, no need to ask more." S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ha, you really see the big picture, Sword King!" The old lady left happily, knowing that the folks at Blackwood were still reasonable.


    Watching her leave, Lucas turned to look towards the direction of the three youngsters at the Psychic Sanctuary.


    "Twenty years to challenge the prodigies, huh? That''s enough."


    He had already gotten the scoop from his younger sister. Whether Edward could grow up and gain favor from the Duke''s mansion was crucial.


    That was also the key to returning to their homeland...


    [Blackwood Year 94.]


    The three youngsters from Blackwood had broken through their barriers.


    Their cultivation had improved by a level, and so had their talents.


    Just out of the gate, they saw a figure standing tall with a sword case on his back, facing away from them. After greeting him, Lucas stared at them, "Let''s go."


    "Where to, Great Grandpa?" Edward replied, puzzled. He had grown up in Anderson''s Bluefield, where the people were kind to him, and life had been easy. But for some reason, returning to the family felt heavy.


    The family elders seldom came home, always in a rush to leave again.


    Each of them had a look of expectation in their eyes, just like he hoped to see Betty.


    Edward swore he had never seen outsiders carry the same burden as his elders, each of them as silent as mountains, except for Uncle William.


    Despite the family''s strength, everyone was pushing hard, so hard he felt he couldn''t catch up.


    "You''re going where you need to go."


    This was the most Lucas had spoken to them since they met. "Edward, I don''t know if you feel the urgency of the twenty-year agreement, but I want to tell you, you''re lucky to be a father now. Your lady love is willing to risk her life for you," he said.


    Edward fell silent. These past two years, he had questioned whether he had made a mistake.


    Poor Betty had a child out of wedlock, possibly facing scorn, and he hadn''t even seen his beloved or held his child. That day at the Duke''s mansion, in front of Michael, he hadn''t even dared to mention it.


    "I don''t want you to end up like me."


    Lucas''s gaze deepened.


    Then he looked at Nicholas and Donna, "You''ve been raised by others since your parents weren''t around, missing out on a proper childhood. I''m sorry we elders have interacted with you this way. We don''t expect you to understand, but now there''s a chance, a chance to not enter our world, maybe then you can live a little easier."


    The three of them looked solemnly at Lucas. Ever since their great-grandfather had returned, they felt they were living in a dangerous place, yet they didn''t know where the danger came from.


    Hearing this, Nicholas''s eyes reddened, his voice choked up, "Great Grandpa, are you... are you going to die? Great Grandpa, don''t go to dangerous places. When I was at Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, an uncle who went on a dangerous mission talked just like this!"


    Lucas furrowed his brow deeply, shook his head, turned around, and simply ignored the three youngsters. Under their bewildered gazes, he leapt into the air. After a while, it seemed like the crisp sound of a sword breaking could be heard from the sky.


    Edward and Donna squinted their eyes, staring intensely at Nicholas.


    "Did... did I say something wrong?"


    Just as they were about to speak, their minds went blank. A figure dressed in black caught the three falling children, tied them up, and whisked them away through the clouds.


    "Man, that kid''s got a temper," Ethan chuckled, covering his mouth as his shoulders shook.


    [Your descendant Lucas has destroyed a medium-grade psychic equipment and has decided to raid a bandit lair or a cult today to rid the people of evil.]


    "Cough, cough."


    Ethan finally regained his composure and looked back at the screen where the three youngsters had already appeared in a new location.


    [Demon Hunters Alliance]


    Waking up from unconsciousness, they smelled something fragrant, feeling sticky all over. As their vision gradually cleared...


    "Ah!!!"


    They jumped up simultaneously, finding themselves in the mouth of a man-eating flower!


    "Damn, where the heck are we?"


    "Big boss flew away!"


    "That''s a huge flower, and it''s got teeth, and eyes? I''m scared."


    As they regained their composure, they saw a girl looking at them with interest. She sat on a dry tree branch, wearing a shabby Taoist robe. The faded cyan robe was loosely worn, revealing a white undergarment that accentuated her figure.


    Her lower body was clad in loose white pants, showing the cleanest part of her calves, and she wore worn cyan cloth shoes with dirty, yellowed white socks that reached just two inches above her ankles.


    If not for the chaotic soot marks on her body, she would appear very gentle and demure.


    At that moment, she grinned, showing a set of white teeth, "This is really a big catch, you little Blackwood rascals, hiding for so long. Now I''ve finally caught you. Just wait here, I bet your enemies from Blackwood would pay a handsome price for your lives."


    "..."


    "..."


    The three kids were silent for a long while until Nicholas saw the girl''s smile gradually fade, then he said, "The children have seen their great-grandmother."


    "Ahaha."


    Amelia forced a laugh, "True descendants of the Blackwoods, I knew you weren''t fools like Larry and Marcus."


    Jumping down from the tree branch, Amelia''s expression was calm, "Your great-grandfather must have asked you if you''re ready to embrace the next phase of cultivating psychic powers, right?"


    Edward nodded seriously.


    "Great-grandpa asked us if we really wanted to enter the family''s world, or choose to live an ordinary life."


    Amelia raised an eyebrow, "You still have one chance."


    "I want to marry Betty openly and honorably!"


    "I am no coward."


    "I... I''ve returned from the Coffin of Eternal Death, and I''m not afraid of pain anymore, really, not afraid!"


    Amelia turned away, a slight, pleased smile on her face.


    Ten minutes later.


    In a pool bubbling like boiling water, a thick green viscous liquid.


    The screams of the three children formed a discordant sound in the Demon Hunters Alliance.


    [Your three descendants are currently being soaked in a body tempering liquid concocted by Amelia from three hundred and sixty types of ninth-grade poisons...]

 Chapter 167 - 167: Damn the beloved relatives

    "Ah!!!"


    "Gurgle~ Gurgle~"


    Watching this so-called body tempering liquid on the screen, Ethan broke out in a cold sweat.


    "No wonder she''s called a lethal pharmacist..."


    It wasn''t just Ethan who was nervous; there were quite a few Blackwoods in the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    At that moment, above the bubbling greenish liquid, Julian and his wife, along with Daniel, were present, staring at this strange concoction. Even they, who had survived countless battles and bloodshed, couldn''t help but feel a chill down their spines.


    Julian rubbed his bald head, "Sis, you... you''re not going to kill my three great-grandsons playing around, are you?"


    "How could I?" Amelia scoffed. "This is a concoction of 360 different poisons I''ve gathered over the years. If it weren''t for our own kids, plus Edward needing to snatch that thing, I''d have offered it to Forebearer."


    The crowd had just breathed a sigh of relief when Amelia casually mentioned, "Besides, I''ve been making medicines for years. The dosage and toxicity are evident if the user doesn''t die."


    "..."


    Julian''s bald head was all knotted up, "I only have six great-grandsons left, and two of them are already not looking good. One is about to join the Moore side branch. Don''t kill them all, sis!"


    "Come on, you really think my reputation as a saintly herbalist and lethal pharmacist is for nothing? Even Forebearer doesn''t doubt me." sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Amelia shooed the three away, "Younger brother, aren''t you trying to break through to the seventh rank? I can''t wait for your seventh-rank psychic puppet to help me plant herbs."


    "Mary, wasn''t your younger sister supposed to help Larry capture two demon kings in the swamp forest? Remember to bring back some seventh-rank psychic materials for me; I need to make my breakthrough too."


    "Daniel, you should leave. Your elder brother is about to finish his retreat. It''s been years since you''ve seen him, and you should catch up and see if there''s anything in the Sky Sect that could be of use to the Blackwoods."


    Watching them leave with full hearts of doubt, Amelia sat down cross-legged.


    Actually, she wasn''t wrong; Ethan really never doubted Amelia''s abilities.


    After all, she possessed the "Thousand Herb Scripture" and the "Heavenly Scourge Divine Tree."


    With her various traits and years of medical experience, there was no way anything could go wrong.


    "But to honor Forebearer like that is a bit too much."


    Ethan commented, having spent too much time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, Amelia did have a bit of a demonic vibe.


    Then he clicked on that fearsome pool of green water.


    [Nine-grade Rotating Heavenly Azure Pool]


    [Description: Amelia''s secret body tempering pool, made from 360 different poisons, many of which Amelia tested herself. The potent medicines stimulate the muscles, meridians, Psychic Constitution, and internal sea, potentially boosting various Psychic Constitutions by 8-15 points.


    The body constantly absorbs and recombines due to the potent medicinal agents, significantly absorbing various psychic energies from the environment.]


    [Side effects: Severe pain, prolonged immersion may lead to death, vegetative state, or dementia in the physically weak.]


    "..."


    Ethan felt that if such a miraculous item were sold in reality, it would hardly receive any negative reviews. Meanwhile, in the scene:


    Amelia watched her family leave and breathed a sigh of relief, "Finally, they''re gone."


    She squatted beside the pool, looking at the three people in the Azure Wheel Pool, who were still screaming in pain.


    "It''s a bargain for you."


    Amelia stuck out her tongue and smiled, then vines began to emerge around her.


    These vines turned into roots, cradling her like a sacred statue, lifting Amelia slowly into the air.


    Gradually.


    Flowers began to grow on these vines, spreading over the demon-tainted dead soil from years of battles with demonic psychics, the flowers seemed so out of place, yet bloomed so beautifully. Even the grotesque Azure Wheel Pool seemed to gain an unusual beauty from the blossoming flowers.


    Trees began to rise from the ground, budding and blooming.


    The cave, once like a demon''s lair, now felt like spring had arrived, filled with vitality, a true paradise.


    Amelia was like a fairy guarding the flowers.


    Seeing this scene, Ethan''s face changed dramatically.


    [Your descendant Amelia is using the "Divine Plant Magic Technique," she is consuming her lifespan to repair and enhance the physique and talents of the three children!]


    The dancing flowers fell onto the bodies of the three young ones in the pond.


    Their wailing stopped, as if they had fallen into a warm embrace, their breathing gradually eased, as they dreamt a beautiful dream.


    Ethan finally understood why Amelia had said ''It''s a bargain for you.''


    She must have known about the toxicity of the Azure Wheel Pool and feared that Julian and his wife, along with Daniel, would stop her, so she sent them away!


    [Stop!]


    Ethan hastily wrote these words using Forebearer Cards, gritting his teeth.


    He now understood that Amelia had planned from the beginning to use her lifespan to activate the Divine Plant Magic Technique to counteract the toxicity of the Azure Wheel Pool!


    Seeing the words before her.


    For the first time in her life, Amelia defied the Forebearer''s command.


    Her smile bloomed as brightly as the flowers today, and even in her disheveled state, she was beautiful enough to alleviate all pain and bring life to the dead soil.


    "Hehe, Forebearer, it''s okay."


    "The child is still young, and I can already feel the next level of the Divine Plant Magic Tree and the Immortal Fetus. When I break through next time, I''ll reach the third Psychic Constitution, and my cultivation speed is getting faster. Plus, with the Immortal Fetus, taking medicinal pills won''t harm me."


    "They..."


    "But they are my beloved relatives."


    Amelia didn''t spell it out.


    But if Ethan were to put it bluntly, damn the beloved relatives!


    Amelia and these three little rascals were meeting for the first time!


    Edward''s talents were ultimately low, and even with the family''s full support, he might not be a match for his peers in the youth talent battle twenty years later, the future filled with uncertainties.


    So...


    Amelia has always been like this, smiling foolishly, saying nothing matters. Then, as a child, she stayed away from the crowd, unlike other children who gathered, she was alone in the psychic medicine garden, taking care of everything.


    While other children played with kittens and puppies, she was already dragging corpses to the Beast Blood Fruit tree to bleed them.


    The Thunderfire Demon Cave just needed to gather intelligence, she stayed here for decades, sending all the good stuff back home, the most valuable thing on her person was a basic psychic tool gourd for collecting medicinal herbs.

 Chapter 168 - 168: Your descendant Amelia is consuming her lifespan...

    Ethan gritted his teeth as he furiously typed on the keyboard. But as he typed, he hit the delete key.


    Amelia, forming a magical gesture, her eyes curved down like crescent moons, looked quite ordinary, yet her smile was stunningly beautiful.


    "Forebearer, let your child be willful just this once."


    Ethan knew he probably couldn''t persuade her, just like always; she would forget as soon as she turned around. It was as if she was saying, let her be willful this time, and it would be the same next time.


    If it were any other descendant, Ethan might think about giving them a good scolding, but when Amelia said it...


    Ethan sighed deeply, "Amelia..."


    He wanted to murmur something, but the words stuck in his throat, unsure how to express himself. He wanted Amelia to think more about herself, but he knew it would probably fall on deaf ears.


    On the screen, Amelia was surrounded by flowers. To others, Amelia might appear as a disheveled, desperate apothecary, entwined in withered vines like a saint of the plants. In Ethan''s eyes, Amelia was the child he most wanted to protect.


    Time slowly passed.


    [Your descendant Amelia...]


    [Is consuming her lifespan...]


    Two months later.


    She wore a thick dress for the first time, covering her body, wearing gloves, and a mask with a theatrical smile. The sealed entrance with vines was opened.


    The once dark Psychic Sanctuary could no longer see vines and flowers, like her life, it was withering, and just as vibrant as it once was, yet hidden in the soil, as if it had never contributed to this world.


    The Nine-Tiered Azure Pond, from boiling with strange colors, turned into clear water. Three children opened their eyes and saw Amelia sitting on a branch of a dead tree, looking lighter than before.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, Nicholas, soaked in the Nine-Tiered Azure Pond, simultaneously broke through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy!]


    [Their Psychic Constitution greatly enhanced!]


    [In the Nine-Tiered Azure Pond, their bodies continuously destroyed and repaired, their meridians, internal Qi seas, and bones became more robust, gaining the trait: Gift of the Thunderwood.]


    [With stronger recovery abilities, combat power increased by 20%, speed of cultivating psychic powers increased by 15%, greatly increased resistance to poisons, and accelerated healing speed.]


    "Grandma''s potions are amazing, even better than the Emerald Phoenix Peak''s celestial pond!"


    "My Psychic Constitution has improved, grandma, look, I''ve broken through to the seventh layer of Foundational Energy, my meridians and internal body are much better than before!"


    "Grandma, why are you wearing a mask?"


    The three children looked at Amelia on the branch, from pain to relief, their memories still lingering on the first moment they saw Amelia.


    But this time, Amelia wasn''t as mischievous, swinging her feet or scaring them, she was so quiet it made them feel inexplicably sad, as if they owed grandma everywhere.


    After their initial joy, they dared not speak loudly, just quietly staring at grandma.


    "It''s good that you''ve broken through."


    Amelia, behind the mask, forced a slight laugh, "Go out, kids, your great-grandfather is waiting for you. Tell those two, stop being lovey-dovey in front of me, how old are they, really, not acting their age." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "And Daniel, when he comes back, have your Grandpa Daniel help me manage the power, and by the way, tell the Demon Lord, I''m about to break through."


    The children did not dare to delay, "Yes, grandma."


    As the children left, Amelia still did not take off the mask. She held the Forebearer Cards, sitting cross-legged.


    As if she had never done anything, just like she had once again sealed the entrance to the Psychic Sanctuary, standing in the dark corner, hunching over her recently straightened body.


    Like a wounded cat, silently licking its wounds. The Thunderfire Demon Cave did not taint her with demonic nature; she was like the most beautiful flower in the world.


    Emerging from the Ninth Rank Celestial Pond, the three youngsters were quite at a loss, especially since the Psychic Sanctuary where their great-grandmother resided had just closed.


    They were pondering their whereabouts when a middle-aged man with streaked white hair, dressed in a purple robe, approached them.


    His stride carried the authority of someone accustomed to high positions, and his piercing gaze seemed to see right through people.


    He smiled warmly, making the youngsters instinctively bow their heads in respect.


    "Edward, Donna, Nicholas," the man spoke in a gentle yet somehow commanding voice, "I am your grandfather Daniel."


    "Grandfather Daniel?" The youngsters were stunned to learn his identity, then disbelief set in.


    They had heard some of the elders in Gratitude Village mention family members, including stories about their grandfather Daniel.


    He was once the head of the family, described by the elders as the kindest man.


    They also recounted some of his embarrassing moments, with many elders having easily fooled him.


    In their imagination, Grandfather Daniel was supposed to be a very kind, approachable man with a twinkle in his eye.


    But now, they only felt an overwhelming presence, even though Daniel was trying his best to appear gentle and kind, which made them treat him with great respect.


    As Daniel slowly interacted with them, their initial fear gradually subsided.


    However, as he led them through the Demon Hunters Alliance and the Thunderfire Demon Cave, their confusion grew.


    According to legend, the Psychics of the Demon Hunters Alliance were righteous individuals from all over, fighting on the front lines against the Thunderfire Demon Cave, with many having laid down their lives on this land.


    Yet, all the Psychics of the Demon Hunters Alliance respectfully greeted their Grandfather Daniel!


    Logically, Daniel should have been something like a squad leader of the Demon Hunters Alliance. When they reached the Thunderfire Demon Cave, they even thought Daniel was going to fight the demonically possessed, which made them nervous.


    However, the expected battle scene did not occur. Instead, they saw the Psychics of the Demon Hunters Alliance and the demonically possessed from the Thunderfire Demon Cave come together.


    These demonically possessed individuals... also paid their respects to Grandfather Daniel!


    After a nod of acknowledgment, both sides performed an incomprehensible act. They separated into two groups and bombarded the rugged battlefield between the Demon Hunters Alliance and the Thunderfire Demon Cave, eventually returning exhausted to their respective sides.


    "Grandfather Daniel, what are they doing? Our family..."


    Daniel looked up at the dark clouds and smiled, "Years ago, your great-grandmother came to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where a Terminal Pharmacist appeared."


    The youngsters were shocked. They suddenly understood that their playful great-grandmother, who had tried to trick them at their first meeting, was also the most special existence in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Terminal Pharmacist.


    She represented the medical path among the twelve righteous paths of the Demon Hunters Alliance, saving countless lives on this battlefield. It was rumored that the entire Demon Hunters Alliance would willingly serve her to repay her kindness.


    "And what about the Thunderfire Demon Cave?" they asked.


    "Your great-grandmother was the first righteous Psychic to truly enter the Thunderfire Demon Cave and also became the saint of the demon cave. She achieved what no other righteous Psychic had managed," Daniel said with a tone of reverence.

 Chapter 169 - 169: Remember, you only have two years

    Even though Daniel had been managing the powers on both sides for Amelia all these years, he knew very well that it was Amelia whom the Psychics truly revered. His efforts were merely to support his aunt, who wasn''t as adept at managing power.


    "What? Great-aunt is actually... the Saintess of the Demon Cave?!!"


    The youngest of the three was agape, incredulous. This time, they truly felt the power of their great-aunt!


    The Saintess of the Demon Cave!


    In legends.


    At the deepest part of the Thunderfire Demon Cave, a Class B mutant psychic was sealed. And within the entire cave, the real authority was the Saintess of the Demon Cave!


    Their hierarchy was strict, and it was rumored that the Saintess could command all the mutant psychics in the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    "Thunderfire Demon Cave, Demon Hunters Alliance..."


    Edward stared blankly, "Our Blackwood family has such power?"


    "Never lose respect for your great-grandmother; she is... the greatest contributor to our family, even if you can''t see her contributions."


    Feeling the aura of these three children, Daniel sighed deeply and then laughed heartily, "Because of her, now here¡ª"


    "Carries the name Blackwood!"


    As Daniel''s words fell.


    The three youngsters looked up, never imagining that the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance, legendary for their fierce battles, were not just tragic tales.


    And the one behind all this was their great-grandmother!


    At that moment.


    They seemed to see the clouds in the sky gathering together, gradually forming a giant ''B'', suppressing the entire Thunderfire Demon Cave and Demon Hunters Alliance.


    They even heard the story of how their great-grandmother came alone to allow the temple guardian beast to transform.


    A scene appeared in their minds.


    In this land covered with dark clouds, filled with warfare, mutant psychics and righteous Psychics were battling. Until one day, a frail girl carrying a medicine basket, tightly gripping the straps of the basket, walked into the Thunderfire Demon Cave and sat down on the central throne, balancing the forces of good and evil here!


    "Let''s go, meet your great-grandfather."


    Daniel called out to the three youngsters.


    ...


    Soon they arrived deep within the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where intense heat emanated from the Psychic Sanctuary.


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!"


    The sound of metal striking metal came from the Psychic Sanctuary, making their eardrums tremble, the ground shaking with each impact, like a minor earthquake!


    Daniel had already left.


    Leaving the three youngsters outside the Psychic Sanctuary, dumbfounded.


    Inside the Psychic Sanctuary, they saw a man with a bare torso and wearing tattered pants, his body covered in bulging muscles, furiously hammering a pitted iron block with a hammer bigger than his own body!


    That was their great-grandfather, Julian!


    "Come in!" Julian didn''t even glance at his three great-grandsons as he continued to hammer away at the iron block, his eyes red with the same fervor he had back in the forge at Gratitude Village.


    This roar had already caused the three youngsters to tremble with fear as they entered the Psychic Sanctuary. Here, thunder from an unknown source struck into a river formed by a waterfall of magma. Lightning and fire intermingled, and the magma exploded continuously, splashing around, even reaching behind Julian, giving the Thunderfire Demon Cave its name.


    "Great-grandfather..." The three youngsters stood respectfully in front of their great-grandfather.


    If this had been before they entered Amelia''s Psychic Sanctuary, Julian would have been very affectionate towards them, but now he was not.


    Amelia had sealed the Psychic Sanctuary, but Julian felt it too¡ªthe life force she used to extend the lives of these three children, refining them!


    That strange poison pond, Amelia couldn''t control it at all, her words about the bizarre psychic creatures were just to make him feel like Amelia had everything under control.


    "Now, pick up this equipment!" Julian continued hammering, his body starting to show a phantom image of a hammer floating above him!


    The three youngsters dared not speak further. They glanced at the ground in front of their great-grandfather, where three sets of black armor lay, each chest piece with nine iron bars.


    "Yes!" They endured the heat of the Psychic Sanctuary, and just as they were about to lift the armor, their expressions changed. With their Level Seven Foundational Energy, they had to use all their strength just to lift the armor!


    "From now on, you will wear this set of armor every day, no matter what you''re doing¡ªeating, drinking, relieving yourselves, wear it! When you can bear the weight of the armor, pull out one of the bars from the chest."


    "Two years, if those nine bars are still there in two years, I will disown you three as my great-grandsons!" The three youngsters'' faces turned pale.


    They had already used all their strength to put on the armor, and now even walking was extremely difficult, sweat covering their bodies.


    They didn''t understand.


    Why was their great-grandfather, whom they were meeting for the first time, so harsh on them?


    "Clang! Clang! Clang!" The great-grandfather continued to furiously hammer the iron block, but the three youngsters dared not ask further. They could feel that besides forging, their great-grandfather harbored an unknown anger and guilt.


    "What are you still standing here for? Go run a couple of laps."


    "After today, someone will bring you elixirs and heavenly materials. Whatever it is, digest it as quickly as possible!"


    "Remember, you only have two years. I want results!" With Julian''s roar, the three children staggered out running.


    It seemed that the family rumors had always been fabricated by others; the ferocity of the great-grandfather was false.


    If the great-grandfather brought them the gift of eldership, and the great-grandmother brought them gentle nurturing, then from their great-grandfather, they only felt the strictness of an elder. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Whimper, big brother, why is great-grandfather so harsh on us?" Nicholas''s eyes were red.


    Donna gritted her teeth, "Quit your whining! Great-grandfather is trying to make us grow. He''s also being kind to us."


    Hearing this, Edward looked guilty but remained silent, running even faster.


    He could faintly feel that everything was related to him; perhaps if he hadn''t committed that act in the past, his siblings wouldn''t have to suffer because of him.


    "Twenty years, I must show results, not to let the elders and my siblings down!"

 Chapter 170 - 170: Limit Breakers!

    Nobody knows what beliefs sustain them as they crazily cultivate their psychic powers. All that is known is that from day one, they kept falling, and after taking a medicinal pill the next day, they fell again, gradually getting used to moving forward under the burden.


    However, such days couldn''t last long, and they would soon return to the state of the first day. And today was just such a day. In front of their armor, they pulled out another bar!


    "Boom!"


    With a loud bang, Edward and Donna, who were walking forward as if they were old and frail, turned around.


    "Nicholas!"


    They hurriedly turned back and helped the fallen Nicholas to his feet.


    These three kids were drenched in sweat, pushing their limits every day!


    In just one year, the remarkable changes in them were visible. Because they couldn''t take off their armor, the original lining had long been corroded by their sweat and the past year''s exposure, revealing their solid muscles.


    Edward, who was ordinary-looking, had developed a bronze skin tone. The most delicate Donna had also grown taller; she originally had cute twin ponytails but had cut her long hair like a boy to avoid the sweaty hair hindering her psychic power cultivation.


    As for Nicholas, he was almost as tall as Edward now, his handsome face showing a toughness never seen before.


    "Big brother, sister Donna, I... I can''t keep going," Nicholas panted.


    Donna clenched her teeth, "Little brother, you stand up for me, don''t disgrace our Blackwood people!"


    It was this sentence that changed Nicholas''s expression, and he stood up gritting his teeth. Such dialogues had occurred countless times over the year.


    Edward looked worriedly at his siblings, his words stuck in his throat as if choked, he could only turn his head away.


    When he couldn''t see his siblings, his gaze was resolute, "Run, continue cultivating psychic powers, let everyone in the Thunderfire Demon Cave know that we are worthy of being the descendants of our great-grandmother! "


    "Great-grandfather had already said, accept our fate, we agreed, so we can''t go back on our word! We are¡ª"


    "Blackwood descendants!"


    ...


    On the screen, Ethan''s expression gradually softened.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, and Nicholas have been relentlessly honing their psychic powers for a year, enduring physical and mental challenges daily, pushing their limits. They''ve acquired a trait¡ª]


    [Limit Breakers!]


    [They chase the limits, they achieve the limits, and they will never forget what they''re enduring now. Combat strength increased by 10%, resilience by 20%!]


    Ethan watched their transformations bit by bit. Nicholas, once pampered, although occasionally wanting to give up, would quickly toughen up and get back on his feet to continue honing his psychic powers.


    Little Donna, previously hindered by the trait ''Striving Victim'' which reduced her combat effectiveness, now boosted by ''Limit Breakers''. It wasn''t just about the traits.


    Ethan also saw the hardships this girl had once endured slowly burying themselves deep in her heart. Now, she would become a qualified member of Blackwood, bravely facing everything.


    And then there was Edward.


    He could tell that Edward felt guilty. Maybe he didn''t know about the life Amelia had sacrificed for him, maybe he didn''t understand why Julian was so harsh on them.


    But he seemed to sense that everything was because of him, that the elders let him grow continuously, and because of this, his siblings also suffered alongside him.


    At night, when his siblings luxuriously enjoyed their nightly rest, Edward would always take a stimulating pill and then continue running in the depths of the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    The reason for their continuous breakthroughs.


    Ethan clicked on their equipment.


    [Nine-layer Heavy Armor]


    [Grade: Medium Psychic Equipment]


    [Description: Composed of the heaviest grade-nine minerals, crafted by Julian. The Heavy Armor suppresses the wearer''s psychic powers while nurturing the body daily. The more tired you are, the more psychic power you draw from the universe. It has nine layers of weight, and each iron bar removed from the chest increases the weight exponentially!]


    Ethan felt that these kids had finally grown up, catching up to their predecessors.


    As he pondered.


    The three kids were now at the entrance of Julian''s Psychic Sanctuary, daring to stay outside the Psychic Sanctuary for the first time after experiencing Julian''s stern, even furious, roar last time. If it had been before, their great-grandfather seemed annoyed whenever he saw them, casually scolding them...


    That day.


    The ''clang, clang, clang'' of forging in the Thunderfire Demon Cave finally stopped, and the psychically tormented beings outside could finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Great-grandfather."


    Even Edward, who had been scolded, seeing the great-grandfather forging inside the Psychic Sanctuary, held no resentment but endless admiration. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The other two kids did the same, shrinking behind Edward, sneakily watching their great-grandfather.


    The reason they had no complaints, even persisting throughout the year, was because Julian had also become their role model! This bald, muscular man was forging and hammering almost every day without rest. Every strike he made was with full force!


    They seemed to understand the high-intensity training their great-grandfather put them through because he was that kind of person, he never gave up.


    And today...


    "Your great-grandfather is about to break through."


    Daniel joyfully stared at Julian forging inside the Psychic Sanctuary, feeling the embryonic form of psychic powers emerging in his uncle.


    Just then.


    Julian still held his hammer, larger than his own body, which through his forging had already reached the level of a top-grade psychic equipment, even a life-bound psychic equipment, growing with Julian bit by bit.


    But this time.


    Julian didn''t bring the hammer down.


    The hammer hovered behind him, he maintained the posture of dropping the hammer on the forge, his eyes tightly shut, his muscles bulging, seemingly in a moment of enlightenment!


    ...


    "Uncle Dan isn''t around to watch you, or maybe you could take a break. I won''t snitch," Daniel teased, glancing at the three kids daring to slack off. His tone was gentle, as if he might actually let them off the hook.


    Edward shook his head, his jaw set firmly. "I can''t, Grandpa Daniel. Betty is waiting for me, the kids are waiting, and so are the elders at home..." It seemed like he was psyching himself up with these words. After speaking, he trudged towards the distance, as if his most treasured possession lay at the end of his path.


    "Ah! Big bro, I''m no coward. I must prove myself to the Sacred Tree!" Nicholas was clearly hung up on this, having used such self-motivation countless times as his personal stimulant.


    Then... he collapsed after a few steps.


    Watching her older brother move forward, Donna helped her useless younger brother up, then flashed a sweet smile at Daniel. "Grandpa Daniel, you must be kidding. If we dared to slack off, you''d turn around and sell us out in a heartbeat."


    Daniel maintained his kind smile. "Donna, your brother persists to bring back his loved ones and see his children. Your younger brother persists because he doesn''t want to be seen as a coward who flees from battle. What about you? What''s your reason?"


    Donna wrinkled her nose. She supported Nicholas and continued forward, leaving behind her somewhat defiant voice. "Grandpa Daniel, I''m tired of being bullied. I want to fight back. Only when I grow up and become stronger will I have the right to resist."


    The three children moved on. Daniel watched their backs, finally allowing himself a smile, then sighed as he looked at their uncle inside, who was undergoing a breakthrough. "Ah, Uncle, you''re too old to get angry now. Auntie didn''t use up her life for them, she did it for..."


    "Family."

 Chapter 171 - 171: How could I not be scared?

    Ethan was also watching Julian inside the Psychic Sanctuary. He witnessed Julian''s madness over the year, even more intense than his own efforts back in the days at the Gratitude Village Forge.


    "Your descendant Julian, after years of forging and continuously using his hammering techniques, has mastered a new technique this year¡ªthe Thirty-Six Instant Hammer!"


    [Thirty-Six Instant Hammer]


    [Rank: Yellow Grade]


    [Description: The hammer has two layers. The first layer, thirty-six consecutive strikes, stacking power, releasing full force, multiplying strength, leaving the body drained of strength after use! The second layer, an instant burst that concentrates all the body''s strength into the hammer, also draining strength after use!]


    This year of cultivating psychic powers was not just about the growth of the three young ones; Julian was also on the verge of a breakthrough!


    "Your descendant is now engraving the Thirty-Six Instant Hammer into the False Core stage!"


    Once the engraving is complete, he will break through to the D level. Although the Yellow Grade technique seems weak, Julian''s strength is not in combat but in forging. He has long understood how to forge psychic gear, yet lacked the power. He even has blueprints for forging D-level psychic constructs!


    Ethan''s basic War AI Bionic Robot has been transformed by Julian, who assembled various psychic gears, giving it the strength of the early Developing Skill stage.


    In the scene, Julian, amidst his breakthrough, was still murmuring, "Big sis..."


    No one knew how guilty Julian felt; he wasn''t really angry at those three kids. It was because he knew that his sister was doing this for the family. She was giving her all to seize this opportunity to connect with the Duke''s mansion, ensuring a powerful ally for the family.


    This would give the family a better chance to face the countless hidden enemies!


    So...


    "Boom!"


    Julian opened his eyes, and his heavy hammer fell on the uneven iron stone!


    "It''s my fault. If I could forge more powerful psychic constructs for the family, stronger than D-level, we wouldn''t need any Duke''s mansion!"


    "Our Blackwood would have enough strength!"


    "Clang!" Julian''s massive hammer fell, sending psychic energies scattering, intensifying the vibrations throughout the Thunderfire Demon Cave. He was embedding the "Thirty-Six Instant Hammer" technique into his Developing Skill¡ªa mere yellow-grade technique, but absolutely perfect for Julian!


    Time flew by.


    As Julian''s activities grew louder, the eardrums of those in the Thunderfire Demon Cave who were possessed by demonic abilities were dominated by the sound of his forging, cultivating a custom of using ''Silence Arrays'' to cultivate their psychic powers.


    The happiest part of their day was stepping out of the Thunderfire Demon Cave, joining forces with the Demon Hunters Alliance''s Psychics to wreak havoc everywhere, lamenting the unrest within the cave.


    [Blackwood, Year 96]


    The sound of the forge continued, children still ran about, but now, they had removed all the steel bars from the nine-layered heavy armor, running at high speeds around the Thunderfire Demon Cave, with Edward, the most diligent in cultivating psychic powers, able to leap up, while Donna was actually boxing, only Nicholas was slightly behind.


    No one knew the hardships they had endured over these two years, beyond the physical and mental breakthroughs, they also had to guard against the pranks of those possessed by demonic abilities in the Thunderfire Demon Cave. These mischievous beings would take them miles away, forcing them to run back on their own.


    Or they would use spells to increase gravity several times, making them crawl like turtles.


    Or they would place a highly dangerous beast right behind them, scaring them into giving their all to avoid adding new injuries to their behinds... Such torments were countless.


    Heaven knows how they encountered so many pranks, and what psychological damage these possessed beings had inflicted on them in just two short years, changing their temperaments.


    "Huff, finally free."


    In front of a Psychic Sanctuary that emitted a demonic aura and a faint Buddhist light, the three stopped, Nicholas panting heavily and exhaling turbid air.


    As they became more familiar with the possessed beings, Donna still appeared fragile, but she revealed a mocking smile, shocking those who could hardly imagine she was once a bullied girl too scared to tattle.


    "Useless brother, you shouldn''t be thinking about whether we''re free, but what we''ll face next. Prepare yourself mentally, or it won''t just be about getting your butt bitten. I''ve heard there are quite a few androgynous beings among the possessed."


    "Ah???" Nicholas''s face changed dramatically, he straightened up quickly, "I understand, sister, I need to protect my little bird!"


    Edward, now a young man, looked more resolute, a slight smile on his lips, "Donna, stop scaring the kid. He was captured by one of those androgynous beings a few months ago and wet his pants."


    "Brother..." Nicholas''s face turned red, "How could I not be scared? They started undressing, and if it weren''t for Grandpa coming, I would have been done for."


    "Ha ha ha!" Edward and Donna burst into laughter, their demeanor even more like that of seasoned adventurers.


    Gradually, they shed their armor, each wearing a look of pride. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If it weren''t for their great-grandfather still breaking through, they would have already wanted to go to his Psychic Sanctuary to tell him that they had not let him down.


    The moment they took off their armor, they instantly felt a world of difference compared to when they first put it on.


    "Boom!"


    A surge of psychic power burst forth from their bodies, and they watched in disbelief as their own abilities exploded.


    After being suppressed and frantically cultivating psychic powers and consuming psychic pills, they had reached the peak of Foundational Energy!


    Once they joyfully adjusted, they put on clothes borrowed from demonically possessed psychics and all furrowed their brows, looking towards the Psychic Sanctuary in front of them.


    Unlike other parts of the demon cave, this Psychic Sanctuary had a young man and a young woman sitting on black and gold lotus platforms.


    They wore checkered monk robes, one gold and one black, embodying demonic energy and Buddhist power, coexisting yet opposing each other.


    It was clear that if these two peculiar monks stood up, one would resemble an angry King Kong and the other a compassionate Guanyin.


    "How come Nicholas and his siblings'' cultivation of psychic powers turned out so bizarre?" Nicholas voiced his confusion.


    These were Charles and Christopher, whom he had known for years, who used to pray and worship Buddha every day.


    It was only when Nicholas came to the Thunderfire Demon Cave and joined his brother and sister in cultivating psychic powers here that he saw them in this state.


    They just wouldn''t open their eyes, and as far as Nicholas knew, they had maintained this posture for two years, just like they used to pray, but they definitely were not believers in the myriad Buddhist gods.


    Now, Nicholas realized that despite his years of arduous cultivation of psychic powers, he was no match for Charles and Christopher!

 Chapter 172 - 172: Is he bewitched?

    On the screen, Ethan cracked a smile as he clicked on the avatars of Christopher and Charles, pulling up their history.


    [Blackwood 92 Years: Christopher and Charles, devoted to their spiritual practices, were sent by their family to the Thunderfire Demon Cave.]


    [Their unchangeable faith led them to focus on spirituality, unconcerned with worldly matters. The demon lord Fang Linglong, intrigued by the brothers, challenged them. He left a demonic thought in the Psychic Sanctuary; if they could resist it, they could return to their temple. If not, it proved they were unworthy of their faith.]


    [Blackwood 93 Years: Unable to resist the demonic thought, Charles absorbed it to prevent his twin sister Christopher from falling into darkness.]


    [Seeing his brother''s sacrifice, Christopher couldn''t bear to see him succumb and used his spiritual power to preserve his brother''s sanity.]


    [Years of battling between demonic and spiritual energies within them led to an increase and blending of both forces. They gradually understood that spirituality and demonism could coexist and also realized the importance of family. They gained a unique trait¡ª]


    [Buddha-Demon Mind!]


    [Neither spirituality nor demonism could bind their beliefs anymore. Their nature remained unaffected, yet they could cultivate psychic powers, mastering both demonic and spiritual techniques. In their spiritual state, their psychic power cultivation speed increased by 30%, countering all evil magic. In their demonic state, their combat power increased by 40%, unaffected by righteous laws.]


    "Sending them to the demon cave back then was the right call, thanks to the demon lord."


    Ethan laughed.


    Now, these two were truly the most uniquely gifted descendants of the fifth generation of the Blackwoods. Although they were no longer bound by spiritual precepts, they developed a preference for tranquility, enjoying their quiet cultivation.


    The only impact was their aloofness towards others, except for each other, though they were somewhat more courteous to Blackwood relatives. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan had even overheard their private conversations; their greatest dream was to become accomplished enough to defeat the demon lord who had challenged them.


    Now, aside from cultivating psychic powers, they kept to themselves, hardly bothering with the outside world.


    No wonder Julian once said these kids were almost wasted.


    Pondering whether to have Olivia intervene to make these two emotionally detached descendants more compliant, the screen suddenly showed Daniel appearing behind the three children. By now, they seemed used to Grandpa Daniel''s sudden appearances and turned to look at him.


    But it wasn''t just Grandpa Daniel there; there was also a middle-aged woman in a wheelchair. Stray white hairs peeked through her dark hair, and despite the wrinkles on her face, one could still see the beauty of her youth.


    Dressed in a white robe, she exuded an aura of intellect. Her presence was so kind and amiable, she seemed like one of those rare good souls in the world.


    Her voice was soft and gentle, like a breeze in February, "Winter is coming."


    The children realized she must be the great-grandmother of the family, the very kind Miss Olivia from Gratitude Village that the elders spoke so highly of. She even remembered the names of all the villagers back when Gratitude Village was just a small village.


    Whenever a household encountered trouble, she was the first to resolve it. Any bad reputation she had outside must surely be just rumors...


    Just as they were about to speak to her, the phrase "Winter is coming" echoed, and in Thunderfire Demon Cave, three faces filled with anticipation froze, still in the midst of moving forward to respectfully greet Olivia, their expressions a mix of restraint and affection.


    "Aunt Olivia, shall we visit Uncle Three and Aunt Two?" Daniel wasn''t surprised by Aunt Olivia''s actions; he admired her greatly.


    After all, tormenting these three children to hasten their growth was something he learned from her.


    Olivia shook her head, "Never mind, my sister and brother are in the midst of breakthroughs. I''ll take these three kids away; it''s time they learn how we Blackwoods handle things."


    "Yes, Aunt Olivia," Daniel replied, not daring to say more, but he knew Aunt Olivia didn''t want to see Uncle Three''s madness or Aunt Two''s aged appearance.


    Just like in the past, when he was learning by Aunt Olivia''s side, he saw her sigh for the first time during the great clan war because of Uncle Three''s relentless forging. And when Aunt Two came to Thunderfire Demon Cave, it was the first time he saw Aunt Olivia nearly in tears.


    "Daniel, you''ve managed well in Thunderfire Demon Cave over the years, showing true leadership. I''ll let your elder brother know; he''ll be proud of you too," Olivia complimented before leaving.


    Hearing this, Daniel smiled faintly, "Thank you, Aunt Olivia, it''s my duty."


    Watching Aunt Olivia maneuver her wheelchair away with the three frozen figures, Daniel felt calm inside. After years of controlling power from behind the scenes, he had developed the demeanor of a leader, accustomed to flattery and high regard.


    Such praise was trivial; even if his clan called him a prodigy, he would just smile it off.


    Excitement over such things was childish.


    Not long after, a demon-possessed psychic bowed to Daniel.


    Daniel patted the psychic''s shoulder, saying lightly, "Yes, good, my Aunt Olivia just praised me."


    "Uh... what?" Daniel walked away, leaving the psychic staring dumbfounded at the back of this saintly apostle who dominated the demon cave, a figure who used to be so imposing and frightening, always seeming to harbor sinister schemes. Now...


    "Why is he hopping away so cheerfully? Is he bewitched?"


    Soon, in Thunderfire Demon Cave, Daniel, dressed in a purple robe with a goatee and graying hair, walked around. Although he tried to maintain a stern expression, his steps became increasingly light.


    To everyone he met, he said, "My Aunt Olivia praised me."


    Then he knocked on Julian and Amelia''s Psychic Sanctuary, shouting loudly.


    "Uncle Three, Aunt Olivia praised me!"


    "Aunt Two, Aunt Two! Aunt Olivia said I have the talent to lead!"


    "Man, Daniel''s totally lost it today," Ethan said, rolling his eyes as he sped up the video feed. Olivia was already leading her three kids toward Cloudview County. She seemed younger now.

 Chapter 173 - 173: Thats not necessarily true

    [Your descendant Olivia is gradually mastering the ''Four Seasons'' power, slowly unraveling the laws of ''life'' and ''seasons'', merging with them, as the threat of heavenly tribulation looms closer.]


    If we''re talking about skill levels, the Competent phase is about mastering the laws of nature, just touching the fringes of human laws. When the thunder tribulation strikes, Developing Skill transforms into Competent. And Olivia?


    She doesn''t have Developing Skill...


    Her power is borrowed. In this game world, all the literary types Ethan had seen seemed to operate this way, borrowing the power of nature with their words, making laws follow their commands.


    And just from the video, you could see thunderclouds constantly following Olivia, gathering strength.


    Beneath those thunderclouds, countless faint orbs seemed either to push the thunder in the sky upward or to wait silently for the thunder to fall and obliterate them. Maybe that''s why the thunder dragons in the clouds seemed a bit restless.


    As the scene flashed by like a phantom, Olivia and her three children arrived at...


    The Duke''s Mansion!


    As soon as she arrived, the mansion was on high alert, two Competent level guards suddenly leaping out, seemingly annoyed as they stared at the woman in the wheelchair, who nonchalantly played with her black hair, further irritating them.


    After a moment, an old man with Developing Skill appeared in the mansion, his face wearing a strange expression as he glanced at the ice sculpture of Edward before leading them inside.


    The same grand hall of the mansion.


    Michael approached quietly, more serious this time than when Dennis had brought Edward before, because this time it wasn''t just anyone, but Olivia, a true elder of the Blackwood clan!


    The last people in Cloudview County anyone wanted to mess with were from Blackwood.


    He looked up at the sky, realizing that Olivia had probably been targeted by the heavenly tribulation for a while now. But the tribulation seemed wary, even he couldn''t tell why, what made it hesitate, allowing this ruthless woman to slowly gather strength to confront it.


    And if Olivia wished, the tribulation would bring down thunderous power that even Competent wouldn''t dare approach. Anyone who saw Olivia had to weigh whether it was worth it to confront her, as the tribulation was indiscriminate.


    "Could it be that this tribulation thing is biased?" Michael wondered to himself, still remembering how he had been nearly killed by a tribulation strike. He had no idea how Olivia managed to carry the tribulation around with her.


    After sipping some tea to ease his inner apprehension, he glanced at Olivia, who was smiling and sitting in her wheelchair facing him, and said softly, "Lady of Blackwood Dawn, I''ve heard of your reputation. It''s rare to see someone who doesn''t bow in my presence."


    "My legs aren''t what they used to be, my lord. Please bear with me," Olivia replied with a smile.


    "That''s not necessarily true," Michael squinted slightly, "If your legs weren''t strong, how could you control Dawn? If you don''t respect me, just say it. I don''t care much for these formalities. Sitting as equals could indeed be interesting."


    "My lord jests. You are high above, and I respect you in my own way. If you were a relative of my Blackwood clan, then technically, I would rank two generations above you. Sitting as equals is already showing great respect to you, my lord," Olivia said, her smile radiant.


    "Heh," Michael rubbed his thumb and forefinger together, outwardly calm but internally suppressing his anger, nowhere near the imposing figure he had been when pressuring Edward and Dennis. If it were them, Michael might have already beaten them half to death and thrown them out.


    Olivia really hit Michael where it hurt. What really grated on him about his precious daughter marrying into the Blackwood family was the issue of seniority, and only secondarily the difference in their social standings. If the marriage went through, he''d be surrounded by a bunch of elders in the Blackwood family, some of whom were at least 600 years younger than him...


    But as he looked up and saw Olivia tapping her fingers on the armrest of her wheelchair, he realized it wasn''t worth getting angry with this little girl. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hmph!"


    Michael sharply sipped his tea. "Speak then, what brings you here with this riff-raff?"


    "We Blackwoods understand the pain of a child who has grown up without seeing their father," Olivia sighed deeply, finally giving a respectful bow to Michael.


    "Your Highness, I ask for your grace. Let bygones be bygones, as we Blackwoods have accepted. But now, the child is already five years old, and Edward has become a man under our care."


    "I hope to let Edward meet Miss Betty and the child. Considering their current age, they should be able to sense whether their love is genuine. You wouldn''t want to see your beloved daughter pine away, would you?" Michael frowned upon hearing this. If it were anyone else, he would have ignored them.


    But with Olivia... he could feel that if he refused, she might just find a way to hide her daughter and grandson.


    As he pondered, Olivia continued: "Your Highness, I also wish for our three children to stay a few more years in your estate. With the strength of your estate, I believe you can cultivate three individuals with Emerging Abilities."


    "That''s interesting."


    Now, Michael was truly angry. He scoffed coldly, "You expect me to turn a blind eye to your youngsters ruining my precious daughter, and to let them meet¡ªthat I can understand as human nature."


    "But you want them to live in my estate, to let me watch these nobodies romance my daughter, and even have my estate train your Blackwood successors? What do you take me for?"


    "My girl, do you really think I''d be scared just because you walk under thunderstorms? That''s utterly delusional!"


    In an instant, the energy of heaven and earth gathered in the palace.


    Michael sat in the main seat, his hair moving without wind and his robe fluttering, a powerful aura pressing down on Olivia, almost as if he was about to strike her down right there!


    All the decorations in the hall trembled and shattered under the force of his Competent power.


    The ice sculptures of the three youngsters also shattered.


    "Of course not."


    Olivia''s streaked hair and white robe fluttered, her face trembling from the blow, yet she remained unmoved, just quietly staring at Michael, calmly saying, "If it were as you believe, Your Highness, then I would indeed be overstepping. But as I said before, I am willing to treat you as an equal, which is a sign of respect from me and the Blackwood family."


    "Put away your pride, take a good look, it''s you who need us Blackwoods, not the other way around."


    These words were sure to infuriate Michael.

 Chapter 174 - 174: The Alliance at the Royal Mansion

    At this moment, Michael furrowed his brows, his imposing aura vanishing instantly. Outside the mansion, three presences emerged, forcing him to take the situation seriously. Yet, Olivia''s face was all smiles.


    "Now, can we have a proper chat?" she said as her words fell.


    From outside the mansion, two voices were heard.


    "County Prince, I am Warren from Sky Sect, bringing the new sect master to meet you!" Michael recognized the voice. It was the voice of Warren, the Grand Elder of Sky Sect, and he could even identify Warren''s competent aura!


    Then came another voice...


    "Hahaha! Old dog Warren, this new sect master of yours isn''t much to look at, all gloomy and sad!"


    "County Prince, I am Leon from Black Tortoise. Old dog Warren has invited me, and I am quite intrigued. May I have the honor of meeting you?"


    Leon, the Daoist!


    If Warren from Sky Sect had come, he could understand; during the great battle outside Sky Sect, Warren had cowered. Later, he even found out that the new sect master of Sky Sect was the third-generation eldest son of Blackwood, and the successor as sect master.


    But...


    Black Tortoise?


    He knew that due to the great battle years ago, the long-standing enmity between the two sects had dissipated, but he did not know how Blackwood could possibly summon Leon from Black Tortoise!


    However, he understood that the presence of these two sects was exactly what Olivia had mentioned earlier.


    This meant that Sky Sect and Black Tortoise might very well join his grand plan due to Olivia''s behind-the-scenes mediation! S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It also meant that Blackwood truly understood why he hadn''t executed Edward on the spot and had already begun to secretly align Blackwood''s usable forces with him, thereby wielding the knife for him to reshuffle the entire Cloudview County.


    But...


    He wanted to control Blackwood, to make Blackwood serve him.


    The arrival of the two sect elders, however, deviated from his plans.


    It seemed that Blackwood''s influence had exceeded his expectations.


    He suddenly stared at Olivia with a grave expression.


    He understood everything Olivia had just said.


    Olivia was telling him that he should jointly nurture the three young ones of Blackwood with them, and he should also accept the marriage between Edward and Betty because...


    Blackwood was never alone; they could summon two major sects, they had other forces in the shadows, and they had Olivia!


    They were qualified to stand on equal footing with the Duke''s mansion, not to be used by it, nor to be its vassals.


    Olivia was telling him.


    He wasn''t qualified to control Blackwood!


    Moreover, he only had two choices: to interact with Blackwood through marital ties or... to hide his daughter and granddaughter and be enemies with the mad Blackwood. It seemed that now, Blackwood really didn''t lack the Duke''s mansion as an enemy.


    "Phew."


    Michael let out a long breath, then stared at Olivia with a cold and mocking gaze, bursting into a hearty laugh, "Hahaha, they are just two sect forces after all!"


    An hour later, in the backyard of the Duke''s mansion, the three youngest Blackwoods finally emerged from the melted ice sculpture.


    They rolled their eyes, no need to look to know it was the work of their elders, who loved nothing more than to knock them out or freeze them, then mysteriously transport them to strange places for cultivating psychic powers. They were already braced for intense training.


    Edward was the first to speak, his words driven by the first clear impression he had upon regaining consciousness, "Great-grandma, we know we need to cultivate our psychic powers, you don''t have to¡ªhuh??"


    Their expressions gradually turned blank.


    In front of them, Great-grandma sat in a wheelchair, smiling warmly at them. A Daoist figure caught their eye.


    Two old men... and a young man with a troubled expression, staring at Great-grandma, seemingly very upset.


    And...


    "Betty!"


    A round-faced girl who looked incredibly sweet was leading a five-year-old child by the hand, a child who bore a striking resemblance to Edward!


    Even though Betty had grown up quite a bit, Edward recognized her instantly, the girl who haunted his dreams. At this moment, Betty was also overwhelmed with joy, tears streaming down her face.


    The child she was holding, dressed in fine clothes, stared curiously at him. Edward knew this was the child born of his past misdeeds.


    Beside Betty and the child stood his greatest fear, Michael.


    In the past, the sight of Michael would have made Edward want to run away immediately.


    But looking at Betty and the child, all his fears vanished, and he walked resolutely towards his lover and child.


    He was even prepared to be beaten half to death by Michael.


    His body trembled.


    Then...


    As expected, Michael''s hand landed on his shoulder, his teeth clenched, "You can''t stop me from being with Betty and the child..."


    Edward faced this as if accepting his fate.


    But before he could finish, he looked dumbfounded at Michael''s hand on his shoulder. The expected instant annihilation did not occur. Michael''s grip was strong, pinching his shoulder fiercely, then he patted it harshly.


    Then, with eyes full of murderous intent, he revealed a smile uglier than crying.


    "Edward, the first time I saw you, I knew you were a good lad!"


    Yeah.


    The words ''good lad'' squeezed out through his teeth.


    If Edward was alone in the royal mansion, Michael would definitely give him a good thrashing. Watching Edward and his family in that cozy scene, he suddenly felt abandoned, as if his daughter had forgotten her old father. But now was not the time to dwell on such matters, as everyone quickly moved into the hall to continue their conversation.


    Ethan was meeting the Black Tortoise Daoist for the first time, a handsome young man dressed in a robe adorned with Black Tortoise patterns, holding a white fan. He looked like a refined gentleman, but his behavior was more like a street thug, cursing and acting brashly, and he kept calling the Warren Daoist an ''old dog''.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Alliance at the Royal Mansion]


    [Your family has been afraid to return to their homeland for many years. Michael wants to completely reshuffle Cloudview County. With Olivia''s mediation, the two families secretly form an alliance!]

 Chapter 175 - 175: Ancient gods essence blood!

    As Olivia and Michael emerged from the hall, a hint of joy was visible on their faces. The age-old rivals, Daoist Warren and Daoist Leon, were still bickering as they walked away into the distance.


    Olivia gave Michael a respectful bow, "Since we''ve agreed, I''ll take the younger members of my family away. Once they acknowledge their ancestors and return to the clan, I will send them back."


    Soon after, watching his daughter and grandson waving at him from the sky, Michael sighed deeply, "A daughter married off is like water spilled out of the house. But... it''s only been a few years, and Edward has started to catch my eye. The people of Blackwood are indeed worthy of trust."


    [Your sixth-generation descendant has acknowledged his ancestors and is named ''Joseph''!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute value of +5]


    Ethan, watching the child successfully perform the Ancestral Communion and seeing the sixth-generation member appear on the family list, was overjoyed. He sent a burst of ancestral love to all the members currently in the ancestral hall. This five-year-old child was extremely adorable.


    [Joseph (Sixth Generation)]


    [Talent: Thunder Single Psychic Constitution]


    [Trait: Immense Strength]


    [Born with the strength of a fierce tiger, his power will increase by 10% as his cultivation improves]


    His talent... truly worthy of the bloodline of the Duke''s Mansion. It was said that Michael wanted to drown him at birth, but over time, he grew increasingly fond of Joseph, going through great lengths to procure heavenly treasures for him from the royal family.


    Besides his natural traits, he also consumed a drop of ancient god''s essence blood!


    [Your descendant Joseph has received a drop of ancient god''s essence blood as a gift from the elder Duke''s Mansion. As he ages, the essence blood will continuously nourish his body, enhancing the speed of his psychic power cultivation, gradually increasing his comprehension until he fully assimilates the Thunder Single Psychic Constitution!]


    He is definitely one of the most talented newborns in the Blackwood lineage.


    Ancient god''s essence blood, something Ethan had never even heard of before.


    As time passes, Ethan could feel that Joseph would become increasingly powerful!


    "Joseph, haha, what a great name! Forebearer has named him, and Joseph has the makings of an Ability Master!"


    In the ancestral hall, Nathan, seeing this only sixth-generation descendant, also liked this sensible child, because when it was time to come out of the coffin, it was Joseph who helped lift the coffin lid.


    After Joseph acknowledged his ancestors, the people of Blackwood also held a rare feast at their residence for the first time in many years.


    This time, Marcus also returned with them!


    This third-generation eldest son, who had been in seclusion in the Sky Sect for many years, showed no change in appearance, still looking troubled. When he saw his clan members, he bowed his head in deep shame.


    At night.


    He was like the crying child of those years, his eyes red, kneeling before Ethan''s cards, "Forebearer, your son... your son has truly been unfilial! During the years of my seclusion, I had no idea that the old thief Wesley dared to lay hands on the Boar Monarch Pete!"


    "By the time I came out of seclusion, everything had ended."


    "Your son still thought that through his own efforts, he could step by step become the sect leader, but who knew... who knew..."


    He was Lucas''s child, not as closely related to the Boar Monarch Pete, unable to empathize as deeply as Julian''s lineage could.


    Seeing Marcus''s guilty appearance, Ethan sent him a ''Forebearer''s warmth''.


    In fact, Marcus had done a lot for the family over the years, it was just that the incident happened suddenly, and he was facing a breakthrough, otherwise, Ethan believed, this guy would definitely be at the forefront.


    ...


    That night, the Blackwood estate was alive with nocturnal conversations. Nathan and his daughter Olivia stood under the Primordial Blood Tree, watching its blood-red branches sway in the night breeze.


    "Olivia, do you remember this old tree?" Nathan asked softly.


    Olivia''s expression flickered with nostalgia. "I remember, it was many years ago. Father, mother, and my siblings all went into the Silver Iron Forest and brought back this divine tree. I could only wait quietly at home."


    "The divine tree has been growing slowly, accompanying us Blackwoods," Nathan continued.


    "Back then, none of us could have imagined that the tree would grow so large, or that our Blackwood family would develop so quickly. Who would have thought its leaves would be so red, or that our path forward would be stained with so much blood."


    A cool breeze swept through the night, bringing back memories for the father and daughter. Suddenly, a face appeared on the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Its crimson eyes stared at them. "Do you need a sign?"


    If it were a descendant of the Blackwoods, it could easily provide a sign, which was also necessary for the growth of the Blackwood descendants after the death of the Boar Monarch Pete. However, as time passed, the Primordial Blood Tree understood that it was better to use such signs later, representing a corner of the children''s future, whether it be cultivating psychic powers, death, or joy.


    Seeing the form of the Primordial Blood Tree, Nathan and Olivia exchanged a smile.


    Nathan said, "Old tree, I was the one who dug you up and planted you here. You''ve taken root because of me, so don''t try to show off these fates to me. I came from a slave background, worked many years as a farmer, then as a hunter. I''ve made my own path, and no one but the Forebearer can decide my future."


    "And you?" The Primordial Blood Tree ignored Nathan and turned to Olivia.


    It remembered that Nathan, when it lacked spiritual awareness, used to bring his children to urinate on it.


    Olivia also ignored the Primordial Blood Tree''s offer of a sign, instead saying with a smile, "Divine tree, you''ve consumed so much blood over the years, I want to see the future of our family."


    [Primordial Blood Tree asks you if you want to use the stored life essence blood to foresee a corner of the future.]


    [Use it.]


    Ethan, without hesitation, typed on his keyboard. Although he agreed with Nathan''s words, the signs from the Primordial Blood Tree had never been wrong. Knowing a piece of the future would make it easier for them to face what was to come.


    As he spoke, the branches of the Primordial Blood Tree swayed, and a red light descended. Its eyes turned even more blood-red, and two leaves fell onto the shoulders of the father and daughter.


    The ancient voice of the Primordial Blood Tree spoke, "I have seen, and I have heard."


    "Enemies come from all directions, you march forward bravely, you fight recklessly, you scream with all your might."


    "Blood dilutes the rivers of Cloudview County, the earth turns red, the sky has only one word¡ª" Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "B."


    "That day will come soon, and the children of Blackwood will return home."


    It seemed that using so much psychic power had exhausted the Primordial Blood Tree, and the face on the tree faded into the night, unwilling to engage further with Nathan and his daughter.


    Soon, father and daughter furrowed their brows and dispersed.


    They had found a piece of the future from the Primordial Blood Tree, and now it was time to make battle arrangements. They needed to let everyone in Blackwood know that war was coming!


    Later into the night, Marcus came out of the ancestral hall. He paid his respects at the grave of the Boar Monarch Pete and drank a cup of wine, then went to drink in front of the Primordial Blood Tree.


    When the Primordial Blood Tree opened its eyes again, it was clear that Marcus was aware of its abilities.


    But he simply shook his head and continued to drink with the moon.

 Chapter 176 - 176: Dawn was breaking

    Soon after, Dennis arrived with the three Blackwood kids, along with Betty, Joseph, and another woman. Nicholas rolled up his sleeves, showing off his muscular arms, and flashed a big, white grin.


    "Sacred Tree, look at me, I''m a real man now. I''ve died many times in the Dire Death Coffin, faced numerous demon-possessed fighters, and kept pushing myself in the Thunderfire Demon Cave. I''m no coward anymore."


    "Right, Nicholas is soon to be a man, ready to marry his sister," said Helen, who had been promised to Nicholas since they were children. She patted Nicholas on the head, just like in the old days, her appearance unchanged over the years.


    Nicholas, who had learned a bit about the birds and the bees from the demon-possessed, blushed deeply, but he was determined to follow family rules and not mess around like his older brother.


    "Ha ha ha, right!" Dennis laughed heartily. "The Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion can be yours now!"


    "Grandpa Dennis," Nicholas and Helen said, bowing their heads, a hint of reluctance in their eyes.


    Years ago, Dennis had told them his time was coming¡ªan unavoidable fate that nearly all Psychics eventually face.


    Seeing the sadness in the kids'' faces, Dennis said nonchalantly, "Come on, you think I, Dennis, haven''t calculated my own fate after all these years? I''m not afraid to admit it, but it''s all for the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion to keep existing. That''s why I''ve worked so hard for Blackwood."


    "Now my goal is achieved. Helen, Nicholas, you need to ensure the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion lasts for a thousand, ten thousand, even a hundred thousand years. Let the people of the Pavilion always remember that I, Dennis, was the first master here, proof that I once existed."


    The three kids, who had grown up under Dennis''s care, didn''t fully understand but seemed to grasp some deeper insight, nodding at Dennis.


    And on the screen, Ethan also showed a slight smile. Indeed, everyone has different talents and opportunities, and facing the end is something all Psychics must deal with. But at least Dennis had lived a splendid life, and now he was about to pass on peacefully, his legacy enduring, which is what many Psychics hope for.


    Under the moonlight, more wrinkles appeared on Dennis''s face, but the old man was still smiling kindly.


    He might not be a great man, but he would forever live in the memories of future generations.


    Dawn was breaking.


    That day, Nathan lay back in his coffin, Olivia walked the earth again, and Marcus sobered up and returned to the Sky Sect. Dennis, along with the three kids, Lady Betty, and Joseph, headed back to the Duke''s Mansion.


    Dennis was on his way back to Blackwood, ready to silently wait for his final moment at the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    Suddenly, Stephen, the former master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, blocked his path with a beaming smile.


    "Dennis, we meet again. Do you want to live?"


    Under the sun, it seemed to record the traces of Blackwood people walking on earth, along with the memories of Blackwood companions.


    Cloudview County was as peaceful as ever, with the scattered Blackwood kids all hustling to hone their psychic powers. That day, when Nathan and Olivia sent out letters warning of the impending war, every Blackwood felt the urgency. They knew homecoming day was fast approaching.


    Back at the screen, Ethan was still dealing with kids caught in crises¡ªlike Justin from Black Tortoise, who nearly died, Larry who was duking it out with two demon kings in the Swamp Forest, and William, whose half-baked assassination attempt nearly got him killed... S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    These troublemakers were more of a headache for Ethan than other descendants.


    Luckily, Lisa had whipped up some chicken soup today, giving Ethan a bit of a breather. Setting his bowl outside, Ethan smiled as he looked towards the duke''s mansion. Inside one of the Psychic Sanctuaries, Edward finally emerged from seclusion!


    [Blackwood for 100 years!]


    [Your descendant Nicholas has advanced past the Emerging Ability phase, shedding his Metal Psychic Constitution for a pure Water Psychic Constitution!]


    [Your descendant Donna has advanced past the Emerging Ability phase, ditching her Earth Psychic Constitution for a dual Water-Fire Psychic Constitution!]


    [Your descendant Edward, has advanced past the Emerging Ability phase, shedding his Earth-Wood Psychic Constitution for a Metal-Water Psychic Constitution!]


    With the massive resources of the duke''s mansion, their breakthroughs took even longer, and Edward even received special care from the mansion.


    Duke Michael glanced at them from afar. He wanted to praise them, but seeing his daughter excitedly running to meet Edward, he turned away with a scowl, wishing he could hang a sign at the front door: "No Entry for Edward and Dogs."


    Especially that Joseph. At nine years old, already as tall as Edward''s chest, this kid was not only handsome but also exceptionally bright and thick-skinned.


    Seeing the elders emerge, he immediately reached out his hand, expecting gifts just like when he met any elder, as his grandfather had taught him.


    But what could Edward and the others give? They used to have some treasures, but after their trip to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, those demon-infested jerks had either conned or stolen everything, leaving them penniless.


    After a tough search, Joseph looked bewildered at the struggling elders and the three nails they reluctantly placed in his hand. He burst into tears, "I''m sorry, I didn''t know our elders were this broke. Wait here, I''ll bring you all the good stuff!"


    Moments later, Joseph returned with a pile of gifts from various festivals given by others.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, and Nicholas received gifts from Joseph: three top-tier psychic equipment pieces, one basic psychic device, forty nine-to-eight-grade talismans, and various pills...]


    "Father, uncle, aunt, just wait!" Seeing the elders'' baffled faces staring at the pile of gifts, Joseph felt even more convinced that his family elders were dirt poor, probably why they were always out of sight, likely doing what his grandfather said about robbing to support the family.


    Thinking of this, his eyes reddened, and he gritted his teeth, "I''ll go to grandfather''s treasury and bring you all the good stuff!"


    This made the three elders'' faces change. Donna quickly grabbed Joseph, "Little Joseph, our family elders have said we mustn''t steal from our own people. Aunt knows the duke''s mansion is wealthy, but we Blackwoods are proud even in poverty; we must never steal, we always ask."


    "But... but these gifts..." Nicholas looked at the gifts in the young boy''s hands. He remembered the elders saying that as long as the origins of the gifts were clean and the conscience clear, they could accept them. Although it was embarrassing to take things from a junior, it wasn''t entirely out of the question.


    Donna frowned, handing the gifts back to Joseph, "We''ll accept your gifts, but take your sentiment back."

 Chapter 177 - 177: Son-in-law???

    "Oh," Joseph nodded firmly, his gaze resolute as he reached out to take back his belongings, but his aunt had already whisked them away. His little face tightened, a sense of unease creeping in as he mulled over her words, eventually bursting into tears and running to find his mother.


    It seemed his childhood was marked by a crucial lesson from the elders.


    "Donna, you''ve been picking up bad habits from those cursed with demonic powers," Edward said darkly, looking at his sister. He missed the simplicity and kindness of the sister he first met, who used to be so meek. Now, she seemed always to be scheming to bully others.


    Donna, her eyes still innocently wide, smiled coyly. "Big brother, the elders say we need to follow them in their journeys. We can''t just go empty-handed, right? When we return, we''ll repay Joseph double."


    "Alright then."


    Later, Edward approached his son and his future wife. As he aged, he seemed to truly understand the words of the great-grandfather from long ago. sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Edward, where are you guys headed next?" Betty asked tearfully, her eyes fixed on Edward.


    Growing up, she had been raised on stories of the Blackwood clan. When she learned of Edward''s identity and his aspiration to become a swordsman like Lucas, she couldn''t help but admire him. By the time she had Joseph, despite her father''s scolding, she was unsure if her actions were right.


    Her father had said that the Blackwoods might be renowned, but they were unlikely to be competent fathers, husbands, wives, or mothers in their generation. Their children and many relatives were scattered, hiding from unknown dangers.


    The descendants of Blackwood were like wolves scattered across the wilderness, each either alone or in small groups, always vigilant of the beasts around them or ready to bear scars in exchange for food.


    Now, the man of her dreams had grown from a boy into a true Blackwood man.


    "Sorry, Betty," Edward said, embracing his wife and child, his eyes filled with reluctance but also determination. He whispered in Betty''s ear, "Betty, I was too young then. Grandfather said I didn''t understand anything, didn''t know what love was. He was right."


    "Edward..."


    Edward rubbed his cheek against Betty''s ear, cutting her off, "I met the great-grandfather, and he told me I was lucky to have a woman like you who cares for me, and a child. I should cherish everything."


    A wind seemed to rise out of nowhere at the duke''s mansion, making his eyes itch.


    "Back then, he gave me a choice to continue being a Blackwood child or to become an ordinary person. But I... I chose the former."


    "As a child, I felt the burden of being a Blackwood descendant. Gradually, I understood everything that happened in our family. I''ve been to Emerald Phoenix Peak, Thunderfire Demon Cave, and back to the duke''s mansion, and even returned to our clan. I''ve met many elders."


    "It turns out our family was never as strong as outsiders said. Our ancestors have always been protecting the clan, but our enemies won''t let the Blackwoods live in peace."


    "At the Thunderfire Demon Cave, I met our great-grandmother, a mischievous elder. She threw us into a terrifying pool, or so we thought for a while. Later, we learned that she had sacrificed her life for us."


    "Our great-grandfather was always irritable. When we were cultivating psychic powers, we saw him forging every day. He was annoyed whenever he saw us, urging us to keep going. He felt guiltier than us."


    Edward took a deep breath.


    Donna and Nicholas were listening too, and they had known all along. The elders always treated them like children, but they understood more than they were given credit for... they just didn''t know why they still hoped to be seen as children by the elders.


    They were afraid that if the elders knew they weren''t foolish, they might be ashamed to the point of despair.


    "In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, we left our marks on that dark red soil, sinking the ground by about three feet, and there we grew up¡ªnot just in body, but in heart as well."


    "There, we realized that our family has always been fighting, always pushing their limits. We thought we had it tough, breaking our limits every day, but what about our relatives scattered throughout Cloudview County?"


    "They all have a dream, dreaming that our whole family can gather under the sacred tree at the Ancestral Communion, enjoying a grand feast, listening to our great uncle''s deep speeches, our cheeky great-grandma''s laughter, and our great-grandfather''s roars..."


    "Betty."


    By then, Betty''s face was streaked with tears. He wiped them away, his smile radiant, "I''m sorry, I chose the family, chose those elders I once didn''t understand. I''ve become just like them."


    They looked at each other, speechless, as if trying to imprint this moment in their hearts forever.


    Little Joseph didn''t understand, but he could feel the bitterness. His family''s elders were very poor, so poor they had to leave their homeland.


    After a long while.


    Betty watched Edward and her smiling younger siblings leave, and it took her a long time to shout, "Edward, come back soon, take me and Joseph home!"


    Hearing this, Edward stopped in his tracks, his body trembling, then he walked faster, afraid he would turn back.


    At that moment, atop the walls of the Duke''s mansion stood a dignified, portly man in a python robe.


    If it had been before.


    Once Edward left, he would have been shouting for days and nights. Now, he just quietly watched Edward''s retreating figure.


    He seemed to see three grown wolves leaving the Duke''s mansion, the Blackwood wolves.


    These wolves would one day come together, and on that day, no one could stop these wildest of beasts, their firm beliefs capable of destroying everything!


    Michael gritted his teeth and went to the treasury to find three suitable psychic tools and elixirs for them.


    Just then, the mansion''s steward said, "My lord, that Blackwood scoundrel has left, I''ve prepared a feast for you, and notified your friends in the city to come and drink."


    The steward smiled obsequiously, as he usually did when cursing Edward with Michael, expecting the Duke to laugh heartily and reward him generously.


    But this time, Michael''s reward did not come.


    He silently handed over a Storage Ring, saying softly, "Give this Storage Ring to my son-in-law."


    "Son-in-law???"


    The steward was stunned.


    But the Duke had already turned back, his steps light, as if a great burden had been lifted from his shoulders.


    Then the Duke said something that almost made the steward slap himself and kneel.


    "My son-in-law''s name is Edward."

 Chapter 178 - 178: Commander through a meat grinder??

    "The kids have finally grown up, huh?" Ethan was quite moved, having practically watched these three kids grow up over the past few days. He quickly switched the screen. Now, the time had come to the Blackwood Centennial!


    Inside the Blackwood clan''s shrine, Nathan had already prepared the Tribute Offering and was kneeling before Ethan! Across Cloudview County, from Thunderfire Demon Cave to Sky Sect, the Swamp Jungle, and Black Tortoise... in all these places, children were setting up altars. No matter how busy they were, they all worshipped Ethan''s Cards.


    As long as the Cards were there, anywhere could be Ethan''s shrine!


    [The Blackwood Centennial, a grand ceremony every ten years, begins!]


    "Forebearer, Larry bows before you, hoping for a smooth year ahead, and to capture two demon kings to guard our Blackwood!"


    "Your son Jeffrey, on this day of Ancestral Communion, prays for a life of luxury, with lovers who bring treasures."


    "Your son William brings 998 heads, to entertain the Forebearer on this grand ceremony day. Please accept them, Forebearer!"


    Seeing the continuous stream of gifts on the screen, Ethan was exasperated. The previous generations were okay, but the fourth generation was really stirring things up. While he indeed received the precious materials and elixirs he needed, the wishes they made were truly headache-inducing.


    "Do you think I''m Santa Claus? And you, the cheeky kid offering heads, do you want me to drink tea from a skull?"


    After a long rant, Ethan collected all the precious materials and elixirs.


    [Received 250 Beast Blood Fruits]


    [Received 200 Great Penis Enlargement Pills]


    [Received three Grade 8 Pills ''Mixed Psychic Pill'' and several Grade 7 Pills ''Psychic Storage Pill''...]


    [...]


    [Would you like to retrieve the descendants'' Tribute Offering?]


    Looking at the screen, Ethan felt a mix of satisfaction and excitement. After 100 years, the Tribute Offerings he received were increasing, and his descendants respected him greatly.


    Moreover, he believed that with these elixirs, he could reach the pinnacle of Developing Skill.


    However, Ethan knew he had to make good use of these elixirs, as he had also seen the future predicted by the Primordial Blood Tree through its essence.


    [Yes!]


    As he retrieved the descendants'' Tribute Offering, the room was once again filled with precious materials and elixirs, which he absorbed through his computer, just like last time.


    By the way...


    [You are sending a ''Divine Gift'' to your descendant Nathan.]


    [Dual Cultivation Technique x1]


    This Dual Cultivation Technique was something he had bought from some odd websites over the years.


    Over the years, it had become increasingly difficult for the children of Blackwood to reproduce. The stronger their Psychic abilities, the lower their fertility, a common natural law.


    Like Michael, who was hundreds of years old and had spent a great deal of effort and nearly half of his fortune to have Betty. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Earth was the same, with fertility rates long being a fraction of the death rates.


    Later, to change this, Earth strictly controlled killings and gathered various dual cultivation techniques, developing the "Dual Cultivation Technique."


    When this thing came out, the whole Earth shook at night, and walking on the streets, one might think there was a battle going on.


    Gradually, the fertility rates improved.


    "The Forebearer has bestowed another Divine Gift. On behalf of the descendants, I thank the Forebearer and vow to restore the Blackwood lineage to its former glory, living up to the Forebearer''s great expectations!" Nathan saw the two items next to the Mystic Burner and immediately bowed his head.


    He picked up the Energy Stone and stood there, bewildered for a long time, before he dared to believe what he saw in the Forebearer Cards and then in the Energy Stone in his hand.


    The wind from outside the shrine blew in, adding to his disarray.


    The Energy Stone not only recorded the spells but also the movements and details.


    As he bravely observed the Forebearer''s gift, Nathan''s expression grew more and more animated.


    Blackwood had its dual cultivation techniques, but they were minimally effective. However, the technique bestowed by the Forebearer was so detailed and comprehensive, it was terrifying!


    It even included the combination of humans and demons...


    "Thanks, Forebearer, I get it now. You want us to grow our clan¡ªour kids are still too few!" Nathan expressed his deep gratitude. "Rest assured, Forebearer, once the Blackwood kin return home, with your dual cultivation techniques, our descendants will spread throughout Cloudview County!"


    He casually gave Nathan a ''Warmth from the Forebearer''.


    Right now, Ethan was more concerned about the pop-up on his screen!


    [Congratulations, you''ve absorbed a massive amount of heavenly materials and treasures, breaking through the peak of Developing Skill!]


    [Your family''s hundred-year development conditions have been met, please choose the skill you wish to upgrade!]


    [Detected remaining Spiritual Tribute points: 230,000]


    ...


    The grand ceremony concluded.


    [Blackwood Year 101]


    Ethan watched as his family members were fervently cultivating psychic powers. Indeed, as Edward had said, it wasn''t just them; their elders had been quietly amassing strength over the years!


    Olivia would message him periodically, Dawn''s forces were scouting the enemy''s movements.


    Everything was as the Primordial Blood Tree had foreseen.


    One day, the Blackwood kin would return to their homeland, and their enemies would also head to the Blackwood residence. These enemies represented what was considered ''orthodox'' in the whole of Cloudview County, each emerging from the ancient Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    The storm is coming, the building is full of wind.


    "Phew."


    After many days, Ethan stretched lazily and stepped out of his room, "Let the game speed up, the kids are growing, and with Dawn watching over, nothing will go wrong."


    That''s what he said, but Ethan still left an AI Bionic Robot in front of the screen to help operate.


    "Commander."


    Just as he stepped out, he saw Lisa bowing towards him, her eyebrows slightly furrowed, "You haven''t been to school for many days now. Your homeroom teacher has been calling home constantly. After I blocked him, he even called the police, suspecting a program error had sent the Commander through a meat grinder."


    "..."

 Chapter 179 - 179: A terrifying organization?

    Ethan''s lips twitched as he removed his teacher from the blacklist on his old-school flip phone. Just as he dialed, Ethan frowned and pulled the phone away a bit, feeling like his teacher''s spit was about to spray out through the speaker.


    "Have you lost your mind, Ethan? With your talents, why aren''t you in school? Skipping classes? Your family''s gone AWOL, and you don''t think to maybe step up your game? You''re a genius, man!"


    "And what about the match the other day? Why was the other genius kidnapped to a spaceship and only returned two months later?"


    "Little punk, I told you to just move a finger and defeat him, and then you could have been California''s top genius, maybe even get trained by the federal army. Do you realize what a huge opportunity you wasted?"


    "Are you traumatized and don''t want to see people? Can''t you just listen to me? Everyone faces setbacks in life..."


    "And that John, the gatekeeper, what''s his deal? You told him to wait, didn''t you, to keep me from coming in? Wait till I become the campus secretary, I''ll bring a thousand teachers to sort him out!"


    Ethan scratched his head, listening intently. His teacher, Joshua, was generally good to every student, otherwise Ethan wouldn''t have bothered helping him out.


    When a panting sound came through the phone, followed by a pause, Ethan coughed, "Teacher, I''ve really been busy with important stuff lately, but I''ve also been kinda scared to answer your calls, thought you might have cooled down."


    "I can''t fucking cool down."


    There was a slight delay in Joshua''s voice, "Busy with what?"


    "Starting from scratch."


    Ethan grinned, "You''ve adjusted now, right? Has the principal been arrested? Have you been nominated as the interim principal?"


    "Huh? You did that too?" Joshua was stunned, then he relaxed, "A starving camel is still bigger than a horse. You Blackwoods still have some clout. I mean, right after that genius was kidnapped during the match, the next day the principal was taken away for investigation by the officials, and they uncovered years of corruption. The next day, I was nominated as the interim principal."


    "Teacher, now that you''re the interim principal, could you help me sneak out some of those alien species from the school lab when you have time?"


    As Ethan finished speaking, Joshua was silent for a long time before responding, "Have you been brainwashed by a terrorist organization? That stuff is too dangerous."


    "Ah, alright, alright, I''ll come see you."


    Ethan hung up the phone. He and his teacher had a pretty good relationship, and Joshua was the first to recognize his talent.


    Ethan quickly stepped out of the room, and there was Granny Quinn, squatting by the door. As soon as she saw Ethan, she sprang to her feet, her eyes sharpening. But just as she was about to speak, her expression changed.


    That day, she had wanted to embezzle a piece of top-notch advanced psychic gear, which Ethan had taken out from his Storage Ring.


    "Granny Quinn, how about we go out for some morning tea early in the morning?" Ethan said as soon as he finished speaking. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The peak aura of Developing Skill burst forth from him, hands clasped behind his back, he leaped onto the floating psychic spear of Tianji Town and headed out of the villa area.


    As Ethan''s aura emerged, the Developing Skill aura spread throughout the entire villa area.


    All those still cultivating psychic powers in the villa area suddenly opened their eyes within the Psychic Sanctuary, staring blankly at the sky in the direction Ethan was leaving, all with complex expressions.


    The gatekeeper, Mr. John, was eating a steamed bun, and the bun he had just bitten into fell from his mouth.


    "Goodness, this talent is even fiercer than the first Commander back in the day, and he''s one who likes to play dumb and eat tigers," he muttered.


    In the meantime, he felt the old psychic lady wanted to chase after him. His eyes sharpened, and he instantly disappeared from the spot, appearing in front of the old psychic lady.


    At the front of Psychic Gear number one.


    The old psychic lady stood alone, with gatekeeper Mr. John leading, plus about thirty others dressed in pajamas, dirty all over, or still eating instant noodles, surrounding Granny Quinn in a circle.


    "Old psychic lady, have you gone mad crafting psychic gear? In our territory, even those who control the Twin Fish Harmony Seal aren''t someone you can mess with?"


    "Hey, neighbors, let it go, old psychic lady. It''s hard enough to make it to number twelve, you know how many people want to live in your Psychic Sanctuary."


    "If it weren''t for you breaking into the Mech Clan alone four hundred years ago, I''d slap you right now and clear out your number twelve Psychic Sanctuary. Don''t force me to really disrespect you!"


    Looking at these neighbors, some of whom she had known for many years.


    The old psychic lady squinted her eyes, scoffing with a sneer, "For so many years you were suppressed by that person from Blackwood, your servility unchanged. Now the Blackwood folks are gone, how long do you still want to be oppressed by their younger generation?!!"


    "Just with you guys trying to stop me? A bunch of sycophantic villains!"


    At the front door.


    Lisa, through the peephole, watched everything outside. She finally relaxed the delicate hand that had been on the doorknob, and returned to the living room to close her eyes.


    Leaving the Psychic Sanctuary, Ethan didn''t bother with the affairs of Psychic Gear. From his childhood, he had been protected by these uncles and aunts, and everyone who met him was curious to see how far he''d grow.


    In the villa area, from house number 1 to 108, the higher the number, the greater the influence.


    Ethan, under his family''s protection, could live in house number one, and he had always been guessing about his own identity, trying multiple times to figure it out but never succeeding.


    Everyone said he should just let things slide and not try too hard.


    Initially, he thought it was because of Blackwood''s presence that these inscrutable people respected him so much. Later, he realized that wasn''t the case. The more cunning he acted, the stronger his qualifications appeared, and the nicer he was to the people in the villa area, the more obedient they became.


    Now, reaching the peak of Developing Skill should be enough to make some people in the villa area take action!


    "When I''m strong enough, I should be able to find out," Ethan thought, raising an eyebrow. He didn''t ponder further and directly flew to a large building.


    That was Alan''s company.


    After handing over the items he got from the game to Alan, and as he was leaving Alan''s company, Alan''s respect seemed much greater. He shouted in Ethan''s direction as he was leaving, "Ethan, remember this, I was the first to join our terrifying organization, I''m from the oldest batch!"


    After shouting this, all the Psychics commuting by sword around the building widened their eyes. ''A terrifying organization''? Had they stumbled upon some big secret? Someone even activated their wristband to project a holographic image and called the police.


    Alan glared, "What are you looking at? And you, what are you doing calling the police? Look carefully at what this is!"


    He pulled something out of his pocket, and the corners of everyone''s mouths twitched as they scattered like birds. He had pulled out an identity card that was two hundred years expired, from the former Chief of the highest police bureau in California.

 Chapter 180 - 180: Ancient Relics Network

    Not long after leaving Alan''s company, Ethan arrived at a school''s faculty area, where a series of Psychic Sanctuaries were located, and he found Joshua''s office.


    "You finally decided to step out, huh?" Joshua greeted him, a middle-aged man with glasses and a stern, serious look that suggested he wasn''t much for small talk.


    Ethan entered the teacher''s home and they chatted briefly about mundane family matters, why he hadn''t been attending school, and the statewide competition.


    Joshua, having lived for hundreds of years and experienced the resurgence of psychic abilities on Earth, mostly used ancient devices, influencing Ethan to do the same.


    After sipping some tea brewed by Joshua, Ethan said, "Teacher, would it really be no trouble for you to sneak out some alien species for me?"


    "It''s no trouble. Just knock those researching professors around a bit to keep them quiet. But you have to tell me what you''re using them for; I can''t just let you release those things on the streets," Joshua frowned.


    "I really can''t say," Ethan replied, waving his hand dismissively. "Don''t you trust me? You know I hate getting into trouble."


    Joshua pondered for a moment, then turned on an old TV, which only displayed one channel. The channel, [Ancient Relics Network], featured a woman in a white robe excitedly discussing the significance of archaeological finds, "This will be the greatest discovery, our historical civilization has many gaps, a massive site represents an era!"


    Ethan paid little attention, more curious about why Joshua was watching this channel again. "Teacher, why this channel again? That lady doctor looks a lot like you."


    "That''s my sister!" Joshua revealed.


    "Ah? You keep such a low profile, and you have a sister like her?"


    Joshua was silent for a long time before he finally said, "Let''s not talk about that. You want the alien species, fine, I''ll get them for you in a while. But you have to promise me one thing."


    "What''s that, Teacher?" Ethan grinned.


    "Don''t waste your talents, kid. Go to my sister''s place; she''ll set you up with a cushy job. With your abilities, they''ll treat you like a treasure and give you whatever resources you need. They control a lot of ancient secrets that would be hugely beneficial for you, something others can''t even join."


    "Sure," Ethan agreed nonchalantly, his mind elsewhere. He was least concerned about resources; tomb raiding was George''s kind of job, not his.


    After a long conversation with Joshua, Ethan occasionally checked his phone for updates on his family''s situation. Fortunately, aside from Justin messing up again, there were no major issues.


    Eventually, Ethan headed home. Unbeknownst to him, it had already gotten dark.


    After buying some groceries, he arrived at his doorstep only to see Grandma Quinn still squatting there, probably having known for many days that the Blackwood family''s influence was waning and wanting to hoard his top-tier psychic equipment.


    Moreover, she was testing to see if Ethan was completely without support now.


    Luckily, Ethan had kept his relationship with the gatekeeper Mr. John strong, who had earlier knocked on Grandma Quinn''s door.


    The conflict continued for a while.


    Now...


    The two exchanged glances and smiled at each other in the sunset.


    "Little Ethan, what have you been up to all day? If there''s anything, just talk to your Grandma Quinn, you know I always treat you like my own grandson."


    "..."


    Ethan spent about an hour at Granny Quinn''s Psychic Sanctuary before emerging with a smile, gently touching the Storage Ring in his hand. He quickly returned home.


    Lisa opened her eyes and greeted him with a smile, "Welcome home, Commander. What''s for dinner tonight?"


    "Let''s go with a big pot of stewed goose. Make extra, and send some over to everyone who came out of the Psychic Sanctuary today."


    Hearing this, Lisa nodded obediently, "What about the psychic old lady next door?"


    "Steam a couple more buns for her, and take them up to her Psychic Sanctuary."


    With that, Ethan went back to his room, looked at the descendants on his screen, and remembered his teacher''s words, his lips curling into a smile, "Finally, I can play games in peace! School? Tomb raiding? Heck no!"


    ...


    Back in his room, sitting on the bed, he stared at the huge screen. Time in the game was still accelerating.


    Ethan caressed the Storage Ring, which held the gains from his recent outing. As he watched his descendants strive in the game, he felt his intelligence slowly increasing, enabling him to handle situations that previously overwhelmed him. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    For instance, facing Granny Quinn¡ªif it had been before, he would have had to cower to survive under her hands. Now, he wondered if he had Olivia''s intelligence, he might even be able to silently take out Granny Quinn.


    Ethan exhaled deeply, no longer dwelling on it, and smiled as he watched the time and events on his screen.


    [Blackwood Year 109]


    Unknowingly, he had been out for over eight hours. Over the years, the Blackwood had also been passing peacefully.


    The event log continued to record the struggles of his family members.


    Nathan was still lying in the Forebearer''s Hall within the family''s mausoleum.


    In a mysterious realm, Luna was becoming increasingly beautiful.


    Lucas was still journeying with his sword, having ventured beyond Cloudview County. His once-new black outfit was now worn, but the sword case on his back was still pristine, his stubbled face showing the many vicissitudes he had experienced.


    Inside the Thunderfire Demon Cave, traces of the children once cultivating psychic powers still existed, no longer disturbed by the clanging of iron, only Julian busily building a giant AI Bionic Robot in the scorching thunderfire Psychic Sanctuary.


    More and more zombies were appearing in the Psychic Sanctuary, neatly arranged and eerily eye-opening, but in reality, they were all psychic puppets!


    In another Psychic Sanctuary, Amelia was once again supported by trees, still wearing her old mask, her body tightly wrapped in clothes, but the entire Psychic Sanctuary was glowing, with psychic powers converging from all directions.

 Chapter 181 - 181: I got everything I ever wanted, haha!

    At the border of the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance, a palace had been erected.


    Daniel sat on the throne like an emperor, listening to the demonically possessed psychics and righteous warriors continuously reporting from both sides of the great hall.


    At some point, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, who had been in the mausoleum, had walked out of Blackwood.


    Although his eyes were still blood-red, his body, once like a dried corpse, was now half restored, his dark skin etched with various mysterious inscriptions, showing a rugged handsomeness.


    Behind him followed seven robust men and women, five men like black bears, two women like cheetahs, all constantly frowning.


    This group of eight was closely following Olivia!


    Nowadays, Olivia has become even younger, her charm still evident, making it clear just how stunningly beautiful she was in her youth. At this moment, Olivia is holding a scroll, continuously reciting the principles of natural law.


    Golden text swirls around her, gradually influencing the demonic energy within eight demons.


    At the grand hall of the Sky Sect, Marcus, with a full beard, sits boldly in the leader''s seat, drinking from a wine gourd, "I got everything I ever wanted, haha! But what did I actually earn through my own efforts? Instead, I''ve only caused trouble, haha! Maybe I should never have come to this Sky Sect!"


    ...


    Atop a great mountain.


    Three figures appear, two men and one woman, all with disheveled hair and beards.


    The leader, with a deep and mature gaze, looks stable but his beast-skin attire makes him appear wild. He closes his eyes, sensing everything in the mountain, and says, "Donna, Nicholas, I heard that our uncle is tomb raiding here. There''s an ancient aura in the tomb, it could be dangerous."


    "What haven''t we faced over the years? Could there be anything more dangerous than cultivating psychic powers next to Uncle William?"


    Donna, now fully grown but still petite at just under 5 feet with a youthful figure, dressed in a yellow dress and twin ponytails, looks incredibly cute, "In three years, it''ll be big brother''s time to compete. Uncle is going to teach us one last lesson. If we succeed, we''ll take down all the prodigies of Cloudview County, and even those from other counties!"


    "I''d like to see who dares to compete with big brother for a bride."


    Compared to Edward''s maturity and Donna''s recklessness, Nicholas is handsome but not as rough. He seems more refined, speaking softly, "Sis, Great-Grandma always said not to follow Uncle William..."


    "Which eye of yours saw me learning from him? This is what Aunt Jessica instructed when she was in Jones. You have to be ruthless in life. If you don''t scare those bastards, trouble will keep coming!"


    Donna picks her nose.


    Nicholas quickly dodges to the side, afraid his sister might flick her boogers at him, "Sis! There was a young master chasing after you recently. If he knew how gross you are, wouldn''t he be devastated?"


    "He wouldn''t be devastated. Didn''t big brother tell you?" Donna asked, puzzled.


    "Huh?"


    Edward paused, his eyebrows twitching, "Oh, I remember now. That guy had ill intentions, planning to use some love potion. I caught him. Donna cleaned him up overnight, stripped him naked, pierced his shoulder blades, and hung him at the city gate for public display."


    "..."


    Nicholas glanced at his older sister, who seemed indifferent, her face darkening. "How many people have been fooled by that pitiful look of hers?"


    On the screen.


    Ethan also opened his mouth, feeling a bit regretful that he had missed such a scene.


    He opened the history of the three siblings, who had spent most of their years together.


    [Your descendants Edward, Donna, and Nicholas, aware of the family''s plight, have been cultivating psychic powers more diligently than ever!]


    [They went to Sky Sect, read the Sky Sect scriptures, were taught by Marcus, observed the sun, moon, and stars at the Sky Temple, and were guided by their Daoist mentor from the Ninth Abyss!]


    [Inside the Black Tortoise, they followed Justin into deadly situations. They lived on the edge, encountering a peak Emerging Ability individual for the first time, daring to challenge outside the D-level Psychic Sanctuary, repeatedly pursued by D-level Psychics, and witnessed Justin becoming a direct disciple in a duel...]


    [In the Swamp Jungle, they followed Larry and Mary in a mad battle with thousands of beasts, they crossed the demon king''s territory, and drank the demon king''s blood with Larry and Mary!]


    [In Cloudview County town, they followed Jessica, witnessing the deceit within the town, saw Jessica help her husband Jack ascend to the head of the family, and watched Jones grow and strengthen under Jessica''s guidance.]


    [They followed Jeffrey, watching this exceptionally beautiful man gradually empty the coffers of D-level female cultivators, gaining the support of D-level Psychic resources...]


    [...]


    [They were by the side of their family elders, witnessing the elders'' mad cultivation of psychic powers, each elder commanding their respect, each elder''s actions becoming a legend, and they also gained traits from their elders¡ªinheritors of four generations.]


    [Every lesson from an elder increased their combat power by 1%. They were more likely to acquire special professions.] Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan raised an eyebrow slightly.


    He saw that they all had professions like ''alchemist,'' ''beast master,'' ''talisman master,'' but none were particularly skilled.


    But this also meant their growth!


    Soon.


    The three children reached the entrance of the tomb, just steadying their feet when suddenly a white light burst from inside the tomb, pushing them back several feet, staring in astonishment at the tomb.


    From within, a handsome man in a cloud-patterned white robe emerged, cursing.


    "Damn! Thought it was just a common D-level Psychic''s tomb, who knew there was a Competent soul inside!"


    "Good thing the grandpas were here, otherwise I really would have capsized in the gutter this time."


    As he spoke.


    A series of translucent figures emerged behind him, the elderly in a meeting.


    "Those ungrateful kids at Azure Cloud Pavilion, actually kicked George out, forcing us to follow George into tomb raiding, not even knowing whose era this tomb belongs to."


    "Hmph, just a Competent beginner in life, trying to seize the power of heaven and earth to possess the younger generation, he was stunned as soon as he entered George''s soul sea and saw us."


    "Foolish indeed, but this person did find a way to preserve a Competent''s method, almost succeeded."


    "Don''t say that, having a top-grade special ability tool as a Competent beginner, he must have been quite a figure back in the day."


    "..."

 Chapter 182 - 182: Come, fight me—Nathan

    The three of them were stunned as they saw the souls of many powerful beings. They had heard that the Competent were formidable, capable of projecting their souls out of their bodies, potentially preserving them indefinitely...


    "One, two, three..." Nicholas blinked hard, "Twenty-three."


    His siblings were no better off; this situation was more terrifying than any encounter they had had with their elders, and the aura of their uncle...


    "Yo?"


    George had already sensed the familiar presence at the entrance. He grinned at the three youngsters, "Heard you were coming to learn from me. Didn''t expect you to arrive so soon. You''ve all grown up! Come, let Uncle have a good look at you."


    As soon as he finished speaking, twenty-three elders instantly surrounded them, nodding and assessing.


    "George, these three youngsters have learned a mixed bag of tricks," one elder commented.


    "Their talents are decent, and one even has a Water Psychic Constitution, though it''s far inferior to your Wind Psychic Constitution." S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "They might be considered prodigies among the younger generation, but I can tell their cultivation is bolstered by resources. Each one must have been through numerous battles. Trying to stabilize their foundation this way won''t work. Three years left, right? There''s still time."


    ...


    Ethan watched as the three youngsters were led away, trusting that the twenty-three experienced elders knew how to enhance their cultivation and combat abilities.


    This was their final stop!


    Their experiences far exceeded what ordinary people could imagine.


    Soon.


    [Blackwood Year 110, the decennial grand ceremony begins!]


    On this day, all of Blackwood opened their eyes from meditation. Beside Olivia, the Thunderfire Raging Python emerged from the ground with its massive head.


    Even within the Blackwood residence, the Primordial Blood Tree, with its blood-red leaves swaying, revealed its ancient human face and opened its eyes to look through the canopy at the sky.


    All of Blackwood murmured in unison.


    "War is coming."


    The altar was set up, resources were supplied to Ethan again.


    As the grand ceremony concluded, the members of Blackwood had packed up everything, even Marcus from the Sky Sect, who had discarded his liquor gourd, his eyes shining with a sharp light.


    They knew that this time, it would determine whether they could return to their family''s residence and whether their people could finally come home.


    Or whether they would carve out an era unique to Blackwood in Cloudview County, or if Blackwood would be completely lost within Cloudview County.


    Ethan, in front of the screen, was equally solemn.


    He was digesting the offerings from his descendants.


    Time passed once again.


    As Blackwood prepared for war, a pop-up appeared on the screen.


    [Blackwood Year 112, your descendants increasingly feel a hand reaching out towards Blackwood.]


    [Special Event¡ªThe Master of the Era]


    [As Blackwood goes completely mad due to the sacrifice of the Boar Monarch Pete, the entire Cloudview County seems like boiling water about to erupt in rage. All forces in Cloudview County feel the shift of the era. Everyone is preparing to compete for supremacy, and if they can win this battle, they will be remembered in Cloudview County like the Azure Cloud Pavilion was 130,000 years ago.]


    [Your family is just one of the players in this era.]


    The special event in the game appeared today!


    Ethan''s expression grew more solemn, Olivia had been investigating for years and had long discovered the anomalies in Cloudview County.


    According to Amelia, this was an inevitable outcome for Cloudview County, with Blackwood merely being the spark that drew everyone''s ire. For 130,000 years, Cloudview County had been resource-poor, with resources slowly being divided, and it had been many years since a B-grade powerhouse had emerged.


    A disaster was bound to happen, leading all forces to fight desperately for the fate of Cloudview County.


    There was a sect called The Oracle Chamber; they said that Blackwood had almost seized half of Cloudview County''s fate over the years.


    This sect was also the most mysterious in Cloudview County.


    Olivia had been searching for the secrets of this mysterious sect for years, yet she didn''t even know who their sect leader was, only that they had been stirring up trouble for years.


    "The Oracle Chamber, huh?"


    Ethan furrowed his brows; he wouldn''t have known about this sect if not for Olivia. Not just him, many competent forces were unaware, and even when Olivia specifically asked Michael, he deliberately changed the subject, seemingly quite wary.


    While pondering, Ethan switched the screen!


    On this snowy day, the world was draped in silver.


    In the Blackwood encampment, Nathan climbed out of a coffin, a pigeon from afar landed in his hand¡ªit was a message from Olivia.


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled as he stuffed the Forebearer Cards into his chest, deciding not to strap the coffin of direct death to his back but instead carried it on his shoulder and soared into the sky, "The Cloudview County competition is about to begin, may the Forebearer bless me, and may I vanquish the Competent!"


    Soon after he soared through the clouds, he arrived outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion!


    As he approached, the Azure Cloud Pavilion went on high alert, activating their protective formation!


    "Boom!"


    Nathan slammed the coffin vertically into the ground, dust and smoke billowing, and he let out a loud laugh.


    "Hahaha, back in the day, Olivia alone suppressed your Azure Cloud Pavilion, and no one dared to make a move. Today, I, as her father, will follow in her footsteps!"


    "Aren''t you the memory of Azure Cloud Pavilion from 130,000 years ago? Aren''t all the people from the major sects of Cloudview County originally from Azure Cloud Pavilion?"


    "How dare you drive my great-grandson out, today we settle new scores and old debts together. If Azure Cloud Pavilion still has any men, then let all your masters come out."


    As he spoke, his expression gradually darkened.


    "Come, fight me¡ªNathan!"


    The aura of a mid-stage Developing Skill burst forth in all directions, stirring up dust and sand, and the heavy snow around the Azure Cloud Pavilion began to flow back towards the sky, centered on Nathan.


    Several Developing Skill masters stood on the walls of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, their faces grim as they stared at Nathan shouting outside the gate. Nathan, a burly man pressing his hand against the coffin beside him, grinned broadly, looking very much like a farmer leaning on a hoe in the field.


    Despite their strength, none dared to step out of the sect!

 Chapter 183 - 183: You only have ten minutes

    Beneath the Azure Cloud Pavilion, at the foot of the mountain, lay the bustling Azure Cloud Martial Hall. This place, once a slaughterhouse for the young elites of Cloudview County by George, now gathered a new generation of young talents.


    Dozens of high platforms, made of some unknown material, floated about 33 feet above the ground, repelling the heavy snowfall with their magical arrays.


    Among the clouds, a woman dressed in splendid attire sat in a high seat, her gaze sweeping over the young prodigies below. Next to her, a butler pointed towards the crowd and said, "Miss, take a look. That''s a genius from Azure Cloud Pavilion. I heard he''s only 44 and has already reached the Transcendent Seed stage."


    "And over there, wow, that''s a hotshot from Star Dance County. Rumor has it he survived two moves against a D-rank opponent without biting the dust."


    "And that guy, from a small family in Sun County, got dumped but climbed his way up to the Transcendent Seed stage. Man, I heard he''s got aces up his sleeve and might break through to Developing Skill level soon."


    Betty, however, was fed up with the butler''s chatter and tuned him out. She continued to scan the crowd below, searching for the one who haunted her dreams.


    That day, she had cried as she watched her man leave. Now, she waited, waited for Edward to return and take her home.


    Finally, her eyes visibly reddened, and she covered her mouth with a delicate hand as tears streamed down her face.


    A deep voice boomed through the sky, "Amitabha."


    "All these talents gathered here, such a grand event, this monk wishes to test his mettle. Except for us from Blackwood, who dares claim the title of prodigy?"


    From afar, two figures on black and white lotus platforms approached through the clouds. Dressed in black and white monk robes, Charles and Christopher pressed their palms together, their faces showing great compassion but their words dripping with arrogance.


    The crowd''s expression changed. They could feel the power of these two, or perhaps the mere mention of ''Blackwood'' was enough to instill fear!


    No one could forget the terror that followed George''s massacre of a generation of prodigies.


    And now, this generation...


    They were still terrified by the mere presence of these two.


    From a distance, another voice laughed, "Haha! Charles, Christopher? What brings you guys here?"


    A cute-looking girl, sitting on a roaring tiger, her twin ponytails flying, laughed wildly, "Why do you even bother? I, Donna, am here. If Uncle George could wipe out a generation, I want to see what this generation is made of!"


    "If you''re scared, beat it!"


    "This place, only Blackwood folks can stand!"


    Donna''s wild shouts caused another stir among the prodigies, some of whom quietly slipped away.


    "Man, sis! You''re too wild. We agreed to keep a low profile, but you guys... well, as long as we win, right? But what if we get surrounded?" Nicholas followed, riding a donkey on the ground, looking up at his siblings in the sky, his face turning dark.


    Hearing Nicholas call out ''sis'', people hurriedly scattered, and Nicholas struggled to control his unruly donkey, gritting his teeth, "Stupid donkey, why do you have to be such a freak beast?"


    What is fear?


    As the fifth generation of Blackwood made their grand entrance, the Azure Cloud Martial Hall, usually bustling with thousands, fell silent, filled only with the shouts of Blackwood and the sounds of so-called geniuses making a quiet exit, terrified of being spotted by Blackwood. sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And in the sky above, Betty saw him.


    There was a familiar figure, riding a majestic eagle, slicing through the clouds ¡ª Edward!


    Edward, now clean-shaven and dressed in new clothes, looked deeply at Betty sitting in the sky, his smile gentle, his eyes filled with longing.


    His gaze was icy as he let the giant eagle circle around the Azure Cloud Martial Hall before landing in the center.


    "Thinking you can steal my girl?"


    "You only have ten minutes!"


    "Otherwise, nobody leaves!"


    In that moment, the fifth generation of Blackwood shone brilliantly!


    In the skies above the Azure Cloud Martial Hall, descendants of the Blackwood lineage suppressed the talents of the entire Cloudview County with their overwhelming presence.


    At the entrance of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, Nathan stood alone with a coffin, just as Olivia had years ago, rendering everyone at the Azure Cloud Pavilion too intimidated to move.


    With their arrival, the entire Cloudview County was no longer at peace. It was as if beneath this temporary calm, a boundless threat was lurking!


    News spread to every corner of Cloudview County at lightning speed.


    Over at the Williams estate, the only other influential family in Cloudview County besides the lofty County Duke''s residence, their territory spanned an entire mountain.


    The mountain was structured like a spiral pyramid, with countless fields of psychic crops at its base, towns established by the Williams descendants, and a variety of exotic beasts being bred.


    Midway up, the Williams'' qualified members cultivated psychic powers in various halls dedicated to alchemy, psychic medicine, and crafting psychic equipment. Masters of emerging abilities flew about. At the very top, pavilions and towers were shrouded in psychic mists, with even a golden dragon illusion soaring through the air.


    In the deepest part of a golden lake, a dragon lurked. Suddenly, a paper kite fell from the sky. Donald Williams, who had once attacked Ethan outside the Sky Sect, emerged from the lake as the paper kite dissolved into nothingness. His expression gradually darkened.


    "Thirty-two years have passed. Does Blackwood really think they can rule over Cloudview County just because they defeated us outside the Sky Sect?" He could not forget that day. A mysterious figure had produced a dark weapon, crafted by an unknown master, which had severely injured him and destroyed his life-bound psychic weapon that had been with him for six hundred years.


    It took him thirty-two years to fully recover!


    He stepped out of the golden pool. A dragon''s roar echoed, and tens of thousands of Williams clansmen looked up.


    "The era of great strife has arrived. From today, we, the Williams, will rise like a dragon over Azure Cloud!"


    Elsewhere, on the streets of a county town, a nine-foot-tall monk walked barefoot with a staff, his monk''s robe tattered and he limped along.


    "Kind sir, may I beg for alms?" He had just knocked on a door when a household known for its quarrelsome woman let the poor monk in and offered him a simple meal. After a while, the monk left the house, closing the door behind him, ignoring the blood seeping from under the door.


    "Buddha bless, the world is impure, without Buddha''s teachings, how can people behave righteously?" Abbot David sighed deeply, "Buddha''s compassion is boundless, today I have again sent another soul to the hell of incessant suffering."


    As he prepared to beg at another house, a paper kite flew towards him. Abbot David, with utmost devotion, proclaimed, "Where Buddha''s light shines, there shall be prosperity. It''s time Cloudview County was filled with temples. If Blackwood won''t descend into hell, who will?"


    Abbot David continued forward, his previously limping right leg now moving smoothly. That day at the entrance of the Sky Sect, even though he had fled in haste, his right leg had been broken. Over thirty years, the merit accumulated from temples across Cloudview County had greatly enhanced his psychic abilities.


    At this moment, all the temples in Cloudview County rang their bells 108 times, a sound of auspiciousness and good fortune in Buddhism.


    "Amitabha." All the monks emerged, holding vajras, wooden fish, and vajra staffs.

 Chapter 184 - 184: What need was there for platforms?

    In the sprawling expanse of Azure Cloud, twenty-four counties bowed under the sway of twelve major powers, a single clan, one monk, two sects, three mountains, and five great temples. Today, they all emerged!


    Most had received the letter. It was like a long-planned conspiracy, waiting for any move from Blackwood.


    At the outskirts of Cloudview County, atop the Duke''s mansion, Michael stood on the rampart, his gaze sweeping the horizon, his ears catching whispers from afar. In this fierce winter, with snow swirling and the landscape serene, he narrowed his eyes.


    An elderly man approached, flying on a sword, and knelt on one knee before Michael. "Father!" This was Michael''s only son, Kenneth, who, though over four hundred years old, stood by his father, indistinguishable as parent or child.


    With a wave of his hand, he revealed a cage trapping a paper kite that fluttered its wings, "Again, The Oracle Chamber. Today, all forces of Cloudview County have moved, targeting Blackwood."


    Michael''s face remained expressionless.


    Kenneth frowned deeply, "Father, for tens of thousands of years, our Johnson family has steered clear of Cloudview County''s affairs. Now, more than ever, we should mediate. This is the way of the Johnsons, who govern Azure Cloud. With twelve powers present, and Azure Cloud Pavilion as the orthodox power, plus our Duke''s mansion, Cloudview County might be weak, but no one dares to offend."


    "What do you think?" Michael asked.


    "I think our Duke''s mansion should withdraw promptly, regardless of the major powers'' siege on Blackwood. Or we should step forward, declaring Edward as a son-in-law of the Johnsons, which should deter any offenses against us. This is the best strategy."


    "Armchair strategy," Michael said, disappointment evident as he glanced at his son. "Blackwood has become a thorn in the side for all major powers in Cloudview County. As long as Blackwood exists, they will never rest easy. Do you think our intervention would make them set aside their grudges?"


    Kenneth became anxious, "But father, this bloodshed, no matter who wins, they will become the new Azure Cloud Pavilion. But what about us, the Johnsons? With Cloudview County losing many of its masters, we are doomed either way!"


    "The reason Azure Cloud Pavilion exists, becoming a memory across Cloudview County, is because the dynasty needs them. They gather the finest of Cloudview County to face the demons and barbarians surrounding us..."


    "This is The Oracle Chamber''s trap, targeting our Duke''s mansion!"


    Before he could finish, Michael shook his head, "For 130,000 years, generation after generation of princes have guarded against The Oracle Chamber, feared its schemes, and today..."


    "Our Duke''s mansion enters the fray!"


    ...


    [Special Event¡ªThe Fifth Generation''s Bridal Contest!]


    [At the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, the young princess of the County Prince''s Mansion is holding a martial contest to choose a suitor. Your descendant, Edward, along with his siblings, faces the prodigies of the entire Cloudview County at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, vowing to suppress all these so-called talents!]


    Ethan stared intently at the screen. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had adjusted the game''s time to mirror reality seamlessly.


    In front of Edward, the Spiritual Tribute was burning, and Ethan switched the view to Olivia.


    [Your descendant Olivia has important matters to discuss.]


    Now, Olivia appeared as she did in her twenties or thirties, dressed in a long white gown, her cool demeanor like the winter snow, yet striking as a snow lotus that captures the eye at a glance.


    Her stunning face always seemed to carry the most amiable smile, her hands holding Cards, "Forebearer, the five children have now arrived at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion. From this moment, we become the blade of the County Prince."


    As Olivia finished speaking,


    Another special event suddenly appeared!


    [Special Event¡ªRising Storm]


    [The County Prince''s Mansion wants Blackwood to act, to eliminate the major forces of Cloudview County and completely reshuffle Cloudview County. Your family joins in, and now the major forces of Cloudview County, vying for the Azure Cloud''s fate, decide to seize half of the Azure Cloud''s fate occupied by Blackwood.]


    In the game, Ethan saw a chessboard, with Blackwood as a pawn.


    It seemed to him that Michael had acknowledged Edward as his son-in-law, but Ethan could feel that just being in-laws, Michael wouldn''t simply sell his soul for Blackwood. Even the Sky Sect and Black Tortoise wouldn''t run errands for Blackwood for the sake of a disciple.


    And now, the emergence of this special event further indicated that this siege on Blackwood was untrustworthy!


    Blackwood...


    Just a fuse, a knife!


    "Forebearer."


    As he pondered, Olivia''s smile widened, "My child can feel that in this grand scheme, there are hidden manipulators using everything they can. We, Blackwood, are merely pawns."


    Ethan squinted slightly, just as he had when he saw Blackwood in the years following that bloody massacre, when Cloudview County was unusually calm.


    He always felt something was off but couldn''t pinpoint what it was. Now, everything seemed to be becoming clearer.


    Ethan typed on the keyboard.


    [If they want us to be pawns, they better be prepared for us, Blackwood, to leap off the chessboard!]


    Thunderfire Raging Python emerged from the soil, conveying Ethan''s words to Olivia with a deep voice.


    "Commander says, do it!"


    Ethan''s expression, originally solemn, froze as he read the words above Thunderfire Raging Python''s head. Suddenly, he felt the urge to switch his temple guardian beast or perhaps treat the whole clan to a demon king-level snake soup.


    Olivia, too, looked astonished at the Thunderfire Raging Python. "Did the Forebearer really say that?"


    The Thunderfire Raging Python''s large eyes flickered with confusion before it relayed Ethan''s words verbatim, "Isn''t it all the same?"


    Olivia decided to ignore the temple guardian beast and bowed respectfully towards the Forebearer Cards. "Child understands, in this great conflict of the era, child is ready to make our Blackwood the chess player. We, the descendants, fear not the harsh winter!"


    "Now, we just wait for the major forces to make their move!"


    "And wait for... the children of the fifth generation."


    The scene shifted back to the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    The children of the fifth generation still looked down upon all the prodigies.


    The incense stick had burned down significantly.


    Over two thousand talents had gathered at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, ranging from the peak of Foundational Energy to the False Core stage, coming from twenty-four counties and even other regions.


    But with the arrival of the Blackwood members, everything changed, and talents began to leave one after another.


    Under the snowstorm, snowflakes gently landed on the shoulders of everyone present at the scene, making this winter day extremely cold.


    They didn''t even know what the deal was with those two strange little monks and nuns, who Edward was, why the little girl riding a fierce tiger had such a strong presence, or what the story was with the guy riding a donkey.


    But the word "Blackwood" meant everything!


    Over thirty years, the deeds of Blackwood had spread far and wide, no longer just the tales of ''bodies cast before the Azure Cloud Pavilion'', ''one man battling three Competents'', or ''Dawn alone holding the Azure Cloud Pavilion''. The younger generation even considered the words ''blood-stained Blackwood'' taboo.


    It didn''t matter whether it was about cowardice or shame, nor did it matter about the disdainful looks from those who still remained at the scene. Surviving was enough.


    The hundred-plus floating platforms in the sky became a joke in this snowstorm.


    What need was there for platforms?


    The descendants of Blackwood were ready to smash everything!

 Chapter 185 - 185: Nicholas remained undaunted

    "Hey, friends, trust me on this, the incense is almost burnt out, and if you don''t leave now, it''ll really be too late."


    Over two thousand talents had departed, leaving less than ten percent.


    Nicholas shouted at the multitude of geniuses, well aware of the tactics of his elder brother and sister, and those two peculiar siblings. He had felt their strength back in the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    He thought to himself, if these people really left, he wouldn''t have to make a move. It would be a pity to kill so many talents.


    Wouldn''t it be wonderful if they all went to their families to cultivate special ability fields and occasionally draw some blood to feed the divine tree during their spare time?


    Besides...


    He looked around worriedly, sensing that some prodigies and masters were still following.


    "How ridiculous!"


    But Nicholas''s words did not stir any ripples among the many prodigies.


    They came from the twenty-four counties of Azure Cloud, each one raised in adulation from childhood. Each one a standout in their own right, each one full of pride.


    The speaker, looking at Nicholas riding a donkey, scoffed, "Others may fear you, Blackwood, but I certainly do not! I heard your Blackwood family emerged from a mountain of corpses and a sea of blood. Haven''t I also reached this day step by step?"


    Everyone in the Azure Cloud Martial Hall looked towards that man, full of dread, yet remaining silent.


    His name was Eric, from a small family and clan. He had once ventured alone into a Developing Skill sect and defeated a remarkably talented direct disciple rumored to possess the Developing Skill, who had also rejected his marriage proposal.


    Eric, within this Cloudview County, had faced countless dangers and possessed extraordinary combat skills, fearing neither heaven nor earth!


    Among those present were even more prodigies.


    Some emerged from great mountains, obtaining rare treasures. Some came from noble families, receiving Competent inheritances. Even those who could command thousands of beast souls!


    Regarding those so-called talents who had fled.


    The people on the scene sneered at them. Had they not heard of the time when George slaughtered the martial contestants of the Azure Cloud Martial Hall?


    But how could those who came then compare to today''s talents?


    They even looked down on the so-called direct disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and even if George himself reappeared, they would dare to challenge him!


    In an instant.


    The scene fell silent once again.


    Only the winter''s snow and the many prodigies, ready to strike, remained...


    ...


    In front of the screen, Ethan nodded slightly. Indeed, as Eric had said, the prodigies arriving this time were incomparable to those George had faced before.


    But now, the fifth generation of the Blackwood family, nurtured with the collective wisdom of their elders, might not have the innate talent of George, but they had experienced trials and tribulations George had never faced!


    With a sigh, as the snowstorm blew through the game, the Spiritual Tribute before Edward burned out.


    At that moment, all the prodigies unleashed their abilities, dispersing the snowstorm, proving themselves far superior to the talents George had once faced.


    Among them, not a single one was below the mid-stage of Emerging Ability.


    Each one brandished their psychic equipment, even psychic devices!


    In an instant, the entire Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion burst into radiant light, targeting the Blackwood descendants.


    The overwhelming psychic powers caused the entire pavilion to tremble, and the masters hidden in the shadows changed their expressions.


    They recognized the extraordinary nature of the Blackwood descendants!


    Nicholas sighed deeply.


    As the enemy''s powers erupted, he kicked the donkey beneath him into the air and focused on Eric, who had just back-talked him.


    Then, with a boom, his False Core stage ability erupted, and behind him appeared a map.


    It was the primary psychic device, the ''Great River Dragon Map,'' once bestowed upon George after the Blackwood elders annihilated the Rodriguez family.


    Now, this primary psychic device belonged to Nicholas!


    His abilities, like all Blackwood clan members, were learned from the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s "Azure Cloud Unyielding," a terrestrial technique that greatly enhanced their psychic powers beyond ordinary people.


    He also had...


    [Your descendant Nicholas, taught by the old grandfather inside George''s body, has a solid foundation and can perfectly utilize his abilities through the water Psychic Constitution, perfectly integrating with the Great River Dragon Map! Over three years, he has been imbued with a vast amount of symbol knowledge by the old grandfather, earning the profession¡ª]


    [Eighth-grade Water System Symbol Master!]


    In an instant, shrimp soldiers and crab generals emerged from the Great River Dragon Map!


    Behind Nicholas, symbols appeared like money was no object, attaching themselves to the shrimp soldiers and crab generals through Nicholas''s abilities.


    The Azure Cloud Unyielding ability, the manipulative power of the water Psychic Constitution, and the vast array of ninth to eighth-grade water symbols acquired from family elders...


    The reason for studying water symbols was because it was the fastest way!


    In an instant, thousands of frenzied shrimp soldiers and crab generals, along with a roaring water dragon, took over the ground of the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    Nicholas stood still, forming hand seals, his abilities still erupting, a long spear appearing in his hand, a primary psychic device given to them by Michael from the prince''s mansion before they left!


    One by one, the symbol-adorned shrimp soldiers and crab generals passed by him, and he stood like a general commanding thousands of troops!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    Eric and all the Psychics around him suffered immediately.


    At the start of the battle, they witnessed the terrifying power of Nicholas.


    This man, who rode a donkey and was only notable for his looks, gave them unimaginable pressure. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    From the Great River Dragon Map, each shrimp soldier and crab general, after being adorned with symbols, possessed the power of high-level Foundational Energy, even up to the Emerging Ability stage.


    The water dragon that emerged from the Great River Dragon Map was no ordinary False Core stage creature, now roaming the battlefield!


    They were fighting against a symbol master with a rich family background, fighting against Energy Stones!


    Eric, no easy opponent himself, roared and pointed to the sky, a giant finger with immense pressure descending.


    Nicholas remained undaunted.

 Chapter 186 - 186: Fury of the Weak Woman!

    He was still forming hand seals when the giant finger struck. Suddenly, he looked up, his eyes gleaming with determination.


    Once in Blackwood, after being called a coward, he was the child who cried and clung to Dennis. Back then, it seemed everything frightened him. Though no one called him timid, looking back, he was indeed a pampered, useless young master.


    But now... S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had faced it all, endured hardships, and worn the heaviest armor. With his siblings'' help, he had fallen and risen again in the Thunderfire Demon Cave. No one knew how much he had sweated, no one knew how he used potions daily to soothe his bruised shoulders from the armor.


    Back then, he still cried, secretly at night, fearing Donna would scold him as ''the useless brother.''


    During his adventures with the elders, he had feared the swamp forests, wet himself when Uncle Justin provoked a D-level threat, and even spent a night vomiting after Uncle William tricked him into sleeping with a severed head.


    Now...


    "Nothing to fear."


    Nicholas, seeing those struggling to hold their ground against the shrimp soldiers and crab generals, some even fleeing, boldly grasped his spear and executed the family''s "Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps." He became a blur of hundreds, dodging Eric''s massive finger and its oppressive force, his spear aiming straight for Eric.


    He saw the terror in Eric''s eyes, a slight smile curling his lips, his voice booming across the battlefield!


    "Go to hell, cowards!"


    "Now, I am the king of this battlefield!"


    One strike.


    A fatal blow!


    Watching Eric, engulfed in flames, impaled by the spear, Nicholas remained silent, his cold gaze shifting to a fleeing peak Emerging Ability.


    He walked through blood, his spear''s tip drawing ripples on the ground, truly like a king patrolling the battlefield of the living!


    ...


    "Pfft!"


    In the chaotic battlefield, Donna had already moved at the first sign of combat!


    She too executed the Azure Cloud Unfalling, using Mystic Shadow Heavenly Cluster Steps to split into hundreds of copies, yet these were the chosen ones.


    She stared blankly at the sword tip piercing her left shoulder, dripping blood, seemingly confused.


    "Boom!"


    The battlefield had no room for hesitation. A palm struck her from behind, sending Donna plummeting from the sky. Mid-air, she turned to face the hidden False Core stage expert... very strong.


    "Donna!"


    The voices of her useless brother and elder brother reached her ears, those two monks seemingly ignoring her as Donna remained dazed.


    With her body in pain, she trembled.


    The deepest fears awakened, as they had over the years. She remembered at the Fist of the Hundred sect, how the nursemaid would prick her with needles, dunk her head in water repeatedly, and scald her feet with fire.


    Unknown to anyone, she had told Nathan she wanted to cultivate psychic powers with her brother to become strong. That way, no one would dare bully her again.


    "Slash!"


    A whooshing sound as a Psychic, seeing Donna land, took the opportunity to swing his axe, unleashing all his powers!


    But at that moment.


    Donna, seemingly delicate, suddenly exploded in strength, her muscles bulging, tearing her yellow dress to reveal her resilient beastly garment!


    "Boom!"


    Her hand firmly grasped the axe blade, and the ground shattered under the immense force of Donna''s arm, thick as an adult''s thigh and knotted with muscle!


    Once petite, standing less than five feet tall, she now stood nearly six feet, even more imposing than Abbot David outside the gates of Sky Sect!


    Her eyes bloodshot, she towered over the terrified genius, her bulging veins and large hand gripping his neck.


    Her voice was still somewhat delicate as she shouted.


    "Was it you who hit me?"


    "No one, no one can oppress me!"


    She brutally snapped the Psychic''s neck, his protective psychic barrier as fragile as paper under her grip.


    She was also... the only body cultivator in Blackwood!


    [Your descendant Donna, constantly dying in the Coffin of Death, endured endless agony. She knew that only with a strong body could she avoid being humiliated by the nursemaid again!]


    [In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, she wore armor that suppressed her physical strength and endured immense pressure. She slowly got along with the demon-possessed ability users and acquired a body cultivation technique from one of them, becoming a body cultivator. She gained the profession¡ªBitter Psychic!]


    [Trait Acquired: Fury of the Weak Woman!]


    [Normally, no one can perceive the strength of her body. When injured, she becomes frenzied, unleashing all her physical strength. Her combat power increases by 20%!]


    Thus, she always maintained good relations with the demon-possessed ability users in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, gradually adopting their coarse language to curry favor and learn their body techniques!


    So, although her talents were not as great as Nicholas''s and her determination not as strong as Edward''s, she could always run more effortlessly than both Nicholas and Edward!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    A frenzied Donna punched repeatedly on the battlefield, her twin ponytails whipping wildly as she caught the Psychic who had pierced her shoulder.


    Then she slammed him to the ground, and under his despairing gaze, she pounded him into a pulp with punch after punch!


    "Take a good look at who you hit, you bastard!"


    Blood-covered Donna roared.


    She was no longer the girl who was bullied and too scared to speak up; she no longer needed to tell anyone, nor did she need Dennis to take her for revenge.


    She had strength, she had raging muscles, muscles that could battle with a False Core stage fighter!


    "Phew, better keep my distance."


    Seeing his sister stabbed but unharmed, and beginning to transform before smashing one of the enemy''s minions with a punch, Edward breathed a sigh of relief and stepped back. Over the years, he had grown accustomed to his sister''s frenzied, unrecognizable rage after being hit.


    "Roar!"


    As he pondered, a horde of beasts attacked. Edward dodged swiftly, his eyes fixed on the sky filled with visions of his Betty, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth.


    His childhood dream was to become a swordsman like the great lords of old, wandering the world with his sword.


    Really...


    It was quite childish.


    "Sing!"


    The sound of swords humming filled the air around him as he slowly turned to face the Beast Tamer who had just attacked him.


    At that moment,


    far away, a dozen powerful Emerging Ability Psychics, along with the Beast Tamer''s exotic beast, nearly filled the entire sword formation!


    This sword formation, known as The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors, consisted of thirty-six swords, each positioned strategically, their edges gleaming fiercely.


    "Be careful, he''s a Sword Cultivator and a Formation Master!"


    "This sword formation is no simple matter; smash that throne, it''s the foundation of the formation."


    "There was once a Master of Sword Formations from the Duke''s Mansion!"


    Edward paid no heed to the exclamations of the Psychics trapped within the formation; he slowly walked towards the throne and sat down.


    That day, he stood under the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Primordial Blood Tree had told him that he would step by step ascend to the lofty throne, and it was indeed accurate.


    [Your descendant Edward, emerging from the Duke''s Mansion, received from Duke Michael the profound formation array ''The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors'' and the mid-grade psychic weapon ''Sword of the Celestial Noble''!]


    [Michael left a message¡ªJohnson''s son-in-law should be a gentleman who commands respect from all over the world!]


    [Your descendant Edward, in the Sky Sect, sought out formation techniques from the Nine Nether Daoist, diligently practicing the gifts from Michael.]


    [Acquired profession¡ªMaster of Sword Formations!]


    [Your descendant Edward, guided by the old grandfather within George''s body, became an eighth-grade Master of Sword Formations!]


    From the throne of the eighth-grade sword formation, Edward leisurely watched the thirty-six Swords of the Celestial Noble, attacking the enemies like the most loyal guards.


    He was somewhat dazed.


    Every day he strived hard; his talents were not outstanding, requiring him to work twice as hard as his siblings!


    He did not disappoint his elders; sitting on the lofty throne, he was about to become Johnson''s son-in-law.


    The years of hardship were all released on this day; these so-called geniuses were nothing in front of him and his siblings!


    Within the sword formation, no genius could match them!


    He could faintly feel that whether it was Duke Johnson''s mansion or his family, there were grand schemes, and he had become a pawn.


    But it didn''t matter.


    With a cold laugh, his voice spread throughout the entire Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, making all the geniuses who had already left the pavilion bow their heads.


    "From today onwards, I forbid anyone to mention geniuses in front of us Blackwoods, nor harbor any ill intentions, whether you advance to Developing Skill or Competent. Remember us, remember today; cross the line, and our fifth-generation descendants will step onto your family''s doorstep!"


    ...

 Chapter 187 - 187: Theyre insane, truly insane.

    In the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, the prodigies were fleeing in terror under the assault of the fifth generation descendants of Blackwood!


    Mad as a titan, Donna, commanding dragons and legions, Nicholas, and Edward, shielded by sword formations upon his throne, they were monsters.


    They possessed earth-shattering psychic powers, wielded profound-level martial arts, and utilized psychic devices; even their combat prowess was honed between life and death.


    In their presence, hidden masters saw the shadows of those from Blackwood.


    "One generation stronger than the next!"


    "Your prodigy is about to be killed, hurry and save him."


    "Have you lost your mind?"


    The hidden masters spoke, many at the False Core stage... yet dared not move.


    Finally.


    Everyone in the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion''s expressions changed as a surge of psychic energy erupted!


    In the distant sky, an old woman, her face twisted in madness, stared at a woman caught by Donna, bellowing ferociously, "Do not harm my disciple!"


    That was... the early stages of Developing Skill!


    Behind her, a celestial pearl dharma body split into nine, spinning in the skies of the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, scattering the snow and wind, pressing down on the three young Blackwoods.


    They suddenly looked up... shocked.


    Not by the Developing Skill early stage master.


    But because...


    "Amitabha, to bully the weak, you truly have no shame."


    "Brother, why waste words with her? D-level? I want to see just how different she is from a D-level!"


    On the black and gold twin lotus platform, a strange scene unfolded.


    Charles, dressed in black and typically demonic, was surprisingly genteel, while the nun, Christopher, was extremely rough.


    But as the D-level appeared.


    The two, who had not been using their full strength on the battlefield, suddenly unleashed a surge of demonic energy!


    The lotus platform beneath them grew even more terrifying.


    The petals of the lotus had tentacles writhing out, and as the siblings'' eyes gleamed with black light, those tentacles rushed towards the nine blood pearls of the Developing Skill Psychic, scattering like celestial maidens, forming a dark curtain around them!


    They... were always the strongest prodigies of Blackwood!


    [Your descendant Julian, has forged two lotus platforms from the Buddhist psychic equipment and devices taken from the monks of Temple, slaughtered by Monk Jacob, becoming the primary psychic devices for Charles and Christopher!]


    [Your descendants Charles and Christopher, received a gift from their elder¡ª Abbot David''s right leg. After years of studying Abbot David''s thigh, they tainted it with demonic energy while contemplating the Competent Buddhist teachings left behind, integrating Abbot David''s right leg into the lotus platform.]


    [The primary psychic device merged with Abbot David''s right leg, becoming a mid-grade psychic device¡ªthe Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus!]


    [Possessing a trace of Competent energy, using flesh and blood to control the enemy!]


    Thus, over the years, they have been cultivating psychic powers in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, using treasures previously obtained from the Buddhist sect.


    That day, in front of the Sky Sect, what exploded was indeed Abbot David''s right leg, now causing Abbot David to limp, especially since the flesh on his body was infinitely useful!


    "Boom!"


    In the sky, waves formed by ripples surged, and the two monks'' Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus actually withstood the D-level celestial pearl!


    But then...


    "Spurt!"


    Both Charles and Christopher simultaneously spat out a mouthful of black blood as the Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus retracted back into the lotus platform.


    The Developing Skill early-stage master was momentarily stunned; she hadn''t expected that these two young descendants of Blackwood could withstand her deadly strike at seventy percent strength, despite only being at the False Core stage.


    With her movement, sounds echoed around.


    "Blackwood''s brats must not be spared!"


    "Young ones, spare my grandson''s life, and we shall call it even. I do not wish to be enemies with Blackwood!"


    "Please spare my disciple''s life, I would be eternally grateful."


    One by one, masters emerged from the shadows.


    Inside the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, Edward furrowed his brow again as a shadow emerged beside his throne¡ªit was the servant who had been standing next to Betty earlier, now smiling broadly, "Son-in-law, you''ve won this grand competition, and now you are the prince consort of our royal house. Come with me to the palace, and you can reunite with the young lady and the young master."


    "And my siblings?" he asked, his brow furrowed as he looked at the masters and up at Betty in the sky.


    The servant shook his head with a smile, "With their status, they wouldn''t dare touch your siblings, and besides, Blackwood has its own strong protectors."


    "I..."


    Edward wanted to say more, but the servant placed a hand on his shoulder, all his psychic devices were taken away, and he was whisked into the sky on a psychic shuttle, along with Betty, heading towards the royal palace.


    It all happened in less than ten seconds!


    "Brother!"


    By the time Nicholas realized what was happening, his expression changed.


    "Amitabha."


    Charles and Christopher performed a Buddhist salute.


    On the ground, the frenzied Donna had already killed the old woman''s daughter...


    "You destroy my lineage, I want your life!"


    The Developing Skill old woman went mad too, so much had happened in such a short time, even those masters protecting their own descendants hesitated, unsure whether to simply help the Blackwood youngsters to curry favor.


    The nine celestial pearls rose again, but this time, Charles and Christopher could no longer summon the Flesh and Blood Buddha Lotus.


    For the four Blackwood youngsters, these nine celestial pearls represented an irresistible force!


    The pressure was descending. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But they showed no fear.


    The frenzied Donna''s muscles bulged again as she gathered all her strength and shouted, "Old hag! Are you trying to suppress me with your pressure? Come down here, come down!"


    "Developing Skill... what kind of Developing Skill are you among those I''ve encountered?!!"


    Nicholas was no coward, although worried about his brother being taken away, he remained fearless!


    He used all his psychic power on the Great River Dragon Map, the long river emerged, countless symbols appeared behind him.


    They inherited the madness of the Blackwood people, the fearlessness of the Blackwood people.


    Even if...


    Facing a Developing Skill with just an Emerging Ability body, under such pressure, they still dared to advance!


    "They''re insane, truly insane."


    The surrounding masters also changed their expressions; they were too late to intervene now.


    If they thought the Blackwood youngsters were arrogant before, now they realized their madness was beyond that. How could they know what the Blackwood elders had put them through?


    "Amitabha."


    Charles and Christopher''s demonic Buddhist aura burst forth again, wiping the blood from their lips. Although they didn''t know how their siblings could be so bold, whether it was Buddha or demon, both were indifferent to life, including their own.


    Having just faced a Developing Skill without fear, what was there to fear now?


    The two simply transformed into demonic forms, grabbed the lotus platform, and charged into the sky, standing shoulder to shoulder with their siblings, smashing towards the old woman''s celestial pearls!


    Just then.


    "Chant!"


    Sword shadows formed rainbows, coming from far away.


    Across the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, all swords vibrated involuntarily, flying towards the sky.


    Following that.


    These sword shadows, carrying the sharpness of swords, turned into dragons, almost pausing time and space, and with just one collision, shattered the nine celestial pearls!


    Before everyone''s astonished eyes, the swords pierced the old woman, turning her into a wasp''s nest!


    "Did you really think Blackwood had no one left?"

 Chapter 188 - 188: Iron Beast Subduing

    Atop the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, swords clashed like thunder, their metallic symphony unending, as if a dragon made of silver sword shadows converged, capable of tearing apart any Developing Skill power!


    The old woman, still in the early stages of Developing Skill, was riddled with bloody holes. She had just regained her sanity from the madness of her disciple''s death, staring blankly ahead, "Sword King, Lucas."


    As her words fell, the air was thick with blood and flesh!


    In the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, the masters who had appeared were all staring in terror at the sword shadows where the blood mist was thickest.


    Indeed, the Blackwood generation was strong, dominating the scene just like George did in the past. Some say each generation of Blackwood is stronger than the last.


    But only those who survived that bloody massacre know the true terror of the Blackwood elders, especially Sword King Lucas, the premier swordsman of Azure Cloud. He walked the lands of Cloudview County, never hiding his tracks.


    The major powers often received reports about Lucas! Alone with his sword, he challenged countless swordsmen, and everyone knew that with each defeat, his sword intent grew visibly stronger!


    It wasn''t that no one wanted to kill Lucas. Recently, news came that a Competent swordsman from Star Dance County, having heard of the extraordinary Lucas in Cloudview County, came to test his sword. In that duel, a mountain was split into three by their blades.


    The Competent master, perhaps unable to accept defeat, pursued Lucas for seven days and nights, yet still Lucas escaped.


    The renowned ''The Celestial Star Swordmaster'' returned home, swearing to emulate Lucas, to defeat all swordsmen under the heavens before seeking another battle with Lucas!


    "Return."


    Once again, Lucas''s calm voice echoed through the heavens. The sword dragons that had pierced the old woman at the beginning of Developing Skill turned back to their origin, and everyone saw that distant figure!


    He was dressed in simple black, still carrying his sword case, exuding the unique aloofness of a swordsman. He had clearly just had a haircut and shaved. Behind him, the sword case opened, and swords of various grades, even mundane weapons, obediently entered the case as if finding their home.


    "Great Grandfather!"


    Donna and Nicholas''s eyes widened. Although they had spent some time with the great grandfather, during that time, they realized he was different from the rumors; others spoke of rumors, but the great grandfather was clearly a quiet, oddly behaved, somewhat kind elder.


    But now... This scene was nothing like that of a great grandfather; it was like a living sword immortal!


    "Damn, how can great grandfather be so strong? A man should be like this!" Nicholas wiped the sweat from his face, his image of great grandfather jumping between godlike and mundane.


    "Amitabha, great grandson greets great grandfather."


    Compared to these two, Charles and Christopher were much calmer, bowing to Lucas who was already approaching on his sword.


    "Hmm."


    Landing in front of his four juniors, the Sky Sword completely sheathed, Lucas nodded slightly. Each time he met his juniors and family, it was after many years, and it was easier with his peers, with plenty to talk about, and even simpler with his third brother, where scolding sufficed. With his father and mother, a simple kneel would do. As for his juniors...


    He never quite knew what to say, but he could feel that from the first moment they saw him, they must have been utterly in awe.


    Thinking this, Lucas looked around, and only a few challengers remained alive atop the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    Many masters had already come forward respectfully, their smiles strained.


    They felt it.


    Lucas''s sword energy had already locked onto everyone present!


    "Greetings, Sword King!"


    "Many years ago, I saw the Sword King once, and his grace remains unchanged!"


    "..."


    Praise filled the air, but Lucas didn''t even glance at those around him. He smiled at his four juniors, "Not bad, daring to face Developing Skill with just the Transcendent Seed stage."


    Nicholas snapped back to reality, his expression urgent, "Great Grandfather, big brother has been taken away!"


    "I know," Lucas replied calmly. "He wasn''t taken away; he went to the Prince''s Mansion. Let him be."


    "So, he was taken to the Prince''s Mansion," Donna sighed in relief but then frowned. "Why would the Prince''s Mansion take big brother? Didn''t we win? Couldn''t they just openly declare big brother as the son-in-law of the Prince''s Mansion?"


    "I don''t know." Lucas shook his head nonchalantly, ignoring his juniors. He glanced at the protectors behind the geniuses, and with just one look, those people hurriedly bowed their heads. Lucas remained as calm as an ancient well, "Leave all your valuables here, then take your juniors and leave."


    "..."


    "???"


    As Lucas''s words fell, everyone was stunned. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Donna and Nicholas were somewhat used to it; they had been with their great grandfather years ago. He had said that sometimes, when there''s no great enmity and one''s enemies could never surpass oneself, there was no need to kill them¡ªtaking their possessions was enough.


    Wait for them to make a mistake again, and more could be taken, creating a cycle of profit. This was called a ''favor accident.''


    "Amitabha, Great Grandfather is merciful."


    The two monks also smiled, secretly praising the great grandfather as a good man.


    Meanwhile, the many Psychics who had been prepared to watch the Blackwood descendants be killed or who wanted to interfere were now showing anger.


    Sword King had a great reputation indeed.


    But everyone present was a genius who had been cultivating psychic powers for years, and they were experienced in dealing with such situations.


    [Special Event, the Fifth Generation Bridal Pursuit has been completed!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute value of +20000!]


    [Your descendant Lucas has dominated the scene, killing a Developing Skill Psychic and publicly extorting all the scheming Psychics present. They lined up, respectfully handing over resources to Lucas.]


    [The family has obtained a large amount of spoils of war!]


    [Complete bodies of geniuses X143, fragments of geniuses X32...]


    [Top-grade psychic equipment X5]


    [High-grade psychic equipment X12]


    [Yellow-grade technique ''Iron Beast Subduing'' one.]


    [...]


    "This... we''re rich!" Nicholas and Donna''s eyes sparkled with gold. Nicholas extended his hand, "Great Grandfather, do you... do you have any instructions for us juniors?"


    Seeing Nicholas''s fingers hooked, Lucas frowned, "Who taught you to always have your hand out?"


    Hearing this, Nicholas and Donna exchanged glances, their expressions awkward. No one had taught them, but they had indeed taught this to their junior, Joseph...


    Lucas didn''t pay much attention to this and silently put everything into the sword case behind him, not giving them anything. He led the four juniors towards the Azure Cloud Pavilion, "Our family is poor. You''re already at the Transcendent Seed stage; you should learn to bring things home, not just ask for them."


    "These items will be managed by your Fourth Great Grandmother when we return to the family. You can strive for them based on your own efforts."


    The four juniors watched Lucas''s back, their faces darkening. They couldn''t fathom how their great grandfather could make being stingy sound so profoundly reasonable.


    But the words ''when we return to the family'' had been heard.


    Their faces filled with anticipation; they were about to return home!


    ...

 Chapter 189 - 189: If they come in, it will surely bring no good!

    Before the Azure Cloud Pavilion, snowflakes danced wildly, burying Nathan''s knees, yet he remained unmoved. The repeated oppressions by the Blackwoods had long stripped the Azure Cloud Pavilion of its dignity.


    Today, they still dared not come out to fight, leaving the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion in despair. Over the years, a sect that once boasted thirty thousand disciples had dwindled to just over two thousand.


    The sect leader had already been replaced three times...


    Today, the Azure Cloud Pavilion had hoped to remind the world of its existence during the martial contest for a royal marriage at the foot of the mountain.


    They had even prepared a grand entrance: a thousand swords from the Azure Cloud Psychics would fill the sky, and the Pavilion Master would stand with hands behind his back, summoning his spiritual form to show the enduring depths of the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    But...


    They simply couldn''t make it out.


    "Reporting to the Pavilion Master, the elders, and Master Azure Cloud, all our prodigies have been defeated by the Blackwood disciples. Blackwood Edward has been taken away along with the young princess of the Prince''s Mansion!" A disciple of the Azure Cloud Pavilion reported, leaving the elders and the current Pavilion Master, Jason, looking utterly defeated.


    The Blackwoods hadn''t even needed to breach the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion; the only person from Azure Cloud killed by the Blackwoods was Elizabeth.


    And just like that, their once exalted sect seemed as if it had been wiped out, existing in name only.


    "Why must you Blackwoods press us so relentlessly?!" Jason roared in anger. "With the major sects having left the Azure Cloud Pavilion, do you truly wish to see the Azure Cloud Pavilion, which once performed great deeds for the entirety of Cloudview County, completely destroyed?"


    "Time and again, Elizabeth is dead, and my Azure Cloud Pavilion has paid the price it owed. Where in the world does such logic exist?!!"


    "Just give my Azure Cloud Pavilion a chance to start over..."


    Jason, nearing his limit, seemed to have exhausted all his strength. He had never bowed down in his life, and now he looked up to the sky and sighed deeply, tears streaking down his face, "Blackwood, let my Azure Cloud Pavilion go.


    From today onwards, we no longer wish to be a part of Cloudview County''s memory, nor do we desire any dirty power. All the filth has been cleansed, let my Azure Cloud Pavilion disappear from the world."


    His words carried endless sorrow, and the falling snow seemed to sweep away all the glory of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, leaving it like a withered tree.


    Finally, Nathan''s expression showed a trace of emotion, a flicker of pity in his clear eyes.


    In truth, Jason wasn''t entirely wrong. Elizabeth was dead, and the Azure Cloud Pavilion had paid back its dues for its indulgence.


    Those remaining in the Azure Cloud Pavilion were mostly from the neutral faction, not aligned with any major powers.


    Suddenly, Nathan laughed loudly, "Ah, Jason, you speak so righteously. Dare you open the protective formation and let me, Nathan, come inside for a talk? If you are upright, you need not fear a crooked shadow. Why do you keep me, Nathan, out? Why did you drive away my family''s George?!!"


    "Open the gate!"


    Jason clenched his teeth, seemingly making a firm decision.


    As these words were spoken, the faces of the Azure Cloud Pavilion elders and disciples changed.


    "Pavilion Master, this cannot be! There might be Blackwood people lying in ambush outside. Once the gate is opened, they will come in!"


    "Yes, Pavilion Master, I''ve heard that the Blackwoods used this same tactic to destroy another power."


    "There''s not a single trustworthy person among the Blackwoods; if they come in, it will surely bring no good!"


    "..."


    Jason, his voice firm and resolute, shouted at his disciples, "Open the gate! After so many years of cowering, what pride does the Azure Cloud Pavilion have left? Are we not ridiculed enough? Do you want to suppress your inner demons forever?"


    Everyone fell silent.


    Soon after, the gates of the Azure Cloud Pavilion swung open. Nathan, with narrowed eyes, made his way towards the pavilion. Jason stood at the doorway, the atmosphere tense throughout the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    To their relief, Nathan, who was carrying a coffin, did not attack. He trudged through the thick snow, step by step, until he reached Jason and stopped.


    He didn''t even glance at Jason, his voice low and somber. "You made the right choice. Now, I need to know everything about the former Pavilion Master, Stephen."


    Jason''s body trembled, his pupils dilating as he seemed to realize something. "Who... who is that?!"


    From the walls of the pavilion, the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion gasped in shock.


    Lucas, along with four younger members of the Blackwood clan, had followed Nathan''s snowy path and now stood where Nathan had been moments before. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas smiled as he watched his father enter the Azure Cloud Pavilion, while Donna and Nicholas looked on guard, and two young monks continued to chant some indecipherable scriptures.


    In the midst of both groups, another figure approached Lucas and bowed. "Sword King, you''ve traveled far and wide across the lands, and finally found me in Star Dance County. We agreed that after today, you would cease to trouble me."


    Lucas nodded slightly.


    Only Jason''s expression drastically changed. "Is it you?"


    The family head of the Gu family, Frank, who had fled soon after taking over as Pavilion Master, spread his hands helplessly towards Jason.


    "Let''s go, Jason. Have a good talk with Mr. Nathan about Stephen. Oh, and make sure the grand formation is ready; no one leaves the Azure Cloud Pavilion. As for the outside, don''t worry about it. I''ve experienced the Sword King''s clever tactics myself.


    No matter how many come with developing skills, they''re useless."


    "Understood."


    Jason, accompanied by Frank, walked back into the Azure Cloud Pavilion, feeling a conspiracy unfolding across Cloudview County¡ªa conspiracy that had always involved the Azure Cloud Pavilion!

 Chapter 190 - 190: Your descendant...

    Across Cloudview County, the major clans emerged, their presence formidable and vast.


    Twenty-four counties and twelve major Competent powers, among them was the Emerald Phoenix Peak, known for the elder who was tragically slain.


    "Duke''s Mansion decrees a citywide curfew; the county magistrate of Tranquil County, heed the order!"


    "Jubilee County, heed the order!"


    "..."


    Servants of the Duke''s Mansion, riding on flying swords, headed to every major city to directly locate the magistrates and town leaders, even reaching the rural areas.


    On this day, the entire Cloudview County felt the oppressive air of a storm brewing.


    The major families sensed that all this turmoil was somehow linked to the calamity once caused by Blackwood in Azure Cloud.


    They even received news that masters from the great clans were coming!


    This day, Cloudview County was unusually quiet.


    ...


    Cloudview County was divided into nine directions, each guarded by an unparalleled master waiting with their clans.


    Inside the city of Cloudview County.


    In a simple tavern, there was a secret room.


    This small space, lit only by candlelight and resembling a wine cellar, was occupied by Stephen, once the lofty master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    Dennis, the former master of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, was supposed to have passed away a decade ago as his time had come.


    Yet now, he appeared somewhat younger, sitting quietly in the darkness, burdened with many thoughts, sighing repeatedly.


    The cramped space.


    Also housed a group of nine, gathered around a table, illuminated by the dim candlelight focusing on a large compass surrounded by nine smaller ones, all connected by mysterious runes.


    The inscriptions on them bore blood-stained words.


    "Twelve major Competent powers of Azure Cloud, nine are here today."


    "Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, masters of the sinister Ghost Eye Technique."


    "Ten Thousand Life Mountain, Kylin Mountain, you are the orthodox lineage of Azure Cloud."


    "Celestial Origin Sect, Renowned Sect, Divine Path Flow, Heavenly Blade Pavilion..."


    Stephen smiled at the group, "And Williams and Abbot David, fate is an elusive thing; do you really want to clash with Blackwood over it?"


    At these words, an elder in a white robe from Ten Thousand Life Mountain sighed, "We''ve always kept to ourselves, but no matter the fate, Blackwood is too arrogant. They tolerate no one; if they grow too powerful and set their sights on Ten Thousand Life Mountain, we truly might not withstand them."


    "Hmph!"


    An elder from Williams, dressed in a golden robe, spoke, "Blackwood''s youth have already triumphed at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, and Edward has been taken back by Duke''s Mansion, clearly fearing our hidden threats to their son-in-law.


    Duke Michael is an old fox; we can''t wait any longer, or else we, the orthodox lineage of Azure Cloud, will watch our millennia of foundations be usurped by them."


    The monk could only chant, "Amitabha, well said, well said."


    "In recent years, Blackwood has been close with Sky Sect and Black Tortoise; they''ve always been at odds with us. If we delay further, they might even unite. Everywhere it''s said that a new era for Cloudview County is coming, and if it''s a new era, it should belong to us, the orthodox of Azure Cloud!"


    The elder from Williams clenched his fist, "We must first eliminate the menace of Blackwood, then destroy Sky Sect and Black Tortoise. After that, it''s just a matter among us, the orthodox."


    "Stephen, my friend, use your Azure Cloud Pavilion''s divination, all these years of preparation must be put to use now."


    "This time, not a single person from Blackwood shall remain!"


    His words were resolute, but everyone present had their own agendas.


    Stephen still wore a smile, asking the group, "What do you all think?"


    "Agreed."


    "Good."


    "Go ahead, Stephen, my friend, though I wonder how you will calculate it? I, from Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, have tried but was blinded by a great tree, a coffin, and a set of Cards; Blackwood is truly no simple matter."


    Stephen turned to Dennis, who was frowning deeply, and said, "Mr. Dennis has been with Blackwood for many years; he has seen all of Blackwood''s people. After they leave Blackwood''s base, they still leave traces within their clan¡ªa strand of hair, a piece of clothing, even their used dishes can be of use to us."


    The elder from Williams suddenly brightened, "No wonder, Stephen, you never let us destroy their base; you had plans all along."


    Stephen simply smiled, saying nothing.


    Moments later, Stephen took an artifact from Dennis''s hands, an heirloom of the Blackwood descendants, engraved with the names of their lineage. As the cellar burst into light, inscriptions flowed from the energy locator. Nine small energy locators spun wildly, each eventually pointing in different directions!


    They each grabbed an energy locator and headed out of the cellar. At the same time, the nine major Competent forces stationed at the edge of Cloudview County sprang into action!


    In the dimly lit cellar, only Stephen and Dennis remained, exchanging meaningful glances under the flickering candlelight. "Mr. Dennis, as of now, you have eighty years left to live, and your skills have reached the peak of Developing Skill," Stephen congratulated with a bow.


    Dennis''s face showed no joy for his extended life or skill breakthrough, he sighed deeply. "The Oracle Chamber, such power."


    Stephen smiled faintly. His Storage Ring flashed, and a yellow flag appeared in his hand, emitting a mysterious yellow light. He murmured, "We can act now."


    "Ha ha ha, excellent!"


    ...


    On the screen, Ethan sipped his tea calmly. Outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, the Blackwood children had secured their victory, not disappointing the years of training from their elders, shining brightly in their battle with the prodigies!


    Ethan looked pleased. [Your fifth-generation descendants, five of them, crushed many geniuses in the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion battle, earning the trait¡ªProdigy of a Generation!]


    [Their prestige has increased, and their imposing presence has risen by 10% when facing their peers.]


    Meanwhile, Nathan had entered the Azure Cloud Pavilion. The screen''s event bar flashed with notifications!


    [Your descendant Luna has broken through!]


    [Your descendant Larry has emerged from the swampy jungle!]


    [Your descendant...]


    Ethan could see that across Cloudview County, towns were fortifying their gates. Forces throughout Cloudview County were mobilizing, advancing from the edges.


    But he... "Time for some milk tea." Ethan grinned, sipping through a straw, his gaze turning cold, "Let''s see who really controls the game!" S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he spoke, Ethan switched the view. It was at the Duke''s Mansion! Edward had been brought back to the Duke''s Mansion, reuniting with his wife and child. Joseph, now a young man, was greeting his parents, eager to hear about the astonishing deeds Edward had performed at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    But Edward was distracted, replying nonchalantly, "It''s nothing much." "What do you mean, nothing much? Father, tell me more! I heard that legendary figure Eric was there, and I''ve heard he''s very strong, unmatched by anyone."


    Joseph was excited; he loved hearing about those who cultivated psychic powers, unlike at the Duke''s Mansion, where he could only play the spoiled rich kid, always wary of his uncle''s line, caught in some succession dispute.


    Before Edward could respond, Betty smacked Joseph on the head, scolding, "Stupid boy, what legendary figure? Do you want your mother to marry someone else?"


    "¡­My mistake, mother!" Joseph realized his error, rubbing his head, "I just thought dad couldn''t possibly lose."


    Edward chuckled, "Eric? I vaguely remember him, just a few encounters, and he became a ghost under your Uncle''s Spear."


    "What???" Joseph''s eyes widened, and he motioned for the maid to bring more fruit and tea, "Tell me more."


    The family enjoyed a warm moment together. Edward occasionally frowned, sensing that the competition at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion was just the first move in a game played by his elders in realms unknown to him.


    Meanwhile, under a large tree at the Duke''s Mansion, Duke''s Mansion Michael was playing chess with Olivia. Beside them, Michael''s only old son Kenneth, and a serpent that had shrunk its body to about two meters, stared at Kenneth drooling.


    "Why are you staring at me?" Kenneth felt uncomfortable under the gaze.


    "Love at first sight."

 Chapter 191 - 191: Let your Williams vanish completely!

    The chessboard opposite the two was tense with concentration.


    Michael made a difficult move, his voice heavy with implication, "You truly live up to being the master of Dawn, your moves are cunningly laid. It''s like how it took me ages to uncover the spy you planted in my Duke''s Mansion. "


    "You wouldn''t be planning to secretly eliminate my son to have Betty take over the reins of the Duke''s Mansion, would you?"


    Kenneth, who was standing nearby, overheard and instantly became alert, almost cursing out loud.


    Olivia chuckled lightly as she placed her piece, "My dear in-law, you jest. Our family rules forbid such actions. Besides, with my people returning home, I really have no interest in your county lordship."


    Seeing Michael''s twitching lips as he faced inevitable defeat on the board, Kenneth finally breathed a sigh of relief. Olivia then added, "However, I''ve heard that someone has been targeting my Joseph. If things escalate, who knows what might happen, right?"


    "Father, I have urgent matters to attend to, I''ll take my leave now." Kenneth''s face darkened as he bowed slightly to Michael and hurried out, his steps quickening. As he left the hall, he summoned a servant, urgently saying, "Where are those useless children of mine? Bring them here, am I not to break their legs?!"


    Michael glanced at his son and rolled his eyes, then motioned for someone to pour tea. "I''ve heard that over the years, your Blackwood family has been preparing, with countless treasures and a grand formation protecting your family estate."


    "Thus, if Blackwood could secure the aid of the Warren Daoist and the Heavenly Leon Daoist, along with that mysterious person you summoned earlier, and that secret weapon, could you possibly withstand a union of the nine major forces?"


    "At Duke''s Mansion, we can provide a mid-stage Competent Psychic."


    After speaking, Michael looked visibly agitated. He saw Olivia, still calm and sipping her tea, "Olivia, you must have received the news by now. It''s time to lead your people home to resist. I shall send my great-grandfather with you."


    Olivia suddenly smiled, her eyes twinkling like stars and seas, making Michael''s scalp tingle.


    "Lord County, you don''t really think that my Blackwood family would willingly be your Duke''s Mansion''s blade, do you?"


    "What do you mean?" Michael narrowed his eyes.


    "What I mean is, our families are actually quite well-matched, Lord County," Olivia said with a light laugh. "You treat my Blackwood as a pawn, likening us to a chopping knife. But in fact, my Blackwood also wishes to try being the chess player for once."


    ...


    On the road from Williams to Blackwood in Cloudview County, Donald led the Williams descendants in a grand procession. They traveled on a massive flying boat, with Williams Donald and all Developing Skill on board!


    He held an energy locator, which Stephen had handed over in the cellar. Inside this energy, locator red dots moved about.


    The energy locator represented all directions of Cloudview County, and the red dots represented Blackwood people!


    At that moment, he burst into laughter, "Haha! How interesting, how very interesting!"


    All the Williams people, hearing Donald''s laughter, couldn''t help but smile. They knew well what Donald meant: if they killed the Blackwood people, they could seize Blackwood''s fortune. What''s this era of Blackwood?


    From now on, Cloudview County might as well be renamed ''Dragon Cloud County''!


    This was a battle for the fate of their clans.


    He even saw that all Blackwood people seemed to have gotten the news early and were frantically consolidating within Cloudview County. He had no doubt that this was the doing of Dawn''s master, Olivia.


    But suddenly, Donald''s smile faded. Among those consolidating Blackwood people, a few unusual red dots moved in the opposite direction!


    "How dare they come out? Something''s not right. How dare they come out? They should be cowering, scurrying around like rats under the siege of our nine forces, seeking help everywhere!"


    Now, he didn''t even know whether he should lead his people back or meet up with other sects.


    "Stop the boat!"


    Donald''s mind froze as he watched the Blackwood clan members charging in the opposite direction on the energy locator, seemingly fearless. The other Blackwood members had already gathered together early and then vanished chaotically. Red dots were moving closer to his location. In an instant, he was reminded of the terror of the explosion outside the Sky Sect that day.


    His thoughts became chaotic. "Impossible, Blackwood couldn''t possibly still have such master-crafted devices, or none of us would have escaped that day. Have they gotten wind of our plans and gathered the Competent from Sky Sect and Black Tortoise to pick us off one by one?"


    "Or is it that Blackwood has some top-tier advanced psychic equipment, or perhaps a mysterious master was already in place elsewhere?"


    "I..."


    Donald began to lead his bewildered clan members back home. He started sending messages to other forces. It seemed everyone was in the same situation, and then, gradually, he could no longer receive any messages. But the Blackwood people''s speed was increasing, getting closer to their mid-tier psychic power flying boat.


    Until... S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What is this thing?!!"


    Donald stared at the energy locator as the red dots frantically scrambled, becoming more numerous. His scalp tingled. "What kind of cursed energy locator is this?!!"


    Donald glared furiously and crushed the energy locator in his hand. The red dots in the locator were more than millions, covering the entire device, making it glow red. "A fake energy locator?!! Clan members, head home immediately!"


    His words had just fallen when a mocking voice echoed from the sky all around.


    "Donald, you surely didn''t think that for these decades, it was my Blackwood who was scurrying around like a frightened rat?"


    "All this time, it''s been you, Donald, hiding in your home, too scared to come out!"


    "You can''t forget that day''s explosion at the Sky Sect, you''re scared."


    "I''ve told you before, my Blackwood is the sky of this Cloudview County!"


    "Today..."


    "Let your Williams vanish completely!"

 Chapter 192 - 192: I am pleased

    In the distant Duke''s Mansion, they were oblivious to the terror that gripped Williams from afar.


    Yet today, a strange wind blew from nowhere, mingling with the snowflakes, lifting the indifferent Olivia''s hair, her strands brushing against her cold, stunning cheeks. Her pale complexion and clothes almost blended her into the beautiful scenery of the day.


    However, Michael, the Duke during this Competent period, felt an unusual chill in today''s air.


    Olivia before him held no beauty in his eyes; he even dared not meet her gaze directly. Every glance at Olivia caused his eyes to ache, as if a needle made of ice stood before him!


    "Family jokes aside."


    It was the first time Michael had initiated calling someone from the Blackwood family "in-laws," "What chess player, what knife wielder?"


    ...


    Now, in front of the screen.


    Ethan, watching the conversation inside Duke''s Mansion, his hand trembling on the mouse, his eyes bloodshot, only felt this extreme excitement when he was utterly thrilled, and it had been a long time since he had felt this way.


    It was like being in an international competition, where, just when the opponent was sure of winning, he turned the tables completely, causing a thrilling upset!


    Very early on, he had sensed something unsettlingly quiet about Cloudview County.


    He speculated, investigated, and prepared to face any incoming foes with caution.


    Fortunately, not only was he on guard, so was Olivia.


    He admitted, he was not as smart as Olivia; he was just a teenager, while Olivia was nearly a hundred years old, but still, it was effective. If it came to intelligence, Olivia + Julian = Olivia, then he + Olivia, at least equaled 1.2 Olivias!


    They...


    Had completely jumped out of the chessboard! S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the scene.


    Olivia, looking up at the snowy sky, let the snowflakes fall on her, "It''s evident that the Duke has always adored his daughter, but you, Duke, must admit you''re a man of decisions, unlike your outward appearance."


    "To outsiders, you love your people like children, and hearing of the Psychic causing trouble makes you itch with anger. But let me tell you, my old man is that kind of person; when he''s really angry, he''d carry a coffin to smash someone."


    "You''re different; you appear angry but remain unmoved."


    "Sky Sect and Black Tortoise have been at war for years, Tranquil County has suffered a drought for twenty years, and you''ve ignored it. My Blackwood has slain over two million enemies, and you even..."


    Seeing Michael still frowning, appearing angry.


    Olivia said, "Hand over your daughter to my Blackwood."


    With these words.


    Michael finally slammed the table in anger, "Olivia, you may speculate about me as you wish, but hand over my precious daughter to your Blackwood? Are you even worthy?"


    Olivia was unfazed by Michael''s authority.


    "The Duke is right, Blackwood isn''t worthy. But if it could become the Duke''s blade to clear all major forces in Cloudview County, letting you, Johnson, completely control Cloudview County, harsh as it may sound, it''s just a daughter, then it''s truly trivial. As I said before, the Duke is a man of decisions."


    "Otherwise, how could your daughter Betty, so noble, in this vast Duke''s Mansion, hear of my Blackwood so often, to the point of admiration? How could she have your consent to go to places like Tranquil County? Aren''t you afraid that my Blackwood might start another great war, risking Betty''s life?"


    "And your Developing Skill expert, truly useless, allowed Betty and my Edward a coincidental meeting, and that disgraceful affair. I''m confident, my Blackwood''s younger generation may be reckless, but this has happened before, almost reaching the palace, and since then, our younger generation has been instructed not to act without permission."


    "My family''s wild one, with a beauty by his side, yet able to resist temptation. If such an immature one can do this, what more the older, more mature Edward?"


    She paused, her smile distinctly different, "You drugged her, didn''t you?"


    No reply, just a long breath, said it all.


    Olivia continued, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and strategy, "You''re waiting, waiting inadvertently for my Blackwood to learn of this. Duke Michael, you must be quite familiar with my family by now. You know that once such news breaks, my Blackwood would inevitably seek an alliance through marriage."


    She paused, her curiosity piqued, "Duke Michael, we''ve come this far, why not satisfy my curiosity? If my Blackwood had remained unaware of Joseph''s birth, how long would you have waited to let us know without seeming too deliberate? To keep it under wraps, unnoticed by gods and ghosts alike?"


    Michael clenched his teeth, his eyes shut tight.


    "I understand now," Olivia deduced, "you would have waited until Joseph was grown, perhaps even orchestrating a scenario for him to seek out his kin. Given the nature of my Blackwood people, we would still have sought an alliance through marriage."


    "Whether it''s due to family teachings or the benefits of aligning with Duke''s Mansion, such an alliance would certainly improve our standing."


    "So... my Blackwood would ultimately become your blade."


    "All the powers would know of our alliance, just like now, under the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, where my family''s Edward won the martial contest. You even brought Edward back to Duke''s Mansion specifically to let all the powers know of our union."


    "Moreover, your years of distancing yourself from these powers will make them desperate to eliminate my Blackwood, fearing that Duke''s Mansion might protect us and eradicate them."


    Olivia''s expression was playful, "Duke Michael, after your first step in the plan succeeded, are you excited?"


    At this moment.


    Duke Michael''s expression changed; he was smiling, a smile more gentle than any Olivia had seen at Duke''s Mansion when dealing with the Blackwood people, as gentle as Olivia''s now!


    "I am pleased."


    Michael reached out for his cup, which no longer contained tea but had merged with the snowflakes around, turning into water, which he drank in one gulp, "My father, on his deathbed, kept saying that my Duke''s Mansion could never truly dominate this barbaric southern land."


    "But I, seeing an opportunity through your Blackwood, took it!"


    "You are too interesting, rising from the rural lands, daring to commit acts of great audacity. People of Cloudview County say that your family is like the wild beasts of the Silver Iron Forest, daring to offend the Azure Cloud Pavilion for a demon king."


    "You even killed a Competent from Emerald Phoenix Peak for me."


    His laughter grew, "You are perfect, antagonizing the entire Cloudview County, disregarding any power. You also uniquely sought to ally with sects. Do you know how thrilled I was the day you came to my Duke''s Mansion, having Sky Sect and Black Tortoise support your cause?"


    "At that moment, I knew that with your Blackwood and these two sects, all I needed to do was stir the pot a bit, and you and the major forces of Cloudview County would at least both suffer great losses! Even that very night, I made sure all the major sects knew about it, and they spent a sleepless night!"


    As he spoke, his expression turned somber.


    "And yet, I too am troubled."


    "Oh?" Olivia expressed her confusion, intrigued by his last remark.

 Chapter 193 - 193: A trap!

    Michael spoke, his voice carrying a weight of realization, "From Edward, I''ve seen the nature of you Blackwood people. You''re wild, like beasts, like a pack waiting to strike. "


    "Outsiders say that a lone Blackwood is untouchable, but I''ve felt it¡ªwhen you Blackwoods gather, you''re terrifying, like a pack of wolves."


    "Blackwood has grown so much in just over a hundred years, making Cloudview County restless, and I am no exception."


    He took a deep breath, "Today, I thought it was finally a time to be at ease, yet I hadn''t realized how many players were in this game."


    "I want to know, under the cunning calculations of The Oracle Chamber, how will you Blackwoods respond? What makes you, Olivia, so confident and assured?"


    Olivia''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    She remembered how, thirty years ago, her Forebearer had instructed her to start planning for Azure Cloud.


    Twenty years ago, when Forebearer told her that nothing was simple, she knew he was watching everything, his ancient wisdom from the Ability Realm seemingly piercing through all, inspiring her!


    Forebearer had been manipulating everything from behind the scenes, perhaps sensing the complexity of the situation many years ago.


    "Thirty years ago, our thoughts aligned with those of the Duke; we wanted everything."


    "Twenty years ago, my Blackwoods actively entered the game." S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "A few years ago, we stepped off your chessboard, and..."


    Olivia scoffed, "Do you think the rumors that Blackwood represents a new era, that Blackwood controls half of Cloudview County''s fate, are because of your Duke''s Mansion pushing us into battles with the major forces? No, it was us, the Blackwoods!"


    "Azure Cloud Pavilion is the past, Blackwood is the new dawn!"


    ...


    High above.


    A deep voice resonated, Donald''s gaze was vacant, the Williams clan members looked around in terror, even Forebearer was alarmed, let alone them.


    But no one knew the extent of Donald''s fear.


    The Blackwoods had arrived...


    His Competent saw a coffin, just like the one he had seen outside Sky Sect that day, Blackwood''s mission this time... four men!


    Nathan, Lucas, and...


    Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason, and... the deceased Gary!


    The clan members'' voices continued to rise, the Williams had already begun calling for help.


    "Reporting to Forebearer, the transmission Energy Stone from Ghost Eye Demonic Gate has reacted, they told us... to hold on a bit longer, they are near. But... that''s what they said just now."


    "Mount Longevity also responded, they told Forebearer to act more pitiful... to beg for mercy, maybe Nathan will be merciful, what does that mean, Forebearer?"


    "Renowned Sect responded, asking if Forebearer really said he would make Williams soar over Azure Cloud? They said at his age, he shouldn''t speak such shameful words!"


    "..."


    Listening to his clan members'' reports, Donald felt his liver and gallbladder split.


    He had never been as terrified as he was facing that explosion outside the gates of Sky Sect.


    The energy boat was still speeding, his soul trembling, the daylight snow seemed black to him, as if he was seeing a storm in a cloudy sky.


    The responses from those sects sounded like Blackwood''s mockery.


    It seemed as if a giant hand from the sky appeared, a hand of Blackwood, pressing down on him, crushing him to dust.


    In his entire life, he had never felt as vulnerable as now.


    "Lies, all damn lies!"


    He realized.


    His energy locator was fake, the nine major forces'' encirclement of Blackwood was fake, even... the notion that Blackwood held half of Azure Cloud''s fate was fake, even the legendary The Oracle Chamber...


    These years, he might have been hoping in lies, wanting to become a new memory of Cloudview County!


    Like a clown made for mockery, still a buffoon!


    "Ah!!!"


    It seemed that from thirty years ago, a conspiracy against him had begun, or rather... a conspiracy against the entire Cloudview County!


    In this, his energy locator was never his hope, but rather, it was to lure him out of Williams'' residence, to destroy Williams.


    A trap!


    "Impossible!" Donald''s roar echoed from afar. Atop the Death Coffin, Nathan stood with his hands behind his back, already spotting the Williams'' airship, "A mid-grade ability vessel, capable of carrying ten thousand, equipped with a seventh-grade defensive array and six primary ability crossbows. Sadly, its size is its downfall, only as fast as a primary ability shuttle."


    Swords slid from their sheaths, slowly gathering in the sky above to form a sword energy rainbow. Lucas could see the reluctance in his father''s eyes. But this frugality probably ran in the family, as Lucas also remarked, "It''s a pity, father. This mid-grade ability vessel won''t make it through today. Its complex manufacturing process is a marvel, and I wonder if our youngest can build a better one."


    "Julian, a seventh-grade craftsman, should be able to construct one. After the battle, remember to have someone collect the fragments. They are our family''s spoils of war, not to be touched by others."


    ...


    In front of the screen, Ethan scratched his head as he watched the father and son discuss. "They''re already counting their spoils before the battle has even started, huh?" Coming from humble beginnings, they knew the value of resources. But they had the confidence to back it up!


    Ethan clicked on their profiles, checking their information. Lucas, early Developing Skill... Don''t be fooled by his low level; his uniqueness lies in his traits!


    [Your descendant has walked the path of the sword for many years, defeating countless swordsmen.]


    [With a sword case holding twenty thousand blades, forged over many years with fire, from a thousand swords body, he achieved a transformation¡ªinto a body of ten thousand swords!]


    [His body is like a mid-grade ability weapon!]


    Decades have passed, and Lucas has consistently pursued the way of the sword, deserving such accomplishments. In that sword case, a long sword landed in Lucas''s hands. The sword was pitch black, as if cracked, with strands of ability gathering the fragments into the blade.


    [Celestial Star Sword]


    [Grade: Supreme Ability Weapon]


    [Description: This sword, obtained from The Celestial Star Swordmaster, can transform into celestial stars!]


    The rumors were true; Lucas had indeed met and fought with the Celestial Star Swordmaster! [Your descendant faced ''The Celestial Star Swordmaster'' from Star Dance County in battle. The swordmaster, facing a bottleneck in his swordsmanship, heard of Sword King Lucas in Cloudview County and came to challenge him. The two fought as mortals, using only sword moves and sword intent.]


    [The battle covered eight hundred miles, lasting seven days and nights, with Lucas being defeated ten thousand times, breaking the sword saint''s moves over a hundred times, but in the final strike, he won with a single move that split a mountain into three, enlightening the sword saint.]


    [Your descendant Lucas received the supreme ability weapon, the Celestial Star Sword, as a gift from The Celestial Star Swordmaster!]


    [In their exchange of moves, Lucas gained a few strands of the sword saint''s sword intent, advancing his sword technique ''Sword Journey of a Thousand Miles'' to the mysterious level ''Celestial Sword Rainbow''.]


    That battle was undoubtedly the most beneficial in Lucas''s life! Seven days and nights. People thought he could actually escape the sword saint, but in reality, they were feeding moves to each other, neither winning the other''s sword, almost becoming sworn brothers on the spot.

 Chapter 194 - 194: Below a Competent, the Sword King...

    Besides Lucas, there was another...


    "Gary!"


    Nathan called out as he watched the ability vessel still fleeing ahead.


    Gary, who had been severely injured that day, with his competent body all damaged, lifted his head respectfully and stared at Nathan, waiting for his command.


    She sat quietly just as she had at Sky Sect, looking like an innocent little girl swinging her legs in mid-air.


    But the current Gary was no longer in the green clothes of before. Her complexion was unnaturally pale, making her resemble a porcelain doll. She wore a black knee-length dress with strange patterns, and her detachable sleeves revealed her small shoulders.


    Two hairpins adorned her head, tinkling with the wind, especially with two black talisman papers hanging at the tips. She also wore talismans made from some unknown beast''s skin on her calves, revealing the white thighs beneath her skirt.


    This Gary, upon hearing Nathan''s call, stared with her large, pupil-less black eyes, her innocent appearance incredibly endearing.


    "Commander, what are your orders?"


    Nathan didn''t even glance at Gary.


    He just stared distantly at the ability vessel above, where Donald seemed to have lost his composure.


    He remembered how high and mighty Donald had been.


    That man had gone to Sky Sect without explanation, so arrogant. To him, the people of Blackwood were nothing but ants, always laughing and talking outside the gates of Sky Sect.


    And now.


    Nathan saw the panic in him, the same panic he had faced when confronting the Forebearer!


    "Kill him."


    Nathan said softly.


    Without hesitation, Gary rose to her feet, soared into the air, and headed straight for Donald, with the wind howling and the bells on her ringing loudly!


    ...


    "Sky Corpse!" sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Gary approach, Williams Psychic found nothing cute about her.


    On Gary, they saw a surge of deathly aura! The weak force of law belonging to a Competent category emitted a sharp scent of death, a kind that instilled unavoidable fear upon contact.


    In broad daylight, the sky was shrouded in black mist.


    "Blackwood has impressive methods, to have refined you, a dignified Competent, into a Sky Corpse, endowing you with a nascent soul!"


    Seeing Gary approach, Donald dared not slacken. He turned and shouted to his kin, "Go back, leave this to me!"


    He saw it, Blackwood Nathan controlling that silver coffin, had already passed him, chasing after his kin.


    But he knew better; he had to stop Gary.


    A Competent was a disaster for a large clan. Yet he was confident that mere Nathan and a Sword King Lucas, even with Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason added, could not possibly be a match for the descendants of Williams, relying on just these three was far too dismissive...


    Just as he blocked a strike from Gary, Donald''s expression changed.


    In the distance, three figures rose from the Death Coffin.


    Countless flying corpses, even a Developing Skill realm Corpse King, emerged from the coffin, instantly filling the sky for kilometers around!


    Besides that.


    Suddenly, two figures from Blackwood rose up with Cards, and those he had seen at Sky Sect, the Blackwood Forebearer Cards, these Cards were flashing with purple light, not like that day when a foggy figure appeared in front of the Cards, but...


    They manifested ability power!


    ...


    "Go back? Williams has shown up, and you still want to go back?!!"


    At the screen, Ethan excitedly slammed the table.


    For a hundred years, Blackwood no longer needed his personal descent, nor the various schemes and efforts, nor the sacrifices of his clan members to defeat the Competent family. They have all sorts of trump cards!


    As long as it''s not on someone else''s turf, Ethan is confident that they can still take on families like the Williams.


    Look at Nathan''s zombies and Gary.


    [Your descendant Nathan, after years of refining zombies, has met the conditions to refine ''Gary'' into a ''Sky Corpse''!]


    [Congratulations, your family has acquired a ''Sky Corpse''!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, after years of refining zombies, has leftover materials to refine more than twenty ''Zombie Kings''!]


    [Gary (Sky Corpse)]


    [Level: Beginner]


    [Description: It has acquired the fresh soul of a baby, branded onto the Direct Death Coffin. Its soul grows every day, becoming an entity that exists between the realms of yin and yang. The refining process has left its body and Competent parts intact, retaining some of its strength, and it is influenced by the aura of death.]


    [It possesses the flesh and bones of a million people, its power comparable to a body cultivator, and its Competent harbors the ''Emerald Phoenix Phantom,'' transforming into the ''Undying Emerald Phoenix Phantom''...]


    Although Gary might not be as strong as before.


    But.


    Blocking Donald shouldn''t be a big problem, how terrifying is a battle with a Competent master?


    Ethan also saw in the game screen, enveloped by dark fog, the golden scales that were once outside the Sky Sect, and the roaring sound of the Wild Dragon.


    As for the Williams clan members?


    Without Donald, they face Lucas, who has few rivals within the Developing Skill realm!


    Among the countless flying zombies and Zombie Kings, Lucas''s sword chants in the sky, already becoming a soaring dragon!


    Lucas stands atop the dragon''s head, directly targeting the Williams'' flying vessel.


    The Williams Psychic is not an easy opponent either, with overwhelming psychic powers coming at Lucas.


    But even such powers, which would make any Psychic flee, leave Lucas expressionless.


    Too weak!


    Compared to the Celestial Star Swordmaster he once faced, these pressures, these powers, are too weak!


    "The Celestial Sword like stars."


    "My sword¡ª"


    "Returns to the heavens!"


    As his words fell, the black celestial star sword in his hand suddenly blocked in front, instantly shattering!


    Pieces of the celestial star sword floated in the sky, truly making the Williams'' sky look like a sea of stars, twinkling.


    The sword dragon under Lucas also cracked instantly, rushing into the high sky stars, merging with them.


    Then...


    Like a goddess scattering flowers, with the whistling of the long sword, the stars fell like shooting stars!


    No matter what psychic equipment the Williams used, no matter what techniques or martial arts, or talismans, or magic circles, under this world-ending starfall, they all seemed like illusions!


    "Is this... the true strength of Sword King Lucas?"


    Cries of agony sounded, already in mid-air, Jason, who thought he had to fight desperately, was now staring in shock at Lucas in the sky, pinching a magic formula, his robe fluttering.


    At this moment, Jason was sweating coldly, his eyes filled with shocked contemplation, and a fortunate fear!


    "No wonder Frank said back then, as long as the Sword King is outside the Azure Cloud Pavilion, no amount of Developing Skill would be useful without a Competent."


    "Below a Competent, the Sword King..."


    "Is invincible!"


    He swallowed, then glanced at Nathan, the old head of the Blackwood family, who amidst those overwhelming zombies, seemed quite ordinary.


    This guy, carrying a coffin into the flying vessel, smashing it with the coffin, so straightforward and simple.


    He also only had the mid-stage Developing Skill psychic powers.

 Chapter 195 - 195: Abbot David, you cannot escape

    Jason remained vigilant, his eyes scanning the horde of zombies that filled the sky¡ªNathan''s conjuring. He was their true king, including the formidable Sky Corpse, forged by Nathan himself. Jason sensed that Nathan bore sins heavier than the coffin on his back.


    "No!" Jason''s expression shifted abruptly as he noticed the azure aura enveloping Nathan. He smashed, summoned thunder from the heavens, transformed into a thousand shadows, and conjured a tortoise-shell patterned array for protection.


    "Sky Sect''s ''Thunder Inducing Heavenly Script,'' ''Mystic Shadow Heavenly Steps,'' Black Tortoise''s ''Xuanwu Body Inscription Technique,'' and my Azure Cloud Pavilion''s lost ''Azure Cloud Unfalling''..."


    If it were merely a matter of learning these techniques secretly, Jason wouldn''t be shocked. He knew well that if someone from Blackwood had learned them, it was inevitable, given that the hottest true disciples from those sects were from Blackwood.


    What truly astonished him was, "All executed to perfection!" Simple yet profound, Nathan''s mastery over various techniques and martial skills revealed an exceptionally stable foundation. Jason realized that this man, seemingly a simple farmer, was merely understated.


    "Senior Jason, I can''t hold on much longer. Please assist me," Nathan''s calm voice reached him.


    Jason''s mouth twitched slightly, and without further words, he hurried into the battlefield. ''Can''t hold on? You mean you just scratch yourself with your own power and claim you''re critically wounded?''


    ...


    In front of the screen. Ethan hadn''t expected this father and son duo to be so formidable, especially since Williams still had two Developing Skill peak masters!


    [Carl]


    [Introduction: Descendant of the Jiaolong bloodline, born a century ago, unmatched within the Developing Skill realm in physical combat. Dominated his peers in his youth with his supreme abilities...]


    ...


    [Todd]


    [Introduction: The epitome of Williams'' magical and martial arts... Blessed with the family''s ancient mysterious dragon patterns, his power doubled... Inherits the forebearer Jiaolong blood, transforms into myriad shadows, leaving no trace...]


    These two were geniuses within the Developing Skill realm.


    But...


    Carl was truly defeated.


    [Your descendant Nathan, commanding three zombie kings with their physical bodies, gathered a hundred flying zombies to self-destruct, catching Carl off guard. With all his powers unleashed and the Soul Calamity Formation summoning thousands of souls, a coffin smashed Carl to pieces!]


    [Under Lucas''s Heavenly Sword, Todd had nowhere to escape!]


    ...


    In front of the screen. Ethan''s mouse hovered over the skills, all cards lit up. For a moment... his heart felt lost amidst the glowing cards.


    "My children, even the Forebearer''s cards are starving for action!"


    At the same moment in different places, Abbot David was shivering with cold.


    In the Golden Forest, hundreds of birds were startled. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Golden translucent membranes, eight massive stone walls, and a screen of mysterious yellow light... Various magical arrays enveloped the entire forest.


    The air was visibly twisting, and suddenly, only a shadowy figure could be seen, gliding like a fish across the surface, sweeping everything on the ground in a straight line, yet the figure itself was invisible until the ground collapsed and trees toppled, raising dust and debris.


    A shadowy figure soared from the ground¡ªit was Abbot David!


    He looked solemnly at the huge ancient tree with a red crown outside the arrays and at the woman standing on it, dressed simply yet unable to conceal her stunning figure. Who else could it be but Luna, who had just broken through from the secret realm of the celestial fox?


    "Abbot David, you cannot escape."


    Luna gently placed her hand on the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree, her lips parting slightly, her eyes shining with a pink light, her voice soft yet possessing a uniquely enchanting power.


    Abbot David had been trapped in the magical array for who knows how long. A monk of great accomplishment, yet every time Luna spoke, it caused him to pause!


    "You have lost, Stephen gave you a fake energy locator from The Oracle Chamber."


    "The calculations of The Oracle Chamber were also fake, there is no such thing as Blackwood''s destiny, it was just a trick to lure you into a trap."


    "Stephen was actually one of us, Azure Cloud had dealings with me, Blackwood, including you, Abbot David, and Williams. You have already lost."


    "All the sects and the Duke''s Mansion are ours, you stand no chance."


    "Give up, you cannot escape, let go of the past, why cling to it?"


    Luna''s voice from outside the array was like a buzzing fly, constantly affecting the mind. At first, Abbot David found it laughable, but as the battle and time dragged on, his mood grew more irritable.


    He and Donald had encountered the same thing; the energy locator did not guide him to the people of Blackwood but led him into a trap in the Golden Forest!


    "Witch, stop your bewitching words!"


    "You evil demons, my faith does not allow you to exist in this world!"


    "Indestructible as a diamond, the endless sea of suffering, the body of Buddha endures!"


    Indeed, he was affected.


    Abbot David''s eyes bulged, his body swelling as if he were outside the Sky Sect back in the day, not fully exerting his power then, only hastily defending against the massive hidden weapons. Now, as he spoke, the ground of the Golden Forest was truly flooded with black bitter water, and two arms wriggled out from his sides.


    Truly a Buddha Vajra.


    In an instant, a dark shadow burst from the ground, madly rushing towards Abbot David, only to be easily crushed by his palm.


    Then another, and another, in a cycle!


    His six-armed Buddha Vajra continuously slapped around, sacred Sanskrit emerging around him.


    Blood mist filled the air, continuously gathering, with more shadows rushing in, endlessly slain!


    These silent shadows, six in total, kept delivering themselves to death. Even when trapped by Abbot David''s Buddhist powers, they exploded and died, reborn in the blood mist, flourishing in the slaughter!


    Outside of this, another figure lurked.


    It transformed into a black mist, eroding the Sanskrit in the Buddhist array bit by bit, constantly seeking Abbot David''s weaknesses, relentlessly attacking this formidable Buddhist body cultivator.


    It too was injured each time but always came back, just waiting for a chance to strike Abbot David, the array echoing with sharp and excited laughter!


    "Demon!"


    The furious Vajra roared, no longer bound by any monastic discipline.


    Now, Abbot David only wanted to destroy everything, to break out from the array, to crush all the people of Blackwood!


    Besides, there was a panic unbecoming of a Buddhist monk.


    His experience was like Donald''s.


    From Stephen of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had early on held multiple identities from The Oracle Chamber, he had obtained the array disk, fully trusting the fate techniques of The Oracle Chamber.


    But he was confused.


    Confused as to why, on his way to Blackwood, he instead fell into Blackwood''s trap, the energy locator utterly useless.


    Even...


    The promise to jointly annihilate the forces of Blackwood seemed to vanish in an instant, only the old man from Ten Thousand Life Mountain shouting ''bald donkey'' at him!


    He wanted to get out, to send those who used schemes and conspired with demons against a monk like him, one by one to the deepest hell!


    Eyes blazing with golden light, six arms wildly dancing, Sanskrit blazing like flames.


    "Kill!"

 Chapter 196 - 196: This place is also safe

    At this moment, Ethan''s view had already shifted to the battlefield. This time, the battle was fierce from both ends. None of those who had once prepared to annihilate Blackwood outside the Sky Sect could escape!


    "Gurgle."


    Just arriving, he spotted Drunken Fool hiding behind the Primordial Blood Tree. The old man looked terrified, words appearing above his head, "Damn terrifying, a bunch of demons have trapped Abbot David. He probably never imagined this day would come."


    "A bunch of demons, huh?"


    Ethan''s lips curled slightly as he surveyed the scene. Drunken Fool was right; today, it was indeed all of Blackwood''s demons that had trapped Abbot David, forcing him to fight with all his might!


    The Primordial Blood Tree, using its formation, had trapped Abbot David.


    Standing atop the tree, Luna spoke enchanting words. After many years, through Ethan''s eyes, Luna seemed more beautiful than ever, her three fluffy tails swaying behind her.


    And now her cultivation level... was that of a peak demon king!


    [Luna gained an opportunity in the Heavenly Fox Secret Realm, receiving a trace of inheritance from the Heavenly Fox Competent, acquiring the bloodline inheritance of the Enchanting Fox!] S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [She learned the technique ''Heavenly Fox Shadow,'' which allows her to transform into a Heavenly Fox, possessing ghostly speed and enchanting fox melodies.]


    [Acquired trait: Enchanting Fox Speech]


    [Her words carry an enchanting power, which grows stronger over time, stirring up people''s emotions and desires!]


    Now, Luna was using her trait, her techniques, her words increasingly affecting Abbot David!


    "So powerful."


    Ethan muttered, not about Luna, but about Abbot David!


    Trapped within the formation, which was not only supported by the Primordial Blood Tree but also involved Drunken Fool using top-tier psychic tools like the Golden Origin Bowl and the Celestial Chopsticks, otherwise, they couldn''t have trapped Abbot David.


    Even so, Abbot David''s combat power was beyond Ethan''s imagination. Previously outside the Sky Sect, Abbot David had focused all his combat power on speed, and now his power was terrifyingly formidable.


    With his Arhat Golden Body and Six Arms, he was a body cultivator with few weaknesses.


    If any other Competent stage Psychic were in the arena, they would likely be battered and bruised by now!


    "Boom!"


    Another burst of blood mist rose, then settled¡ªit was...


    The six from the third generation of Blackwoods!


    Above the formation, Thomas stood with his hands behind his back, not engaging in the battle. Possessing the power of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, they knew well that as long as the six were not simultaneously destroyed, they would be the most troublesome beings in this world!


    And now, their condition...


    [Your descendants, the third generation of Blackwoods, have followed the gradually recovering Lord of Frenzied Blood, cultivating psychic powers, feeling the demonic aura, and developing skills!]


    [They are increasingly falling into the demonic path, unable to extricate themselves. The method of the Lord of Frenzied Blood is gradually making them lose their humanity.]


    [Your descendants, the third generation of Blackwoods, have followed Olivia, listening to the Heavenly Scholarly Melodies, suppressing their demonic nature, acquiring the trait¡ªEnduring Humanity!]


    [Their demonic nature, suppressed under Olivia''s scholarly power, as long as the scholarly power is strong enough, the humanity of the third generation of Blackwoods will not perish!]


    Ethan was initially worried about their demonic nature.


    But as the third generation of Blackwoods followed Olivia, Ethan gradually became reassured, like those who fall into demonic abilities, they still have humanity.


    However, for some reason, the inheritance of the Lord of Frenzied Blood is more violent, driven by the desire of blood, they gradually become unrecognizable, which is the biggest drawback of the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s inheritance.


    But Ethan believed, these seven, would never escape Olivia''s suppression!


    Besides that...


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, Abbot David''s body took a hit, uncontrollably staggering forward.


    "Jeeheehee!"


    A sharp laugh echoed within the formation.


    That was the Lord of Frenzied Blood who had followed Olivia along with the third generation of Blackwoods!


    In the game, Ethan saw what the Lord of Frenzied Blood looked like.


    Now, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, after years of following Olivia, had fully recovered his form. His body was covered in black demonic runes, making him look devilishly handsome yet revealing his undeniable madness. This demon, released from the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm, had become one of Blackwood''s trump cards, just like Gary, who had been turned into a zombie.


    [Your descendant Nathan, despite years of exposure to deathly energies, has not made the Lord of Frenzied Blood submissive.]


    In truth, the Lord of Frenzied Blood had never truly acknowledged the Blackwoods. After all, this being had been trapped for tens of thousands of years, immortal and impervious, unaffected even by the divine Buddhist melodies¡ªhow could Nathan possibly influence him?


    But what did affect him was this:


    [The Lord of Frenzied Blood sensed a bloodline connection; he saw the third generation of Blackwoods! In them, he even felt his original power, the strength he had once lost.]


    [Having lost all memories, the Lord of Frenzied Blood now possesses a new, naive consciousness. He watches the third generation of Blackwoods, feeling that they are inherently one with him.]


    [The frenzied Lord of Frenzied Blood is willing to obey all commands from the third generation of Blackwoods.]


    [Over the years, he has been nourished by Blackwood, devouring vast amounts of blood, growing stronger every day, and achieving Competent power!]


    [He is also continuously influenced by Olivia''s scholarly power, maintaining the notion that Blackwood''s command is absolute.]


    These years, Olivia has been tirelessly working for these beings...


    And indeed, it has paid off!


    The Golden Forest has been completely destroyed by their battles, dust and smoke rising.


    Buddhist golden light and demonic energy spread throughout the formation. Even though the Lord of Frenzied Blood now possesses Competent power, he is no match for Abbot David. He lacks true strength; his only abnormal trait is his immortality.


    This is also the abnormality of the third generation of Blackwoods, allowing them, with only the initial Developing Skill strength, to dare to harass Abbot David, giving the Lord of Frenzied Blood an opportunity.


    Luna''s enchanting words also continue to affect Abbot David!


    They say evil cannot overcome good, but today, evil rises high!


    "This place is also safe."


    Seeing that his descendants now have the strength to face Competent masters, Ethan feels greatly relieved.


    How formidable were Abbot David and Donald in the past?


    And now?


    They can only struggle to survive when facing Blackwood!


    He slowly shifted the scene to Duke''s Mansion.


    At this moment.


    Olivia still sat opposite Michael, the two seemingly silent for a long time.


    He squinted his eyes, staring at Michael, this old fat man.


    If it weren''t for Olivia possessing Dawn, and seeing the years of interaction between Blackwood and Michael, Michael''s gifts to Edward, his affection for Betty, and his benevolent facade shown to outsiders,


    Ethan might never have known that this man was the true puppet master behind the current disputes in Cloudview County!

 Chapter 197 - 197: What? A group of what?

    Inside Duke''s Mansion, Olivia and Michael sat quietly opposite each other.


    The chessboard between them was newly set, but this time it was chaotic, and neither had made a move for a long time, just staring at the board in deep thought.


    "Tap, tap, tap..."


    Footsteps hurriedly approached.


    It was Johnson Kenneth, Michael''s only son. Upon entering, he saw the two sitting opposite each other at the chessboard, just like when they first played chess. But as he drew closer, Kenneth''s eyebrows knitted together in a line.


    Something felt different as he approached.


    For some reason, he sensed a confrontational aura surrounding his father and Olivia Blackwood, along with a faint murderous intent. Was it because the plot to kill Joseph by his children had been exposed, leading to the current situation?


    This thought had just flashed through Kenneth''s mind when he shook his head.


    He knew well that his father was one of the rare good people in the world, deeply caring about his children and very generous towards Blackwood. With his father''s character, he would never hold a grudge against Olivia over this.


    Taking a deep breath, Kenneth moved forward, bowing to Michael and ignoring Olivia''s presence.


    His lips curled into a smile as he announced, "Father, there''s been a change!"


    Seeing that his father was still focused on the chessboard, Kenneth continued to report the good news, his smile growing wider, "Great news, there are rumors that the nine major powers obtained a treasure from The Oracle Chamber that can locate the Blackwood bloodline. "


    "But for some reason, their energy locators have malfunctioned, and they can no longer trace the whereabouts of the Blackwoods."


    At this statement,


    "Tap, tap, tap..."


    Michael, who had just picked up a chess piece, paused mid-air, and the white piece fell onto the board, making a clear sound in the snowy day.


    Kenneth glanced at the white piece, then at his father''s slightly stunned expression, his smile broadening.


    "And there''s even bigger good news!"


    "Our relatives must have been prepared early."


    He glanced at the composed Olivia, a flash of admiration in his eyes, "There''s intelligence that on the way to Blackwood from Williams, there''s a Competent aura. Some have even found the bodies of the Williams people who fell from the sky."


    "Sword King Lucas''s sword qi rainbow appeared, zombies filled the sky, and even Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason is supporting Blackwood!"


    Looking again.


    His father had picked up the fallen white piece, clutching it tightly in his hand, his expression returning to its usual calmness.


    Kenneth slightly furrowed his brow, finally sensing something amiss. According to his memory, his father should be jumping with joy at this time...


    But he dared not ponder further, continuing to report the intelligence.


    "At Golden Forest, news has also come that the giant red-crowned tree within the Blackwood clan has appeared. Along with it, the long-lost divine beggar''s heritage, his golden source barrier formation, and various Blackwood traps have trapped Abbot David."


    "Some have seen Blackwood''s old grandmother outside the trap, but inside, the battle rages fiercely, and Golden Forest has even been leveled to the ground. My child estimates that once Luna enters, it will be the time of Abbot David''s death!"


    As the report concluded.


    Silence lingered for a long time, until Michael finally spoke, his tone slightly grim, "What about the other seven major powers?"


    "That''s the strange part."


    Kenneth frowned, "My intelligence says that our relative Nathan was outside Azure Cloud Pavilion, and after Sword King arrived, they left together. That was also when the major powers were besieging Blackwood. The nine major powers were also assembled at that time, confident in their siege."


    "But the moment Abbot David and Donald were in trouble, those seven major powers disappeared at the same time, as if by agreement."


    Saying this.


    Kenneth''s expression grew serious, "Father, could this be... another plot of theirs?"


    Michael remained silent.


    Now it was Olivia who became interested, she smiled and asked, "Them? You''re not talking about The Oracle Chamber, are you?"


    "This..."


    Kenneth hesitated until Michael nodded, then he replied, "Yes, The Oracle Chamber is the most mysterious force in our Cloudview County. For hundreds of thousands of years, they have been trying to destroy Cloudview County. The great calamity of Cloudview County was also caused by them."


    "Of course, The Oracle Chamber''s target is not just our Cloudview County. After the dynasty was established, they tried every means to destroy the dynasty, and the reasons are still unknown."


    At this point.


    Kenneth''s eyes flashed, "In fact, the troubles that Blackwood has encountered, The Oracle Chamber is the culprit. But now, with Blackwood and I, Johnson, forming an alliance through marriage, the crisis in Blackwood has been resolved. We, the Johnsons, will definitely help our relatives eliminate such schemers who plot in the shadows!"


    "They think they are clever, but they didn''t expect Blackwood to be one step ahead, probably beating their chests in frustration and rage right now."


    "Self-inflicted..."


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    "Have you said enough?"


    Kenneth''s words were cut off by Michael, whose expression was grim, even crushing the white piece in his hand.


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    Kenneth wanted to say more but received a stern ''get out'' from Michael, and he quickly retreated.


    As he left.


    Kenneth murmured, "Did I say too much? Why was father acting so strangely just now?"


    Then.


    He shook his head and smiled, "Well, now that the dust has settled and Blackwood is safe, next, our Duke''s Mansion can gradually persuade the major forces. Cloudview County will once again be united, impervious to external threats."


    ...


    As Kenneth departed.


    Olivia looked at Michael with interest, teasing, "My lord, it seems I have underestimated you. Even your own son doesn''t know what kind of person you really are."


    "My son is dull, he is very much like the ancestors of our Johnson family."


    Michael shook his head and sighed, "He is content with the status quo, his greatest hope is that Cloudview County can remain peaceful forever. But in my view, that is extremely foolish. Human ambition only grows larger. If, thirteen thousand years ago, our Duke''s Mansion had taken the opportunity to break Azure Cloud Pavilion one by one, we could have completely controlled Cloudview County by now."


    "Instead of now, where all the major forces love to compete. Especially you Blackwoods, your ambition is even greater, wanting to become the new sky of Cloudview County, to lead this era? Too sharp."


    Olivia smiled without saying a word.


    Michael curiously looked up and asked, "How did you Blackwoods do it? The Oracle Chamber uses sorcery, and Stephen from Azure Cloud Pavilion has been with The Oracle Chamber for two hundred years. He wouldn''t betray The Oracle Chamber for Blackwood, especially since The Oracle Chamber promised him a breakthrough to Competent, an offer no one can resist. And you Blackwoods can''t offer him anything."


    "And the seven major forces, how could they back down? You Blackwoods hold half of Azure Cloud''s fortune, to become the new ruler of Cloudview County, they would risk annihilation to try!"


    Upon hearing this.


    Olivia''s expression was peculiar, and her words made Michael crush another white piece.


    "My lord, do you also believe in such elusive things as fortune?"


    "I told you long ago, it was we who pushed the major sects to besiege today, we are the chess players."


    "Years ago, my people from Dawn had already spread the word, telling everyone that Blackwood would replace the former Azure Cloud Pavilion to become the new ruler of Cloudview County. Everywhere people said, this era belongs to us Blackwoods."


    "The effect was very good, people always respect the strong, over the years, our enemies in Blackwood have become fewer, and our friends have increased. Unfortunately, the Competent sects are proud and arrogant, I have sent people to negotiate many times, but they neither want to ally with us nor oppose us."


    "Including... Blackwood controlling half of Cloudview County''s fortune!"


    Michael furrowed his brow.


    He realized, Blackwood''s ambition was even greater than he had imagined!


    But he was still puzzled, "Rumors spoken enough times become truth, even if The Oracle Chamber explains it''s useless. Aren''t you Blackwoods afraid of trapping yourselves?"


    "To dispel rumors, you just need one person with enough prestige."


    "Even, on this day, to block all enemies for us Blackwoods."


    "Just so, my Blackwoods have such people."


    Michael was stunned, "What? A group of what?"

 Chapter 198 - 198: I wonder how the spoils should be divided?

    "A group of what? Of course, it''s the grandfathers, didn''t expect that, did you?" At this moment, Ethan grinned in front of the screen. The scene shifted, and after many years, George finally emerged from the dark, ancient tomb!


    At this time...


    He was gathered with the seven major forces'' Competent experts under a cool pavilion on a high mountain, surrounded by a mist of strange abilities. He sat while the seven Competent experts stood, looking bewildered at the twenty-three grandfathers behind George.


    "Ah, the current mountain master of Ten Thousand Life Mountain really isn''t much. I was alive about thirty thousand years ago, back then your mountain master even had a fight with me."


    "This generation''s Ghost Eye Demonic Gate is decent, though. I was alive thirteen thousand years ago, and it was my disciple who established the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate. I always said he was of poor character. Ah, I heard my disciple died at the peak of Developing Skill, never thought the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate would become a Competent force today."


    "Ha ha ha, these youngsters are really foolish. I''ll tell you, all that talk about Blackwood holding half the fortune? Fake. I was still around when they went out spreading those rumors." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, George will soon return to Azure Cloud Pavilion, and the descendants of Blackwood will be the new masters of the pavilion. You don''t have to worry, you don''t have much enmity with Blackwood, but more with Azure Cloud Pavilion. If Azure Cloud Pavilion won''t be destroyed, how could you possibly be?"


    "Right, don''t get involved in this mess. We''ve been waiting for today without stepping out of Azure Cloud Pavilion. Stop focusing on Blackwood, it''s no use. If you really start something, you''ll have to live every day in fear."


    ...


    George sat in the pavilion, hearing the noisy chatter of the grandfathers behind him, and looking at the many baffled faces of the Competent old monsters in front of him, his heart pounded, and he swallowed hard.


    When the seven major forces made their move, the disciples of Azure Cloud Pavilion blocked all the Competent paths and brought them here.


    The mountain was really high, the pressure from the seven Competents was really strong, and the wind here...


    was very strong.


    He felt like crying but had no tears.


    He didn''t know if these Competents would capture him and use him to threaten his family, or kill him on the spot and take away the grandfathers behind him. Or maybe these people simply didn''t care about these old, toothless grandfathers at all...


    Various thoughts raced through his mind, and he felt utterly helpless.


    "Can''t I just peacefully make my fortune in the tomb? Great Aunt, I''m scared!"


    "Ha ha ha! Interesting, the lingering souls of twenty-three Competent predecessors within the Azure Cloud Pavilion!"


    In the midst of a snowstorm.


    Even now, with everything exposed, Michael showed no signs of panic, merely laughing before sighing, "The lingering souls of the Azure Cloud Pavilion predecessors, Blackwood truly has extraordinary fortune."


    "With their presence, as long as Blackwood makes an example of one, George can become the new master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion. The remaining major forces will continue to adhere to their old duties, respecting the Azure Cloud Pavilion just as they did tens of thousands of years ago, only now there''s a Blackwood added to the mix!"


    "Abbot David, Williams..."


    "They are the discarded pawns!"


    Seeing the certainty in Michael''s eyes.


    Olivia calmly said, "My lord, I need you to swear to the heavens that from today, unless there''s a calamity that threatens to wipe out our clan, you will not leave the Duke''s Mansion, and appoint Kenneth as the new head of the family. With this, the matter can be settled, and the Duke''s Mansion will remain lofty as ever, with my Blackwood family still related by marriage to the duke."


    Michael finally stood up, turned around, and looked at the snowflakes falling from the sky, "As if nothing ever happened?"


    "As if nothing ever happened."


    With Olivia''s affirmative response, the wind inside the Duke''s Mansion grew colder.


    The wind carried the snowflakes everywhere.


    For a long time.


    The wind and snow almost blurred Michael''s figure, his sighs mingling with the winter day.


    "It''s too late."


    "Johnson has missed opportunities time and again, generation after generation of incompetence, this time I wanted to lead Johnson to a victory."


    Hearing this.


    Olivia no longer spoke, allowing her personal maid to lead her away from the Duke''s Mansion, blending into the cold snowy day.


    Soon after.


    In the vast Duke''s Mansion, soldiers moved about, Johnson''s foundation fully alert.


    Kenneth, in a panic, rushed past the anxious servants of his household to the place where Michael and Olivia had just strategized. Olivia was no longer there, only Michael still stood there for a long time.


    Kenneth was stunned; his father, a Competent, had always been a towering figure, standing tall and straight.


    At this moment, his father''s silhouette seemed immensely weathered.


    "Father... Mystic Alliance..."


    "An anomaly!"


    ...


    On the ground, corpses everywhere, a huge, battered airship lay on the ground.


    Nathan had once again hoisted the coffin onto his shoulder.


    The flying corpses that filled the sky earlier had all been retracted into the Coffin of Direct Death.


    Lucas had also shouldered his sword case, the sky no longer filled with a rain of swords like stars.


    They stood quietly under a large tree that had barely survived the great battle.


    And Donald?


    Gary was sitting on a tree branch, swinging his legs as before, while Jason from the Azure Cloud Pavilion kept his distance, hands hidden in his wide white sleeves, frowning forward.


    "..."


    Donald, who had come to annihilate Blackwood and had boasted of renaming Cloudview County to Dragon Cloud County, was already pale-eyed, hanging limply in mid-air like a dead dog, held by the collar by a burly man, his limbs dangling weakly touching the ground.


    "Blackwood''s head of the family is quite capable, managing to have Gary serve Blackwood."


    This burly man, though rough in appearance, was a smooth operator, not mentioning at all that Nathan had turned Gary into a zombie, dropped Donald on the ground, and said with a smile, "Let me first congratulate Blackwood for replacing Williams, becoming another Competent family in our Cloudview County."


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    Nathan and Lucas spoke in unison.


    "Thanks to the Immortal Master, my Blackwood family does not qualify as a Competent family, but remains a Developing Skill family."


    "This time, having intercepted Williams, thanks to the Immortal Master''s support, I wonder how the spoils should be divided?"

 Chapter 199 - 199: Your time has come!

    Father and son exchanged a knowing glance, each seeing the approval in the other''s eyes.


    [Your descendant, George, aided by the twenty-three elders and with the support of the seven major factions and the current leader, Jason, has secured the position of the next Azure Cloud Pavilion Master!]


    [Empowered by Competent!]


    [Your family, with the help of the Ten Thousand Life Mountain Immortal Master and the rescue efforts of the Ten Thousand Life Mountain experts, successfully eliminated over thirty Williams Psychics. The Immortal Master, joining forces with Sky Corpse Gary, killed the fleeing Donald on the spot!]


    "Ahem."


    The Immortal Master cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping over the father and son.


    One, earnest and sincere, the other, stern and unsmiling ¨C they appeared to be genuinely good people.


    Yet, the Immortal Master saw through their facade, recognizing the cunning that dwelled within.


    "Understood. Ten Thousand Life Mountain will announce that the Williams clan attempted to collaborate with foreign enemies and was subsequently eradicated by the combined forces of Cloudview County. As for the Williams'' resources..."


    The Immortal Master paused, considering.


    "Azure Cloud is already lacking in resources. It would be best if Blackwood were to assess them first and then distribute them among the various factions of Azure Cloud. This would greatly benefit all of Azure Cloud and help Blackwood solidify their position."


    Nathan nodded slowly in agreement.


    Ethan, observing from the screen, felt a surge of hope.


    This Immortal Master was someone they could work with.


    The Immortal Master''s assistance had been crucial.


    Without him, Gary alone wouldn''t have been able to prevent Donald''s escape, and Blackwood would have faced a sleepless night.


    The fact that he had some authority over the distribution of resources...


    Blackwood getting first pick meant they could take whatever they desired without needing to justify themselves.


    Moreover, the Immortal Master''s words signified his acceptance of Blackwood''s presence in Cloudview County.


    Quickly, with the help of the Ten Thousand Life Mountain experts, Nathan and his son gathered all the corpses and remnants of equipment, taking Gary with them as they made their way towards the Williams'' base.


    ...


    "Demonic, possessed esper, your kind shall not escape Buddhist justice!!!"


    Golden Forest.


    Abbot David continued his relentless assault.


    His body was covered in wounds, but the formations he faced were also on the verge of collapse.


    He was, after all, the most accomplished practitioner of Buddhist arts in all of Cloudview County.


    Though only a few individuals were engaged in combat, the Golden Forest was eerily still, the ground compacted by the sheer force of their struggle.


    Blood stained the earth ¨C the blood of Blackwood''s third generation and the Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    Despite their combined might, Abbot David had killed them time and time again!


    And now...


    "Boom!"


    With a six-armed strike, his power diminished but his determination unwavering, he finally broke free from the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s assault, shattering the formation!


    He charged towards Luna, closing the distance with every stride.


    Luna, as if frozen in place, remained rooted to the Primordial Blood Tree, her demonic mutterings echoing in the air.


    Abbot David saw it with his own eyes.


    Under the weight of his Buddhist aura, Luna stood paralyzed, her eyes wide with terror, her mouth agape in a silent scream.


    "No!"


    Luna stood frozen, her three fluffy tails still swaying slightly.


    She couldn''t move.


    The Buddhist chants and inscriptions enveloped her, the power of a Competent-level technique holding her captive.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s roots lashed out, twisting and turning as they tried to ensnare Abbot David.


    Its esper abilities surged, layers of barriers forming in defense.


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    It was no use.


    The roots were slowly being pulled away, the distance widening.


    Behind him, Blackwood''s third generation and the Lord of Frenzied Blood charged forward with a desperate fury, their cries filled with anguish and rage.


    None of them had anticipated the sheer extent of Abbot David''s power!


    He had reached the middle stage of Competent.


    Unstoppable!


    "Grandma, Grandma!"


    As golden light flared, amidst the heart-wrenching cries of Blackwood''s third generation, Abbot David smiled cruelly and threw a punch!


    Blood.


    The demon''s blood splattered as his fist connected, pulverizing Luna into nothingness!


    Even the Primordial Blood Tree was snapped in half by his strike!


    Abbot David didn''t hesitate.


    With terrifying speed, he vanished from the scene.


    There were still many Blackwood members scattered throughout Cloudview County, awaiting his judgment.


    And then...


    "Today, this humble monk has slain the demoness in the name of Buddha! But Azure Cloud remains tainted by the Blackwood evil. This monk swears to never rest until it is purged!"


    "...."


    The golden God Beggar Formation still held strong, its intricate patterns shimmering in the air.


    Outside its protective embrace, the crimson crown of the Primordial Blood Tree blazed defiantly.


    Luna continued her insidious whispers, her voice a siren''s call.


    Within the formation, Blackwood''s third generation and the Lord of Frenzied Blood stood shoulder to shoulder, a line of defense against the unseen enemy.


    But now, a new figure stood just beyond the formation''s edge.


    He was a gaunt man, clad in black.


    A long, thin strip of black cloth, once used to cover his eyes, now hung loosely around his neck.


    He had removed it upon arriving, yet Abbot David, consumed by the ongoing battle, seemed oblivious to his presence.


    The newcomer''s eyes blazed with an eerie black light, and like Luna, his lips moved in a silent chant.


    "Hahaha, old baldy, your time has come!"


    Drunken Fool watched with delight as Abbot David thrashed wildly within the formation, his attacks growing increasingly erratic.


    Though Drunken Fool was only at the peak of the Developing Skill level, he could see that Abbot David''s previous battles had taken their toll.


    It was the inherent weakness of physical cultivators ¨C their bodies, no matter how strong, were still susceptible to exhaustion and the erosion of will.


    Abbot David was already succumbing to the insidious whispers of Luna''s demonic influence.


    And now, to make matters worse, the founder of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, Old Ralph, had arrived!


    Old Ralph was a master of ocular techniques, arts that could shatter the very mind of his opponents.


    In the past, the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate had been branded as demonic cultivators, feared for their ability to sow chaos and madness with their gaze.


    It was only through generations of effort that they had finally earned the grudging acceptance of the other major powers in Cloudview County.


    Such was the power of their techniques.


    "You think you''re so tough, huh, baldy? Back at Sky Sect, I was just a spectator, and I almost got killed by your sorry hide when you ran off! Let''s see you try that again!"


    Drunken Fool, the grimy old man, stood with his hands on his hips, his voice a mocking taunt.


    He had barely escaped with his life the last time he had witnessed Abbot David in action.


    This time, he would not only watch, but he would make sure the old monk paid for what he had done.

 Chapter 200 - 200: In broad daylight, really?

    Not long after.


    [Your descendants, the third generation Blackwood and Luna, along with the ancient Ralph, used a technique that affects the soul''s essence to weaken Abbot David, stripping him of his spiritual sinews, bones, and relics...]


    Despite being a highly enlightened monk, the controlled and bloodied Abbot David reverted to his usual demeanor. Even covered in wounds, he remained calm.


    He simply lifted his head, gazing at the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s barrier, the demonic Blackwood, and the mad sorcerer, uttering a single word.


    "Amitabha, Cloudview County has become a land of demons."


    "Today, I head to the hell of warriors, waiting for the demonic Blackwood. The day hell empties is the day I attain enlightenment."


    Ralph frowned, "Abbot David, don''t others know you? Haven''t I always known? Over a thousand years ago, you loved killing, taken in by the monastery, thereafter killing in the name of Buddha. A millennium has passed, and countless innocents have died by your hand.


    "Among them were greedy villains, reckless scolds, and decadent scholars... but they were all ordinary people. You weren''t slaying demons or evil; you were just satisfying your own desires under the guise of Buddha!"


    "Amitabha." Abbot David continued his chant.


    "If you were truly a Buddha, how could Luna and I have influenced your spirit? You''re less than a demon."


    "Amitabha..."


    "Amitabha, it''s annoying to hear."


    Before Abbot David could finish, under Ralph''s shocked expression, Luna grabbed Abbot David''s shoulders, and a dagger pierced through his jaw, burning away his Competent Force with soul fire, much like she used to bleed pigs, casually placing a basin on the ground to catch Abbot David''s blood.


    During the previous battle, Abbot David had bled profusely, which pained Luna to see. Now, this Competent Force-infused blood, whether sent to Julian for crafting special gear or to Amelia for concocting potions, was an excellent resource.


    "Cough, cough, Luna, that was clean and efficient."


    Ralph twitched his lips as he watched the blood gush from Abbot David''s neck, the sound of it dripping into the basin crisp and clear. Glancing at Luna''s calm eyes, he inexplicably shivered.


    "Thank you for your help, Elder Ralph."


    Luna smiled slightly, genuinely pleased. She had long heard that her descendants practiced both demonic and Buddhist arts, consuming the flesh of Buddhas on a throne of blood. A Competent Force corpse was indeed a great supplement.


    Old Blackwood was going to prosper again.


    "You''re welcome."


    Elder Ralph took a deep breath, looking around, "Now that Abbot David is dead, I have no more concerns in Cloudview County. With that, I''ll prepare for the upcoming disaster."


    "May the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate endure forever."


    Luna''s expression was solemn.


    Elder Ralph slightly smiled and nodded at Luna before soaring into the sky.


    Leaving behind a wish.


    "May Blackwood shine for eternity."


    As their conversation ended.


    Luna finished draining Abbot David, storing his body in the Storage Ring.


    On this snowy day, the Lord of Frenzied Blood and the third generation Blackwood stood quietly behind her, and Drunken Fool, surprisingly, did not clamor to desecrate the corpse. They were in the now-ruined Golden Forest.


    In the distance lay the towns of Cloudview County.


    They heard the town''s warning bells.


    "The Azure Cloud Pavilion orders, civilians to evacuate with their valuables at top speed!"


    "The Duke''s Mansion has declared martial law? He''s after your lives!!!"


    "Retreat immediately, and you may survive!"


    Gratitude Village.


    Blackwood Residence.


    At this moment, Nicholas, Donna, and two monks had returned to their homeland.


    They gazed upon the peaceful Gratitude Village, their emotions a complex tapestry. When they had left, they were but naive children, prone to tears and tantrums. Now, they had grown, following in the footsteps of their elders.


    Nicholas wondered what his older siblings might think.


    To him, Gratitude Village seemed smaller now. The familiar faces of the villagers, once so well-known, now seemed strange, making him hesitant to speak, so much so that he avoided meeting his old friends.


    Small, yet warm. Returning to the family grounds, they visited the ancient Blood Tree, the forebearer hall, and the Silver Iron Forest.


    A sense of unprecedented safety washed over him, bringing him close to tears.


    While wandering,


    a figure caught his eye¡ªit was... Helen, his betrothed!


    Helen still bore her beauty and now wore a white robe similar to Dennis''s, guarded by experts from the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion.


    "Nicholas!"


    "Helen!"


    Upon seeing Helen, Nicholas ran to her without hesitation, embracing her openly, something he would have proudly declared as a manly act in the past.


    Now, he simply held her quietly, feeling her tremble with excitement. "Helen, I''m back."


    "In broad daylight, really?" Donna commented, rolling her eyes at their public display. But with family around, she refrained from harsh words, only warning, "Don''t get ahead of yourself, kid. Some things are meant for after you''re married. Just don''t follow in your brother''s footsteps. Hugs and kisses, and a little touch here and there should suffice for now."


    With that, she left with the two monks, heads bowed, chanting scriptures.


    "..."


    Nicholas twitched a smile, grateful at least that Donna hadn''t called him ''useless brother.''


    Helen, stunned, watched Donna''s retreating figure. "What''s gotten into Donna? Has she... been possessed?"


    If he remembered correctly, Donna was timid when she left, her voice soft and pitiable. Now, she spoke her mind freely, much like the straightforward grandfathers of legend.


    "Cough, cough."


    Nicholas touched his nose. "Donna''s been hanging out with some rough crowds; you get used to it."


    The two sat beside the ancient Qiuchun tree of Nicholas''s childhood, but now, he no longer wished to climb it, preferring to watch quietly, recalling the days when Grandpa Dennis and Helen would push him on it, his cheers lost in the wind.


    Nicholas shared his adventures, Helen gripping his hand tighter with each perilous tale.


    When he spoke of his victories at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, even defeating the renowned Yi Xian, Helen wept with joy. "Grandpa Dennis always said Nicholas would return with honors worth boasting about." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But their joy was short-lived, falling into silence.


    After a while, Nicholas said, "Helen, I''m sorry, we haven''t found Grandpa Dennis. Grandma has been using Dawn to search everywhere, even the Azure Cloud Pavilion."


    "It''s okay. As long as we keep looking, we''ll find him one day," Helen whispered softly.


    That day, the day Grandpa Dennis left Blackwood to find a place for his final rest and leave his legacy to the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, was the last anyone saw of him.


    Investigations revealed he had met with Stephen, the former head of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, now known to be a member of the mysterious Oracle Chamber, his true intentions unknown.


    As they sat, heads bowed,


    a member of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion arrived hurriedly by sword, his expression a mix of astonishment and confusion.


    "Miss Helen, the Pavilion Master... he''s returned, just outside Gratitude Village!"


    "What?!!"


    Surprised and hopeful, Nicholas and Helen rushed to the outskirts of Gratitude Village.


    After many years,


    their Grandpa Dennis stood not in meditation but upright at the village gate, his expression somber as he looked upon everything within.


    As his most cherished approached,


    he took a deep breath and declared, "Notify the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, notify the elders of Blackwood, they need to come back immediately. They..."


    "Are coming!"

 Chapter 201 - 201: I saw that I was going to die

    In Cloudview County, adjacent to the Endless Forest, there stands a towering mountain with a city at its base.


    Here, a Psychic guards a high tower, at the top of which, even in broad daylight, sits a massive gem¡ªan exceptional ability weapon, coveted by many yet guarded only by a Foundational Energy Psychic.


    Especially at the very top of the tower, reaching into the clouds, there is a formation.


    At this moment.


    Stephen, the former head of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, stands against the wind at this spot.


    The kindly old man, dressed in flowing white robes, has his pale hair whipped back by the fierce wind.


    He looks older than before, yet his stature remains imposing.


    "Sigh."


    Suddenly, a figure appears beside Stephen.


    It''s Olivia!


    But this time, she isn''t sitting in a wheelchair; she stands shoulder to shoulder with Stephen.


    The two stand at the highest point in Cloudview County, overlooking the vast, lush forest that stretches endlessly.


    No one knows what secrets the forest hides.


    Across from the Endless Forest lies the entirety of Cloudview County¡ªa collection of cities that symbolize the prosperity and glory of the county.


    But from this height, all of Cloudview County seems so small, so fragile, as if they could easily crush it all with a mere gesture.


    They stand in silence for a long time.


    Ethan, watching from his screen, also remains silent for a long time, quietly observing the beautiful scenery of Cloudview County with Olivia and Stephen.


    After a while.


    Stephen extends his hand as if trying to grasp the wind of Cloudview County in his palm.


    His aged voice rises, filled with pride.


    "Across from Cloudview County lies the Endless Forest, home to the Druids who are close to nature and practice their unique arts."


    "Thirteen hundred thousand years ago, at the beginning of the dynasty''s turmoil, the Druids emerged with their mythical beasts, aiming to take over the pure lands of Cloudview County. Only the Azure Cloud Pavilion stood in their defense."


    He then points to another area, "Look there, Dawn''s master, that was once a county under my dynasty''s rule."


    Olivia looks.


    That area... is now covered by forests.


    She can''t help but wonder how prosperous that county must have been, possibly home to various sects and families like Blackwood.


    Olivia shakes her head, "The energy locator of The Oracle Chamber, did you tamper with it?"


    Ethan''s fingers tap on the desk in front of his screen.


    Over the years, Blackwood has always been scheming.


    Back then, he and Olivia hadn''t thought much about it; they wanted to bring the descendants of Blackwood back to their forebearer lands, to let them live out their lives in peace, making Blackwood invincible in Cloudview County.


    That had always been Olivia''s plan, but gradually, they realized that a dark hand in the cloudy skies was suffocating Blackwood.


    And that person was not The Oracle Chamber as a whole, but one individual¡ªStephen!


    This man, with his multiple identities, had once released William, even leading the people of Blackwood to believe he was a reasonable and kind man.


    "Yes."


    Stephen gives a bitter smile, "It was a tactic of The Oracle Chamber, allowing me to find Dennis and obtain items from your Blackwood family. Through the destiny energy locator, I was able to track you down. Thus, Blackwood has nowhere to hide."


    "The ultimate result is that Blackwood, Sky Sect, Black Tortoise, and Duke''s Mansion will engage in a life-and-death struggle against the nine major forces."


    "That''s exactly what The Oracle Chamber wants, not my desire."


    "I just didn''t expect..."


    "It turns out that you at Blackwood had been prepared all along, with the remnants of twenty-three ancestors from Azure Cloud Pavilion. Even I, once the master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, was unaware of their existence. It seems I overstepped."


    Olivia furrowed her brows, "Thank you."


    Her feelings were mixed; Blackwood had always been searching for the forces secretly targeting them over the years.


    Now that she had found them, she discovered that Stephen was targeting Blackwood but also helping them. Such contradiction left her unsure of what to do... after all, she didn''t want to lay a hand on a dying man.


    "In Cloudview County, the original players in this game of chess were only two, Duke''s Mansion and The Oracle Chamber."


    "The Oracle Chamber''s goal is simple; they want to destroy Cloudview County. Duke Michael... he''s a beast, willing to do anything to gain complete control over Cloudview County."


    Upon hearing this, both Olivia and Ethan nodded.


    They had uncovered this through years of investigation.


    The real answer lay in the endless forest. Michael was waiting for chaos in Cloudview County, waiting for the major forces to fight to the death!


    Thus, the druids would gather masters, taking advantage of the deaths of Cloudview County''s masters, a disaster like the one Thirteen hundred thousand years ago would reoccur.


    The survivors would then dominate Cloudview County!


    When Ethan first heard this news, he couldn''t believe it. Later, he understood more clearly; Michael, now over seven hundred years old, could even break through to become a divine being after dominating Cloudview County.


    "That day, when you Blackwood were building the Jingguan outside Azure Cloud Pavilion, I saw it."


    Stephen smiled, "I saw that you Blackwood were different, like awakened lions. Similarly, I saw..."


    "I saw that I was going to die."


    Stephen''s expression gradually darkened.


    "I know that Azure Cloud Pavilion can no longer command the whole of Cloudview County like it did Thirteen hundred thousandyears ago; they''ve decayed, and so has the whole of Cloudview County."


    "Cloudview County needs a cleansing, and you Blackwood are doing well, driving the people from other sects of Azure Cloud Pavilion away."


    "I also know that The Oracle Chamber and Duke''s Mansion will never miss such an opportunity."


    Stephen sneered, "They want to be the players in this game, treating the lives in Cloudview County as if they were mere ants. Well, I, Stephen, will not let them have their way!"


    "When you Blackwood were slaughtering, they were happy."


    "But they don''t know that this is also our opportunity, to remove those truly greedy, and Cloudview County can see clear skies and bright days again!"


    "The siege outside Sky Sect caught the three greediest scoundrels!" Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this.


    Olivia and Ethan''s mouths twitched simultaneously across the screen. No wonder the three Competent Forces arrived so quickly that day; it seemed like the major forces of Azure Cloud Pavilion instantly knew about the troubles caused by Blackwood, all thanks to Stephen, that treacherous dog.


    He must have been secretly watching Blackwood since leaving Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    "Aren''t you afraid that Blackwood will be destroyed?" Olivia''s brows merged into a single line, now wanting to send Stephen''s soul to her father.


    "What''s there to fear?"


    Stephen laughed, "If Blackwood truly perishes, then I need not worry. They''ll divide up your Blackwood, and Cloudview County will still be the same old Cloudview County. Either way, I win, and I can return to Azure Cloud Pavilion to purge those other sect forces that have shown themselves."


    Regardless of Olivia''s expression.


    Stephen quietly said, "I am glad that everything has gone as I contemplated. Gary, Abbot David, Donald are all dead, and the major forces of Cloudview County have no internal worries."

 Chapter 202 - 202: Special Event—Druid Invasion!

    "BlackwoodGeorge will become the master of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, assisted by twenty-three predecessors. One day, the Azure Cloud Pavilion will shine brighter than it did 130,000 years ago, stronger than ever before."


    "All the major forces of Cloudview County will unite in this catastrophe."


    "People say you, Blackwood, are heartless, a demon among men, but I can see that as long as you have Olivia and Daniel from the Thunderfire Demon Cave, your journey will not end here. You, Blackwood, would never eliminate the strength of the major sects just for some resources..."


    He hadn''t finished speaking.


    It seemed he saw Olivia stirring...


    But Stephen just sighed deeply and let it be. He said, "I believe with you here, you must have already heard the news of the Druids'' arrival. Now, I hope you immediately return and send the disciples of the Azure Cloud Pavilion to the major cities of Cloudview County to evacuate the citizens and prepare all the Psychics of Cloudview County..."


    "An hour ago, I had already sent people to do just that."


    Olivia''s words choked Stephen, "My father and brother went to the Azure Cloud Pavilion, and hearing that you''ve been focusing on the Endless Forest for years, I pretty much figured out everything. The necessary arrangements have been made."


    "Let''s go, the Pavilion needs your cunning guidance as its new leader."


    Olivia turned around, her eyebrows slightly furrowed, indicating for Stephen to go back, yet her eyes held a trace of pity.


    As expected.


    Stephen didn''t leave; he chuckled self-deprecatingly, "I''ve foreseen it, my end is today. Go now, Lord of Dawn, or it will be too late."


    Suddenly.


    At the edge of the Endless Forest, the shadows of the trees swayed!


    In the sky, an ability vessel approached!


    It was unclear whether it was the approaching storm clouds or the flickering of figures, but a dark mass loomed!


    Olivia closed her eyes and vanished from the spot in an instant.


    "The Endless Forest is stirring, quick, activate the supreme ability weapon, alert all forces of Cloudview County!"


    That day.


    The supreme ability weapon of Cloudview County, which hadn''t been activated for many years, finally shimmered with dazzling light under the operation of the Psychics in the high tower.


    Inside Cloudview County, all forces were shocked by this sight.


    The descendants of the Blackwood family halted their steps back to their clan!


    In the Duke''s Mansion.


    Michael''s lips curled slightly. Amidst the chaos of the entire Duke''s Mansion, he kicked the disbelieving Kenneth, stopping everyone in the Duke''s Mansion, "Activate the grand formation, ask our ancestors to stay calm!"


    ...


    The sky was bright.


    Stephen in the high tower had never seen such a brilliant light.


    He opened his arms, embracing the wind blowing in from the Endless Forest. Although he could hear the distant shouts of the Druids and the terrified screams of the Psychics guarding the border below, as if they were being slaughtered.


    Dust and killing intent...


    But Stephen was still greedily breathing in the air of Cloudview County, his head held high, his aged face clearly wrinkled under the vigilant supreme ability weapon of Cloudview County, his robe fluttering.


    At this moment, he looked utterly divine, like a saint descending to the mortal world, so out of place compared to the rushing Druids below the clouds.


    Just then. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A Daoist figure appeared behind Stephen, wearing a mask and dressed in a white robe with a scale embroidered on the chest.


    Instantly, his hand pressed against Stephen''s back, his voice ice cold.


    "I''ve nurtured you for two hundred years, raised a wolf with a hidden agenda!"


    The power of the Competent Force invaded his body, his soul!


    In a flash.


    Stephen''s life was cut short!


    He fell powerless from the high tower, and in his dying moments.


    He saw the masked man standing at the edge of the high tower, leaning on his knee, looking down at him.


    He saw...


    The sky of Cloudview County had never been so bright.


    He reached out towards everything he saw, as if to touch everything he cherished.


    An innocent smile crept across his weathered face.


    "Blackwood, you must protect Cloudview County, let it flourish."


    "This is my last request, as an old and shameless man."


    [Congratulations, you have completed the special event, Wind Rises Azure Cloud!]


    [Your family, through cunning schemes, has successfully annihilated all enemies in Cloudview County. Blackwood has truly become invincible within Cloudview County, with friends everywhere.]


    [You have gained +100,000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    ...


    [Special Event¡ªDruid Invasion!]


    [For years, members of The Oracle Chamber have been hidden in Cloudview County, passing down their mission through generations, attempting to destroy Cloudview County. The Duke''s Mansion, the puppet master behind Cloudview County, through your family''s ''Wind Rises Azure Cloud'' event, aims to annihilate all major powers in Cloudview County.]


    [With Stephen, a member of The Oracle Chamber and the former head of Azure Cloud Pavilion, entering the fray, he only managed to bring the major forces of Cloudview County and Blackwood to a ceasefire and handshake, giving the powers of Cloudview County a chance to save themselves.]


    [The Duke''s Mansion and The Oracle Chamber still have a backup plan, drawing the Druids into Azure Cloud, plunging your family into disaster!]


    ...


    Atop the border tower.


    Stephen''s life force was completely severed, his body falling from the tower like a withered leaf.


    Until...


    Engulfed by shadows emerging from the endless forest, like countless beings silently obliterated by history. No one knew what Stephen had done for Cloudview County; he trudged through the darkness, bearing burdens, sacrificing his life to secure a glimmer of hope for Cloudview County.


    "Alas."


    At this moment, Ethan still focused on the border tower.


    Perhaps he was the only one in all of Cloudview County witnessing Stephen''s downfall, a pity he couldn''t empathize with Stephen.


    But he understood, everyone has their own convictions, their own things they wish to protect.


    And for the people of Blackwood, it was their family!


    Then.


    Ethan shifted the view to a dense crowd of Druids.


    The Druids resembled wild men, controlling bizarre beasts, filling the skies and the ground, dressed in animal skins, much like Blackwood in its early days, and Larry in the Swamp Jungle.


    By clicking on a Druid riding a beast resembling a three-headed dog, Ethan gathered some information about them.


    [Druid]


    [Description: They are close to nature, revere it, and respect the forces of heaven and earth. The endless forest houses two major races, Druids and Demons, fiercely competing for territory. They also eye the lands cultivated by humans, hoping to revert them back to forests, which is their vision.]


    Opening the map, the endless forest, shaped like an arc, surrounds the Emerald Dynasty...


    Humans have three dynasties, scattered across the world, seldom in contact.


    As for the Emerald Dynasty, it is directly encircled by Druids, Demons, and the sea.


    As far as Ethan knew, this was also related to the changes of the era. The ancient game world had no dynasties, only realms of immortals, with various races barely surviving before humans. After a great war, the era of humans ended.


    In ancient times, humans were slaves to the Demons... In the remote past, Demons and Druids were slaves to humans... In the primordial age, when Ability Masters existed, gods fell...


    Continuing to monitor the movements of the Druids.


    It seemed that after entering Cloudview County, they began to split up, with many weaker Druids setting fires at the border, dancing around campfires, erecting totems, and the land once cultivated by humans began to sprout flora, showing signs of becoming a forest.


    A message on the screen interrupted Ethan''s observation.


    [Your descendant Olivia reports to you.]


    Ethan switched the view, Olivia controlling Dawn, she surely knew more than what he saw on the screen.


    Then he looked.


    Ethan was stunned...


    Map¡ª[Endless Forest¡¤Harris Tribe¡¤Joy Beast Branch¡¤Elder Glenn''s Home]


    "..."

 Chapter 203 - 203: They were unstoppable!

    The scene unfolds within the Endless Forest, a lush expanse dotted with towering ancient trees and home to a variety of mystical beasts. Druids clad in animal skins frolic joyously with these creatures, sharing fruits in a display of harmony.


    Olivia sits in a wooden hut perched atop an ancient tree, donned in a tiger-skin coat. Before her on the table lie the Psychic Position and the Mystic Burner.


    Ethan blinks hard.


    No way...


    Hadn''t the druids just barged in? Weren''t you just communicating with Stephen, and now you''ve infiltrated the druids?


    Ethan''s Psychic Position glows, sending a warm current into Olivia''s body.


    A smile quickly spreads across Olivia''s handsome face, her head held high as if pleased, thinking, ''The Forebearer must have seen me infiltrate the druids; he must be praising me now.'' S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Forebearer."


    Olivia speaks respectfully, "Child has gathered intelligence from the Joy Beast Branch. The druids have been preparing for war, awaiting chaos in Cloudview County. They are stronger than the Emerald Dynasty, holding their own against the demon clans within the Endless Forest."


    "They have twelve major witch divisions, each with its own sectors and smaller tribes."


    "The ones who have come to my Cloudview County belong to the Skywood witch division, comprising three sectors: White, Harris, and Clark."


    As she speaks, Olivia''s expression turns grave, "Forebearer, from what your child knows, within the Harris sector, particularly the Joy Beast lineage, there exists a Competent Force Psychic, also known as a priest."


    Information trickles into Ethan''s ears, his expression growing somber. Just three sectors, yet their power could rival the peak times of Cloudview County.


    And yet... Harris seems to be the weakest of the three.


    "Child has obtained their attack plans."


    Olivia''s intelligence capabilities are formidable!


    Ethan sees the plans laid out on the table, showing the invasion routes of White, Harris, and Clark.


    Starting from the border, they spread like veins.


    They bypass the major sects, entering Cloudview County, targeting ordinary towns for slaughter, swiftly and devastatingly, before encircling the major sects of Cloudview County.


    Interestingly, the attack plans do not mark Duke''s Mansion!


    Ethan is more concerned about the strategic map showing the attack directed at Blackwood!


    One of the routes...


    Directly targets Blackwood!


    Meanwhile, a special event reappears on the screen.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Covetous Clark Branch!]


    [Chief of the Clark Branch, having learned from the disciple of human Stephen, knows that Azure Cloud Blackwood and the major sects of Azure Cloud are battling fiercely, likely weakened. The vast Blackwood family, rich in resources, is ripe for exploitation. Slaughtering the renowned blood-stained family will bring great fame to the Clark Branch!]


    If Stephen were not already dead, Ethan would have cursed him.


    Olivia helplessly says, "Forebearer, that old rogue Stephen was treacherous, fearing that my Blackwood would sit idle during the druid invasion, thus he resorted to this."


    Ethan shrugs indifferently.


    Listening to Olivia continue to report all the intelligence she knows, his eyes sparkle with determination.


    "Let my Blackwood descendants¡ª"


    "Return home!"


    "Let Clark, and the entire druid community, feel what Blackwood¡ª"


    "Brings to shock them!"


    As the Psychic Position traces words before Olivia''s eyes.


    Olivia''s lips curl slightly.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    ...


    On this day, the citizens of Cloudview County were fleeing in droves. They didn''t know why, but they trusted the legendary Azure Cloud Pavilion''s words and headed towards Duke''s Mansion. They had heard that Duke''s Mansion would provide them with ample food and the greatest protection.


    All the food from the towns and villages was transported by Psychics, who, like oxen, pulled carts loaded with provisions towards Duke''s Mansion.


    A tide of refugees surged from all directions towards Duke''s Mansion.


    All the Psychics of Cloudview County were gathering at the nearest sects because of this day.


    Azure Cloud Pavilion had announced to all practitioners that the Druids from the border were coming. They intended to seize all the resources of Cloudview County''s Psychics and occupy their ancestral lands.


    True to Stephen''s expectations, after several incidents, Azure Cloud Pavilion had risen from the ashes like it did 130,000 years ago, once again becoming the leader of the entire Cloudview County. They were once again sacrificing everything for Cloudview County, leading it against external threats.


    Similarly, all the Competent Force powers in Cloudview County were releasing their forces, confronting the Druid priests head-on. These ancient beings, who had lived for countless years, were originally planning to besiege Blackwood. Now, they soared into the sky, sitting cross-legged, ready to fight to the death if challenged.


    Meanwhile, on the road to Forest Town Gratitude Village in Blackwood, dust was swirling up.


    It was the Druids'' giant rock Clark branch!


    Druids, born from the forest, each one merged with nature and survived in the jungle like wild beasts. Each Druid was a hunter of the forest, incredibly robust.


    Especially those with giant rock abilities, their tribe lived in the mountains, dwelling in caves, and even children had to climb rocks.


    They possessed the power to control the mountains.


    Over a hundred thousand of these giant rock ability tribespeople were sprinting across the ground. Alongside them were creatures as large as boulders, running across the land, their rocky bodies scattered with cheering tribespeople.


    In addition, there were giant snakes, spiders, and stone dogs made of rock!


    Above in the sky, giant stone figures as large as mountains were slowly flying, following the tracks of their tribespeople below. On these stone figures, one could see remnants of trees, moss, and soil.


    Around them were huge totems forming a wide magical array that enveloped the stone figures, the Druidic magic inscriptions appearing ancient and mysterious.


    Atop the heads of these stone figures stood the priests of the giant rock ability tribes, chiefs of various small tribes, and powerful Druid warriors.


    Apart from the priests who wore robes embroidered with various magical symbols, the chiefs looked like wild men, their bodies covered in tattoos, all exuding a powerful aura.


    They marched forward.


    In front of them, all the towns of Cloudview County were like paper, easily breached by their giant stone figures.


    Occasionally, they encountered some families or forces that hadn''t fled, stubbornly trying to defend their homeland. However, the magical barriers these stubborn folks activated seemed laughable.


    The giant rock ability tribespeople on the ground ran while using their witchcraft.


    Their witchcraft was more direct than the human race''s magical martial arts.


    Sharp giant rocks surged from the ground, easily transforming large areas into forests of stone spikes.


    They were unstoppable!

 Chapter 204 - 204: Take their heads home, as an offering to the Forebearer!

    Powerful, insane!


    On the screen, Ethan kept up with the footage of the giant rock Clark tribe, accelerating as he went.


    Even with preparation, Ethan''s heart was tense.


    This battle was unlike any he had faced with Blackwood before.


    This time, facing the giant rock Clark tribe was a racial war, and the tribe had played all their cards, with numerous people involved.


    The people of Blackwood had never fought with the Druids before.


    He was getting ready.


    Fortunately, all the descendants of Blackwood scattered abroad were also preparing!


    Ethan watched the screens of each descendant one by one.


    [Cloudview County City, Jones]


    Refugees continuously poured into the county city, seeking shelter at the Duke''s Mansion.


    Atop the roof of her house, Jessica watched all this with a pained expression.


    The gates of Jones were tightly shut.


    Soon after, a Daoist figure came from the outskirts of the Duke''s Mansion.


    They even brought... Edward, Betty, and Joseph''s family!


    The men in black bowed to Jessica, "Miss Jessica, your servants have completed the mission and brought back young master Edward and Miss Betty."


    They ignored the confusion of Edward''s family.


    Jessica whispered, "Go back."


    She glanced at Edward''s family and smiled, "Wait a moment, your aunt will take you home."


    Then, she slowly walked into the grand hall of Jones, glanced at Jack lying disheveled on the bed, surrounded by several beauties, no longer taking his duties seriously, her expression complex, "Husband, I am leaving."


    "Go away, where you go has nothing to do with me. Do you really think you''re something special?"


    Jack was no longer the obedient fool he used to be.


    Jones''s influence in the county city was growing, and he was now the head of the family, even able to attract beauties more beautiful than Jessica!


    He had everything he wanted, and he was tired of it.


    "Alright."


    Jessica took a deep breath, closed the door, and as she listened to the laughter of the women inside, the last bit of fondness in her eyes disappeared, and she turned away.


    The elders of Jones gathered together, and one elder brought a child to Jessica.


    It was a child born with deformities, a result of Jack''s past misdeeds, which led to Jessica being kidnapped after being impregnated, fortunately with the help of an ancestor, but the child had been tainted by psychic powers.


    The child''s legs were weak and powerless, he reached out his hands towards Jessica and laughed adorably.


    "Good child, follow your mother back to her parental home, let''s rebuild a stronger, more prosperous Jones, and cure your illness, shall we?"


    Jessica''s eyes were full of love.


    The child laughed joyfully.


    Jessica''s gaze turned cold, she didn''t even glance at the bowing elders of Jones, she slowly walked forward, leaving only her icy voice behind, "Did you hear that? My child said he will bring a better future for Jones."


    "Yes."


    The many elders nodded slightly and entered Jack''s room.


    Moments later, the blood-stained elders of Jones, along with many servants, joined Jessica and her child on the ability vessel, heading towards Blackwood.


    On the ability vessel, Edward''s family was so happy.


    Joseph looked at his great-grandmother holding the baby, he swallowed, "Dad, you never told me that the Lisa in the county city was my great-grandmother..."


    Edward and his wife ignored their child''s words.


    They had understood everything, and looked deeply towards the direction of the Duke''s Mansion, sighing deeply.


    [Swamp Jungle]


    Larry, dressed like a druid with strange inscriptions all over his body, looked even more like one.


    Beside him, Julian''s wife Mary wore heavy armor.


    The two of them, each sitting atop a demon king¡ªa massive white eagle and an enormous crocodile!


    "Belonging to Swamp Jungle, follow me back to Blackwood!"


    Behind them, countless exotic beasts boiled with excitement, following the path of the Swamp King!


    ...


    [Black Tortoise]


    Justin, with a turtle shell on his back, held Cards in his hands.


    "Forebearer, aid me, for I must assassinate the priest."


    He had just left Black Tortoise.


    Justin was stunned.


    He saw his brother, Jeffrey.


    The handsome and charming Jeffrey, also holding a Psychic Position, followed by a group of... beauties?


    "Big brother!"


    Jeffrey was thrilled, "I''ve brought my beloved friends home to help!"


    Justin glanced at the turtle shell on his back, then at the thirty-six beauties behind Jeffrey, at least two of whom had Developing Skills, his expression somewhat sour.


    While discussing their experiences over the years, he prepared to face this family crisis.


    Justin occasionally glanced again at the beautiful women behind Jeffrey.


    He suddenly remembered his life''s constant pursuit of thrills, repeatedly flirting with life and death.


    Then he sighed deeply in melancholy.


    "What have I been wasting my life on?"


    ...


    In a tomb.


    George, holding two mummies, was chased out by a group of ghosts. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In his mind, a group of old men were shouting.


    "George, why run? Fight them!"


    "Why the hurry? Didn''t you used to not leave until you''d scavenged everything?"


    "Finally remembered to go back to Azure Cloud Pavilion, huh?"


    Not a chance!


    George gritted his teeth, continued to hold the two mummies, and took to the air.


    He could feel the Forebearer Psychic Position in his arms flashing!


    The Forebearer was summoning!


    "Esteemed ancestors, you must help me this time, or my house will be torn down!"


    As he moved forward.


    Behind him... the original twenty-three old men turned into...


    Thirty-two!


    ...


    Across Cloudview County, the fourth generation, like him, were returning to Blackwood.


    Beside them, every Forebearer Psychic Position lit up.


    They brought with them all the power they had amassed over the years!


    ...


    Sky Sect.


    With the Forebearer Psychic Position floating beside him, the once disheveled Marcus had now shaved and redressed, just like when he first came to Sky Sect as a young man.


    He stood at the highest point of Sky Sect, looking down at the mountain base where many external Psychics came to assist, and Sky Sect''s disciples used a magical formation to protect them from the strange miasma outside the sect''s gates.


    Marcus''s eyes shone with a golden light.


    Suddenly, a Daoist from the netherworld appeared behind him, sighing, "Marcus, as the master of Sky Sect during the druid invasion, do you really need to return to Blackwood?"


    "First and foremost, I am a son of my family, then a sect master."


    Marcus smiled, "This great calamity, I will not take the sect''s disciples, but the Sky Temple..."


    The Daoist shook his head and smiled.


    "Sky Sect has friends to protect it, no one will dare to disturb it for a while, you may take the Sky Temple."


    "Thank you, master!"


    Marcus smiled slightly, leaped up.


    Nine fire lotuses surrounded him.


    At that moment, everyone in Sky Sect looked up, above the sect, a space dark yet filled with stars, followed Marcus as he departed!


    His expression was serene.


    "Forebearer, this time, your son will fight on the front lines!"


    ...


    On the great road to Blackwood.


    A group of eight walked.


    The one in front, bare-chested, carrying a blood-red greatsword, extremely handsome, his body covered in mysterious runes.


    The five men and two women behind him, all robust, wearing heavy armor, shook the ground as they moved.


    Where they passed, clouds gathered and dark mist swirled.


    Behind them.


    Lay headless bodies of druid people, they tread through blood.


    Beside the third generation of Blackwood, each had a Psychic Position floating.


    They moved in silence, but their murderous aura grew heavier.


    Suddenly, a group of druids appeared ahead, their eyes shining red.


    Thomas''s lips parted widely.


    "Take their heads home, as an offering to the Forebearer!"


    ...

 Chapter 205 - 205: Welcome Blackwood—

    [Thunderfire Demon Cave]


    Inside the Psychic Sanctuary where Amelia resided, she was still being supported by a giant tree, having been in a deep slumber for so long that the recent visitors to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, both demon cultivators and righteous warriors, had only heard of the existence of the saintess and the desperate apothecary.


    "Sigh!"


    Inside the cave, suddenly, without any wind, Amelia, still wearing her mask, opened her eyes, staring intently at the Psychic Position floating before her, shining brilliantly!


    "Forebearer, your child understands, your child has recovered, and now¡ª"


    "Homecoming!"


    As her gentle words fell, the entire cave burst into life, just as it had when Amelia had sacrificed years of her life to cultivate psychic powers, with vibrant flowers and plants sprouting from the decayed ground!


    ...


    In the cave where thunder and lava converged.


    The Psychic Position was glowing!


    "Clang!"


    Julian, who was forging with a massive hammer, paused mid-air. He lifted his sweaty, bald head, sweat dripping down his neck onto his muscular upper body, his muscles outlined smoothly.


    "Druid? Forebearer, worry not, whatever it is, your child will smash it all!"


    Julian set down his hammer and walked toward the end of the cave.


    As he slowly turned around.


    Behind him, rows of psychic puppets opened their eyes, their eyes reflecting the cave''s lava, like stars in the night sky!


    ...


    In the central area of the Thunderfire Demon Cave, atop the palace built by Daniel.


    Daniel was half-reclining in his seat, supporting his head with the back of his hand...


    Very flamboyant.


    Now, he appeared to be the oldest among the Blackwood men, his white hair lightly falling over his shoulders, his face lined with wrinkles, sporting a white goatee.


    Next to his seat, the Psychic Position lit up.


    "Druid?"


    Daniel squinted his eyes, his voice deep yet indifferent, "Forebearer, with your child here, no druid shall cross our family''s land."


    "The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors."


    "The Demon Hunters Alliance of the twelve righteous paths."


    "Attend!"


    As his words fell, figures began to fill the great hall within the cave, lining up on either side, bowing respectfully.


    "By the command of the Demon Lord!"


    ...


    Time slowly passed.


    Ethan watched the descendants of Blackwood return home, proud. His descendants had wandered abroad for many years, leaving their legends on this land!


    He still remembered.


    Years ago, the offspring of Blackwood had sworn to him that one day they would return to their ancestral lands openly and honorably.


    Over the years, they had always strived to return home.


    They had endured hardships, never forsaking their Blackwood identity.


    Now.


    They would unite, ready to face the imminent enemy!


    Atop Gratitude Village.


    At this moment, only Edward, Donna, and two Buddhist disciples were at home.


    Inside Gratitude Village, everyone was ready with their weapons, gazing into the distance, the ground trembling!


    Dennis was sweating profusely.


    His peak Developing Skill aura could feel the legendary druids approaching from all directions, seeing in the distance giant Energy Stone beings stomping the ground. Although Gratitude Village had developed over the years, it was as fragile as paper in the face of such power.


    "Sixteen thousand people, sixteen thousand druids."


    Dennis closed his eyes tightly. Although he had learned much about the druids from Stephen, he had never imagined facing so many terrifying druids.


    In the face of such a vast force, any Competent Force would likely only struggle to survive under their sect''s great formation.


    Inside Gratitude Village.


    There were over a hundred thousand civilians, all trembling, feeling the oppressive force of the druids.


    "Grandpa Dennis, it''s okay."


    Nicholas forced a smile, having prepared the villagers of Gratitude Village with weapons and formations, but everything still seemed so fragile. Hope shone in his eyes, "I believe our elders will definitely make it back in time!" S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mm."


    Dennis nodded slightly, remembering a time when he too had believed that the crazy eccentrics of Blackwood would return and show those druids a thing or two!


    But before that, he had also prepared to sacrifice his life to ensure Nicholas and Helen could escape.


    At this moment, Blackwood was like a cloud-covered land.


    Suddenly, Dennis and everyone else''s expressions changed as a Druid Psychic, riding a stone eagle, approached, holding a staff and laughing loudly at the people inside Gratitude Village.


    As a scout in the Transcendent Seed stage, he could sense from the messages transmitted by The Oracle Chamber that Blackwood, daring to contend against the entire Cloudview County, was nothing but a laughable joke.


    Look at this so-called blood-stained family''s residence, with only one Developing Skill Psychic!


    Look at their formations, merely six eighth-grade and one seventh-grade formations.


    They were even... using ridiculous crossbows!


    "O great Sacrificer, this place is nothing but..."


    The chieftain shouted to the heavens.


    He was still laughing, but his laughter froze at that moment.


    Everyone in Gratitude Village stared blankly at the scene outside the town.


    "Haven''t you heard from the people of Cloudview County that the Blackwood clan, when scattered, can suppress all directions, and when united, are an indestructible rock?"


    "Do you, a mere Transcendent Seed, dare to shout outside our clan''s territory?"


    The mocking voice echoed in his ears.


    The Transcendent Seed scout looked down in terror.


    Blood, soaked his garment.


    The body of the Druid scout fell from the sky, still gripped by terror.


    At that moment, everyone in Gratitude Village looked up, their eyes widening from a momentary daze to full alertness.


    Their hearts began to pound fiercely.


    In the distance, they could see the massive figures of the Giant Rock Psychics, dust covering all directions around Gratitude Village. They even saw the head of a hundred-meter-tall Giant Rock Psychic, a being they had never encountered before.


    But now, they felt a deep sense of peace, a peace so profound that their lips curled into smiles, uncontrollably turning into expressions of frenzy and joy.


    "They... they''re back!" Dennis shouted, though his voice was faint, drowned out by the distant giants'' thunderous roars.


    Yet, in the minds of all the elders of Gratitude Village, these words emerged uncontrollably, just as they had when they had bid farewell to the Blackwood people from Gratitude Village, who had fled in times of peril.


    But everyone in Gratitude Village had always believed that one day, they would break through the darkness and return in glory under the sunlight!


    Suddenly, everyone''s gaze was captured by a burst of light.


    Instinctively, they all looked up at the sky above Blackwood.


    With a thunderous roar, the Primordial Blood Tree that once stood in Gratitude Village returned!


    Just like that winter day, red snow began to fall from the sky!


    The snowflakes gathered, a manifestation of the Primordial Blood Tree''s power.


    A line of giant words covered the sky, overshadowing all other brilliance in the world¡ª


    Blackwood!


    They reached out to catch the red snow, feeling the warmth spread through their bodies, and then they all knelt facing the outskirts of the town, looking up at the figures above.


    "May Blackwood shine for eternity!"


    "Welcome Blackwood¡ª"


    "¡ªHome!"


    ...

 Chapter 206 - 206: Memories of the past were awakening!

    When Nathan and Olivia returned home, the Primordial Blood Tree had foreseen it.


    It declared that the day would come when Azure Cloud would be stained with blood, and the sky would bear a single word¡ªBlackwood.


    On this day, the children of Blackwood would return home!


    At that moment, Gratitude Village seemed like a lone boat surrounded by endless dust storms, with the imposing presence of the giant rock Clark tribe pressing in from all sides.


    The massive canopy of the Primordial Blood Tree shone with crimson leaves, dazzling as it grew to a hundred meters!


    Above Gratitude Village, Nathan stood atop a coffin, hands behind his back.


    He heard the shouts of the villagers behind him, felt their kneeling worship, and his eyes blazed with fury.


    Luna, too, returned to Gratitude Village at that moment.


    She held Nathan''s arm and rubbed her cheek against his shoulder in silence, conveying years of longing.


    Then, with a captivating gaze, she looked towards the enemy ahead.


    Lucas, with the Celestial Sword in hand, stood a distance from his parents.


    He closed his eyes, indifferent to the approaching foes, his sword case humming with energy.


    And then there was William.


    This guy had actually caught up to his elders and was the first to return to the clan.


    He held a dagger, licked the blood from it mid-air, and then spat it out with a grimace, cursing loudly, "Damn, that''s foul. Turns out those assassins do this just to scare people. It tastes awful!"


    His cursing only highlighted the eerie silence around Gratitude Village.


    It seemed everything had changed since their arrival.


    The villagers'' eyes burned with intensity; they had cast aside their fear and grasped their swords.


    Some might have lacked Foundational Energy, some might have aged from their prime, and others might have been disabled over the years.


    Yet, they silently picked up their weapons.


    They remembered the past, fighting alongside the Blackwood clan in Pine Forest Town, going wild in the Silver Iron Woods, battling together throughout the entire region of Taiqing County.


    Now, they could still wield weapons.


    Their strength might have been insignificant, but their will pursued the footsteps of Blackwood!


    A gust of wind blew.


    The steps of the giant rock Clark tribesmen faltered, and the dust covering them slowed.


    Time seemed to freeze at that moment...


    "Stop!"


    High above, although there were only a few of them, the druid masters atop the mountain-like stone heads of the giant rock tribe changed color, even... their high priest!


    Druids, who take strength as their surname, resembled mythical beasts more than humans, inheriting their powers through bloodlines and passing down their magic in the same way.


    By inscribing magic into their bodies with beast blood, they could cast spells instantly, faster than cultivators.


    The high priest of the giant rock tribe, named Cynthia, held a staff, an old woman herself.


    When she saw the Primordial Blood Tree suddenly grow to a hundred meters, even from ten miles away, it was still dazzling.


    She felt an inexplicable crisis and ordered everyone to stop.


    But no one in the giant rock Clark tribe intervened or questioned her authority.


    It wasn''t about Cynthia''s dignity.


    The moment the Blackwood clan appeared, they felt an overwhelming murderous aura!


    Cynthia held two turtle shells engraved with inscriptions, chanting spells as the shells glowed in mid-air, her face turning pale.


    "High Priest, what''s wrong?"


    The chieftain beside her, wearing a necklace of beast bones, changed his expression.


    He had never seen the high priest so pale; he could feel the terror hidden in the town they had destroyed along their journey.


    Cynthia took a deep breath, "The divination is slightly ominous, heavy casualties."


    "What?!!"


    All the chieftains were shocked.


    They had never imagined that attacking a town could result in such an ominous sign.


    Cynthia gestured to the chieftain who had just spoken.


    As he approached her, resigned to his fate and with a hint of honor, she stabbed him in the throat with a dagger.


    Blood flowed, running up the turtle shell.


    All the druids took it as usual.


    Cynthia''s gaze was vacant as she muttered, "The divination..."


    "Great misfortune!"


    "What?!!"


    All the chiefs looked towards the now quiet Gratitude Village, where the mysterious Blood Tree grew more vivid and dazzling by the moment.


    It seemed as if the sky above their clan was pressing down, about to collapse, overwhelming them with its immense pressure!


    "How can this be, Great Shaman? It was only a minor misfortune before, how could it now..."


    "Let''s retreat, Great Shaman!"


    "It''s just a small town, the Bloodline Family... how could they pose such a great threat to us?!!"


    The chiefs murmured in fear.


    But Cynthia paid no heed to any of the chiefs.


    She withdrew the turtle shell from the sky and, under the astonished eyes of the chiefs, crushed it into powder. She spoke lightly, "Great misfortune, that''s all. I have found a way to break it. Order our people to prepare for battle. We will win this fight."


    With that said,


    Cynthia summoned a giant eagle and, under the puzzled looks of her tribe, headed towards the small town.


    She looked up at the sky.


    The sky, once obscured by dust brought by her people, was now clear.


    The closer she got to Blackwood,


    the fresher the air felt, and she greedily breathed it in, memorizing all the beautiful colors of the world.


    Then, outside Gratitude Village, near the Nathan family, she stopped.


    She saw it.


    Inside the small town, under the huge tree canopy, the humans were fiercer than any they had encountered on their journey. They were fearless, unafraid of death!


    Their will caused the energy of the entire Gratitude Village to surge, even breaking through the clouds!


    And the source of it all...


    was the man in front of her, looking like a simple farmer.


    No.


    Or rather, it came from a family.


    The Psychic Position beside them shone brightly, their faith more devout than the Druids'' worship of nature!


    As she approached, the sword energy locked onto her, and a pair of enchanting fox eyes stared at her from above the clouds. She could even sense the spirits in the coffin under the farmer''s feet, ready to tear at her flesh.


    They were merely Developing Skill!


    "Friends of Blackwood, I..."


    Cynthia tried to maintain a friendly smile.


    But before she could finish, Luna, nestled in Nathan''s arms, softly said, "Your name is Cynthia?"


    "...Yes."


    Cynthia''s smile froze.


    Luna was as gentle as ever, it was better for her to speak since the visitor was a woman, "Say nothing, we of Blackwood do not beg for mercy. Cloudview County is our land. Whether you are invaders or what kind of race your Giant Rock tribe might be, it doesn''t concern us, nor should you worry about what kind of family we Blackwoods are."


    "Prepare your people, today..."


    "Blood will stain Azure Cloud."


    Cynthia turned around. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She felt like she had swallowed a bitter pill. What made Blackwood beg for mercy?


    She wanted to say they just wanted to pass through Blackwood, they wanted to be friends with Blackwood, they no longer desired Blackwood''s land, nor to uncover its secrets!


    But...


    Behind her, Nathan, hearing his wife''s words, was extremely pleased. He looked back at the old friends of Gratitude Village.


    "Everyone, did you hear that?"


    Just like when he used to walk through Gratitude Village, leading the villagers into the Silver Iron Forest for hunting, he said casually, "My wife has spoken, don''t bother about who they are! These scoundrels have come knocking at our door, now what should we do?"


    Memories of the past were awakening!

 Chapter 207 - 207: Will lead my people to thrive against all odds!

    The former village chief, leaning on his cane, slowly made his way to the center of the street.


    His face was wrinkled and darkened with age, yet flushed with a rosy tint.


    His eyes were red with fervor as he exclaimed, "To hell with the foreigners! Great lord, this old man can still wield a knife!"


    "Hey, young man, hand me the knife on your back!"


    The young man called upon grimaced, reluctantly pulling the knife from behind and handing it to the old village chief.


    "Chief, this knife... my wife scrimped and saved to buy it for me. It''s even a low-grade ability weapon. Please remember to return it to me."


    "Look at you, always pinching pennies!"


    The people of Gratitude Village burst into laughter, watching the young man and the old village chief who had thrown away his cane and now held the knife high.


    At this moment, the chief''s legs trembled, but his spine was straighter than ever, his gaze firm as if he had rediscovered something he had lost.


    "Great lord, I truly can still wield a knife!"


    The laughter in Gratitude Village stopped abruptly.


    They had been afraid when the giant rock tribe of Clark approached, but now, they were fearless!


    The people of Blackwood had returned, and the aged village chief of Gratitude Village raised his knife high.


    They too... S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Could do the same!


    Nathan took a deep breath, his memories also being awakened.


    He was still the hope of the entire village, the same man who had led Gratitude Village forward.


    He turned his face, looking into the distance.


    The giant rock tribe, tens of thousands strong, their presence overwhelming, certainly more powerful than Gratitude Village at the moment.


    But...


    "What are we waiting for?!!"


    As his words fell,


    Everyone in Gratitude Village laughed heartily and charged out of the small town, fearless!


    "Blackwood!"


    This surname shone so brightly in the skies of Cloudview County!


    Everyone could see the name emerging from the direction of Gratitude Village.


    In Duke''s Mansion,


    Michael stood on the rooftop, looking up at the family name that seemed to press down on the entire Cloudview County.


    "Father, there are too many refugees!"


    Kenneth was anxious. After the druid invasion, refugees had nearly filled the entire county, driving him to despair. Yet his father did not take charge of the situation, his gaze also drifting to the sky.


    "It''s Blackwood. They''ve secretly brought Betty back, and now the giant rock tribe of Clark is invading Blackwood."


    Kenneth clenched his teeth, "Dad, even if we don''t send aid, we have to bring Betty back!"


    Michael remained unmoved.


    He took a deep breath, "Go attend to your duties. The giant rock tribe can''t breach Blackwood. They are invading, but the people of Blackwood... they''re just going home."


    "Going home?"


    Kenneth paused, then spoke no more.


    Michael looked towards that direction, remembering the day three wolves walked out of Duke''s Mansion. He knew very well just how fierce the beasts of Blackwood were.


    His eyes held a trace of respect.


    No matter his schemes, no matter his past actions, it did not diminish his awe of this family.


    The name of the Blackwood family appeared in the skies over Cloudview County.


    Sky Sect, Black Tortoise, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate... all the powerful forces in Cloudview County opened their eyes wide at this moment.


    They all took a step forward in unison!


    In front of Jiuyou Daoist of the Sky Sect stood a druid priest, heading towards Blackwood.


    "Move aside!"


    Jiuyou Daoist remained unmoved, a space behind him appearing like the depths of hell as he smiled, "Are those from the giant rock tribe of Clark heading to Blackwood? It seems they''ve chosen the worst possible place in all of Cloudview County."


    The priest furrowed his brows, "What do you mean?"


    He had already received a message from Cynthia. It wasn''t a call for help. It was a farewell letter!


    Cynthia said that the divinations before reaching Blackwood were auspicious, but upon arrival, they turned slightly ominous. With the appearance of the Blackwood people, the signs became extremely ominous, and when Cynthia turned around, the divination predicted a natural disaster!


    There was no solution, whether begging for mercy or retreating, only death awaited. Cynthia''s only option now was to fight desperately.


    The priest couldn''t understand how, with the strength of the giant rock tribe and druids from all directions, they could be pushed to such a state by a single power, even if that power was the notorious blood-stained family of Cloudview County!


    Jiuyou Daoist grinned, "It means nothing to you, as you surely don''t understand the fear we felt in Cloudview County years ago, nor do you know how the major powers here have lived in fear and unease for decades."


    He laughed, "Honestly, when I heard you were invading, I actually felt relieved."


    "Relieved?" The priest looked uneasy.


    "Yes," Jiuyou Daoist mocked, "Now, Cloudview County is full of my friends, and we are invincible here. Because the ones blocking Blackwood''s path now... are you."


    The name of the family was rapidly expanding in the sky, spreading across the entire Cloudview County, causing all the powerful psychics of the county to laugh.


    These druids from the Endless Forest didn''t know the fear that Blackwood had once brought them, especially the giant rock tribe of Clark. They were like brutes crossing a river, charging into the most ferocious family.


    And the psychics of Cloudview County just needed to watch quietly, blocking all the priests heading for support. They were sure to profit! They could gain the friendship of Blackwood. Their fear hadn''t disappeared; it would transfer to these foolish druids!


    "Clansmen, I see the signs!"


    "This war requires you to throw your heads and shed your blood. I see my clansmen fearless, I see you charging forward!"


    "Do not fear pain, do not fear death."


    "Our descendants will flourish on this land, the totem of the giant rock tribe of Clark will stand in every corner of this land, the druids will have our legends, our descendants will be proud of us."


    "Now..."


    "Fight fiercely, fight for the future of our clan!"


    Outside Blackwood, Cynthia raised her staff high, her silhouette magnifying infinitely in front of the giant rock tribe.


    She shouted, her voice thundering through the heavens, "Attack!"


    Hearing Cynthia''s words, the people of the giant rock tribe looked at the humans charging out of the small town, their eyes red with madness.


    At this moment, they were fearless!


    In their minds, they envisioned the future Cynthia had painted for them, a land with high mountains, their people being born one after another, their tribe''s name renowned far and wide.


    Such a future was worth their lives!


    Watching her people charge madly, Cynthia narrowed her eyes, her gaze resolute, "If the future is unseen, then I..."


    "Will lead my people to thrive against all odds!"

 Chapter 208 - 208: Smash these... broken stones!

    "Charge!"


    The battle cry echoed.


    In Gratitude Village, both sides launched their most frenzied, fearless charges!


    The mighty Clark clan fought for a future blueprint.


    The people of Gratitude Village, following the return of the Blackwood youth, stood with the elders of Blackwood to fend off all invaders and protect their homeland!


    Enemies could come from all directions.


    The villagers saw those immense figures; they were so tiny in front of them.


    To both sides, they seemed like a mere wisp of smoke, about to be engulfed by the towering dust storms of the Clark''s supernatural powers.


    Yet, they charged on.


    Their eyes were red.


    Slowly bowing their heads, there it was...


    Countless roots, breaking through the soil, sprouting in front of them, lifting them up, and sweeping everything in their path!


    It was the Blackwood Sacred Tree!


    Suddenly.


    Two figures descended from the sky, standing in the center of the battlefield!


    They surveyed the enemies coming from all directions, and the citizens of Gratitude Village lifted high by the Primordial Blood Tree, their gazes icy!


    "Sixteen thousand druids, each one a Psychic, a million Stone beasts, what a force!"


    Armored Mary, now truly a general of the battlefield, held her spear with a fiery glow in her eyes, the phantom of four demon kings appearing behind her, her Developing Skill stirring up the dust as she charged to the forefront, her heroic spirit fierce, rushing towards the countless incoming foes.


    "Larry, let''s see if their Stone beasts are stronger, or the beasts we''ve tamed over the years are more ferocious!"


    "Yes!"


    Larry, sitting atop the crocodile demon king, took out a horn and blew it!


    "Woo!!!"


    Instantly, the silver iron behind Blackwood began to shake violently, beasts burst from the forest, charging towards the area swarming with Stone beasts!


    "It''s the beasts, so many beasts!"


    The citizens of Gratitude Village watched in amazement as they were engulfed by shadows, surrounded by beasts leaping out crazily!


    They roared, sweeping through all directions, more numerous than the Stone beasts.


    Then...


    "Ha ha ha!"


    A robust voice boomed from the sky!


    Mary had just shattered a ten-meter-tall stone figure with her spear, a smile of joy on her face because of that voice!


    "Boom!"


    A fierce blast of air swept up from beside her, a massive hammer fell from the sky, clearing all enemies in front of her, repelling a druid Developing Skill.


    A towering figure, bare-chested, appeared before Mary.


    His bald head gleamed, that rough and bold voice so familiar to Mary''s ears, "Wife, I haven''t even arrived, and you''re already charging forward, so disobedient, tonight I''m going to spank you!"


    Mary glared. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Her anger mixed with a hint of shyness not felt in a long time.


    Then, in the center of the battlefield, Julian swung his right hand fiercely, his eyes fixed on the druids who were pushed back by his psychic powers and charging again, he admired, truly admired the spirit of this tribe.


    Unfortunately...


    "Mary, look at what I''ve saved over the years!"


    In front of him.


    Rows of psychic puppets, each one a high-grade, even... seventh-grade, numbering in the thousands, the newly upgraded thirty-meter-tall war AI Bionic Robots gleamed silver!


    Julian''s silver left arm, too, was writhing, the metal turning to liquid, enveloping him, gradually transforming him into a ten-meter giant.


    He watched a five-meter spider charge at him, again grasping the hammer he could barely hold, smashing the Stone beast to pieces, his robust voice booming again!


    "Smash these... broken stones!"


    As he began his charge.


    The rows of psychic puppets, like him, covered in metallic liquid, grew larger and crazily charged into the battlefield, overwhelming the druids in front of them!


    As Julian charged forward, a twitch appeared at the corner of his mouth. His voice, soft and almost imperceptible on the battlefield, carried a memory he would never forget, even in death.


    "Little brother, are these your pathetic toys?"


    How familiar that insult was!


    Suddenly, Julian felt a strange mix of emotions; his sister scolded him, and he almost wanted to cry. "Big sis... have you recovered?"


    He looked up into the sky.


    There, a gentle light cascaded down like a waterfall from the sky to the ground!


    Amelia no longer wore a mask.


    Her appearance was still rough and dirty, her arms open wide, her gentle psychic powers rippling out from her like waves, the soft green light starkly contrasting with the roots pouring down behind her.


    Those roots mercilessly hit the ground, forming spikes that swept through the area like a torrent!


    Amelia looked towards Julian, now transformed into a metallic psychic puppet, a smile playing on her lips. "I heard you were crying?"


    Julian glared back, remembering the anger he felt when his sister had sacrificed her lifespan during his forging process. He gritted his teeth and retorted, "No, I was forging; that was sweat on my forehead!"


    "Big sis, uncle, why didn''t you wait for me?"


    A calm voice came from the sky.


    Both siblings looked up, frowning.


    Not just them, everyone on the battlefield looked up.


    The entire battlefield was overshadowed by...


    A fleet of ability vessels!


    An old man with white hair sat in a golden chair, leaning on the armrest, his face wearing a confident and proud smile, making him stand out even against the massive fleet of ability vessels behind him.


    "Daniel, have you been feeling quite unique lately?"


    Far away, standing on a flying sword, Lucas spoke without moving, his voice carrying through the wind.


    This seemingly old man, under the youthful voice of Lucas, trembled all over, no longer daring to lean back. He tightened his legs, straightened his back, and placed his hands on his thighs, his eyes visibly clearer.


    "Dad, I was wrong."


    ...


    "Clansmen, attack!"


    Cynthia was roaring, but what she told her people was a lie!


    As a Druid Priestess, she was supposed to be protected by the natural order of heaven, using turtle shells to divine good and bad omens. Whether to flee or attack, the turtle shells showed only a slim chance of survival!


    Now.


    She had only one path left, the so-called burning of the boats. By showing her people hope, she could carve out a slim chance of survival!


    Moreover...


    Her mighty Clark clan was not without its last resort. Even in the face of destruction, she was determined to make Blackwood pay a heavy price!


    ...

 Chapter 209 - 209: Eliminate all these damned invaders!

    In front of the screen, Ethan watched everything unfold with a calm demeanor. Around him were the remnants of the last Forebearer Communion¡ªlarge chunks of thigh meat sent by his descendants. He fiercely tore into the succulent feast, savoring each bite.


    The Druids were known for their abundance of Stone beasts.


    [Stone beast]


    [Born from the giant rocks of the Endless Forest, these unique creatures absorb mystical energies from the environment, gaining protection from the mountains and sharing a symbiotic relationship with the Clark clan of the giant rocks, summoned by the bloodline of the Clark people!]


    At that moment, both sides were charging!


    On the screen, the Stone beasts approached in an arc formation. Initially, Gratitude Village seemed tiny, but everything changed when Mary appeared.


    The beasts formed an overwhelming number, until Julian arrived. Though few in number, his steel-formed psychic puppets were the most formidable warriors on the battlefield, weaving through the chaos!


    Daniel''s arrival marked the true beginning of despair for the Clark clan.


    A total of one hundred massive Psychic Gear-class ability vessels appeared in the sky, casting shadows over the entire area!


    The Thunderfire Demon Cave''s sorcerers and the Demon Hunters Alliance''s righteous fighters.


    They rode flying swords, descending from the ability vessels like raindrops, striking the ground. With their vast combat experience, they took lives before the Clark people could even scream in surprise.


    And on that map.


    The descendants of Blackwood were still approaching.


    Ethan casually moved his mouse. As a Forebearer, his heart remained undisturbed; he was used to the struggles of his people and had to remain calm, controlling the situation just like Olivia.


    The phone rang. Ethan glanced at it; it was his teacher''s sister, something Orion, who had called several times already. He couldn''t ignore it any longer.


    Ethan kept his eyes on the screen, multitasking, "Hello, this is Ethan."


    In the game, Lucas''s sword energy surged once again!


    The voice on the phone was clear even in the room.


    "I''ve heard from my brother that you have great potential, worthy of our psychic evaluation team''s training, so you''re expected tomorrow." S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The woman''s voice was gentle, "I don''t know how you convinced my brother, but let me be upfront, many people wish to join the psychic evaluation team, and there are countless with strong abilities. You''re also the youngest. I hope you can commit more effort..."


    She hadn''t finished speaking.


    Ethan was still focused on the screen, nodding slightly, "I know, I''m a genius, and you''ll need to use all your resources to support me. Is it next year that I join the psychic evaluation team? Just send all the resources to my house, much appreciated."


    In the game, the forces collided, blurring the lines between friend and foe!


    "Do you want to hear what''s being said..."


    "Right, I''ve heard everything, thanks, Aunt Joshua. Is there a relic you''re sending me? Even my teacher isn''t this generous."


    He clicked on Nathan''s avatar, and he disappeared in a flash.


    Gary was released, now fighting alongside Priestess Cynthia!


    "I''m saying you''re crazy..."


    "Yes, a breeze has blown into my house, I need to close the door, or Lisa will be blown away."


    Ethan calmly hung up the phone and turned off the computer.


    In the game, it seemed the opposition had brought out a secret weapon!


    He had heard everything!


    He stared intently at the screen, his demeanor cool. Teacher''s sister Orion had mentioned, to celebrate his joining as a genius, a presidential-level banquet was being planned, and he was to be made the head of the psychic evaluation team!


    But now.


    What Joshua, what psychic evaluation team, none of that mattered.


    His mental state was excellent, just like the descendants'' at this moment.


    Watching his people struggle, Ethan took a deep breath and clicked the mouse.


    [Activate skill¡ªFight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Entering the game world!]


    Ethan sat up straight, his eyes rolling back.


    His consciousness became clearer, his focus sharper than ever!


    ...


    "Hello? Why did you hang up?"


    "The number you have dialed is switched off, please try again later."


    "The number you have dialed..."


    Inside the pristine laboratory of the Psychic Evaluation Research Institute, various objects were scattered around.


    A statue of a man carrying a coffin.


    A sword cultivator sculpture... still blood-stained dagger fragments of an ability weapon... and even a psychic coffin sealed with talisman papers...


    Orion, wearing glasses, sat by the research table, staring at the old phone in her hand, her eyebrows furrowed in anger. After a long pause, she took a deep breath and dialed the phone.


    "Hey, sis, the student I introduced to you, he''s pretty good, right?"


    "..."


    Orion pondered for a moment, "Brother, have you changed jobs recently?"


    "Ah? How did you know? I''m now acting as the principal."


    "I''m asking if you''re working at a mental hospital?"


    "Ah? What happened?"


    [You have entered the game world.]


    [Countdown...]


    Blackwood''s stronghold.


    Gunsmoke rose everywhere, the sounds of weapons clashing and psychic powers colliding filled the air, along with shouts of battle!


    In this massive battle involving millions, everyone from Blackwood charged forward, sometimes unable to distinguish whether those around them were friends or foes. They had to be constantly vigilant.


    Each person relied on years of experience to choose where they were most needed in battle, to select their opponents!


    They didn''t even know how many casualties Gratitude Village had suffered, or if any enemies remained.


    All they knew was that every Stone beast had to die.


    They fought their way to the enemy''s rear until no one was left!


    At that moment.


    All the descendants of Blackwood paused, the Psychic Position in their chests stirred, floating up before their eyes.


    "Forebearer, the Forebearer has shown his powers!"


    Nathan looked at the shimmering Psychic Position on his chest!


    That Psychic Position, so dazzling on the battlefield, floated towards the center of the battlefield.


    Then, from all directions, Psychic Positions converged in the center until the Psychic Position expanded, forming a huge, semi-transparent figure of a Psychic Position!


    All the descendants of Blackwood looked up.


    They were frenzied, reverent!


    Until.


    A familiar black mist appeared in front of the Psychic Position, a long spear shining with silver light on the battlefield, a yin-yang fish pattern spreading, covering the entire battlefield!


    The Forebearer, shrouded in black mist, held a celestial spear that subdued psychic powers, standing on the yin-yang fish pattern!


    Then.


    Beside the Forebearer, a steel dragon appeared, roaring in front of the Forebearer!


    "That is..."


    Lucas''s eyes widened, then filled with indescribable joy. He felt a formidable power from the dragon beside the Forebearer, a power he had never felt even when facing Priestess Cynthia!


    "A truly powerful AI Bionic Robot!"


    Julian trembled all over. The war AI Bionic Robot was something he had always dreamed of creating, and now, that steel dragon excited him as if he had found a new dream!


    "Forebearer..."


    Nathan raised the Death Coffin, shouting across the battlefield, "My children, the Forebearer has shown his powers, he is fighting with us, defending our family with us!"


    "Kill!"


    "Eliminate all these damned invaders!"


    "The Forebearer in the sky has powers!"


    At this moment.


    All the descendants of Blackwood went mad. The last time the Forebearer appeared at Sky Sect, they had no power, they could only watch.


    But now.


    They had enough strength to stand beside the Forebearer, to fight for the Forebearer!


    ...

 Chapter 210 - 210:

    The cries of the descendants echoed in the air.


    Ethan''s gaze was fixed on the distance.


    There, the ritual site of Cynthia, Gary''s black mist, and her adept stone spikes clashed wildly.


    A translucent screen appeared before him.


    [You have activated the Intermediate AI Bionic Robot, Azure Dragon!]


    [Azure Dragon has been activated, please issue the original command to Azure Dragon!]


    Beside Ethan, the eyes of the Azure Dragon were cloudy. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Command?"


    As the Azure Dragon roared, this was the ''Elder''s Gift'' Ethan received after stepping out of his house and rekindling his friendship with Grandma Quinn!


    It was also one of the reasons he had last left his home.


    A mid-level war AI Bionic Robot personally crafted by Grandma Quinn!


    Ethan''s gaze shifted to the totems controlled by several chiefs, who were using druidic rituals and powerful spells. Ethan could feel that once these spells were activated, they would definitely bring danger to Blackwood.


    "Heaven and Earth!"


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal moved instantly, and the chiefs looked on in terror at the covered Twin Fish Harmony Seal.


    The man of the black mist had already appeared before them, and the Celestial Pole Energy Spear skewered two Developing Skill chiefs in one thrust!


    Ethan''s hoarse voice rose between heaven and earth.


    "From today, this place shall be a land of life, and any enemy who comes before Blackwood shall be annihilated!"


    "Roar!"


    The Azure Dragon roared, its eyes beginning to shine, and with its steel teeth wide open, it crushed the totem in one bite.


    [You have issued Command One: Protect Blackwood!]


    His voice, along with the roar of the dragon, was clear on the battlefield!


    The descendants of Blackwood were resolute in their hearts.


    They shouted along with Ethan, fighting the enemy with increased vigor!


    In a flash.


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal moved again, and Ethan appeared a hundred meters above the head of a Stone beast.


    The Celestial Pole Energy Spear plunged from the sky, and his black mist soared into the heavens!


    "Heaven and Earth''s Five Elements!"


    The power of the Five Elements descended from the sky, landing on the Celestial Pole Energy Spear, causing the hundred-meter Stone beast to shatter inch by inch.


    "Any enemy of Blackwood shall perish, fearless across thousands of miles, no distance too far from the ends of the earth!"


    The giant eyes of the Azure Dragon grew brighter.


    It looked towards Cynthia, the ritualist!


    [Command Two: Fight for Blackwood, eradicate all enemies.]


    All descendants of Blackwood looked towards their Forebearer.


    Looking at the Azure Dragon.


    They were the most dazzling presence on the battlefield.


    In this moment.


    Their Forebearer, along with the Azure Dragon, nearly broke through the entire battlefield, and wherever they went, they eliminated all the Druidic trump cards.


    Druidic totems, Competent Force Stone beasts, and the grand druidic spell formations...


    The Forebearer''s arrival was brief.


    But he had nearly cleared the clan of all threats from the Druids.


    On this day.


    Everyone saw the terrifying presence of Blackwood, realizing that the truly powerful madman of Blackwood had always been hidden in the shadows.


    He was a war god enveloped in black mist, coming without a shadow, leaving without a trace.


    Until he disappeared.


    Leaving only the roaring dragon in his place.


    And the frenzied roars of the people of Blackwood!


    "Strictly obey the Forebearer''s command!"


    "Annihilate all enemies who come, kill!"


    "Forebearer''s divine might is invincible!"


    Despair crept up on her, and fear in her mind was like ants emerging from their nest, biting so fiercely that her soul ached.


    "No... it shouldn''t be like this."


    Cynthia shook her head, hoping everything she saw was just an illusion.


    She was ready for a desperate counterattack.


    Even as troops from Blackwood approached, she hadn''t given up on finding a way to survive from a hopeless situation.


    But everything changed when the Forebearer of Blackwood appeared.


    The Druids had many tricks up their sleeves, each capable of costing Blackwood dearly.


    But that man shrouded in black mist seemed all-knowing and all-powerful.


    The moment he appeared, he had already destroyed the Druidic totems used for their grand formations, killed the peak-level Stone beast she had prepared to detonate among the crowds, and ruined the secret Druidic sacrificial circle she had set up...


    Then...


    The Clark Tribe had no chance to escape.


    "Kill!"


    Outside the battlefield, zombies and flying corpses released from Nathan''s Death Coffin blocked all escape routes for the Clark Tribe.


    "Our children have also arrived!"


    "Elders, please appear and lend your strength to Blackwood!"


    "Jones''s forces, engage! Leave no Druids behind, avoid friendly fire."


    "..."


    More and more people from Blackwood arrived, and the reinforcements they brought were increasingly formidable.


    The once mighty army of the Clark Tribe was crushed and scattered; she had no more cards to play.


    ...


    Half a day later.


    Cynthia knelt on the battlefield, her surroundings riddled with devastation. The priestess of the Clark Tribe stared blankly, weakly propping herself up with her hands on the ground.


    The Azure Dragon still roamed and roared in the sky.


    Beside her, Gary and the Lord of Frenzied Blood were restraining her, with Nathan, the head of the Blackwood family, in front!


    The strange beasts and powerful allies of Blackwood were clearing the remnants on the battlefield.


    She seemed to hear the Clark Tribe''s people questioning her.


    "Priestess, why did you bring us to this cursed place?"


    "You promised we would thrive here... no, it wasn''t supposed to be like this!"


    "Priestess, you lied to us..."


    "..."


    The cold wind of the battlefield swept through, leaving Cynthia''s hair in disarray.


    The small town that initially seemed insignificant still stood unyielded, while the mighty army of the Clark Tribe lay shattered on the ground.


    Members of the Blackwood family gathered in front of Cynthia.


    They looked down at her as she knelt in defeat.


    Nathan and his wife stood at the forefront.


    The second generation of Blackwoods, four in number, chatted and laughed as if the battle was of no consequence to them.


    The third generation, nine strong, remained the most silent. The seven demons stood quietly, while brothers Marcus and Daniel exchanged a smile, their eyes reflecting the scars of years gone by.


    The fourth generation children played in the back.


    George seemed to be scolding William, then moved on to berate each of his siblings, causing them to bow their heads in pain.


    The six children of the fifth generation couldn''t believe how powerful their family was.


    Even after the battle, they stared at their elders in awe, as if to say, "You old folks, always so humble, just how many tricks do you still have up your sleeves?"


    Joseph from the sixth generation stood alone on the city wall.


    He touched his nose, a pained expression on his face, watching his dumbfounded elders.


    "I thought our family was weak and poor."


    "It turns out it was my parents who were weak and poor!"


    "I thought I was coming back to a life of poverty, but our family''s power keeps growing. The phrase ''blessed by our ancestors'' is almost suffocating me!"


    This time.


    The Blackwoods gathered together, not just returning home, but for the first time in nearly a century, all members were back!


    They no longer hid; they brought all their power with them.


    Just like the family crest still shining brightly over Cloudview County.


    They were telling everyone in Cloudview County.


    The Blackwoods were the true rulers of Cloudview County, no other power could compare. The exotic blood now flowing through Cloudview County from the Blackwoods was the best proof!


    "It can''t be, it can''t be!"


    Cynthia shook her head, still in disbelief at everything she was seeing.


    Nathan heard her, slowly crouched down, and grabbed Cynthia''s hair, looking at this disheveled priestess with a mocking expression.


    "Nothing is impossible. You are invaders, and we..."


    "We just happened to be on our way home and stumbled upon you, a stepping stone that was just a bit too hard."

 Chapter 211 - 211: Azure Cloud War Clan

    As the war came to an end, the giant family name that dominated the sky in the game vanished.


    The red snow from the battle around the Primordial Blood Tree settled, and the forces brought by the Blackwoods cleaned up the battlefield before setting up camp outside of Blackwood territory.


    Inside the family shrine, all the descendants of the Blackwoods gathered, turning their attention towards Ethan Forebearer Communion.


    Ethan was all smiles.


    This time, he and his descendants had fought together, and his children had proven they could stand on their own.


    He hardly needed to use the version 3.0 of the Forebearer Psychic Position to rescue his descendants anymore.


    The descendants'' admiration for the Forebearer hadn''t faded over time; instead, it had grown into a fervent reverence, making them the most devout ''Forebearer People'' in the game world. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Your family has completed a special event¡ªThe Coveting of the Clark Tribe!]


    [Your descendants have gathered together and completely eradicated the Clark Tribe, bringing a powerful aid to your family, the ''Mid-Level War AI Bionic Robot¡¤Azure Dragon''. Seeing your divine presence, they unanimously regard you as the most charming Forebearer in the world.]


    [You have received a Spiritual Tribute value: 100000!]


    "What a charming Forebearer? This is what I, as a Forebearer, should do, haha," Ethan laughed proudly.


    [Your family has obtained spoils of war.]


    [+1 barely alive Competent Force priest]


    [A large number of druid bodies.]


    [Souls of stone beasts and more...]


    The spoils of war nearly filled the entire Blackwood courtyard, ensuring that Nathan would have the company of tens of thousands of druids even in his coffin.


    The Blackwoods were all smiles, shining brightly in the battle and gaining recognition from each other.


    Even William, who had previously been locked in the dungeon, received Nathan''s approval to openly participate in the Forebearer Communion and was acknowledged by Olivia, which made him so happy that he climbed onto the roof of the Forebearer shrine.


    During this Forebearer Communion, everyone shared their experiences since leaving home, filling the room with emotions of joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness.


    For the first time, Ethan truly felt the joy of having his descendants around him.


    He gave each person a dose of the version 3.0 ''Forebearer''s Love''.


    [Would you like to upgrade ''Forebearer''s Warmth''?]


    [Your skill will now be able to mildly heal advanced skill masters, moderately heal those with emerging abilities or lower within a psychic range. Group coverage within ten meters, effectiveness reduced by 50%!]


    [Costs 20000 Spiritual Tribute points!]


    "Has this skill turned into group healing?" Ethan''s face lit up with joy, and he didn''t hesitate to click yes.


    [Your skill ''Forebearer''s Warmth'' has been upgraded to¡ªAncestor''s Caress!]


    [Each use costs 2000 Spiritual Tribute points]


    [Using the skill ''Ancestor''s Caress'', choosing group coverage!]


    Suddenly, a phantom appeared in the hall.


    He floated gently in front of the hall, nodding with a kind smile while extending his aged palm, passing it over the heads of his descendants.


    "The Forebearer is showing his powers!"


    "It feels so good; my injuries from the battlefield are healing."


    "...."


    Until the dawn of the next day, the flying snow had cleared, and the sun shone brightly.


    Everything happened just as the Primordial Blood Tree had foretold; enemies approached from all directions, the Blackwood descendants shouted and charged, and finally, all the children returned home.


    In the end, only the first and second generation members remained.


    "Forebearer," Nathan said with a grave expression, "I and the children have together wiped out the giant rock Clark tribe. Should we continue to fight, or should we rest and recuperate? Please give your command, Forebearer!"


    Hearing this, Ethan seemed momentarily lost in thought, as if transported back a hundred years.


    Back then, it was the same¡ªchildren of the first and second generations gathered, seeking guidance from the elder.


    His expression grew solemn as he pondered for a long time.


    "It''s simply not possible to go out and fight now. After this battle, they are surely prepared. With the major powers of Cloudview County watching over each other, and the druids wary of making a move, we must look for opportunities."


    Thinking of the straightforward advice from the Thunderfire Raging Python, he quickly typed many words on the keyboard.


    Then, the huge python head emerged from behind the Forebearer Psychic Position, recalling the last time it relayed information to its master, it seemed both the master and Olivia had the urge to strike it.


    It then used a tone previously used by the two, deep and steady, "Wait and see!"


    "..."


    Ethan''s mouse silently moved over the skill icon, tempted to descend once again.


    Unexpectedly, Nathan nodded excitedly, "Forebearer, I understand!"


    "This great battle, no one knows how the giant rock Clark tribe was annihilated. Olivia''s celestial tribulation intercepted all the high-level Competent Force scouts. By not making a move, we pose the greatest threat!"


    "Moreover, I have received intelligence that the druids have become much more cautious, guarding against our attacks."


    "Now we should wait for an opportunity. We have brought back various resources, and we still have powerful forces. With enough time, our family will become an impregnable fortress!"


    With these words, everyone in the family nodded slightly.


    After a long while, Ethan stiffly typed on the keyboard, "Good."


    This time, the Thunderfire Raging Python accurately relayed Ethan''s words.


    A popup appeared before Ethan.


    [In this great battle, your family has gained a lot of prestige. The powers and civilians of Cloudview County will all know of the Blackwood''s feat of annihilating an entire druid tribe with the strength of one family.]


    [Congratulations, your family trait ''Bloodstained Clan'' has evolved into¡ªAzure Cloud War Clan!]


    [Your clan has become the most valorous in Azure Cloud, a family of iron and steel. Your prestige in Cloudview County has increased by 100%, and your combat power in Cloudview County battles has increased by 15%, with partial blessings of Cloudview County''s destiny.]


    [Your family is on its way to becoming a Competent Force clan, please continue your efforts.]


    "Azure Cloud War Clan, prestigious percentage bonuses!"

 Chapter 212 - 212: Spoiled brat

    "Blue Sky Warriors!"


    Ethan always enjoyed such a high success rate, but he still hadn''t quite figured out how luck played into it.


    Soon, the Forebearer Communion at the shrine concluded, and Ralph, a descendant of the Blackwood family, threw a grand feast, inviting everyone from Gratitude Village and friends who had helped out to dine.


    Gratitude Village was brightly lit, with psychic lamps hanging high.


    After the war, the townspeople shed their formalities and simply sat on the ground, gnawing on roasted exotic meats brought by the giant rock Clark clan, sharing wine and dividing the spoils of war.


    The demon cultivators from Thunderfire Demon Cave, along with the exotic beasts brought by the Blackwoods, were the happiest, feasting on the bodies of druids, much to the annoyance of the self-proclaimed righteous Psychics who fiddled with broken totems and bones.


    The Blackwoods gathered together, cherishing this rare reunion and chatting about the happy times over the years.


    Ethan cherished this scene too, not hastening the flow of time.


    "Those kids from the Blue Sky Martial Pavilion went on a rampage, and guess what? I was there too! I tell you, after those geniuses left, I sneaked up one by one. Dare to bully my nephews and nieces? Hmph..."


    William, who couldn''t hold his liquor, stood with one foot on a chair and the other on the table, his face flushed as he boasted, oblivious to the dark looks from his relatives.


    Then.


    "Wuu wuu wuu~"


    Generations sat at separate tables, with William tied to a post and gagged.


    "Don''t mind him, he''s just a lost cause!"


    George looked annoyed, but he was actually worried his brother might be kicked out of the house again, then boasted proudly, "I''m different, hehe, I''ve been digging every day for years, getting more skilled. Not just the Blue Sky Pavilion, but Sky Sect, Black Tortoise, Spectral Vision Sect... I''ve dealt with them all..."


    "Wuu wuu wuu~"


    At the post, one drunk, one sober, both tied up, exchanged a look of despair.


    The fourth generation sat upright, scared to speak of their own foolish acts outside, then looked at each other, realizing most were not exactly upstanding, and burst into laughter.


    They weren''t afraid anymore and continued to chat about everything under the sun.


    "Those damn kids!"


    Julian suddenly stood up, furious upon hearing that Justin, the rascal, had taken the younger ones to challenge the druids, and Jeffrey wanted to meet some druid beauties... such audacity, even more than him as a grandfather.


    But before he could speak, Amelia grabbed him, and his sister rolled her eyes at him, "What''s the rush? Let the kids have their fun, they''re smarter than you think."


    "Smarter than me? Impossible!"


    Julian, wide-eyed, looked around for support, but seeing no one cared, he turned to his wife, "Honey, say something."


    Mary, busy serving food, ignored her husband Julian.


    Julian turned to his older brother for a fair judgment, "Big brother..."


    "Yeah, yeah, you''re the smartest, okay?"


    Lucas forced a smile.


    Julian, touching his shiny bald head, seemed eager to prove his supreme intelligence.


    Nearby.


    The third generation of Blackwoods, though still marked with magic tattoos, had regained some of their simple demeanor under Olivia''s strict cultural teachings.


    Seeing their father proudly rubbing his bald head, they began whispering.


    "The old man thinks he''s smart, he can forget it, remember how he tricked us back then?"


    "Don''t remind me, he taught us how to approach women, and I ended up looking like a thug."


    "I''m so disappointed in our uncle and grandfather, we should beat him up like he used to beat us when we were kids."


    "Hehehe~"


    The old simpletons laughed, recalling some happy memories.


    "Cough cough."


    Marcus coughed lightly, interrupting the third generation of Blackwoods'' daydreaming, and looked at his brother, "Younger brother, why do you look older and older? Aren''t you in your Developing Skill phase anymore?"


    Everyone at the table looked at the oldest-looking member of the family.


    Upon hearing this.


    Daniel looked around cautiously, like a thief in the night, then covered his mouth with his hand and whispered, "I wouldn''t tell this to anyone else, but let me be honest with you, places like Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance are tough to navigate."


    "Those cultists and the so-called righteous folks, none of them are good. I found out that the older I looked, the whiter my hair, the more authority I seemed to have. Plus, I secretly moved around, observing the big shots for three whole years. It took me three years of practicing in front of a mirror to master their demeanor."


    "Wow," Daniel sighed, "to hold your own against such petty people, you need to be strong and have an imposing presence..."


    Marcus gave a thumbs up.


    He spoke from experience, "You''re right. When I was the leader of the Sky Sect, I felt it too. Without a strong presence, you''re always going to have troublemakers around. But once you show some backbone, even if you''re not as strong, they''ll back down."


    Listening to these two discuss their insights, the third generation of the Blackwood family grimaced.


    Thomas scoffed, "Big deal being a leader. It''s not like we haven''t dealt with that before."


    "Huh?"


    Two squinting eyes turned towards him, making Thomas''s legs go weak.


    The quietest of the group were the fifth-generation descendants and Joseph.


    They were notorious in the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, feared even by the younger generation under fifty. Now...


    "Amitabha."


    Hearing the elders talk about their past misdeeds, Charles and Christopher began reciting scriptures. They had spent a long time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave practicing both demonic and Buddhist teachings.


    Only now did they realize the extent of their elders'' pasts, which neither Buddha nor the demons would likely forgive.


    The other four sat up straight.


    Until they overheard the elders whispering among themselves.


    "We''re not leaving this time."


    "How boring will that be? But we have no choice, it''s all druids out there. Maybe we''ll go out and play with the druids occasionally."


    "Boring? We still have the younger generation, don''t we? Remember how tough our elders were on us? It''s time to get some payback."


    "Hehehe."


    Cold sweat trickled down as memories of their adventures with the elders came flooding back. These elders really played hard with their lives... none of them were normal.


    Then everyone''s gaze turned to Joseph, who was holding a disabled infant.


    At that moment, the child was still blissfully unaware.


    "Edward, what are you doing?" Betty asked, puzzled, as Edward suddenly stood up. They weren''t married yet.


    Edward gave Betty a reassuring smile.


    Then, with a determined look, he announced, "Elders, I have something important to say."


    "Hmm?"


    Everyone looked at the fifth-generation kids.


    Edward pointed at Joseph, "I think this young man has spent too much time at Duke''s Mansion. He''s become a spoiled brat, undisciplined and unteachable."


    "What?"


    Joseph looked bewilderedly at his father, who had just praised him the day before for his good qualities and potential. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As everyone watched, Donna also stood up, her expression serious, "Yes, I''ve heard he''s been bullying men and women in the county town. It''s our responsibility to properly train him."


    "I..." Joseph''s eyes widened in shock.


    He hadn''t done any of that!


    "Agreed!"


    Nicholas sat up straight and raised his hand.


    Matthew, who had just returned from a battle with his troops, added gravely, "We''ve discussed this already. We really can''t handle him; it''s best if the elders take over."


    "???"


    Joseph looked incredulously at his uncle, whom he had met for the first time today.


    Then, seeing the predatory look in the eyes of the older generation and the relieved expressions of his parents as they sat down, Joseph''s face fell into a look of utter despair.


    At that moment, he realized.


    ''Spoiled brat'' was their lie; probably his parents didn''t want him to endure the harsh training of psychic powers like they had twenty years ago, so they used him as a scapegoat.

 Chapter 213 - 213: Would truly stand at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud

    *Cough cough*, "I need to use the restroom."


    Joseph couldn''t bear the gaze of the elders anymore. He stood up, handed the baby in his arms to his mother, and realized explanations were futile; the elders seemed quite intrigued.


    Goodbye, my family. Today, I, Joseph, am setting off on a journey...


    "Where are you going?"


    Suddenly, the entire dining room fell silent. Joseph, who was preparing to leave home, froze as a hand landed on his shoulder.


    He slowly turned his head and caught sight of a hand shrouded in black mist on his shoulder.


    Looking back at the elders, everyone had a moment of stunned silence, followed by increasingly wide eyes, until they couldn''t contain their excitement and fervor.


    "Forebearer!"


    "Child greets the Forebearer!"


    "The Forebearer shows his powers again, descending from the Ability Realm!"


    ...


    [Forebearer Moment]


    [Countdown...]


    Back in the game world!


    Ethan observed the looks in his family members'' eyes, the jovial banter he had dreamed of for years!


    Descendants of Blackwood gathered together.


    He could finally share a meal with his kin, watching their laughter and joy, seeing them with his own eyes.


    For this, he was willing to spend a great deal of Spiritual Tribute, much like a person working hard all year round, willing to spend all their savings to return home for the holidays.


    No matter the distance or the cost, they wanted to see the changes in their family, return to their true safe haven, and feel the warmth of kinship absent of deceit.


    Ethan felt it, even his eyes welled up with tears.


    Nathan and his wife, Lucas, Julian, Amelia, Olivia... they were so real, excitedly watching him, mirroring the excitement in his heart.


    And the simple-minded third generation of Blackwoods, the brothers Marcus and Daniel, weathered by the years.


    Cared for bit by bit by him, they survived to this day, the prank-loving fourth generation.


    And the six hard-working fifth-generation children.


    And Joseph, the young fool who struggled to recognize and return to his roots.


    He slowly let George and William go, pulling them back to their seats under their overwhelmed expressions.


    Then he walked over to Nathan''s table and found a seat.


    As soon as he sat down, the children he watched grow up suddenly stood up.


    Ethan glared and scolded with a laugh, "What are you all standing for? Sit down. After being out and about for so long, we''re finally together. Let''s not stand on ceremony."


    "Come on, eat, drink, and chat."


    "Your ancestor is happy today."


    Upon hearing this.


    The elders hadn''t moved yet, but Joseph''s eyes lit up as if he saw a lifeline, running to hug Ethan''s leg, "Forebearer, you must have seen it, right? Dad and the others are blaming me unfairly, please stand up for me!"


    Tears and snot flowed together.


    Ethan rolled his eyes and kicked Joseph away, as if only a Blackwood child would behave like this with the younger generation, "Nathan, throw him into the Death Coffin tomorrow."


    "Yes, Forebearer, he won''t come out for a year!"


    "I..."


    Joseph stared in disbelief.


    "Exactly, he''s just making excuses!"


    Edward quickly agreed, having just noticed the skeptical looks from the elders.


    As soon as he finished speaking.


    Ethan squinted, "Throw these few little rascals in there too."


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Under the moonlight, the Blackwood family laughed at the despair in the eyes of the youngest two generations.


    They resumed their eating and drinking, chatting and laughing in front of the Forebearer. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan looked into the night.


    He smiled sincerely, hoping to always stay in this world, to occasionally hear the laughter of the children echoing around him...


    On the screen.


    His family, under the night sky, beneath the falling red leaves of the Primordial blood tree, gathered together, sitting scattered, whispering to each other, Ethan''s black mist so out of place, yet blending into this beautiful painting.


    Perhaps, this was the most beautiful scene in the world, the most beautiful landscape in Ethan''s heart.


    On this day, Blackwood was free from any battles, and everyone was laughing and enjoying a rare gathering at the feast.


    Ethan only stayed for a few minutes before he left, under the regretful gazes of his descendants.


    He sighed.


    This time, he truly wiped the dirt off Amelia''s face, served each child a helping of food, fiercely devoured a bowl of rice, took a big gulp of wine, and let out a joyful laugh, while playfully tapping on the foreheads of the third generation of Blackwood...


    Before leaving, he also heard the old folks urging him to marry and have children.


    "Quick, have kids for the Forebearer, so when I''m well-off, I can show up again!"


    Ethan grimaced.


    Even Nathan and his wife nodded in agreement, though it was unclear why the single men of Blackwood were nodding, shamelessly.


    ...


    After the feast.


    Cloudview County became unusually quiet. The druids had planned a blitzkrieg to take over Cloudview County.


    According to Olivia, it was Stephen''s self-sacrificial act that secured a lifeline for Cloudview County, turning the blitzkrieg into a prolonged war. For a long time to come, no one would dare trouble Blackwood.


    That''s what Ethan and his kin believed.


    And now?


    As dawn broke, Nathan led a few people to the ancestral hall.


    "Forebearer, we''re all back, and it''s time for a new head of the family!"


    Ethan glanced at his relatives. When other families chose their new leader, it was almost a fight to the death, but in Blackwood, everyone was stepping back as if the position was a hot potato.


    "Huh? Where is everyone?"


    In the end, Nicholas looked around in confusion. Just moments ago, he was worried about being thrown into the Death Coffin, and now he stood out so much that it was too late to step back.


    The whole family looked at him with satisfaction.


    "Nicholas has finally grown up, a man of responsibility."


    Nathan gave him a thumbs up.


    [Your family has established a new head, Nicholas!]


    "I..."


    Nicholas''s facial muscles twitched as he looked at his elders. In other families, the head was strictly obeyed, but what use was there in him being the head when he couldn''t command anyone in his family except for Joseph? He had heard that it was a family tradition: the fool becomes the head, more tiring than a plowing ox.


    The moment he became the head, he was promoted to the strongest errand boy.


    Half a day later.


    Nicholas sat in the spacious leader''s seat, bewildered, with the help of his wife Helen and Dennis, managing the affairs of Gratitude Village.


    In front of him was the orderly line of people from Gratitude Village.


    There were also people who had come to help Blackwood, requesting to join the Blackwood forces or become vassals.


    He felt as if he had entered a strange new world.


    ...


    Ethan enlarged the screen, looking at Blackwood.


    This return home, the descendants of Blackwood had also gained a lot of experience over the century.


    [Your descendants have coordinated their opinions and have drafted a Blackwood family plan for your review.]


    The cover of a book appeared on the screen, with a mouse click able to turn the pages, approximately a thousand pages.


    Ethan briefly looked through it.


    His eyes brightened!


    According to the plan, they had a vast amount of resources and intended to build the family into a very large clan, even expanding the territory to Pine Forest Town!


    The area would be as large as a county.


    They even planned to capture a druid priest and a group of druids who could transform plains into forests, to expand the once Silver Iron Forest and allow a million exotic beasts to reside there.


    And forces like ''Dawn'' would establish their main bases in the family''s territory.


    If truly completed.


    Blackwood''s defenses alone would make the invading druids of Azure Cloud helpless and dare not attack.


    They, Blackwood, would truly stand at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud!


    "Good!"


    Ethan agreed without hesitation.

 Chapter 214 - 214: Not having a wife, dont you think your life would feel incomplete?

    Blackwood is unlike any other family. While others develop their clans and then slowly expand their territories, Blackwood has forged ahead through fierce battles and accumulated wealth before returning to build their domain.


    Although the blueprint is ambitious, Blackwood definitely has the capital to back it up!


    Nathan has nearly filled the Death Coffin with zombies, which are tireless and serve as the perfect workforce.


    Watching the family develop in an orderly fashion, the descendants also refrained from causing trouble.


    Ethan relaxed for a moment.


    "My back and waist are killing me."


    After stretching, Ethan stepped outside his room and asked Lisa to cook him a lavish seafood stew and steam some white rice.


    An hour later, he returned to the family.


    The game''s landscape developed rapidly.


    The terrain outside Blackwood, previously marred by war, was now being flattened by Psychics, all of whom were busy building, establishing Blackwood''s stronghold.


    Suddenly.


    The screen filled with flowers, shifting to Blackwood''s residence!


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 123]


    [Your descendants Edward and Betty are married!]


    [Your descendants Nicholas and Helen are married!]


    [Congratulations, you have received a Spiritual Tribute value of +30]


    Descendants marrying is always a joy for the elders, especially when they approve of the match.


    Helen is undoubtedly the best partner for Nicholas.


    Betty, though from Duke''s Mansion, is very well-behaved. Despite her noble birth, she hasn''t been spoiled by wealth. Joseph has always been indifferent to fame and fortune, probably inheriting his mother''s temperament.


    "Ha ha ha, excellent!"


    Nathan and Ethan were both delighted.


    Ethan watched as two pairs of newlyweds entered their bridal chambers in the night.


    The next day.


    As soon as the rooster crowed, Nathan eagerly gathered the children at the Forebearer Shrine, holding many Energy Stones engraved with "Dual Cultivation Techniques," and said solemnly, "Kids, the Forebearer showed his powers last time, bringing us these secret manuals. From now on, no one is escaping; it''s time to seriously start expanding our family!"


    "Those of you who aren''t married yet, how old are you?"


    "And you guys!"


    Nathan pointed at Marcus, Daniel, George, William, Justin, and others, laughing scornfully.


    "Do you know what it means to be a real man? A real man has a family."


    "Lucas was only fifteen when he got a girl in trouble!"


    Lucas, who had been enjoying the scene with a smile, gradually turned pale.


    Julian, seeing the humor in the situation, nudged his older brother, "Big brother, dad is making fun of you..."


    "You need to be shameless like Julian and his children to strengthen our family!"


    Julian''s smile slowly faded.


    Watching these two, Ethan crossed his arms in front of the screen, "Nathan is absolutely right. They need to understand, learn, and get married!"


    "Have plenty of children to grow our family!"


    Ethan was already looking forward to the day when their efforts to expand the family would bear fruit.


    On the screen, Nathan snorted, "As a man, you need to have a family! I''m from Gratitude Village, and do you know what they used to say about bachelors there? They''d say this person is busy all day long, so busy that in the end, he doesn''t even have a wife, only his own hand to keep him company!"


    "Not having a wife, don''t you think your life would feel incomplete?"


    "..."


    "Bang!"


    Ethan, with a stoic expression, clenched his fist and slammed it down on the table fiercely.


    On this day, the children of Blackwood were as incredulous as Nathan had been when he first received the secret technique.


    They stared in disbelief at the serious Nathan, then glanced at the Forebearer Psychic Position and the fourth generation''s wild children, suddenly feeling that their lack of seriousness wasn''t without reason.


    The happiest were those with wives; they treated the dual cultivation techniques like treasures.


    Jeffrey watched the images emanating from the Energy Stone, growing more spirited and joyful by the moment.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan exhaled deeply, switching the display. Although he knew Nathan wasn''t scolding him, he felt implied criticism.


    He decided to check on his family''s progress.


    It had been just over a year.


    Yet, to the west of Blackwood, there was a massive cave, continuously emitting steam and smoke.


    [Seventh Rank Forge Pavilion]


    [Established by Julian, with equipment masters gathered from various forces, it burrows three thousand meters underground, emulating the Thunderfire Demon Cave, drawing magma through magical techniques.]


    [The pavilion''s members hail from major forces, totaling 285 people.]


    [Possessing resources...]


    This time, Ethan took a closer look at Julian''s psychic puppet.


    [Your descendant Julian has mastered the craft of creating Eighth Rank psychic puppets.]


    [Eighth Rank Psychic Puppet: Composed of flying zombies and shape-shifting ability weapons with Storage Ring technology, capable of understanding simple commands, instantly transforming into steel psychic puppets up to five meters tall.]


    ...


    [Julian has become a master of Seventh Rank psychic puppets!]


    [Seventh Rank Psychic Puppet: Created from Developing Skill psychic powers, requiring a large amount of seventh rank materials... using demonic cultivation methods, with Psychic flesh and soul forged into the psychic puppet... integrating Psychic flesh with materials seamlessly...]


    Seeing Julian''s method for crafting Seventh Rank psychic puppets, Ethan suddenly remembered his time on the battlefield.


    His Seventh Rank psychic puppets could now fly, and their most significant feature was that their entire bodies were weapons, with steel that could stretch like liquid. Their decent recovery abilities also allowed them to compete with Developing Skill.


    [Your descendant Julian is attempting to integrate the elemental forces of metal, wood, fire, water, and earth, as well as the energies of wind, fire, thunder, and lightning into the psychic puppets, to harness psychic powers beyond the physical body.]


    [Requirements: Developing Skill, ability materials containing the forces of nature.] S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hiss~"


    Ethan gasped in awe. If Julian''s idea succeeded, the Seventh Rank psychic puppets could wield psychic powers, potentially surpassing real Developing Skill Psychics.


    And now, Julian had begun to share the techniques for Ninth Rank psychic puppets with the equipment masters.


    A new method of cultivating psychic powers was spreading within the game world.


    Given enough time, Blackwood''s psychic puppets could sweep through the ancient Clark tribe!


    Together with Ethan''s contributions and the war AI Bionic Robot, fully equipped with weapons, Julian now possessed three Seventh Rank psychic puppets, rivaling a Developing Skill family with thousands of years of history.


    However, Ethan also noted that constructing a Seventh Rank psychic puppet was not easy; merging the psychic soul with materials alone required ten years.


    "If Julian''s idea really works, his crafted psychic puppets will indeed surpass the craftsmanship of basic war AI Bionic Robots."


    After a moment of reflection.


    Ethan then shifted his gaze elsewhere, noting Blackwood''s growing strength in a short time.


    The Primordial Blood Tree, nourished by the blood of Competent Forces, now stood only ten meters tall, but the people of Gratitude Village knew that in times of war, it could grow to a hundred meters. And it was still growing, its roots spreading rapidly in all directions.


    But as members returned, Ethan''s event log filled with more news about the Primordial Blood Tree.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree reports to you that Julian has come out of the forge pavilion and urinated under it again, requesting that you discipline Julian.]


    [The third generation of Blackwood urinating around it... it''s furious...]


    [...]

 Chapter 215 - 215:Dual Cultivation Techniques

    Who would have thought that after the invasion by the mighty Clark clan, the most severely wounded would be the reclusive Primordial Blood Tree of the family...


    But with just one click, Ethan''s face lit up with joy.


    [After years of absorbing blood and participating in great battles, the Primordial Blood Tree has gained a new ability¡ªGuardian Psychic Plant]


    [Its roots can differentiate into multiple consciousnesses, controlling its offspring like the Bloodsoul Fruit Tree and other psychic plants within the range of its roots to fight for it.]


    Now, Blackwood possesses three Bloodsoul Fruit Trees and sixteen psychic fruit trees, not to mention over a hundred other psychic plants that have developed consciousness.


    The strength of these psychic plants lies in their collective range attacks.


    "If we plant these psychic plants all around Blackwood, they could also serve as excellent scouts," Ethan suddenly realized another function.


    That day.


    He called a few who were relieving themselves anywhere to the temple.


    [Your family has established a new rule: no urinating on the Primordial Blood Tree...]


    Julian''s eyes shifted, "It didn''t say anything about not defecating."


    Hearing his father''s mutter, the third generation of Blackwood suddenly realized.


    "..."


    Seeing the small words above these guys'' heads, Ethan wasn''t actually angry; it''s normal for hundred-year-old kids to be a bit mischievous and rebellious.


    Then.


    He switched the scene to Amelia.


    At that moment, Amelia was treating a child submerged in a psychic fluid, with Jessica also present. This child was born to Jessica and Jack, named Sam.


    Ethan briefly reviewed Jessica''s history.


    Years ago, Jessica was moved by Jack, and Olivia helped them gradually take control of the Jones power. Jessica truly wanted to help Jack and gradually lost the desire to control the Jones family. Blackwood didn''t lack resources from a Developing Skill family, treating them like in-laws was enough.


    Later... time and status can easily change a person.


    For this, Jessica gained a trait¡ª


    [Bloodstained Rose]


    [Your descendant Jessica no longer believes in love or trusts anyone outside of her bloodline. With her heart sealed by blood, she will become incredibly calm and decisive. Her speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%, combat power by 10%, and authority by 30%.]


    Now Jessica, in the Transcendent Seed phase, was already refining her Developing Skill, but she had no time for seclusion because of her child.


    Ethan bestowed a ''Forebearer''s Caress'' on the two girls in the cabin and the child from the maternal side.


    "Forebearer!"


    The two immediately knelt in worship, and Sam naively smiled, reaching out to the semi-transparent elder''s extended hand.


    Soon the ground shifted, and they all looked back as the Forebearer''s purple giant python appeared, speaking human language, "Master says, Julian and the third generation of Blackwood have been defecating and urinating on the Primordial Blood Tree."


    "..."


    Hearing the Forebearer''s report, Amelia was stunned for a moment, then angrily grabbed a small knife used for treating Sam''s ailments from beside the psychic fluid, storming out, "Forebearer, I''ll hang and whip the whole third family!"


    The Primordial Blood Tree was something she had nurtured bit by bit; what had her little tree been fed these days?


    "I''m going too."


    Thunderfire Raging Python quickly followed the furious Amelia, suddenly recalling some gossip from the town about discord among descendants, often due to the immorality of the elders, the master being greatly immoral.


    Jessica, holding her child, followed with a hopeful expression, adding William who passed by, forming a team of descendants that swelled like a torrent.


    Soon.


    "Refreshing!" S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The ''immoral elder'' watching from the screen saw Amelia catching the father and his eight sons red-handed at night, these eight guys fiercely cursing the ''sneaky snitching little tree'' at the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Then... roots emerged from behind Amelia.


    "Second sister... give me some face," Julian and the third generation of Blackwoods pleaded as they saw Amelia appear, with a crowd of younger family members outside. They had thought that coming at night would prevent anyone from noticing, but now they were in real trouble, knowing full well how much Amelia cherished the Primordial Blood Tree.


    "Alright."


    With a casual wave of her hand, Amelia blocked the younger family members'' view with the tree''s roots.


    Then...


    The branches of the Primordial Blood Tree swayed excitedly.


    The younger family members remained vigilant, watching emotionlessly before bouncing back to their rooms, quickly closing the doors and activating soundproofing spells.


    Only Ethan caught the trick.


    "Powerful."


    Ethan clicked on Amelia''s profile.


    [Your descendant Amelia has broken through the Developing Skill phase!]


    [Her talent has transformed into a Triple Psychic Constitution, gaining the first three levels of the ''Heavenly Scourge Plant Technique'', obtaining a Plant Body, and her Developing Skill has become Heavenly Pill!]


    [She has spent years searching for and personally preparing medicinal recipes, producing seventh-grade medicines: Mysterious Psychic Fluid, Soul Extinguishing Powder, Mind Awakening Illusion Fluid...]


    No wonder it''s called a divine technique.


    Ethan had seen Amelia''s Plant Body form a waterfall from the sky, instantly killing an opponent of the same level. He could feel that during the great battle that day, Amelia had not even used her full strength.


    ...


    Seeing these guys get their comeuppance, Ethan felt refreshed.


    Time in the game sped up again.


    With the help of zombies, psychic puppets, strange beasts, and many other forces, Blackwood''s development was improving day by day.


    [Seventh Grade Forge]


    [Seventh Grade Psychic Beast Institute]


    [Earth-Level Library]


    [Dawn Headquarters]


    [Mist Hall (Thunderfire Demon Cave and Demon Hunters Alliance Headquarters)]


    [...]


    One by one, the forces established by Blackwood were built around Gratitude Village. Blackwood''s descendants, besides breaking through in seclusion, also temporarily managed these forces.


    Over the years, Blackwood had amassed a vast amount of resources, allowing them to spend freely for the time being.


    Until...


    [Blackwood Year 126]


    Ethan, who had been observing Blackwood''s development in these turbulent times, was stunned for a long time.


    [Your descendant Edward, deeply cultivating psychic powers ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'', and after obtaining fertility treasures from Amelia, has finally conceived a daughter with Betty.]


    "She''s pregnant."


    In the scene, Edward was touching his wife''s large belly, with dozens of Blackwoods spectating, their stares making Betty blush.


    Everyone was excited, tense.


    "She''s pregnant..."


    Ethan repeated, then suddenly jumped up, "She''s pregnant! Haha, my ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'' really works, she''s pregnant!"


    It''s no wonder the people of Blackwood were excited; the Dual Cultivation Techniques, although powerful, only slightly increased the chances of pregnancy and had a bit of an aphrodisiac effect. The stronger the Psychic, the harder it is to conceive. Some Psychics even use life-shortening secret techniques for the sake of childbirth.


    After decades, Blackwood finally had a child born!


    "Hahaha, I''m thirty-four, and my little sister is about to be born!" Joseph was tearful.


    He wiped away a tear.


    Suddenly realizing something was amiss, the whole family''s gaze focused on him, and Joseph felt that something was terribly wrong. He laughed awkwardly, "My elders, I... I have urgent matters outside."


    "What''s the rush?"


    Joseph saw a hand on his shoulder, and as he turned to leave, the elders grabbed him.

 Chapter 216 - 216: Rainbow Lotus

    Blackwood was jubilant.


    But now, Cloudview County was far from peaceful.


    [Special Event¡ªThe Fall of Renowned Sect and the Beast Tribe]


    [In Cloudview County, the major sects and druids never ceased their skirmishes, constantly testing and deceiving each other. In a major battle, the Beast Tribe deceived the Renowned Sect. Countless sect disciples, led by their elders, sacrificed themselves using a blood ritual to fight the druids, ultimately perishing alongside the entire Beast Tribe.]


    On the map.


    A green marked location, and the red dots rushing into it, vanished before Ethan''s eyes at a visible speed.


    The last scene he saw was a sky filled with beasts storming into the Renowned Sect, the disciples'' spirits and blood withered, none retreating.


    The explosion was even more shocking than the mushroom cloud Ethan had seen before.


    "Boom!"


    The sound reached Blackwood, the ground trembling.


    George and William, who had been holding Joseph''s arms, let go; Joseph had no intention of fleeing.


    Everyone in Blackwood stepped out of the courtyard, looking towards the direction of the Renowned Sect.


    "Olivia, did the Renowned Sect call for help?"


    Nathan asked gravely.


    Olivia took out a copper mirror, her eyes shining with a white light, then sighed and shook her head, "No call for help. The nearest master of Competent Force wanted to help, but was stopped. He only managed to save the last hundred disciples of the Renowned Sect, who are the future hope of the sect."


    "Senior Warren said that until the last moment, the Renowned Sect didn''t call for help because they sensed something was off. The area outside the Renowned Sect was a trap, and they had to face it alone. They feared that calling for help would prompt a reckless response from the other powers."


    "The rescued disciples of the Renowned Sect said that the last words of their elder were..."


    "If the Renowned Sect is gone, they still have their legacy. If Cloudview County is gone, the Renowned Sect would be the sinners of their homeland."


    That day, the people of Blackwood emerged from their joyful reunion.


    To be honest, hearing that the Renowned Sect and the Beast Tribe had annihilated each other, Ethan and his kin felt nothing but heaviness.


    Then, as Ethan followed Nathan, he truly learned a lesson.


    Nathan, holding Luna, lay down in a coffin.


    In the dim space, Nathan sighed, "My dear, if it were us in Blackwood, we''d definitely be calling for help everywhere. They''re different from us; we''ve only lived here for a little over a hundred years, at most just wanting to protect our own land."


    "They''re different; they''ve been here for over a hundred thousand years, the whole of Cloudview County bears their mark. Just like we would do anything for our family, they would sacrifice their lives for the future of Cloudview County."


    Hearing this.


    Ethan remained silent for a long time, then slammed his fist on the table.


    "Screw you, Michael!"


    In the past, he really thought that Duke''s Mansion couldn''t control the major powers, and that''s why Michael wanted to destroy them.


    Now he understood, it was all nonsense!


    The rulers, for their own gain, think the land they control is everything, that they can manipulate it at will, even believing that the people living on this land are all against them.


    Little do they know, the citizens of Cloudview County love this land more than the so-called rulers; they are fearless and shed their blood for it.


    Michael, still manipulating everything from behind, just watching the world evolve.


    They always come out unscathed, reaping the fruits of final victory. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even if they lose, it doesn''t hurt them.


    Just like now, without the druids attacking Duke''s Mansion, their biggest problem is just dealing with the refugees that Olivia and Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason deliberately handed over to Duke''s Mansion.


    Ethan didn''t know what kind of sect the Renowned Sect was, and Blackwood didn''t have much contact with them.


    But at least... it''s something that Ethan, and countless citizens of Cloudview County, deeply respect.


    "Damn it, Michael, remember, what goes around comes around!"


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 127]


    The people of Blackwood kept the events involving the Renowned Sect close to their hearts, yet they appeared carefree, as if trying to make up for the time they had spent wandering away from their families.


    However, whenever they had a moment, they were still dedicated to cultivating psychic powers, often visiting the Death Coffin.


    Nathan had no choice but to move to the third floor with Luna to give the elderly couple some peace from the children''s disturbances.


    On this day,


    everyone broke through their limits.


    [Congratulations, Betty has added a new member to the family, named Katie!]


    "Hahaha, Forebearer, after so many years, our family has a child again."


    "Huh?"


    Seeing Nathan holding the loudly crying baby girl, Ethan was stunned.


    This little girl was extraordinary!


    [Your descendant Katie, from birth, has been the center of attention. The elders of Blackwood, fearing any mishaps with a child born after many years, took great care. Amelia used medicinal meals and consumed seventh-grade potions during Betty''s pregnancy to nourish her. Olivia used the natural laws of the universe to cleanse Katie''s marrow and strengthen her bones.


    Marcus removed a corner of the stars from the ''Sky Temple'' and bestowed it upon her...]


    [Daniel found a seventh-grade elixir to nourish her. George consulted four female ancestors, who imbued Katie with their spirits to aid her growth. William took a special ability item ''Rainbow Lotus'' from a genius and gifted it to her...]


    [Your descendant Katie has acquired traits¡ªpure ability body, immense strength, star-protected body, and the body of the Lotus.]


    [Psychic Constitution of the Earth]


    "I... wow."


    Ethan was overjoyed and speechless.


    [Trait: Star-Protected Body]


    [Derived from the shadow of the stars taken from the Sky Temple, she is immune to external evils and her cultivation cannot be harmed under the Developing Skill. She can summon the shadow of the stars to defend against enemies.]


    The Sky Temple was a treasure brought back by Marcus from the Sky Sect!


    It was also the place where Marcus cultivated his psychic powers. His nine unique fires, which he reached during the Developing Skill phase, couldn''t even affect this space. In the previous great battle, Marcus had used these nine unique fires to defeat mid-phase Developing Skill opponents!


    When a peak Developing Skill attacker targeted Marcus, he simply released the Sky Temple, and nothing happened.


    [Sky Temple (Marvelous Item)]


    [Captures the shadow of the celestial stars, enhancing the insight of those cultivating psychic powers within it, can be used for defense, and its true inheritor can control the shadow of the stars for battle.]


    This item, Marcus couldn''t fully utilize; he mostly used it for defense, only a Daoist like Warren could unleash its full power.


    Then there was the ''Body of the Lotus.''


    [Trait: With the Lotus entering the body, one can obtain a supreme life-bound ability weapon. As a Lotus platform, it increases the speed of cultivating psychic powers by 60%, allows for barrier-free breakthroughs to the Emerging Ability realm over time, and serves as another internal sea of qi and Developing Skill Competent Force, also capable of defending against enemies.]


    A true genius!


    No wonder she was born at just the right time. Blackwood hadn''t had children for many years, and almost all their affection was given to her.


    With her current talents, she could already be ranked in the top ten of Blackwood!


    "Hahaha, good child, good child!"


    Nathan, just as overjoyed as Ethan, smiled even wider as Katie reached out her little hand to touch his face and then tried to grab the Forebearer Cards. "She knows to get close to the Forebearer from a young age, Katie will surely be an excellent weaver in the future!"


    "..."


    Ethan vigorously rubbed his face, wondering if Nathan even heard what he was saying.


    ...

 Chapter 217 - 217: what would I do?

    Time quickly passed, and a month went by.


    The people of Blackwood each took turns holding Katie, eagerly competing to take care of the child.


    Recalling when the fourth generation of children were born, Luna and Mary couldn''t avoid them fast enough, but now they had grown fond of caring for children. According to them, taking care of one child was life, but taking care of a group was sheer madness.


    Joseph stood still, watching as the elders took Katie from his arms.


    The elders also scolded him a bit.


    It was mostly about him not knowing what others were up to and not seeing him with a girl he loved.


    "It''s all from the same mother, can''t you treat them equally? Always talking about getting married, what about breeding?"


    Joseph rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath before leaping up to the top of the Primordial Blood Tree.


    His body shimmered with golden light as he entered a dream state, his abilities gradually increasing.


    Ethan watched this scene.


    Joseph, this kid... keeps a low profile, indifferent to fame and fortune, always getting scolded, but just a drop of ''ancient god blood'' is enough to ensure he''s never outshined by his sister.


    And on this day,


    Blackwood was decked out in celebration, heralding the birth of a genius in their midst.


    The entire Gratitude Village was once again festooned for a grand feast, hosting not only the townsfolk but all their allied forces.


    However, Blackwood''s forces were somewhat diminished today, as most from the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance had already departed, and many from Dawn were out on missions.


    It was a time of great chaos.


    During the feast,


    The people of Blackwood''s expressions changed as a phantom appeared in the sky.


    This figure, clad in a beastly robe and painted face, wielding a scepter, was a muscular barbarian.


    [Clark High Priest (Phantom)]


    Ethan clicked on the phantom, and a message appeared.


    The Giant Rock clan had already fallen at the hands of Blackwood, and it was said that Clark had turned around and devoured all that was left of them. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Word has it that Blackwood has a daughter, Katie, born with exceptional talents. You people of Cloudview County have a tradition called ''the full moon celebration.''"


    Clark, the High Priest, with a smile visible to all, said, "Out of respect, I, Luke, on behalf of Clark, bring a full moon gift!"


    Upon hearing this,


    The people of Blackwood shifted from initial wariness to a calm demeanor, Nathan, with his psychic powers, addressed the gathering, "Folks, it''s just a shadow. Let''s continue to eat and drink."


    Then, his expression turning cold as he stared at the ten-meter-high phantom in the sky, he scoffed, "If you truly understood our customs, you wouldn''t bother with these mystical theatrics. Don''t disrupt our celebration today, come down!"


    "My apologies, then," said Luke.


    The High Priest didn''t mind and transformed his phantom into a human form, bringing a brocaded box, its origins unknown, perhaps plundered by a druid from some city.


    He approached the banquet.


    The people of Blackwood merely frowned, seemingly ignoring him, and continued to enjoy their meal and conversation.


    Though the two parties were enemies, it wasn''t a matter of life and death. Even if Luke himself had come in person, Blackwood would have welcomed him, as long as he behaved properly.


    "Luke, right? I''ve heard of you, Clark High Priest, recently plotting to take over the counties surrounding Blackwood for Clark."


    Nathan didn''t even glance at George.


    He tore a piece of meat from a beast''s leg, swallowed it forcefully, then cleaned his hands with his psychic powers, "We Blackwoods are simple farmers; we speak and act straightforwardly, and we have no need for formalities with you druids. Speak plainly."


    "That''s much better."


    Luke still smiled faintly, "We''ve seen the strength and influence of Blackwood. You''ve destroyed an important tribe of ours, but I''m not angry. In fact, I admire Blackwood."


    "See, still nonsense."


    Nathan angrily tossed aside a bone, grabbing another chunk of the beast''s leg to gnaw on.


    Luke''s face briefly showed a flash of anger as he continued, "We''ve also investigated Blackwood''s deeds over the past few years. Frankly, if Blackwood were to stand up, all the forces in Cloudview County would follow your lead."


    "You, sir, are a wise man. You should understand the current situation. Our druidic power is vast, and just our three factions alone have overwhelmed many forces in Azure Cloud, with the Duke''s Mansion avoiding confrontation."


    "Actually..."


    George chuckled softly, "We don''t necessarily have to be at war. We could sit together like today, have a friendly conversation, right? Blackwood would gain immense benefits, power, and glory."


    Nathan''s hand paused.


    Then, overwhelmed with joy and disbelief, he looked at Luke, "Are you saying that you, Clark, want to be our dog?"


    "You..."


    Luke slammed the table in anger!


    "Bang!"


    The desk shook as Luke, unable to contain his anger, exclaimed, "What? Clark wants to be Blackwood''s dog?"


    His words were cryptic, but he knew everyone in Blackwood could understand him clearly¡ªhe wanted Blackwood to collaborate with the Druids!


    "You..."


    But before Luke could finish, the psychic powers emanating from the people of Blackwood lifted his phantom into the air, silencing him mid-sentence. All eyes turned to Nathan.


    "Put away your tricks."


    Nathan said mockingly, "Over the years, we in Blackwood have been oppressed and have fled across Cloudview County, but we have never yielded! We Blackwoods are few, descendants of six generations over a hundred years, but not one of us is a coward! Forget about persuading us to surrender. Bring on whatever clever tricks you have, I''ll face them one by one!"


    "Boom!"


    As his words fell, Luke''s phantom vanished.


    It was as if nothing had happened at Blackwood. They continued to eat, drink, and laugh at the banquet, treating the recent disturbance as nothing more than an annoying fly.


    While eating, smiles appeared on the faces of the people of Blackwood, their eyes sparkling with an unyielding spirit.


    ...


    As night fell,


    Nathan entered the family shrine.


    Upon entering, he knelt on the ground and bowed towards the Psychic Position of the Forebearer, "Forebearer, I was perhaps too rash today. I understand that collaborating with the Druids might be the best choice. The Druids are powerful, and many clans are ready to join the battle at any time. It would be wise to align with the strong, to prosper in these chaotic times under their protection."


    "But..."


    Ethan watched the scene unfold in the game.


    A pop-up appeared on his screen.


    [Special Event¡ªChoice of Allegiance]


    [Clark represents the Druids, inviting your family to become allies of the Druids. The Druids are powerful, possessing vast lands and countless masters. Cloudview County only faces three factions now, but more Druids will join in the future.]


    [Does your family have the opportunity to join the powerful Druids and persuade the major forces of Cloudview County, or will you stand with the weak and resist stubbornly?]


    "What kind of choice is this?"


    Ethan exhaled deeply. According to the game''s mechanics, joining the Druids would indeed be the best move.


    Even in reality, many would choose to stand with the powerful, to become servants to a powerful master.


    "If I were really faced with this choice, what would I do?"


    Ethan looked again at Nathan in the game.


    Nathan was still repenting.


    "Forebearer, I don''t know if what I did today was right. I still have a chance, but I don''t want to be a traitor. I don''t want my descendants to remember me as someone who, raised on the soil of Cloudview County, crawled to the Druids like a dog."


    "They would say, I was nurtured by the land of Cloudview County, yet I crawled to the Druids'' side like a dog."

 Chapter 218 - 218: A truly perfect combination

    Ethan pondered for a long time, a smile finally breaking across his face.


    Then he summoned the Thunderfire Raging Python.


    [Blackwood people, stand tall!]


    At that moment, the Blackwood clan gathered together, their emotions mixed. They all knew their father''s decision was wrong, at least in terms of interests, but they hoped he would continue making mistakes.


    It wasn''t until they saw the apparition of the Forebearer in the shrine, caressing Nathan''s head.


    The Thunderfire Raging Python recited the Forebearer''s words, the most complete recitation ever by the temple guardian beast!


    Smiles appeared on everyone''s faces.


    The Forebearer, still standing strong!


    "To hell with the druids!"


    The Forebearer cursed, and the Thunderfire Raging Python roared.


    Hearing this, under the night sky, all the descendants of Blackwood knelt towards the Forebearer''s shrine.


    "To hell with the druids!"


    All the Blackwood youths roared to the sky with the Forebearer''s curse, like a pack of beasts commanded by a deity!


    [Your descendants unanimously cheer for your choice, congratulations, you have gained a Spiritual Tribute value of +1000]


    [Your family, facing the oppression of the druids, shows no cowardice, fearless of all dangers, gaining the trait: Iron Bones]


    [Willpower increased by 10%, combat power against druids increased by 10%]


    "Um..."


    Just as the Blackwood crowd and Ethan watching the screen were boiling with excitement, Dennis, an odd one out, suddenly raised his hand.


    Under everyone''s gaze.


    He cleared his throat, "When I was with Mr. Stephen, he mentioned he had left a gift for you, and now it''s time to give it to you."


    "Hmm?"


    ...


    In the brightly lit Blackwood hall,


    Dennis, who had once left with Stephen, had his lifespan restored and even received Stephen''s legacy. The Blackwoods didn''t blame him; Dennis roughly knew Stephen''s intentions and cooperated accordingly. Besides... it was that bastard Stephen who had threatened Dennis with the lives of Nicholas and Helen.


    At that moment, a black Energy Stone materialized a holographic image of a mountain, once home to the giant rock Clark clan!


    "The giant rock Clark clan''s dwelling is quite peculiar, located in a region of continuous mountains, home to Stone beasts, unique to this area."


    Dennis said, "When I was with Mr. Stephen, he mentioned that one of the goals of The Oracle Chamber was to incite a major battle between Cloudview County and the druids. Additionally, there were many smaller objectives benefiting The Oracle Chamber."


    "The Oracle Chamber had explored the dwelling of the giant rock abilities years ago, suspecting that the formation of Stone beasts was related to a preternatural object beneath the mountains, capable of granting abilities to the Stone beasts."


    ...


    The Blackwoods silently stared at Dennis, making his scalp tingle, "What... what''s wrong?"


    "You should have said this earlier!"


    Nathan exhaled deeply, "Now it''s too late, the giant rock abilities tribe has already been divided up, the opportunity has passed."


    "Did Stephen make you wait until now to tell us?"


    Olivia frowned, "Was he afraid that my Blackwoods might cooperate with the druids?"


    Dennis spread his hands, "Indeed, but don''t worry, Mr. Stephen said that although it''s been years since anyone could enter the mountains to explore, if it were that easy to find, it would have been taken long ago. Even though The Oracle Chamber has made a move, according to his calculations, it would take them at least three to five years to find it."


    In the midst of this conversation. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Dennis pulled out another item, a token with a scale drawn on it!


    It was a token of The Oracle Chamber!


    But this token was also inscribed with various scripts, seemingly suppressing the abilities within the token.


    "Mr. Stephen has been in The Oracle Chamber for over two hundred years, he said their influence is immense, and there''s not much he could do. But at least he could tamper with the token, by now there should be people from The Oracle Chamber within the mountains, this item can track the whereabouts of The Oracle Chamber''s people."


    It must be said, Stephen was a genius, calculating even in death.


    Without a doubt, a treasure capable of endowing stones with consciousness could certainly give Blackwood another ace up their sleeve, especially now that they had irreparably fallen out with the Druids.


    But Blackwood''s gaze remained fixed on Dennis.


    It wasn''t that they didn''t trust Dennis; they didn''t trust Stephen...


    Ethan didn''t trust him either. Who knew if it was some kind of trap?


    "It''s too risky."


    Olivia shook her head, "It''s not worth it, let''s drop the subject."


    Everyone nodded in agreement, and Dennis could only offer a wry smile.


    Even the adventure-loving Justin agreed, "Right, that old man Stephen just tricked our family last time by bringing the giant rock tribe, the Clarks, to our doorstep. He''s not trustworthy."


    George nodded slightly, "My Forebearer also advised against it."


    "Big brother is right!"


    William looked up to George with admiration.


    ...


    The next day, the Blackwood clan set out from their home!


    With Luke''s arrival, the Blackwoods felt a sense of urgency.


    [Your descendant Olivia reports to you that Harris and Clark are persuading tribes around the Druids to launch a major attack on Cloudview County. Duke''s Mansion Kenneth is also secretly asking for help from nearby Starlight County and Cedar County. This upcoming battle is expected to become even more chaotic.]


    The Blackwoods were heading to places suitable for seclusion, many of them on the verge of breaking through to the Developing Skill level from the Transcendent Seed stage.


    The environments suitable for their Psychic Constitution techniques could significantly increase their chances of breakthrough.


    Meanwhile.


    On the road to the Endless Forest, George, William, and Justin were traveling together!


    "Hehehe, exactly right!"


    Justin, who was riding a sword with a turtle shell on his back, laughed loudly, "I want to see just how dangerous these Crestwood Hills are. The greater the risk, the stronger I become!"


    George was more cautious, "We still need to ensure our safety, but we should definitely try for that mysterious power. Buried deep underground, it could generate millions of Stone beasts. If it falls into Blackwood hands, that would mean millions, even more, troops! With that, we''d stand a much better chance against the Druids."


    As he spoke, he glanced back at William, who was following closely behind with a glint of cold light flashing from his sleeve, and rolled his eyes, "What are you doing?"


    "Ahaha."


    William hid his hands behind his back, flicked his fingers, and the dagger disappeared, "Nothing... just agreeing with you guys. The Crestwood Hills are nothing; I dared to kill in front of a Competent Force old monster during my Emerging Ability period."


    "Damn..."


    Ethan, who was checking on the whereabouts of his descendants, cursed under his breath when it was these three guys'' turn, "No wonder you were so well-behaved last night!"


    [Your three descendants did not follow the family''s decision to give up on this treasure hunt. Instead, they took the opportunity of going out to cultivate psychic powers and teamed up to head to the Crestwood Hills to claim the treasure for the family!]


    ...


    It must be said, these three were the wildest of the fourth generation.


    Ethan rolled his eyes; one liked to dig underground, one liked to kill, and one liked to court death¡ªa truly perfect combination.


    He was just about to inform Olivia...


    Ethan''s eyes were lifeless as he finally spoke, "Olivia, you''ve changed, even you lie now..."


    At that moment, Olivia, seated in a wheelchair surrounded by clouds, was followed by four assassins from Dawn with Developing Skill levels.


    They were headed toward the Crestwood Hills.

 Chapter 219 - 219: Heres the thing, our in-law...

    Ethan never saw it coming. Just yesterday, Ralph and the others were all talk, but today they flipped like night and day. The ones who shouted loudest about not going to Crestwood Hills were the first to bolt.


    In an instant.


    The three brothers, rushing toward Crestwood Hills, suddenly stopped in their tracks, looking at each other in confusion.


    Their chests were heaving!


    "Big brother, the Forebearer in my arms is moving."


    "We''ve been spotted, didn''t we agree that wrapping up the Forebearer would keep it hidden?"


    "True to its nature, I always knew the Forebearer was watching me. Haha, it''s not the sacrifices it enjoys, but watching me in action!"


    "..."


    You three little rascals, can''t you speak plainly?


    [Stop, don''t go!]


    Ethan didn''t have time to scold them, he wrote these words using Psychic Position.


    But seeing the words floating in mid-air, they all shook their heads in unison.


    George chuckled, "Forebearer, we know you''re worried about us, but we really need to go this time."


    "Yes, Forebearer, we''re not just seeking thrills," Justin said earnestly.


    As soon as he spoke, George quickly covered his mouth, smiling bitterly, "Don''t listen to this madman, Forebearer."


    "These past two years have been peaceful, but when High Priest Clark visited yesterday, something was off. I could tell they might attack soon, and it won''t just be the three factions."


    "That''s why High Priest Clark is so desperate for an alliance. He''s afraid other factions will compete with them for land."


    Hearing this.


    Justin pulled George''s hand away, staring at his brother incredulously, as if to say, how could you, who shuns worldly affairs, guess what I had guessed?


    George ignored his younger brother.


    He continued, "Mr. Stephen was wholeheartedly devoted to Azure Cloud. The legacy he left must be valuable, it could definitely help our Blackwood. I''m willing to trust Stephen once more, to seek a new opportunity for Blackwood."


    "Besides, I''m used to digging graves, and with so many predecessors to help, I might just find what others cannot." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hehe."


    George grinned foolishly.


    Then the three fools stared intently at the Psychic Position, and at the screen, as if looking at Ethan.


    Ethan could tell, no amount of persuasion would work. They seemed to have a belief, a conviction that they were the right ones for this mission.


    Then...


    "Boom!"


    The screen went black, a cloud of dark smoke released by the trio obscured everything!


    Ethan''s face darkened.


    He clicked on the trio''s icons again, they were flying fast.


    "Ahaha, big brother always has a plan, a feint, and we made our escape!"


    "Quick, wrap up the Psychic Position, then the Forebearer won''t be able to find us."


    "Are you guys nuts? The Forebearer is definitely still watching, hurry up, or the Forebearer''s Psychic Position will catch up."


    "..."


    Ethan ran his hand from his forehead to his chin, grinding his teeth for a moment before letting out a long sigh, "Such fools."


    Immediately.


    He switched the view to Olivia.


    This time only the Psychic Position floated up.


    "Forebearer."


    Seeing the Psychic Position floating beside her, "You found us after all. Did you want me to bring those three back?"


    "..."


    Indeed, Olivia could guess a thing or two about everything.


    "My child really needs to go."


    Olivia smiled sweetly, "Those three are quite reckless, I need to protect them. Besides, I have some influence in the Druids, and this time, securing that artifact is a must. The family has been quiet these past two years, and I need to let the Druids know that even in their midst, we Blackwoods can move as if we own the place!"


    "Forebearer, I didn''t mean to hide it from you. Father... he''s getting older, and I''m growing up. He''s increasingly worried about my safety. If I didn''t keep it from him, he would never let me go."


    Ethan fell silent.


    What does he mean, getting older? That''s just an excuse.


    Didn''t he know that Olivia and those three troublemakers shared the same thought, predicting the Druids'' imminent arrival, wanting to give Blackwood a boost?


    Olivia was just afraid that if she spoke up, Nathan would take it upon himself to lead the charge.


    He suddenly laughed.


    "Go for it!"


    He slammed his fist on the table, "If you''re going to compete, know that Forebearer is your strongest support!"


    ...


    Moments later.


    Ethan switched the view to Nathan.


    The coffin lid shot up, and Nathan emerged from the smoke.


    "Damn, those little troublemakers! Even Olivia won''t listen!"


    As soon as Nathan saw Luna holding Katie, he started shouting angrily, "Those three I can understand, but Olivia... she''s driving me mad!"


    His good daughter had actually lied to him!


    "Why are you in such a hurry? Even Forebearer isn''t panicking," Luna said soothingly.


    ...


    Ethan touched his nose, to be honest, even Forebearer was anxious about the clever Olivia lying.


    Luna smiled, "It''s just how kids are, they do it so we won''t worry. Look at you now, they didn''t dare tell you yesterday because they were afraid you''d stop them."


    "Your worrying now only makes them uneasy. Calm down, they''ve already gone. Just get ready to have Lucas and Amelia go support them."


    "Yeah, you''re right."


    Nathan nodded slightly.


    Just as he was about to act, someone came to report.


    Nathan and Luna both frowned, and the couple headed to the living room.


    ...


    "People from the Duke''s Mansion?"


    Watching the scene in the hall, Ethan''s anger cooled down. He and his family had a strong dislike for the Duke''s Mansion.


    Edward and his wife were sitting to the side.


    Edward''s face was icy as he looked forward, while Betty kept her head down, her lips pursed and her fists clenched tightly.


    Joseph, who usually either slept in on the Primordial Blood Tree or experienced ordinary life on the streets of Gratitude Village, was also there. He glanced at the newcomers, his expression a mix of mockery and anger.


    Facing them was Kenneth from the Duke''s Mansion!


    Michael''s eldest son seemed younger now, sipping tea with an air of restraint.


    "Tap, tap, tap!"


    Nathan and his wife approached, and Kenneth suddenly stood up, not yet speaking.


    Nathan hummed, "What? Michael didn''t dare to come himself? Had to send his son? That''s quite the slight to us Blackwoods, isn''t it?"


    "This... my father is unwell."


    Kenneth lied with open eyes, but he also probably knew some of the truth about the current state of Cloudview County. He even suspected that if his father came in person, he might end up buried in Blackwood.


    Nathan scoffed, "Speak up, then. If it''s nothing important, and Michael didn''t come himself, we have nothing to discuss."


    "Understood."


    Kenneth wiped the sweat from his forehead, "Here''s the thing, our in-law..."

 Chapter 220 - 220: No medicine is more precious than your leg

    "Don''t call me your in-law!"


    Nathan''s gaze was icy cold. "Betty married into my Blackwood family. By marrying into the Blackwoods, she is one of us. But we Blackwoods do not acknowledge your Duke''s Mansion. It''s beyond our reach, and frankly, it''s bad luck."


    Such harsh words did not anger Kenneth; instead, his eyes filled with even more guilt.


    "Then I''ll just say it."


    He sighed, "I''m here because my father has asked the Blackwoods to let Betty return home with the children."


    Suddenly, the hall fell silent.


    All eyes turned to Betty.


    At that moment, Betty suddenly looked up, her fists clenched tighter, her eyes red as she growled, "Brother, go back and tell Michael that I was happy for those twenty-some years, with a father who loved and cherished me."


    "But later, I realized my happy life was a lie. I was always just an object to be used. I can''t imagine what kind of father would drug his own daughter for his purposes. I''ve paid my dues."


    "From now on, I want nothing to do with him or the Duke''s Mansion. He better not lay a finger on my son or daughter!"


    Hearing this, Kenneth did not persist. He just sighed, and as he walked to the door, he turned back and gave Betty a gentle smile, "Little sister, you''re gentle by nature. Take good care of yourself here in Blackwood. If anyone bullies you, don''t tell dad, just tell me."


    "And you, Joseph, stop wasting your time. You''re not getting any younger; you should find a wife."


    "The rest..."


    "I''ll handle it."


    Kenneth left with his entourage, his figure tinged with weariness.


    "Brother!"


    Betty watched her brother''s retreating figure, finding solace in the thought of her uncle Martin.


    Joseph touched his nose and lay back under the Primordial Blood Tree, looking up at the sky, "Always rushing me..."


    He sighed long.


    "The only good person in my family is my uncle."


    Half a month later.


    At the Duke''s Mansion.


    Kenneth had returned home alone.


    Michael stood where he had played chess with Olivia, watching the flowers bloom and wither on the trees, not turning around, "She refused to come back?"


    "Yes."


    Kenneth relayed everything about the Blackwoods, listening to Michael scoff, "That old thief from the mountains, he doesn''t acknowledge us as in-laws? He''s not worthy of being my in-law. That''s for the best."


    Kenneth frowned, "Father, I''ve seen it. Betty and the others are doing well in Blackwood. We don''t need to..."


    "Hmph! What do you know?"


    Michael''s cold snort made Kenneth bow his head. He said solemnly, "My granddaughter is no less talented than Changsheng. Bringing her back serves a greater purpose. Chunlin, you must understand, everything I do is for our family."


    "Here''s what we''ll do. Send someone to keep an eye on Blackwood. If there''s a chance, bring Katie back."


    This time, Kenneth did not argue. He nodded calmly, "Yes, father, I''ll see to it."


    With that, Kenneth walked out, looking at the bustling servants and the sprawling architecture of Martin, his sighs growing deeper.


    He had once thought his father would do anything for Cloudview County, raised with that belief. His father had told him that the land of Cloudview County belonged to Martin, and Martin would do anything for it.


    Now, it seemed he had misunderstood his father''s intentions all along. The father he imagined lived in another world. The real father lived in a world of lies.


    He suddenly envied the Blackwoods.


    Generation after generation, they were free from such scheming. In Nathan''s eyes, he saw only concern for his descendants.


    Continuing forward, Kenneth''s gaze grew colder as he entered a dark room filled with Martin''s retainers.


    "Young master!"


    The retainers bowed.


    He continued forward, approaching a stone chair where one of the Martin forebearers sat.


    Kenneth bowed respectfully, his expression firm, his tone resolute.


    "Forebearer, father is..."


    "Getting old."


    ...


    It was a drizzly day in Cloudview County. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the county town, countless people lined up, eating the thin porridge bestowed by the eldest son of the Duke''s Mansion, all looking towards the outskirts where the Duke''s Mansion stood.


    A red pillar of light descended from the sky, and a huge magical circle enveloped the Duke''s Mansion. Four figures, radiating powerful auras, floated above.


    No one knew what was happening at the Duke''s Mansion.


    Kenneth floated above the Duke''s Mansion, his wrinkles fading, his silver hair rejuvenating, tears glistening in his eyes.


    Thunder roared.


    He had been a dutiful son all his life, never daring to look his father in the eye, nor defy him in the slightest.


    Today.


    Below him, in the great hall of the Duke''s Mansion, sat his father, still calm and unchanged in appearance, yet unrecognizable to him. Behind him lay the whole of Cloudview County, a county suffering great calamity!


    No one in Cloudview County dared to challenge the Duke''s Mansion; doing so would be akin to betraying the empire. Only he could stop this.


    "Father, please forgive your unfilial son!"


    ...


    [Your descendant Jeffrey, along with his partner, has made progress in cultivating psychic powers using the ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'' and is expecting a child with his partner Victoria...]


    The affairs of the Duke''s Mansion were so secretive that the people of Cloudview County could only glimpse a fraction of what was happening, and Blackwood was completely in the dark.


    At this moment, Ethan''s gaze was fixed on the children heading to Crestwood Hills.


    He was also keeping an eye on family messages.


    "Finally expecting, huh?"


    Ethan adjusted the view slightly and saw a handsome man in Blackwood joyfully embracing his wife, with about thirty girls chattering happily in the courtyard, a smile appearing on his face.


    "Charge ahead, Jeffrey, the great responsibility of family continuation rests on you!"


    It was no wonder Ethan entrusted this great task to Jeffrey.


    This young man had two traits: [Attracting Attention] and [Romantic]. Ethan thought ''Romantic'' was a more polite term for what was essentially promiscuity. Compared to Jeffrey, the other children seemed almost indifferent.


    The fourth generation had experienced too much; they preferred cultivating psychic powers, their behavior erratic, so it was best not to pin too many hopes on them.


    As for the fifth generation... it was just Nicholas and Edward now. Matthew had become a son-in-law, contributing to the Moore family.


    Donna? She was currently in a gravity field in Blackwood, frantically cultivating psychic powers to break through to the next level of skill.


    Not to mention those two monks, neither believing in Buddha nor demons, yet possessing the temperament of Buddha and the principles of demons...


    And Joseph... Just the other day, he saw Jeffrey''s close female friends getting jealous of each other, and Jeffrey spending all day comforting one after another. He hadn''t yet recovered from the psychological impact.


    [Your descendant Amelia has returned to the Thunderfire Demon Cave, met with the demon lord, and is now using her medical skills to treat him.]


    [Your descendant Lucas has consumed various elixirs in an attempt to break through.]


    [Marcus has returned to the Sky Sect...]


    Ethan was about to turn his attention back to protecting the descendants heading to Crestwood Hills when he paused, looking at the buildings of Blackwood.


    It was now the year 128 in Blackwood.


    Blackwood had brought back a wealth of resources and had begun to massively build up the family estate. The landscape had changed.


    Fields of special abilities and medicinal gardens were everywhere. Psychics, for some reason, were all busy crafting talismans and magical formations, or constructing buildings.


    The entire population of Gratitude Village was trying to cultivate psychic powers, able to access the special medicinal herbs plundered by Blackwood, the price being labor for Blackwood.


    Production had become Blackwood''s primary driving force.


    On the chaotic streets, Nicholas walked with Helen.


    "Family head, I... I just injured my leg, there''s no need for such precious medicine."


    At that moment, Nicholas took out an eighth-grade healing pill and fed it to a citizen with foundational energy, seeing the citizen''s gratitude and shame, he stared.


    "What do you mean precious? No medicine is more precious than your leg. What if the injury becomes chronic? Besides, you have children to take care of. Go on, go rest for a few days, and we''ll talk when you''re fully healed."


    Walking with Helen to another street, they saw a towering building draped in white silk.


    Upon inquiry, Nicholas learned that it was the Black Blood Society''s team that had gone out.


    They had gone to the family''s mining area to retrieve materials for building the city walls, and several had died at the hands of roaming druids.

 Chapter 221 - 221: Let these druids pay with their lives!

    He bowed toward the Psychic Position, "Farewell, everyone. Rest assured, I, Nicholas, will take good care of your widows and orphans. The yearly supply of Energy Stones and precious resources will exceed your salaries."


    Then, under the grateful gazes of his subordinates from Blackwood, he walked to the headquarters of Dawn and personally led the charge.


    "Whoever killed our people, everyone in Gratitude Village shall be punished, and I, Blackwood, am no exception!"


    "Let''s go!"


    "Let these druids pay with their lives!"


    Initially, it was just a small tribe of about a hundred people that Nicholas intended to punish, and he only called for a dozen men.


    However, as he led his men out of the family estate, the group grew from a dozen to over a hundred, and then to thousands. If he hadn''t stopped them, the numbers might have reached ten thousand.


    "Good lad."


    Ethan watched Nicholas''s growing influence and gradually smiled, understanding why the ancient Primordial Tree had once said he was a qualified family head.


    Now, Nicholas had adapted to his role as the family head, and thanks to him, Blackwood was united, rapidly advancing in infrastructure development.


    ... S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, looking at the children heading to Crestwood Hills.


    At this time, Olivia had already ventured deep into the Endless Forest, but she wasn''t in Crestwood Hills.


    [Harris¡¤Joy Beast Tribe¡¤Elder Glenn''s Home]


    At this moment, Olivia had once again donned the druid''s attire, sitting inside the elder''s house of the Joy Beast Tribe.


    "Last time Olivia mentioned she had some influence among the druids, could it be the Joy Beast Tribe?"


    Ethan was increasingly shocked as he spoke, not even knowing how Olivia had infiltrated their ranks.


    After a while.


    Ethan saw a girl in a tiger-skin coat enter the small treehouse and sit opposite Olivia.


    "What''s the news?" Olivia asked.


    Glenn, who had a gentle appearance, was revealed by Ethan''s information to be a master in the Developing Skill phase.


    Glenn''s head displayed the words, "I found no evidence of The Oracle Chamber collaborating with our druids. However, I know that our Harris, White, and Clark tribes are desperately seeking allies. Two tribes, seduced by promised benefits and great glory, are eager to join."


    "Recently, our druid community has been peaceful, all eyes are on Cloudview County. Logically, they should be rushing here like mad. I heard that a county destroyed years ago faced an enemy ten times what Cloudview County is currently facing."


    Hearing this.


    Olivia frowned in thought, then gradually relaxed.


    Seeing Olivia''s demeanor, Glenn said seriously, "Olivia, I heard that Blackwood has made no moves. Our agreement was for you to help the Joy Beast Tribe regain its former glory as part of the larger Harris tribe. Yet, the Harris forces attacking Cloudview County haven''t suffered at all."


    "My people and the priests want to see results."


    Olivia replied calmly, "Elder Glenn, to destroy Harris, your presence in a great battle would be enough. But what after the battle? Think about it, if the Joy Beast Tribe emerges unscathed, wouldn''t that raise suspicions?"


    Glenn frowned, "That''s not your concern. I just want results."


    "Alright."


    Olivia squinted, "Help me obtain something, and I''ll support you fully!"


    "What is it?" Glenn''s face lit up with joy.


    Moments later.


    Glenn left the treehouse and headed toward a cave within the Joy Beast Tribe, where a dragon swam around the tribe''s ancient priest!


    "Great Priest, Blackwood''s Olivia has fallen into our trap!"


    With these words.


    The priest opened his eyes and sneered, "Foolish humans, their greed and confidence will only lead them to destruction. The lord of Azure Cloud Dawn is no different."


    Glenn smiled darkly, "But before that, Olivia wants something buried under the giant rocks of the Clark Tribe."


    "Hmm?"


    The priest narrowed his eyes, "Now that all tribes within Crestwood Hills are searching, I shall inform the High Priest of this matter."


    "Yes!"


    ...


    Inside the house, Ethan''s cards flickered.


    He saw everything¡ªthe collaboration between Olivia and the Joy Beast Tribe.


    Where there are beings, there are disputes, and it seemed the Joy Beast Tribe was no exception.


    "Can the druids be trusted?" Ethan pondered, stroking his mouse.


    In the past, he would have been thrilled to have an insider among the druids.


    But now? Ethan really didn''t trust others.


    Look at Stephen... he seemed weak, but his schemes were unimaginably cunning, calculating even in death.


    And then there was Michael, practically a centuries-old demon in disguise, his own son never realizing who he truly was.


    Ethan felt that the cooperation between Olivia and the Joy Beast Tribe came a little too easily.


    In Olivia''s personal history, Ethan found some information.


    [Your descendant Olivia came to the druids twenty years ago, coveting the fertile lands of the Endless Forest, a place rich with natural treasures and resources.]


    [She constantly schemed to claim the Endless Forest for the family, where the druids could nurture the Primordial Blood Tree, enrich the Death Coffin, and assist her father in refining corpses...]


    [Over the years, she meticulously planned, targeting six tribes in distress.]


    [She would injure key members of these tribes, then heal them and send them back as a crude pretext to establish relations with the druids.]


    [Even if discovered, it didn''t matter; she was giving these downtrodden druids opportunities while also testing the intelligence of these tribes...]


    Ethan, who was drinking water, almost spat it out.


    "I thought it was a druid invasion, but wow, you''ve been scheming for over twenty years."


    "Were you planning to invade the druids sooner or later if they didn''t come to you?"


    At that moment, Ethan seemed to understand; the Blackwoods had always been invaders...


    If none of the past events had happened, in a few decades, it might be a different story.


    Olivia seemed even more terrifying and ambitious than Stephen and Michael.


    The only difference was that the thoughts of the previous generations of Blackwoods became the collective mindset of any family member.


    Just like now.


    The family wanted the supernatural item buried under Crestwood Hills, and all four children were coming to find it, with the family preparing in the background.

 Chapter 222 - 222: Was this really something to be proud of?

    Inside the house, Olivia was rubbing her fingers together, seemingly deep in thought. Suddenly, she froze as the Psychic Position in her arms floated up, revealing a line of text in front of her.


    [Can the Joy Beast Tribe be trusted?]


    "Forebearer!" Olivia''s face lit up with joy. "As expected, you''ve noticed it too."


    On the screen, Ethan''s toes curled slightly. He only had a vague feeling of distrust, as for noticing anything... he noticed that Glenn walked with a wiggle, just like a corgi.


    Olivia smiled faintly and said, "Forebearer, after all, the Joy Beast Tribe doesn''t eat our Blackwood''s food. They are merely collaborators with our child."


    As she spoke, her expression became playful. "However, this time, they agreed too quickly."


    Ethan grinned. He understood now; the Joy Beast Tribe seemed to be playing a very new game.


    Ethan and Olivia in the game had a different relationship; they both squinted their eyes, their voices somewhat icy. "Then... we really miscalculated!"


    ...


    Crestwood Hills. The three Blackwood siblings were moving forward.


    The land of the druids was indeed a land of druids, filled with poison and traps everywhere, and many druids hunting in the forest. Fortunately, they were all seasoned adventurers.


    Traps? Poison? George had seen all sorts of traps in tombs and dodged all kinds of deadly gases.


    Magic circles? William had broken into all sorts of places.


    As for the druids... Justin, carrying a turtle shell, would scream wildly to lead people away, always managing to return safely.


    "I thought the druids would be more formidable, but that''s it."


    In a small cave, Justin, blackened by magic, pulled out hundreds of arrows stuck in his turtle shell.


    George picked up an arrow and his eyes lit up, "Justin, go around again. These arrows are all made of high-grade materials. If you gather more, our family can forge a lot of Psychic Gear in one day. Isn''t this faster than my tomb raiding?"


    "Big brother, do you think I''m using my shell to borrow arrows?" Justin rolled his eyes. "We''ll be at Crestwood Hills soon. Hey, where''s Brother William?"


    "Yeah, where is William? Did he disappear?" George also froze, only remembering to dodge and forgetting about William.


    Just then, a noise came from outside the cave. "I''m here!" William walked in, grinning, his lips seeming to have just wiped off blood, as if he hadn''t done anything, his gaze evasive. "I just got lost."


    "I don''t believe it, where did you go..." George''s words were cut off.


    "Clang." A bowl fell from William''s arms, changing his expression until both brothers looked at the Storage Ring in his hand. He quickly hid his hands behind his back, looking nervous. "Mine, all mine, don''t even think about stealing it!"


    But the next second, he was restrained by George and Justin. "Tell us, where did you just go?"


    "I... I went to steal from our tribe, ah! Don''t steal my Storage Ring, I knew I shouldn''t have put it in the smallest Storage Ring, it can''t fit everything!"


    Moments later, the three brothers were dividing the spoils. William sulked, having stolen from a small tribe without a single ability weapon, even stealing people''s iron bowls into his Storage Ring.


    Then the brothers looked at each other, understanding the unspoken intentions in each other''s eyes, and shared a conspiratorial grin.


    [Your descendants are on their way to Crestwood Hills, deciding to observe the situation there while pilfering from nearby druids.]


    [Your family has obtained many spoils of war.]


    [Low-grade Psychic Gear: Warm Jade Bed]


    [Yellow-tier Technique: Golden Vine Six Flashes]


    [Manure Fork...]


    "Can''t you guys do something legitimate?" Ethan''s eyelids drooped, initially thinking these three would tread carefully in druid territory.


    But as soon as the scene switched, he saw them clearly divided in their tasks: Justin drawing fire, George searching for treasures, and William breaking formations and killing...


    The three of them together, Ethan already saw the notorious future of the Blackwoods.


    But as chaotic as they were, they hadn''t forgotten their main mission.


    Half a month later.


    [Crestwood Hills]


    True to its name, this place is marked by a hundred towering mountains, standing starkly amidst the Endless Forest. The lush forest surrounds these barren peaks, which are devoid of vegetation and scattered with rocks. Here, creatures known as Stone beasts, once confined to Blackwood, now roam freely.


    Atop these mountains, various caves can be seen, bearing traces of the once-great Clark tribe.


    At this moment, George and his companions are inside one of these caves.


    This time, twenty-eight elderly figures appeared behind George; had he not given four to Katie, there would have been even more.


    [Your descendant has emerged from cultivating psychic powers, and following an encounter with a Competent ForcePsychic''s soul in an ancient tomb, and on the advice of twenty-three elders, he followed in the footsteps of his predecessors, absorbing all the living Competent Forces of Cloudview County into his body.]


    [Trait gained: Elder Harvester]


    [He can more easily locate the souls of his predecessors and gain favor from their lingering spirits.]


    "Esteemed predecessors, this is the token of The Oracle Chamber. The members of The Oracle Chamber are nearby; it''s up to you to find them!"


    With the elders'' approval, George pointed energetically outside the cave, "Go forth, elders!"


    The spirits flew out of the cave. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Hiss~"


    Although Justin and William had seen the elders emerge from George before and had even received their guidance, they couldn''t help but gasp in awe.


    William looked at his brother with concern, "Big brother, with so many people inside you, how do you bathe... change clothes... or do other things..."


    "That''s why I never bathe. I use a cleansing technique and only change clothes when they are out."


    George lifted his head proudly, "I haven''t used the restroom in decades!"


    "You truly are our big brother!"


    As the two exchanged praises, Justin couldn''t bear to watch. Was this really something to be proud of?


    Seeing Justin''s disdainful expression, George frowned, "Do you have a question?"


    "No... not at all!"


    Justin saw William clenching his fists and forced a smile, "I just think our big brother is extraordinary, and words fail to do you justice."


    Crisis averted.


    Soon, the group of spirits returned to the Psychic Sanctuary.


    A psychic image appeared before the three and Ethan, who was watching through a screen.


    Ethan squinted slightly.


    It was a masked man wearing the white robe of The Oracle Chamber, with a scale weight on his chest!


    He remembered, this was the person who, atop the high tower on the border of Cloudview County, had extinguished Stephen''s psychic soul with a single palm strike!


    This person was using a formation disk, hiding beneath a great mountain in the Psychic Sanctuary.


    Below him.


    Countless Druids seemed to be digging for something, employing various spells and battling against naturally formed magical arrays!


    It appeared he had located the mysterious object and was waiting to reap the benefits.


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan cursed under his breath, suddenly recalling that day when Stephen fell from the tower, still smiling as if he wasn''t upset at all.


    "You old fox, did you set us up to retrieve this treasure just so we could avenge you?"


    It was highly likely.


    So likely that Ethan couldn''t help but admire Stephen, who might be dead but was still seeking revenge.


    However, after the initial shock, Ethan felt reassured; this proved that Stephen''s setup wasn''t aimed at Blackwood. His ultimate goal was most likely to have Blackwood avenge him, using the treasure as a reward.


    The reward might even include members of The Oracle Chamber themselves.

 Chapter 223 - 223: Why do I feel... somewhat uneasy?

    At this moment, the elders in the game were discussing information about the person from The Oracle Chamber.


    "The folks from The Oracle Chamber, back in the early days of Competent Force, if I were still alive, I could have squashed him with a slap."


    "Cut it out, you''ve been dead for thousands of years, stop bragging. The Oracle Chamber is shrouded in mystery, who knows what tricks they have up their sleeves?"


    "With just the three of you youngsters, you really can''t take him down. Why not ask your clan for help? Your grandfathers could lend a hand, oh... except for Julian." S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "..."


    As the elders analyzed the situation, George''s two brothers began to look increasingly uneasy.


    Justin licked his lips, "During the Competent Force era, I never messed with such people. If I could escape from his clutches, I would achieve great enlightenment and increase my power."


    William shouted, "Assassinate him, assassinate him!"


    "Let them play on their own."


    George, accustomed to such scenarios, pulled the elders aside to strategize.


    ...


    At that moment.


    The Psychic Position of the Blackwood clan was glowing, and they opened their bright eyes.


    In the Joy Beast tribe.


    Olivia''s lips curled up, "Forebearer, is it someone from The Oracle Chamber? That''s truly a great gift."


    ...


    Blackwood.


    Nathan looked at the two children, Lucas had his sword case on his back, and Amelia was holding the Psychic Position.


    He burst out laughing.


    "Capture the person from The Oracle Chamber, uncover their dirty secrets, and finish off Michael!"


    ...


    Sky Sect.


    Marcus entered the Sky Temple, where Warren Daoist was observing the stars.


    "Master."


    "Are you interested in the person from The Oracle Chamber?"


    Warren Daoist suddenly opened his eyes wide and laughed, "Interesting, my disciple, bring out the Sky Temple, I want to make a trip to the imperial city!"


    ...


    In the Crestwood Hills.


    The masked man from The Oracle Chamber hid in the shadows, the distant tinkling sound echoing.


    He remained calm.


    But as the magical formations were being dismantled day by day, his excitement grew, "Two thousand years, just waiting to take this thing away, it''s almost time, in a few more years I''ll be able to dig it out! From then on, what does The Oracle Chamber matter?"


    "What does Cloudview County matter? I will disappear from the public eye, and before my life runs out, I might glimpse Basic Mastery, even Advanced Mastery!"


    In the distance.


    He saw four or five druid priests, but he remained calm, they were not a concern to him!


    "Why do I feel... somewhat uneasy?"


    The masked man furrowed his brow, "No one knows who I am, Stephen is dead, who else would think of me? Could it be that I''m just being paranoid?"


    ...


    In the room.


    Ethan had been waiting for two hours.


    In the game, under Nicholas''s leadership, Blackwood was steadily progressing.


    Magnificent structures sprang from the ground as psychic energies converged from all directions.


    Blackwood even formed an eighth-grade psychic vein, doubling the speed at which its inhabitants could cultivate their psychic powers.


    With treasures plundered over the years, Blackwood''s foundation could now barely compare to the once-great Azure Cloud Dragon family!


    As usual, in Cloudview County, the Druids and Azure Cloud forces continued their intermittent clashes.


    According to family predictions, this situation could persist for a century, or even longer.


    Ethan''s focus, however, was more on what was inside Crestwood Hills.


    [Crestwood Hills]


    At this moment, on the screen, the three brothers'' game avatars were still hiding in a cave, concealed by an ability weapon that masked their presence.


    After learning about the importance of this event from the Forebearer''s Psychic Position, they were very obedient.


    Suddenly.


    Ethan''s hand, which was about to pick up a milk tea, paused.


    He focused intently, gripping the mouse and staring at the screen.


    In one area of Crestwood Hills.


    A huge ''BOOM'' appeared, and dust billowed!


    [Your descendant George reports to you that his grandfather saw The Oracle Chamber Masked Man succeed.]


    At the same time.


    "Phew!"


    After reporting through the Psychic Position, the three brothers, like wild beasts that had been stalking their prey, rushed out crazily, eager to unleash their long-suppressed desire to hunt!


    "So impulsive."


    Ethan rolled his eyes and quickly used the Psychic Position to send a signal to the clan members hidden around Crestwood Hills.


    All the clan members around suddenly opened their bright eyes, looking at the floating Psychic Position.


    "Yes, Forebearer, the net of heaven and earth is ready for the enemy!"


    ...


    "Ha ha ha! Got it, they would never expect that I still have The Oracle Chamber''s secret techniques. With the Heavenly Elements Escape Technique, it was a piece of cake!"


    The Masked Man looked at the Storage Ring in his hand.


    From it, he could see a basin-sized lump of earth, glowing with a mysterious yellow light and soft like cotton. He couldn''t suppress the joy on his face, "The sky is vast enough for fish to leap at will, from now on I no longer need to bother with the affairs of Cloudview County..."


    As he soared through the sky, he suddenly paused and looked behind him, "Hmm?"


    Three Developing Skill stage Psychics were tracking him!


    "Damn it, are these Blackwood people? Sending three youngsters, there must be a trick!"


    The Masked Man narrowed his eyes, but he didn''t stop.


    He continued to fly, even faster, summoning the natural energies of the world and exhaling, "Psychic powers of heaven and earth, Wind God protect me, go!"


    True to The Oracle Chamber''s reputation, his methods were exceptional!


    With just one magic formula, two half-step Competent Force tornadoes formed in the air, sweeping up everything in their path and gradually taking human form, like door gods, blocking his path!


    However, his expression quickly changed.


    ...


    If you were to talk about the most potential in Blackwood, it would undoubtedly be the past two generations.


    However, when it comes to overcoming stronger foes with lesser strength and the potential they hold now, the most formidable are the three kids from Blackwood''s fourth generation!


    "Damn!" Ethan couldn''t help but curse as he watched the screen.


    In previous battles, he had focused more on the four individuals from the second generation, but now, as George and the others prepared to give it their all in two years, his exclamations were endless!


    "William, Justin, block those two gusts of wind!"


    During the chase, George, who had been digging graves, appeared more steady and calm than Ethan had ever seen him.


    He charged forward relentlessly, not even bothering about the two gusts of wind powers, trusting his younger brothers completely.


    "Yes, big brother!"


    The sky roared with fierce winds.


    William took the lead and charged forward, facing the gust of wind with half-step Competent Force.


    A dark aura surged around him!


    Apart from Ethan, no one knew how powerful this Blackwood freak really was when he got serious.


    He possessed the trait [Natural Born Troublemaker], which made it easier for him to acquire traits than anyone else in Blackwood.


    Every time he killed, he gained a bit of strength.


    After so many years, he had killed all sorts of things.


    Now, his [Traits] alone dazzled Ethan.


    [Traits]: Natural Born Troublemaker, Aura of Murder, Elder Brother''s Vigilance, Elite Hunter, Druid Slayer, Sneaky Ambusher...


    Just his combat power alone boosted him by 1000%.


    His usual public display of power was at the early Developing Skill stage, but now, he was fully unleashing at the mid Developing Skill stage!


    Besides that.


    "Magic Gourd of Treasures, Ten Directions Psychic Gear, explode!"


    William''s eyes turned blood red, and he charged madly towards the wind power.


    A gourd at his waist, ten pieces of Psychic Gear appeared behind him and rushed towards the wind power, then exploded!


    The wind power was unharmed, merely pushed back a step by the tremendous force.


    William kept shouting.


    "Ten Directions Psychic Gear, explode!"


    Who knew how many Psychic Gears he had hoarded over the years from his constant killing?


    Each of his ten fingers was adorned with a Storage Ring!


    The gifts he gave to Katie were all psychic items; his family''s wealth was extraordinarily vast!

 Chapter 224 - 224: You really got dazed by the hit, didnt you?

    On the other side, Justin was a stark contrast to William.


    "Heavenly Heavy Tortoise Shell, Black Tortoise Protection Technique!"


    As Justin moved forward, he activated the ''Heavenly Heavy Tortoise Shell,'' a special ability he had acquired at Lake Heavenly Heart after Ethan had saved him from near-death experiences more than fifty times.


    "Boom!"


    At the early stages of Developing Skill, Justin was blown away by an opponent with nearly Competent Force.


    However, equipped with his special ability and the secret Black Tortoise technique, he wiped the blood from his mouth, grinned, and charged back towards the wind power.


    "He''s tough. If he wasn''t so focused on chasing my brother and hit me with full force, I''d be seriously injured."


    Yet, he kept charging forward.


    With each approach, the wind power''s speed seemed to slow, gradually becoming agitated by Justin''s persistence.


    But with every injury, Justin''s aura grew stronger.


    Ethan watched quietly, gradually easing his worries.


    Although Justin didn''t possess William''s strength or his array of traits, as long as he wasn''t killed instantly, he would prove to be a formidable and tenacious opponent.


    Over the years, while breaking through his limits, Justin had acquired a trait¡ª[Growing Stronger with Battle].


    As long as he wasn''t killed, his strength would continue to increase with the duration of the fight and the number of life-threatening situations he faced.


    His most terrifying traits were initially [Numb to Death] and [Walking with Death].


    He had faced countless dangers in his life, extremely sensitive to crises, like an indestructible roach!


    These three traits combined made him an incredibly difficult opponent for anyone to face.


    "How is this possible?"


    The Masked Man, flying with the force of Competent Force, sensed the battle he had left far behind and his expression soured.


    "What''s with these Blackwood people? What''s going on?!"


    He had lived for many years and had seen all the talents of Cloudview County.


    He knew the fearsome reputation of the Blackwood youths, but seeing them in action was something else entirely.


    William, whose combat power soared when he went berserk.


    Justin, who navigated through deadly dangers like an unkillable roach, always managing to rise even stronger.


    These two were beyond his comprehension.


    "They''re cultivating some strange psychic powers. No, there must be some powerful treasures on them!"


    The Masked Man finally understood why these three young ones dared to compete for treasures and act so boldly.


    "Run!"


    The sense of danger in his heart grew stronger, and he increased his speed, even pulling out his top-grade ability weapon.


    But just as he thought he had left George far behind, his expression turned ugly.


    "Ancestors, aid me!"


    George''s roar came from behind.


    In an instant, his aura surged from the early to the mid-stage of Developing Skill.


    "Damn it!"


    The Masked Man cursed under his breath.


    He sensed a remnant soul of Competent Force within George, enhancing his natural energies.


    He gritted his teeth.


    "Do you really think a remnant soul of Competent Force can deal with me?"


    He scoffed, but as he continued to flee, he could feel that Blackwood had more tricks up their sleeve.


    As if to confirm his suspicions, George''s aura continued to grow.


    The Masked Man even heard an ancient voice behind him.


    "What are you old folks waiting for? I''ll protect George''s body and meridians with my soul, letting him merge with some of your strength. Together, we are stronger!"


    With that declaration, the Masked Man felt overwhelmed by the noise, so much so that it made him nauseous.


    "Ha ha ha, good, after many years I only have about 20% of my strength from before my death."


    "I''ve been wanting to meet The Oracle Chamber for a long time, and it''s actually our first encounter."


    "Let''s get him!"


    George''s aura grew steadily, like wheat rising bit by bit.


    His eyes sparkled with a golden light as his power surged from the mid-stage of Developing Skill to its peak... and then to half-step Competent Force, until reaching Competent Force itself!


    Even more, he felt the presence of a soul from the peak of Competent Force, and even from the Out-of-Body stage...


    The heavens formed a barrier, tightly enveloping him, even blocking the secret techniques of The Oracle Chamber with the once Azure Cloud Pavilion''s divination methods!


    "Impossible..."


    Trapped in the sky within the pinnacle formation of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, he had nowhere to escape.


    Turning around, he faced George with a face dripping with cold sweat.


    At that moment, George walked through the air as if strolling in a garden, surrounded by a golden formation inscribed with divination symbols.


    Twenty-eight elders appeared behind him, following George as if walking alongside him.


    Suddenly.


    The Masked Man from The Oracle Chamber remembered the Azure Cloud Pavilion from 130,000 years ago, as if seeing their peak moment when they once dominated the entire Cloudview County!


    All the peaks of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, no, even the entire heritage of Cloudview County, were now embodied in George!


    Fear descended.


    He was at the early stage of Competent Force, and among the best, with countless techniques learned from The Oracle Chamber and other places.


    He tried them all, enduring the brutal assault of the natural energies in the formation for half an hour.


    But... how could he possibly contend against the entire heritage of Cloudview County?


    All the techniques and martial arts, in the hands of those elders, reached a transcendent level, all using high-grade techniques, and their calculations were far deeper than those of the Masked Man.


    The Masked Man could easily face multiple priests and even snatch the ''Rootless Soul Soil'' from their hands, but now he was utterly at a loss.


    George looked towards the Masked Man from afar.


    Without exaggeration, at this moment, he was the strongest in Blackwood!


    "Boom!"


    The "Unfalling Azure Cloud," the most powerful secret technique of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, transformed into the Azure Cloud itself.


    In George''s hands, it had only reached a proficient level, but now, controlled by one of the oldest elders, it gathered the clouds from the sky to form another dimension.


    Composed of clouds like deities, it struck the Masked Man from The Oracle Chamber with a punch, sending him crashing to the edge of the formation barrier.


    "Ha ha ha!" sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Masked Man, spitting blood, saw George still advancing and laughed madly, "You''re all doomed, I''ve taken the Rootless Soul Soil. In half an hour, even if you''ve masked your presence with your divination methods, the Druids will find this place, and perhaps they''ve already surrounded it!"


    Hearing this.


    George also laughed, somewhat mockingly, "You really got dazed by the hit, didn''t you? We''ve been tracking you for two years; did you really think we in Blackwood weren''t prepared?"


    "What do you mean?"


    The Masked Man, his body slumping, looked towards the west where smoke billowed and the forest turned into a sea of fire.


    That was...


    The direction of the Joy Beast Tribe!


    George sneered, "Compared to the battle here, the destruction of a Druid tribe is far more eye-catching."

 Chapter 225 - 225: No... it wasnt supposed to be like this

    "That''s the direction of the Joy Beast tribe, what''s happening?!!"


    "Are they still after that supernatural item?"


    "What are you talking about? The Emerald Empire is invading!"


    On this day, all the tribes around the Joy Beast tribe were rushing to their aid!


    At this moment.


    The Joy Beast tribe, once collaborators with Olivia, had turned into a sea of flames. Under the bright daylight, the scene was a blazing red, the ground''s blood coagulated from the heat, mixing with the soil and the ashes of vegetation.


    The people of the Joy Beast tribe were fleeing.


    Elder Glenn of the Joy Beast knelt on the ground, clutching the tribe''s soil, tears streaming down his face.


    Today, she was supposed to follow the plan she made with Olivia, leading the Joy Beast tribe''s hidden priests to Crestwood Hills to seize the ''Rootless Soul Soil'' as part of their trade agreement.


    But...


    A group of demons had descended upon the Joy Beast tribe. They came without warning, storming right into the tribe''s sacred grounds!


    "Boom!"


    They were like the flames of today, devouring everything, like reapers from hell.


    In less than an hour, she could no longer sense the presence of the priests!


    "Whoosh~"


    "Thud, thud, thud..."


    The dull sound of footsteps arose in front of the kneeling Glenn, surrounded by burning and collapsing giant trees and buildings. She saw them, saw the huge figures emerging from the flames!


    It was a giant serpent, its dark silhouette visible in the fire, excitedly swaying as it held a soon-to-transform sacred beast of the Joy Beast tribe in its jaws.


    Beneath it.


    A shadow approached, a man carrying a sword case, walking leisurely, then with a dark, seemingly fragile sword in his hand, he sliced through the sky, and a Developing Skill elder fell from the sky.


    "They told you not to set fires, you stinking snake. There are so many ancient trees here, so many treasures of heaven and earth, all burned by your thunder flames."


    A woman in a dirty white robe approached, complaining as she walked, scolding the giant serpent, which bowed its head.


    Then.


    Seven tall and mighty figures appeared, and with them, a slightly shorter handsome man carrying a large sword.


    They emerged from the flames, from the fiery pits of the eighteenth layer of hell.


    They gradually became clear in Glenn''s eyes.


    "Clang... Clang..."


    Their weapons collided or dragged on the ground, the sound painfully sharp.


    Especially...


    Olivia, who had been collaborating with the Joy Beast tribe, always speaking softly and warmly, was still smiling amidst the flames.


    "Why?!! Why?!!!"


    Glenn screamed, her voice hoarse. She used to love Olivia''s smile, but now she wanted to tear Olivia''s mouth apart and burn her as fertilizer for the Joy Beast tribe!


    Olivia calmly said, "This is also part of our cooperation. You helped us obtain the Rootless Soul Soil. Congratulations, you''ve done it, and we from Blackwood have succeeded, while you''ve successfully drawn the attention of other druids."


    "In the days to come, we Blackwood people will fulfill our part of the agreement and destroy the other Harris tribes."


    Glenn''s mind went blank.


    "No... it wasn''t supposed to be like this, the price we agreed to pay wasn''t supposed to be like this!"


    She seemed mad, crawling over the ground, trying to strangle Olivia.


    Olivia still looked calmly at Glenn, her old friend now grotesque, her eyes filled with hatred for her, her gaze holding the most venomous curses and insults.


    Olivia didn''t even defend herself, just watching Glenn''s dying struggles.


    "Thud!" sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Lucas''s sword easily pierced Glenn''s chest, the sword energy wreaking havoc inside her, cutting off all her vitality. Then, dragging the Joy Beast tribe elder by her hair, he dragged her across the ground, regardless of her legs kicking.


    Lucas scanned the surroundings and said in a low voice, "Let''s go, our mission here is done. The druids are on their way."


    "Okay."


    Olivia nodded slightly, her eyes showing a flash of understanding. She gave Glenn one last look, filled with reluctance, "In your next life, don''t engage in schemes and deceit. You have no idea how dangerous it can be, the kind of pressure it puts on you. Because one misstep can destroy everything you cherish."


    "..."


    As she was dragged away, Glenn''s final view was of her tribe, which she had lived with all her life, now reduced to ashes.


    "Crackle, crackle..."


    Everything was burning, just like her life.


    She remembered the mythical beasts of the Joy Beast tribe, and the children happily playing here, their laughter filling the air.


    Olivia was right.


    Unknowingly, she had set a fire here.


    "The high priest... Olivia has fallen into the trap."


    "The Lord of Dawn is nothing special..."


    "Greed and overconfidence will only lead them to their demise..."


    "When Blackwood trusts us, we can use them to eliminate everything and then capture them all..."


    "Ha ha ha..."


    The conversation with the high priest slowly surfaced in her mind.


    Glenn''s eyes filled with despair.


    "It turns out, we were the ones filled with greed and overconfidence all along."


    She entered the eighteen levels of hell, carrying the most vicious curse of her tribe.


    ...


    [Congratulations, your descendant has destroyed the Joy Beast tribe!]


    [You have obtained spoils of war, including the body of a giant serpent on the verge of transformation! Your family''s temple guardian beast is feasting on the enemy''s body, swallowing their Developing Skill and undergoing a wondrous transformation!]


    [You have obtained spoils of war, the body of the high priest.]


    [You have obtained spoils of war...]


    [Your descendant Olivia, in this slaughter, has gained some insights and acquired the trait: Destroyer of Tribes]


    [After years of planning the destruction of tribes, she has wiped out numerous forces and races. Under her leadership, the combat strength of the entire tribe has increased by 5%. With each tribe destroyed, her understanding of the laws of nature deepens.]


    [Your family''s guardian ''Lord of Frenzied Blood'', after devouring a large amount of druid blood, seems to have awakened some ancient lineage, unlocking new spells...]


    "Big haul!"


    Ethan exclaimed joyfully, slamming his hand on the table. This operation was initially just to provide George with an opportunity, but the rewards turned out to be substantial!


    The Thunderfire Raging Python had devoured a demon king on the verge of transformation, accelerating its own transformation process.


    As for the trait ''Destroyer of Tribes''... upon reflection, Olivia truly had destroyed many races and forces.


    The strangest of all was Olivia.


    Her information panel still showed her as a mortal, still borrowing life from Azure Cloud, yet she could harness the power of nature, almost on par with a Competent Force.


    And then there was the Lord of Frenzied Blood... this being had developed a new consciousness, continuously influenced by the people of Blackwood. Now, he had become Blackwood''s most loyal guardian. However, his awakening of a druidic lineage was puzzling to Ethan.


    "Awakened a druidic lineage, is that why he unlocked spells?"


    Ethan murmured, "Could this guy have a connection with the druids?"


    But without any clues, Ethan couldn''t figure it out and decided not to dwell on it.


    Soon.


    The Blackwood party safely escaped through the inferno at the Joy Beast tribe, soaring into the sky, heading towards the place where George and the Masked Man were fighting.


    "Ah? George, you''re ruthless! Competent Force skills, and you''ve been hiding it from your old man, how could you?!!" Thomas looked at George inside the magical barrier, jumping with anger. How was he supposed to discipline this kid now?


    The other members of the third generation of Blackwood felt the same, gritting their teeth in frustration, as if annoyed by the prospect of being unable to surpass their juniors in the future.


    Little did they know, William and Justin had already surpassed them, both bearing wounds and glaring fiercely at George, as if they had only just found out as well.

 Chapter 226 - 226: What a laughable perfect plan

    George was speechless for a moment, then wiped the sweat off his forehead and forced a smile at his elders, "It''s all borrowed, I''m just starting to develop my skills... cough, I''m busy."


    He quickly turned his gaze to the Masked Man at the edge of the barrier, his voice booming, "Take off the mask!"


    At his command, everyone''s eyes shifted to the Masked Man. Their mission, besides acquiring the Rootless Soul Soil, was to capture him alive!


    "Take off the mask!"


    As the words echoed, the Masked Man looked utterly defeated, realizing he had no way out. With George alone stripping him of all his advantages, and knowing Blackwood had even more skilled fighters!


    He gave a bitter laugh, "I want to know, how did you track me down? It seems like you''ve calculated everything. Who is it? Who is plotting against me?"


    "You seem to have killed someone you shouldn''t have."


    George silently pulled out a token, it was... a token from The Oracle Chamber. As long as a member of The Oracle Chamber was within a hundred miles, the token would react!


    Looking at the token, engraved with inscriptions and suppressing its power, the Masked Man felt all his strength leave him.


    He remembered that day on the high tower, when he had scattered Stephen''s soul, that ungrateful old fox still smiling at him.


    He suddenly understood everything.


    With a sigh, the Masked Man slowly removed his mask, revealing only a bitter smile.


    But as he revealed his true face, the eyes of the Blackwood group widened in shock.


    A Psychic from the county town arrived at Betty''s yard, bearing news that drained the color from her face. Staggering, she rushed to the Blackwood hall.


    "Edward, Edward..."


    She had hoped to find her husband, but as she entered the hall, she saw Nathan and his wife seated in the main chairs, and Edward, giving her a glance, shook his head.


    The Duke''s Mansion had been sealed for two years, its secrets unknown, but today, its protective barriers were finally lifted, and the Blackwoods had been watching closely.


    "My brother..." Betty fell to her knees. "He lost the battle for the family leadership and now he''s missing. Please, you must help me find him; he''s the last family I have left. My father will never let him be."


    Nathan and his wife exchanged a glance.


    Luna stepped forward, helping Betty to her feet with a gentle expression. "Betty, let''s talk."


    ...


    Atop Crestwood Hills, the Masked Man slowly removed his mask.


    "Kenneth."


    As his true face was revealed, the temperature seemed to drop, and Olivia murmured his name softly, causing everyone from Blackwood to widen their eyes in shock.


    The family had never ceased their investigations into their own, and they had gathered every piece of information on Kenneth, including details about his sons and his affairs. Yet, they had never imagined that Kenneth, who had been battling Martin in Cloudview County for over a hundred thousand years, was actually the current leader of The Oracle Chamber!


    Martin and his son, who had lived side by side, had never truly seen each other.


    Now, Kenneth, with a bitter smile, faced the Blackwoods.


    The sky was eerily silent, save for the wind.


    Kenneth discarded his mask and, with a long sigh, handed his Storage Ring to George. It contained the ''Rootless Soul Soil'' he had schemed so hard to acquire.


    In that moment, he seemed to shed all his burdens and waved his hand nonchalantly.


    "I''ve lost. Spare my life, in-law; I still have my uses."


    Hearing this, George looked towards his great-aunt, who nodded. Only then did he dissolve the barrier, his power slowly fading.


    Kenneth didn''t fight or flee. Once subservient as a dog to Michael, he now stood tall, unburdened.


    "This isn''t the place to talk. Let''s go down," Olivia said to Kenneth with a faint smile.


    ...


    "Clatter."


    Ethan''s bubble tea fell to the ground. It took him a moment to pick it up and continue drinking; only a little was left.


    [Your family has captured The Oracle Chamber''s Masked Man!]


    In the Psychic Sanctuary, Kenneth''s voice was low.


    "The Oracle Chamber is more complex than you imagine. I only know about the part in the county town because my late Forebearer left me the legacy of The Oracle Chamber when I was a hundred years old."


    "What?!"


    The Blackwoods were once again taken aback. To destroy The Oracle Chamber in Cloudview County and ensure the direct succession of Duke''s Mansion¡ªwhat was the reasoning behind this?


    Kenneth chuckled. "Surprising, isn''t it? I was just as surprised when my Forebearer told me."


    He sighed deeply. "My Forebearer also warned that if I ever betrayed them, Martin would face the full wrath of The Oracle Chamber, possibly even from a Basic Mastery-level powerhouse. As the years passed, to ensure Martin''s existence, I had to accept missions from The Oracle Chamber, even though I''ve never met my direct superior."


    "Over the years, I''ve developed many members within Cloudview County''s The Oracle Chamber, including leaders like Stephen of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, Elder Dylan of the Sky Sect, and the Elder of the Black Tortoise..."


    As Kenneth listed the members of The Oracle Chamber in Cloudview County, the implications were startling.


    Elder Dylan had been the one who had helped Marcus in the past. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Years ago, I received a mission," Kenneth continued gravely. "They said the time had come to destroy Cloudview County. I was to inform the Druids and all major powers in Cloudview County to unite against you, the Blackwoods."


    "That was the first time I resisted a mission. I didn''t want to see Cloudview County destroyed. I was even prepared to reveal everything and have my father lead our people to flee."


    For some inexplicable reason, the people of Blackwood could sense the immense burden and pressure hidden behind Kenneth''s seemingly casual words. The Oracle Chamber possessed formidable power; even if they wanted to flee, where could Martin possibly go?


    "But my father''s words gave me some relief," Kenneth said with a self-deprecating laugh. "I could never fully understand him. One day, I subtly leaked some information to him to ensure Blackwood''s safety, to solve everything. He was confident, telling me that Martin had to be directly involved."


    As he spoke, tears streamed down Kenneth''s face, his voice gradually turning into a low growl.


    "I believed him, so I methodically carried out my tasks, even killing Stephen, that troublesome traitor. I thought he had a perfect plan, haha, what a laughable ''perfect'' plan¡ªit was all driven by his own interests!"


    "Do you know what he said?" Kenneth continued, his voice filled with scorn.


    "He said he would wait, just maintain a balance, let all the powerful forces in Cloudview County exhaust themselves! He was prepared all along. The neighboring Starlight County was also getting ready; they were all waiting to pick up the pieces. My father had secretly promised Starlight County a third of our taxes for a thousand years."


    "And if all else failed, he could still escape. He was a duke, a noble of the empire; he could ask the Emerald Emperor to let him develop new lands."


    The people of Blackwood could see Kenneth''s breakdown.

 Chapter 227 - 227: An Unstoppable War!

    Imagine if Nathan suddenly turned into a scoundrel, the kind who would abandon his own family to achieve his goals. How devastated would they be? For a moment, everyone shivered with dread.


    At that moment, Kenneth''s face was streaked with tears. "Two years ago, I couldn''t take it anymore, and I dropped the facade I had maintained for many years to confront my father."


    "I told him everything, that I wanted to become the new head of the family, and The Oracle Chamber agreed. But..."


    "I lost. I thought I had won over Martin''s loyalty, but I later realized I couldn''t do it. Even my closest allies were spies my father had left by my side."


    "I had no choice but to follow the secrets left by our ancestors and come here to seize the Rootless Soul Soil, no longer concerning myself with the affairs of Cloudview County."


    Look at this father and son. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kenneth, a long-time member of The Oracle Chamber, was constantly thinking about saving Cloudview County. Michael, on the other hand, a Duke, was leading Cloudview County to ruin. Kenneth, such a man, was led by the nose, a truly lamentable sight.


    Olivia closed her eyes, clenched her teeth, and remained silent.


    Amelia glanced at her sister, narrowing her eyes, "Maybe you should have come to us earlier to eliminate Michael. There''s still a chance now."


    "With you here, you can reveal everything, whether it''s suing in the capital or leading the experts of Cloudview County to take down Martin directly. Both are good strategies."


    "Now... the advantage is on our side."


    Everyone nodded in agreement, smiles of relief appearing on their faces.


    Even Thomas from the third generation of Blackwood loudly said, "Yes, let''s inform the surrounding counties... no, for such a vile man, we should be the ones to take him down ourselves!"


    Kenneth gave a wry smile.


    Just as he was about to speak.


    Olivia opened her eyes and let out a long sigh, "It''s too late, everything is too late."


    As her words fell.


    "Boom!"


    Suddenly, the ground shook, and the air was heavy with tension!


    Everyone in Blackwood changed their expressions and looked outside the cave.


    They saw.


    Originally, many tribes were heading towards the destroyed Joy Beast tribe, but suddenly, all these tribes stopped in their tracks!


    The cave was situated on high ground.


    Everyone''s eyes widened as they looked across the Endless Forest, where suddenly all the tribes seemed to have received a command at the same moment!


    Terrifyingly tall trees, hundreds of feet high, uprooted themselves, shaking off rocks and dirt as giant beasts carefully moved through the Endless Forest, carrying druids towards the direction of Cloudview County!


    This time.


    There were more tribes than the three-sided tribal conflict two years ago, and they were stronger!


    "Great-aunt... this..."


    George swallowed hard.


    Olivia sighed deeply, "The Oracle Chamber and the druids have a bigger appetite than we imagined."


    ...


    [Special Event¡ªAn Unstoppable War!]


    [Your family and the righteous of Cloudview County have tried to stop a war. You have outmaneuvered the chess players and won before. But you have never escaped the fate of being pawns. Cloudview County was just a pawn to distract the Emerald Empire, keeping all eyes on Cloudview County while you struggle to survive in a chaotic world.]


    In front of the screen, Ethan clenched his teeth tightly.


    Olivia said ''it''s too late'', but it''s not too late, they had been very successful.


    The only problem was, they were only focused on Cloudview County.


    [Your descendant Larry reports to you, he saw it, the druids suddenly rushing into Starlight County!]


    [Riley, being struck by heavenly thunder, reports to you, he saw Cedar County sending several priests who beat a Competent Force expert to death.]


    [Your descendant Marcus reports to you, his master Warren Daoist went to the capital to report on the affairs of Cloudview County, mentioning the capture of a member of The Oracle Chamber. But he was chased by the capital''s elites, and the last message sent back was that the Emerald Emperor was severely injured and in seclusion!]


    "So, Cloudview County was just a small pawn."


    His expression darkened, they had worked hard, trying to ensure Blackwood had peaceful days, just like these past few years, the whole family gathering together for fun. But now, they were still affected by the damned situation.


    "Ding-a-ling."


    Suddenly, the phone rang. Ethan turned it off; he wasn''t in the mood. He knew the family was facing a severe crisis. "I need to go into seclusion and break through to the Competent Force level. Only then can I truly help my family!"


    At that moment.


    In the laboratory, Orion, dressed in a white lab coat, darkened his expression as he heard the ''The number you have dialed is switched off'' message, almost ready to smash his phone.


    Behind him, there came a burst of joyful laughter from the staff.


    "We found it, haha, we found it, and there are ancient inscriptions on it!"


    Orion hurried out to see a team member approaching, holding a silver coffin¡ªan ability weapon, indicating the person''s significant status.


    All the staff were busy deciphering the inscriptions.


    [We tried hard to prevent disaster from befalling our homeland, but we failed.]


    [I am still proud.]


    [Proud to have lived in this era, to have fought selflessly for the future of Azure Cloud, even in the darkest of futures, we still held onto hope.]


    [Proud that I fought alongside Blackwood, standing behind the times.]


    [And now, they are still fighting, carrying the will of all of us, standing against those who scheme from their high towers!]


    Even though it was from a long-gone era.


    Everyone looking at the inscriptions in the coffin could feel the solemnity of that time!


    It seemed they were caught in a tremendous calamity, united and never giving up, even in death.


    "This family..."


    Orion murmured, having received various relics. It seemed this family was a very sinister one, their children trained to kill from a young age, emotionless, their aura filled with murderous intent.


    Among them were corpse drivers, demons, despicable assassins, and poison masters... even groveling traitors.


    They must have been a large family of dark cultivators.


    Yet, they seemed to be leaders of their era as well.

 Chapter 228 - 228: The master says, prepare for battle!

    "Aunt Olivia, what should we do now?" Even Thomas, a notorious demon lord, was losing his composure.


    He too had noticed that the entire Druid order was stirring. They were like ferocious beasts, eager to devour the delicious morsel that was Cloudview County!


    The Forebearer had already given them a sign!


    On the fringes of the Emerald Empire, county towns were under attack by the Druids at this very moment, and to make matters worse, there were troubles brewing within the capital itself.


    "Focus on the present."


    Olivia let out a long sigh. "It won''t be easy for the Druids to make their move. I need time to clear my head. For now, you all should go home, and I''ll investigate the Druids'' activities."


    "Alright."


    Lucas nodded slightly. He had seen his sister''s capabilities; she could move through Druid territory as if it were uninhabited. Given the current situation, that was all they could do, even though the enemies of Cloudview County had just increased!


    As the group was leaving, they noticed Kenneth hadn''t moved.


    Lucas frowned. "What about him?"


    Kenneth gave a bitter smile. "Killing me won''t help you..."


    "That''s not true, your corpse would be quite valuable."


    William licked his lips.


    Kenneth was momentarily speechless, but Olivia shook her head at the others and smiled at Kenneth, "Stay alive. I look forward to the day you meet Michael again."


    Under Kenneth''s gaze, the Blackwood clan departed.


    His expression was one of dawning comprehension; he seemed to grasp the meaning in Olivia''s words.


    "There will be another day. I... I haven''t lost yet. Yes, Cloudview County hasn''t lost either. We still have a chance!"


    ...


    "Yes, we haven''t lost. I must win!"


    Ethan narrowed his eyes.


    He was closely observing the situation on his game screen.


    Indeed, the county towns around the Emerald Empire had been invaded, and the situation seemed one-sided. News of the death of a Competent Force expert had arrived swiftly.


    But that didn''t mean Blackwood had no place to survive. Blackwood had survived the hostility of the entire Cloudview County before, and they could do it again, though this time they might have to abandon their ancestral land.


    At the Psychic Position, which was the shrine, the whole world was Blackwood''s hunting ground!


    However, that meant he couldn''t descend into the world to absorb the natural energy and attempt a breakthrough.


    "If I enter the game now, there''s still time."


    Ethan took a deep breath.


    His current Spiritual Tribute value was enough for him to descend for a long time, and he could come out at any moment if there were an emergency.


    He switched his view to the ancestral land.


    [Would you like to use the Forebearer moment?]


    [You are currently at the peak of Developing Skill.]


    [Entering the game world to cultivate psychic powers will consume 50,000 Spiritual Tribute points per year!]


    [Confirm entry!]


    In an instant.


    Ethan entered the game world, invisible to all as before.


    The boundary, marked by a red circle, had expanded to the size of a county town.


    Now, Blackwood looked even more formidable than the last time he saw it, and all the affiliated forces were busily preparing for battle.


    Nathan was directing the people of Gratitude Village.


    Before long.


    The Blackwood people who had gone to Crestwood Hills returned.


    [Blackwood Year 130, the Great Blackwood Festival begins.]


    [Your descendants offer you a Tribute...]


    A pale blue screen appeared, and Ethan, as before, chose items that could enhance his abilities. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the shrine.


    Ethan sat quietly at the shrine table, watching his family members kneel in worship. He truly felt like a spirit, watching his descendants honor him, a strange feeling of being revered even after death.


    As Nathan finished the annual sacrificial speech.


    Nathan bowed deeply. "Forebearer, with the total assault by the Druids imminent, please rest assured, your children have weathered many storms before, and we will survive this disaster too!"


    "What instructions do you have, Forebearer?"


    The Thunderfire Raging Python appeared, having undergone significant changes after devouring a demon king in the Joy Beast Tribe. It had grown two long tentacles.


    Ethan clicked on the blue screen, still displaying the Thunderfire Raging Python''s icon.


    This time it seemed to be handwritten.


    As Ethan typed, the Thunderfire Raging Python spoke in a deep voice, "The master says, prepare for battle!"


    "Yes, Forebearer!" The descendants of Blackwood smiled.


    They were a family used to doing as they pleased, and after a few quiet years, they even found themselves longing for the adrenaline of dangerous days.


    ...


    As the grand festival concluded, Ethan sat cross-legged under the Primordial Blood Tree, while the people of Blackwood fell into a quiet anticipation, waiting for the Druids to make their move.


    They had traveled a long way to Cloudview County, a journey of at least half a month.


    The busiest were the allied forces of Blackwood, who had heard the news and were now setting various traps. Everyone could feel the danger descending upon Cloudview County; this was no longer a personal matter, protecting their homeland was crucial.


    Beneath the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree, a mysterious yellow light excited the tree, causing it to sway.


    [Rootless Soul Soil]


    [This special soil, existing for a million years, can generate unique abilities and give birth to Stone Beasts where it lies.]


    This was originally the habitat of the Giant Rock ability clan, where Stone Beasts were born and controlled by the Giant Rock Clark tribe.


    At this moment, with the Rootless Soul Soil beneath it, the Primordial Blood Tree was undergoing strange changes.


    Within a ten-meter radius of it, the ground had transformed into something resembling granite, etched with mysterious patterns.


    It was... altering the terrain of Blackwood!


    Even a full-force strike from Foundational Energy couldn''t damage such ground.


    The people of Blackwood, having heard the news, excitedly gathered to observe.


    Ethan grinned.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree reports to you that it and the Rootless Soul Soil can complement each other. It can continuously make the land of Blackwood more robust through its intelligence, slowly altering the terrain within the range of its roots. Moreover, with sufficient ability, it can summon massive Stone Beasts.]


    "If this gives the family enough time, couldn''t we become a force even stronger than the Giant Rock Clark tribe?"


    This pleasant surprise delighted Ethan, no wonder the Primordial Blood Tree wanted to experiment when the Rootless Soul Soil returned to the family.


    Ethan even noticed that the Primordial Blood Tree was undergoing another phase of transformation.


    While the people of Blackwood were excited, Olivia in her wheelchair noticed Helen, who was frowning and trying to stay behind the others.


    Olivia narrowed her eyes, "Helen, where is Nicholas?"


    A cold wind blew through, making today in Blackwood feel particularly chilly.


    ...

 Chapter 229 - 229: You are not a coward.

    Dust and gunpowder filled the air.


    This was a city in ruins, where the Druids had set up campfires, dancing and singing around them.


    Totems surrounded them, symbols of their ancient and profound heritage, yet they still indulged in primitive rituals.


    They were celebrating their return to the lands of the Emerald Empire, praising the tribes on the outskirts that had breached the borders of the Emerald Empire''s counties.


    Suddenly, the Druids fell silent.


    Today, a human boldly entered their midst¡ª


    Nicholas!


    He squinted his eyes as he entered the stone cave where the high priest, Luke, resided.


    Luke, with a mocking smile, still managed to appear courteous. "Ah, Nicholas, the new head of the Blackwood family. I saw you at the full moon feast. Perhaps my visit to Blackwood was a mistake."


    Nicholas took a deep breath.


    He bowed respectfully to Luke. "Honored High Priest, may I inquire if the collaboration you wished to discuss with my family still holds any value?"


    "Oh?" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Luke sat on the ground, fiddling with a turtle shell, not even glancing at Nicholas. "Do you know what this is? We Druids use it to divine the right time and place for action. Do you know why I visited Blackwood? The answer lies on this shell; we could be the best of allies."


    "Unfortunately, a wise man knows his own timing, and your family''s Nathan is no wise man."


    In the past, Nicholas might have fought anyone who dared to insult his elder. Now, he clenched his fists inside his sleeves but remained still, his voice tense. "I''m asking if it''s still effective."


    Luke scoffed. "With the Druid army pressing in, and our forces multiplied within Cloudview County, why should I give you a second chance? Convince me."


    Nicholas took another deep breath.


    "The current situation requires us as allies. All the border counties are under attack, but that doesn''t mean humans will sit idly by. You need someone to help negotiate and persuade on your behalf."


    "You can''t be everywhere at once; your tribal lands might also be attacked by other Druids, so you need us to manage the territories for you."


    "Other Druids will contest with you for power, and we at Blackwood can eliminate those troubles for you in the shadows."


    Hearing this, Luke finally looked directly at Nicholas, a smile creeping across his face. "Interesting. But Nathan told me that day that there are no cowards in Blackwood. I want to see if his words hold true."


    Moments later.


    Documents bearing the Blackwood family seal, offering terms of surrender, scattered throughout the Clark territories.


    Nicholas stood on a giant eagle, lifeless as he followed Luke to Blackwood.


    All of Blackwood''s people stood on the city walls, their brows furrowed, their faces filled with anger, yet they remained silent.


    Until Nicholas, looking lost and defeated, flew towards the Blackwood city walls from the sky.


    Luke, standing on the giant eagle, laughed loudly. "Congratulations, Blackwood. From today onwards, no matter how the war progresses, danger will not touch Blackwood''s land, unless we Druids are defeated. We have finally become the most loyal allies!"


    As if declaring victory, Luke circled around the Blackwood stronghold and headed back towards Clark.


    The air at the Blackwood stronghold seemed to freeze.


    Nathan had just approached Nicholas when Nicholas knelt on the ground, his hands supporting him on the earth, wet with his tears.


    "Did you kneel before Luke like this?"


    "Yes."


    "Do you realize you''re slapping me in the face?"


    "I do."


    "Sigh¡ª"


    Nathan shook his head, raised his hand, but the slap never came. In the end, he said nothing, only letting out a long sigh as he led the family away.


    Nicholas remained kneeling, from day to night, and through to dawn, with only Helen by his side.


    Finally.


    His choked voice broke the silence, "Sister Helen, the sacred tree was right, I am a coward."


    "No, Nicholas, you are not a coward. You''re not."


    Helen held her husband tightly, tears streaming down her face.


    She knew when Nicholas had gone to meet with the Druids, yet she hadn''t stopped him.


    She had watched her little man grow up, just as she had taken on the responsibility of managing the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion when Dennis had left.


    She had watched Nicholas gradually take on the responsibilities of their family.


    Life offers many choices, and people can take risks they shouldn''t, and they can start over when they make mistakes.


    But as a leader of a community, a clan, a household, they don''t have the luxury of taking risks. They can only choose the broadest, safest path. It doesn''t matter if it''s humiliating, if people mock them, or if they are misunderstood.


    From dawn until the moon hung high, Nicholas finally stood up from Helen''s embrace. He stood atop the high wall, looking over his family as if nothing had happened. He suddenly smiled at Helen, pointing out various places around their home.


    "Helen, over there, that''s where I used to play as a child, where you and Grandpa Dennis kept me company. When I returned from the Thunderfire Demon Cave, it was just as it always was, the swing I played on as a child was still there."


    "And there, after the battle outside our town, the old village chief made me promise to cultivate more medicinal fields in Gratitude Village. He wanted the children of Gratitude Village to grow strong and protect this land. I''ve done it, and now all the children can benefit from the ''Bone Strengthening Pills'' produced by our alchemy hall."


    "I also want to expand the Silver Iron Forest for miles and miles. I want our town to produce more powerful Psychics. I want our family''s allies to settle in Gratitude Village. I want my family to endure through the ages."


    Nicholas opened his arms wide, as if erasing the events of yesterday, sharing his grandest visions until a long silence fell. He seemed to be painting the most beautiful blueprint in his mind.


    Then he reached out to Helen, his face tear-stained but with a slight apologetic smile.


    "Helen, will you walk with me, even though I''m a coward?"


    That night, Nicholas stood before the bright moon, as if shielding it from the darkness behind him, his smile radiant.


    Helen rushed into Nicholas''s arms, her voice firm, "I will. I will walk with you, face everything."


    She remembered.


    When her husband was a child, he had listened to stories of his elders, saying they were doing great things, greater than the sandcastles he built, and that he wanted to be a hero like them when he grew up.


    Her husband had said he was not a coward, so he would follow his brother out of Blackwood. He had fallen and complained in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, but he always got back up.


    He had told her of his adventures outside, his Great River Dragon Map, his talismans, how he had slain the prodigies praised by the world.


    Her husband refused to be a coward!


    "Thank you."


    Nicholas''s gentle voice filled her ears, and Helen softly responded, "Mhm."


    She knew her husband had once been a hero.


    He had grown up, his strength had increased, and he could have been as carefree and vengeful as his elders, following his desires. But what he carried on his back was not the sword of his dreams, but...


    The entire Blackwood.

 Chapter 230 - 230: Admit that we are the weak.

    Nicholas had no idea that the Forebearer had been following him all along.


    "Ethan sighed deeply, having watched and questioned himself: Was Nicholas truly a coward?


    Everyone has their own convictions, just like Nathan insisted on having the family''s descendants stand tall, fighting the Druids despite the generations of effort that built their homeland.


    Nicholas chose to compromise, to accept humiliation. Ethan believed that no one would choose to bow down if there were better options available.


    "In the end, it all comes down to power."


    Ethan leaned against the wall, standing shoulder to shoulder with Nicholas, looking over the thousands of lights in Gratitude Village. He believed that the descendants of the family would understand Nicholas''s reasons just as he did.


    "So, my children, admit it," he said, his eyes bright as stars and as promising as the soon-to-rise sun, whispering into the night, "Admit that we are the weak. But one day, we will stand before the Druids, alongside Nicholas, and face Luke in a different way."


    "Face... all of this."


    Ethan jumped down from the wall and returned to sit cross-legged under the Primordial Blood Tree.


    He focused intently, sensing the laws of the natural energy around him.


    As the energy of Developing Skill gathered to form a Pinnacle Apprentice, he awaited the day he would break through to become a Competent Force, ready to rebuild and fight for his family once more.


    As time passed, the Blackwood clan secluded themselves, cultivating psychic powers.


    Ethan''s view was limited to the Blackwood grounds. He occasionally walked around, checking the family''s information on a semi-transparent panel as usual.


    Now and then, Druids visited the Blackwood grounds, brought by Nicholas.


    He handled it well; even in cooperation with the Druids, the Blackwood''s pride was intact. Facing ordinary Druids, he had his ways.


    Ethan also saw Luke''s true form visiting Blackwood.


    He resisted the urge to return to reality and kill the old man with the help of his clan.


    They needed Luke alive.


    A year quickly passed.


    [Blackwood Year 131]


    [Your descendant Nicholas, with the Druids, went to persuade the Sky Sect to surrender. Your descendant Marcus learned of this in advance. With the Grand Elder Warren Daoist missing and unable to resist, he had to take most of the disciples and leave the Sky Temple. Some elders and disciples who chose to resist to the end detonated the sect.]


    Seeing this message, Ethan also looked at his Core of Power.


    Inside the Core of Power, the form of a Pinnacle Apprentice was taking shape, soon to become a Competent Force!


    This great battle saw the entire Cloudview County in turmoil, yet Blackwood remained unscathed.


    This year, the clan seemed to have forgotten everything before.


    Within the family, they continued cultivating psychic powers, doing everything possible to increase their skills.


    A semi-transparent screen caught Ethan''s attention.


    [The family''s guardian beast, the Thunderfire Raging Python, is undergoing a transformation. It requests that you allow the clan to take it to another place to await the heavenly tribulation!]


    "Thunderfire Raging Python? It''s transforming?" Ethan''s face lit up with joy. Since the Thunderfire Raging Python had devoured a demon king on the verge of transformation, it had grown tentacles, and its next step was to transform into a dragon-like creature¡ªa significant phase for mythical beasts. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With joy, Ethan instructed his people to protect the beast.


    Soon, the Blackwood people and the Thunderfire Raging Python arrived at the Forebearer''s shrine.


    The clan members looked excitedly at the Thunderfire Raging Python, though their eyes still held worry.


    "Guardian beast, where do you plan to undergo your tribulation?"


    Nathan looked solemn, his years of cultivating psychic powers had taught him the terror of the Competent Force''s heavenly tribulation. Many psychics, even those who had reached the Pinnacle Apprentice stage, dared not break their core to face it, as few below that level survived the tribulation.


    The Thunderfire Raging Python spoke gravely, "Let''s head to the Thunderfire Demon Cave. Although the power of thunder and fire there is somewhat weak, it can still offer me some assistance and increase my chances of survival."


    As it spoke, it chuckled, "If I don''t make it back alive, please find a stronger guardian beast for the master."


    The Blackwood clan remained silent for a long time.


    Suddenly, Olivia suggested, "Don''t go to the Thunderfire Demon Cave. I know of a place called ''Chilling Gorge.'' The power of the icy rocks there can counteract some of the heavenly tribulation''s force."


    "This..."


    The Thunderfire Raging Python seemed to understand something, its eyes narrowing, "Chilling Gorge must be the place you''ve chosen for your own tribulation, right? I can''t..."


    Before it could finish, Olivia smiled, "It''s okay. Your contributions to the family are well known. When the time comes for my tribulation, I have my ways. I won''t let it fall, and it wouldn''t dare!"


    Despite its doubts, the Thunderfire Raging Python, reassured by Olivia''s confident demeanor, led the Blackwood clan members away.


    This journey included Amelia, Gary, and a few other clan members. With them present and the location being remote, it was sufficient.


    Before departing, Nathan gifted it a top-tier ability weapon from the family''s treasury to help it withstand the lightning tribulation.


    Ethan seemed to understand Olivia''s words, as if he alone could see the thunder still lingering above Olivia''s head, and beneath it, countless souls... The thunder would strike down, first annihilating these innumerable souls.


    Days of cultivating psychic powers always flew by quickly. In the blink of an eye, two years had passed.


    Ethan had grasped a part of the wood attribute laws, which were also the intrinsic power of the Primordial Blood Tree. He then delved inch by inch into the ground next to the Rootless Soul Soil, finding it easier than ever to comprehend the laws of the earth attribute.


    During his spare moments, he also kept an eye on his descendants'' progress. Since everyone was diligently cultivating psychic powers, there were few other distractions, with most activities related to their cultivation.


    [Blackwood Year 133]


    [Your descendant Edward is in seclusion, refining his earth pill with sword formations and the ground-level technique ''Azure Cloud Unfalling''.]


    [Nathan has made a breakthrough to the peak of Developing Skill after accumulating experience over time!]


    [George, having become more skilled in the Competent Force phase after the last great battle, with the help of many elders, has gradually advanced to the mid-stage of Developing Skill.]


    While the descendants were hard at work cultivating psychic powers, two pieces of information stood out.


    [Your descendant Jeffrey, diligently practicing ''Dual Cultivation Techniques'', is expecting a daughter with his partner...]


    [Joseph, after intense cultivation, has finally at the age of 41, fallen to the mid-stage of Emerging Ability...]


    Jeffrey, well, that guy. After coming back, he completely indulged in beauty... No, he has always been indulged in beauty. Recently, he has fathered four children with his partners, and two more are pregnant.


    It seems he''s quietly expanding the family, then planning to astonish everyone.


    As for Joseph?


    Ethan slightly lifted his head, this odd fellow, 41 years old but not showing signs of aging, was asleep on the Primordial Blood Tree.


    This guy is different from the others!


    [Your descendant Joseph, having gained insight into the heavenly technique ''Dream Return of the Ancient God'' from ''ancient god blood''. Only those with ancient god blood can use it, the great technique of the ancient god dream, falling from the peak of Emerging Ability to a mortal, the great technique can be achieved!]


    Ethan was envious.


    "Work hard, my children. Someday we''ll capture an ancient god and extract its blood, then we can practice this technique!"

 Chapter 231 - 231: Exploding Sky Serpent

    Spring departs and autumn arrives.


    [Blackwood 137 years]


    This time, Ethan emerged from the earth, and Blackwood grew even stronger.


    Ethan walked through the family estate. It had been four years since the Thunderfire Raging Python and the clan members had left. Breaking through the Competent Force was not simple, and even in an excellent place for transcendence, there were dangers; they also needed to set up magical formations to withstand the heavenly tribulations.


    A recent message also indicated that they were safe and sound.


    [Your descendant Donna, in Chilling Gorge, endured the forces of earth and the chilling ice to temper her body. With the help of Thunderfire Raging Python and Gary, she acquired a special constitution: the Ice-Rock Body.]


    [Her body has become more robust, using the Ice-Rock Body, she can wield the power of ice and rock against her enemies. Her constitution has improved by 50%, and her strength by 10%.]


    The family''s younger generation continued to cultivate psychic powers.


    Ethan headed towards where Nathan was.


    [Your descendant Nathan has been accumulating knowledge and experience, attempting to break through the fourth layer of Death Coffin. Years of perseverance, although not reaching the deepest part of the third layer, have solidified his psychic powers and foundation, increasing his speed in digesting elixirs and medicines.


    An eighth-grade Blood Psychic Fruit has further enhanced his Psychic Constitution, breaking through the peak of Developing Skill!]


    Nathan was definitely the one with the most solid foundation in the family, mastering powerful techniques and martial arts, all practiced deeply within Death Coffin, even his spiritual body was the most solid.


    Ethan had once seen Nathan in battle, unremarkable at first, but his opponents would eventually find that Nathan had few weaknesses, and as time passed, they would be slowly worn down by him.


    This guy... a Hexagonal Psychic.


    Meanwhile, in Death Coffin, there were also the third generation of Blackwood and Lucas...


    The third generation of Blackwood had now abandoned their beloved heavy weapons, picking up rusty swords, with piles of sword manuals that Lucas had collected over the years, then going off to practice swordsmanship. Every few days, they would return with a grimace, practicing swords with Lucas...


    [To inspire the younger generation to cultivate psychic powers, your descendant Lucas guided the third generation of Blackwood in swordsmanship. He issued them challenging psychic power cultivation tasks, requiring them to master a new sword technique every seven days and spar with him. If they lost, they would continue to fight, thus motivating the third generation of Blackwood to persevere.]


    [After years of cultivating psychic powers, Lucas broke through the mid-stage of Developing Skill, his Sword Pill nearing perfection, and he began refining the supreme ability weapon, the Heavenly Star Sword, as his life-bound ability weapon.]


    [Your descendant, the third generation of Blackwood, after years of practicing swordsmanship, gained deep insights into the techniques, feeling deeply grateful to Lucas. They acquired the trait: Sword Disdainer]


    [Upon encountering sword cultivators, their hostility increases by 30%, and their combat power increases by 80%!]


    "Ahem..."


    Watching Thomas grimacing, not at all intimidating as he walked towards Lucas with a sword, Ethan coughed lightly. Such touching scenes were better left unseen.


    Afterward.


    Ethan left Death Coffin, glanced at the elemental forces of wood and earth within him, and frowned, "The elemental forces of the five elements should be enough for me to break through to Competent Force, right? Next, I''ll go to Julian to experience the forces of metal and iron."


    Soon, Ethan arrived at Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    There he saw Julian still forging, Donna was the only physical cultivator in the family, but actually, abandoning the identity of the ancestor of psychic abilities, Ethan felt Julian was more like a physical cultivator...


    That bald head''s hammer was getting bigger and heavier, and his physique was growing larger, almost like an ordinary person wielding an excavator''s shovel to forge.


    "Huh?" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon seeing Julian, Ethan was stunned; this guy... originally only his left arm was silver, but now his right arm had also turned silver!


    [As his strength grew, the metals he forged became harder, and your descendant Julian crafted a right arm to match his left. He was amazed to discover that with the implantation of the right arm, he found the meridians connecting both arms, storing more robust psychic powers, breaking through the mid-stage of Developing Skill!]


    [He gained the trait: Ability Weapon Body!]


    [His body will more easily accommodate ability weapons, also more easily manipulate ability weapons, each ability weapon in his possession can exert greater power than if controlled by psychic powers alone. Moreover, he can manipulate multiple ability weapons simultaneously!]


    Ethan felt a chill despite the lack of any tangible threat. Using multiple ability weapons at once was daunting. Normally, just one required a connection through psychic powers and the soul. Managing two or three was already a feat.


    Ethan imagined Julian with dozens, even hundreds of ability weapons floating behind him. How desperate would his opponents feel?


    Lost in thought, Ethan saw Julian suddenly stop forging. The young man was touching his bald head, staring intently at his legs, "With the strength in my hands, even the peak of Developing Skill wouldn''t dare to withstand my hammer. But I lack speed and stamina. If I could enhance my legs with the power of wind and draw strength from the earth..."


    Julian''s eyes sparkled brighter as he spoke, and he excitedly ran towards the Death Coffin, "Mom, Dad, haha, I''ve got it! I''m going to cut off my legs, get me the materials!"


    Watching Julian''s retreating figure and hearing his shouts, along with Mary cursing through clenched teeth, Ethan just scratched his head in bewilderment.


    Sometimes, even as a Forebearer, one felt helpless because descendants could be so bizarre.


    Thinking of Julian willingly chopping off his own arms and planning to sever his legs, all while smiling foolishly, Ethan shuddered and decided to stop thinking about it. He sat down to meditate, focusing on understanding the laws of metal and fire, while keeping an eye on the pale blue screen in front of him.


    ...


    It wasn''t until [Blackwood 139 years] later that Ethan opened his eyes from his meditation. Julian was still forging nearby, working with a mold that perfectly matched his left foot.


    This time, however, it wasn''t a new law he had discerned.


    A flicker of joy crossed his face.


    "Success!"


    [The temple guardian at Chilling Gorge has survived its heavenly tribulation! As a Thunderfire Raging Python, it possesses the power of thunder and flame, which counteract each other. The heavenly tribulation brought severe divine punishment, and in the clash of thunder and fire, it nearly perished but also found fortune.]


    [The Thunderfire Raging Python has transformed into an Exploding Sky Serpent.]


    [It can absorb the natural energy of heaven and earth, causing thunder and fire to roar and explode wherever it goes.]


    [The family''s prized ability weapon, the ''Heavenly Command Orb,'' shattered and merged into its body, becoming its life-core orb!]


    [In the clash of thunder and fire, it chose to forgo transforming its shape, retaining its psychic powers to sustain itself. It has taken on a second form, the Mist Serpent.]


    [With thunder and fire transforming into smoke, its movements become hard to track.]


    Despite the updates on the screen, Ethan furrowed his brows, sensing the difficulty of this breakthrough.


    He didn''t dare delay and quickly arranged for his clan to assist.

 Chapter 232 - 232: Help! Uncles going to kill someone!

    At this moment, the once frozen Chilling Gorge was breaking apart, its ancient ice shattering and melting.


    Rocks tumbled everywhere, and amidst the chaos lay a gigantic red dragon!


    Surrounding it were numerous druids.


    Dark clouds burst overhead, and the oppressive force from the battle of the Competent Force warriors made the air heavy for miles around.


    Protectors from Blackwood, along with Amelia and Nathan from Sky CorpseGary, had arrived, never expecting to encounter a group of druids on a mission, numbering in the thousands!


    The Exploding Sky Serpent''s heavy eyelids drooped.


    It had faced its most perilous trial yet, the dragon''s tribulation, despite possessing a top-tier ability weapon and an ideal location for the ordeal.


    It had endured the thunder tribulation, which struck in multiples of nine, a total of fifty-four times!


    Now, it was utterly drained of strength.


    It couldn''t even fend off these druids, who seemed as insignificant as ants.


    Yet, they couldn''t kill it either.


    "Donna...Donna..."


    The vision of the Exploding Sky Serpent blurred, but it could still see everyone fighting.


    Before it, a muscular girl with her hair in a bun stood guard, repeatedly charging at the approaching druids and being forced back each time.


    She was battered and bruised, yet she kept surging forward.


    "Nobody... is getting past me!!!" Donna yelled, wiping the blood from her mouth, her eyes wild with fury.


    She fiercely protected the temple guardian beast behind her, her body growing more robust, her skin turning as hard as ice.


    Anyone who dared approach the guardian beast would face her unleashed power!


    Five snaps of a finger, and her arm was broken.


    Twenty snaps, and she could feel her ribs cracking.


    Her internal organs were damaged.


    Yet, she staggered on in battle until the sound of a sword chiming signaled a momentary return to her original form.


    An elder threw a healing pill into her mouth, and a warm flow revitalized her, mending her injuries as she was carried next to the dragon.


    She faintly heard the elder telling her to rest.


    Donna wanted to rise, to keep fighting, but she had no strength left.


    She remembered her grandfather Daniel asking why she was so determined to cultivate psychic powers.


    She had said she didn''t want to be bullied anymore.


    Now, she realized she didn''t want her family to be bullied either.


    Powerlessly, she looked up at the sky, recalling scenes from the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Back then, she and her brother always had their useless younger brother trailing behind, needing help to keep running.


    The useless brother, always toyed with by demonic cultivators, was forever the weak link, even among elders.


    If she could turn back time, she wished she could return to the past, so her brother wouldn''t have to grow up, wouldn''t have to become the head of the family.


    Over the years, her brother had become withdrawn, no longer daring to face his family, like a true coward.


    She didn''t believe it; she wanted to prove...


    The Exploding Sky Serpent closed its heavy eyes, its blood seeping onto Donna.


    Suddenly, Donna stood up, her muscles bulging, her body covered in icy rock, and she charged at the druids once more!


    "Great-grandfather, great-grandmother!" Donna roared, "Nicholas always gets back up every time he falls! He''s scared of demonic cultivators, but he always bravely approaches them. He tries hard, always trying to keep up with us."


    "He''s just like me, no matter what happens, he''ll stand by our side, even in front of us!"


    "Believe me... believe me!!!"


    Her roar was fierce, her punch devastating, sending waves of force a hundred meters long, knocking down druids one by one.


    High above, Lucas and Amelia frowned, exchanging glances.


    They could see this child didn''t need to be so battered, yet she seemed driven to prove something, choosing the toughest opponents, venting her frustrations.


    Lucas descended again, intending to carry Donna back to the Exploding Sky Serpent, but she grabbed his wrist tightly.


    Her eyes were bloodshot, staring straight at him, and though Lucas could tell she was delirious, she still choked out, "Nicholas is not a coward..."


    Until she passed out.


    In the chilling depths of Gorge, Lucas and Amelia were tidying up the aftermath.


    At this moment, the Exploding Sky Serpent and Donna had awoken.


    Lucas glanced at Donna, who looked disheartened, and shook his head.


    He then turned to Amelia and said, "Sister, the entire druid tribe has been wiped out, but the news of the dragon''s ordeal has probably spread. The Exploding Sky Serpent, being of Competent Force, is too risky to bring back home. It might alert the druids to our family''s growing strength, spoiling Nicholas''s good intentions."


    "Take the Exploding Sky Serpent back to the demon lair," he instructed.


    Donna''s ears perked up from a distance, her gaze sharpening.


    Amelia nodded slightly, "With the Demon Lord there, the druids would think twice before causing trouble at the Thunderfire Demon Cave."


    Without further ado, Amelia led the Exploding Sky Serpent towards the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    As the dragon departed, it looked back at Donna with a sense of longing.


    When it was powerless, it had only seen Donna defending it fiercely, wishing it could treat Donna as its own child.


    Lucas, along with Donna and three other clan members, proceeded towards their family estate.


    Along the way, Donna couldn''t help but ask hesitantly, "Great Uncle, about what you just said..."


    Although Donna was hesitant, Lucas understood her meaning.


    "Are you talking about Nicholas?" He sighed, "Donna, sometimes being a coward also requires courage. None of us in the family have the bravery he does. We may not accept his choices, but we acknowledge that Nicholas has bought us time to strengthen ourselves, and that''s all."


    Lucas smiled, "Donna, work hard on cultivating your psychic powers. Nicholas bowing his head means our entire clan bows. But one day, we too will lift our heads and look towards the clear skies."


    With no more words, Lucas led Donna and the others back home.


    Outside their family estate, there were still many druids.


    Lucas casually eliminated a druid who seemed about to question him, before entering the estate.


    Upon reaching the Primordial Blood Tree, Lucas''s expression darkened.


    There, covered in demonic tattoos, Thomas was solemnly telling the family''s stories to several children from Jeffrey''s line.


    The children listened, swallowing their fear.


    "Do you know how your great-grandfather''s hand was severed? It was your Great Uncle who chopped it off. He had a fierce temper, the most ferocious of his generation. Your great-grandfather merely scolded him once, and suffered greatly for it. And your great-grandmother, she was crippled by him, confined to a wheelchair for life."


    "And your other great-grandmother, she dares not return home, always hiding in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, fearing your Great Uncle might sever her limbs."


    "He eats children, you know. If you see him, you must run. I had over thirty children, and he''s eaten all but two..."


    Thomas sighed, his face a picture of tragedy.


    Suddenly, he was kicked from behind.


    "Who''s there? I''m telling a story..."


    Thomas turned around, his pupils shrinking, a shadow falling over him.


    He saw Lucas, his face dark as coal.


    Lucas''s breath was heavy, his chest heaving, his voice seething through clenched teeth, "I wondered why the younger ones looked at me as if they''d seen a ghost. For decades, I thought it was my enemies plotting against me from afar, but it was you!"


    "You... very clever, aren''t you?!"


    Lucas advanced menacingly.


    Thomas trembled, swallowing hard, his face pale, "Wait... Uncle, we can talk this over..." S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Moments later.


    Jeffrey''s children scattered in terror, screaming for help.


    "Help! Uncle''s going to kill someone!"


    That day.


    All the descendants of the Blackwood family looked up as Thomas''s screams echoed, and those children who had heard the rumors about Lucas hid away, sealing themselves off in fear.

 Chapter 233 - 233: Totem shattered...

    "My grandson didn''t have much to offer, but after five years of effort between the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Demon Hunters Alliance, he forged a formation disk for Grandma. It gathers the unique powers of heaven and earth, enhancing her abilities significantly."


    "My elder brother also sent a gift, a piece of the starry sky from the Sky Palace to protect Grandma''s spirit."


    "Why are you all looking at us... Dad already gave all our weapons to Grandma..."


    "I''m willing to lead the elders to protect you and establish a magical altar! All twenty-eight of our senior elders have survived their own ordeals; they have the experience."


    "Are you really wearing a turtle shell, Grandma?"


    "I''ll throw in ten Druidic totems! What? These totems were acquired through less than honorable means and carry a curse? Nonsense, the people I dealt with are long gone... Great Aunt, why are you locking me up again..."


    After the gift-giving, Luna, feeling content, touched her filled Storage Ring and headed with her clan to the site of her ordeal.


    Preparations were thorough.


    In just one year, Luna had achieved her breakthrough!


    Various notifications caught her eye.


    [Totem shattered... Totem shattered... Jade amulet shattered...]


    [Luna''s palm was scorched by the heavenly thunder, but she finally endured the formidable Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, transforming into a Six-Tailed Fox Spirit¡ª the Thousand Charm Celestial Fox!]


    [Awakening the Celestial Fox bloodline, she gained mystical fox abilities: Shadow Multiplicity, Hundred Paths Charm, and Celestial Fox Descent.]


    [Trait gained: Half-Fox¡ª Luna''s bloodline fully merged with the fox spirit within her, enhancing her psychic power cultivation speed by 20% and her ability to absorb natural energies by another 20%. She can now blend into human society or, like a fox spirit, draw energy from others to further accelerate her psychic development.]


    "Eh?"


    Ethan was momentarily stunned, inwardly pitying Nathan for the tough times ahead, as absorbing energy from others meant they''d need significant recovery time. He sighed, "Ah, they won''t be able to flaunt their love in front of me every day anymore, which is quite sad for me as their forebearer... ha... hahaha!"


    Soon, Luna returned, her half-fox form appearing merely as a peak Emerging Ability to the untrained eye, but she was stunningly beautiful!


    Ethan was waiting for Nathan to be upset, but upon hearing the news, Nathan laughed heartily. The couple embraced tightly, with no younger family members around, Nathan passionately kissed Luna, "This is great, my dear! In the Death Coffin, I have endless energy to help you with your cultivation!"


    "Look at you, acting all improper at over a hundred years old."


    Luna, her cheeks flushed, tapped Nathan on the forehead and took his hand, "Come on, let''s get into the coffin."


    "Thump."


    The coffin lid closed.


    Ethan''s eyelids and facial muscles twitched as he clenched his fists and slapped his thigh for a long time before returning to the forge to continue his psychic cultivation.


    Indeed, Julian''s hammering was a more pleasant sound.


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 149]


    Ethan sat cross-legged in the middle of a mystical lake, a creation of his clan, absorbing the shimmering reflections and the ever-changing waters day and night.


    "Hmph, it infuriates me! So he''s a noble from Starlight County, huh? My parents always said that the Duke''s Mansion is full of villains. I refuse to marry him just because that old rogue Wind says so!"


    Ethan heard a murmuring voice.


    Opening his eyes, he saw a woman, Katie, kicking pebbles by the lake.


    "Our little proud girl, huh?"


    Ethan slightly raised an eyebrow. Nathan had once said that Katie would grow up to be a nation''s downfall, but Nathan was often wrong. Katie resembled Edward; both father and daughter had an understated appearance, but Katie had inherited many of Betty''s good traits¡ª


    Close to nature, with a level heart.


    "Hmph, now Michael wants to exploit us at Blackwood too? After selling off his daughter, he won''t even spare his granddaughter."


    Thinking about Katie''s words, Ethan glanced at her personal history.


    [From a young age, she was pampered by her family elders and adored by her brother, yet deeply influenced by her family''s teachings. Although she was unaware of the many trials her family had faced over the years, nor understood why the druids outside always seemed so arrogant, she too carried the family''s pride and often scolded any druid she met.]


    [At 13, Duke''s Mansion''s Michael sent a message, wanting Katie to marry Martin and move to Cedar County.]


    [At 16, she was nearly kidnapped by an expert sent by Michael.]


    [At 22, Nate, a young genius from Starlight County''s Duke''s Mansion, proposed a marriage alliance with Martin. However, with Martin''s younger generation mysteriously dying off and no successors, Michael once again pushed for Katie to marry Nate.] S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Nate was reluctant about the arranged marriage but was sent by the Walker family to meet Katie at Blackwood. Known as a veteran in romantic affairs, Nate''s repeated interactions with the plain-looking Katie only deepened his fascination with her.]


    Ethan remained silent for a long time before murmuring, "Old dog Walker, haven''t you learned enough lessons over the years to dare trouble my Blackwood?"


    He emerged from his meditation.


    "Phew."


    He exhaled deeply, returning to his familiar room. Even inside, he could feel the storm brewing over the residential area. He frowned, "What kind of tribulation is this? Despite having a complete mastery of the elemental laws, the threat remains significant?"


    He squinted, ignoring these concerns, and collected the Tribute Offerings that had piled up in the room during the two major ceremonies into his Storage Ring. Then he asked Lisa to cook a meal. After eating, he sat down at his computer.


    He clicked on Katie''s profile.


    The Forebearer Psychic Position appeared, instructing her to seek out Olivia!


    "Oh! Forebearer, the Forebearer is showing its powers!" Katie, having seen the Forebearer Psychic Position manifest only a few times, was excitedly waving her fists. She had grown up hearing tales of the Forebearer, how fearsome it was, once swallowing eighty thousand druids in one gulp.


    Seeing the young girl''s excitement, Ethan also smiled slightly. Look how well-behaved she is? Surely, she''s impressed by the mystery of it all. Although a bit sheltered and naive, isn''t this how all Blackwood folks start?


    "Do you feel it, Katie? This is the charm of the Forebearer!"


    In a jovial mood, Ethan sent her a ''Forebearer''s Caress''.


    He then clicked on Olivia''s profile, signaling her to handle the situation. Ethan took a drive around the neighborhood, traded some items with Alan to lighten his mood after a long stint in the virtual world, and had tea with some neighbors before contentedly returning home.


    Just as he was about to re-enter the virtual world, his phone rang.


    Ethan frowned, noticing on the game screen that Katie was almost at Dawn Headquarters.


    "Hello? Yes, this is Ethan," he answered casually, seeing that it was a call from Orion.


    As soon as he finished speaking,


    The voice on the other end was somewhat restrained yet gentle, "Um... Ethan, my brother told me to speak nicely to you, asking you to report in soon. Are you busy with something?"


    Ethan continued to monitor some interfaces.

 Chapter 234 - 234: Defeat me, and Ill give you a chance!

    It seemed like William had gotten himself into a bit of trouble outside, sustaining injuries while possibly engaging in a fight.


    Meanwhile, Ethan was busy healing him, pondering over how to respond.


    On the other end of the phone, Orion had already said, "Look, if you don''t want to show up, then don''t bother coming at all. If you don''t appreciate this opportunity, plenty of others will."


    At that moment, Ethan''s face lit up with joy. In the event log, a breakthrough was happening.


    Both Edward and Donna had reached the Developing Skill stage. Donna''s physique seemed to be influenced by the dragon''s blood, coupled with her years of intensely developing psychic powers, her Developing Skill had reached an extraordinary level!


    Hearing Orion''s words, Ethan responded with even greater joy, "Thank you, you really understand me!"


    "You..." Orion''s voice grew increasingly irate over the phone, "Do you not realize how rare the opportunity to join the psychic abilities team is?"


    Ethan was checking Donna''s traits.


    [Your descendant Donna saved the Exploding Sky Serpent and earned its gratitude, gaining the trait: Dragon''s Grace]


    [Bathed in dragon''s blood, her physical strength increased by 20%. Gaining some of the dragon''s power, her Developing Skill became more solid.]


    [To prove her generation''s bravery, Donna intensely cultivated psychic powers, gaining the trait: Desperate Effort]


    [Her cultivation of psychic powers became even more diligent, increasing her physical training speed by 10%]


    On the phone, Orion was furious, "Do you think you''re a Competent Force? How can you not cherish the resources of the psychic abilities team?!!"


    Realizing something, Ethan sincerely said, "Thank you, sister. I am useless. It''s not that I don''t want to go, but I know that using these resources on me is a waste. The old lady next door always taught me not to take advantage if I''m not capable, not to waste what I have. So, I''m not fit to enjoy these resources, please save them for someone useful. I was born ordinary."


    Ethan grinned, realizing that once you reach Competent Force in the psychic abilities team, there are no useful resources left. Why bother then? He could feel a breakthrough approaching, just needing to grasp the power of the sun and moon to advance beyond Competent Force!


    These days, although Blackwood seemed calm, with Luna''s breakthrough, everyone was preparing for their own advancements and battles.


    As a Forebearer, he couldn''t lag behind. Every second counted!


    Moreover, Donna and Olivia had already joined forces, plotting a major plan against Michael!


    After a moment of thought.


    Ethan choked up, "Sister Joshua, please don''t tell the teacher, I''m afraid he''ll be heartbroken. Tell my successor that there is a future in the tomb, to carry my hopes and serve society."


    In the lab, Orion stared at the phone in disbelief, her eyes moistening, "This child... I..."


    "I was even angry with him before, I... I''m really not a good person!"


    In the room, Ethan smoothly hung up the phone and turned it off, "Finally, I can focus on striving with my clan again!"


    With eyes turning white, the rested Ethan returned to his true home!


    ...


    Upon arriving at Dawn''s headquarters, Katie was already standing before Olivia, sharing her troubles about Nate''s harassment and the arranged marriage Michael had set up for her.


    "Don''t worry, Katie, with us here, no one can bother you," Olivia assured her with a smile. "I''ve looked into Nate. Aside from being a bit of a flirt, he''s actually a decent person who values his reputation highly. Arrange a time with him, defeat him in a challenge, and he''ll avoid you and bow his head in respect whenever he sees you."


    "With your skills, plus this specially crafted psychic bow that fits you perfectly, defeating him will be a breeze."


    "As for Michael... you can dismiss him from your concerns for now."


    Katie took the pink psychic bow handed to her by Olivia and left. S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Soon after, Olivia summoned some of Dawn''s assassins. With the druid attacks on major towns, the years of conflict had only increased the number of Dawn''s assassins. It was likely that even the core members of Blackwood didn''t realize just how vast and powerful Dawn had become.


    Ethan, just by observing, noticed that among the ten assassins Olivia had called, one was at the peak of Developing Skill!


    She pulled out a thick book and expertly flipped it open to a page filled with detailed information on Duke''s Mansion, down to the secretive dealings of its servants.


    "After all the descendants I''ve killed, after assassinating your younger generations to the point of breaking your lineage, you still haven''t learned your lesson," Olivia scoffed coldly. "It seems you haven''t suffered enough."


    [Your descendant Olivia is assigning tasks to ten Dawn assassins, all of whom have deep-seated vendettas against the descendants of Duke''s Mansion!]


    Seeing the content of the mission, Ethan grinned, "That''s quite ruthless."


    Ten days later.


    Ethan was still meditating, watching the sunrise and the moonset, experiencing the interplay of day and night, and absorbing the forces of the universe.


    Suddenly, a message caught his eye.


    [Your descendant Olivia reports to you that Michael''s talented descendant, only over two hundred years old, has broken through to Competent Force. He personally led the Martin clan members to set up a massive defensive formation.]


    [In this secret location, a traitor among the Martin experts sabotaged the formation''s foundation. Ten fearless Dawn assassins charged into the weak spot under the cover of a thunderstorm, causing a massive upheaval in the storm, leading to their mutual destruction with the Martin genius on the verge of breaking through Competent Force!]


    [Olivia assures you that after this incident, Michael will never have peace.]


    "So many years have passed, has my Blackwood''s influence reached another height?" Ethan thought, reassured by Nicholas''s negotiations with the druids and Olivia''s covert protection of the family.


    Just as he was about to continue his meditation, Ethan saw Katie approaching with her pink longbow. Facing her was a handsome man who said with a bitter smile, "Katie, my feelings for you are genuine. After all this time, you know what kind of person I am."


    "I admit I was a bit of a flirt before, but I promise, I''ll never wander again. Let''s grow old together, get married, have children, and name our child..."


    He had even thought of a name for the child...


    Ethan really wanted to slap some sense into the young man.


    Katie, however, just snorted coldly and silently took out her pink longbow, "Defeat me, and I''ll give you a chance!"


    "Why must it be this way?" Nate''s face turned sour. "Katie, I''m a genius, no one of my age can defeat me."

 Chapter 235 - 235: Sparkly Unicorn Bow

    Katie drew her bow, her gaze icy and determined. Ethan watched her with satisfaction, seeing in her the pride and fearlessness characteristic of the Blackwood lineage. "This girl is far stronger than Joseph, the lazy one..." he thought, his lips curling into a smile.


    Just then, his smile froze.


    "A genius? My father said that in their presence, no one dared to claim that title, and the same holds true in my generation among the Blackwood descendants."


    The pink longbow in Katie''s hands glowed brightly, its power forming a formidable pressure. She represented the new generation of Blackwood, shining brightly!


    Katie spoke coldly, "In front of my ''Sparkly Unicorn Bow,'' your defeat is certain!"


    Ethan: ...


    Nate: ...


    The Blackwood members, who were secretly monitoring the situation and ready to assist, were also speechless.


    Julian, who was forging in the smithy, stopped his work abruptly.


    It seemed like his mind exploded. All the Blackwoods were asking him if he was the one who named the bow.


    His eyes lost their sparkle as he muttered, "No, I''ve never touched this thing. Yes, I don''t forge longbows, never have, it wasn''t me. Sister, you vouch for me."


    "It was his craftsmanship, but the name probably wasn''t his," Olivia''s telepathic message was brutally honest.


    Honest to the point where Julian collapsed on the floor, his dignity lost for the day.


    Meanwhile, at Duke''s Mansion, Michael had aged significantly, his hair streaked with silver.


    "My lord Duke, we''ve investigated but found no trace of those ten martyrs; however, Kingdom County has grievances with us, perhaps it was them..."


    Before he could finish, the guard, a novice in Developing Skill, was choked by Michael, who was in the Competent Force stage. Michael sneered, "Kingdom County? Over the years, the Dawn organization affiliated with Blackwood has planted many spies in my Duke''s Mansion."


    "You were present when my young relative broke through. Now you suggest it''s Kingdom County, trying to divert the blame?"


    "Foolish man, Blackwood is a notorious traitor of Cloudview County, how can you compare them to my Duke''s Mansion? You''ve sided with the wrong team!"


    The guard struggled in pain, his eyes bewildered, barely managing to say, "No... not... Lord Duke..."


    He died before he could finish.


    As a servant came to collect the guard''s Developing Skill, Michael stared intensely at the servant until the skill was handed over, his face still full of caution.


    He felt as if everyone in Duke''s Mansion was a member of Dawn!


    Just a few days had passed.


    Michael''s eyebrows twitched as he sensed with his Competent Force that the whole family was whispering about him being overly suspicious, seeing spies everywhere. The entire county was buzzing with rumors that Duke''s Mansion was no longer what it used to be.


    Michael, sitting in the Duke''s seat, felt powerless to stop the tide. He couldn''t even bring his daughter back. His most talented descendant had been killed right before his eyes...


    Someone was determined to ruin his reputation and bring him down!


    He slowly walked to the table, calmly picked up a teacup, and sipped his tea with a composed smile, "Thinking this will bring me down? Ridiculous, truly ridiculous."


    He scoffed and left the hall.


    "Boom!"


    The building collapsed, dust billowing into the air.


    "Whoosh!"


    On this day, over the lands of Azure Cloud Blackwood, a pink arrow sliced through the sky. Katie, carrying her pink longbow, patrolled the Blackwood residence, her head held high with pride.


    Walker Nate, coming from Starlight County, left Cloudview County in utter humiliation and pain. Beside him, his bodyguard, a peak Developing Skill expert, heard Nate muttering nonstop on the ability vessel, "It''s over, my life is ruined. From now on, everyone will know I was defeated by an ability weapon named ''Sparkly Unicorn Bow.''"


    Trying to hold back a laugh, the Walker family servant coughed lightly before speaking, "Master Nate, this is normal. Although Azure Cloud Blackwood might seem weak, they have stood at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud for generations. Katie is only 22 and already at the Emerging Ability stage with an unheard-of solid foundation and Psychic Constitution.


    Her numerous hidden strengths make your defeat no disgrace."


    "What do you mean no disgrace? The disgrace is that I was defeated by that bow!"


    Nate clenched his teeth for a long time, then suddenly sighed facing the wind, "It''s a pity that Blackwood has sided with the Druids, becoming traitors to the Emerald Empire. I couldn''t take Katie with me. I just hope I don''t encounter her on the battlefield in the future."


    The servant shook his head, "Master, I disagree with you. Cloudview County is different from us. Duke''s Mansion avoids confrontation and refuses to fight, just watching the Druid invasion. If they had all resisted, perhaps all the major powers in Cloudview County would have been wiped out by now."


    "But now, Blackwood''s leader Nicholas is moving around, and Cloudview County is actually quite peaceful. Even our presence in Azure Cloud doesn''t attract Druid pursuers. Maybe one day we''ll be fighting alongside Blackwood."


    Nate gave a slight smile, "I hope that day comes."


    Suddenly remembering something, the servant pulled out a letter from his pocket, "Oh, Master Nate, when you were pursuing Katie, the former head of the Blackwood family, Daniel, asked me to give this to you. Please review it and then present it to our leader."


    "Oh?"


    ...


    Cultivating psychic powers, cultivating psychic powers!


    In Cloudview County, the once blood-stained Blackwood, those ancestors who had made a name for themselves, seemed to have completely vanished, their glory being forgotten.


    Family head Nathan no longer led the enchantress Luna in declaring war against the major powers.


    Sword King, the Saint of Flora, the Ancestor of Psychic Puppets, the Lord of Dawn... these mighty Blackwood warriors had completely fallen silent, like night-blooming flowers that had once shone brightly.


    [Blackwood 150 years, the grand ceremony held every decade begins, your descendants offer you a Tribute Offering...]


    Unknown to many, the people of Blackwood now had only one goal: to become stronger as quickly as possible!


    In the ancestral hall.


    Ethan, just like before, sat at the Psychic Position table, legs crossed, watching his devout descendants.


    "May the Forebearer bless our family with smooth sailing, our children grow quickly, and may we descendants breakthrough safely without harm..." Nathan recited the ceremonial words, "Our people have not let down the Forebearer''s hopes."


    "Luna has already advanced to the Competent Force stage, our family has truly become a house of Competent Force. Please rest easy, Forebearer, I will reclaim the honor our family lost, and one day, no one will dare look down on us Blackwoods."


    All the children of Blackwood lifted their heads, their eyes filled with fighting spirit and anticipation.


    Ethan nodded slightly, "As long as you all are well, everything is fine."


    Though the children couldn''t hear him, this was Ethan''s greatest prayer.


    As the ceremony concluded, the people of Blackwood gathered to discuss the results of their years spent cultivating psychic powers. Nathan listened quietly, caressing the Storage Ring in his hand, his gaze intense.


    "We still have plenty of resources in our family, even if we have to pile up resources, we must develop more Competent Force warriors. I want each of you to breakthrough in the shortest time possible."


    Nathan''s words calmed the family members, "Over the years, everyone has stored up quite a bit of resources, and I''ve almost spent all of mine. Let''s take out what we have and share it, so we can all get what we need." S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Leaning against a pillar, Joseph suddenly opened his eyes wide, his teeth clenched as he remembered the fear of being deceived by the elders at Duke''s Mansion, "A bunch of old thieves, they must be rich, maybe even rivaling Duke''s Mansion."


    Katie, with her innocent wide eyes, looked up at her brother, "Brother, how can you say that about them? The elders always say they are poor, that all their resources go into building our power."


    "Every time they give me resources for cultivation, I can see their hardship, scraping together what they can find. Father said, even if our family is poor, he wants me to have better natural treasures than other families'' children."


    Katie was on the verge of tears, "The elders have really sacrificed a lot for us, I won''t let you call them old thieves."


    In her mind, she even pictured the elders eating poor meals but still smiling as they saved the best for her.


    "Ah."


    Joseph glanced at his naive sister and shook his head, "You''re still young."

 Chapter 236 - 236: Despicable Plunderers

    Donna and Edward stared in shock at the composed old man.


    "He must be the wealthiest, even snatching our spoils of war at the Sunshine Martial Pavilion."


    "Yeah, it''s definitely him. He even makes us youngsters pay the bill when we eat out."


    The room filled with murmurs as the younger members of the Blackwood family recalled their grievous histories.


    While the clan members showcased their skills, using formations and mystical weapons to prevent the treasure''s aura from leaking, George stepped forward with his chest puffed out, his face filled with excitement.


    This day had finally come!


    Back then, like a fool, he was kept in the dark by the elders for countless years, only discovering the family''s wealth during their escape. He swore then to delve into tomb raiding, quietly amassing a fortune to shock the family for a century!


    "Today''s me is not the same as before. Open your eyes wide and see, my savings have surpassed all of you!"


    Internally, he roared.


    George waved his hand grandly, and the three Storage Rings on his hand sparkled. The treasures he had gathered from years of tomb raiding filled the ancestral hall!


    "Damn it..."


    Ethan cursed under his breath as a Manure Fork, seemingly from nowhere, pierced through his body. The Blackwoods were overwhelmed by George''s collection of seemingly worthless items.


    Half an hour later.


    Even Joseph, who had always known the family was no ordinary one, widened his eyes.


    Donna and Edward looked upset, as expected, the old man''s sword case held not just swords but a fortune comparable to a millennium-old grand sect.


    Katie touched the ''Sparkly Unicorn Bow'' on her back, then glanced at George, who sat dejectedly in the corner. She realized she had been deceived, or maybe not... her father Edward really was poor.


    But the savings of Grandpa George were dazzling, including a sealed top-tier mystical weapon among the bizarre tomb findings.


    Yet, all these valuable treasures were still categorized as ''unnecessary'' by the elders and stored away in Storage Rings, ready to be given to the villagers of Gratitude Village.


    Each elder''s savings were at least comparable to Grandpa George''s.


    Especially Grandpa William, who shook off a bunch of Storage Rings from his body like shaking a chicken, each containing rare mystical items.


    For the elders.


    Only mystical weapons caught their eye. Heavenly treasures and mystical medicines were judged by a seventh-grade standard, and they even pulled out the legendary ''Mystical Vein'' from beneath the Blackwood residence, capable of powering the entire city with mystical energy...


    Old Ancestor Nathan, who claimed to have little savings, nearly broke the protective formation with the rich aura of treasures when his coffin was opened.


    "When they say they''re poor, never believe their nonsense."


    Joseph gritted his teeth, still underestimating the elders'' savings!


    He had visited the Duke''s Mansion''s treasury and seen the Duke''s Mansion''s Competent Force experts. He was taught to just reach out and take what he wanted, but now, the Duke''s Mansion seemed like paupers in comparison!


    He suspected the family elders had robbed half of Cloudview County.


    Joseph patted his sister''s head, comforting her as she looked dazed, "Sis, I know this is a huge shock to you. You''ll get used to it. From now on, whatever you want, just ask them for it..."


    Before he could finish, Katie burst into tears, "Brother, the old ancestor said he''s going to distribute all his savings and use them up. Does that mean we''ll be poor again? The elders will have to start saving and scrimping, how miserable!"


    ...


    Joseph looked at his naive sister, at a loss for words. It seemed there was no saving her. He could even imagine her in the future, bow in hand, scavenging like the elders, not sparing even the roadside weeds.


    Then, just like his own childhood experiences, the hard-earned savings would be slowly swindled away by the elders.


    He looked at his sister seriously, "Katie, you have to be like me. As long as we''re poor, the elders won''t steal our resources."


    Katie wasn''t listening at all.


    Her eyes red, she stared at the resources stuffed into her arms, her lips pouting, "Brother, our family is poor again. I have to become strong in the future and bring back lots and lots of resources."


    ...


    Nighttime.


    The resources were finally distributed. Ethan smiled slightly, only he knew just how much the Blackwoods had saved. The family had been poor all along, but when it came time to distribute, they were not stingy at all.


    "Work hard, children, spend all the resources, break through the Druids, and defeat Michael!"


    Watching the children start to cultivate their psychic powers again, Ethan felt greatly relieved.


    Suddenly.


    "Huh?"


    Ethan was stunned. In the dark night, family members were sneaking off towards the Druids'' direction one by one.


    He even heard some of the family members murmuring.


    William: "It feels strange not having a few full Storage Rings."


    George: "I need to prove to the family that I can be wealthier than them!"


    Lucas: "I never want to go back to those hard days."


    Nathan: "Time to get rich!"


    ...


    [Your family has finished distributing resources, and sensing they would soon be depleted under current conditions, they felt a crisis of impending poverty and decided to visit the Druids whenever possible.]


    [In just six months, the Druid tribe of the Endless Forest had frequent visits from the Blackwoods. Your family members left no trace and became increasingly skilled in their actions.]


    [Your family has gained the group trait: Despicable Plunderers]


    [When gathering wealth from the Druids, hostility towards your family increases by 50%. Your family members always manage to conceal their tracks and locate the Druids'' hidden treasures.]


    "..."


    In just six months, the Blackwood descendants made frequent trips to the Druids. By now, Ethan had heard that all the Druids were on the lookout for despicable thieves and robbers... He even heard that one Druid tribe''s ancestral grave was completely dug up overnight, and the next day, that tribe angrily attacked a neighboring tribe.


    The Druid tribes were in a state of panic.


    Ethan closed his eyes, once again tuning into the natural energy of the universe, thankful that his family wasn''t on Earth, or else they''d all be behind bars, sharing insights through iron bars.


    However, this resource distribution was a resounding success!


    Two more years passed, and Ethan''s face showed joy.


    [Your descendant Lucas has acquired various swords and numerous manuals on swordsmanship from his family members. He borrowed a swordsmanship expert from George and learned all his sword intents, gaining some insights!]


    [The Celestial Sword becomes his signature ability weapon, achieving the Great Body of a Thousand Swords!]


    One day, Lucas left the Blackwood residence and headed to Starlight County.


    He didn''t bring any protectors, only taking the Psychic Position of the Forebearer. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Forebearer, I have mastered the sword intent. With the power of Developing Skill and the Great Body of a Thousand Swords, I will defeat The Celestial Star Swordmaster and break through to Competent Force!"


    ...

 Chapter 237 - 237: It was Druid blood

    Three years had passed again.


    Blackwood was thriving more than ever. As Ethan stood up, looking at the information on the translucent screen before him, he walked towards the Death Coffin.


    [Your descendant Nathan has broken through to the third level of the Death Coffin and today enters the fourth level space!]


    "Finally, he''s broken through to the fourth level."


    Ethan grinned and entered the Death Coffin, where he met Nathan on the fourth level.


    The first and second levels of the Death Coffin were filled with endless zombies, the third with oppressive psychic powers, and now the fourth level presented a completely different scene.


    It was... an endless black ocean, with a deathly aura floating above the sinister and terrifying waters.


    [Death Coffin Fourth Level¡¤Boundless Sea of Death]


    [This sea, formed from the deathly energies of heaven and earth, allows the owner of the Death Coffin to absorb and utilize these energies to strengthen themselves. Within the Sea of Death, zombies can heal their wounds. Set up the Four Symbols Death Psychic Array, using four Sky Corpses as the foundation of the array.


    Once the array is complete, it possesses power comparable to undergoing the ninety-nine heavenly tribulations.]


    Ethan gasped, "Truly the work of an ancient Ability Master Psychic."


    The strength of a Force Psychic is also measured by their ability to endure heavenly tribulations. Ninety-nine tribulations represent the pinnacle of Force.


    Nathan had seen it himself; he said his own heavenly tribulation would likely only reach sixty-nine, thanks largely to his heavenly pill.


    "Forebearer, I have broken through the fourth level and now must go out to await the heavenly tribulation. With the Sea of Death here, I can use the tribulation to forge my third Sky Corpse!"


    Seeing Nathan holding the Psychic Position.


    Ethan nodded slightly. Nathan had already turned Donald''s body into a Sky Corpse two years ago, but it had exhausted all their materials.


    Nathan also left the family with his coffin, preparing to face his tribulation.


    ...


    Time quickly moved to [Blackwood Year 160], and the grand ceremony began again, bringing another wave of gains.


    Ethan opened his eyes.


    [Congratulations, you have comprehended the power of the sun, moon, and stars!]


    "I''ve finally understood it!"


    Ethan was overjoyed. Now, he felt the power of the five elements and the celestial bodies, ready to face the lightning strikes in the real world.


    The children of Blackwood were also preparing for their tribulations, and the younger generations were growing stronger due to the vast consumption of resources.


    Even...


    He glanced at the Primordial Blood Tree above. It hadn''t opened its eyes for over a decade. Its branches emitted a red glow, and its aura was strengthening. If it weren''t for the Blackwood people collectively using a spell to shield its aura, Clark, who collaborated with Blackwood, would have been tempted to dig it up.


    "Let''s stay here a bit longer; we''re not in a rush."


    Ethan smiled slightly. The family''s power had grown many times stronger than when they were fighting in Azure Cloud.


    Then, Ethan took a walk around the family estate.


    Year after year, not only Blackwood but also its estate had grown significantly, not weakened by their submission to the Druids, but rather becoming more formidable.


    However... the conflict between Blackwood and the Druids was deepening.


    ...


    [Gratitude Village]


    Ethan walked through the streets. Gratitude Village was divided into the core area, inner city, and outer city. The core area was only accessible to Blackwood clan members and those truly loyal to Blackwood. The inner city was where the original inhabitants of Gratitude Village lived, with Psychics patrolling everywhere.


    The outer city...


    Ethan saw many Druids. Over the years, Nicholas had collaborated with the Druids, and Clark had declared sovereignty, slowly infiltrating Blackwood, leading to the current situation in Gratitude Village.


    The village used to be harmonious, but now with the Druids living in the outer city, it was filled with disorder. He even saw Psychics from Gratitude Village fighting Druids in the outer city''s arena. This was Nicholas''s solution to the discord between the Druids and humans, setting up an arena for legal battles to the death.


    At that moment, a citizen of Gratitude Village was killed by a Druid in the arena.


    The Druids below the stage shouted excitedly, while the villagers of Gratitude Village whispered bitterly.


    "If the old clan leader and Lord Daniel were here, how dare these Druids be so bold? They would have been buried in our fields, nourishing our psychic plants!"


    "They don''t treat us like humans!"


    "I heard they even took old Stephen''s daughter, treating her like a slave. I really want to risk my life fighting these Druids."


    ...


    As Ethan walked through Gratitude Village, he could hear the villagers cursing under their breath, while the Druids strutted around as if they owned the place. Soon, Ethan arrived at a mansion.


    The sign above the door read [Foreign Affairs], bustling with many Druids and some locals coming and going. Entering, Ethan saw Nicholas sitting behind a desk, with Helen standing by his side.


    "What has become of you?" Ethan frowned. It had been over twenty years since he last saw Nicholas while cultivating psychic powers within the family estate. Nicholas hadn''t shown up at the grand ceremony at the Blackwood shrine, yet Ethan had still received Nicholas''s Tribute Offering.


    Now, the once pampered young man appeared overweight, his face lined with wrinkles and his hair speckled with white. Time had left its mark on Nicholas. Many years ago, Nicholas had reached the Transcendent Seed stage, and he was still at that stage now, despite having a single Psychic Constitution.


    [Your descendant Nicholas is burdened with deep-seated frustrations, unable to break through his inner demons and advance beyond the Developing Skill stage.]


    [Your descendant dares not step into the inner city again; he has exhausted all means, even kneeling to Luke again, to keep the sacred family inner city and estate from being breached by the Druids.]


    Behind him was the Great River Dragon Map, a lower-grade ability weapon he hadn''t used since then, and the family-gifted psychic spear, now revered like an antique on the altar behind him.


    After dealing with the Druids'' affairs, he stared at the Great River Dragon Map behind him, lost in thought for a long time.


    Helen placed her delicate hand on his shoulder, and Nicholas caressed Helen''s hand, "Helen, I''ve seen the message sent by Great-Grandmother."


    "So many of our family have broken through, many reaching the Developing Skill stage."


    "There will also be many Competent Force stage warriors. Our Blackwood''s power can now compare with the entire Cloudview County." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing this, a smile spread across Helen''s face, "Then we..."


    Nicholas also smiled, "Great-Grandmother said I no longer need to be the head of the family. I can walk into the inner city, follow the paths I walked as a child, return to the family, and head towards the Forebearer''s shrine."


    Ethan smiled too. These years had been joyful within Blackwood, but he knew that the peace Blackwood had enjoyed was all because of Nicholas''s humble sacrifices.


    Shortly after.


    Ethan walked to where Olivia was at Dawn.


    At that moment, Olivia was still seated in her wheelchair, handing letters to the Dawn assassins. She had her AI Bionic Robot maid push her to the window, looking out at the bright sun, "The Druids, it''s too late for regrets now."


    That day, everyone in Blackwood received a letter!


    The letter was marked with a ''B'', and they could smell the bloodstain''s foul scent on it¡ªit was Druid blood.


    Not only them.


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the hidden forces of Cloudview County also received letters from Blackwood. They squinted their eyes, picked up their weapons, and emerged from their seclusions.


    Across Cloudview County, all the masters held the blood-stained letters, looking up at the bright sun.


    It seemed... they were ready!

 Chapter 238 - 238: Nine rings of the alarm... Nine!

    As Ethan departed, a Druid chieftain named Clark entered the room where Nicholas was.


    Clark squinted his eyes, staring intently at Nicholas. "Blackwood family head, the High Priest demands your presence."


    Nicholas sat up straight, a smile playing on his lips. "What does High Priest Luke want?"


    Clark snorted, "What does he want? Nicholas, you have angered the High Priest! For years, we''ve tried to enter the inner city, but you''ve repeatedly made excuses. You were supposed to deliver your family''s ancient Blood Tree to me, Clark, but you''ve been stalling. The High Priest has run out of patience."


    "We wanted your help against external enemies, but your Dawn warriors only fight against Druids, never aiding us in battling the strong warriors of Cloudview County. Do you really think we Druids have no other options?"


    "Now, the entire Cloudview County is under Druid control. Think carefully, without sufficient value, Blackwood will also become useless!"


    Nicholas''s expression remained unchanged.


    He slowly stood up, turned his back, and looked at the Great River Dragon Map, ignoring the chieftain completely, his eyes cold.


    "Helen, kill him."


    "Send the order, within a hundred miles of Gratitude Village, exterminate all Druids."


    At these words, the chieftain''s face drastically changed.


    "Nicholas, what are you doing?!!"


    Instantly, assassins from Dawn emerged from the shadows.


    Nicholas, without a backward glance, gently took down the Great River Dragon Map and the psychic spear that had accompanied him in battles.


    As the sun set over Gratitude Village, countless villagers rushed out of their homes, armed and ready. The Druids within Gratitude Village screamed and ran as blood soaked the streets.


    Nicholas didn''t return to his quarters.


    Dressed in his finest clothes, carrying the psychic spear, and holding the Great River Dragon Map rolled up like a scroll, he walked through the streets, stepping over puddles of blood, his shadow stretching long behind him.


    He found a donkey in Gratitude Village, a psychic beast that had once charged into battle with him at the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    "Old friend, join me for one more journey."


    Leading the donkey, Nicholas mounted it. The once stubborn psychic donkey now steadily carried Nicholas out of Gratitude Village, tears streaming from its eyes.


    A man and his donkey left Gratitude Village, Nicholas laughing atop the donkey''s back, once again the spirited young man who had stormed into the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion.


    Their shadows lingered outside Gratitude Village.


    Behind them lay Gratitude Village, lay Blackwood!


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, a single, resonant toll echoed through Gratitude Village. With just one strike of the bell, every villager paused, heads turning in unison. This was the alarm bell of Gratitude Village!


    One ring signaled a call to arms for the entire town. Three rings meant doors should be locked and martial law declared. Six rings called for the drawing of swords. But now...


    Nine rings!


    "Nine rings of the alarm... Nine!" On the streets, Riley, once a warrior for Blackwood, now aged and weary, was hauling goods for the Druids. He stopped dead, the handle of his wooden cart clattering to the ground as tears welled up in his eyes, gazing towards the inner city.


    A supervising Druid, eyes wide, scoffed, "Nine rings of the alarm, that''s¡ª"


    He cut off mid-sentence, eyes bulging in disbelief as he stared at the old man before him, clutching at his throat where a sharp dagger now protruded. Riley, who had been laboring for the Druids, trembled with rage, his eyes bloodshot as he stared down his assailant.


    "Nine rings, fight alongside Blackwood, exterminate all external enemies!"


    "Ever since you Druids entered our Gratitude Village, I''ve waited for these nine rings, waited for over thirty years. I''ve aged, but I''ve seen it through."


    "Blackwood remains the Blackwood of old."


    With the blade withdrawn from the Druid''s neck, blood splattered across Riley''s face as he laughed maniacally.


    "I''ve waited for this!"


    Shouts and clashes of combat filled the air. He saw it¡ªall the people of Gratitude Village, grabbing their weapons, charging at these usurping Druids. He looked towards his home, from which his wife and children emerged, joining the fray!


    Many familiar faces on this street, the faces of the Druids marked with panic and fear. These arrogant fools, now desperate, fought back fiercely.


    "Thud¡ª" S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A stone spike pierced Riley''s abdomen. As if unfazed, he roared wildly, pulling his body off the spike and charging at the nearest Druid, another Druid falling by his hand.


    He too collapsed to the ground.


    Thirty years had passed, yet it felt like old times. Under the afterglow of the setting sun, the swordsmen of Blackwood appeared in the sky, their figures unmistakable to him. The air was filled with battle cries, a sound not forgotten despite the passage of years.


    He knew, with Blackwood''s men here, these Druids were doomed. This land, rooted by generations, still belonged to their descendants.


    A slight smile curled at the corners of his mouth as he gazed deeply into the sunset''s afterglow.


    "I''ve waited for... the most beautiful sunset."


    "Can dawn be far behind?"


    ...


    "Kill!"


    Throughout the inner city, the garrison, and even beyond the city walls, cries of battle rang out. On this day, after thirty years of silence, every member of the Blackwood forces picked up their weapons and began a purge of all Druids within the Blackwood stronghold!


    Kill them all.


    Chop them to pieces!


    "What''s happening..."


    The Druid chieftain, who had been secluded in the Blackwood stronghold, panicked as he emerged. He loved this place; the head of the Blackwood family, Nicholas, was extremely obedient.


    Periodically, he received offerings from Blackwood, which allowed him to grow stronger step by step. He had even been preparing to advance to the next level of power within Blackwood.


    But then...


    He never reached his next level of power. A terrifying presence was wreaking havoc within Blackwood, and a shadowy figure appeared before him, shattering all his hopes. His body froze, his pupils dilating in terror!


    "The first one."


    Lord of Frenzied Blood!


    This guardian, stationed at the Blackwood stronghold, began to carry out Blackwood''s orders as soon as the bell tolled, killing all Druids above a certain level of skill.


    His hand plunged into the chieftain''s chest, crushing his heart, and blood flowed along the demonic patterns into his body!


    "The second, the third..."


    He mercilessly killed all the high-level Druids, treating their lives as mere numbers.


    After completing his mission, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, hands behind his back, vanished like a mist of blood from the spot.


    Over the years, the people of Blackwood had continuously educated him, and his intelligence had grown.


    Besides feeling a kinship with the third generation of Blackwood, he seemed to have grown accustomed to fighting alongside them and cultivating psychic powers together.

 Chapter 239 - 239: Compassionate Family Head

    "Madness... sheer madness!"


    A Druid, overlooked by the Lord of Frenzied Blood, stood pale-faced, staring at the sky in horror.


    The sky was nearly obscured by fleets of ability vessels emerging from the inner city, their demonic occupants cheering and shouting.


    Under the setting sun, Dawn''s assassins streaked across the red clouds like a meteor shower, vanishing into the horizon at breakneck speed!


    "Boom!"


    The Silver Iron Forest, known as the most dangerous place since Gratitude Village, was stirring.


    Rumored to house powerful beasts and countless demon kings, it was the most feared location for the Druids stationed at Gratitude Village.


    Any Druid who ventured close would become prey to these beasts.


    Now, as the shadows of the trees swayed, the beasts of the Silver Iron Forest emerged and lingered in Gratitude Village.


    Many of the village''s top fighters, as if they had known this would happen, laughed and called out ''old buddy'' to the beasts, leaping onto their backs.


    These overwhelming creatures charged in unison toward a single direction!


    The volatile ability equipment masters...


    The refined alchemists, pharmacists, and talisman masters...


    Each one a steel beast...


    Watching everything unfolding within the Blackwood stronghold, the Druid felt utterly hopeless.


    He had spent thirty years in Gratitude Village, hearing rumors of the Clark tribe''s annihilation but never feeling any fear because he believed Gratitude Village and Blackwood were weak.


    But now, he realized they were not weak; they were a group of terrifying dormant beasts.


    They had been quietly amassing a power that no tribe, not even a whole region, could contend with!


    The middle-aged Druid glanced at the chieftain''s corpse on the ground, his body adorned with a glowing tortoise shell, trembling as he picked it up.


    This object was the Psychic Gear that connected the sacrifice and the chieftain.


    "Great Sacrificer..."


    He intended to report the current situation, but then he froze again.


    Shadows enveloped everything around, the ground outside Gratitude Village cracked like a spiderweb, and the ten-meter-tall blood-red ancient tree within the village grew larger, its red canopy redder than the sunset.


    Finally, at a hundred meters tall, the ancient tree''s eyes opened on its trunk.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared in the sky, and a Stone beast emerged from the ground.


    The sentient ancient trees around Gratitude Village walked with their roots, keeping pace with Blackwood''s army.


    "Great Sacrificer, we... are finished."


    "Quick, let''s take our people and run."


    Once a county town in Tranquil County, the area had transformed into a massive mountain due to the Clark''s settlement.


    Inside a dark cave, the high priest Luke frowned, unsettled for reasons unknown.


    Before him stood his subordinates, the sacrificers and chieftains.


    "High Priest, over the years, by leveraging Blackwood, we''ve unified the Harris and White tribes.


    Now both have become part of our tribe, and we occupy the entire Cloudview County.


    We no longer need Blackwood; eliminating them is imperative!"


    "Hahaha, the cowards of humanity, they think we Clark would really treat them as our own."


    "Nicholas never lets us into the inner city of Gratitude Village, probably because he harbors ulterior motives.


    It''s best to eliminate Blackwood sooner rather than later to avoid future troubles."


    Hearing this, Luke nodded slightly, his unease beginning to ease.


    Why worry indeed?


    For thirty years, he had been immensely grateful for his decision to collaborate with Blackwood. Through Blackwood, he had eliminated his rivals and gradually taken over the entire Cloudview County. Now, Clark was invincible within Cloudview County!


    Even the two tribes that had originally come with Clark were now looking up to him, their high priests becoming his subordinates. The three other tribes that later wanted a share of his territory were driven away.


    Now, Cloudview County had long become his land, and he might even break through Basic Mastery in a thousand years! S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Those not of our kind must have different hearts. Although Blackwood are cowards, they should not be underestimated."


    Luke waved his hand nonchalantly, "Let the Beast Division and the Ghost Division go together. Half of Clark''s strength should be enough to flatten Blackwood. I particularly like that seventh-grade ability tree in Blackwood; capture it and bring it back. And I want Nathan alive."


    Mentioning Nathan, his eyes narrowed slightly, remembering the humiliation he had suffered at Nathan''s birthday banquet.


    "Yes!"


    As the many priests and chieftains turned to leave, their expressions changed.


    Their tortoise shells were flickering.


    Luke''s eyes hardened, and anger instantly enveloped the cave. Several chieftains reported to him that Blackwood had rebelled!


    Just as they were about to deploy their Competent Force.


    "High Priest, it''s terrible! In our tribal land in the Endless Forest, someone was undergoing the Thunder Tribulation, and it was all... all destroyed in an instant!"


    "High Priest, it''s the Thunderfire Demon Cave! The experts from Cloudview County who were hiding there suddenly made a move today. They all rushed out and attacked Harris! And... and White, several immortals are rampaging in White, with Blackwood Olivia and the Celestial Star Swordmaster from Starlight County circling above White, waiting for their chance!"


    "High Priest..."


    These calls made Luke''s expression dazed, as if he could feel tentacles silently stretching out from the darkness towards him.


    He looked at the tortoise shell in his hand...


    There was nothing unusual about it, the divination of the day showed neither good nor bad, only a dead calm like still water.


    "High Priest!"


    Suddenly, a tribesman hurried into the cave from outside, "Someone has broken in!"


    Luke took a deep breath, "Is it Blackwood?"


    "It''s... no, not exactly."


    The Druid shook his head, speaking softly, "It''s just one person, the head of the Blackwood family, Nicholas!"


    In the real world, within the vast ocean expanse.


    The sea surface shimmered with persistent arcs of lightning, the waters turbulent as if recently struck by a powerful force, now forming whirlpools as steam rose into the sky.


    In the gradually gathering clouds above, it seemed as if nine thunder dragons roared, unwilling to vanish into oblivion.


    Mid-air, Ethan, holding the Celestial Pole Energy Spear and standing on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, looked up at the sky, feeling the power he controlled within his body.


    He had returned to the real world the day before the great family battle began, ready to break through!


    The ninety-nine heavenly tribulations were truly nothing to him. Over thirty years of preparation and a wealth of resources were enough to elevate him to the mid-stage of Competent Force during the tribulation.


    But at this moment.


    Ethan''s expression was somber, his face devoid of any joy.


    "Whoosh..."


    Rain began to fall on the sea surface, and Ethan slowly extended his hand to feel the raindrops in his palm, letting out a long sigh, "Maybe from the beginning, I shouldn''t have let you bear all these responsibilities, no one should have to."


    He shook his head and flew back towards home through the rain.


    His eyes reddened, not using psychic powers to shield himself from the rain, as if hiding something.


    He tightly clutched his smartphone, the screen displaying a room where, in the event log at the bottom right, all that was happening to his family was recorded.


    [Your family members have begun a full rebellion against the Druids!]


    [Your descendant Nicholas is heading alone towards Clark to confront Luke directly! His long-held inner demons dissipated upon facing Luke again, gaining the trait: Fearless Warrior!]


    [Gained trait: Compassionate Family Head]


    [Gained trait: Eternal Infamy]


    [Gained trait: Nicholas]


    [Your descendant Nicholas, after nurturing the Transcendent Seed for thirty years, has broken through Developing Skill, reaching the mid-stage of Developing Skill in a single moment!]


    [Your descendant Nicholas...]


    [Fallen.]


    ...

 Chapter 240 - 240: Thirty years... just thirty years

    "Attack!"


    In the game world, the descendants of Blackwood charged into battle. Thirty years ago, those cursed Druids stepped into Cloudview County, setting foot on their ancestral lands!


    Today.


    They were like beasts unleashed, tearing into the Druids who had used them, who had seen them as mere tools, as lambs to the slaughter.


    For thirty long years, every member of the Blackwood family had been cultivating psychic powers. It seemed like business as usual, but unknown to others, they, along with the people of Gratitude Village and all of Cloudview County, were waiting for this day. They were waiting to have enough strength to drive the Druids from their homeland!


    But in this slaughter.


    Every member of the Blackwood family paused, their brows furrowed, a sense of melancholic loss overwhelming them.


    Soon after.


    As the descendants of Blackwood fought across Cloudview County, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position appeared before them all, shimmering like twinkling stars, now even more radiant than before.


    It had been over thirty years. The Forebearer, like them, had been silent, and they rarely saw the Psychic Position light up. This should have been a moment of excitement, knowing the Forebearer was watching over them, but their expressions were blank. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Then, stiffly, they moved towards where Clark was.


    ...


    In Gratitude Village, morning fog rolled in, and the elderly, women, and children who remained were cleaning up the battlefield.


    Helen walked aimlessly, her eyes vacant, passing the place where she once lived with Nicholas. Without realizing it, she arrived at the open space where her family''s home stood, greeted by the morning breeze.


    "Squeak... Squeak..."


    The swing that little Nicholas once sat on, which she had pushed as he joyfully screamed, now creaked in the wind. The ropes were frayed, and the wooden planks nailed together had lost their color, ready to fall apart at any moment. Yet, it still swayed in the morning breeze.


    "Helen..."


    Dennis approached, now more profound and powerful, yet his hair had turned white, and his eyes were moist. He walked up behind Helen with a complex expression, stopping short, only letting out a long sigh.


    In his life, the two most important people were Helen, whom he had raised since she was a child, and Nicholas Blackwood.


    But it seemed to him that both of the most important people in his life had drifted away from him.


    He had inherited the methods of "The Six Divinatory Figures" and "The Oracle Chamber" from Stephen, capable of predicting many things, yet he only foresaw Nicholas''s death, with no means to prevent it.


    "Grandpa Dennis."


    Helen still stared at the swaying swing, smiling, "Remember when you asked me if I wanted to be betrothed to Nicholas as a child bride? Do you know what I thought back then? I resisted, but for the sake of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, for your kindness, I started taking care of my little husband from a young age, treating him like a child."


    "Little Nicholas was immature, but when he returned from outside, he hugged me here, and everything changed. I realized he had grown up, truly becoming a man worthy of trust."


    "It was still here."


    "Thirty years ago, on the city walls, Nicholas pointed to this place, this little swing that holds all our memories with him. That day, he reached out his hand to me, asking if I was willing to walk all the paths with him. At that time, everyone despised him, but only I understood, like me, he had to accept things he didn''t want to."


    "And then it all became a burden, a responsibility."


    The morning wind was cold, Dennis clenched his teeth, his shoulders trembling. Once upon a time, Helen and Nicholas were just children.


    Helen turned around.


    Her face showed no sorrow for her husband''s death; she smiled happily.


    "I did it. Over the years, I walked step by step with Nicholas. He was no coward, at least not in my eyes."


    "I''m grateful, Grandpa Dennis, for letting me marry Nicholas. I''m proud, proud to be Nicholas''s wife."


    "I''m about to leave Gratitude Village," Helen said, turning to old Dennis. "Please tell everyone in the family that I''m sorry. When Nicholas left for the Druids to confront Luke, I didn''t stop him, nor did I inform anyone. If they hold any grudges, please ask Grandpa Dennis not to make any excuses."


    After her words, Helen bowed deeply to Dennis, then walked through Blackwood, retracing the steps Nicholas had once taken.


    As she reached the outskirts of Gratitude Village, she looked up at the city walls. Thirty years ago, those walls weren''t so tall, and Nicholas was the most handsome man around. Later, even as he grew portly, he remained the most imposing figure.


    That day, she saw it coming. Nicholas reached out his hand, offering her a future filled with inevitable sorrow.


    Yet, she still took his hand.


    "I have no regrets," Helen whispered, caressing her belly with a tender expression. "Nicholas, I cried for you that day, but now I smile with pride for you. I will ensure our child lives an ordinary life, not burdened by the choices we were forced to make."


    As the sun rose, Helen smiled and walked towards the light.


    ...


    Clark.


    Inside this great mountain, once thrown into chaos by the rebellion of Blackwood, it was now eerily quiet.


    Clark''s Druids were shivering.


    High Priest Luke stood atop the mountain peak. The wind was cold today, tousling his hair as he stared emotionlessly out over the mountain.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder exploded, heralding the arrival of Nathan, bearing the Death Coffin!


    Then came Lucas, carrying a sword case, emerging from the Thunderfire Demon Cave. Amelia sat atop the Primordial Blood Tree. Julian stood atop a hundred-meter-tall creature, his expression sinister. And there was Olivia, dressed in white, standing mid-air against the wind!


    And other descendants of Blackwood.


    No outsiders were there, only Blackwood folk!


    "Thirty years... just thirty years," Luke murmured, his head bowed. He hadn''t expected that in just three decades, Blackwood would grow so powerful!


    At the time of the incident, he felt the formidable force of Blackwood. He thought that once Nicholas betrayed Cloudview County, no one from Cloudview would follow Blackwood, allowing him to slowly infiltrate other powers. But that didn''t happen!


    He thought by stripping Blackwood of resources, they would no longer advance. Yet, he underestimated the depth and cunning of the Blackwood people, and their terrifying potential.


    Now...


    Nathan, once his humiliator, stood boldly outside Clark''s stronghold amidst a thunderstorm.


    Blackwood Sword King Lucas and Luna had already broken through to Competent Force.


    Two dragons soared through the clouds, one a fiery red and the other seemingly made of gold and iron, clashing sounds echoing as it moved.


    Three Sky Corpses, one demon!


    And the younger generation of Blackwood, their strength unknown to anyone.


    Clark was nearly suffocating under the pressure of less than a hundred Blackwood members, even Luke felt as if the sky was falling.


    "Whew."


    Luke exhaled deeply, waving his hand. A Developing Skill chieftain, holding a spear, a blood-stained scroll, and a tattered, bloodied garment, flew into the sky.


    Even though they had already heard the news from their forebearers, the sight of these items still made the Blackwood people''s faces change color. Donna screamed, her expression fierce, as Edward held her tightly.


    The chieftain, trembling, flew up to Nathan, his hands shaking as he handed over these items. "My lord, the High Priest sent me to return the belongings of the Blackwood family head."


    At that moment.


    The air around Clark''s stronghold seemed to freeze, the psychic powers of the Blackwood people creating a fierce wind, with thunder raging in the sky.


    Nathan''s voice, heavy and somber, filled the air, "When Nicholas charged into your Clark, was he brave?"


    The chieftain stammered, "I... I don''t know, he... he seemed crazy as he charged in. We didn''t fight back, really, we didn''t. We tried to stop him, but we couldn''t..."


    Nathan''s aura of fury nearly overwhelmed him!


    In just a snap of the fingers, the chieftain could no longer speak, as thunder from the sky struck him down, turning him to ash.


    Nathan''s eyes were bloodshot as he stared intently at Luke, who stood on the mountain peak in the distance. His voice boomed like thunder.


    "You!"


    "Now tell me, when Nicholas came to settle the score with you, was he brave?!!"

 Chapter 241 - 241: Charge—Charge!

    Thunder filled the sky, mixed with the most furious energy of the universe. No... perhaps not fury, but pride.


    Standing atop the mountain, Luke looked down at the Blackwood clan members scattered around Clark. He could feel the emotions of the Blackwood people. Their pride was everywhere, piercing his skin like thorns, invading his mind and body, causing him to shiver uncontrollably.


    After Nathan''s roar, he was silent for a long time.


    Having worked with Nicholas for thirty years, he remembered him as one of the few cowards in the Blackwood clan.


    Nicholas wasn''t arrogant like Nathan, nor was he as wild as the other Blackwoods. He was like a trapped beast, shielding the others from the world''s ridicule, struggling within his cage, trying desperately to prevent the Blackwoods from being destroyed in these chaotic times.


    Luke understood all this, but he also knew more clearly that ever since Nicholas knelt, the label of ''traitor to humanity'' meant the Blackwoods had little chance of redemption. From then on, the Blackwoods were no longer a threat, as humanity would never accept them. Daring to betray the Druids meant they had to be ready to be despised by both sides.


    Then.


    Nicholas appeared outside of Clark, and even now, Luke couldn''t forget that scene.


    This young man fought his way through, with Druids blocking his path, rampaging wildly. His Great River Dragon Map, his psychic spear, and countless talismans meant nothing.


    Facing him, the high priest, under the power of his Competent Force, the young man laughed mockingly and died from an explosion of his Developing Skill. That was the boy''s final move!


    "The head of the family died here, Luke, we Blackwoods can spin many tales! The Emerald Empire cannot refuse a strong and righteous Blackwood!"


    Luke could even imagine.


    Perhaps by the time Nicholas arrived, various reports had already spread throughout the Emerald Empire. It was nothing but tales of the Blackwood family head defying family orders, colluding with the Druids, and then, thirty years later, the Blackwoods righteously eliminating their own...


    Perhaps thirty years ago, Nicholas was already prepared to face death.


    And now.


    The trapped Blackwoods had walked out of their cages because the beast at the forefront gnawed at the bars every day until it was bloody-mouthed and lifeless!


    Thunder still roared in the sky.


    All the Blackwoods had bloodshot eyes, and Luke knew clearly that these beasts, having crawled out of their cages, would unleash the craziest revenge on the Druids!


    But for Luke now, it was more about respect.


    He suddenly looked up, the energy of the Competent Force bursting forth, and he stared at Nathan.


    "Nathan, many years ago you said your Blackwoods never yielded, I didn''t believe it, but you Blackwoods have! You said there were no cowards in your Blackwoods, I didn''t believe..."


    His voice grew deeper, "I should have believed. I thought Nicholas was a coward, I was wrong."


    As the high priest, he grinned, "You ask me if he was brave, I''ve seen many warriors in Clark, but none as brave as your Nicholas!"


    "Thirty years, Nicholas fought for your Blackwoods. There''s no turning back for either of us now, let me see what your Blackwoods are capable of, and let me show you, there are no cowards in Clark either!"


    "Clark tribe, annihilate them!"


    "Boom!"


    Thunder rolled across the sky, and the mystical mountain of Clark shed its outer shell, shining brilliantly like a gemstone. Clark had long been prepared for battle! Countless members of the Clark tribe emerged from within the jade mountain, armed with totems, magical formations, and spells...


    "Attack!" S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing Luke''s words, the Blackwood clan was visibly shaken, but as numerous Druids from Clark charged, they remained fearless and charged towards the Druids.


    Charge¡ªCharge!!!


    Their eyes were bloodshot; in this moment, they understood that the past thirty years were a time and opportunity fought for by Nicholas.


    Outside their family stronghold was an external affairs office, and Nicholas never returned to the stronghold.


    Over the years, within the family stronghold, they could laugh as usual, slowly assimilating the heritage accumulated by the family over the years, continuously growing. But all this was fought for by Nicholas alone, who bore the brunt of the outside world, scarred and battered until his death.


    Perhaps even Helen, who was close to Nicholas, didn''t know how difficult these years had been for him.


    He was never a coward; he walked alone in the darkness, battered and bloodied, seeking a beacon for the Blackwoods.


    Now... the beacon had been found.


    They fought with the light Nicholas had brought them, with his will!


    In the room.


    Ethan had rushed back as quickly as possible, his eyes glued to the computer screen.


    [Your cultivation has reached the Competent Force stage, and your family has become a Competent Force lineage!]


    [Your family has touched the heavenly laws, offering a Family Spiritual Tribute, becoming the family''s will!]


    [Detecting a large amount of Spiritual Tribute in your family... converting...]


    [You have gained Family Will: 30]


    Transformation... everything was changing, Ethan clearly understood that Nicholas''s sacrifice had brought all this to the family and was also affecting him.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan exhaled deeply, unable to express in words everything Nicholas had done for the family. Now, all he had to do was fight and grow with his family!


    [You have used 1 point of Family Will to upgrade the skill Lv1. ''Charge, My Children!'']


    [Skill upgraded to¡ªFamily Glory!]


    [Using the skill, all Blackwood descendants within a hundred miles increase their combat effectiveness by 20%! Competent Force stage psychics, using part of the natural energy rules, increase by 20%!]


    [Now using skill Lv.4 ''Family Glory''!]


    ...


    On the battlefield, the descendants of the Blackwood family were surrounded by a glowing aura, as the Psychic Positions floated up around them, forming a massive family crest in the sky. This radiant symbol enveloped every member of the Blackwood clan, enhancing their strength, courage, and will!


    "Charge!" they roared.


    The fifth-generation descendants, who had once stormed the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion with Nicholas, were now even more ferocious than before. Donna, once petite, had grown to a towering three meters tall, her fists pounding the ground with the combined power of icy rock and the mighty force of the Exploding Sky Serpent.


    Edward remained seated on his throne, his sword moving freely within the great formation.


    They all remembered the days in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, when little brother Nicholas always followed behind, needing their help to get up and keep running. Now, they were immensely proud. Nicholas had moved to the front, a king on the battlefield!


    Behind them, the monk brothers, Charles and Christopher, remained seated on their lotus platforms, closely following the two frenzied warriors. "Brother, I don''t understand, why do people knowingly embrace death when they could choose life?" Christopher asked, puzzled, as he summoned tendrils from his flesh-and-blood lotus platform to fend off the totemic ability weapons attacking Edward.


    "Perhaps that''s what it means to be family," Charles replied, looking ahead at their fearless kin, all charging forward. He suddenly looked up at the family crest in the sky and sighed, "Sister, do you regret abandoning your faith?"


    Hearing this, Christopher smiled, "No regrets. After all, faith alone can''t shield us from the world''s misunderstandings and slander. They say there''s a pure land in paradise, but we''ve never set foot in it. Yet Nicholas... he has made our family''s world as peaceful as a pure land."


    "So..." Charles began, his lotus platform disintegrating into a dark golden blood that hovered around him, transforming him into an octopus-like figure on the battlefield. Whenever his tendrils stretched out, droves of druids fell. His eyes turned black as he spoke, "Sister, if such is our pure land, such our family, why should we not embrace death knowingly?"


    "Fight!" Christopher declared, his figure transforming into a sixteen-armed Bodhisattva radiating golden light, charging into battle!


    [Your descendants Charles and Christopher, having fused the monk and demonic corpses with the flesh-and-blood lotus platform, incorporating Monk Abbot David into it, have elevated the flesh-and-blood lotus platform to a seventh-grade ability object!]


    [Seventh-grade Flesh-and-Blood Lotus Platform: Capable of merging with spiritual bodies, transforming into demonic beings or Bodhisattvas, comparable to high-grade ability weapons. The two platforms, now embodying both monk and demon, are comparable to the finest ability weapons!]


    [Your descendants Charles and Christopher have broken through their Developing Skill, obtaining an Advanced Core, merging monk and demon into a Super Core!]


    [In this battle, they have understood the meaning of family, gaining the trait: Family Faith]


    [With their newfound faith, their fervor carries Nicholas''s will to the family, fighting for their clan, their power and will increased by 50%!]

 Chapter 242 - 242: What kind of victory is this?

    The children of the fourth generation all possessed Developing Skills. They had grown up during the era when the Blackwoods were fugitives, always with Nicholas, who was once timid and pampered.


    That little boy truly became a real man of the Blackwood family, yet the last memory they had of him was still that of a child.


    No one knew better than they did how difficult it was to live in exile.


    Nicholas''s kneeling before Luke, that moment on the city walls, had given them a peaceful thirty years. Only now did they truly appreciate how precious those thirty years had been.


    "Show what you''re capable of, let Nicholas see that we are proud of him, that we haven''t wasted these thirty years!"


    "Annihilate the druids!"


    "Let their blood be a tribute to Nicholas!"


    Fight, fight, fight!!!


    George, William, and Justin would usually be laughing in battle. But now, these three shameless guys had serious expressions. They exchanged glances and charged at an enemy in the mid-stage of Competent Force.


    "Boom!"


    The elder from their family appeared on George''s body and engaged the enemy directly. Justin moved around the perimeter, occasionally getting knocked back only to return stronger each time.


    William stood in the distance, various Psychic Gear and ability weapons appearing around him, resembling a venomous snake. Over the years, the only reasons he stayed with the family were his elder brother and the Forebearer.


    Now, as he watched his kin fighting all around, he seemed to understand that it wasn''t just his brother and the Forebearer who cared about him. Perhaps everyone in the family was silently contributing, just like Nicholas, who silently stood in front of everyone, shielding him as well.


    These guys, one day in the future, might not care that he was a black sheep, or about the many wrongs he had done. They would stand with him without hesitation.


    "A bunch of... fools."


    [Your descendant William, feeling the deepest hidden emotions among his kin, has gained the trait: Hidden Guardian]


    [Like Nicholas, he is willing to remain hidden at the heart of the family, eliminating all enemies for them. When killing for the family, his strength increases by 20%, and he becomes more ferocious.]


    Strength is growing, growing!


    William found his opportunity, hundreds of Psychic Gear, ability weapons, and even totems from the druids flew towards the Competent Force expert, then, explosion!


    ...


    Fight to the death, relentless battle!


    Ethan watched the family''s fight, all the descendants united like never before, fighting desperately!


    And the reason for all this was not just the widespread ''Family Will'' skill, but also Nicholas leading them into the future.


    In this battle, many family members, like William and the two young monks, were awakening their traits.


    Thirty years ago.


    All the descendants acknowledged their weakness, but now, they finally faced the entire Clark tribe with the posture of the strong, and they crushed them!


    The sky was also a battlefield.


    It had been an hour, and there was High Priest Luke, as a tribal leader, he possessed the peak strength of Competent Force. With his own power, he calmly faced many experts from the Blackwood family!


    Then.


    Despair descended!


    "Whoosh"


    [Activating skill¡ªFight, dear Forebearer!]


    [Your current strength has reached the early stage of Competent Force, possessing the power of rules, descending into the game world requires consuming family will: 3]


    [Descend?]


    "Yes!"


    In the sky, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position formed a family emblem, its golden light shining in front of Luke, making him cautiously step back, black mist emerging, the Twin Fish Harmony Seal enveloping all directions!


    "Forebearer!"


    The Blackwood people were shaken, after thirty years, the Forebearer descended again to fight alongside them!


    ...


    "Whoosh¡ª"


    A gust of wind surged, Ethan descended into this world again, looking around, the Blackwood children were fighting on the ground, he could hear their battle cries.


    Originally today... among these fighting children, Nicholas would have been present.


    Suddenly.


    Ethan''s eyes focused on the retreating Luke, his deep voice resonating in the sky, "Capture him alive."


    As soon as he spoke, Ethan''s Twin Fish Harmony Seal spun, already showing on the spot, appearing in front of Luke, his body of black mist, carrying the power of the five elements, the sun, moon, and stars! sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes!"


    The Blackwood people nodded slightly, they didn''t have the ecstasy they had when the Forebearer appeared before, they knew, the Forebearer''s mood was as heavy as theirs now!


    "Hahaha, think you can capture me alive? Ridiculous!"


    Another hour later.


    The Blackwood descendants stood on Nathan''s coffin, their Forebearer had already begun to disappear.


    Clark''s High Priest Luke, desperately knelt behind the Blackwood people.


    The Death Coffin moved towards the Blackwood direction.


    "Why... why?!!"


    Before the battle, he told Nathan, their Clark tribe had no cowards, but he saw, one by one, Clark''s people began to flee. Even their Competent Force mid-stage priest fled in front of the three young Blackwoods.


    Clark originally had the strength to fight, but in the face of the Blackwood people''s frenzy, Clark only lasted less than half an hour before disintegrating, fleeing for themselves.


    They looked like the real cowards!


    Even he...


    After the Blackwood Forebearer appeared, he also experienced true despair, that Blackwood ancestor had complete mastery of the five elements within the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, containing the sun, moon, and stars, invisible within the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, especially that spear capable of breaking all laws, could also dispel the natural energy of the world.


    Five minutes, if the opponent hadn''t intended not to kill him, he would have probably died long ago.


    Until the opponent left.


    Nathan''s boundless Sea of Death, Luna''s Six-Tailed Fox form, Lucas''s Sword Intent domain, and Amelia''s summoned Divine Tree slowly surrounded him in the sky with two dragon serpents, three zombies, and several younger family members.


    He thought about running, but escape was impossible.


    Where Clark stood, Mount Jade crumbled, stained with blood, dust filling the sky. Rising to the heavens was the fierce pride of Nicholas and the Blackwoods. What collapsed was their so-called Druidic honor and courage.


    On the screen, Ethan quietly watched it all unfold.


    [Congratulations, your descendants have completely destroyed the Clarks!]


    [Before he left, your descendant Nicholas, in the name of the ancient Blackwood ancestor Nathan, had the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion send letters to every county and major power throughout the Emerald Empire. He let everyone in the Emerald Empire know that thirty years ago, a traitor emerged from the Blackwoods, and his name was Nicholas.]


    [He told everyone in the Emerald Empire that all the Blackwoods were furious about his betrayal and fled the family. Until today, thirty years later, the Blackwoods had gathered enough strength to righteously annihilate their kin, breaking the entire Clark clan in one fell swoop.]


    [Your family has cleared the name of ''human race traitor'' and remains the proud ''Azure Cloud Warriors.'' The entire Emerald Empire is celebrating this rare victory for Cloudview County.]


    [Gain +5 Family Will]


    "What kind of victory is this? What kind of celebration?"


    Ethan clenched his teeth, his fists tight, until all that was left was a sigh.


    ...

 Chapter 243 - 243: Druid Slayer

    Seven days had passed.


    Inside the Blackwood residence, the people of Gratitude Village were ecstatic in the streets. They had heard rumors that the Blackwoods were still the same as before. Not only had they slain the cursed Druids of Gratitude Village after thirty years, but they had even ventured to the Clark territory and achieved glorious battle honors!


    Even throughout the entire Cloudview County.


    All the forces emerged from hiding, seeking revenge after thirty years of concealment. They struck swiftly at the Clark, Harris, and White tribes, which had once suffocated Cloudview County, forcing them into a desperate retreat. Their main forces had fled back to the Endless Forest.


    The remaining Druids in Cloudview County could only struggle to survive under the relentless pursuit of the major powers.


    The situation had reversed so quickly.


    They could even foresee that, in the near future, no one would call the people of Cloudview County spineless. No one would call the people of Gratitude Village cowards; they would only praise the Blackwoods for leading the entire Azure Cloud to a commendable victory for humanity!


    But they didn''t know.


    At this moment, deep in the Silver Iron Forest, not far from Boar Monarch Pete, a statue had been erected.


    It was the statue of a young man riding a donkey, laughing heartily. The youth''s spirited demeanor was unaffected by the donkey, instead, he appeared utterly carefree, and anyone could see his ease and comfort.


    He was poised to charge forward, holding a silver spear and a map, his eyes fierce, as if no one could block his path.


    A...


    Warrior without burdens, acting on his whims.


    Behind the statue was a coffin, which held no body, only blood-stained clothes, a magical spear, the Great River Dragon Map, and a set of heavy armor. This was the armor Nicholas had worn in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where he had grown stronger step by step.


    A light rain began to fall from the sky.


    The people of Blackwood stood before Nicholas''s grave, gazing long at his statue and his tombstone.


    The tombstone was empty.


    Dennis sighed deeply, tears mingling with the rain, "Do not record everything Nicholas went through. When you handed him over to me, I watched him grow up bit by bit. He used to be carefree, saying he wanted to be a great hero like you all, to live freely, but he chose a different path."


    "Let him... walk away from all this, freely."


    Hearing this, the people of Blackwood bowed their heads.


    Nathan stepped forward to Nicholas''s tombstone, his hand caressing it. He still remembered the day Nicholas knelt before him on the city walls. He had reached out his hand, but ultimately, he did not strike Nicholas.


    That day, Nicholas had knelt before Luke, struck his face, and said little. He was even prepared to face the entire Emerald Empire and all the Druids.


    Until now...


    Nathan realized that whether in life or death, Nicholas was no longer a child, nor a coward. He had carried a great mountain forward. It was they, the elders, who were the real cowards, hiding in the deepest parts of the family, cultivating psychic powers, and enjoying the happiest and most peaceful thirty years. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Nathan''s psychic powers emerged.


    The tombstone recorded Nicholas''s life, but not the burdens he had borne.


    [Nicholas, the most respected member of the Blackwoods. He grew up in the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion during difficult times and became a hero there. As an adult, he followed in the footsteps of his elders, living freely. In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, he faced countless demonic cultivators, never showing fear, and even drinking and reveling with them.]


    [He participated in battle after battle for the Blackwoods, never showing fear. At the Azure Cloud Martial Pavilion, he faced the strongest talents of Cloudview County, charging forward with a laugh, becoming the pride of the entire county.]


    [He made the entire Druid Clark tribe submit to him, making the high priest Luke kneel before him.]


    [He is...]


    [The proudest, fearless warrior of the Blackwoods!]


    Nathan slowly turned his head, looking at Luke kneeling before Nicholas''s grave, and asked, "Lord Luke, take a look, isn''t the life of my Nicholas spectacular?"


    Larry stared blankly at Nicholas''s tombstone.


    After a long silence, he suddenly smiled, "I pay my respects to him. I didn''t lose to the Blackwoods, I lost to him."


    "Thank you."


    As Nathan''s words fell, Luke closed his eyes, his wish also fulfilled. His people were fleeing, his defeat inevitable, and he wanted to honor his opponent in his final moments, a pride of his status as high priest.


    Luke''s head fell, and his blood flowed towards Nicholas''s grave.


    The soil of the grave closed, and the people of Blackwood lingered for a long time.


    In the misty rain, the statue seemed to come to life, Nicholas, just as he had wished, laughing heartily as he roamed the world.


    [Congratulations, your descendants have, with the strength of their clan and the will of Nicholas, slain a million Druids, earning the trait: Druid Slayer]


    [Damage against Druids increased by 30%]


    Seven days passed in the game world, and the people of Blackwood gradually moved away from Nicholas''s grave. Ethan''s screen still lingered there, his eyes closed in the room.


    From the start of this game until now, the children of the family had grown up, and unknowingly, all of them had entered the most important place in his heart.


    He glanced at the skill item, looking at the astronomical number of Spiritual Tribute points, Ethan shook his head.


    They still had much to do, they had to follow the path Nicholas had left for the family, to build the strongest Blackwood, ensuring this land would never again be troubled by Druids, or... by anyone!


    ...


    In just half a month, Gratitude Village had regained order and was now more prosperous than it was thirty years ago, despite being occupied by Druids for many years. The infrastructure had been improving every day. Now, the people of Gratitude Village could instantly enjoy a better life than they did thirty years ago, truly a case of hardship followed by relief.


    During the war, the people of Gratitude Village had spread out to various places, each household displaying white silk ribbons. Despite the pain of losing family members, they took pride in those who had died in battle, defending their land. Their loved ones had once fought against the Druids!


    This land was built over generations with the blood and flesh of their ancestors. They had no other way to repay but to live and thrive on this land, to grow stronger, and to continue the will of their forebears and family members, protecting their homeland at all costs.


    Fortunately, they had the support of the Blackwoods behind them.

 Chapter 244 - 244: Are you still hesitating...

    The people of Gratitude Village seemed different from those in other places. Blackwood never defended Nicholas, but after this great battle, it seemed they understood everything.


    On this day, every household in Gratitude Village brought a Tribute Offering, asking Blackwood to let them enter the Silver Iron Forest.


    "You all..." The people of Blackwood stood at the gate, looking at the scene before them, their eyes red with emotion.


    The mayor of Gratitude Village had died in the war, and a young man named Marvin stepped forward. His father, Riley, had died in the battle, and Marvin had inherited his father''s will. He had ridden a flying sword swiftly in the great battle, becoming the most outstanding hero of Gratitude Village.


    "Gentlemen," Marvin shouted, "we want to pay respects to Lord Nicholas!"


    "We don''t believe that Lord Nicholas betrayed Gratitude Village or Blackwood, as the rumors suggest. My father told us that we must wait, that we were weak, and we needed to wait until we were strong enough."


    "He understood, he had his moments of fear when he heard the Druids were coming. If he had resisted, our family would have been destroyed. When the Druids entered our village, I was still young. I saw my father knocked down by a Druid, even though he was stronger. I didn''t understand why he didn''t fight back."


    "He told me he needed to protect me, the fool, and to protect my mother and brother."


    "Perhaps my father and Lord Nicholas were similar. They both were waiting for the day when the town''s bells rang. I went to see Lord Nicholas, only to meet Lady Helen. Maybe..."


    "Maybe he and my father were the same, waiting for the day they could strike against the Druids, both enduring disgrace to protect us all."


    Marvin clenched his fists, "Please, gentlemen, let us pay respects to Lord Nicholas. We are not only honoring him but also the misunderstood loved ones!"


    On that day, a neat line of people continuously formed, orderly marching towards a statue deep in the Silver Iron Forest. Fireworks floated up to the sky above the forest, continuing day and night for three months.


    Every household in Gratitude Village began to display a statue of a young man riding a donkey at full speed.


    The people of Blackwood watched all this. Ethan was also watching. Their eyes brimmed with tears, their expressions relieved. Nicholas was ultimately too naive; he miscalculated. He wanted everyone in the Emerald Empire to think he was a traitor, but that wasn''t true. At least the people of Gratitude Village, at least the people of Blackwood, knew everything he had done.


    Soon, half a month passed, and the people of Gratitude Village were still paying their respects. Their understanding helped Blackwood slowly recover from the grief of Nicholas''s sacrifice.


    [Your descendants are paying respects to you in the Forebearer Hall.]


    The scene shifted to the Forebearer Hall, where members of the first and second generations were kneeling. At this moment, his Psychic Position was at the top, followed by Boar Monarch Pete and Nicholas.


    [Your descendant Nathan reports to you that after the High Priest Clark was defeated, all Druids are fleeing Cloudview County, heading back to the Endless Forest. Various major sects are regrouping and sending letters. In this chaotic era, with strong enemies still lurking outside Cloudview County and Duke''s Mansion Martin uninvolved, the major sects hope Blackwood can take charge.]


    "Take charge, huh?" Ethan squinted slightly. Nicholas''s vision was for Blackwood to endure. He had done so much, and now Blackwood had finally shed the label of human traitor and was trusted again by the Emerald Empire. Now, Blackwood also had enough strength.


    At this time, every border county of the Emerald Empire was in the midst of war, and the Druids from other counties probably had no spare capacity to attack Blackwood. If they could unite the forces of Cloudview County, then... the situation could be reversed!


    What needed to be guarded against was no longer Cloudview County, but the Druids of the Endless Forest!


    Ethan clicked on the icon of the Exploding Sky Serpent, and in an instant, a serpent-like mist appeared. This was the second form of the Exploding Sky Serpent, known as the Mist Serpent. As soon as it appeared, a message popped up in the event log.


    [Your temple guardian beast requests that you give it an elegant name.]


    After some thought, Ethan decided he needed to consult a dictionary for this task. He then had the Exploding Sky Serpent relay a message.


    It sulkily said to Nathan, "The master says, ''To secure peace within, one must first manage external threats.''"


    "Forebearer agrees!" Nathan nodded vigorously, bowing repeatedly, "Please rest assured, Forebearer, I understand your meaning."


    In the hall were Luna, Julian, and Amelia. Lucas was still outside the family, having brought back celestial swordsmen from Starlight County. They were currently clearing out the remaining Druids in Cloudview County. Olivia, during her great battle with Luke, had not experienced the thunder tribulation, and was now contemplating the power of the mountains, rivers, and lakes.


    "Forebearer says we need to secure our internal affairs first."


    Luna''s expression tightened slightly, "The head of the house, the only thing we need to be cautious about in Cloudview County is that one family."


    "Martin!"


    Julian''s silver arm caressed his bald head, his teeth gritted, "That old man Michael has lived too long. Over the years, other county Duke''s Mansions have been fighting, only Wind Duke''s Mansion has been sitting by, otherwise, our Cloudview County wouldn''t have been so powerless at the start!"


    "I''ve heard about it too, damn it, the Emerald Empire also has a bunch of bastards, all the rewards issued by our Cloudview County went to Martin."


    "Dad, just give the word, and I''ll take the kids and smash his Duke''s Mansion!"


    Hearing this.


    Nathan frowned deeply, pondering for a long time before finally sighing and shaking his head, "No."


    At this, Julian''s eyes widened, "Dad, are you still hesitating..."


    "I mean, ruining Duke''s Mansion isn''t enough. I want Michael to feel like a thorn is in his side, to end his days in constant fear and die in disgrace!"


    A fierce light flashed in Nathan''s eyes, the root of all problems was Michael!


    This schemer, sitting high above, wanted to destroy Cloudview County. Thirty years ago, he almost succeeded, and perhaps he even knew about the large-scale attacks in advance. Cloudview County was supposed to be protected by Duke''s Mansion, but they just sat back and watched as everyone in Cloudview County struggled desperately.


    Over these thirty years, Blackwood had endured humiliation, and Nicholas had gone through unimaginable trials, the shame of which could not even be washed away by the future.


    Amelia had been quietly listening, and now she smiled, "Cloudview County is changing, Duke''s Mansion..." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Should change as well."

 Chapter 245 - 245: Martin was, after all, their maternal family line

    "Consolidating Cloudview County starts with taking down Michael," Ethan muttered as he clicked his mouse.


    He ignored a message that popped up: [Your temple guardian beast is requesting a ''good enough'' name.] Instead, Ethan clicked on Olivia''s avatar, intending to have her oversee the big picture.


    But there she was, transformed again, now pushed by a maid formed from an AI Bionic Robot.


    "What''s happened to her now?"


    Previously, Olivia had reverted to her youthful self, a young girl of eighteen. Now, she had aged again, appearing as a mature woman of charm, pausing by the mountains and lakes.


    [Your descendant Olivia is contemplating the power of the world''s mountains, rivers, and lakes, undergoing a natural decline.]


    [She is currently understanding the third layer of the ''World Scripture'', focusing on landscapes.]


    [Olivia kindly asked Dennis for guidance and received fragments of ancient wisdom, gaining a partial understanding of fate.]


    [She has spent decades of her life communicating with the Endless Forest, asking for a sliver of fortune to rejuvenate Blackwood.]


    Ethan thought he saw a faint purple light from the Endless Forest heading towards Blackwood. Above Olivia''s head, he noticed storm clouds; every few moments, a wild spirit would be extinguished under them.


    Having reached the Competent Force stage, Ethan still didn''t quite grasp the concept of fortune. He had heard that a family''s prosperity and wealth were tied to it, and many were obsessed with cultivating ''fortune trees.''


    "Did you go... to seize fortune?"


    Ethan''s scalp tingled, no wonder Olivia had aged again!


    A Psychic Position emerged.


    Olivia''s eyes sparkled with joy, though her expression remained unchanged, "Forebearer, I''ve realized it! Cloudview County hasn''t produced a Basic Mastery in over a hundred thousand years because it lacks fortune! In the struggle for supremacy, it''s not just about fighting for treasures but also for the world''s fortune. "


    "Without it, there are no more opportunities, no favor from the cosmos. Please rest assured, Forebearer, I will use all my strength to slowly reclaim our fortune."


    "..."


    Ethan was silent for a moment, still not fully understanding this concept. He had intended for Olivia to return home and take charge, but now he had to let that plan go.


    He sent Olivia a ''Forebearer''s Caress'' and left a message [Take care of yourself, no need to force things], then switched the screen.


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    Olivia looked at the cards that had returned to normal, squinting slightly at the storm clouds in the sky.


    "Nicholas, I''m sorry, your great-grandmother has been too fierce these years, not knowing you had already resigned yourself to fate."


    "Just be at peace in the cycle of reincarnation. When your great-grandmother takes control of the cycle of life and death, I''ll restore an eternal Blackwood for you, where you can roam freely!"


    [Your temple guardian beast, please give it a random name.]


    "..."


    The event tab popped up again with a message from the Exploding Sky Serpent. Ethan stroked his chin, assuring himself that it wasn''t out of spite for the serpent condensing his several hundred words into a few, after all, people from Blackwood aren''t petty.


    Ah, this will do...


    [The Primordial Blood Tree reports to you that your descendants, Julian and the third generation of Blackwood, taking advantage of Amelia''s absence, want to retaliate for the previous tattling incident while it rests. Please allow it to teach them a lesson.]


    "Agreed."


    Ethan seriously clicked on the Exploding Sky Serpent''s avatar, solemnly consulted his clan, and then gave it a resounding name.


    He then promptly switched the screen to the Blackwood Hall. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At this moment.


    The Blackwood family at home was discussing the affairs of Cloudview County. After Nicholas, the family hadn''t appointed a new head. Nathan said that from now on, all family matters would be decided collectively by those at home. After strategizing, if it was a major issue, they would consult the Forebearer.


    Suddenly, the Blackwood folks looked outside, baffled.


    "Ha ha ha, I have a name now! Call me Charlie Crackle, ha ha ha."


    "Oh!"


    "Enemies, tremble before me, Charlie Crackle!"


    The corners of everyone''s mouths twitched as they recognized the ecstatic roar of the Exploding Sky Serpent... no, Charlie Crackle.


    They didn''t see little Katie proudly lifting her head.


    She would never tell the clan that just now the Forebearer had shown his powers, asking her to give the temple guardian beast a formidable nickname, signifying his approval of her!


    No one would ever know...


    Suddenly, Katie froze as the elders'' gazes simultaneously fixed on her.


    "..."


    Katie tilted her head and scratched it. Was it that obvious?


    The Blackwood folks were just about to teach Katie a lesson to prevent more such disgraceful incidents, their faces darkening.


    Over at the Primordial Blood Tree.


    "Help!"


    "You sneaky tattletale old tree, don''t think you''re something special, just you wait!"


    "Ha ha ha, I''ve finally waited for this day! Eight jerks, old and new scores to settle!"


    "..."


    Outside, branches swayed and roots entwined, flinging eight big guys around like windmills, while inside the Blackwood Hall, the folks darkened their faces and simply used a magic circle to block out the noise.


    When they turned back, they couldn''t help but smile.


    The people of Gratitude Village, lined up to pay their respects, also looked towards Blackwood, hearing these shouts and couldn''t help but laugh.


    Maybe... no, definitely.


    What they were protecting was just like this.


    ...


    Back in the hall.


    Nathan sat back in the main seat, sipped his tea, and looked around at the few people present; George, William, and Justin had gone to Druid to scavenge. He then said, "Martin is ultimately under the empire, we need to act, but not overtly, and certainly not let our Blackwood name be associated with this."


    "Grandfather, don''t worry."


    Daniel sat stiffly, "Aunt Dawn has already handed over to me, these days I''ve had Dawn''s assassins watching Martin, none will escape. Now that Cloudview County''s major powers have reemerged, they are willing to follow our Blackwood lead, grandfather, we have plenty of ways to deal with Martin."


    Amelia casually said, "If the demon cultivators make a move, then it''s none of our Blackwood business, after all, demon cultivators are capable of anything."


    "Edward, Betty, Joseph, Katie, what do you think?"


    As Nathan asked, everyone looked towards Edward''s family.


    Martin was, after all, their maternal family line.


    The family was expressionless. Katie had no feelings for Martin; after she was born, she only knew her grandfather had sent people to kidnap her, wanting to marry her off at a tender age. Even in her twenties, they still tried to arrange a marriage for her. She had heard some of the past stories and couldn''t understand how such a shameless Duke could come from the Duke''s Mansion.

 Chapter 246 - 246: You little rascal, come here!

    "Ah."


    Joseph let out a long sigh, his eyes catching a glimpse of reluctance in his mother''s gaze, which the Blackwood clan also noticed. He then exhaled deeply, "Mother, there''s something I must say. Do you know? Once, my uncle''s direct descendants tried to harm me, thinking I was competing with them for the inheritance."


    The crowd looked at Joseph, frowning.


    Joseph continued, "What right do I have to claim the inheritance? I''m from a different family. It was Grandfather who wanted me to rise. He gave me a drop of precious ancient god blood. After all these years, I can only sleep and meditate under the divine tree, trying to shield my fate from the heavens. Elders, why do you think that is?"


    The wind outside the hall tried to penetrate the magical barrier, chilling everyone to the bone. Betty''s eyes were red, and the veins on her hands were bulging.


    "He never truly sacrifices for anyone, let alone for ancient god blood. I''ve opened my third eye, even seeing things from after my birth. Back then, Grandfather didn''t try to drown me but to see if my life was tough enough to withstand the ancient god blood fortune he couldn''t accept."


    "He was waiting, waiting for me to fully absorb the ancient god blood, my talents far surpassing his. Waiting to take over as the head of the Martin family, then I would become him. Unfortunately, he miscalculated too much. He didn''t realize that the Blackwoods are far more formidable than he anticipated."


    "Over the years, he kept sending people, not just to capture Katie, but looking for me. He never expected that I would stay indoors for decades, giving him no opportunity. He even sent beautiful girls, but my third eye showed me the past, and I trust no one."


    "Bang!"


    The always gentle Betty erupted in anger for the first time, smashing the table with a palm. Her eyes were bloodshot as she knelt before Nathan, "Great-grandfather, please take action!"


    Her tone was so resolute, even if the Blackwoods didn''t seek revenge against Michael, she would fight alone!


    The Blackwoods felt the same.


    They looked at Joseph, who had just calmly revealed all this. They didn''t know that Joseph had been through so much since childhood.


    But this guy, who seemed too lazy to care, only sleeping all day, indifferent, never leaving the house, not fighting for power or love, was silently enduring Michael''s covetousness.


    "Brother, why... why didn''t you say anything?" Katie''s eyes were red, wondering how long her brother had lived in fear.


    "..."


    Joseph waved his hand, then patted Katie on the head, "I''m not like dad, who talks about everything. Don''t be like him; he always gets what he wants, and I almost fell for dad''s tricks."


    "You little rascal, come here!"


    "Ah! Dad, go easy, you dare do it but can''t let others talk?"


    Edward was furious, grabbing Joseph and hitting him, not using much force, his expression somewhat relieved.


    Everyone else looked at the father and son, and Betty on the ground also broke into a smile.


    Then Nathan looked grimly at Daniel, "Go, arrange everything. I want to see if he can outsmart us this time!"


    "Yes!"


    Daniel''s eyes flashed coldly.


    Soon, Joseph went back to sleep, and everyone looked at his retreating figure with complex emotions. In Joseph, they saw a hint of Nicholas.


    This guy, unassuming, was silently enduring.


    "Dad, Joseph... he probably didn''t dare say it before. Back then, we couldn''t provoke an opponent like Martin," Amelia said softly.


    It had been many years since they had returned, and the children of the house were all remarkable.


    On the screen.


    Ethan stared blankly at Joseph, unaware of these matters. He hadn''t even imagined that Michael''s moral bottom line was even lower than he could have imagined.


    Joseph, sleeping on the Primordial blood tree, curled up, his shoulders trembling.


    Then he finally fell into a peaceful sleep, breathing evenly, a smile on his face, seemingly sleeping more peacefully than ever. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Damn Michael!"


    ...


    In the grand hall of the Duke''s Mansion, Michael sat in the master''s chair, his face a mask of shock and disbelief. Outside, the servants and family members of the mansion were celebrating joyously, their laughter echoing through the corridors.


    "Hahaha, we won! We''ve driven all the Druids out of Cloudview County, and the empire has rewarded us!"


    "I knew it! It looked like the Duke wasn''t doing much, but he must have been working his strategies in secret."


    "We might even be able to unify Cloudview County and launch a counterattack against the Druids. The lands of Cloudview County will expand, bringing in a wealth of resources. I''ll earn my stripes in the Duke''s Mansion for this!"


    But Michael was far from celebratory. His voice trembled as he muttered to himself, "How is this possible? How could you possibly win?!"


    Unknown to others, Michael had grand plans for the future. He saw everyone¡ªfrom the Oracle Chamber and the Blackwoods to the Druids¡ªas mere pawns in his game. He had known about Kenneth''s and Stephen''s true identities all along.


    With the major powers of Cloudview County wiped out, the Emerald Empire would still survive. Even after a great battle, Cloudview County would retain half of its lands. With the Blackwoods gone, he could have taken Joseph and, through him, possibly unlock the secrets that allowed the Blackwoods to thrive for over a century. He could have gained Katie and powerful allies...


    Given enough time, he even dared to scheme against the entire Emerald Empire!


    But now, with the Druids driven out of Cloudview County, all his plans had crumbled to dust. The Blackwoods had risen to dominate Cloudview County, just as it had been sung about thirty years ago. It was the era of the Blackwoods.


    The Blackwoods were ready to show their fangs and eliminate him through various means, just as Olivia had always found ways to thwart him in her spare time.


    "No, there''s still a chance," Michael muttered, narrowing his eyes. "Everyone is a pawn in my game, and I can..."


    Before he could finish, a messenger from the Martin family, a Developing Skill Psychic, rushed in from afar, his expression frantic. "Duke, the Druids... the Druids have pushed back in!"


    "What?!!"


    Michael stood up abruptly, his face lighting up. "The world is as unpredictable as the weather, full of opportunities, opportunities!"


    But his expression changed again.


    "Duke, there''s been a change. They aren''t here to attack. It''s good news! The Blackwoods have captured them and brought them here to claim their victory and discuss with us at the Duke''s Mansion about attacking the Druids!"


    The smile slowly faded from Michael''s face as he sank back into his chair, the familiar surroundings of the hall suddenly seeming so pale and colorless.

 Chapter 247 - 247: Undying Pests

    "Run!"


    Upon hearing the report from his guard, Michael didn''t hesitate. He transformed into a breeze using the natural energy of the world and in an instant, he was high above the ground.


    Then...


    He returned to the great hall, activating the magical array as he took refuge in Duke''s Mansion, daring not to move. After all, he was the Duke, and he maintained his composure. "I am the Duke, backed by the empire. As long as I''m in Duke''s Mansion, under everyone''s watchful eyes, what can you do to me?"


    Above Duke''s Mansion. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Figures appeared among the clouds!


    George stood reluctantly at the center above Duke''s Mansion, with twenty-three Sages behind him. The extra elder had been sent out to help his clan members enhance their psychic powers, and he hadn''t asked for him back yet.


    Seeing George''s expression, Ethan could guess why the young man was reluctant.


    [Your descendant George unearthed a fragment of a high priest''s soul from the Druid High Priest''s tomb. Just as he was about to capture it, he received a family order to abandon the soul and bring the elders who once represented the peak of Cloudview County to stop Michael from escaping!]


    As soon as these elders appeared, Michael didn''t hesitate to flee back to Duke''s Mansion.


    No wonder...


    [Your descendant George, after thirty years of cultivating psychic powers, has reached the peak of Developing Skill and is a Pinnacle Apprentice. Over thirty years, the Blackwood clan has found rare treasures for these elders to solidify their spirits, granting George even greater power!]


    "Hmph, he sure knows how to run fast."


    "George, be ready to lend us your body at any moment. I am the eighth master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, and I''ve spent my life guarding Cloudview County. Cloudview County was almost destroyed by him; I''ll risk my life to end him!"


    "And me! Forget it, George, just dive down there and storm through his Duke''s Mansion."


    "..."


    George scratched his head, "Elders, please, this mission was arranged by my second uncle."


    He remembered his second uncle Daniel''s smile, which made him shudder. If it were his great-aunt''s command, he might dare to resist a bit; she might just be scaring him for fun by saying she''d refine his elders. But his second uncle... when he was the head of the family, he always did as he said, and now that he''s back from Thunderfire Demon Cave, he''s even more formidable.


    ...


    Michael sat within his family''s estate, but his calm lasted only a moment.


    All the skilled warriors in Duke''s Mansion suddenly looked up.


    They could feel the unrest of the day, as all the skilled warriors in Cloudview County watched Duke''s Mansion closely!


    Meanwhile, outside Duke''s Mansion, the Druids brought by Blackwood were now bound at the mansion.


    As these Druid chiefs began to speak, Michael''s face turned sour.


    Their voices were so loud in the city of Cloudview County!


    "I am Chief Harris, and I can testify that Duke Michael has been collaborating with us Harris for three hundred years."


    "I am Chief White, and I have also collaborated with Michael."


    "I represent the Eagle Tribe!"


    "..."


    Six chiefs, with their tribespeople bound outside Duke''s Mansion, made such shocking statements.


    The people of Cloudview County listened intently, piecing together a terrifying message. Three hundred years ago, Duke Michael had already been collaborating with the Druids. This man wasn''t even from Martin; he was a spy sent by the Druids to Cloudview County, and Michael''s father was a slave to the Druids...


    "Damn it, damn it!"


    There was nothing left intact in the great hall; Michael was like a madman, those Druids were spreading nothing but lies!


    But he couldn''t understand why these resolute Druids would obey Blackwood''s orders and slander him in public. Public opinion is fearsome, especially the words of these Druids.


    Inside Martin, the voices of several skilled elder warriors reached his ears. These skilled warriors didn''t believe the rumors either, but they demanded that he immediately announce his abdication!


    "How could these Druids... why would they help Blackwood?"


    "They were captured, clearly doomed to die; under such circumstances, they should have fought back."


    The Duke, who had schemed his whole life, even against his own family, suddenly became despondent.


    With the loss of his position as head of the family, all his visions and dreams were about to burst like bubbles.


    At that moment, Ethan looked out over the scene unfolding outside Duke''s Mansion. The citizens of Cloudview County had gathered, their initial shock turning into anger. Their homes had been ravaged by the Druid invasion, their loved ones lost.


    Now, they finally understood¡ªit was Michael, the lofty Duke, who was harming them!


    Their praises had turned into curses.


    "True to his reputation as the Heroic Tyrant who led both demonic and righteous warriors in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, he really plays dirty."


    Watching everything unfold on the screen, Ethan let out a sigh of admiration and switched the view.


    It was...


    [Endless Forest]


    In a tribal setting, a towering figure covered in demonic tattoos sat at a table. Before him were the elite of an entire Druid tribe, including a high priest. These old adversaries of Blackwood, who had once fought valiantly on the battlefield and were tough opponents, were now forcing smiles in front of a member of the Blackwood clan.


    "No more wine, pour me some."


    Thomas reached out with a bowl made from a skull, and as a Druid woman poured him wine, he glanced at the many stern-faced elites and grinned, "Don''t look so sour. You have plenty of chiefs; lending me one isn''t a big deal.


    "I once saw one of your rituals where you casually sacrificed a chief. Chiefs aren''t that valuable here, are they?"


    "Here, let me show you a trick."


    Seeing Thomas remove his head to show them and then cheekily place it back on his neck, the Druids still wore grim expressions.


    No wonder they were upset.


    [Your descendant Daniel sent six members of the third generation of Blackwoods, all at the mid-level of Developing Skill, under the title Lord of Frenzied Blood. They went to six different Druid tribes, died several times, and after being resurrected, they returned to harass the Druids, much to their annoyance.]


    [Eventually, both parties reached an agreement. The Druids agreed to spread rumors about Michael in exchange for the third generation of Blackwoods not harassing their tribes outside of wartime.]


    [Your descendant''s third generation of Blackwoods earned the notorious nickname ''Undying Pests'' among the Druids.]


    "..."

 Chapter 248 - 248: Leave the rest to me.

    Ethan had miscalculated. He thought George, William, and Justin would be the first to disgrace the family name, but it was the third generation of the Blackwoods who led the notorious trend.


    "If Olivia had planned this, it wouldn''t have gone this way."


    Ethan stroked his chin, considering the strategists in the family¡ªonly Olivia and Daniel. Both were ruthless in achieving their goals, yet they were distinctly different. Olivia''s schemes were like silent assassinations from behind the scenes; she was more composed and thorough in her planning.


    As for Daniel... he was reckless to the extreme. Years ago, when he needed the Moore family head''s help, he didn''t hesitate to consider eliminating Moore, a fellow ally, for the sake of the family. In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, to consolidate Amelia''s power, he even turned on his most loyal subordinates.


    Even Ethan had to think twice about the consequences of Daniel''s actions...


    "Undying Pests... After this, it might be wise to let the Seven Black Bears lie low for a while. The name has made its mark, but it''s bound to make the Druids wary. Being immortal doesn''t mean there aren''t ways to deal with them, and if the Druids really get organized, that could spell trouble."


    Ethan couldn''t help but consider more deeply, especially now that Olivia was fully focused on seizing fortune.


    The third generation of Blackwoods had many flaws; they were slow at cultivating psychic powers. After all, the original Lord of Frenzied Blood took tens of thousands of years to reach Basic Mastery. They seemed to be a special existence, eternal in age but incredibly slow in developing their powers.


    After pondering everything, Ethan activated the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    Reluctantly, the third generation of Blackwoods bid farewell to the Druids and returned to their family stronghold to meditate.


    ...


    "Traitors of Cloudview County!"


    "No wonder the Duke''s Mansion had us stay at home; he wanted us dead!"


    "Maybe Michael has turned into a demon cultivator; he wants to use our blood for sacrifices, he''s a demon cultivator, a demon cultivator!"


    ...


    Half a month had passed, and the Duke''s Mansion was still filled with curses.


    In a tower in the city of Cloudview County, an aged Daniel stood by the window, looking out at the heavily fortified Duke''s Mansion. Behind him were Edward, Betty, Joseph, and Katie, all staring intently at Martin.


    "He hasn''t come out yet; he''s quite the character."


    Daniel praised, noticing Edward and Betty frowning. Daniel smiled, "Michael is indeed a formidable opponent. If it weren''t for our Blackwood family''s growth over these thirty years, everything might have gone as Michael wished, and he could have surpassed Basic Mastery."


    "Unfortunately for him, he won''t get the chance. Grandfather said he would end in constant fear and die in disgrace, and he''s already disgraced enough. Next comes the final step."


    As Daniel''s words fell, a Daoist figure appeared in the room, dressed in white and wearing a mask embroidered with a scale¡ª


    Kenneth!


    "Brother!" Betty''s face lit up with joy.


    Thirty years ago, he was captured by the Blackwoods and released by Olivia. Now, on the day the Blackwoods drove the Druids from Cloudview County, he had returned!


    He gave a faint smile to Joseph''s family.


    Then he stepped out of the room, pausing at the door, just as he had when he left the Blackwood hall all those years ago, only this time he was more confident.


    "Leave the rest to me."


    Soon, on his way to Martin, Kenneth, dressed in fine clothes, looked at the Duke''s Mansion''s sign and trembled as he knocked on the grand door.


    Olivia was right that day!


    He would wait for it; Cloudview County still had a chance under Blackwood''s leadership, and they had won a brilliant victory. But it wasn''t over yet; Cloudview County was still surrounded by formidable enemies.


    Some things only he could do, and today was the day he would finish what was left undone!


    Only by eliminating all adverse factors could Cloudview County continue to triumph!


    Duke''s Mansion.


    Michael, who had secretly been stripped of his position as head of the family, was playing chess alone on a stone chair. As the grand doors of Duke''s Mansion were knocked, his hand froze, dropping the chess piece on the board, "Kenneth... he... how has he returned?!!"


    His pupils contracted, and these days, he had been scheming on how to turn the current situation around.


    He could feel that the Blackwood clan was outside Cloudview County, ready to take his life, to take everything from him. Fear was spreading, but his will to survive was even stronger.


    And now...


    He realized that what he truly feared was just beginning to descend!


    "Father, it''s been years, you''ve aged quite a bit."


    At the courtyard entrance, Kenneth stood under the door, bowing to Michael just as he had years ago.


    With Kenneth''s arrival.


    Michael looked desperate. In the sky, besides George who had been watching his every move, the spectral avatars of the old ancestors from Cloudview County Competent Force had come!


    "Now that the druids of Cloudview County are gone, I, Black Tortoise, heard that Duke''s Mansion harbors a traitor from Cloudview County, haha, I, Leon, know Duke''s Mansion well, how could such a heartless person exist here?"


    "Right, impossible. Solving this matter is simple, now is the time for us in Cloudview County to strike at the druids, friends of Duke''s Mansion, why not prove your innocence this way?"


    "Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, we hope Duke''s Mansion can send a master to assist!"


    ...


    In the scene, five figures emerged from Duke''s Mansion, truly an ancient force capable of suppressing the entire Cloudview County with their power alone. All five were Competent Force members, especially the oldest, whose presence was even stronger than Luke''s!


    The youngest, barely over two hundred years old, was also the most talented among Martin''s younger generation.


    At this moment.


    The five Competent Force members from Duke''s Mansion glanced at Kenneth and Michael, father and son playing chess inside, and finally sighed, smiling in agreement to the requests of the major forces. In just half a month, they had already led the masters of Duke''s Mansion towards the borders of Cloudview County, where the armies of the major forces were also gathering.


    No sooner had these guys left, Ethan saw the message in the event column.


    [Your descendant Daniel reports to you that he sees a great opportunity now!]


    The scene shifted.


    Daniel was seen sneaking around in a dark room, using a plethora of isolation spells, pulling out Forebearer Cards to worship, "Forebearer, now with Kenneth and his son at Martin, and all the old Martin ancestors gone, we''ve created a chance for them to fight to the death." sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We can kill Michael and no one would know, and on the battlefield, it''s normal for people to die, it''s normal for Martin''s five Competent Force to die in battle."


    "After that, we can support Edward to take the throne, or even Betty, and once our Blackwood children stabilize their rule, we Blackwoods will also be royal nobility!"


    "Next, we can continue Michael''s plan, wait under the protection of Duke''s Mansion until the war ends, everything in Cloudview County will be ours, we might even plan for the Emerald Empire!"

 Chapter 249 - 249: Michael, struck by the Forebearers lightning...?

    Ethan was stunned, looking at the excited Daniel.


    Well, he hadn''t thought wrong before, this kid was more Michael than Michael, no wonder back in the family, Daniel said he had plenty of ways to deal with Michael.


    [No more on this matter.]


    Ethan casually left these five words with the Forebearer Cards, no more ''MichaelPlus'', look how miserable Michael is now?


    Besides, the situation in Cloudview County was already complicated enough, adding the Emerald Empire, Ethan wasn''t sure he could handle it.


    While communicating with Daniel.


    Ethan frowned slightly.


    Daniel, who was originally kneeling to use another strategy, suddenly turned his head, knelt to Ethan again, and then burst out the door!


    Ethan quickly shifted the scene too.


    Only to see, with the departure of Martin''s elders, the great formation of Martin was blasted open!


    That scoundrel Michael, was fleeing!


    Then...


    "Think you can escape?"


    Ethan chuckled mockingly.


    ...


    "Damn it, damn it!!!" Michael roared, on the brink of madness! For thirty years, ever since Nicholas surrendered to the Druids, all his plans had turned to dust.


    Olivia had never ceased to harass him through Dawn, keeping him in a constant state of fear and paranoia.


    Those cursed Druids, defeated so swiftly, had sent a new menace¡ªDaniel! This man was even more vicious. He aimed to ruin Michael, to haunt him day and night!


    "You think you can escape? Where can you possibly run?" With a thunderous noise, George appeared above, his aura bursting forth.


    The power of twenty-three Sages infused him, and the ancient secrets of the Azure Cloud Pavilion were unleashed. The celestial formation of the Six Divinatory Figures enveloped the heavens and the earth!


    "As the Duke of Cloudview County, you disregarded the lives of your people. How can we let a beast like you live? How can the souls of the dead Stephen, the fallen disciples of the Renowned Sect, and the many citizens of Cloudview County who perished in the great war rest in peace?!!"


    This was the roar of the twenty-three Sages! They could no longer tolerate Michael and had long wished to destroy him themselves. Now, they finally had their chance!


    "Boom!"


    Michael, too, wielded a powerful earth-level technique, but against the seasoned predecessors of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, he was swiftly struck down. Yet, this strike did not critically injure Michael. This man, a mid-tier warrior of the Competent Force, still thought to escape!


    But suddenly, his expression drastically changed. Something stirred in George''s embrace¡ªa Psychic Position materialized before him!


    [You are currently upgrading the skill ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'' to Lv.3. Would you like to upgrade?]


    [Upgrade!]


    [You have spent 500,000 points of Spiritual Tribute to upgrade ''Forebearer''s Raging Fury'' to ''Forebearer''s Thunderous Rage''!]


    [Would you like to upgrade the skill ''Forebearer''s Thunderous Rage''?]


    [Upgrade!]


    [Family Will consumed: 10!]


    [You have obtained the Lv.4 skill¡ªForebearer''s Divine Punishment!]


    "Thunder rolled!" Suddenly, storm clouds gathered above, striking the Forebearer Cards, imbued with the essence of the universe! "What... what is this?!!" Michael''s face was filled with terror. The Forebearer Cards seemed to channel the force of a celestial tribulation!


    On the screen, Ethan grinned maliciously, maneuvering the Forebearer Psychic Position. Beside the Forebearer Psychic Position, a name appeared¡ª[Michael]!


    "This is my long-sealed, desperately hungry Cards, you bastard!" It had been years since he had used the Forebearer Psychic Position. Because the Lv.3 skill used psychic powers and required descendants, it was less efficient than his physical descent.


    But now things were different! The Lv.4 [Forebearer''s Divine Punishment] had a greater effect and saved more family will than his physical descent!


    [Would you like to spend 1 point of Family Will to use Forebearer''s Divine Punishment?]


    [Forebearer''s Divine Punishment: Your Cards contain the essence of the universe and possess the power of a celestial tribulation. For every 100 descendants, your Cards can channel an additional Competent Force-level celestial tribulation, each consuming more Family Will!]


    [Your Forebearer Cards contain one Competent Force-level celestial tribulation!]


    Ethan''s eyes sparkled with anticipation. He could use this skill, thanks largely to Jeffrey. This guy had been quietly having children within the family, and now his lineage had over fifty children! "Let the lightning fall, my Cards!" Ethan''s Psychic Position, charged with the power of thunder, traced arcs of lightning across the sky, the air crackling explosively.


    Michael was caught off guard and blasted by the thunder!


    "Michael, struck by the Forebearer''s lightning...?"


    Outside the Duke''s Mansion, watching Michael fall from the sky, barely stabilizing his form to resist the Forebearer Cards, Daniel showed a look of certainty, "The Forebearer truly is divine!"


    "... "


    Although it was Michael who had been struck by lightning, George, who had just repelled Michael, stood stunned as if struck by lightning himself. The Sage power within him was in turmoil.


    "George, what''s the origin of these Cards? They can control celestial tribulations? You''ve had them for so long, how come we never felt it?" S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Stay back... We are soul bodies, and celestial tribulations do not discriminate. If it spreads to us, we''re all done for!"


    "No, there are no storm clouds, no divine punishment from above, this is targeted at Michael."


    "..."


    One incense stick later.


    "Boom!"


    The Cards returned to normal, landing in George''s hands. Kenneth stood staggeringly, with Michael lying defeated at his feet. At this moment, Michael''s Competent Force was damaged, devoid of any psychic powers, lying powerlessly on the ground. His life force was fading away as he looked up in despair at the sky above Duke''s Mansion.


    The entire Duke''s Mansion was eerily empty. All the guards, servants, and family members he had relied on were nowhere to be found. He even saw Martin''s ancestor, the only one left to watch over the house, step into the courtyard, take a long sigh, and then leave.


    Footsteps then echoed.


    Edward, Betty, Joseph, and Katie approached. His son, daughter, son-in-law, and two grandchildren all looked down at him with no trace of pity in their eyes, only countless layers of hatred.


    "I... I did everything for Martin, Kenneth. I raised you from a young age; you should understand me."


    "Betty, I''ve cherished you since you were little. You must remember that, right?"


    "Edward, the day I acknowledged you as a real man, when I handed Betty over to you, you should be grateful to me."


    "And Joseph, Katie, you both are my beloved grandchildren. Joseph, I even gave you ancient god blood. Katie, I wanted you to have the best life, that''s why I arranged your marriage to a well-matched family."

 Chapter 250 - 250: Who will lead us in the future?

    Until this moment, Michael was still struggling.


    Even though he knew he was utterly abandoned, he refused to give up hope!


    In the distance, Daniel walked up to George and shook his head as George started to step forward, "This is their family matter. The Forebearer is protecting them. Let them handle it themselves; it''s not our place to interfere."


    "Alright."


    George nodded, not fully understanding, and followed Daniel away.


    Just a few steps later, he regretted it, realizing his uncle was tricking him. "George, you''re the head of Azure Cloud Pavilion. Have you ever thought about using the prestige of Azure Cloud Pavilion, which has been around for tens of thousands of years, to gradually take over the major powers in Cloudview County..."


    Behind them. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Michael continued to plead under the complex gazes of his family, his eyes filled with even greater shock.


    He had spent his life on the high throne of Duke''s Mansion, never having been so humiliated or so pleading.


    He had calculated everything in his life, but he had never foreseen this day.


    "I did it all for our family, for our family to continue in Cloudview County for a hundred thousand, even a million years. Only then could I share everything with you, so our whole family could achieve Basic Mastery, and we could spend countless ages together..."


    Michael was begging when Kenneth pulled out a pill that could restore Competent Force!


    "Give it to me, good boy. If dad survives, the whole Cloudview County, even the Emerald Empire, will be yours!"


    But his hope quickly turned to despair as Kenneth, right in front of him, swallowed the life-saving pill!


    "You''ve deceived me for hundreds of years, and you still want to deceive now? You''ve never treated us like family! Each of us was just a tool for your use!"


    Blood poured from Michael''s mouth.


    Betty looked on with pity, "How long do you still want to harm us?!"


    Joseph, always a man of few words, just silently watched.


    The sun shone brightly over Duke''s Mansion.


    The family of five surrounded Michael, watching him quietly pass away.


    The warm sunlight seemed to dispel the shadows that Michael had cast over their family for many years.


    When the servants arrived, they only saw Michael staring up at the sky with eyes full of despair and unwillingness to die.


    "Click, clack."


    Only Kenneth remained, silently playing chess by the board.


    [Special Event¡ªAt the Pinnacle of Azure Cloud, Masters of the Era, Completed!]


    [Your family has completely eliminated Michael. With no more obstacles in Cloudview County, your family''s power has reached the summit, recognized as the strongest in Cloudview County, replacing Duke''s Mansion as the true rulers. The Blackwood family has become the masters of this era in Cloudview County, prestige enhanced.]


    [Congratulations, you have gained +10 Family Will]


    "He''s finally gone for good!"


    Ethan and his relatives watched as Michael passed away, and George''s elders even took a tour around the entire Duke''s Mansion to make sure Michael''s Competent Force was completely extinguished before everyone finally felt at ease.


    If the game says he''s dead, then he must be dead.


    For Ethan, reaching the peak of Cloudview County wasn''t really a big deal.


    After all, this was the reputation his family had fought for on this land generation after generation, earned through their blood and sweat, and it was only right.


    Just as he was about to switch the view back to his family''s home base.


    Ethan saw George sneaking off to the back hill of Martin''s place... that was where the cemetery was.


    George looked solemnly at the energy locator in his hand, pondering something, as a guzheng had already been opened, and his elders skillfully picked up shovels and spades from inside the guzheng, looking quite interested.


    "Stop digging, you!"


    Ethan quickly used the Forebearer Psychic Position to prevent George from disturbing the peace of Martin''s ancestral graves.


    Looking again.


    Martin was not at peace either.


    Daniel, that guy, stood with his hands behind his back at the entrance to Martin''s treasure vault.


    Martin''s household elders, retainers, and loyal servants all surrounded him as if facing a great enemy, but Daniel''s gaze remained calm, speaking first.


    "Please rest assured, unless you invite me, I will not enter."


    An elder in plain clothes from Martin''s family flashed a look of helplessness, "Fellow Daoist, I''m not in charge of such secret places of Martin, and now that Michael... died from a psychic power mishap while cultivating, many matters will have to wait for the new family head to take over, right?"


    "Indeed."


    Daniel, now appearing even older, was completely composed in front of Martin''s elder.


    His demeanor seemed even more distinguished.


    As the wind blew, Daniel''s white hair and beard fluttered, and his face always carried a calm smile.


    To outsiders, he exuded the aura of a transcendent sage.


    Looking at the screen showing Martin''s treasure vault, Ethan''s eyes gleamed.


    This was something the family had planned upon arrival: to eliminate Michael and take a look at Martin''s foundation.


    After all, Duke''s Mansion had been around even longer than Azure Cloud Pavilion, and since Martin and Blackwood were related by marriage, it was good to know more about each other.


    He then shifted the view to report the good news to Nathan and others.


    ...


    [Blackwood]


    "With Michael''s death, our family has finally become invincible within Cloudview County! Forebearer, we did it, under the leadership of the Forebearer, step by step we reached the pinnacle of Azure Cloud..."


    Nathan excitedly hugged Luna and wept in the ancestral hall.


    Under the Primordial Blood Tree.


    "Oh!"


    Amelia raised the Forebearer Psychic Position high, circling around the Primordial Blood Tree, "Old tree, old tree! Forebearer said our family is powerful now, haha!"


    This caused the face on the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree to spin along with Amelia, dizzying it.


    At this moment.


    [Border of Cloudview County]


    This area had gathered Psychics from various sects and clans within Cloudview County.


    After the Druids retreated back to the Endless Forest, these Psychics had rushed to the border at the first call and assembled into an army.


    Facing this war between races, they were able to set aside their differences and follow the arrangements of the ancient leaders of Cloudview County''s Competent Forces.


    They established magical formations along the border of Cloudview County, ready to counterattack at a moment''s notice.


    At this moment, Cloudview County was truly united.


    On the ground, hundreds of massive ability vessels were in action, with all forces contributing.


    Floating in mid-air was a grand structure where Competent Force Psychics were seated around a chessboard, meditating.


    The chessboard displayed a projection of the distribution of Druid forces along the edge of the Endless Forest.


    These venerable elders, with their far-reaching vision, discussed future matters.


    "Thanks to Blackwood, the Druids were driven out, and Cloudview County was spared. But these Druids took away our inherited psychic fields, psychic medicines, and psychic mines. Without these resources, the future generations in Cloudview County might struggle to grow.


    We fear that the scramble for scant resources will lead to deadly conflicts, endless internal strife, and accumulating grudges that will eventually affect us all."


    "World affairs ebb and flow. United in purpose, we can find opportunities outside Cloudview County. The Druids still have them, and so do other regions! Starlight County and Cedar County are calling for our help, and they too have resources. It just means our descendants will have to travel far."


    "Who will lead us in the future?"


    The five elders from Martin, each taking turns to speak, completely ignored the other Competent Force elders from Cloudview County, causing many to frown.


    Old acquaintances of Blackwood, like the rugged Immortal Master from Ten Thousand Life Mountain, the blindfolded Elder Ralph from Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, and Elder Jason from Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had mustered all their forces, were now quietly focusing on a young man¡ªMarcus.

 Chapter 251 - 251: We are one and the same.

    Days had passed, and not a single expert from Blackwood had shown up, except for Marcus, who was the least skilled among those present.


    Still at the peak of Developing Skill and in the midst of becoming a Pinnacle Apprentice, he represented the Sky Sect.


    Seeing everyone looking at him, Marcus simply closed his eyes, pretending not to see.


    His elders had advised him, "When you''re out and about, carry yourself as the head of the Sky Sect. If you come across an opportunity or face bullying, then reveal your Blackwood affiliation."


    The Competent Force elders from various powers sighed quietly.


    They had long requested Blackwood to take charge, but the Blackwood folks were peculiar; they cared little for fame or honor.


    Recently, they even encountered Julian from Blackwood.


    Julian had led a thousand AI Bionic Robots into a Druid tribe.


    The elders were thrilled and wanted to assist, hoping to discuss important matters with Julian.


    However, the burly bald man suddenly became defensive, blocking the psychic mine behind him and shouting, "This psychic mine is my discovery! Anyone who dares to steal it will face my wrath..."


    The five elders from Martin glanced at Marcus, noticing his lack of enthusiasm.


    They exchanged smiles, confident in their superiority as representatives of the Duke''s Mansion.


    Now fighting for Cloudview County, they still considered themselves a cut above the rest.


    These Psychics had to listen to them! Even if Marcus spoke up, they could easily manipulate such a young man.


    Just as one of the Martin elders was about to finalize their plan with a smile, everyone''s expression changed as they looked towards the entrance of the hall.


    "Such powerful sword energy."


    Two figures approached, riding on swords, dressed in long robes like exiled Ability Masters.


    Their sword energy was fierce, and they stood proudly on their flying swords, overlooking the Competent Force elders with disdain.


    Marcus, who had been sitting cross-legged, brightened up and quickly stood to bow to the younger man with sharp eyebrows, "Father!"


    He then greeted the other, "Honored to meet you, Celestial Star."


    If Lucas''s sword energy was aggressively piercing, the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s was lofty.


    Dressed in a white robe, he crossed his arms, a handsome figure.


    Seeing Marcus greet him, he slightly smiled, "You are Lucas''s eldest son. You have a good aura, though it''s a pity you''re not a swordsman."


    He then looked away, ignoring everyone else.


    Lucas nodded slightly at Marcus, signaling him to sit down, and acknowledged the Competent Force elders who had greeted him.


    Finally, he turned to the five Martin elders with a calm voice, "Elders, I am here on my father''s orders to bring unfortunate news. Duke Michael has perished due to a mishap in his practice."


    "What?!"


    The Competent Force elders were shocked; they hadn''t even heard about Michael''s death.


    The Martin elders frowned; when they had left, Michael was no longer the head of the family, having left the resolution to Michael and Kenneth.


    Now, hearing this from Lucas, they suspected that Blackwood might have been involved.


    But what could be done?


    "Martin and Blackwood are related by marriage, and I deeply regret this incident," Lucas continued, his voice the only one in the room. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Kenneth has been appointed the new Duke. On behalf of Blackwood, I extend our congratulations, and a gift has been sent to the Duke''s Mansion. With that said, I leave the matter for you elders to consider."


    The five Martin elders lifted their heads, their expressions sour.


    What did they mean by appointing Kenneth as the new Duke? They had just learned of Michael''s death!


    What did he mean by ''consider it''? It was a blatant threat.


    Lucas''s words were few, but they conveyed a clear message¡ªif they disagreed, they might just join Michael sooner than expected!


    They looked around at the other Competent Force elders, their faces growing even grimmer, all while Marcus, still with his eyes closed, held a jagged, black object in his left hand¡ªthe Sky Temple, spinning slowly.


    It was as if he was saying, with just one word from his father, he would launch the first strike to annihilate the five Martin elders right there!


    "Hahaha, Your Excellency Sword King, you are too kind. The Johnson and Blackwood families are related by marriage; we are one and the same, no need to consider, no need at all."


    The Martin elder''s tone was amiable.


    Marcus retracted the Sky Temple back into his body, much to the disappointment of the other Competent Force elders who had been enjoying the show, leaving the Martin elders grinding their teeth in frustration.


    "That''s good to hear."


    Lucas didn''t say much more, glancing at the Celestial Star Swordsmen before the two turned their flying swords and left.


    As they reached the grand hall''s entrance, Lucas paused and called out without turning back, "By the way, esteemed elders, if my son Daniel causes any trouble, I hope you can bear with him."


    Arrogant and dismissive!


    Watching the two swordsmen depart, the Competent Force elders of Cloudview County could feel Lucas''s dominance.


    The Martin elders didn''t dare utter a word, as if Lucas had never been there.


    But everyone knew, Lucas''s visit was a command from Blackwood, a declaration of sovereignty.


    They were telling everyone that in this era, Blackwood was in charge, and even the high and mighty Martins had to accept this reality.


    Now, Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster were leaving the borders of Cloudview County, heading towards the Endless Forest.


    "Brother Lucas, during this visit, I fought alongside your sister Olivia against a Druid tribe. She helped me defeat a Competent Force high priest. I really want to thank her properly. Do you know where she might be? Could I see her?" The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s gaze darted around, his hands clenched behind him, slightly nervous.


    "Hmm?"


    Although Lucas was deeply focused on cultivating his psychic powers, he noticed the unusual tone and expression of the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    His face darkened, "My sister''s whereabouts are unpredictable, even I don''t know where she is. This trip, you and I are to continue our battle, Brother Celestial Star. Best not let other matters distract you, otherwise, it wouldn''t be honorable for me to claim victory if I injure you."


    With that, Lucas even snorted coldly.


    No wonder the Celestial Star Swordmaster had been lingering in Cloudview County, sticking around like a shadow.


    Damn! I treat you like a brother, and you want to be my brother-in-law?

 Chapter 252 - 252: Glory City Part 1

    Ethan noticed it too¡ªthe Celestial Star Swordmaster seemed to have a crush on Olivia. He looked at him with a mix of pity and amusement, "Stop pining, brother. In the end, you might end up with nothing."


    Olivia was stunningly beautiful and had a charming personality that shone brightly in public. Over the years, she had her fair share of romantic entanglements, or rather... romantic disasters. Imagine what it''s like to fall for a woman who used the souls of millions to fend off a celestial catastrophe?


    Just the thought of it sent shivers down Ethan''s spine.


    Three months quickly passed in the game world.


    Ethan had been closely monitoring his family''s progress. As they reached the pinnacle of Azure Cloud, the Blackwoods found themselves increasingly busy handling various matters.


    With no external threats in Cloudview County, the family members were busier than ever. They hadn''t had time to cultivate their psychic powers in three months, caught up in the whirlwind of activities at home. After all, Gratitude Village now stood at the peak of Cloudview County.


    Over the years, they hadn''t paid much attention, but when the dust settled, they realized they had amassed a variety of powers and territories. Even they were unaware of the full extent of Blackwood''s influence...


    One problem after another began to surface.


    Gratitude Village, having survived the war, became one of the most intact places in all of Cloudview County. It was especially coveted for its Grade 8 psychic vein, abundant in psychic energy, making it a desirable location for Psychics to settle down.


    Your descendant Daniel captured a White Druid and used magic to summon a parade of ghosts within a hundred miles of Gratitude Village, scaring away any approaching Psychics.


    Tensions between the dark Psychics and the righteous ones in Gratitude Village were on the rise. Due to Blackwood''s influence, they dared not kill each other and only dared to duel under the cover of night. In one instance, the dark Psychics controlled beasts to defecate outside the Demon Hunters Alliance, forcing every household in Gratitude Village to join in cleaning up the mess.


    Daniel decided to send most of the people from both sides back to the Thunderfire Demon Cave.


    Your descendant Nathan reported to you that in Olivia''s absence, the Dawn assassins fell into disarray. They couldn''t secure external contracts and were secretly tempted by the offers from both the dark and righteous Psychics. They took to the streets of Gratitude Village, asking everyone they met if they had any enemies outside...


    Nathan decided to send the Dawn to establish branches in major towns throughout Cloudview County. Blackwood reopened the Heavenly Justice Hall, ostensibly a general goods business, but secretly accepting assassination contracts.


    Nathan decided to help them establish power bases in various towns after Blackwood had depleted the family''s hundred-year reserve of psychic rice, consuming vast resources in the process.


    With a million beasts in the Silver Iron Forest running out of food and starting to kill each other, your descendant Luna decided to have each household in Gratitude Village adopt a beast.


    ...


    Three months later, Gratitude Village returned to its peaceful state, with the villagers celebrating the departure of mischievous demon cultivators, righteous Psychics, and numerous assassins by beating drums and striking gongs.


    Inside the Forebearer Shrine, the people of Blackwood looked listless, who knows what they had endured over these three months? They also realized that, without noticing, Blackwood''s influence had grown to an extent they had never imagined before!


    "This is Blackwood now!"


    Ethan''s eyes sparkled as he opened the map. Now, the family''s influence was flourishing in Cloudview County. Every county town had Blackwood''s subsidiary forces stationed, and the entire Cloudview County was just as he had hoped¡ªno longer any red, only green and white!


    Every town and county had a Blackwood family business, ''Heavenly Justice Hall,'' specializing in dealing with second-hand traders and selling items needed by Psychics. Every shopkeeper and assistant came from Gratitude Village.


    For this, Ethan even presented a "Service Industry Personnel Quality Cultivation Training Manual" at the grand ceremony of 160 years. Now, no matter the level of the Psychic, entering Blackwood''s Heavenly Justice Hall, one could see the standard smile of the Heavenly Justice Hall assistants and hear the friendly greeting, "Welcome!" Their service philosophy reached the pinnacle of Cloudview County.


    Ethan could even imagine that in the days to come, the people of Blackwood could just sit at home and reap a fortune in Energy Stones, becoming wealthy!


    [Your family, following the proposal of the people of Gratitude Village, has renamed Gratitude Village to¡ªGlory City]


    "Renamed, huh?"


    Seeing this message, Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    He zoomed in on the map, no wonder Gratitude Village was renamed.


    The current Blackwood station was already different from before. After years of development by Nicholas, the city was divided into Blackwood''s core areas, inner layers, and outer layers, all transformed by the Primordial blood trees, covered with stone bricks engraved with mysterious patterns.


    The circular town gradually arched around the center, the walls getting higher towards the inside, resembling a cake.


    More and more Psychics were appearing in Glory City, all developed from the original villagers of Gratitude Village, and they would continue to guard Glory City generation after generation.


    On the outskirts were the silver-iron forests... Nowadays, many Druids captured in Glory City were changing the landscape outside the city every day, with mountains, trees, and lakes all under development.


    Moreover, with Energy Stones still being piled up beneath Glory City, and various magical formations extracting special energies from nature, the natural energy here would become increasingly rich, turning this place into a true sacred land for cultivating psychic powers.


    In the outer forests, the trees controlled by the Primordial blood tree would be the most loyal guards. Numerous Stone beasts buried underground could emerge at any moment to protect Blackwood. Various magical beasts in the forest were slowly adapting to the new environment, gradually becoming self-sufficient, even in the mountains and lakes.


    Around Glory City, the foundations of magical formations were being established, with Glory City''s Psychics guarding them every day, ready to activate the grand formation at any moment.


    If an enemy were to invade, they would find it impenetrable!


    [Your descendant Nathan reports to you that many forces on the borders of Cloudview County are once again requesting Blackwood to send masters to participate in the war against the Druids.] S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Proud of the current prosperity of Glory City, the message in the event column shifted Ethan''s view back to the Forebearer Shrine.


    There, Nathan knelt towards the Psychic Position, "Forebearer, we receive pleas for help from various forces almost every day, and I''m unsure whether we should assist."


    Hearing this, Ethan pondered for a moment.


    He then clicked on the icon of the Exploding Sky Serpent, who was currently wrestling with Donnacultivating psychic powers. Upon hearing the news, it transformed into smoke and appeared, its dragon head visible in the smoke form. As Ethan tapped the keyboard, it spoke, "Master says he wants to hear your opinions."


    "Yes!"


    At this moment, in the Forebearer Shrine, many of Blackwood''s children at home were kneeling.


    As everyone looked towards Daniel, he spoke solemnly, "Forebearer, I believe this battle is necessary. Currently, the entire Cloudview County is lacking resources, and it is the same for us, Blackwood."

 Chapter 253 - 253: Glory City Part 2

    Ethan nodded slightly.


    Over the years, Blackwood had nearly exhausted its resources.


    In battle, Blackwood''s various ability weapons also suffered significant wear and tear.


    Especially for the Blackwood members... ordinary resources had little effect on them, only items of the seventh rank or higher could catch their eye.


    "Conquering more territory for Cloudview County is also profitable for us at Blackwood."


    "Our Heavenly Justice Hall branches spread throughout Cloudview County, and trading resources will bring us a massive amount of Energy Stones and resources."


    "The larger Cloudview County''s territory, the more profits we will see in the future."


    "Moreover, as long as the Druids remain, we cannot rest easy."


    "Furthermore..."


    Daniel hesitated for a moment, then pulled out a golden scroll.


    Ethan furrowed his brow as he saw the text on it.


    [Divine Decree from the ancient gods]


    [Hearing of Azure Cloud Blackwood''s loyalty and righteousness in making great sacrifices for the empire, a special reward is granted, bestowing the title ''The Iron Bone Warriors Clan'' to Azure Cloud Blackwood, granting them perpetual control over the county of Tranquil, recognized by the royal family for generations.


    It is hereby ordered that Azure Cloud Blackwood dispatch masters to join the many righteous warriors of Cloudview County in battle, ready to support the major county towns at any time.]


    "Ordered by the ancient gods, we must comply," Daniel reported, having heard from Dawn that after our counterattack in Cloudview County, officials from the imperial military were dispatched to oversee the battle and would arrive soon.


    Daniel''s expression was serious when he mentioned the imperial officials.


    Ethan slightly frowned.


    When he heard that the Druids were mobilizing, imperial officials were sent to oversee the battles in various county towns.


    But thirty years had passed, and the empire had ignored Cloudview County, clearly having abandoned it early on.


    Now that Cloudview County had held its ground, the empire was sending people...


    What ''The Iron Bone Warriors Clan,'' what perpetual control over the land of Tranquil County¡ªthese were just words.


    The gods are high and far, whether Tranquil County belongs to Blackwood or not, does it need to be said by the gods?


    Moreover, Ethan had heard early on that the ancient gods were severely injured, and the imperial capital was already in turmoil.


    Whether this decree was personally written by the ancient gods was still uncertain.


    However, whether the imperial people come or not, Blackwood must exert effort.


    Soon everyone began discussing who to send and how to fight.


    This matter made it difficult for the people of Blackwood for a while.


    Nathan and Luna couldn''t go... both had major issues with their magic, Death Coffin and the half-demon form could cause big problems if the imperial people were stubborn.


    Lucas was busy cultivating psychic powers with The Celestial Star Swordmaster, Amelia was striving to break through and helping the Primordial blood tree in its breakthrough, Julian''s temper only caused trouble, and Olivia was out plundering fortune.


    The third generation... Marcus had to oversee the big picture at Sky Sect, the family couldn''t do without Daniel, and as for the third generation of Blackwood... they were negligible.


    "You guys... don''t look at me!"


    As the gazes converged, George''s mouth twitched, alright, he got it.


    Ever since the old grandfather had increased, the family always turned to him when there was nothing else, and he seemed to have returned to the days of years ago when he was busy taking care of his younger siblings every day, even lacking time for his hobbies like playing music and tomb raiding.


    With a long sigh, he slowly stepped forward, but his face quickly darkened.


    "Edward, Donna, you two go on your training journey, and take Azure Dragon along with your younger siblings. Your parents'' generation has been quite stubborn, so now this important task falls to you."


    "Yes!"


    As Nathan''s voice faded, the two stepped forward with a solemn expression, causing George and the other fourth-generation members to scratch their heads in confusion.


    What did he mean by stubborn?


    Nathan looked towards Jessica among the fourth-generation children and asked with a smile, "Jessica, is everything set up for Jones?"


    "All set."


    Jessica, the most composed of the fourth generation, nodded slightly.


    "Sam has come of age and has taken over as the head of the Jones family. I can go and assist Edward and Donna on this journey."


    "With you there, we can rest easy. Don''t push yourselves too hard or try to stand out too much; just make sure everyone stays safe."


    Daniel''s lips curled into a slight smile.


    "Our real battlefield at Blackwood isn''t about fighting alongside many other forces."


    [Special Event¡ªRaiding the Druids]


    [As your family resources grow increasingly scarce, amidst the chaos of war in Cloudview County with many forces involved, your family decides to take advantage of the turmoil and raid the Druids'' rear, seizing a large amount of resources!]


    Three days later.


    Jessica left with two younger relatives and many of the skilled fighters Blackwood had trained over the years.


    Nathan stood on a tall tree in the Silver Iron Forest, carrying the Death Coffin.


    Behind them, in the tree crowns all around, stood many of the fourth-generation children, excitedly looking towards the distant Endless Forest.


    War?


    A war to help the Emerald Empire, which had never truly considered them as their own?


    What a joke.


    This was what they were truly good at!


    "Everything is all set, and I can finally relax a bit."


    Ethan let out a long sigh of relief and stretched lazily. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He watched as his family progressed in the game.


    Edward and Donna had already headed to the border, keeping a low profile.


    Meanwhile, Nathan was stealthily camping in the Endless Forest with the family''s children, reminiscent of the battles they fought years ago in the Silver Iron Forest.


    With their generations of hunting skills and their knack for adventuring, they were unlikely to face any danger.


    These days, every day had been tense for him, with the family constantly on the brink of extinction or fleeing for their lives.


    But now, things were looking up.


    The situation in Cloudview County had turned around, and Blackwood was now aligned with the human factions.


    They could develop quietly and without worry, and he finally had some free time.

 Chapter 254 - 254: Damn, I better just stick to playing video games

    Ethan was about to enjoy a long overdue deep sleep, but he paused in front of his computer screen. A message caught his eye.


    [Your descendant''s wife Helen has given birth to a son after nine months, named Adam.]


    Ethan quickly switched the view.


    [North Sea City¡¤Coastal Village]


    It was a small village located north of the Emerald Emperor, close to the sea, where every household dried fish outside.


    Helen, once the lady of the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion and now a Blackwood, stood barefoot on the beach in a simple yellow shirt, holding a child. She let the sea splash against her shins as she gazed out at the sparkling water.


    "Nicholas, you never saw the sea in your lifetime. Now, with your Psychic Position facing the ocean, you can see it as much as you want."


    As she spoke, she playfully teased the child in her arms. "Adam, from now on, it''s just you and me, living happily and safely, okay? Little Adam?"


    Ethan remained silent for a long time. Helen left with the child, and everyone in the family knew and did not try to stop her. She feared that little Adam might end up like Nicholas.


    "It''s for the best, I hope they live happily," Ethan thought. Everyone has different dreams, and Ethan couldn''t stop a mother''s wish.


    Then, he contacted Nathan. Upon hearing the news, Nathan, like Ethan, fell into a long silence before finally sighing deeply. "Forebearer, without Nicholas, perhaps our Blackwood family would still be on the run, and the entire Cloudview County might have been swallowed by the Druids. How could we have today? Our whole family owes them."


    The Exploding Sky Serpent, Charlie Crackle, appeared, conveying Ethan''s message, "Master says, do not disturb, protect them discreetly."


    "Yes!"


    Soon after, Nathan called upon Drunken Fool, who appeared tipsy and glanced at Nathan. "Brother Nathan, this is a tough one. That''s North Sea City; just traveling there takes a month, not to mention how long we might need to protect them. It''s also close to the imperial capital. As a magic practitioner, one wrong move and I could lose my life."


    "A land-level technique, Azure Cloud Unfallen," Nathan said calmly.


    "You''ve been at the peak of Developing Skill for years, already beginning to condense your spiritual infant but hindered by mediocre techniques and lacking external aids to withstand the heavenly tribulation. This mission to protect the mother and child is a perfect opportunity to comprehend the technique.


    When you return to Cloudview County, my Blackwood family will help you advance to Competent Force."


    "As for the dangers, take my Sky Corpse with you. This Sky Corpse, named Donald, possesses the secret methods of the Dragon family and can be summoned in times of trouble."


    At this, Drunken Fool angrily retorted, "Nathan, you underestimate me, Drunken Fool. Even without these things, just based on our families'' relationship, I would still undertake this journey!"


    A day later.


    North Sea City saw the opening of a new tea house run by a beautiful woman who rarely showed herself. From inside the tea house, the cries of a baby could be heard. Outside, a perpetually drunk old beggar wandered around with broken bowls and chopsticks, counting the days.


    "I hope you and your son have the most carefree life," Ethan sent his blessings to Helen and her child before lying down in bed, pulling the covers over himself, and just as he was about to close his eyes, his body stiffened.


    "Ring, ring..."


    Picking up his phone, he saw the caller ID and for the first time felt that having no friends outside was actually a good thing.


    "Hello, Ms. Joshua, why are you calling again? I''m a lost cause, the kind beyond saving. You should save your team spot for someone with talent. If you really need someone, I know a guy, he was in the top school competition, had a powerful Psychic Constitution. If it weren''t for him being kidnapped during the competition, he would have won."


    "After our last conversation, I''ve thought a lot," Orion''s voice was grave. "Our team''s founder used to say, in archaeology, you dig where you stand. Talent isn''t important; if you''re lucky enough to unearth an ancient predecessor, your life could change. Ethan, you''re a good kid, don''t give up on yourself."


    You think you''re our founder, George?


    Ethan rolled his eyes, pondering how to decline.


    "Boom!"


    A loud noise startled him, and he quickly went outside, even feeling a powerful presence in the sky!


    As he stepped out, Lisa also looked serious. They walked out together and saw all the big shots in their villa area already outside. The ground trembled violently as they all looked up to see the sky lit red, intense energy waves pulsing through the air, and meteors breaking through the earth''s clouds, a massive planet looming close.


    Soon, the meteors scattered across the sky, one heading straight for their villa area!


    Ethan had never seen such a scene in his life and was completely stunned.


    "Hey! Ethan, don''t... don''t come... stay... stay safe at home..."


    The call was choppy and then cut off.


    In the skies of California, a powerful Psychic broadcasted:


    "Fellow Californians, a magical civilization is attacking, follow me into battle!"


    "Damn..."


    Ethan stared blankly at the sky, witnessing a war between civilizations for the first time, and they were using planets as weapons.


    Beside him, Lisa seemed unfazed and tugged at the dazed Ethan, "Master, let''s go inside. The villa area is safe. It''s just a magical civilization; the earth''s masters have gone out, which is why they dare to be so bold. But even so, they are not to be feared."


    "Okay."


    Ethan swallowed hard, and as he turned to go back, he saw Mrs. Quinn from next door stepping out of her house, her aura rising continuously¡ªCompetent Force, Basic Mastery, and even higher!


    She smiled at Ethan and then vanished in an instant!


    As Ethan turned back in astonishment, the sky seemed to be setting off a brilliant fireworks display as the meteor shattered. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    More and more masters from the villa area leaped into the sky to meet the battle!


    "Damn..."


    Ethan went back still dazed; everything had happened too fast. Who says the sky is falling without someone to hold it up? He was sure that an unimaginable battle was taking place beyond Earth, yet he was still safe and sound.


    "Damn, I better just stick to playing video games."


    "Earth is freaking tough, how long has civilization been around? And we''re already fighting interstellar wars."


    "No way, I need to focus on gaming, otherwise, with my little Competent Force, wouldn''t I just die out there?"


    Ethan stared at his computer screen, his face pale.

 Chapter 255 - 255: Druids, friends? That doesnt seem right.

    At that moment,


    "Boom!"


    The meteor shattered, and the bigwigs of the villa district, led by Grandma Quinn, gathered in the sky. In an instant, Grandma Quinn''s body was enveloped by golden metallic liquid, her figure reaching a hundred meters tall!


    "Not bad, old lady with superpowers, it''s been two hundred years since I''ve seen you in action, and your ability has improved again."


    Hearing this, Grandma Quinn snorted coldly, looking towards the man holding a divine scroll and dressed in ancient scholar robes, "Scholar, you''re not bad either. You''ve deeply mastered the ''Seasons'' and ''Rivers'' scriptures. No wonder you reside in the Ninth Psychic Sanctuary. Dare to join me in a battle against the magic civilization?"


    The Scholar scoffed, "Why not? Ancient records say that the magic civilization evolved from the Druids. Our forefathers, who inherited my techniques, had the Druids fleeing in terror. Why should I fear their descendants?"


    "Stop arguing."


    A Psychic, his eyes covered with a long black cloth and carrying an ancient sword, snorted coldly, "We are committed to virtue, awakening on the day of enlightenment to teach and protect our homeland through lifetimes. You''ve cultivated psychic powers not for rivalry but for protection.


    Follow me into the sky, let''s defeat the grand sorcerer of the magic civilization, and leave the rest to our allies on Earth!"


    "Alright!"


    Grandma Quinn and the Scholar dared not say more; they transformed into streaks of light and shot through the sky.


    Mr. John, the villa''s gatekeeper, looked up at the sky, his eyes filled with nostalgia, yet he remained still, murmuring softly, "Another day of boiling blood, just like in my past life memories."


    He sighed, "If only the people from my past life were still here, not even a meteor would dare touch our land, let alone entertain the thought, or their entire clan would be wiped out. Where have you all gone?"


    ...


    Over the ocean.


    The superpower exploration team was also facing a dire situation as they attempted to salvage underwater ruins¡ªmeteors and tsunamis!


    "It''s over, Ms. Joshua, we''re doomed!"


    "Where are our people?!!"


    "Ms. Joshua, what do we do now?"


    Various technological arrays protected their vessel, but even so, the meteors in the sky were overwhelmingly powerful, and they faced a dozen of them!


    Orion, who had just hung up the phone, was pale. She couldn''t worry about Ethan or the lost boy anymore.


    Just then.


    Everyone looked towards the cabin, stunned.


    "Boom!"


    Inside the vessel, a coffin that had been excavated from the ruins and sealed with numerous talisman papers for who knows how many years, suddenly burst open!


    The coffin exuded an overwhelming aura of death! Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You... woke me up."


    "Whoosh!"


    A gust of wind blew, and Orion, in horror, watched as her team members were...


    Drained of blood!


    It was a little girl in a pale blue dress, her body shriveled. She wore her hair in two buns adorned with bells that still chimed loudly despite the storm, and as she drank the blood, her veins began to pulse, visibly restoring her body!


    Then, the zombie girl extended her hand, and a dozen black mists formed into a giant dragon, soaring towards the falling meteors, lighting up the sky with brilliant fireworks.


    The girl tilted her head, blood trickling down her bark-like mouth corners, and looked at the stunned Orion, "What year is it now?"


    Orion shivered, "3... 3024."


    The little girl calculated briefly, nodded slightly, "I don''t quite understand your years, but it seems I''ve woken up a bit early, my masters haven''t awakened yet."


    Then.


    She stared at the planets approaching Earth, her crimson eyes glowing, licking her lips.


    "The taste is familiar, hmm? No, there''s only a trace of Druid bloodline, haha, I didn''t let your race be completely exterminated last time, this time I''ll wipe you out completely, all for my nourishment, all of it!!!"


    Orion stood dazed on the vessel, watching the terrifying being fly into the high sky, unable to snap out of it.


    She muttered unconsciously.


    "How is this possible? How can a being from past epochs be revived?"


    "What master? What awakening?"


    "What on earth did I dig up?!!"


    So eerie, too eerie!


    Terrifying, horrifying!


    "Boom!"


    Orion finally snapped to attention. She looked up at the sky, where all the meteors had been shattered. It seemed as if a powerful forbidden spell had been cast from beyond their world, a clash of rules unfolding!


    But she couldn''t concern herself with that now. Driven by her training as an archaeologist, she was compelled to understand everything immediately!


    "Everything in this site, their legacy, it hasn''t ended! These beings, existing in the gaps of human civilization''s history, might still be out there!"


    "Master... Rodriguez is awake... Druids..."


    "They knew the precursors to our magical civilization and even fought and defeated the Druids. What exactly did they go through?"


    "Yes, the scriptures, the stone tablets!"


    Orion, frantic, ran back to examine everything once more. She realized she might have uncovered a terrifying piece of history, the truth behind the civilization''s gap!


    As Orion searched, her expression flickered with confusion.


    "Druids, friends? That doesn''t seem right."


    ...


    In the room.


    Ethan put on his headphones, indifferent to the world.


    He vigorously rubbed his face, "Why should I be scared? I''m just a small fry; it doesn''t matter to me. No need to flee from victory, can''t escape from defeat, might as well just enjoy my game."


    No point in sleeping now.


    Ethan stared intently at his game screen, "Keep developing, kids. If I don''t get stronger, the magical civilization will snatch me up!"


    [Blackwood Year 162]


    In the game, his family was still developing. Ethan glanced at the current situation in Blackwood. It was pretty much the same as before, with many descendants of Blackwood in seclusion. Jessica, along with her siblings Edward and Donna, and many skilled individuals from Blackwood''s allied forces, were stationed at the border of Cloudview County.


    The forces in Cloudview County were making steady progress. The Blackwood group, following the elders'' instructions, worked diligently though not overly so. Despite frequent grumbling from other factions, they couldn''t really complain about Blackwood since they were genuinely contributing, especially with the steel-formed Azure Dragon, whose strength was at the peak of Competent Force!


    As for other members of Blackwood...


    Their traits ''Druid Killer'' and ''Sneaky Plunderer'' were quite noticeable.


    Especially in the event log.


    [For years, the Dawn faction of your family has been watching the White family. Your descendant Nathan, along with his wife Luna, entered the forbidden lands of White during a major battle between White, Harris, and Cloudview County, and stole the ''Ghostly Psychic Pearl'' guarded by Druids, then left triumphantly!]


    Now, many things hardly caught Blackwood''s eye, nor were they of much help to Blackwood''s experts, but the sight of the ''Ghostly Psychic Pearl'' still made Ethan''s eyes light up.


    "Nathan''s strength will increase again."


    [Ghostly Psychic Pearl (Grade Six Psychic Item)]


    [Effect: Using this item, one can collect Psychic grudges and souls. The deeper the Psychic grudge, the stronger the ghostly entity formed. For those beyond the Three Realms and not within the Five Elements, this item can have miraculous effects.]


    At that moment, Ethan saw in the Death Coffin, a little girl named Gary lying in a coffin, a black pearl in her mouth, as ghostly energy infused into her body!


    The Ghostly Psychic Pearl contained untold amounts of ghostly energy. Since the Sky Corpse was already beyond the Three Realms and not within the Five Elements, and now with the Ghostly Psychic Pearl, it was constantly growing stronger, undergoing a special transformation!


    Meanwhile, other descendants also had their share of gains.


    [Your descendant Amelia, while concocting medicines, learned of the Druids'' wooden method. Knowing the Druids are skilled in medicine, she sent a demon cultivator to infiltrate their ranks. To avoid alarming them, she planned to gradually kidnap one Druid pharmacist each day.]


    [After three months, the wooden method finally noticed something was amiss. Amelia had no choice but to abandon her gradual approach and kidnapped two hundred pharmacists in one night with the help of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, seizing a centuries-old medicine storehouse and never returning.]


    At that time.


    In Glory City, over three hundred Druid pharmacists were standing outside the city, looking bewildered at the queue of locals, who didn''t treat them as strangers at all.


    "Sir, I''ve been cultivating psychic powers for many years and feel that my meridians are blocked. Could you check and see what kind of psychic medicine I need to resolve this issue?"


    "Two years ago, I fought with your people and was cursed with a ghost spell. Could you help me resolve it?"


    "I''m willing to spend five hundred Energy Stones for a medicine that increases the chances of developing Emerging Abilities!"


    "..."

 Chapter 256 - 256: I feel like Im turning into a monster?

    While tending to the people of Glory City, the captured herbalists felt a sense of confusion.


    If it weren''t for Amelia using her enchanting medicines to mesmerize them and borrow all their recipes, they might have forgotten they were captives.


    "You really dare to think and act," Ethan said, scratching his head in front of the screen.


    Beneath the ancient Blood Tree, Amelia was leaning against the trunk, discarding one recipe after another, muttering, "Useless, useless. There are hardly any seventh-grade recipes, let alone sixth-grade ones. These recipes won''t improve my potion-making skills at all."


    Then she sorted through various special ability potions.


    "Ninth-grade, eighth-grade, all useless. Hmph, even with centuries of savings, at most, I can only make a dozen seventh-grade potions, and there are only two plants for sixth-grade special ability potions."


    Seeing Amelia''s disdainful expression, Ethan was speechless.


    In the past, these items would have overwhelmed Blackwood, but now things were different.


    Blackwood was filled with many experts who needed seventh and sixth-grade special ability potions. But seventh-grade was already hard to find, often requiring centuries-old ingredients, and as for sixth-grade? Those needed millennium-old growth under harsh conditions!


    Because these materials were so hard to find, the Competent Force found it very difficult to speed up their psychic power cultivation. They often had to rely on formations to absorb more natural energy and understand some rules to enhance their strength.


    Thus, in Cloudview County, many elders of the Competent Force were only at the early stages, and it was rare for anyone under a thousand years old to reach the middle stages. Any peak Competent Force psychic was considered exceptionally talented.


    These ingredients taking a thousand years to grow? Psychics were already fighting over century-old materials.


    Meanwhile, the children were not idle.


    [Your descendants George, William, and Justin, after years of adventures with the Druids, have made quite a name for themselves by digging up ancestral graves, stealing from treasuries, and mocking and insulting during sacred rituals.]


    [Because they always wore masks of jesters and robes embroidered with the mark of The Oracle Chamber, often seen in public acting as fortune-tellers, each carrying tools like a tortoise shell, an abacus, and an energy locator, and using some techniques learned from Kenneth of The Oracle Chamber, they were mistakenly believed to be members of The Oracle Chamber and earned the infamous nickname ''The Magical Three Villains''.]


    "Cough, cough."


    Ethan coughed, noticing the three young thieves squatting outside a Druids'' tribe.


    It seemed that due to their frequent antics, the tribe was very cautious, even guarding the ancestral graves and scattering various mythical beasts around.


    "It looks like they were prepared; our previous plan won''t work. You''re forcing me to use my last resort."


    "I get it, big brother. You rush in, William steals, and I''ll take your place digging the graves!"


    "Get lost, my last resort is to find a less cautious tribe. We''ll do this job in a couple of months; I don''t believe they can stay alert for two months, and if not, we''ll come back in two years. Competing with us, Blackwood, these little Druids are still too green."


    "Brilliant, big brother!"


    This was a lack of virtue indeed.


    Seeing the three children quickly flee the scene, Ethan couldn''t help but laugh. He wondered how The Oracle Chamber would feel about suddenly becoming infamous for no reason.


    But, truth be told, these three lads had quite the haul!


    [Your descendants have obtained a large amount of spoils of war, seventh-grade special ability potions... Druids totems... Druids bloodline infant bones...]


    [After two years of searching, with the help of his two brothers, George finally found the fleeing spirit of a Druids Competent Force. Since the spirit was not well-received by the predecessors inside his body, he generously offered it to his great-grandfather Nathan, who used the ''Catastrophe Soul Hooking Formation'' to control the Competent Force spirit in battle.]


    [Druids bloodline infant bones, which can enhance physical strength and grant some Druids bloodline traits, are not for Pinnacle Apprentices of the Druids to use, as they are likely to explode and die. When used by humans, they instantly explode and die. ]


    [George, to test whether the infant bones could be used by humans, offered them to his father Thomas. Thomas integrated the infant bones and exploded hundreds of times, but his body gradually began to accept the infant bones.]


    Ethan glanced at Thomas again. The third generation of the Blackwoods was now under house arrest, and Thomas, the young man, was particularly conspicuous... as if he had mutated.


    After accepting the infant bones, his psychic powers and physical strength surged to the peak of Developing Skill, and a pair of flesh buds sprouted on his back, resembling the wings of a chick...


    He ran in panic to see Nathan and Luna, pointing at his back.


    "Grandpa, Grandma, can you help me see, am I a demon or a witch now? I feel like I''m turning into a monster?"


    Nathan, Luna, and Ethan, watching from the screen: ...


    He was already foolish enough, and now he had transformed into this.


    George, the old man, really ruined him.


    Thinking this, Nathan and his wife suddenly heard a noise and looked outside, their faces darkening.


    Ethan felt the same way.


    In the sky, a line of psychics flew on their swords, about fifty people, arranged in a crooked family emblem.


    "We psychics, with justice in our hearts, brothers and sisters, join me, and let''s show the might of the Blackwoods!"


    "Invincible Blackwoods!"


    As the shouts rose, Ethan and Nathan''s family felt an uncontrollable sense of... embarrassment.


    These were all descendants of the fifth generation... from Jeffrey''s line!


    Each of them grew up hearing stories of family elders, each hoping to become a great hero or a heroic woman, and then... they spent their days at home practicing formations and shouting slogans. They had decent talents, but their maturity...


    Let''s not talk about it.


    Heroes can''t just decide to become one, and none of their elders wanted to be heroes anymore, perhaps they once did, but not now.


    ...


    Ethan switched the view to the border area.


    Now, the psychics of Cloudview County were mainly focusing on the border, Ethan got some news from Jessica.


    The old ancestors of Cloudview County''s Competent Force even made a ''thousand-year plan'', preparing for a millennium-long war, allowing the psychics of Cloudview County to train at the border, also to reduce the resource pressure within Cloudview County, so that the psychics wouldn''t have to fight over a single psychic-enhancing herb.


    Moreover, the Endless Forest was rich in resources, offering great opportunities.


    The border had already established a fortress, surrounded by ability vessels. During war times, psychics could pick up tasks and join the battlefield, obtaining resources like Energy Stones, psychic-enhancing herbs, and elixirs.


    Although there were resources, the major powers would certainly not lose out; if they won the war, they had ways to profit. If they lost... then they wouldn''t need to give out resources.


    At this moment, in the Border town, Blackwood people were on the fifth floor of a tower, with many psychics trading on the three floors below.


    This was the Blackwood industry¡ªHeavenly Justice Hall.


    In just two years, Donna hadn''t changed, still petite and delicate, but ever since Nicholas died, she rarely cursed or mocked others, mostly remaining expressionless.


    Edward''s face had more stubble, perhaps from the hardships of the battlefield, with his sister Betty pouring tea for them. Betty, as the little princess of the Martin family, had good talents and resources from both families, and had already advanced beyond Developing Skill.


    Now Marcus was sitting in the main seat.


    His face was full of smiles; he enjoyed it. For two years, his younger relatives called him ''grandpa'' every day. After many years of cultivating psychic powers at Sky Sect, he could finally experience the joy of being an elder.


    No one knew how delighted he was to see the respectful attitude of the children, making him wish he could dismantle a part of the Sky Palace to give to these younger ones.


    Just as he was observing these kids cultivating their psychic powers.


    When Ethan clicked on Jessica''s profile, he was stunned. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There, Jessica was tied up and brought to a valley, standing in front of her was a man in a mask, dressed in white, with a scale weight on his chest...


    "Blackwood Jessica, the notorious Serpent enchantress of Border town, have you heard of me, The Oracle Chamber, from Blackwood?"

 Chapter 257 - 257: Special Event—Kill Lance

    "The Oracle Chamber?"


    The room outside was trembling, the status of the war unknown, yet Ethan remained calm, his gaze fixed on the game screen, his mouse hovering over a skill without any action.


    Because Jessica was eerily composed!


    At that moment, she was enveloped by complex inscriptions, fixed on the wall of the valley. The appearance of The Oracle Chamber''s Masked Man did not seem to faze her. Her lips parted slightly, "You must have come from the imperial capital, a member of Battle Oversight, right? Only a handful of you managed to capture me without a sound. Let me guess who you are."


    With those words, a murderous aura flashed across the Masked Man''s face.


    Jessica just scoffed, "Try and kill me! You''ve only recently arrived in Cloudview County, barely settled, and if we at Blackwood pursue this, The Oracle Chamber will hold you accountable. Let''s see if you end up in a worse state than me!"


    ...


    Originally wanting to help Jessica, Ethan''s moving mouse suddenly stopped. By now, the Masked Man had released Jessica, and Ethan stared blankly at the event log.


    [Your descendant Jessica, through keen observation, has uncovered the true identity of The Oracle Chamber''s mysterious person and struck a deal with them. She has gained a new identity, a member of The Oracle Chamber.]


    It wasn''t long before.


    Ethan saw the member of The Oracle Chamber who had taken Jessica away now returning her to the same place... As he left, Jessica tossed him a communication stone.


    The mysterious person from The Oracle Chamber walked away with a desolate and lonely silhouette, as if deeply humiliated.


    Jessica pulled out the Forebearer Psychic Position, "Forebearer, your child has now taken control of the new leader of The Oracle Chamber and has important matters to report to you. Please help bring her back home!"


    ...


    In the Forebearer Shrine.


    Many children of the Blackwood family were summoned by Ethan to gather, including George from the Druids who had also returned. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They were all stunned upon hearing about Jessica from Charlie Crackle of the Exploding Sky Serpent.


    William was the first to react, "The Oracle Chamber has reached out to Jessica too?"


    "Huh?"


    Hearing this, everyone looked at William, who just grinned.


    The next moment, the faces of the Blackwood family darkened as William''s Storage Ring flashed red, revealing a severed head with a note attached¡ª[The Oracle Chamber member, a brazen souvenir]


    ...


    Soon after, William was tied to a post, whimpering, as George twitched his eyelids and took away William''s Storage Ring, the shrine''s exterior flickering with fire, clearly George was helping William destroy evidence. Well... there was quite a bit of evidence.


    The family didn''t dwell on what William had been up to recently.


    Their expressions were somber; they didn''t need to care about The Oracle Chamber''s actions as long as it didn''t involve Blackwood. They could profit from The Oracle Chamber''s intelligence and focus on their development. However, one piece of intelligence was closely related to Blackwood.


    [Intelligence: The border conflicts of the Emerald Empire are showing signs of collapse, the ancient god is severely injured, and the current Grand Tutor Gilbert is battling demons in the north. The national advisor Lance has dispatched Battle Oversight, but after two years, there''s no significant advantage in the war.


    He plans to cede Cloudview County, Cedar County, Starlight County, and other territories to the Druids in exchange for a thousand years of peace with the Emerald Empire.]


    "Damn, are we being abandoned?"


    Julian, quick-tempered, burst out cursing, "Nicholas sacrificed himself, we spent thirty years in hiding, finally overcoming the Druids! What is Lance thinking? With a single word, he''s ceding our Cloudview County, which will end up as Druids'' land again. What about us? What are we supposed to do?"


    The mood among the Blackwood family was grim.


    They didn''t know what fate awaited them if Cloudview County was handed over to the Druids; everything was uncertain.


    Daniel took a deep breath, "Our best option is to leave Cloudview County and head towards the inner parts of the Emerald Empire. It might be more prosperous inside, but we''ll also face resistance from the existing powers, making everything we face even more challenging."


    Evacuate... Evacuate!


    These words hung over everyone''s heads like a shadow.


    Julian was right; families had claimed this land, pouring generations of blood, sweat, and tears into it. The people of Glory City had buried their ancestors in this soil, even establishing the Hall of Valor here, swearing to protect this land for generations!


    Their hard-won victories seemed insignificant compared to the whims of those in high places, those schemers. Everything they had fought for now seemed so trivial!


    Daniel was always composed.


    He looked around at everyone, sensing the anger and helplessness in their hearts. He was usually calm, but now, there was a hint of madness in his expression, "No, there is still hope! Battle Oversight is still operational, they''re letting us continue the fight, which means negotiations haven''t started yet!"


    "I suspect that Lance sent Battle Oversight to oversee the battle, aiming for a decisive victory that disregards consequences, to strengthen their position in negotiations!"


    "We still have time¡ª"


    "Kill Lance!"


    At that statement, everyone''s gaze shifted to Daniel, their eyes reigniting with the fire of battle.


    They didn''t know how powerful the national advisor was, or how difficult it would be to kill Lance, but they saw hope in doing so before negotiations began.


    "Forebearer, please give the order!"


    Many descendants knelt in the shrine.


    Watching the screen before him, Ethan clenched his fists, and Charlie Crackle''s eyes turned blood red as he issued the Forebearer''s command¡ª


    "Get stronger, as quickly as possible!"


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    All the Blackwood descendants grinned; they were the Azure Cloud warrior clan, standing at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud! From the time the Forebearer first displayed extraordinary abilities, they had protected this land generation after generation, driving enemies from their territory. Now, faced with a more formidable foe, it was merely a bit of hardship!


    Behind them was the homeland they vowed to protect; above them, the Forebearer watched over them.


    Lance was nothing to fear!


    [Special Event¡ªKill Lance]


    [Despite being abandoned by those in power, your descendants have not given up hope. Each one is determined to become stronger as quickly as possible, to save their homeland and gain the group trait¡ªIndomitable Warrior Spirit.]


    [Before killing Lance, your descendants'' speed in cultivating psychic powers increases by 30%, and their combat strength by 5%. Thanks to your descendant Olivia, who continuously plunders fortune from the Druids, your family''s chance of encountering opportunities in this event increases, with a 2% higher chance of breakthroughs.]


    "Thanks to the national advisor in the imperial city for sending this BUFF to my Blackwood family."


    Ethan''s voice was somber in front of the screen.


    He was angry too. Over a hundred years of family legacy, and now, because of Lance, a newcomer, his children faced displacement?


    What decline?


    All the border towns were fighting for their homes, no one was backing down!


    Was Lance securing his position as national advisor, or did he truly care about the people as his name suggested? Who could really tell?

 Chapter 258 - 258: What the hell?

    Three months had passed, and the entire Blackwood clan had prepared a plan for cultivating psychic powers, working harder and with more purpose than ever before.


    Just as the Forebearer had said, only by becoming stronger in the shortest amount of time could they reach the decadent halls where National Advisor Lance resided.


    Daniel had managed to send Dawn, a spy, towards the imperial city to gather some intelligence on National Advisor Lance.


    At that moment, Ethan shifted the view to a bustling place.


    [Emerald Emperor City]


    The Emerald Empire was truly extraordinary, with a massive city that was home to everyday people who seemed accustomed to seeing dragons flying overhead.


    "True to its reputation as the imperial capital, those courtesans in the brothel, are they at the peak of their Developing Skill?"


    "Those eight things... a hundred meters tall, guarding the imperial capital like little mountains? They''re alive, and their power is unfathomable."


    "The ground is covered in magical formations..."


    William wandered through the imperial capital like a country bumpkin.


    Eventually, he arrived at a splendid mansion and, looking up at the words [National Advisor''s Residence], his lips curled into a slight smile as he vanished into the darkness.


    Another month passed.


    Inside the National Advisor''s Residence, there was an additional guard.


    [Your descendant William has successfully become a guard at the National Advisor''s Residence.]


    Ethan grinned as he watched the screen, where William was now guarding the grand hall inside the residence.


    Inside that hall, there was singing and dancing, with rows of Emerald Empire officials in official attire and beautiful maids serving them. Despite the ongoing war at the borders of the Emerald Empire, where countless people died daily, they indulged in this den of luxury!


    It was Ethan''s first glimpse of National Advisor Lance!


    He was a very handsome middle-aged man in a black official robe, sipping wine. It was a timely moment for Ethan to see the small words above Lance''s head.


    "Grand Tutor Gilbert is conquering the north, celebrating victory after victory, a great fortune for our nation! Yet, our Mystic Alliance lands face repeated setbacks, plagued by poverty and Druid invasions. Many local powers defy imperial commands, and the people of Mystic Alliance are deemed unworthy of life!


    Once I secure a millennium of peace, and Grand Tutor returns, Mystic Alliance will still belong to our Emerald Emperor nation!"


    But as soon as he finished speaking.


    Lance and everyone present changed their expressions as the ground trembled and a terrifying aura rose!


    Suddenly, all the experts in the National Advisor''s Residence appeared.


    Below the residence, a huge cylindrical object was burning fiercely.


    Outside the National Advisor''s Residence, William calmly walked out, slowly shedding his guard''s uniform, and muttered softly, "This will shake you up."


    "Boom!"


    Behind him, the residence''s defensive formations activated, and flames cracked the formations, shooting towards the sky as if venting the rage of the Mystic Alliance lands mentioned by Lance!


    On that day.


    Everyone in the Emerald Empire watched as flames shot up from the National Advisor''s Residence, and above...


    The smoke formed a scale weight.


    In a tower within the imperial capital, the firelight reddened the face of an old man, his brows furrowed.


    "Damned fools, who dares slander The Oracle Chamber again?"


    [Your descendant William, after infiltrating the National Advisor''s residence for many days, planted the ''dark weapon'' you bestowed upon him beneath the residence and found an opportunity to activate it. Although it didn''t kill Lance, he was still very confident, gaining the trait: A real man never looks back]


    [Confidence Boosted]


    "True to its reputation, the National Advisor''s residence, indeed the imperial capital."


    Ethan was also watching everything happening in the imperial capital, and he sincerely admired it. The last time he went out, he visited Alan and got another ''dark weapon''.


    Unfortunately, unlike the Sky Sect, the imperial capital is still the imperial capital, and Lance is still the National Advisor.


    He saw with his own eyes that the explosion didn''t even break through the grand formation activated by the National Advisor''s residence. It seemed that a master instantly stopped the impact of the explosion, leading everyone out of the blast area. National Advisor Lance was only disheveled and slightly embarrassed, but his residence was completely destroyed.


    "Damn, that''s strong."


    Ethan let out a long breath. The purpose of this time was also to probe the strength of the National Advisor''s residence through this method. Ethan felt it was worth it, especially since he still had another ''dark weapon''!


    And this time''s ''dark weapon'' was different, just a simple explosion with some modern world''s advanced technology added, no radiation. Otherwise, Ethan was really afraid they would trace it back to the Blackwood family, especially since there had been an explosion at the Sky Sect before.


    Just as he switched the view.


    Ethan was stunned for a moment.


    [Special Event¡ªLance''s Fury]


    [Your dark weapon killed the Third Prince who was misbehaving with a maid, and killed the prince supported by Lance. His fury will spill over to The Oracle Chamber, leading to a frantic search for members of The Oracle Chamber. His focus will be on investigating The Oracle Chamber and reorganizing his forces, which might give your family more time to develop.]


    "What the hell? An unexpected benefit that has them biting each other?"


    Ethan''s face showed a hint of joy, now feeling that this explosion was very worthwhile!


    ...


    [Blackwood Year 163]


    This year for Blackwood was a quiet one, except for a few children still participating in the Druids'' war at the borders. The family members within Blackwood were all trying to cultivate psychic powers. As for the line of Jeffrey, Ethan and Nathan didn''t interfere much. The old saying really made sense; blood relations thinned after three generations.


    If they didn''t show any special talents or make significant contributions to the family, they would likely never catch the elders'' eyes. Blackwood could only provide them with some resources. And these children, to obtain resources beyond what was supplied, had to strive on their own.


    Jeffrey''s children understood this and quietly began to join various forces within Blackwood, hoping to gain more attention from the family through their efforts.


    Now, even the fifth generation of children had appeared, and under the family''s protection, they continued to thrive.


    However, relatively speaking, they were somewhat fortunate; the burdens on their shoulders were not as heavy as those of the elders. Blackwood was now trying every means to become stronger. They faced not only the Druids but also had to protect the family''s lands. They must become stronger until one day they could stand before Lance!


    On this day.


    The ancestral hall was once again filled with people; they had already heard about everything that happened in the imperial capital, and William had also returned. This time, everyone''s attention was on Amelia and the family''s sacred tree, the Primordial Blood Tree.


    [Your descendant Amelia, along with the family''s sacred tree, the Primordial Blood Tree, had reached the critical point of Pinnacle Apprentice ten years ago but dared not break through. Today, Amelia decided to advance to Competent Force.]


    Seeing Amelia about to break through, the people of Blackwood were very solemn. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They all knew that Amelia was cultivating psychic powers through the formidable Celestial Botanical Technique, which was very powerful. But Amelia said she was facing the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations!


    Such tribulations had never been faced by anyone in Blackwood!


    As for the Primordial Blood Tree, it faced the Seventy-Nine Heavenly Tribulations.


    Even though the family members gave gifts, Amelia appeared somewhat relaxed, but the people of Blackwood knew that Amelia did not want to worry anyone.

 Chapter 259 - 259: Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations

    "Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations," Ethan said gravely.


    Only he knew the true terror of such a trial; he had once endured the relentless thunder for an entire day at sea.


    If it weren''t for his mastery of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, which negated ninety percent of the heavenly forces, along with his top-tier psychic equipment, he wouldn''t have come out of it so easily.


    The Celestial Botanical Technique is powerful, but Amelia, with her dual Psychic Constitution, facing a day under such tribulations, would barely survive!


    "Amelia, let''s wait a bit longer," Luna said tenderly, stroking Amelia''s hair.


    "There''s no rush to break through. Let''s be fully prepared first."


    But Amelia just smiled calmly, "Don''t worry, mother, I''m confident. If you don''t believe me, ask our ancestor. He said I would definitely make it through."


    The room fell silent. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Exploding Sky Serpent appeared in a mist, frowning at Amelia, unsure whether to support her lie.


    Even without words from the ancestor or the Exploding Sky Serpent, everyone could see Amelia''s determination.


    National Advisor Lance might sell off Cloudview County at any moment, and Amelia had been studying sixth-tier psychic medicines.


    She knew that only by mastering these could she accelerate the family''s progress.


    She was prepared to wait centuries if necessary.


    Just then, the Exploding Sky Serpent spoke up, drawing everyone''s attention, "The master says to wait a few more years."


    "Hmm?" Everyone paused.


    Meanwhile, atop a psychic mountain, several members of The Oracle Chamber gazed toward another mountain in the distance.


    Giant trees walked like humans there, and Druids were arranging totems around countless bodies¡ªmillions of them!


    The leader of The Oracle Chamber spoke coldly, "That is the Druids'' natural magic formation, powered by the lives of a million from Starlight County, capturing a seventh-tier psychic vein that once belonged to a Competent Force power, enhanced by various Druidic totems."


    "Why have you brought us here, leader? What does the chamber seek that requires so many of us?" asked a member of The Oracle Chamber.


    The leader replied, "After the Druids'' defeat at the hands of Azure Cloud, they''ve retreated into the Endless Forest, heading to more prosperous Druidic lands. Their greatest hope lies in Arnold, a once-in-a-millennium talent born with a ghostly psychic constitution. He can host thousands of spirits, boosting his strength rapidly."


    "With nine spiritual cores and unmatched power within his current level, even possessing celestial ghost fire, he could fight mid to peak Competent Force warriors upon breaking through."


    "This natural magic formation can negate eighty percent of the heavenly tribulations, aiding Arnold''s transition from Developing Skill to Competent Force!"


    "The Oracle Chamber has ordered, at all costs, to eliminate this Druidic prodigy!"


    This declaration left all members of The Oracle Chamber breathless.


    The Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations were legendary, marking those destined for greatness¡ªnot just reaching Basic Mastery, but potentially even Advanced Mastery!


    The members nodded silently.


    After they dispersed, a figure approached the leader of The Oracle Chamber, her voice low, "Leader, I''m quite interested in this matter. If you don''t mind, may I accompany you back home?"


    The leader of The Oracle Chamber stood in silence for a long while, then waved his hand with a trembling voice, "I... I should never have let you threaten me. You people from Blackwood have really got me cornered. Aren''t you afraid I''ll fight back even if it destroys us both?!"


    With a whoosh, two sword shadows approached, their wielders gliding on their swords, their long hair fluttering in the wind, looking effortlessly cool.


    Behind them, a loving couple stood atop a silver coffin.


    A burly man covered in demonic tattoos stood with his arms crossed, glaring fiercely.


    Another young man silently pulled out two daggers, eyeing the most vulnerable spots on his opponent...


    Half a day later.


    Jimmy Martinez, dressed in simple clothes like an ordinary old man, stepped into Glory City, his kindly face tinged with bitterness.


    Walking the streets of Glory City, it seemed untouched by the war raging outside, a testament to the city''s simplicity.


    Yet he was certain!


    This damned city, filled with those damned people from Blackwood, had no virtue at all!


    Otherwise, why would everyone, young and old, bully him, a 1600-year-old man?


    "Oh, the misfortune, having been the leader of The Oracle Chamber in over a dozen places, and now I''ve met my downfall in Cloudview County," he sighed.


    The Blackwood folks who had surrounded Jimmy were no longer there, but he still walked dejectedly into the inner city of Blackwood, into the deepest parts of Blackwood.


    There, a feast was laid out, and the people of Blackwood were all smiles.


    "Ahaha, welcome our new friend from Blackwood! Go on, Thomas, help Mr. Martinez to his seat, he''s a VIP in our house!" As soon as he entered, Jimmy heard Nathan''s polite shout, sounding like a simple farmer.


    "Hey, hey, hey!"


    A two-meter-tall black bear quickly ran up to Jimmy, effortlessly lifting him onto a chair, still speaking politely, "Our benefactor, today you must eat well and drink well, we''re honoring you."


    Fine wines and dishes were neatly arranged.


    The Blackwood family looked at him with beaming smiles, and to an outsider, he might seem like a distinguished guest of Blackwood.


    Only Jimmy himself knew the truth. Just a year ago, he had kidnapped Jessica, and now...


    He had inexplicably become a VIP of Blackwood, a friend of Blackwood, albeit reluctantly.


    All the people of Blackwood smiled so insincerely, he felt like what was really laid out on the table wasn''t fine food and wine, but himself. These people from Blackwood were about to shed their disguises, grabbing knives and bowls to feast on his flesh.


    Jimmy took a deep breath, gritted his teeth, and fumed.


    "Stop pretending, all of you! I, Jimmy, have lived over a thousand years smoothly, and today I''ve fallen into your hands!"


    "I see now, you''re after the natural magic formation!"


    "Speak up, how do you want to handle this? Let''s agree that after this, you''ll stop messing with me, or else I, Jimmy, am not a pushover!"


    Silence fell among the people of Blackwood for a long while.


    Then they looked at each other and all broke into relieved smiles.


    While Jimmy was still angry, Nathan suddenly hugged him, catching him off guard, "My good brother, my lifesaver, once we secure the natural magic formation, you and I will truly be brothers, sincerely."


    In the distance.


    Amelia''s eyes were moist; only she knew that everything her family told Jimmy was sincere.


    They could have forced Jimmy back, but to make him sincerely work for Blackwood, to ensure she could safely undergo her tribulation within the natural magic formation, her family had treated Jimmy with such courtesy, fearing any resentment he might harbor.


    She watched her father, who was pouring wine for Jimmy with a servile smile, something he had never done for anyone else in his life.

 Chapter 260 - 260: They had to fight!

    "The Natural Magic Array aligns with the laws of nature itself. Druids, with their connection to nature, can utilize it according to destiny. It requires various totems and the sacrifice of a million lives, even a master of Competent Force, to resonate with the cosmos and withstand eighty percent of the celestial tribulation."


    "The intelligence I''ve gathered indicates that the Whites, for their prodigy Arnold, will join forces with the struggling Harris and Qu Fang to protect the Natural Magic Array and Arnold. Once Arnold reaches the level of Competent Force, it will elevate everyone associated with him. The Druids are prepared to pay any price for future glory."


    "It will take at least three more years to prepare the Natural Magic Array." Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If we just want to eliminate Arnold, with the help of you Blackwoods, things would be much simpler. Mr. Nathan, I need you to be clear about what exactly you intend to do on this mission."


    After a banquet, Jimmy didn''t say much.


    He directly led the Blackwoods under the Primordial Blood Tree to strategize. The scene he had witnessed at the Natural Magic Array with The Oracle Chamber members was summoned using the power of the cosmos.


    There had once been a minor feud between Blackwood and Cloudview County''s The Oracle Chamber, but now the new leader of The Oracle Chamber was plotting with Blackwood, a truly curious turn of events.


    Nathan hesitated for a moment, glancing at Amelia.


    With just one look, Jimmy understood everything. He was momentarily stunned, a flicker of shock crossing his face, but he concealed it and continued, "Then I understand. I can only tell you, Mr.Nathan, that achieving your goals with Blackwood will be as difficult as reaching the heavens!"


    Upon hearing this, the Blackwoods all frowned.


    Jimmy continued, "Let me break it down for you, starting from the outer perimeter of the Natural Magic Array. Three tribes, to gain Arnold''s favor, will deploy their best warriors to guard three positions with a powerful magical array. To approach the main array, you first have to break through the outer defenses."


    "Breaking this array will provoke a desperate resistance from all their top warriors. The three high priests are all at the peak of Competent Force. Even though they''ve been setback, the three sides still have about six to eight priests, with no fewer than fifty tribal chiefs and elders, all wielding Druidic totems."


    "If there''s any disturbance, the Natural Magic Array will activate within the time it takes an incense stick to burn. That means, in addition to facing these Druidic masters, the person you want to undergo the tribulation must enter the Natural Magic Array within that short time!"


    "At that moment, she will face Arnold alone, a peerless genius unmatched within the realm of Developing Skill, and she must defeat him within the span of thirty finger snaps, or else face a double celestial tribulation, a challenge no one has survived."


    Jimmy''s words sounded light, but a shadow seemed to fall over the entire hall. Facing all the warriors from three tribes... Remember, Blackwood had only faced Clark''s side before, and they had even eliminated one of Clark''s priests. Clark had fled in panic that day, but the enemies they faced now were of a completely different caliber!


    "Dad... maybe... maybe I should wait a bit longer," Amelia sighed deeply.


    "Wait for what?"


    Nathan smiled faintly, "If it''s as difficult as reaching the heavens, then we Blackwoods will just have to climb to the heavens!"


    Jimmy could only offer a bitter laugh. "But Nathan, have you considered that just as we are prepared to pay any price to eliminate the Druids'' prodigy, the tribes of Starlight County will do the same to kill our genius? When that happens, the masters of Starlight County will also attack, and we''ll be walking into a death trap!"


    Back when he was in the imperial capital, Jimmy had heard of the Blackwood family. They had pioneered an era in Cloudview County, and even as the leader of The Oracle Chamber, he did not wish to see such a defiant family perish.


    Unfortunately, his warnings were in vain.


    This man, who looked like a simple farmer, just gave his daughter a reassuring smile, then bowed deeply to Jimmy. In his eyes, Jimmy saw nothing but resolve!


    And then there were the people of Blackwood in the hall... a group of complete madmen. They understood each other without words and silently left the hall to prepare.


    "Mr. Martinez, I will be by your side from now on. To be honest, I am also a member of The Oracle Chamber." Dennis bowed slightly to Jimmy. "Please forgive me, Mr. Martinez. Although we are friends, it''s wise to be cautious, right?"


    "Dennis, the master of Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, I know you. You received Stephen''s legacy."


    Jimmy''s expression was odd. "I also know that you once followed Stephen and hindered our mission at The Oracle Chamber. By rights, I should have killed you."


    Hearing this, Dennis was not only unafraid but also laughed as if he had nothing to lose. "Well, when you decide to kill me, just give me a heads-up so I can arrange my affairs."


    Jimmy paused for a moment, glanced at the Blackwood members who had quickly dispersed, and then looked back at Dennis''s fearless eyes. He shook his head with a wry smile. "It seems you haven''t learned anything from Blackwood except how to be mad."


    In the room.


    Ethan watched the scene in the Forebearer Shrine.


    Amelia was kneeling towards his Psychic Position.


    "Forebearer, please show your powers quickly. Only you can stop my father now. Trying to obtain the Natural Magic Array is too dangerous, we should just kill Arnold..."


    Amelia was in tears.


    This time, Ethan did not show his powers. His expression was grave. Amelia was breaking through a severe trial, and during her time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, she had spent nearly two hundred years of her life. Now, Amelia was only left with a little over a hundred years!


    Losing this opportunity meant neither Blackwood nor he could ensure Amelia''s safe passage through the trial!


    They had to fight!


    Ethan sent a warm message to Amelia. His Psychic Position traced a gentle arc in mid-air, and a line of text appeared before Amelia''s eyes.


    [This time, let your family help you, okay?]


    "Forebearer!"


    Watching the shadow in the sky, Amelia cried like a child and eventually fell asleep in front of Ethan''s Psychic Position, her dirty face showing a faint smile.


    Tonight, the full moon hung high.


    Nathan and his wife embraced, gazing long at the Primordial Blood Tree. They did not ask the ancient tree about the future; it had been with Blackwood for a lifetime and was also waiting for a breakthrough. Any damage could potentially kill the old tree during the thunder trial.


    Footsteps sounded behind them.


    "Mr.Nathan." Jimmy came with Dennis, bowed to the couple, and got straight to the point. "Mr. Dennis and I have inquired, and with the current strength of Blackwood, even if you gather all the masters of Cloudview County, the chances of achieving your goal are still slim. I suggest..."


    "Thank you for your kindness, Mr. Martinez."


    Nathan looked tenderly at his wife and smiled. "This time, even if I have to risk my life, I will seek a chance for my foolish daughter."


    Jimmy frowned, puzzled. He had made it very clear; it was a near-suicidal mission, and a great family really shouldn''t risk so much for one Psychic. Only Dennis, standing behind him, couldn''t help but smile reassuringly.

 Chapter 261 - 261: Pink Terror

    Nathan pointed at the ancient tree in front of them. His voice was gentle. "Mr. Martinez, people often say that my family, the Blackwoods, are no different from dark sorcerers. Even some of our old friends joke about it."


    "I remember when we were very poor, my foolish daughter would spend all day by this old tree, trying everything she could to make it bloom and bear fruit. She knew that this was the only way our family could get some decent natural treasures. Thanks to her, our family''s old tree has grown strong."


    As Nathan spoke, the Primordial Blood Tree did not show a human face, but its branches swayed slightly in the night.


    Jimmy still frowned.


    Nathan continued, "My foolish daughter, oh, she spent decades in the psychic herb garden, dirty and ignored by everyone. But since then, Gratitude Village has been free of disease, and our family has never lacked psychic herbs."


    "Later, when times were tough, our family''s elder serpent needed to break through. Everyone knew the dangers ahead. She had been quiet all her life, but that day, when we were rushing to go, I heard her speak so long and so logically for the first time since she was born." S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The Oracle Chamber should know of her many titles: the Saintess of Flora, the Maiden of the Demon Cave, the Doomsday Pharmacist... But do you know, beneath all these glorious titles, she kept no treasures for herself, everything she found she brought home. And you certainly don''t know that in my heart, she has only one title."


    "And that is my daughter!"


    "She has given her life for our family, and as long as someone in our family is alive, no one can hurt her, not even the thunder tribulation!"


    Nathan''s words pierced the night, striking straight to the soul.


    Jimmy was shaken for a while, then a warm look crossed his eyes. He bowed slightly to Nathan, "Mr. Nathan, then I won''t try to dissuade you."


    He shook his head and, followed by Dennis, left the Blackwoods, heading towards the border.


    Dennis smirked, "Mr. Martinez, why did you stop trying to persuade him?"


    "What could I use to persuade him?" Jimmy shrugged and sighed deeply, "I can persuade an old family patriarch, but I can''t persuade a father. Let''s go, Mr. Dennis, we have much to do in Border Town."


    Hearing this.


    Dennis''s eyes lit up, "Mr. Martinez, are you going to help us?"


    "What can I offer to help?" Jimmy rolled his eyes, "You think the power controlled by the leader of The Oracle Chamber is vast? The members I brought can handle some petty theft and scheming, but if it comes to a major battle with three tribes, we won''t be much help."


    Saying this.


    He moved forward, his eyes narrowing slightly, "But it''s been a long time since I''ve met a friend as sincere as Mr. Nathan. I''ll give it a try!"


    "It might be good for my peace of mind!"


    [Special Event¡ªAmelia''s Nine Trials of Thunder]


    [Your descendant Amelia has faced the ultimate thunder trial, and your family confronts three Druid tribes, facing perilous paths ahead, yet your family marches on undeterred!]


    As the event unfolds, the entire Blackwood springs into action!


    They move silently, armed with the Forebearer Psychic Position, spreading out in all directions like spectral forces under Daniel''s strategic command, with every key member assigned a specific task.


    At the Blackwood residence, they''ve even enlisted an elder from Duke''s Mansion''s Competent Force to help keep watch. Only Jeffrey''s family remains at the residence, frantically expanding their lineage, with the children fervently honing their skills.


    Meanwhile, Katie''s reputation grows; countless young talents in Cloudview County have fallen to her Pink''Sparkly Unicorn Bow'', likely unable to raise their heads in her presence for a long while.


    [Your descendant Katie has defeated numerous prodigies, now her name instills fear across Cloudview County. At the sight of anything pink, adversaries lose heart and retreat. Trait gained: Pink Terror]


    [As long as the realm difference isn''t too vast, the chance of opponents fleeing increases. During battle, the psychological burden on opponents increases by 100%!]


    "It seems our younger generation is growing up... well, growing up in a way."


    Ethan watches with a hint of pride as Katie, with her long bow, searches for opponents on the screen.


    Looking elsewhere, the Primordial Blood Tree has risen from the ground, no longer within Blackwood. At this moment, young Joseph is still lying in a pit.


    [Your descendant Joseph, who has slept for three years, gains the trait: Serene Detachment]


    [He desires nothing, chases neither fame nor fortune, and avoids conflicts. His insight has increased by 30%!]


    Joseph''s realm has fallen to the early stages of Emerging Ability, still youthful in appearance. Ethan wonders when Joseph''s study of the "Great Dream of the Ancient God" will end.


    Seeing that the children are safe, Ethan is about to switch the view.


    He freezes as a Blackwood servant rushes over, whispering into Joseph''s ear, "Young master, the second young miss''s reputation is growing. Dawn has sent word that someone has challenged her to a duel.


    They say behind their challenger is a master of Developing Skill, seeing the second young miss''s naive nature, they wish to defeat her and have their disciple marry into our Blackwood family for profit."


    "Should we..."


    The servant''s face darkens, making a throat-slitting gesture.


    Joseph, without opening his eyes, breathes deeply, "No action needed, let Katie grow up and see the world''s wickedness. Send orders to slowly inform Katie of their plans, let her handle it herself. Make sure everything is arranged properly, don''t let my foolish sister get hurt."


    "Yes, young master!" The servant smiles slightly, "Afterwards, shall it be as before?"


    "Mm."


    Joseph turns over, "Leave no trace, make it clean."


    The servant hurries off, and moments later, from the headquarters of Dawn in Glory City to the halls of Grey Mist, masters scatter.


    "...What?"


    Ethan, watching this unfold on the screen, is stunned. It''s been a long time since he last checked in on Joseph.


    Though always seemingly lazy, Joseph has not been idle. Looking back at Joseph''s past experiences, one thing stands out.


    [Your descendant Joseph, influenced by many life experiences, although not wanting to become like his grandfather Michael or uncle Kenneth. As Jeffrey''s lineage grows and becomes more susceptible to deception, the family''s power also expands, attracting unseen elders and entangling them like omnipresent tentacles.]


    [He has learned to disguise like his maternal relatives, taking over the family''s power in the shadows, eliminating the relentless and greedy like flies.]


    [Trait gained: The Hidden Hand]


    "No wonder Blackwood has become the most powerful family in Cloudview County, free from the harassment of those with ulterior motives."


    Seeing this trait appear, Ethan is surprised for a long while, then smiles with relief, "These children are also slowly growing up, starting to silently share the family''s burdens. With this, I can let go and focus on the natural magic array."

 Chapter 262 - 262: Disaster! The Druids are invading

    Time trickles by slowly.


    [Azure Cloud Border]


    At this moment, Cloudview County is beginning its counterattack. One Psychic after another enters the Endless Forest, gradually gaining more territory and resources.


    Psychics from all over Cloudview County flock here, drawn by the war and the promise of abundant resources.


    At the location of Battle Oversight.


    Blackwood is executing the first step of their plan¡ªsupporting Starlight County from Cloudview County. This move is strategic; as Blackwood attempts to seize the natural magic array, the intense battle will distract the major tribes of Starlight County, easing pressure on Blackwood!


    With the arrival of Battle Oversight, these high-ranking officials from the dynasty have gained control over various powers. Even the seasoned elders and experts from Duke''s Mansion must obey the commands of Battle Oversight.


    Marcus, Jessica, and Edward are sitting inside the Battle Oversight headquarters. The overseer of this mission, a young and handsome man from the Emerald Empire''s imperial military, is named Clarence.


    He is over a thousand years old and exudes extreme elegance. Also present are other members of Battle Oversight, including Jimmy.


    Clarence looks around at the Blackwood members and smiles, "Oh? Cloudview County is supporting Starlight County? I''m afraid I''m powerless to assist."


    Upon hearing this,


    Jimmy looks surprised, "Lord Clarence, Cloudview County currently has the resources to spare for aiding Starlight County, which is crucial for eliminating the tribes within Starlight County. With their help, it would benefit the border conflicts of our Emerald Empire. Why do you say you are powerless?"


    "Ah, Mr. Martinez, you misunderstand. I too wish to see such a scenario unfold," Clarence sighs deeply.


    "But you are not aware, Mr. Martinez, that I recently received intelligence that the Druids in the Endless Forest are preparing to strike back. Cloudview County is in imminent danger and cannot afford any distractions."


    "Battle Oversight truly cannot retract the orders for all forces in Cloudview County to defend. You must understand, Mr. Martinez, the pressure on me is immense."


    "I..."


    Before Jimmy could say more, Jessica pulls him back and bows slightly to Clarence, "If that''s the case, we shall take our leave."


    As the Blackwood group leaves,


    Clarence''s expression darkens, "Interesting. Worthy of being the most reputable family in Cloudview County. I''ve only been here a short while, and Jimmy is already siding with you. All the major powers obey your commands. "


    "Am I, Clarence, the supreme commander of Battle Oversight, or are you, Blackwood, in charge? You just say the word, and Cloudview County is to support Starlight County? Do you think I''m just for show? That I''m blind? This is too much!"


    "Someone, pass down the order. The imperial capital''s Battle Oversight commands that the Druids of the Endless Forest are about to attack. All forces must be prepared and not slack off!"


    "Yes!"


    ...


    "Scoundrels."


    Leaving Battle Oversight, Donna clenches her fists, wishing she could smash the pretentious Clarence into the mud, "What resurgence of the Endless Forest Druids? The three tribes closest to Cloudview County are all busy building the natural magic array!"


    Jimmy glances back at Battle Oversight and scoffs, "It''s simple. Do you know that every time we venture into the Endless Forest, Cloudview County gains a wealth of natural treasures? Many of these treasures end up in the pockets of Battle Oversight. In just a few years, Clarence has gained more than he did in decades." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Pity, the man is short-sighted. He fears that if we help Starlight County, the Druids on the borders of Cloudview County will regain the upper hand, making our counterattacks more difficult. "


    "Even if supporting Starlight County leads to victory and both sides launch a joint counterattack, he doesn''t want it because then the Battle Oversight of Cloudview County would have to share the spoils with colleagues still in combat."


    Donna was stunned for a long time before she grasped the situation. She blurted out, "No wonder the Emerald Empire is getting beaten so badly by the Druids."


    Jimmy gave a bitter laugh, "If Clarence won''t issue the order, and Cloudview County can''t provide support, what should we do?"


    The members of Blackwood looked at each other and just smiled.


    Edward gazed into the distance, towards Blackwood''s Heavenly Justice Hall, where Betty stood! She was also looking towards Edward, instantly understanding his thoughts. A black Energy Stone appeared in her hand, and she silently muttered something.


    Seeing Jimmy still confused, Marcus raised an eyebrow, "Mr. Martinez, it seems you outsiders haven''t realized that here in Cloudview County, there has always been only one power that can control the narrative!"


    Hearing this, Jimmy''s heart raced, and he swallowed hard.


    "Everyone in Cloudview County listens to Battle Oversight because we, Blackwood, choose to be your friends, to give Battle Oversight face."


    "But now, Battle Oversight has chosen a different path."


    "Mr. Martinez, I''m sorry, I hope there are no friends of yours in Battle Oversight at this time."


    As Marcus''s words fell, shadows enveloped the entire border town!


    Having been the leader of The Oracle Chamber in over a dozen counties, he felt fear for the first time, and even a bit of relief.


    "Ding! Ding! Ding!"


    A bell rang out from nowhere, tolling nine times!


    All the Psychics in the border town stopped what they were doing and without hesitation started fleeing out of the town, with the slower ones being dragged along by the more powerful.


    Figures appeared from all directions around the border town, using a pre-prepared grand formation to shield all traces of activity within the town.


    The new Duke of Duke''s Mansion, Duke Kenneth, arrived on clouds along with four elders of the Competent Force!


    Ten Thousand Life Mountain''s Immortal Master, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s Elder Ralph, Azure Cloud Pavilion''s Jason... one by one, these powerful figures mockingly flew to the outskirts of Battle Oversight.


    "Boom!"


    Clarence burst out of the door, glaring angrily at these Competent Force elders from Cloudview County, realizing that these rascals were after his life!


    "Who dares! I am from the imperial military, I am the commander of Battle Oversight, you dare touch me..."


    "Boom!"


    The energy of the world erupted, and the air was thick with the intent to kill!


    The Blackwood members were still quietly walking out of the border town. Jimmy glanced back at the great battle, wiped the cold sweat from his forehead, "Truly, this is the land of the Mystic Alliance..."


    As they walked away, screams of terror came from inside the border town.


    "Disaster! The Druids are invading, the Druids are invading!"


    "Commander Clarence has been beheaded by three high priests from Starlight County, his body completely destroyed!"


    "We have suffered heavy casualties. Starlight County dares to kill our commander of Battle Oversight, this enmity must be avenged. Fellow Psychics of Azure Cloud, follow me to attack Starlight County!"


    Inside the border town, a large number of Psychics boarded their ability vessels, heading towards Starlight County.

 Chapter 263 - 263: Trait acquired—Kings Potential

    On the ground, Clarence, nearly defeated, stared blankly at the sky. The shouts of the Cloudview County Psychics were so loud that he couldn''t even grasp what was happening to him. He only felt someone grabbing his hand, dragging him along. Finally, he saw a silver coffin.


    "Mr. Nathan, we''ve brought the man to you. He''s still alive, but his Competent Force is crippled. We''ve trapped him with a secret method, so no matter what skills he has, he can''t escape."


    "Thank you all."


    "There''s no need for thanks. This guy came to our Azure Cloud acting all high and mighty. If it weren''t for the resources he could still provide for us, we would have executed him on the spot during our last trip to the Endless Forest! But these resources..."


    "Now, when Cloudview County is in such need, my Blackwood still has some reserves. The body of the Competent Force is enough. If we can extract some techniques and secrets from him, we will share them with you all."


    "Ha ha ha, Mr. Nathan is generous!"


    "I, Blackwood, still have urgent matters to attend to, so I will take my leave now. See you in Starlight County."


    "See you in Starlight County!"


    Clarence''s expression grew more desperate. He felt like he had come to the wrong place. His previous high status seemed like an illusion, like a dream that vanished in an instant. Cloudview County had a nice name, but in reality, it was a den of demons!


    [Congratulations, your family has obtained spoils of war.]


    [A half-dead mid-stage Competent Force Psychicx1]


    Ability vessels, flying swords, exotic beasts... Cloudview County''s massive army, like dark clouds, pressed towards the entire Starlight County!


    [Special Event¡ªSupport Starlight County]


    [To allow your family members to successfully seize the natural magic formation and resist the ninety-nine heavenly tribulations to break through the Competent Force, your family has joined the entire Cloudview County to support Starlight County and wage war against the Druids of Starlight County!]


    "Is this the influence of Blackwood now?"


    Ethan smiled broadly. He remembered how years ago, everyone in Cloudview County wanted to attack Blackwood, but now, with just one command from Blackwood, the members of Cloudview County even dared to kill officials from the imperial capital''s Battle Oversight!


    In the scene now.


    Edward and others followed the supporting army of Cloudview County. This support included half of Cloudview County''s top experts and thirty percent of its Psychics. Blackwood''s relative, the new Duke Kenneth, was also among them.


    Kenneth and Jimmy, the former and current leaders of The Oracle Chamber, stood together, exchanging glances with a hint of irony.


    "Edward, do you know why I support this action?" Kenneth asked, looking down at everything on the ground.


    Edward paused, continuing forward. He saw the scene in Starlight County was different from Cloudview County. Here, everywhere were ruins from battles, the remnants of walls seemed to bear the prosperous traces of human life that once thrived.


    Exotic beasts on the roadside were gnawing at the corpses, stirring an indescribable emotion in him, "Naturally, it''s for Cloudview County. Starlight County is close to Azure Cloud. If Starlight County falls, Cloudview County will be attacked from both sides."


    "That''s right."


    A satisfied smile appeared on Kenneth''s face, "For thirty years, everyone in Cloudview County has been fighting for their land, and we are all the same."


    "Behind us, we have our families, our friends, everything we know. But Cloudview County also has its citizens, who will continue from generation to generation. The greater the power, the greater the responsibility. We Psychics bear the future of the entire Cloudview County."


    Edward nodded slightly, still staring at the horrific scenes on the ground. Suddenly, he dashed down, rescuing a pair of children being chased by exotic beasts through the ruins.


    [Your descendant Edward has witnessed the people of Glory City fighting desperately against the Druids for their homeland over the years. He has seen the psychics of Cloudview County sacrifice everything, even the weakest citizens taking up arms to defend their homes, often discussing the major events of Cloudview County with his cousin Kenneth.]


    [Gradually, a belief formed in his heart: he wanted the people of Cloudview County to live a peaceful life, free from the disturbances of the Druids. Trait acquired¡ªKing''s Potential]


    [His charisma increased by 20%, his personal strength in leading psychics in battle increased by 20%, and the combat effectiveness of his subordinates increased by 3% under his leadership.]


    "Hmm? The Primordial Blood Tree really didn''t misjudge, are we from Blackwood about to see a rise of a noble?"


    Seeing Edward''s potential, Ethan was stunned.


    After all, it was through constant exposure that Edward had the deepest interactions with Martin, not just with Kenneth. Over the years, he was also greatly influenced by Betty.


    However, Ethan didn''t mind; each descendant had their own life to lead. As long as their actions weren''t too outrageous or harmful to the family''s interests, the family would fully support them.


    ...


    Time quickly passed, and the grand army of Cloudview County marched to Starlight County to join forces with the psychics there resisting the Druids. The previously losing battle quickly turned around, forcing the Druids to retreat and seek reinforcements from the Endless Forest at the border of Starlight County.


    The structure of Starlight County was similar to that of Cloudview County, with six major powers, their legacies varying in age. The strongest, the Arcane Society, had a legacy of just over a thousand years and comprised three Competent Forces.


    Their third-generation leader, Chuck, was only seven hundred years old, a peak Competent Force with no rivals in Starlight County.


    The Duke''s Mansion in Starlight County, led by the previous Duke Ed, contrasted sharply with Martin of Cloudview County; Ed had led his warriors to fight on the front lines at the start of the war!


    The noble Duke sacrificed himself to buy enough time for Starlight County''s defense, leading the Duke''s Mansion''s troops and perishing along with two Druid priests using a sacred relic.


    The current Duke, Jon, a young man of about 120 years old and at the peak of Developing Skill, was a supreme talent, known for his scholarly charm and wit. He was currently meeting with the major sects of Cloudview County, bowing to Kenneth,


    "Cloudview County''s aid in this time of crisis is deeply appreciated. Otherwise, the legacy of generations might have indeed ended in my hands."


    Kenneth smiled faintly, then pulled Jon aside to discuss something privately.


    Nate, who once pursued Katie in Blackwood and was Jon''s grandson, was now looking around anxiously and relieved in the crowd from Blackwood, finally asking Edward, "Sir, may I inquire how Miss Katie is doing?"


    ... S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Hearing this, Edward glanced at Nate, who had once pursued his daughter and was rumored to be somewhat of a playboy, and remained silent for a long time. He suddenly understood why Kenneth always seemed to harbor an inexplicable resentment towards him.


    Nate, unaware that Edward was Katie''s father, looked at Edward''s stern gaze, "Sir, why are you staring at me like that? I''m scared."


    "Brother, leave it to me."


    Donna, standing nearby, tugged at Edward''s sleeve and then turned to Nate with a gentle smile, "You must be Nate? I''m Katie''s aunt. I often hear Katie mention you."


    "Really?" Nate was overjoyed.


    "Really."


    Donna smiled slightly, not mentioning that Katie had once referred to ''some fool whose name she couldn''t remember, who got his face all messed up by her Sparkly Unicorn Bow,'' and mysteriously said, "Come, let''s go somewhere private, and I''ll explain things to you properly."


    The two walked away, and moments later.


    A bruised and trembling Nate followed Donna back.

 Chapter 264 - 264: People can be so devious, truly devious

    Duke Jon of Starlight County was taken aback when he saw his grandson''s condition. "Nate, what happened to you?"


    Before Nate could respond, Donna, who stood fearlessly by his side, was suddenly confronted by a figure that appeared before her. It was Chuck, the most powerful genius and warrior of Starlight County, and the leader of the Arcane Society.


    Chuck, a young man dressed in a black robe, who rarely smiled, immediately grabbed Donna''s wrist, his eyes flashing with excitement.


    "Young one, I felt your energy when you made your move. Such a solid physical training, possessing a Super Core, and the blood of the Azure Dragon! Excellent! Who is your master?"


    Seeing Donna still stunned, Chuck pressed on, "It doesn''t matter, just tell me who your master is, and I will challenge them. I want to see who dares to compete with me for disciples!"


    Donna remained silent for a long time before frowning and saying, "Buddy, who do you think you are?"


    Her dismissive response made the experts of Starlight County sweat, as Chuck had dominated the younger generation of the county in battles for centuries, and no one dared to speak to him in such a manner.


    Just when everyone feared a conflict might arise between the visitors from Cloudview County and the Arcane Society, Chuck''s mood surprisingly improved. "Good! A body cultivator uses strength to break magic, fearless and bold, that''s the spirit I want in a disciple. I''ve decided, you''re my disciple now!"


    He then stared emotionlessly at the people from Blackwood, "Any objections from you folks?"


    The people from Blackwood frowned slightly, realizing that Chuck genuinely admired Donna''s talents and wanted to take her as his disciple, despite his arrogance.


    Back at the screen, Ethan wore a peculiar expression, knowing that Chuck was indeed skilled but probably too arrogant from being unchallenged in Starlight County. "This attitude might cause trouble if Charlie Crackle, who sees Donna as his own, sees this. He''d probably fight Chuck over it."


    However, as Marcus was about to summon the Sky Palace, Donna revealed a sly smile and shook her head at the Blackwood crowd. Jessica, standing nearby, smirked like a cunning fox.


    [Your descendant Jessica had already thoroughly investigated the forces of Starlight County. She knew of Chuck''s great strength and arrogant nature, and that he lacked a worthy disciple to pass on his mantle.]


    [Together with Donna, they planned to expose Donna''s physical training aura if they encountered Chuck, knowing he disliked the weak. By acting recklessly, Donna won Chuck''s favor and gained entry into the Arcane Society to inherit Chuck''s mantle.


    This would ensure Blackwood''s support in Starlight County and help the family control the county''s powers through Donna''s new status as Chuck''s direct disciple.]


    [Your descendant Donna has acquired a new identity as Chuck''s first disciple and a direct disciple of the Arcane Society!]


    Watching Jessica''s calm and smiling face, and Donna, who proudly agreed to become a disciple of the Arcane Society, along with Chuck, who laughed heartily, unaware of the scheme, Ethan''s expression turned complex.


    It turned out that Jessica had completely uncovered Chuck''s background and even manipulated his temperament.


    "It''s all a plot. Donna intentionally fought Nate to catch Chuck''s attention!"


    "People can be so devious, truly devious," Ethan sighed deeply. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In the crowd, Kenneth and Jimmy exchanged glances, and Jimmy glanced at Jessica and said resignedly, "There are indeed some bad folks in Blackwood."


    As the forces from Cloudview County rushed to Starlight County, the Blackwood clan members scattered throughout the region, meticulously setting up their strategies to aid Amelia in overcoming a formidable challenge known as the "Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations."


    Even the old friends from Cloudview County were clueless about the Blackwoods'' activities. The Blackwoods moved like ghosts, their actions shrouded in secrecy, revealing nothing of their whereabouts.


    Meanwhile, outside the Natural Magic Formation, someone had been watching for a whole month. Sometimes transforming into a large tree, sometimes merging with the earth, and at other times becoming a bird. This time, emerging from the rocky soil, he silently slit the throat of a passing Druid, another dagger piercing directly into the Druid''s spiritual core, extinguishing his soul.


    William!


    Now, he was dressed in the Druids'' garb, his body marked with their inscriptions, exuding their very essence.


    "Brother, I think I want to return to the tribe. Just last year, the chief gave me two wives. I''ve been here for a few years now, and who knows if they''re still waiting for me," he lamented in the tribe''s unique accent to his ''good friend'' while they patrolled together at noon.


    [Your descendant William has observed for a month, mastering the tribe''s accent, gathering information on some of the tribe members, their relationships, and customs...]


    [He has acquired a new identity: Druids'' Mountain Patrol.]


    [Your descendant William is now relaying information about the Natural Magic Formation back to the family.]


    The family often overlooked William when assigning tasks. His past actions were somewhat unreliable, and even after emptying his Storage Ring, it would soon fill up again with new ''spoils of war.'' He even had a trait known as ''Head Collector,'' which made assigning him tasks a risky affair.


    However, in Ethan''s view, William was making earnest efforts to integrate into the family. Although most of the family didn''t trust him, he still silently took on the role of a spy in the most dangerous locations.


    But most of the family didn''t know that after being exposed years ago in The Oracle Chamber by Stephen, William had become more cautious, managing to restrain himself from killing during his undercover missions.


    As for stabbing his fellow clansmen in the back... that little rascal still entertained the thought occasionally.


    ...


    With the arrival of reinforcements from Cloudview County, a fierce battle erupted just outside the borders of Starlight County. Duke Jon, with the help of Cloudview County, led the first counterattack with the experts of Starlight County.


    Unbeknownst to them, a strange force was at work!


    Dawn!


    This assassin group, formed by Olivia over 120 years ago, had silently infiltrated Starlight County. Their mission this time was not to kill. Some of them followed the experts of Starlight County in battle, quietly remaining in the background, collecting the bodies of the deceased.


    They silently passed through areas damaged by the battle, collecting all the bodies they came across into their Storage Rings.


    In a secluded valley within Starlight County, the air was thick with the stench of decay. Occasionally, figures in black appeared, their Storage Rings glowing as they dropped body after body into the valley.


    These bodies transformed into a black light, absorbed by a silver coffin at the center of the valley.


    [Death Coffin, Fourth Layer: Endless Sea of Death]


    At that moment, Nathan was sitting cross-legged in the center of the Sea of Death, surrounded by mists formed from the deathly energy that shaped into roaring dragons in the sky.


    Floating above was a small coffin, inside which lay Gary, her breath now reaching the mid-stage of Competent Force. The deathly dragons formed from the mist furiously surged into her body, as if preparing her for a great terror upon awakening.

 Chapter 265 - 265: Evacuate within a year or die!

    On all sides of the Endless Sea of Death stood four zombies!


    Cynthia, who was once beaten half to death outside the former Glory City, the headless high priest Clark, Luke, Michael, and the commander of Battle Oversight, Clarence.


    "Two Sky Corpses have already been successfully refined."


    Ethan clicked on the information for these zombies. Druid priestess Cynthia had naturally been refined long ago. This female Sky Corpse was now ghostly pale, dressed in a white gown, truly spectral. Pieces of Blackwood, obtained after killing Druid masters, floated behind her like a halo, forming a circle. Totems surrounded her, swirling around her.


    [Junior Sky Corpse: Light]


    [Dark Magic: Eight Trigrams Barrier Technique (predicting the opponent''s use of natural energy with a snap of the fingers), Dark Energy Prison Technique (using predictive Turtle Shells and Druid totems to trap enemies with the power of nature)]


    These half-dead zombies, Nathan always managed to make great use of them, a unique effect of the supreme ability treasure, Death Coffin. The former priestess Cynthia, now the Light Zombie, was even stronger than before!


    After transforming into Sky Corpses, some of their life''s techniques lingered and merged with the energy of death!


    As for Luke? S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Luke was once at the peak of Competent Force. Nathan could not use Luke''s full strength, nor could he control his Competent Force. Even with the help of Death Coffin, he could only exert the mid-stage power of Luke''s Competent Force.


    [Intermediate Sky Corpse: Luke]


    [Dark Magic: Ghost Mountain (Summoning the mountain with the energy of death to fight)]


    Even with just one Dark Magic, Luke was still incredibly powerful. The Jade Mountain where Clark was stationed was Luke''s technique, and now it could still summon the Jade Mountain, only now the natural energy was replaced by the energy of death.


    Luke''s head had long been used to sacrifice Nicholas. Now headless, clad in armor, wielding two supreme ability weapons, ghost-headed greatswords, his combat power was formidable.


    Besides, there were two other recently collected corpses.


    [Zombie Clarence: In the process of being refined]


    [Zombie Michael: In the process of being refined]


    "Almost there, three years, after three years my Four Symbols Death Energy Formation will be complete, summoning the Sea of Death, and I can fight a high priest alone!"


    Nathan''s eyes shone brightly, those corpses falling into the Endless Sea of Death, the energy of death falling into the bodies of the two new Sky Corpses.


    Even Nathan''s old friends, who knew him well, had never seen such a bizarre moment from him. For Amelia, he had once again done something against his will, indiscriminately bringing back the bodies of the dead and refining their unique souls!


    No one in Cloudview County knew.


    This time, supporting Starlight County, one of the goals in Blackwood''s plan was to attract attention, allowing Nathan to collect and refine corpses!


    ...


    "Nathan refining the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation can fight a high priest, but there are still two people, and several priests."


    Ethan watched the progress of his people, extremely anxious.


    Three years, for him, was just three or four hours!


    Soon they would face powerful enemies in the natural magic formation, unable to seek help from Cloudview County and Starlight County. Just like Arnold of White, only a few people in their three tribes knew, and they didn''t even trust people from other tribes.


    Blackwood was no different; before crossing the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations, any minor mistake could lead to total defeat!


    [Your descendant George, with the help of Jessica and Kenneth, has asked experts from major sects to guard one side, taking advantage of the absence of Starlight County''s experts on the battlefield, and begins digging at the resting places of the ancestors of the major sects.]


    "Sages, are you sure there are high sages in their graves?" George asked nervously to the Sages around him, "Our elders, brothers, and sisters are all counting on us. If we can''t stop a high priest, that would be a big problem. Sages, I''m under a lot of pressure."


    With that, many Sages from Azure Cloud Pavilion were displeased.


    "What''s the problem with this kid? No matter what, our Azure Cloud Pavilion has been around for over a hundred thousand years. We old timers were once renowned figures. Starlight County is nothing compared to us; they can''t hide anything from our eyes."


    "Right, we still need to visit the Eight Directions Pavilion. Even though they''re gone, we should check if their secret realms are still there. If they are, heh, the herbs in those realms must be thousands of years old, some even reaching the sixth or seventh grade!"


    "And don''t forget the Shadow Hunter Sect! That sect is also gone, but I heard they had high-level supernatural equipment. I''ve been envious of it since my living days, but out of respect, I never dared to take it. Now that we''re digging it up, it''s not too much, right?"


    "Don''t worry, just leave it to us old folks, and you just wait to get rich."


    "..."


    Ethan stared blankly at this scene. He remembered when he first unearthed these old men; they were all fighting for the future of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, grooming George to be the next master of the Pavilion. Now, it seems that with the Pavilion stable, they follow George around, tomb raiding even more diligently than him.


    According to them, tomb raiding is like opening mystery boxes or scratching lottery tickets; it''s addictive and always yields something exciting for sages as old as they are.


    They''re even waiting for George to help them restore their fragmented souls and find new bodies. However, reaching their level, the moment of restoration also means facing a thunder tribulation, which is ten times more difficult with a soul body.


    ...


    [Your descendant Lucas, along with The Celestial Star Swordmaster, is heading to Sword Mountain...]


    [Your descendant Julian, carrying years of accumulated supernatural puppets, is heading to the Endless Forest...]


    [Your descendant Justin is secretly calling trusted experts from the family for help!]


    [...]


    Jimmy said it would be nearly impossible for Amelia to take over Arnold''s natural magic array, but he underestimated Blackwood; Blackwood is preparing!


    They have a clear division of labor. Nathan, George, and Azure Dragon can each hold off a high priest.


    Charlie Crackle, Luna, Lucas, and The Celestial Star Swordmaster... along with Blackwood''s many friends and the experts Blackwood has controlled over the years, are enough to withstand the rest.


    They are secretly making all the preparations!


    Two years have passed in the blink of an eye.


    All eyes in Blackwood are now on the natural magic array, and everyone is heading there!


    But as they approached, the Forebearer Psychic Position rose around them, and they all stopped in their tracks with grim expressions.


    Then they took a deep breath and surrounded the location of the natural magic array. They didn''t hide their presence as planned, nor did they prepare to catch the Druids off guard.


    On this day.


    All the Battle Oversight from the borders of the Emerald Empire led their members to retreat inward.


    Masses of people were evacuating, the battle at the borders of Starlight County ceased, and the two major forces of Starlight County, as well as some forces from Cloudview County, returned home in defeat.


    Ethan watched the screen with a grim expression.


    [Special Mission¡ªKill national advisor Lance, Failed!]


    [This year, the demon race invaded the western part of the Druids, forcing the Druids to divert their attention westward. National advisor Lance seized this opportunity to secretly negotiate with the Druids, offering twelve border counties in exchange for a thousand-year peace between the Emerald Empire and the Druids.]


    [The Druids gave the human inhabitants of the twelve border cities two choices: evacuate within a year or die!]


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan clenched his teeth in frustration. They had prepared for so long, and Blackwood was still fighting for their homeland. After their great victory in Cloudview County, they had made various plans, standing at the pinnacle of Azure Cloud. Nicholas even sacrificed his life for the current situation!


    But fate is unpredictable, and they still couldn''t prevent their downfall. Lance''s single decision made all their efforts seem laughable.


    Everyone in Blackwood looked at the natural magic array, their eyes filled with reluctance.

 Chapter 266 - 266: Today they were cowards

    At that moment, within the grand natural magic formation, three high priests of the Druids stood before a young man named Arnold.


    Arnold was a robust figure, bare-chested with a large totem on his back, exuding immense pride.


    Suddenly, the appearance of Blackwood''s forces caught the Druids off guard, causing them to sweat profusely.


    "Blackwood''s people? How did they appear without a sound? How did they know about our movements?"


    "High Priest, the area outside the natural magic formation is swarming with Blackwood''s forces, and they''re positioned at our weakest defenses!"


    "Ha ha ha, so what? The tribe has received word that the Emerald Empire has offered land for peace! They wouldn''t dare attack us. Now, the major powers from each county are fleeing into the Emerald Empire. If they attack us, the Emerald Empire won''t shelter them. On the ceded lands, they''re on a path to doom!"


    Outside the natural magic formation.


    Amelia watched the Druids'' arrogant celebration after their narrow escape.


    She looked at her father and grabbed his arm, which was clenched in fists.


    Shaking her head with a smile, she said, "Dad, let it go. I''m not in a hurry, let''s go home."


    "Go home..."


    These words relaxed Nathan''s tense muscles.


    He glanced at Amelia, ignoring the laughter of the Druids, and nodded slightly, "Alright, let''s go home." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Nathan turned to leave, the people of Blackwood took one last deep look at the natural magic formation, exhaling deeply before turning away.


    Blackwood had not failed; they had not been defeated by the Druids, nor had the border counties of the Emerald Empire.


    They had been defeated by Lance!


    On the same day, deep within the unnoticed Thunderfire Demon Cave, in an abyss that seemed bottomless, a pair of bright, beautiful eyes opened.


    "My disciple Amelia is facing the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Tribulations without even consulting me, truly not considering her master at all."


    "She really forgot about this great support she has in me."


    As the royal decree arrived, the flames of war in the border town of Starlight County were extinguished.


    The Druids, who had been driven out by the joint forces of Starlight County and Cloudview County, now strutted proudly outside the town, taunting the Psychics who flew above the city walls on their swords.


    Just moments ago, these Druids had fled with their tails between their legs.


    At this time, the Psychics, who had just been celebrating their victory, now only had despair and unwillingness in their eyes.


    Duke Jon of Starlight County held the royal decree with a grim expression.


    It read:


    [By the grace of the ancient god, who cannot bear to see the borderlands suffer, permission is granted for the twelve border counties to evacuate...]


    Donna, known for her fiery temper and still stained with the blood of an enemy chieftain she had killed on the battlefield, cursed loudly, "To hell with the grace! We were winning, so many lives forever lost on the battlefield, and this damn decree stops us from fighting, leaving us isolated and helpless, damn ancient god!"


    "Disciple, watch your manners!"


    Chuck frowned, walked up to Jon, snatched the decree, and with his psychic powers, burned it promptly.


    "It seems our ancient god is a coward, no wonder the Emerald Empire has made little progress in twenty thousand years. Duke, what do you think we should do next?"


    Jon watched the flames consuming the decree and sighed deeply.


    This decree had caught everyone off guard.


    Before this, he had been preparing to support other counties with all the righteous fighters once Starlight County had secured victory.


    He had seen hope!


    But now...


    He took a deep breath, "Starlight County has been my Walker family''s home for twenty thousand years. To see such a foundation destroyed on my watch, I truly do not know how to face my ancestors. Uncle Kenneth, what about you? Evacuate?"


    "I don''t know."


    Kenneth shook his head, and they all stepped outside, where the sight of the borderlands filled them with despair.


    Everyone was evacuating!


    In the distance, Psychics panicked and fled.


    On the ground, an old man covered in blood and wounds knelt, holding an urn.


    His face, obscured by dirt, clutched desperately at the trousers of a passing Psychic, his voice cracking as he shouted, "Don''t go! We''ve made it into the Endless Forest, stay and fight with us, let''s push further into the Endless Forest!"


    "Old man, we don''t have the right to fight anymore. The imperial capital has ordered, we have no support!"


    The Psychic initially wanted to push the old man away, but seeing him holding the urn, he gritted his teeth, helped the old man up, and said, "Come on, we''re both men, let''s evacuate first, and one day..."


    He wanted to say they''d return when they were more useful, but feeling the old man''s weakening body, he swallowed his words and just pulled him to evacuate.


    The old man''s mournful cries still echoed in his ears, "Brother, I can''t leave, we can''t leave! My wife, my children were all killed by the Druids in our village, I still need to avenge them, I still need to defend our village. We can''t go! On the road of evacuation, the people in the village will starve, they won''t survive..."


    Passing Psychics heard the old man''s cries and gradually stopped in their tracks, their eyes and brows lowered.


    At this moment, they suddenly remembered why they had joined this war.


    The world was so vast, they had their skills, they could go anywhere, they didn''t have to fight, was it really just for those resources?


    Who in their right mind would fight to the death for such trivial things?


    No matter how selfish they were, even admitting they were villains at times.


    But they knew, this was their land, those damn Druids had stepped on their land, killed their people, destroyed all the hopes they had once had for this land, they had to take up arms!


    But now...


    "Ah."


    The surrounding Psychics were left with nothing but a long sigh, then they resumed their journey to flee.


    That decree didn''t just order them to evacuate; it destroyed all their morale.


    Few would fight a battle without hope, they had to admit, today they were cowards, and the day they would stand up again was far off.

 Chapter 267 - 267: 130000 years

    "Damn it, damn it! Damn it!!!" Donna roared in the great hall.


    Just days ago, this hall was filled with laughter from the victorious elders of the Competent Force, but now, it was shrouded in gloom, and they remained silent.


    The only sounds were Donna''s furious shouts and the noise of destruction!


    That royal decree...


    It had also shattered their spiritual resolve, leaving them powerless to stop it.


    They could traverse the universe with their psychic powers, yet they were unable to straighten their comrades'' broken spirits or win back the hearts of the people.


    They had once seen hope, but the disaster did not come from an enemy.


    ...


    Two years ago, the psychics of Cloudview County had set out with high spirits on their ability vessels, flying on swords from Cloudview County to aid Starlight County.


    The sky was filled with ability vessels, as if they were carrying the sun and hope on their backs.


    Now, they returned under a cloud of gloom.


    That day they had cheered as they left, but this time, they returned to Border Town in Cloudview County, heads down and silent.


    The towns of Cloudview County and Starlight County looked quite similar.


    The people of Blackwood also returned, everything ready, just waiting for the completion of the natural magic array.


    But with this terrible news, they dared not act.


    Now back in Border Town of Cloudview County, everyone''s faces were grim.


    They not only lost the natural magic array but also failed in their mission to help Amelia break through the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation.


    This meant that their thirty years of perseverance had turned to ash because of that royal decree.


    Two years ago.


    In this Border Town, they had conspired with the elders of the Competent Force and other powers to kill the enforcers from Battle Oversight.


    They had agreed to fight together in Starlight County, but they never met on the battlefield; instead, they returned together, disheveled.


    "130000 years," sighed Jason, the master of Azure Cloud Pavilion, who had once broken through the Competent Force and looked youthful despite his age.


    Now, he had aged significantly.


    He bowed to the others with a bitter smile, "130000 years, ruined by my hands. No more fighting... no more."


    With a long sigh, Jason led his disciples away from Azure Cloud Pavilion.


    130000 years, they had flourished, nearly destroyed by Elizabeth and Blackwood, yet they had also helped Blackwood in repentance.


    Jason had thought of the memories of Cloudview County, but those were past now.


    He only wanted Azure Cloud Pavilion to start anew, to be reborn from destruction as Stephen had once said.


    But no one expected this day to come.


    Jason''s departing figure was so forlorn.


    "Fellow Daoists, we have one more year," Leon Daoist said with a forced smile. "Have you thought about where to establish our new sect after we leave?"


    Everyone was silent.


    The Immortal Master of Ten Thousand Life Mountain tried to keep a cheerful face, "Once we reach the inner realms, those sect powers might ostracize us. In my view, we really need to cooperate sincerely, so when we look for a new place to practice, we won''t be bullied."


    "Iron Ridge is not bad; it''s deep in the mountains and forests, but it needs to be developed. We agreed that when the time comes, our younger generation will surely cause some trouble. They fight their own battles, which is also a form of training, but no matter what happens, we remain comrades, united..."


    Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s elder Ralph said earnestly, but as his voice fell, the Competent Force of Cloudview County remained silent, and Ralph said no more.


    It was a sunny day, but it felt unusually cold.


    The wind blew their robes, rustling.


    He could feel it; no one really wanted to leave!


    But they truly saw no hope, despair and fear crawled into everyone''s hearts like bone-deep maggots.


    For a long, long time, Leon, the elder, forced a smile. "Ralph is right, let''s choose Iron Ridge then."


    As soon as he finished speaking, all the venerable elders of the Competent Force turned their gaze towards the people of Blackwood.


    Silence enveloped today''s border of Azure Cloud; the people of Blackwood hung their heads, none speaking.


    In Cloudview County, known as the Blackwood Rock, Nathan clenched his fists, the sound of his coffin and corpse colliding behind him!


    "In-laws."


    Kenneth frowned deeply, "Before my father passed away, he had prepared a backup plan. Grand Tutor Gilbert has been fighting the demon tribes in the north for many years, and there''s plenty of new land there. Why not join me and go there?"


    As he spoke, he noticed the displeased looks from the venerable elders of the Competent Force.


    He forced a laugh and said, "You can all come with me, Martin. With our abilities, why worry about not flourishing in a new place?"


    As he spoke, everyone looked again towards the people of Blackwood.


    Nathan remained silent, and the people of Blackwood kept their heads down. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The entire atmosphere in Border Town thickened with the anger of the people of Blackwood, though no one knew where this anger stemmed from.


    But soon, that anger vanished.


    Nathan raised his head, bowed to the crowd with a gentle smile on his face, "Then let''s head north. Given the current situation, we truly have no power to turn back the tide."


    "The north is indeed a good place. We can continue there for ten thousand, a hundred thousand, or even longer years. On new land, there are new opportunities."


    "Even if not for ourselves, we should consider our descendants. Let''s not stay here any longer. Let''s go back, pack our bags, and set off as soon as possible."


    He was the first to bow to the crowd, "See you in the north."


    After speaking, Nathan and his wife gave their children at home a faint smile, said no more, and turned towards Glory City.


    The many venerable elders of the Competent Force watched the backs of the people of Blackwood for a long time, eventually sighing deeply together, bidding each other farewell, and preparing to leave.


    Behind them lay the ravaged Border Town, where they had fought, where their disciples had bled, where they had given everything unimaginable for the future of Cloudview County!


    The sun set in the west.


    Behind them were also the ruins of human cities, which, in the near future, would be covered by forests.


    The traces of their existence would be buried and forgotten with time.


    The blood that flowed on those lands and ruins would be covered by dust and erased by the years.


    Their efforts, over thirty years of sacrifice and struggle, had become meaningless.

 Chapter 268 - 268: They have everything they never dreamed of

    In Glory City, every citizen was busy packing up their valuable belongings.


    Despite the city''s population of over a hundred thousand, it was as silent as if everyone had suddenly become mute.


    If there was any talk, it was only in hushed whispers as people exchanged words while moving their possessions.


    The noise of moving items filled the air.


    That day, the lords and ladies of Blackwood returned with dire news.


    They declared that Cloudview County could no longer be defended and that it would soon be overwhelmed by the Druids.


    They spoke of a new land to the north, where Blackwood would lead them to settle and thrive, promising a life even more prosperous than that in Glory City.


    No one objected; they all knew that the fearless people of Blackwood would never abandon Glory City unless truly desperate.


    But then...


    "We swore an oath to protect Glory City no matter what! My father died for this city, Lord Nicholas endured disgrace for thirty years for it, we''ve all borne this disgrace for thirty years. Is there really no hope left?!"


    The new mayor, Marvin, his eyes red with emotion, challenged Edward, who was directing the evacuation of the vulnerable onto the ability vessel.


    But before he could finish, Edward clamped his hand over Marvin''s cheek, silencing him.


    Edward''s voice was strained as he hissed, "So what? You want everyone in Glory City to fight a battle we''re not sure to win? Look behind you. Do you want them to die in vain?"


    Marvin stiffly turned his head to look back at the weak and elderly, their eyes filled with reluctance but lacking the strength to fight.


    He knew that if the enemy breached the city, even these vulnerable souls would try to defend it.


    But to what end? Their deaths would be meaningless.


    "I''ll tell you what will happen next," Edward growled. "The ancient god has issued a royal decree. The people of Cloudview County, Starlight County, Cedar County, and many others will leave. In a year, the Druids from all around will converge without hesitation, fighting over this new land. Those who don''t escape will have nowhere to run, completely isolated."


    "Eventually, Cloudview County will fall to the Druids. Their experts in Basic Mastery will be unrestrained, crushing us as easily as one might crush ants. All our resistance will only serve as a mockery to our enemies. That''s the harsh reality."


    Edward sighed deeply, "It''s pointless. We have no other choice."


    Marvin collapsed to the ground, powerless.


    In the distance, a figure watched everything unfold.


    She was dressed in a tight black dress with intricate cutouts that accentuated her stunning figure, her pale, delicate legs visible beneath the hem, clad in high-heeled black leather shoes.


    Her long, cascading hair framed a face of exquisite beauty, her long lashes fluttering over her starry, peach-blossom eyes, which held a calm demeanor.


    "Blackwood has fallen," remarked Diana, the lord of Thunderfire Demon Cave, emerging from the abyss.


    Her lips parted slightly as she looked at Edward, "I''ve seen this young man in Thunderfire Demon Cave. Such a fine temperament. Julian is hot-headed, Daniel is cunning and deceitful, and then there are those two monks. I thought Blackwood was an extraordinary family, but now it seems they are truly desperate."


    She chuckled, "Well, it''s also good for me. Heading north will give me some peace, and slowly let Amelia heal me."


    With that, Diana blended into the crowd, moving freely among the people of Blackwood as if she were invisible, unseen by anyone.


    ...


    At night.


    In the Blackwood Shrine, Nathan, along with the descendants of Blackwood, kneels towards Ethan''s Psychic Position.


    Ethan watches all of this unfold.


    No one can predict the future, and Blackwood never imagined being betrayed by the empire.


    "Forebearer, I am sorry. I must leave our homeland, the place where we took root."


    Nathan sighs deeply.


    On the screen, Ethan shakes his head and bestows a ''Forebearer''s Caress'' upon the descendants of Blackwood. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thank you, Forebearer."


    Nathan takes a deep breath, then turns to the descendants behind him, a fierce look flashing in his eyes, "Kenneth told us to head north, and we should go. All the people of Glory City will move to the north. Luna, Jessica, Joseph, you will lead the people there."


    "Yes!" Jessica and Joseph frown.


    "George, you return to Azure Cloud Pavilion and become its master."


    "Justin, as a direct disciple of Black Tortoise, you must fulfill your duties."


    "Daniel, I want you to lead Dawn and the halls of Grey Mist to infiltrate the imperial capital!"


    "..."


    Nathan meticulously arranges tasks for each family member, even assigning himself the grim task of dealing with the aftermath.


    All the Blackwoods squint, understanding Nathan''s intentions.


    This scheme targets the entire Emerald Empire.


    Nathan, who has always delegated family affairs to his children, now takes matters into his own hands, each plan permeating the Emerald Empire!


    Soon, the Blackwoods nod and disperse into the night.


    ...


    In just one month.


    The once joyful and simple life of Glory City''s people is gone, but the streets remain clean and tidy.


    Over a hundred elderly who refused to leave sweep the streets.


    They say, at their age, they don''t have many days left and want to spend their last moments with Glory City.


    Suddenly.


    One elder''s movements freeze, his body trembling, his eyes red with disbelief, "Mas... Master!"


    Nathan!


    Having arranged everything and decided on another course of action, Nathan returns to Glory City a month after everyone has left.


    The surrounding elders approach Nathan, their eyes moist.


    One of them exclaims, "Master Nathan, why have you returned? Didn''t you go north with the children?"


    Nathan laughs, "If I didn''t tell them I was going north, would they have gone?"


    "Master, you..."


    As the elders are about to speak, Nathan simply shakes his head, "Enough, you old fellow, I remember you. Back when Glory City was still Gratitude Village, you were with me through Pine Forest Town. What did you say back then?"


    The elder, tears mixed with laughter, replies, "Master, back then I said, when I had nothing to eat, it was you who took me in. Now that I have everything, it''s time to repay you. I was lucky then, and that luck turned into an Emerging Ability."


    "Yes, you have everything now."


    Nathan sighs deeply, "Old friend, I never dreamed I''d see this day."


    "Enough talk, I need to walk around home again."


    That day, Nathan and the elders who stayed in Glory City walk through the city they built bit by bit, visiting every place, including the graves of Boar Monarch Pete and Nicholas.


    They reflect on how Glory City evolved from the small Gratitude Village, each brick and tile imbued with generations of effort.


    They have everything they never dreamed of.


    They are proud enough that this pride could accompany them into the soil, walking the path to the afterlife with heads held high, respectfully greeted by mythical guardians, and even speaking boldly in the face of death itself.


    Their lives were worthwhile, unregretful even for a bowl of Ferrywoman''s soup!

 Chapter 269 - 269: No one can step into our home!

    As the sun rises in the east, Nathan stands at the gates of Glory City. By his side is the Iron Forest Horse he tamed long ago in the Silver Iron Woods.


    "Old buddy, it''s been over a hundred years, your life is as tough as mine," Nathan grins, pulling on the reins of the Iron Forest Horse. He has kept this old fellow for over a century; though no longer needed, he continued to care for him. Unfortunately, despite reaching the peak of mythical beasts, he could progress no further, yet he still accompanies him.


    "Huff!"


    The Iron Forest Horse turns its head and glares at Nathan, as if to say, ''You old thing, watch your words.''


    Behind him, the elderly of Glory City, regardless of gender, don their long-stored armor!


    "Let''s go, old horse. You were quite timid back in the day, now accompany me on this journey!"


    "Neigh!"


    Nathan mounts, and with a kick from the horse''s front legs, they head towards the sun.


    As the Iron Forest Horse neighs, it carries Nathan forward, step by step, just like the old days.


    Behind them, the faces of the elderly left in Glory City beam with pride. Facing the sunlight, they follow Nathan, fearless as they were in their youth, stepping towards Border Town.


    They are aged.


    But now, they are filled with nothing but passion and excitement!


    At the end of their lives, their old master is just as he was back then, not abandoning a single one of them.


    Their old master has not forgotten their promise; they will defend this land with their lives, protect their children, and forge a future for them.


    The journey from Glory City to Border Town takes them two full months!


    Nathan stands atop the wall.


    The subordinates of Glory City, clad in their heavy armor, stand at the edge of the city wall, just as they once defended their village in Gratitude Village. Nathan even sees an old buddy who, at the moment he stands on the wall, has closed his eyes forever, yet still clutches his rusty iron spear tightly!


    Nathan''s nose tingles, but he clenches his teeth and does not let the old buddy lie down. He shouts to everyone.


    "People of Gratitude Village!"


    "We now stand atop the wall of Border Town, our homeland lies behind us. Today, I ask you to stand with me, to live or die with our homeland!"


    "To hell with the Emerald Empire!"


    "To hell with the Druids!"


    "Everyone, brace yourselves. As long as I, Nathan, am alive, they cannot breach our home!"


    The summer night sky is filled with stars, and a cool breeze sweeps over the wall of Border Town. Nathan''s shouts echo loudly.


    Before them lies the Endless Forest, and before them, no enemies.


    Yet the villagers of Gratitude Village, though near the end of their lives, still raise their torches high, roaring towards the sky.


    "Yes!"


    "No one can step into our home!"


    Summer had passed, and deep autumn had arrived, bringing with it the rustling of falling leaves.


    In the town of Azure Cloud Border, unexpected visitors had arrived. They were the same Druid factions that had once invaded Cloudview County, including many skilled Druid masters from that day''s grand natural magic formation.


    "Is that Blackwood Nathan?"


    Amidst the chilly autumn breeze, the genius Arnold White, along with the High Priest of White and many other priests and chiefs, stood at a distance from Border town. They gazed up at the firm figure of Nathan atop the wall, and the old men standing straight with their spears. Even though they were enemies, every one of the Druids couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of awe and admiration.


    They clearly remembered that the people of Blackwood had tried to seize their grand natural magic formation.


    In recent days, their tribesmen who had ventured into Cloudview County were slain by Nathan on the spot. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, they had come to avenge their kin, but upon seeing Nathan standing on the wall, dressed in simple clothes and holding only a spear, they found themselves unable to attack.


    They just stared blankly at Nathan on the wall, and the old men behind him.


    "Enemies!"


    "Quick, beat the drums, prepare for battle!"


    "Blackwood, undefeated in battle!"


    Though they were only about a hundred in number and appeared pitifully few atop the walls of Azure Cloud Border town, these old men in heavy armor quickly prepared for battle. Their aged faces and cloudy eyes suddenly filled with a fierce determination!


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    The old men were beating the drums!


    They were few and seemed frail, almost too weak to withstand the cool autumn breeze, yet they showed no fear, ready to fight at any moment!


    The sound of the drums reached Arnold, who stood shirtless, his body covered in tattoos and carrying a totem on his back. He was momentarily stunned.


    He had heard the stories of Blackwood, of Nicholas who alone charged at Clark, sounding the horn for Cloudview County''s counterattack, and of Blackwood''s frenzied fighting in the great battle. But those were just stories. Only today did he truly understand what Blackwood really was!


    There stood Nathan, in the center of the town, gripping an ordinary spear, his jaws clenched tight, the autumn breeze blowing through his long hair. This man, who looked like a mere farmer, was the backbone of Cloudview County!


    "High Priest, fellow priests."


    Arnold took a deep breath, his body trembling, "Let''s leave, let''s not step into Cloudview County. No, never step into Cloudview County. I do not wish to provoke such an enemy."


    The High Priest of White frowned deeply, giving Nathan one last look. Nathan''s piercing gaze was fixed on him!


    He exhaled deeply and nodded slightly.


    "Arnold, High Priest! Why? Why are we leaving? That''s Nathan! The ancestor of Blackwood! Whether we capture him or kill him, it would avenge Clark and represent honor..."


    One priest reluctantly looked back at Nathan standing on the wall.


    But before he could finish, the High Priest of White had already slapped him across the face, the sound crisp and clear.


    The priest''s cheek reddened, his teeth clenched as he looked at Nathan, the High Priest''s solemn voice echoing in his ears.


    "Do you want to kill him? Do you want us, the White, to always be wary of Blackwood seeking revenge for Nathan? Do you understand what kind of family this is? Can you guarantee that aside from Nicholas and Nathan, there are no more like them in Blackwood?"


    "And the old men from Glory City, they too have children! They are old yet fearless of death, can you ensure their descendants won''t be such fearless warriors?"


    "We can provoke the Emerald Empire, they lack backbone, but we..."


    "Cannot provoke Blackwood."


    These pressing questions stunned the priest, his gaze at Nathan slowly turning to fear.


    His reluctance faded, leaving only a long sigh as he departed with his tribesmen.


    Behind them.


    The old men from Glory City returned to their posts, weapons in hand, vigilant against any enemies that might come from the Endless Forest. Nathan, atop the city gate, slightly loosened his grip on the spear, his gaze still sharp and alert.


    Below the city gate.


    A figure lazily leaned against the wall, watching the departing Druids, her eyebrows slightly raised in disappointment, "They''re leaving? I thought I might get to stretch my muscles a bit."

 Chapter 270 - 270: Cloudview Countys Last Hope

    Time slowly passed, from early autumn to late autumn. Weeds grew rampant in Border town, and dead leaves fell in the Endless Forest, rustling as they descended.


    Since the White family''s forces arrived, three months have passed. More and more Druids have been coming to Cloudview County. Yet, without exception, none have crossed from Border town into Cloudview County. They all choose to stay outside Border town, not daring to enter Cloudview County from any other direction.


    Nathan''s Competent Force was on patrol, and any Druid daring to step into Cloudview County would meet their end on his spear!


    Even so, not a single Druid High Priest or celebrant dared to confront Nathan.


    He stood alone in Border town, blocking more than a million Druids.


    Nathan had become the most majestic sight in Border town. Clad in simple clothes, he stood firm against the wind and rain, spear in hand, leading a group of weary old men.


    His presence was etched into every Druid''s heart, as if with him there, no one could cross this towering mountain!


    "Mr. Nathan, please step back. We of the White wish to be eternal friends with your Blackwood!"


    "Yes, Mr. Nathan, I, Harris, feel the same. What is there in the Emerald Empire worth guarding? Please, step back."


    "What''s the point of your persistence?!"


    The two Druid High Priests levitated, trying to persuade Nathan. They had many masters and had prepared for many days; they could easily kill Nathan if they attacked together, yet they resorted to pleading in low voices.


    Nathan remained silent, his quiet gaze deafening as he stared at these powerful beings.


    Below the city, a dense army of Druids gathered. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, he remembered a royal decree from months ago. He couldn''t stop the downfall of Cloudview County; Blackwood had to retreat, but he could not!


    His family''s influence had grown, and he had once declared that everyone in Glory City would protect their homeland with their lives, but under the overwhelming circumstances, his family had broken their promise.


    He had to stand out; he had to guard Cloudview County until the last moment.


    When news of his death spread, no one would care if Blackwood had broken their promise; they would remember Nathan standing at the borders of Cloudview County, fighting for their homeland until his last breath.


    "One day..."


    Nathan smiled, waiting for the Druids below to charge.


    "One day my children will grow strong, and the old friends who left Cloudview County will also grow strong. Our descendants will pass down these stories."


    "They will know that there was someone named Stephen in Cloudview County who died for it."


    "Many sects in Cloudview County fought for over thirty years to protect this land, shedding their ancestors'' blood."


    "They will remember, we of Blackwood had someone named Nicholas, who endured humiliation for thirty years to bring us victory."


    "And me, Nathan..."


    Nathan''s eyes sparkled, "I stand on this wall, fearless against a million Druids, dying with our homeland!"


    "My descendants, the future generations of Cloudview County, will carry all these memories. Under the leadership of my Blackwood, they will return to this land, drive out all enemies, and bring renewal!"


    "The sacrifices of Cloudview County over these years will not have been in vain!"


    He stood before a million Druids.


    He stood on the wall, appearing so frail, like a grain of sand about to be submerged.


    But he was a pillar holding up the sky, supporting the future of the entire Cloudview County!


    ...


    [Your descendant Nathan, leading the elderly left in Glory City, goes to defend Azure Cloud Border town!]


    [He decides to sacrifice his life, becoming a memory for the descendants of Cloudview County, awakening their belief to return to their homeland, setting their goal to return to Cloudview County. Trait gained: Cloudview County''s Last Hope]


    [On the land of Cloudview County, combat power increases by 30%, prestige by 50%!]


    Ethan, in front of the screen, watched everything unfold.


    Withdrawing from Cloudview County was Nathan''s lie, this guy who had been honest all his life, this was his first time deceiving the children, the first time lying to Luna.


    "At such an old age, why so foolish?"


    Ethan held the mouse, his finger on the skill button.


    He didn''t try to stop him; he knew it was futile. The children had grown up and become stubborn, with their own thoughts and their own convictions.


    Ethan took a deep breath, shifting the view to the outskirts of Border town. He murmured softly, "Nathan, oh Nathan, do you really think you can hide your plans from me, from Luna and the kids? You''re not exactly the sharpest tool in the shed."


    There stood a tall tower!


    The autumn breeze fluttered a woman''s simple attire. This woman, with her enchanting beauty, carried a silver coffin on her back. She had been standing on that tower for who knows how long, gently gazing at Nathan''s figure on the city wall.


    Death Coffin, truly Nathan''s unique treasure, sensed his presence, causing the coffin lid to tremble.


    Luna reached back to touch the coffin lid, smiling slightly, "You''re upset too, aren''t you? It seems when men get powerful, they turn bad, learning to abandon their families."


    The coffin lid trembled even more violently.


    "Let''s go, we''re going to settle the score with him!"


    As her words fell, Luna rose into the air, her presence overwhelmingly mystical!


    All the Druids outside Azure Cloud Border town looked up, watching Luna descend like a fairy from the heavens!


    "Madam!"


    The elderly men of Glory City on the city walls were all stunned, saluting Luna in unison.


    "Luna, how... how did you get here?"


    Nathan''s face changed as Luna appeared beside him, glaring at him furiously, causing him some panic.


    "What do you think?"


    Luna looked up at her husband, her fists clenched in anger, ready to punch Nathan, but then her fists slowly relaxed. She touched Nathan''s face, her voice tender, "Fool, don''t you dare leave me behind. Whatever it is, we''ll face it together."


    She had seen through her husband''s intentions early on but chose not to expose him, not even to their children.


    She came without any regrets!


    What Druids? What Emerald Empire?


    None of that mattered anymore. Whether in life or death, she would be by her husband''s side, just as they had been through the years.


    "Luna."


    That day, the hundreds of elders from Glory City, along with a million Druids, all stared blankly at the couple on the city walls. The autumn breeze was cool, and as the couple looked into each other''s eyes, no one else existed in their gaze.


    "..."


    Their Forebearer, Ethan, was also watching. He suddenly took a gulp of water, for even though he hadn''t eaten anything, the sweetness was overwhelming, sweet enough to choke him.

 Chapter 271 - 271: Master, what are we really afraid of?!

    [Your daughter-in-law Luna, well aware of Nathan''s intentions, did not expose him but came to join her husband in facing death! The couple gained the trait: Till Death Do Us Part]


    [United as a couple, their strength is unbreakable. Together in battle, their combat power increases by 10%, and their speed of cultivating psychic powers increases by 20%]


    "???"


    Ethan''s face twisted in agony, enduring another day tormented by the couple''s unyielding bond.


    In the scene.


    Nathan, realizing it wasn''t the time for tender moments, locked eyes with Luna for a long time before frowning, "Luna, why are you here? What about the children?"


    "They don''t know."


    Luna looked down at the countless Druids below the city walls, her voice soft but fearless, "But my dear, you can''t hide it from them forever. The children have grown up, and except for Julian and his seven kids, I guess each of them knows what you''re thinking."


    Nathan took a deep breath.


    He stared at the Druids, who could attack Cloudview County at any moment, and took the Death Coffin from Luna, his voice deep, "Then I hope they understand the meaning behind my actions and don''t do anything foolish. Death Coffin, after our death, follow our bloodline to find our children, and forever fight for Blackwood."


    As if understanding Nathan''s words, the Death Coffin trembled, and inside, the Sky Corpses suddenly opened their eyes and knelt on one knee in the boundless sea of death.


    ...


    In the Thunderfire Demon Cave, four Psychics flew on their swords!


    They headed towards the deepest abyss of the demon cave, where Amelia emerged from the darkness, her brows slightly furrowed, "Brother, I couldn''t find the master."


    "If we didn''t find him, then we didn''t find him."


    Lucas squinted slightly, "It''s fate, then there''s truly no other way."


    Julian clenched his teeth, "What fate? Dad tricked us and went to risk his life alone. Brother, we shouldn''t care about anything else. It''s just the Druids, right? We just need to fight!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had come along, was silent for a long time before finally deciding to clear his throat, "Ahem, I still want to ask where Olivia is?"


    "..."


    This question from The Celestial Star Swordmaster silenced the three siblings, their eyes fixed on him, making his scalp tingle.


    Finally, he waved his hand, "Actually, I also know a Basic Mastery expert named Bill, who is cultivating psychic powers beneath the Lost Abyss. My master once took me to meet him. If we can persuade him to leave his retreat, with Bill''s skills, he could truly protect a county!"


    Ten days later.


    In a deep mountain, the bottomless abyss looked like a gaping maw ready to devour anything, surrounded by dead things.


    Lucas, Amelia, and Julian stood outside the abyss.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster shouted, "Elder, our human borders are in great peril, and the Emerald Empire turns a blind eye! Before my master passed away, he brought me to meet you, saying you were the most chivalrous. The world is in chaos, and only a hero like you can save our twelve border counties from disaster! Please come out, elder!"


    "Once you emerge, even millions of Druids are mere ants before you, easily wiped out with a wave of your hand."


    "Compared to you, the so-called national advisor of the Emerald Empire is but mere dust. You should have come forth and looked down upon the imperial court long ago!"


    An echo came from the depths of the abyss.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster paused, looked at the Blackwood people staring intently at him, and frowned, "Why are you staring at me like that?"


    The three siblings shook their heads in unison, their eyes filled with amazement. If they hadn''t been traveling with The Celestial Star Swordmaster all this time, they might have thought he was possessed. He was usually so proud, but now... his flattery was loud and clear.


    Lucas suddenly froze, transmitting a message to his sister and brother, "It''s working, there''s a disturbance from below."


    Upon hearing this, Julian shouted.


    "Elder, come out! Let''s go beat those damned Druids together. The ancient god is no more; it''s time for you to ascend the throne!"


    Lucas bit his lip, his cheeks reddening slightly, and shouted with difficulty, "I''ve heard of your unparalleled abilities, elder. As soon as I arrived, I could feel the regal aura of your retreat. How can such a peerless talent be seen only by us? The world should also know how mighty you are, now is the perfect opportunity!" sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The aura from below the abyss, with each praise, pulsed like a rekindled heart!


    A pair of bright eyes slowly opened in the darkness.


    ...


    In the valley of Sunshine Prefecture, numerous ability vessels lay dormant.


    Lord Jesse of Sunshine Prefecture frowned upon these vessels and the tents that nearly filled the valley, all belonging to people from Cloudview County and Glory City, as well as various factions from Blackwood.


    Originally headed north, they had long stationed themselves in Sunshine Prefecture without departure.


    Initially, Lord Jesse feared that the people from Blackwood might pose a threat to Sunshine Prefecture, given Blackwood''s notorious reputation.


    Now, all he could do was sigh deeply.


    In the valley, Daniel from Blackwood was speaking to the newcomers from Glory City.


    Carrier pigeons flew out of the valley, heading towards all corners of the Emerald Empire.


    Around the valley, the people from Glory City silently sat around their tents, cleaning their weapons and checking their Psychic Gear and talismans, their eyes filled with resolve.


    "Why must it be this way? Why? With such a vast world, why can Blackwood not find another place?"


    Lord Jesse held a letter, also sent from Blackwood, convinced that it would reach every city and faction within the Emerald Empire.


    [Cloudview County calls for help]


    [Thirty years of wind and snow, a million righteous souls rest forever. The sacred words cannot erase the Azure Cloud''s resolve; our generation regrets nothing, even if our blood stains the sky!]


    A simple plea for help.


    Lord Jesse seemed to see the thirty years of Druid invasions, where the Psychic warriors from the border towns heroically charged at the Druids, battling every day!


    Yet... a royal decree... their thirty years of efforts were in vain.


    Now, atop the city walls of the Azure Cloud border, stood a man.


    The people of Blackwood from Cloudview County still held onto hope; they had not retreated and were ready to fight again!


    The people of Blackwood in the valley below were set to return to Azure Cloud soon.


    "What can I offer for help? Resist the empire''s orders?"


    Lord Jesse clenched his teeth, turned away, and his expression of reluctance finally turned into a long sigh, "Who dares to help? And how could we possibly win?"


    Ten days later.


    The Competent Force Psychic of Sunshine Prefecture sat in the dojo, lifting his head with his disciples as the ability vessels from Glory City took to the skies.


    The people of Blackwood did not head north but went to Cloudview County instead.


    Even though their calls for help had been sent across the entire Emerald Empire without a single response, they were prepared to fight again!


    "Master, not a single person from Blackwood has gone north, not even their subordinates have deserted," reported a disciple who had been monitoring Blackwood, his eyes filled with shock.


    Before this, he had even bet with his fellow disciples on how many from Glory City would flee.


    These ability vessels, like heading towards the underworld, yet the people aboard remained uncomplaining and proud!


    A disciple of Sunshine Prefecture bit his lip and questioned his master, "So, Master, it''s been thirty years, and we''ve never supported the border. Now, when the border has the advantage, why does the national advisor want to abandon them? "


    "The people of Glory City fear neither death nor danger; can''t we resist and just watch our land fall into the hands of the Druids? Master, what are we really afraid of?!"


    As he spoke, more and more disciples could no longer hold back.


    "Yes, Master! Cloudview County is right before us, and Blackwood has blocked the Druids for over thirty years, preventing the war from reaching our Sunshine Prefecture. Are we to just stand by now?"


    "The people of Blackwood are returning, they will have no support, Master, if they perish, they won''t perish at the hands of the Druids, but by our own hands!"


    "Have you considered? Today''s Cloudview County could be our Sunshine Prefecture tomorrow!"

 Chapter 272 - 272: Blackwood Calls for Help

    With every word, it was as if Jesse''s very soul was being struck. He took a deep breath and shouted at his disciples, "Silence! How dare you debate the will of the ancient god?"


    At his command, the disciples dared not speak another word.


    Seven days later.


    In the Sunshine Mansion, Jesse emerged from his seclusion, letting out a long sigh. With a flicker of his Storage Ring, he donned a mask and silently made his way toward Cloudview County.


    From that day on, many masters within the Emerald Empire, holding pleas for help, traveled across the vast skies toward Azure Cloud.


    ...


    On the roads of the Emerald Empire, for the first time, Katie was not carrying her usual broken pink bow. Instead, she bore her sleeping brother, Joseph.


    "We''re here, brother!"


    On a plain, Katie dismounted from her flying sword, setting her brother down as Joseph finally opened his eyes.


    "Just keep sleeping, who can sleep more than you?" Katie muttered.


    "Don''t think I didn''t hear that, little stinker," Joseph replied, rubbing his bleary eyes. Ignoring his sister''s comment, he looked ahead to Starlight County, where Walker and many other powerful forces were stationed.


    He grinned and said, "Let''s go, we don''t have much time. We need to find more allies for our family."


    Moments later.


    The siblings entered Walker''s tent, where Joseph sat across from Duke Jon, conversing, while Nate kept winking at Katie, leaving her puzzled and unable to recall who this odd fellow was.


    Soon after, Joseph and Katie left the temporary headquarters of Starlight County with grim expressions.


    "Brother, they''re cowards!"


    Katie clenched her teeth in anger. "We even supported Starlight County before, and now they turn their backs on us!"


    It was clear they had come seeking help, but Walker had refused!


    Joseph simply smiled and said, "It''s all too common. We''ve already approached five of the twelve county dukes looking for evacuation, and it''s been the same everywhere. Just keep a normal heart. Let''s go to Cedar County; I''ve heard they have an unparalleled Basic Mastery expert. It''s worth a shot."


    Katie once again hoisted her instantly sleeping brother onto her back and flew off into the distance.


    Back in the tent.


    "Nate frowned and said, "Grandpa, that''s really not fair. The Blackwoods helped us out in the past, bringing in experts from Cloudview County! Now that the Blackwoods are fighting back home, we just watch? They''re doomed, doomed! What about my Katie?"


    "What do you know?"


    Jon replied frustratedly, "That''s a desperate situation! Our family business is ruined, do you want us to risk everything?"


    "Hmph!"


    Nate slammed the table and stormed out, leaving Jon grinding his teeth in frustration.


    In his room, Nate opened a letter given to him by Daniel when he had lost to Katie and left. As he read through the letter, a spark of defiance lit in his eyes.


    [Heroes come in two types: the invincible and the influential!]


    In the dead of night, Nate tore up the letter, gritted his teeth, and led a group of masters toward Cloudview County, cursing under his breath, "Old fox, trying to trick me into rebellion? I refuse. I''m going to fight! At least I, Walker, still have some backbone!"


    [Special Event¡ªBlackwood Calls for Help]


    [Your descendants know well that Blackwood alone cannot stand against the Druids without help. They begin to disperse, seeking any possible assistance in the shortest time.]


    From the time Nathan went to guard the borders of Azure Cloud alone, all his kin were aware of this.


    They did not stop him; they knew Nathan''s true intentions and supported him silently from behind. Once again, they scattered in all directions from the city of Emerald Emperor, seeking help everywhere. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even a little bit of assistance, they were unwilling to give up.


    Even on the day of the great battle, their calls for help remained unanswered...


    Ethan stared intently at the scene.


    He knew clearly, from the moment Nathan returned alone to Cloudview County, this was no longer just Nathan''s future plan, but a desperate struggle for all of Blackwood!


    Nathan had misjudged his plan, even misjudged the children''s resolve!


    ...


    Heading toward Cloudview County, a dark mass of ability vessels above.


    Daniel stood at the bow of the ship, releasing carrier pigeons in all directions. It had been three full months with no replies!


    Originally, he led the Thunderfire Demon Cave, Demon Hunters Alliance, and Dawn with a total of two thousand ability vessels, but now only half remained. Even Blackwood''s subordinates were reduced to half.


    "Lord of Demons!"


    One of The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors approached the bow where Daniel stood looking into the sky, kneeling on one knee, his expression filled with a murderous intent, "Another of The Thirty-Six Celestial Warriors has taken our ability vessel and followers. Please, Lord, order us to pursue and bring back his head!"


    Daniel did not turn around; his voice was low as he asked, "This journey back to Cloudview County, we have no reinforcements, it''s a life and death situation, why haven''t you fled?"


    The demon cultivator grinned and said, "Since Lord of Demons asked, I''ll speak frankly."


    "All these years, I''ve followed Lord of Demons, fought alongside Blackwood. We demons never thought we''d see the light of day again in Cloudview County, and those self-proclaimed righteous Psychics outside dare not attack us because they know we are Blackwood''s people."


    "I''ve roamed the world all my life, never have I felt as free as now, fighting in Cloudview County, supporting in Starlight County. Anyone must address me respectfully as a fellow Daoist! They see me, see the mark of Blackwood''s subordinate, and know that although I cultivate demonic arts, I am a true warrior, not a scheming demon cultivator hiding in the shadows!"


    "Lord of Demons, when you said we were retreating, I was truly scared for a moment."


    The demon cultivator laughed heartily, "We demon cultivators aren''t so roundabout. I''ve long considered Cloudview County my home, why should we leave our home because the Druids have come? We''ve fought for Cloudview County for over thirty years, spent over a hundred years building today''s business and status!"


    "Lord of Demons brought us back, you didn''t leave, Blackwood didn''t leave! At least for everything I''ve fought for in Cloudview County, I''m willing to give my life, only in Cloudview County am I treated as a normal Psychic!"


    "As long as you are willing to fight for Cloudview County, even if I die, I have no regrets! Even if I go to the underworld, meet the King of Hell, in those eighteen levels of hell, I will still honor you, honor Blackwood as my lord!"


    Daniel felt the strong winds blowing around the ability vessel, he gripped the mast tightly, looking back at everything behind him, that was also the land of Cloudview County.


    Unknowingly, the family had already established such a reputation in Cloudview County.

 Chapter 273 - 273: Though death befalls, no regrets!

    Originally...


    Coming back was indeed the right choice!


    At this moment, Daniel''s eyes shone brightly. He admitted he had hesitated upon his return. Three months of waiting without a single reply had driven him to despair.


    But now...


    His psychic powers surged, and with thousands of ability vessels accompanying him, Daniel''s apparition appeared on each one. Everyone was astonished to see thunder rolling across the sky!


    Daniel, with his aged appearance and flowing white hair, spoke in a deep voice.


    "If anyone wishes to leave, you may do so now. This journey is fraught with certain death, and I will not hold you back."


    "If you choose to stay, then station yourselves here for now and protect me."


    "Once I break through the Pinnacle Apprentice level, I will join you on the journey to the Azure Cloud border to battle the Druids at night!"


    "If we succeed, our names will remain in Azure Cloud forever, celebrated throughout the land."


    "If we fail..."


    "Are you willing to follow me to hell?"


    "With a thunderous roar!"


    As Daniel''s words fell, he rose into the air, with bolts of lightning striking him. All forces in Blackwood could see Daniel standing above the clouds, his figure godlike!


    Hundreds of thousands knelt on one knee towards Daniel.


    They roared, almost dispersing the thunder above Daniel''s head! Their eyes were filled with the will to fight, daring to venture to the blood-soaked battlefields of the Azure Cloud Border town.


    Because Daniel was still leading them, and Blackwood did not retreat!


    "Fight!"


    "Fight!"


    "Fight!"


    ...


    [Your descendant Daniel, leading hundreds of thousands from Blackwood to the battlefield, has reached the peak of his Developing Skill after many years. Upon hearing his subordinates, he saw hope in despair. With a sudden realization, he gained confidence that he could break through the severe thunder tribulations!]


    [Your descendant Daniel, representing all of Blackwood, has earned the faith of all warriors in Blackwood, gaining the trait¡ªAzure Cloud Overlord!]


    [He fights for Cloudview County, blessed by the fortunes of heaven and earth in Cloudview County, cultivating psychic powers 30% faster. Within Cloudview County, all his attributes increase by 100%, his combat power by 30%. Leading the people of Cloudview County, their morale boosts by 50%, and their combat power by an additional 5%!]


    Daniel has always been a hidden genius of Blackwood, even breaking through the Competent Force earlier than George!


    From a pure heart to a Heroic Tyrant, and then to a cunning strategist, at this moment of despair, he became the true overlord of Cloudview County! sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    On the great road north from Azure Cloud city.


    On the path forward for the major forces of Cloudview County, many elders of the Competent Force who once commanded respect stopped in their tracks.


    Many psychics from Cloudview County also hesitated, seemingly making a difficult decision. This place might have more than a million psychics, yet it was eerily silent, only whispers could be heard.


    "Have you heard? Elder Nathan of Blackwood has returned to the Azure Cloud border."


    "He''s brought hundreds of elders from Glory City, stationed on the city walls. To this day, the million Druids gathered outside the Border town dare not step into Cloudview County."


    "They''re crazy! We have no support, isn''t this seeking death?"


    "Stop... don''t say that, those are people from Glory City!"


    Suddenly, everyone looked towards the front of a group, led by people from Blackwood, followed by civilians from Glory City!


    Among those from Blackwood, only George and many deceived members of the celestial generation, along with Jeffrey''s lineage, were present.


    "I''ve been deceived all my life."


    George muttered in a low voice, "They told me we were poor, made me rob graves for so many years. Now they tell me to retreat to the north, everyone else is running back, and I''m the only one left in the dark, still leading the people of Glory City north, everyone''s making a fool of me."


    "George!"


    Dennis descended from the sky, blocking George''s path, his brow furrowed, "Are you really going back?"


    George shrugged and chuckled, "Aren''t we supposed to go back? Don''t say anything else. I''ve heard from the family that you''ve done a lot for Blackwood over the years. I don''t really have anything to thank you for, so here, I''ll give you an old predecessor. I''m definitely going back home. If you can beat me, then fight; if not..."


    George didn''t say more. He released the remnant soul of an elder, who glanced at Dennis, rolled his eyes, and then returned to George''s body.


    The psychics of Glory City remained silent!


    They followed George closely, found Blackwood''s psychic ships, and jumped aboard without hesitation.


    The psychic ships took off, and their departure was marked by silence, a calm demeanor.


    But everyone from the major forces present could feel the resoluteness of the people from Blackwood!


    George was different from the others; he didn''t ask for help or say much. Although he might be naive, he was sure that every preparation made by his family was better than his own. All he needed to do at such a time was to take those who wanted to go back, back home!


    The silence of Glory City was like thunder, striking the hearts of all the psychics in Cloudview County.


    Everyone was speechless, the air seemed oppressive.


    Until a moment later, everyone from Duke''s Mansion''s side cleared a path!


    Duke Kenneth slowly walked out, silent, carrying a coffin on his back, accompanied by several elders of Duke''s Mansion aboard the psychic ship.


    They saw it.


    The coffin bore simple inscriptions, Duke Kenneth was prepared to bid farewell to the world after the battle!


    [We once strived to prevent disaster from befalling our homeland, but we failed.]


    [I am still proud.]


    [Proud to have been born in this era, to die for the future of Azure Cloud, even in the darkest of futures, we still have hope.]


    [I am proud to have fought alongside Blackwood, standing behind the times!]


    It was a day of silence.


    The psychics evacuating from Cloudview County seemed to see Nathan still standing on the city walls of Border town, facing countless night raiders without stepping back!


    Some were still fighting alone for a hopeless homeland.


    Dennis''s body trembled as he watched the psychic ships of Blackwood and Duke''s Mansion depart, his eyes red.


    "Belonging to Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion, we¡ª"


    "Go home!"


    The psychic ship marked with the Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion insignia took to the skies!


    Then, one by one, the elite warriors and masters of various forces, along with their disciples, boarded their psychic ships.


    The eyes of all the psychics on the psychic ships were blazing.


    Yes!


    Their hopes were few, but even in the darkest of futures, Blackwood stood at the forefront, fighting alongside them.


    That was enough.


    Though death befalls, no regrets!


    "Spectral Vision Sect!"


    "Black Tortoise!"


    "Ten Thousand Life Mountain!"


    "..."


    "Go home!"

 Chapter 274 - 274: No one knew the true strength of Blackwood

    Snow drifted over the border town.


    Nathan stood atop the city walls, his hand resting on Death Coffin.


    His once pristine clothes were now tinged with yellow.


    Luna, with her curly hair, leaned weakly on Nathan''s shoulder, snowflakes settling on her long eyelashes.


    Where soldiers once guarded, now stood an elder from Glory City.


    For three hundred days, the Druids outside Border town had multiplied, gathering six tribes, growing increasingly restless over time!


    Below Border town, countless Druids advanced, pressing towards the solitary bastion like a tide!


    The six tribes'' High Priest floated above, leading a robust and handsome man in a purple robe adorned with the radiant sun, moon, and stars, a streak of purple lightning at his brow.


    "I, Mike, apostle of the Bird Totem, pay my respects to the most admirable foe of my Druids."


    Mike nodded respectfully towards Nathan.


    Behind him, countless Druids surged forward like a dark cloud.


    Yet, Nathan''s eyes showed no fear, his gaze remained sharp, his hands strong, the natural energy above him overwhelmingly powerful!


    Mike, a high-ranking figure among the Druids, knew there were greater Druids above him.


    These weren''t individuals but believers in the Druids'' totem, including apostles and elders, managing all their tribes.


    Mike had traveled widely and met many people.


    Despite Cloudview County being abandoned by the Emerald Empire, Nathan chose to share its fate, a fact that earned Mike''s respect as an apostle.


    As Mike finished speaking, Harris, the High Priest, lamented, "Mr. Nathan, leave this place. Your and your wife''s vigil here is pointless. Today marks the agreement between my Druids and the Emerald Empire. Cloudview County is now Druid land, and with the border region''s eleven counties under Druid control, Cloudview County stands alone. Your continued presence makes you an invader."


    "Don''t you see? Your resistance is futile. The Emerald Empire never cared for the twelve counties of the border region; you are expendable! You will receive no aid, not even your children have come, have they?"


    Mike smiled, "You have another choice. The Emerald Empire has forsaken you, and Blackwood is now free. You, Nathan, could simply surrender to my Druids. There''s an old human saying, ''Those not of our kind must have a different heart,'' which was the fundamental cause of the great war between Blackwood and Clark. But this isn''t without a solution."


    "More than a hundred descendants of Blackwood exist. Just one child from Blackwood''s lineage marrying into my Druids, one child inheriting our blood, learning our magic, and believing in our Bird Totem, would make them one of us."


    Upon hearing this, the six High Priests'' expressions changed.


    They had felt Nathan''s terrifying power!


    They even sent skilled warriors from the Competent Force to probe him, but in just a short time, they learned nothing; Nathan''s coffin blocked all their senses.


    When the deathly aura in the sky dissipated, their priest stood behind Nathan like a puppet on strings.


    Nathan alone was enough to instill fear in them.


    Yet, they knew Nathan was not the strongest of Blackwood; the strongest from three tribes gathered outside the natural magic formation that day said it was the closest they had come to death.


    No one knew the true strength of Blackwood.


    If they truly became part of the Druids... all present Druid tribes would worry their totem might be taken by Blackwood.


    Millennia later, Blackwood might usurp their place!


    But Mike ignored the High Priests'' concerns, needing Blackwood as a powerful ally, confident their Bird Totem could become Blackwood''s most fervent belief!


    Mike, impassioned, declared, "Sir, stand behind my Druids, and I assure you, you will become the most trusted member of our Bird Totem!"


    "Our Bird Totem is not the Emerald Empire; we do not abandon our people or our lands like the Emerald Empire does!"


    "You Blackwood will join us in battle, your glory and achievements will be engraved on the Bird Totem, your memories will live on!"


    Watching Mike''s frenzied actions.


    This time, Nathan finally reacted, he suddenly raised his head, looking around at the Competent Force experts floating above.


    He naively smiled at Mike.


    "Okay, then I have one condition, give me Cloudview County, can it be the territory of my Blackwood?"


    "You agree?" Mike now squinted his eyes, "If it''s just Cloudview County, then it''s okay."


    Nathan''s mouth curved up, with a hint of sarcasm, "Apostle sir, since Cloudview County is now our Blackwood territory, there''s no need for a large army anymore. From now on, I am one of the Druids. How about this, you go back now and bring a thousand of the most beautiful Druid girls here, I still have many descendants who aren''t married."


    Then.


    Mike''s face completely darkened, "Why didn''t you hesitate at all? Are you playing me?"


    "It''s you who''s playing me."


    Nathan''s playful smile disappeared, his face expressionless again, "Even if my Blackwood surrenders to the Druids, no matter what we do, generation after generation will be suspected by you Druids. Look at them, Apostle sir, you''ve driven me to a dead end."


    Mike looked towards the High Priests Nathan was pointing at.


    These High Priests, each one on alert, even if Mike''s persuasion had truly succeeded, these Druids would not hesitate to storm into Cloudview County, to kill Nathan!


    "I..."


    Mike was suddenly choked up, his spur-of-the-moment idea, but he had forgotten to consider the other Druid tribes!


    No one would want to let Blackwood into the Druids, it would be unclear whether it''s the Druids'' Blackwood, or Blackwood''s Druids!


    Nathan sighed deeply, "Thank you for your appreciation, Apostle sir, it''s a pity, our family has a child who has already tried for our Blackwood, we find it hard to live on the same land."


    "He chose to walk alone to Clark, to die to show his resolve, to tell everyone in the Emerald Empire that we Blackwood still stand with them."


    At that moment.


    Mike and those six High Priests felt Nathan''s fighting spirit rising!


    "So..."


    "Put away your pity, put away your sympathy."


    "Come fight!"


    With Nathan''s roar, the elders still on the walls of Glory City, facing the endless Druid army, they were the first to beat the war drums, to blow the horns!


    Even though they were less than a hundred strong!


    Outside Border town, the Druids who were originally advancing, stopped in their tracks at this moment!


    The sound of the war drums and horns from Border town was so faint, yet so clear and audible, as if the whole world only heard the sound of Border town.


    In the snowstorm.


    Dozens of elders, picking up their weapons, jumped down from the walls of Border town, they lined up neatly, even though they were as small as dust in front of the Druid army, they still stood straight!


    They were old, but like the toughest pines, unafraid of the snowstorm, fearless of life and death!


    "Ah."


    Mike sighed, he and the High Priests moved towards Nathan, their movements slow, staring at the distant Nathan, "Sir, after you die, I will hold the grandest human funeral for you."


    Nathan ignored Mike, he could feel the strong presence of the seven experts!


    He gently looked at Luna, "Wife, are you scared?"


    "Not scared."


    Luna''s eyes curved like crescent moons, "I heard that in the underworld there''s a Ferrywoman''s soup, after drinking it you forget everything, in the next life when we meet again, you must remember me first, you have to help me lift the red veil again, otherwise, you''re done for."


    "Hahaha, what more could I ask for in this life? What more could I ask for!"


    Nathan and Luna rose into the air, their faces full of smiles, facing the Druid experts!


    One by one, the priests surrounded them in the sky, Nathan and Luna remained unafraid!


    Nathan looked down at the Druids surging towards Border town like a tide.


    His voice was loud!


    Every elder in Glory City could hear his voice.


    "One day in the future, our children will step into Cloudview County again."


    "Old buddies, today we old folks will set an example for our descendants."


    "Charge!"


    Then.


    They gripped their weapons, laughing as they charged forward, charging! S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 275 - 275: The ancient god was truly spouting nonsense

    They were old, and Cloudview County was their final refuge. Fighting for Cloudview County was their wish!


    On the battlefield, they appeared so frail compared to the robust Druid warriors, yet they charged forward without hesitation!


    "Spear formation! Spear formation!"


    They lifted their heads, above them the Druids'' magic unleashed thunder and fire upon them, yet they roared with laughter in the face of danger.


    Nathan and Luna charged forward too!


    They couldn''t defeat the twenty-plus Competent Force, but they were fearless!


    Suddenly.


    Everyone on the battlefield froze, their eyes widening in shock.


    In the snowy daylight, the sky turned.


    The sky blazed red as blood.


    A fierce wind blew, turning the falling snow into eerie red flakes.


    The Druids looked up, seeing an old man in a red robe, holding a staff, his arms open wide. His psychic powers stirred the energy of the heavens and earth, changing the color of the sky!


    His aged voice echoed over Border town!


    "I have seen."


    "I have heard."


    His voice seemed magical!


    The ground trembled, vines burst from the earth forming a massive wall, protecting the elders of Glory City!


    His voice still rang out.


    "Cloudview County may become a thing of the past, but not today!"


    "The fighting spirit of Blackwood may quiet down, but not today!"


    "This land will be stained red, and your blood, Druids, will make Cloudview County a forbidden zone."


    "A Blackwood forbidden zone!" Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The earth itself was in motion.


    Ancient trees and stone beasts burst from the soil, rushing past the hundred elders of Glory City towards the battlefield!


    Sturdy roots pierced through the bodies of the Druids at the forefront!


    .....


    In the heart of the imperial capital, a magnificent palace floated above the city center. Inside, the court was filled with officials, all gazing intently at the center of the grand hall.


    There stood Edward from Blackwood. Accompanying him were several mathematicians from Cloudview County, who had brought with them an Eight Trigrams board and other mystical devices capable of divining the secrets of the universe. As the mathematicians demonstrated their powers, an image materialized before the eyes of the assembled court.


    It depicted everything happening at the Azure Cloud Border town.


    Everyone saw it.


    Atop the town walls stood a couple, seemingly just returned from farming, surrounded by nearly a hundred elderly warriors, their lives hanging by a thread. Before them, the entire town seemed minuscule against the advancing army of Druids, as if the city would crumble with their every step forward.


    "Your Majesty! I wish to lead our forces to Cloudview County and battle the Druids!"


    The scene had a profound impact on all who witnessed it. They had heard rumors that one man, Blackwood Nathan, still stood defiant on the town walls, but seeing it was something else entirely.


    Who could have imagined that on this forsaken frontier, someone would stand alone against a million Druids? Who knew what pressures Nathan faced every day?


    Among the military leaders, General Owen Lewis, trained at Radiant Sky Grotto, clenched his teeth and stepped forward, kneeling before the ancient god.


    As he made his plea, more warriors loyal to Owen followed suit, kneeling and begging, "Please, Your Majesty, command us to fight the Druids and reclaim our lands!"


    Their passionate pleas, however, did not seem to stir the figure behind the royal curtain.


    Again, they pleaded loudly.


    This time, even the civil officials, seeing the urgency, knelt down. In the image, less than a hundred elderly warriors leaped from the walls, forming a spear formation, standing tall as they charged into battle alongside Nathan.


    The scene turned blood-red, and the mathematicians spat blood, their vision ending there.


    The court was left in suspense, not knowing what would happen next, but they heard that the people of Blackwood were still willing to fight!


    Perhaps every person in Blackwood would stand at the very front of the border, defending the sold-off Cloudview County and Border town.


    Perhaps...


    Such iron-willed men and families were rare in the empire.


    "Please, Your Majesty, give the order!"


    More people knelt in the hall, their cries loud, even though they knew a deal had been struck and to go back on it would be a slap in the face to the ancient god, they still pleaded.


    Edward, standing in the center, had tears in his eyes. In this cold imperial capital, there were still those willing to stand up!


    Moments later.


    Finally, there was a stir behind the curtain, and the ancient god spoke with a deep voice, immediately darkening Edward''s expression.


    "We are aware of the border situation."


    "However, Grand Tutor Gilbert and the north have been at war with the Druids for two thousand years, and the state of our nation cannot sustain another war with them."


    "Yet, within our Emerald Empire, we have families as loyal as Blackwood, which brings us great comfort."


    "Owen."


    As the ancient god spoke, the burly, bald-headed warrior in armor bowed and accepted the command, "At your service!"


    "Take our decree to Cloudview County and order the Druids to cease their aggression. Our empire''s lands are vast, and the north has new territories inexhaustible. Blackwood may choose a new place to settle. We hereby grant Blackwood the hereditary title of Duke, in recognition of their iron-blooded loyalty to our Emerald Empire."


    "Yes, Your Majesty!"


    "..."


    Owen had received his orders and was leading the dazed Edward out of the grand hall.


    Even as they reached the open sky, Edward still appeared bewildered. He blankly asked Owen, "What nonsense was that mongrel spouting on the jade steps just now?"


    "You..."


    With just one word, Owen''s face changed dramatically. He quickly covered Edward''s mouth, "Kid, are you trying to get us killed? The entire imperial capital is filled with Lance''s spies. If the emperor hears what you just said, Blackwood is done for!"


    Edward looked at Owen strangely, making Owen''s scalp tingle. Edward pulled Owen''s hand away and pointed at the so-called ''heavenly palace'', questioning, "So General Owen, you follow this kind of absurd trash? Aren''t you tired?"


    "I..."


    Owen was at a loss for words. He took a deep breath, his expression solemn, "Let''s go, I''ll take you back to Blackwood. Maybe..."


    He wanted to say maybe they could still prevent the war in Cloudview County, but he just sighed deeply.


    The ancient god was truly spouting nonsense.


    From the imperial capital back to Cloudview County, even he would need several days.


    Suddenly, Owen was startled as Edward turned around and headed back towards the grand hall!


    Everyone in the grand hall was shocked, all the old foxes there could see the ancient god''s intentions. The ancient god had completely abandoned the southern border, totally forsaking Blackwood!


    Just as they feared Edward from Cloudview County might spout more nonsense.


    They saw Edward bowing towards the steps above, his voice loud as he laughed wildly.


    "I was in such a hurry earlier, I, a commoner, forgot to give thanks!"

 Chapter 276 - 276: My clan never gives up hope!

    "Commoner thanks His Majesty for bestowing upon me the name Azure Cloud Blackwood ''The Iron Bone Warriors Clan,'' and for granting me the land of Tranquil County!"


    "Commoner boldly asks His Majesty, you said that within the vast borders of the empire, I, Blackwood, could choose a place to settle and be granted the title of Duke. Is this true?!"


    The courtiers frowned in disapproval.


    National advisor Lance scolded angrily, "How audacious! The Emperor''s word is golden, of course it''s true, and you can certainly choose your own place in the north!"


    "Very well."


    Edward''s eyes sparkled with determination, "Then I, Blackwood, choose Cloudview County!"


    "Ridiculous!" Lance exclaimed angrily, "His Majesty has already promised Cloudview County to the Druids. Why do you repeatedly insist on Cloudview County? Do you want His Majesty to break his promise and seize Cloudview County?"


    "Ha ha ha!"


    Edward laughed loudly, having thought before arriving that the grand hall was filled with significant figures. He had heard that these people were all of noble birth and wielded great power, but now he saw them as nothing but trash, useless! S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "National advisor speaks well! Indeed, it was rash of a commoner!"


    He narrowed his eyes, glaring at the courtiers, vowing to remember their indifference. His voice turned icy, "Then, commoner asks, what if I, Blackwood, take back Cloudview County?!"


    At this, the entire court looked at each other, speechless, but their amused expressions said it all.


    Take back Cloudview County? That would indeed be a feat, but wouldn''t it still be land of the Emerald Empire?


    From the jade steps, the ancient god spoke solemnly, "Edward, I have been patient with you today. Speak your mind, but test my patience no further."


    "Very well."


    Edward took a deep breath, "I demand that above the empire''s Competent Force, no Psychic shall enter Cloudview County without my, Blackwood''s, permission. Azure Cloud shall never pay taxes, and we shall not bow in the grand hall!"


    The grand hall erupted in shock!


    "How dare you!" Lance roared, yet his gaze remained cool.


    How arrogant? To treat the entire Emerald Empire''s Cloudview County as if it were a sacred offering!


    But the entire court knew that Edward''s words, though arrogant, were merely a desperate struggle. Cloudview County, a lone city, a small clan, what could it use to withstand the Druids'' great army?


    From the jade steps, the ancient god fell into a long silence, anger rising, and finally, he sighed deeply, "I consent."


    "Then I, Blackwood, am prepared to die in battle!"


    Edward smiled, bowing to the court, "Commoner wishes all the lords rise in ranks, and may the ancient god reign as high as the heavens!"


    "And may I, Blackwood, triumph!"


    He turned and strode forward, the courtiers watching his retreating figure!


    He was returning to Cloudview County!


    This time, he brought no great army from the Emerald Empire, only seeing a group who disregarded Cloudview County and Blackwood. But at least he secured a future for Blackwood, a future not to consort with these incompetents!


    At the doorway, Owen was sweating profusely, watching Edward, this man not yet a hundred years old.


    It was hard to imagine how Edward dared to stand so proudly before the court.


    "General Owen, how long from the imperial capital back to Cloudview County?" Edward asked calmly, not even glancing back at the heavenly palace.


    "Half a month."


    Owen frowned, "Edward, you''re going back to Cloudview County? Half a month is too late."


    But his advice was futile, as he saw Edward''s eyes shining brightly.


    "You''re wrong!"


    Edward''s smile widened, "Everyone in the entire Emerald Empire is wrong, there''s still time!"


    "What?"


    Owen was stunned, unsure where this young man''s confidence came from.


    Edward laughed wildly, as if mocking the entire Emerald Empire.


    "My clan never gives up hope!"


    "Once, all of Cloudview County was against us, Blackwood, yet we still stood on the land of Cloudview County. When the Druids invaded, they entered Glory City, yet we still survived in despair!"


    "General Owen, take me back, I want to celebrate with my people."


    Owen hesitated, then, biting his lip, he still led Edward away.


    At least he hoped that in the desperate situation of Cloudview County, there could indeed be a celebration, a celebration that the entire Emerald Empire should have fought for thirty years ago.


    ...


    In the heavenly palace, everyone watched as Owen led Edward away. They no longer cared about Edward''s earlier arrogance. Instead, they all turned to look up at the jade steps, dismissing Edward''s arrival from their minds. It was merely the ravings of a man facing death.


    Lance was the first to kneel before the ancient god, his voice loud, as if conceding twelve border counties and leaving Blackwood to fight alone in Cloudview County was something to be praised.


    "His Majesty the ancient god is kind and patient, even with a reckless fool like Edward. This is indeed a blessing for our empire and for the world!"


    "May His Majesty the ancient god live as long as the heavens!"


    The ministers echoed in unison.


    Their voices seemed to spread throughout the entire empire.


    The heavenly palace was so splendid, and beneath it, the people in the imperial capital lived in peace and prosperity, amidst song and dance.


    It was truly a scene of peace and well-being.


    But was there a place in the Emerald Empire that yearned to be as sunny and bright as the imperial capital?


    At that moment, heavy snow was falling in Cloudview County, and the skies over the border town were stained red, with red snow dancing wildly!


    Countless Druid troops surged like a tide but paused momentarily due to strange phenomena in the heavens and earth.


    "Old tree?"


    Spikes blocked the Druids'' vanguard, and stone beasts and mystical trees rose from the ground to enter the battlefield and charge at the Druids. Nathan, slightly stunned, looked up at the sky at the red-robed old man embracing the heavens, "You''ve transformed?!"


    "That''s... a demon! No, not just any demon, a mystical tree turned demon!"


    Below the red clouds, Mike, who was leading the priests in attacking Nathan, changed his expression!


    He had also led his tribe in fierce battles against the demon races, which occupied half of the Endless Forest. Aside from their endless numbers, what was truly terrifying was their powerful individuals.


    Although it was extremely difficult for them to break through, they possessed innate bloodline powers. Each demon king was a unique entity, and some noble beasts breaking through levels were not like humans; they could even reach the peak of demon king directly.


    Especially the mystical plants, they were more like wonders. It was incredibly difficult for plants to awaken their intelligence, and that moment also meant they were favored by the heavens and earth.


    Transforming from a mystical plant... to put it bluntly, just by their value, they had already surpassed the Azure Dragon.


    "Blackwood''s divine tree has transformed and come to the rescue, which also means..."


    For some reason, a chill ran through Mike''s heart.


    He looked at the stone beasts and tree demons overwhelmed by Druids'' magic on the ground and coldly said to the six High Priests and many priests, "Kill them as quickly as possible!"

 Chapter 277 - 277: What kind of thunder tribulation did you undergo?

    [Your family''s sacred tree, the Primordial Blood Tree, had already sensed the thunder tribulation. With the help of many family members, multiple magical formations were inscribed to break through the seventy-ninth heavenly tribulation, allowing it to evolve beyond its current form!]


    [You have gained the magical abilities of your bloodline: Sky Canopy (a phenomenon that grows stronger with more magical formations and spells) and Destiny Shield (which allows glimpses into fate and can block others from divining your future. If the diviner is weak, you can counter their magic directly in the divination battle.)]


    Ethan was glued to the screen!


    His mouse hovered over the skill, ready to use it to protect his descendants if not for his fear of being unable to.


    He even saw it.


    A Druid priest dared to use a Turtle Shell to divine the old tree!


    But as soon as the Turtle Shell was activated,


    "Puff!"


    A figure in a red robe, with unconventional red hair cascading down, radiated a red light from the old tree, appearing suddenly next to Nathan. Without moving, the divining priest spat out blood!


    "Be careful! This tree spirit can battle using fate, don''t fall for its tricks!"


    Mike instantly recognized the extraordinary nature of the Primordial Blood Tree. The other priests, about to use their Turtle Shells, changed their expressions and put their shells away.


    "Old tree, why have you come?" S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Nathan''s face showed no joy. The sky had turned blood red with the appearance of the old tree, but Mike had already altered this phenomenon. The sky now held the sun, moon, and stars, with beams of light falling from the sky, forming hundreds of magical formations, each with the power of a seventh-grade force.


    Ahead were six High Priests, their psychic powers boundless!


    Under the magical formations formed by the celestial bodies, there were images of the Vermilion Bird, hundreds of totems instantly forming a grand formation that suppressed psychic powers, and the force of thunder wreaking havoc...


    "Nathan, oh Nathan, how could you think to fight without us knowing?"


    The Primordial Blood Tree smiled faintly, unafraid of the Competent Force and the special domain formed by the natural energies in the sky. His ancient body began to transform, gradually morphing back into his true form, a towering red tree thousands of meters high, his red roots piercing into the air, his trunk showing a human face.


    His roots continuously struck out at all enemies!


    Nathan and Luna also unleashed their psychic powers, protecting the area around the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Luna''s six tails shimmered brilliantly as she grew white fur and transformed into a massive fox, her claws gleaming coldly!


    Death Coffin was released, and hordes of Zombies and Sky Corpses fell onto the battlefield like a flood, with dark formations appearing underfoot. The Sky Corpses, including the headless Luke and Michael wearing an iron mask, appeared, and he used his ultimate spell¡ªFour Symbols Death Energy Formation!


    "What kind of spell is this?!!"


    Mike, a disciple of the Druids, felt even more cautious as the Death Coffin appeared, its formations beginning to contend with his celestial powers.


    He hadn''t expected Nathan to withstand his morning star spells.


    Inside the Four Symbols Formation, the four Sky Corpses were now battling psychic powers from all directions within the formation. The Sea of Death formed inside the formation had spirits climbing out, their power augmenting Nathan and the four Sky Corpses!


    "You shouldn''t have come, none of you should have."


    Nathan soared into the clouds, confronting Mike, but his mind was more on the old tree''s appearance. His worst fears had materialized¡ªthe old tree had come, meaning his descendants were also lurking nearby!


    He looked down at the ground.


    The stone beasts and tree spirits summoned by the old tree, though formidable and numerous, seemed so frail in front of the tidal wave of the Druid army.


    At this moment, the old tree, having unleashed all his psychic powers, saw his Sky Canopy begin to shatter. Even as a tree spirit, how could he battle against six High Priests? And Luna... her transformed body could only barely dodge.


    This was just one of six tribes, in the Endless Forest, there lay greater terrors!


    "Why did you come?" Nathan floated upward, murmuring in a daze, yet Mike''s Morning Star spell couldn''t break through Nathan''s magical formations. They were getting closer and closer!


    The light of the Morning Star collided with the deadly energy of the Sea of Death within the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, causing explosions that could severely injure even a master of Developing Skill if they got too close.


    Ahead, Mike was incredibly surprised by Nathan''s strength. He had already overestimated Nathan, but it turned out he had still underestimated him. He also glanced at the battlefield, his expression grave, "Nathan, I didn''t expect that you, having just entered the Competent Force, would have mastered such terrifying spells. What kind of thunder tribulation did you undergo?"


    Nathan remained silent.


    At the screen, Ethan''s lips curled slightly, "What thunder tribulation? Bearing the Death Coffin, forging the Super Core, refining millions of corpses, with great sins, what do you think?"


    Past information flashed before his eyes!


    [Your descendant Nathan underwent the seventy-ninth thunder tribulation! The tribulation sensed Nathan''s possession of the Death Coffin and corpse refining techniques, refining various types of Zombies, with deep sins, turning into the ninety-ninth tribulation!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, fallen in battle!]


    [Your descendant Nathan, using the second life of the Super Core... successfully passed the ninety-ninth thunder tribulation!]


    Only the Blackwood people know how perilous that thunder tribulation was. Even with all kinds of preparations, the ninety-ninth tribulation caught the Blackwood people off guard. If not for Nathan possessing the lethal Super Core, with three lives, there would be no Nathan today!


    For this reason, the Blackwood people deeply understand the terror of the ninety-ninth tribulation and are so cautious about Amelia undergoing the tribulation.


    But at the same time...


    This also signifies Nathan''s strength!


    Having passed the ninety-ninth tribulation, his natural energies are incredibly solid. The spell ''Four Symbols Death Energy Formation'' further adds a layer of the power of the ninety-ninth tribulation, making even WhiteArnold''s talents seem insignificant in front of Nathan!

 Chapter 278 - 278: They are born proud and immensely powerful!

    "I understand now." Seeing Nathan''s silence, Mike''s expression turned solemn after his initial surprise.


    "So you are the true genius of Blackwood. In my Bird Totem, there are hardly five who could match you. Nathan, I respect you as a person and even more so your strength, but unfortunately..."


    Mike sighed deeply, the stars in the sky shining even brighter, natural energies manifesting!


    The Morning Star spell began to form purple lines, connecting countless stars together like a giant net, suppressing the deadly energy from Nathan''s Four Symbols Death Energy Formation!


    Even behind Nathan, a net formed, sticking to him like a spider''s web, rendering him immobile!


    Mike''s eyes were like a vast sea of stars, his voice booming amidst this celestial phenomenon, "It''s just unfortunate that you were born at the wrong time! The Emerald Empire won''t protect a genius like you, and neither can my Druids keep you! I''m sorry, but if I don''t kill you, my Druids will never be at peace!"


    "And your Blackwood ancient tree, he came, and your Blackwood descendants are no exception."


    "What a pity, they shouldn''t have come."


    Mike looked around, seeing figures approaching, his eyes filled with regret and relief, "You are isolated and without support, each one of them must die!!!"


    At these words.


    Nathan suddenly looked up, feeling it too, from all directions, Blackwood''s children, just as he suspected, were all lying in ambush, frantically rushing towards the battlefield!


    These little rascals, still as rebellious as before!


    Suddenly.


    Nathan laughed, "What the hell are you saying?"


    Mike was shocked, his spell should have immobilized even a peak Competent Force, but now...


    "Crack, crack, crack..."


    The Morning Star magic that trapped Nathan was shattering bit by bit!


    Nathan stretched and threw a punch at the coffin next to him, shouting, "Come out!"


    From the Death Coffin, a small coffin appeared!


    The coffin slowly rotated, and a petite figure emerged, opening eyes filled with endless darkness. Above in the sky, the sound of bells rang out, murderous intent boundless!


    Gary.


    The moment this little zombie girl appeared, she suddenly looked up, opening her small, peach-colored mouth, and the boundless Sea of Death under the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation began to disappear at a visible rate, sucked into her mouth, her aura growing stronger!


    The four Sky Corpses were materials for the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, but the real foundation¡ª


    Was Gary, who had swallowed the sixth-grade supernatural item ''Ghostly Psychic Pearl''!


    She collected psychic grudges and souls, and the Sea of Death gathered these grudges and souls to their fullest!


    As Gary appeared, Nathan''s aura, like Gary''s, surged wildly.


    He could feel it, the children had already charged into the battlefield.


    He grinned at Mike, causing Mike''s scalp to tingle!


    "You want to kill my children?!!"


    "Then I''ll send you to hell first!"


    Nathan grabbed the Death Coffin and charged out, Gary transforming into thousands of shadows like a specter!


    The children had arrived, he couldn''t stop them!


    Originally, Gary, the Death Coffin, the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, and countless zombies, were all left for the children.


    But now it didn''t matter.


    He was even somewhat relieved, the children hadn''t given up on him, they were still as rebellious as ever, knowing they would die yet not choosing life, so no matter what happened, he didn''t need to hold back.


    Today, he would use every means possible, together with his family, to face everything!


    In the sky, the deadly energy was rising, Mike''s Morning Star magic contaminated by it.


    He smiled joyfully, "Still have a trump card? Good! It''s worth my trip here!"


    Mike''s heart trembled, it had been over a thousand years, he had almost forgotten how long it had been since he had experienced such a great battle, nor how long since he had encountered such an opponent!


    The stars reappeared, the sky thundered mightily.


    He would use all his strength to send such a worthy opponent to hell!


    The skies over the Azure Cloud border were ever-changing. A clear day suddenly gave rise to the Morning Star, followed by thunderous roars.


    Originally, this suppressed the deadly energy emanating from the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation.


    However, as Nathan broke through the Morning Star''s web and summoned Gary, the four Sky Corpses and the souls within the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation transformed into a black light that enveloped Gary''s body, turning the tide of battle once again.


    Even on the ground, one could feel the oppressive aura descending from thirty thousand feet above. It was Nathan and the Apostle Mike locked in a fierce duel!


    "Blackwood Nathan, to think he could stand against an Apostle?" Harris, the High Priest, exclaimed in disbelief.


    He sensed the battle above the clouds with his Competent Force.


    He and Mike were close friends, and only he knew that Mike was a prodigy who had survived the formidable celestial tribulations, blessed with profound fortune.


    Now, at the age of sixteen hundred, Mike''s cultivation far surpassed his own, mastering the powers of the stars and the natural forces of the universe, even reaching the stage of Pinnacle Apprentice. He was a genius who might reach the Basic Mastery stage by the end of his life, capable of battling four High Priests alone.


    Yet, Nathan, whom he thought would be easily defeated with little effort, was only at a slight disadvantage against the Apostle?


    "His magic is peculiar, not ordinary at all! And that silver coffin, it''s high-level special equipment!" one of the High Priests said gravely. "This man must not be allowed to escape. Even if he does, he will be a calamity for us. Join me in suppressing him, and help the Apostle kill him!"


    "Agreed!"


    The natural energies shifted instantly!


    The six High Priests furrowed their brows simultaneously. They could feel that as their Pinnacle Apprentice ascended into the skies, Apostle Mike was already expressing his displeasure.


    Yet, they remained undeterred, exchanging glances before soaring into the clouds, unconcerned with the Apostle''s desire for a fair duel with Nathan.


    That was nonsense!


    Behind the Apostle was the entire Bird Totem, but if Nathan were to grow stronger, it would be their six tribes that would suffer!


    Just then, the six High Priests suddenly halted their advance. The sky, already filled with stars, thunder, and deadly energy, underwent another change!


    From nowhere, streaks of light erected over the Border town, casting a giant family emblem into everyone''s sight.


    "This is..." Harris, the High Priest, felt a sudden panic. He had seen this strange phenomenon before!


    It was the symbol that appeared when he and Clark had once invaded Cloudview County, and the Blackwood clan had counterattacked. It was also the day he witnessed the most frenzied side of the Blackwood people, a nightmare he could never forget!


    He and the other High Priests looked solemnly towards the rear of Cloudview County. Figures approached, radiating murderous intent, the natural energies shifting rapidly, and within the clouds, two Azure Dragons roared!


    The Azure Dragon bellowed.


    "Command one: Forever protect Blackwood!"


    "Command two: Annihilate all enemies of Blackwood!" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The wind rose, clouds surged, and a thick fog enveloped the area!


    Another Azure Dragon attacked furiously, its head ferociously roaring, "Kill!"


    "Two... two Azure Dragons, why are these Azure Dragons so bizarre?!!" one of the High Priests'' complexion changed.


    Any Azure Dragon that has matured through the ages is a peak existence of Competent Force! Their bloodline is favored by the universe, and their bodies are comparable to a body cultivator at the Competent Force stage. I once heard from a Druid friend who fought against beast clans, "Never try to subdue an Azure Dragon. They are born proud and immensely powerful!"


    Once, a Druid at the Basic Mastery stage tried to forcibly subdue an Azure Dragon, but faced the dragon''s desperate counterattack. The dragon was ultimately stripped of its sinews and bones, leading to a brutal purge by the dragon clan.


    Their twelve Druid totems remained silent, and since then, no Druid dared disrespect the dragon clan.

 Chapter 279 - 279: Only a fight to the death!

    Now, Blackwood has two Azure Dragons, their existence surpassing the understanding of these High Priests.


    One of the Azure Dragons, its body forged from golden iron, summoned natural energies upon its arrival. Its scales shifted, revealing dark voids, and these energies formed into spheres, targeting each High Priest!


    The other transformed from a misty form into a fiery red figure, its every movement causing explosions in the surrounding space due to its natural energies!


    But after a moment of panic, smiles slowly appeared on their faces.


    "They really came!"


    "Foolish, reckless."


    "After today, our tribe will have no more worries, and my Bird Totem will have no more reservations!"


    They saw them.


    On the backs of those two Azure Dragons were the people of Blackwood, as reported in their intelligence. Some wielded swords with a murderous look, others wore armor made of plants and held pure bottles.


    A strong man used his body as a puppet, three hundred feet tall... These were the second generation of Blackwood, known to support the entire community!


    Each one was a major concern for the Druids and the reason why the six tribes of Druids had been kept out of Border town by Nathan for a whole year.


    And now...


    "Ha ha ha! They think they are brave, coming to save Nathan, but they are merely coming to their deaths!"


    Harris, the High Priest, arrived worried but now spoke boldly, "Send two people to help Lord Apostle suppress Nathan! All priests, follow me and eliminate these so-called geniuses of Blackwood!"


    "Good!" Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It seems that today''s Azure Cloud border has turned into a trap for the extermination of Blackwood!


    "Boom! Boom!"


    The Exploding Sky Serpent advanced, the space around him exploding!


    Ethan wore headphones, the sound booming in his ears, the game screen blossoming like fireworks. His left hand tapped the keyboard, his right hand gripped the mouse, his eyes... turned white!


    Pop-ups continuously appeared on the computer screen.


    [You are using the skill Lv.4 ''Family Glory''!]


    [All descendants within a hundred miles, combat power increased by 20%! Competent Force descendants, natural energies rules enhanced by 20%!]


    [You are manually controlling the mid-level war AI Bionic Robot¡ªAzure Dragon!]


    [Body Vitality Cannon/A]


    [Humanoid Combat Form: Azure Dragon Hunter/S]


    [Automatic Hunting Mode/Space]


    [Talent Ability...]


    [You are using Automatic Hunting Mode]


    At this moment, Ethan was multitasking, controlling the computer and perceiving everything in the game world through the Azure Dragon''s perspective.


    In the real world, he constantly switched screens, even perceiving the safety of the Blackwood children in the game world through the Azure Dragon.


    It''s a good thing the keyboard was specially made, or it would have been worn out by his tapping!


    "Kill!"


    Ahead, Harris, the High Priest, roared.


    Ethan felt heavy-hearted. Before, Blackwood only faced Clark, but now, they faced six tribes!


    Six High Priests, four at the peak of Competent Force, two in the middle stage of Competent Force! Behind them were over twenty priests, even including six mid-stage Competent Force experts, and several Competent Force chiefs and Druids'' Competent Force experts!


    In contrast, their side.


    Only two Azure Dragons had reached the peak of Competent Force.


    As for other Competent Force experts, they were even fewer.


    Lucas and the assisting Celestial Star Swordmaster, their aura only at the early and middle stages of Competent Force, their sword energy extremely sharp, their sword intent seeming to shatter everything!


    Lord of Frenzied Blood came wielding a large knife, even after years of consuming blood in Blackwood, his strength was only at the mid-stage of Competent Force.


    These were all the Competent Force experts of Blackwood.


    Even including the long-battled, scarred Luna and Primordial Blood Tree, excluding Nathan who used all the Sky Corpses from high above, their Competent Force experts were only seven.


    They remained silent, facing the thirty-plus Competent Force of the Druids from six directions, still charging, their natural energies colliding, retreating step by step, yet without a word, without a retreat.


    Only a fight to the death!


    Amelia, Julian, Marcus, Jessica, Larry... These children of Blackwood were all exceptionally gifted. They had nearly monopolized all the fortune of Cloudview County for over a hundred years. Yet, their cultivation was still in its early stages, still honing their skills.


    They paid no attention to the battle of the Competent Force experts in the sky, silently heading towards the clouds below.


    That was their battlefield!


    "Ha ha ha! True to the Blackwood name, true to the Azure Cloud warriors, I admire your courage. To come here alone, relying solely on the strength of your clan!" Harris, the High Priest, laughed heartily. He was delighted, utterly at ease.


    The murderous aura of the Blackwood people was so strong, his laughter growing darker as they drew nearer, "I will erect a monument for you in your Glory City!"


    The advancing members of Blackwood did not respond!


    Meanwhile, high above, facing the bombardment of natural energies, the Primordial Blood Tree, which had long been resisting with the bloodline technique ''Blood Realm Formation'', chuckled mockingly, "I''ve said that Cloudview County would be forbidden to Blackwood. It seems you didn''t take my words seriously?"


    "Smoke and mirrors!"


    Harris, the High Priest, continued to laugh. His Competent Force could sense everything within a thousand miles. Blackwood had no reinforcements!


    He was certain that the people of the Emerald Empire would not defy the ancient god''s royal decree.


    Today was the day Blackwood would be annihilated!


    Yet, the Primordial Blood Tree sighed repeatedly, his voice echoing throughout Border town, causing all the Druids'' faces to change dramatically.


    Harris, the High Priest, was also terrified.


    From thirty thousand feet above, Apostle Mike sent a message, his tone extremely grave, "All six Druid tribes, prepare for battle!"


    "What?" Harris, the High Priest, was momentarily stunned.


    He saw the celestial phenomenon that had formed following the arrival of the Primordial Blood Tree, which also gradually dissipated as the Primordial Blood Tree reached its limit.


    Around the Primordial Blood Tree, transforming from a fox shape into a frenzied swirl, the six-tailed fox spirit gradually took human form due to the rapid dissipation of psychic powers!


    "No... this isn''t right!"


    Harris, the High Priest, flashed a look of panic, suddenly realizing that the natural energies of these two beings were depleting too quickly, and the consumption of natural energies around the entire Cloudview County was abnormal!


    And the Blackwood people, who had rushed to battle, all wore a mocking smile on their faces.


    The energy of the battlefield formed a wild wind, wave after wave, furiously slapping his face.


    His eyes wide as bells, sensing everything around him with his Competent Force, he then shouted in desperation, "Defend! Defend!"


    At the same time.


    Above in the sky, a throne appeared, upon which sat a lazy old man, playing with his prey like a king!


    His voice was calm, as if even a hundredfold increase in Druids could not disturb his tranquility.


    "Belonging to Azure Cloud."


    "Today, let these Druids be stained with the blood of Azure Cloud!"

 Chapter 280 - 280: How is this possible? How can it be?!

    "How is this possible? How can it be?!"


    Harris, the High Priest, was pale as a ghost.


    The ground trembled, and all the Druids, following Harris''s furious roar, shrank back in terror.


    The Druids at the forefront were obliterated in an instant by a barrage of Psychic Gear, ability weapons, talismans... along with the powerful techniques and psychic powers of their foes. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"


    "Woo woo¡ª"


    "Kill!"


    These were the sounds of war drums and horns coming from within Cloudview County.


    Harris, the High Priest, still stared blankly into the depths of Cloudview County.


    As the Primordial Blood Tree weakened, one could see in the skies above Azure Cloud Border town, within the territory of Cloudview County, rows of neatly arranged ability vessels.


    On these ability vessels, dense crowds of Psychics used their powers to attack the Druid army, raining down various talismans and Psychic Gear. The sky was even filled with psychic formations from Cloudview County.


    Cloudview County Psychics, riding on swords, flew towards the momentarily panicked Druid army, avoiding the areas targeted by the attacks.


    On the ground, countless Cloudview County Psychics also charged out from the city gates of Cloudview County, shouting as they rushed into battle!


    They formed a neatly ordered arc, actually surrounding the Druids. From the formation of the battle, Cloudview County seemed to have the upper hand.


    "This isn''t right! Is this an illusion?!"


    Although Harris had the Druids prepare in the shortest time possible, he still couldn''t believe what he was seeing. Not just him, all the Druid experts couldn''t believe their eyes!


    All the Psychics of Cloudview County had already evacuated.


    So why had they come back?


    With so many Druid priests and High Priests present, their Competent Force could survey thousands of miles.


    Why had these experts from Cloudview County come, and yet they had not noticed at all?


    Everything that happened today felt so surreal, so bizarre, it was like Harris, the High Priest, was trapped in a nightmare.


    "What have you done?!"


    Harris, the High Priest, eyes bloodshot, charged towards the man sitting on the throne above Border town. He recognized him, Blackwood Daniel! That guy was still mocking him with a smirk, as if watching a fool''s antics, making him want to tear that smirk off his face!


    Daniel remained unmoved, that smile slowly driving Harris, the High Priest, to madness. Martin''s oldest ancestor had already intercepted Harris!


    The two sides'' natural energies clashed fiercely for a long while. Suddenly, Harris, the High Priest, angrily stared at Luna and the Primordial Blood Tree, who had retreated back to Border town due to injuries and were sitting cross-legged, recovering.


    "It was you! You two despicable creatures!"


    At these words, Luna and the old tree remained seated cross-legged, their faint snickers through their breaths said it all!


    ...


    "Ha! Our family''s old fox has really played those Druids for fools!" Donna''s physical strength surged, her petite frame bulking up with muscles like a wild bull, as she entered a state of frenzy. Now at the stage of Developing Skill, she wasn''t mad enough to lose sight of friend from foe. Charging into the crowd with a Psychic rush, she laughed wildly!


    She remembered the days in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, where Uncle Daniel was not just about power plays. She recalled seeing all kinds of books on his desk, and once asked if he intended to pursue scholarship.


    But Uncle Daniel had said that reading books wasn''t just about scholarship; an empty mind couldn''t control the scheming demons and righteous Psychics of the Thunderfire Demon Cave without some ink in the belly.


    Today, these Druids would see just how rotten the ink in Uncle Daniel''s belly could be!


    Behind Donna, seated on the Demon Buddha Lotus were Charles and Christopher, two men who feared little. Yet, hearing Donna''s words, they both paled, glanced back to see if Uncle Daniel had noticed, and only relaxed when they saw he hadn''t. They continued their slaughter of the Druids, whispering to Donna, "Don''t be reckless, or you''ll catch Uncle''s cunning eye."


    These two knew better than anyone how deviously clever Uncle Daniel could be, having spent the most time in the Thunderfire Demon Cave!


    Ethan, watching the screen with eyes glowing white, shifted the view just in time to catch this trio''s muttered criticisms, his lips curling into a slight smile.


    The event log was clear for all to see:


    [Your descendant Daniel has led the Blackwood forces back to Cloudview County!]


    [Your descendant Daniel, waiting on the road, has welcomed George leading his people back!]


    [They continued to wait, welcoming back the Blackwood clansmen and the Primordial Blood Tree, which had broken through to Competent Force.]


    [Special Event¡ªStrategizing against Druids]


    "Strategizing with surprise, the plan began the moment the Primordial Blood Tree arrived," Ethan sneered at the still bewildered High Priest Harris in the sky.


    After breaking through to Competent Force, the Primordial Blood Tree possessed innate spells: Sky Canopy, which could integrate into spells and shield others from divination.


    Before this, the Primordial Blood Tree also had the spell ''Blood Realm Formation''.


    From the moment the Primordial Blood Tree appeared, snow began to fall from the sky, turning the entire Azure Cloud Border town blood-red, marking the start of Daniel''s plan. Otherwise, why would the Primordial Blood Tree, after years of accumulating blood, cause snow to fall over Gratitude Village, only to spend so much again at the borders of Cloudview County?


    It was all an act, a deception to paralyze the Druids, who felt assured of their victory, making them believe he was merely engaging in trickery.


    Deceive, and deceive again!


    This, in turn, caused the Primordial Blood Tree to expend a great deal of natural energies.


    Then came Luna''s spells!


    Originally possessing ''Enchanting Words'', which could bewitch minds, she became even more potent as the Thousand Charm Fox, with ''Thousand Schemes Technique'' allowing her to sway hearts at will.


    ''The Fox Descends to Earth'' allowed her to transform into a fox spirit, further shielding her presence. When the battle suddenly began, she had already used ''Shadow Multiplicity'' to crazily defend the Primordial Blood Tree, not to protect it, but to help mask its presence together.


    Then...


    The army silently arrived at Cloudview County, catching the Druids completely off guard, prepared against the unprepared, compensating for their lack of strength!

 Chapter 281 - 281: Was it you?!

    At this moment, the Psychic warriors from Cloudview County burst forth, clashing with the Druids in a spectacular display of magic and elemental forces that shook both the sky and the earth. The power of the five elements spread far beyond a thousand miles.


    Those who had once fled Cloudview County were now returning to their homeland. They brought back all the warriors of Cloudview County, stepping onto their native soil once again, vastly outnumbered by the Druids yet fearless.


    "I once fled, I once headed to the north!" Duke Kenneth, veins bulging with determination, charged at a priest with a coffin on his back, echoing the teachings of his real and adoptive fathers. "But we could never abandon our homeland! I, Kenneth, swear by my title as Duke, I will not retreat an inch in this life!"


    "To hell with the north, to hell with the cowardice of our forebearers, you Druid scum, I, Leon, am back!"


    "Azure Cloud shall not fall, holy spirits protect us, celestial soldiers descend from the clouds!"


    "Disciples of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, form up! Today we open the gates of the underworld and fight to the last man!"


    At this moment, every Psychic of Cloudview County charged into battle. They fought with a disregard for their own lives, as if reliving the struggles they faced 130,000 years ago when Azure Cloud was named. Today, 130,000 years later, these descendants had not forsaken the expectations of their ancestors.


    Even without knowing what the future held, they were determined to fight.


    At this moment, under Daniel''s strategic command, they formed the sharpest spearhead, breaking through the endless waves formed by the Druids.


    "Despicable Cloudview County Psychics!" Harris, the High Priest, furious and still battling Elder Martin, glared at Daniel who sat calmly, seemingly unaffected and not even sparing him a glance, yet constantly unsettling his mind. "Do you really think such petty schemes can save the falling tide of Cloudview County?!"


    "You have lost, the Emerald Empire has abandoned you, all your cunning is but a death throe!"


    "Even if my tribes retreat today, more will come tomorrow. Cloudview County has been ceded to us, the Druids, and in our lands, not yet at war with the Emerald Empire, with Basic Mastery at our disposal, you are but lambs to the slaughter. I wonder how long you can keep up your arrogance?!"


    At this statement, Daniel finally frowned slightly, impatiently retorting, "Such haste and waste, you are not even worth the disturbance to my ears."


    "You..."


    With just those words, and the disdain in Daniel''s expression, Harris, the High Priest, was once again mentally shaken. The Exploding Sky Serpent, laughing wildly, charged at Harris with a magic of myriad beasts formed by natural energies, scattering the spectral beasts before him. This failure in magic forced Harris to spit out a mouthful of blood.


    Harris, unable to speak further and lacking the strength to continue fighting the Exploding Sky Serpent, hastily retreated.


    Just as he sought another High Priest to join him against the Exploding Sky Serpent, his expression changed dramatically.


    A chieftain from the Endless Forest, having exhausted much psychic power and nearly collapsing, charged into the battlefield. He did not join the fight but rushed towards a battling priest, even as he was accidentally injured by natural energies, he screamed in agony, "Priest, High Priest! Hurry, go back, our tribe... is destroyed!"


    "Who? What happened?!"


    Harris, the High Priest, teleported instantly, grabbing the chieftain''s shoulders, but the chieftain died in an instant.


    Harris, stiff-necked, painfully turned to look at Daniel, who sat leisurely, his face full of resentment, "Was it you?!"


    "..."


    On the battlefield, all the people of Blackwood heard the furious roar of Harris, the High Priest, and stared collectively at Daniel. The third generation of Blackwood and many children who had suffered at Daniel''s hands felt a chill run down their spines. The Psychics emerging from the Thunderfire Demon Cave shivered and gasped in the cold air.


    Looking at Daniel, who appeared unconcerned and as if everything was under his control, they thought to themselves that surely this deeply wicked man had committed some outrageously evil act again.


    But what they didn''t know was that Daniel, maintaining his previous expression, was making the biggest decision of his life.


    "Although I don''t know what happened, maintaining such a dignified posture will surely make the younger generation revere me."


    "Brilliant."


    Above the Endless Forest, a group of experts watched everything outside the Azure Cloud Border town. At this moment, the six factions of Druids were already in decline.


    Weren''t these the same White forces who had nearly lost their natural magic array to the people of Blackwood?


    Now, they looked solemnly at the Azure Cloud Psychics above the Border town.


    A priest said in a focused tone, "Arnold, they''ve fallen into our trap, layer upon layer of schemes have led them into decline. But if we, the White, join the battlefield, we can turn the tide of battle!"


    Arnold and the White High Priest frowned.


    The priest''s words undoubtedly made some sense. Now, with the White tribe members in the Endless Forest, it would only take a moment for the experts to come to the rescue, and both the expert and ordinary Druid warriors could instantly turn the tide of battle.


    The White High Priest narrowed his eyes, "If you ask me, we should indeed fight. Arnold, whether it''s Nathan or Amelia from Blackwood, their talents are comparable to yours... to yours, and besides them, it''s also about eliminating future enemies for you. This time, it''s up to you to decide. My life is not much longer, and eventually, the White will be yours."


    All the White forces were looking at Arnold, with a hint of anticipation in their eyes, as the Druids loved to fight.


    But what they didn''t expect was that Arnold still shook his head, "Let''s go back."


    Saying this, he turned and led the way, exhaling deeply before looking up at the sky. He too wanted to fight, he too wanted to eradicate the Blackwood clan!


    But...


    He always felt as if there were eyes in the sky watching him, making his heart tremble!


    "The talents of the Blackwood clan will grow over hundreds or even thousands of years. Time changes many things, even if we win this battle, we, the White, won''t gain much. If we lose, it would weaken our White strength and provoke a powerful enemy like Blackwood."


    His voice reached the ears of all his tribe members, "Moreover, we don''t need to intervene. Cloudview County no longer has the protection of an empire, Apostle Mike has already made his move, and even those stronger than Basic Mastery can act. Let Blackwood enjoy this brief victory, their good days are numbered."


    Hearing this, the people of the White tribe raised their eyebrows, thinking that it was indeed wise of them to have nurtured Arnold, this genius.


    S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 282 - 282: Tell him, are we afraid?

    "Disaster has struck! A massive fire has erupted in our tribe, and the chief who watches over us has been assassinated!"


    "Our people are fleeing; I must go home!"


    "We can''t let our tribe be destroyed for the sake of Cloudview County!"


    Only Harris High Priest heard the news, but he was determined to fight to the death, urging his people to storm into Cloudview County and annihilate the Psychic of Cloudview County. Suddenly, more and more Druids appeared, shouting about the fire at the back of their ranks!


    The Druids began to panic.


    Who doesn''t have a family? Who wants to lose their real home while invading another place?


    Chaos spread like a plague, and the Druids started fleeing towards the rear!


    "We can''t flee; this is a despicable trick by the Azure Cloud people! I dare anyone to try it!!"


    The leaders of the six Druid factions roared in anger, but their cries were in vain.


    Harris High Priest even killed a Druid trying to escape with a totem, but it did nothing to deter the others!


    He grabbed another shouting Druid, and as he sensed the aura on the man, his blood surged, "Azure Cloud people? Azure Cloud infiltrators in my Druid tribe?!!"


    But even knowing the truth, he turned around, his face pale.


    It was no use; too many were fleeing. Even if he told the truth, the panicked tribespeople wouldn''t listen unless they were sure of their safety.


    "Retreat, retreat!"


    The retreat was inevitable. From the sky, Apostle Mike''s furious voice echoed, "A bunch of failures, can''t even control your own people! Retreat,"


    ....


    In just a short hour, the already chaotic Druids were routed by the numerically inferior Azure Cloud Psychic.


    Outside the Azure Cloud Border town, the Psychic did not pursue. Those who returned to Cloudview County stood proudly outside the ruined city walls, facing a landscape of carnage. They had reclaimed their homeland, driving the Druids out of Cloudview County once again!


    Above the city, the masters of Cloudview County gathered, each one battered and bruised, many of whom would forever rest in the Azure Cloud Border town. Yet, their fighting spirit was unbroken!


    Across from them stood Mike, along with the High Priests of the six Druid tribes and many Druid masters.


    In this brief respite, their eyes still held an unyielding sharpness.


    "It seems we have lost this battle."


    Mike stared at Nathan across the way. Nathan appeared unscathed, just as he was when he first came to Cloudview County. Facing Nathan, Mike showed no resentment from his defeat, instead, there was a sense of mutual respect and pity, "But Mr. Nathan, this is just the beginning. You shouldn''t continue to guard Cloudview County, and your Cloudview County Psychic shouldn''t have come back."


    At that moment, Nathan, his clothes torn and his upper body scarred, furrowed his brow.


    Indeed.


    He shouldn''t be standing on the wall, and the Psychic of Cloudview County shouldn''t have returned. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He looked towards the endless Endless Forest, knowing this war was just the beginning. Cloudview County had been abandoned by the Emerald Empire, a forgotten land, but...


    Nathan turned to look at the Cloudview County Psychic behind him. He saw the children of Blackwood, each one scarred from the war, all looking at him with a mix of reproach for their elder who had kept them in the dark about defending the city alone.


    Behind him were many old friends, the unassuming Duke Kenneth, Jason who had once been trapped in the Azure Cloud Pavilion, the veteran Leon Daoist who had aided Blackwood for years... and Blackwood''s old friends from the Hundred Tools Sect, the practitioners from Thunderfire Demon Cave, the Demon Hunters Alliance...


    Hearing Mike''s words, these old friends of Blackwood showed no fear. They knew the road ahead was fraught with challenges, yet each one was fearless!


    Then what did he have to fear?!!


    Above the blood-soaked battlefield, where dust filled the air and snowflakes danced wildly, Nathan burst into laughter, his mirth causing the Druids opposite him to furrow their brows.


    "Brothers, did you hear that? Our enemy says we shouldn''t have come back. This man, Mike, is an Apostle of the Druids, and I believe him."


    At this, Mike, from the opposing side, slightly curved his lips upward. Although he had hoped to eliminate Nathan for the Druids, he ended up befriending him and felt honored by it.


    Nathan continued, "He says we shouldn''t stay, so what lies ahead will be even tougher than today!"


    "Michael once said he would trade the lives of everyone in Cloudview County for a glorious future, but we haven''t lost!"


    Snowflakes settled on everyone''s shoulders, each person''s gaze firm and unwavering.


    Only Kenneth''s mouth twitched slightly.


    Nathan''s voice replaced the warmth of the sun that was missing today.


    "Thirty years ago, the Druids first set foot on our land. We retreated but never gave up hope!"


    "Today, thirty years later, this place is once again filled with the bodies of Druids, and the people of Cloudview County still stand proudly on our homeland, defying the Druids!"


    "I, Nathan, am no saint, nor do I believe in blind loyalty to any cause."


    "I may not be the backbone of Cloudview County, but I know this place holds the memories of our Azure Cloud people, everything we''re familiar with."


    "Tell him, are we afraid?"


    Nathan''s voice boomed!


    "Ha ha ha!" Kenneth, who had always been a refined man, now covered in scars, spat blood onto the ground, "Mr. Nathan, are we scared of them? I can fight again right now!"


    "Yes, it''s just life and death. If I die, I die in my homeland!"


    Jason fiercely plucked out a few of his white beard hairs, glaring at the priest who had injured him earlier, "Despicable barbarians, daring to ambush me, do you dare to fight again?"


    All the Azure Cloud people roared, and the masked volunteers from across the Emerald Empire wished they could tear off their masks and smash them into the faces of the Druids.


    The people of Cloudview County were shouting!


    The six directions of Druids masters were furious but were stopped by Mike, who still smiled gently, "Mr. Nathan, the Druids never abandon their land, and we still have many tribespeople behind us."


    "Then come!"


    Nathan''s expression was cold.


    Mike shook his head, "There are elders above me, and even among the Apostles, I am but a weakling."


    Nathan took a deep breath, but his response was the same.


    "Then come!"


    "Well... good luck, Mr. Nathan."


    Mike sighed, seeing a group of stubborn mules, then led the Druids'' masters away.


    Far away, they soared above the defeated Druids'' army.


    Harris, the High Priest, dissatisfied, said, "Apostle, we can still fight, I..."


    But before he could finish, Mike slapped him across the face. Harris, initially furious, quickly changed his expression as he heard.


    "Spurt!"


    Mike spat out a mouthful of blood, and if not for the strong ones beside him catching him, the mighty Bird Totem Apostle might have fallen from the sky, "Apostle, you..."


    Mike shook his head at the priest, glaring fiercely at the pale-faced Harris High Priest, "Do you think I don''t want to fight? Do you think I don''t want to slaughter them at the Azure Cloud border?"


    He seemed unharmed when he was in the Azure Cloud Border town.


    But now, all the strong ones understood, Mike... was severely injured! No one could stop Nathan, and if they fought again, they would be defeated one by one by Nathan!


    "Alas."


    Mike sighed deeply, "We lost, but luckily I was clever, maintaining my energy and keeping the people of Cloudview County at bay."


    Everyone gasped in shock, thankful for the Apostle.


    Otherwise, they all would have died!

 Chapter 283 - 283: One by one, the bodies of Psychics were buried

    Outside the town of Azure Cloud Border.


    "Nathan, Mr. Nathan, what''s wrong with you?!!"


    The strong ones of Azure Cloud were in a panic. The Druids had left a while ago, and Nathan had just entered the town to discuss future strategies with them. As soon as he stepped into the Psychic Sanctuary, he spat out a mouthful of blood, his breath chaotic.


    "Quick, quick, quick, Amelia, heal Dad!"


    "Why did you hold on for so long? If you were injured, you should have said something earlier!"


    "Mr. Nathan, it''s good that you held on, otherwise Mike would have broken us one by one!"


    On the bed.


    The severely injured Nathan was being treated by Amelia.


    He looked at the strong ones crowding the room, blinked, grinned showing his blood-stained teeth, and gave them a thumbs up as if to boast¡ª


    Look at how clever I am!


    In the room, Ethan had already taken off his headset. He had returned to reality from commanding the Azure Dragon, and he couldn''t help but let out a long sigh of relief.


    This war was bigger than any he had faced before. On the battlefield, it was essentially king against king. Beyond Developing Skill, they not only had to find opponents but also had to figure out how to use psychic powers to attack the enemy''s weaker Psychics, while also constantly guarding against the enemy''s strong attacks on their own weaker Psychics.


    In addition to various formations, totems, and ability weapons that needed to be ready at all times. But one should not underestimate the weaker Psychics; the Azure Dragon had been slightly injured by thousands of Druids using a powerful spell through a single totem.


    After taking a breath of relief.


    He looked at the event column.


    [You used the skill ''Forebearer Warmth'', healing your tribe collectively.]


    [You used the skill ''Forebearer Raging Waves''...]


    During this war, his mouse and keyboard were almost worn out.


    A series of messages appeared.


    [Your descendant Julian killed enemies on the battlefield, witnessing the might of the Azure Dragon''s abilities, and the Azure Dragon''s ability to transform a second time, seizing natural energies. He was quite inspired. The Exploding Sky Serpent killed enemies continuously exploding, he could feel the powerful force of thunder and fire, gaining a deep understanding.


    Acquired trait: The Art of Explosion]


    [He developed a deep interest in explosions, feeling that this was the true violence of men. Studying the explosions of natural energies, his insight increased by 10%]


    ...


    [Your descendant George, gathering the might of many ancestors, played the harp on the battlefield, feeling the murderous aura, successfully composed the ''Azure Cloud War Song'', comparable to a mysterious-level technique, recognized by the fortune of Cloudview County.]


    [When the ''Azure Cloud War Song'' is played within Cloudview County, the recovery speed of Azure Cloud Psychic natural energies increases by 20%, and the strength of natural energies increases by 5%]


    [Your descendant successfully composed a mysterious-level technique, profession musician, promoted to¡ªWar Song Composer]


    [He preferred to compose war songs, when playing war songs, the effectiveness increased by 10%]


    [Acquired trait: Slacking Off]


    [He realized that by playing music at the rear of the battlefield, he was more useful to the war effort, having worked hard all his life, a strange thought appeared in his mind.]


    [Your descendant Jessica, under the command of her great-uncle, led the Cloudview County Psychics in battle formations at the onset of the war. She directed the Psychics to fend off enemies using strategic formations, and amidst the clash of formations and magic, her rank as an eighth-grade formation master broke through to a seventh-grade formation master.]


    [In such a grand-scale war, your descendant Jessica faced danger without fear, repeatedly leading the Psychics to alter the course of battle, always finding the enemy''s weak points, earning the trait: Blackwood Female General]


    [Wisdom increased, prestige increased when facing Psychics, morale boosted when leading Psychics.]


    ...


    [Congratulations, your family has led Cloudview County to victory in the war to reclaim Cloudview County! You repelled six tribes of Druids, killing hundreds of thousands!] S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [During the war, your Forebearer Psychic Position protected every member of your family. Although two family members and one family member''s wife died, your family members still felt the personal protection from the Forebearer.]


    [Family Will increased by +20]


    [Current Family Will: 42]


    "Did we still lose family members?"


    Ethan paused for a moment. The Blackwood family is large now, and he had done everything to protect everyone, but this is still a battlefield, and even his mouse was smoking from overuse at times.


    That was Jeffrey''s descendant.


    [Your descendant Timothy, bravely advanced on the battlefield as Druids'' Psychics attempted to use totems to summon Developing Skill realm beast spirits to attack the Cloudview County formations. Mid-Emerging Ability Timothy, fearless of life and death, found several Psychic Gears on a fallen ally and charged desperately, activating his own Psychic Gear to self-destruct in his final moments!]


    [Your descendant Jesse, took a fatal blow for his brother Rodney, who was preparing a formation, and prayed with his dying breath that Rodney would take care of his pregnant wife.]


    [Jeffrey''s wife, Jenna, was not by her husband''s side for the first time on the battlefield; she rode the demon king given by Larry, blocking the Druids'' army that surged from the sky towards her husband and many sisters, and died in battle.]


    At this moment, Nathan was barely able to get out of bed.


    A month had passed since the war, and outside Border town, the Azure Cloud Psychics under the command of the strong were cleaning up the battlefield, lifting the bodies of Psychics that were intact. Each one had a nameplate with their name, or their name carved on their body, a preparation every Psychic made before battle.


    They all knew that anyone could die on this battlefield, but everyone came with many hopes.


    Hoping to live.


    Hoping their bodies would be intact, found by their comrades, buried in their homeland with honors and praises from future generations.


    Hoping...


    Cloudview County would always be their Cloudview County.


    On the road from Border town to Cloudview County, there was a tomb where many Azure Cloud Psychics had gathered today. Competent Force strong ones used natural energies to create simple graves, and a lot of grass and trees floated up, forming coffins under the power of Competent Force Psychics, and many fallen Psychics found their resting places.


    The living strong ones of Cloudview County came in small numbers, they stood silently by the neatly arranged tombstones, some wept quietly, but many more raised their heads.


    They were proud, every person from Cloudview County was a comrade, they were proud of their comrades, facing countless Druids on the battlefield, no one retreated!


    Before long.


    One by one, the bodies of Psychics were buried, their names engraved on the tombstones. Some lucky Psychics had their bodies found by friends, and their tombstones would chronicle their lives. But everyone present believed that even those nameless, unmarked Psychics would not be mourned, their seemingly empty tombstones held the respect of all Cloudview County.


    And perhaps, those standing here might also die for this cause, they too would be like these Psychics, dying without regret!

 Chapter 284 - 284: Would they spare my Blackwood family?

    "Grandfather, I want to leave for two days, to take Jenna and the kids back home."


    Jeffrey and his numerous wives and children were crying. His branch of the family was the largest, and they usually bickered over everyday matters. But at this moment, there were no more hidden conflicts among them.


    In this mausoleum, there were cenotaphs for Jeffrey''s wife and two children. They fought for Cloudview County, and they should be commemorated here, forever watching over their homeland from Azure Cloud Border town.


    Nathan sighed deeply. As the graves were covered with dust and sand, everyone at the mausoleum looked up.


    "Ah!"


    A flock of geese returning home at the end of winter sliced through the sky, heading towards Cloudview County, just like the fallen warriors of Azure Cloud, returning home to rest forever in Azure Cloud.


    "Perhaps this is what it means for us to go home and fight for Azure Cloud."


    Luna wrapped her arm around Nathan''s, her eyes dazzled, "Let''s go, my dear. For Cloudview County, we still have many battles to fight. War is like this, starting suddenly, but always hard to end as one wishes."


    ...


    Yet, not in Cloudview County, people in Blackwood are still fighting for Cloudview County!


    Ethan looked at the continuous tombstones, sighed deeply, and switched the view to the Endless Forest!


    [Harris]


    A great fire engulfed Harris''s base, reddening the sky and melting the snow. The strong of Harris have returned.


    On a high mountain, Olivia stood at the summit, with William by her side! They quietly watched as one master after another flew back to Harris. The elderly, women, and children of the Druids did not die but knelt outside the fire, wailing and crying.


    Olivia''s voice was soft, "They invaded our homeland, yet lost their own homes. But they are fortunate, the Endless Forest is vast, they have many places to retreat to. It''s different for us people of Cloudview County; we are still on our homeland, yet we have no way out." Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The last time Olivia fought for fortune in Blackwood, she began to look like a charming older woman, now even more aged, her hair streaked with gray.


    "Great-aunt, you should have let me kill all their elderly, women, and children. Wouldn''t the masters of Harris have been desperate when they returned?"


    William clasped his hands behind his head, chewing on a blade of grass, unable to bear Olivia''s moralizing, "Have you been too peaceful for too long, read too many books, and actually believed those saintly nonsense? Just setting a fire and spreading rumors through the agents you once placed among the Druids is really boring."


    Hearing this.


    Olivia still had a kind expression, smiling gently, "Killing cannot solve everything, this is what I''ve realized over the past hundred years. Think about it, if we had killed them all, would they still come back?"


    This actually made William pause, "No, they''d probably be desperate and fight to the death in Border town."


    "If we really did that, could you and I escape from the Druids?"


    "Probably not, then even the Basic Mastery stage would come out."


    "Would they spare my Blackwood family?"


    "Even a fool would guess it was our doing."


    William scratched his head naively, "Great-aunt, you''ve thought this through. But now, although our family has won, they might attack at any time, even with Basic Mastery stage masters... What do we do?


    Grandfather''s abilities have been exposed, and so have the abilities of the second great-aunt, both are beings of the ninety-ninth thunder tribulation, Grandfather even managed to fight Apostle Mike to a standstill, they must be eager to eradicate our Blackwood family."


    Facing the masters from all sides is not a dead end, this is!


    And this time, Olivia had no other choice, she just smiled faintly, "We''ve already borrowed a lot of fortune, how to undergo the tribulation will depend on fate. The Primordial blood tree has also transformed, it can guide our clan members, as for us, there''s still much to do. To truly get through this calamity, the endless battles on the battlefield cannot solve the problem."


    "This should have been the war of the Emerald Empire, so let their war continue, I want to see how many people they can abandon for this."


    She looked towards the depths of the Endless Forest. The twelve Druid tribes, twelve totems, not just the Bird Totem!


    And there it was...


    "Moon Dragon Totem!" William''s eyes lit up, "Great Aunt is about to..."


    They moved through the shadows, unseen on the battlefield, unknown for their deeds, yet still tirelessly working and fighting for their clan!


    [Your descendants Olivia and William, rush to the location of the Moon Dragon Totem among the twelve Druids.]


    [Your descendant William emerges from the grand natural magic formation, his undercover plan having failed, leaving him despondent for six whole months. Now, on a secret mission with Great Aunt, he finally feels the joy of being alive, earning the trait: Great Aunt''s Shadow]


    [Unconditionally following Great Aunt''s orders, his wisdom increases by 20%]


    ...


    The Druids were retreating, but soon they began to station themselves outside the Endless Forest, continuously gathering more Druids from all around the Endless Forest.


    In the starry night.


    Mike was still severely injured, and with such wounds, even with a plethora of herbs, it might take two to three years to fully recover, to cleanse the deathly aura imbued by the Death Coffin. At that moment, he was kneeling before the bonfire, with many Druids'' High Priests and priests behind him, surrounded by the tribe''s totems.


    As the crowd chanted spells, the flickering flames gradually formed the pattern of a phoenix, lifelike as it soared into the night sky, circling above before forming a pattern in the air.


    "Reporting to the elder."


    Mike knelt on one knee, his head bowed in guilt, "In the battle of Azure Cloud, they were defeated. They underestimated Cloudview County, underestimated Azure Cloud Blackwood, they..."


    Before he could finish.


    A flash of fire from the pattern above shot towards Mike, and he dared not resist; dust rose from his chest as he spat out blood again, now it would take at least four to five years to heal.


    Mike, disregarding his injuries, struggled to his feet, the surrounding High Priests and priests trembling with fear, he knelt and said, "Elder, they need support, Azure Cloud Blackwood is extraordinary, they have a woman, Amelia, a Pinnacle Apprentice about to break through the ninety-ninth thunder tribulation.


    Blackwood''s ancestor, newly entered into Competent Force, named Nathan, practices the path of death energy, commanding Zombies and spirits, also a rare talent among those who reach the Pinnacle Apprentice level."


    This time, the pattern did not inflict punishment, Mike''s expression solemn, "These two are exceptionally talented, if they achieve Basic Mastery, they will one day be a great threat to our Bird Totem. Now, Cloudview County is our Druids'' land, it will not provoke the mighty ones from Emerald Empire, please elder, send the elders to eliminate them!"


    After a moment.


    Mike stood atop an ancient tree, gazing at the Morning Star over the vast sea, he sighed, "Elder is so cautious about Blackwood, to deal with such a small clan, three people were sent?"


    "Mr. Nathan, I respect heroes, but you never heed advice. Forgive me for being underhanded once, I can no longer afford a fair fight with you."

 Chapter 285 - 285: Isolated City

    Half a month passed in a blink.


    By now, almost all the county towns on the southern border of the Emerald Empire had been occupied by the Druids.


    The Druids had begun to transform the land of these county towns, some even a year ago, and it was difficult to find any trace of the Emerald Empire.


    On the southern border of the Emerald Empire, Cloudview County, which still retained some of its former appearance, was so conspicuous.


    Every day, Psychics still came to Cloudview County on their swords.


    If they were independent cultivators, they were not afraid of being recognized.


    If they had a master and were righteous, they would wear masks.


    Even if they were recognized, they would still put on a show so as not to cause trouble for their sects or families.


    Every one of them had seen Daniel''s call for help.


    The Emerald Empire had ceded territory and sought peace, losing its backbone.


    Cloudview County was the last backbone of the Emerald Empire.


    They were willing to fight for Cloudview County and contribute their meager strength.


    If they won the battle, perhaps they could make the ancient god change his mind.


    Of course, there were also those who fought for the sake of fighting.


    Fighting against the Druids with the Azure Cloud Psychics also meant that there was a possibility of gaining benefits from the Druids.


    "Cloudview County..."


    At this moment, two people were flying towards Azure Cloud on their swords.


    One was a young man with ordinary looks, and the other was a man in armor, extremely burly.


    As soon as the strong man entered the territory of Azure Cloud, he was stunned.


    "It''s actually still standing?"


    This person was none other than Owen, the ever-victorious general who had brought Edward from the imperial capital.


    Coincidentally, a Psychic riding a tiger came from below.


    He must have cultivated some kind of "Wind Listening" technique.


    He looked up and shouted, "Fellow Daoist, where are you from? Haven''t you heard? Cloudview County has won a great victory!"


    Edward''s eyes were filled with joy.


    He clenched his fists in his sleeves and let out a long breath, as if speaking to himself.


    "General Owen, you should have believed me. There is still hope for my Blackwood clan. My people will not be defeated!"


    Owen had already flashed down in an instant, startling the tiger-riding Psychic.


    His eyes were gleaming.


    "Tell me more."


    Owen looked up at the sky and shouted, "Edward, don''t you want to know about your family?"


    "Humph! I know that my Blackwood clan will win. Why should I be curious?"


    Ten minutes later.


    Owen watched as Edward slapped his thigh excitedly, tears streaming down his face, and shouted, "Good, good, good! All the forces have returned. My second uncle''s brilliant plan has driven the Druids back to where they came from, hahaha!"


    "..."


    Owen waved his hand, dismissing the Psychic, and looked at Edward with a solemn expression.


    "Your second uncle''s brilliant plan... You said that the conditions you mentioned to the ancient god in the grand hall were also taught to you by your great-grandfather Nathan. It seems that he is not a simple man either. Your great-grandfather has good methods. This time, the Blackwood clan is saved."


    "Hmm?"


    ...


    At this moment, in Border town, the major forces of Cloudview County were discussing in the space opened by Marcus.


    The war was far from over.


    Apostle Mike had made it very clear that the entire Emerald Empire was weak in the face of the Druids, let alone Cloudview County?


    They were facing a behemoth!


    Everyone sat on prayer mats in the center, talking.


    However, they could not see that in this Sky Hall, there was an existence that was free from space and time, staring at a pile of broken copper and iron in the corner.


    These were all spoils of war obtained from the Druids!


    [You have used the skill Forebearer Moment!]


    [Detected that your strength has reached the Competent Force stage, consuming 1 Family Will per year]


    [Possessing natural energies, you can move freely within a hundred meters of the Forebearer Psychic Position and instantly appear next to the Forebearer Psychic Position possessed by your descendants. Within the territory, you can move freely and use skills.]


    ...


    [Congratulations, your family has won a great victory and obtained a large number of spoils of war]


    [Beast Tribe - Ten Thousand Beasts Totem]


    [Sacrificial Druid Bones +3]


    [Various spells]


    [Druid corpses...]


    Ethan had entered the game world early on.


    He had decided to be a hardworking Forebearer.


    At this moment, this pile of things from the Druids caught his attention.


    The Druids'' cultivation system was different from that of humans.


    The things they used were also related to bloodline power, such as these totems.


    [Beast Tribe - Ten Thousand Beasts Totem]


    [Rank: Seventh Grade Witch Artifact]


    [By using Druid bloodline to transmit faith to the totem, one can activate the Ten Thousand Beasts Totem and summon the illusory shadows of ten thousand beasts. It can accommodate beast souls and urge them to fight for the totem.]


    ...


    [Sacrificial Druid Bones]


    [Rank: Competent Force]


    [The bones of a Druid sacrifice. When integrated into the body, they can enhance bloodline power and inherit the secret techniques of the Competent Force sacrifice''s spells. The mortality rate for those below Competent Force... The success rate for humans...]


    ...


    A whole bunch of things, for the people of Cloudview County, only the herbs and Druid corpses obtained from them were useful.


    It was no wonder that the Psychics of the Emerald Empire were too lazy to fight the Druids.


    There was not much benefit in fighting them.


    It was better to trade with them.


    "The third generation of the Blackwood clan can use these things."


    Ethan looked at the Druid bones on the ground thoughtfully.


    The current Thomas already possessed Druid bloodline and was even cultivating spells!


    At this moment, the third generation of the Blackwood clan was standing in the corner of the Sky Hall.


    After experiencing multiple deaths and fusing with the Druid bones, the pair of fleshy wings on Thomas''s back had grown a bit bigger...


    It was probably because he possessed the bloodlines of humans, Druids, and demons, resulting in some unknown mutation.


    "Thomas has advanced to the Developing Skill stage after fusing with the Druid bones. The third generation of the Blackwood clan should also try more. The family is united, and their bloodlines don''t matter. Anyway, they are all my descendants."


    Ethan secretly made up his mind and decided to wait for a while to ask for their opinions using the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    He then walked towards the place where everyone was discussing.


    At this moment, the Competent Force ancestors of Cloudview County were talking about the war in Cloudview County.


    Just listening to a few words, Ethan was already focused.


    This great victory was only the beginning of the crisis!


    A light blue pop-up window appeared before his eyes. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Special Event - Isolated City]


    [News from the imperial capital has arrived. Your descendant Edward was unable to change the ancient god''s royal decree. The ancient god is the supreme ruler of the Emerald Empire, and his words are law. However, Edward also received a promise from the ancient god in the grand hall. If the experts of the Emerald Empire want to enter Cloudview County, they must obtain the Blackwood clan''s consent.]


    [Cloudview County has become an independent and unique existence outside the empire.]


    This was the significance of never paying taxes and the Blackwood clan not kowtowing in the grand hall.


    "In other words, the current Cloudview County is equivalent to a small country that doesn''t have to pay tribute? It is surrounded by the Emerald Empire and the Druids. "


    "Because of the agreement between Edward and the ancient god, as long as the Blackwood clan doesn''t mess around, according to the ancient god''s personality of keeping his word, the Emerald Empire cannot send anyone above Competent Force to interfere in the affairs of Cloudview County, at least not openly..."


    Ethan''s eyes suddenly lit up.


    At the same time, Nathan smiled at the many Psychics and said, "Everyone, we will have more help in the future."


    Everyone looked at this seemingly honest and simple man.


    "I sent Edward to the grand hall a year ago to ask for a promise after my death. Anyone above Competent Force must report before entering Azure Cloud. Cloudview County will never pay taxes, the Blackwood clan will not kowtow in the grand hall, and we will have the title of Duke."

 Chapter 286 - 286: I have seen it

    Everyone was puzzled.


    Nathan''s expression turned playful. "Everyone has overlooked the first half of the agreement, because ''no taxes'', ''no kowtowing in the grand hall'', and ''the title of Duke'' are already greedy enough. But the most overlooked condition is the most important one."


    "Think about it, everyone. Psychics above Competent Force need to report before entering Azure Cloud. At least, the empire can''t send people here openly. What does this mean?"


    Nathan let out a long breath. "Guess what, every year in the Emerald Empire, there are many rebellious people who are hunted down by the righteous path, by the grand hall, and by the major forces of the Emerald Empire."


    "But once they enter Cloudview County, the Emerald Empire can''t send anyone to capture them!"


    "This..."


    The faces of the many experts in Cloudview County gradually lit up with joy. Kenneth even slapped his thigh. "From now on, anyone who has committed a crime will come to Cloudview County. At least in Cloudview County, they still have a glimmer of hope. They don''t have to flee anymore and can choose a place to cultivate their psychic powers!"


    "They will be our source of soldiers."


    Nathan''s expression turned grim. "At the same time, it will also embolden some people in the Emerald Empire. As long as our Blackwood clan remains in Cloudview County for a day, if anyone in the Emerald Empire has a grudge against others, they wouldn''t dare to act recklessly before, because of the influence of the major forces and the empire."


    "But now they dare! Our strength will grow. Given enough time, we will be able to resist several times the number of Druids from half a month ago!"


    Everyone gasped.


    They didn''t expect that Nathan, this seemingly foolish guy, had already paved the way a year ago!


    Nathan didn''t even know if the major forces would come back this time, and he didn''t even know if he could survive, but he had thought so far ahead!


    Those fugitives, which one of them didn''t have some skills?


    And after they came to Cloudview County, they would all serve the Blackwood clan and do everything in their power to protect the Blackwood people. Only with the Blackwood people around would the agreement between the Blackwood clan and the ancient god be effective.


    Perhaps there were already experts at the Basic Mastery stage or even above on their way to Cloudview County.


    Ethan silently looked at the traits on Nathan.


    He didn''t know when, but a trait had already appeared on him. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Trait: Wise Fool]


    ...


    "From now on, Cloudview County will be the city of sin."


    Nathan suddenly looked apologetically at the leaders of the various forces and said with a wry smile, "I''m sorry, everyone. I didn''t expect you to come back and guard Cloudview County with me."


    "I also didn''t expect that I would be able to defend Cloudview County this time. I thought I would definitely die, but I was paving the way for the future of my Blackwood clan. I didn''t expect this day to come."


    Hearing this.


    Kenneth smiled helplessly. "This is a good thing. These Psychics who enter Azure Cloud will also fight for this ''pure land''. However, besides guarding Azure Cloud, we also need to talk to our disciples and clansmen. There will be many experts with unknown origins and pasts coming to Cloudview County in the future.


    It''s better for them to keep a low profile when they are out and about, so as not to offend anyone they shouldn''t."


    "Understood!"


    Everyone nodded repeatedly. Even if they didn''t say it, they knew what to do. After all, a long time ago... they had encountered these freaks from the Blackwood clan.


    Jason of the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s eyes lit up. "Everyone, in order to make these experts fight for Azure Cloud, why don''t we add fuel to the fire? Let''s say that we have obtained secret treasures from the Druids, or that someone has achieved enlightenment overnight among the Druids. In this way, these daring Psychics will dare to challenge the Druids and fight alongside us."


    Immortal Master''s face was calm. "We can say that the Druids have harmed the people of Cloudview County. This time, we can use the name of the legendary Oracle Chamber and manipulate ''fortune'' a little."


    A sinister voice rasped, coming from Patriarch Ralph of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate. "Have you heard of the Human Refinement Pill? Using humans as cauldrons? This method can be spread throughout Azure Cloud..."


    Before he could finish his sentence, the many patriarchs of Cloudview County glared at him.


    If such a method were to spread, in a thousand or ten thousand years, Cloudview County would truly become a land of evil, and even they, the patriarchs, might be captured and refined.


    ...


    The old foxes in the Sky Hall were deep in discussion.


    Ethan was truly an eye-opener. In the eyes of other Psychics, they were all high and mighty, extremely dignified, and anyone who saw them would call them "exalted ones." Even before this, when the Blackwood people met them, they had nothing but praise for them.


    But only when they were on the same boat did they realize that none of them were really decent people. It was like two strangers meeting for the first time. Everyone was a little reserved, and the other party seemed gentle and refined.


    But after they became friends, they would have to get up in the middle of the night and complain, "What a bunch of lunatics."


    "Perhaps there is no such thing as good and evil in this world, only whether our values are compatible and our aspirations are aligned."


    Ethan shook his head and smiled.


    At least when the Druids came, the grand hall, which ruled over the entire Emerald Empire, did not come to the aid of Cloudview County. Instead, it was these seemingly bad guys who resolutely guarded this land alongside the Blackwood clan. Even on the battlefield, the demon cultivators brought by Daniel charged at the forefront.


    Two days passed quickly.


    Ethan casually switched between his Blackwood descendants and saw friends from all over the Emerald Empire who had come to help Cloudview County. These were truly righteous people. Most of them wore masks... He didn''t know who taught them, but they all had a steelyard embroidered on their chests, and they would tell everyone they met that they were members of the Oracle Chamber.


    They even had tokens.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, colluded with the old tree and used the method of manipulating fate to create a new force in Border town - the Oracle Chamber (fake)]


    [Righteous people from all over the Emerald Empire have joined the Oracle Chamber (fake) to fight for Cloudview County]


    [Current number of members: 2185]


    "..."


    Looking at the event log, Ethan fell silent for a moment. He had found the culprit. As expected, it was one of his own.


    At this moment, above the Primordial Blood Tree, the Blackwood people stood on their swords.


    It was a valley. The valley was filled with the corpses of Druids. Blood was flowing. The Primordial Blood Tree had transformed into a ten-meter-tall tree. Its roots even floated on the blood, like water pipes, sucking the stinking blood.


    [The Primordial Blood Tree asks you if you are willing to expend the vast amount of blood essence it has stored to peer into a corner of the future for your descendants?]


    "Yes."


    Ethan nodded slightly.


    This time, the Blackwood clansmen in Border town were gathered. They all had solemn expressions. After so many years, they would not come to the Primordial Blood Tree for a prediction unless they were facing a crisis that they could not resolve.


    They had already peered into many corners of the future, and it was not a good thing. Many times, they would see the deaths of their clansmen, their own deaths, or a tragic future, and all of that was very difficult to change. After experiencing it time and time again, no one would doubt the old tree''s abilities.


    "Old tree, the Emerald Empire has abandoned us, and the Druids will not let us go either."


    Nathan''s expression was calm. "My Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation aptitude has been exposed, and Amelia''s aptitude has also been discovered by others. The Druids are probably impatient. I have no way to resolve this. The crisis is approaching. They will send experts to kill us.


    This is what I can sense."


    Hearing Nathan''s words, a human face appeared on the trunk of the Primordial Blood Tree!


    The blood energy in the entire valley surged like fog. The Primordial Blood Tree''s aged face looked around at all the Blackwood people. Its branches swayed, and everyone could feel its joy.


    "I have seen it."


    "I have heard it!"


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s excited voice echoed throughout the valley. "I said it long ago. Cloudview County will be a forbidden land, the forbidden land of the Blackwood clan!"


    "Tonight, under the crimson moon, crimson snow will fall upon the Blackwood clan."


    "Everyone in Cloudview County will see that this is the Blackwood clan''s Cloudview County! All the nobles of the Emerald Empire will regret betraying Cloudview County!"

 Chapter 287 - 287: Whats the point of bullying a group of children?

    "This is a protracted war. We will stand firm in Cloudview County. Everything has just begun..."


    The Blackwood people left the valley with grim faces.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s omens were always vague, but they saw hope in them.


    Everything had just begun. They still had many opportunities. They were still standing in Cloudview County, and that was enough!


    Perhaps someone would die tonight under the crimson moon, but if death could elevate the family to the heavens, then so be it.


    Ethan also narrowed his eyes. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Primordial Blood Tree''s words had many meanings. He had already deduced many scenes from them...


    As he was thinking, Ethan''s mouth twitched.


    Charlie Crackle, who had transformed into a ten-meter-long dragon, came with Donna. Charlie Crackle frowned and said, "Old tree, you saw the crimson snow again? The last time you saw it, it was still..."


    The old tree was stunned for a moment. "Nathan asked me for a solution. I peered into the future and only saw them standing in the sky."


    "Ah?"


    Charlie Crackle was dumbfounded. Donna, who was riding on its back, scratched her head. "Then what about the crimson snow you mentioned..."


    The old tree transformed into an old man and winked at the dragon and the girl. "I want to go too. Last time, after I used my natural energies to form the Blood Realm Formation, Daniel told me that he hoped I would use this innate spell again when he appeared. He would descend from under the crimson moon, and the place where he was would be filled with crimson snow."


    "..."


    Ethan''s face darkened for a long time. As expected, Julian and the third generation of the Blackwood clan had fed the old tree a lot of things they shouldn''t have.


    When he teleported to Daniel''s side, Ethan''s face darkened even more.


    The Azure Cloud overlord, who had intimidated the Druids outside Azure Cloud Border town half a month ago and used a clever plan to defeat the Druids with a weaker force, was now sitting on his throne, giggling at a large bronze mirror like a senile old man.


    ...


    Night fell. As expected, the sky was filled with crimson clouds tonight, and even the full moon was dyed red.


    Above the border, the Blackwood people gathered!


    In the darkness, experts were watching everything in Cloudview County!


    They were among the clouds.


    "Did you sense it? Or did you receive the news?" Mike had originally come to give his opponent, Nathan, one last farewell, but he didn''t expect the Blackwood people to gather together. But after muttering to himself, he sneered. "So what if you received the news?


    The elders have arrived, and many tribes are approaching from three directions: Endless Forest, the former Starlight County, and Cedar County. Cloudview County is already doomed."


    Everyone in Cloudview County saw it.


    Under the crimson moon, Nathan''s figure, carrying the Death Coffin, was so clear. Luna, with her six tails swaying, was beside him.


    Behind them were Lucas, soaring through the air on his sword, Amelia, with her gentle light, and Julian, whose body had transformed into gold and iron!


    Marcus, holding the Sky Hall, Daniel, sitting on the throne, George, with many elders behind him... Many Blackwood descendants.


    Two Azure Dragons soared under the crimson moon, the red robes of the elders fluttering in the air.


    Every time the Blackwood people gathered together, it was like the most trustworthy guardian deity.


    The ominous blood-red night was unexpectedly reassuring.


    At least it was like that in Cloudview County.


    And then...


    "That is..." A terrifying aura came from Endless Forest, and pressure descended!


    At this moment, all the experts in Cloudview County soared into the air again. They felt the pressure of the Basic Mastery stage, and there was more than one!


    The Blackwood people''s auras erupted as they calmly looked at everything in front of them.


    ...


    At this moment.


    In a forest on the border of Border town, Edward was roasting a rabbit with Owen. Looking at the changing color of the night sky, Edward saw the figures of his clansmen standing under the crimson moon. He didn''t care and soared into the sky!


    But as soon as he reached midair, his shoulder was pressed down.


    A terrifying pressure rose from Owen. Owen, clad in armor, lowered his head. A helmet appeared in his hand, and he slowly put it on. A pair of gilded hammers appeared in his hands, and he let out a ferocious laugh. "Get down!"


    "You Druids are courting death. Since I''ve encountered you, I''ll let you perish in Cloudview County!"


    ...


    On the border between Cloudview County and Sunshine Prefecture.


    Justin had just stepped into the territory of Cloudview County. Looking at the crimson moon in the sky and the pressure that permeated the night sky of Cloudview County, his eyes widened. "Senior Bill, I told you long ago that these Druids don''t take you seriously at all. I''ve long wanted to use your name to suppress these Druids, but they all said they don''t know such a nobody."


    "A peerless hero like you should teach them a lesson. How can a firefly compete with the brilliance of the moon?"


    As Justin''s flattering words fell.


    Beside him, the man in the wide robe, who was small in stature and whose face was hidden by the brim of his robe, suddenly raised his head. His face was flushed, and his eyes were filled with satisfaction and pride under Justin''s flattery. His voice was arrogant.


    "Well said, young man!"


    "How can a firefly compete with the brilliance of the moon?!"


    Watching Bill Daoist turn into a black light and fly into the night sky, Justin wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and muttered to himself, "It''s a good thing I''ve been flattering him for half a year, exhausting all my knowledge."


    ...


    In the darkness.


    Diana looked at Amelia, whose face was grave, among the gathered Blackwood people. She puffed up her cheeks and grumbled, "You really forgot about Master. It''s been half a month, and you''ve been secretly following this traitor for half a month, and you haven''t mentioned Master once."


    With that, she let out a long breath.


    Then she looked back and saw two decent auras approaching. Diana raised her eyebrows. "It seems that the Blackwood clan can still find backers. Then this place..."


    "Doesn''t need me anymore."


    As soon as she finished speaking, Diana disappeared into the night sky!


    In an instant, she appeared at the place where Mike had communicated with the Druids that day and pressed her hand on the totem!


    The Bird Totem reappeared, and the sky formation activated.


    As if sensing Diana''s aura, the formation trembled.


    Diana smiled faintly.


    "So, what''s the point of bullying a group of children?"

 Chapter 288 - 288: So many weaklings. This is troublesome

    Under the blood moon, crimson snow filled the sky.


    At this moment, all the experts above the Developing Skill stage in Border town felt a chill in their hearts.


    They soared into the air and looked towards Endless Forest.


    "Basic Mastery?!"


    Kenneth, Martin, and the other four patriarchs, carrying their family''s treasures, rose into the air on clouds.


    Their eyes were filled with coldness.


    Patriarch Martin, the oldest of them, felt the strange energy around him.


    It was as if he had fallen into a quagmire.


    Cold sweat dripped from his forehead, and he couldn''t stop his body from trembling.


    But his face was filled with anger. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If I had another hundred years, I would risk my life to try and break through the bottleneck. How dare the Druids bully Azure Cloud for having no Basic Mastery?!"


    The six Competent Force experts exchanged glances and flew towards the sky.


    Then, one after another, the Competent Force experts and Developing Skill experts of Cloudview County rose into the air, like shooting stars under the crimson night sky.


    Among the Psychics from the border areas of the Emerald Empire who had gathered in the ''Oracle Chamber'', there were also quite a few knowledgeable Psychics.


    Unlike the experts of Cloudview County, they might still fight to the death against Psychics of the same level.


    But facing the pressure of a Basic Mastery expert, they were filled with fear.


    "A Basic Mastery expert coming here is already going against the norms of the world. Aren''t they afraid of incurring karma?"


    A Competent Force Psychic gritted his teeth and said, "This is too much!"


    "Do you dare to go with this old man?"


    An elder wearing a mask looked up at George and smiled.


    Under the pervasive pressure, the many Psychics looked at the elder.


    Although they were all wearing masks, some of them still knew each other''s identities.


    This person was Jesse Daoist from Sunshine Prefecture!


    Above a county was a prefecture.


    Cloudview County was also under the jurisdiction of Sunshine Prefecture.


    Most of the righteous people here were from Sunshine Prefecture, and Jesse Daoist had the highest prestige.


    As soon as he spoke, someone shouted, "What''s there to be afraid of?"


    The other Psychics'' eyes were filled with determination.


    "Then follow this old man and see if those Druid Apostles and elders dare to take our lives when we stand in front of Cloudview County! To commit such an act of bullying the weak!"


    As he spoke, Jesse Daoist soared into the air.


    He simply took off his mask, his purple robe fluttering in the wind.


    His face, which looked youthful despite his white hair, was filled with a hint of unrestrainedness.


    The Psychics who followed him also did the same, all with the determination and joy of facing death with equanimity!


    In an instant.


    At first, there were only Blackwood experts in the sky, but slowly, their numbers grew.


    More and more experts rose from Cloudview County''s Border town under the crimson moon.


    From a few dozen to a hundred, and finally, even Emerging Ability Psychics flew up on their swords behind the experts, facing the Basic Mastery pressure from Endless Forest!


    At first, they were nervous, but under the crimson snow, their expressions became extremely calm.


    That night.


    The bronze bell in Glory City tolled nine times!


    One by one, lanterns lit up in Azure Cloud''s Border town, and everyone raised their torches, almost igniting the night sky.


    Psychics gathered in Border town.


    Those below the Developing Skill stage couldn''t even sense the pressure of a Basic Mastery expert, but seeing the experts soaring into the air, they probably knew that danger had arrived.


    It was just a battle.


    It didn''t matter if the enemy was strong and they were weak!


    "Everyone..."


    Under the crimson moon, Nathan looked at the people gathered around him.


    He wanted to say something, but in the end, he didn''t say anything.


    He had said enough in the past half a month.


    He untied the Death Coffin, put his arm around Luna, and looked towards Endless Forest.


    The Blackwood people also silently took out their weapons.


    As the pressure of the Basic Mastery experts got closer and closer, all the experts of Cloudview County in the sky saw their enemies.


    Three people!


    They were dressed in white robes with firebirds embroidered on them.


    The patterns, made of unknown materials, shone brightly under the blood-red night sky.


    They were the three elders from the Bird Totem!


    One of them was a woman named Christine.


    Her long robe reached her calves, like a long dress.


    The robe was loose, probably hiding her curvy figure.


    She was extremely pure-looking, with long black hair draped over her shoulders and no makeup on her face.


    She seemed delicate as she frowned at the Psychics gathered in the sky.


    Her voice was as clear as a lark''s, but it also had a lifeless quality to it.


    "So many weaklings. This is troublesome."


    Her cold voice made the winter night even colder, perhaps because of the crescent moon behind her, which almost froze the surrounding space.


    "Elder of the Bird Totem, Moon God Christine."


    Perhaps seeing the troubled look on Christine''s face, Jesse Daoist from Sunshine Prefecture flew in front of all the Psychics and transmitted his voice to everyone.


    "You know me?"


    How could Jesse Daoist''s voice transmission be hidden from Christine''s divine sense?


    But she wasn''t angered by it.


    Instead, it was as if she had heard a child mentioning her name on the side of the road.


    She smiled playfully at Jesse Daoist.


    "Of course I do."


    Jesse Daoist wasn''t afraid either.


    He simply stopped transmitting his voice and said directly, "Many years ago, Sunshine Prefecture went to the aid of Golden Sprouts Prefecture and fought a battle with you Druids. Moon God, you also participated in that battle. My sect still has records of everything that happened in that war. I haven''t forgotten."


    As the saying goes, "Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will not be defeated in a hundred battles."


    Even in the face of a Basic Mastery expert, everyone in Cloudview County listened attentively.


    At this moment, Ethan was also among the crowd, ready to descend into the game world at any time to participate in this battle!


    Jesse Daoist continued, "Thirty thousand years ago, Moon God, you participated in the war between the Emerald Empire and the Druids in Golden Sprouts Prefecture. You used spells and divine arts, as well as the laws of the moon, to trigger a celestial phenomenon. "


    "With the help of your companion artifact, the Ice Moon Wheel, you froze a hundred miles around Golden Sprouts Prefecture. You were only at the early stage of Basic Mastery then, but you killed a Basic Mastery expert from our Emerald Empire. Now that I think about it, Moon God, you should be even stronger now."


    "Hehe."


    Christine chuckled softly.


    "I didn''t expect that someone would still remember something that happened thirty thousand years ago, especially with the short lifespans of you humans. I thought that you weaklings of the Emerald Empire had already forgotten about me."


    As soon as she said this, everyone was even more shocked.


    The Druids were protected by nature, and their lifespans were at least ten times longer than humans!


    A human Basic Mastery expert only had a lifespan of ten thousand years.


    This Christine was already a Basic Mastery expert thirty thousand years ago.


    Now... she was probably even stronger!


    Jesse Daoist snorted coldly.


    "Moon God, not only do I remember you, but I also remember that thirty thousand years ago, you froze a hundred miles and caused countless deaths. You were seriously injured by an expert from Radiant Sky Grotto. "


    "If the Druids hadn''t ceased fire with our empire and you hadn''t promised never to step foot on the land of the Emerald Empire again, you would have died long ago! Now, why have you broken your promise?!"


    As soon as he said this.


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    Christine''s face instantly turned ice-cold, and frost spread across the sky!


    The other two elders sneered, as if they were looking at dead people.

 Chapter 289 - 289: This family never seemed to fight an unprepared battle

    Jesse Daoist, who had just spoken, had already activated his psychic powers, but for some reason, frost began to form on his body.


    Moon God Christine, her killing intent boundless and her face as cold as ice, had been enraged by Jesse Daoist''s words.


    "Radiant Sky Grotto... Thirty thousand years have passed, and I am still alive. Where is the person from Radiant Sky Grotto who seriously injured me? Little one, I originally wanted to spare your life, but you insisted on seeking death!"


    "Senior Jesse!"


    The expressions of the Cloudview County experts changed drastically.


    They could see that Jesse Daoist was using all his natural energies to resist Christine''s aura, but they could also feel Christine''s overwhelming power!


    They didn''t know what spell this woman had used, or how powerful the crescent moon behind her was, but Jesse Daoist, a mid-stage Competent Force expert, couldn''t move at all.


    If this continued, Jesse Daoist''s soul would be frozen!


    Jesse Daoist was clearly about to be frozen, but he laughed loudly.


    "Moon God, try and kill me! An expert from Radiant Sky Grotto seriously injured you once, but my sect also has powerful backers. I am the sect leader. If you dare to touch me, the Grand Elder of my sect will join the battle!"


    Hearing this.


    The other two elders frowned.


    They could see that whether it was Jesse Daoist or the other Psychics standing at the forefront with him, they all had the same expression as Jesse Daoist.


    From the very beginning, Jesse Daoist had intended to provoke Christine and force her sect''s Grand Elder to join the battle!


    These guys, knowing full well that Cloudview County had been ceded to the Druids, were still willing to die to give the forces behind them a reason to intervene!


    "Moon God, calm down."


    Just as the Cloudview County experts were about to make a move, and the three Druid experts were about to stop them, a sudden change occurred!


    The Cloudview County experts looked behind them in astonishment.


    Under the crimson moon, a ray of golden light shot towards them from afar, getting closer and closer!


    "Boom!"


    The shockwave formed by psychic powers was like a ripple of rules, spreading outwards.


    The frost that had frozen the surrounding space shattered inch by inch, and the ice on Jesse Daoist''s body melted like snow under a warm wind.


    In the midst of the three Druid Basic Mastery experts and the Cloudview County experts, golden light flickered.


    It was... a gilded hammer, radiating the power of rules, like the scorching sun in summer!


    "Hahaha! What a joke! Thirty thousand years ago, an elder from my Radiant Sky Grotto could injure you. Tonight, I, a junior, have come as well. Let''s see what progress you, the so-called Moon God, have made in the past thirty thousand years! Let''s see if your so-called thirty-thousand-year lifespan is something to be proud of, or the beginning of your shame!"


    Laughter echoed under the crimson moon!


    Jesse Daoist breathed a sigh of relief, but soon, like everyone else from Cloudview County, he was puzzled.


    Only the Blackwood people had smiles on their faces.


    Ethan, who was among the crowd, smiled faintly.


    [Your descendant, Edward, has returned from the imperial capital, bringing with him the new direct disciple of Radiant Sky Grotto, the ever-victorious general of the empire, Owen!]


    "Who?!"


    Just by seeing the gilded hammer, Christine couldn''t help but take a step back.


    Her slender hand clenched tightly, and her previous composure and disdain for juniors vanished.


    Feeling the approaching aura, the memories of thirty thousand years ago flooded her mind, making her want to flee from Azure Cloud''s Border town!


    Seeing Christine''s state, the handsome young man beside her, also dressed in white but with one empty sleeve, snorted coldly.


    "Moon God, what are you afraid of? Thirty thousand years have passed. The person who injured you is already dead, and you have become stronger. What is there to be afraid of? Besides..."


    The Druid elder shouted towards the powerful aura in the distance, "Your Excellency, the ancient god has already ceded Cloudview County. You must be from Radiant Sky Grotto, right? As far as I know, every generation of Radiant Sky Grotto disciples serves the Emerald Empire. If you disobey the ancient god''s order, I''m afraid you won''t be able to go back and explain yourself."


    Christine, hearing this, still stared fixedly at the gilded hammer.


    The Cloudview County experts all looked at the Blackwood people.


    As expected, the Blackwood people didn''t seem surprised at all.


    In fact, they all had smiles on their faces.


    Good!


    No wonder the Blackwood people had been waiting in the sky above Border town early on.


    They had been prepared!


    In an instant.


    A streak of golden light flashed by, and everyone saw a burly figure clad in armor.


    He stood in front of the Cloudview County experts, reached out, and the gilded hammer flew into his hand as if it were an extension of his own body!


    He casually slung the two gilded hammers over his shoulders.


    Owen, the ever-victorious general from the imperial capital, the direct disciple of Radiant Sky Grotto, raised his head disdainfully, looked down at Christine and the other two elders with his chin held high, and said, "What disobedience to the imperial order? You barbarians are truly ignorant. I am Owen, the ever-victorious general. Haven''t you heard the saying?"


    "What saying?" The Druid elder frowned.


    "A general in the field is not bound by the orders of a distant emperor!"


    As the two elders'' expressions changed, Moon God Christine took a step back.


    Owen raised the gilded hammer in his right hand towards Christine.


    "And you, thirty thousand years ago, my elder seriously injured you. Today, I will make you remember the pain of that day!"


    "Boom!"


    In an instant, golden light burst forth.


    This general of the grand hall, who had been ordered to persuade the Blackwood people to leave Cloudview County, didn''t even utter a word of persuasion.


    Instead, he transformed into a stream of light and charged towards the three Druid elders.


    The battle began in an instant!


    At this moment.


    The expressions of the experts on Cloudview County''s side also changed.


    They all activated their Psychic Gear and weapons to resist the power of rules that erupted from the clash between Owen and the Druid elders.


    Fortunately, Owen used some kind of spell, and a golden barrier pushed them back.


    Otherwise, they would have suffered casualties.


    "General Owen... is truly valiant."


    Kenneth looked at Owen, who had charged out alone and was now fighting the three Druid elders in the sky, and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.


    He wanted to say "reckless," but he couldn''t bring himself to say it.


    Then, sensing the auras outside Azure Cloud''s Border town, he breathed a sigh of relief and said to the frowning Nathan, "My in-law, how did you manage to invite General Owen here?"


    When he was young, he had followed Michael to the grand hall and had seen many experts there.


    Naturally, he had heard of the famous ever-victorious general, Owen.


    It was said that this direct disciple of Radiant Sky Grotto had even followed Grand Tutor Gilbert to the East Sea to fight against the sea demons.


    "I don''t know either."


    Nathan shook his head, his expression still grave as he stared at the battlefield ahead.


    The battle between Basic Mastery experts demanded the full attention of all the Blackwood people.


    It was also the first time they had witnessed such terrifying power.


    Seeing Nathan pretending not to know, Kenneth rolled his eyes.


    Of course, he didn''t believe it, but he didn''t ask any more questions.


    He had a feeling that the Blackwood people had made a lot of preparations for their return to Cloudview County this time.


    Standing beside the Blackwood people, Kenneth felt inexplicably at ease. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This family never seemed to fight an unprepared battle.


    What he didn''t know was that it was useless to ask Nathan about this.

 Chapter 290 - 290: By charging in headfirst?

    At this moment, Ethan, who was in the crowd, watched Owen make his move, stunned.


    Although he knew that Owen had been brought by Edward and even knew that Owen would intervene, he didn''t expect this guy to just charge in without hesitation after saying a few words...


    "Good heavens, you didn''t even prepare at all, you didn''t even figure out the strength of the three elders before rushing in to fight them all by yourself."


    Ethan couldn''t help but laugh.


    "Is this how you, the ever-victorious general, achieve victory? By charging in headfirst?"


    As he laughed, Ethan glanced to the side and breathed a sigh of relief.


    Edward, who had returned with Owen, had quietly rejoined the Blackwood ranks.


    He nodded to Jessica and Daniel, and all three of them had relieved smiles on their faces.


    Then, Jessica walked over to the ''Oracle Chamber'' group.


    Among this fake Oracle Chamber, there were actually some real Oracle Chamber members!


    As soon as Jessica arrived, a Masked Man in front of her took off his mask.


    "I''ve done everything I can to help you. You owe me a big one."


    This person was none other than Jimmy, the one who had kidnapped Jessica, the leader of the new generation of the Cloudview County Oracle Chamber!


    "Mr. Martinez used the power of the Oracle Chamber to help my Blackwood clan get acquainted with General Owen and resolve the crisis in Azure Cloud. We will repay this kindness."


    Jessica bowed slightly.


    Ethan glanced at the panel in front of him.


    [Your descendant, Nathan, is guarding Cloudview County alone. Your descendants are trying their best to find help for Cloudview County. Your descendants, Jessica and Daniel, conspired to use the power of the Oracle Chamber to choose help for Cloudview County when Nathan ordered Edward to go to the imperial capital to ask for help.


    The most righteous ever-victorious general, Owen, was one of the candidates selected by the family...]


    The Oracle Chamber had been behind Edward''s ability to attend the grand hall, and even Owen''s request to come was due to the Oracle Chamber''s influence!


    One preparation after another, but unfortunately, the family''s success rate in seeking help from experts was not high...


    Many people who spoke up for the Blackwood clan at the grand hall that day were targets of the Blackwood clan, but in the end, only Owen was ordered by the emperor to bring Edward back.


    Ethan didn''t pay attention to these matters anymore.


    He slowly appeared in the middle of the Blackwood group.


    While many experts were looking up at the battle in the sky, shocked by the battle between Basic Mastery experts, the Blackwood people silently took out their Forebearer Psychic Positions from their pockets.


    The Primordial Blood Tree, in its human form, walked up to Nathan.


    The old tree''s expression was grave.


    "Nathan, I''m ready."


    "Okay."


    Nathan nodded slightly, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.


    "Then let the Druids see the true strength of my Blackwood clan after all these years!"


    "May the Forebearer bless us!"


    At this moment, all the Blackwood people lowered their heads, looking at the flickering Psychic Positions in their hands, and smiled faintly.


    "May the Forebearer bless us!"


    Below Border town, the people of Glory City who had left, men and women, old and young, had all returned.


    They stood neatly below Border town.


    The members of the Blackwood forces were the same.


    They all looked up at the sky, waiting quietly.


    ...


    The experts of Border town watched the battle in the sky, using their Psychic Gear and ability weapons to resist the pressure coming from above.


    But Owen was fighting three against one, and none of these three elders were simple!


    Moon God Christine, with the moon wheel behind her shining brightly and her body as cold as ice, continuously attacked Owen with ice crystals that carried the law of ice.


    Beneath her, ice crystals formed a domain, beautiful yet filled with murderous intent.


    Even in the vast sky, she had the ability to freeze hundreds or even thousands of miles, and ice dragons roared beneath the frozen ground that formed in the sky.


    Beside her, the young-looking Druid elder, also at the Basic Mastery stage, should have been able to regrow severed limbs, but his left arm was gone.


    As he fought Owen, a totem appeared beside him.


    He stretched out his right arm, two fingers together, and continuously drew in the air.


    Every time he drew a strange pattern, it would be engraved on the totem.


    Powerful spells formed from these patterns, pouring natural energies towards Owen.


    As he engraved more and more patterns, the natural energies became stronger and the totem grew larger!


    All kinds of laws appeared in the sky, forming barriers that trapped Owen.


    Christine''s ice attacks seemed to be countered by Owen.


    They couldn''t even pierce his armor, and the ice dragons were easily shattered by Owen''s gilded hammers.


    Owen was more like a body cultivator, his hammers smashing down with brute force.


    If it weren''t for the increasing pressure of the one-armed elder''s formations, which constantly blocked his path, he would have already hammered Christine to death.


    This made Owen anxious.


    He shouted angrily, "Who are you? What kind of spell are you cultivating? It''s so strange!"


    The one-armed young man continued to engrave patterns, ignoring Owen.


    He glanced at Christine, who was useless, and then at the elder who hadn''t made a move yet, his hands still tucked in his wide sleeves.


    He said in a deep voice, "Moon God, Shane, I''ll take care of this. You two continue with the mission. Kill all the Psychics above the Competent Force stage in Cloudview County, including the Blackwoods. Remember, don''t touch those Psychics who have backers in Cloudview County. There''s no need to cause unnecessary trouble for our Bird Totem."


    "Yes!"


    Moon God glared at Owen through gritted teeth.


    She desperately wanted to kill this descendant of Radiant Sky Grotto on the spot, to wash away the humiliation of being defeated by someone from Radiant Sky Grotto all those years ago, but she could only give up for now.


    Then, she and Shane, who had been closing his eyes and resting, flew down.


    Seeing this, Owen wanted to chase after them, but he was blocked by the one-armed young man''s formations, which had become layers of barriers, growing stronger and stronger.


    Just as he was getting anxious, Owen suddenly froze and looked down at Azure Cloud''s Border town.


    Another figure stood in front of the Blackwood people, and he breathed a sigh of relief.


    "The Blackwoods have another expert? Good."


    The young man also frowned.


    He had thought that the mission to eliminate the experts of Cloudview County would be simple, but he didn''t expect to encounter so many obstacles.


    He took a deep breath, sensed that Owen seemed to be getting serious, and decided to focus on the enemy in front of him.


    "So, you''re the leader of those two?" Owen could also tell that this one-armed young man was not simple.


    "Yes."


    This time, the one-armed young man finally responded.


    He said in a deep voice, "My name is Lester, General Owen. We are only here to complete our mission. Cloudview County already belongs to our Bird Totem. You shouldn''t be fighting against us. Now, you leave me no choice."


    "Hahaha! That''s bullshit! All under heaven belongs to the emperor. Cloudview County is the territory of my Emerald Empire!"


    Owen laughed loudly.


    "I am a general of the empire. His Majesty made a wrong decision, and as his subject, I am here to correct his mistake! I have a choice, and I choose to kill all you Druids, to show my empire''s determination to resist!"


    Golden light gathered in his eyes, his hammers collided, his aura several times stronger than before, and he charged forward!


    As his hammers rang out, he was like a god of war! S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 291 - 291: What... what is that?!

    On the other side, Shane still maintained his unfazed demeanor. Christine, with the moon wheel revolving behind her, descended towards the Cloudview County forces below, ice crystals trailing in her wake.


    The ice crystals, imbued with the power of rules, shattered the formations that the Cloudview County experts had erected to shield themselves from the pressure from above!


    Just as the Cloudview County experts'' faces paled and the Blackwood clan frowned, reaching for their Psychic Positions, Shane, who had been resting with his eyes closed, suddenly opened his cloudy eyes.


    "Boom!"


    The ground cracked open, and a stone wall, stretching for six miles, rose from the earth at the border of Cloudview County, blocking Christine''s ice crystals!


    A young man''s voice rang out from the sky.


    "It''s them, Elder! They''re bullying our Blackwood clan! I told you, you''re our Blackwood''s backer! Look what they''re doing! Isn''t this a slap in your face?"


    The ice crystals in the sky collided with the towering wall, and ripples of rules spread through the air, forming a transparent wall between the border of Cloudview County and Endless Forest.


    Seeing this scene, and the calm expressions of the Blackwood clan, all the experts of Cloudview County turned their gazes towards the silent group. So, they had been keeping a low profile all this time, but they had quite a few backers!


    "Who is it? Who is stopping me again?!"


    Christine could no longer remain calm. This sudden arrival had blocked her again, and she could sense that this person also countered her!


    Shane shook his head at Christine. "Moon God, don''t be impulsive. Continue with the mission."


    With that, he flew towards the source of the psychic power fluctuation.


    Christine flew over the wall and stared down at the Cloudview County forces, her eyes narrowed. "Now, let''s see who else can save you?!"


    As soon as she finished speaking, ice crystals rained down on Cloudview County once more.


    As the Cloudview County experts frantically used their spells and abilities to resist the ice crystals, Nathan roared, "Old tree, assist the Forebearer in activating the Forebearer''s Arcane Formation!"


    That night, the Primordial Blood Tree revealed its true form, towering over 300 feet tall!


    Thirty years ago, their Forebearer had bestowed upon them the ''Forebearer''s Arcane Formation,'' which could gather the strength of the entire village. They had never used it. Tonight, after over a hundred years, the village had become a town, and then a city!


    Tonight, under the blood moon, the Blackwood Forebearer''s Arcane Formation was activated!


    In the eyes of everyone in Cloudview County, the roots of the Primordial Blood Tree descended from the sky like spider silk, attaching themselves to all the Blackwood descendants, as well as everyone in Glory City and the experts belonging to the Blackwood forces!


    At this moment, their bodies flickered with light, and without exception, a single character lit up on each of them - B!


    "What is that?!"


    Christine, who was manipulating the ice crystals in midair, was stunned. She could sense a strange figure appearing before the Primordial Blood Tree!


    Not only her, but Owen and Lester, who were locked in battle, as well as Shane and Bill Daoist, who had just clashed with their rules, all turned their gazes towards the Primordial Blood Tree.


    The Forebearer Psychic Positions in front of the Blackwood clan members floated eerily towards the Primordial Blood Tree.


    They merged into a single Psychic Position, thirty feet tall. The roots of the Primordial Blood Tree connected to the back of the Psychic Position, and a figure formed from black mist appeared in front of it.


    He stood upon the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, wielding a silver spear, his head radiating black and white light.


    With a wave of his spear, all the ice crystals that Christine had unleashed shattered, scattering dazzling shards of light through the blood-red night!


    Then, the spearpoint flashed, and he disappeared, reappearing in an instant before Christine, aiming for her head!


    "Hold nothing back! Channel your psychic powers with me!"


    Nathan roared, his natural energies surging, flowing into the roots that the Primordial Blood Tree had extended towards him. His natural energies, along with his strength, were being rapidly depleted!


    The power within every Blackwood descendant erupted!


    As did the power of every citizen of Glory City.


    The family character tattooed on their bodies blazed with light. In response to Nathan''s roar, they all raised their heads to the sky and, without hesitation, grabbed onto the roots of the Primordial Blood Tree, pouring their strength into them without reservation.


    For over a hundred years, everyone who had joined Glory City and pledged their loyalty to the Blackwood clan had had the family character tattooed on their bodies. The true foundation they had built over a century was not pills or Psychic Gear, but the Forebearer''s Arcane Formation!


    They all knew that this tattoo not only granted them the protection of the Blackwood clan when they were away from home, but it was also the Blackwood clan''s true trump card in times of life and death. And tonight, under the blood moon, they finally understood the true meaning of this tattoo!


    The roots of the Primordial Blood Tree drew strength from every citizen of Glory City.


    Their bodies felt hollow, their strength draining away, but every single person in Glory City looked up at the sky, their eyes filled with excitement.


    They might still be weak, but tonight, they were all participating in this battle, contributing their strength!


    ...


    "What... what is that?!"


    "Hahaha! The Blackwoods still have a trump card! How dare the Druids bully Azure Cloud for having no Basic Mastery?!"


    "Kill! Kill! Kill!"


    That night, everyone on the border of Azure Cloud watched this bizarre scene in shock.


    High in the sky, the Primordial Blood Tree towered over 300 feet tall. Its roots stretched out, countless in number, connecting to every single person in Glory City like a bridge, drawing upon their strength!


    Under the blood moon, everyone whose strength was being drawn upon by the roots glowed with a strange red light.


    Before the Primordial Blood Tree, the Blackwood clan''s Forebearer Psychic Positions merged into one gigantic form, and the figure of black mist appeared on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal. As more and more roots pierced into the Forebearer Psychic Position, the black mist''s power grew steadily! Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And then...


    The spearpoint flashed!


    That night, under the crimson moon, all color drained from the world, leaving only the dazzling spear, thrust towards Moon God Christine.


    The spear pierced forward, and the sky was engulfed in white light. Christine retreated frantically!


    Ice walls appeared before her one after another, but the spear was unstoppable. The ice walls shattered, the fragments scattering like beautiful snowflakes under the crimson moon. The ice walls continued to shatter, faster and faster, as if the night sky itself was being torn apart by that peerless spear!

 Chapter 292 - 292: Stop! Cant you hear me?!

    "What a terrifying spear!"


    Even Owen, who had witnessed the Blackwood''s Forebearer Arcane Formation and the eerie sight of the Primordial Blood Tree''s roots spreading, felt a shiver run down his spine.


    However, the appearance of the black mist figure eased his worry about Christine attacking the Blackwoods.


    No one knew the complex emotions that had surged through him in those few heartbeats.


    Now, he could only stare in awe at the black mist figure''s spear thrust!


    The black mist figure''s power continued to rise, from early-stage Competent Force to mid-stage, then to peak.


    What was truly terrifying was the spear''s unique ability to shatter all techniques, its tip crackling with the power of the five elements, the four seasons, mountains, rivers, and lakes.


    The most terrifying is the chaotic force of light and shadow, conflicting yet complementing each other. This power seems to embody all contradictions, capable of both destruction and creation!


    "If I were facing that spear..." Owen sucked in a breath, then abruptly looked up, sensing Lester''s aura growing erratic.


    Lester, too, was staring at the Moon God, who was desperately retreating under the devastating might of the spear.


    He was trying to recall his formations and go to her aid!


    Golden light exploded from Owen''s body as his gilded hammers clashed, the booming resonating through the air.


    Above his head, streaks of golden light rained down, embodying the most unbreakable laws, forming walls of gold that blocked Lester''s path.


    He grinned ferociously at Lester, who had been calm until now but whose eyes finally flickered with anxiety.


    "You wanted to stop me earlier, didn''t you? Well, your little buddy isn''t going anywhere either!!!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, Shane, the ever-silent elder, floated beneath the crimson moon, facing Bill Daoist, whose features were hidden by his hood.


    They hovered less than a hundred meters apart, these two Basic Mastery experts, motionless, their eyes locked.


    Their auras were as restrained as ordinary people.


    But in reality, their nascent souls were locked in a fierce battle within a void!


    It was a shattered world, Shane''s domain.


    He could drag the nascent soul of any opponent into this world, where he could wield the laws of heaven and earth as he pleased.


    Throughout the Emerald Empire and even among the demon races, few knew of Shane''s true power, for those who had witnessed it were no more, their souls extinguished within his nascent soul realm!


    Now, within this nascent soul realm, mountains spun wildly, resisting the onslaught of the five elements, molten lava, raging lightning, and countless otherworldly souls.


    Bill Daoist, who had kept his appearance hidden, finally revealed his face.


    The legendary Bill Daoist was, shockingly, a young man.


    He had clearly suffered quite a bit within Shane''s domain.


    Wiping the blood from his mouth, he glared at Shane, who was growing anxious, trying to withdraw his nascent soul realm.


    He snorted coldly, a hint of stubbornness in his voice. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "To think I''d encounter such an expert like you! I almost fell for your wicked tricks!"


    "Now, don''t get distracted! Focus on our battle! You''re not going anywhere!"


    ...


    [Using skill ''Fight, My Dear Forebearer!'']


    [Detected that your strength has reached the Competent Force stage. Consuming 10 Family Will.]


    [Your descendants are gathering the natural energies of all Blackwood descendants and citizens of Glory City through the ''Forebearer''s Arcane Formation'' on the Primordial Blood Tree!]


    [Your strength is temporarily increasing!]


    "Pierce!"


    The spear, imbued with the power to penetrate all things, shot forward!


    Ethan''s strength surged, reaching the peak of the Competent Force stage... and still increasing!


    The Forebearer''s Arcane Formation continuously channeled power into him.


    "What is this... What are you?!"


    Christine''s previous arrogance was gone.


    She retreated frantically, erecting ice walls in front of her.


    But her mid-stage Basic Mastery ice walls were useless against the Celestial Pole Energy Spear, which could shatter all laws!


    Fear gripped her.


    Her ice shards pierced the black mist figure''s body, but it continued to lunge towards her relentlessly.


    This strange black mist figure''s power was growing!


    It was even...


    "Thump! Thump! Thump!"


    She could sense that the black mist figure was inherently weak, its rapidly increasing power tearing at its meridians, bones, and very essence.


    But still, it kept coming!


    Until... its aura reached the Basic Mastery stage!!!


    "You can''t handle this power! Aren''t you afraid of dying?! Stop, stop! I am an elder of the Bird Totem! I have authority! We can negotiate!


    I can guarantee that the Bird Totem won''t invade Cloudview County for ten thousand years! Just stop!"


    The wheel behind Christine spun wildly, pouring lunar energy into her.


    This power, a combination of lunar and ice energy, was even stronger than what she had used against Owen and Bill Daoist.


    But this time, she didn''t dare to attack!


    The black mist figure''s attack had been too sudden, its law-shattering spear too bizarre.


    Now, all Christine could see was the tip of the Celestial Pole Energy Spear!


    She didn''t dare to attack anymore.


    The black mist figure was getting faster, its power growing.


    All she could do was desperately erect ice walls with her natural energies and retreat as fast as she could.


    Christine had no idea how much natural energy she had expended.


    She just wanted to escape from this spear, from this damned Cloudview County!


    "Stop! You useless thing, stop! Can''t you hear me?!"


    Ice walls shattered, laws crumbled.


    Christine roared, pouring all her strength into her defense.


    She was no longer aware that her aura was fading, that the moon wheel behind her was cracking!


    But what she didn''t know was that Ethan couldn''t stop, even if he wanted to!


    Ethan remained silent.


    Christine was right. He couldn''t handle this power. No one knew the agony his body, though impervious to death, was enduring. The power surging through him was too much for his mortal form to contain. It was a pain far worse than being torn apart by horses, riddled with arrows, or even death by a thousand cuts.


    His black mist form was fracturing, his very being on the verge of collapse.


    But still, he pressed forward. His vision narrowed to the tip of the Celestial Pole Energy Spear and Christine before him. This woman had to die!


    The death of a Basic Mastery expert would cement the Blackwood clan''s position in Cloudview County. It would give his family the leverage to negotiate with the Druids.


    Even the empire, which barely acknowledged a Blackwood clan with only Competent Force experts, would have to take notice of one capable of killing a Basic Mastery expert!


    From then on, more and more powerful individuals would flock to Cloudview County, eager to serve the Blackwood clan.


    Compared to that, this pain was nothing. All that mattered was killing Christine before his body gave out!

 Chapter 293 - 293: How could this be? How?!

    "Stop, please! Don''t... don''t come any closer!"


    On that night, under the torn crimson sky, every Psychic in Cloudview County heard the Moon God''s pleas.


    They all watched as the Blackwood clan''s strength dwindled, their life force fading with each passing second under the blood moon.


    The torn red curtain of the night expanded!


    Until, at the very edge of the shattered ice, the Primordial Blood Tree appeared in its true form.


    The Blackwood clan members collapsed, utterly spent.


    The gigantic Blackwood Forebearer Psychic Position crumbled, vanishing into thin air.


    The awe-inspiring spear and the mysterious black mist figure were gone.


    And so was Moon God Christine''s aura!


    The Blackwood clan lay on the ground, gazing at their Psychic Positions, which were once again whole and glowing faintly.


    Smiles spread across their faces.


    "The Forebearer blesses us!"


    The crimson moon faded.


    Lester, locked in battle with Owen, paled.


    He could sense it ¨C the Moon God had burned her nascent soul and life force!


    Now, her aura was gone, vanished along with the black mist figure that had pushed itself beyond its limits.


    "How could this be? How?!"


    Disbelief flickered across Lester''s numb face.


    They had been through countless battles, had expected this to be an easy slaughter of weaklings.


    Even when they encountered Owen and Bill Daoist, they hadn''t felt a shred of urgency.


    Never had he imagined that the Moon God would meet her end in Cloudview County!


    As Owen attacked again, a flicker of resentment crossed Lester''s eyes.


    "Ever-victorious general of the Emerald Empire," he said, his voice heavy, "you are indeed formidable. I look forward to our next encounter."


    "Next encounter? Let''s settle this now!" Owen roared.


    He sensed the Moon God''s demise, the Blackwood ancestor''s sacrifice.


    He understood that the Blackwood ancestor, their trump card, had perished alongside the Moon God.


    If the Blackwood ancestor had such resolve, how could he, a general of the empire, shy away from a fight to the death with Lester?


    But Lester merely shook his head, ignoring Owen.


    "Shane," he muttered, "this is no place for further conflict. We must leave before something else happens. Take me with you."


    "You''re not going anywhere!" Owen bellowed, his rule-infused power surging.


    Golden spikes materialized in the air around them.


    In the distance, Shane, still battling Bill Daoist within his nascent soul realm, sighed.


    "It seems this is the only way. A pity it will cost me a century of cultivation."


    As his words faded, countless souls emerged from his body, swirling around him.


    These otherworldly souls, a maelstrom of black mist, spread outwards!


    For a fleeting moment, every soul in Cloudview County felt a disorienting ripple. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even Owen froze.


    But in the blink of an eye, it was over.


    When Owen recovered, all that remained was Lester''s formation, holding him back!


    Lester and Shane''s auras were already far away, speeding towards Endless Forest!


    Another aura appeared beside Owen ¨C Bill Daoist.


    He only reached Owen''s ribs, his face pale from his injuries.


    The two of them, one tall and one short, stared towards Endless Forest, their expressions grave.


    Only they knew the true extent of Lester and Shane''s power.


    "You are the general from the empire? Do you know anything about them? I''ve never suffered such a loss in all my years of cultivating psychic powers," Bill Daoist said, his face grim.


    Even in his pride, he couldn''t deny Shane''s strength.


    Owen shook his head, seemingly relieved.


    "I know nothing about them. The Druids'' lifespans far exceed ours. Since the founding of our dynasty, we''ve been in constant skirmishes with them. To be honest, this is only my second encounter with a Druid Basic Mastery expert. The last one was only at the early stage. The elders never mentioned Druid experts being this powerful.


    I suspect... in all these millennia of conflict, the Druids have never revealed their true strength."


    As they spoke, cheers erupted from the Azure Cloud Psychics below, but the two men remained heavy-hearted.


    The Psychics began tending to the injured from Glory City, offering them healing pills.


    One by one, the Blackwood clan members were helped to their feet.


    "Thank you, General Owen. Thank you, Senior Bill."


    Nathan, supported by Kenneth, was pale but managed a bow.


    "If not for your assistance, Cloudview County would have faced a disaster today."


    "Hahaha! You are too kind. You are Nathan Blackwood, I presume?" Owen asked, putting away his hammers.


    He glanced at the Blackwood clan members, and upon seeing Nathan''s nod, he said with admiration, "I''ve heard tales of your deeds. If only the empire had more people like you, we wouldn''t have to fear the Druids!"


    "If only the empire had more forces like the Azure Cloud Blackwoods and the other powers of Azure Cloud, we wouldn''t have to worry about its decline!"


    Bill Daoist puffed out his chest as if he had been the one to defeat Shane.


    "Those Druids were nothing! I could have swatted them away like flies. If they hadn''t run so fast, I would have left them no place to rest in peace!"


    The Blackwood clan expressed their gratitude profusely.


    Daniel and Jessica engaged Owen in conversation, their sincerity and the Blackwood clan''s honesty evident in every word.


    Justin, along with George and the fourth-generation descendants, surrounded Bill Daoist.


    They showered him with compliments, and the color gradually returned to Bill Daoist''s pale face, a smile tugging at his lips.


    As they talked, they made their way towards the edge of Border town.


    The remnants of Basic Mastery rule power still lingered at the edge of Endless Forest, a terrifying aura of light and shadow that seemed capable of tearing apart reality itself!


    A hundred-meter-wide scar marred the landscape, all vegetation obliterated, as if Endless Forest itself had been wounded.


    The scar ran deep, littered with shards of ice.


    Soon, the Blackwood clan and the experts of Border town reached the end of the scar.


    There, lying on the ground, was the figure of a woman.


    Moon God Christine!


    They approached, looking down at the once mighty being who had held their lives in her hands.


    "Alas."


    Owen, sensing the aura that had even given him pause, glanced at the impassive Blackwood clan.


    "Don''t grieve too much," he said. "Your ancestor sacrificed his life, but it was not in vain. His spirit will find peace knowing that he brought down a Druid Basic Mastery expert with him."


    "Indeed." Bill Daoist nodded solemnly.


    "I rarely admire others, but I must admit, your Blackwood ancestor deserves respect."

 Chapter 294 - 294: ...Im still fucking alive.

    Although he had fought fiercely against Shane, Bill Daoist could sense that the Blackwood ancestor had only been at the Competent Force stage.


    With such limited strength and no external protection, forcibly channeling the power of hundreds of thousands, including that of numerous Competent Force and even peak Competent Force individuals, could only result in his demise.


    The fact that they couldn''t even find the Blackwood ancestor''s body meant he had likely been completely obliterated.


    Hearing this, the Blackwood clan members exchanged glances. Finally, a member of the third generation gritted his teeth, fell to his knees, and pounded the ground, his mournful cries tearing at the hearts of all who heard them.


    "Oh, Forebearer! We, your unworthy descendants, have failed you!"


    The rest of the Blackwood clan bowed their heads, clutching their Forebearer Psychic Positions, their grief palpable.


    "Alas." Owen and Bill Daoist, the two Basic Mastery experts, along with the other Cloudview County experts, sighed heavily.


    Beside them, Ethan, having finally recovered, reappeared in his incorporeal form.


    "...I''m still fucking alive."


    After muttering this under his breath, he grinned wryly, deciding to let it go. It seemed that sometimes, even in life, one could be considered dead.


    ...


    [Congratulations! You, through the Forebearer''s Arcane Formation, led your clan to slay a Basic Mastery Druid elder and drive away two others. All of Azure Cloud''s Border town was awestruck by your spectacular spear attack. Your death was a glorious one. Your descendants are filled with pride and boundless respect for you.]


    [Family Will obtained: 15]


    [Current Family Will: 45]


    [Congratulations! Your family has obtained spoils of war:]


    [Mortally wounded Druid elder, Moon God Christine, and all possessions on her person, soon to become artifacts.]


    Christine lay sprawled on the ground, her body surrounded by ice crystals formed from rules, but her own power was gone.


    No one knew the terror she had experienced while fleeing from that spear. She had run with everything she had, burning through her strength, her life force, even her nascent soul!


    The crimson moon in the sky began to fade. Winter''s grip loosened, the long night receding as the first hint of dawn touched the horizon.


    "So... this is my tribulation, the price of my words."


    Christine, lying on the ground, looked up at the sky. She remembered that day, thirty thousand years ago.


    She had been defeated by a Radiant Sky Grotto disciple, just like today. She had begged for her life, just like today, consumed by the same terror. But that disciple had shown mercy.


    Thirty thousand years had passed, and she had forgotten her vow. Now, it echoed in her ears with chilling clarity.


    She had sworn that if she ever set foot on Emerald Empire soil again, she would meet a gruesome end, her nascent soul destroyed, her soul forever barred from reincarnation.


    "If only... I had kept my vow."


    With a final sigh, a strange sense of peace washed over Christine as she closed her eyes.


    She was gone. The Blackwood clan gathered around her, silently collecting the shattered fragments of the moon wheel. Owen and Bill Daoist, the two Basic Mastery experts, observed the Moon God''s remains. There wasn''t a single wound on her body, yet she was undeniably dead. Awe flickered in their eyes.


    "Under the Blackwood ancestor''s spear, she didn''t dare to retaliate, only defend. Even the slightest opening would have meant death," Owen, ever the seasoned expert, deduced.


    "She could only run. The Blackwood ancestor never even touched her. She exhausted her strength, her very essence, even her nascent soul, just trying to escape."


    Even he felt a shiver of fear. He couldn''t imagine the terror that had gripped the Moon God, driving her to deplete herself so completely.


    "Goodness..." Bill Daoist swallowed hard. He had never imagined such a pathetic way to die ¨C running until your very being was extinguished. But it also spoke volumes about the power of that spear, a power so overwhelming that the Moon God had no choice but to flee until she could flee no more.


    As they prepared Christine''s body for burial, everyone froze, their gazes snapping towards the depths of Endless Forest, towards the Bird Totem!


    The sun continued to rise.


    "Screech!"


    A fiery bird, engulfed in flames, appeared in the sky, taking the sun''s place. Its cry echoed across the land, filled with a chilling sorrow.


    Beneath the fiery bird, a pillar of darkness pierced the heavens, its energy rippling outwards.


    Everyone watched in stunned silence.


    The sky darkened, as if about to consume the world. This terrifying spectacle lasted for the time it took an incense stick to burn. Finally, light returned to the sky above Endless Forest. The fiery bird vanished, leaving behind a mystery.


    "That... that was Master''s aura."


    Amelia stared at the spot where the darkness had been, her voice barely a whisper. The Blackwood clan members exchanged uneasy glances. They all knew that Amelia''s master was the Demon Lord of Thunderfire Demon Cave. No one knew how long the Demon Lord Diana had been hiding in the cave, nursing her wounds.


    Amelia had been treating her for over a century, with little progress.


    No one knew the true extent of the Demon Lord''s power. Amelia had once speculated that she was at the Basic Mastery stage. Over the years, the Blackwood clan had been gathering resources to aid the Demon Lord, hoping to repay her kindness. They had intended to ask for her help this time, but she had been nowhere to be found.


    As the Blackwood clan pondered the meaning behind the spectacle in Endless Forest and its possible connection to the Demon Lord, a black light streaked across the sky, landing near them.


    A moment later, the Demon Lord Diana came into view. She walked towards them, a small smile on her lips. Seeing their stunned expressions, she turned to Amelia, feigning anger. "Why are you just standing there? Don''t you greet your master?"


    The Blackwood clan members exchanged confused glances. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Amelia walked towards Diana.


    Just as the Blackwood clan concluded that Diana must have been fighting in Endless Forest as well, secretly aiding them, they bowed deeply in gratitude. As Amelia was about to kneel before her master, the world seemed to tilt.


    Wait...


    Why was the world spinning?


    No...


    "Master, are you alright? Why are you falling?!"


    "Demon Lord?!"


    "Quickly, Amelia, take your master back for treatment!"

 Chapter 295 - 295: Me? As Duke?

    Three days passed in a blink.


    After the three Druid elders attacked Cloudview County, and following the apocalyptic event at the Bird Totem in Endless Forest, the Druid forces seemed to have vanished.


    Even with the Moon God''s death, the Druids didn''t retaliate against Cloudview County with the expected fury.


    However, Druids continued to gather at the edge of Endless Forest.


    The six tribes led by Mike hadn''t left, and the Psychics of Cloudview County remained vigilant, constantly reinforcing the border with formations and traps.


    Diana had briefly regained consciousness after collapsing.


    She had told Amelia, "The Blackwoods no longer need to fear experts above the Basic Mastery stage," before falling unconscious again.


    Amelia had taken her back to Glory City.


    The Blackwood clan understood that Diana had played a crucial role in their victory, but Amelia explained that only her Celestial Botanical Technique and exceptionally rare treasures could truly heal the Demon Lord.


    Ordinary methods were ineffective, leaving the Blackwoods unsure how to repay Diana''s kindness.


    The Blackwood clan gathered, kneeling before the Forebearer Psychic Position, expressing their gratitude to Ethan for slaying the Moon God and saving their family once again.


    Ethan, perched proudly on the altar, waved his hand dismissively.


    "It was nothing, hehe, just a small matter."


    As if he hadn''t spent the entire day after using ''Fight, My Dear Forebearer'' in a daze, suffering from the agonizing aftereffects.


    "Forebearer, I acted recklessly, dragging our family into war with the Druids. Please punish me!" Nathan kowtowed, filled with guilt.


    Ethan wasn''t angry.


    Everyone in the Blackwood clan knew that Nathan had come to Border town prepared to die, to secure a future for his family.


    But neither Ethan, the Forebearer, nor the Blackwood descendants would abandon any of their own.


    They would face all challenges together.


    Ethan activated the skill ''Forebearer''s Caress.''


    Charlie Crackle, in his Mist Serpent form, appeared before the Psychic Position, relaying Ethan''s words, which he had written on the translucent panel.


    "Master says, what''s done is done. Facing the consequences with courage is the righteous path."


    "Thank you for your forgiveness, Forebearer!" Nathan kowtowed repeatedly, secretly pleased that the Forebearer favored him the most.


    The Blackwood clan gathered in the ancestral hall to discuss the future of Cloudview County.


    As Ethan had said, now that they had returned, neither the Emerald Empire nor the Druids could take their land.


    They would use every means at their disposal to make it clear that Cloudview County belonged to the Blackwoods!


    "Forebearer, Edward, as I instructed, obtained the title of Duke from the ancient god, along with his promise. This status will allow us to command many powerful individuals and factions. I believe Edward should be the one to hold the title of Duke."


    Edward, who had been listening attentively to his elders, was taken aback.


    "Great-grandfather, me? As Duke?"


    Surely, there were many elders more qualified than him.


    "Yes." Nathan smiled.


    "Martin already holds the title of Duke. Even with our close relationship, having two Dukes in one county could lead to conflict. But you are different. Kenneth is your brother-in-law, and you have ties to the Martins. He would be delighted. Besides, the old tree is never wrong.


    He said you would sit on the throne, so sit boldly."


    "I understand." Edward nodded solemnly. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The old tree, now in human form, closed his eyes and puffed out his chest with pride.


    Edward retrieved several items from his Storage Ring: a jade slip with the imperial decree, a jade seal signifying his dukedom, and a magnificent robe.


    He stepped out of the room, and with the Blackwood clan''s approval, took a deep breath and engraved his name on the ancient god''s decree.


    A formation descended from the sky above Cloudview County, bathing Edward in a pillar of natural energy.


    A throne materialized in the air.


    Everyone in Azure Cloud''s Border town stared in awe at the pillar of light.


    Edward ascended with the light, taking his place on the throne!


    His voice boomed across the sky.


    "Today, Edward Blackwood of Azure Cloud, by decree of the ancient god, assumes the position of Duke of Cloudview County!"


    Natural energy surged from the formation, converging upon Edward.


    His aura swelled!


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the imperial capital, during the court assembly held every eighteen days...


    Chaos erupted among the officials.


    "News from the Azure Cloud border! All the Psychics who evacuated Cloudview County have returned! Led by Daniel Blackwood, they launched a brilliant ambush, slaying four hundred and thirty thousand enemies!"


    "Unbelievable! Not a single one obeyed the order to retreat! A mere county town withstood six tribes! And the Azure Cloud Blackwoods are no ordinary clan. Nathan Blackwood has undergone the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation and single-handedly held off a Druid Apostle. Intelligence reports indicate that another Blackwood, named Amelia, is also about to undergo the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation."


    "I heard the Druids even sent elders this time. That hasn''t happened in thirty thousand years! The Blackwoods used their trump card and killed the Moon God!"


    "Hiss..."


    Their astonishment was understandable.


    During the last court assembly, they had all but written off Cloudview County.


    Now, against all odds, it had survived!


    Some even felt a secret thrill.


    The cession of the twelve border counties had been a humiliation for many of the high-ranking officials present.


    This victory was a much-needed morale boost.


    But among the officials, none looked as grim as National Advisor Lance.


    The Blackwood clan''s victory brought him no joy.


    Ceding the twelve counties in exchange for a millennium of peace had been a perfectly reasonable trade in his eyes, a political achievement he had intended to boast about.


    But the Blackwoods'' defiance had disrupted his plans, even sowing seeds of doubt among the officials.


    The survival of a county and a clan that had been deemed expendable was a slap in his face, a public declaration of his folly.


    "Your Majesty!" Lance bowed towards the ancient god, who sat behind a curtain.


    "The ever-victorious general, Owen, disobeyed your orders and engaged in battle with Druid elders in Cloudview County. He has jeopardized the alliance between Your Majesty and the Druids. This is treason! Please issue a decree, and I will immediately dispatch men to bring Owen back for punishment!"


    His words ignited a storm of outrage among the military officials.


    The grand hall echoed with the shouts of both civil and military factions.


    Numerous generals pleaded for permission to lead their armies to Azure Cloud''s aid.


    Some even proposed summoning reclusive experts to lead the charge, emulating Grand Tutor Gilbert''s northern expedition, to conquer the Mystic Alliance''s Druid lands and claim them for the Emerald Empire.


    Even some of the most conservative civil officials in the grand hall supported this idea.


    As more and more officials voiced their support for military action, the ancient god''s voice finally rang out.


    "This matter will be discussed upon Grand Tutor Gilbert''s return."


    His words silenced the court.


    Grand Tutor Gilbert had been campaigning in the north for millennia.


    By the time he returned, Cloudview County would be overrun with Druid totems.

 Chapter 296 - 296: You little rascal,are you rebelling?

    "National Advisor."


    Hearing the ancient god address him,Lance hastily bowed."Your servant is here!"


    "Convey my decree.Summon Owen back to the capital immediately..."


    A triumphant smirk spread across Lance''s face.But before the ancient god could finish his sentence,everyone in the grand hall sensed a token appearing outside¨Ca Duke''s token!


    In the Emerald Empire,all noble titles were recognized by the heavens and bestowed by the ancient god.This Duke''s token bore the name of Edward Blackwood!


    As the Cloudview County Duke''s token materialized within the hall,everyone''s expression shifted.


    The ancient god had clearly intended to abandon Cloudview County,to abandon the Blackwoods.When Edward had left,everyone,including the ancient god,had believed Azure Cloud was doomed,the Blackwoods destined to fall.That was why the ancient god had so readily promised the Cloudview County dukedom to Edward.


    Now...


    The appearance of this token presented a dilemma.If the ancient god approved it,it would mean acknowledging the Blackwood clan''s renewed control over Cloudview County,effectively breaking his pact with the Druids.If he refused,it would make him,the ancient god,a liar,breaking his word.


    "How dare they!"Lance roared,his eyes wide with fury.The Azure Cloud Blackwoods had chosen this moment,during the court assembly,to make their move,a blatant challenge to the ancient god''s authority!


    Edward had chosen this precise moment,with all the officials gathered,to make his play!


    ...


    On the Azure Cloud border...


    Everyone watched the unfolding scene in the sky.Cloudview County was at the center of a swirling vortex of energy,the heavens themselves seemingly poised to bestow their blessing.This was the moment of a Duke''s ascension,a rare sight!


    Hope filled their eyes.


    The Blackwood clan had led them against the Druids.They yearned for the Blackwoods to ascend to the dukedom,to legitimize their rule! S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But soon,anxiety crept in.The heavens''blessing was delayed.


    The Blackwood clan frowned.


    Edward,however,remained calm upon his throne.Kenneth had explained the process of a Duke''s ascension."I imagine the Duke''s token has reached the grand hall by now,"he mused.


    A grin spread across his face,and he called out,his voice booming,"I implore His Majesty,the ancient god,to honor his promise made in the grand hall and bestow upon me,Edward Blackwood,the dukedom of Cloudview County!"


    As his words echoed,every Psychic on the Azure Cloud border raised their voices in unison.


    "We implore the ancient god to honor his promise!"


    Their voices rose in a crescendo,wave after wave,their plea carrying across the distance,reaching the ancient god''s ears.


    They called out once,twice...but there was no response.The Azure Cloud Psychics''cries grew frantic.


    Then,silence fell.On this day,so soon after their victory against the Druids,a shadow of despair settled over the Azure Cloud Psychics.


    The ancient god''s blessing did not descend.The formation in the sky dissipated,the pillar of light vanished!


    Only Edward remained,seated calmly upon his throne in the air.


    The bastard on the imperial throne,favored by heaven,had broken his promise,refusing to grant Edward the dukedom!His words were nothing but empty air,another betrayal of the people of Cloudview County!


    As anger simmered within the hearts of the Cloudview County forces,Edward''s voice rang out once more.


    "It seems His Majesty,the ancient god,does not recognize me.But what does it matter if I don''t have this dukedom?"


    His words stunned everyone in Cloudview County.


    Indeed,even without the ancient god''s recognition,was Edward Blackwood any less of a Duke?


    "The twelve border counties have been ceded.Azure Cloud is no longer part of the empire.Are we,the Psychics,not allowed to fight for what is rightfully ours?We stand on our land,resisting the Druids!"


    "Thirty years ago,we stood our ground.And today..."


    "We do the same!"


    Edward''s voice echoed once more.


    Everyone in Border town stared at him,their eyes wide.


    Kenneth,along with the five patriarchs,looked at Edward.A smile spread across his face,and his voice,amplified by natural energy,reached every ear."If the ancient god refuses,then I,as Duke,recognize Edward.What say you,people of Cloudview County?"


    "Hahaha!Duke Edward!"


    "Duke Edward!"


    Cheers erupted once more throughout Border town,wave after wave.


    To hell with the ancient god!He hadn''t lifted a finger to help them during the war.Why should they need his approval to name their own Duke?


    "You little rascal,are you rebelling?"Ethan muttered,watching the scene unfold.His descendants were a wild bunch.


    As soon as he finished speaking,a message flashed across the pale blue panel,bright and impossible to ignore.


    [Your descendant,Edward,deliberately chose the day of the imperial court assembly to request the dukedom.He was certain the ancient god had no grounds to punish the Blackwoods and intentionally humiliated him.Still harboring resentment for the ancient god''s betrayal in the grand hall,he has decided to gradually undermine the ancient god''s authority,inciting dissatisfaction among the people of Azure Cloud and even the entire Emerald Empire.Trait obtained:Rebellious Heart.]


    [He is gradually becoming a rebel.Success rate of inciting rebellion increased by 20%.Psychological damage to the ancient god increased by 20%.True damage increased by 10%.]


    "..."


    Ethan stared at Edward,who wore a faint smile,listening to the cheers of the Psychics around him.At this moment,he suspected that these Psychics would storm the heavenly palace itself if Edward gave the order.


    He scratched his head,bewildered.


    "Well,this kid has the potential to bring ruin upon the entire family."


    ...


    The chants of"Duke Edward"echoed throughout Cloudview County for half a day.


    Although the ancient god hadn''t officially recognized him,within Cloudview County,Edward was their Duke,in their hearts and in their actions!


    Inside the Sky Hall...


    "You little brat!Are you trying to start a rebellion?Who put you up to this?Do you even realize what you''ve done?You little bastard!"


    Nathan was giving Edward a thorough thrashing,chasing him around the hall.Edward,shielding his head,felt a familiar sense of dread,reminiscent of the time he had been caught with Betty.


    "Great-grandfather,stop!What''s the big deal?Those bastards in the heavenly palace are a bunch of hypocrites!Why should we bow to them?Besides,I''m just uniting the people!The ancient god never intended for us Blackwoods to actually become Dukes..."


    "You dare talk back?!"Nathan''s blows grew even fiercer.


    "Even if you want to rebel,you should do it discreetly!Why make such a spectacle?You think you''re so tough now,huh?Your wings have sprouted,and you''ve become arrogant beyond measure!"


    "Alright,alright,dear,that''s enough.He hasn''t actually committed treason.Besides,compared to what Edward did during our battle with the Druids,this is nothing."Luna intervened,stopping Nathan."It''s just a little rebellion.No need to get so worked up that you injure the child."


    Julian chimed in,"Yeah,Dad.Just tell him to be more careful and not make such a fuss next time."


    Daniel stroked his beard,looking at Edward,who was kneeling on the ground,with approval."Good boy."

 Chapter 297 - 297: Hmm? They found allies?

    Ethan, observing the Blackwood clan, lowered his eyelids.


    It seemed Nathan was the only sane one left.


    The rest of them... were itching for trouble.


    "Sigh."


    Both Ethan and Nathan sighed in unison.


    Nathan shook his head. "Enough, enough. Remember, rumors can be dangerous. Don''t give anyone a reason to accuse us. We''re surrounded by enemies. Now is not the time to talk about usurping the throne."


    "Understood!" The Blackwood clan members responded, their expressions serious.


    Seeing their obedient demeanor, Ethan felt somewhat reassured.


    They were all shrewd individuals, after all.


    Aside from Julian and the third generation, who were prone to causing trouble, the others wouldn''t do anything reckless.


    The Blackwood clan got back to work, focusing on strengthening the defenses of Border town.


    The experts who had come to Cloudview County''s aid showed no signs of leaving.


    They began cultivating in the ''Oracle Chamber'' in Border town.


    Righteous individuals from all corners of the Emerald Empire, those with status and influence, had joined their ranks.


    They even used their psychic powers to create a mountain near Border town, establishing a Psychic Sanctuary upon it.


    Bill Daoist, who had come from the depths, contributed the most, setting up his own Psychic Sanctuary in the most prominent location on the mountain.


    Numerous Psychics flocked to him, eager to hear the teachings of a Basic Mastery expert.


    Even a few words of guidance from such a powerful individual could be immensely beneficial for Psychics below the Competent Force stage.


    Ethan was currently inside Bill Daoist''s Psychic Sanctuary.


    Bill Daoist was meditating, surrounded by Blackwood clan members.


    Ethan... was eavesdropping.


    [Your descendant, Justin, under Bill Daoist''s guidance, has gained a deeper understanding of the earth element''s steadfastness.]


    [Jessica, guided by Bill Daoist, has learned a profound Earth-rank spell, ''Mountainfall Legion Technique.'' This spell has three levels and can channel the power of mountains into a thousand or even ten thousand individuals, or draw upon the strength of a thousand or ten thousand individuals, transforming it into a mountain to crush enemies.]


    [Marcus, who has been unable to fully utilize the Sky Hall, sought Bill Daoist''s advice. Seeing the Sky Hall''s unique properties, Bill Daoist, recalling his battle with Shane, suggested that the Sky Hall, containing countless stars, could manifest illusory stars but lacked solidity. He advised Marcus to try incorporating mountains, rivers, and vegetation into the Sky Hall, creating a world within.


    Your descendant, Marcus, suddenly realized that the Sky Hall might have the potential to become a miniature world.]


    The Blackwood descendants were all diligently cultivating. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Over at Owen''s residence, Blackwood clan members were also seeking guidance.


    [Your descendant, Julian, impressed by Owen''s hammer techniques, sought his instruction and learned an Earth-rank hammer technique, ''Heaven Ascending Hammer.'']


    "You''re an Ability Gearsmith? And a Seventh-grade craftsman?" Owen looked Julian up and down, noticing that all four of his limbs were replaced with mid-grade ability weapons.


    Stay updated via m-v l|e''m,p y r


    "I''ve met many skilled Ability Gearsmiths in the imperial capital, but I''ve never seen anyone like you, replacing their own limbs with ability weapons. You''re a true anomaly among Ability Gearsmiths. What were you thinking?"


    Julian, of course, wouldn''t reveal that he had gotten the idea from the war AI Bionic Robots sent by the Forebearer.


    He grinned. "I just thought those AI Bionic Robots looked sturdy. I didn''t have time to train my body to be as tough as them, so I decided to turn myself into an AI Bionic Robot. General Owen, you''re so knowledgeable. I heard Radiant Sky Grotto has some excellent Ability Gearsmiths and AI Bionic Robot specialists."


    "You''re interested in that? Radiant Sky Grotto does have a long history. I''ve dabbled in it during my millennia of cultivation." Owen saw through Julian''s intentions and chuckled.


    "I can''t reveal any of our sect''s secrets, but considering your Blackwood ancestor died fighting for the Emerald Empire''s border, I can share some knowledge with you. At least enough to help you integrate your psychic powers into your limbs."


    "Thank you, Senior!"


    Julian spent half a month learning from Owen.


    Radiant Sky Grotto, the ancient sect revered even by the ancient god, lived up to its reputation.


    Julian was enthralled by Owen''s teachings.


    [Your descendant, Julian, under Owen''s guidance, has gained knowledge of crafting Ability Gear and AI Bionic Robots, filling in the gaps in his cultivation.]


    [He has experienced a sudden epiphany, overcoming the obstacle that had prevented him from channeling psychic powers into his Ability Puppets. He has even gained some insight into channeling natural energy into AI Bionic Robots!]


    "We''ve struck gold!" Ethan couldn''t help but rejoice.


    Julian had been stuck at the peak of the Developing Skill stage for years, hindered by his lack of knowledge.


    Once he mastered this new information, the Blackwoods, with sufficient materials, could mass-produce Seventh-grade Developing Skill Ability Puppets!


    Even Sixth-grade Competent Force Ability Puppets might be within reach!


    "Hahaha! Thank you for your guidance, General Owen! I''ve got it, I''ve got it! Hahaha!"


    Julian, overcome with excitement, dashed out of Owen''s residence.


    The two-meter-tall man sprinted through Border town, eventually bursting into Nathan''s presence.


    He grabbed Nathan''s arm, his manic energy startling Nathan so much that he spilled his tea.


    "Dad, I''ve got it! I need to go home and forge! I''ll leave these Ability Puppets with you! You and the others need to gather more materials! Doesn''t matter who it''s from, just grab it! I need to forge!


    Hahaha!"


    "..."


    Julian shoved his Storage Ring into Nathan''s hand and disappeared as quickly as he had arrived.


    Nathan looked at the Storage Ring, which contained over two thousand Ability Puppets.


    He finally regained his composure and glanced around the hall.


    It was filled with the leaders of Cloudview County''s major factions.


    They, too, had recovered from their initial shock and were now eyeing Nathan warily, clutching their own Storage Rings protectively.


    They had clearly heard Julian''s words and were afraid the Blackwoods would rob them...


    "Ahem."


    Nathan suppressed the urge to chase after his son and give him another beating.


    He forced a smile at the wary crowd.


    "My third son suffered a head injury during the battle with the Druids. Don''t take his words seriously. Let''s continue our discussion. Resisting the Druids and finding more allies is far more important."


    As he spoke, Nathan''s eyes darted towards the Storage Rings in their hands, his mind racing.


    He calculated how many precious materials the Energy Stones the Blackwoods had plundered over the years could buy.


    If they couldn''t buy enough, he would have to ask Daniel for help.


    With Azure Cloud united in their purpose, good news reached Ethan within half a month.


    [Your descendants, Joseph and Katie, report that after over a year of persuasion, they have finally convinced Duke Jon of Starlight County. The entire population of Starlight County is currently heading towards Cloudview County!]


    "Hmm? They found allies?"


    Ethan, who was busy stealing knowledge from Bill Daoist, raised an eyebrow.


    He quickly reviewed the previous messages.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, after numerous failed attempts to persuade Jon, witnessed Jon preparing to relocate the entire population of Starlight County to Whisperwood Vale. He then activated the Dawn network hidden within Whisperwood Vale, spreading rumors that Chuck of the Arcane Society was about to break through to the Basic Mastery stage and that Duke Jon harbored ambitious plans.


    This led to widespread suspicion among the factions of Whisperwood Vale, making things difficult for Walker and thwarting his ambitions...]


    [Your descendant, Joseph, has obtained the trait: Mastermind.]

 Chapter 298 - 298: It seems we have some bad seeds among us

    At this moment, the power of information and the people came to light.


    Ethan''s scalp tingled.


    He could already imagine the people of Starlight County arriving in Whisperwood Vale, only to be met with resistance from the local factions, who would treat them like outsiders trying to seize their homes.


    And indeed...


    Ethan''s consciousness instantly shifted to where Joseph was.


    Enjoy exclusive adventures from m-v l''e|m,p-y r


    He saw numerous airships heading towards Cloudview County, the faces of the Starlight County Psychics etched with displeasure, as if they had suffered a great injustice.


    At that moment, Joseph was sprawled out on the deck, fast asleep, while Katie gently wiped down her Sparkly Unicorn Bow.


    "Brother... isn''t this a bit unfair?" Katie transmitted her voice to Joseph, her expression unchanged.


    Even though her brother was asleep, she was certain he could still hear her.


    As expected, Joseph''s lazy voice echoed in her mind, "There''s nothing unfair about it. Even if I didn''t do this, they would eventually be treated as outsiders, just like what we''ve heard about our family''s struggles in Cloudview County all those years ago. I''m just letting them face reality sooner. It''s their choice whether they come back with us now."


    "I understand, brother."


    "What do you understand?"


    "Lazy people really do have clever minds. They spend all day scheming instead of working."


    "..."


    Meanwhile, on the bow of the ship, Duke Jon and Arcane Society Chuck stood together, Jon glancing at Joseph with a strange expression.


    Chuck clenched his fists beside him. "Damn Whisperwood Vale, calling us Mystic Alliance barbarians! If you hadn''t stopped me, I would have taught them all a lesson! I told you, we shouldn''t have gone to Whisperwood Vale in the first place. Why subject ourselves to such humiliation? We''re not as enlightened as your grandson!"


    "We''d rather die on our feet than live on our knees!"


    As if hearing Chuck''s words, the experts from Starlight County glared fiercely.


    Only Jon smiled faintly. "Old Blackwood, it seems we have some bad seeds among us."


    The wind on the deck ruffled Joseph''s hair as he snored peacefully, oblivious to the slight upward curve of his lips.


    For an entire month, Ethan diligently learned from Bill Daoist and Owen in Border Town, while the Druids refrained from making any moves.


    Many members of the Blackwood family and experts from Cloudview County were engaged in rebuilding Border Town.


    The mountain that Daoist had created with his immense psychic powers at the border, stretching for six miles, still stood tall beyond the Azure Cloud border, inadvertently bolstering Cloudview County''s defenses.


    Now, the people of Cloudview County planned to use it as a foundation, utilizing their psychic powers to erect a 330-foot-tall and at least 660-mile-long wall along the Azure Cloud border to resist the Druids.


    The Psychics of Cloudview County had effectively formed an army.


    Prior to this, Martin had also maintained an army.


    These armies in the world of cultivation all cultivated psychic powers and employed military formations.


    It was similar to the Heath Spear Forest Formation that the Blackwood family had obtained from Pine Forest Town many years ago.


    Ethan had learned about it in his spare time and found it fascinating.


    [Various factions have decided to establish the ''Azure Cloud Army.'' Your descendant, Daniel, due to his remarkable victory in the previous battle against the Druids, has been nominated and appointed as the Commander of the Azure Cloud Army.]


    Upon seeing this message, Ethan instantly appeared beside Daniel, who was currently on the city wall, overseeing the transfer of power within the Blackwood faction.


    Behind Daniel stood most of the ''leader''-level experts from Thunderfire Demon Cave, Demon Hunters Alliance, and Dawn.


    They were all at least at the Transcendent Seed realm or above, their numbers having dwindled to less than a hundred after the successive battles.


    However, after these numerous trials by fire, the remaining individuals were absolutely loyal to the Blackwood family.


    "From this day forward, you are all one entity, integrated into my Blackwood ''Heavenly Justice Hall.'' The Heavenly Justice Hall has two branches: the overt branch, which conducts treasure businesses throughout the land, and the Covert Branch, which handles dangerous missions. As I am now tasked with commanding the Azure Cloud Army, your next leaders will soon return and make arrangements for you." S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Upon hearing this, the numerous subordinates exchanged glances, a hint of wariness in their eyes.


    Nevertheless, they all responded to Daniel with a respectful "Yes."


    [The three factions within your family have merged to form a new force, the ''Heavenly Justice Hall - Covert Branch.'' Your descendant, Joseph, has been appointed as the Head of the Heavenly Justice Hall - Covert Branch.]


    "Joseph''s going to have his hands full now," Ethan chuckled to himself.


    Among the Blackwood children, Joseph wasn''t the sharpest tool in the shed.


    His cultivation had even regressed to the eighth level of Foundational Energy, and he had yet to make a name for himself.


    The people of Cloudview County only knew of Blackwood Katie, and even Jeffrey''s children had gained some reputation.


    Yet, no one knew of Joseph.


    However, Ethan knew full well that all of the Blackwood sixth generation descendants combined were no match for Joseph alone.


    As for the Heavenly Justice Hall - Overt Branch... that was the public face of their organization, and Luna had always been in charge.


    Its primary purpose was to earn Energy Stones.


    Occasionally, promising Blackwood children would be sent to the overt branch for training, allowing them to experience setbacks in the business world and learn valuable lessons by spending Energy Stones.


    At the same time, Luna would assess their reliability.


    The reason for this arrangement was Jeffrey''s numerous offspring, who had also begun to procreate at an alarming rate.


    As the subordinates dispersed, Jessica, who had been standing behind Daniel, furrowed her brows.


    "Uncle, although these individuals are loyal to our family, they are all used to acting independently and harbor their own agendas. They are a lawless bunch. Joseph is still young. Can he truly control them?"


    "I had originally intended for you to lead the Covert Branch, but you insisted on joining the military. Now, we have no choice but to entrust it to Joseph. I can only hope that he can keep them in line."


    Daniel let out a sigh.


    Seeing Daniel''s helpless expression, Ethan couldn''t help but smile wryly.


    Amelia was currently assisting Diana in her recovery.


    Julian... well, he was still busy forging, which was a great help in itself.


    Marcus had to lead the Sky Sect, and Warren Daoist was still missing.


    If it weren''t for the fact that his soul lamp was still lit, Ethan would have thought that his old friend had perished.


    As for the third generation of the Blackwood family...


    [The third generation of your Blackwood descendants has begun to integrate the Druid infant bones and cultivate magic alongside the Lord of Frenzied Blood.]


    At this moment, those eight youngsters were in Marcus'' Sky Hall.


    Otherwise, they would probably be clamoring to venture into the Endless Forest.


    As for the fourth generation... Ethan noticed George and Justin sneaking off to the Endless Forest.


    With William away, these two had taken Larry, the beast tamer, with them, forming a new trio.


    They had been staking out a Druid tribe for over a month but had yet to find an opportunity to strike.


    Apart from Joseph, there really wasn''t anyone reliable.


    Ethan briefly glanced at the children Jeffrey had sired.


    Among the fifth generation and the sixth generation, there were some promising individuals, but compared to the rest of the Blackwood family, they were merely average or still in their developmental stages.


    However, the reason Daniel was willing to relinquish control of the Covert Branch and let Joseph take charge was that both he and Jessica had witnessed the greater potential within the Azure Cloud Army!


    Jessica said in a solemn tone, "Uncle, commanding the Azure Cloud Army won''t be easy either. They come from various factions within Cloudview County, including Martin''s forces. The army is a mixed bag, with no one willing to submit to another. We have our work cut out for us."


    "Hahaha, I was able to suppress the various factions within Thunderfire Demon Cave back in the day. Now, as long as you give me enough time, I can transform this Azure Cloud Army into the ''Blackwood Army''!"


    Daniel burst into hearty laughter.


    "May the Forefather bless us! Only by having our family control everything can we truly live up to his expectations!"

 Chapter 299 - 299: A trade?

    Watching Daniel and Jessica earnestly holding their Forefather Psychic Compasses, Ethan couldn''t help but feel a sense of dread, like a giant, inescapable burden had just been placed upon his shoulders.


    A few days later, Joseph returned with the Psychics from Starlight County.


    After discussions between Duke Jon and Kenneth, they decided to gradually reclaim the land of Starlight County.


    For now, the Starlight County Psychics were stationed at the border between Starlight County and Cloudview County, standing guard alongside the Azure Cloud Psychics.


    With the return of the Starlight County Psychics, the Druids retreated another twenty miles.


    "Hahaha, my brother and I completed the mission! We brought back help!"


    Katie excitedly announced their success in the ancestral hall, drawing surprised glances towards the still-slumbering Joseph.


    Joseph was then carried to the center of the ancestral hall.


    Despite his accomplishment, the boy remained sound asleep, seemingly indifferent to the praise.


    However, something felt amiss to Joseph in his slumber.


    As he opened his eyes, he found all the elders staring at him, offering their congratulations.


    "Congratulations, Joseph! From now on, you are the head of our Heavenly Justice Hall - Covert Branch!"


    Joseph stared back in a daze, struggling to accept the reality of yet another difficult task thrust upon him.


    He glanced at his bound hands and feet.


    "Elders, can''t we talk about this? Heavenly Justice Hall is fine, I won''t run away. But tying me up like this makes it seem like I''m about to be roasted alive." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His apprehension quickly turned to panic.


    The elders of the fourth generation hoisted him onto their shoulders and carried him off to a matchmaking session.


    General Owen, who had arrived from the imperial capital, was also occupied.


    He seemed determined to abide by the principle of "discretion is the better part of valor" while on the battlefield.


    He had received three imperial decrees urging his return, but he simply informed the empire that he was gravely injured and required recuperation in Cloudview County.


    However, everyone in Cloudview County knew that General Owen was in perfect health.


    He was merely staying vigilant against the Druid elders.


    Rumor had it that he possessed a unique ability to sense the presence of any Druid elder who set foot in Cloudview County.


    While the entire Cloudview County was bustling with activity, the Blackwood family gradually faded into the background.


    On the battlefronts of Border Town, only Daniel, Marcus, Jessica, Edward, and a few younger members could be seen cultivating their psychic powers and gaining experience.


    However, it wasn''t a major concern.


    With the arrival of Starlight County, Cloudview County finally had the strength to launch a counteroffensive.


    The four Grand Magisters from that fateful night were locked in a stalemate, their divine souls clashing in the sky, none daring to make a move.


    As for Apostle Mike? His old friend Nathan was absent from the battlefield.


    Instead, Chuck from the Starlight County Arcane Society had emerged, surprisingly able to hold his own against Mike.


    [Special Event - A Fair Fight]


    [Casualties have arisen within the Druid ranks. After the battle with the Cloudview County Grand Magister Psychics, Shane and Lester appealed to the Bird Totem for aid but were informed that no assistance would be provided.]


    Seeing this, Ethan had a hunch that it was related to Diana''s deal with the Druids.


    Once, the Blackwood family had to struggle for survival against the Druids.


    Now, it seemed the tables had turned.


    One day, Ethan opened his eyes within Bill Daoist''s cultivation grounds.


    Under the starry night sky, a White Clan chieftain arrived at the Blackwood residence.


    Trembling, he knelt before the bewildered Blackwood family.


    "Friends of the Blackwood family, I come at the behest of the High Priest to propose a trade."


    "A trade? What could the Blackwood family possibly trade with the White Clan?" Nathan remarked casually.


    His interest was piqued when the Druid chieftain spoke.


    "We are willing to assist you in constructing a Nature Magic Grand Formation. This is the formation diagram sent by our High Priest!"


    Of course, it wasn''t without a price.


    [Arnold''s Gift - Nature Magic Diagram!]


    [As the activation of the Nature Magic Grand Formation draws near, Arnold senses the Blackwood family lurking nearby, waiting for an opportunity to strike. To ensure the formation''s successful completion, he is willing to offer it to the Blackwood family, hoping they will cease their pursuit of him. Humans are simple creatures. Give them a glimmer of hope, and they will abandon risky endeavors.


    After today, I can finally rest easy and focus on my breakthrough.]


    Within the Nature Magic Grand Formation, the White Clan High Priest reprimanded Arnold.


    "Arnold, how could you collude with the Blackwood family and give them the Nature Magic Formation Diagram?"


    Arnold''s expression remained calm.


    "High Priest, this formation requires a Druid High Priest to activate it, a million corpses, and a mystical energy vein. The Blackwood family can''t fulfill any of these conditions. I am merely giving them a way out, a reason to abandon their plans. After today, I can finally rest easy and focus on my breakthrough."


    The High Priest pondered for a moment.


    It was true. The Blackwood family wouldn''t be able to activate the formation without a High Priest.


    Meanwhile, Ethan received a message.


    [Your descendants, George and Justin, report that they have been observing the Nature Magic Grand Formation. The defenses around it are tighter than ever. Although they haven''t obtained it, they have formulated a plan to disrupt Arnold''s tribulation at a certain cost.]


    "...No wonder Arnold is scared. You two have been watching him like hawks."


    Ethan chuckled, finally understanding.


    He accepted Arnold''s gift without hesitation.


    "Hahaha, you don''t think we can create a Nature Magic Grand Formation, do you? A million corpses, a High Priest... This is perfect! From now on, if anyone wants to attempt a breakthrough to the Master Force realm, we''ll just use this!"


    Julian, upon receiving the diagram, excitedly rushed towards Amelia''s alchemy workshop.


    "Sister, you''re saved! This is amazing, you''re going to be alright!"

 Chapter 300 - 300: Daily Slaughter

    The Blackwood family had been given a much-needed reprieve, but they dared not waste a moment.


    Every Blackwood descendant was diligently honing their psychic abilities.


    For the Blackwoods, ten years slipped away like sand through their fingers.


    The Azure Cloud border, the site of the great battle, had undergone a dramatic transformation.


    Just as initially planned, a thousand-mile wall now stood between the border and the heart of the Endless Forest, significantly hindering the Druids'' advance.


    The defensive pressure on Cloudview County had eased considerably.


    Large-scale battles were rare in the past decade, replaced by smaller skirmishes involving less than ten thousand combatants.


    More often than not, it was the Azure Cloud army engaging in these conflicts, both sides tacitly agreeing to a measured approach, treating it as an exercise in military training.


    Ethan emerged from his secluded meditation beside Daoist Bill, where he had been immersed in comprehending the laws of the universe.


    This time, the isolation didn''t carry the same weight of loneliness as before.


    He had grown accustomed to the feeling.


    It was as if, after reaching the Competent Force stage, a decade felt like a mere half-year.


    During this period, he had only awakened once, during a grand family ritual, taking the opportunity to return to the mortal realm.


    He brought back gifts and, in turn, received a wealth of treasures.


    Over the years, Daniel, through his command in the great battle, had successfully navigated several special events, earning him a measure of family destiny.


    Ethan''s own reserves of family destiny had only slightly diminished.


    [Family Destiny: 42]


    [Congratulations! After a decade of cultivating psychic powers alongside Daoist Bill, you have acquired a vast array of psychic abilities and gained insights into the laws of earth and mountain. This potent force of law will enable your Competent Force to break free from its embryonic form and transform into a nascent soul!]


    Ethan''s consciousness delved into his inner being, where he beheld an infant, seated in meditation, within his core.


    Upon reaching the Competent Force stage, it took the form of an infant.


    During this phase, it not only absorbed the psychic energies of heaven and earth but also assimilated the laws of the universe as nourishment, integrating them into the Competent Force.


    Ultimately, when the Competent Force became an exact replica of himself, it would signify the birth of his nascent soul!


    The challenge in cultivating a nascent soul lay in merging the laws of the universe into one''s being.


    This was the very hurdle that prevented countless psychics from attaining the nascent soul stage.


    Of course, there were those blessed with extraordinary fortune, stumbling upon mystical realms or other unorthodox methods, enabling them to forcefully assimilate the laws and achieve Basic Mastery.


    However, achieving Basic Mastery in Cloudview County was an arduous feat.


    Ethan could sense that the laws of heaven and earth available for assimilation in Cloudview County were scarce, explaining his lack of progress despite a decade of cultivation.


    "I can only take it slow."


    Ethan had no other recourse.


    He had never dared to dream of surpassing the Competent Force stage, and now he was already seeking ways to break through to Basic Mastery.


    All he could do was his best and leave the rest to fate.


    Ethan proceeded to check on the progress of his Blackwood descendants.


    His gaze fell upon Nathan and his wife.


    Ethan''s face darkened.


    [Your descendant, Nathan, attempted the fifth level of the Death Coffin but was unsuccessful. He has spent the past decade dual cultivating with Luna within the Death Coffin, emerging only for grand family rituals and to check on the well-being of the Azure Cloud during critical battles. Apart from addressing matters concerning their children, they rarely ventured outside the Death Coffin.]


    Ethan surmised that the couple shared his sentiment.


    With their extended lifespans, the concept of time held less significance.


    They had even reached a point of indifference towards the birth of new Blackwood children.


    It was no wonder that many powerful individuals grew detached from worldly affairs.


    Ethan then shifted his attention to the offspring of his second-generation descendants.


    A decade had passed, and Lucas was still entangled with the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, and the Celestial Star Swordmaster have been journeying together, seeking opportunities to comprehend the essence of swordsmanship.]


    Their so-called journey across the world amounted to roaming around Cloudview County.


    However, whenever they encountered children with a passion for swordsmanship, they would impart their knowledge, hoping that these youngsters would grow up to join the Azure Cloud army and defend their homeland against the Druids.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has acquired the trait: Swordsmanship Mentor]


    [He travels throughout Cloudview County, recounting tales of the great battle against the Druids, ensuring that the Azure Cloud psychics'' fearlessness in the face of death is passed down through generations. Each year, there is a 0.1% chance of triggering an epiphany.]


    "Once a sword-obsessed maniac, now a swordsmanship mentor."


    Ethan marveled at the unpredictable nature of life''s journey.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, his beard now long and his appearance weathered by time, habitually murmured to Lucas, "Brother Lucas, I must ask again, where is Olivia?"


    Choosing to ignore the peculiar duo, Ethan turned his attention to Olivia. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After a decade, she had transformed back into an elderly woman!


    William, who had become Olivia''s devoted follower, remained by her side, his demeanor as sincere and dependable as ever.


    The two of them were...selling meat on a street corner that clearly belonged to a Druid settlement!


    [Moon Dragon Totem - Fallen Stars Clan]


    William, looking as if he had just returned, approached Olivia with a cheerful expression, assisting her in hawking their wares.


    In a low voice, he murmured, "Great-aunt Olivia, we''ve been stationed here for a decade. Haven''t we found a suitable opportunity yet? I miss my brother."


    [Your descendant, William, has spent the past ten years selling meat alongside his great-aunt Olivia in the Moon Dragon Totem, finding solace only in selecting individuals to kill for amusement each day. He has acquired the trait: Daily Slaughter.]


    [Unable to bear a day without killing, William appears no different from ordinary people when engaged in regular slaughter. Each missed daily kill quest increases his inner darkness by 1%.]


    Olivia responded to William''s words with a calm smile, "Patience, child. Ten years is but a blink, and a century is hardly enough. We will find our chance eventually. William, try to curb your bloodlust. Excessive killing will only lead to formidable tribulations when you reach the Competent Force stage."


    As she spoke, Olivia sold a piece of meat to a Druid.


    At first glance, the meat seemed unremarkable, but then Ethan froze.


    [Your descendant, Olivia, has sold a piece of meat and gained a minuscule amount of Druid destiny.]


    Examining her past actions, Ethan found it filled with instances of selling meat...


    As for what destiny entailed...

 Chapter 301 - 301: This world is full of liars!

    Ethan seemed to grasp its meaning through the experiences of his other Blackwood descendants...


    [Your descendant, George, has spent the past decade excavating ancient Druid tombs, recovering three Druid bones and a wealth of spells, which he has sent back to the family.]


    [Your third-generation Blackwood descendants have all fused with Druid bones, becoming a hybrid of human, Druid, and demonic, their cultivation simultaneously reaching the peak of Developing Skill.


    Under the guidance of the spell-savvy Lord of Frenzied Blood, the third-generation Blackwoods have begun cultivating psychic spells, enhancing their physical prowess and acquiring the trait: Demonic Druid.]


    [Spellcasting speed increased by 20%.]


    [Your descendant, Justin, while on an adventure, discovered a location still imbued with a seventh-grade psychic vein. Your family has gathered a million Druid corpses, with the Lord of Frenzied Blood and the third-generation Blackwoods acting as Druid High Priest and priests, respectively.


    Together, they offer prayers to their bloodline''s faith, constructing a grand nature magic array upon the psychic vein.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, under the protection of a small amount of family destiny, has endured the ordeal of the nine-nine thunder tribulation, acquiring a single-element wood psychic constitution and the Celestial Wood Body!]


    It seemed that Olivia''s borrowing of destiny had been the turning point.


    The Blackwood''s misfortunes were slowly fading, replaced by a string of successes.


    Ethan even suspected that the arrival of the two Basic Mastery experts and the relative peace enjoyed by Cloudview County in recent years were connected to the destiny Olivia brought back.


    Amelia, having now broken through to the Competent Force stage, was in Glory City, secretly healing Diana.


    Then there was Julian.


    The Blackwood forge was a hive of activity, with psychic equipment masters hammering away at their craft.


    Julian, seemingly possessed, toiled tirelessly in a blazing inferno resembling a volcano''s mouth, attempting to forge a sixth-grade iron weapon.


    [Your descendant, Julian, guided by Owen''s teachings, has spent a decade honing his skills and can now imbue seventh-grade psychic puppets with psychic powers. Witnessing the Exploding Sky Serpent''s detonation and the Azure Dragon''s natural energy blasts, he has grasped the essence of explosive power. He has created psychic power-wielding puppets and self-detonating psychic puppets!]


    The Blackwood psychic puppets were now a force to be reckoned with.


    Imagine the devastation caused by a hundred Developing Skill level self-detonations...


    His other children were also excelling.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, on the verge of facing the eight-nine thunder tribulation for his breakthrough to the Competent Force stage, is searching for natural treasures imbued with the essence of mountains, rivers, and vegetation to transform the Sky Hall into a miniature world, shielding him from the tribulation. He has acquired the trait: Natural Treasure Collector.]


    [For each natural treasure acquired, his strength increases by 20%.]


    [Your descendant, Daniel, inspired by the Forebearer''s bestowed knowledge from the "Cultivator Militia Examination Essentials," has gained insights into military training. Army training speed increased by 20%. He currently commands a cultivator army of 50,000 strong.]


    Ethan observed that this army, disciplined and efficient, had been decimating the Druids in battle.


    Their tactics and formations even surprised General Owen.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, after a decade of relentless effort and a 10% reduction in the Heavenly Justice Hall''s forces, has finally managed to curb the infighting within the Heavenly Justice Hall''s Covert Branch...]


    [Acquired the trait: Trouble Resolver.]


    Indeed, leading a shadowy organization was no easy feat.


    Ethan watched as Joseph, the lazybones, tossed and turned in his sleep.


    As for Joseph''s father, Edward... his life wasn''t a walk in the park either.


    [Your descendant, Edward, the Dark Duke of Cloudview County, faces a constant influx of "fugitives" seeking refuge from far and wide. Each day, he must personally interview every "fugitive," arrange accommodations, and engage in cunning power struggles with these desperate individuals.]


    Ethan felt a pang of sympathy for the father and son, both burdened with their respective responsibilities.


    At that moment, Edward sat upon his throne, a scholarly-looking man standing before him.


    The scholar recounted his past, a customary practice for all newcomers.


    He claimed to have fled to Cloudview County after offending those in power.


    Edward''s face darkened.


    He slammed his fist on the table.


    "I''ve seen countless fugitives in the past decade. Do you think you can deceive me? One flicker of your aura, and I''ll know you''re lying. Speak the truth!"


    The scholar''s face paled.


    He hastily confessed, "Your Excellency, I... I was once a scholar in the imperial capital. My... my master had a dozen concubines, and I... I defiled one."


    "Is that all? Not an unforgivable sin. You can join the Azure Cloud army''s vanguard..."


    Before Edward could finish, Jeffrey, passing by, overheard the scholar''s confession.


    As handsome as ever, now with forty-three wives to his name, Jeffrey stormed into the chamber, his eyes blazing with righteous fury.


    "Edward, listen to your uncle! This man deserves no mercy! He dared to defile one of his master''s concubines when there were only a dozen. Imagine the chaos he''d unleash in a household with dozens more! You can''t possibly understand, Edward! This man deserves to be executed..."


    Edward''s face darkened further.


    He ordered his guards to drag both his uncle and the scholar away.


    [Your descendant, Jeffrey, has fathered another 22 children.]


    [Your fifth-generation descendants have borne 42 children for your family.]


    [Your family has expanded to the seventh generation. Please bestow names upon them.]


    "Hmm?"


    Ethan clicked on the notification regarding the seventh-generation children, expecting them to be in Glory City.


    To his surprise, they appeared in a small fishing village...


    Before his eyes...


    [North Sea City - Coastal Village]


    Inside a small tavern, a handsome young man lay beside a plain-looking woman, a newborn babe cradled in her arms.


    A stunning woman, her beauty hidden beneath a simple apron, gazed lovingly at the family of three.


    "Nicholas, did you see? We have a grandson!"


    Outside the tavern, a filthy beggar rattled his meager earnings in a rusty bowl, pleading with passersby for spare change.


    "Have mercy on this old man! Three years have passed, and I''ve gained nothing. This world is full of liars!"


    "Forebearer, Adam has fathered a son. Please bestow a name upon the child."


    Even the small fishing village had a modest shrine.


    As night fell, Helen knelt before Ethan within the shrine.


    Ethan observed from his position.


    Over the years, during his moments of respite from cultivation, he would occasionally visit this Coastal Village.


    Although Helen had taken Adam away to live a simple life, the annual Forebearer Communion remained a tradition.


    However, after all these years, Adam still remained unaware of his Blackwood heritage.


    "Bestow a name?"


    Ethan pondered for a moment.


    Within the shrine, the Forebearer''s psychic position rose into the air, leaving behind three characters:


    Alexander.


    "Thank you for bestowing the name, Forebearer!" Helen''s eyes welled up with tears of joy.


    Despite their simple life in the fishing village, the Forebearer continued to watch over her and her child. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She knew that if the family wished to intervene, they could easily locate them with their current power.


    Ethan lingered in the village for several days, observing the family''s life.


    It was simple, yet filled with warmth.


    At that moment, Adam sat in their humble dwelling, cradling his son with joy.


    His wife lay on their bed, her gaze filled with tenderness as she watched the father and son.


    "Little Alexander, little Alexander, you have a name now. Will you grow up to be the most skilled fisherman in these parts, just like your father?" Adam grinned at the babe in his arms.

 Chapter 302 - 302: Daily Slaughter

    Ethan observed the life of his descendant with a keen eye.


    The boy, Alexander, possessed remarkable potential, bearing a dual psychic constitution.


    Helen, with her sharp mind, had raised Adam well, instilling in him the ways of cultivation while emphasizing discretion.


    Now at the sixth level of Foundational Energy, Adam was a skilled cultivator, though he kept his abilities hidden.


    His reputation as the finest fisherman for miles around had, in his youth, drawn matchmakers to their small village like moths to a flame.


    Yet, Adam remained devoted to Erin, the girl who lived just two lanes down from his childhood home.


    Their marriage was a testament to their enduring love.


    Erin, though not blessed with extraordinary beauty, possessed a heart of gold.


    She might not have mastered the refined embroidery of noblewomen, but her kindness knew no bounds, extending even to the injured creatures of their village.


    As Ethan prepared to return to his family and resume his cultivation, a sense of contentment washing over him, a sight gave him pause.


    Adam, dressed simply in tunic and trousers, emerged from the tavern, his demeanor as composed and collected as his mother''s.


    He walked towards the front of the tavern, where the Drunken Fool sat begging for alms.


    With a familiar gesture, Adam offered the old man a gourd filled with wine.


    The Drunken Fool accepted the offering with a grateful smile, but a flicker of something crossed his features, his expression momentarily freezing.


    "Old friend," Adam began, his voice steady, "you''ve been a fixture outside this tavern since I was a boy. I''ve grown now, and many in the village my age are gone, yet you remain as spry as ever. And never a day goes by without your gourd of wine."


    "Good wine, good wine!" the Drunken Fool exclaimed, taking a large gulp, feigning intoxication.


    Adam''s expression remained unchanged. "I''ve faced my share of dangers growing up, but somehow, I always managed to escape unscathed. Years ago, when bandits threatened our village, I led our men to fight them. By the time we arrived at their hideout the next day, they were all gone. When I inquired, the villagers mentioned you had been away for a while that night."


    "There''s no such thing as a selfless act of kindness, at least not in my experience. I''ve been cultivating since I was a child. My mother possesses knowledge of cultivation that others wouldn''t even dare to dream of. I can sense she''s keeping something from me, and so are you."


    "When I was young, I used to ask about my father, but she would always refuse to speak of him. Now that I''m older, I need to know..."


    "What is my father''s name?"


    "..."


    As Adam spoke, Helen, her brow furrowed, peered down from the tavern window.


    Though Adam''s voice had dropped to a whisper, it couldn''t escape Helen''s ears, honed by years of cultivation to the second level of Developing Skill.


    Below, the Drunken Fool continued to play the part of a rambling drunkard, oblivious to Adam''s questioning gaze.


    Unbeknownst to them, a man carrying a coffin on his back stood with his arm around a beautiful woman, their figures hidden in the shadows of a nearby alleyway.


    "My love, let''s stay a while longer," Luna pleaded softly.


    "As you wish," Nathan replied with a smile. "We shouldn''t disrupt their lives. They have everything they need here."


    "Perhaps this simple life is a blessing," Luna mused. "We never had a choice, but I hope they can live in peace and happiness, always."


    The street bustled with activity, but the couple remained unseen, like phantoms passing through the crowd. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Suddenly, the Drunken Fool, still squatting by the tavern entrance, froze.


    His eyes widened as he spotted the couple in the shadows. "Twenty years! Do you have any idea what I''ve been through all these years?" he sputtered, nearly choking on his wine.


    That night, Helen, clutching Alexander in her arms, soared into the night sky, searching for any sign of Nathan and Luna.


    Her efforts proved futile.


    All she found was a storage ring lying on the ground.


    It contained enough resources and treasures to drive a Competent Force level power mad, along with a simple note:


    [Live well]


    Facing south, towards the Emerald Empire''s border, Helen fell to her knees, tears streaming down her face.


    A few days later, the old beggar vanished from his spot outside the tavern.


    A fierce thunderstorm raged across the sea near Coastal Village, much to the astonishment of the villagers.


    Soon after, the filthy old beggar reappeared, back in his usual spot, begging for alms.


    ...


    Unlike the peaceful lives of Nicholas''s descendants in the small fishing village, Cloudview County remained embroiled in conflict.


    The war on the border raged on, even after all these years.


    Daniel, now a seasoned general with a commanding presence, sat upon the main seat in Border Town.


    His youthful face, framed by a crown of silver hair, contrasted sharply with his imposing black armor.


    Another battle was about to commence outside the town.


    Jessica, leading Cloudview County''s Azure Cloud army, pursued a retreating Druid force.


    They had already seized control of a Druid settlement, and many psychics were busy plundering its resources.


    Ethan observed the scene with a sense of relief.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, a true warrior, leads the Azure Cloud army against the Druids on the border of Cloudview County, her victories unmatched. The mere mention of her name strikes fear into the hearts of the Druids. Word of her past deeds in Cloudview County, particularly her actions in Jonestown, has spread among the Druids, earning her the moniker "The Bloodsoaked Widow."]


    [Due to her merciless slaughter of the Druids in every battle, she has acquired the trait: Druid Slayer.]


    [When facing Druids, her pressure increases by 100%. She is under the protection of Cloudview County''s destiny. For every ten thousand Druids slain, her progress towards the Competent Force stage increases by 1%. Current progress: 12%.]


    "Kill!" Jessica roared, her voice echoing across the battlefield.


    She soared through the air on her dual swords, her beautiful face contorted in a grimace of righteous fury.


    Behind her, tens of thousands of Azure Cloud army psychics followed, their swords forming a dazzling, unstoppable formation.


    The combined might of their psychic powers seemed to blot out the sun.


    Ethan watched the battle unfold, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes.


    "It seems Olivia''s borrowing of destiny from the Druids is having a more significant impact than I anticipated. If Jessica slays another eighty-eight thousand Druids, she''ll break through to the Competent Force stage..."


    With Daniel and Jessica leading the charge, Ethan felt reassured about the border''s security.


    The Azure Cloud army was stronger than ever.


    Ethan had grown accustomed to his existence as a silent guardian, a phantom watching over Cloudview County.


    [Blackwood Year 185]


    [Congratulations! After years of contemplation alongside Daoist Bill, you have fully comprehended the law of the mountain''s weight.]


    Emerging from seclusion, Ethan assessed his current state.


    The barrier between the Competent Force and Basic Mastery stages was a formidable one.


    It required not only the absorption of vast quantities of natural energies but also the mastery of the laws governing the universe.


    Only then could his Competent Force grow and transcend its physical limitations, achieving Basic Mastery.


    He could now perceive the various laws that permeated the world around him, such as the five elements, wind, and thunder.


    "Thankfully, with the aid of these laws, my Competent Force has grown somewhat."


    Ethan felt a surge of excitement.


    The Blackwood family had presented him with two tribute offerings during this period, but the amount of natural energies they provided was minuscule.


    Based on his calculations, if he continued to receive tributes of this caliber every decade, it would take him at least ten thousand years to reach the peak of the Basic Mastery stage... and a Competent Force stage cultivator''s lifespan was a mere two thousand years...


    "However..." Ethan murmured, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.


    And with that, he vanished from sight.

 Chapter 303 - 303: Since when did our family become so poor? Part1

    Ethan materialized within the Blackwood residence.


    It was bustling, more prosperous than ever, practically overflowing with psychic energy.


    The energy vein beneath their home was on the verge of reaching the seventh-grade, further enhanced by countless formations and artifacts designed to gather and amplify psychic energy.


    The Primordial Bloodwood had returned to its original location, its form restored to its full glory.


    Having reached its current level of cultivation, it could now draw psychic energy directly from the heavens and the earth.


    Every few years, when the mood struck it, the Primordial Bloodwood would shower the land with its crimson snow, a boon to every psychic in Glory City.


    Those fortunate enough, especially those at the Foundational Energy level, could even break through their bottlenecks from its energy alone.


    As a tree spirit, the Primordial Bloodwood possessed an incredibly long lifespan, easily tens of thousands of years.


    Thanks to the Primordial Bloodwood''s generosity, eighty percent of Glory City''s 230,000 residents were now psychics.


    Glory City had become a sacred place, revered throughout Cloudview County.


    Upon arriving at the residence, Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    The Blackwood clan was gathered in the main hall, engaged in a heated discussion.


    The topic?


    "Since when did our family become so poor?"


    Julian, the muscular, bald giant, sat sprawled on the floor, clinging to Nathan''s leg and wailing dramatically.


    "Father, I beg you, just a little more material! I''m so close! Once I forge a sixth-grade psychic puppet, I can break through to the Competent Force stage! I''m almost two hundred years old, my hair is turning white! If I don''t break through soon, I''ll die of old age!"


    "..."


    The younger generation of Blackwoods exchanged amused glances.


    Did he even have any hair to turn white?


    As Julian''s cries subsided, Amelia chimed in, counting on her fingers.


    "Three hundred... five hundred... just two thousand more years, and my sixth-grade spirit herbs will be ready in that hidden realm up north. Then I can finally refine my sixth-grade spirit pills!"


    "We''re truly out of resources," Nathan said, his face grim.


    Although he had spent the past few years cultivating in the Death Coffin, he had heard tales of his children''s insatiable hunger for materials. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They had scoured every major power in Cloudview County, but their demands were exorbitant, always insisting on materials of the seventh-grade or higher.


    Now, the mere mention of their names sent shivers down the spines of even the most powerful figures.


    It wasn''t just Cloudview County.


    They had ransacked Starlight County, Clearwater County, even venturing into Druid territory beyond the Azure Cloud border, claiming every high-grade material they could find.


    Yet, they were like bottomless pits, their appetites insatiable.


    Amelia, in particular, was notorious for her extravagant use of rare and precious ingredients, often squandering them on experimental concoctions.


    With a sigh, Nathan tossed his storage ring to his children.


    "We''re truly strapped for resources. See for yourselves."


    The siblings'' faces fell as they peered into the ring.


    It was as he said.


    Apart from a mountain of energy stones and a vast arsenal of ability weapons, the ring was practically empty.


    The younger generation, observing their elders'' predicament, remained unconcerned.


    They knew the true extent of the family''s wealth.


    They had seen the treasure vault with their own eyes.


    As long as they completed their missions or achieved something noteworthy, they could request anything they needed from the vault through Azure Dragon.


    And every time they visited the vault, it seemed to be even more overflowing than before, brimming with formation disks, cultivation techniques, pills, psychic puppets, talismans... it was a treasure trove beyond their wildest dreams.


    As the family grappled with their predicament, Marcus, who had been unusually quiet, spoke up, his voice laced with resentment.


    "Grandfather, aunts, uncles, we still have the Sunshine Clan to deal with."


    The mention of the Sunshine Clan cast a pall over the room.


    The air crackled with unspoken anger.


    Ethan''s eyes narrowed.


    The Blackwood''s rise to power over the past decade had not been without its challenges.


    Their relationship with the Sunshine Clan was particularly strained.


    ...


    Within the Psychic Sanctuary, a secluded space Amelia had created within Iron Forest Horse, lay a ''Heavenly Rejuvenation Jade Bed''.


    This artifact, acquired from Duke Jones of Starlight County at a hefty price in energy stones, was a marvel of craftsmanship, capable of healing even the most grievous wounds.


    A psychic at the Foundational Energy level could recover from near-fatal injuries with just a few days of rest on the jade bed.


    Even those at the Emerging Ability level could expect a full recovery within a couple of months.


    At that moment, two figures lay upon the bed.


    One was a woman of unparalleled beauty, her features unmistakable: Diana, the Demon Lord of the Abyss.


    Beside her lay a man, his handsome face framed by thick, dark eyebrows, his bearing radiating an air of unconscious arrogance even in repose.


    Lucas... his bare chest bore a long, jagged scar, the wound still raw but instead of blood, it oozed a faint black mist.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, while intercepting a Basic Mastery psychic from the Crimson Gate Syndicate attempting to enter Cloudview County alongside the Celestial Star Swordmaster, was gravely wounded. He was saved by the timely intervention of Owen and Daoist Bill.]


    This incident had transpired two years prior.


    Over the past decade and a half, Cloudview County had become a place of unique significance.


    Any Basic Mastery psychic who dared to trespass would be swiftly detected by Daoist Bill.


    The Blackwoods, too, had been proactive, actively recruiting powerful cultivators from across the Emerald Empire and even assisting the Heavenly Justice Hall in escorting captured criminals back to Cloudview County to bolster their defenses.


    The incident with Lucas occurred when he and the Celestial Star Swordmaster returned from the Sunshine Clan''s territory with a group of cultivators from a Competent Force level sect.


    The sect''s patriarch, enraged by their actions, had pursued them relentlessly.


    Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster, never ones to back down from a challenge, had met the patriarch head-on.


    However, they were no match for his overwhelming power and were swiftly defeated.


    Fortunately, the Crimson Gate Syndicate patriarch had spared Lucas''s life.

 Chapter 304 - 304: Since when did our family become so poor? Part2

    Had he been killed, the Blackwoods would have undoubtedly retaliated with devastating consequences.


    Upon learning of their father''s injuries, Daniel and Marcus were beside themselves with rage.


    Even the usually level-headed Daniel had mobilized the Azure Cloud army, marching them to the border and advancing deep into Sunshine Clan territory.


    Had Nathan not intervened and Lucas himself regained consciousness briefly to urge his sons to stand down, they might have been facing a full-blown rebellion instead of a border skirmish with the Druids.


    Now, after much deliberation, the Blackwood clan had gathered in the Psychic Sanctuary, their faces etched with concern as they looked upon their fallen comrade.


    Two years had passed, and despite Amelia''s tireless efforts, she had been unable to purge the lingering sword qi from Lucas''s wound, preventing his full recovery.


    "Grandfather," Marcus said, his voice tight with suppressed anger, "two years have passed. You''ve tried reasoning with the Sunshine Clan''s authorities, but they''ve ignored our pleas. "


    "The ancient agreement clearly states that any conflict involving cultivators above the Competent Force stage within Cloudview County''s borders must be reported. My father was already within our territory when he was attacked. "


    "The Sunshine Clan should have apprehended that rogue cultivator, but the Crimson Gate Syndicate remains at large, that old dog of a Basic Mastery expert still roaming free."


    Marcus gazed down at his father, his heart heavy with worry.


    They hadn''t always seen eye to eye, but Marcus had always admired his father''s strength and unwavering resolve.


    His own absence from family affairs, choosing instead to seclude himself within the Sky Sect, stemmed from the guilt he still carried over the Boar Monarch Pete incident.


    He blamed himself for the misfortune that had befallen his family.


    But now, with his father lying wounded, he had spent the past two years by his side, his only focus on Lucas''s recovery.


    And now, with the family facing a shortage of resources, he saw an opportunity.


    "Grandfather, you''ve always cautioned us against challenging the empire, fearing we might incite a rebellion. But as you can see, the Emerald Empire doesn''t consider us true citizens, and the Sunshine Clan even less so."


    His words hung heavy in the air.


    Joseph, who had been dozing in his wheelchair, jolted awake, his eyes fluttering open.


    "Ancestor," he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep, "our Heavenly Justice Hall hasn''t fared well in the Sunshine Clan''s territory either. They''ve been suppressing us at every turn. You''ve generously provided us with energy stones, but acquiring high-grade materials has become increasingly difficult.


    I''ve investigated the matter, and it seems the Sunshine Clan has always harbored resentment towards us. They''re doing this on purpose."


    Edward nodded in agreement.


    "Indeed, the number of psychics seeking refuge in Cloudview County from the Sunshine Clan has dwindled significantly in recent years. Great-grandfather''s efforts to bring back those who fled have been met with resistance. "


    "The Sunshine Clan is actively preventing psychics from leaving, even going so far as to detain and interrogate them. They''ve gone too far. I heard a Basic Mastery expert attempted to defect but was intercepted and persuaded to return."


    Listening to his descendants'' concerns, Nathan''s expression grew heavy.


    Over the past decade and a half, despite Cloudview County''s unique position, he had always strived to maintain a cordial relationship with the Emerald Empire.


    After all, compared to the colossal might of the empire, the Blackwoods were but a speck of dust.


    If the empire truly wished to crush them, they wouldn''t stand a chance.


    Their continued existence hinged solely on Cloudview County''s role as a bulwark against the Druids.


    But now...


    "My love," Luna said, a gentle smile gracing her lips, "don''t hesitate any longer. Our children need resources, and we won''t stand idly by while others bully us."


    Seeing the expectant gazes of his descendants upon him, Nathan''s frustration boiled over.


    "Do you truly believe I''ve grown senile?" he boomed.


    "Huh?"


    The room fell silent, everyone staring at him in surprise.


    "George and Justin," Nathan continued, his voice laced with a hint of mischief, "have already infiltrated the Sunshine Clan''s territory."


    The Blackwood descendants gasped.


    No wonder they hadn''t seen their relatives lately.


    They had already embarked on their mission!


    Nathan let out a hearty laugh.


    "We''ve already drained Cloudview County dry of its resources. The path of cultivation is long and arduous, spanning centuries. I''ve learned that the Way is ruthless, and the pursuit of power is a constant struggle. We, the Blackwoods, will not be bound by the whims of the Emerald Empire!"


    His words were met with cheers of approval.


    They had long yearned to challenge the Sunshine Clan, both to avenge Lucas and to secure the resources they desperately needed.


    The Sunshine Clan''s territory, the wealthiest in the south, was ripe for the taking.


    Led by Nathan, the Blackwood clan made their way to the ancestral shrine.


    As they departed, Lucas''s eyes fluttered open.


    He glanced down at the scar marring his chest, a flicker of shame crossing his features.


    "Over two hundred years old, and I was laid low by a single sword strike for two whole years. How embarrassing."


    He attempted to sit up, but his gaze fell upon Diana, who lay beside him, still unconscious.


    Her beauty, even in sleep, was captivating.


    Lucas frowned, thinking his little sister was being inconsiderate.


    Why put him in the same bed as Diana?


    The least she could have done was cover her up a bit.


    He grabbed a nearby animal hide and gently draped it over Diana''s chest.


    "What are you looking at?" a voice said, sharp as a whip.


    Lucas froze, his blood turning to ice as Diana''s crescent moon eyes snapped open.


    The air in the room crackled with killing intent.


    A wave of awkwardness, a feeling he hadn''t experienced in over a century, washed over him.


    He thought quickly.


    "Pfft!"


    Lucas deliberately coughed up a mouthful of blood, then closed his eyes, feigning unconsciousness.


    Everything would be alright when he woke up.


    Hopefully.


    "..."


    Diana glanced down at the animal hide covering her, then back at Lucas.


    He was a handsome one, she had to admit.


    She decided to let it slide.


    S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 305 - 305: Since when did our family become so poor? Part3

    With a sigh, she closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep.


    Meanwhile, the Blackwood clan had arrived at the Forebearer''s shrine.


    They knelt before Ethan''s Psychic Position, their heads bowed in reverence. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Forebearer," Nathan intoned, his voice filled with respect and determination, "today, our family marches forth from Azure Cloud. We beseech your protection!"


    [Granted]


    Ethan responded through his Forebearer Psychic Position.


    He had witnessed the Emerald Empire''s increasingly oppressive behavior towards Cloudview County over the years.


    And he knew more than they realized.


    Olivia, from her distant outpost in the Fallen Stars Clan''s territory, had kept him informed.


    Not only had the Emerald Empire failed to provide support, but those loyal to National Advisor Lance had been secretly communicating with the Druids, urging them to conquer Cloudview County.


    They claimed the empire had no intention of defending the region.


    The Emerald Empire had caught wind of the Blackwoods'' growing power.


    The restrictions imposed on Cloudview County by the Sunshine Clan, particularly the ban on resource trading, were a deliberate attempt to stifle their growth.


    If not for Cloudview County''s ongoing war with the Druids, a conflict that painted them as heroes defending the realm, and the rumored protection of the Grand Tutor''s faction in the north, who opposed Lance''s schemes, the Blackwoods might already be fleeing for their lives.


    "We have to strike back!"


    With Ethan''s blessing secured, the Blackwood clan, each clutching their Forebearer Psychic Position, began their preparations.


    The elders, having weathered countless storms throughout their long lives, remained calm and collected.


    Only the younger generation, the descendants of Jeffrey''s line, buzzed with excitement, eager to prove themselves alongside their legendary elders.


    ...


    [Special Event - Unleashing the Beast]


    [Driven by dwindling resources and fueled by the injustice of Lucas''s injury, your clan can no longer tolerate the oppression of the Emerald Empire and the Sunshine Clan. Led by Nathan, they have resolved to break free from the empire''s shackles and strike back, beginning with the Sunshine Clan!]


    As the special event unfolded, Ethan''s consciousness merged with his descendants, granting him a firsthand view of their actions.


    They were not acting recklessly.


    For decades, Dawn, a clandestine organization operating under the Blackwoods'' banner, had been planting spies throughout the Emerald Empire.


    Over the past ten years, Joseph had focused his efforts on expanding the Heavenly Justice Hall''s Covert Branch''s reach within the Sunshine Clan''s territory, gathering intelligence and establishing a network of informants.


    Now, Joseph was the first to venture beyond Cloudview County''s borders, evading the watchful eyes of the Sunshine Clan''s psychics stationed at the border.


    "Brother, do you have to go yourself?" Katie asked, her voice laced with concern.


    She had matured into a capable young woman, her Sparkly Unicorn Bow, now radiating the aura of a mid-grade ability weapon, a testament to her growing strength.


    However, as she grew older, she found herself less inclined to spar with the younger generation in Cloudview County, her protective instincts towards her brother taking precedence.


    "Great-grandfather Daniel and Great-aunt Jessica are occupied with the Druids at the border," Joseph replied, his eyes still closed.


    "Our elders can be a tad impulsive. It''s best if I oversee things personally."


    "How long will you be gone?" Katie asked, her gaze lingering on her brother''s face.


    She had achieved a considerable level of mastery in her cultivation, having bested every opponent her age in Cloudview County during her youth.


    She had planned to challenge the older generation, hoping to earn her brother''s praise and cement her legend within the Blackwood clan.


    She had even come up with a nickname for herself: "Azure Cloud''s Blooming Flower."


    But before she could realize her ambitions, her brother was leaving.


    "Remember the old Wind Duke''s Mansion?" Joseph asked, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.


    "How could I forget?" Katie shuddered.


    "That wretched excuse for a grandfather."


    "He was a visionary, in his own right," Joseph mused.


    "I have to admire his ambition. He spent centuries plotting to seize control of Cloudview County. He may have failed, but I intend to learn from his mistakes. I''ll succeed where he failed and achieve even greater things."


    "..." Katie glared at her brother playfully.


    "Don''t even think about marrying me off to some stranger to forge an alliance, or Father will have your head!"


    "It depends on the price," Joseph teased.


    "I swear, I''ll push you into a ditch!"


    "..."


    A fortnight later, Joseph, clad in the simple robes of a scholar, opened his eyes, their usual playfulness replaced by a steely glint.


    "Katie," he said, his voice low and serious, "what I''m about to do... it might be considered cruel. Far crueler than anything you''ve witnessed today. If you can''t stomach it, then turn back now and return to Cloudview County."


    Katie glanced behind her.


    They stood before a modest estate in a small county town within the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    The nameplate above the gate bore the inscription: "Blackwood."


    Several figures, assassins from the Heavenly Justice Hall, melted into the shadows, disappearing over the estate''s walls.


    "I''m not afraid, brother," Katie said, her voice firm.


    "You''ve always protected me. Now it''s my turn to protect you."


    She grinned, her eyes shining with unwavering loyalty.


    Everyone in the family claimed her brother was wicked.


    His reputation as the master of the Heavenly Justice Hall''s Covert Branch had spread throughout Cloudview County, striking fear into the hearts of even the naughtiest children.


    But Katie knew better.


    No matter what anyone said, no matter how ruthless his actions might seem, her brother always had their best interests at heart.


    After all, there was no one else in the world who would protect her as fiercely and unconditionally as her brother.


    "Alright then," Joseph said, gesturing for Katie to crouch beside his wheelchair.


    Autumn was in full swing.


    As Joseph gently ruffled Katie''s hair, she beamed up at him with a carefree grin.


    Then, together, they ventured deeper into the heart of the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, believes that acting openly as the Blackwoods of Azure Cloud would only provoke the ire of the imperial court. Inspired by Michael''s example, he has chosen to conceal his true identity and instead manipulate events from the shadows, using AI Bionic Robots as his agents to gradually seize control of the Sunshine Clan.]


    [He has eliminated the Silver Ridge County branch of the Sunshine Clan''s Blackwood family, a lineage with a century-long history. Now, disguised as descendants of the Sunshine Blackwoods, he and Katie journey to the main branch of the Blackwood family, a lineage with a history spanning millennia, to claim their supposed birthright.]


    [Acquired Trait: Mastermind]


    "What?"


    Back in Glory City, Ethan stared at the notification in disbelief.


    "A Michael 2.0?" he finally breathed, shaking his head in astonishment.

 Chapter 306 - 306: This is going to be interesting

    "Alright then," Joseph said, gesturing for Katie to crouch beside his wheelchair.


    Autumn was in full swing.


    As Joseph gently ruffled Katie''s hair, she beamed up at him with a carefree grin.


    Then, together, they ventured deeper into the heart of the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, believes that acting openly as the Blackwoods of Azure Cloud would only provoke the ire of the imperial court. Inspired by Michael''s example, he has chosen to conceal his true identity and instead manipulate events from the shadows, using AI Bionic Robots as his agents to gradually seize control of the Sunshine Clan.]


    [He has eliminated the Silver Ridge County branch of the Sunshine Clan''s Blackwood family, a lineage with a century-long history. Now, disguised as descendants of the Sunshine Blackwoods, he and Katie journey to the main branch of the Blackwood family, a lineage with a history spanning millennia, to claim their supposed birthright.]


    [Acquired Trait: Mastermind]


    "What?"


    Back in Glory City, Ethan stared at the notification in disbelief.


    "A Michael 2.0?" he finally breathed, shaking his head in astonishment.


    "To think, this was the same boy who was once swindled out of all his resources by Edward and the others. I thought he''d turn out like Julian. The paths people take in life are truly fascinating."


    Joseph and Katie had successfully infiltrated the Sunshine Blackwoods.


    The boy had even gone to the trouble of forging bloodline records and identity documents.


    He had even planted witnesses near the Silver Ridge County estate to vouch for their legitimacy as Sunshine Blackwoods.


    Ethan marveled at Joseph''s meticulous planning and cunning.


    He was indeed a worthy descendant, carrying a spark of Michael''s strategic genius within him. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As time went on, Ethan followed the siblings'' progress through the Sunshine Clan''s territory.


    The Sunshine Blackwoods were based in the central province''s capital city.


    Compared to the bustling heart of the Sunshine Clan, Cloudview County, despite its reputation as a haven for cultivators, seemed like a backwater province.


    The Emerald Empire was divided into eighteen provinces, each further subdivided into seven to twelve counties.


    The Sunshine Province originally encompassed eight counties, but with Azure Cloud, Starlight County, and Maple Grove County now under Druid control, only five remained.


    However, this loss had done little to diminish the Sunshine Clan''s prosperity.


    The remaining five counties, along with the surrounding areas of Sunshine Province, were known as the "Dragon''s Favored Lands."


    Since ancient times, the Sunshine Clan''s territory had been blessed with an abundance of hidden realms and ancient ruins.


    They even had strict laws in place to prevent the reckless exploitation of energy veins and the overharvesting of spirit mountains, prioritizing sustainable development above all else.


    They also placed great emphasis on righteousness and decorum.


    Even before engaging in a duel, cultivators were expected to debate the merits of their respective positions.


    As a result, the Sunshine Clan boasted a high concentration of scholarly and artistic cultivators.


    Academies and private schools were commonplace, their halls echoing with the sounds of diligent study and the gentle melodies of stringed instruments.


    The border counties were a different story.


    As far as Ethan could recall, in Cloudview County, might made right.


    Resources were there for the taking, and strength was the only law that mattered.


    As for scholarly pursuits...


    The most "cultured" place in Cloudview County was now Glory City, thanks to the efforts of Raymond, a fifth-generation descendant of Jeffrey''s line.


    Inspired by Olivia, Raymond had dedicated himself to the scholarly path, but his chosen field of study was combat spells.


    His introductory lesson involved traveling to the border and personally slaying a Druid under the guidance of his instructors.


    Even their musicians were a different breed.


    One of them was currently plotting to desecrate the ancestral tombs of the Crimson Gate Syndicate, seeking revenge for Lucas''s injury.


    In retrospect, Cloudview County''s poverty and barbarity were hardly surprising.


    Perhaps Michael''s radical approach had been the right one after all.


    Sadly, even after tens of thousands of years, the mindset of Cloudview County''s cultivators remained stuck in the past.


    "When will Cloudview County ever achieve such splendor?" Joseph sighed, gazing out at the bustling streets of the Sunshine Clan''s capital from his vantage point atop the Blackwood estate.


    Everywhere he looked, he saw opportunity, peace, and prosperity.


    The citizens were content, their lives free from the constant threat of war and deprivation.


    It was a stark contrast to the harsh realities of his homeland.


    Katie, however, remained unimpressed.


    "I don''t know about splendor, brother," she said, her nose wrinkled in distaste.


    "They all seem so... soft. We''ve been here for two months, and I haven''t seen a single ounce of fighting spirit in any of them."


    "The Sunshine Blackwoods are no different," she continued.


    "Their younger generation is too busy squabbling amongst themselves for the position of clan head. They''d be better off settling their differences with swords and spells. I bet if the Druids ever reached this place, they''d all turn tail and flee."


    "You can''t have it both ways," Joseph said, chuckling.


    "Celestial should be arriving from Cloudview County any day now. It''s time to set our plan in motion."


    The Sunshine Blackwoods weren''t a particularly large clan, their lineage stretching back a mere four centuries.


    Their branches had spread throughout the land, their influence diluted with each passing generation.


    Their current patriarch was only at the early stages of the Competent Force level, and their elders, numbering no more than twenty, were constantly vying for power.


    Every century, the younger generation engaged in a bloody struggle for control of the clan, their infighting weakening them from within.


    It wasn''t long before Joseph and Katie encountered the Celestial Star Swordmaster, disguised as a humble coachman, within the Blackwood estate.


    "Greetings, Celestial," Joseph said, bowing respectfully.


    Only a handful of Blackwoods had accompanied Joseph on this mission: George, Justin, Donna, and forty of Jeffrey''s descendants.


    The rest were either too well-known or too valuable to risk exposing.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s presence was a testament to his loyalty to Lucas.


    He had been wracked with guilt ever since witnessing his "sworn brother''s" humiliating defeat at the hands of the Crimson Gate Syndicate patriarch.


    He had spent the past three years ranting about the insult to his honor, vowing to avenge Lucas''s injury.


    "Your father instructed me to follow your every command," the Celestial Star Swordmaster said, grinning at Joseph.


    His gaze drifted towards the bustling street beyond the estate''s gates, a wistful expression crossing his features.


    "This is a fine place, but it lacks a certain... spark without Olivia."


    "Without her gentle smile, my heart knows no peace," he sighed dramatically.


    "..."


    Joseph and Katie exchanged exasperated glances.


    The old swordsman had only met Olivia''s great-grandmother twice, and that was over thirty years ago.


    And now he fancied himself a lovesick poet, pining for a woman he barely knew.


    "This is going to be interesting," Joseph muttered under his breath.


    Ignoring the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s lovelorn ramblings, Joseph and Katie retreated to their chambers.


    They retrieved their Forebearer Psychic Positions and contacted Ethan.


    [What are your plans now?]


    Ethan inquired, his voice tinged with curiosity.


    Joseph had informed him of his plan to install a puppet leader within the Sunshine Blackwoods.


    Three months had passed since the Blackwoods'' arrival, and their agents were now scattered throughout the Sunshine Clan''s territory, blending seamlessly into their surroundings.


    The more Ethan learned about the Sunshine Clan, the more he realized the sheer scale of their power and the complexity of their internal politics.


    Could the Blackwoods truly hope to seize control of such a formidable force?


    It seemed like an impossible task.


    Unless they rallied the entire might of Cloudview County, enlisted the aid of the six Druid tribes from the Endless Forest, and persuaded Lester and Shane to join their cause, their chances of success were slim to none.


    Joseph knelt on one knee, his expression earnest.


    "Forebearer," he said, his voice filled with respect, "the Sunshine Clan is vast and powerful. Even within this single city, there are countless families with Competent Force level cultivators. Unlike Cloudview County, they are ruled by a governor who answers only to the emperor himself."

 Chapter 307 - 307: The Millennium Bloodline Project

    "I initially intended to control their leaders and, through them, the entire province," Joseph explained, his voice laced with frustration.


    "But that''s simply not feasible. The Sunshine Province has adhered to the emperor''s decrees for centuries. No single faction or family has ever held absolute sway over the region. Even within its five counties, power is fragmented among countless noble families and competing sects. It''s a constant game of shifting alliances and power struggles."


    Ethan frowned as he listened to Joseph''s report.


    Cloudview County had been under the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s influence for over a hundred thousand years.


    Their cultivation techniques and traditions permeated every aspect of life in the region.


    George''s discovery of the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s ancestral founder had allowed them to unite the county under a single banner.


    Coupled with Michael''s machinations and Stephen''s strategic maneuvering, they had finally achieved a semblance of unity.


    But the Sunshine Province was a different beast altogether.


    With thousands of factions vying for power, controlling them all was an impossible dream.


    Even if they managed to seize control temporarily, it wouldn''t last.


    Human nature was fickle.


    It wouldn''t be long before their newfound allies turned against them, betraying the Blackwoods for their own gain.


    "Forebearer," Joseph said, his eyes shining with a newfound determination, "I request Great-grandfather Marcus''s assistance. And I believe the descendants of Grandfather Jeffrey can play a crucial role in our endeavors."


    Ethan studied Joseph''s face, his gaze lingering on the boy''s bright, intelligent eyes.


    Suddenly, it all clicked into place.


    The Sunshine Province lacked a unifying force like the Azure Cloud Pavilion, a lineage that had dominated Cloudview County for over 130,000 years.


    So... why not create one?


    They might not recognize the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s legacy, but what if Jeffrey''s descendants infiltrated the Sunshine Province''s various sects and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming elders and even sect leaders?


    In a few centuries, or even a millennium, who would question their claims of inheriting the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s teachings?


    A spark of madness flickered in Joseph''s eyes.


    "If we succeed," he whispered, his voice trembling with excitement, "we can absorb the entire Sunshine Province without firing a single shot!"


    [Special Event - The Millennium Bloodline Project]


    [Your descendant, Joseph, has devised a plan to gradually infiltrate the Sunshine Province''s sects and clans with Blackwood descendants, ultimately transforming the entire region into a Blackwood stronghold!]


    "A thousand-year plan..." Ethan murmured, awestruck by the sheer audacity of Joseph''s vision.


    Michael had spent centuries laying the groundwork for his ambitions.


    Joseph was even more patient, willing to play the long game, his sights set on a goal that spanned generations.


    [Proceed with your plan.]


    Ethan granted his approval, sending a wave of elation through Joseph.


    Meanwhile...


    "Joseph''s plan?"


    In Glory City, Marcus, his appearance now that of a wise and seasoned cultivator, received the Forebearer''s command.


    Without hesitation, he gathered the remaining five thousand disciples of the Sky Sect and set off for the Sunshine Province.


    Five thousand psychics soared through the night sky, their swords leaving trails of shimmering light in their wake.


    Marcus, clutching his Sky Hall in one hand and his horsetail whisk in the other, led the charge, his black robes billowing in the wind.


    "Today, the Sky Sect marches forth from Azure Cloud," he declared, his voice booming across the heavens.


    "The Sunshine Province''s fragmented lineages shall be unified under a single banner!"


    "Who shall be crowned the King of Leaders?"


    "I shall be the King of Leaders!"


    Tonight, Marcus''s eyes burned with the same intensity as the full moon above, their ambition illuminating the path ahead.


    He envisioned a future where his gaze, like the rising sun, would command respect and inspire awe.


    And when that day came, woe betide anyone who dared to harm his father or threaten the Blackwood clan!


    As if sensing his resolve, the Sky Hall in his hand pulsed with a surge of power.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, has been plagued by guilt and self-doubt ever since his master''s disappearance. He blames himself for Wesley Daoist''s betrayal, for his inability to protect his family during the Druid invasion, and for his struggles to break through to the Competent Force stage despite mastering every cultivation technique Cloudview County has to offer.]


    [Now, with his father, Lucas, gravely wounded, his anger and desire for power have reached a boiling point. He understands that only overwhelming strength can overcome his obstacles and avenge his father. He has carried the Sky Hall for years, but its spirit has been angered by his repeated attempts to break it apart and distribute its fragments to his younger relatives.


    It has refused to acknowledge him as its true master. But today, it has finally sensed his unwavering determination and has helped him overcome his inner demons!]


    [Acquired Trait: Heavenly Detachment]


    [The Sky Hall has acknowledged you as its master, revealing its true potential. It can absorb and store countless natural treasures, shielding your mind from harm. Your descendant, Marcus, is now 99% less likely to be affected by inner demons. With the Sky Hall''s aid, his comprehension of the laws of the universe through natural treasures has increased by 30%.]


    [Your descendant, Marcus, is approaching his seventh-nine thunder tribulation. He has suppressed his cultivation, refusing to ascend until he can face the legendary nine-nine thunder tribulation!]


    "Good boy," Ethan whispered, a proud smile spreading across his face. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Of all his third-generation descendants, Marcus had always been the one he worried about the most.


    The boy was kind, intelligent, and fiercely loyal, but he was also prone to overthinking and self-blame.


    When Lucas and Karen separated, Marcus had felt like a traitor, torn between his parents.


    During his time at the Sky Sect, he had constantly strived to prove his worth to his family, fearing he wasn''t doing enough.


    After Boar Monarch Pete''s death, Marcus had spiraled into a deep depression, drowning his sorrows in alcohol and blaming himself for the tragedy.


    When the Druids invaded, and Warren Daoist disappeared after traveling to the imperial capital to expose Michael, Marcus had convinced himself that he was somehow responsible for his master''s fate.


    Layer upon layer of self-doubt had buried Marcus''s true potential.


    But now, he had finally broken free from his inner demons.


    "This is how a Blackwood should be," Ethan thought, his heart swelling with pride.


    "Even if Lucas had to suffer a few more injuries, it was worth it to see Marcus finally embrace his true strength."


    Back in the Iron Forest Horse infirmary, Lucas woke with a start.


    "Achoo!"


    Diana, her brows furrowed in annoyance, kicked him off the Heavenly Rejuvenation Jade Bed with a swift flick of her leg.


    "..."


    Lucas landed on the floor with a thud, blinking in confusion.


    He had no idea why he had sneezed, considering his cultivation level, but he wasn''t about to argue with Diana.


    He simply rolled over and went back to sleep.


    Amelia, hearing the commotion, rushed into the room and scooped Lucas back onto the bed, scolding her master.


    "Master, why did you kick my brother off the bed again? It''s big enough for both of them. They''re both old and injured, practically half-dead. Why are you still clinging to these outdated notions of propriety?"


    Diana: "..."


    Lucas: "..."

 Chapter 308 - 308: Its a difficult choice

    While Marcus and the Sky Sect disciples made their move openly, a different kind of mobilization was taking place back in Cloudview County.


    Before the Primordial Bloodwood stood a throng of Blackwood descendants, all of them offspring of Jeffrey''s line.


    These were the same youngsters who had once gathered outside Glory City, striking heroic poses and vowing to emulate their legendary elders.


    Sadly, none of them had achieved the same level of renown as their predecessors.


    Some had made names for themselves within Cloudview County, but their accomplishments were confined to the younger generation.


    Besides, Cloudview County was now a tightly-knit community.


    Even their sparring matches were considered friendly competitions.


    Anyone who dared to bully a Blackwood descendant would face the wrath of the Heavenly Justice Hall and the Oracle Chamber.


    The fifth and sixth-generation descendants were essentially living in a sheltered bubble.


    They all yearned to surpass their elders, but the reality was harsh.


    They could mimic their ancestors'' actions, but they couldn''t escape their shadows.


    The Blackwoods didn''t glorify suffering, but they understood that adversity often forged the strongest individuals.


    Some thrived under pressure, while others crumbled and faded into obscurity.


    Of course, there were exceptions.


    Katie was one such anomaly, but no other Blackwood descendant could compare to her unique circumstances.


    The little princess had been born into privilege, with a doting brother, Joseph, a father who secretly ruled Cloudview County, and an uncle who held a similar position.


    No one would shower affection on a hundred-plus descendants without expecting something in return.


    The Blackwood treasure vault was overflowing with riches, but to claim their share, the younger generation had to prove their worth.


    Today, they stood before the ancient tree, their eyes burning with anticipation.


    Their elders were about to assign them their missions.


    Tales of their ancestors'' exploits were legendary throughout Cloudview County, but when people spoke of Jeffrey''s line, they often dismissed them as a fading branch.


    They were overshadowed by the family''s illustrious past, but they refused to be defined by it.


    They weren''t a fading lineage.


    They simply needed an opportunity to prove that the blood coursing through their veins burned just as brightly as their ancestors''.


    They, too, could carry the Forebearer''s Psychic Position and make their mark on the world, spreading the Blackwood clan''s glory far and wide!


    "Craig," the Primordial Bloodwood''s voice echoed, a deep rumble that shook the very air around them, "Emerging Ability level two, with a triple psychic constitution. You are bold, impulsive, but possess a generous heart. Your path does not lie in the Sunshine Province."


    "You will serve in the Heavenly Justice Hall in Azure Cloud''s Jubilee County. You will become a respected leader, forge lasting friendships, and find a virtuous wife." sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes, Divine Tree!" Craig replied, bowing deeply.


    "Rick," the ancient tree continued, its voice softening slightly, "peak Foundational Energy level, with a quadruple psychic constitution. You are blessed with a handsome visage. I have seen glimpses of your past, your unwavering determination. I know you aspire to become a warrior in the Azure Cloud army, but perhaps your destiny lies in the Sunshine Province."


    "Divine Tree," Rick asked, his eyes wide with curiosity, "with your vast knowledge, can you tell me if the Sunshine Province has an army?"


    "Indeed, they do," the Primordial Bloodwood replied, its voice a rustling whisper carried on the wind.


    "Wayne," the ancient tree intoned, turning its attention to a bright-eyed youth, "a promising young man with a dual psychic constitution. Your future lies in the Sunshine Province''s Golden Valley County. You will soar like an eagle, starting your journey by weaving straw sandals in Golden Valley''s county town."


    "No wonder Grandfather always said I had a knack for farming," Wayne chuckled.


    "..."


    One by one, the Blackwood descendants stepped forward, seeking guidance from the Primordial Bloodwood.


    Nathan and Luna watched with furrowed brows.


    They weren''t entirely comfortable with their descendants glimpsing into their potential futures.


    It brought back painful memories of their own children''s quests for signs and omens, their actions guided by the Primordial Bloodwood''s pronouncements.


    Back then, their fourth-generation descendants had faced countless trials and tribulations, some even losing their lives in the process.


    Edward and Nicholas had been profoundly affected by those experiences.


    Nathan and Luna wanted their descendants to live safe and fulfilling lives within the protective embrace of Glory City and Cloudview County.


    They might not know all of them personally, but every grandparent wished for their descendants'' happiness.


    But life was rarely that simple.


    Most of their descendants yearned for something more than a peaceful existence in Cloudview County.


    Given the slightest opportunity, their ambition would blossom.


    And who were they to stand in their way?


    After all, if they remained confined to Cloudview County, they might never reach their full potential, their cultivation stagnating before they even reached the Developing Skill level.


    "A life of peace and comfort, or a life of struggle and glory... it''s a difficult choice," Nathan sighed, his shoulders slumping with the weight of his responsibilities.


    "I''m getting old. When I was young, I never overthought things. I would have fought tooth and nail for a single energy stone. Back then, I wanted all my children to be like me, willing to sacrifice everything for the clan. Now, all I want is for my descendants to be happy."


    "My love," Luna said, gently squeezing Nathan''s arm, "why torment ourselves with such dilemmas? Every child has their own path to forge. It''s their journey, not ours."


    "After all," she continued, "they carry the Blackwood blood. It''s in their nature to seek adventure and make their mark on the world. As elders, the worst thing we can do is interfere. If they make mistakes, we''ll guide them back on track. But if they have dreams and aspirations, we should support them with all our might."


    "You''re right," Nathan said, a wry smile tugging at his lips.


    In the distance, Jeffrey stood with his wives, a colorful gaggle of women who usually filled Glory City with their boisterous laughter.


    Now, they watched their children receive their assignments with a mixture of pride and apprehension.


    Jeffrey puffed out his chest, his gaze sweeping over his descendants.


    He had heard whispers that his children were weak and unworthy of the Blackwood name.


    Nonsense!


    Every single one of his offspring was far more capable than he had ever been.


    He knew his only real talent was his handsome face, but... he had raised a brood of exceptional children!


    "My children," he called out, his voice booming across the clearing, "remember to stay safe out there! Protect yourselves! And when you achieve greatness, don''t forget to send back energy stones and natural treasures to support your old man!"

 Chapter 309 - 309: Vitality and Fertility Enhancement Technique

    The other fourth-generation descendants stared at Jeffrey, speechless.


    They had produced a few offspring themselves, but compared to Jeffrey? They couldn''t compete with his sheer number of wives.


    As the most "useless" member of the fourth generation in terms of cultivation, he was ironically the most successful in another aspect...


    Even Jeffrey''s own children rolled their eyes at their father''s antics.


    But Ethan held a certain admiration for the man.


    [Traits: Charismatic, Amorous, Prolific... Unsung Cultivator]


    [Unsung Cultivator: He diligently cultivates in obscurity, gaining a 10% increase in cultivation speed when unnoticed.]


    Jeffrey didn''t crave power or recognition.


    He simply focused on producing heirs and quietly honing his cultivation.


    He had already reached the early stages of Developing Skill, his foundation solid and unwavering.


    Over a century of cultivation, he had even created a unique psychic technique, the "Vitality and Fertility Enhancement Technique," perfectly suited for the Blackwood bloodline, especially when combined with Beast Blood Fruit.


    He might be the weakest of the fourth generation in terms of raw power, but his numerous children brought him a steady stream of resources from the family.


    He distributed every reward and allowance he received among his wives and children, never keeping a single scrap for himself.


    He relied solely on absorbing natural energy for his own cultivation.


    He truly lived up to his name, Jeffrey, a tireless worker who toiled without seeking recognition or reward.


    Sometimes, Ethan wondered if Jeffrey had kept all those resources for himself, he might have already reached the Competent Force stage.


    With their assignments received, the Blackwood descendants, under the watchful eyes of their elders, departed for the border between Cloudview County and the Sunshine Province.


    This was a clandestine operation.


    Most of these youngsters were unknown outside of Cloudview County.


    They would assume new identities within the Sunshine Province, their true origins a closely guarded secret.


    They would operate under Joseph''s guidance, infiltrating the Sunshine Province''s powerful factions.


    Even if they couldn''t rise to positions of authority within the major sects, they could still serve as valuable informants, playing a crucial role in the Blackwoods'' long-term plans.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, they set off in different directions, guided by assassins from the Heavenly Justice Hall.


    They cast one last glance back at Cloudview County, a hint of longing in their eyes.


    This was their home, the place where they had grown up, surrounded by everything familiar and dear.


    But then they turned their faces towards the Sunshine Province, their expressions hardening with resolve.


    They were leaving behind the safety and comfort of Cloudview County, venturing into uncharted territory.


    They would no longer have the protection of their family, and no one would sing their praises.


    Their journey was akin to blazing a trail through a dense wilderness, fraught with unknown dangers.


    But...


    People in Cloudview County whispered that they were a generation riding on the coattails of giants, that they were nothing without the Blackwoods'' legacy.


    They would prove them wrong!


    They were stepping out of the shadows, forging their own paths.


    They would clear the way for the giants, carrying them forward on their shoulders!


    When the Sunshine Province fell into their hands, they would return triumphant, silencing all doubters!


    ...


    "This is a long-term endeavor," Nathan sighed, his voice heavy with emotion. "Who knows when we''ll see them again?"


    The ancient tree, now in human form, stood beside Nathan, watching the departing figures. "Our children are always like this," he chuckled. "They live in your shadows, constantly striving to break free."


    "They are like serpents leaving the mountain, destined to return as dragons."


    Nathan frowned. "You''ve seen the future?"


    The ancient tree shook his head.


    "Isn''t that the Blackwood way?" he said, his voice carried on the wind.


    "I suppose you''re right," Nathan said, another sigh escaping his lips. "I''m truly getting old."


    He led the remaining Blackwood descendants back to the main hall.


    A short while later, Duke Walker Jones of Starlight County arrived.


    After a lengthy discussion with Nathan, the duke''s face lit up with joy. "Mr. Nathan," he exclaimed, "are you saying you''ll help us reclaim Starlight County?"


    The six major powers of Starlight County had sought refuge in Azure Cloud, establishing a presence on the border between the two counties to avoid conflict with Cloudview County.


    They had even joined forces with Cloudview County to fight the Druids, hoping to persuade them to help drive the Druids out of Starlight County.


    But Daniel, the commander of Cloudview County''s forces, was a shrewd negotiator.


    He had presented them with a long list of demands, practically demanding the surrender of Starlight County to the Blackwoods.


    Now, Nathan had finally relented. Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yes," Nathan said, his voice firm. "I will order Daniel to liberate Starlight County. But I have two conditions. Will you agree to them?"


    He saw the flicker of hesitation in Jones''s eyes and continued, "Firstly, once the Druids are purged from Starlight County, it will be renamed Azure Cloud. The two counties will be unified, with no distinction between us."


    "Secondly, I expect the major powers of Starlight County to remember that it was the Blackwoods who reclaimed your homeland. Our psychics will shed their blood and sacrifice their lives for Starlight County. When the Blackwoods call upon you for aid, I expect you to answer without hesitation."


    Jones pondered Nathan''s words for a long moment before finally nodding his agreement.


    The other factions had no objections.


    They yearned to return to their ancestral lands, regardless of the name.


    Besides, the two counties had been allies for years, their bonds forged in blood and shared hardship.


    Their elders were practically family.


    As for aiding the Blackwoods when called upon? Donna was Chuck''s, the leader of the Arcane Society, personal disciple.


    If they refused, Chuck would personally deliver their punishment.


    With Jones''s departure, Daniel and Jessica emerged from the shadows, their faces etched with smiles.


    "Uncle," Daniel said, admiration lacing his voice, "your methods are truly impressive. After presenting them with such outrageous demands, Grandfather swoops in with two seemingly reasonable conditions, and that old fox Jones falls for it hook, line, and sinker."


    "He had no choice," Nathan said, stepping out of the house and gazing towards the Sunshine Province, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "If word of our previous demands had spread, the six major powers of Starlight County would have turned against us. Then we would have been truly at odds."


    His children were embarking on a thousand-year plan to conquer the Sunshine Province.


    As their elder, it was his duty to lay the foundation for their future empire.


    He would gift them a Cloudview County that spanned two provinces!

 Chapter 310 - 310: The boy was his childhood nightmare

    Nearly a hundred Blackwood descendants had infiltrated the Sunshine Province.


    It was a vast territory, and they were but grains of sand scattered across its expanse.


    However, Joseph, ever cautious, utilized the Heavenly Justice Hall''s network to provide them with impeccable new identities. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Some were portrayed as simple villagers who stumbled upon a chance encounter with cultivation, embarking on the path of self-improvement.


    Others were presented as orphaned survivors of fallen cultivator families, driven by a thirst for vengeance and a desire to restore their lost legacies.


    Still others were cast as reformed bandits, their innate talents leading them to seek redemption and a new life.


    Joseph''s plan required them to remain hidden for at least three to five years, ensuring their true identities remained undiscovered.


    During this period, they would start from scratch, cultivating mundane or Yellow-grade techniques, blending seamlessly into their new surroundings.


    "Forebearer," Joseph explained when Ethan inquired about his strategy, "these few years will not only serve to conceal their identities but also to temper their spirits. Embracing a life of anonymity will foster humility and patience. By starting from the bottom and working their way up, they will develop a stronger foundation, both in their cultivation and in their character."


    Ethan was reassured by Joseph''s thoughtful approach and entrusted him with overseeing the mission.


    A year passed, and the youngsters scattered across the Sunshine Province began to develop unique and unexpected traits.


    [Your descendant, Corey, has assumed the identity of a butcher in a small county town within the Sunshine Province. Acquired Trait: Butcher]


    [Temperament increased by 20%, Killing Intent increased by 5%, Intimidation effect against ghostly beings increased by 30%.]


    ...


    [Your descendant, Ted, posing as a scholar from a humble background, has immersed himself in the literary scene of Blue Haven County. He has gained renown for his exquisite poetry, earning a living by composing verses for the courtesans of pleasure houses. Acquired Trait: Courtesan''s Muse]


    [Cultivating his literary skills within a pleasure house, his comprehension has increased by 5%. His favorability among courtesans has increased by 50%.]


    ...


    [Your descendant, Ross, was exposed as a cultivator while training at a martial arts academy in Cedar Hill County. Accused of harboring ulterior motives, he was pursued relentlessly. During his escape, he suffered grievous injuries, losing both his cultivation and his eyesight. He refused your and the family''s aid, choosing instead to join the Heavenly Blade Sect as a broken man.


    Acquired Trait: Blind Bladesman]


    [Perception increased by 100%, Danger Sense increased by 50%.]


    ...


    Observing his descendants'' progress, Ethan realized that their true potential had been masked by the Blackwoods'' overwhelming presence.


    Now, freed from their elders'' shadows, they were blossoming in unexpected ways.


    It was a reminder that everyone possessed unique talents and abilities, waiting to be discovered.


    One location, however, stood out from the rest.


    Nestled deep within a mountain range, its psychic energy even richer than Glory City''s, was a formidable sect with eight floating islands suspended in the sky above its headquarters.


    [Crimson Gate Syndicate]


    This was the sect whose Basic Mastery psychic had crippled Lucas.


    Hidden within an inconspicuous cave near their ancestral tombs, two figures sat in deep meditation, their bodies covered in dust and cobwebs, even spiders crawling across their skin.


    [Your descendants, George and Justin, have been staking out the Crimson Gate Syndicate for nearly two years. However, the sect''s Basic Mastery patriarch''s nascent soul remains vigilant, making infiltration impossible. Undeterred, they have resolved to plunder the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s ancestral tombs and treasure vault, even if it takes them decades. Acquired Trait: Patience]


    [Patience increased by 5%.]


    "Brother, I wish William was here," Justin grumbled, swatting a spider that had been cultivating near them, its strength boosted by their residual psychic energy, reaching the Foundational Energy level. "He''s full of tricks. We wouldn''t be stuck here waiting like sitting ducks."


    Justin had always been terrified of William.


    The boy was his childhood nightmare.


    Countless fourth-generation descendants had been traumatized by William''s antics, sleeping with one eye open for weeks after witnessing his disturbing behavior.


    But now, Justin wished he had William''s cunning by his side.


    "Who knew the Sunshine Province would be so difficult to infiltrate?" George sighed, sharing his brother''s frustration.


    The Sunshine Province was far more formidable than they had anticipated, their cultivation system more comprehensive and their defenses more robust.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate''s formations, talismans, and other protective measures were like an impenetrable wall.


    They had attempted to raid the ancestral tombs of a Competent Force level family a few months back, but they were discovered after only two days, forcing them to flee for their lives.


    Justin had managed to sneak into their treasure vault during the chaos, but he could only grab a few items from the outer layers.


    He hadn''t even breached the inner formations before being detected.


    ...


    Reassured by his descendants'' steady progress under Joseph''s guidance, and confident that George and Justin wouldn''t do anything reckless, Ethan returned to his cultivation.


    Joseph might not be the most brilliant member of the family, but he was undoubtedly the most cautious and adept at operating in the shadows.


    Meanwhile, a storm was brewing in Cloudview County, a conflict that held Ethan''s undivided attention.


    [Special Event - Reclaiming Starlight County]


    Nathan and Jones''s alliance had finally been set in motion.


    Starlight County had been preparing for this moment for over a year, but it was hardly enough.


    After years of Druid occupation, Starlight County was a shadow of its former self.


    Nearly half of its territory had been transformed into dense forests, the remaining areas reduced to rubble and ruins.


    The Druids'' strength increased within their forests, as if they drew power from the Endless Forest itself.


    Their already impressive regenerative abilities were amplified, and their spells gained additional potency.


    According to Daniel, reclaiming Starlight County required meticulous planning and a swift, decisive strike.


    They would launch a surprise attack from the original border of Starlight County, carving a path of destruction hundreds of miles long and a thousand meters wide, severing the Druids'' connection to the Endless Forest.


    They would then set fire to the forests, denying the Druids their home-field advantage.


    With the four Druid tribes trapped within Starlight County, they would then engage in a long and arduous campaign to eradicate them completely.


    "Brother Daniel, your military genius is unmatched," Jones said, bowing deeply to Daniel in Cloudview County''s Border Town. "We entrust the fate of Starlight County to your capable hands."


    He had initially been apprehensive about merging Starlight County with Azure Cloud, fearing the loss of his family''s power and influence.


    But over the past two years, he had come to accept the inevitable.


    The Blackwoods'' rise was unstoppable.


    They were a family of dragons, and he was no match for them, especially not for someone like Daniel.


    He had relinquished his ambitions, content to let the Blackwoods take the reins.


    He would focus on what he did best: leading his people in battle and reclaiming their homeland.


    The Jones family would remain dukes, even if their power was diminished.

 Chapter 311 - 311: It seems we have some unexpected guests

    As Jon listened to Daniel''s battlefield arrangements, he felt reassured seeing that Daniel meant them no harm.


    An idea struck him, and he interjected, "Brother Daniel, would Blackwood be interested in strengthening its ties with my Walker family even further?"


    "Oh?" Daniel paused, glancing at the leaders of the various factions around them, their expressions intrigued.


    He looked at Jon with curiosity. "Brother Jon, are you proposing a union between our families?"


    To his surprise, it was Nate who reacted most strongly.


    He had been listening quietly until now, but he suddenly stood up, chest puffed out.


    The image of a certain woman filled his mind ¨C the one who had haunted his dreams for decades, the one who had defeated him with a pink bow and left him utterly humiliated. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Daniel considered for a moment before replying with a smile, "It''s certainly possible. However, after what happened with Michael, Blackwood forbids arranged marriages that sacrifice the happiness of our children. But if two hearts are drawn to each other, there''s no obstacle."


    Kenneth, standing nearby, could only think: Must you constantly bring up my dead father? Is it really necessary?


    A while later...


    Nate pleaded with a pitiful expression, "Grandfather, why not me? Why must you burden my children with this? You should go and beg them yourself!"


    Disgusted by his grandson''s spinelessness, Jon delivered a swift kick. "You useless fool! You couldn''t even work up the courage to approach Lady Katie, and you think you deserve to marry her? You''ve already taken three wives on a whim. Don''t even try to play the love-struck fool with me, you pathetic wretch!"


    "Ugh..." Nate groaned as he lay sprawled on the ground, gazing up at the sky. "I can''t help it, Grandfather. Ever since that defeat, I''ve searched all of Cloudview County, and I haven''t found a single person who can wield a pink bow like that. My other wives were mere desires, but Katie... she''s true love."


    "..."


    Seeing Nate lost in his delusional heartbreak, Jon ordered his men to toss him into the lake to cool off.


    Ethan could only shake his head in disbelief.


    Nate wasn''t a bad guy, but his lechery and spinelessness made him the worst possible candidate to court Katie.


    Unlike his own son, Jeffrey, who genuinely loved each and every one of his wives.


    As they continued their war preparations, Ethan suddenly frowned.


    "It seems we have some unexpected guests."


    ...


    Outside Glory City, an ability vessel approached.


    Most vessels in Cloudview County were simple and practical, designed to transport large numbers of Psychics and conserve their psychic powers.


    Even a lower-grade ability weapon vessel was considered quite valuable.


    This particular vessel, however, screamed extravagance.


    It radiated the powerful aura of a top-grade ability weapon.


    Its prow was adorned with a menacing Kirin head and intricate runes.


    A pair of wings extended from its sides, shimmering with faint traces of energy as it flew.


    At night, it would be a sight to behold.


    And a very obvious target for enemies.


    Nathan, perched atop Glory City''s wall, had already received Bill Daoist''s message.


    These visitors from Sunshine Mansion had properly announced their arrival before entering Cloudview County.


    As Nathan greeted them, he couldn''t help but form a rather uncharitable opinion.


    Despite his inward judgment, Nathan maintained a courteous facade. "Hahaha! I thought I heard larks singing this morning. To think it was the esteemed members of the Nangong family gracing us with their presence! Blackwood is truly honored."


    Despite Nathan''s warm welcome, the three figures who descended from the ability vessel wore expressions of haughty indifference.


    The distinguished elder at their head merely offered a slight nod, as if he were an ancient god gracing mortals with his presence.


    Though their arrogance was palpable, Nathan continued to play the gracious host, leading them inside.


    "Kylin Mountain Roberts of Sunshine Mansion."


    Ethan watched them go, a sardonic smile playing on his lips.


    The interface before him displayed snippets of Nathan''s memories, several of which involved the Kylin Mountain Roberts.


    [After your descendant Nathan''s decisive victory against the Druids, he received guests from Sunshine Mansion ¨C the Kylin Mountain Roberts. Believing Cloudview County''s fortunes had turned, the Roberts sought Blackwood''s support in petitioning the ancient god to rescind his decree and aid them against the Druids. Their price? The Primordial Blood Tree. Nathan politely declined.]


    [Years later, during Cloudview County''s counteroffensive, the Roberts returned. This time, they demanded Blackwood relinquish its secret art of corpse control... Nathan politely declined.]


    [Years later, after Starlight County''s return to Cloudview County, the Roberts returned once more. This time, they demanded the hand of Blackwood''s prodigy, Katie, in marriage to a Roberts scion... Nathan''s fury shook the very table.]


    It wasn''t just the Roberts.


    After Cloudview County''s victory, numerous powerful factions from Sunshine Mansion had come knocking, each hoping to claim a piece of the pie.


    They had found no such luck with Blackwood.


    Blackwood, after all, was known for their willingness to fight tooth and nail, and they had both Owen and Bill Daoist backing them.


    Martin''s family had fared slightly better.


    As a Duke''s lineage, they had at least avoided being bullied.


    Other factions, however, had not been so fortunate.


    The Azure Cloud Pavilion had suffered the most.


    Not only had their leader, Jason, been severely injured by a powerful faction, but their treasured Earth-grade cultivation technique, the Azure Cloud Scripture, and a top-grade ability weapon had been stolen.


    Had Jason not fought with his life on the line, they might have even lost their Heaven-grade technique, the Azure Cloud Undying Scripture, passed down from their founding ancestor.


    The Black Tortoise Sect hadn''t fared much better.


    Their entire sect relied on their sixth-grade energy formation, making them Cloudview County''s most formidable defenders.


    But they were also incredibly poor, having poured thousands of years of effort and resources into creating their Black Tortoise Formation Disk.


    And now, it was gone.


    The ancient god had decreed that any Competent Force entering Cloudview County must first announce their arrival.


    But... such pronouncements were meaningless without the strength to back them up.


    "Bastards!"


    Deep within the Iron Forest Horse, in a room devoid of the Psychically-attuned jade beds, lay the injured Jason.


    As if sensing the arrival of those from Sunshine Mansion, he shot up, a mouthful of blood spewing from his lips.

 Chapter 312 - 312: What... what are you saying?

    "Calm yourself; anger won''t help your injuries," Amelia urged, noticing the elderly man''s ragged breathing. She helped him sit up, her brow furrowed with concern. "Your energy channels are damaged. You won''t be able to seek revenge in this state."


    Jason had faced many trials since becoming the leader of the Azure Cloud Pavilion. He hadn''t coughed up blood when Blackwood trapped him within his own sect. He hadn''t felt this level of fury even after reconciling with Blackwood and uncovering the Oracle Chamber and Michael''s schemes.


    He hadn''t been this badly injured even after defying the odds and surviving the Five-Nine Heavenly Tribulation to face the Druids invading Cloudview County.


    But now, as he wiped the blood from his lips, an inferno of rage burned within him. His normally youthful face, framed by white hair, was flushed crimson, his eyes bloodshot. Tears welled up uncontrollably as he gritted out each word.


    "Every single person in Cloudview County fights to protect this land! Every sect, every faction stands as the first line of defense against the Druids for Sunshine Mansion! They couldn''t take what was ours, not even the Druids! I''ve been wounded battling them, but I''ve always held my head high!"


    "And yet, it''s those from Sunshine Mansion who come to steal our treasures, our heritage! Is Sunshine Mansion not wealthy enough?! Years ago, I yearned for Sunshine Mansion, the Dragon''s Favored Land! A place teeming with ancient traditions, where everyone lived by the virtues of loyalty, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness!"


    "Hahaha, what a laugh! The Dragon''s Favored Land!"


    Jason''s resentment seemed to permeate the entire room.


    As his voice faded, both he and Amelia froze. A cold, clear female voice echoed in their ears. "Did your elders never tell you the truth about Cloudview County?"


    Amelia recognized her master''s voice, but Jason could only whip his head around in astonishment. Who could possess such profound skill to transmit their voice directly into their minds, undetectable even to a Competent Force expert like himself?


    Jason quickly sat up and bowed towards the door. "I apologize for my ignorance. Would you enlighten us, esteemed senior?"


    "The human domain is but a speck in the grand scheme of things. The ancient god is protected by the heavens, and his presence naturally blesses the land with abundant energy. The deeper the fortune, the more frequent the opportunities for advancement.


    The further one travels from the heart of human civilization, the less one benefits from this fortune, making it difficult to cultivate to higher realms."


    "Of course, that doesn''t mean Azure Cloud can''t produce Basic Mastery cultivators. What a pity."


    Diana chuckled dryly. "Long ago, Azure Cloud enjoyed the blessings of heaven. This very land witnessed battles between beings whose power you can''t even fathom. Legacies were plentiful, ruins overflowing with ancient wisdom. But time marches on. The Emerald Emperor established his empire, uniting the human race under his banner, and Cloudview County...


    well, it became the borderland."


    "Forced to defend against the Druids on one side, while the various factions of Sunshine Mansion pressure you for resources on the other. Your ancestors, each generation, they hid their treasures, kept their true strength hidden, all to avoid attracting the greedy eyes of Sunshine Mansion!"


    "Now, Azure Cloud emerges victorious against the Druids, your true strength revealed, your treasures on display. Did you really think they wouldn''t try to claim their share? Each generation toils and bleeds, only to become someone else''s treasure chest."


    Understanding dawned on Jason, but it wasn''t a comforting revelation. The truth ignited a fresh wave of fury within him, making his body tremble.


    "130,000 years... 130,000 years!"


    Jason saw it now. Cloudview County, a cage disguised as a homeland. Mocked as barbarians by Sunshine Mansion, they were nothing but caged beasts. When the Druids attacked, they were the first line of defense, expendable pawns in a larger game. And when the Druids weren''t a threat, Sunshine Mansion waited to reap the rewards of their sacrifices.


    Ethan, listening to the exchange, felt a chill run down his spine. If not for the Druid invasion, this cycle of exploitation would have continued for generations to come.


    ...


    In a luxurious manor within Glory City''s bustling outer district, a warm August breeze wafted through the open courtyard. A servant served tea as Nathan sat across from a lavishly dressed elder named Danny. The eighth elder of the Kylin Mountain Roberts, Danny possessed a cultivation base at the mid-Competent Force level and spoke with an air of casual authority.


    Despite being from Sunshine Mansion, he addressed Nathan, a man who had fought a Druid Apostle to a standstill, with surprising candor. "Nathan, you''re still young. Blackwood''s rise has been meteoric, but with youth comes impulsiveness."


    "Wise words, Elder Danny." Nathan smiled politely, choosing his battles. There was no need to expend energy arguing, especially when it wouldn''t cost him a single Energy Stone.


    Danny frowned, carefully placing his teacup back on the table. "I''ve offered to help Blackwood on numerous occasions, yet you''ve refused me time and time again. You wouldn''t relinquish a mere tree demon, nor would you share your knowledge of Dark Magic. Have you ever wondered why the empire hasn''t offered its assistance?"


    Nathan shook his head, a serene smile on his face.


    Danny''s frustration grew with each passing moment. "It''s because your heart isn''t true. You''re arrogant, blinded by pride. You need to temper your spirit, young man. It''s only out of compassion for Blackwood''s role in fighting the Druids that my Kylin Mountain Roberts has extended a hand, hoping to help Azure Cloud, to help you weather this storm." Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Do you truly believe that Cloudview County, having repelled the Druids once, can do so again? You underestimate them. They are gathering their strength, and their next assault will be far more devastating. General Owen and Master Bill are honorable men, but without the support of Sunshine Mansion, how can a single county withstand the full might of the Druids?"


    Nathan let out a hearty laugh. "You speak in riddles, Elder Danny. I''m but a simple man. Please, speak plainly."


    Danny sighed dramatically. "My Roberts family holds a position of influence in Sunshine Mansion, and we have connections within the empire itself. One of our own serves directly under the High Councilor. And it has come to my attention that a senior member of the High Councilor''s family is nearing the end of their lifespan. A grand funeral is being prepared."


    "Nathan, the High Councilor has dedicated his life to the empire. It is our duty to ease his burdens in this time of need. Do you understand?"


    Nathan tapped his fingers lightly on the table. Those who knew him well recognized this as a sign of his true displeasure.


    Leave it to someone from Sunshine Mansion to be so infuriatingly indirect. A senior member of the High Councilor''s family was dying, a grand funeral was in order, and it was their duty to ease his burdens. He wanted his Artifact of the Fallen!


    Unaware of the storm brewing within Nathan, Danny misinterpreted his silence. He pressed his advantage, sensing an opportunity.


    "Mr. Nathan, a single word of support from the High Councilor could alleviate Blackwood''s troubles. He might even take notice of Blackwood, elevating your family to unimaginable heights..."


    Before he could finish, Nathan''s voice, laced with amusement, cut him off.


    "Danny, we have no quarrel. Why do you treat me like a fool?"


    The elder''s carefully constructed facade crumbled. He stared at Nathan, his face frozen in a rictus of disbelief.


    "What... what are you saying?"

 Chapter 313 - 313: Those who bully others invite their own downfall

    "Insolent!"


    One of the two younger men accompanying Danny, a handsome youth, slammed his fist on the table and shot to his feet.


    "Nathan, how dare you address the elder by his given name¡ª"


    "Who the hell do you think you are?!" Julian roared, his voice booming through the room.


    "You have the gall to address my father so disrespectfully? What kind of dog dares to bark at a lion?!"


    Before the Roberts scion could react, his eyes widened in terror.


    His mouth opened and closed wordlessly as a shadow enveloped him.


    A massive hand, rough and cold, clamped around his throat, lifting him off the ground.


    He thrashed wildly, his Developing Skill, early-stage psychic powers useless against this monstrous grip.


    "You... let me go!" he choked out, his voice a strangled whisper.


    He found himself staring into the furious face of a giant of a man, his head shaved clean.


    The man''s eyes blazed with icy rage, his entire body radiating an aura of lethal intent.


    It was Julian!


    The Roberts youth, accustomed to the deference his family name commanded, had never encountered the raw, primal killing intent that emanated from Julian, a man forged in the fires of countless battles.


    He had dared to challenge Nathan, emboldened by his family''s prestige and Danny''s presence.


    Now, all that remained was pure, unadulterated fear.


    He was drowning in a sea of killing intent, the air thick with the phantom cries of a million fallen warriors.


    Nathan watched, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes as Danny, his face creased with worry, realized he was also caught in Nathan''s sights.


    A silent pressure held him immobile, a predator toying with its prey.


    Julian''s killing intent intensified, forcing the other Roberts youth, halfway out of his seat, to sink back down with a whimper.


    "Nathan, what is the meaning of this?" Danny demanded, his voice trembling with suppressed fury.


    He had always found Nathan to be courteous, even during their disagreements.


    At most, he might slam a table in frustration.


    But now, Danny realized he had drastically underestimated both Nathan''s patience and the depths of these "barbarians''" fury.


    He could feel it now ¨C waves of power converging on their location from across Glory City, even from as far as Border Town.


    A single word from Nathan, and he knew he wouldn''t see the next sunrise.


    These savages had lost their minds!


    "Meaning?" Julian bellowed, his eyes blazing.


    "You leeches slither in here every few years, demanding this, demanding that! What do you take Blackwood for?!"


    "You cowered in Sunshine Mansion while we fought for our lives!" Julian roared.


    "And now, while we''re still licking our wounds, you come begging for more? Do you think we have so many victories to spare? To hell with your Kylin Mountain Roberts! We faced down the Druids, and we''re not afraid of a pack of glorified scavengers!"


    "You..."


    Danny glared at Julian, but he knew the man''s reputation for volatility.


    It was best not to provoke him further.


    He turned his icy gaze back to Nathan.


    "Nathan, have you considered the consequences of your actions? If you incur the wrath of my Roberts family, and Cloudview County falls to the Druids, you''ll find no refuge in Sunshine Mansion!"


    A cruel smile played on his lips as he glanced at the struggling youth in Julian''s grasp.


    He had been searching for an excuse to take what he wanted from Blackwood, and now, they had handed it to him on a silver platter.


    Blackwood had struck first, giving him the moral high ground.


    His voice softened, laced with faux concern.


    "Nathan, be reasonable. Surely you don''t want this incident to spread throughout Sunshine Mansion, leaving Cloudview County vulnerable on all sides? Give me the high-grade artifact! Do this, and my offer still stands. Sunshine Mansion will lift the siege on Azure Cloud this very day!"


    Nathan exhaled slowly, his gaze fixed on Danny with an intensity that sent shivers down the elder''s spine.


    "If my Cloudview County, if my Blackwood, requires the likes of you to save us," Nathan said, his voice devoid of emotion, "then we are truly lost, and our ancestors weep for us."


    ...


    [Following Nathan''s negotiation with the Kylin Mountain Roberts, your family receives a gift from Danny.]


    [One top-grade ability vessel, equipped with three quasi-sixth-grade defensive formations and one offensive formation, capable of traveling ten thousand miles per day.]


    [Three Storage Rings containing a vast quantity of Energy Stones, eighth to sixth-grade heavenly treasures, talismans, and more.]


    [One seventh-grade artifact, the "Kirin Earth Jade Pendant," crafted from the remains of a Kirin, capable of assisting those below the Developing Skill level in refining their psychic powers, increasing cultivation speed, and safeguarding the mind.]


    "Father, look! It''s sixth-grade Dewdrop Mist Grass! Three stalks of it!" Julian exclaimed, his eyes gleaming as he rummaged through the Storage Rings.


    "The Kylin Mountain Roberts are truly wealthy! Second Sister has been searching for this missing ingredient for her sixth-grade Revitalizing Breath Pills! This is incredible!"


    "And look at all these artifact crafting materials!" Julian continued, practically giddy with excitement.


    "This will keep me busy for months! We should have tied them up and made them send more!"


    A smile touched Nathan''s lips, chasing away the shadows of anger.


    Even Ethan couldn''t help but feel a surge of satisfaction.


    [Revitalizing Breath Pills (Sixth-Grade)]


    [When consumed, this pill allows the user to absorb energy from the surrounding environment, rapidly restoring physical injuries and replenishing psychic power. An exceptional elixir for those at the peak of Developing Skill, attempting to break through to the Competent Force level. It can also be used to restore the physical strength of Competent Force Psychics.]


    "Second Sister has been researching this formula for over twenty years," Nathan said, his voice filled with pride.


    "With her skills, she should be able to synthesize these pills. They''ll be invaluable for Marcus''s tribulation and for Lucas''s recovery."


    Julian continued to revel in their spoils, his enthusiasm infectious.


    Nathan watched his son, a rare moment of lightness in his heart.


    Marcus, his second son, had taken the Sky Sect to Sunshine Mansion two years ago and had established a foothold there.


    However, he faced constant pressure from the local factions.


    If he could survive the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, his talent would be enough to overcome any obstacle.


    Then there was his eldest, Lucas.


    While he had survived his encounter with the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s Basic Mastery Psychic, the insidious energy from that battle had burrowed deep within him, clinging to his very core. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He couldn''t even utilize natural energies without risking further injury.


    His only option was to slowly, painstakingly purge the foreign energy from his system, lest he face the fate of a Pinnacle Apprentice ¨C his cultivation crippled, his life force extinguished.


    Despite the treasures spread before him, a shadow of worry lingered in Nathan''s eyes.


    He made his way to the ancestral hall, his steps heavy with concern.


    "Ancestors," he murmured, bowing before the ancestral tablets.


    "The Kylin Mountain Roberts grow bolder with each passing year, their insults increasing tenfold. They covet our family''s secrets. I thought that after two hundred years, I had learned to control my temper. Yet, I fear I have only brought another enemy to our doorstep."


    Guilt flickered in his eyes.


    [Do not fret.]


    Ethan, seated upon the altar, smiled reassuringly.


    He had seen this coming.


    As time passed, the conflict between Cloudview County and Sunshine Mansion was bound to escalate.


    It was inevitable.


    Nathan wasn''t a weak man by any means.


    However, the enemy they faced was a behemoth, a sleeping giant.


    If not for that, Ethan knew Nathan would have already fed those Roberts fools to the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Both he and Nathan could sense it ¨C the Roberts family wouldn''t let this go unpunished.


    [Special Event ¨C The Roberts'' Fury]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has confiscated all valuables from Danny and his two companions. He has silenced the disrespectful Roberts youth, breaking his jaw and severing his tongue. Danny has been crippled and tossed out of Glory City, incurring the wrath of the Roberts family.]


    "Those who bully others invite their own downfall," Ethan said, a cold glint in his eyes.


    They had brought this upon themselves.


    The moment they decided to prey on Blackwood, they should have considered the consequences.


    So what if they had one more enemy?


    Blackwood would face them all head-on!

 Chapter 314 - 314: Its a trap!

    At the border between Sunshine Mansion and Cloudview County, the three Roberts men, so recently brimming with arrogance in Glory City, now cut sorry figures.


    Danny''s face was a mask of fury. He couldn''t believe the audacity of those Blackwood barbarians! To rob them blind, taking even their ability vessel, and to break his legs in full view of Glory City''s citizens! S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The memory of that humiliation washed over him. The commoners had surrounded him, gawking and jeering like he was a stray dog to be toyed with. He hadn''t dared to fight back, hadn''t even dared to cry out in pain. He knew, with chilling certainty, that Nathan would have ended his life without a second thought.


    In his thousand years of cultivating psychic powers, he had never endured such shame. Never had he imagined that he, a Roberts, would be subjected to such treatment, least of all in this backwater county.


    He had been forced to crawl, yes crawl, out of Blackwood on his hands and knees, the mocking laughter of Glory City''s residents ringing in his ears. The memory burned like acid, fueling his rage.


    "Elder Danny, Blackwood has gone too far!"


    The Roberts youth, his tongue restored by a potent healing pill, glared back at the receding silhouette of Glory City. He had accompanied Danny on numerous trips to Cloudview County, and always, they had been treated with the utmost respect, their every whim catered to.


    And yet, here they were, forced to flee like whipped dogs, not even daring to turn their heads as they soared away from that cursed place.


    "Blackwood... Blackwood, I will have my revenge!" Danny roared, his fury echoing across the sky. The air crackled with energy, his two companions cowering before his unleashed power.


    It took him a while to regain his composure. His gaze, now cold and calculating, settled on Blackwood. "This humiliation... I will repay it tenfold."


    But his words were cut short as a wave of terror washed over him. A cold sweat broke out, his body trembling uncontrollably. A suffocating aura of malevolent energy descended upon them, a palpable wave of bloodlust and darkness. It felt like sinking into a mire of blood and shadows.


    His two companions froze, their faces ashen. If Julian''s killing intent had been a raging inferno, this was something far more sinister, a chilling whisper of death that promised unimaginable suffering.


    A figure materialized before them, seemingly out of thin air. A tall, muscular man with intricate tattoos covering his bare chest and a massive sword strapped to his back. He walked with an air of casual menace, his eyes radiating a chilling intensity.


    "Well, well..."


    Danny''s voice was a strained croak. He could sense the man''s power, a cultivation base equal to his own, at the mid-Competent Force level. But the sheer intensity of his aura, the raw, untamed power that radiated from him, told a different story. One wrong move, and Danny knew he would be dead before he hit the ground.


    What was a rogue cultivator of this caliber doing here, traveling from the direction of Sunshine Mansion towards Cloudview County? Had he been exiled, seeking refuge in that backwater county? Was he planning to offer his services to Blackwood, to fight against the Druids?


    Cloudview County, that wretched hive of scum and villainy, didn''t deserve a cultivator of this caliber!


    Danny''s mind raced, fear and confusion battling for dominance. He had to do something, anything, to protect himself. He stepped forward, blocking the man''s path.


    "Honored sir, a moment of your time, if you please."


    "Hmm?"


    The man paused, his brow furrowed in curiosity. Most people avoided him like the plague. Only his seven sworn brothers and his family treated him like a normal human being. Who was this fool to stand in his way?


    Danny swallowed his fear, forcing the words out. "Honored sir, your path... it leads to Cloudview County, does it not?"


    "It does."


    "Then you must turn back!" Danny exclaimed, his voice trembling with urgency. "It''s a trap! Those Blackwood devils... they practice Dark Magic! They lure unsuspecting Psychics to Cloudview County with promises of power and riches, only to drain them dry! They have a monstrous tree, a blood-drinking fiend, that feeds on the life force of their victims.


    And once they''ve drained their victims dry, they toss their corpses back over the border, claiming the bounty on their heads! We barely escaped with our lives!"


    He let out a dramatic sigh, congratulating himself on his quick thinking. This lie, this brilliant fabrication, would spread like wildfire. He would make sure of it. Blackwood would pay for what they had done.


    But his moment of triumph was short-lived. The tattooed man was looking at him with a strange expression, a mixture of amusement and something far more dangerous.


    "Oh?" he said, his voice a low growl. "You''ve discovered Blackwood''s secret, have you?"


    "Yes..." Danny began, but the words died in his throat. What was this? What secret? Why was this man looking at him like that?


    A cold dread gripped his heart as the man''s aura flared, casting grotesque shadows across the landscape. The air crackled with malevolent energy.


    "Run! He''s one of them! He''s with Blackwood!"


    Danny didn''t need to be told twice. He unleashed his psychic powers, throwing himself backward in a desperate attempt to escape.


    The world exploded in a maelstrom of dark energy, the sheer force of the blast attracting the attention of two powerful Basic Mastery Psychics stationed within Cloudview County.


    Moments later, the dust settled. The Lord of Frenzied Blood, his hand still gripping the lifeless body of the Roberts youth who had dared to insult his family, sheathed his bloodstained sword. He glanced towards Sunshine Mansion, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features.


    "Foolish old fool," he muttered. "He almost had me there. Not bad, for a dying breed."


    He had spent years cultivating in Blackwood, accepted and respected despite his unorthodox methods. Blackwood had become his home, its people his family. And he would defend them with his life. Anyone who dared to harm his family, anyone who dared to spread lies and sow discord... would face his wrath.


    He turned to pursue the fleeing Danny, his eyes burning with cold fury. But before he could take a step, a voice echoed in his mind, stopping him in his tracks. It was Bill Daoist, his voice laced with an icy calm that brooked no argument.


    "Leave him alive," the voice commanded. "For now."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood frowned. "Why spare him? He knows too much."


    "He knows nothing," Bill Daoist replied. "But his lies could prove... useful. Let him go. Spread the word. Let Sunshine Mansion tremble at the thought of Blackwood''s might."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood hesitated, then nodded curtly. "As you command. But if you''re wrong, old friend, if this backfires... I''ll hold you personally responsible."


    The voice chuckled softly. "Have a little faith, old friend. Sometimes, the best weapon is the one your enemy wields against themselves."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood snorted, then turned and melted back into the shadows, leaving behind the lingering scent of blood and the promise of a storm to come.

 Chapter 315 - 315: Your tribulation approaches

    As the Lord of Frenzied Blood disappeared into the distance, heading back towards Glory City, Bill Daoist wiped a bead of sweat from his brow.


    He stood at the foot of Psychic Sanctuary Mountain, his gaze fixed on the spot where the rogue cultivator had vanished.


    "Heavens above," he muttered, his voice hushed with awe and a hint of trepidation.


    "What manner of monster has Blackwood taken in? Could he be... one of the Ancient Blood, a descendant of the primordial demons?"


    The Ancient Blood. Creatures of pure, unadulterated power, their lineage stretching back to the dawn of time.


    They were incredibly rare, their numbers dwindling with each passing millennium.


    Most lived in seclusion, their existence shrouded in myth and legend.


    "How Blackwood manages to control such a being is beyond me," Bill Daoist mused.


    "But it''s for the best, I suppose. Better he channels his power for their cause than unleashes it upon the world."


    ...


    High in the mountains, miles from the border, Danny lay broken and bleeding.


    His limbs, severed at the joints, lay scattered around him like discarded twigs.


    He coughed up a mouthful of blood, his eyes filled with terror and regret.


    "Why?" he gasped, his voice a ragged whisper.


    "Why me?"


    Fate, it seemed, had conspired against him this day.


    Humiliated and robbed blind by Blackwood, he had barely escaped with his life.


    And then, just when he thought his luck couldn''t get any worse, he had stumbled upon that rogue cultivator... a Blackwood agent!


    If not for the desperate gamble he had made, burning half his life force to activate the Kylin Mountain''s secret escape technique, the Kirin''s Shroud, he would be dead.


    "Elder Danny, are you alright?"


    Victor, his last remaining companion, hovered anxiously by his side.


    The young man''s face was pale, his voice trembling with fear and barely suppressed anger.


    "Your energy channels... they''re shattered! You''re..."


    "Silence, you fool!" Danny roared, his voice laced with pain and fury.


    "This is all your fault! If you hadn''t provoked them..."


    But even in his rage, Danny knew he couldn''t blame Victor entirely.


    He had let his anger cloud his judgment, underestimating both Blackwood''s ruthlessness and their reach.


    "Victor," he gasped, his voice weak.


    "Take me back... to the family. We must make them pay... for what they''ve done."


    "But Elder Danny..." Victor stammered, his eyes wide with fear.


    "They''re too powerful! We can''t..."


    "Fool!" Danny spat, his voice regaining some of its former strength.


    "Do you think I''ve survived this long by being weak? Blackwood may have won this battle, but the war is far from over."


    A cunning glint entered his eyes.


    "We''ve been visiting Azure Cloud for the past two years, haven''t we? Did you not notice the movements near Martinez Pass, where Starlight County borders Cloudview County?"


    Victor frowned, confused.


    "I... I don''t understand."


    "They''re planning something," Danny hissed, his voice a conspiratorial whisper.


    "Blackwood... they''re not content with just defending Azure Cloud. They want to retake Starlight County for Duke Jon. And they''re planning a surprise attack!"


    Victor''s eyes widened.


    "But... how can we use that to our advantage?"


    "We''ll use their arrogance against them," Danny said, a cruel smile spreading across his lips.


    "Take me back to the family. We''ll inform the patriarch. He''ll contact the Druids in Starlight County, have them lay an ambush."


    "When Blackwood walks into that trap," he continued, his voice filled with venomous glee, "they''ll be slaughtered. Owen and Bill Daoist will be forced to abandon Azure Cloud, leaving Blackwood vulnerable and alone."


    "Their precious artifacts, the Death Coffin, the Shapeshifting Divine Tree, their soul-controlling techniques... all of it will be ours for the taking." S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He turned to Victor, his eyes burning with avarice.


    "You''ll be rewarded handsomely for your loyalty, Victor. I''ll even grant you the ultimate prize... the chance to claim Blackwood Amelia''s body as your own! Her Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation-tempered physique... imagine the power!"


    Victor''s breath hitched.


    The thought of possessing Amelia, a prodigy whose talent was spoken of in hushed whispers, sent a thrill of excitement through him.


    But he wasn''t a fool. He had seen Danny''s true colors.


    "Swear it," he said, his voice surprisingly steady.


    "Swear a blood oath that you''ll fulfill your promise."


    Danny hesitated, his eyes narrowed.


    But he was desperate.


    "Very well," he hissed.


    "I, Danny of the Kylin Mountain Roberts, swear upon my blood and my lineage..."


    ...


    With the Roberts family dealt with, a strange calm settled over Azure Cloud.


    News of Danny''s fate spread like wildfire, serving as a stark warning to any who dared to underestimate Blackwood''s resolve.


    Blackwood, however, wasn''t resting on its laurels.


    They knew the Roberts family wouldn''t forgive or forget this humiliation.


    They prepared for retaliation, reinforcing their defenses and strengthening their alliances.


    Even Bill Daoist and Owen, disgusted by Sunshine Mansion''s greed and treachery, pledged their support.


    If the Roberts family dared to retaliate, they would face the full might of Blackwood and its allies.


    "Those Roberts fools," Owen had scoffed, his hand resting on the hilt of his warhammer, an heirloom weapon that pulsed with restrained power.


    "They have but one measly Basic Mastery cultivator to their name. If not for the risk of escalating the conflict, I''d pay them a visit myself and teach them some manners."


    Five years passed.


    Life in Cloudview County settled into a new rhythm.


    The border remained a flashpoint, skirmishes erupting with predictable regularity.


    But Blackwood stood firm, their defenses bolstered by Ethan''s guidance and the growing strength of their allies.


    [Congratulations! Under Daniel''s leadership and Jessica''s tactical brilliance, your family has slain over three hundred thousand Druids in the past five years. You have successfully annexed former Druid territory into Cloudview County, achieving remarkable victories. You have gained 5 Family Willpower.]


    Ethan tallied his gains.


    Between the family''s accomplishments and his careful management, his Family Willpower had reached an impressive 53 points.


    On the battlefield, both Jessica and Daniel had flourished.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, has slain over ten thousand enemies in battle. She attempted to establish peaceful coexistence with the Druids, but their ideologies proved irreconcilable.


    After a group of Druid captives collaborated with their brethren to launch a surprise attack on Azure Cloud''s forces, your descendant spent six months constructing a network of killing grounds, utilizing both natural formations and psychic formations to eliminate over a million Druids.]


    [Trait: Druid Slayer ¨C Having slain over a million Druids, Jessica can now withstand the Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation.]


    Clad in crimson armor, Jessica stood atop Border Town''s wall, her gaze sweeping across the endless expanse of the Endless Forest.


    Her expression was calm, her grip on her twin swords steady.


    Below her, the soldiers of the Azure Cloud army stood in disciplined ranks, eighty thousand strong.


    If not for the constant attrition of war, their numbers would have easily swelled to two hundred thousand.


    Each soldier wore crimson armor, their movements synchronized and precise.


    The armor... it was eerily reminiscent of the Black Iron Blood Armor Julian had crafted all those years ago.


    And indeed, it was Julian who had gifted the design to Cloudview County''s enchanters.


    His armor, while incredibly potent, was also relatively simple to craft, perfect for outfitting a large army on short notice.


    Each suit was a masterpiece of psychic engineering, forged from metal and tempered in the blood of slain Druids for forty-nine days.


    The results were... unpredictable, to say the least.


    But each suit amplified the wearer''s psychic powers, allowing them to channel their energy into devastating formations.


    Jessica smiled, a hint of pride flickering in her eyes.


    Half of the Azure Cloud army now answered to her command.


    Another three hundred thousand Psychics stood ready to answer her call, their ranks swelling with each passing year as a new generation came of age, eager to prove themselves in battle.


    And all of it, this formidable force, was but a single cog in the machine her uncle Daniel had built.


    "Jessica, your tribulation approaches."


    Daniel materialized beside her, his keen senses detecting the telltale signs of an impending tribulation gathering in the sky above her.


    It crackled with raw power, tinged with the bloodlust and resentment of countless slain Druids.


    "The Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation," he said, a hint of pride in his voice.


    "Most impressive. Your aunt has been hard at work, crafting a new batch of seventh-grade elixirs. And the family''s alchemists have prepared a dozen high-grade healing pills. Your uncle Julian even crafted you a new weapon. It''s time to prepare for your breakthrough."

 Chapter 316 - 316: Theyre all good children

    "Speaking of family," Daniel said, his tone softening, "you''ve been on the front lines for years. Haven''t seen much of your boy Sam back in Jonesport, have you? He''s grown into a fine leader. You''ve even got a great-grandchild now. You should pay them a visit. No need to tire yourself out here."


    Daniel, childless and unmarried, held a special affection for Jessica.


    She was the brightest of the fourth generation, sharp as a whip and decisive in battle, a testament to Olivia''s tutelage.


    Having her lead the troops on the border allowed him to focus on the bigger picture, strategizing against the Druid Apostles and elders.


    Jessica shook her head, her gaze still fixed on the endless expanse of the Endless Forest.


    "Thank you for your concern, Uncle. I spent my younger years away from the family, in Jonesport. I thought I was there for the family''s benefit, but I let my guard down, made foolish mistakes, trusted the wrong people like that snake, Jack."


    A shadow flickered across her face, the memory still painful.


    "I won''t make that mistake again. I helped Sam secure his position as leader, ensured the Jonesport line continued. That''s all the closure I need."


    She turned to face him, her expression resolute.


    "These past few years have opened my eyes, Uncle. I''ve seen our home nearly destroyed, our people almost driven from their land. I''ve seen enough. The world is a dark place, and Blackwood is not yet strong enough to protect its own. I won''t stand by while others suffer the same pain, the same betrayal I endured."


    "As long as the Druids remain a threat," she declared, her voice ringing with conviction, "Jessica will not rest!"


    Daniel smiled, pride swelling in his chest.


    He offered her a Storage Ring filled with treasures, but Jessica politely declined.


    "Uncle, my duty is here, on the border. My path is paved with the blood of my enemies. This is the law I''ve come to understand. The greater the carnage, the stronger my tribulation will be. And I won''t stop until I''ve conquered the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation!"


    Her words were spoken with a chilling calmness, as if discussing the weather.


    Daniel chuckled, stroking his beard thoughtfully.


    "Well said, my dear. I''ll see to it that you have the elixirs and artifacts you need to overcome your tribulation. You focus on the enemy. Leave the rest to me."


    [Your descendant, Jessica, has sworn to overcome the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation. Her trait, Druid Slayer, has evolved into ¨C Druid''s Bane.]


    [By slaying ten million Druids, Jessica can challenge the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation. Current progress: 11%. Druids'' fear towards her has increased by 40%. Damage dealt to Druids increased by 20%.]


    "Good children," Ethan murmured, a wave of warmth washing over him.


    "They''re all good children."


    He watched Jessica with pride.


    Like Marcus, she possessed an unyielding spirit, a burning ambition that pushed her to strive for greater heights.


    Both sought to conquer the legendary Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, a feat few had ever achieved.


    He would ensure they had everything they needed to succeed.


    His gaze shifted to the other Blackwood descendants scattered throughout Sunshine Mansion.


    Five years had passed since they had embarked on their mission, infiltrating their enemy''s ranks.


    They had integrated seamlessly, their true allegiances hidden behind masks of normalcy.


    Joseph, in particular, had exceeded his expectations.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, has spent years cultivating his network within Sunshine Mansion, never revealing his true strength or ambition. He has befriended countless influential figures, using his feigned disability and his sister Katie''s prodigious talent to gain their trust.]


    [Joseph''s charm and intellect, coupled with his carefully crafted persona of a humble, tragic figure, have earned him the sympathy and respect of Sunshine Mansion''s elite. He has become a trusted advisor, subtly manipulating events from the shadows. He has gained the trait: The Pitiful One.]


    [Joseph''s perceived vulnerability increases the likelihood of others showing him mercy by 30%. Revealing the tragic tale of his family''s destruction and his parents'' deaths increases the likelihood of others feeling compassion for him by 50%.]


    "Ancestor," Joseph''s voice echoed in Ethan''s mind, filled with quiet confidence.


    "Katie is already recognized as one of Sunshine Mansion''s brightest talents. In ten years, she''ll have the attention of their elders. We''ll have a foothold in their society, a foundation to build upon. Slowly but surely, we''ll replace them from within. Sunshine Mansion will be ours."


    Ethan chuckled to himself.


    He had been observing Joseph''s progress with a mixture of amusement and admiration.


    Initially, he had expected something more... dramatic.


    A classic tale of the underdog rising to power, fueled by righteous fury and fueled by the support of his loyal followers.


    After all, Joseph was no ordinary youth.


    He had strength, intelligence, and the full backing of Blackwood.


    Ethan had envisioned grand pronouncements, secret meetings in shadowy corners, whispers of rebellion spreading through the ranks.


    He had half-expected Joseph to gather his followers and declare himself the rightful heir to Sunshine Mansion, igniting a glorious revolution.


    Instead, Joseph had chosen a far more subtle path.


    He had befriended his enemies, earned their trust, and manipulated them with whispers and smiles.


    He had even identified and eliminated potential threats, those foolish enough to challenge him before they were ready.


    "Remember, Ancestor," Joseph had once said, his voice laced with chilling pragmatism, "power without support is fleeting. Those who rise too quickly, without a solid foundation, are destined to fall."


    ...


    Two years passed.


    The sky above Cloudview County darkened as storm clouds gathered, a metaphorical reflection of the tension gripping the land.


    In Glory City, Blackwood''s warriors emerged from seclusion, their faces grim, their eyes hardened by years of constant vigilance.


    Across the county, the various factions that had rebuilt their strength under Blackwood''s banner prepared for war.


    "The time has come," Ethan murmured, watching as streams of cultivators soared into the sky, their silhouettes stark against the storm clouds.


    "The battle for Starlight County has begun."


    Glory City had transformed in the years since the Druid invasion.


    Gone were the days of complacency and naivete.


    Every household had felt the sting of loss, the terror of war.


    Now, cultivation was not just a path to power, but a necessity, a way of life.


    Families sent their children to train, to fight, to protect their homeland.


    Those who remained behind dedicated themselves to supporting the war effort, their hearts filled with a fierce determination to never again experience the horrors of that invasion.


    This spirit, this unwavering resolve, had spread throughout Cloudview County.


    Even the refugees who had fled the Emerald Empire, seeking safety within Blackwood''s borders, had been swept up in the tide.


    They had witnessed Blackwood''s resilience, their unwavering commitment to protecting their own.


    They had seen firsthand the strength that came from unity, from shared sacrifice.


    And slowly but surely, they had begun to embrace Blackwood''s values, their hopes for the future aligning with those who had offered them sanctuary.


    Cloudview County had become a crucible, forging a new generation in the fires of war.


    They were no longer the scattered, vulnerable county they had once been.


    They were Blackwood, united and strong, ready to face any challenge, any enemy, to protect what was theirs. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 317 - 317: Why are you shaking?

    "People of Cloudview County! The Azure Cloud border needs your strength! We call upon all able-bodied Psychics to answer the call to arms!"


    The summons echoed across the land, carried by the wind and amplified by countless voices.


    From bustling cities to sleepy villages, the call to action reverberated through every corner of Cloudview County.


    Across the county, Psychics of all levels paused, their gazes drawn skyward.


    A fire ignited in their eyes, a fierce determination burning bright.


    And then, they moved.


    Like a river of steel and resolve, Psychics from every corner of Cloudview County converged on the Azure Cloud border.


    Some would journey for weeks, their resolve unwavering.


    They knew the risks, the possibility of facing insurmountable odds, of making the ultimate sacrifice.


    But they also knew their duty.


    For on the road to the border, there stood a silent reminder of what was at stake: a sprawling cemetery, a testament to the sacrifices of generations past.


    It was a solemn reminder that freedom came at a price, and that the people of Cloudview County had never shied away from paying it.


    Blackwood had once possessed a unique trait, a testament to their indomitable spirit: the Azure Cloud Warriors.


    Now, that spirit flowed through the veins of every single person in Cloudview County.


    They were all Azure Cloud Warriors now.


    "Where... where did they all come from?"


    A week later, Daniel stood atop Border Town''s wall, his jaw slack with astonishment. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Below him, a sea of humanity stretched as far as the eye could see.


    Tens of thousands, perhaps even hundreds of thousands, of Cloudview County''s citizens had answered the call.


    Psychics of all levels, their ranks bolstered by ordinary men and women armed with whatever they could scavenge, their faces etched with grim determination.


    ...


    On the border between Starlight County and Cloudview County, the combined forces of Starlight County''s six major factions, along with the elite warriors of Walker Duke''s Mansion, stood ready for battle.


    A low rumble shook the ground, drawing their attention to the horizon.


    "By the gods..."


    "It''s the Crimson War God, Jessica! And the Azure Cloud army! They''re here! They''re here to help us! Why are you shaking?"


    "You''re shaking too!"


    The approaching force was a sight to behold.


    Even the battle-hardened warriors of Starlight County watched in awe.


    Jon let out a low whistle.


    "The Azure Cloud army... they''ve been forged in fire. They have the heart of true warriors."


    Even Chuck, his usual arrogance tempered by respect, nodded in agreement.


    "No wonder those Druids are running scared. The Azure Cloud army is a force of nature. You know, old man, maybe joining forces with Azure Cloud wasn''t such a bad idea after all."


    Together, they watched as the dust cloud approached, resolving itself into a fleet of sleek ability vessels.


    The sky rained blood as the vessels, their hulls shimmering with protective formations, descended towards the battlefield.


    The Azure Cloud army disembarked with practiced efficiency, their formations holding firm even amidst the swirling dust and chaos.


    They wore matching crimson armor, their faces hidden behind visored helmets.


    Each soldier carried an arsenal of weapons: seven blood-red spears strapped to their backs, a heavy bow slung across their shoulders, quivers brimming with arrows at their hips.


    Their belts were adorned with pouches containing talismans, elixirs, and volatile spheres of condensed psychic energy.


    They were armed to the teeth, their movements precise and deadly.


    Their faces, though hidden, radiated an aura of cold, unwavering resolve.


    It was the look of soldiers who had stared death in the face and emerged unbroken, the look of those who would follow their commander into the heart of hell itself.


    A wave of pressure, palpable and suffocating, descended upon the assembled forces of Starlight County.


    Even seasoned Psychics felt a shiver of unease, their instincts screaming at them to run.


    And then, their gazes were drawn to the figure at the head of the advancing army.


    Jessica, the Crimson War God.


    Her crimson robes billowed around her like flames, her long black hair whipping in the wind.


    Her beauty, normally captivating, was now a weapon in itself, a mask that hid the steely resolve in her eyes.


    She paused, her gaze sweeping across the battlefield.


    With a flick of her wrist, she pulled a crimson ribbon from her armor and deftly tied her hair back, securing it beneath her helmet.


    Then, raising her voice, she issued a command that echoed across the battlefield.


    "Azure Cloud army, advance!"


    As the Azure Cloud army marched forward, their footsteps a thunderous drumbeat, the Psychics of Starlight County watched in stunned silence.


    The sheer presence of Cloudview County''s forces, their unwavering discipline and raw power, left them speechless.


    Azure Cloud.


    Unstoppable.


    ...


    Meanwhile, on the border between Cloudview County and Sunshine Mansion, a group of figures watched the unfolding events from a concealed vantage point.


    They were masters of stealth, their auras masked, their presence undetectable even to the keen senses of Azure Cloud''s two Basic Mastery Psychics.


    They were representatives of Sunshine Mansion''s three most powerful families: the Kylin Mountain Roberts, the Fortune Sanctum Parkers, and the Golden Valley Duke''s Mansion Carters.


    Sunshine Mansion was a land of vast resources and powerful factions, a breeding ground for ambitious cultivators and ruthless power struggles.


    Among its many factions, the seven great families stood above all others.


    Each family boasted at least one Basic Mastery cultivator among their ranks, their influence extending across the land.


    The Kylin Mountain Roberts, for instance, were known for their vast numbers and ruthless pragmatism.


    They believed in strength in numbers, their family tree sprawling and complex.


    Their agents and merchants could be found in every corner of Sunshine Mansion, their fingers in every pie.


    This focus on expansion, however, had come at a cost.


    Family ties were often tenuous, loyalty a fickle thing.


    Victor and Danny''s betrayal was a testament to that.


    "Gentlemen," Danny said, his voice raspy but steady.


    He sat at a stone table, his face pale but his eyes burning with cold fire.


    His limbs, severed by Julian five years ago, had long since regenerated, but the damage to his cultivation base lingered.


    He was a shadow of his former self, but his ambition remained undimmed.


    "I didn''t invite you here on a whim," he continued, his gaze fixed on the two men seated across from him.


    "I have a plan, a way to make Blackwood pay for what they''ve done. I''ve received intel, reliable intel, that the four Druid tribes in Starlight County are prepared for Blackwood''s attack. They''re walking into a trap."


    He leaned forward, his voice a conspiratorial whisper.


    "When the time is right, when Blackwood is at their most vulnerable, we''ll strike. We''ll ''help'' them finish the job."


    The word "help" dripped from his lips like venom, his true intentions clear.

 Chapter 318 - 318: Prepare for battle! Part 1

    Danny had barely finished speaking when the woman representing the Fortune Sanctum Parkers posed a pointed question.


    "If you''re so certain of Azure Cloud''s defeat, Danny, why involve the Parkers and the Carters?"


    The Parker representative, an elder named Neil, exuded an air of serene detachment, her white robes pristine against the rugged landscape.


    The Parker family, known as the Fortune Sanctum, had a knack for accumulating wealth.


    Their founder had been a shrewd businessman, and over the generations, the Parkers had expanded their reach, their fingers in every profitable pie imaginable.


    Pills, heavenly treasures, Psychic Gear, talismans... if it turned a profit, the Parkers were involved.


    They even supported promising factions, securing their loyalty with generous loans and then reaping the rewards with hefty interest.


    "What else could it be?"


    Before Danny could respond, the young man representing the Carter Duke''s Mansion spoke up, a predatory gleam in his eyes.


    "Blackwood has grown fat off their secrets. The Roberts family can''t possibly gobble it all up alone. We carve up Blackwood together, and who in Sunshine Mansion would dare question us?"


    The speaker, Kyle, exuded an aura of barely restrained violence that made both Danny and Neil exchange wary glances.


    The Carter Duke''s Mansion, hailing from Golden Valley, was a different breed altogether.


    They were the smallest of the seven great families, but also the most ruthless.


    Their Forebearer had been a legendary assassin, and his descendants had inherited his ruthlessness in spades.


    For generations, every Carter child, upon reaching the age of eighteen, underwent a decade of brutal training, honing their skills while simultaneously fulfilling their duty to expand the family line.


    Then, they were cast into a secluded valley, forced to fight to the death.


    Only seven survived each decade.


    And every century, a new Duke emerged from the carnage, his claim to power built upon the bodies of his kin.


    Every Carter expert had walked a path paved with the corpses of their own family.


    Who wouldn''t fear them?


    "So, we''re to be vultures, picking at the carcass of a fallen enemy," Neil said, taking a sip of tea.


    She glanced at Kyle, her expression unreadable.


    "Blackwood''s demise... it''s for the best, I suppose. I''ve heard whispers. They''re a bloodthirsty lot. Sunshine Mansion could do without such a destabilizing influence."


    "Neil, what are you insinuating?" Kyle snarled, his hand hovering near the hilt of his sword.


    The Carters bowed to no one, least of all a bunch of glorified money lenders.


    Neil, however, remained unfazed by his outburst.


    She simply sipped her tea, her silence speaking volumes.


    Danny, sensing the tension escalating, quickly intervened.


    "Peace, gentlemen. We''re here to cooperate, not to squabble amongst ourselves."


    His words seemed to have the desired effect.


    The two men fell silent, their animosity simmering beneath the surface.


    Danny turned his gaze towards Cloudview County, his eyes hardening.


    Five years.


    Five long years he had nursed his grudge, the memory of his humiliation in Azure Cloud a constant burn.


    He had planned for this moment, meticulously weaving his web of intrigue.


    Blackwood would fall, and when they did, he would make them suffer.


    He would make them experience the same humiliation, the same despair, that he had endured.


    "Elder Danny!"


    A young Developing Skill Psychic approached the table, bowing respectfully.


    "The Crimson War God, Jessica, has led the Azure Cloud army towards Starlight County. They didn''t even stop for a moment. They''ve already joined forces with Starlight County and are marching deeper into their territory!"


    "Excellent!" Danny exclaimed, unable to contain his glee.


    He turned to Neil and Kyle, both of whom were now wearing predatory smiles.


    "The trap is sprung," he said, his voice laced with anticipation.


    "The Druids are waiting. Once the Azure Cloud army is crushed, Duke Miles''s Mansion and his six allied factions will be trapped, with nowhere to run. Cloudview County will be defenseless, ripe for the taking. The six Druid tribes that have been pushed back from the Azure Cloud border will sweep through and crush everything in their path."


    He threw back his head and laughed, a harsh, grating sound.


    "We''ll be waiting, gentlemen. Waiting to claim our prize."


    ...


    News of the Azure Cloud army''s advance spread through Sunshine Mansion like wildfire, reaching even the most secluded corners of the land.


    But the most apprehensive souls weren''t in Starlight County, bracing for Blackwood''s assault.


    They were in the heart of Druid territory, among the six tribes who had long been a thorn in Cloudview County''s side. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Apostle Mike, who had been enjoying a rare period of peace, his days spent sipping tea and exchanging barbs with Nathan, felt a chill run down his spine.


    "To arms!" he roared, his voice booming across the Harris tribe''s encampment.


    He unleashed his power, his cultivation base at the peak of the Competent Force level, a beacon of strength that sent tremors through the air.


    "Prepare for battle!"


    The six Druid tribes had grown complacent over the years.


    Jessica and Daniel''s relentless campaigns had pushed them back, but they had grown accustomed to the rhythm of war, the ebb and flow of conflict.


    They had grown soft.


    "By the ancestors..."


    The Harris High Priest, his face ashen, stared towards the horizon.


    He could see it.


    Border Town.


    And it was swarming with enemies.


    The Azure Cloud army, their crimson armor gleaming in the sunlight, their formations as precise and deadly as ever.


    And behind them, a seemingly endless tide of Cloudview County Psychics, their numbers overwhelming.


    They had fought the Azure Cloud army before.


    They knew their ferocity, their unwavering determination.


    He had seen an Azure Cloud Psychic at the Emerging Ability level charge headlong into their ranks, screaming defiance even as he drew his last breath, his name forever etched in the annals of Azure Cloud''s heroes.


    There were times, the High Priest mused, when he couldn''t tell the difference between the humans of Cloudview County and the berserkers they faced in their nightmares.


    Jessica, the Crimson War God, had instilled a deep-seated fear in their hearts.


    She was a force of nature, a whirlwind of death and destruction.


    There were whispers among the tribes, tales of her ruthlessness, of her utter disregard for life, even her own.


    He had even attempted to negotiate with Daniel, a man he considered more reasonable, more open to diplomacy.


    He had hinted at a truce, a way to end the bloodshed.


    Daniel''s response had been chillingly pragmatic.


    He had demanded the surrender of twelve tribes, their lands forfeit as a price for peace.


    Now, looking at the approaching army, the High Priest felt a cold sweat break out.


    Panic spread through the ranks of the six tribes as reports of Blackwood''s movements reached them.


    "They''re gathering at the border! Their numbers are growing by the day!"


    "The outlaws, the ones Blackwood shelters in their lands... they''re marching on Clark''s territory! They''re already setting up camps, digging for resources!"


    "But... we were told the Azure Cloud army and Jessica were gone! How is this possible? It''s a trap!"


    "Apostle! You said we were going on the offensive! What''s happening? Are we attacking or defending? Do you even know anymore?!"

 Chapter 319 - 319: Prepare for battle! Part 2

    High above the encampment, Mike''s face was a mask of grim determination.


    Five years ago, he had received intelligence from his Druid brethren in Starlight County. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They had spoken of a coming storm, a day when Cloudview County would unleash its full might, when Blackwood would lead their warriors against Starlight County, and when the Azure Cloud army would meet its doom.


    He had been waiting for this moment, biding his time, gathering his forces.


    When news reached him that the Azure Cloud army had left Cloudview County, he had immediately begun mobilizing his warriors, eager to reclaim their lost territory and resume their campaign of conquest.


    But now, despite the apparent vulnerability of Cloudview County, he hesitated.


    "Apostle, what are we to do?"


    The Harris High Priest''s voice was laced with uncertainty.


    "Word has reached the tribes. The Azure Cloud army is indeed in Starlight County. Are we to proceed with the plan? Are we to attack Azure Cloud?"


    "Hold!"


    Mike shook his head, his gaze distant.


    "Years ago, we marched into Azure Cloud brimming with confidence. We underestimated Blackwood. We thought they were weak, divided. We paid the price for our arrogance. Our elders sought to crush them, but instead, it was Moon God who fell that day."


    He turned to the High Priest, his eyes cold and calculating.


    "The rabble at the Azure Cloud border... they''re a distraction. Daniel sent them to Clark''s territory to mine for resources. It''s a feint, a ploy to draw us out. We mustn''t fall for it."


    "But Apostle..."


    The High Priest''s voice was strained, his frustration evident.


    "Azure Cloud grows stronger with each passing day. If we don''t strike now, we''ll lose even more territory, even more resources. They''ll use our own strength against us!"


    Mike understood the High Priest''s concerns.


    He shared them.


    But he had learned a valuable lesson from their previous defeat.


    "Patience," he said, his voice low and steady.


    "Humans are a greedy, envious lot. Blackwood will soon realize that their enemies are not limited to us."


    "Word on the wind is that Sunshine Mansion is putting immense pressure on Cloudview County, on Blackwood. The intelligence we received about their attack on Starlight County... it came from Sunshine Mansion."


    A cruel smile twisted his lips.


    "By doing nothing, we''ve already achieved a great victory. We may not be able to defeat Azure Cloud, to defeat Blackwood, but those fools in Sunshine Mansion... they''re blinded by their own greed. They''ve become our weapon, a blade pointed at Blackwood''s heart."


    The High Priest''s eyes widened, understanding dawning on his face.


    Even Mike felt a surge of satisfaction as the pieces fell into place.


    "Spread the word," he commanded.


    "Tell the tribes that the Azure Cloud army has set a trap, that we''ve seen through their deception. We''re retreating, falling back a hundred miles."


    "Yes, Apostle!"


    The High Priest hurried off to relay the orders.


    Meanwhile, on the Azure Cloud border, Nathan stood atop the wall, his coffin strapped to his back, his gaze fixed on the horizon.


    Beside him stood Daniel, clad in gleaming armor, his expression a mixture of anticipation and concern.


    Behind them, a sea of Cloudview County Psychics stretched as far as the eye could see.


    Two-tenths of Azure Cloud''s population had answered the call to arms.


    "Report! The Druids... they''re not moving. They''re retreating!"


    A Developing Skill scout rushed towards them, his voice breathless.


    Nathan and Daniel exchanged a look, their brows furrowed.


    "They''re retreating again?"


    Nathan stretched, his muscles tense.


    He felt no elation at the news, only a growing sense of unease.


    "Mike is a cunning adversary."


    Despite his semi-retirement, Nathan had kept a close eye on their Druid rivals.


    He had even shared a few cups of tea with Mike, their conversations a strange mix of animosity and grudging respect.


    He had even met two of the Druid elders, Shane and Lester, their interactions a delicate dance of veiled threats and thinly veiled insults.


    But Nathan never underestimated his opponents, especially Mike.


    The Druid Apostle was a shrewd strategist, a patient and calculating leader.


    "It''s for the best," Daniel said, letting out a sigh of relief.


    "Grandfather, we need you here, vigilant. If Mike is planning something, we need to be ready. The cost of a miscalculation could be devastating."


    "Relax, he won''t attack," Nathan said, a wry smile twisting his lips.


    "He''s waiting for us to weaken ourselves, hoping we''ll tear each other apart. Whether we win or lose against Sunshine Mansion, it''s a victory for the Druids."


    His eyes hardened.


    "He''s a cunning bastard, but we''ll see how long he can sit on the sidelines. Once we''ve conquered Starlight County, he''ll be singing a different tune."


    Together, they turned their gazes towards Starlight County, their thoughts aligned.


    "Don''t worry, Grandfather," Daniel said, his voice filled with confidence.


    "Jessica is more than capable. She''ll bring us victory."


    ...


    "What? The Druids are retreating from the Azure Cloud border?!"


    Danny''s face contorted with rage as he received the news.


    "The Azure Cloud army is gone! Cloudview County''s strongest warriors are in Starlight County! Why are they retreating?!"


    He grabbed the messenger by the collar, his voice a furious hiss.


    He had given the Druids everything they needed.


    They had assured him that once the Azure Cloud army was out of the picture, Mike would lead his forces in a devastating counterattack.


    It was the perfect plan.


    He had already envisioned the fall of Border Town, the triumphant march of the three families into Cloudview County, the plundering of Blackwood''s treasures.


    He should be standing victorious over Blackwood''s ruins, not listening to this infuriating news!


    "The Druids... they''re afraid!"


    The messenger stammered, his voice trembling with fear.


    "Border Town is overflowing with Psychics! Blackwood has called upon every able-bodied man in Cloudview County to defend the border! They''re even sending ordinary people, those without any cultivation!"


    The messenger''s fear stemmed not only from Danny''s wrath but also from what he had witnessed in Cloudview County.


    The people of that cursed land, regardless of their strength, were willing to fight, to die, for their home.


    It was a level of unity, of unwavering resolve, that he had never seen before.


    If Sunshine Mansion had called for such a mobilization, their citizens would have fled in terror.


    Even the Psychics would have sought safer havens.


    But these people... they were different.


    They feared nothing.


    "Danny."


    Kyle, who had been waiting impatiently, rose to his feet, his face a mask of thunder.


    He was a man of action, and delays frustrated him.


    "You promised us that the Azure Cloud border would fall. Instead, I see those Druid cowards retreating. Did you bring us here for nothing? I, Kyle, never return empty-handed."


    Danny''s face paled.


    He hadn''t anticipated this.


    His carefully laid plans were unraveling before his eyes.


    "Please, be patient, honored sir."


    Victor, who had risen through the ranks of the Roberts family thanks to Danny''s patronage, stepped forward.


    "Elder Danny is a man of foresight. The Azure Cloud army is in Starlight County, engaged in a fierce battle with the Druids. Once they fall into the trap..."


    He smiled, a cruel, predatory expression.


    "Once Azure Cloud suffers heavy losses, the Druids at the Cloudview County border will surely seize the opportunity to strike."


    "It better be that way," Kyle growled, reluctantly taking his seat.


    The Carters might be a bloodthirsty lot, but they were also shrewd and pragmatic.


    They wouldn''t have involved themselves in this scheme if not for Danny''s assurances of success.


    Only those who had walked through mountains of corpses and rivers of blood truly understood the danger posed by a family like Blackwood.

 Chapter 320 - 320: Prepare for battle! Part 3

    "Yes, all you have to do is wait. Everything will be ours."


    Danny let out a sigh of relief, nodding gratefully at Victor.


    He had been genuinely panicked for a moment.


    If he hadn''t managed to placate Kyle, he would have made a powerful enemy, and the nightmare of being robbed blind in Glory City might have repeated itself.


    The three families and their retinues waited, the tension growing with each passing day.


    Five days later, Danny''s anxiety had reached a fever pitch.


    His face was ashen, his hands trembling.


    "Something''s wrong. It''s been too long. Cloudview County''s attack was supposed to be a lightning strike. We should have heard of Blackwood''s defeat by now."


    As if to punctuate his words, a tremor shook the ground, drawing the attention of everyone present.


    They turned their gazes towards the east, their eyes widening in alarm.


    On the horizon, a dark shape was rising, blotting out the sky.


    It stretched across the horizon like a ribbon of darkness, its distance impossible to gauge.


    But there was no mistaking its nature.


    Something massive was approaching, a vast army of Psychics and ability vessels.


    "What... what is that?!"


    Danny stared in disbelief, a cold dread gripping his heart.


    ...


    Sunshine Mansion was divided into three border counties: Starlight County, Azure Cloud, and Maple Grove.


    Azure Cloud lay nestled between the other two.


    Cloudview County, within Azure Cloud, shared a long border with Starlight County but was separated from Cedar County by treacherous mountains and a wide, raging river.


    Cedar County was a land of abundance, its resources coveted by the Druids.


    But its natural defenses were formidable, requiring years, if not decades, to overcome.


    Blackwood had never considered Cedar County a threat, focusing their defenses on the more immediate danger posed by the six Druid tribes.


    Now, above the border between Sunshine Mansion and Cedar County, a vast fleet of ability vessels darkened the sky. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Psychics, their auras blazing with power, stood ready for battle.


    At the forefront of the fleet, a magnificent vessel, its hull radiating the power of a top-grade ability weapon, led the charge.


    It was the very vessel Blackwood had taken from Danny five years ago, but it had undergone a transformation.


    No longer a gaudy symbol of wealth, it was now a sleek, deadly weapon of war.


    Standing at the vessel''s prow, his black robes billowing in the wind, was Edward, the Duke of Azure Cloud, a man who had long operated in the shadows.


    "Duke Bryce," he said, his voice carrying across the distance, "welcome to Cloudview County."


    Beside him stood a young man, his features handsome, his bearing noble.


    But his eyes held the wisdom of a thousand years.


    It was Bryce, the Duke of Cedar County.


    His expression was a mixture of apprehension and grim determination.


    He was a Duke, a descendant of the once-proud Phillips family, one of Sunshine Mansion''s eight great Psychic families.


    Cedar County had been their domain, their ancestral home.


    They had ruled it with an iron fist, their influence unchallenged.


    But now, listening to Edward''s words, knowing that Cedar County was to be absorbed into Cloudview County, just like Starlight County, he felt no resentment, only a burning desire for revenge.


    "Very well," he said, his voice steady.


    "If it means reclaiming our homeland, then let Cedar County be renamed. Let it become part of Azure Cloud."


    He took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping across the familiar landscape below.


    He could sense the Druids gathering, their forces mobilizing to defend their stolen territory.


    His voice rang out, filled with power and resolve.


    "Today, the people of Cedar County return home!"


    "Azure Cloud stood firm against the Druids. We will follow their example. This battle..."


    "Will end in victory!"


    "Not another inch of Cedar County will be yielded!"


    With a roar, he leaped from the vessel, his psychic energy erupting around him like a storm.


    Behind him, the fleet of ability vessels descended, disgorging a wave of Cedar County Psychics, their swords gleaming, their eyes burning with righteous fury.


    They charged towards their homeland, their hearts filled with a single purpose: to reclaim what was rightfully theirs.


    ...


    High atop a snow-capped mountain, overlooking the ravaged landscape of Cedar County, Ethan watched the unfolding events with a satisfied smile.


    Before him, the translucent interface displayed a message:


    [Your descendant, Edward, has successfully brought the Cedar County Psychics back to their homeland, diverting attention from the Starlight County campaign.]


    [Special Event ¨C Supporting Cedar County]


    [After Joseph and Katie''s initial attempts to persuade Duke Bryce to ally with Blackwood failed, Bryce faced increasing hostility in his new territory. Rumors spread, accusing the Phillips family of harboring ambitions to conquer their neighbors. Their situation grew increasingly precarious.]


    [Blackwood, however, never gave up hope. Your descendants, starting with Nathan and Lucas, took turns trying to persuade Bryce. The more they persisted, the more suspicious Bryce became, and the more precarious his situation grew. Finally, over a decade ago, Bryce agreed to a plan to retake Cedar County with Blackwood''s help.]


    [Your family, however, refused to simply restore Bryce to power. They demanded that Cedar County be renamed Azure Cloud and that Bryce wait for the opportune moment to strike.]


    Blackwood had never been content to simply react to their enemies'' moves.


    And today...


    "The time is right," Ethan murmured, his smile widening.


    "Blackwood has been planning for this moment for years. It''s time to reveal our hand."


    His time in the game world had given him a deep understanding of his family''s history, their strategies, their unwavering determination.


    He had witnessed their cunning, their willingness to take risks, their unwavering commitment to protecting their own.


    He had seen the "Millennial Bloodline Project," the "Support Cedar County Plan," and even Nathan''s desperate gambit, a plan that had nearly cost him his life.


    Blackwood never played defense.


    From their humble beginnings as a small village, they had always been the aggressors.


    Now, behind him, the combined might of Cloudview County stood ready for battle.


    The leaders of the major factions were present: Black Tortoise''s Leon Daoist, Ten Thousand Life Mountain''s Immortal Master, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s Ralph... and half of their disciples!


    Years of constant warfare had tempered Cloudview County''s factions, forging them into a formidable force.


    Black Tortoise had gained another Competent Force expert.


    Ralph, ever the pragmatist, had resorted to unorthodox methods, utilizing forbidden techniques to bolster his sect''s strength.


    The Ghost Eye Demonic Gate had become the most powerful faction in Cloudview County, their methods whispered about in hushed tones but ultimately accepted as a necessary evil.


    Even the Primordial Blood Tree, the object of so much envy and greed, had taken human form, standing tall and imposing amidst the assembled forces.


    Blackwood Luna, Julian, Mary, Amelia, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, Larry from the third generation... they weren''t in Glory City, they weren''t at the border, they weren''t in Starlight County.


    While all eyes were focused on the battles raging elsewhere, they had quietly assembled their forces and marched on Cedar County.


    "Cedar County!" Julian roared, his booming laughter echoing across the mountaintop.


    He hefted his massive hammer, his shaved head gleaming in the sunlight.


    Those around him instinctively ducked, fearing the wrath of his mighty weapon.


    The blacksmith, his muscles honed by years of tireless work, was practically giddy with excitement.


    "Who needs that pathetic Starlight County? It''s even poorer than Azure Cloud! This time, Blackwood is going for the big prize!"


    Yes, the big prize.


    They had reached the Cedar County border undetected, a ghost army materializing from the shadows.

 Chapter 321 - 321: You... youre with Blackwood too?!

    All eyes were fixed on the border between Cedar County and Sunshine Mansion.


    A dark shape appeared on the horizon, growing larger with each passing moment.


    Luna could sense the Druids within Cedar County stirring, their alarm growing as they dispatched troops to intercept the approaching force.


    A distant explosion boomed across the landscape, sending tremors through the air and disrupting the flow of natural energies.


    The Forebearer Psychic Position emerged from the Blackwood descendants'' chests, glowing with an ethereal light. It hovered above the snow-capped mountain, forming a giant character ¨C "B" ¨C the symbol of their lineage, their strength. Their power surged, their psychic powers intensified, their control over natural energies amplified.


    [You have used Family Willpower.]


    [Skill activated ¨C Family Glory!]


    [Attack!]


    The Forebearer''s inscription blazed above them, a beacon of power and defiance. With a roar, the Blackwood descendants charged down the mountainside, their eyes burning with righteous fury.


    "Children, the Forebearer watches over us! Take up your Psychic Positions! Charge!!!"


    Luna, her six tails swirling behind her, led the charge, her voice a clarion call that echoed across the battlefield.


    Julian, his necklace of Storage Rings shimmering with power, followed close behind. His army of AI Bionic Robots, their eyes glowing with malevolent intent, shot forward like a volley of arrows. Julian himself transformed mid-air, his silver limbs melting into a liquid metal that enveloped his body, growing larger and larger until it towered over the battlefield, a hundred meters tall.


    "AI Bionic Robot legion, charge!"


    The AI Bionic Robots followed their creator''s lead, their forms shifting and expanding, their metallic bodies bristling with weapons. They became mountains of steel and fury, crashing down upon the unsuspecting Druids.


    "Holy... that madman''s AI Bionic Robot techniques have become terrifying," Ralph muttered, watching the metallic rain descend. The Ghost Eye Demonic Gate, masters of unorthodox techniques, were no strangers to AI Bionic Robot arts. He had fought alongside Julian in the past, back when those robots were mere puppets, incapable of flight or independent thought.


    Now... this army of psychic-powered AI Bionic Robots was a nightmare come to life.


    Then came Mary and Larry.


    One, inheriting the will of Boar Monarch Pete, the other, the queen of the Swamp Jungle, they stood atop Julian''s colossal mech, their forms dwarfed by the towering machine. As the ironclad behemoth crashed through the Druid lines, a wave of monstrous beasts followed in its wake.


    Psychic beasts, summoned from the depths of Mary and Larry''s minds, materialized around the AI Bionic Robot, their numbers growing with each passing moment.


    And then came the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Its vines snaked across the battlefield, cracking the earth, summoning an army of tree demons and Stone beasts.


    They were an unstoppable force.


    If only Nathan were here, Ethan thought, his Death Coffin would unleash a tide of Zombies and wraiths, turning the battlefield into a nightmare realm. But the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate had their own tricks up their sleeves. They unleashed their forbidden technique, the "Underworld Gate," summoning a horde of vengeful spirits from the depths of darkness.


    In less than a quarter of an hour, Cloudview County''s forces had transformed into an unstoppable torrent of destruction.


    They swept through the border between Cedar County and the Endless Forest, flames engulfing the Druid rearguard.


    The plan they had devised for Starlight County was unfolding in Cedar County instead!


    ...


    "Elder Danny, the Azure Cloud army, led by Jessica, engaged the Druids in Starlight County. And then... they retreated with the rest of Cloudview County''s forces!" Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Terrible news, Elder Danny! Bryce of Cedar County has somehow returned to his homeland! He''s attacking from Sunshine Mansion!"


    "And Cloudview County... their forces have appeared in Cedar County! They''ve caught the Druids completely off guard!"


    One after another, the reports reached Danny, each one a hammer blow to his carefully constructed plans.


    "Impossible! This is impossible!"


    Danny couldn''t comprehend it. Sunshine Mansion had been on high alert ever since Starlight County had joined forces with Azure Cloud.


    How had Bryce managed to return to Cedar County?


    And why was everything going wrong? Blackwood hadn''t even attempted to hold Starlight County. Jessica''s Azure Cloud army had played right into his hands, lulling the Druids into a false sense of security.


    He felt like a puppet, his every move orchestrated by an unseen hand.


    "Danny..."


    Kyle''s face was a mask of fury. He strode towards Danny, his eyes blazing with anger. With a swift motion, he snatched Danny''s Storage Ring. "You Roberts are all incompetent fools! You''ve been played!"


    "No... it can''t be..."


    Danny shook his head, his mind reeling. Then, his eyes widened in horror as he turned to Victor. The young man was smiling, a cruel, knowing smile.


    His mind felt like it was about to explode. He couldn''t understand. What had happened?


    Kyle glanced at Neil, who remained seated, her expression unreadable. He shook his head, a sigh escaping his lips. He turned and left, his retinue following close behind. At least he had Danny''s Storage Ring. He wouldn''t leave empty-handed.


    As he flew away, he glanced back at the unfolding battle in Cedar County, his eyes narrowed. "Blackwood... you''re more cunning than I anticipated. I''ll be watching you. Sunshine Mansion has no place for a family like yours."


    Once Kyle was gone, Danny unleashed his psychic power, his injured body trembling with rage. He glared at Victor, his voice a venomous hiss. "It was you! You betrayed me! You revealed my plans to Blackwood!"


    But Victor showed no fear. He laughed, his voice mocking. "You''re slow, old man. Five years ago, you almost got me killed when you confronted that Blackwood demon. Do you really think you survived by chance?"


    "What..."


    Danny stared at him, his mind reeling.


    "Do you really think you were allowed to visit Blackwood so many times without their knowledge?" Victor continued, his voice dripping with disdain. "Do you really think you stumbled upon their plans by accident? It was all a show, a performance for your benefit."


    "Blackwood tolerated you for years. Why humiliate you now, break you so publicly? To fuel your rage, of course!"


    "The Crimson War God... she lives up to her name. And that Azure Cloud overlord... he''s a master strategist. They were right. Anger makes fools of us all.


    And sometimes, your enemy can be your most useful tool."


    "Blackwood laid the bait, exposed their vulnerabilities, and you, blinded by rage, walked right into their trap!"


    A trap... a trap...


    It all made sense now. From the moment he had set foot in Cloudview County, he had been playing Blackwood''s game.


    "I''ll kill you!"


    He lunged at Victor, his psychic energy blazing. He didn''t care why Victor had betrayed him. All he wanted was revenge.


    But Victor just laughed.


    A spectral Kirin, summoned by Danny''s fury, charged towards Victor, only to be intercepted by a wave of psychic energy. It dissipated into nothingness.


    The force of the blast revealed a small, unassuming object hanging from Victor''s belt: a miniature scale.


    Danny stared in disbelief. It was... Neil''s symbol!


    "You... you''re with Blackwood too?!"


    Danny''s face was ashen. He was surrounded by enemies. The rogue cultivator on the road, his own family member...


    Who else was working for Blackwood?

 Chapter 322 - 322: Explain? What explanation?

    "You seem to have truly miscalculated today, Danny Roberts. Did you really believe I, Neil Parker, would be a mere pawn for Blackwood?"


    Neil chuckled softly.


    "However, Bryce from Cedar County offered our Parker family quite a handsome reward. Five years of our efforts, helping them return to Cedar County unnoticed."


    "You..."


    Danny''s vision blacked out, a mouthful of blood staining his lips.


    "You treacherous Parker family! The allies of the Sunshine Mansion will avenge me!"


    "You overestimate your so-called ''allies.'' Who hasn''t engaged in dealings with my Parker family? Bring forth evidence, then we''ll talk about vengeance."


    Neil rose to his feet, sighing deeply.


    "I thought you, Danny Roberts from Kylin Mountain, had something up your sleeve. To think you couldn''t even outmaneuver a mere subordinate of Blackwood, instead becoming a pawn, a jester dancing for another''s amusement. I foolishly believed you could topple Blackwood. I overestimated you."


    "I..."


    Danny struggled to speak, but Neil offered him no chance.


    With a casual clap of her hands, two Competent Force from the Parker family emerged, instantly charging towards Danny.


    Within moments, the severely wounded Danny was slain.


    This man, arrogant and domineering under Blackwood''s nose, convinced he had uncovered Blackwood''s weakness, swore to bring about Blackwood''s downfall. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet in the end, he never even caught a glimpse of Blackwood himself, dying at the hands of his supposed ''companion.''


    Victor sighed, watching as Neil prepared to retrieve the body.


    He bowed hastily.


    "Master, our agreement included eliminating those from Carter Duke''s Mansion. How should I explain this?"


    "Explain? What explanation? Do you have any idea who Carter Kyle is? The Emerald Empire has its Power Ranking. Every name on that list possesses the potential for Basic Mastery, Kyle ranks twenty-third. If I could kill him, do you think I''d be standing here making deals with you?"


    Neil scoffed.


    "And your master, if I were to be injured in a battle with Kyle, I doubt I could escape this place either. Blackwood''s influence is far-reaching indeed."


    "..."


    Victor remained silent for a moment, then glanced at the body Neil was dragging.


    "Master, I wish to purchase this corpse. Please, name your price."


    The two began their morbid transaction.


    In the distance, a group clad in white, their chests emblazoned with the symbol of a scale, concealed their presence.


    These were the Psychics.


    "Master, should we strike?"


    One of the Psychics made a throat-slitting gesture.


    The leader''s eyes glinted coldly.


    Despite the distance, his gaze remained fixed on Neil.


    He raised a hand slightly, stopping his eager subordinate.


    "That woman from the Parker family is no simpleton. She must have sensed something to let Kyle go. She wouldn''t have acted so calmly without an escape plan or the means to defeat us. We don''t engage in unnecessary risks."


    With that, the group made no further moves, turning back towards Cloudview County.


    Upon reaching Border Town, the leader removed his mask and donned his armor.


    His flowing white hair cascaded down his shoulders as he strode towards a burly man in simple clothes, carrying a coffin on his back.


    Together, they gazed towards the distant Endless Forest.


    "Grandfather, Danny is dead."


    "What of the other two families?"


    "They escaped. I found no opportunity to eliminate them all. I have failed you and our Forebearer."


    "No matter. The world is vast, and there''s time yet."


    ...


    The battlefield in Cedar County raged.


    High above, five powerful auras clashed, sending ripples across the sky.


    Shane and Lester, witnessing Cedar County''s plight, had attempted to intervene.


    However, they were intercepted by Bill the Daoist and Owen, and now, Elder Phillips had joined the fray.


    The Druids, caught off guard by the ferocity of Cedar County''s forces, were in disarray.


    They hadn''t anticipated such resistance after all these years.


    Blackwood''s hidden experts, stationed in the surrounding mountains, further added to the Druids'' woes.


    [Your family''s meticulous planning over the years led to the establishment of the ''Dawn'' faction within the Sunshine Mansion. Victor, out of favor within Kylin Mountain, joined their ranks. Later, he aligned himself with Daniel and Jessica, forming ''The Oracle Chamber''.]


    [Under your family''s orchestration, Danny became a pawn, feeding false information to the Druids, diverting their attention. This misinformation also lulled other factions within the Sunshine Mansion into a false sense of security!]


    [Through connections forged between Phillips and ''The Oracle Chamber'', your family struck a deal with the Parker family of the Sunshine Mansion''s Fortune Sanctum. This allowed Phillips to secretly approach Cedar County and aid your family in eliminating Danny.]


    [Family Willpower +5]


    [Your descendant, Daniel, reports his failure to eliminate all three families, expressing his disappointment.]


    "They''ve done well enough."


    Ethan surveyed the battlefield below.


    His descendants charged into the fray, wielding their Forebearer Psychic Positions.


    Over the years, he had grown accustomed to seeing them treat these artifacts as both protective talismans and deadly weapons.


    A surge of pride swelled within him.


    Blackwood had truly matured.


    The children of what was once Gratitude Village had all found their place, whether as rulers, shadowy figures pulling strings from the darkness, or fierce warriors on the battlefield.


    His gaze fell upon Luna, locked in a perilous struggle.


    Without hesitation, Ethan channeled his own Forebearer Psychic Position, joining the fight alongside her.


    [3 Family Willpower consumed. Activating skill: ''Forebearer''s Divine Punishment''!]


    "What is that?"


    The clash of mighty warriors raged far from the main battlefield.


    A Druid priest, his movements swift and ghostly, fought with the aid of protective totems and incredible regenerative abilities.


    He had already wounded Luna.


    But suddenly, the Druid froze, his eyes drawn to the sky.


    Lightning crackled, converging upon Ethan''s Psychic Position, infusing it with the power of two thunderbolts.


    The air crackled with the raw energy of the storm.


    With the empowered Psychic Position floating before her, Luna, her features contorted in a feral snarl, charged alongside it.


    "The Forebearer stands with us, descendants of Blackwood!"


    "Kill!"


    ...


    One month later.


    [Special Event - Support Cedar County: Complete]


    [Your family''s meticulous planning over the years, through various means, has brought Phillips back to Cedar County. The Psychics of Cedar County have returned to their homeland, reclaiming half of their territory. Your family''s surprise attack has cut off the Druids'' retreat, trapping a large number of them within Cedar County.]


    In Cloudview County, outside the walls of Glory City, a courtyard bustled with powerful figures from three great counties.


    The people of Cedar County had retaken their homeland, but it was a vast land.


    Even with the support of Cloudview County, it would take at least a decade to completely drive out the Druids.


    Glory City, strategically located in the center, became a gathering point for these powerful figures, ready to lend their support at a moment''s notice.


    "Congratulations to Bryce on reclaiming your homeland."


    Among the crowd, Duke Jon offered his congratulations to Bryce.


    His expression held no hint of resentment, only genuine joy.

 Chapter 323 - 323: If I have overstepped my bounds, I apologize

    When Jessica led the Azure Cloud army to help Walker reclaim their homeland, Jon and the six factions of Starlight County were initially overjoyed.


    However, their joy was short-lived.


    Jessica abruptly withdrew her forces, claiming it was merely a feint, leaving the Psychics of Starlight County bewildered.


    Even the Druids, who had prepared traps to ambush the Azure Cloud army, were left scratching their heads.


    It wasn''t until the battle in Cedar County commenced that they grasped the full picture.


    At first, Jon was furious.


    But as he came to understand the situation, his anger subsided.


    He realized that if Blackwood could keep their own allies in the dark, they could certainly deceive the Druids and the opportunistic factions lurking in the shadows of the Sunshine Mansion.


    Besides, everyone was in this together now, and cooperation was paramount.


    Once Jon embraced a more passive role, entrusting the heavy lifting to others and enjoying the ride, he found a newfound peace.


    Duke Jon was, for once, content.


    "Hahaha, excellent!" Bryce boomed, clapping Jon on the back.


    "My Phillips family''s return to our homeland wouldn''t have been possible without your Walker family drawing the enemy''s attention. Once we''ve driven out the Druids, we''ll clear out those infesting your Starlight County!"


    Bryce, brimming with confidence after his victory, surveyed the faces gathered in the courtyard, celebrating their triumph.


    With a sly smile, he gestured to one of his kinsmen.


    A map unfurled across the table, depicting the recent battles.


    Bryce cleared his throat.


    "Friends, Blackwood and my family have been planning this counteroffensive for years. For the past five, I have dedicated every waking moment to preparing for this war. Now, observe..."


    Bryce pointed to the map, his psychic powers projecting a three-dimensional representation of the three counties.


    He spoke with an air of authority, outlining his strategies and plans.


    He occasionally glanced at the Blackwood contingent, but Nathan, Daniel, Jessica, and Edward showed no signs of concern, only nodding along.


    This puzzled Bryce slightly.


    He turned back to the group and announced, "As you know, Blackwood and I had an agreement. They would help us reclaim our homeland, and in return, Cedar County would be renamed Azure Cloud."


    "Therefore, I propose that from this day forward, the three counties shall be unified under the banner of Azure Cloud, divided into East and West territories, with Azure Cloud as the heartland. What say you?"


    The Blackwood representatives remained impassive, nodding their agreement.


    However, the other factions from Cloudview County, including the six factions of Starlight County and even Duke Jon, frowned.


    In the past, Blackwood had always taken the lead in such matters.


    Now, despite Cloudview County playing a crucial role in Phillips'' victory, Bryce was acting as if he were the one in charge, disregarding his guests and assuming a position of authority.


    Chuck from the Arcane Society, known for his fiery temper, rivaling even Julian, was the first to speak out.


    Seeing Blackwood''s silence and Bryce''s self-assured demeanor, he roared, "Bryce, what''s the meaning of this? I''ve never even met you, and you''re here acting like you''re giving us orders?"


    Bryce, seemingly anticipating this reaction, chuckled.


    "You must be Chuck from the Western Arcane Society, ranked thirty-ninth on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking."


    "You''re damn right I am!" Chuck glared at Bryce.


    He couldn''t explain it, but he disliked the man on sight.


    Unlike Blackwood, who, despite their flaws, were always upfront and loyal to their allies, Bryce seemed artificial, his every action calculated to assert his dominance.


    Bryce brushed off Chuck''s hostility.


    "My dear Chuck, if I came across as commanding, it''s only because of my eagerness. You see, I accompanied Grand Tutor Gilbert on his eastern campaign many years ago and gained some experience in matters of war. I''m merely offering my humble suggestions."


    He glanced at the assembled crowd and bowed slightly. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If I have overstepped my bounds, I apologize."


    Nathan, sensing the tension, let out a hearty laugh.


    "Come now, Bryce, there''s no need for such formalities. We''re all friends here, sailing on the same ship. Blackwood fully supports any ideas you may have."


    "But I..." Chuck started, but Donna silenced him with a swift kick to the shin.


    He gritted his teeth and whispered, "What was that for? Can''t you see this Bryce fellow is bad news? I need to set him straight!"


    Donna shook her head, knowing their whispers were likely audible to the powerful Psychics present.


    Chuck, with a final huff of indignation, fell silent.


    The meeting dragged on for two hours, with Bryce dominating the conversation and everyone else merely listening.


    The atmosphere remained tense and awkward.


    As the attendees dispersed, Bryce watched them go, a frown etched on his face.


    One of his elders leaned in and murmured, "Bryce, it seems Blackwood''s influence here runs deep."


    "Indeed, Great Grandfather," Bryce replied, his eyes narrowed.


    "But time changes everything. I''ve fulfilled my end of the bargain with Blackwood, and they''ve reaped considerable benefits from this alliance. My Phillips family has a Basic Mastery, our strength far surpasses that of Cloudview County, and our roots run deeper. This is our chance.


    I trust Blackwood understands their place and the advantages of aligning themselves with the mightiest tree in the forest."


    ...


    Back at their headquarters, the Blackwood contingent gathered beneath the crimson canopy of the Primordial Blood Tree.


    Chuck, witnessing their nonchalant attitude towards Bryce''s power play, finally understood the meaning of "a watched pot never boils."


    "Are you Blackwood folks blind?" he exploded, one hand on his hip, the other pointing accusingly.


    Despite his handsome features, his demeanor resembled that of a disgruntled market vendor.


    "You''ve brought a pack of wolves into our midst, helped them no less! Who does that Bryce fellow think he is? One would think he single-handedly defeated the Druids! He''s got delusions of grandeur, I tell you!"


    "Enough, Master, enough!" Donna cried, her pigtails bouncing as she leaped to her feet.


    She wrapped an arm around Chuck''s neck, dragging him back.


    "You''re embarrassing yourself! Have some decorum! What good does shouting achieve at your age?"


    Had she always been so level-headed?


    Perhaps having an even more impulsive master in Chuck had forced her to mature quickly, constantly needing to rein in his reckless outbursts.


    Chuck, grumbling under his breath, reluctantly fell silent, though his gaze remained fixed on the courtyard outside, simmering with indignation.


    [Your descendant, Donna, having spent years cultivating psychic powers alongside Chuck, has become increasingly accustomed to her master''s impulsiveness. She has become like a caretaker, reining in his temper and guiding his actions. This has granted her the trait: Rebellious Disciple.]


    [Respect for Master -80%, Success rate in preventing Master''s outbursts increased by 50%, Damage dealt to Master increased by 50%, Psychic power cultivation speed increased by 10% when near Master.]

 Chapter 324 - 324: Dont blame yourselves

    Ethan, noticing Donna''s new trait for the first time, was speechless.


    He remembered when Donna was a wild child, running with rogue cultivators, her temper rivaling even Julian''s.


    It seemed the only way to curb her impulsiveness was to pair her with someone even more volatile.


    Chuck was an amusing contradiction ¨C fearless before Blackwood, even in the presence of two Basic Mastery masters, yet terrified of his own apprentice.


    Ethan and the rest of the Blackwood clan, however, found Chuck''s outburst relatable.


    What Chuck had perceived, most of them had as well, except perhaps Julian and the younger generation. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan maintained a neutral expression, but inwardly, he felt a twinge of annoyance.


    They hadn''t anticipated Phillips'' ambition when they''d helped them reclaim Cedar County.


    It was a stark contrast to when they''d brought Walker back to Cloudview County.


    Back then, Blackwood had proceeded with caution, aware of the potential pitfalls of sharing power.


    Jon, to his credit, had been surprisingly compliant, easing their worries.


    His obedience had lulled them into a false sense of security.


    "Chuck, you see, rumors can be deceiving," Daniel said with a wry smile.


    "Did you ever expect Phillips to act this way?"


    "Never," Chuck admitted, shaking his head.


    "Legend has it that the Phillips family were once renowned for their peace-loving nature. I''ve been to their lands before, and they were incredibly hospitable. I never imagined that after Blackwood helped them, that Bryce fellow would try to seize control of all three counties!"


    He clenched his fists, his frustration evident.


    "We''ve always worked together, followed Blackwood''s lead. Now Bryce comes along with his power grab. Even a fool can see this will lead to trouble."


    "Human nature is a complex thing," Nathan, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke, sighing.


    "It''s easier to find companionship in hardship than in victory. But perhaps it''s for the best. Phillips has revealed their true colors early on, giving us time to prepare."


    Chuck''s eyes lit up, and he slammed his fist into his palm.


    "You''re right! I''ll go find Jon. We''ll confront that old Phillips together and remind him of his place!"


    "Master, not this again!" Donna groaned, leaping up to deliver a swift chop to the back of Chuck''s head.


    Chuck yelped, clutching his head as he glared at his apprentice.


    "There are Blackwood elders present, Donna! Who''s the master here?"


    The Blackwood elders exchanged amused glances at the bizarre master-disciple duo.


    In the distance, Charlie Crackle, who viewed Donna as a surrogate daughter after she''d saved his life, wiped away a tear.


    "They grow up so fast," he mumbled. "She''s got a master now, doesn''t even have time to ride on my back anymore."


    "Thank you, Chuck, but there''s no need for that," Daniel interjected, gently restraining Chuck.


    "We can''t afford to rock the boat now. The three counties have just found a fragile peace. Bryce has fulfilled his promise, renaming Cedar County to Azure Cloud. He hasn''t broken any agreements. He''s ambitious, yes, but who isn''t? Let him be."


    "But..." Chuck began, then caught Donna''s warning look.


    He crossed his arms and grumbled, "Well, my Arcane Society wants nothing to do with him. I''m sure old Walker feels the same, and don''t forget about Martin from Azure Cloud!"


    "Listen, Chuck," Daniel said calmly.


    "From now on, just humor Bryce. If he oversteps his boundaries, come to me. The Phillips family has a Basic Mastery, so they''re bound to have aspirations. As long as they don''t go too far, we''ll let them be."


    Reassured, Chuck finally relented.


    Had Daniel not intervened, the hot-headed cultivator might have stormed off to confront Phillips directly.


    Once Donna had ushered Chuck away, Nathan spoke, his voice laced with displeasure.


    "It seems both Bryce and Phillips have grand ambitions."


    The Blackwood elders exchanged grim looks.


    Edward slapped himself hard on the cheek.


    "It''s my fault, and Joseph''s. We shouldn''t have orchestrated Phillips'' return to Cedar County. We''ve invited the wolf into our home."


    "Don''t blame yourselves," Daniel said, stopping Edward from another round of self-flagellation.


    "If Phillips wants to rule the three counties, believing it will elevate their status, then let them. It might actually work in our favor."


    "What?" Julian exclaimed, about to launch into a tirade, but he bit his tongue, remembering Chuck''s earlier scolding.


    At least Donna was the only one who dared to reprimand Chuck.


    Here, he had an entire audience ready to put him in his place.


    Still, Daniel''s nonchalance irked him.


    "They''re on our turf, claiming dominion! How is that a good thing?"


    "You idiot!" Amelia interjected, kicking Julian''s shin.


    As her brother crumpled to the ground, clutching his leg, she continued, "Let me explain something. When I cultivate my spirit herbs, the ones that grow the tallest are always the first to be harvested. Look at that old tree behind you. When it was younger and taller, it bore the brunt of every storm. And you lot, you used to relieve yourselves at its base because it was the most convenient target."


    The Primordial Blood Tree: ...


    Unpleasant memories flooded its consciousness, eclipsing its earlier amusement at Julian''s expense.


    "Exactly," Daniel said, grinning.


    "Aunt Amelia understands. Phillips sees our success but has no idea how difficult it''s been to maintain control of even one county all these years. We have enemies on all sides, factions eyeing Cloudview County with envy. Now is the time for Blackwood to lie low. If Phillips wants to shoulder the burden of leadership, let them."


    "We shouldn''t oppose them. We should encourage them, support them. Instead of confronting every challenge head-on, let''s push Phillips forward, to shield Blackwood."


    "That will give us time to focus on our own affairs."


    Daniel''s expression turned serious.


    "Phillips better not disappoint us. Otherwise..."


    Ethan, observing the family meeting, smiled.


    The people of Cloudview County might not recognize the ancient god royal decree, but they would answer Blackwood''s call without hesitation.


    That was the foundation they had built over years of shared struggles and triumphs.


    No matter how grand Phillips'' and Bryce''s ambitions were, as long as they remained on Cloudview County soil, their aspirations would only serve to make them Blackwood''s most valuable assets.

 Chapter 325 - 325: Ethan, where have you been?

    After the Cedar County campaign, while Cloudview County was still embroiled in conflict, the Azure Cloud army returned to their borders, gradually reclaiming the territory that Clark had seized.


    Jon, true to his word, had embraced a life of leisure, and the Psychics of Starlight County followed suit.


    Some even began joining the Azure Cloud army, inspired by their display of might.


    After all, not all Psychics were solely focused on honing their powers; some yearned for the camaraderie and purpose of military service.


    Meanwhile, Phillips continued their war against the Druids in what was now the Western Territory of Azure Cloud.


    Atop the same mountain where Blackwood''s surprise attack had taken place, Phillips erected a grand palace, a symbol of their authority and a strategic command center.


    Despite Phillips'' ambition, Bryce proved to be a capable leader.


    He organized their forces, minimized losses, and even sent envoys to learn from Jessica, establishing a formidable "Phillips Legion."


    Five years passed, and under Phillips'' rule, Azure Cloud flourished.


    One day, in the grand hall of the Phillips palace, Bryce sat upon his jade throne, clad in black armor adorned with a black python, a symbol adopted from Daniel.


    "Daniel, my friend," Bryce boomed, "I owe you a debt of gratitude. Your timely arrival with one hundred thousand Psychics was instrumental in crushing the Eight-Leaf Druids and driving them from our Western Territory!"


    Daniel smiled modestly.


    "You give me too much credit, Bryce. Your leadership was the deciding factor. Speaking of which, we''ve had numerous delegations from the Sunshine Mansion these past few years. They''ve caught wind of the spirit herbs and ores we''ve acquired from the Druids and are eager to trade.


    They''ve approached various factions within Azure Cloud, offering Energy Stones but refusing to part with any other resources. How should we proceed?"


    Bryce''s face hardened.


    The hall was filled with representatives from various factions, and none had escaped the Sunshine Mansion''s attempts to exploit their recent gains.


    The mere mention of the Sunshine Mansion elicited scowls and murmurs of discontent.


    "They can dream on!" Bryce declared, slamming his fist on the armrest.


    "They offered no aid during the war, content to isolate us and restrict our access to resources. Now they want a share of our hard-won spoils? I''d rather see our storehouses overflow than give them a single scrap!"


    "Well said!" The hall erupted in cheers.


    Once the crowd dispersed, Bryce wiped the sweat from his brow.


    Those five years had been the most challenging of his life.


    Since assuming control of Azure Cloud, the Druids'' attacks had intensified, focusing solely on his Western Territory.


    He''d spent every waking moment coordinating defenses, appeasing allies, and consolidating his authority.


    He''d finally managed to secure his position as the leader of Azure Cloud, but now Jon and Chuck were pressuring him to liberate the Eastern Territory.


    And then there were the citizens of Cloudview County, struggling to rebuild their lives and their cities, their needs a constant drain on their resources.


    But the most formidable threat remained the Sunshine Mansion, their covetous gaze fixed upon Azure Cloud, like predators circling their prey.


    "Thank goodness I''m here," Bryce muttered to himself.


    "If Blackwood were in charge, Azure Cloud would be ripe for the taking. Still, they''ve been surprisingly cooperative. I''ll give them that."


    He took a deep breath and gazed towards the Sunshine Mansion, a steely glint in his eyes.


    "This is my Phillips family''s opportunity. We have the land, the resources, and the people. Once I''ve dealt with the Druids, the Sunshine Mansion will rue the day they ever crossed Azure Cloud!"


    Meanwhile, Ethan, enjoying a rare moment of respite, emerged from his meditation in Bill the Daoist''s cultivation chamber.


    [Your family, under Bryce''s leadership, continues to thrive and grow stronger.]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has entered seclusion to attempt a breakthrough to the fifth level of the Death Coffin technique.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, having acquired a large quantity of seventh-grade and a small amount of sixth-grade crafting materials, including a branch from the Primordial Blood Tree, is preparing to attempt a breakthrough to sixth-grade Spirit Artifact Master.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, has successfully refined two doses of the sixth-grade Spirit Medicine, "Body Restoration and Qi Gathering Powder."]


    [Your descendants have gathered the necessary resources for Marcus to attempt his ninety-nine thunder tribulation...]


    Ethan smiled, nodding in satisfaction.


    He glanced towards Bryce''s palace atop the mountain, raising a thumbs-up.


    "Blackwood chose wisely. You''re doing an excellent job."


    ...


    With Bryce at the helm, the three territories of Azure Cloud prospered.


    As the next Grand Rite approached, Ethan logged out of the game.


    Returning to reality after so long, he felt a strange sense of disorientation.


    He pulled out his phone.


    While years had passed in the game, only a few days had gone by in the real world.


    His phone was flooded with notifications.


    [Major victory! The magical civilization invasion has been repelled in just one day! They have retreated to near Mars!]


    [Rumors abound of an unknown powerhouse wreaking havoc within the magical civilization''s stronghold. Several reclusive Psychics have joined the national army, seeking retribution!]


    [Exciting news from the National Psychic Exploration Team! The underwater ruins they discovered may hold the key to Earth''s lost history!]


    [...]


    "What? They were defeated so quickly?" Ethan was stunned.


    He knew the magical civilization was outmatched, especially with Earth''s Psychics returning from their interstellar missions, but he hadn''t expected such a swift resolution.


    He''d been worried about them attacking his neighborhood.


    He breathed a sigh of relief.


    "Good riddance. By the time I master my skills in the game, they''ll be no match for me." S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He scrolled through the news as he stepped outside.


    Lisa, his AI assistant, was waiting for him, her expression unreadable.


    "Master, this is the longest you''ve stayed indoors."


    Ethan couldn''t exactly tell her he''d been busy building a family and fighting for survival in a virtual world.


    He mumbled a vague excuse and instructed Lisa to prepare his meal.


    "The bicentennial Grand Rite is fast approaching. I have more than enough Energy Stones and spirit herbs. My family is well-stocked too. Sixth and seventh-grade spirit medicines are impossible to find on Earth. Ancient cultivation techniques or advanced weaponry are the only things that would be of value to them now."


    Even outside the game, his thoughts remained fixated on his virtual family.


    "They''re still at war with the Druids. Who knows when it will end."


    "The Sunshine Mansion is another threat. They haven''t retaliated for Danny''s death, but everyone knows Blackwood was responsible."


    "Our family is still young. We won''t have a Basic Mastery Psychic anytime soon. Our priority is to find ways to counter a Basic Mastery expert."


    Lost in thought, he barely noticed Lisa setting his meal before him.


    She seemed accustomed to his distracted demeanor.


    He searched his contacts, hoping to reconnect with Orion.


    They''d been cut off during their last call due to the magical civilization invasion.


    However, he was met with the disheartening message: "The number you have dialed is no longer in service."


    "Right, she must be busy excavating that new ruin."


    Ethan chuckled.


    "I was hoping she might have unearthed some ancient cultivation techniques, artifacts, or high-level spirit equipment. I would have paid her handsomely in Energy Stones."


    Years of living in the game world had subtly shifted his perspective.


    He spoke of illegal activities and ancient artifacts as casually as discussing the weather.


    He dialed his teacher, Joshua.


    "Ethan, where have you been? Your phone''s been off, and your family''s too! I thought those mages had abducted you and turned you into their plaything!"

 Chapter 326 - 326: A house full of descendants

    Ethan''s face darkened.


    "Joshua, you''re a teacher! Have you listened to yourself? Anyway, I wanted to ask, with all those meteorites falling during the magical invasion, everything okay at your end?"


    "Not a damn thing to worry about! Even before those space rocks started falling, your dear teacher had rallied all the veteran Psychics in the district. Thirty thousand strong, Ethan! Ready for battle!"


    Joshua''s voice took on a wistful tone.


    "Thirty thousand, under my command! We were going to show those mages what happens when the people rise up...ah, never mind."


    "Must have been static on the line, Joshua. Didn''t catch that last part."


    Ethan would have hung up if he wasn''t curious about something.


    "By the way, Joshua, about that extraterrestrial creature sample..."


    Joshua chuckled.


    "You''re in luck! With the magical invasion and all, things are a bit hectic. School''s canceled, everyone''s in shelters, so a few things going missing here and there is to be expected. I''ll have someone send that sample over. Wait at the gate; your grumpy security guard wouldn''t appreciate a visit from me."


    "Thanks, Joshua! You''re the best."


    Ethan grabbed his takeout, a contented grin on his face.


    He''d been craving Lisa''s cooking.


    The neighborhood was eerily quiet, most of the residents having fled during the invasion.


    If it weren''t for his remaining neighbors, Ethan would have been tempted to investigate the secrets hidden within those opulent, now-empty mansions.


    "I bet those ''reclusive masters'' who joined the army and fought off the mages were from this neighborhood."


    Ethan shuddered, pushing the thought away.


    This place was a breeding ground for secrets, and he knew better than to pry.


    Some things were best left undisturbed.


    "Mr. John, good to see you! Brought you some of Lisa''s cooking ¨C tomato egg stir-fry, spicy stir-fried pork, and mouthwatering chicken!"


    Mr. John, the ever-stoic security guard, had remained at his post throughout the invasion, unfazed by the chaos.


    He greeted Ethan with a rare smile, his usual drowsiness replaced by genuine warmth.


    "You''re too kind, Ethan. The only one who still remembers this old man."


    After a brief chat with Mr. John, a young man approached, holding a small box.


    Ethan''s eye twitched.


    He had no idea where Joshua found these people.


    The young man marched towards him, stopped, and presented the box with a stiff salute.


    "Salvation Army, Unit 0325, reporting for duty, sir! Mission accomplished! Please accept this package, Mr. Ethan!"


    "...."


    Ethan stared at the young man''s retreating figure, a wave of unease washing over him.


    He decided it was best to avoid dwelling on the oddities of the outside world and focus on the familiar comfort of his game.


    Ethan returned home and called Alan.


    His associate arrived shortly, his face plastered with a nervous grin.


    "Mr. Ethan, you sure know how to give a guy a challenge! Getting my hands on that item you requested...let''s just say I had to deal with some unsavory characters. That group, they''re bad news, I tell ya!"


    Ethan''s eyes widened as he saw the contents of the Storage Ring.


    He''d only mentioned it casually, never expecting Alan to actually find it!


    He found himself intrigued by this mysterious group.


    "Alan, if you don''t mind my asking, what was the name of this organization?"


    Alan glanced around nervously, then leaned in and whispered, "The Salvation Army."


    "..." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Mr. Ethan, is something wrong? You know about them?"


    Alan asked, noticing Ethan''s stunned silence.


    "No, not at all."


    Ethan shook his head, forcing a neutral expression.


    "Thank you for this, Alan. You''ve been a lifesaver. Things are a bit chaotic right now, so I''m leaving the company in your capable hands."


    ...


    After Alan left, Ethan rushed back to his room, his face grim.


    He briefly considered blocking Joshua''s number.


    He glanced at the box.


    "It''s because of the extraterrestrial sample, isn''t it? That kind of request screams ''criminal underworld.'' And then there''s that incident with his student...Joshua must have revealed his connection to the Salvation Army because he wants to recruit me."


    "Damn it!"


    Ethan rubbed his face, a chill running down his spine.


    "Joshua, you sly dog. Well, two can play at this game. I''m just going to stay home and play my game. Let''s see you try to recruit me now!"


    He sat down at his computer, pushing all thoughts of the Salvation Army aside.


    The game loaded, and he was greeted by the sight of the Blackwood ancestral hall, more magnificent than ever.


    Blackwood descendants were returning from far and wide for the upcoming ceremony.


    Nathan and Luna, despite being seasoned warriors, walked hand-in-hand, their attire simple and understated.


    Luna barely reached Nathan''s chest, even with the Death Coffin strapped to his back.


    They entered the hall, enveloped by an aura of reverence.


    Lucas, his health somewhat recovered, arrived next, his black robes billowing behind him as he carried his sword case.


    Amelia followed, her clothes still worn, her hair a mess, a small gourd dangling from her waist.


    Then came Julian, his arms and legs now gleaming silver, his torso bare and covered in intricate runes, his head shaved bald.


    Olivia, her youthful vigor replaced by the frailty of old age, was wheeled in by Julian.


    Marcus, his black robes shimmering like the night sky, arrived next, his presence radiating an otherworldly aura.


    Daniel, clad in black armor, his white hair flowing behind him, walked alongside Marcus, deep in conversation.


    Behind them came the boisterous third generation of Blackwood.


    George, Justin, William, and the others followed, their eyes widening at the sight of Jessica, clad in crimson armor, her demeanor confident and commanding.


    It was as if they were silently questioning how their usually carefree cousin had transformed into such a formidable figure.


    Then came the fifth generation: Edward and Donna.


    Both had cultivated in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, but their paths had diverged.


    Edward, now a leader in his own right, exuded an air of authority, his attire refined, his expression composed.


    Donna, on the other hand, still retained her fiery spirit, berating her juniors despite her diminutive stature, her pigtails bouncing as she scolded them.


    In stark contrast, Charles and Christopher, the devout siblings, walked with their hands clasped in prayer, their faces serene and detached from worldly concerns.


    Joseph and Katie arrived last, Joseph being pushed in a wheelchair, his hand clamped over his ear as if to block out a barrage of nagging.


    Katie, meanwhile, seemed to find the situation endlessly amusing.


    "A house full of descendants, a house full of blessings," Ethan thought, a wave of warmth washing over him.


    "To have so many filial children...my life has been worthwhile."


    As his descendants knelt before him, a message appeared on the screen:


    [Year 200 of Blackwood.]


    [Your descendants offer their respects!]

 Chapter 327 - 327: Extraterrestrial Parasite

    The grand ceremony concluded as it always did, with Ethan receiving a bounty of celestial treasures and potent elixirs to enhance his supernatural abilities.


    The Blackwood descendants, having completed their ancestral veneration, dispersed after a brief gathering, most returning to their own affairs.


    With peace reigning at the borders, Nathan and his wife, a couple still deeply in love after two centuries, retreated to their coffin.


    They carefully stored Ethan''s bestowed gifts within the Death Coffin, a repository for the family''s most prized possessions.


    Inside the Death Coffin''s fourth level, three cylindrical green objects stood out.


    On the ground lay a black, semi-transparent cube the size of a human head, within which a strange gas, resembling black electrical orbs, flickered.


    [Death Coffin Fifth Level]


    Ethan followed Nathan and his wife inside.


    Unlike the boundless Dead Sea of the fourth level, the fifth level presented a series of black light curtains.


    [Death Sky Veil]


    [Traverse eighty-one Sky Veils to attain complete Death Rule and refine the Sky Veil into a domain.]


    It was practically spoon-feeding the path to mastery.


    "Master, the gifts bestowed by the Ancestor are terrifying," Luna exclaimed, gazing in awe at the items Ethan had brought into their world.


    She recognized the three cylindrical objects; the Ancestor had unleashed these dreadful ''hidden weapons'' during the confrontation with the three great Apex Forces outside the Sky Sect.


    What frightened Luna more was the semi-transparent black cube.


    She cautiously touched it and quickly withdrew her hand.


    "The Ancestor said this thing could kill a Sovereign, shatter the pocket dimension created by a Sovereign Psychic, and obliterate their soul."


    "This is the truly terrifying one."


    Nathan regarded another iron box with even greater apprehension.


    Through his Apex Force, he could perceive a lump of flesh writhing within.


    "The Ancestor said this is a supernatural artifact. Once used, it will transform into the most dreadful demon, capable of unimaginable changes. I have a feeling that using it will have dire consequences. Perhaps we should let Thomas and the others try it?"


    "On behalf of the seven of them, thank you very much..."


    Ethan hastily interjected, preventing Nathan from continuing down that path.


    After bringing the Extraterrestrial Parasite from the school laboratory into this world, Ethan could also access its information, including a research report.


    [Extraterrestrial Parasite]


    [An unknown species from the depths of the cosmos. Integrating it into one''s body will result in unpredictable transformations. If integration fails, it will clash with the host''s body, leading to explosive death. Successful integration will bring about drastic changes.]


    This entity had been studied in the laboratory for generations, yet no one had been able to unravel its secrets.


    However, the report Ethan read mentioned that when these parasites were first discovered, many people had used them, and some even conducted experiments on captured subjects.


    Records from a hidden research facility revealed that thousands upon thousands had perished in these experiments.


    But there were also successes.


    Some who used the Extraterrestrial Parasite directly transformed into mutated celestial Psychic Constitutions, while others gained innate spells.


    There were also unfortunate outcomes.


    The hidden research facility contained numerous cultivation pods holding grotesque creatures like giant worms and sentient rocks, all results of failed integrations with the Extraterrestrial Parasite.


    Nathan broke out in a cold sweat upon hearing the Ancestor''s explanation through Psychic Projection.


    "Thank you for the warning, Ancestor. If Thomas and the others had used this thing and turned into worms, I would have committed a grave sin."


    Relieved that the third generation of the Blackwoods had been spared, Ethan exited the Death Coffin.


    ...


    Meanwhile, the second-generation siblings were still gathered in the ancestral hall.


    Olivia, who only returned once every few years from her travels, was present.


    Even Lucas, enduring his injuries, wanted to spend more time with his fourth sister.


    "Olivia, I heard from the Ancestor that you''ve been among the Druids all these years, seizing their treasures," Lucas said, frowning at Olivia''s appearance.


    "You finally regained your youthful looks, and now you''re at it again."


    "Nothing escapes the Ancestor''s eyes," Olivia chuckled, shaking her head.


    "Brother, don''t worry, it''s not what you think. My cultivation of the ''Scripture of All Under Heaven'' has reached the Pinnacle Apprentice stage. It requires me to experience the cycle of youth, aging, and rejuvenation ninety-nine times. As for seizing treasures, it''s a gradual process that takes time."


    "I see."


    Realizing he knew little about scholarly cultivation, Lucas dropped the subject and asked, "Since you''re back, why not stay for a while? Azure Cloud is stable now. The Druids rarely attack our heartland anymore. You don''t need to work so hard."


    "Alright, I''ll stay longer this time. Seizing treasures isn''t something that can be done overnight."


    Seeing the concern in her siblings'' eyes, Olivia, after years away, felt a sense of peace.


    "Brother, your injuries are serious. You should go back and rest."


    "Alright, remember to visit me at the infirmary in three days. And no more running off."


    The power of rules within his wounds flared up again, causing Lucas to grimace and nod.


    As Lucas departed, Julian sighed worriedly.


    "Fourth Sister, my injury has lingered for over a decade. You have many disciples. Do you know of any methods to help your brother recover?"


    Amelia and Olivia exchanged glances, their expressions peculiar. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seemingly understanding each other''s thoughts, they said in unison, "It can''t be healed."


    Ethan, standing nearby, silently glanced at the information on his interface.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has been severely injured for many years. While recovering beside the Demon Lord Diana, he has spent over a decade comprehending the sword within the sword case, gaining the trait: Sword Heart]


    [With a sword in his heart, he can train his swordsmanship anywhere. Comprehension increased by 5%]


    [After years of being fellow patients with Diana, a strange feeling has developed between them...]


    "Sharing a bed for over a decade, impressive, truly impressive."


    Ethan smiled with satisfaction as he watched the two of them retreat to their shared quarters.


    While the reunited siblings were catching up, three old bachelors were looking at each other with tears in their eyes.


    "William, we''ve been waiting for you!"


    Justin almost burst into tears at the sight of William.


    "For almost twenty years, your brother and I have been stuck in the Crimson Gate Syndicate, accomplishing nothing! Quickly, join us in taking down the Crimson Gate Syndicate and avenging Lucas'' grandfather!"


    George choked back sobs.


    "William, think of something fast! That old Sovereign from the Crimson Gate Syndicate constantly monitors everything with his Primordial Spirit. Your brother has had no chance to desecrate their ancestral graves."

 Chapter 328 - 328: Very well, let it be

    Seeing their dumbfounded expressions, William scratched his head in disbelief.


    "Are you pulling my leg?"


    "Dead serious," George replied, his expression grave.


    "That old fox is as cautious as they come. He hasn''t left his compound in nearly two decades. There''s not a snowball''s chance in hell."


    "That''s not what I meant."


    William''s expression turned strange.


    "I''m saying, if you know it''s impossible, why not choose a different target?"


    "Huh?"


    Both George and Justin were taken aback.


    The two, who had been fixated on this for almost twenty years, stared at each other, their eyes wide with confusion.


    William sighed inwardly, realizing his companions were utterly single-minded...


    And so, the three of them, arms slung over each other''s shoulders, walked out of the family estate and headed towards Sunshine Manor.


    ...


    Seeing that his children all had their own matters to attend to, Ethan decided to seclude himself within the Death Coffin for cultivation.


    Time held no sway over the ageless cultivator.


    When he finally opened his eyes, years had passed.


    [Year 205 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Special Event - Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary]


    [The war between Cloudview County and the Druids raged on. As Sunshine Manor''s intrusions into Cloudview County grew bolder, Bryce became increasingly dissatisfied with them. His intelligence network discovered that the legacy of ''Heavenly Path Venerable,'' a Basic Mastery level expert from millennia past, had been unearthed within Sunshine Manor.


    He planned to assemble Azure Cloud''s Psychics to compete for the Heavenly Path Venerable''s inheritance.]


    "We Blackwoods haven''t even made a move on Sunshine Manor, and you''re already planning to fight them for it," Ethan muttered, stretching his limbs.


    With a flicker, he vanished from his spot.


    At that moment...


    Nathan was still cultivating within his coffin, Lucas was still recovering from his injuries, and Amelia and Julian were as engrossed as ever, either crafting mystical artifacts or concocting potions, their dedication bordering on obsession.


    As for Olivia, after her return, she had been teaching literary cultivation in the city, leaving behind two inherited scriptures, the "Four Seasons Sutra" and the "Mountains and Rivers Classic."


    Meanwhile, within Bryce''s manor, the Psychics who would be embarking on the secret mission to the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary were gathered.


    Within the grand hall stood the four Psychics chosen for the covert operation: Arcane Society''s Chuck, Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s Patriarch Ralph, Martin family''s Patriarch Will, and Phillips family''s Patriarch Bob.


    Each had reached the peak of the Competent Force level, with Chuck even ranked thirty-ninth on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings.


    They all possessed their own trump cards.


    As for Patriarch Ralph... having ascended to his current level by consuming cannibalistic pills, it was unclear what gave him the audacity to participate in this contest.


    Bryce, seated within the hall, fixed his gaze upon the nonchalant Daniel, a hint of displeasure in his eyes.


    "Brother Daniel, does the Blackwood family have no interest in the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary? Nathan Blackwood is more than capable of going toe-to-toe with Mike. If he wished, he could easily secure a place on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings. Your second aunt, Amelia, has weathered ninety-nine thunder tribulations. "


    "Though she keeps a low profile, she''s undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. And let''s not forget your family''s demonic expert, who waltzes in and out of Druid territory as if it were his own backyard. "


    "Your brother George enjoys the protection of the Azure Cloud Pavilion''s senior members. Any one of them could prove invaluable to our endeavor."


    The Blackwoods were exceptional in every way.


    Over the years, they had answered his call, provided him with unwavering support, and genuinely entrusted him, Phillips, with authority.


    Although the Blackwoods wielded immense power, their relationship was one of mutual cooperation and shared success.


    The only fly in the ointment was their penchant for secrecy and their reluctance to fully commit.


    "Bryce, you''re well aware of our family''s circumstances," Daniel replied with a wry smile.


    "My grandparents are under constant surveillance by the Druid Apostle Mike. They can''t so much as breathe without him knowing. My father is still recovering from his injuries and can''t even leave the infirmary. My second aunt wouldn''t dare leave her workshop. "


    "Lord of Frenzied Blood is out of the question; the Druids have been on high alert all these years precisely because of him. As for my nephew, I haven''t the faintest idea where he is. Tell you what, I''ll reach out to my brother who''s currently at Sunshine Manor. Would that be satisfactory?"


    Daniel wasn''t being disingenuous.


    None of them could afford to make a move.


    Otherwise, he was certain that the moment they stepped foot outside Azure Cloud, Mike would lead the Druids in a full-scale invasion of Cloudview County.


    Only they knew that the Druids'' true fear wasn''t Bryce, but the Blackwoods.


    Bryce frowned.


    He was generally cognizant of the Blackwoods'' predicament.


    He waved his hand dismissively.


    "Very well, let it be. As for your brother... what was his name again?"


    "Marcus," Daniel replied, a hint of annoyance in his tone. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Right, Blackwood Marcus, the Sky Sect''s Sect Master."


    Bryce continued, "There''s no need to trouble him. He''s still at the peak of the Developing Skill level, a Pinnacle Apprentice who has yet to make his grand entrance. Leading the Sky Sect in their precarious position within Sunshine Manor is already a tall order. Let''s not add to his burdens."


    "..."


    Daniel chose not to dignify that with a response.


    Over the years, he had made a conscious effort to avoid conflict with Bryce and had come to understand him to some extent.


    The old man was indeed a capable Duke, possessing the qualities of a true leader and a benevolent heart.


    The only chink in his armor was his excessive kindness.


    Despite the Blackwoods'' immense power and prestige, he harbored no ill will towards them and never resorted to subterfuge.


    As he often proclaimed, being born into a position of power meant that wielding authority was second nature.


    The sword of a gentleman, which he held, was meant to be pointed at his enemies, not his allies.


    Bryce turned his gaze towards the four Competent Force experts, his expression solemn.


    "Everyone, the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary presents a golden opportunity, but it is not without its perils. I implore you to look after one another and present a united front."


    The four nodded curtly and made their way out of the grand hall.


    Outside, Jessica, clad in armor, had been waiting patiently.


    Daniel nodded at Jessica and handed her a Storage Ring.


    "Go. Larry will oversee the Azure Cloud army for now. You take Thomas and the others."


    "Yes, Uncle!"


    Jessica bowed slightly, her hand resting on the Storage Ring.


    Inside the Storage Ring, which could only contain inanimate objects, five men and two women, built like bears and clad in blood-red armor with demonic markings on their faces, were cursing up a storm.


    "Who in the bloody hells packs people into a Storage Ring?!"


    "Jessica, let us out! Even demons have the right to walk under the sun! Who''s afraid of those self-righteous Daoists?!"


    "Shut your traps! Hurry up, let''s get to the Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary! That old fart Bryce, saying my brother is incompetent, I''ll show him incompetent! I''m going to loot the entire Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the Sunshine Manor''s Sky Sect...


    Located in a remote and desolate mountainous region, the sect was far removed from civilization.


    When Marcus first arrived with five thousand Sky Sect disciples, they faced constant oppression from the various sects and families of Sunshine Manor.


    Recruiting disciples was but a pipe dream; they were fortunate if their elders and disciples weren''t driven out.


    Even resources had to be provided by the Blackwoods, barely enough to keep the sect afloat.


    They lived under the constant threat of covetous forces.


    Standing atop the sect''s gate, Marcus held his whisk and the rotating Sky Palace, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position flickering beside him.


    He gazed into the distance.


    "The Heavenly Path Mystic Sanctuary, a proving ground for all below the Basic Mastery level, a crucible where Sunshine Manor''s geniuses clash! Forebearer, bless your descendant. I shall bear witness to who reigns supreme among the non-Basic Mastery experts of Sunshine Manor!"

 Chapter 329 - 329: This... This is too good to be true!

    Deep within a mountain range, George, William, and Justin burst forth, the Forebearer Psychic Position beside them glowing brightly.


    "Forebearer!" George knelt in reverence.


    As the Forebearer Psychic Position stirred, a message was relayed, causing his eyebrows to shoot up.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary? The best of Sunshine City are gathering there, even Uncle went?" S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Justin''s eyes gleamed with excitement.


    "Brother, it''s going to be dangerous there, we have to go too! I''ve been itching to meet the experts from Sunshine Mansion. It''s been ages since I''ve felt a real thrill, and I''m stuck at the peak of Developing Skill with no progress."


    "Let''s go, let''s go! Time for some real action!"


    William licked his lips.


    ...


    In the Blackwood Estate of Sunshine Mansion, under the shade of a giant tree, Joseph sat alone, engrossed in a game of chess.


    Katie lay on a branch above, enjoying the cool breeze.


    Both seemed perfectly at ease.


    Suddenly, the Psychic Position beside them lit up.


    Katie leaped down from the tree, while Joseph paused his game, his gaze fixed on the glowing object.


    "Have the elders departed?"


    Joseph bowed towards the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    "Please rest assured, Forebearer. I have been studying the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary for many years. My reason for coming to Sunshine City from Blackwood was precisely for opportunities like this. The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is a world unto itself, developed over millennia. It is divided into inner and outer regions. I''m afraid the inner region can only be accessed by the elders."


    "As for the middle and outer areas..."


    Joseph smiled at Katie.


    "Katie and I will pay them a visit. I hope the younger generation of Sunshine Mansion is ready for what we have in store."


    ...


    [Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary]


    [Millennia ago, the resting place of ''Heavenly Path Venerable'', a Psychic who achieved the peak of Basic Mastery, transformed into a self-contained world with its own laws, giving birth to mystical herbs, beasts, and artifacts. Many Basic Mastery Psychics from Sunshine Mansion covet its treasures. To avoid karmic repercussions, they send their descendants to compete for them.]


    At this moment, on a small mountain known as ''Misty Mount'' in Sunshine Mansion, Psychics from all corners converged, some soaring through the air on enchanted swords, others riding Psychic Gear or wielding ability weapons.


    Once a barren land, Misty Mount was now bustling with activity thanks to the appearance of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The surrounding villages were filled with awestruck villagers, their gazes fixed on the ''Masters of Mysticism'' gathered in the sky.


    Multiple formations shimmered in the sky above Misty Mount.


    As each Psychic approached, ripples spread out like waves in water.


    Within the mountain lay a cave, its entrance sealed by a swirling vortex-like formation.


    Each Psychic who arrived stepped into the vortex and vanished.


    Dozens of miles away from the cave, every passing Psychic paused, their expressions turning intrigued as they witnessed a peculiar sight.


    High above, suspended in mid-air, over a hundred talismans pulsed with a terrifying aura, their golden inscriptions glowing brightly as they slowly rotated.


    Trapped within these talismans were four figures, each radiating the power of a peak Competent Force Psychic.


    Who else could they be but the four peak Competent Force experts dispatched by Bryce?


    These four had arrived only to be captured before even laying eyes on the entrance to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    A sect from Sunshine Mansion, known as the Golden Dawn Alliance, had acted swiftly and decisively.


    Without a word, their Basic Mastery Grand Elder had unleashed a surge of psychic power, trapping the four within the confines of the talismans.


    What kind of profound technique did this Golden Dawn Alliance patriarch cultivate?


    Even Chuck, a powerhouse unmatched in his own county, couldn''t break free from these seemingly fragile talismans!


    A master from Phillips Duke''s Mansion frowned and cupped his hands towards the sky.


    "Senior, the opportunities within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary are for all to seize. Why treat us juniors in such a manner? This is going too far!"


    The Grand Elder of the Golden Dawn Alliance remained silent, his actions speaking volumes.


    It was a blatant display of power, leaving the four trapped experts with faces contorted in anger.


    "What''s the point of talking to him?"


    Chuck roared, still bombarding the formation with his attacks.


    "They''re clearly afraid of us from Cloudview County gaining any real power, terrified that we might break through to Basic Mastery. They''ve had their eyes on us since we left Azure Cloud!"


    "Alas..."


    Patriarch Ralph and Patriarch Walker could only sigh.


    They had long known that Sunshine Mansion sought to suppress the growth of Cloudview County, but they hadn''t anticipated such blatant hostility.


    The Basic Mastery Psychic didn''t dare to release them, fearing they might retaliate in anger.


    However, he couldn''t kill them either.


    The war with the Druids was still raging in Azure Cloud, and they too had Basic Mastery Psychics.


    ...


    "???"


    Ethan trailed behind Joseph and Katie.


    The trio, along with a makeshift team of Psychics, were entering the Psychic Sanctuary under the guidance of a Developing Skill expert from Sunshine Blackwood.


    It was then that Ethan noticed the four figures from Azure Cloud, imprisoned high in the sky.


    So much for coming to seize resources.


    Now they were reduced to being glorified decorations, trapped in the sky for all to see?


    "Thank goodness for Blackwood. Otherwise, our Azure Cloud would''ve returned empty-handed."


    Ethan wasn''t exactly thrilled.


    After all, they were all on the same side.


    Although his family''s actions were supposed to be a secret, they had hoped that the experts sent by Cloudview County would gain something from this expedition.


    It would benefit Azure Cloud as well.


    For a Basic Mastery Psychic from Sunshine Mansion to act so shamelessly... this wasn''t just an insult to Chuck and the others, it was an insult to all of Cloudview County!


    "So this is what a Basic Mastery Psychic from Sunshine Mansion is like? What a joke, this Golden Dawn Alliance. Their name sounds all righteous and noble, but their actions are despicable."


    Joseph''s face darkened as he witnessed the scene in the sky.


    "Our Cloudview County has been battling the Druids for years. Each of those seniors has fought bravely on the front lines. Now, they come to Sunshine Mansion seeking opportunity, and this Golden Dawn Alliance resorts to such underhanded tactics!"


    Katie, her massive bow strapped to her back, furrowed her brow.


    "If they''re going to be so devious..."


    "Then we won''t hold back either."


    Without another word, Joseph had Katie push him towards the entrance of the Psychic Sanctuary.


    ...


    The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary truly lived up to its reputation as a world unto itself, formed from the remnants of a peak Basic Mastery Psychic''s power.


    As Ethan stepped inside with the others, he was immediately struck by the dense concentration of mystical energy.


    Lush greenery stretched out before them, encompassing vast rivers, towering mountains, and a sky filled with clouds.


    However, there was no sun, moon, or stars, as if it were perpetually daytime.


    Untouched for millennia, this place was a treasure trove of mystical herbs and rare resources!


    No sooner had they arrived than they spotted a group of Psychics gathered in the distance.


    At the center of the commotion was a mystical herb, radiating potent energy.


    [Rare Life-Giving Herb]


    [Rank: Seventh]


    [Originally an eighth-rank mystical herb, it has grown for over two thousand years, reaching the seventh rank. Consuming it raw can increase one''s mystical powers and heal severe injuries below the Developing Skill level. It is an exceptional ingredient for concocting healing pills.]


    "This... This is too good to be true!"


    Ethan felt like he had stumbled upon a gold mine.


    And this was just the outer area!


    Who knew what wonders awaited them deeper inside?


    The Psychics surrounding the herb were practically drooling with desire, yet none dared to make the first move.


    However, the first to claim a prize wasn''t Joseph.


    On the pale blue screen before him, a line of text appeared, catching Ethan''s eye.


    In an instant, he located the source... George and his companions.


    This was the outer region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    As Joseph had explained, the people of Sunshine Mansion valued their reputation above all else.


    The moment the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary opened, the Basic Mastery Psychics of Sunshine Mansion had divided it into three layers, each corresponding to the Emerging Ability, Developing Skill, and Competent Force levels.

 Chapter 330 - 330: Whats the fun in a fair fight?

    This area seemed to be the most mystically potent in the entire outer region.


    A mystical spring shimmered with star-like motes of energy, clearly something extraordinary.


    [Marrow Cleansing Mystical Spring]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [Formed from the shattered essence of a Basic Mastery Psychic, their essence infused the spring water, causing it to undergo a mystical transformation over millennia. By cultivating within this mystical spring for eighty-one days, a Psychic can purify their body and enhance their innate potential.


    Even Competent Force Psychics can utilize this mystical spring to refine their Psychic Constitution to a higher level. Usable by three individuals.]


    Ethan''s eyes lit up at the sight of this treasure.


    Emerging Ability Psychics had one chance to defy fate and alter their destiny, but the further along one progressed, the more difficult it became to alter their innate potential.


    Countless Psychics found themselves limited by their potential, unable to achieve a Single Psychic Constitution or solidify their meridians sufficiently to break through to the Competent Force level from the Pinnacle Apprentice stage.


    Even for those who reached the Competent Force level, further refinement of their potential, strengthening their Psychic Constitution, and expanding their meridians could deepen their connection to natural energies, potentially doubling or even tripling their combat prowess!


    This mystical spring was truly heaven-defying!


    As if that wasn''t enough, a large stone stood beside the spring, seemingly suppressing its power.


    On either side of the stone bloomed two flowers, their petals resembling flickering flames.


    [Phoenix Stone]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [Formed from the essence of Heavenly Path Venerable''s spirit beast, which perished alongside its master. Their combined essence seeped into this boulder, causing it to undergo a mystical transformation over millennia. It now possesses a faint sentience.


    Cultivating near this Phoenix Stone allows one to comprehend the might of the Phoenix, increasing cultivation speed, enhancing comprehension of fire-attribute techniques, and offering a slight chance of improving one''s Fire Psychic Constitution. It is also an exceptional material for crafting mystical equipment.]


    ...


    [Twin Phoenix Feather Mystical Herbs]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [Mystical herbs formed from the blood of a Phoenix, possessing a faint sentience. Consuming them offers a chance to inherit the Phoenix bloodline, purify one''s body, and potentially awaken a Single Fire Psychic Constitution. Consuming them individually yields remarkable effects.]


    ...


    If Amelia and Julian saw these treasures, they''d probably be laughing in their sleep.


    However, George and his companions had no intention of taking these treasures for themselves!


    Hidden in the shadows, the three were up to something...


    [Your descendants, George, William, and Justin, have entered the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary but have chosen not to act immediately.]


    [Observing the abundance of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, William''s cunning mind devised a plan. He deduced that the more cautious experts from Sunshine Mansion would likely wait three days before leaving with their spoils. Moreover, these experts would likely travel alone. Thus, they decided to lay in wait at the Sanctuary''s exit for three days.


    George successfully ambushed and killed two Competent Force Psychics.]


    [Spoils of war obtained¡ª]


    [One Competent Force Psychic corpse, 18 Competent Force Psychic fragments.]


    [Sixth-rank Marrow Cleansing Mystical Spring, Sixth-rank Phoenix Stone, Sixth-rank Twin Phoenix Feather Mystical Herbs. Various seventh and eighth-rank mystical treasures, two sets of Competent Force Psychic possessions...]


    "As expected of you three."


    Ethan wiped the sweat from his brow as he watched the trio settle into their ambush position.


    His gaze lingered on William, the one on the far left.


    Those eighteen fragments... they were all from him.


    Such a waste.


    William''s intellect was on par with Daniel and Joseph''s, but he never used it for anything good.


    Decades spent with Olivia had only sharpened his cunning, though he lacked her broader vision.


    When it came to "street smarts," even Olivia couldn''t hold a candle to him.


    Justin began to fidget.


    "William, why are we stuck here? This is just the outer area, full of small fry. Let''s go deeper inside, where the real action is! I need to test myself against Competent Force Psychics to feel truly alive!"


    "That''s where you''re wrong, my friend." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    William licked his lips.


    "What''s the fun in a fair fight? It''s all about the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of crushing your enemies like ants. Just watch. Those greedy fools from Sunshine Mansion who haven''t left after seven days? They''ll be loaded with loot. Don''t underestimate the outer region.


    We''ve already spotted plenty of valuable seventh and eighth-rank materials along the way!"


    "Once we set these three treasures out as bait, those greedy bastards won''t be able to resist. We''ll just sit back, relax, and claim at least half the resources in the entire outer region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!"


    Ethan shuddered.


    He was glad to be a Blackwood Forebearer.


    If he had been unfortunate enough to be reborn into this world and caught up in the chaos of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary... well, whether he played it safe or went all out, he''d likely end up dead at William''s hands.


    "Patience, Justin. There''s no need to rush into the inner region."


    George rubbed his hands together excitedly, holding back the eager Justin.


    "We just need to lay low for a month, and we''ll be swimming in riches. Then, we''ll head to the middle region. Remember Crimson Gate Syndicate? They spent twenty years guarding that place and got nowhere. This is way faster!"


    "We''ll be rich soon enough. Then we''ll see who dares to call my tomb raiding a waste of time!"


    Justin finally relented.


    While he relished the thrill of a near-death experience, the promise of wealth was a close second.


    It wasn''t long before the trio tensed, their senses on high alert.


    A group was approaching.


    George''s expression hardened.


    Leading the group was a young prodigy, no older than fifty, yet already at the Transcendent Seed level, rivaling George in his prime.


    Beside him walked an elder, his aura radiating the peak of Developing Skill!


    Their eyes were filled with greed as they gazed upon the three treasures before them, praising their good fortune.


    George gritted his teeth, his gaze fixed on the elder.


    "The audacity! A Developing Skill expert stooping to scavenging in the outer region."


    Justin snorted.


    "The sight of that old geezer makes me sick."


    "He has to die. I despise treacherous scum like him!"


    In a flash, George''s body was engulfed in a surge of power as over twenty ancestral spirits possessed him, pushing his cultivation to the peak of Competent Force.


    William and Justin, their bodies radiating the power of nascent deities, emerged from the shadows.


    [Your descendants, George, Justin, and William, have successfully lured in greedy Psychics using valuable treasures as bait, earning the trait: Trapper.]

 Chapter 331 - 331: Rising Star Elimination Master

    "Whoosh!"


    A streak of pink light tore through the air, too swift for the naked eye to follow.


    Only a faint pink arc and a trail of pulverized stone marked its path, the raw power of its mystical energy warping the very fabric of space.


    The pink arrow''s trajectory intersected with a shimmering pink formation hanging in mid-air.


    At the formation''s heart, a pink star rested atop a seven-colored lotus, its petals both vibrant and strangely menacing.


    The lotus pulsed with an overwhelming power, seemingly capable of suppressing all before it, holding the Psychic in the arrow''s path utterly immobile.


    "Thud!"


    A soft sound, a gasp of surprise, and a spray of crimson.


    The arrow pierced the Psychic''s throat, leaving them wide-eyed and lifeless.


    The attacker, a young woman, lowered her Sparkly Unicorn Bow with a dissatisfied frown.


    She turned to the young man seated in a wheelchair beside her.


    "Brother, is this truly the most powerful Rising Star Heavenly Justice Hall could locate in Sunshine Mansion over the past century? A hundred and twenty years old, Developing Skill mid-stage, possessing a Super Core... and that''s all?"


    "A disciple of Twilight Edge Assembly," the young man mused, examining the storage ring he''d taken from the dead Psychic.


    "Their sect favors alchemy and medicine over true combat prowess, yet they crave recognition. It seems those lacking in one area often overcompensate in others. This ''once-in-a-millennium'' Rising Star from Twilight Edge Assembly is nothing more than a product of pill-popping. Even that Earth-grade technique of theirs, who knows where they acquired it, is poorly mastered. His foundation is weak."


    He smiled faintly at his companion.


    "Katie, you may have defeated him, but don''t let it go to your head. You possess the Heavenly Pure Land Psychic Constitution, a step above even those born with Heavenly Bestowed Psychic Constitutions. You''ve cultivated the ''Azure Cloud Undying Scripture'' since childhood and have the protection of both the Rainbow Lotus and Great Grandfather Marcus''s Astral Blessing."


    "You may only be at the early stage of Developing Skill, but you possess a Super Core just like him. To struggle so much against such an inadequately trained opponent... you need to dedicate more time to cultivating your mystical energy."


    This duo was none other than Joseph and Katie.


    [Your descendants, Joseph and Katie, have spent half a month traveling with their group, encountering few noteworthy Rising Stars in the outer region.]


    [Hearing rumors of a location in the outer region containing three sixth-rank mystical treasures, they rushed to claim them. However, instead of treasures, they encountered George, William, and Justin. A tense standoff ensued, nearly leading to their capture by the older generation...]


    [Forced to retreat to the middle region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, your descendant Joseph was shaken to his core, realizing he had underestimated the cunning of others. He was grateful that the ambushers were his elders; otherwise, he might have met his end. This experience instilled in him a newfound sense of caution. Trait gained: Cautious and Prudent.]


    [Once bitten, twice shy. From now on, he will carefully consider the risks before pursuing any opportunity, no matter how tempting. Caution +100%.]


    "..."


    Ethan was speechless as he read the description of the trait.


    He vividly remembered the scene.


    Just as Joseph and Katie were about to claim the treasures, George and his companions had sprung their trap.


    George, despite possessing the power of a peak Competent Force expert, had chosen a surprisingly theatrical approach.


    William had surrounded them with hundreds of pieces of Psychic Gear, ready to self-detonate at a moment''s notice.


    Justin had unleashed a dozen ability weapons, sealing off their escape.


    And George... well, he had almost unleashed his ultimate move.


    Ethan knew Joseph well.


    He was usually calm and collected, unfazed by any challenge.


    But that day, he had been genuinely terrified.


    As for Katie... George''s overwhelming aura had simply knocked her unconscious.


    Now, Joseph and Katie made no mention of their embarrassing encounter in the outer region.


    They had ventured into the middle region, hunting down Sunshine Mansion''s Rising Stars with ruthless efficiency.


    "The elders are truly formidable," Katie said, securing her bow on her back.


    Despite her victory, the battle had taken its toll.


    Her hair was disheveled, and she was still catching her breath.


    "Don''t worry, brother. I won''t underestimate any opponent, especially not the elders."


    She glanced at the corpse at her feet, her expression hardening.


    "As for them... they''re nothing to me."


    [Your descendant, Katie, has been unable to find any worthy opponents under a hundred years old. She has now set her sights on the middle region, where she has spent several days hunting down Rising Stars from Sunshine Mansion who have come to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary seeking opportunities. She has defeated a total of ten Rising Stars. Trait gained: Sunshine Prodigy Slayer.]


    [She is now virtually unrivaled among those under a hundred years old in Sunshine Mansion. Only facing older and more experienced Psychics can ignite her fighting spirit. Combat prowess increased by 10% when facing older opponents.]


    "Let''s go, Katie," Joseph said, a cold smile playing on his lips.


    "Sunshine Mansion may have been suppressing our Azure Cloud Psychics for years, but they never expected us Blackwoods to infiltrate their ranks so thoroughly. The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary has drawn in a significant portion of their talented youth. The elders may have decimated our generation years ago, but now it''s our turn to return the favor."


    "Yes!" Katie''s eyes gleamed with determination.


    With her brother by her side, she feared nothing.


    A message from Heavenly Justice Hall arrived, pinpointing the location of another Rising Star.


    She pushed Joseph''s wheelchair forward, eager to continue their hunt.


    Ethan watched as they efficiently disposed of the body and erased all traces of their presence.


    He couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride.


    Some traditions, it seemed, were passed down through generations.


    "So that''s your goal... to cripple Sunshine Mansion''s next generation."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    "These Rising Stars... they won''t be easy targets."


    He glanced back at the system interface.


    This plan... it had been set in motion long ago.


    [Your descendant, Joseph, is acutely aware of Sunshine Mansion''s long-standing oppression of his family. As part of a millennium-long plan, Blackwood agents have been infiltrating Sunshine Mansion''s major sects for generations, aiming to rise to positions of power.


    To facilitate this plan, Joseph has been secretly ordering Heavenly Justice Hall to gather intelligence on all potential threats to Blackwood, particularly talented individuals who cannot be swayed to their side. These individuals are then marked for elimination.]


    [Trait gained: Rising Star Elimination Master.]


    [Any rising star who attracts attention will inevitably appear on Joseph''s radar, becoming a target for elimination. He can perceive their strengths and weaknesses with uncanny accuracy. Each rising star eliminated grants a small increase to the family''s fortune and subtly enhances his comprehension of the world.]


    Ethan shuddered.


    If he and Joseph had been born in the same era and found themselves on opposing sides... well, he wouldn''t bet on surviving for long.


    S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 332 - 332: Fear was a distant memory

    While George, Joseph, and the others were having a grand old time in the outer region, deep within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Marcus found himself in dire straits.


    He was situated above a serene lake, within a structure that resembled a massive, partially formed black cube, its edges shimmering like distant stars. This was no ordinary structure; it was Marcus''s Sky Palace.


    Surrounding the Sky Palace were three Competent Force Psychics, seated in a triangular formation. They channeled their mystical energy, weaving a complex spell, their intent clear: to breach the palace''s defenses.


    One of these Psychics was none other than Neil, the woman from the Parker family of Fortune Sanctum, the very same woman who had been in league with Blackwood and King Phillips.


    "Blackwood Marcus, Sect Master of Sky Sect, you came to Sunshine City with five thousand Sky disciples at your back," Neil''s voice echoed across the water, calm and steady. "Had you remained within your sect, we would have left you be. We have no desire for unnecessary bloodshed. However, you couldn''t resist the allure of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, could you?"


    Inside the Sky Palace, Marcus sat in deep meditation, his brow furrowed as he listened to Neil''s words. He made no move to respond, his focus solely on the task at hand.


    In his hand, a sphere of water floated effortlessly, defying gravity. As Marcus channeled his mystical energy, refining the water and reinforcing the Sky Palace''s defenses, Ethan watched, his concern growing.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, has entered the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. He has been laying low, avoiding conflict, and searching for mystical artifacts unique to this realm.]


    [As he has yet to break through to the Competent Force level, Marcus has chosen a cautious approach, seeking out naturally formed mystical treasures within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, steering clear of any confrontation.]


    [He has acquired two mystical artifacts: the seventh-rank Azurewood Branch and the sixth-rank Heavenly Path Tear.]


    The Sky Palace already housed several mystical wonders. Marcus''s ''Nine Mystical Fires'' blazed brightly in the palace''s simulated sky, taking the form of nine miniature suns. A vibrant green branch, pulsing with life force, hovered in the air before gently descending to the palace floor, where it sprouted, transforming into a young tree.


    [Mystical Artifact: Azurewood Branch]


    [Rank: Seventh]


    [A gift bestowed upon Heavenly Path Venerable by a dear friend from Azurewood Mountain millennia ago. This branch, imbued with the essence of the Azurewood Tree, is the culmination of millennia of mystical energy cultivation by an Advanced Mastery Psychic residing on Azurewood Mountain. It possesses the power to restore vitality and store vast amounts of mystical energy.]


    The other artifact was even more extraordinary.


    [Heavenly Path Tear]


    [Rank: Sixth]


    [A single tear shed by Heavenly Path Venerable in their final moments. Having reached the pinnacle of Basic Mastery, they sought to transcend to the realm of Advanced Mastery, to merge their essence with the very fabric of existence. ]


    [However, despite their efforts, the threshold remained elusive. As their life force dwindled, they looked back upon their long existence, a tapestry woven with joy, sorrow, and profound understanding. This final tear, imbued with the weight of their experiences and the remnants of their mastery over the Heavenly Path, carries within it the echoes of their two-thousand-year journey. ]


    [It can merge with a Psychic, forming an impenetrable shield to protect their mind and spirit. Those who can unlock its secrets will inherit a portion of Heavenly Path Venerable''s legacy, gaining access to the wisdom and insights accumulated over two millennia.]


    It was clear that Marcus was currently attempting to unravel the profound secrets held within the Heavenly Path Tear. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Of all the times for this to happen... three Competent Force Psychics working together!" Ethan muttered, his concern growing. Refining a mystical artifact was a long and arduous process, one that could take years, even decades.


    Marcus was trapped, unable to escape while the refinement was underway. However, the Sky Palace was no ordinary artifact. Even with their combined might, the three Competent Force Psychics could only hope to contain Marcus, not overpower him.


    Marcus couldn''t seem to catch a break. He had dedicated his life to the Sky Sect, rising through the ranks to become a favored disciple, only to lose his master shortly after. He had persevered, earning the recognition of the sect''s elders once more, only to be forced into seclusion during the Blackwood conflict.


    He had eventually ascended to the position of Sect Master, but fate had dealt him another blow with the disappearance of Daoist Warren.


    And now, just as he had stumbled upon a priceless opportunity for advancement, he was trapped once more.


    It seemed Marcus''s life was an endless cycle of fortune and misfortune.


    Outside, Neil''s voice broke through Marcus''s concentration. "Marcus, I know you''re in the midst of refining a mystical artifact. But do you truly believe this trinket can protect you indefinitely? Consider this,I could summon every powerful Psychic within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. It''s only a matter of time before your little sanctuary crumbles."


    "Surrender now, Marcus. I won''t harm you. I merely wish to strike a deal, a mutually beneficial agreement between you and Blackwood."


    Finally, Marcus responded, his voice echoing from within the Sky Palace.


    "Leave. Or, by all means, summon your allies. Let them come." His tone was calm, resolute.


    Having reached this level of cultivation, fear was a distant memory. He could guess the nature of Neil''s proposed deal. It undoubtedly involved exploiting his family for their gain. He knew the Parkers well; they would stop at nothing to further their own interests.


    "I''ve caused my family enough trouble for one lifetime. If this is truly the end, then I''ll face it head-on."


    Marcus opened his eyes, his gaze unwavering. The Heavenly Path Tear hovered before him, pulsating with power. Tendrils of mystical energy danced across his palms.


    He had one final trump card to play.


    He could disperse the Sky Palace, merging its essence with his own. It would be a double-edged sword, pushing his body and spirit to their absolute limit, risking complete annihilation.


    But it would unleash the full might of the Sky Palace, calling down a devastating nine-nine tribulation lightning storm. If Neil was to be believed, if a horde of Competent Force Psychics, or even a Basic Mastery expert, awaited him...


    "A worthy end," Marcus murmured, a wry smile gracing his lips.


    Outside, Neil''s composure faltered. "You..."


    Marcus''s unwavering defiance took her aback. She took a deep breath, struggling to maintain her composure. "Very well, Marcus. I''ll allow you time to reconsider. You''re young, with immense potential. You could even reach the Basic Mastery level someday.


    "


    "It would be a shame for a Rising Star like you to perish within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. I''ve heard your family holds you in high regard. Why cling so stubbornly to this path?"


    "Yield, and I promise my demands will be reasonable. You''ll be treated well under my care."


    The Sky Palace trembled, the air thick with Marcus''s unyielding resolve.


    "Never," his voice boomed, echoing with the strength of his conviction.

 Chapter 333 - 333: One wrong move could trigger a catastrophe...

    "So be it. You''re making a grave mistake, but I''ll give you time. You''ll come around eventually."


    Neil turned away with a cold sneer.


    She hadn''t anticipated encountering Marcus here.


    The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary drew countless powerful individuals seeking their fortune.


    They were far beyond desiring mere trinkets.


    The true prize, the most coveted treasure left behind by Heavenly Path Venerable, was the ''Heavenly Path Tear'' that Marcus had stumbled upon.


    "Of all the people to find it, it had to be Blackwood Marcus," grumbled an elder from the Parker family.


    Neil shared his frustration.


    If they were contending with other major powers of Sunshine Mansion, taking the ''Heavenly Path Tear'' by force wouldn''t be an issue.


    But Azure Cloud''s Blackwood family was a different beast altogether.


    Despite years of systematic suppression by various factions, few dared to openly provoke the Blackwoods, let alone kill one of their own.


    Such an act was practically considered suicidal.


    The more they learned about the Blackwoods, the warier they became.


    As long as the Blackwoods weren''t pushed too far, they maintained a semblance of decorum, focusing their efforts on the war against the Druids in Azure Cloud.


    But if their rage was truly unleashed... they were more than capable of unleashing chaos upon Sunshine Mansion, dragging the entire Cloudview County into a devastating conflict.


    The memory of Lucas Blackwood''s near-fatal injury years ago still sent shivers down their spines.


    It had been a tense period for Sunshine Mansion, with every faction bracing for a full-scale invasion from Cloudview County.


    The Basic Mastery experts of every major power were ready to apprehend the Basic Mastery Psychic from Crimson Gate Syndicate responsible for the attack, offering him up as a peace offering to the Blackwoods.


    And now... Neil found herself in a precarious position.


    Both the Heavenly Path Tear in Marcus''s possession and the Sky Palace he had deployed were of great interest to the Parker family.


    She had hoped to intimidate Marcus into surrendering the treasures, perhaps even using this opportunity to forge a temporary alliance with the Blackwoods and ease the tension between their factions.


    But Marcus had chosen defiance over surrender.


    "Elders, contain him. Keep this matter under wraps. Our goal is to incapacitate him, nothing more," Neil instructed, her voice low and dangerous.


    "If he hasn''t emerged after a month, and we still can''t breach his Sky Palace, we''ll call for reinforcements."


    "And if incapacitating him proves impossible..." she trailed off, her gaze hardening.


    The other two elders exchanged a chilling look.


    "Then we silence him permanently. Ensure no word of this leaves the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    "As long as no one suspects the Parker family''s involvement, all of Sunshine Mansion will share the brunt of the Blackwoods'' wrath. What do we have to fear?"


    ...


    "Such cunning, such ruthlessness."


    Ethan hovered near the Sky Palace, invisible to the Parker family.


    He had overheard their entire conversation, and his expression was grim.


    The Fortune Sanctum''s Parker family was not to be trifled with.


    They were far more formidable than the likes of Danny from Kylin Mountain.


    Ethan understood Neil''s intentions all too well, and a shiver ran down his spine.


    "This goes beyond mere greed. Neil intends to lure Marcus out and silence him permanently. His death might not mean much to others, but Lucas''s lineage... they''ll unleash hellfire upon Sunshine Mansion. Daniel would lead the charge himself, with the full might of the Azure Dragon Cavalry at his back."


    "One wrong move could trigger a catastrophe..."


    Ethan''s gaze lingered on Neil.


    Her expression was deceptively calm, but her eyes betrayed a chilling ruthlessness he had rarely encountered.


    He swiftly sent a message through his Psychic Position, alerting his descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary to Marcus''s predicament.


    Deep within the sanctuary, Jessica, clad in her crimson battle armor, paused amidst the carnage.


    The armor, a masterpiece crafted by her grandfather Julian, was forged from the blood of Elder Harris''s Moon God, the materials painstakingly extracted from the melted fragments of Harris''s totem.


    It had taken Julian, a seventh-rank mystical equipment craftsman, eight years of relentless effort to create this exquisite medium-grade ability weapon.


    She also possessed a pair of swords, forged from the Moon God''s companion moon wheel and a trove of rare ores gifted by Harris.


    These were Julian''s crowning achievements, a testament to his skill, a pair of top-grade ability weapons.


    [Blood Moon Mystical Armor, Blood Moon Twin Swords]


    [Crafted from the essence, moon wheel, totem, and pulverized bones of Elder Harris''s Moon God. Due to Julian''s limitations as a mystical equipment craftsman, he was unable to fully unlock the potential of these rare materials and create higher-grade mystical equipment.] S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Allows the wielder to manifest the Moon God''s moon wheel, drawing upon a portion of natural energies while at the Developing Skill level. Refining these weapons as one''s life-bound mystical weapons grants an Ice Psychic Constitution.]


    This formidable arsenal had allowed Jessica to become a force of nature on the battlefield, leading the Azure Cloud army to countless victories while ensuring her own survival.


    But now, as she received her Forebearer''s message, her expression shifted, a flicker of concern crossing her features.


    "Forebearer, Neil of the Parker family is as cunning as they come. Fortune Sanctum''s Parker family boasts two truly formidable individuals. The first is their current patriarch, Nangong Jingyun, whose strength remains an enigma."


    "The second is Neil herself. Though only six hundred years old, her true terror lies not in her cultivation, impressive as it may be for someone her age to have reached the peak of Competent Force, but in her strategic mind. "


    "She has managed the Parker family''s affairs for decades. Two Competent Force families in Sunshine Mansion who dared to oppose them met their demise under mysterious circumstances, their downfall orchestrated in such a way that no blame could be attributed to the Parkers."


    "Neil''s scheme is insidious. If not for your foresight, Forebearer, we might have fallen into her trap."


    Ethan stood tall, hands on his hips, a smug grin on his face.


    Look at me, saving the day without even lifting a finger.


    His moment of self-congratulation was short-lived.


    He and Jessica knew the gravity of the situation.


    None of the Blackwoods who had ventured into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had reached the Competent Force level.


    And even if they had, they would likely suffer the same fate as the four unfortunate souls trapped outside.


    Direct confrontation would also jeopardize their true objective: to discreetly acquire as many resources as possible from within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Jessica, Joseph, George, and the others were operating under strict secrecy.


    Anyone outside the family who had crossed their paths had met an untimely end.


    Within Jessica''s storage ring, the third generation of Blackwoods seethed with indignation.


    "That treacherous snake, Neil, thinks she can play games with the Blackwoods! Forebearer, release us! We''ll turn that damned sanctuary upside down!"


    Thomas roared, his frustration palpable.


    He was going stir-crazy, confined within the storage ring.


    If it weren''t for the ring''s exorbitant value, he would have broken free long ago.


    Besides, Marcus had always been their protector.


    Whenever they were wronged, the elders might have scolded them, but it was always Marcus who sought retribution.


    He might not have achieved much for the family in the grand scheme of things, but Thomas knew that Marcus had joined the Sky Sect to acquire their secret techniques for the Blackwood family''s benefit.


    He had remained there to strengthen their position, and now, he had even ventured into Sunshine Mansion for the sake of their millennium-long plan.


    Who in their right mind would willingly subject themselves to the whims of those arrogant fools in Sunshine Mansion if not for the family''s future?


    The other Blackwoods within the ring echoed Thomas''s sentiments.


    Jessica listened to their pleas, sensing their eagerness for action.


    Her second uncle had warned her before their departure that acquiring resources wouldn''t be the most challenging aspect of this mission.


    Keeping her seven fathers in check would be the true test.


    "Patience, my elders. I have a plan."


    The third generation of Blackwoods fell silent, their trust in Jessica absolute.


    They knew that when it came to strategy, only she and their second brother could outwit their combined intellect.

 Chapter 334 - 334: This wasnt a request; it was a shakedown

    George and his companions had finally reached the middle region of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Their initial plan had been to lie in wait at the outer region for a month, ambushing unsuspecting Rising Stars lured in by their treasures.


    However, the flow of potential victims had dwindled to a trickle, forcing them to venture deeper in search of richer pickings.


    They hadn''t anticipated the carnage that awaited them.


    The middle region had been thoroughly ransacked, its Rising Stars decimated.


    Even seasoned experts from the inner region had descended upon the area, their fury palpable.


    It seemed their own promising disciples had met untimely ends within the middle region, and they were hellbent on finding the culprits.


    Whispers of the culprits'' terrifying prowess spread like wildfire.


    They were a two-person team, striking with deadly precision whenever a Rising Star strayed from their group, vanishing without a trace.


    They left no bodies behind, only the lingering echoes of their power.


    The most experienced Competent Force Psychics could only glean fragments of information from the remnants of mystical energy left behind.


    One wielded a bow with deadly accuracy.


    The other... they had only intervened once, when their companion had been pushed to the brink.


    That single intervention had resulted in the death of Sunshine Mansion''s most promising prodigy, a Developing Skill expert with a mutated Water-type Single Psychic Constitution, said to be invincible within his level.


    The battle had been legendary, drawing the attention of countless Competent Force Psychics, leaving them no time to conceal the aftermath, allowing others to deduce the events that had transpired.


    "Those little bastards are loaded with loot, causing such a ruckus," George grumbled, his face contorted in envy.


    He had just interrogated a captured Rising Star, learning of the chaos engulfing the middle region.


    "Looks like we missed out on the real treasures. All we managed to snag in the outer region were a few trinkets, nothing above seventh-rank, and only two sixth-rank artifacts."


    "Stop your complaining!" William whined, covering his ears.


    For some reason, the dagger in his lap twitched, its edge drawn to the pulse throbbing in his brother''s neck.


    "Was my plan flawed? Absolutely not! If you want to blame someone, blame Joseph. If he hadn''t gone on a rampage against those Rising Stars, we''d be rolling in riches right now."


    "Enough, you two. I found Joseph!"


    Justin materialized silently between his bickering companions, his sudden appearance startling them into silence.


    The trio exchanged a knowing look and vanished, reappearing moments later, surrounding Joseph and Katie.


    "Grandfathers... what are you doing here?" Joseph stammered, his mind flashing back to their terrifying encounter in the outer region.


    He had just eliminated a formidable Developing Skill Rising Star, but despite his recent victory, he couldn''t shake the feeling that these three, despite being at the same cultivation level as his victim, possessed a different, more profound strength.


    Back home, rumors of their eccentricities were legendary.


    Great Grandfather Thomas often spoke of their unpredictable nature.


    Grandfather George had a peculiar affinity for coffins, even going so far as to disturb the Forebearer''s final resting place.


    Grandfather Justin had an even stranger quirk: he thrived on pain, his excitement growing with every strike he received as a child.


    And Grandfather William... his reputation as an unhinged killer preceded him.


    "Joseph, my boy, we need a favor," George said, wiping away a fake tear, his voice thick with feigned despair.


    "I''ve been working my tail off out here, trying to make something of myself, but your dear old Grandfather George... I''m past my prime, a failure, I tell you. I haven''t accomplished anything worthwhile, haven''t acquired a single treasure worthy of mention. I made a promise to the family before I left: I wouldn''t return without reaching the Competent Force level. But I''m short on resources, you see.


    And your Grandfathers William and Justin... well, we''re..."


    "Flat broke!" the trio chimed in unison.


    Joseph sighed, his heart sinking.


    He understood their plight all too well. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had been in their shoes countless times.


    As a child in Johnson Duke''s Mansion, his elders had swindled him out of every gift he received during festivals.


    As a young man, hiding from Michael''s attempts to possess him, his own father had tricked him out of his resources.


    Even now, as the Covert Branch Director of Heavenly Justice Hall, a significant portion of his earnings went towards appeasing his elders.


    And now, these three... this wasn''t a request; it was a shakedown.


    He glared at his upside-down grandfathers, gesturing towards his bound feet.


    "I get it, I really do. But could you at least put me down before we continue this conversation? I''m not getting any younger, you know. Generation after generation, all you elders do is exploit us poor juniors. Have you no shame?"


    They reluctantly released him, and after a "friendly" discussion, Joseph found himself handing over his storage ring, watching in dismay as they divvied up its contents.


    "Grandfathers, I can see you''re all on the verge of breaking through." Joseph fixed them with a stern gaze.


    "But let me be clear: these resources were hard-earned by Katie. You can take what you need for your breakthroughs, and not a single scrap more. Otherwise, I''ll report this blatant robbery to the Forebearer, to our ancestors!"


    Katie, for her part, seemed unfazed.


    She had long accepted that their elders were perpetually broke.


    These three, in particular, looked like they hadn''t eaten in weeks.


    "Yes, yes, we understand," William said dismissively, waving a hand.


    "Once your dear Grandfather William breaks through the Six-Nine Heavenly Tribulation, you''ll be swimming in riches."


    "As expected of William, always aiming high. I''m only at the Five-Nine Heavenly Tribulation," George chimed in, casually stuffing a sixth-rank mystical herb into his storage ring.


    "I envy you youngsters. Me? I''m stuck at the measly Three-Nine Heavenly Tribulation."


    His brothers shot him a dubious look.


    "Brother, that''s pushing it."


    Joseph didn''t believe a word of it.


    He rolled his eyes.


    No wonder Great Grandfather Thomas often referred to these three as the most shameless of the third generation elders in the entire Blackwood clan.


    If their Heavenly Tribulations were truly that weak, pigs would fly.


    Grandfather George had inherited the legacy of countless Azure Cloud predecessors; he was practically swimming in karmic fortune.


    Grandfather Justin had cheated death more times than anyone else in the Blackwood family combined, each near-death experience pushing him further beyond his limits.


    And Grandfather William... his true strength remained a mystery, but rumors of his monstrous kill count were legendary.


    Great Ancestor Olivia had taken him under her wing after sensing his inherently destructive nature, a consequence of his cultivation path.


    Such individuals rarely lived past a hundred years.


    Joseph suspected these three weren''t just eccentric elders; they were the Blackwood family''s most dangerous hidden weapons.


    Their gleeful looting was interrupted as their Forebearer Psychic Positions lit up simultaneously.


    The message they received drained the color from their faces.


    "Great Grandfather Marcus has been trapped by Neil?" Joseph''s brow furrowed.


    "She''s clearly up to something. But with the Forebearer''s awareness, rescuing Great Grandfather shouldn''t be impossible."


    He bowed towards Ethan''s Psychic Position.


    "Forebearer, Joseph has a plan!"


    "..."


    Ethan gazed at the eternally bright sky of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, a weary sigh escaping his lips.


    Here we go again. Another plan.

 Chapter 335 - 335: The knowledge Ive gained is invaluable

    Jessica''s plan had a certain general''s cunning.


    She proposed spreading the news of Marcus''s entrapment far and wide.


    The loss of the Heavenly Path Tear, while unfortunate, was a small price to pay for Marcus''s safety.


    The Competent Force Psychics wouldn''t dare harm him with so many powerful witnesses present.


    The revelation of the Heavenly Path Tear''s existence alone could ignite a full-blown war.


    Under the cover of chaos, they could target the vulnerable disciples of various factions in the outer region, picking them off one by one while remaining hidden, waiting for the opportune moment to seize an even greater prize.


    George, on the other hand, had a more... unconventional plan.


    He proposed rounding up all the disciples they could get their hands on and holding them hostage, forcing the Parker family to release Marcus in exchange for their safe return.


    Once Marcus was secure, they would renege on their promise, eliminating the hostages and making off with their spoils.


    Their logic was simple: if they couldn''t defeat these Competent Force experts, surely they could overpower their disciples?


    However, as always, events unfolded in unpredictable ways.


    The Blackwoods dispersed, their hunt for unsuspecting Rising Stars commencing.


    Ethan returned to the Sky Palace, his mind awhirl with potential strategies.


    But Marcus remained oblivious, his consciousness lost in the depths of the Heavenly Path Tear.


    The artifact hovered before him, its essence slowly merging with his own.


    [Your descendant, Marcus, is receiving Heavenly Path Venerable''s legacy, experiencing the entirety of their predecessor''s life.]


    [He senses that upon completion, he may be able to withstand the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation!]


    [Would you like to expend 1 point of Family Will to join your descendant, Marcus, in exploring Heavenly Path Venerable''s two-thousand-year journey?]


    "He might actually survive the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation?" Ethan''s expression brightened.


    If Marcus could achieve such a feat, it would completely change the game.


    With the Heavenly Path Tear fully integrated into his being, witnessed by countless individuals, Neil wouldn''t dare lay a finger on him.


    Without hesitation, Ethan accepted the prompt.


    Images flashed before his eyes, a whirlwind tour of Heavenly Path Venerable''s life.


    He was born into a humble village, blessed with loving parents and a simple life. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Possessing a rare Triple Psychic Constitution, he became only the second Psychic in his village''s history, eventually joining a small sect.


    Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and power, he devoured the Yellow-grade techniques taught within the sect.


    A chance encounter led him to a hidden formation left behind by a long-deceased Developing Skill expert, accelerating his cultivation beyond measure.


    By the age of fifty, he had reached the Emerging Ability level, prompting him to seek greater challenges within a more prestigious sect.


    His dedication and unwavering focus on cultivation, coupled with his detachment from worldly desires, reminiscent of Wesley Daoist''s teachings to Marcus, earned him the recognition of the Developing Skill sect''s elders.


    He was granted access to their most guarded secrets, receiving their ancient legacy.


    However, his pursuit of power led him down a dark path.


    He discovered a forbidden technique within the ancient legacy, a gruesome ritual that harnessed the life force of living beings to fuel his cultivation.


    For decades, he sacrificed countless lives, fueling his ascent to the Developing Skill level, forming his Super Core.


    By the age of three hundred, he had adopted the title ''Heavenly Path Daoist'' and joined yet another sect, rising to the rank of elder.


    [You have experienced Heavenly Path Venerable''s life and gained access to the forbidden ancient formation: ''Living Sacrifice Formation.'']


    [You have acquired the Yellow-grade technique... and the Earth-grade technique: ''Righteous Heavenly Path Escape.'']


    He became the most powerful elder within his sect, but his ambition remained insatiable.


    Another offer arrived, this time from a legendary sacred ground, one of the most powerful factions within Sunshine Mansion, the very same sect that had produced the ''seventh-rank Azurewood Branch'' Marcus had acquired: Crystal Crest, now known as Crystal Crest Sacred Mountain, rumored to house unfathomable power.


    Through Heavenly Path Venerable''s memories, Ethan glimpsed the true extent of Crystal Crest''s influence.


    Its disciples, numbering less than a hundred, lived in complete seclusion, their existence a closely guarded secret.


    Yet, their reach extended even to the empire itself.


    Heavenly Path Venerable''s master, an elder within Crystal Crest, was a legendary figure, rumored to have reached the elusive Advanced Mastery level.


    As expected, at the age of four hundred, Heavenly Path Venerable''s talent caught the eye of Elder Phil, a revered figure within Crystal Crest.


    Under his guidance, Heavenly Path Venerable finally broke through the shackles of the Developing Skill level, ascending to the coveted Competent Force realm.


    He dedicated the next few centuries to secluded cultivation within Crystal Crest.


    [You have experienced Heavenly Path Venerable''s life and gained access to the Earth-grade technique: ''Pilgrimage to Dust Crystal Scripture.'']


    [You have acquired the Earth-grade technique: ''Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique,'' the Mysterious-grade technique... ]


    Centuries passed.


    Heavenly Path Venerable''s cultivation soared, reaching the pinnacle of the Competent Force level.


    He stood on the precipice of Basic Mastery, yet the final barrier remained elusive.


    With five hundred years of his lifespan remaining, Elder Phil discerned the source of his disciple''s stagnation.


    The atrocities committed in his youth, the massacre of an entire county, had left an indelible mark on his soul, a karmic debt that threatened to cripple his future.


    Elder Phil urged Heavenly Path Venerable to seek atonement, to accept his fate.


    But Heavenly Path Venerable refused to yield.


    "A Psychic fights against fate, against heaven itself. My name is Heavenly Path! I walk the path of the heavens! I will not be bound by destiny!"


    Ethan watched as Heavenly Path Venerable turned his back on Crystal Crest Sacred Mountain, his gaze fixed on the horizon.


    "Wait, that''s it?"


    Ethan''s eyes snapped open, his mind reeling.


    He had witnessed Heavenly Path Venerable''s life unfold before him, yet the story felt incomplete.


    He knew Heavenly Path Venerable had eventually reached the Basic Mastery level, transcending his physical form.


    But the Heavenly Path Tear''s memories ended abruptly, the final two hundred years of Heavenly Path Venerable''s life shrouded in mystery.


    "No matter. The knowledge I''ve gained is invaluable." Ethan couldn''t help but smile.


    Marcus emerged from his meditative state, his eyes glowing with newfound power as he assimilated the Heavenly Path Tear''s essence.


    The entire process had taken a mere fortnight.


    Ethan examined the techniques and insights he had gained, his heart swelling with satisfaction.


    That single point of Family Will had been a wise investment.


    [Living Sacrifice Formation (Seventh Rank)]


    [All living beings possess a life force, a spark of mystical energy. This formation harnesses that energy, sacrificing life to fuel the caster''s cultivation. ]


    [The remnants of their life force and mystical energy empower the caster, allowing them to break through cultivation bottlenecks. However, such a path comes at a steep price. The accumulation of karmic debt hinders future breakthroughs and invites unforeseen calamities.]


    ...


    [Pilgrimage to Dust Crystal Scripture (Earth-grade technique)]


    [This technique emphasizes self-cultivation and detachment from worldly desires, leading to a state of transcendence and stability in one''s mystical powers. By embracing this scripture, one can blend into the world, becoming one with the dust, evading the tribulations that plague those seeking power. ]


    [It allows one to comprehend the profound laws governing existence, even while in a mortal state. Each law comprehended strengthens one''s mystical energy threefold. Mastering nine laws leads to the ''Transformation to Dust'' state, where mystical energy flows freely through all nine mystical apertures, granting unparalleled might within the Competent Force level. Few can stand against such power.]


    [Transforming Essence into Divinity... Nine Transformations of the Crystal Law, forging a world within...]


    [Divinity merging with the Void, becoming one with the heavens and earth... Mastery over a realm of existence.]


    ...


    [Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique]


    [An illusionary technique that locks down a specific location, drawing upon its prosperity and fortune to empower the caster. The more prosperous the location, the greater the power. This technique reaches its full potential only within the designated area, retaining thirty percent of its power when cast elsewhere.]


    [At the Developing Skill level, it can encompass a small town. At the Competent Force level, an entire county. At the Basic Mastery level, a whole province. And at the Advanced Mastery level, it can even draw upon the fortune of an entire state.]


    ...

 Chapter 336 - 336: The Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation is within reach!

    "Holy smokes! We''ve hit the jackpot! This is the true legacy Heavenly Path Venerable left behind!" Ethan was practically giddy with excitement.


    For years, the Blackwood family had relied on a single Earth-grade technique, the ''Azure Cloud Undying Scripture,'' while Amelia and Olivia''s techniques and magic formulas were unique to their bloodlines.


    But after experiencing the legacy of Crystal Crest, Ethan realized just how... well, let''s just say the Azure Cloud ancestors wouldn''t be offended.


    It was like comparing a basic Earth-grade technique to a legendary one.


    As for combat techniques, the Blackwoods only possessed Mysterious-grade ones.


    This ''Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique'' from Crystal Sacred Mountain was a game-changer.


    Mastered, it allowed one to draw upon the power of an entire region, making them virtually invincible within their level, even capable of defeating opponents from higher realms!


    "If the family used this technique to draw upon the power of Glory City... could they even challenge a Basic Mastery expert?" Ethan chuckled, lost in his fantasies.


    These two techniques alone were enough to elevate the Blackwoods to a whole new level of power.


    As for the ''Living Sacrifice Formation''... Ethan wouldn''t dare let his family touch it.


    Its limitations were too severe, and the potential karmic backlash was terrifying.


    Marcus, despite his misfortunes, had once again proven his worth.


    His earlier acquisition of numerous cultivation techniques from the Sky Sect had already propelled the family forward.


    Now, he had stumbled upon an even greater treasure!


    As Ethan reveled in their newfound fortune, Marcus retrieved his Psychic Position, his face beaming with joy as he bowed towards Ethan.


    "Forebearer, I finally see a path forward! The key to breaking free from this predicament lies within the Heavenly Path Tear! After experiencing two thousand years of Heavenly Path Venerable''s life, my understanding of the Heavenly Laws has deepened. I can sense it... the Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation is within reach!"


    "Excellent!" Ethan''s heart swelled with pride.


    Not only had the family acquired invaluable treasures, but they were about to gain another Nine-Nine Heavenly Tribulation Rising Star.


    He watched as Marcus prepared for his breakthrough, then vanished, his thoughts turning to his other descendants.


    "Hopefully, those kids haven''t gone overboard with... well, it''s probably fine."


    ...


    Ethan''s own understanding of the Heavenly Laws had deepened after experiencing Heavenly Path Venerable''s memories.


    [Congratulations! You have gained insights into the Water, Lightning, and Wind Laws...]


    He had already begun comprehending the Metal, Wood, Fire, and Earth Laws through his interactions with his descendants.


    Julian''s constant forging had exposed him to the Metal and Fire Laws, though his understanding was rudimentary, requiring further exploration.


    The Primordial Blood Tree had granted him insights into the Wood and Earth Laws, which he was still deciphering.


    Heavenly Path Venerable''s memories had filled in many gaps in his understanding.


    Once his comprehension of the Laws reached a sufficient level, allowing his Competent Force essence to transcend his physical form, he would be able to construct his own personal realm, a miniature world known as a Domain.


    Lost in thought, Ethan arrived at his descendants'' location.


    However, their plans had gone awry.


    The Blackwood descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary were huddled together, their faces etched with worry.


    Even the usually composed Joseph and Jessica seemed shaken.


    [Special Event: Closure of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary]


    [Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, the resting place of Heavenly Path Venerable has been discovered. In a fierce battle for control of the sanctuary''s treasures, Kyle of Carter Duke''s Mansion in Golden Valley single-handedly fought against seven Competent Force Psychics, one of whom ranked thirty-third on the Pinnacle Apprentice Leaderboard.]


    [Kyle emerged victorious, slaying two of his opponents. However, the intensity of their battle triggered the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s defensive formations, sealing the entrance and concealing the entire space within.]


    "What''s going on?" Ethan''s expression darkened.


    No wonder his descendants were in such a state.


    With the sanctuary sealed, their plans were in ruins.


    He gazed at the unchanging sky of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, a chilling realization dawning upon him.


    Concealed space... that meant the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had been transported from its original location in Misty Mount.


    Its current whereabouts were unknown.


    The sanctuary''s entrance was sealed, trapping countless Psychics within a space the size of a large county.


    Who knew what chaos would unfold?


    Katie''s face was pale.


    "We''re doomed! My life is over! I haven''t even defeated all the experts in Sunshine Mansion, haven''t made the family rich! I''m going to die in this forsaken place!"


    Joseph stared at his three grandfathers, who were still engrossed in a game of Gomoku, taking turns placing five stones in a row with unwavering seriousness.


    He shuddered, imagining spending the rest of his life trapped with these eccentric elders and the equally boisterous ancestors within his storage ring.


    But amidst his frustration, a sense of relief washed over him.


    "At least the plans I set in motion within Sunshine Mansion will continue. The family can still prosper."


    Jessica''s heart was heavy with worry.


    "The Druids... without me, I don''t know if Larry can lead the Azure Cloud army to victory, to eradicate those monsters."


    ...


    This unforeseen turn of events had caught everyone off guard.


    Ethan reappeared beside Marcus, relaying the news.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is sealed? Could this... be related to my refinement of the Heavenly Path Tear? Forebearer, please forgive me!" Marcus''s face contorted in anguish as he knelt before Ethan, begging for forgiveness. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan''s heart softened.


    Despite overcoming his inner demons thanks to the Sky Palace, Marcus still blamed himself for this disaster.


    [It is not your fault.]


    Ethan''s words, conveyed through the Forebearer Psychic Position, brought Marcus immense relief.


    He bowed deeply towards the glowing object.


    "Forebearer, now that the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is sealed, what should I do?"


    Ethan frowned, observing Marcus''s demeanor.


    He possessed immense talent and had once possessed an unyielding spirit.


    But over the years, he had become increasingly hesitant, indecisive, even allowing his juniors to surpass him.


    He had grown accustomed to following orders, his once-fierce spirit dulled.


    This was the same Marcus who had dared to slay his enemies within the Sky Sect, defying the entire sect with his audacity.


    After a moment of contemplation, Ethan chose not to dictate Marcus''s next move.


    Instead, he sent a simple message through the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    [Marcus, you are the eldest Blackwood within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Your family looks to you for guidance.]


    Marcus stared at the message, his mind racing.


    "I am the elder... the children''s last hope within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary... their hope..."


    As he pondered his newfound responsibility, Neil''s voice echoed from outside the Sky Palace, her tone sharper, more menacing than before.


    "Marcus, life is a series of choices. But sometimes, a single misstep can lead to irreversible consequences."


    Ethan''s brow furrowed.


    He and Marcus had been engrossed in the Heavenly Path Tear''s secrets for the past fortnight, oblivious to the events unfolding outside.


    Neil, however, had likely known about Kyle''s battle and the sanctuary''s closure for some time.


    He had been pondering the potential consequences of countless Psychics trapped within a sealed space, cut off from the outside world.


    "Isolated, with no fear of repercussions, they will..."


    "Do as they please!"


    Ethan and Marcus, within the Sky Palace, exchanged a chilling look, their eyes hardening with resolve.


    Neil''s voice continued, laced with impatience.


    "Elders, this fool refuses to see reason. It seems we have no choice but to..."


    Her words were cut short.

 Chapter 337 - 337: Greed is woven into the very fabric of their bloodline

    As the Sky Palace slowly unfurled, Marcus, clad in white robes, hovered in mid-air, his arm gracefully holding a duster.


    The Sky Palace shrunk at a speed visible to the naked eye, finally landing and spinning in the palm of his left hand.


    His expression remained serene as he gazed at Neil, who was seated in a meditative posture dozens of feet away.


    Behind Neil stood two elders from the Parker family, members of the elite force known as Competent Force.


    Neil seemed momentarily taken aback by Marcus''s sudden appearance.


    The sky was interwoven with a grand formation, meticulously crafted by three Competent Force members over the past few days.


    Its purpose was clear: to trap Marcus.


    They feared that once the Sky Palace was breached, Marcus would use the opportunity to escape with his disciples.


    "You have kept me confined for days, Neil," Marcus''s voice was calm, yet his eyes, as sharp and piercing as Lucas''s, held a hint of disdain and arrogance.


    "Do you truly believe that we, the Blackwoods, are easily bullied?"


    "You... you dare to show your face?" Neil retorted, her voice laced with a hint of panic.


    If Marcus had broken free from the Sky Palace by force, Neil would have struck him down without hesitation.


    However, Marcus''s voluntary surrender and his unwavering composure had thrown her off balance.


    One of the Parker elders burst into laughter.


    "Hahaha! How dare you come out? Very well, very well. No one thinks the Blackwoods are easy targets, but you seem to be oblivious to the current situation. Here, within the confines of this Sky Palace, no one will know if we end you! "


    "Now... hand over the Heavenly Path Tear and that peculiar mystical artifact of yours, and I might just spare your life!"


    Marcus merely raised an eyebrow at the elder''s words, choosing to remain silent. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    To everyone''s surprise, it was Neil whose expression darkened.


    She glared at the Parker elder, her voice sharp with anger.


    "What do you mean by that?"


    "What do I mean?" The elder scoffed.


    "Neil, outside the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, I only tolerated your commands out of respect for the Patriarch. But now, with the Sanctuary sealed, no one knows when we''ll be able to leave. Do you really think you can still order us around? Do you intend to keep the treasures Marcus possesses all to yourself?"


    The other Parker elder chimed in with a cold snort.


    "The Patriarch has always favored you, Neil. All the treasures you''ve acquired within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary are stored within your Storage Ring. Hand them over, and we shall share whatever Marcus has obtained. We are, after all, family."


    "You..." Neil''s face flushed red.


    She had never anticipated that the moment Marcus emerged, it wouldn''t be his capture they''d be focused on, but rather, a squabble among her own family elders for the spoils!


    For centuries, she had been the revered prodigy of the Parker family within Sunshine Mansion, accustomed to unquestioning obedience from her kin.


    The thought of her authority being challenged, especially by family elders, had never crossed her mind.


    "Enough talk, Neil. Hand over the Storage Ring!"


    In an instant, the atmosphere crackled with tension as the three Competent Force members from the Parker family stood at odds with each other, their hands hovering near their weapons.


    This unexpected turn of events caught both Ethan and Marcus off guard.


    Ethan had been prepared to unleash the full might of his Forebearer Psychic Position, ready for the Forebearer to make a grand entrance.


    Who could have predicted that the Parker family would implode from within?


    Natural energies surged and clashed as the three Parkers engaged in a silent battle of wills, the threat of violence hanging heavy in the air.


    Marcus remained suspended in mid-air, an amused spectator to this unfolding drama.


    The Parkers had intended to kill him, but now, they had become the main act in a spectacle he could hardly have imagined.


    "The Fortune Sanctum Parker family, the most quintessential merchants in all of Sunshine Mansion," Ethan sighed, shaking his head.


    "Greed is woven into the very fabric of their bloodline. Once the reins of order are loosened, these merchants will stop at nothing."


    Despite the amusement, a flicker of unease ran through Ethan.


    If the three Parkers, bound by blood, could turn on each other with such ferocity, then the closure of the Sunshine Psychic Sanctuary would undoubtedly plunge this place into chaos.


    After all, there were thousands of Psychics trapped within, ranging from those just beginning their journey with Foundational Energy to seasoned Competent Force experts.


    These Psychics had clawed their way to their current positions, their hands stained with the blood of their rivals.


    None of them were saints.


    It was like trapping a pack of wolves within an enclosure, their primal instincts unleashed without any fear of consequence.


    What kind of pandemonium would ensue?


    As Ethan pondered the implications, Neil launched a full-blown assault on the two Parker elders.


    True to their lineage, the trio fought with extraordinary skill and power.


    Neil, despite her elegant name, wielded a rather mundane-looking ability weapon: a giant gold coin.


    But what truly set Neil apart was her arsenal of top-tier ability weapons.


    As she engaged her opponents, she produced two more, each radiating immense power.


    The first was a golden silk robe that materialized around her body, its brilliance illuminating the sky with a shower of golden rain that served as a shimmering barrier against her attackers.


    The second weapon was a treasure basin, likely a complementary piece to her other artifacts, much like Drunken Fool''s arsenal.


    As the golden rain cascaded from the sky, it poured into the basin, causing Neil''s aura to surge with power.


    Natural energies swirled around her, coalescing into a massive grinding wheel that manifested behind her.


    With each golden drop that fell into the basin, the wheel spun faster, its power growing exponentially until it began to suppress the natural energies of the two Parker elders, hindering their movements.


    "That cunning woman... she''s been hiding her true strength all along. Her power rivals even Mike''s," Ethan murmured, his eyes narrowed in appraisal.


    Mike, who had fought Chuck to a standstill on multiple occasions, was undoubtedly Pinnacle Apprentice material.


    Marcus, too, watched the battle unfold with a furrowed brow.


    He had come to Sunshine Mansion to witness the rise and fall of its heroes, but Neil''s display of power had shaken him to his core.


    "To think, even with the Heavenly Path Tear integrated into my being, I wonder how long I could last against her," he muttered under his breath.


    "Unfortunately, this Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is a world unto itself. I can''t sense my thunder tribulation here. However..."


    Marcus''s gaze fell upon the Sky Palace in his hand, and a slow smile spread across his face as he recalled the Forebearer''s words.


    "It will have to be enough. This time, I will stand as a shield for my people!"


    ...


    Two incense sticks'' worth of time later, the golden rain that had filled the sky during Neil''s battle had dissipated.


    Clad in her golden robe, the treasure basin shrunk in her left hand, and the giant gold coin spinning around her right, she stood triumphant over the two Parker elders.


    One lay dead, while the other clung to life, his eyes wide with terror.


    "A hundred years ago, you were only at the mid-stage of Competent Force," the surviving elder choked out, his voice hoarse with fear.


    "All these years, you''ve only ever displayed the strength of a mid-stage cultivator... How... how is this possible...?"


    Puchi!


    The elder coughed up a mouthful of blood, his face contorted in a mask of horror.


    Year after year, he had witnessed Neil''s progress, but her true strength, the power she had unleashed today, was beyond anything he could have imagined.


    It was as if she had been holding back a tidal wave all this time.


    "Hmph." Neil spared the dying elder no more than a dismissive glance.


    If she hadn''t needed his help, she would have ended his life along with his comrade.


    Turning her back on the fallen elder, she fixed her gaze on Marcus, who still maintained his air of composure.


    Her initial wariness returned.


    "You''re not running?"


    "If I ran, I would miss this grand spectacle, wouldn''t I?" Marcus replied, a hint of mockery in his tone.


    And with those words, he did something unexpected.


    Clutching the Sky Palace in his hand, he shot towards Neil like a hawk descending upon its prey!

 Chapter 338 - 338: Foolish child!

    With just a subtle surge of his psychic powers,Marcus''s aura shifted,causing Neil''s expression to change dramatically.


    "You...You''ve already broken through?!"


    Marcus could now wield natural energies!


    If not for the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s barrier,which masked his presence from the heavens,Marcus''s thunder tribulation would have already descended upon them.


    Nine fiery lotuses materialized around his ethereal form,bathing him in an inferno of mystical flames,transforming him into a veritable fire god.


    Behind him,the Sky Palace transformed into his spectral projection,a breathtaking tapestry woven with constellations and celestial bodies.


    The Azurewood Branch,now residing within the Sky Palace,unfurled as countless vines,surging forth with fiery tendrils.


    The Heavenly Path Tear,taking the form of a colossal,hundred-foot-tall Asura warrior,emerged from the depths of the Sky Palace,its grotesque visage contorted in a fearsome roar directed at Neil.


    Even Marcus''s duster was no ordinary artifact.


    The bristles of the duster were consumed by the flames that enveloped him,transforming the handle into a blazing spear,its length extending far beyond its original form.


    So much for the transcendent,otherworldly Daoist!


    It was all a facade!


    Marcus,after all,had inherited Lucas''s fiery spirit.


    In that moment,he was possessed by the same fervor he had displayed years ago within the Sky Sect,when he stood before a multitude,spear in hand,a blazing inferno consuming his enemies.


    But now,he was far more powerful!


    "You''ve always spoken of choices,of how every step in life is a crossroads,and a single misstep can lead to eternal damnation!"Marcus roared,his spear thrust forward,igniting the sky with fiery clouds.


    His eyes burned with the same intensity as the flames that danced around him.


    "Now,I offer you a choice:Submit to the Blackwoods,or..."


    "I will unleash upon you an eternity of suffering!!!"


    As his words echoed through the air,the flames intensified,the Asura warrior formed from the Heavenly Path Tear charged towards Neil with a deafening roar,and fiery vines erupted from Marcus''s surroundings,their tendrils reaching out like fiery serpents.


    Neil,initially stunned by Marcus''s newfound power,recovered from her shock.


    A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she watched Marcus,his form ablaze.


    A playful smirk spread across her face as she effortlessly raised her gold coin,deflecting the Asura warrior''s colossal fist,the fiery vines,and Marcus''s spear with a single,graceful movement.


    "Interesting.Are all Blackwoods this arrogant?"Neil inquired,her voice laced with amusement.


    Her red lips curled into a condescending smile.


    "The Ninth Heavenly Tribulation?What of it?Even if you had fully endured its trials,you would still be no match for me.And yet,here you are,untested by its fires,daring to challenge me?"


    "A frog at the bottom of a well cannot fathom the vastness of the ocean.I must admit,I admire your courage.However..."


    "Courage alone is simply not enough.You are no different from those two pathetic fools from the Parker family."


    With a flick of her wrist,the grinding wheel,the gold coin,and the treasure basin reappeared,radiating immense power.


    Neil''s golden silk robe shimmered as Marcus''s flames washed over her,their heat barely enough to ruffle her silken garments.


    She stood before him,an ethereal goddess gazing down upon a mere mortal consumed by his own hubris.


    A surge of excitement coursed through Neil.


    For years,she had kept her true power hidden,a secret known only to herself.


    Now,finally,she had an opportunity to unleash a fraction of her true might,to make Marcus,this insignificant ant,tremble before her like a god.


    What could be more exhilarating?


    Once she had seized all of Marcus''s opportunities,she would be free to challenge Kyle for supremacy within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!


    Yet,facing Neil,who seemed to stand on the other side of an insurmountable chasm,Marcus felt no fear,only an unyielding determination.


    The Asura warrior,his spectral projection,had been shattered by the onslaught of golden rain.


    His flames couldn''t even melt Neil''s gold coin,and the Azurewood Branch''s vines were scattered like ashes,their power negated.


    Still,he pressed forward,his spirit unbroken.


    Words were unnecessary.


    For years,he had never felt so alive,so free.


    He had always been plagued by fear and self-doubt.


    His mother,Karen''s,betrayal,her theft of their family''s treasures,had left him feeling unworthy.


    His defeat at the hands of Elder Felix of the Sky Sect,his fall into Wesley Daoist''s insidious trap,the near-death experience of Boar Monarch Pete¨Cthese events had haunted him for centuries,making him wary of conflict.


    He had treaded carefully around the powerful factions of Azure Cloud,always mindful of the precarious balance of power.


    He had approached the Duke''s Mansion with caution,and even the arrival of the Druids had not spurred him to reckless action.


    But now...


    He looked down at the flames that flickered around him,their intensity waning with each failed assault.


    And he remembered the Forebearer''s words.


    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,he was the eldest of the Blackwoods.


    He had no reason to hesitate,no reason to fear.


    His people were depending on him.


    He had to stand his ground!


    "Sky Palace,lend me your strength!Help me vanquish my foe!!!" sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    Meanwhile,atop a mystical mountain imbued with celestial energy,cranes soared through the sky,their cries echoing through the air.


    It was time for the ancient ritual of the Dao Discussion.


    "Dong!"


    A bell tolled,its sound ancient and profound,resonating through the very core of the mountain.


    Deep within the mountain''s heart,a young boy sat upon a lotus platform,his voice reciting ancient scriptures.


    Before him,disciples clad in Daoist robes knelt in meditation,their minds absorbing the wisdom of their master''s teachings.


    As the bell''s echo faded,the boy opened his eyes,his chanting ceasing.


    The disciples rose in unison,bowing respectfully before departing,their forms shrinking into the distance until they were but specks against the horizon,their swords carrying them swiftly through the air.


    Among the disciples,an elderly man with a youthful face remained,his presence requested by the boy himself.


    "Grandmaster,"the elder inquired,his voice filled with reverence,"you have summoned me.What is your bidding?"


    The boy,though possessing the appearance of a child,spoke with a voice that resonated with an age far beyond his years.


    "One hundred and thirty thousand years ago,I departed from Azure Cloud,leaving behind the treasure known as the Sky Palace,and thus,the Sky Sect was born.Your talent is undeniable,your dedication to the Dao unwavering."


    "You possess the secret treasure,the Sky Palace,and yet,after fourteen hundred years,you linger at the peak of Competent Force.You should have long since reached the Nascent Soul stage,transcended your mortal shell,and attained Basic Mastery."


    Could this be Warren Daoist,the legendary cultivator who had vanished without a trace after suffering grievous injuries on his journey to the Imperial Capital?


    Marcus had always been haunted by his master''s disappearance.


    To think that Warren Daoist had been cultivating his psychic powers in this remote location all along!


    Warren Daoist could only offer a wry smile in response to the boy''s words.


    "Grandmaster,the Sky Palace you left behind is a truly enigmatic artifact.Each successive generation of Sky Sect leaders has inherited its guardianship,and we have adhered to your teachings,severing our worldly ties,purging ourselves of earthly desires."


    "Yet,the Sky Palace remains indifferent to our efforts.I have wielded its power for many years,but aside from cultivating my psychic powers within its confines and utilizing it for defense,its true purpose eludes me."


    "Foolish child!"


    The boy''s voice,though soft,carried a weight that sent Warren Daoist crumbling to his knees.


    A sigh escaped the boy''s lips as he waved his hand dismissively.


    "Who filled your head with such nonsense?Who told you that the path of cultivating psychic powers requires the severance of all worldly ties?One hundred and thirty thousand years ago,when Azure Cloud faced its darkest hour,it was the unity of our Psychics,our unwavering commitment to our homeland,that saved us from annihilation."


    "If we had all abandoned our earthly bonds,if we had turned our backs on Azure Cloud,do you think Cloudview County would even exist today?"


    "I cannot fault you entirely.You are unaware of the events of the past,and therefore,you cannot comprehend the true nature of the Sky Palace."


    As the boy spoke,a hint of longing flickered in his eyes,as if he were reminiscing about a bygone era.

 Chapter 339 - 339: No... It was far, far worse

    "Back then, Azure Cloud was on the verge of defeat.


    The Druids possessed a powerful artifact, forcing us to retreat at every turn.


    We had no choice but to wage a war of attrition, gathering the strength of the entire county.


    It took three hundred years of relentless effort, sacrificing countless mystical artifacts and pouring our very life force into the endeavor, before the Sky Palace finally manifested!"


    Warren Daoist''s face paled as he listened to the boy''s words.


    It was difficult to fathom the desperation that must have gripped Cloudview County in those dark times, the sacrifices those Psychics had made, willingly surrendering their most prized mystical equipment and ability weapons.


    "The Sky Palace was but a skeletal framework," the boy continued, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and sorrow, "yet even in that incomplete state, it possessed unimaginable power."


    "As its sentience grew, so too did its memories of that bygone era.


    To think, you believed that severing your worldly ties was the key to unlocking its power!


    Without the weight of responsibility upon your shoulders, without the unwavering determination to protect those you hold dear, the Sky Palace would never have even acknowledged your existence."


    The boy''s explanation struck Warren Daoist like a bolt of lightning, illuminating the path he had so blindly strayed from.


    "No wonder... No wonder!


    We have been misguided for generations!


    It all makes sense now, why the Sky Palace has always regarded us with such indifference."


    The boy sighed, his youthful features etched with a wisdom that belied his age.


    "Tell me, Warren Daoist, where is the Sky Palace now?"


    A wry smile spread across Warren Daoist''s face as he replied, "It is in the possession of my disciple."


    "Oh?" The boy''s eyes twinkled with amusement.


    "You seem rather confident in this disciple of yours."


    "Indeed, Grandmaster."


    Warren Daoist''s thoughts drifted back to Marcus, his troubled yet determined student.


    "He has endured much hardship in his life, his path fraught with misfortune.


    Among the Blackwoods, he may not be considered exceptional, and the trials he has faced have taken their toll.


    But I know this much: Marcus carries the blood of the Blackwoods in his veins, and he is a man of unwavering loyalty and compassion."


    "One day, he will emerge from the shadows, and he will make me prouder than I could ever imagine."


    "The day he breaks free from his cocoon and takes flight!"


    The boy nodded slowly, sensing the unwavering conviction in Warren Daoist''s voice.


    "I, too, hope to witness this disciple''s transformation."


    "That day will come, Grandmaster.


    It will come."


    Warren Daoist''s smile widened, his eyes shining with pride.


    Then, a thought occurred to him.


    "Grandmaster, if you would indulge an old fool''s curiosity... what is the true purpose of the Sky Palace?"


    "It is..." the boy paused, his gaze turning distant, as if peering into the depths of time itself, "a weapon."


    ...


    "Clang!!!"


    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Marcus''s desperate plea, "Sky Palace, lend me your strength!" was answered with the deafening screech of grinding metal.


    Behind him, the black celestial canopy formed by the Sky Palace flickered, the watery Asura warrior and the fiery inferno within vanishing without a trace, replaced by an abyss of pure, unadulterated power.


    Neil, her form shimmering with golden energy, felt a shiver run down her spine.


    The Sky Palace had fallen silent, the flames that had engulfed Marcus''s body were fading, his psychic powers clearly exhausted.


    Even the nine mystical flames that danced around him, his constant companions, were on the verge of dissipating.


    Yet, the faint hum emanating from the Sky Palace filled Neil with a sense of unease, a primal fear that stayed her hand.


    She couldn''t explain it, but something told her that finishing off Marcus now would be a grave mistake.


    However, her intuition was lost on the surviving Parker elder. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Wounded and terrified, desperate to prove his loyalty and save his own skin, he saw only weakness in Marcus''s fading aura.


    Ignoring his injuries, he launched himself into the air, positioning himself between Neil and his intended victim.


    "Neil, there''s no need to waste your energy on this insignificant whelp," he snarled, his eyes fixed on Marcus with murderous intent.


    "This Blackwood brat dared to challenge the might of the Parker family!


    Allow me to relieve him of his miserable existence!"


    Neil frowned, her keen eyes seeing through the elder''s desperate ploy.


    She simply smiled, a silent acquiescence, and took a step back, gracefully dismissing her ability weapons.


    Marcus remained suspended in mid-air, his body hunched, like a wounded wolf.


    And then, Neil witnessed a sight that would forever be etched into her memory.


    The Parker elder, his body surging with natural energies, summoned his innate ability weapon, a golden spear, and charged towards Marcus.


    "Crack... Crack... Crack..."


    A sickening sound, like shattering glass, filled the air.


    Behind Marcus, the Sky Palace began to crumble, its once-impregnable surface splitting apart.


    The wounded wolf raised its head, its eyes blazing with defiance.


    Neil met Marcus''s gaze, her body trembling uncontrollably.


    His eyes, once filled with fear and uncertainty, now burned with a cold, steely resolve, like twin stars piercing through the veil of night.


    Everything was breaking apart.


    The Parker elder''s spear, mere inches from Marcus''s chest, froze in mid-air, as if time itself had ground to a halt.


    The Sky Palace, its dark, celestial form now a maelstrom of swirling fragments, drifted towards Marcus, each piece pulsing with an ancient, terrifying power.


    The sheer pressure emanating from the disintegrating artifact was enough to paralyze the Parker elder, a cultivator at the peak of Competent Force, rendering him utterly helpless.


    The world seemed to hold its breath, color draining from the sky as the Sky Palace, this terrifying instrument of destruction, was reborn.


    The fragments, as if possessing a will of their own, spiraled around Marcus, converging, coalescing, until they formed a magnificent, terrifying weapon: a halberd, its blade shimmering with the light of a thousand stars.


    "What... What is this?!"


    The Parker elder''s eyes widened in horror, his voice a strangled gasp.


    He could feel the terrifying power emanating from the halberd, its presence suffocating, inescapable.


    It was like staring into the abyss, its depths unknowable, its power absolute.


    The pressure bearing down on him was more terrifying than anything he had ever experienced, even Neil''s grinding wheel paled in comparison.


    No... It was far, far worse.


    Marcus''s voice, devoid of any emotion, cut through the silence.


    His words, however, were not directed at the terrified elder, but at Neil, who was already backing away, her initial confidence shattered.


    "Now... who is the frog at the bottom of the well?"


    "Who is the pathetic fool?!"


    ...


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    The sound of shattering and reformation continued to echo through the air.


    As Marcus gripped the halberd, its starry surface seemed to flow onto him, his body taking on the same celestial hue.


    His wounds healed instantly, his aura surging with newfound power.


    The nine mystical flames, the Azurewood Branch, and the Heavenly Path Tear, all residing within the Sky Palace, were now flowing into him, their power merging with his own.


    The once-impenetrable shell of the Sky Palace seemed to fuse with his flesh, making him as unyielding as the artifact itself.


    He had never felt such power before.


    With a single clench of his fist, he felt like he could shatter mountains, control the very fabric of reality.


    And...


    Within a radius of hundreds of feet, everything was under his control, suppressed by the overwhelming power of the Sky Palace.


    Unless his opponents possessed the strength to break free from the combined might of his three mystical artifacts, they were utterly at his mercy.


    "Neil... Neil, help me!"


    The elder''s desperate cries pierced through Marcus''s thoughts, drawing his attention to the pathetic figure struggling futilely against the invisible force that held him captive, his previous arrogance replaced with abject terror.


    "You think she can save you?


    Look around, old man.


    See where your precious Neil has run."


    Marcus lifted his left hand, releasing the pressure on the elder''s throat.


    The elder turned his head stiffly, his eyes widening in horror as he realized...

 Chapter 340 - 340: Surrender, and I promise to treat you well

    "You bitch!!!"he roared,eyes bloodshot.


    A streak of light was all that remained before him.


    Neil,employing some unknown secret technique,had already fled the scene!


    "Spare me...Master,spare me!


    You saw it yourself,Neil and I fought,and now she has abandoned me.


    Regardless,there''s no way Neil and I can coexist.


    Besides,I''m still useful!"


    The fear of death can always ignite the desire for survival.


    Where was the arrogance of the Parker family elder from moments ago?


    His mind raced,and he began to calmly stare at Marcus,whose skin shimmered like stars.


    In a deep voice,he said,"I also know that you can''t catch Neil.


    She used our Parker family''s bloodline secret technique,the''Divine Shield Technique''.


    After escaping,she can transform into gold or silver and bury herself anywhere,like an inanimate object.


    She can even hibernate for a thousand or even ten thousand years,slowing down her lifespan consumption by a hundredfold!"


    Marcus remained silent,but he had witnessed Neil''s escape technique.


    It was truly remarkable.


    Although his strength was considerable after the Sky Palace entered his body,he wasn''t certain he could catch up to Neil.


    Seeing Marcus lost in thought,a glimmer of hope flashed in the Parker family elder''s eyes.


    "Master,I can find her.


    We are connected by blood.


    As long as I live,I''ll do anything you ask!


    Otherwise,Neil is cunning and treacherous.


    You wouldn''t want to be schemed against by someone like her day and night,would you?


    Even if you want to kill me,I want Neil to die before me!"


    But as soon as he finished speaking,his face turned ashen.


    Marcus''s expression turned strange.


    "You don''t think Neil can really escape,do you?"


    "What..."


    ...


    Escape!


    Neil''s face was grim.


    She hadn''t expected Marcus to have so many trump cards.


    Breaking through the ninety-nine thunder tribulation was one thing,but even if he had truly undergone the baptism of the thunder tribulation,it wouldn''t be a big deal to her.


    However,when the Sky Palace appeared,she no longer wanted to tangle with Marcus.


    Even with all her cards on the table,she was no match for him.


    Only Carter Kyle of Golden Valley County,or Tom,ranked eighth on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking from Whispering Pines Fort,or the Unquestioning Scholar,ranked tenth from Bright Light Institute,or the Wild Monk,ranked nineteenth from Grand Royal Temple,could possibly fight Marcus!


    "I heard that Kyle is at the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    I hope at least one of the remaining three from Sunshine Mansion is there too."


    Neil let out a long breath.


    "Otherwise,after forcing me to use a secret technique that I can only use once every hundred years and causing the deaths of two Competent Force from my Parker family,this grudge...I can''t let it go!"


    But as soon as she finished speaking,her expression changed drastically.


    She had already traveled hundreds of miles using the''Divine Shield Technique'',escaping the search range of Marcus''s Competent Force.


    Just as she was about to burrow into the ground and hide for two to three months before making further plans,something stopped her in mid-air!


    Thirteen strange Psychic Formations were rising up,surrounding her from all directions.


    She recognized them.


    It was rumored that only Blackwood people used Psychic Formations in battle.


    This was common knowledge,and many in Sunshine Mansion mocked it.


    But everyone knew that when Blackwood Psychic Formations appeared,it meant the Blackwood people were fighting to the death!


    At the same time,various ability weapons floated in the air,and even...totems used only by Druids!


    Numerous formations appeared,clearly indicating that the other party had come prepared.


    There was nowhere left to escape!


    "Blackwood!"


    Neil felt a chill run down her spine.


    The wind in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary was cold,making her numb from head to toe.


    "How can there be more Blackwood people?


    Didn''t only Marcus come from Blackwood this time?


    Weren''t the experts from Cloudview County trapped outside Misty Mount?!"


    Her thoughts were in turmoil.


    In an instant,a playful voice rang out from below.


    "Neil,the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is only so big.


    Where do you think you can run to?"


    "Surrender,and I promise to treat you well."


    "Think carefully.


    There are many choices in life,but sometimes one wrong step can lead to eternal damnation."


    ...


    The speaker was an extremely handsome young man,sitting in a wheelchair pushed by a woman who,apart from carrying a pink longbow,was otherwise unremarkable.


    One possessed only Foundational Energy,while the other had just entered the Developing Skill realm.


    Yet,they dared to look directly at her,a dignified Competent Force!


    Especially the young man''s calm and composed words made Neil''s face particularly unsightly.


    Weren''t these the very words she had used to mock Marcus over the past half month?


    Now,they were being thrown back at her!


    No. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Besides anger,what terrified her even more was that the man''s words implied that everything she had done in the past half month had been under surveillance!


    As expected.


    A stunning woman in blood-red armor,wielding dual swords,appeared.


    Behind her,a blood-colored lunar halo froze the surrounding space,drawing everyone''s attention.


    It had to be said that the Blackwood people were bold.


    This woman,at the peak of the Developing Skill realm,was at the critical juncture of forming her Nascent Soul.


    Yet,she dared to approach Neil within a thousand meters,her crescent moon-like eyes fixed coldly on Neil,as if she were already dead.


    "Neil,there was a time when our Blackwood cooperated with you.


    We know that your Parker family is a family of merchants.


    Why do you insist on walking this path of no return?"


    "Bloodclothed General,Jessica!"


    Although Jessica was only at the Developing Skill realm,Neil didn''t dare to let her guard down in the slightest.


    The alarm bells in her heart were ringing louder and louder.


    In recent years,among the Druids who had invaded Azure Cloud,Jessica ranked among the top three!


    Her reputation as the Crimson War God not only deterred the Druids outside Azure Cloud but even reached the ears of those in the imperial capital.


    The ever-victorious general Owen had written back to the imperial capital,and Grand Tutor Gilbert,who was on the northern expedition,had somehow heard of Jessica''s name and praised her highly.


    There were even rumors that if Jessica were to enter the imperial city,the Grand Tutor''s faction would spare no effort in nurturing her.


    She didn''t believe that Jessica would be foolish enough to block her path with only two insignificant figures while being at the Developing Skill realm herself.


    Moreover,there were ten Psychic Formations,representing ten Blackwood individuals.


    Nathan,Luna,Lucas,Amelia...These Blackwood individuals were all Competent Force.


    They might even possess terrifying trump cards like Marcus.


    She scanned her surroundings,searching for an escape route,not daring to move a muscle.


    Marcus would arrive soon,and the hidden Blackwood individuals were bound to be even more formidable...


    But as she was pondering,Neil froze.


    A flash of blood-red light emanated from Jessica''s Storage Ring,and seven figures emerged.


    These seven individuals had a bizarre appearance.


    They were all clad in heavy armor,making their already bear-like physiques even more imposing.


    Their exposed skin,even their faces,were covered in demonic runes,and there was something strange about them.

 Chapter 341 - 341: This... is the power of our ancestors?

    If the intel was accurate, then Blackwood Thomas had sprouted a pair of massive, blood-red wings.


    Blackwood Anthony now bore a vertical eye on his forehead, while Blackwood Linda wielded six weapons with her six arms.


    Blackwood Kevin''s back writhed with slender tentacles, Blackwood Paul sported both horns and a tail, and Blackwood Yun was covered in black scales.


    As for Andrew, he now stood as a colossal giant, towering over 16 feet tall!


    Their forms were monstrous, yet they exuded no demonic aura, only an overwhelming wave of dark, arcane energy and Druidic power.


    The totems used by Druid priests glowed brightly in their presence, and the mystical artifacts they carried pulsed with an eerie light.


    "Blackwood... what are these abominations?!" Neil exclaimed, her vast experience failing to prepare her for the sight of the Blackwood''s third generation.


    But... that was all they were.


    "Every single one of them is at the peak of Developing Skill, still an insurmountable chasm away from Competent Force.


    Though rumors claim they''re immortal, they''re nothing to worry about."


    Neil couldn''t afford to be distracted by these seven creatures, but she didn''t let her guard down. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "There are still three more."


    Soon, the remaining three came into view.


    Three...


    "The Blackwood sent you lot?!" Neil stared at the three figures perched on the shoulders of Curtis (one of the third generation), momentarily stunned before bursting into laughter, a mixture of amusement and anger.


    "Laughable! Absolutely laughable! You dare to stand against me?!"


    The air, heavy with her resigned acceptance moments ago, crackled as she unleashed her suppressed power.


    "You''re courting death!"


    She had assumed the final three would be formidable Competent Force experts like Nathan.


    Never did she imagine they would be Jessica''s peers!


    These were the most infamous trio in Cloudview County, whispered to be the Blackwood family''s shame.


    They were notorious for their deceitful schemes and lack of genuine strength.


    Even the most capable among them, George, rumored to have inherited the true teachings of the Azure Cloud Pavilion, was said to waste his talents on robbing ancient graves, neglecting even his own grand sect.


    Justin was even more pathetic, a mere clown who acted recklessly before true power, often suffering humiliating defeats.


    If not for the Blackwood''s backing, he would have met his demise long ago.


    And then there was William, a coward who preyed only on the weak!


    "Hahaha, you?! You think you stand a chance?!" Neil cackled, pointing at Jessica in the distance.


    Whether it was relief at surviving her encounter with Marcus or the sheer absurdity of the situation, she couldn''t contain her laughter.


    "The Blackwood Thirteen, reduced to this sorry bunch? You are utterly..."


    Her laughter died in her throat, replaced by a maelstrom of rage.


    "You overestimate yourselves!!!"


    The terrifying aura of a Competent Force expert at the Out-of-Body stage erupted from her, rivaling the strength of those on theÇ¿Õß°ñ (Power Ranking).


    She could sense Marcus approaching from afar, but... this was enough!


    Neil glared at Jessica, who had furrowed her brow.


    "It seems you truly mistake me for an ordinary peak Competent Force expert.


    You have no idea what a true Out-of-Body stage Competent Force is capable of.


    Unless every single one of you has a trump card like Marcus..."


    "By this time next year, the Blackwood will have thirteen Psychic Positions to fill!!!"


    ...


    "Hahaha!" Neil''s laughter echoed through the sky.


    If not for her recent, humiliating retreat from Marcus, she might have been mistaken for the victor she pretended to be.


    However, the Blackwood family members simply stared back at her, their expressions unreadable.


    Their calmness unnerved her.


    "Why aren''t you afraid? Unless each of you has a hidden ace up your sleeve, you''re finished!"


    A fierce wind whipped around her, her golden silk robe shimmering.


    The millstone reappeared behind her, and she wielded both her top-grade ability weapon, the Fortune Coin, and the Treasure Basin.


    The power emanating from her now surpassed even what she had displayed against Marcus.


    In the face of her fury, Jessica calmly stated, "Neil, you''re terrified, aren''t you?"


    Neil''s eyes flickered with panic for a fleeting moment before she gritted her teeth.


    "You think so little of me?!"


    "Someone like you wouldn''t act so recklessly unless they were consumed by fear and had lost all reason."


    Jessica''s words only fueled Neil''s rage, seemingly solidifying her resolve.


    The usually composed Fortune Sanctum elder, who had fled at the mere sight of Marcus, now radiated an almost manic confidence.


    The last vestiges of fear vanished from her eyes.


    "Hahaha, afraid? Of you insignificant ants? What is there to fear?!"


    "Very well. Then we''ll show you exactly what you should be afraid of."


    With that, Jessica nodded at her family.


    In an instant, the totems behind the Blackwood''s third generation rose into the air.


    George communed with the remnants of his predecessors within his soul sea.


    Most of them surged into him, his power skyrocketing.


    Only three remained, meditating within his soul sea.


    Instead of joining the fight, George retrieved his ancient zither, the instrument he used for grave robbing.


    As his fingers danced across the strings, his psychic powers, amplified by the music, flowed outward, connecting him to his family.


    The Blackwood''s strength surged under George''s support.


    Their Psychic Positions glowed brightly.


    Ethan observed the scene, his expression as impassive as the rest of the Blackwoods.


    They had faced numerous enemies over the years, and as Jessica had said, the more fear they felt, the more ferocious and dismissive they became.


    True indifference was calm and collected.


    [Your descendant, Jessica, seasoned by countless battles, has gained the ability to perceive the true thoughts of her opponents.


    She has acquired the trait: Battlefield Psychologist.]


    [See through their hearts, manipulate their minds.


    Increase psychological damage to enemies by 20%, affecting their combat effectiveness.]


    ...


    "Attack!"


    The battle erupted.


    The Blackwood''s third generation, their forms grotesquely transformed, charged forward.


    "Formation!"


    "Paul, be careful. Your magic is our best bet. Use illusions and don''t die too quickly!"


    "That woman''s technique is strange, but it has weaknesses.


    Her millstone needs constant replenishing with natural energies, once every snap of her fingers.


    You lot keep her ability weapon occupied, and I''ll drain her dry!"


    "Got it, brother!"


    The immortal Blackwood third generation surged forward, a whirlwind of limbs and arcane energy.


    Meanwhile, the rest of the Blackwoods trapped Neil within their formation.


    George, empowered by the psychic energies of his predecessors, used his music to erect a barrier around the perimeter.


    [Your descendant, George, is lending his body to ''Divine Music'' Harold, a deceased senior from the Azure Cloud Pavilion who lived 30,000 years ago.]


    It was unclear who this Harold was, but his musical prowess was undeniable.


    Using George''s body, he unleashed a technique called the "Endless Road Ballad," boosting the Blackwood''s third generation to a level nearing Competent Force.


    The strength of every Blackwood present surged dramatically.


    "This... is the power of our ancestors?" Joseph and Katie, relegated to the sidelines, watched in awe.


    Although Joseph had devised the plan to intercept Neil and formulated their current strategy, he couldn''t help but be awestruck by the display of power unfolding before him.

 Chapter 342 - 342: Are they even human?

    George always been the type to shy away from conflict, even during the Druid invasion, preferring to stay behind the scenes.


    Perhaps it was due to his unremarkable strength or his inability to contribute directly to the battles.


    Besides, someone had to hold down the fort, manage resources during the war, and ensure the family remained united from within.


    This was the first time, apart from hearsay, that he witnessed the true extent of his elders'' power!


    "Are they even human?" Katie gasped, equally stunned.


    She was a Developing Skill expert herself and had always believed her talent within this stage was practically unmatched.


    Her brother might be an exception; she had only seen him fight once.


    He had summoned something akin to ancient god blood, but the technique seemed to come at a heavy price.


    It would take him years to recover and utilize it again without suffering severe repercussions.


    She had considered her brother to be the most gifted Developing Skill expert, but now...


    Just look at them!


    The seven great-grandfathers fought with a complete disregard for death.


    Their bodies were covered in mystical runes, and their attacks were a terrifying blend of unorthodox techniques, dark magic reminiscent of Rogue cultivators, and their own monstrous transformations.


    They were more formidable than any physical cultivator Katie had ever seen, even surpassing Aunt Donna in raw strength!


    They threw themselves at the barrier within the formation, dying again and again, yet their deaths were strangely tactical, a testament to their experience in countless battles.


    Her three grandfathers were no less impressive.


    Witnessing the spirits of countless predecessors emerge from George, Katie finally understood why she had four spectral grandmothers residing within her own soul sea since birth.


    They had guided her cultivation, protected her from harm, and only departed after she reached the Developing Skill stage, mentioning something about old friends and an intriguing endeavor... S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And Justin, the grandfather everyone dismissed as a reckless fool... he was anything but!


    The intricate barrier surrounding them, faintly etched with what appeared to be scale patterns, mirrored the markings on Justin''s own shell-like back.


    The thirty or so formations floating in the sky were undoubtedly his doing.


    He was... a master formation expert, specializing in defense!


    Perhaps that explained his daredevil personality.


    Finally, there was William.


    "Hahaha! Neil, look who we have here! Recognize this fine young man?"


    "If I haven''t mistaken my captive, this would be the most promising talent from your lineage, the one destined to inherit your mantle, perhaps even surpass you."


    "Tsk, tsk, capturing him was quite the ordeal. A clever one, he is, not unlike yourself."


    "Don''t glare at me like that. I know you''d love to kill me right now, but alas, you have your own problems to worry about. Why do you think he hasn''t begged for mercy? Oh, that''s right, I ripped out his Developing Skill. No use for a tongue without the power to back it up."


    "Don''t worry, I won''t kill him. Have you ever tasted living flesh? Meat carved straight from a living being? Just a snap after it''s cut, still twitching. It squirms in your mouth, desperate to escape. Let me demonstrate..."


    "..."


    Every word was a vicious attack on Neil''s composure, shattering her already fragile facade.


    Katie fought back the urge to vomit, but she couldn''t help but notice the Parker family''s Rising Star.


    He hadn''t dared to make a move since their arrival.


    Rumor had it he possessed a trump card capable of rivaling a Competent Force expert, but...


    Katie recalled William disappearing for an hour yesterday, presumably to capture this very individual.


    He had returned completely unscathed!


    A peak Developing Skill expert capturing a Psychic with a Competent Force-level trump card...


    Katie couldn''t even begin to comprehend how William had pulled it off.


    And then there was Grandma Jessica.


    The blood-red lunar halo behind her had solidified into a domain, radiating an aura of pure killing intent.


    How many lives had she taken to cultivate such a terrifying presence?


    The murderous aura was palpable, and every time Neil attempted to escape, Jessica''s lunar halo would shift, sending the Fortune Sanctum elder scrambling back as if she had seen a ghost.


    Katie could have sworn she heard Neil mutter something about "Basic Mastery aura."


    "Are they even human?" she murmured again, her hand instinctively reaching for the Sparkly Unicorn Bow strapped to her back.


    "When will I ever be as strong as them?"


    They weren''t the only ones in awe.


    Even Ethan was stunned.


    It had been years since he had witnessed such a display of power from his family, Jessica aside.


    The Blackwood''s third generation was usually kept out of sight, and George and his companions were notorious for their wild streaks.


    Those three couldn''t resist a good, old-fashioned adventure.


    Especially the Blackwood''s third generation.


    "They''re taking this seriously."


    The last time he had seen these seven fight with such ferocity was during their initial descent into madness.


    Their newfound immortality had made them complacent, but now, united, they were holding back Neil with their relentless assault and uncanny resilience!


    It was a testament to the power they had gained from the Druid bones.


    [Your descendants, the Blackwood''s third generation, have integrated Druid bones, acquiring a portion of Druid blood.


    The fusion of human, demonic, and Druidic essence has triggered an extraordinary transformation, granting them the trait: Mutation.]


    [Due to their Lord of Frenzied Blood trait, their physical regeneration has been greatly enhanced!


    Their bodies, previously locked in their demonically transformed states, have begun to evolve after fusing with the Druid bones.


    The extent of their evolution depends on the strength of the Druid bones they have absorbed.


    They can now cultivate spells and Rogue cultivator magic formulas.]


    [Your descendant, Thomas, has gained ''Dragon Wings,'' granting him the ability to teleport within a 100-meter radius.]


    [Anthony has gained ''Heaven''s Eye,'' allowing him to perceive an opponent''s weaknesses and predict their next attack.]


    [Linda has gained ''Six Arms.'' She has lost her psychic powers, but her strength, defense, and speed have tripled...


    Kevin has gained ''Frenzied Dance,'' his tentacles now rivaling low-grade ability weapons...


    Paul has gained ''Lethal Touch.'' Any Psychic below peak Developing Skill touched by his horns will die within seven days...


    Curtis has gained ''Inverse Scale,'' reflecting damage back at his attacker...


    Andrew has gained ''Giant,'' granting him the ability to increase his size.]


    They had essentially gained innate abilities, and these abilities would only grow stronger with time!


    The only downside was that their cultivation speed would be hindered.


    Druids had lifespans ten times longer than humans but cultivated at a much slower rate.


    The Blackwood''s third generation would now face a similar challenge in their pursuit of power.


    It seemed even fate believed in balance, offering a toilet but taking away the toilet paper.

 Chapter 343 - 343: You were hiding this much power all along?

    "Get away from me! Get away!" Neil roared, her voice laced with fury as she unleashed a torrent of mystical energy within the confines of the formation.


    It was a powerful binding array, to be sure, and the thirty-plus formation discs would have given even a seasoned Competent Force expert pause.


    However, she knew that if she could just maintain her focus for a few more moments, she could break free.


    Individually, the Blackwood''s third generation might have been nearing Competent Force level, but none of them could truly match her power.


    She could obliterate them with a flick of her wrist.


    Even that blood-clad general, Jessica, with her tangible killing intent and quasi-Basic Mastery domain, posed only a minor threat.


    Her murderous aura might slow Neil down, but a single, decisive strike would be enough to end her.


    And yet...


    It was these seemingly insignificant opponents who were driving her to the brink of despair!


    The Blackwoods were like a plague of locusts.


    The third generation clung to her like leeches, while the rest buzzed around her like annoying flies.


    If she were a physical cultivator, it would be a simple matter of breaking through and crushing those pests.


    But she was a master of mystical arts, and if her protective golden aura shattered, she would be at the mercy of these Developing Skill ants.


    To die at their hands would be a humiliation that would follow her into the afterlife.


    But there was still hope...


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    The sound of shattering metal reached her ears.


    She whipped her head towards the source and saw a black light piercing the sky in the distance.


    "Marcus!"


    Terror had gripped her when Marcus had pursued her earlier, but now... a strange sense of relief washed over her.


    If she was destined to die at the hands of these unkillable Developing Skill pests, she might as well meet her end at the hands of a true powerhouse like Marcus, a Psychic who had endured nine thunder tribulations.


    ...


    A short while later, the Blackwoods gathered within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The third, fourth, and sixth generations all looked upon Marcus with a mixture of awe and respect.


    He had reverted to his usual appearance, a serene Daoist master with a horsetail whisk in one hand and the Sky Palace in the other.


    They had witnessed his terrifying transformation when he arrived to aid them. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His body had been wreathed in darkness, his every strike imbued with devastating power.


    He had cleaved through Neil''s nigh-impenetrable Soul Grinder with a single blow.


    Marcus, in turn, regarded the Blackwoods with admiration.


    The Forebearer had assured him that Neil wouldn''t escape, but he hadn''t expected his family to be the ones to capture her.


    He couldn''t shake the image of their coordinated assault: the formidable formation trapping Neil, his seven siblings transformed into monstrous entities, and the four members of the fourth generation, each wielding unique and deadly abilities.


    Every single one of them was far stronger than he had been at their level.


    The idea of Developing Skill experts trapping a Competent Force opponent was unheard of, even ludicrous.


    And yet, it had happened, right here in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    For a moment, they simply stared at each other, a silent conversation passing between them.


    "You were hiding this much power all along?"


    Only Joseph and Katie remained silent, gazing up at their extraordinary family members.


    They finally understood why the Blackwoods had dominated Azure Cloud for so long, why even the arrival of Phillips hadn''t shaken their position.


    As for Neil...


    [Congratulations! Your descendants worked together to capture Neil, obtaining a wealth of spoils of war!]


    [Top-grade ability weapon ''Rain of Golden Coins'': Transforms into a torrential downpour of coins capable of eroding all techniques. When the coins converge, they form an impenetrable shield, nullifying all attacks.]


    [Top-grade ability weapon ''Treasure Basin'': Creates a binding formation, captures living beings, and nourishes Psychic Gear and ability weapons, enhancing their abilities.]


    [When used together, the Rain of Golden Coins and Treasure Basin create a protective domain, rendering the user nearly invincible. Coins absorbed by the basin enhance the user''s power.]


    [Top-grade ability weapon ''Golden Silk Robe of Fortune'': Protects the user with mystical energy, enhancing natural energy reserves...]


    [Obtained mystical artifact: ''Seventh Grade Gold Ingot''.]


    [Obtained Neil''s Storage Ring, containing a lifetime''s worth of accumulated treasures...]


    "Damn..." Ethan muttered, crouching beside the defeated Neil and examining their loot.


    The Blackwoods had fought countless battles, slain enemies of all strengths, even a Basic Mastery expert had fallen to Ethan''s own hand.


    But never had they encountered such a wealthy opponent.


    The two Parker elders they had captured paled in comparison.


    Speaking of which, the "big boss" of the Parker family was currently restrained, her body a canvas for over three hundred formation symbols.


    George''s spectral companions, along with William and Justin, were keeping her under strict control.


    Her soul sea was sealed, her Competent Force strength suppressed.


    Fifty pieces of Psychic Gear and ability weapons adorned her form, pushing her to the brink of collapse.


    Only her head remained visible.


    Neil was a valuable asset, alive.


    She possessed knowledge of countless Parker family secrets and was a treasure trove of information.


    "Ahem."


    Marcus cleared his throat, breaking the stunned silence.


    He looked down at Neil, whose eyes were devoid of hope.


    "We owe you all a debt of gratitude. Without your efforts, this woman would have escaped."


    His words drew everyone''s attention to the figure standing beside him.


    They had been informed by the Forebearer about this Parker elder, who had somehow joined forces with Marcus.


    He had even participated in Neil''s capture, fighting with a ruthlessness that surpassed even the Blackwoods.


    "Cut the pleasantries, brother. If Jessica and Joseph hadn''t stopped me, I would have ripped that bastard apart!" Thomas snarled, sending a kick towards Neil.


    His wings fluttered menacingly as he turned his gaze to the Parker elder.


    "Now, tell me, what''s the deal with this traitor?"


    "Hehe..." The elder, who appeared deceptively young, shifted uncomfortably under the Blackwoods'' intense scrutiny.


    "He''s one of us." Marcus chuckled, holding up a token.


    "It seems the Parker family is experiencing some internal strife. This is Brent. While Neil remained defiant, Brent... well, he''s an interesting fellow. To ease my worries, he offered me his ''Soul Control Token,'' linked to his Pinnacle Apprentice. He''s a friend now."


    Marcus'' words were carefully chosen, preserving Brent''s dignity.


    The elder bowed deeply, his face a mask of sycophancy, much like a seasoned Parker merchant.


    "I see." The Blackwoods nodded, a hint of amusement in their eyes.


    A living, cooperative Competent Force expert was far more valuable than a dead one.


    And if they ever managed to leave the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Brent could prove to be a valuable asset within the Parker family.


    A most intriguing thought.


    "Brent!" Neil shrieked, her despair replaced by a surge of fury.


    She struggled against her restraints, her eyes burning with hatred.


    "You traitor! I spared your life, and you repay me by betraying the Parker family! You joined forces with our enemies, helped them capture me! You will die a dog''s death!"


    "Hahaha, laughable! I will die a dog''s death?" Brent retorted.


    "If you hadn''t insisted on capturing Marcus, on harming the Blackwoods, you wouldn''t be in this situation!"


    "I handed over my Pinnacle Apprentice because of you, you wretched woman!"


    "You..."

 Chapter 344 - 344: Too flashy and attention-grabbing?

    The Blackwoods paid little mind to the squabbling Parker duo and set about dividing their spoils.


    "Brother, we seven are tough as nails. We don''t need any of this fancy stuff. Look at this ''Seventh Grade Gold Ingot.'' It''s perfect for your Sky Palace. Refine it, and your power will surely increase."


    "This Golden Coin and Treasure Basin, they''re a matched pair of top-grade ability weapons. Offense and defense in one package. It''s how Neil reached the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings. Anyone? No? Too flashy and attention-grabbing?


    Fine, Katie, you take them for now."


    "Joseph, you get the Golden Silk Robe. You need something to keep you safe in this dangerous Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    "..."


    Katie and Joseph stared at the powerful artifacts in their hands, a mixture of emotions swirling within them. Their elders were practically showering them with treasures, holding nothing back.


    Once the loot from Neil was distributed, the Blackwoods turned their attention to the treasures they had acquired within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    They had slain numerous Rising Stars, amassing a small fortune in mystical artifacts. Since they couldn''t leave yet, they might as well put their newfound wealth to good use, bolstering their strength for the challenges to come.


    They gathered in a secluded spot, their eyes gleaming as they emptied their Storage Rings.


    Andrew, his massive 16-foot frame casting a long shadow, resembled a walking mountain as he crouched down, effectively shielding the group from view.


    The contents of George, William, and Justin''s Storage Rings, however, were the most shocking.


    "Sixth Grade?! Sixth Grade mystical herbs and ores... hundreds of them?! What have you three been up to?!" Thomas roared, snatching George by the collar.


    "There are people watching, Father! Have some decorum!" George protested with a wry smile.


    "Oh, right, right." Thomas hastily set George down, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "That''s my boy! A chip off the old block when it comes to acquiring... treasures."


    "Heh heh heh."


    The Blackwood''s third generation watched with amusement as "The Magical Three Villains" divvied up their loot. Jessica, having spent most of her time protecting the younger generation, had little to show for her efforts.


    Marcus, however, was ecstatic. "Four mystical artifacts?"


    "Hahaha, excellent! Once Uncle refines these, the Sky Palace will be even more formidable. We''ll be unstoppable within this Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!" William declared triumphantly.


    Before he could finish his sentence, however, he was hoisted into the air, much like he had been back in the Forebearer''s ancestral hall. "What''s the big idea?!" he sputtered, indignant.


    Ignoring his protests, they shook him upside down, and sure enough, two more Storage Rings tumbled out of his robes.


    Leave it to William to hide the best for last. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sensing their accusing stares, William exploded. "What are you looking at me like that for? I''ve spent my entire life risking my neck for these treasures! Can''t a guy keep a few things for himself? Besides, these are useless to you! One ring is full of severed heads, nothing but trophies.


    The other has some decent ability weapons, but they''re all for surveillance."


    George, sensing his brother''s distress, intervened. "He''s right. We wouldn''t have been able to pinpoint Uncle''s location without William''s gadgets. Especially that mirror... what was it called again?"


    "The Eternal Element Mirrorr," William supplied, his mood brightening slightly now that his brother had come to his defense. "See? My Storage Rings are full of tools for the trade, not your average trinkets."


    "Then what''s this?" George asked, his face darkening as he pulled another Storage Ring from William''s hair.


    "That... heh heh..."


    William''s protests were cut short as he was engulfed in a wave of darkness, his cries echoing through the air.


    Once William''s punishment was dispensed, the Blackwoods gathered to discuss their next move.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s closure is unpredictable," Jessica began, her voice laced with concern. "The entire place is in chaos. There are no rules anymore. And our battle with Neil... it didn''t go unnoticed. Other Competent Force experts are aware of our presence."


    Her words cast a pall over the group. They had sensed other Out-of-Body stage experts observing their confrontation with Neil. Some had even seemed poised to take advantage of the situation, but Marcus''s arrival had deterred them.


    "Elders," Joseph spoke up, his voice tight with anxiety. "This place is no longer safe. We need to leave, before stronger opponents..."


    His words were cut short as their expressions shifted, their senses screaming in unison. A powerful Competent Force aura had descended upon them.


    "Damn it!" Marcus roared, the Sky Palace materializing in his hand.


    They whirled around just in time to see Brent unleash a surge of natural energy, shattering the formations that bound Neil. He grabbed her by the leg and flung her into the air with a speed that defied belief.


    In the blink of an eye, Neil was gone.


    ...


    "Brent."


    Neil soared through the sky, her heart pounding against her ribs.


    She didn''t dare look back, but her eyes stung with unshed tears. Everything that had transpired had been a chaotic blur, a nightmare she couldn''t wake from. She hadn''t anticipated Marcus''s overwhelming strength, the betrayal of her own family elders, or the sheer number of Blackwoods lurking within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. But the most unexpected twist of fate...


    Brent, the seemingly spineless traitor, had been playing a dangerous game, biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.


    She could still see the look on his face as he crouched beside her, urging her to live, his smile more dazzling than any treasure she had ever seen.


    Neil had grown up in a world of merchants, her life driven by profit and gain. For the first time, she understood that there was more to the Parker family than just wealth and power. The Patriarch had always told her that a merchant''s tears were worthless, but for the first time...


    Tears welled up in her eyes, blurring the starlight above.


    "Brent, Brent!" she cried out, her voice raw with emotion. "I will survive! And when I do, I will paint the ground red with the blood of every last Blackwood, a tribute to your sacrifice!"

 Chapter 345 - 345: We never betray our family!

    "BOOM!"


    Brent''s attack was swift and decisive. The moment Neil was free, he turned on the Blackwoods, his demeanor shifting from obsequious to ruthless in a heartbeat. With a roar, he ignited his very soul, unleashing a devastating palm strike aimed directly at Joseph.


    The sheer power of a Competent Force Psychic''s death blow was terrifying.


    Joseph paled, caught completely off guard. Instinctively, his ancient god blood surged, a primal force rising to meet the threat.


    Before he could react, Katie leaped forward, throwing herself between her brother and the blast.


    "You son of a..."


    But the Blackwood elders were faster. The third generation formed a living wall in front of Joseph, Thomas''s Dragon Wings flaring as he teleported in front of the attack, taking the brunt of Brent''s power.


    Marcus, reacting instantly, unleashed the Sky Palace, a wave of protective energy shielding them. The Blackwoods'' ability weapons hummed, adding their power to the defense. George''s spectral companions merged with him completely, his strength skyrocketing.


    "KABOOM!"


    The world shook as Brent''s suicidal attack detonated. When the dust settled, Joseph stood trembling, drenched in a cold sweat, but alive.


    "Brother, are... are you alright?" Katie asked, her voice trembling with concern.


    "I... I''m fine."


    Joseph took a shaky breath, his gaze sweeping over the protective ring of his family, the Forebearer''s Psychic Position glowing faintly beside him. The reality of his near-death experience crashed over him.


    The Blackwoods surrounded Brent, who had collapsed to his knees, his lifeblood spilling from his lips. His soul, ravaged by the backlash of his attack, was fading fast. He knew his fate was sealed, his Soul Control Token in Marcus''s possession. He had made his choice, embraced his demise.


    They stared down at him, their expressions a mixture of awe and confusion.


    Neil was gone. Vanished without a trace.


    Sensing their unease, Brent let out a delirious laugh, blood staining his teeth. "You Blackwoods... did you really think the Parker family were all cowards and weaklings?! Neil escaped! She''s gone, and you''ll never find her!"


    "..."


    Silence descended upon the group. They watched as Brent, his body wracked with pain, continued to laugh, a chilling sound that echoed through the chamber. The wind, stirred by the remnants of his power, whipped his hair around his face. In that moment, the Blackwoods felt a grudging respect for the dying man.


    "You''re not afraid of death?" Marcus asked, exhaling slowly. "Not long ago, Neil used you, tested my strength with your life, and then discarded you without a second thought."


    "Hahaha, how amusing!" Brent cackled, his laughter laced with defiance. "Our internal squabbles are our own! From the very beginning, Marcus, you were played!"


    He savored his victory, fleeting as it was.


    "Trapped within your Sky Palace, I knew I was doomed. But you see, we Parkers, for all our greed, have one unwavering principle: loyalty to our own. We never betray our family!"


    "I couldn''t guarantee Neil''s escape, but I offered you my soul, my life in your hands. I became your prisoner, my fate tied to yours. I was willing to die to give my family a fighting chance. But alas..."


    He glared at Joseph, a cruel smile twisting his lips. "I failed to eliminate the Blackwood cripple. What a shame! Hahaha!"


    "..."


    Silence greeted his words once more. Brent''s laughter intensified, fueled by their apparent shock. "Go on, kill me! Neil will avenge me! You''re all doomed! Hahaha..."


    His laughter died abruptly, his expression freezing. sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A collective gasp escaped the Blackwoods. Joseph, recovered from his initial terror, watched with a mix of horror and fascination. William, a strange look on his face, produced a bronze mirror. The surface shimmered, and an image flickered to life. It was a first-person perspective, a view from the sky.


    They were looking down at a tattered dress and a pair of women''s shoes. A voice, filled with venom, whispered from the mirror, "Brent, I''ll be back. And when I return, the Blackwoods will pay."


    Brent''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Impossible... how is this possible?!"


    Joseph, nudged forward by Katie, faced the man who had nearly killed him. His voice, though still laced with fear, held a newfound respect. "We never intended to kill Neil. We Blackwoods have a saying: sometimes, letting our enemies live serves us better than their deaths."


    A wave of knowing laughter rippled through the Blackwoods.


    "No, no!" Brent gasped, his body slumping, his fists clenching.


    Ignoring his breakdown, Joseph continued, "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is closing. Our battle here hasn''t gone unnoticed. We need eyes, ears within the chaos."


    "And Neil, especially a vengeful Neil, is the perfect asset. She knows the Psychic world like the back of her hand. She may not be able to defeat us, but she''ll seek out stronger allies, manipulate them to do her bidding. She''s a strategist, a master manipulator."


    "To anticipate your enemy''s moves is to be one step closer to victory."


    "We just didn''t expect..." Joseph trailed off, wiping the sweat from his brow. Brent''s attack had been far more terrifying than anything he had ever experienced. He had been that close to death.


    Brent stared at the image of Neil, his hopes crumbling. All his sacrifices... a cruel joke.


    William put away the mirror, his lips curling into a chilling smile. "You see, Brent, we''ve always had eyes on the Parker family. This Eternal Element Mirror, it only needs a drop of heart''s blood. We can see through the eyes of a bird, a rat, a fly, and our target remains none the wiser."


    "Now, tell me, why do you think Neil was restrained with so many artifacts, her gaze vacant? Did you truly believe we needed all that to subdue her? She''s a Pinnacle Apprentice candidate, a force to be reckoned with. We wouldn''t risk keeping her alive, not unless..."


    "Unless we needed her alive to extract her heart''s blood. To give her a fighting chance, a glimmer of hope, so she would desperately cling to life and attempt to escape!"


    William''s smile widened, a grotesque mockery of warmth.


    Brent stared back, his blood running cold. He had fallen into the clutches of monsters.


    He lunged at William, his sanity snapping, only to be thrown back by the Sky Palace''s power. "You''re not human! You''re monsters! Monsters!"

 Chapter 346 - 346: I suspect hes not dead yet

    Brent understood.


    From the beginning,everything was a calculated scheme by the Blackwoods.Even if he hadn''t fought so desperately,they would have deliberately given Neil a chance to escape,a chance for revenge,to become their eyes and ears!


    All his efforts,his sacrifices,had not only been in vain but had inadvertently done the Blackwoods a huge favor.From now on,Neil would never doubt her escape,and all her future efforts would only serve to strengthen the Blackwoods!


    "So,choose how you want to die."


    Marcus closed his eyes.Everything was part of the family''s plan.He just hadn''t expected Brent to be so insane.It was beyond their expectations that Joseph almost died at Brent''s hands.


    But Brent didn''t respond to Marcus''s words.He was still struggling to charge at William,cursing,determined to seize the Eternal Element Mirror from William''s grasp.


    William''s eyes darted around."Uncle,why even bother asking how he wants to die?Joseph almost died by his hand.How about this,hand him over to me.I''ll stab him to death,give him a clean death."


    "..."


    Seeing William''s expression,Joseph rolled his eyes.He could already imagine William treating this like finding a new toy.If Brent really fell into William''s hands,then a slow,agonizing death would be the most merciful outcome. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He glanced at Brent.Although he almost died by the man''s hand,Joseph still admired him.He sighed."It''s a pity you didn''t truly join our Blackwood family.If we had met a man like you outside of Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,we Blackwoods would have been your closest allies."


    Silence fell over the Blackwoods once more.


    Ethan,who had been quietly observing,also remained silent.This time,the Blackwoods were truly shaken.They had been the hunters for so long,and now they had been pecked by the eagle.Initially,they really intended to spare Brent''s life.After all,a living and capable Force Manipulation expert at the Competent stage was more valuable than even the rarest ability weapon.


    But instead of being pleasantly surprised,Brent had been terrified.Fortunately,the family had planned,and Joseph had been saved.


    The only downside was...


    Joseph''s hand trembled like he had Parkinson''s disease...


    [Your descendant has experienced multiple near-death experiences,including a close call with Brent.His trait''Cautious''has evolved into''Ultimate Prudence.'']


    [After experiencing multiple frights,he will not overlook any detail and will never leave himself vulnerable to any foreseeable danger...]


    As the Blackwoods remained silent,Joseph continued to sigh."Great-grandfather,Brent is a truly admirable figure.Why don''t you personally grant him a swift and merciful end?The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is vast.Burn his soul and give his body to me.I will find him a peaceful resting place where no one will disturb his remains."


    "Very well."


    Marcus looked at Joseph''s sincere eyes and nodded slightly.This man deserved a good death.


    In a flash,Marcus killed Brent with a single stroke of his dagger,burning his soul to ashes.He then handed the body to Joseph.


    Seeing Brent''s corpse,Joseph jumped back in fright."Katie,quick,take me at least a thousand yards away!"


    George,William,and Justin stared at the terrified Joseph in astonishment.They couldn''t understand why he was so scared.


    Ignoring Joseph,they concealed themselves and continued to monitor Neil.


    As expected,within seven days,Neil had already gathered numerous psychics and begun plotting.


    Outside their hidden location,Joseph had indeed arranged a grave for Brent.The grave was surrounded by various formations.After waiting for seven days,Joseph brought Katie to exhume Brent''s grave.


    Katie stared at her brother,who was sitting two hundred yards away,in disbelief."Brother,are you crazy?Everyone says he''s dead,his Force Manipulation completely gone.What are you still doing here?"


    "I suspect he''s not dead yet."


    Joseph''s expression was grave."Katie,seal his body with an ability weapon and send it back to Grandfather for refinement.Oh,and after you dig him up,burn the surrounding area with fire.Actually,on second thought,use your psychic powers to sweep the entire area.I''m afraid some of his remaining soul might try to possess a passing animal."


    Katie:"..."


    ...


    After letting Neil go,the Blackwoods were in no hurry to act.They changed locations every few days,using formations,arrays,talismans,and ability weapons to conceal themselves.They wanted to avoid any unexpected encounters with powerful adversaries and were not prepared to recklessly engage in the already chaotic scramble for resources within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Even when they encountered some Emerging Ability psychics who had obtained treasures,Joseph would stop his elders from intervening,fearing a trap.


    Currently,the Blackwoods were establishing a hidden base three hundred yards underground.The only light came from a bronze mirror that showed Neil''s perspective.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is vast,spanning several counties.The previous battles have attracted the attention of psychics from all over.Our strength has been partially exposed,and we''ve likely drawn unwanted attention."


    Joseph said in a serious tone,"Why don''t we lay low for a while?Neil must be desperate to find a way to kill us.Her actions will be our opportunity!"


    Everyone nodded in agreement.


    They spent the next few days observing Neil.After her escape,she had become surprisingly rational.After all,she had been in a position of power for many years and,relying on her status within the Fortune Sanctum Parker family,she had gathered many weaker psychics,forming a formidable force through sheer numbers.She had even managed to recruit a peak Competent Force expert from a major sect,seeking safety in numbers.


    And then there were...certain intimate acts between her and her companions that the Blackwoods would have preferred not to witness...


    "Jonathan,regardless of whether I was truly frightened by that Azure Cloud Blackwood,within this Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,numerous experts are fighting amongst themselves for resources.As time goes on,resources will only become scarcer,and conflicts between us will be inevitable.We must be prepared."


    Inside a cave,Neil was nestled against the chest of a handsome young man,her delicate fingers tracing circles on his chest.This alluring scene unfolded before the Blackwoods''eyes,but it didn''t faze them.Physical intimacy was a mandatory part of their family training,ensuring they wouldn''t make foolish mistakes.


    The man sharing the bed with Neil was not swayed by her beauty.He slowly dressed himself,contemplating her words."That battle between your Fortune Sanctum Parker family and the Azure Cloud Blackwoods..."


    "I wasn''t the only one observing.Many Competent Force experts were watching,Neil.If you''re talking about cooperation,I''m open to it.It''s simply a means of survival.But remember,I will not fight to the death against the Blackwoods."


    A cold glint flashed in Neil''s eyes,but her voice remained sweet and seductive as she coiled around the psychic named Jonathan like a serpent."Heehee,in Jonathan''s eyes,am I truly such a person?Right now,all I desire is to survive."


    "You''d best remember that."


    As Jonathan walked away,Neil''s eyes turned cold.She turned on her side,pulling the blanket over herself.A single tear rolled down her cheek,but her voice remained frigid."How could I,Neil,have fallen so far?"


    These scenes played out before the Blackwoods and Ethan,casting a heavy silence over their hidden observation point.

 Chapter 347 - 347: Hes nothing special

    Ethan could sense the mood in Blackwood Manor.


    Jessica,having experienced the sting of love and used her beauty as a weapon,lowered her gaze.


    Katie,though innocent in such matters,could still feel Neil''s bitterness.


    The two young women of Blackwood''s third generation couldn''t fathom why anyone,especially a woman,would resort to such tactics instead of relying on their own strength.


    As for the Blackwood men...well,many were bachelors,but no one knew for sure if they indulged in such establishments.


    Ethan had even heard rumors of a group of single Competent Force psychics from Azure Cloud frequenting the largest brothel in Cloudview County,each occupying separate rooms,awkwardly avoiding eye contact.


    "Damn it,a real man should never prey on the vulnerable or force someone into this,"Thomas grumbled,running a hand through his messy hair.


    "We should have just killed her instead of letting her use such tactics against us."


    Jessica frowned.


    "But sometimes,we have to admit,it''s the most effective weapon.She has no psychic abilities,no ranking on the Pinnacle Apprentice leaderboard.This is the best she can do;otherwise,she wouldn''t stand a chance against Blackwood."


    Her words caused another wave of sighs.


    Marcus turned to Joseph.


    "My boy,is this Jonathan the head of the Evans family?"


    "The Evans are a family of Competent Force psychics.I hear this Jonathan is their ancestor,having cultivated psychic powers for over a millennium."


    Joseph said solemnly,"He''s nothing special.But from what I can tell,he has no intention of fighting Blackwood over Neil.However,Neil was once a powerful figure,and people tend to obsess over what they couldn''t have.Neil is determined to use Jonathan,and he''s resourceful enough to do it."


    "It seems like there will be more like him."


    In the following days,the Blackwoods,confined to their manor,received a constant stream of intelligence through Neil.


    Multiple factions had rapidly formed within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,primarily because powerful psychics like Kyle,ranked twenty-third on the Pinnacle Apprentice leaderboard,Tom of Whispering Pines,ranked eighth,and Master Unquestioning of Bright Light Institute,ranked tenth,were aggressively seizing resources.


    These factions were mostly formed by weaker Competent Force psychics who banded together for protection against these formidable individuals.


    Surprisingly,Wild Monk of Grand Royal Temple,ranked nineteenth,was diligently traversing the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,seemingly on a mission of mercy,intervening in battles and preventing bloodshed.


    Whenever he encountered a conflict,he would subdue both sides without lethal force,leaving them frustrated and bewildered. S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...


    While chaos reigned within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,outside,various forces grew increasingly anxious,unable to locate its whereabouts.


    Chuck and the others,initially trapped outside the sanctuary,were relieved by this turn of events.


    After expressing their gratitude to the Basic Mastery psychic guarding Sunshine Mansion,they hurried back to Azure Cloud.


    "Master Nathan,please don''t worry.We are closely monitoring the situation at Sunshine Mansion for any news of Marcus Blackwood''s entry into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    King Bryce of Phillips hurried to Blackwood Manor and reassured Nathan,"I have used my connections to inquire with several powerful factions,seeking a solution.Let us pray for your grandson''s safe return from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    "Thank you,Your Majesty,"Nathan replied gratefully.


    As King Bryce departed,he couldn''t help but sigh,a mixture of relief and worry.


    Having held a position of power for so long,he was well aware of Blackwood''s formidable influence,deeply rooted and intimidating.


    Now,he was even more apprehensive.


    Upon hearing of Marcus''s predicament,he felt a flicker of malicious joy,a dangerous thought for someone in his position.


    His worry stemmed from witnessing Nathan''s despondency during his visit.


    He feared that Marcus''s entrapment in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary would impact the war efforts in Azure Cloud.


    "I can only hope that the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary will reopen,allowing Marcus to break through and return.Azure Cloud needs another powerful Competent Force.With the Sunshine Mansion psychics eliminated,the balance of power will shift in our favor."


    After King Bryce''s departure,Nathan remained in the Blackwood Manor hall,his face etched with worry.


    Marcus wasn''t the only one trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Seeing her father''s distress,Olivia offered a comforting smile.


    "Father,don''t worry too much.We have seven members of the third generation inside the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary,including Jessica,William,and Joseph.You know how they operate;they won''t run into any serious trouble.Besides,the Forebearer assured us of their prudence.They even outmaneuvered the Parker family."


    "Alas,"Nathan sighed,"all my capable children are trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.How can I not worry?The sanctuary''s closure was strange.You,with your mastery of fate,haven''t sensed anything unusual,and the old tree,despite expending a great deal of its life force,couldn''t divine anything either.I can''t shake this feeling of unease."


    Although the Forebearer had acquired numerous incredibly powerful secret techniques during his journey and bestowed them upon the family,Nathan couldn''t bring himself to feel any joy.


    "Father,you''re overthinking it,"Olivia said with a gentle smile.


    However,despite her cultivation in the Way of Fate,she couldn''t shake off a similar feeling of unease.


    She trusted her intuition,and her father''s anxiety only strengthened her premonition.


    Moreover,Jessica and Joseph''s absence had significantly impacted Blackwood.


    Olivia now had to oversee both the Azure Cloud army and the thousand-year plan against Sunshine Mansion.


    The entrapment of Blackwood''s third generation,the Magical Three Villains,had also weakened the family''s strength,leaving many matters unresolved.


    Just then,Amelia rushed in.


    "Father,Olivia,have you seen Mary?I need some beast blood from her."


    ...


    Crystal Crest,a majestic mountain.


    Its peak was shrouded in tangible psychic energy,yet an eerie silence prevailed,broken only by the occasional sight of powerful beasts soaring above.


    At the foot of the mountain,numerous psychics waited patiently,embarking on a"pilgrimage."


    Crystal Crest was home to Advanced Mastery level psychics,and within its gates resided less than a hundred individuals,all of whom possessed Competent Force.


    To gain the favor of Crystal Crest was to ascend to unimaginable heights.


    On this day,a woman clad in armor arrived,her physique suggesting the agility of a black panther were it not for the heavy plating.


    Her arrival was as imposing as her appearance,her voice booming across the mountainside.


    "Mary of Azure Cloud,daughter-in-law of the Blackwood family''s second generation,requests an audience with Elder Phil!I implore Elder Phil to locate the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!"


    Her thunderous voice startled the birds and drew frowns from the pilgrims gathered below.


    Crystal Crest was a sacred ground.


    Never before had they witnessed such audacity,such disrespect.


    This woman,a wife from a family of uncivilized barbarians,dared to disturb the peace of this holy place.

 Chapter 348 - 348: And we... we cant escape it

    Mary''s cries echoed unanswered.


    She continued to shout, her heart heavy with worry.


    Her seven beloved children were trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    At that moment, what did she care for the sanctity of this place?


    Meanwhile, deep within Crystal Crest, an old man in peasant garb emerged from a humble cottage, smoke curling from its chimney.


    He had heard the commotion at the foot of the mountain.


    Stepping forward, he made a few quick calculations with his fingers, his face etched with concern.


    "Alas, the Heavenly Path, the Heavenly Path... what a tragedy this is," he muttered, shaking his head.


    Without another thought for the disturbance outside, he returned to his daily routine.


    ...


    "What? Mary went to Crystal Crest?"


    Julian was in the midst of forging a weapon in the Glory City smithy when his sister informed him of his wife''s whereabouts.


    He hadn''t even noticed her absence.


    Tossing aside his tools and wiping the sweat from his brow, he impulsively flung his Storage Ring to his sister and took off towards Crystal Crest, his bare torso gleaming in the sunlight.


    "Brother, what''s the rush?" Olivia called after him.


    But Julian was already halfway there when he slammed headfirst into an invisible barrier conjured by Olivia.


    If she hadn''t used her psychic powers to cushion his fall, the massive blacksmith would have crashed into Glory City like a meteor.


    Olivia, her features aged and wrinkled, scolded him, "Brother, why did you give me your Storage Ring? Mary may have gone to Crystal Crest, but she wouldn''t cause a scene. By giving me this, you''ve made your intentions clear. You want to barge into Crystal Crest and cause havoc. At your age! Have you learned nothing?"


    "How can I not be worried?!" Julian exclaimed, pounding his head in frustration.


    "I swore an oath on Boar Monarch Pete''s grave to protect Mary and the children. That damned Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary has trapped our kids, and neither the old tree nor you can figure out what''s going on in there. It''s clearly not as simple as it seems. "


    "And Mary, she''s a delicate woman. What if she''s being mistreated at Crystal Crest? I don''t care if it''s a Basic Mastery or Advanced Mastery psychic, Elder Phil was Heavenly Path Venerable''s master. I''ll drag him out myself if I have to!"


    "You fool!"


    A furious roar shook the air.


    Julian froze, his eyes widening in fear as he recognized the voice.


    It was Luna, his mother, a woman known for her gentle nature.


    To hear her roar like that sent shivers down his spine.


    He dropped to his knees.


    "Mother," he whimpered.


    Luna strode towards him, her face a mask of anger.


    She delivered a resounding slap to the back of his head.


    "Are you truly this stupid? My daughter-in-law has been kneeling at Crystal Crest for half a month without incident. It means the situation isn''t dire, and those at Crystal Crest are tolerant enough to allow it. Must you escalate things and create a problem where none exists?"


    "Well..." Julian paused, a flicker of realization dawning on his face.


    "You''re right, Mother."


    Luna sighed, shaking her head at her son''s impulsiveness.


    Turning to Olivia, she said, "Olivia, have the Heavenly Justice Hall spread the news about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Let everyone in Sunshine Mansion know that Heavenly Path Venerable was Elder Phil''s disciple."


    "Especially those pompous scholars at Bright Light Institute. It took them countless years to produce a single Unquestioning Scholar. Let them deal with Crystal Crest."


    "Yes, Mother." Olivia nodded, a plan already forming in her mind.


    "And Julian," Luna continued, fixing her son with a stern gaze.


    "Larry is struggling to hold the Azure Cloud army together. Daniel has his hands full with the war on all three fronts of Azure Cloud, especially the eastern border. The Druids have grown bolder with Jessica''s absence. Julian, take Azure Dragon and Charlie Crackle and go. A real challenge will keep you from causing trouble at Crystal Crest."


    Julian wanted to protest, but the sight of his mother''s raised hand silenced him.


    He reluctantly agreed.


    With her children dispatched, Luna returned to the house.


    Her husband awaited her, his face etched with worry.


    "Luna, are you truly going north?"


    Ethan had returned to the Blackwood stronghold, drawn back by a peculiar summons.


    [Special Event - Invitation from the Northern Fox Clan] S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Myriad demon clans are scattered across the land. In the northern reaches of the Endless Forest dwells a vast fox demon clan. Their patriarch, a Fox Sage, faces an impending tribulation, a test he is destined to fail. ]


    [With no worthy successor among his kin, he has learned of Luna of Azure Cloud, a half-demon who achieved the six-tailed form in a mere two hundred years. He extends an invitation for her to return to the fox clan, claim her birthright, and inherit the true teachings of their demon arts.]


    This wasn''t the first time the fox clan had extended this invitation.


    After Luna''s true form and power were revealed during the battle at the Azure Cloud border, the Fox Sage had sent word.


    It seemed his time was running out.


    The tone of his letters had shifted from one of offering a grand opportunity to something akin to pleading.


    Luna chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement.


    "Don''t be silly. With everything in such disarray, the Druids at our borders, Sunshine Mansion lurking in the shadows, and our children trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, I have no time for fox clans."


    "Of course, of course," Nathan said, relieved.


    But he noticed the flicker of hesitation in his wife''s eyes.


    He knew her better than anyone.


    She was devoted to their family, yet today, she seemed... different.


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t be involving herself in clan affairs, making arrangements for their children.


    He feared the invitation had stirred something deep within her, unsettling her usually unwavering resolve.


    As night fell and they lay together in their Death Coffin, Nathan wrapped his arms around Luna, unable to contain his curiosity any longer.


    "Luna, after two hundred years of marriage, you can''t hide from me. You''re still considering going to the fox clan, aren''t you?"


    "..." Luna hesitated for a long moment before meeting his gaze, a wistful smile gracing her lips.


    "You know me too well, my love."


    Nathan sighed.


    "Two hundred years... I''ve come to understand your heart."


    Luna decided to confide in him.


    "My love, we''ve fought so hard to build this life, to have a family, descendants who will carry on our legacy. I used to believe that once we claimed Pine Forest Town, we could live out our days in peace. But I underestimated the world, the way fate has a way of interfering with even the best-laid plans. "


    "We may have won against Forest Town, but the world is a much bigger place. Our mortal lives are but a blink in the grand scheme of things. After Forest Town came Sky''s battle with the Black Tortoise, a century of drought and strife. We defeated Tranquil, but then came Wesley Daoist, Azure Cloud, the Druids..."


    "Now, our children are grown, and it''s their turn to fight. But they''re not like us. We were born in the wilds, content with simplicity. They were born into a legacy, hailed as the ''Prodigal Children of Blackwood.'' They have ambitions, a thirst for greatness that can''t be quenched with a simple life. They''re destined to clash with the world."


    "And we... we can''t escape it."

 Chapter 349 - 349: Foolish creatures, driven by their own greed

    "The children are depending on us.The Druids won''t let us go, and the Sunshine Mansion is crawling with wolves in sheep''s clothing."


    "Even if the kids made it to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, they''re still in trouble.We have to seek help from this Crystal Crest, a place I''ve never even heard of."


    "When you have people you care about, you have no choice but to play the game.Honey, I''ve come to understand that if we can''t escape this mess, we have to fight our way out."


    "I''m going to the demon realm.At the very least, I''ll inherit the Demon Saint''s legacy.Let''s see who dares to touch my children then, no matter how ambitious they become!"


    Luna''s words silenced Nathan and Ethan.


    Neither of them understood Luna as well as she understood herself.


    The path of cultivating psychic powers wasn''t always about pushing forward relentlessly.


    But with so many people and things weighing on her mind, Luna, despite her usually peaceful demeanor, still clung to her habit of tending to her psychic beasts at the Iron Forest Horse Ranch.


    She seemed unfazed by the turmoil at home, but perhaps her heart wasn''t as tranquil as her surface suggested.


    Nathan pondered for a long while before turning to Luna with a smile.


    "Honey, don''t you worry about a thing.I''ve got this family.You go to the north.If there''s any trouble, send word, and I''ll bring the kids to back you up!"


    Seeing her husband''s fierce expression, Luna couldn''t help but laugh at his tough-guy act.


    "Look at you, all bark and no bite."


    Witnessing their affectionate exchange, Ethan quickly excused himself from the Death Coffin.


    He knew better than to stick around for the passionate farewell that was sure to follow.


    ¡­


    Seven days passed.


    Blackwood''s message was sent back to the Fox Tribe.


    The journey was long, and they needed the Fox Tribe''s cooperation.


    He could only hope they weren''t more worried about Luna''s safety than he was.


    Meanwhile, the battle in Cloudview County raged on, but within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, the Blackwood clan remained calm and composed.


    Ethan waited beneath Crystal Crest, where Mary knelt, pleading with Phil, the Daoist master of Crystal Crest, to intervene.


    As the mentor of the Heavenly Path Venerable, Mary believed Phil might know some secrets about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, perhaps even a way to open it and free her children.


    As Blackwood spread the word, more and more psychics flocked to Crystal Crest.


    They glanced at Mary before joining her in kneeling, adding their voices to the plea for Phil''s help.


    Despite their differences, the dire situation within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, where their most powerful disciples and kin were trapped, united them under a common cause.


    As Luna and Olivia had predicted, the Bright Light Institute was the most vocal, their members shouting insults outside Crystal Crest.


    Though they refrained from outright profanity, their words were nonetheless vulgar and offensive.


    Ethan listened with growing unease.


    If this were anywhere but Blackwood, these troublemakers would have been dealt with swiftly and brutally.


    "Master!"


    Within the ordinary-looking psychic sanctuary atop Crystal Crest, a disciple appeared before Phil, who remained in his unassuming mortal form.


    The disciple frowned.


    "As you predicted, Blackwood Mary has rallied various factions.Somehow, they''ve learned that the Heavenly Path Venerable was once your disciple."


    The disciple''s frown deepened.


    "Master, I must ask, why is the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary sealed?The Heavenly Path Venerable''s lifespan ended millennia ago.Why would his resting place seal itself?It makes no sense, and now this chaos unfolds."


    "Do not concern yourself with matters beyond your purview."


    Phil sighed and waved a dismissive hand.


    His next words made the disciple''s face pale.


    "Foolish creatures, driven by their own greed.Their intrusion into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is no concern of Crystal Crest.Yet, they dare to come here and make demands?They court their own destruction."


    "Go, Samuel.Make an example.Let them know that they are nworthy to even set foot on Crystal Crest, let alone make demands."


    Samuel''s face was a mask of conflict.


    He had spent centuries cultivating psychic powers at Crystal Crest and had never harmed an innocent soul.


    This sacred ground had always been a place of peaceful cultivation, as his master had taught him.


    And now, he was being ordered to¡­ kill these desperate people who merely sought answers?


    His master could easily explain the situation, yet he chose to conceal the truth!


    "Master, I¡­"


    "Go!" Phil snapped.


    "An example, not a massacre.


    The Blackwood clan started this, so¡­ eliminate Mary."


    "What are you waiting for?!" Phil roared when Samuel hesitated.


    The outburst shocked Samuel.


    He had never seen his master so enraged.


    Phil, the epitome of composure, was now a tempest of fury.


    Samuel barely recognized him.


    He even sensed¡­ fear?


    "Yes, Master."


    Samuel could only obey, his heart heavy with dread.


    Phil sighed, his youthful face a mask of despair.


    "I can only hope this isn''t another one of Heavenly Path''s tests.


    And I hope¡­ that it is."


    But moments later, Phil''s expression shifted from despair to horror.


    Samuel returned, not with Mary''s blood on his hands, but with Mary herself in tow.


    Phil''s fury erupted, and he appeared beside Samuel in a flash, startling his disciple.


    Phil glared at Mary, who looked back with confusion.


    He grabbed Samuel by the collar, his voice shaking with rage.


    "What have you done?!You imbecile!Who told you to bring her here?I ordered you to kill her!You dare disobey me?!"


    "You want to kill me?" Mary frowned.


    She had come to Crystal Crest prepared to die.


    But neither Phil nor Samuel paid her any mind.


    Samuel trembled under his master''s wrath.


    "Master, I¡­ I couldn''t bring myself to kill an innocent.If you want her dead¡­ do it yourself!"


    "You¡­"


    Phil''s youthful face, framed by white hair, flushed red with anger.


    He drew a deep breath, regaining control.


    "So be it.Your heart is too kind, Samuel.You fail to grasp that sometimes, sacrificing one can save countless others." Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What do you mean, Master?" Mary was utterly bewildered.


    Even Ethan, who had been ready to sacrifice everything to save Mary, was taken aback.


    Phil seemed to have abandoned any intention to kill, replaced by¡­ despair?


    Ethan couldn''t shake the feeling that his family''s venture into the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had disturbed something forbidden.


    Why else would Phil act so strangely?


    As Ethan pondered, Phil placed his hand on Mary''s head, her eyes rolling back in her head.

 Chapter 350 - 350: Yes, he lives Part 1

    A surge of cosmic energy erupted from Phil, washing over Mary as if probing for something deep within her.


    The speed of his action caught Ethan off guard, but he soon breathed a sigh of relief. Phil''s Advanced Mastery power was formidable, impossible to stop. Yet, Mary seemed to be in no immediate danger.


    Moments later, Phil withdrew his hand from Mary''s head. She returned to normal, as if nothing had happened.


    Phil turned to his disciple, who watched with a furrowed brow and a mix of apprehension and curiosity. He gestured for Mary to follow him. "Come, child. You wish to know about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, about Heavenly Path himself, and why I wanted you dead, do you not?"


    Unafraid, Mary followed Phil into his humble abode.


    Inside, Phil prepared tea with the air of a seasoned elder, not the legendary Advanced Mastery psychic he was rumored to be. "I know not how you discovered the connection between Heavenly Path and myself, but you have stumbled into a grave error."


    "A grave error?" Mary''s expression turned serious.


    "Your approach was clever, I''ll grant you that," Phil said, his face impassive. "You learned of my bond with Heavenly Path and my ability to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. By seeking my help, you ensured your success. Opening the sanctuary would be a deed of great merit, beneficial to both of us. Your Blackwood clan could even forge a connection with me through this."


    Mary frowned, seeing the truth in his words.


    "When I refused to cooperate, your Blackwood clan rallied other factions, spreading rumors and applying pressure. You left me with no choice. Faced with such overwhelming force, I would have been compelled to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary for you."


    "You even dared to defy me. I heard whispers that even the Druid Bird Totem wouldn''t risk sending their strongest against Blackwood. You feared me not, believing I wouldn''t harm a soul from your clan."


    Mary''s frown eased. She hadn''t orchestrated any of that. Her only thought had been to rescue her children. It seemed events had spiraled far beyond her control.


    "But you miscalculated," Phil said with a bitter smile. "My disciple should have ended you. Your death would have severed the threads of this entanglement. He''s always been prone to suspicion."


    Samuel, who was pouring tea, froze.


    Sensing his disciple''s reaction, Phil scoffed. "Not you."


    Reassured by his master''s familiar demeanor, Samuel asked, "Master, do you have another disciple besides me?"


    "I do," Phil replied, his expression grave. "He was the least gifted yet the most extraordinary disciple I ever took under my wing: Heavenly Path. And now, thanks to Samuel''s suspicious nature, your presence here has made matters far worse¡­ or perhaps the trouble began the moment I took Heavenly Path as my student."


    "What?! The Heavenly Path Venerable¡­ he lives?!" Mary and Ethan exclaimed in unison. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They might not have grasped the full implications of Phil''s words, but one thing was clear: the Heavenly Path Venerable, whom they believed to be dead, was alive!


    Even more shocking, this elderly master, who stood at the pinnacle of power in Sunshine Mansion and commanded respect throughout the Emerald Dynasty, seemed deeply wary of his supposedly deceased disciple.


    Samuel''s hand trembled, nearly spilling the tea.


    "Yes, he lives," Phil sighed. "Had you died, it wouldn''t have mattered. I would have remained oblivious to the events of the past. But Heavenly Path is ever-vigilant. Your presence here¡­"


    ¡­


    "Millennia ago, Crystal Crest bustled with life. I enjoyed taking on disciples, and my students numbered in the hundreds." Phil''s voice was filled with a wistful longing for those livelier days. Now, only Samuel remained by his side.


    Samuel, who had endured thirty years of pleading before being accepted as Phil''s disciple, scratched his head. The elders often spoke of those times as a golden age for Crystal Crest.


    "Among my many disciples was Heavenly Path. He possessed an unwavering dedication to the path of cultivation, yet he wielded a forbidden technique, the Living Sacrifice Formation, for nefarious purposes. I should have ended him then, rid the world of his menace. But guiding a soul towards righteousness is a deed of great merit. So, I kept Heavenly Path among my disciples."


    "Centuries passed, and I realized Heavenly Path possessed a rare spirit. Despite his mediocre talent, he dared to challenge fate itself."


    "Can you imagine? A cultivator with a Five Psychic Constitution, never blessed with treasures to enhance his potential, even resorting to the Emerging Ability to alter his destiny, yet remaining stuck at a Four Psychic Constitution. And yet, he reached the Competent Force realm through sheer willpower!" A flicker of awe crossed Phil''s eyes.


    "The Three-Nine Thunder Tribulation, a mere formality for those with exceptional talent, was an insurmountable obstacle for him. I told him then that reaching Basic Mastery was beyond his grasp. But his unwavering spirit, his sheer tenacity, deserved the world''s admiration."


    The room fell silent. A Four Psychic Constitution reaching Competent Force? It defied all logic.


    "He told me he understood his fate and would spend his remaining years in quiet contemplation. But I¡­ I underestimated him. The world might accept defeat, but not Heavenly Path! I never imagined he would resort to such drastic measures."


    Phil''s eyes flickered with a mixture of anger and sorrow. Samuel, sensing the dark turn in his master''s tale, paled. "Drastic measures? Master, you never told me how the other disciples died. Did he¡­"


    The weight of countless years seemed to settle upon Phil''s shoulders. "A Competent Force cultivator has a lifespan of two thousand years. Heavenly Path refused to accept his limitations."


    "He might have lacked talent, but his comprehension of the mystic arts was unparalleled. He destroyed the Living Sacrifice Formation, but not before spending centuries twisting its principles, merging it with Crystal Crest''s own Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique!"


    "The Hundred Glories Celestial Net Technique borrows power from the people, from towns, cities, even entire regions. But Heavenly Path¡­ he sought to borrow life force, destiny itself, from my disciples!"


    "For centuries, he collected their blood, weaving a web of karmic bonds."


    "Heavenly Path was in the middle stage of Competent Force then, with mere decades left to live. His final Thunder Tribulation approached."


    Fear flickered in Phil''s eyes. "No, it was Crystal Crest''s tribulation. He intended to sacrifice thousands of my disciples, using their life force to fuel his ascension to Basic Mastery!"

 Chapter 351 - 351: Yes, he lives Part 2

    "I¡­"


    Samuel and Mary stared blankly, their minds struggling to comprehend the sheer horror of that day.


    Thousands undergoing the tribulation, their combined might amplifying the celestial fury a thousandfold.


    It would have been a storm of unimaginable power, far exceeding any natural phenomenon.


    Could anyone have survived such a cataclysmic event?


    Even those mighty masters, witnessing their disciples march towards certain death, could only watch in helpless despair.


    Samuel shuddered, the memory sending chills down his spine.


    He finally understood his master''s reluctance to take on new students, why Crystal Crest, despite its power, remained sparsely populated.


    But one question lingered.


    "Master, with thousands undergoing the tribulation, Heavenly Path¡­ how could he¡­"


    "That day," Phil said, his voice a hollow whisper, "every master, every elder at Crystal Crest, wanted him dead."


    He shook his head, his eyes filled with lingering terror.


    "We watched as our disciples were consumed by the storm. No one could have survived such a tribulation, not even Heavenly Path. He perished with the rest. But I couldn''t believe it."


    "I saw him. As the tribulation raged, he looked at me¡­ and smiled.


    I remember that smile. When I doubted his ability to break through Competent Force, when he summoned the Three-Nine Thunder Tribulation, he wore the same chilling smile! I had never¡­ never before witnessed such a terrifying expression."


    Phil exhaled, a long, trembling breath.


    "I knew then that he lived. For ten thousand years, I''ve searched for him."


    "And I found him. But the truth¡­ the truth is far more terrifying than I could have imagined."


    "He lives?!" Samuel''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    He clenched his fists, a mixture of fear and rage coursing through him.


    How could such a ruthless monster still exist?


    "Master, he''s hiding in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, isn''t he? We have to find it, open it, and end him once and for all!"


    But Phil''s next words sent a chill down their spines, their blood turning to ice.


    "No," Phil said, his voice devoid of emotion.


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is merely a fragment of his being. For ten thousand years, he''s been striving for something far greater: Ability Master."


    "And now¡­ he could be anyone, anywhere within Sunshine Mansion."


    "There are many of him!"


    ¡­


    As his words echoed through the air, figures emerged from the heart of Sunshine Mansion.


    From the Bright Light Institute, Kylin Mountain Roberts, Fortune Sanctum Parker, and other powerful factions, individuals stepped out of their secluded domains, their gazes drawn towards Crystal Crest.


    A chilling smile spread across their faces.


    "Master, you brought the Blackwood clan into Crystal Crest, just as I suspected. You have been searching for me all these years."


    "Azure Cloud Blackwood¡­ clever, very clever.


    My reincarnation, Michael, died by your hand, disrupting my plans."


    "The Blackwood clan''s rapid rise to power¡­ intriguing. And now, you and my dear master have finally caught up to me."


    "Thirteen Blackwood juniors wreaking havoc within my Basic Mastery Psychic Sanctuary¡­ and yet, even I couldn''t detect anything amiss. Fascinating."


    Their voices dripped with malice.


    "Very well. Azure Cloud Blackwood will be eradicated!"


    Figures shot across the sky, a wave of malice surging from Sunshine Mansion towards Cloudview County Blackwood.


    ¡­


    Beneath the Primordial Blood Tree, Olivia, who had been meditating, suddenly opened her eyes.


    The ancient tree mirrored her action, their gazes meeting in a moment of shared terror.


    They turned towards the horizon, sensing the approaching darkness.


    "Run! Run!" Olivia screamed, her voice hoarse with fear and desperation, a sound she never thought she''d utter.


    ¡­


    In Cloudview County, life went on as usual.


    Common folk from across the Emerald Empire flocked to Azure Cloud, seeking refuge from the ongoing war.


    On the borders, the three Azure Cloud armies clashed with the Druids.


    Skirmishes were frequent, but the tide seemed to be turning in Azure Cloud''s favor.


    Phillips had even reclaimed a portion of Cedar County.


    Standing on a balcony overlooking his newly acquired territory, Phillips turned to Daniel, a wide grin on his face.


    "My dear Daniel, I had the strangest dream last night.


    I dreamt that these war-torn lands would flourish once more, that Sunshine Mansion itself would fall into our hands!"


    "Imagine it, Daniel! Azure Cloud, more prosperous than ever before, surpassing even Sunshine Mansion and the Imperial Capital! We would be kings in our own right! And when Azure Cloud produces more Basic Mastery, even Advanced Mastery experts, even the ancient god himself wouldn''t dare to trifle with us!" S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Daniel shrugged.


    "You certainly have a way of looking ahead, Bryce. I''m not so ambitious."


    "Oh?" Bryce raised an eyebrow.


    He had always considered Daniel to be the more ambitious of the two.


    "Surely you don''t aspire to usurp the ancient god himself?"


    Despite their initial mistrust, their years of working together had forged a strange sort of friendship.


    They might constantly scheme and plot against each other, but they could at least be honest about their ambitions.


    "You''re thinking too far ahead, Bryce. My goals are far simpler: to eliminate all our enemies."


    "Is that so?" Bryce chuckled.


    "You control the armies of three counties, Daniel. A single word from you could move legions. Even the old ancestor in Gonzalez warned me to be wary of you. But rest assured, my friend, I know you well enough to know that you''ll always leave a place for me in your grand vision for Azure Cloud. At least publicly."


    "You give me too much credit, Phillips." Daniel smiled wryly.


    "We come from different worlds, you and I. You grew up in the lap of luxury, in Duke''s Mansion, your heart filled with dreams of ruling nations. I, on the other hand, come from humble beginnings. "


    "To call it a village would be an overstatement. I was just a child when my aunt urged my brother and me to flee. I didn''t understand why. Our family was doing well. Why would we run? Later, I learned that they wanted to preserve the last of our lineage."


    Phillips frowned.


    Everyone spoke of the Blackwood clan''s strength, their influence, their ambition.


    But listening to Daniel, he realized just how much they had endured to reach their current position.


    "You might find this hard to believe, Phillips, but I was a naive fool as a child, easily tricked and manipulated. My family called me simple. They didn''t understand that I simply chose not to concern myself with such trivial matters. "


    "All I cared about was honing my skills, becoming strong enough to protect myself, to protect my family. I never wanted to run again. I wanted to stand my ground."


    "When I became the head of the Blackwood clan, I endured the most difficult period of my life."


    Daniel exhaled, his gaze distant.


    "I had always been surrounded by good people, kind souls who bathed in the light. But I knew that for them to remain in the light, someone had to operate in the shadows. To lead the Blackwood clan, I had to become the darkness. I took lives, I ordered executions, I crushed anyone who dared to defy us."


    "It was the only way to ensure our survival, to secure a future for our clan."


    He turned to Bryce, a sad smile on his face.


    "We might have moments of compassion, Phillips, you and I. But our responsibilities, the burdens we carry, force us to make difficult choices, to embrace the darkness. I care not for your ambitions, Phillips, for your Duke''s Mansion dreams. "


    "My only desire is the continued survival and prosperity of the Blackwood clan. As long as you don''t threaten that, I''m willing to keep my hands clean."


    Phillips stared at him, speechless.


    All of Azure Cloud feared Daniel Blackwood, but even he hadn''t realized the simplicity of his desires.


    He had expected a kindred spirit, someone driven by the same insatiable hunger for power.


    But Daniel''s ambition was far more profound: the preservation of his family.


    After a long silence, Phillips laughed and extended his hand.


    "Very well, Daniel. Let us hope our paths don''t cross. I, for one, am eager to witness the dawn of a new era for Azure Cloud."


    But before their hands could meet, a chill ran down their spines.


    They turned, their faces pale with terror.


    A figure hovered in the air behind them, his face hidden behind an iron mask.


    He radiated an aura of menace, as if he had been there all along, observing their every move.


    "Eternal peace, you say?" His voice dripped with amusement.


    "Time to wake up."

 Chapter 352 - 352: Trading her life for a sliver of hope

    "Basic Mastery?!"


    Terror gripped Phillips'' heart. Both he and Daniel unleashed their Competent Force power, but it was futile. "Run, Daniel!" Phillips roared, his voice laced with panic. "Ancestor, help me!"


    ¡­


    On the outskirts of Azure Cloud, Owen and Bill exchanged grim glances. Before them stood two figures in masks, their auras radiating the unmistakable power of Basic Mastery experts. They were clearly there to intercept them.


    Behind them stood Larry.


    They could sense other powerful presences converging on Glory City. What kind of force could mobilize so many experts in such a short time? What had the Blackwood clan gotten themselves into?


    Even Owen, who had seen his fair share of battles and turmoil, felt a shiver of fear.


    "Our business is with Azure Cloud Blackwood," one of the masked figures said, his voice cold and emotionless. "Hand over Larry, and you will be spared."


    "You¡­" Owen started, his face darkening with anger.


    Larry placed a hand on his arm, silencing him. She stepped forward, her gaze unwavering. As the acting commander of the Azure Cloud army, the years she had spent in the Swamp Jungle, commanding legions of beasts, had hardened her resolve. She wore her military uniform with an air of quiet strength and determination.


    She held out a Storage Ring to Bill. "Master Bill, General Owen," she said, her voice steady, "it seems our time together has come to an end. Thank you for your guidance, for your support of my clan. This ring contains the psychic beasts I''ve raised over the years. Should you encounter any of my kin, please entrust them with my legacy."


    Bill''s eyes widened as he took the ring, his heart sinking. He recognized the look in Larry''s eyes, the resolute gaze of someone who had accepted their fate. She wasn''t afraid of death. All that remained was a quiet sense of peace and a glimmer of hope.


    "Larry¡­" Bill began, his voice thick with emotion.


    She offered him a sad smile. "Don''t worry, old friend."


    Turning towards the masked figures, she walked forward, her chin held high. She didn''t know who her clan had angered, where these assassins had come from, but the absence of her kin spoke volumes.


    "Foolish child," one of the masked figures sneered, looking down at her as if she were an insect. "No one from Blackwood will survive this day."


    Owen and Bill closed their eyes, unable to watch.


    Larry unleashed her full power, her soul igniting in a blaze of defiance. She charged towards the Basic Mastery experts, a whirlwind of fury and despair. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In her final moments, she triggered her ultimate technique, the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation, a desperate gamble, trading her life for a sliver of hope.


    She didn''t beg for mercy. She didn''t hesitate. She chose to fight, even if it meant certain death.


    The thunderous roar of the tribulation echoed across the land, shaking the very foundations of Azure Cloud.


    When the dust settled, only Bill remained, his face etched with grief. He carefully gathered Larry''s ashes, his hand closing tightly around the Storage Ring. He tossed the ring to Owen. "Go," he said, his voice hoarse. "Don''t go to Glory City. Find somewhere safe.


    I''ll stay here, in Azure Cloud. If I can save even one life¡­ it will be worth it. I''ll find you when this is over."


    "¡­Very well."


    Owen stood there for a long moment, his gaze fixed on the horizon. Dark, ominous clouds gathered over Glory City.


    A deafening explosion ripped through the air, a mushroom cloud rising into the sky.


    Owen turned away, unable to bear the sight. "I''m going to the Imperial Capital," he said, his voice heavy. "Not even they would dare to attack Radiant Sky Grotto."


    ¡­


    "What''s happening in Azure Cloud?!"


    In the heart of the Endless Forest, the Druids watched in astonishment as a mushroom cloud rose above the horizon.


    Then another.


    And another.


    The sky itself seemed to crack, a translucent dome appearing above Azure Cloud, ripples of energy distorting the clouds. The sheer power of the explosions was staggering.


    Every Druid present knew that a battle of unimaginable ferocity was raging in the distance.


    "It''s Glory City! The Blackwood clan!" A Druid high priest rushed to Mike''s side, his face alight with grim satisfaction. "Apostle, the Blackwood clan, the ones who slaughtered our brethren¡­ they''re finally getting what they deserve! This is our chance! Azure Cloud will be in chaos! Give the order, Apostle, and we''ll¡­"


    "Silence!" Mike roared, his hand shooting out to strike the high priest across the face, sending him sprawling to the ground. He drew a deep breath, his voice booming across the forest. "Prepare for war! We attack Azure Cloud with everything we have!"


    "Yes, Apostle!"


    As the Druid army mobilized, a wave of unease washed over Mike. "What have you gotten yourselves into, Blackwood clan?" he muttered, his voice filled with a strange mix of dread and concern.


    He sought out the two eldest and wisest Druids, Lester and Shane. They too were watching the explosions, their ancient faces etched with concern.


    "Elders," Mike said, bowing respectfully. "I implore you, accompany me to Azure Cloud Blackwood."


    "Why?" Lester asked, his voice as cold and unyielding as the earth itself.


    Mike extended his hand, a faint glow emanating from his palm. "Does this answer your question?"


    Within a century, he would ascend to Basic Mastery.


    Lester and Shane exchanged glances. "Very well," Shane said, his voice a low rumble. "Let us see what has transpired in Blackwood."


    Moments later, they were soaring through the air, heading towards Blackwood territory. But instead of the anticipated triumph, a sense of foreboding settled over Mike. "Please, Nathan," he whispered, his voice filled with worry. "Please be alive."


    ¡­


    Dust and debris choked the air, a suffocating blanket of destruction. The stench of death lingered over the battlefield.


    Ethan stood amidst the ruins of Glory City, his Celestial Pole Energy Spear planted firmly in the ground, his body a shield against the relentless assault. He had anticipated this, had prepared for the moment when Heavenly Path''s reincarnated fragments descended upon them like a plague.


    The three nuclear detonations and the antimatter bomb he had entrusted to Nathan had bought them some time, but it wasn''t enough.


    He looked up, his eyes widening in horror as another figure emerged from the dust cloud, his features twisted into a mockery of Nathan''s own. They kept coming, an endless tide of Heavenly Path''s fragmented souls, each one driven by an ancient hunger for revenge.


    He fought with the fury of a cornered animal, his spear a blur of motion, but despair gnawed at his heart. For every fragment he struck down, another slipped past him, drawn towards Glory City like moths to a flame.


    In two hundred years, the Blackwood clan had faced countless enemies, overcome impossible odds. But against Heavenly Path, against this fragmented monstrosity, he felt a profound sense of helplessness.


    [Your descendant, Larry, has fallen!]


    [Your descendant, Wayne, has fallen!]


    [Your descendant¡­]


    One by one, the names of his kin echoed in his mind, each death a fresh wound on his soul.

 Chapter 353 - 353: For Blackwood!

    Heavenly Path showed Blackwood no mercy. His assault was swift, brutal, and absolute. Not even those who had undergone the Blackwood''s "Millennium Blood Renewal Project" escaped his wrath. It was as if every move, every plan, every secret within Sunshine Mansion lay bare before his all-seeing eyes.


    Two hundred years of meticulous planning, of dreams and aspirations, shattered like glass before Heavenly Path''s overwhelming might.


    Ethan fought like a man possessed, his Celestial Pole Energy Spear a whirlwind of death, desperately trying to hold back the tide of Heavenly Path''s reincarnated fragments. Every fragment he delayed meant another chance for his kin to escape.


    "Die!" he roared, his spear piercing the Developing Skill-level body of one of Heavenly Path''s fragments.


    But there was no joy in the kill. Not with thousands more bearing down on him, their eyes burning with cold, calculating malice. The weakest among them was at the peak of Emerging Ability, their combined might enough to shake the heavens.


    He could sense his clan''s two Basic Mastery experts, even old man Phillips, locked in desperate battles against impossible odds.


    "Interesting," the impaled fragment chuckled, his voice devoid of pain. He looked at Ethan, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Master always said there were countless hidden talents in this world. We''ve had our eyes on you Blackwoods ever since you eliminated Michael."


    "Michael?!" Ethan froze, his blood turning to ice. "He was one of your fragments too?!"


    Heavenly Path''s fragment laughed, a chilling sound that echoed across the battlefield. "Not just Michael. Sky Sect''s former leader, Wesley, Azure Cloud''s rising star, Eric, the Dragon family''s prodigy¡­ they were all me!"


    His laughter morphed into a grotesque parody of joy, his features contorting in a mask of madness.


    "Master thought I was weak, a fluke of fate to even reach Competent Force!" he shrieked. "But I''ll show him! Ten thousand years! Ten thousand years I''ve spent reincarnating, absorbing my past selves, each one a rising star, scattered across Sunshine Mansion, mastering countless techniques! I have six fragments at the peak of Rising Star, each one a breath away from Basic Mastery!"


    "And soon¡­ there will be more. All of Sunshine Mansion''s fortune will be mine!"


    The Developing Skill fragment gripped the Celestial Pole Energy Spear, driving it deeper into his own soul. Then, in a flash of blinding light, his power surged outward, flowing into the approaching fragments, strengthening them, pushing them closer to their full potential.


    They advanced on Ethan, their movements slow and deliberate, their voices a chorus of whispers from the abyss.


    "I am displeased."


    "Ten thousand years¡­ ten thousand years I spent cultivating these fragments, these vessels of power. And now, from the backwater swamps of Cloudview County, you Blackwoods dare to challenge me?"


    "You were a nuisance, a curiosity at first. Your rapid rise to power, your brazen defiance¡­ you even dared to set foot in my domain, to covet what is rightfully mine!"


    "But you forgot one simple truth: there is always someone stronger. And I¡­"


    "I am the true master of Sunshine Mansion! Even Crystal Crest cannot touch me!"


    "It''s over, Blackwood. Your time is over!"


    They charged, a wave of darkness intent on erasing the Blackwood clan from existence.


    Ethan understood then. It wasn''t about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. It wasn''t about Crystal Crest. Heavenly Path had been watching them all along, observing their every move, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. And now, the Blackwood clan had grown too strong, too ambitious for him to tolerate.


    But as despair threatened to consume him, a cold fire ignited within his soul. He looked up, his eyes blazing with defiance, stopping Heavenly Path''s fragments in their tracks.


    The despair vanished, replaced by a chilling calm.


    "Over?" Ethan''s voice echoed across the battlefield, laced with icy determination. "You think this is over, Heavenly Path?"


    "What?" A Competent Force fragment, impaled by Ethan''s spear, stared at him in confusion. But as his form began to dissipate, Ethan''s voice echoed in his soul, filled with chilling certainty. "This is just the beginning!"


    [Your descendant, Lucas, gravely wounded, attempted to confront the invaders but was rescued by a recovered Diana. He is consumed by a burning desire for revenge. Trait gained: Unrelenting Avenger.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, emerged from the Storage Ring entrusted to Owen by Larry. He had been concealed within by Larry''s technique, hidden from Heavenly Path''s senses. He is filled with righteous fury. Trait gained: Wrathful Avenger.]


    [Your descendant¡­]


    [Exiting the game world¡­]


    [You have spent 3 Family Will points to re-enter the game!]


    Ethan''s body flickered, vanishing from existence before reappearing in front of Heavenly Path''s stunned fragments. Even they seemed taken aback by this unexpected turn of events. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He hovered in mid-air, his gaze fixed on his enemies, his grip tightening on the Celestial Pole Energy Spear.


    He was the Forebearer. He would not despair.


    It wasn''t over. Not while his children still drew breath.


    Heavenly Path might be a monster, a being of unimaginable power who had shattered their dreams and slaughtered their kin. But the Blackwood clan endured. Hope¡­


    Hope remained.


    "For Blackwood!" he roared, charging into the fray, his spear a beacon of defiance against the encroaching darkness. Every fragment he held back meant another chance for his children to survive.


    This wasn''t the end. It couldn''t be.


    The Blackwood clan had risen from humble beginnings, from a small village, with nothing but Nathan''s unwavering spirit to guide them.


    His children were survivors. They would not surrender.


    The dust had yet to settle. He could feel it in his bones: he and his kin, scattered and wounded but unbroken, would fight back.


    ¡­


    Half a day later, a group of battered and bruised figures stood above the ruins of Glory City, their masks discarded, their faces grim. Any psychic from Sunshine Mansion would have recognized them instantly: the scions of the most powerful families and sects, their names whispered with a mixture of awe and fear.


    They surveyed the scene below, their brows furrowed in frustration.


    The Blackwood stronghold was in ruins, but they could sense it: the faint but unmistakable presence of their quarry, scattered and wounded but alive.


    The Azure Cloud army, along with psychics from various factions, had converged on the ruins, their rage palpable even from this distance.


    These Azure Cloud ants, these insignificant insects, dared to defy them, to scream for vengeance.

 Chapter 354 - 354: Something feels… wrong

    "Foolish mortals," one of the masked figures sneered, his voice laced with a mixture of amusement and frustration. "You thought you could defy me? When I transcend to the next realm, none in Sunshine Mansion will be spared."


    He stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the ruins of Glory City. Despite his confident words, a flicker of unease danced in his eyes. He had underestimated the Blackwood clan. Their hidden weapons, their fierce resistance, even that shadowy figure who kept reappearing despite being killed multiple times¡­ they had cost him dearly.


    Half his fragments were gone, including a Basic Mastery-level incarnation.


    Even with his fragments converging from all directions, he hadn''t been able to prevent some Blackwoods from escaping.


    And to make matters worse, those meddling Druids had sent two of their elders to interfere!


    "I should have acted sooner," he muttered, his voice laced with regret. "Perhaps when Michael was eliminated¡­"


    "No matter," he said, shaking his head. "They may have escaped for now, but they won''t hide forever. The Blackwoods value loyalty above all else. Let''s see if they''ll risk everything to save their own."


    "And then there''s my Psychic Sanctuary," he added, a cruel smile spreading across his lips. "Thirteen Blackwoods trapped inside¡­ my playthings."


    With that, the remaining fragments turned and vanished into the sky, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.


    A lone figure drifted through the air, his body battered and broken, his mind lost in a haze of pain and confusion. He mumbled incoherently, his voice barely a whisper.


    "Run¡­ run¡­"


    ¡­


    A small fishing boat bobbed gently on the waves near North Sea Coastal Village. The fishermen on board laughed and joked, their faces flushed with the day''s success. Their nets overflowed with fish, thanks in no small part to the two handsome young men who soared above them on their swords.


    Adam and Alexander, their faces etched with a mixture of pride and concern, descended from the sky, dragging a massive fish behind them, its scales shimmering in the sunlight.


    "Look at them, our resident psychics!" one of the fishermen shouted, his voice filled with admiration. "They make fishing look easy!"


    "They could be warlords with their talents," another chimed in. "Why waste their time with us simple folk?"


    "Let them be," an older fisherman chuckled. "The sea is vast. There''s plenty of fish for everyone."


    Adam, more handsome than ever, clapped his son on the shoulder, their laughter echoing across the waves. Alexander, now a grown man, had inherited his father''s talent for psychic arts and his love for the sea. Together, they were the most renowned fishermen in ten villages.


    "Another fine haul!" Adam announced, handing a struggling sea monster to the awestruck fishermen. "This one will grant you long life!"


    But as they stood on the deck, their faces turned somber. A sense of unease settled over them, a feeling they couldn''t shake off.


    "Father," Alexander said, his brow furrowed with worry, "something feels¡­ wrong."


    "I know," Adam murmured, his voice heavy. He closed his eyes, attempting to divine the source of their unease, but his rudimentary fortune-telling skills revealed nothing. "Something has happened. Psychics can sense these things. Perhaps a calamity¡­ or a loved one in danger¡­"


    ¡­


    "No¡­ it can''t be¡­"


    Helen, her youthful appearance unchanged by time, stared at the letter clutched in her trembling hand, her face ashen. The words blurred before her eyes, their meaning a dagger to her heart.


    [Blackwood¡­ destroyed¡­]


    She reread the message, each time hoping against hope that she had misread, that it was all a terrible mistake. But the words remained the same, their message clear and devastating.


    Despite her self-imposed exile, she had kept tabs on her clan, her heart swelling with pride as their influence and power grew, their name spreading across the Emerald Empire. There had been challenges, of course, but they had always overcome them, emerging stronger and more united than before.


    But this¡­ this was beyond anything she could have imagined.


    The letter offered no details, only that unknown assailants had descended upon Azure Cloud Blackwood, wiping them out in less than an hour. By the time reinforcements arrived, all that remained was rubble and ash.


    "No! It can''t be true!" she screamed, her voice raw with anguish. She didn''t even know who their enemies were, what they had fought for, what had led to this unimaginable tragedy.


    "Mother, I''m back!"


    Adam''s cheerful voice drifted in from the street below. Helen stumbled towards the window, her gaze falling upon her son and grandson returning from the docks, their baskets laden with fish. A wave of despair washed over her. How could she tell them? How could she shatter their peaceful existence with this devastating news?


    She had always greeted them with a warm embrace, but today, she turned and fled into the Forebearer Shrine, collapsing before the ancestral altar.


    "Forebearer, please," she sobbed, her voice choked with tears. "Tell me they''re alright."


    "Forebearer, we''ve faced impossible odds before. We''ve always found a way¡­ we''ve always survived. Tell me this is just another trial, another obstacle to overcome. Tell me they''re alive!"


    ¡­


    Downstairs, Drunken Fool sat in stunned silence, his gaze fixed on the letter clutched in his hand. It was from an old friend, a comrade from their Thunderfire Demon Cave days.


    The news hit him like a physical blow, leaving him reeling.


    "How could this happen?" he whispered, his voice heavy with grief. "What have you gotten yourselves into, Blackwood?" sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had fought alongside the Blackwoods, bled with them, faced death with them. They had challenged the Azure Cloud Pavilion, battled Felix and Elizabeth, defied the might of Azure Cloud''s most powerful factions, even faced the wrath of the Druids.


    Time and again, they had danced on the edge of oblivion, emerging victorious against all odds. But even the most skilled dancer could stumble.


    "At least the lineage survives."


    He watched as Alexander emerged from the inn, his youthful face etched with concern. The boy was on his way to the village''s makeshift training ground, eager to share his skills with the local children. A sad smile touched Drunken Fool''s lips.


    "The Blackwood clan might be gone," he murmured, "but their legacy lives on. And me? I''m a free man once more. But where would I go? What would I do?"


    He stood up, his gaze drifting towards the horizon, but his feet remained rooted to the spot.


    "Perhaps¡­ perhaps I''ll stay here," he said, a strange sense of peace settling over him. "What''s wrong with guarding their legacy, ensuring their safety? Besides, I''m not convinced they''re all gone. Those Blackwoods¡­ they have a knack for surviving."


    A shadow fell over him. He looked up to see Alexander standing before him, his expression a mixture of excitement and apprehension.


    "Master," the boy whispered, glancing around to make sure no one was listening. "I''ve mastered the technique you taught me. Do you¡­ do you have anything more¡­ advanced?"

 Chapter 355 - 355: Somethings not right

    Half a month passed.


    One by one, Blackwood''s allies and friends arrived at the outskirts of Glory City, their faces etched with grief and disbelief. Even Jimmy Martinez, a respected member of the Oracle Chamber from the distant Imperial Capital, had rushed to the scene, his heart heavy with dread.


    The air crackled with residual energy, a silent testament to the battle that had raged across the land. For miles around, the earth was scarred and lifeless, a desolate wasteland where once a thriving city had stood.


    Yet, strangely, Glory City itself seemed¡­ normal. Buildings had been repaired, streets cleared of debris. The citizens went about their daily lives, their laughter and chatter echoing through the streets as if nothing had happened.


    Jimmy refused to believe it. He had trusted his sources, trusted the Oracle Chamber''s intelligence network. Never before had he wished for their information to be wrong.


    He approached a passerby, his voice trembling with apprehension. "Excuse me, friend, is¡­ is everything alright here?"


    The man stopped, his eyes locking onto Jimmy''s with an intensity that sent chills down his spine. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the silence stretching into an eternity. Then, just as suddenly, the man''s expression softened, a smile spreading across his face as he continued on his way, exchanging pleasantries with a fellow citizen as if nothing had happened.


    It was¡­ unsettling. The city''s normalcy felt staged, a facade masking a deeper, more sinister truth.


    "Something''s not right," Jimmy muttered, his gaze sweeping over the bustling streets. "These people¡­ they''re alive, but¡­ they''re like¡­ like living ghosts."


    He closed his eyes, focusing his psychic senses, his vision shifting as he peered through the illusion. A faint shimmer surrounded the city, a web of intricate runes woven into the very fabric of reality.


    "A death array!" he gasped, his blood turning to ice.


    He grabbed another passerby, his fingers closing around the man''s arm. The man''s flesh was cold, lifeless, devoid of warmth or vitality. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t disturb them."


    Jimmy whirled around to see a group of figures approaching, their faces etched with sorrow.


    Duke Kenneth of Cloudview County, Jon from the Rice family, Bryce, the King of Phillips, Chuck from the Arcane Society¡­ all of Blackwood''s closest allies, dressed in mourning clothes, their heads bowed in respect. They moved through the bustling crowds like ghosts, their presence unnoticed, their grief ignored.


    Jimmy opened his mouth to speak, but Kenneth silenced him with a shake of his head. They continued towards the Blackwood estate, their footsteps heavy with sorrow.


    The estate had been meticulously restored, every broken window repaired, every scorch mark erased. But the silence within those walls was deafening. Servants moved like automatons, their faces blank, their movements precise and emotionless, as if following a script they no longer understood.


    At the heart of the estate stood the Blackwood Sacred Tree, its once vibrant leaves now a cascade of crimson, falling like tears in the autumn breeze. But the tree was lifeless, its energy spent, its spirit broken.


    One by one, they reached out, their fingers closing around the fallen leaves, their faces a mixture of grief and confusion.


    Then, as if guided by an unseen hand, they turned towards the Iron Forest Horse stables.


    A faint melody drifted from within, a haunting tune that sent shivers down their spines.


    They entered the stables to find themselves surrounded by statues, each one a perfect likeness of a Blackwood clan member. There was Nathan, his shoulders heavy with the weight of the world, Lucas, his sword strapped to his back, Amelia, her medicine pouch at her side, Julian, his muscular torso bare, Olivia, her gaze sharp and calculating even in stone¡­


    It was as if the entire Blackwood clan had gathered in that place, frozen in time, their spirits forever bound to the city they had sworn to protect.


    The music swelled, drawing them deeper into the heart of the stables.


    They found Dennis seated before a guqin, his fingers plucking at the strings, his eyes filled with a mixture of sorrow and quiet determination. He glanced at them, his expression unreadable.


    "You have come to pay your respects," he said, his voice soft but steady. "Your concern is appreciated, but unnecessary. If you have questions¡­ ask."


    "Dennis," Kenneth choked out, his voice thick with emotion. "We''ve searched everywhere, but¡­ we don''t understand. Who were they? Where did they come from? What happened to Edward? My sister¡­ she hasn''t spoken a word since that day¡­"


    "You ask too much," Dennis replied, his voice a low murmur. "Even the combined might of the Blackwood clan was not enough to stop them. Some truths are best left buried."


    Kenneth bristled, but the sight of the surrounding statues silenced him. Dennis''s words, though cryptic, confirmed their worst fears.


    "If that is all you seek¡­ then leave," Dennis said, his gaze returning to the guqin. "There is no need for incense or offerings."


    He closed his eyes, his fingers dancing across the strings, the music taking on a mournful tone. "Sacred Tree, see our guests out."


    The air shimmered, the scent of pine needles filling the air as the Blackwood Sacred Tree, its branches swaying gently, enveloped them in its embrace.


    And then they were gone, standing once more outside the city walls, the bustling streets of Glory City nothing more than a distant memory.


    Dennis continued to play, his music a lament for the fallen, a prayer for the lost.


    "I too have questions," he whispered, his voice filled with a longing that echoed through the empty stables. "Where are you? Are you still out there, somewhere? I have faith. You will return. And until then¡­"


    "I will guard your legacy."


    ¡­


    Outside Glory City, Blackwood''s allies stood in stunned silence, their faces etched with a mixture of grief and bewilderment.


    "What¡­ what was that?" Jimmy stammered, his mind reeling.


    Bryce placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, his eyes filled with unshed tears. "After the attack¡­ we came here, hoping against hope¡­ but it was too late. The assassins¡­ they spared the citizens, but¡­ the Blackwoods¡­ they were gone."


    "When the masked figures left, the citizens¡­ they led us here, to the Sacred Tree. They told us what happened¡­ how the Sacred Tree, using the last of its power, had cast a powerful illusion, preserving the city, preserving the memory of the Blackwood clan."


    "They refuse to believe it''s over. They cling to the hope that one day¡­ the Blackwoods will return."


    Jimmy stared at the shimmering dome that enveloped Glory City, his heart aching for the people trapped within that bittersweet illusion.


    The sun began to set, casting long shadows across the land. But above Glory City, the Blackwood clan''s emblem still shone brightly, a beacon of hope in the gathering darkness.


    Inside, the citizens laughed and celebrated, their lives a poignant echo of a time before tragedy struck. They would continue to live out their days, repeating the same routines, clinging to the same memories, their hearts forever bound to the clan that had vowed to protect them.


    They believed. They had to.


    Even if that day¡­


    Never came.

 Chapter 356 - 356: Lost Lineage Part 1

    [Blackwood Year 210]


    [Special Event - The Escape]


    [Heavenly Path''s victory did not quell his thirst for Blackwood blood. Sunshine Mansion, even the empire itself, sought to grind the clan to dust. No survivor was to be spared.]


    [Your scattered kin, unable to face the horrors they witnessed, are lost in a haze of fear and despair. Their spirits are broken, their identities erased. They live in hiding, haunted by the past. Trait gained: Lost Lineage.]


    [The weight of their loss cripples them. Cultivation speed reduced by 10%, combat prowess reduced by 10%, comprehension reduced¡­]


    ¡­


    Five years had passed.


    One by one, Blackwood''s allies had come and gone, their questions unanswered, their grief echoing in the silence.


    They knew only that a force of unimaginable power had descended upon the Blackwood clan, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake.


    Glory City, once a symbol of Blackwood strength, was now a ghost town, its streets eerily silent, its citizens frozen in time. S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    King Bryce had declared it a sanctuary, forbidden to outsiders, a somber reminder of a bygone era.


    Everyone knew of Dennis, the lone guardian who kept vigil over the Blackwood statues, his music a constant lament for the fallen.


    But no one knew of the figure who sat alone in the Blackwood ancestral shrine, his spirit as broken as the once-mighty Primordial Blood Tree that stood withered and lifeless outside.


    Autumn had returned, cloaking the shrine in a thick blanket of fog. The air was heavy with the scent of decay, a fitting metaphor for the despair that had settled over Ethan''s soul.


    Five years he had spent trapped in that moment, reliving the horror of Heavenly Path''s assault, the shattering of his dreams, the loss of his family.


    All their plans, their ambitions, their hopes for the future¡­ all of it had turned to ash in the face of Heavenly Path''s overwhelming might.


    They had envisioned a glorious future for the Blackwood clan, a future where their children would inherit the mantle of leadership, their laughter echoing through the training grounds of Glory City, their names whispered with respect throughout Sunshine Mansion.


    He had told Heavenly Path that it wasn''t over, that their story had just begun.


    But now¡­ now he wished for nothing more than to erase that day from his memory, to bury the pain so deep that it could no longer haunt him.


    The sun rose, casting long shadows across the shrine, burning away the fog, but doing nothing to dispel the darkness that had settled over Ethan''s heart.


    "Chirp!"


    A bird sang outside, its cheerful melody a jarring contrast to the message that flashed repeatedly on the translucent panel before him.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, is being pursued by enemies! He begs for your protection!]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, implores your aid!]


    [Benjamin¡­ begs¡­ protection!]


    "Benjamin¡­" Ethan whispered, the name unfamiliar, yet the message, the desperation in that plea, stirred something within him. With trembling hands, he opened the clan registry, a task he had avoided for five long years.


    The list of names, once a source of pride, was now a painful reminder of his loss. Each name dimmed, the word "Deceased" etched beside it like a brand.


    Finally, he found Benjamin''s entry.


    [Benjamin, son of Oliver]


    [Oliver (Deceased)]


    ¡­


    Green Manor, Milltown City.


    Benjamin, a slender youth with haunted eyes, crouched behind a towering oak tree, his energy shield shimmering faintly in the dappled sunlight. He clutched the Forebearer Talisman, his heart pounding against his ribs.


    Tiny paper figures, their eyes glowing with an eerie light, floated around him, searching, seeking.


    "Forebearer, please," he whispered, his voice trembling with fear and desperation. "Father said you would protect me. Please¡­ don''t let them find me."


    The paper figures continued their relentless search.


    Footsteps crunched on fallen leaves, drawing closer. Benjamin held his breath, his body trembling uncontrollably.


    "Benjamin!"


    A figure emerged from the trees, his face twisted into a cruel sneer. He was an elderly man, his robes adorned with intricate runes, his aura radiating the power of a peak Emerging Ability psychic.


    "Playing games, are we?" he chuckled, his voice dripping with malice. "You thought you could lure my disciple to his death and escape my wrath?"


    Benjamin was trapped.


    He knew it was futile, but he couldn''t just surrender. He had promised his father. He would live. He would avenge his clan.


    He stepped out from behind the tree, his jaw set, his eyes blazing with defiance. He bit down on the Forebearer Talisman, his hands gripping his twin sickles, their blades shimmering with a faint, ethereal glow.


    "You disgust me," Benjamin spat, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and rage. "Preying on the innocent¡­ forcing yourself on¡­"


    "Insolent whelp!" the old man roared, his hand snapping up in a gesture of arcane power.


    The paper figures shot towards Benjamin, their eyes burning with malevolent intent.


    Benjamin unleashed his power, his Foundational Energy surging outwards, but it was like pitting a candle against a raging inferno. The old man''s power slammed into him, shattering his defenses, his sickles cracking under the strain.


    And then, just as all hope seemed lost, the Forebearer Talisman in Benjamin''s mouth began to glow.


    A wave of pure, unadulterated Competent Force energy erupted from the talisman, washing over the battlefield, scattering the paper figures like dust motes in a hurricane. The old man screamed, his body engulfed in flames, his flesh melting away as the stolen life force he had used to fuel his power turned against him.


    Benjamin watched in stunned silence as the old man''s charred remains crumpled to the ground, the air thick with the stench of burnt flesh and ozone.


    He had survived.


    He fell to his knees, his forehead pressed against the cold earth, tears streaming down his face.


    "Thank you, Forebearer," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "You saved me."


    ¡­


    [Blackwood Year 195, Benjamin, son of Oliver, is born.]


    [Blackwood Year 197, as part of the clan''s "Millennium Blood Renewal Project," Benjamin and his father, Oliver, relocate to Sunshine Mansion.]


    [Blackwood Year 200, Benjamin learns of his Blackwood heritage and embraces it with pride.]


    [Blackwood Year 205¡­]


    [Oliver, a prodigy of unparalleled talent, faces a Competent Force fragment of Heavenly Path. In his final moments, he performs a forbidden technique, shielding Benjamin from Heavenly Path''s senses and sending him away to safety.]


    [Benjamin embarks on a perilous journey north, seeking the last remnants of the Blackwood clan, his heart burning with a desire for vengeance. Trait gained: Unquenchable Flame.]


    [He will never forget his clan''s legacy, nor the injustice they suffered. His resolve is unshakeable, his determination absolute. Cultivation speed increased by 50%, combat prowess increased by 50%.]


    "Forebearer¡­"


    Benjamin stood before the Forebearer Talisman, his head bowed in reverence. He pointed to a spot on his chest, a little over four feet from the ground. "I was this tall when Father sent me away."


    Ethan watched him, his heart aching for the young man''s loss.


    "He told me to live," Benjamin continued, his voice thick with emotion. "But I didn''t know how. I wandered for five years, Forebearer, clinging to the memory of Father''s words. He said we had kin in a small village by the North Sea. I''ve been searching ever since."


    "I never stayed in one place for too long. Father said¡­ he said that to stop¡­ to cease moving¡­ was to die."


    "I don''t know where they are, Forebearer. But I''ll find them. I have to."

 Chapter 357 - 357: Lost Lineage Part 2

    [Blackwood Year 210]


    Five years had passed since that fateful day. Five years of silence, of unanswered questions, of a grief so profound it threatened to consume the world. Blackwood''s allies had come to Glory City, seeking answers, seeking solace, but found only hollow echoes and a city frozen in time.


    King Bryce, inheriting the mantle of leadership, continued the fight against the Druids, his heart heavy with the knowledge that the true enemy, the one who had shattered their world, still lurked in the shadows.


    Within the Blackwood ancestral shrine, Ethan remained trapped in a prison of his own making, his spirit as withered and lifeless as the Primordial Blood Tree that stood guard outside.


    He had failed his family, failed his clan. The memories haunted him, each fallen comrade a searing indictment of his inability to protect them.


    But hope, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, can emerge from the most unexpected of places.


    Benjamin, a mere ten years old when the world ended, had journeyed for five long years, guided by a father''s dying wish and the faint hope of finding his kin.


    He had walked through darkness, his spirit sustained by the belief that the Blackwood clan, like their namesake tree, could weather any storm.


    His arrival at Green Manor, his desperate plea for guidance, sparked a flicker of life in Ethan''s weary heart. The boy''s unwavering faith, his refusal to give up hope, was a beacon in the darkness, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Blackwood clan.


    "Go home¡­" Ethan whispered, his voice hoarse with disuse. Was there even a home to return to?


    He had fought with everything he had, but it hadn''t been enough. Heavenly Path was too strong, his power too absolute.


    Even Phil, the ancient master of Crystal Crest, had warned them of Heavenly Path''s potential, his ability to transcend the very limits of their world.


    Despair threatened to consume him once more.


    "Can I truly lead them home?" he wondered, his gaze fixed on Benjamin''s hopeful face.


    And then, he smiled. A genuine smile, the first in five long years.


    The Forebearer Talisman pulsed with renewed energy.


    [Yes, Benjamin,] Ethan''s voice echoed through the talisman, filled with a newfound determination. [Let''s find our family.]


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Benjamin cried, tears streaming down his face as he clutched the talisman, his heart soaring with hope. He turned and ran, his steps lighter than they had been in years, his path illuminated by the belief that he was no longer alone.


    Across the world, from hidden corners and forgotten places, the Blackwood descendants felt a surge of warmth, a flicker of hope. The Forebearer Talisman, dormant for so long, had awakened.


    ¡­ S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Imperial Capital - Radiant Sky Grotto]


    Nestled within a mountain cave, accessible only through a hidden network of tunnels and shimmering portals, lay Radiant Sky Grotto, Owen''s sanctuary, his refuge from the chaos that had engulfed the world.


    It was a place of learning, of innovation, where talented individuals gathered to hone their skills in the arcane arts.


    But for Julian, it was a prison of a different kind.


    He had arrived five years earlier, a broken shell of his former self, his spirit crushed by the weight of Larry''s sacrifice. He had witnessed her final moments, felt the searing heat of the Nine-Nine Thunder Tribulation, the agonizing pain of her death echoing through their shared bond.


    Owen had welcomed him with open arms, offering him a place among Radiant Sky Grotto''s elite disciples.


    But Julian had refused, choosing instead to bury himself in menial tasks, his days spent cleaning stables, tending to the psychic beasts, his nights haunted by nightmares he couldn''t escape.


    Owen watched him, his heart aching for the young man''s pain. He had seen glimpses of the fiery, passionate psychic Julian had once been, but that spark was gone, replaced by a dull ache of resignation.


    Late one night, as Julian knelt before the Forebearer Talisman in his sparsely furnished room, his voice a broken whisper, a flicker of hope ignited within him.


    "Forebearer," he murmured, his gaze fixed on the talisman, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and longing. "I''m not reckless anymore. I''m careful¡­ always watching, always waiting."


    He clutched the Storage Ring Owen had given him, the same ring that had once held him captive, a constant reminder of Larry''s sacrifice.


    "I know they''re here, Forebearer. Lance''s people¡­ they''re watching me, studying me, trying to unlock the secrets of my puppetry. But I won''t let them break me. As long as I''m useful¡­ as long as I pretend to be¡­ broken¡­ they''ll leave me be."


    And then, the Forebearer Talisman began to glow.


    Julian''s eyes, dull and lifeless for so long, widened in disbelief. "Forebearer¡­ you''re back!"


    "Julian¡­"


    Ethan reached out, his hand trembling as he fought back a wave of emotion. He had watched Julian, his heart breaking at the sight of his grandson reduced to a shadow of his former self. But the Blackwoods were survivors. They adapted. They endured.


    The talisman pulsed with warmth, bathing Julian''s face in a golden light.


    "Don''t worry, Forebearer," Julian said, a shaky smile spreading across his lips. "I''m safe. For now. This place¡­ Radiant Sky Grotto¡­ they have skilled artisans, formation masters, even AI Bionic Robot engineers."


    "I might be a mere servant, but I learn. I watch. I wait. And when the time is right¡­ I''ll be ready. I can reach Competent Force, Forebearer. I can become a Sixth Grade Puppet Master.


    I just¡­ I need time."


    [Your descendant, Julian, has awakened from his despair. He has chosen to bide his time, honing his skills, mastering his enemies'' techniques, awaiting the day he can reclaim his birthright. Trait gained: Patient Hunter.]


    [Cultivation speed increased by 20%, comprehension increased by 20%.]


    "He hasn''t given up," Ethan whispered, his own spirit lifting. "None of them have."


    He left a simple message for Julian: "We are safe."


    And then, he was gone, his spirit soaring through the nexus, drawn towards the other flickering lights that represented the scattered remnants of the Blackwood clan.


    "I won''t let you down, Forebearer," Julian vowed, his gaze hardening with resolve. He looked down at the Storage Ring, his fingers closing around it tightly.


    "If only I had been stronger, more cautious¡­ maybe Larry would be here with us now."


    "I''ll avenge you, Larry," he whispered, his voice filled with a chilling intensity. "I''ll make Heavenly Path pay for what he''s done. I swear it."

 Chapter 358 - 358: Lost Lineage Part 3

    Even in the depths of autumn, a fierce blizzard raged, blanketing the world in a pristine white shroud.


    A lone figure trudged through the blinding snow, his back bent under the weight of a woman he carried.


    In one hand, he clutched a sword case, in the other, a sturdy staff.


    Behind them, a trail of footprints stretched back into the swirling whiteness, a testament to their arduous journey.


    Finally, his strength gave out.


    He gently lowered the woman to the ground, collapsing beside her, his breath forming clouds of frost in the frigid air.


    With numb fingers, he sculpted a mound of snow, shaping it into the familiar form of the Blackwood ancestral altar, etching the clan''s emblem into its surface.


    The woman, her face pale and drawn, her body wracked with pain, stirred, her eyes fluttering open.


    She gazed at Lucas, her voice a whisper lost in the howling wind.


    "Another relapse? Still clinging to your silly rituals?"


    "I''m alright," Lucas replied, his voice calm, his breath frosting in the air.


    "It''s cold, but we''re Blackwood tough. You, on the other hand¡­ you shouldn''t push yourself. You were already wounded from the battle with the Druids. And then, five years ago, you used the last of your power to get us here¡­ to this frozen wasteland."


    He bowed his head, his gaze fixed on the snow altar.


    It was the day of the ancestral festival, a day for celebration, for remembrance.


    But now, all he had were memories and a heart filled with a longing he couldn''t express.


    Diana frowned, her gaze lingering on Lucas''s bowed form.


    "I''ll never understand you Blackwoods. Even now, facing oblivion, you cling to your traditions, your¡­ faith."


    "You wouldn''t understand," Lucas replied, his voice filled with a quiet conviction.


    "I believe my family is still out there, somewhere. Lost, but not forgotten. As long as our faith endures, there''s hope."


    He looked up, his gaze meeting hers.


    "You said¡­ you said that if we kept going north, to the edge of the world, we would find your birthplace. That my wounds would heal. Was that¡­ was that the truth?"


    Diana hesitated, her brow furrowing slightly, before nodding.


    She had seen the carnage, the utter devastation of that day.


    Rescuing Lucas was all she could manage.


    For five years, she had endured his relentless optimism, his unwavering belief that somewhere, beyond the frozen horizon, lay salvation.


    His wounds had never fully healed, but she could sense it: his swordsmanship, honed by years of relentless training, was growing stronger, sharper, fueled by a determination that defied logic.


    "Forebearer," Lucas whispered, his voice filled with a fervent hope.


    "Do you hear me? My wounds will heal. I know it. Father, Mother, Amelia, Julian, Olivia¡­ they''re alive. I know it."


    He bowed his head once more, his voice thick with emotion.


    "I''ve walked for five years, Forebearer. I''ll walk for fifty, for five hundred, if I have to. I won''t give up."


    Diana had witnessed the fall of empires, the rise and fall of countless civilizations.


    But she had never seen anything like this.


    Lucas, despite the weight of his loss, the uncertainty of their future, refused to surrender to despair.


    He pushed forward, his body battered but his spirit unbroken, his determination a reflection of the Blackwood clan''s indomitable will.


    She didn''t understand his faith, his unwavering belief in something she couldn''t see or touch.


    But then, she saw it: a smile, the first genuine smile she had seen on his face in five long years.


    The snow altar shimmered, a faint golden light emanating from its surface.


    Two words appeared, etched in glowing script:


    [We are safe.]


    [Diana, fearing Lucas would return to Cloudview County, had fabricated a story, a white lie, telling him that her birthplace lay at the edge of the frozen north.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, clinging to hope, has gained the trait: Unwavering Belief.]


    [He knows it''s a lie, but he chooses to believe. It''s the only light in the darkness, the only thing that keeps him going. And as long as he believes, his swordsmanship will continue to grow stronger.]


    "Forebearer!" Lucas cried, his eyes shining brighter than the snow that surrounded them.


    "You answered me! Diana was right! There''s still hope!"


    Diana blinked, her gaze fixed on the glowing altar.


    Lucas''s Forebearer¡­ it was real.


    A power she couldn''t comprehend, a connection that transcended the physical realm.


    And¡­


    And it was a fool. An even bigger fool than Lucas.


    ¡­


    "You''re¡­ you''re alive."


    Across the world, the Blackwood descendants knelt before their Forebearer Talismans, their hearts filled with a mixture of awe and disbelief.


    Ethan saw them all.


    Nathan, standing on a cliff overlooking the Endless Forest, the wind whipping at his hair, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon.


    Luna, bathed in the silvery light of the Morning Star, her six tails swirling around her, her gaze filled with a quiet determination.


    Amelia, wandering alone across a vast, windswept prairie, her expression lost, her heart heavy with grief.


    Olivia, drifting among the clouds, her body seemingly weightless, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions.


    Mary, still kneeling before Crystal Crest, her prayers unanswered, her hope fading with each passing day.


    Daniel, transformed, his identity erased, his memories replaced, now ruling Phillips as King Bryce, his true self buried deep within.


    Donna, riding atop a colossal Exploding Sky Serpent, battling monstrous creatures in the depths of the ocean, her rage a force of nature.


    And Edward, trapped in a cage within Sunshine Mansion, his body bound by Heavenly Path''s magic, his gaze fixed on his tormentor, his spirit unbroken.


    And the thirteen Blackwood youths, imprisoned within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, their fates uncertain, their hopes dwindling.


    The Forebearer Talismans pulsed with warmth, their light a beacon in the darkness.


    They were scattered, lost, their hearts heavy with grief and uncertainty.


    But they were alive.


    Ethan understood now.


    Survival, in the face of such overwhelming loss, required a strength that defied logic, a belief that transcended reason.


    They were out there, scattered across the world, clinging to the faintest glimmer of hope. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Just as he had told Heavenly Path, it wasn''t over.


    It had just begun.


    Glory City remained frozen in time, a poignant reminder of what had been lost.


    But the darkness wouldn''t last forever.


    Dawn would come, and with it, the promise of a new beginning.


    "We''re coming for you, Heavenly Path," Ethan whispered, his gaze fixed on the distant spires of Sunshine Mansion, his voice filled with a chilling certainty.


    "A storm is coming. And this time¡­ we won''t be so easily broken."

 Chapter 359 - 359: Where are we...?

    As the days passed one by one.


    As the Forebearer''s Psychic Position lit up, a glimmer of hope sparked in the eyes of the scattered Blackwood descendants.


    All except Edward, trapped in the Sunshine Mansion like a bird in a gilded cage.


    Ethan, while shielding young Benjamin, the sole surviving descendant in Cloudview County, surveyed their situations.


    Most were far from ideal.


    ["Your descendant, Nathan, was rescued by Mike and two elder Druids. However, his Death Coffin was seized by Shane and Lester. In an attempt to sever his ties to his faith, the Druids have arranged for him to marry nine of their women, hoping to fully assimilate him into their culture."]


    ["Your descendant-in-law, Luna, was rescued by Aiden Daoist, an emissary from the demon realm. She was taken to the Fox Clan and received teachings on ''Ice Manipulation'' from the Fox Sage.


    Upon learning of Nathan''s forced marriages, she was consumed by anger, but found a sliver of solace upon discovering from demon realm intelligence that the nine Druid women were all, shall we say, ''full-figured''."]


    ["In the face of danger, your descendant Jeffrey revealed his true strength for the first time, shielding Amelia with his own body, sacrificing himself to give her a chance at survival. Amelia, pursued relentlessly by the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatar and Druid masters, has walked a perilous path, eventually reaching the grasslands of the Golden Empire."]


    ["Your descendant Olivia, amidst the family''s turmoil, finally overcame her literary thunder tribulation. She shattered a hundred of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars with the power of the ninety-nine thunder tribulations, but in doing so, drew his full attention.


    To evade his divine calculations and shield the clan''s location, she merged with the ''Scripture of All Under Heaven'', becoming one with the sky, her physical form dissolving."]


    ["Your descendant Donna, heeding Olivia''s command, fled the family estate. Her master, Chuck, came to her aid, unleashing power surpassing even the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings. With the Azure Dragon''s self-destruction and the Exploding Sky Serpent''s intervention, she escaped to the open sea.


    There, seeking resources to overcome her own ninety-nine thunder tribulations, she wages a constant war against the Crab Clan of the Sea Demons."]


    ["Your thirteen descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, though informed of the family''s plight, remain powerless to help. Their lives continue as before, vying for power with other factions within the Sanctuary, oblivious to the chaos outside..."]


    Even scattered across the world, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s pursuit never ceased.


    ...


    High above, Ethan floated beside Olivia.


    Having re-cultivated her Competent Force, she had regained the appearance of her younger self, a vision in white, as pure and ethereal as the clouds beneath her.


    The Forebearer Psychic Position hovered above, surrounded by a ring of Cards, each inscribed with a name: Nathan, Lucas, Amelia...


    Occasionally, wisps of black mist would surge towards the Cards, only to be dispersed by the faint white aura emanating from Olivia.


    [Olivia]


    [Cultivation Level: Early Stage Competent Force]


    [Status: Ephemeral]


    [Years of borrowed life, Druid fortune, and the power of the ninety-nine thunder tribulations have been used to shatter her physical form, leaving only her Competent Force.]


    "Olivia..." Ethan murmured, his voice thick with sorrow.


    Her current state was akin to a lingering soul, or perhaps a sentient artifact.


    It explained why the Heavenly Path Venerable, despite his relentless pursuit, had failed to locate the scattered Blackwoods.


    Olivia had taken it upon herself to become the focal point of all divination attempts, her ethereal form carrying the weight of their destinies.


    And those Cards...


    [Destiny Tablets]


    [Infused with the blood essence of every Blackwood, they act as beacons, drawing all divination attempts towards themselves, masking the true locations of the clan members.]


    The Heavenly Path Venerable''s arrival at the Blackwood estate had caught even Primordial Blood Tree and Olivia off guard, a testament to his formidable psychic powers.


    Olivia''s solution was as brilliant as it was heartbreaking, sacrificing her physical form to become a wandering shield for her family.


    "Forebearer... you''ve come to see me again?" Olivia murmured, her eyelids fluttering as if sensing the glow of the Psychic Position. S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Yes]


    A thousand words crowded Ethan''s thoughts, but only a single one escaped his lips.


    The past five years had been a period of silent mourning, a wound too raw to touch for both him and the surviving members of the clan.


    "Forebearer, I''ve yearned for this day for so long. I wish to use your power, to arrange a meeting for our family."


    "A meeting?" Ethan echoed, taken aback.


    Sensing his hesitation, Olivia continued, "Forebearer, through my cultivation of the literary path, with the world as my scripture, I''ve glimpsed the tip of the iceberg of your power. Using the residual energy of the thunder tribulation, I can tug at the threads of fate, gathering our souls in one place. I''m afraid this is the best I can do."


    "This..." Ethan stared at her, awestruck.


    Olivia, despite her ethereal form, had clearly not been idle.


    Though the depths of her cultivation remained a mystery, he didn''t hesitate.


    In an instant, he activated his skill.


    [You are using the skill: Forebearer''s Divine Punishment!]


    The Psychic Position pulsed with power, and Ethan found himself whisked away to an ethereal plane, a realm of swirling stars not unlike Marcus'' Sky Hall.


    One by one, the Blackwood descendants materialized within this space, their expressions a mixture of confusion and relief.


    "This is... My children! You''re all alive! Hahaha!"


    "Father, what happened to you? Why the beard?"


    "Why is Marcus the only one here from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary? Did something happen...?"


    "Where are we...?"


    Joyous reunions filled the void as the surviving Blackwoods embraced, sharing tales of their harrowing experiences and narrow escapes.


    Only Benjamin, along with Adam and Alexander from the fishing village, remained bewildered, struggling to comprehend the situation.


    They stared at the powerful figures before them, their minds reeling.


    Alexander, his face a mask of disbelief, whispered to his father, "Dad, where are we? Did you make some powerful enemies? Are we trapped in an illusion? Why did everything go haywire when I touched the Forebearer Psychic Position?"


    "Nonsense!" Adam snapped, kicking his son lightly.


    "Your old man is a simple fisherman. I''ve lived a peaceful life, made no enemies. You, on the other hand, with your lessons from that beggar at the village entrance... Did you go and stir up trouble?"


    Alexander rolled his eyes.


    "Nice try, Dad. Blame it on me."

 Chapter 360 - 360: Are we Blackwoods?

    "Ahem."


    Noticing the father and son''s heated argument, Benjamin glanced at the group of powerful figures gathered nearby, seemingly indifferent to the dispute.


    He strode over to Adam and Alexander and said in a deep voice, "Gentlemen, I am Benjamin. Might I inquire as to your generation within the esteemed Blackwood family?"


    "What?" Alexander was taken aback. "Benjamin... Blackwood family... generation...?"


    In that instant, Adam and his father exchanged glances with the Blackwood family members who were huddled together, tears welling up in their eyes.


    It was like a bolt from the blue.


    After all these years, he had always been unaware of his true identity, but today, it was as if he had finally found his kin!


    "Are we Blackwoods?" The father and son looked at each other, unsure of what to make of the situation.


    They then turned to Helen, who was murmuring through her tears, "They''re alive... they''re all alive."


    Adam was stunned.


    For the past five years, he had watched his mother grow increasingly frail, a change that coincided with the onset of his own unease.


    At this moment, he understood.


    Perhaps this was the reason behind his mother''s condition.


    Just as he was torn between approaching his relatives and quietly observing these elders who possessed earth-shattering abilities, the elders turned their gaze towards his family.


    The breathtaking woman in white, who was floating in mid-air, approached Helen and said, "Helen, don''t worry. We can overcome any hardship. We wanted you to see this with your own eyes, to reassure you and the children."


    "Great-grandmother, is there anything I can do to help?" Helen asked, clenching her jaw.


    In the past, she would never have involved her children in such matters.


    But upon hearing of her family''s supposed annihilation, she couldn''t suppress the hatred in her heart.


    For the past five years, she had also begun urging her children to develop their psychic abilities.


    Olivia smiled gently at Helen.


    "Your safety is all that matters. Go back now. The children will forget about today."


    "Great-grandmother..."


    ...


    Coastal Village


    Sitting at her vanity, Helen opened her eyes.


    She saw her reflection in the mirror, her face etched with wrinkles and streaked with tears.


    She stared blankly, replaying the events she had just witnessed in that ethereal realm.


    "They''re all alive," she murmured. "Great-grandmother Olivia wants me to be safe..."


    After much deliberation, she walked over to the window and looked out at her son and grandson, who were sitting cross-legged in the courtyard, their eyes now open but filled with confusion.


    It was clear that Great-grandmother Olivia had used her powers to erase their memories of what they had seen in the spiritual realm.


    "Should I tell them?" she wondered. "But even if they knew, what could they possibly do against an enemy that even our entire family couldn''t defeat?"


    Helen hesitated.


    She didn''t want her children to suffer the same fate as Nicholas, but the once-mighty Blackwood family had been reduced to a mere handful.


    At that moment, Adam suddenly looked up at his mother at the window.


    He couldn''t explain it, but while he was cultivating his psychic powers earlier, he had felt a strange sense of longing, as if he had been to a place filled with people who stirred something deep within him.


    It was a feeling he had never experienced before, not even when he encountered fearsome sea monsters while fishing.


    He asked his son, Alexander, who confirmed that he had experienced the same peculiar sensation. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Observing his mother''s expression, Adam could no longer contain his curiosity.


    He leaped up to the window and confronted her, voicing the question that had haunted him for years.


    "Mother, where did Alexander and I go just now? All these years, I''ve always felt like you were hiding something from us¡ªmy true origins, the beggar at the gate who never seems to age..."


    Helen looked at her son, then at Alexander, who was gazing up at her with anticipation.


    Finally, she let out a long sigh.


    Her eyes flashed with power.


    In that instant, Adam''s face contorted in shock.


    His mother... was a Competent Force!


    "Adam, Alexander, take your Psychic Positions. Join me in the Forebearer Communion!"


    Ignoring her children''s astonishment, Helen grabbed her own Psychic Position and headed towards the ancestral hall.


    She had feared that her children would follow in Nicholas''s footsteps, but now that their family was facing such dire circumstances, she couldn''t stand idly by.


    There had to be something in this world worth fighting and dying for.


    Even if their family was weak, as insignificant as dust.


    ...


    "Congratulations! Your descendant, Olivia, has used life force, along with your Forebearer Psychic Position, to create a space exclusively for Blackwood descendants. You have acquired the skill: Blackwood Nexus."


    "Annual consumption: 1 point of Forebearer Will. Allows descendants to enter the Soul Chamber for communication."


    "Through your descendant Olivia, you have glimpsed the art of fate manipulation and obtained a sliver of the Fate Rule."


    "This..."


    As the space was created, Ethan was overwhelmed with awe.


    He felt like he had gained a deeper understanding of fate manipulation and the interconnected destinies of blood relatives.


    On Olivia''s Psychic Position, threads extended from all the Destiny Tablets of the Blackwood clan members, connecting to his own Psychic Position, which possessed the power of thunder tribulation.


    These threads stretched out in all directions, representing the locations of all Blackwood descendants.


    The black mist originated from the Heavenly Path Venerable''s power.


    That entity was also trying to unravel the secrets of fate, searching for the whereabouts of the Blackwood clan.


    "I see," Ethan thought, a glimmer of realization flashing through his mind.


    He then entered the Blackwood Nexus with his soul.


    Inside, the descendants were busy catching up on the events of the past years.


    As they recounted the events of that fateful day, their faces were etched with sorrow.


    But when Ethan appeared, they all froze and turned to look at him.


    "Huh?" he thought. "They can see me?"


    As if on cue, all the Blackwood descendants knelt before him in unison.


    "Greetings, Forebearer!"


    It was fate manipulation!


    The sliver of the Fate Rule he had comprehended from Olivia allowed him to be the master of this space.


    It was his own personal domain, similar to the small world of a Basic Mastery realm cultivator!


    At that moment, Ethan couldn''t help but wonder if he might one day achieve true immortality in this world.


    However, his excitement was short-lived.


    He quickly remembered that he was still in his black mist form.


    Only within this space could his descendants see him, and he was still unable to physically interact with them.


    He observed his descendants.


    After their initial exchange, they were filled with a mix of emotions¡ªjoy at being reunited, grief over the near-annihilation of their family five years ago, and hope for the future.


    "Excellent. Now that our clan has been reunited, our next step is clear¡ª"


    "To rise again! To seek vengeance!" the Blackwood descendants roared in unison, their voices echoing with determination.

 Chapter 361 - 361: Transcendent Immortal Clan

    Ethan met with his descendants.


    Their strength, the source of everything, was scattered.


    They were miles apart, each facing their own troubles.


    Nathan and Julian, for example, were caught in situations so dire that even escaping seemed impossible.


    The family members trapped within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary couldn''t even leave, terrified that the Heavenly Path Venerable would hunt them down if they did.


    And then there was Daniel...


    "Daniel, what is your situation?" As Nathan turned to Daniel, all eyes followed.


    Daniel had entered disguised as Bryce, almost making them think the Forebearer had somehow left Bryce behind...


    "My child..." Daniel hesitated, shaking his head at his kin.


    Seeing his struggle to speak, they didn''t press him further.


    After all, who hadn''t endured their own share of unspeakable hardships in the past five years?


    "Forebearer." Olivia bowed to Ethan.


    "I have something to say, if I may."


    Ethan raised an eyebrow.


    "Speak freely."


    "Yes, Forebearer." Olivia took a deep breath.


    "I believe the old ways of our family no longer serve us."


    Frowns rippled through the assembly.


    Olivia continued, "We established ourselves in Cloudview County, but it became our cage. We have too many attachments there, entangling us with the Heavenly Path Venerable."


    "That is our home. We have many ways to protect it, even as we transcend worldly concerns. But we have sacrificed too much for Cloudview County, more than we can bear."


    Ethan''s heart trembled.


    His kin felt the same.


    Indeed, for two hundred years, they hadn''t ventured beyond Cloudview County, beyond Glory City.


    It restricted their actions, holding them back.


    They couldn''t explore further because they were tethered to their home.


    As their power grew, they believed Cloudview County was the safest place.


    But it wasn''t.


    It had become a constraint, and a single disaster could shatter everything.


    They had escaped this time, but what about the next?


    "If we are strong enough, no matter how the world changes, Azure Cloud will always be Azure Cloud. If we wish, Sunshine Mansion can be called Azure Cloud, and so can Emerald Empire."


    "Therefore, I propose that our family transcends worldly affairs, undisturbed by external forces. This is the true path of immortality."


    To be above it all, watching the clouds drift by!


    "It is feasible." Ethan nodded at Olivia, his voice grave.


    "Now that we are scattered, the people of Azure Cloud believe us dead. We can blend into the world. But we still share a common enemy, and you each face your own challenges. Help each other, resolve your individual problems, and then we will speak of other matters."


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    They shared their current predicaments: Edward, trapped in Sunshine Mansion; Nathan''s Death Coffin, needing retrieval; Glory City, needing reawakening; and the descendants trapped in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, needing rescue.


    All of this would take time.


    This time, they wouldn''t act rashly.


    They would wait until they were strong enough to confront the Heavenly Path Venerable directly.


    [Your descendants, after careful deliberation, decide to gradually disappear from the world, taking a measured approach to free your people from their predicaments. The family trait ''Azure Cloud War Clan'' transforms into ''Transcendent Immortal Clan''.]


    [You begin to comprehend the true way of the Immortal Clan, increasing your cultivating psychic powers speed by 5% and your comprehension by 5%.]


    This was the survival strategy of powerful sects and families, like Julian''s Radiant Sky Grotto and Mary''s Crystal Crest.


    With their discussion concluded, they began to leave the space one by one, starting their cultivating psychic powers in their respective locations.


    Now, they were filled with purpose.


    They had a goal.


    Ethan sighed in relief.


    Although his children''s situations remained perilous, he saw the emergence of a stronger Blackwood family.


    A message appeared before him: [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, are paying their respects. They have learned of their heritage and the family''s plight and wish to contribute!]


    "Did Helen choose to return to the family after all?"


    Ethan instantly appeared in the Forebearer Ancestral Hall in the small fishing village.


    Helen was leading Adam and Alexander in kneeling before the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    She must have told them the story of the Blackwood family, for their eyes were wide with astonishment.


    They couldn''t believe that they, born in this humble village, belonged to such a powerful lineage.


    Looking at the two children and Helen, Ethan shook his head.


    He let the Psychic Position emit a gentle light, a silent blessing for them to live their lives in peace.


    The enemy they faced was too formidable.


    It was better for this family to continue their peaceful existence.


    ...


    Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Only Marcus had journeyed to the soul space this time.


    As he opened his eyes, the others gathered around him eagerly.


    "Uncle, how is everyone? Is the family alright?"


    "What about Father? Is he safe?"


    "What did the Forebearer say?"


    Questions bombarded him from all sides.


    They had heard about the tragedy that had befallen their family five years ago.


    If they could leave the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, they would have returned home long ago.


    Marcus surveyed them, his expression grim.


    He recounted the situation of their kin, but when his gaze fell upon Joseph and Katie, he shook his head.


    "Joseph, Katie, I won''t lie to you. Your father is trapped in Sunshine Mansion, but he is alive for now."


    "Damn it!" Katie exploded.


    Joseph pulled at her sleeve, trying to calm her down.


    "We are trapped in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Anger is useless. We are nothing but fish on the Heavenly Path Venerable''s chopping block."


    His words silenced the Blackwood descendants.


    The bronze mirror still showed Neil''s image. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After five years, he had united a thousand Psychics and controlled a part of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    But the Blackwood descendants had no desire to confront him now.


    They didn''t even know the true nature of this place.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable seemed aware of their every move within the sanctuary but hadn''t acted against them.


    This was a mystery that even Elder Phil from Crystal Crest couldn''t solve.


    "What should we do then? Our family is rebuilding, and we can''t just sit here idly!" Thomas, never one for patience, exclaimed.


    Jessica pondered for a moment.


    "Uncle''s strength is growing, and he has absorbed all the psychic artifacts into the Sky Hall over the past five years. We could try to take over another faction secretly. "


    "The Unquestioning Scholar from the Bright Light Institute seems like a good target. He ambushed Kyle recently and should be quite wealthy. This way, we can also focus on breaking through and increasing our strength. When our family comes to rescue us, we''ll be ready to fight the Heavenly Path Venerable."


    "Alright!"

 Chapter 362 - 362: The madman on the island!

    At that moment, Ethan had no time to deal with the matters of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    His brow furrowed as he received an alarming notification.


    Donna, who was traveling with Exploding Sky Serpent over the North Sea, was in grave danger!


    [Special Event - Siege of the North Sea Crab Demons]


    [Your descendant, Donna, is on the verge of a breakthrough in her physical cultivation. She seeks to gather the five extreme elements of heaven and earth to push her Developing Skill realm physique to the peak of Competent Force.


    She already possesses the Rootless Pure Land gifted by the Primordial Blood Tree, a branch of the Primordial Blood Tree itself, and the Geng Metal essence she spent two years seeking.]


    [Now, in the North Sea demon realm, she has caught wind of ''Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water.'' However, she is trapped on an isolated island, surrounded by crab demons. Only a protective formation holds them at bay, leaving her with no escape.]


    "..."


    Ethan''s scalp tingled as he saw the image of Donna and Exploding Sky Serpent''s location.


    Donna had stumbled into a nest of crabs!


    He instantly appeared on the island, enveloped in darkness.


    A protective formation shimmered, barely containing a tide of crabs...


    Ethan rose into the air for a clearer view.


    The sea was swarming with crabs.


    Above, four figures in blue robes ¨C three men and a woman ¨C glared down at the island with grim expressions.


    They were transformed sea demons, at the Competent Force stage!


    The formation on the island was powered by Charlie Crackle''s natural energies.


    The crab demons were hesitant to confront Charlie Crackle directly, hoping to exhaust his power over time.


    Otherwise, they would have already stormed the formation.


    "She''s provoked an entire clan of crab demons? They say the sea demons are terrifying, and it seems to be true."


    Ethan''s scalp tingled.


    The sheer number of enemies was staggering!


    He glanced at his dwindling family will, down to 13 points.


    He wasn''t sure if he could save Donna from this overwhelming onslaught...


    The sea was a churning mass of crab demons, the sky and sea locked down by demonic formations!


    "I can''t do this alone. I need help."


    Ethan''s mind raced.


    Everyone he could think of was too far away.


    Daniel''s unique situation made him unavailable.


    Julian was in the imperial capital, closer, but he was under constant surveillance.


    Suddenly, Ethan remembered the small fishing village...


    His gaze shifted.


    In the village, a handsome youth with two sickles strapped to his back arrived.


    He walked into the fishing village, wrinkled his nose at the drunkard begging outside a small tavern, and knocked on the tavern door, despite it being broad daylight.


    "Anyone home? I''m here to meet my family."


    ...


    The sea was a canvas of deep blue, devoid of its usual sparkle, as if encased in heavy armor.


    Giant blue crabs blanketed the surface!


    Some, as large as small hills, floated in the air, their bubbles forming an impenetrable barrier.


    Four transformed crab demons, clad in blue robes, stood in the sky.


    They were the elders of the sea crab clan, their gazes fixed on the lone island amidst the crab horde.


    Within the island''s protective formation, a misty Azure Dragon phantom soared, its massive eyes scanning for threats.


    However, it wasn''t the Azure Dragon, with its bloodline suppression, that truly alarmed the crab clan.


    It was...


    The madman on the island!


    Initially appearing as a young girl, she now fought as a towering giant.


    Her armor, resembling a vest, revealed the bulging muscles of her arms.


    Only her twin pigtails hinted at her former appearance.


    Behind her, two half-formed lotus platforms, one black and one white, floated like wings.


    When joined, they formed a perfect circle, resembling the platforms used by Buddhist monks for meditation.


    But these platforms were connected to the madman''s shoulder blades by countless threads, fleshy tentacles writhing from their surface.


    The sight was enough to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest.


    Donna, her eyes bloodshot, glared at the endless crab demons.


    The formation opened a small gap, and she punched any crab that dared to enter, obliterating them instantly.


    The tentacles from the fleshy lotus platforms behind her pierced the exploding corpses, drawing in their essence to replenish her own psychic powers, if only slightly.


    She roared, her jaw unhinging at an unnatural angle, drool dripping from her lips.


    ...


    Ethan, having made his arrangements, arrived to witness Donna''s transformation.


    Even he was taken aback by her monstrous appearance, especially the eerie black and white lotus platforms.


    [Peak Seventh Grade Psychic Artifact: Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms]


    [Forged from the flesh and blood of Buddhist and demonic cultivators, it possesses both holy and demonic power. Imbued with the sacrificial power of the twin brothers, Charles and Christopher, it has gained sentience. It can devour the life force and psychic powers of others to heal itself and grow stronger.]


    [The Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms protect the wearer from external evils and the influence of righteous laws. When merged with the body, they amplify the wearer''s strength and psychic powers.]


    With the Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms and the power she had cultivated alongside Chuck, Donna was a force to be reckoned with.


    Even Lucas, back in his Developing Skill stage, would be no match for her now!


    But her power came at a price.


    The words "sacrificial power of the twin brothers, Charles and Christopher" flashed ominously in Ethan''s mind.


    "Donna seems to be losing herself..."


    Ethan watched her fight with growing concern.


    Since her escape, Donna''s desire for power had become all-consuming.


    During her five years on the run, she and Exploding Sky Serpent had fought their way through countless dangers, and she had seized every opportunity to become stronger.


    The rational girl who used to chatter endlessly with Chuck was gone, replaced by a being driven solely by the pursuit of power.


    Taking a deep breath, Ethan turned his attention to Exploding Sky Serpent.


    He found the serpent''s icon on his mental interface and issued a command.


    High above, Charlie Crackle''s eyes flickered.


    "Master... is that your command?"


    He emerged from the protective formation, his translucent form shimmering in the air.


    The mere presence of his Azure Dragon bloodline sent the crab demons into a frenzy.


    Even the four transformed crab demons in the sky tensed.


    The lead crab demon roared at the strange, misty Azure Dragon, "Azure Dragon! Hand over the Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water, and we might spare your lives!"


    "Hmph!"


    Emboldened by his master''s command and his own Azure Dragon heritage, Charlie Crackle spoke, his voice echoing with power, "We have claimed the Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water. I''ll give you 30 minutes to retreat. If you force our hand, your crab clan will pay the price!" S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You..."


    The four crab demons were enraged.


    Where did this strange Mist Serpent get its confidence?


    The female crab demon, a valiant figure in light armor, wielding a double-pronged halberd, chuckled.


    "Such arrogance, Azure Dragon! We have waited a century for the Heavy Water to mature. You think you can just take it from us? Let''s see what you''re truly made of!"


    The tension was palpable.


    However, the Azure Dragon stood at the pinnacle of the demon realm''s food chain.


    The bloodline suppression was too much for the crab demons to ignore.


    They hesitated, unwilling to risk a direct confrontation.

 Chapter 363 - 363: What... What is that?!

    Ethan, stranded on the island, observed the tense situation with an unnervingly calm demeanor.


    Two hundred years of family legacy had granted him clarity. He echoed Olivia''s sentiments; their past was shackled by constraints, forcing them to meticulously weigh every decision, often at the cost of their own good nature.


    But greatness demanded struggle. He could no longer afford to dwell on the origins of the ''Ten Thousand Year Heavy Water,'' whether it rightfully belonged to the crab demons or had been a chance discovery Donna stumbled upon.


    They needed power, immense power, to return to the Sunshine Mansion and liberate Edward from his prison. Power to confront the Druids and reclaim their family''s Death Coffin. Power to face the terrifying might of the Heavenly Path Venerable!


    Thirty minutes had elapsed.


    The Exploding Sky Serpent solidified, its form ablaze with a crimson glow.


    Donna, still locked in a fierce battle at the array''s entrance, felt a moment of clarity. The Forebearer Psychic Position, hanging by a red cord around her neck, pulsed with light. It broke free, floating into the air and expanding before their eyes.


    Black mist surged, and the Forebearer emerged!


    The seascape transformed in an instant.


    "What... What is that?!"


    The faces of the four crab demon Competent Force elders contorted in horror. Beyond the Azure Dragon''s bloodline suppression, an ominous aura emanated from the black mist. The appearance of the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and the high-grade ability weapon spear only amplified their fear.


    A mist-shrouded Azure Dragon... an unfathomable madwoman... a shadowy Psychic...


    Never had they encountered such a bizarre combination.


    As the black mist descended, two figures approached from afar, riding Psychic swords. Two more Competent Force!


    A flash of golden light.


    A disheveled beggar ambled forward, casually swirling a wine gourd before taking a swig. Golden bowls and chopsticks rose into the air, forming a protective barrier around the island. He sighed, "I''m in your debt, old Blackwood, but these crabs... Steamed, braised, drunken crab... Ah, a feast for a king!"


    The Drunken Fool stood atop a spinning golden bowl, his ragged clothes billowing in the wind. He grinned, brandishing two spear-like golden chopsticks, his posture like a warrior ready to strike.


    The legacy of the Divine Beggar. He had endured the six-nine thunder tribulation, elevating him to early-stage Competent Force. Coupled with his two supreme-grade ability weapons, he was a force to be reckoned with.


    "Thank you, Elder."


    Beside him stood a woman of elegant beauty, her white robes flowing like celestial garments. She glided on her sword, her hair dancing in the wind. With a flick of her wrist, seven circular formations materialized behind her, spinning rapidly. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This was Helen, Nicholas''s wife. But she harbored another identity: the chosen successor of Dennis, the old fox. Dennis believed that Cloudrise Oceanview Pavilion''s millennia-long legacy rested on Helen''s shoulders.


    "What a remarkable Formation Master you are," the Drunken Fool remarked. He knew Helen possessed extraordinary talent, but witnessing her effortlessly summon seven seventh-grade formations and prepare a sixth-grade formation without an array base was astounding.


    Helen offered a gentle smile. The Azure Dragon and Blackwood''s enigmatic Forebearer were poised to attack. The Drunken Fool, wasting no time, charged forward, chopsticks at the ready. "Come forth, Sky Corpse!"


    "Yes!"


    His Storage Ring shimmered, and a figure materialized from the black mist. It was Donald, the Sky Corpse Nathan had entrusted to him.


    "Three... Three Competent Force?!"


    Panic seized the four crab demon elders. They had underestimated the captive Azure Dragon, unaware of the allies lying in wait!


    Escape was no longer an option.


    The shadowy figure''s Twin Fish Harmony Seal flashed, teleporting it behind the female crab demon. The spear thrust forward, accompanied by a raspy voice.


    "My apologies, but you''ve blocked our path. Now... you''ll have to leave something of value behind."


    Terror gripped the female crab demon. Her natural energies surged, a protective aura enveloping her. But how had this shadowy figure appeared behind her without a sound?


    In that split second, she felt a chaotic surge of rules erupting from the figure.


    ...


    Inside the Coastal Village.


    Adam and Alexander sat in the tavern, facing Benjamin, who devoured his seafood with the desperation of a starving refugee. His eyes gleamed, as if he had never experienced such a feast.


    "Hey, kid, haven''t you had enough after half a month?" Alexander finally interjected. This boy did nothing but eat and sleep, seemingly unconcerned about their kin who had gone to their rescue. Seafood was plentiful; he could easily catch enough to feed Benjamin for a year. "Aren''t you worried about our people trapped by the crab demons?"


    "Why worry?" Benjamin mumbled through a mouthful of food. "Father said our people can overcome anything. Even if we''re all going to die tomorrow, we might as well have a good meal."


    They had no idea. Benjamin had spent his childhood in a sect, sustained by pills provided by his parents and the sect master. He vaguely recalled stories of the sea from his childhood lessons. His parents had promised to take him someday.


    Half a month had passed, and he continued to indulge in seafood, determined to savor every bite for his parents, who had never tasted it.


    Adam and Alexander exchanged glances. Unaware of Benjamin''s past, of the five years it took him to reach this village at the tender age of fifteen, they could only marvel at his carefree attitude.


    As they ate and drank, a tremor shook them to their core. All three scrambled to the harbor, their eyes wide with disbelief.


    A giant crab emerged from the sea.


    Three figures stood atop its shell, a white mist swirling around the shortest of them, a young woman in yellow robes.


    ...


    [Congratulations! You have completed the special event ''Siege of the North Sea crab demons''!]


    [With the help of Helen, a descendant from the fishing village, and the Drunken Fool, your descendant Donna has escaped the crab clan''s encirclement.]


    [You have slain Hudson, a Competent Force-level crab demon renowned for his impenetrable defenses. The Drunken Fool''s Golden Origin Bowl shielded your descendant Donna from the crab demons'' assault, forcing the remaining three to flee.]


    [Impressed by your power, Aiden, a Competent Force-level crab demon, has pledged his allegiance to the Blackwood family for a century after you vowed to spare his clan.]


    [+5 Family Will obtained]

 Chapter 364 - 364:I was using my psychic abilities to blow up cow dung

    He lost 3 points of Family Will, but now his Family Will had actually reached 15 points.


    At this moment, Aiden, in the early stages of the Competent Force realm, was diving deep beneath the waves, 33 feet below the surface near the small fishing village.


    He was, after all, a demon beast in the Competent Force realm.


    If it weren''t for the time limit of his servitude and the glimmer of hope it offered, Aiden would have self-destructed by now.


    However, according to Drunken Fool, a hundred years was too short a time.


    It would be better spent as a drunken crab; after being eaten, his strength would surely increase.


    [You have obtained spoils of war: one corpse of a crab demon in the early stages of the Competent Force realm.]


    [Crab demons in the Competent Force realm possess a hard exoskeleton comparable to sixth-grade ore. Their bodies contain crab essence, similar to the ''crab roe'' of ordinary crabs, which is a rare medicinal ingredient. It can reach the sixth grade, and consuming it alone can enhance cultivation and increase battle prowess for a short period.


    Consuming it below the Developing Skill realm can strengthen one''s foundation and cultivate vital energy.]


    At this time, Donna''s Storage Ring contained tens of thousands of crab demon corpses, ranging from ordinary beasts to those in the Competent Force realm, including four in the Developing Skill realm.


    The most eye-catching among them was a giant green crab, beside which sat a large vat of ''crab essence,'' emitting a mysterious yellow aura that spoke volumes about its value.


    "Adam, Alexander, Benjamin, come quickly and greet your aunt! This is your Aunt Donna!"


    As soon as Donna arrived, Helen called out to the three children.


    Perhaps it was because they hadn''t seen each other for so long, but Helen was incredibly attentive to Donna''s needs.


    Even though Donna had already reached the peak of the Developing Skill realm, Helen cared for her just like she had cared for Nicholas back then, as if time had stood still.


    "Aunt Donna!"


    The three of them bowed hurriedly, but they couldn''t help but feel a little awkward when they looked at Donna.


    The world of psychic cultivation was truly strange.


    Donna, with her youthful appearance, stood only about 5 feet tall in her yellow dress.


    Her sleeves covered her hands, and her two braids framed a childish face.


    Around her neck hung the Forebearer Psychic Position.


    However, her expression remained cold and vigilant.


    If she were to walk down the street, she would surely be mistaken for a lost rich girl.


    This aunt, whom they were supposed to address as "aunt" or "great aunt," looked more like their little sister.


    It was quite amusing.


    "Well, I don''t have much to offer as gifts."


    After chatting with her three juniors for a while and learning about their situation, Donna frowned.


    With a flick of her Storage Ring, two large vats appeared, containing half of the ''crab essence'' she had just obtained.


    "You should consume this. This way, Benjamin can enter seclusion and break through to the Emerging Ability realm within a month. Adam''s cultivation should also see some improvement. As for Alexander, you should be able to reach the peak of the Foundational Energy realm within a year."


    "Such... such potent natural energies!"


    The three of them stared in astonishment at the vat of crab roe.


    They had never seen such precious natural treasures before.


    It seemed that their elders had indeed accomplished great things during this past half-month!


    They didn''t refuse the gifts.


    Not long after, Adam and his son, Alexander, walked out of the house.


    Drunken Fool was squatting at the door again, begging... but this time, he was eating crab.


    The old drunkard even used a technique, placing the crab in a bowl and pouring wine over it, creating a dish of drunken crab.


    He took a bite of the raw crab, followed by a swig of wine, the cracking sounds he made causing passersby to grimace.


    "Senior, you are truly extraordinary. Thank you for saving my aunt."


    Adam bowed gratefully to Drunken Fool.


    "I saved her?"


    Drunken Fool was taken aback.


    He snapped off a crab claw, recalling Donna''s frenzied state on the battlefield...


    He had traveled the world of cultivation for many years, even emerging from the demon abyss, but he had never seen anyone fight with such terrifying and indescribable power as Donna in that moment.


    He had heard rumors of an incredibly powerful body cultivator from Starlight County, Donna''s master, but he was certain that Donna''s current state surpassed even Chuck''s.


    "Yes, you saved my aunt, didn''t you? Your family is truly extraordinary!" Alexander''s eyes were clear.


    "Don''t say that."


    Drunken Fool waved his hand hastily.


    He could tell that the father and son had mistaken him for some peerless expert.


    "I wouldn''t dare claim to be ''extraordinary'' in front of those inside. That would be asking for trouble."


    Adam and Alexander exchanged glances and then looked towards the house.


    Helen and Donna were deep in conversation, and even Benjamin was listening intently.


    They approached and listened as the three discussed family matters, but they couldn''t understand a single word.


    As night fell, Alexander walked into the courtyard.


    His father, Adam, was sitting there, gazing at the moon with a bowl and spoon in his hands, a melancholic expression on his face.


    Alexander walked up to his father and said in a low voice, "Father, why do I always feel like I don''t belong with Grandma, Aunt Donna, and the others? Even with Benjamin, I feel like I''m not as good as him."


    "Sigh."


    Adam let out a long sigh.


    "Alexander, you and I are different from them. We''ve always lived comfortable lives, growing up under your mother''s protection. But they''re different. They''ve weathered storms. Even Benjamin, he''s been on the run since he was 10 years old. It''s been five years.


    Alexander, what were you doing when you were 10?"


    "I..."


    A look of shame flashed across Alexander''s face.


    "I was using my psychic abilities to blow up cow dung."


    "Me too."


    Adam silently scooped a mouthful of crab roe from his bowl and swallowed it, ignoring the fishy taste.


    He said in a deep voice, "Son, I''ve been fishing for many years, and I''ve heard some tales of the sea. There are truly treasures out there. Tomorrow, I''ll go talk to your grandmother. I''ll take you on an adventure. It might be a little late, but we can''t hold the family back."


    "Yes, Father!"


    ...


    [Year 218 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, feeling the gap between themselves and their family, decided to join a Psychic team from a neighboring town to search for a hidden realm in the sea, rumored to be the ''North Sea Dragon Palace,'' the ''Kunpeng Secret Realm,'' or the ''Ephemeral Sacred Realm''...]


    [Olivia, who silently protected the family from the sky, sensed the determination and drive in the hearts of the father and son. She chose to bestow upon them some of the fortune she had accumulated over the years.]


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, have gained the trait: North Sea Treasure Hunters.]


    [Their chances of finding opportunities have increased by 1%.]


    That year, Donna, Helen, and Benjamin watched as a simple ability vessel sailed towards the sea.


    Seeing the worry on her sister-in-law''s face, Donna comforted her, "Helen, don''t worry. They are children of the Blackwood family. Our Blackwood bloodline has never been content with mediocrity. Besides, the Forebearer is protecting them."


    "I know."


    Helen sighed.


    "It''s my fault. I only wanted them to live good lives. But over the years, I''ve realized that even with my constant protection, they still yearn for more. Donna, you don''t know, Adam loved to fight when he was little. He beat up all the kids in the fishing village and secretly cultivated his psychic powers behind my back."


    "Alexander wasn''t any calmer when he grew up. That rascal traveled far and wide, always dreaming of chivalry and justice."


    Hearing this, Donna fell silent for a long time.


    She thought of her own past with her brother and sister.


    Weren''t they the same?


    Finally, she smiled and said, "Perhaps this is the destiny woven into our Blackwood blood."


    Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 365 - 365: Ive never witnessed such a thing in my lifetime!

    This year, the Blackwood clan gathered once more.


    Though still facing hardships, they were not without gains.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has consumed the ''crab essence'' and broken through to the early stages of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, honed his swordsmanship while traversing the Blood Domain. A chilling ice sword manifested within him, a life-bound ''Ice Sword'' imbued with the power of rules. Upon its integration, his injuries recovered by 3%.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, has secretly learned a technique for crafting psychic equipment from the Radiant Sky Grotto: the ''Celestial Fire Forging Technique.'']


    [All of your descendants have begun cultivating psychic crystals using the techniques outlined in the ''Celestial Web of Prosperity Technique'' and the ''Pilgrimage to Dust Crystal Scripture.'']


    [...]


    Ethan once again stood before his descendants.


    While they maintained a weary facade in the outside world, within the Forebearer space, their eyes gleamed with vitality.


    As they shared their experiences, they learned of the situations unfolding across the land.


    Cloudview County remained unchanged.


    Despite the Blackwoods'' exile, Daniel still held control.


    Within Sunshine Mansion, the various factions had mysteriously ceased seeking favors from Venerable Phil.


    According to the Venerable himself, he suspected that each major power within Sunshine Mansion was being manipulated by an avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    However, Venerable Phil was certain that within a millennium, the Heavenly Path Venerable would undoubtedly achieve a breakthrough to the Advanced Mastery realm.


    By then, the Blackwoods would no longer concern themselves with the actions of a post-breakthrough Heavenly Path Venerable.


    However, Ethan knew full well that even without reaching Advanced Mastery, the Heavenly Path Venerable had already forced Venerable Phil into seclusion.


    What would happen once that monster achieved his breakthrough?


    They could forget about rescuing Edward or avenging their fallen kin!


    A millennium...


    For the first time, Ethan felt the weight of a thousand years pressing down on him.


    "Julian, how are things on your end? If you can break through to the Competent Force realm and become a sixth-grade psychic equipment crafter, you''ll possess the skill to forge top-tier psychic weapons."


    Ethan turned to Julian, who now carried himself with a newfound maturity, his former recklessness tempered.


    Julian pondered for a long moment before replying, "Father, within the Radiant Sky Grotto, I can sense that the powers from various capitals haven''t given up on their ''concern'' for me. For some reason, our family has become a thorn in their side. They can''t wait for me to meet my end.


    It''s only due to the protection of the Radiant Sky Grotto and General Owen that they haven''t dared to lay a hand on me."


    "The Radiant Sky Grotto only protects me because of General Owen. Even if I were to break through to the Competent Force realm and become a sixth-grade psychic equipment and AI Bionic Robot crafter, they wouldn''t truly treasure me. This place is teeming with rising stars. On the contrary, it would only make those individuals more eager to eliminate me.


    As it stands, I can''t even take half a step outside the Radiant Sky Grotto."


    "However, if..." Julian''s gaze shifted to Donna.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" Donna gulped, noticing the look in Julian''s eyes.


    ...


    [Year 220 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has broken through to the early stages of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    Two years had passed since the last gathering.


    Donna sat cross-legged on the surface of the sea, meditating.


    Within a radius of hundreds of miles, countless crabs formed an orderly circle around her. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Aiden, bound by a century-long pact to protect the Blackwoods, and two other Competent Force realm crab demons stared at the increasingly ominous storm clouds gathering above, their expressions a mixture of regret and terror.


    They regretted laying siege to Donna, which had cost their kind a fellow Competent Force realm member and forced Aiden into servitude.


    But more than that, they were terrified by the sheer power emanating from the tempest above.


    The events of two years prior remained vivid in their minds.


    Aside from the shadowy figure, it was Donna, at the peak of the Developing Skill realm, who had truly instilled fear in their hearts.


    Even before fully taking shape, the tribulation clouds crackled with the might of a nine-nine heavenly tribulation.


    And at the center of it all sat a seemingly delicate young woman.


    A nine-nine heavenly tribulation was the absolute limit for a Pinnacle Apprentice realm cultivator... but not for her.


    "A nine-nine heavenly tribulation... I''ve never witnessed such a thing in my lifetime!"


    "I once saw our clan''s ancestor attempt to overcome an eight-nine heavenly tribulation in my youth. He perished within half a day."


    Aiden sensed something amiss.


    "She''s attempting to overcome this tribulation without even preparing a defensive formation! She intends to face it head-on!"


    "What?!"


    The two Competent Force realm crab demons paled.


    Looking closer, they saw that Donna had indeed made no preparations as the heavenly tribulation loomed.


    ...


    They were mistaken, however.


    The Blackwoods were indeed making preparations... just not the kind Donna needed to defend herself.


    [Your descendant, Daniel, is leading the three realms of Azure Cloud in their largest counteroffensive against the Druids in years!]


    [Druid corpse +1 obtained.]


    [Emerging Ability realm Druid corpse +1 obtained.]


    [Druid corpse...]


    "Attack!"


    On the border of Azure Cloud, Daniel, disguised as Bryce, surveyed the battlefield.


    Duke Kenneth, Jon, Chuck of the Arcane Society... all of the Blackwoods'' old allies had charged into the Endless Forest, engaging the Druids in a fierce battle!


    With each fallen Druid, a specialized team of Azure Cloud Psychics collected their corpses, storing them within Storage Rings before delivering them to Daniel.


    ...


    Golden Empire, Riverton.


    Incense Offering Tower.


    This was Riverton''s largest trading post.


    The aroma of medicinal herbs wafted from within, attracting a throng of Psychics.


    The reason for this commotion was a sixth-grade alchemist who had recently arrived in Riverton.


    She claimed to be capable of concocting any sixth or seventh-grade elixir with a success rate and resource efficiency of sixty percent.


    Most alchemists had varying success rates, often requiring three portions of ingredients to produce a single successful batch.


    A sixth-grade alchemist with a sixty percent success rate was an incredibly rare find.


    Moreover, such skilled alchemists rarely bothered with such trivial matters as concocting elixirs for others.


    In no time, a massive crowd had gathered outside the Incense Offering Tower, eager to submit their ingredients before this golden opportunity slipped away.


    Among them were Psychics of the Foundational Energy and Emerging Ability realms, hoping to benefit from the residual psychic energies released during the sixth-grade alchemist''s work.


    [Your descendant, Amelia, is refining elixirs for numerous Psychics in Riverton, Golden Empire. She has acquired a vast quantity of natural treasures and has begun using them to concoct psychic elixirs that enhance physical prowess.]


    [Refining: Seventh-grade Celestial Titan Powder. Upon consumption, it enhances one''s bones and physique, granting the user the strength of a Celestial Titan. Individuals with insufficient physical strength risk bodily explosion.]


    [Refining: Sixth-grade Mystic Vision Elixir. Upon consumption, it unlocks the Heaven''s Eye, allowing the user to perceive the intensity of psychic energies within a hundred-meter radius and pushing their physical body to its limits, making it comparable to a sixth-grade, low-tier psychic ore.]


    [Refining: Seventh-grade Boundless Strength Powder...]


    Inside, Amelia focused her psychic flame on refining the medicinal powders.


    In the past, she would never have considered refining elixirs for outsiders.


    However, with their family struggling to survive and resources scarce, she had no choice but to ply her trade in Riverton.


    To her surprise, business was booming.


    "I''ll slowly build up our family''s wealth by refining elixirs here in the Golden Empire."

 Chapter 366 - 366: Hmph! Nine-nine heavenly tribulation?

    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, thirteen members of the Blackwood clan emerged from their 1000-foot-deep subterranean refuge, a rare occurrence after years of hiding.


    The third generation of Blackwoods, led by Marcus, spearheaded the assault, their movements a blur as they formed a totemic formation, their combined might amplified by ancient power.


    Above them, Marcus unleashed the Sky Temple, its imposing presence a testament to their lineage.


    Four members of the fourth generation stood ready, their years of training evident in their synchronized movements.


    Trapped within their formation was a scholar, clad in traditional Confucian robes, his face contorted in a mixture of frustration and rage.


    Clutching a calligraphy brush in one hand and an inkstone in the other, he glared at the Blackwoods.


    "You scoundrels! How dare you ambush me again?! Does the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary hold no true Psychics? Why must I be your target time and time again?!"


    Thirty minutes later...


    "You ask too many questions."


    Marcus''s words echoed as the Blackwoods vanished, leaving the Bright Light Institute''s Unquestioning Scholar sprawled on the ground in defeat.


    Lingering psychic energies swirled around him, the remnants of his righteous aura and a grand literary work, its every stroke imbued with sorrow, fading into the air.


    Staring blankly at the sky, he sighed, "Curse those Blackwoods!"


    He glanced at his calligraphy brush and inkstone, the only possessions they hadn''t taken.


    This was the second time they had robbed him.


    The third-generation Blackwoods were relentless, and Marcus, with his unfathomable strength, was a force to be reckoned with.


    Those damned Blackwoods took everything... except his tools.


    He hadn''t understood why the first time, but now it dawned on him.


    Those bastards were leaving him his weapons so he could replenish his resources, only for them to swoop in and claim the spoils for themselves.


    A cruel, cyclical joke.


    [Your descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary have once again plundered the Unquestioning Scholar, obtaining a vast quantity of natural treasures.] S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Sorting through a large number of psychic elixirs that enhance physical prowess...]


    ...


    Several days passed.


    On this day, Blackwood descendants across the land erected altars, their faces solemn as they prepared to make offerings.


    However, these offerings were not meant for Ethan.


    As each item was placed upon the altars, Donna, now beneath the heart of the brewing heavenly tribulation, knelt before the Forebearer''s Psychic Position.


    "Please, Forebearer, rest assured. I will overcome this nine-nine heavenly tribulation and complete the task bestowed upon me by you and the clan. I will free Great Grandfather from his plight!"


    As her words echoed across the land, a multitude of objects materialized on the altars: the corpses painstakingly gathered by her kin, potent psychic elixirs, and the treasures plundered from the Unquestioning Scholar.


    [You have bestowed upon your descendant, Donna, a Storage Ring containing the corpses of three hundred thousand Druids!]


    [You have bestowed upon Donna the seventh-grade Celestial Titan Powder, the sixth-grade Mystic Vision Elixir, the seventh-grade Boundless Strength Powder...]


    [You have bestowed upon Donna the ''Nine Psychic Mystic Flames,'' extracted from the Sky Temple and entrusted to Marcus...]


    A deafening roar shook the heavens as the offerings settled upon the altars.


    The seas churned, the winds howled.


    Aiden and the two crab demons watched in terror, their faces pale.


    Even at a distance, the sheer intensity of the tribulation made them afraid to probe Donna''s condition with their Competent Force senses.


    And now, the tribulation stirred.


    "What... what is this? They didn''t prepare a formation, did they?"


    A colossal formation blazed to life beneath Donna, its runes pulsing with a blood-red light.


    An oppressive aura of death and decay permeated the air, spectral figures swirling within its boundaries.


    "Such a sinister formation... I sense a multitude of souls trapped within!"


    "What... what manner of dark art is this Blackwood girl attempting?"


    They could feel it now.


    Donna was drawing upon the life force of the corpses to fuel her breakthrough.


    No, perhaps she already possessed the strength to withstand the nine-nine heavenly tribulation.


    This... this was her striving for even greater power!


    ...


    [Your descendant is utilizing the ''Living Sacrifice Formation Disk'' prepared by Julian. With the sacrifice of three hundred thousand Druids, her strength will soar to new heights!]


    Thunder roared, a symphony of divine fury.


    Within the tempest, the tribulation clouds coalesced, forming a pair of colossal eyes that glared down at Donna.


    The very heavens seemed angered by her audacity, by her defiance of their might, by the sheer depravity of her methods.


    As bolts of lightning crackled and writhed, Donna stood at the center of the blood-red formation, surrounded by a sea of floating Druid corpses.


    Their life force, their very essence, flowed from their seven orifices, converging upon Donna as she raised her arms towards the sky.


    She had already reached the pinnacle of the Developing Skill realm, yet her power continued to surge.


    The first bolt of lightning, a harbinger of unimaginable destruction, slammed into Donna.


    Yet, she stood firm, her expression unwavering as she endured its might.


    The first strike of the dreaded nine-nine heavenly tribulation... and she had emerged unscathed!


    As the last vestiges of life drained from the corpses, transforming them into withered husks, Donna consumed the pills, their potent energies coursing through her veins.


    Four of the five elemental treasures she had gathered over the years materialized, orbiting her like celestial guardians.


    Then came the Nine Psychic Mystic Flames, a gift from Marcus, extracted from the Sky Temple itself.


    In a heartbeat, the elemental treasures shattered, their essence merging with Donna''s being.


    Her power swelled, threatening to consume her.


    Her eyes blazed with golden light as the Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms reappeared behind her.


    Her body expanded, growing to a towering fifteen feet.


    Her muscles bulged, her veins throbbed, and with a defiant roar, she challenged the heavens.


    "Hmph! Nine-nine heavenly tribulation? Is this the extent of your power? Today, I will see whose might reigns supreme: your divine judgment or my fists!"


    And with that, she charged into the heart of the tribulation.


    The three crab demons watched in awe and terror, their forms trembling before the display of raw power.


    They were mere spectators, their strength insignificant compared to the forces clashing above.


    A full day passed before the storm subsided.


    As the last traces of lightning faded, a small girl in a yellow dress, her hair tied in pigtails, stood calmly amidst the churning sea.


    She was unharmed.


    The pressure emanating from Donna nearly forced the crab demons to their knees.


    ...


    "This... this! Was that a nine-nine heavenly tribulation or a simple Competent Force tribulation?"


    Donna''s tribulation had lasted an entire day, its effects felt even within the small fishing village, where fierce winds and torrential rain lashed the coast.


    Drunken Fool, huddled outside the tavern, had nearly prostrated himself before the sheer power emanating from the sea.


    His own tribulation had nearly cost him his life!


    Yet, Donna had emerged from that maelstrom unscathed.


    If not for the lingering traces of lightning surrounding her, Drunken Fool would have believed he had imagined the entire ordeal.


    Even as Donna returned to the village with Aiden, Drunken Fool remained speechless, his mind struggling to comprehend what he had witnessed.


    Beside him, Helen showed no surprise, her expression a mixture of relief and elation.


    "With Donna''s strength, the clan''s ''Divine List Plan'' is sure to succeed!"


    At that moment, all the Blackwoods, their hearts filled with hope after the grand ritual of Year 220, turned their gazes towards the future.


    Ethan, too, allowed himself a glimmer of optimism.

 Chapter 367 - 367: More... more treasure hunting?

    [Congratulations! Your descendant, Donna, has successfully overcome the nine-nine heavenly tribulation and ascended to the Competent Force realm!]


    [Family Will +1 obtained.]


    [Following the teachings of her master, Chuck, your descendant Donna has cultivated the high-level Earth-rank technique ''Five Element Body Tempering Art.'' By utilizing five extreme-grade elemental treasures to reshape her physique, she has achieved the pinnacle of physical prowess within the Developing Skill realm.


    Upon breaking through to the Competent Force realm, she has gained the special constitution: Supreme Overlord Body.]


    [Her physical strength has reached its absolute limit, devoid of any flaws, even after ascending to the Competent Force realm. With the ''Five Element Body Tempering Art'' mastered, she can unleash a surge of power several times greater than her normal physical strength through the use of magic formulas.]


    Ethan could sense it.


    From the moment Donna integrated the five elemental treasures, her physical strength had already surpassed that of Abbot David, the terrifying body cultivator who had once escaped a nuclear blast at its epicenter, losing only a leg as the price for his survival.


    The true terror of body cultivators lay in their unparalleled physical might, their bodies impervious to most forms of attack.


    The majority of Psychics focused on cultivating their psychic abilities.


    If they allowed a body cultivator to get close... well, they could kiss their souls goodbye.


    But Donna''s terror didn''t end there.


    [During her tribulation, your descendant Donna consumed the seventh-grade Celestial Titan Powder, the sixth-grade Mystic Vision Elixir, the seventh-grade Boundless Strength Powder, and absorbed the essence of three hundred thousand souls. She has gained the special constitution: Thunder Forged Adamantine Body.]


    [Tempered by the relentless assault of the heavenly tribulation, bolstered by potent elixirs and the life force of countless souls, her very being now crackles with the power of divine judgment. Her attacks are imbued with the might of the heavens, her defenses impenetrable, her physical strength unmatched.]


    ''Supreme Overlord Body,'' ''Thunder Forged Adamantine Body''...


    Ethan couldn''t even fathom the extent of Donna''s current power.


    He was certain, however, that if Aiden, a Competent Force realm expert, were to face Donna in battle, he wouldn''t even touch the hem of her garments.


    A single strike from her would likely send him back to the crab demon''s Forebearer.


    And it wasn''t just Donna''s physical prowess that had undergone a transformation.


    The Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms behind her had also experienced a startling evolution.


    [Your descendant, Donna, has ascended to the Competent Force realm. Her companion psychic artifact, the ''seventh-grade Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms,'' has absorbed a vast amount of life force from countless souls, green crabs, and the power of the heavenly tribulation. It has undergone a breakthrough, transforming into the sixth-grade Buddha-Demon Disk.]


    [The Buddha-Demon power can be integrated into her being, transforming her into a Vajrapani Bodhisattva, her defenses amplified by sacred chants. It can also manifest as a Supreme Heavenly Demon, unleashing a torrent of demonic energy to obliterate her foes.]


    [The fusion of Buddha-Demon power has given rise to the Divine Punishment Buddha-Demon Disk. It can summon heavenly lightning, which, when channeled through her body, further enhances her physical prowess, pushing her to the very brink of collapse.]


    Ethan had witnessed Donna''s terrifying transformation as she charged into the heart of the tribulation, absorbing its full might.


    He couldn''t help but wonder: if Donna, now empowered by the combined efforts of their entire clan, were to face Marcus, who would emerge victorious?


    Both were anomalies, monsters in their own right.


    "With this level of power, we can finally put our plan into action."


    Ethan watched as Donna and Helen walked away from the fishing village, their backs straight, their steps filled with purpose.


    A smile touched his lips.


    A special event appeared on the interface.


    [Divine List Plan]


    [Your descendant, Julian, has learned from various Psychics during his years of service in the Radiant Sky Grotto that attaining the top spot on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking would garner the attention of the empire and attract the favor of numerous factions.


    After careful deliberation between Olivia, Jessica, and Joseph, your family has decided to have Donna claim the title of number one Pinnacle Apprentice. This will grant her access to the Radiant Sky Grotto, allowing her to extract Julian discreetly.]


    For years, Julian had been under constant surveillance, unable to advance his cultivation or practice his craft.


    Even the formation disk he had used was painstakingly crafted in secret.


    Olivia had even detected the presence of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatar outside the Radiant Sky Grotto, monitoring Julian''s every move.


    Julian was already a sixth-grade psychic equipment crafter.


    Rescuing him from the imperial capital would be a boon to the Blackwood clan.


    If Donna became the number one Pinnacle Apprentice, she would have ample opportunity to infiltrate the Radiant Sky Grotto and extract Julian.


    And if they failed... well, Donna''s growth alone made it a worthwhile gamble.


    After all, the future was a fickle mistress.


    That much, the Blackwoods knew all too well.


    ...


    Under a warm spring sun, Donna, Helen, and Benjamin set out on their journey.


    Meanwhile, Drunken Fool and Aiden, tasked with protecting Adam and Alexander, ventured into the depths of the sea.


    [Year 222 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, joined a psychic expedition to seek treasure in the vast ocean. After years of searching, their efforts yielded little reward.


    The legendary secret realms remained elusive, and their only discovery was the ruins of a Developing Skill realm ''Clam Demon King.'' After a perilous struggle against both their fellow Psychics and the dangers of the ruins, they emerged with a single treasure: an eighth-grade ''Blood Pearl,'' its psychic energies long depleted.]


    [Your descendant, Adam, has broken through to the middle stage of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    "..."


    Ethan watched as the weary father and son emerged from the ruins on a remote island, their bodies bearing the scars of their ordeal.


    He couldn''t help but think of George and his lifelong obsession with tomb raiding.


    All those years spent unearthing ancient secrets, and what had he found?


    Aside from the occasional disgruntled spirit, mostly junk.


    Adam gazed at the other Psychics, their rivalries forgotten as they prepared to depart the island.


    "Alexander," he said, his voice heavy, "come on. Let''s follow them. I refuse to believe we''ll return empty-handed."


    "More... more treasure hunting?" Alexander scratched his head.


    Years spent following his father, and all they had to show for it were bumps and bruises.


    "We press on," Adam said, his voice firm.


    "Alexander, remember this: the journey is just as important as the destination."


    "..."


    Alexander rolled his eyes, recalling the treachery and near-death experiences they had endured within the ruins.


    Easy for him to say.


    They had barely escaped with their lives, let alone any treasure.


    But he knew better than to question his father.


    With a resigned sigh, he boarded their rickety vessel.


    As the father and son sailed into the sunset, Ethan turned his attention to his other descendants.


    [Your thirteen descendants within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary attempted to rob the Unquestioning Scholar once more. However, the now-wary scholar managed to escape. It took them half a month to track him down and relieve him of his possessions once more.


    They obtained a sixth-grade material: the Boundless Rainbow Flower, various seventh-grade materials, and a mid-grade psychic weapon: the Azure Sky Bow.]


    "That''s it! I''m tapped out!"


    Surrounded by the thirteen Blackwoods, the Unquestioning Scholar had lost all semblance of his former dignity. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He handed over his possessions with a defeated sigh, his arms crossed as he glared at his tormentors.


    "Go on, then! Kill me! I know what you''re doing. But I''m done robbing others! Let''s see how you steal from me now!"


    The Blackwoods exchanged amused glances at the scholar''s outburst.


    "It seems I really can''t keep exploiting one person."


    William''s eyes, tinged with danger, focused intently on the vulnerable spots of the Unquestioning Scholar.


    Years of working together had given Marcus an uncanny ability to decipher William''s thoughts.


    He frowned, sending a mental message.


    "William, leave him be. He may be a notorious thief, but he has never taken a life. He''s more valuable to us alive."


    William waved dismissively, accusing Marcus of thinking the worst of him.


    "In that case," Jessica said with a sly smile, "let''s pay a visit to Kyle. Neil has gathered quite the dossier on him."

 Chapter 368 - 368: Is it possible...

    [Year 225 of the Blackwood Family]


    [Luna, guided by the Fox Sage, has broken through to the middle stage of the Competent Force realm.]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has broken through to the middle stage of the Emerging Ability realm.]


    [Your descendants, Donna and Helen, have located the 25th ranked Psychic on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking at the Green Estate and issued a challenge.]


    [...]


    Days turned into months as the Blackwoods diligently honed their psychic abilities.


    Meanwhile, in Cloudview County, Daniel tirelessly sought any information that could lead him to the Heavenly Path Venerable and, ultimately, to Edward''s rescue.


    Unfortunately, Edward, trapped in his avian form, was guarded by a Basic Mastery realm Psychic, a formidable obstacle in Daniel''s path.


    Ethan, too, found himself drawn to the location of Edward''s imprisonment.


    As fate would have it, the Blackwoods had a history with this place.


    [Mount Kunlun Roberts Estate]


    Nestled at the foot of Mount Kunlun, a secluded courtyard stood adorned with intricate formations, drawing in the surrounding psychic energies.


    Within the study, a young man in purple robes emerged, his presence radiating an air of quiet power.


    The courtyard was alive with the chirping of countless birds, each confined within ornate cages that hung from the branches of ancient trees.


    The man, his long hair cascading over his shoulders, possessed a striking handsomeness. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He strolled through the courtyard, eventually stopping before Edward''s cage.


    The transformed Blackwood, a frenzy of feathers and fury, lunged at the bars, desperate to break free and tear at his captor.


    His name was Austin, the patriarch of the Mount Kunlun Roberts Estate, his lifespan already exceeding six thousand years!


    "Interesting."


    Austin chuckled, teasing Edward with a feather.


    "Do you long to kill me, little bird? To avenge your kin? Alas, you Blackwoods are in no position for vengeance. Though I must admit, you possess a certain cunning. To have escaped my grasp and vanished without a trace... For years, I''ve scoured the world, my divination arts failing to pierce the veil concealing your whereabouts.


    Someone, it seems, possesses the power to disrupt my calculations."


    "And yet..." Austin''s lips curled into a cruel smile.


    "You Blackwoods never learn. You underestimate the reach of the Heavenly Path."


    Ethan, who had arrived just in time to hear Austin''s words, felt a chill run down his spine.


    Within his cage, Edward thrashed wildly, his talons scraping against the bars.


    What was the meaning of this?


    They hadn''t learned? They had underestimated the Heavenly Path?!


    Did this mean... their location had been compromised?


    Without hesitation, Ethan vanished from the forest, leaving Austin''s chilling laughter and the frantic chirping of caged birds echoing in his wake.


    ...


    Ethan thanked his ancestors for revealing the Heavenly Path Venerable''s machinations.


    "We''ve been so careful. ''Haven''t learned''? Where did we go wrong?"


    He couldn''t afford to waste time.


    Though he had been diligently checking on his descendants, he needed to reassess their situations, ensuring their safety.


    Nathan remained within the Druids'' territory.


    With the elders'' attention waning, he had entered a deep meditative state, cultivating tirelessly for the past sixteen years.


    Luna, under the protection of the Fox Sage, was safe.


    Only a handful within the entire fox clan knew her true identity.


    As for Lucas...


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has received your blessing: the seventh-grade Returning Powder, capable of restoring vitality and purging foreign energies. Combined with years of cultivation in the snowy plains and Diana''s guidance, his injuries have recovered to 20%.]


    "Since ancient times, the sword has been the weapon of both the noble warrior and the silent assassin. And as cultivators often hail from affluent backgrounds, the elegant swordsmanship of the gentleman has always held a certain allure. Over time, the sword has become the preferred method of flight for many Psychics, particularly those in the Emerging Ability realm."


    "But wielding a weapon, especially a sword, requires more than mere skill. It demands intent, an understanding of the underlying rules that govern its power. Your swordsmanship is one of swift, decisive strikes, but the Celestial Sword you inherited... from which fool did you acquire such a flashy, impractical weapon? It has led you astray."


    "True strength lies in simplicity, in returning to the fundamentals..."


    Within an icy cavern, Diana, her ethereal form resting upon a bed of ice, guided Lucas''s cultivation.


    Her words, honed by centuries of experience, resonated deeply within him.


    And now, a new rule began to coalesce around Lucas.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has gained a deeper understanding of cultivation. The ''Stone Sword,'' a manifestation of his comprehension of rules, has taken form within him.]


    Amelia remained hidden, amassing a fortune through her alchemical prowess.


    Riverton, located within the Golden Empire and under the protection of powerful Psychics, was a safe haven.


    No one dared to disrupt the peace within its walls, lest they face the empire''s wrath.


    There was no way her actions could be construed as reckless or arrogant.


    Julian''s situation remained unchanged.


    He continued his menial tasks, biding his time.


    Olivia, as always, was a phantom, her movements shrouded in secrecy.


    Ethan checked on each of his descendants, even the thirteen within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, finding no cause for concern.


    "Donna? She broke through to the Competent Force realm recently, enduring the nine-nine heavenly tribulation... but that doesn''t add up. She, Helen, and Benjamin went into hiding immediately after her breakthrough."


    As if to emphasize his words, a vision appeared before him: a raging wildfire consuming a mountainside.


    Amidst the chaos, Donna, Helen, and Benjamin blended seamlessly with a crowd of fleeing villagers.


    [Your descendant, Donna, has successfully defeated the 25th ranked Psychic on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, earning the moniker ''The Supreme One'' within the martial world.]


    Challenging a ranked Psychic was a tad reckless, but at least she hadn''t revealed her true identity.


    Still, Ethan could tell from the remnants of the battle that Donna had been pushed to her limits.


    She was new to the Competent Force realm, her reserves of psychic energy still developing.


    Her opponent, on the other hand, was a peak Competent Force expert.


    Unlike Marcus, whose strength stemmed primarily from external sources, Donna relied on her raw physical power.


    As for Adam and Alexander...


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, have spent years exploring the world, their efforts yielding little reward. Their psychic vessel, crewed by fellow Psychics, was attacked by a monstrous beast. Separated from their companions and pursued by the creature, they were rescued by a band of pirates.


    In return for their lives, they pledged their services, becoming members of the ''Skyhorse Island Pirates.'']


    [Trait obtained: Pirate]


    [Combat prowess at sea increased by 2%.]


    ...


    Unable to pinpoint the source of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s suspicions, Ethan, his anxiety growing with each passing moment, opened the Forebearer space.


    The Psychic Positions of his descendants across the land lit up, their souls converging within the ethereal realm.


    "Forebearer," Olivia said, her voice laced with concern, "the Heavenly Path Venerable is still searching for us. This suggests he either hasn''t found a way to strike at us directly or... he hasn''t pinpointed our locations."


    "Or perhaps," Joseph interjected, his tone cautious, "it''s a ploy to lure us out of hiding. I believe we should gather in the Snow Domain. It''s a desolate, unforgiving place, nearly uninhabitable. We can wait there until this blows over... ahem."


    Sensing the eyes of his kin upon him, Joseph coughed awkwardly.


    Still, his suggestion held merit.


    The Blackwoods needed to be more vigilant than ever.


    "Forebearer," Olivia said suddenly, her voice thoughtful, "is it possible... that the ''Blackwoods'' the Heavenly Path Venerable spoke of, the ones who ''haven''t learned'' and ''underestimated'' him... are not us?"

 Chapter 369 - 369: I... I know nothing of this

    A wave of realization washed over the Blackwoods. They were right!


    Two hundred years after its founding, "Blackwood" represented far more than just their bloodline. Across Cloudview County, countless individuals now identified as Blackwoods.


    The various factions, families, the Azure Cloud army, the Heavenly Justice Hall... all were bound to the Blackwood name.


    Even Glory City, frozen in time by the Primordial Blood Tree, held only a fraction of their true number.


    Since the massacre, many Blackwood-affiliated groups had faced external threats. While the leaders of Azure Cloud remained their allies, the same couldn''t be said for everyone beneath them.


    Many had chosen to go into hiding, their allegiances a closely guarded secret.


    Rumors also spoke of individuals, once associated with the Thunderfire Demon Cave and the Dawn organization, who had formed their own factions, dedicating their lives to uncovering the truth behind the Blackwoods'' downfall and seeking vengeance.


    "Daniel," Ethan commanded, his voice grave, "investigate this. But reveal nothing that could compromise our safety."


    "As you command, Forebearer."


    ...


    Within the familiar forest near Milltown, where Benjamin had once narrowly escaped death at the hands of an Emerging Ability peak expert, over a hundred figures cloaked in black emerged from the shadows.


    An autumn wind rustled through the trees, whipping their dark robes around them. An air of mystery settled upon the otherwise ordinary forest.


    Before them stood one hundred and thirty-seven individuals, all connected to the Psychic who had hunted Benjamin all those years ago.


    An elderly man, his cultivation at the Transcendent Seed realm, prostrated himself before the lead figure in black.


    "Please, spare me! I know not what I have done to deserve this. I have lived an honest life in Milltown, never crossing paths with you or your kind. What have I done to warrant such treatment?"


    The lead figure''s voice was a low rumble. "Fifteen years ago, your disciple hunted a young man named Benjamin."


    "I... I know nothing of this. My disciple... he perished long ago."


    The old man''s voice trembled, his face ashen. And he wasn''t lying.


    The next instant, as autumn leaves swirled around them, all one hundred and thirty-seven individuals collapsed, their lifeblood staining the forest floor crimson.


    The wind tugged at the hoods of the lead figures, revealing their faces.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster!


    Chuck!


    Nate...


    Sam, Jessica''s son, who bore a trace of Blackwood blood and had inherited the Jones family legacy!


    Blake, son of Matthew, who had once been adopted into the Moore family and become its patriarch!


    This group, numbering one hundred and eight strong, possessed a combined might that rivaled half of Azure Cloud''s forces. None were weaker than the Developing Skill realm. Each was bound to the Blackwoods by unbreakable ties.


    They had gathered in secret, their movements orchestrated by Blake, before venturing out from Sunshine Mansion. They understood the true nature of the enemy that had brought the Blackwoods low. A simple surprise attack couldn''t have resulted in such utter annihilation. They had remained hidden, their true identities concealed, as they sought answers.


    And deep down, they clung to the belief that somewhere, somehow, other Blackwoods had survived.


    Every soul present carried the weight of their connection to the fallen clan.


    "Benjamin was only at the peak of the Foundational Energy realm," Sam said, his voice sharp with intelligence, a trait inherited from his mother, Jessica. "If he escaped an Emerging Ability peak expert, someone had to have helped him. The Blackwoods cannot be truly gone."


    "They are hiding," Blake said, his voice low and dangerous. "Whoever orchestrated their downfall is still hunting them. That''s why they remain silent."


    "Then we must tread carefully," the Celestial Star Swordmaster said, his brow furrowed. "If we reveal ourselves, we risk leading the enemy straight to them. We cannot become the instruments of their destruction." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Chuck''s heart clenched at Blake''s words. The thought of abandoning their search was unbearable.


    He had been assisting Joseph and Katie with the Heavenly Justice Hall in Sunshine Mansion when disaster struck. The Blackwood''s "Millennium Blood Renewal Plan" had failed, resulting in the deaths of all known descendants. He hadn''t even had the chance to say goodbye to Olivia. All he knew was that she and his dear friend, Lucas, had perished in Glory City.


    He refused to accept this reality. There were still so many things he had to do. He had promised to help Lucas exact his revenge on the Crimson Gate Syndicate once he recovered. He had dreamed of having countless little sword saints with Olivia.


    "The Heavenly Justice Hall received a report," Nate said, his voice cold. "A massive storm ravaged a coastal village in the North Sea. They say it lasted an entire day, accompanied by unprecedented lightning. Rumors speak of someone undergoing the nine-nine heavenly tribulation. I''ve heard whispers of a Blackwood branch residing in that region. I believe it''s them."


    "I don''t care about the risks," Nate snarled, his voice thick with grief. "I will find the Blackwoods. I will find out who did this. And I will make them pay for what they did to Katie."


    His words sparked a heated debate. Some feared that their actions would only bring further harm to the surviving Blackwoods. Others argued that they had to find their kin, to face whatever dangers lay ahead together.


    As the argument raged, Chuck stepped away from the group, seeking solace in the quiet embrace of the forest. Years had passed since he had sent Donna away. Years of silence, her absence a constant ache in his heart.


    A twig snapped, the sound of footsteps crunching on fallen leaves reaching his ears. He whirled around, his body tensing.


    "Who''s there?!"


    Psychic energy surged around him as he assessed the newcomer. The aura was unmistakable.


    A body cultivator.


    But this aura... it was familiar yet different. Powerful, tinged with a darkness he had never sensed before, yet strangely serene.


    As the figure stepped into the light, Chuck froze, his mind reeling.


    "Dis... Disciple? No... It can''t be. My foolish student could never possess such power."


    "Is that any way to greet your master, you mangy mutt?"


    ...


    Meanwhile, an AI Bionic Robot, its metallic body battered and stained with blood, strode purposefully towards Sunshine Mansion. Its appearance, a grotesque parody of life, sent chills down the spines of those who dared to meet its gaze.


    A single talisman, radiating the aura of a Competent Force expert, was plastered across its chest. Yet, it moved with a chilling lack of killing intent, deterring any would-be challengers. No one in their right mind would provoke a being of such power without good reason.


    Upon reaching the outskirts of Sunshine Mansion, the AI Bionic Robot scaled a nearby mountain, its gaze fixed on the Roberts Estate nestled at the foot of Mount Kunlun. A series of mechanical clicks escaped its mangled vocalizer, a sound that sent shivers down the spines of those who heard it.


    Within the heavily guarded estate, no one noticed the harbinger of chaos perched upon the mountaintop.

 Chapter 370 - 370: Who? Who are you?

    Within his secluded courtyard, Austin, the avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable, maintained his air of serene indifference.


    He spent his days cultivating, his power growing with each passing moment, or tormenting the unfortunate souls trapped within his cages.


    Each captive was a vanquished foe, their spirits broken, their bodies imprisoned.


    The air crackled with their venomous curses, a symphony of hatred directed at their tormentor.


    Yet, Austin reveled in their despair. Each insult was a testament to his power, a reminder of his triumphs.


    These pathetic creatures were nothing more than caged birds, forced to witness his ascent to godhood.


    As he basked in their impotent rage, a flicker of curiosity crossed his mind.


    He turned his gaze towards Edward, his feathered form huddled in the corner of his cage.


    When Austin had first revealed his intentions to target the Blackwoods once more, Edward had reacted with predictable fury.


    Yet, after two days, his rage had subsided, replaced by an unsettling silence.


    "Why so quiet today, little bird?" Austin asked, his voice laced with amusement.


    Edward remained motionless, his eyes fixed on Austin with unwavering intensity.


    "Very well," Austin chuckled. "You may be silent now, but your rage will resurface eventually."


    "This Sunshine Mansion... so many families have risen and fallen alongside your precious Blackwoods."


    "And their rising stars... they far surpassed anything your bloodline ever produced."


    He gestured towards the cages, his laughter echoing through the courtyard.


    "There was once a rising star from the Emerald Empire who feasted on the life force of his enemies."


    "He reached the Developing Skill realm at thirty, the Competent Force realm by fifty."


    He pointed to another cage, a cruel smile playing on his lips.


    "This one... his bloodline was blessed by the heavens."


    "They are born with the power of lightning coursing through their veins, immune to the wrath of the heavens."


    "They, too, sought to claim Sunshine Mansion as their own, just like your Blackwoods."


    He moved on to the next cage, his voice dripping with disdain.


    "And this one... born with eyes that could perceive the very essence of any technique."


    "A single glance, and he could master it."


    "And yet," Austin said, his voice laced with a chilling finality, "all they can do is curse my name."


    He chuckled softly.


    "You Blackwoods... you are but frogs in a well."


    "You surround yourselves with sycophants, those foolish enough to claim the Blackwood name as their own."


    "They should have perished long ago."


    "But it seems their misguided loyalty has led them straight into my trap."


    "They believe reaching the imperial capital will guarantee their safety? How amusing."


    As Austin spoke, Edward could contain his rage no longer.


    He lunged at the bars of his cage, his cries a torrent of fury and despair.


    He had lived a long life, witnessed countless horrors.


    But he had never encountered a monster like the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    It seemed that no matter how talented, how powerful a rising star may be, they were nothing before the might of the Heavenly Path.


    He controlled everything.


    "Hahaha!" Austin roared, his laughter echoing through the courtyard as he reveled in Edward''s despair.


    ...


    Meanwhile, on the shores of the North Sea, Blake and his companions arrived at Coastal Village.


    They stood before a familiar sight: the dilapidated tavern where Helen and her family had once sought refuge. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The tavern was deserted, its doors bolted shut, its interior coated in a thick layer of dust.


    Undeterred, the group fanned out, their formations, talismans, and divination tools humming with power as they searched for any trace of the Blackwoods.


    "I sense lingering psychic energies!"


    "I''ve traced the residual aura on this bed. It''s faint, but I see them... the Blackwoods."


    "I''ve searched the memories of the villagers. It''s hazy, but I managed to extract an image of the family who lived here."


    "The resemblance to the Blackwoods is undeniable! They said another group arrived later..."


    "I believe the Blackwoods used some kind of technique to obscure their memories."


    "But they were heading... towards the imperial capital!"


    "The imperial capital? The Heavenly Justice Hall confirmed it."


    "The ''Supreme One,'' the one who challenged and defeated the 25th ranked Psychic... they were last seen heading in that direction."


    "It''s them! It has to be! The Blackwoods are heading for the imperial capital!"


    "We''ve found them! Hahaha! We''ve finally found them! To the imperial capital!"


    With renewed purpose, the group set off towards the heart of the empire.


    Three months had passed since Chuck had encountered Donna in the forest near Milltown.


    Yet, he feigned ignorance, mirroring the excitement of his companions.


    But beneath the surface, his mind raced, his gaze darting between his fellow travelers, searching for any sign, any clue.


    "What manner of monster is this?" he muttered under his breath.


    "To possess such power... I was a fool to think I had seen all the world had to offer."


    He had been oblivious to the true nature of the enemy that hunted the Blackwoods.


    When he had intervened all those years ago, he had assumed the masked figures were merely agents of some powerful faction.


    It was only recently that he had learned the truth: they were all puppets, controlled by a single, terrifying will.


    He had believed the Blackwoods to be a force of nature, their power unmatched.


    But that fateful day, he had glimpsed the abyss, and it had stared back.


    "Master Chuck, what troubles you?"


    Blake''s voice snapped him out of his thoughts.


    "Once we find the main family, we''ll finally know the truth. And I will avenge my father."


    "Indeed," Chuck murmured, his brow furrowed.


    He couldn''t shake the feeling that something wasn''t right.


    As they journeyed onward, their faces alight with hope, they remained oblivious to the true scope of the threat they faced.


    And they were walking straight into the lion''s den.


    Because among them... walked an avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    "Who? Who are you?"


    Ever since his encounter with Donna, Chuck had been plagued by a terrifying realization: their every move, every decision, had been orchestrated by the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    They had left Sunshine Mansion, their movements shrouded in secrecy, yet the enemy had anticipated their every step.


    It could only mean one thing: the Heavenly Path Venerable had infiltrated their ranks.


    No, it wasn''t just their group. It was possible that Sunshine Mansion, perhaps even the entire Emerald Empire, was riddled with his avatars.


    That was the true terror of the Heavenly Path Venerable: he was everywhere.


    This group, this desperate search for the Blackwoods... it was all part of his plan.


    Donna''s appearance three months ago, the attack on their group... it was all a test.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable had allowed them to live, to continue their search, because he needed them to lead him to the remaining Blackwoods.


    ...


    Time marched on, relentless and unforgiving.


    [Year 226 of the Blackwood Family]


    The imperial capital loomed before them, a sprawling metropolis of grandeur and ambition.


    On its outskirts, nestled amidst rolling hills and humble villages, lay Cedar Ridge, an unremarkable mountain that held no significance to the bustling city.


    After six months of relentless searching, following the faintest of trails, the group of black-clad figures finally reached their destination.


    They ascended Cedar Ridge, their swords humming as they soared through the air.


    Before them stood a humble thatched hut, its simplicity a stark contrast to the opulence of the nearby capital.


    Outside the hut, a young man sat cross-legged, his brow furrowed in concentration as he cultivated, his hands moving in the intricate patterns of a magic formula.


    A woman, her brow slick with sweat, hauled buckets of water, her movements practiced and efficient.


    She looked every bit the part of a simple farmer''s wife.


    A young woman in fine clothes, her laughter echoing through the air, chased after a swirling mist, her demeanor carefree and playful.


    It was them. Donna, Helen, and Benjamin. They had found them.


    The trio looked up, their expressions wary as they registered the arrival of the strangers.


    But as their gazes fell upon the faces of their unexpected guests, their eyes widened in shock and disbelief.


    "Donna? Donna, Master has found you!"


    Chuck rushed forward, his voice thick with emotion, his eyes shining with a joy he had thought lost forever.


    But amidst the joyous reunion, a pair of cold, calculating eyes watched from the shadows of the Azure Cloud contingent.


    A cruel smile spread across the stranger''s lips as he uttered a single, chilling sentence.


    "Yes, we''ve found them. Hehehe... we''ve finally found them."

 Chapter 371 - 371: Why did you kill him?

    At that moment, within the imperial capital, figures soared through the sky, converging on Cedar Ridge.


    They were the rising stars of the empire, Psychics whose names were whispered in awe, some even the offspring of high-ranking officials, or officials themselves.


    Over three hundred strong, they assembled outside Cedar Ridge, their combined might a force to be reckoned with.


    At their forefront stood a man in his prime, clad in silver armor, a long spear strapped to his back. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Any noble within the imperial capital would recognize him instantly.


    Brody, the eldest son of a minor psychic clan, was a prodigy blessed with extraordinary talent.


    At a mere five hundred years old, he had already ascended to the third position on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, earning the moniker "Invincible Dragon Spear Brody."


    He commanded a thousand imperial mercenaries, tasked with safeguarding the capital.


    His meteoric rise had elevated his entire clan to unimaginable heights.


    His gaze fixed on Cedar Ridge, Brody''s eyes glinted with cold determination.


    He raised his spear, its tip pointed menacingly at the mountain.


    "One hundred and seven from Azure Cloud, three Blackwoods. Leave none alive."


    "Yes, sir!"


    As his command echoed through the air, the Heavenly Path avatars surged forward, their formations, talismans, psychic weapons, and advanced psychic gear unleashed in a dazzling display of power.


    Brody braced himself, ready to face the Blackwood who had defied the nine-nine heavenly tribulation.


    But as his forces descended upon Cedar Ridge, his expression shifted, a flicker of confusion replacing his confidence.


    Before they could even strike, a blinding light erupted from the mountain, blocking their path.


    Figures scrambled to escape, their movements panicked and desperate.


    The avatars'' power surged, their strength amplified by their master''s will.


    "Damn it! Damn it all!" Brody roared, his fury echoing through the air as he watched the fleeing figures.


    "We''ve been tricked, Brody!"


    "The Blackwoods knew we were coming. Our informant is dead."


    "They lured us into a trap! Those cunning bastards!"


    "Retreat! Everyone, fall back!"


    ...But they couldn''t see him.


    The Blackwood Forebearer stood before them, his presence concealed, his gaze fixed on the retreating avatars.


    He memorized their faces, their auras, committing them to memory.


    A sly smile touched his lips.


    "Heavenly Path, your reign of terror ends today. It''s time you tasted defeat."


    ...


    Within the Kunlun Mountains, at the Roberts Estate, Austin, the avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable, felt a surge of anger as he witnessed the events unfolding at Cedar Ridge.


    He had dispatched his avatars, their movements swift and decisive.


    He had seen Donna and the Azure Cloud contingent exchanging pleasantries, their interactions seemingly genuine.


    But the moment his imperial avatars arrived, Donna had sprung her trap, eliminating his hidden agent within the Azure Cloud group.


    And then, they had vanished.


    At that moment, a panicked servant rushed into the courtyard.


    "Patriarch! There''s an AI Bionic Robot at the gate... it... it demands an audience with you. It radiates the aura of a Competent Force expert. It claims to have urgent news.


    I dared not refuse it entry."


    As the servant finished speaking, a blood-soaked AI Bionic Robot strode into the courtyard.


    Its voice, a chilling whisper, echoed through the air.


    "Heavenly Path, it seems you have three hundred and twenty-seven avatars within the imperial capital. Your ambitions are vast, indeed. But I''m afraid your plans have hit a snag. Of course, you have a choice. You can send more powerful avatars to their rescue."


    "Or," the robot continued, its voice laced with a chilling finality, "you can release Edward. At least then, your third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice avatar might survive."


    Silence descended upon the courtyard as Austin contemplated his options.


    Within his cage, Edward thrashed wildly, his heart pounding with a mixture of hope and fury.


    This was the message his clan had sent.


    They had exposed the Heavenly Path''s presence within the imperial capital.


    Now, Austin''s wrath would surely fall upon him.


    But he wanted to scream, to rage against his captors.


    Kill them! Kill every last one of those bastards! Even if it meant his own death!


    ...


    Within a remote village in the imperial capital, the Blackwoods and the Azure Cloud contingent gathered, their expressions a mixture of confusion and apprehension.


    Moments after their arrival, Donna had struck, eliminating a former Dawn assassin within their ranks.


    "Donna, why did you kill him?"


    "Sister Donna, what have you done?"


    "Sister Donna..."


    "Lady Donna..."


    As the shock subsided, a chorus of questions erupted, their voices laced with disbelief and fear.


    But as they spoke, they faltered, their gazes meeting, a shared realization dawning upon them.


    Donna''s lips curled into a sly smile.


    "Surprised?"


    "..."


    Her laughter hung in the air, a chilling counterpoint to their growing unease.


    They understood now.


    Donna hadn''t been searching for them individually.


    She had been testing them all.


    "I apologize," Donna said, her voice softening slightly.


    "I knew the Heavenly Path had infiltrated our ranks. So, I sought each of you out, revealing that his avatar was among us. I observed your reactions, hoping to expose him. But he was too well hidden."


    "Then," she continued, her voice hardening, "I gave each of you a different location, a false trail leading to our supposed hideout. Until... Cedar Ridge. His avatars converged on that mountain too quickly, their movements betraying their master''s urgency. That''s how I identified him."


    Donna''s appearance, her every action, had been a carefully orchestrated trap, a desperate gamble to expose the enemy within.


    And it had worked.


    Ethan now knew the true identities of the Heavenly Path''s avatars.


    "I see," the others murmured, their initial anger fading as they grasped the gravity of the situation.


    They couldn''t fault Donna for her mistrust.


    Facing an enemy as cunning and ruthless as the Heavenly Path Venerable demanded extreme caution.


    Donna''s gaze hardened as she turned towards Blake, her voice a chilling whisper.


    "Blake, you believe our plan was flawless, don''t you?"


    Her words hung in the air, a spark igniting a powder keg.


    The Azure Cloud contingent erupted, their psychic gear and weapons materializing as they stared at Blake, the architect of their search, Matthew''s eldest son, trapped within their circle.


    ...


    Back in the Kunlun Mountains, Ethan stood before Austin, his expression unreadable.


    The news from the imperial capital had reached them.


    The Heavenly Path''s avatars had been exposed.


    For the first time, Austin, the avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable, was silent, his mind seemingly communing with his other selves.


    Ethan refused to miss a single detail.


    This was the first true clash between the Blackwoods and the Heavenly Path.


    Over the years, they had never given up on their quest to understand their enemy.


    They knew he was a shapeshifter, a being capable of fragmenting his consciousness into countless avatars.


    Mary had gleaned some information from Venerable Phil.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable reincarnated within the Emerald Empire every few centuries.


    His main consciousness would nurture his new vessel, guiding its development until it reached a certain level of power.


    Then, he would withdraw, leaving the avatar to its own devices.


    This process could take months, even years, depending on the vessel''s innate talent.


    He only invested in true prodigies.


    Once the main consciousness departed, the avatars would develop their own personalities, their actions guided by their master''s will.


    Michael, the Competent Force Duke who had manipulated Azure Cloud, was one such example.


    They also knew that when an avatar perished, its power, its memories, even its unique constitution, would be absorbed by the remaining avatars.


    And then there was the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable had relentlessly hunted the Blackwoods, yet thirteen of their kin remained safe within his sanctuary.


    It was an anomaly, a puzzle that demanded an explanation.


    "Know your enemy, know yourself, and you will not be imperiled in a hundred battles."


    This was their chance to test their understanding, to strike a blow against the seemingly invincible Heavenly Path.

 Chapter 372 - 372: Damn it! Damn it all!

    "Are you threatening me?"


    As Ethan observed, Austin gazed playfully at the Blackwood''s AI Bionic Robot, his voice laced with mockery.


    "Or do you truly believe those in the imperial capital hold any real significance to us?"


    With a casual flick of his wrist, Austin shattered the robot, its metallic body crumbling into dust.


    He then picked up his bird teasing stick, prodding at Edward, who was frantically beating against the bars of his cage.


    A cruel smile spread across his lips.


    "Congratulations, Blackwoods. You''ve proven to be far more entertaining than any of my previous adversaries."


    Seeing Austin''s nonchalant demeanor and Edward''s unharmed state, Ethan let out a sigh of relief and vanished from the courtyard.


    ...


    Within the Forebearer space, the Blackwoods gathered, their expressions grim.


    Ethan relayed Austin''s dismissive attitude, his words hanging heavy in the air.


    Olivia''s eyes lit up with understanding. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Forebearer, I think I''ve figured it out. The Heavenly Path''s avatars... they have a weakness."


    "A weakness?"


    The Blackwoods leaned forward, their attention rapt.


    "Each of the Heavenly Path''s avatars possesses its own consciousness," Olivia explained.


    "They are both a collective and individual entities. They obey the commands of the main consciousness, but when one dies, its power is distributed among the remaining avatars. This means they would benefit from each other''s demise, inheriting their strength!"


    "However," she continued, "they seem to be bound by some rule that prevents them from harming each other. Otherwise, they would have already resorted to eliminating their rivals to enhance their own power."


    "That''s why Austin, the one in the Kunlun Mountains, doesn''t care about the fate of his imperial avatars. In fact, he might even prefer it if we wiped them out!"


    As Olivia revealed her insights into the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars, Joseph''s eyes narrowed.


    "Furthermore, Forebearer," he added, "you noticed how those avatars at Cedar Ridge immediately fled once they realized it was a trap."


    "This means that beyond following the main consciousness''s orders, each avatar desires to survive, to be the last one standing."


    "He''s cultivating them like gu worms, pitting them against each other!"


    "And the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary..."


    A chilling realization dawned upon them.


    Jessica drew a sharp breath.


    "If this is how the Heavenly Path operates, then the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary is likely another gu cultivation ground! The last one standing... will be possessed by the main consciousness! Venerable Phil said the sanctuary is an extension of the Heavenly Path Venerable himself. Uncle Ethan obtained the Heavenly Path Tear, an artifact of immense importance...


    The sanctuary must hold the key to the Heavenly Path Venerable''s greatest secrets."


    As the Blackwoods pieced together the puzzle, their eyes gleamed with newfound hope.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable wasn''t invincible. He had weaknesses.


    And the more they learned about him, the greater their chances of victory, however slim they might be.


    "Let''s see what our captive has to say," Ethan said, his eyes narrowed.


    "I want to know if the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars share their memories."


    ...


    Ethan reappeared in the small village, where the Blackwoods and the Azure Cloud contingent had surrounded Blake.


    Blake looked up at Donna, his expression a mixture of confusion and feigned innocence.


    "Aunt Donna, are you testing me again? This is a rather elaborate joke."


    The others exchanged uneasy glances.


    After Donna''s previous deception, they assumed this was another test.


    After all, Blake, the one who had rallied them to find the Blackwoods, was an obvious suspect.


    But Donna''s expression remained cold, her gaze unwavering.


    The other Blackwoods mirrored her demeanor.


    "Unfortunately, this is no joke," Donna said, her voice devoid of warmth.


    With a gesture, she immobilized Blake, sealing his senses.


    "This place is no longer safe. We need to relocate. And while we do, we''ll extract some information from our guest. I need volunteers with... persuasive skills."


    The others hesitated, but seeing Donna''s unwavering resolve, they complied.


    As they moved to a new location, Blake''s screams echoed through the night.


    Chuck flew to Donna''s side, his brow furrowed with concern.


    "Donna, why are you so certain Blake is a Heavenly Path avatar? What if you''re wrong?"


    "Master," Donna whispered, "Blake is a distant relative. He knows us better than most. How do you think the Heavenly Path managed to catch us off guard? Someone betrayed us. Think about it. The Moores were decimated.


    Even Matthew perished. Yet, a small fraction survived. It was a diversion. And then there''s the fact that he gathered all of you..."


    "I see," Chuck murmured, his blood running cold as he grasped the true extent of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s reach.


    He now suspected that there might be more avatars hidden among them.


    But Donna hadn''t revealed everything.


    She glanced at the others before turning back to Chuck.


    "Master, I need to leave. We''ve exposed the Heavenly Path''s presence in the imperial capital, but the danger hasn''t passed. We need to scatter, to make ourselves harder to target."


    "I have things to do," she added, her voice hardening.


    "I need to make the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars... afraid."


    ...


    "Aaaaagh!"


    Within a lavish estate in the imperial capital, Brody, the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice, the "Invincible Dragon Spear," roared in agony.


    He wasn''t alone.


    Every avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable felt it: a searing pain emanating from their very souls, a shared agony originating from Blake''s tortured form.


    They shared their senses, their memories, their power.


    But they also shared their pain.


    "Damn it! Damn it all!" Brody raged, his voice laced with fear and desperation.


    "Five hundred years! It took me five hundred years to reach this point! I command a thousand mercenaries! I''m the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice! I''m on the verge of becoming a Basic Mastery expert! I have ambitions, plans!


    I will become a true power within the imperial capital! This is the path to true godhood! We will become ancient gods!"


    "Heavenly Path! The Blackwoods know! They''re torturing me! Send someone! Send someone to save me!"


    "I should be your true vessel! I was simply born too late! Otherwise, I would have already reached Basic Mastery! I wouldn''t have to bow to those weaklings in Sunshine Mansion!"


    Brody''s screams echoed through the empty estate.


    He didn''t notice the pair of eyes watching him from the shadows.

 Chapter 373 - 373: Ill only take one item

    "Forebearer, should we eliminate him?" Donna murmured, her voice barely audible above the din of the bustling teahouse outside the Hall Estate.


    The identities of the Heavenly Path avatars who had converged on Cedar Ridge were now known to the Forebearer. With a single thought, he could orchestrate their demise.


    [No.] Ethan''s Psychic Position flickered, a silent veto. Assassinations within the imperial capital were far too risky.


    He had infiltrated the Hall Estate, witnessed Brody''s descent into madness. He had seen it with his own eyes: the Heavenly Path Venerable''s avatars could feel pain. Brody had even resorted to shutting down his senses, likely severing the connection with his fellow avatars to escape their shared agony.


    Their suspicions had been confirmed. The Heavenly Path''s avatars, in the absence of their master''s direct control, were each vying for dominance, each striving to become the sole inheritor of their master''s power.


    "This means that even the Heavenly Path, for all his might, has a weakness," Ethan mused, a glimmer of hope flickering within him. "He''s like a fractured mind, his avatars locked in a constant struggle for control. We can''t eliminate the other avatars in the imperial capital. If they perish, Brody will ascend to Basic Mastery, and the remaining avatars will grow stronger."


    He felt a strange sense of calm wash over him.


    They had found a crack in the enemy''s armor, a vulnerability they could exploit. He believed that even a god could be brought low, if he and his clan remained united, their resolve unwavering.


    Ethan had even considered controlling one of the Heavenly Path''s avatars, guiding it towards becoming the dominant consciousness. But he quickly dismissed the idea.


    The main consciousness could still exert its influence, and while the avatars might be susceptible to manipulation, as evidenced by Austin''s hesitation when confronted by the AI Bionic Robot, Ethan knew they would never truly submit to an outsider''s control.


    "But the fact that they can be swayed... that''s enough."


    Ethan reappeared within the Forebearer space. Donna''s Psychic Position pulsed with light as she materialized beside him.


    "Forebearer!" Donna bowed respectfully.


    "Rise, child," Ethan said, his voice low and steady. "Continue with the mission. Extract Julian from the Radiant Sky Grotto. And keep Blake alive. Have our friends from Azure Cloud assist in capturing and containing the weaker Heavenly Path avatars within the imperial capital."


    "As you command, Forebearer."


    A smile touched Ethan''s lips. "And while you''re at it... collect some interest."


    ...


    [Year 228 of the Blackwood Family]


    Two years had passed. Donna remained in the imperial capital, her movements a carefully choreographed dance of shadows and whispers.


    Meanwhile, outside the capital, another figure roamed the land, his movements erratic and unpredictable. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Bill Daoist, the Blackwood''s eccentric ally, vanished from one location only to reappear in another, his movements guided by an unseen hand. His communication stone pulsed with light, eliciting a weary sigh. "Another one? This is getting out of hand. And dangerous. Why do I always get stuck dealing with these troublesome youngsters?"


    Moments later, Bill Daoist materialized within a bustling teahouse in the imperial capital. The Celestial Star Swordmaster sat at a table, sipping tea. He greeted Bill Daoist with a nod, his expression grim. With a flick of his wrist, he produced a scroll from his Storage Ring.


    As the scroll unfurled, it revealed an image of a cage, a woman trapped within its confines. The woman pounded against the bars, her desperate cries for help echoing from the painted surface.


    Bill Daoist produced a similar scroll, his own canvas depicting a multitude of cages, each holding a captive.


    With a surge of psychic energy, Bill Daoist erased the cage from the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s scroll, transferring the woman''s image to his own collection.


    "Only one this time?" Bill Daoist frowned. "Your progress in capturing the Heavenly Path''s avatars seems to be slowing down."


    "It can''t be helped, Senior," the Celestial Star Swordmaster replied, his usual arrogance replaced by a weary resignation. "We started with the weaker ones. The remaining avatars are far more powerful, and their positions within society make them difficult to target. Besides, the Heavenly Path has dispatched a Basic Mastery avatar to Sunshine Mansion.


    We wouldn''t dare make such bold moves without your protection."


    "We''re walking a tightrope," Bill Daoist chuckled, shaking his head. "I''ve never encountered such a formidable foe. You should leave now. I sense his Basic Mastery avatar approaching."


    "As you command, Senior."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster and Bill Daoist vanished, their presence fading like wisps of smoke. Moments later, an elderly man materialized in their place.


    He sensed the lingering traces of their auras, his eyes flashing with irritation. "Foolish Blackwoods. Do they truly believe they can topple a mountain with their bare hands? How amusing!"


    His final words were a guttural growl, a testament to his growing frustration.


    Two years. He had been here for two years. He, the Heavenly Path Venerable, with his countless avatars, had always been the hunter, not the hunted. But this time, he had been outmaneuvered, outsmarted by the Blackwoods and those insignificant ants, Bill Daoist and the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    They had devised a way to capture and contain his avatars, subjecting them to relentless torture without killing them. Each avatar felt the agony of their brethren, their screams echoing through their shared consciousness.


    His avatars lived in constant fear, dreading the moment they might fall into the Blackwoods'' clutches.


    The hunters had become the hunted. His weaker avatars were now forced to hide, to avoid the Blackwoods'' relentless pursuit. And to escape the shared agony of their imprisoned brethren, they had to periodically shut down their senses, leaving them vulnerable.


    Once captured, they couldn''t even self-destruct.


    And now...


    "Again? You dare to show your faces again?!"


    The elderly man''s face contorted in rage, his pride wounded.


    ...


    Within the Hall Estate, a blood-soaked AI Bionic Robot was ushered into Brody''s presence.


    Brody glared at the robot, his fury barely contained. "This is the fourth time! The fourth time in two years that you Blackwoods have dared to trespass on my family''s grounds! Even a saint has limits! What do you want this time?!"


    The robot''s face was a grotesque mask of pain, its metallic eyes leaking crimson tears. It let out a chilling, mechanical laugh. "Take me to your treasury. As before, I''ll only take one item."

 Chapter 374 - 374: The Undying Pirate Ship

    "Damn it! Damn it all!" Brody roared, rising to his feet. But instead of attacking the AI Bionic Robot, he stormed out of the hall.


    The robot followed closely behind. Its unseen operator knew that Brody''s restraint, his refusal to destroy the robot, signified another concession.


    As the treasury doors swung open, the robot retrieved a sixth-grade psychic material. It turned to Brody, its metallic face contorted in a mocking grin.


    "You and Austin... two sides of the same coin, yet so different. He never yields, while you, time and again, open your treasury to us Blackwoods, clinging desperately to life."


    "You..." Brody choked back his rage, his pride wounded.


    He knew that if he perished, his five hundred years of struggle, his hard-earned power, would become another avatar''s inheritance.


    He wanted to live. He had dreams, ambitions. He wanted to become the true vessel, the sole inheritor of the Heavenly Path''s power. He had simply been born too late. If Austin had been born in his place, would he be content to tend his caged birds in Sunshine Mansion?


    And now, those in Sunshine Mansion could rest easy, their positions secure. Over a hundred of their brethren in the imperial capital had become the Blackwoods'' prisoners, caged birds awaiting their fate.


    Yet, those in Sunshine Mansion did nothing but complain, blaming their imperial counterparts for falling into the Blackwoods'' trap, for their current predicament. It wasn''t their fault. It was the main consciousness that had been outsmarted.


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has captured another avatar of the Heavenly Path Venerable. It has been imprisoned within the high-grade psychic weapon, the Soul Locking Diagram. A total of 136 Heavenly Path Venerable avatars are now in your custody.]


    [Your family has received an offering from the Heavenly Path Venerable avatar ''Brody'': one thousand pounds of the sixth-grade psychic ore ''Netherworld Equilibrium Psychic Iron,'' imbued with spatial energy.]


    Within the Forebearer space, Ethan beamed with satisfaction as he read the latest update.


    They had found the Heavenly Path Venerable''s weakness. They had captured over a hundred of his avatars, halting their growth and inflicting pain upon their shared consciousness.


    The Blackwoods were no longer helpless against their tormentor.


    This might not be enough to truly cripple the Heavenly Path Venerable, but it was a victory nonetheless. For the first time in years, they had tasted success against their seemingly invincible foe. This victory, however small, filled them with hope.


    "This is just the beginning. We have time on our side," Ethan said, his voice calm yet resolute. He knew that true victory would require immense strength, a power capable of challenging the Heavenly Path Venerable himself.


    He turned his attention to the progress of his other descendants.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has recovered another 5% of his strength.]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, after losing the Death Coffin, has begun to realize his overreliance on external artifacts. Observing the Druid High Priest communing with the heavens to enhance his power, he has discovered that true strength lies within, not without. He has begun to explore the true meaning of death energy and necromancy.] S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Recognizing the wisdom of seeking guidance from those who have walked the path before him, your descendant, Nathan, with Mike''s introduction, has humbled himself and sought instruction from Arnold, a nine-nine heavenly tribulation rising star who also wields death energy and commands corpses and spirits.


    After years of study, he has developed his own understanding of the rules of death, combining his knowledge with Druidic magic to create an Earth-rank technique: the Soul Control Divine Movement Art.]


    [This technique allows him to command the souls of the dead within a ten-mile radius, using them as his eyes and ears. He can also channel a portion of his power into any of these souls to attack his enemies.]


    "Excellent! He''s finally broken free from his dependence on the Death Coffin." Ethan smiled, his heart filled with pride.


    Without the Death Coffin, Nathan was essentially a slightly stronger early-stage Competent Force expert. But losing the artifact had been a blessing in disguise.


    Meanwhile, news, both good and bad, arrived from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    [Your descendant, William, due to his prolonged confinement within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, has been unable to fulfill his daily ''One Kill a Day'' quota. He has attempted to satisfy his bloodlust by targeting the third-generation Blackwoods, but his thirst for violence has only grown. His inner darkness has reached 100%, granting him the trait: Utterly Dark.]


    [He can no longer suppress the evil within him. Consumed by his dark desires, he has broken through to the Competent Force realm!]


    [Years of accumulated carnage have incurred the wrath of the heavens. A nine-nine heavenly tribulation, far more potent than usual, is brewing.]


    Fortunately, William was still within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, where his kin had managed to restrain him with powerful techniques. The boy had become utterly consumed by darkness, ranting and raving about slaughtering everyone within the sanctuary. Who knew what havoc he might wreak if he were to escape?


    "At least he won''t harm his own family, even in his current state."


    Ethan sighed with relief as he observed William, his eyes squeezed shut in pain, bound by psychic chains within the sanctuary.


    The other Blackwoods within the sanctuary were doing their best to reason with him, to offer him comfort and guidance.


    Meanwhile, on the vast expanse of the ocean, another breakthrough was taking place.


    [Your descendant, Alexander, after two years of secluded cultivation among the pirates, has broken through to the early stage of the Emerging Ability realm. He has abandoned his other psychic constitutions, becoming a pure Earth element Psychic!]


    The pirate father and son had risen through the ranks, becoming the leaders of their ragtag crew. They sailed the seas, their fleet growing from three dilapidated vessels to eight.


    Adam, despite having two perfectly functional eyes, now sported an eyepatch. He stood at the helm, his body swaying with the rhythm of the waves, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Rest assured, Forebearer! Alexander and I are honing our skills on the high seas. Once we''ve carved out our own territory and amassed a fortune, we''ll return to the clan, laden with treasures!"


    "..."


    Ethan''s lips twitched. Did they think they were Jack Sparrow, playing pirates in the Caribbean?


    A month later...


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, encountered a fierce storm at sea. Their entire crew perished. However, they stumbled upon an eighth-grade psychic artifact: the Undying Pirate Ship. Their deceased crewmates have become bound to the ship''s soul, rendering them immortal as long as they remain on board.]


    "..."


    Ethan stared blankly as the father and son set sail once more, their crew now a motley band of undead pirates.

 Chapter 375 - 375: Greed only invites trouble

    [Blackwood Year 230, the Grand Rite begins, your descendants offer you Tribute Offerings...]


    [You are bestowing blessings upon your descendants...]


    It was the Grand Rite once again, a time when descendants all over the world performed rituals and exchanged resources.


    "We can''t risk capturing another Aspect of the Celestial Hand," Olivia stated.


    The family had gathered within the Ancestral Grounds after the Grand Rite.


    "Our actions these past few years have been too frequent. The Celestial Hand is omniscient; even with General Owen''s protection in the Imperial Domain, it''s only a matter of time before he finds a way to counter us."


    The Blackwood clan nodded in agreement.


    They had been capturing Aspects of the Celestial Venerable for years, amassing over one hundred and fifty from the Imperial Domain alone.


    However, they had noticed their actions becoming increasingly dangerous, even attracting the attention of powerful figures within the Empire.


    As the clan began their discussion, they solidified their individual plans.


    They knew that even with the discovery of some of the Celestial Hand''s weaknesses, facing him would require immense strength.


    Only then could they truly obliterate the Celestial Venerable.


    Nathan and Luna, a rare moment of respite allowing them to be together in the Ancestral Grounds, sat nestled beside each other.


    Their current mission was to discreetly cultivate their psychic powers amongst the Druids and the Fox Tribe.


    Mary, confined to Crystal Crest, diligently cultivated her psychic powers alongside Phil, making significant progress.


    Lucas remained in the snowy plains with Diana, focusing on his recovery.


    Their bond had deepened, becoming a blend of mentor and friend.


    However, the Blackwood clan couldn''t help but notice Lucas''s growing age and stoicism.


    He seemed to have lost the youthful passion that once burned within him.


    Julian and Amelia found themselves in contrasting situations.


    Amelia, a skilled alchemist, enjoyed freedom of movement within the Golden Empire.


    The Celestial Venerable''s reach couldn''t extend that far, and even...


    [Your descendant, Amelia, has garnered immense respect as an alchemist in the Golden Empire, attracting invitations from numerous factions.]


    [Having faced the covetous gazes of rogue cultivators and righteous psychics in the Thunderfire Demon Cave, the challenges of the Golden Empire pale in comparison.]


    [She thrives in this environment, navigating its complexities with ease.]


    [Through her mastery of alchemy, medicine, and toxicology, she has earned the moniker "Medical Saint".]


    [Medical comprehension increased by 30%.]


    [Alchemy and medicine share a common root.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, after years of refining medicinal herbs, has successfully concocted a sixth-grade "Clarity and Enlightenment Pill."]


    [This pill can enhance a psychic''s comprehension of the Laws for six months.]


    [She has achieved the sixth grade in the way of alchemy!]


    Amelia had become a revered guest in Riverton, a city within the Golden Empire.


    People flocked to her, seeking her alchemical creations or her healing touch, often at exorbitant prices.


    This allowed Amelia to contribute a wealth of valuable resources to the family during each Grand Rite.


    She had even acquired numerous new formulas and, with access to a wide array of ingredients, had developed new medicinal powders.


    The transition from alchemist to pill master felt natural, and Amelia now held the esteemed rank of a sixth-grade pill master.


    Over the years, Amelia had grown quiet and reserved, reminiscent of her time in Gratitude Village.


    The difference was that her silence then stemmed from a desire for solitude, while now, it seemed to be a way to cope with past pain.


    She spent her days diligently refining medicine and pills.


    Julian''s situation differed greatly from Amelia''s.


    He possessed the skills of a sixth-grade psychic armament crafter and AI Bionic Robot engineer but remained in hiding, waiting for Donna''s rescue before making any moves.


    However, Julian''s years were not without their gains.


    [Your descendant has spent years as an errand boy in the Radiant Sky Grotto.]


    [Though unable to craft psychic armaments openly, his talent for it is undeniable.]


    [He seizes every opportunity to learn from master talisman makers, formation masters, AI Bionic Robot engineers, and other specialized professions, never missing a chance to hear a master''s lecture.]


    [He has quietly attained mastery in the following professions: seventh-grade talisman crafting, seventh-grade formation mastery, Material Sorter, eighth-grade Executioner...]


    [Gained trait: Unorthodox Path.]


    [Comprehension of unorthodox paths increased by 20%.]


    The Radiant Sky Grotto was undoubtedly a haven for unorthodox paths, boasting an eclectic mix of professions, some of which Ethan had never even encountered.


    For instance, Material Sorters specialized in extracting valuable materials from various sources, such as the carcass of a mystical beast, ensuring minimal loss of potency.


    Then there were the Executioners... specialists in decapitation.


    Their role became apparent during public executions of criminals within the Imperial Domain, where their expertise in the art of taking a life was put on full display.


    It was through these unorthodox paths that Julian''s skills in crafting psychic armaments and AI Bionic Robots steadily improved.


    ...


    "Amelia, Daniel, I''ll have to rely on you two to provide cultivation resources for the family," Ethan said, glancing at them.


    They were the only ones who could reliably bring in substantial resources.


    Amelia nodded eagerly, a smile gracing her face.


    "Rest assured, Forebearer, I''m swimming in wealth. The people of the Golden Empire consider a sixty percent success rate the mark of a rare sixth-grade alchemist. Little do they know, my success rate is closer to ninety percent. It''s practically free!"


    The family chuckled at Amelia''s smugness.


    Olivia sighed.


    "Sister, you could easily claim a forty percent success rate, and people would still be lining up for your services."


    "Even twenty percent would suffice," Nathan added with a laugh.


    "Greed only invites trouble. Perhaps that''s why Amelia has managed to thrive in the Golden Empire without attracting unwanted attention."


    Luna nodded in agreement.


    "Sometimes, contentment is the greatest wealth."


    While everyone praised Amelia, Ethan noticed Daniel''s awkwardness.


    He understood the young man''s predicament.


    The Blackwood clan had exhausted most of the valuable resources in Azure Cloud, leaving behind only a handful of seventh and eighth-grade treasures and ores.


    It was the reason why the Blackwoods had been struggling financially and resorting to desperate measures to acquire resources.


    Ethan smiled understandingly.


    "Daniel, you are now King Phillips, but you are still under pressure from Sunshine Mansion. Don''t feel obligated to obtain high-grade resources."


    " Nathan needs corpses to cultivate his technique, and only your battles with the Druids can provide them. "


    "Thomas and the others require Druid bones for their magic practice, which also falls on your shoulders. However, remember, haste makes waste."


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Daniel''s earlier awkwardness vanished as he bowed respectfully.


    The Blackwood clan then turned their attention to the thirteen members residing in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    They instructed them to keep a close eye on Neil and follow Joseph''s instructions.


    Lastly, there was Donna.


    She scratched her head sheepishly.


    After her last challenge against the twenty-fifth-ranked opponent on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, she had continued her pursuit.


    In a provincial capital, she had challenged the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice, only to suffer defeat and flee in humiliation.


    S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 376 - 376: What are the younger ones up to?

    Seeing Donna''s dejected expression, Ethan chuckled.


    "Donna, there''s no shame in losing to the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice. You only broke through to the Competent Force Realm a few years ago. Reaching this level already makes you a prodigy."


    "He''s right," Nathan added, noticing Donna''s lingering self-reproach.


    "You''re stronger than Mike and I were at your age. Just keep striving for improvement."


    "You surpass me as well," Lucas said with a gentle smile.


    Marcus nodded in agreement.


    "Donna, there''s always a next time. Your third uncle is still young. He can wait a little longer for you to become the top Pinnacle Apprentice and rescue him."


    Encouraged by her family''s words, Donna''s spirits lifted.


    Their reassurance wasn''t unwarranted.


    To defeat the twenty-fifth-ranked expert on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking right after breaking through to the early Competent Force Realm was a testament to her extraordinary talent.


    Most individuals on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking possessed the ability to project their Competent Force and had cultivated their psychic powers to the pinnacle of Law Intent.


    When they unleashed their natural energies, they could even create celestial phenomena, similar to the oppressive domain Marcus had used with the Sky Temple to trap his opponent.


    Donna, on the other hand, was still in the early stages of the Competent Force Realm and lacked any external support like Marcus''s Sky Temple.


    Despite inheriting Charles and Christopher''s Flesh and Blood Lotus Platforms, which had now merged into the Buddha-Demon Disk, her strength primarily stemmed from her own power.


    Moreover, Donna didn''t possess a single ability weapon, while her opponent had been adorned with them.


    During their battle, her opponent had even unleashed over a hundred sixth-grade talismans, ultimately injuring Donna.


    To possess such strength in the early Competent Force Realm was practically unheard of.


    "Yes, Forebearer, I will continue to strive for improvement!" Donna declared, her determination renewed. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan nodded in satisfaction.


    He then addressed the entire Blackwood clan.


    "From this day forward, we will enter seclusion to focus on our cultivation. Donna, inform our friends from Azure Cloud to seek refuge with General Owen."


    "We, the Blackwoods, still have some influence within the Imperial Domain. Have General Owen contact Grand Tutor Gilbert and ask him to extend his protection to them. They have helped us capture Aspects of the Celestial Hand all these years; they won''t escape his calculations."


    "Yes, Forebearer," Donna replied solemnly.


    "Daniel, are the Heavenly Justice Hall and the Oracle Chamber still under your control?" Ethan inquired.


    "Yes, they are jointly controlled by various factions in Azure Cloud, but the ultimate authority rests with me," Daniel confirmed with a nod.


    "Good," Ethan said with a smile.


    "Have them discreetly investigate the entire Emerald Empire and identify anyone who could potentially be an Aspect of the Celestial Hand. Remember, do not alert our enemies."


    "Yes, Forebearer," Daniel replied, his expression grave.


    After giving instructions to each member of the clan, Ethan narrowed his eyes.


    "Now, my family, let the seclusion begin!"


    The Blackwood clan embarked on their longest period of cultivation yet.


    However, their disappearance only served to infuriate the Aspects of the Celestial Hand.


    The Aspect who had arrived in the Imperial Domain to search for the Blackwoods was enraged.


    He had barely arrived, and the Blackwoods had already vanished!


    He possessed over a hundred ways to capture Donna, devised by the main consciousness, and countless methods to apprehend the others in Azure Cloud, but his efforts were thwarted.


    In the Imperial Palace, Brody, who had been extorted by the Blackwoods nearly ten times, found himself unaccustomed to their absence.


    The tormented cries of the trapped Aspects had ceased, leaving him with a deep sense of unease.


    Countless other Aspects of the Celestial Hand shared Brody''s apprehension.


    They knew all too well that the most formidable enemy was one they couldn''t see.


    With the discovery of some of the Celestial Hand''s weaknesses, the Blackwood clan dedicated themselves to cultivation, their progress unfolding systematically.


    Ethan took a brief respite from his seclusion, returning to reality.


    The familiar bed, the familiar room¡ªyet, Ethan couldn''t shake the feeling of temporal and spatial disorientation.


    The game world felt more real, while reality seemed like a fleeting dream.


    His concern for his virtual family outweighed any attachment to his physical life.


    He contacted Alan, requesting more antimatter bombs.


    [Blackwood Year 240]


    A decade had passed since the clan entered seclusion.


    Ethan had spent those ten years cultivating alongside Luna, immersing himself in the Laws and principles surrounding the Fox Sage.


    It was during this time that he truly grasped the sage''s terrifying power.


    A true powerhouse, among the strongest in existence, possessing the might of an Ability Master!


    Unfortunately, the Fox Sage''s prolonged existence had taken its toll, weakening her to the level of an Advanced Mastery expert.


    The Fox Tribe had long since declined, facing a shortage of successors, with only two Advanced Mastery experts remaining.


    [You are comprehending the Laws of Ice and a portion of the Laws of Space.]


    Gradually, other members of the clan began to break through.


    [Your descendant, George, has steadily advanced to the Competent Force Realm with the guidance of a senior expert! However, due to the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary''s concealment from the heavens, he was unable to undergo the Sixty-Nine Heavenly Thunder Tribulation and possesses only ten percent of the power of an early Competent Force expert.]


    [Katie has broken through to the middle stage of Developing Skill.]


    [Joseph''s cultivation has regressed to the sixth level of Foundational Energy.]


    [Your descendants, the third generation of the Blackwood clan, have obtained more Druid bones during the latest Grand Rite, enhancing their strength.]


    [Your descendant, Marcus, has acquired two eighth-grade psychic artifacts, three seventh-grade psychic artifacts, and one sixth-grade psychic artifact. The Sky Temple has been further enhanced, multiplying his strength.


    Imbued with the power of the Five Elements, the Sky Temple has gained the "Five Elements Life Extermination Formation." This formation specializes in offense, transforming the Laws of the Five Elements into five beams of starlight that attack enemies within the formation.]


    "Marcus, you still need to prioritize your own cultivation. No matter how powerful the Sky Temple is, it''s still an external force," Ethan cautioned during their latest gathering.


    Nathan''s experience served as a constant reminder.


    Ethan now placed more trust in his own strength than in external objects.


    "Yes, Forebearer, I understand," Marcus replied respectfully.


    Meanwhile, in the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, Jessica and Justin had yet to break through, despite reaching the cusp of their tribulations.


    Jessica refused to advance because she couldn''t bring herself to slaughter Druids, a necessary step to overcome the Ninety-Nine Heavenly Thunder Tribulation.


    Her physical strength continued to accumulate.


    As for Justin... that boy hadn''t broken through because he hadn''t found a sufficiently reckless way to do so.


    Under Joseph''s cautious leadership, the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary remained relatively peaceful.


    [Reviewing historical events.]


    [Blackwood Year 232: Under Joseph''s prudent guidance, your clan ambushed a rival faction''s base during a conflict with Kyle, obtaining substantial spoils of war.]


    [Blackwood Year 235: Ambushed Neil... obtained substantial spoils of war.]


    [Blackwood Year 238: Ambushed...]


    Joseph''s actions were... predictable.


    When Ethan visited the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, he discovered that they had been living underground.


    The sanctuary extended three thousand meters below the surface, and they had burrowed themselves over two thousand meters deep, constantly shifting their base.


    The underground network had become a labyrinth.


    Beyond the sanctuary, the other Blackwood members continued their activities from a decade ago.


    Cultivation knew no time, especially for those who had reached the Competent Force Realm, where a single retreat could last a century.


    "What are the younger ones up to?" Ethan wondered, glancing at the three youngest members of the Blackwood clan.


    His gaze fell upon the Pirate father and son, and he paused in surprise.


    Before him lay a landmass.


    [Panoram State]


    [The main continent of the Psychic World, home to the Emerald Empire, the Druids, and the demon realm, is surrounded by vast oceans dotted with scattered islands and newly formed landmasses. Panoram State, a mere ten thousand years old, possesses thin psychic energies. Its strongest inhabitants are only at the Competent Force Realm.]


    "So it''s a new continent," Ethan mused.


    He had heard tales of these new landmasses.


    Some psychics from the main continent specialized in exploiting these nascent lands.

 Chapter 377 - 377: Congratulations on your breakthrough

    Ethan shifted his attention to Adam and Alexander.


    Ten years might be a blink of an eye for the Blackwood elders, but for the younger generation, it was a significant portion of their lives.


    The last time he saw them, the father and son were pirates commanding an eighth-grade Undying Pirate Ship.


    Now, they were engaged in a fierce battle against a group of psychics at the edge of Panoram State, their ship cutting through the waves.


    Even in Azure Cloud, Emerging Ability psychics were nothing special.


    However, in Panoram State, they seemed to be regarded as formidable figures.


    Adam and Alexander, aboard their ship, led their undead crew in a relentless assault against their opponents.


    It was clear that Panoram State''s techniques were lacking; only twenty or so psychics could fly on their swords.


    This was a complete and utter domination.


    [Your descendants, Adam and Alexander, have spent years cultivating on the high seas aboard their pirate ship. Adam has reached the peak of the Emerging Ability Realm, while Alexander has advanced to the middle stage.]


    [The father and son duo discovered Panoram State and decided to explore its territories.]


    [Upon landing, they were confronted by a group of psychics seeking to claim their possessions. They learned that their adversary was the city lord and were forced into battle.]


    "So that''s what happened," Ethan murmured, deciding not to intervene.


    The strongest individuals in Panoram State were only at the Competent Force Realm.


    Adam and Alexander had Competent Force experts protecting them from the shadows.


    Next, Ethan turned his attention to Benjamin.


    Unlike Adam and Alexander, who had chosen a life of adventure on the high seas, Benjamin had opted for a different path after the Blackwood clan entered seclusion.


    The young man was currently amidst a crowd of people.


    Numerous young psychics gathered outside a mountain, awaiting the opening of a grand formation.


    A Developing Skill psychic rose into the air and announced in a deep voice, "The Treasure Mountain opens once a century. Today, the young generation of Blackwater County will compete for the title of champion..."


    Benjamin, having experienced his fair share of the world, rolled his eyes at the Developing Skill psychic''s theatrics.


    "Someone might mistake you for the Celestial Hand with all that posturing," he muttered sarcastically.


    [Guided by Olivia, your descendant, Benjamin, has been cultivating and seeking opportunities throughout the land.]


    [He has participated in battles over the ruins of Developing Skill psychics, been hunted by Developing Skill experts, and received invitations from powerful factions. His cultivation has advanced to the Transcendent Seed Realm...


    He has obtained numerous spoils of war: a low-grade ability weapon, the "Transcendent Blood Droplet"; a mid-grade ability weapon, the "Cloudwyrm Illusion Beast Pendant"; and a profound-grade technique, the "Earth Deity Descent Technique"... ]


    [Gained trait: Worldly Wise.]


    [Having witnessed the wonders and tribulations of the world, his comprehension has increased by 3%. His comprehension will continue to grow as he experiences more.]


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, is currently participating in the "Blackwater Youth Champion Competition." The individual who obtains the most tokens from the Treasure Mountain will be crowned champion...]


    Ethan watched his three youngest descendants with a hint of melancholy.


    The Blackwood clan once had many such youths.


    They, too, should have had the opportunity to live such vibrant lives.


    Time flew by, and another decade passed.


    [Blackwood Year 250]


    As the Grand Rite commenced, Ethan opened his eyes once more.


    The thirteen members of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary remained unchanged. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Marcus had grown stronger, acquiring two more psychic artifacts, and the third generation of Blackwoods had obtained a substantial amount of Druid bones.


    "He broke through?" Ethan exclaimed, his eyes widening in delight.


    It was Nathan, who had been cultivating in seclusion among the Druids!


    Within a Druid psychic sanctuary, Nathan exhaled slowly, his body wreathed in black energy.


    His aura had grown significantly more powerful.


    "Forebearer, I have broken through!" Nathan announced, unable to contain his excitement.


    Every step closer to power brought him closer to avenging his family.


    Mike and Arnold, two Druids, approached Nathan with smiles, offering their congratulations.


    "Congratulations on your breakthrough, Mr. Nathan!"


    "Hahaha, thank you both," Nathan replied with a hearty laugh.


    Ethan smiled, heartened by the sight of Nathan''s camaraderie with the two Druids.


    Nathan had been concealing his true strength all these years, even taking nine wives to maintain his cover.


    His peaceful life and cultivation were due in part to the friendship of Mike and Arnold.


    [After years of cultivation, your descendant, Nathan, has gradually gained control over his powers.


    Although he is unable to fully utilize the "Four Symbols Death Energy Formation Technique" without the Death Coffin Formation, he has combined the death energy from the corpses provided by Daniel, the souls he has gathered, and his mid-Competent Force cultivation to reach half of his former strength!]


    [Using the "Four Symbols Death Energy Formation Technique" as a foundation, he has created his own unique technique, the profound-grade "Myriad Souls Solitary Path Technique." This technique allows him to absorb the souls of others, using them as a foundation for his power.]


    Ethan had witnessed the Myriad Souls Solitary Path Technique in action.


    It allowed Nathan to absorb the souls of ten thousand beings and borrow their power, similar to the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation Technique.


    However, it was an incomplete version, lacking the full might of the Death Coffin technique.


    Still, it was a testament to Nathan''s talent that he had created his own unique technique.


    Ethan glanced at his other descendants.


    Lucas''s injuries had healed to seventy percent.


    Julian''s mastery of his professions continued to grow.


    Amelia remained dedicated to her alchemy.


    Just as Ethan was about to re-enter seclusion, his expression shifted.


    [Special Event - Chuck''s Breakthrough]


    [Your family friend, Chuck, ranked on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, has been suppressing his cultivation for many years. Under the guidance of General Owen and Daoist Bill in the Imperial Domain, he has experienced an epiphany, reaching the threshold of the Basic Mastery Realm. He can no longer suppress the impending Heavenly Tribulation!]


    Donna''s face paled as she appeared within the Ancestral Grounds.


    "Forebearer, what do we do?" she asked urgently.


    "Master is in the Imperial Domain. If he breaks through to the Basic Mastery Realm, he''ll need to find a secluded location. He won''t be able to conceal his aura. The Celestial Venerable will..."


    He would be discovered!


    Within the Imperial Domain, the eyes of numerous Aspects of the Celestial Hand snapped open.


    The Basic Mastery Aspect who had arrived from Sunshine Mansion twenty years ago was still present!


    A cruel smile spread across his face.


    "Found you, you cowardly rat!"


    In Sunshine Mansion, atop Kylin Mountain, Austin sipped his tea.


    His eyes suddenly brightened as he glanced at the caged birds outside.


    "Chuck, is it?" he chuckled.


    "An interesting fellow indeed. To think he was hiding his true cultivation all along. It seems his ranking on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking was a farce."


    "My, my," he murmured, his voice laced with amusement.


    "I''ve stumbled upon a fascinating new collectible."

 Chapter 378 - 378: How... how is this possible?

    Atop Amber Hill, Chuck sat cross-legged, his form bathed in the eerie glow of gathering storm clouds.


    The wind howled, carrying with it the oppressive weight of an impending tribulation.


    The air crackled with anticipation, a symphony of raw power waiting to be unleashed.


    For an unknown amount of time, Chuck remained still, a statue amidst the brewing tempest.


    Then, from within his depths, a spectral figure rose, shimmering into existence above his head.


    It was his nascent spirit, the embodiment of his years of dedicated cultivation ¨C his Competent Force.


    Breaking through to the Basic Mastery Realm at the Competent Force level was no simple feat.


    It was a trial by fire, a test of both body and spirit against the unyielding fury of the heavens.


    Not only would Chuck face the legendary Heavenly Thunder Tribulation, but his very essence, his Competent Force, would also be judged.


    This was the Trial of the Nascent Spirit.


    The heavens would unleash their wrath in the form of a Thunder Beast, its power directly proportional to the strength of the nascent spirit it sought to test.


    If the nascent spirit was weak, if the techniques it was founded upon were flawed, then utter annihilation awaited.


    Few artifacts in existence could withstand the sheer destructive power of the Nascent Spirit Thunder Tribulation.


    As the storm clouds churned, a figure materialized within their depths.


    An elderly man, clad in luxurious robes, his bearing radiating an air of authority ¨C a seasoned player in the game of courtly intrigue.


    He observed the spectral form of Chuck''s nascent spirit, a knowing smile playing on his lips as the tribulation coalesced into a fearsome phantom of lightning.


    "Congratulations, Fellow Daoist Chuck, on reaching the cusp of the Basic Mastery Realm," the newcomer boomed, his voice echoing across the mountaintop.


    "To achieve such a feat, hailing from the humble Azure Cloud, marks you as a true rising star."


    Chuck''s brow furrowed at the sight of the newcomer.


    It was Declan, an official from the Imperial Court, a member of Grand Advisor Lance''s faction.


    Declan had attempted to recruit Chuck years ago back in Cloudview County.


    But back then, Chuck was still a disciple of the Arcane Society, his master still alive, and he had politely declined the offer.


    Even after Chuck''s arrival in the Imperial Domain, Declan hadn''t given up on recruiting him.


    Now, on the verge of his Basic Mastery tribulation, Chuck found himself once again under Lance''s watchful eye.


    Forgoing pleasantries, Chuck cut to the chase.


    "My Basic Mastery tribulation is about to commence, Sir Declan. I''d appreciate it if you would be brief."


    "Hahaha, ever straightforward, Fellow Daoist Chuck," Declan chuckled, stroking his beard.


    "Very well, I''ll get straight to the point. Grand Advisor Lance has always held you in high regard. He often laments that your origins from the chaotic and impoverished Azure Cloud have hindered your true potential. Upon learning of your impending tribulation, he has tasked me with delivering a treasure that will aid you in overcoming this ordeal."


    Despite Declan''s amiable demeanor, Chuck remained wary, his gaze fixed intently on the official.


    Undeterred, Declan continued, "All that is required is your pledge to serve Grand Advisor Lance once you ascend to the Basic Mastery Realm. Overcome this tribulation with our aid, and a glorious path to immortality awaits you."


    Chuck scoffed at the offer of power and wealth. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I appreciate the gesture, Sir Declan, but I must decline."


    Declan''s expression darkened.


    He was well aware of Grand Advisor Lance''s interest in Chuck, an interest that bordered on envy.


    He hadn''t anticipated such a blunt refusal.


    "Fellow Daoist Chuck," he warned, his voice hardening, "I urge you to reconsider. Without external assistance, this tribulation will not be easy to overcome. As I understand it, you''ve made no preparations for this moment."


    Declan''s gaze swept across the desolate mountaintop, a sneer twisting his lips.


    "Furthermore, your involvement with the Blackwoods has earned you some powerful enemies. Even if you survive this tribulation, you''ll be left vulnerable to their retaliation."


    "Pledge your allegiance to Grand Advisor Lance, and I guarantee your safety. A single word from me, and your troubles will vanish."


    "Otherwise..." Declan let the threat hang heavy in the air, his patience wearing thin after Chuck''s repeated rejections.


    Chuck, however, remained unfazed by the veiled threat.


    Instead, a different emotion flickered across his face ¨C alarm.


    "Lance knows about the Celestial Hand?!"


    "Hahaha!" Declan burst into laughter.


    "My dear Chuck, do you truly believe anything escapes Grand Advisor Lance''s notice? He knows far more than you realize."


    Noticing Chuck''s unease, Declan softened his tone.


    "Your dealings with the Blackwoods have not gone unnoticed, Fellow Daoist Chuck. You''re alive today because Grand Advisor Lance has seen fit to lend a helping hand on occasion. A wise man knows when to seize an opportunity. Why waste your talents? Only Grand Advisor Lance knows your true strength, a strength that could place you among the top five on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking."


    "Believe me, joining Grand Advisor Lance''s ranks will bring you unimaginable benefits. Ask yourself, what have the Blackwoods given you in return for your loyalty? They cannot help you withstand this tribulation, nor can they protect you from your enemies. A path to greatness lies before you..."


    Declan''s words were cut short as his expression shifted from persuasive to wary.


    A figure shot up from the foot of Amber Hill, landing on the summit with a resounding thud that sent dust and debris flying.


    As the dust settled, Declan''s eyes narrowed.


    He recognized the newcomer.


    It was Donna Blackwood.


    Donna glanced at Declan, her brow furrowing as she sensed his peak Competent Force Realm cultivation.


    She couldn''t fathom how her master had crossed paths with such an unsightly old geezer, but she pushed the thought aside for the moment.


    With a bright smile, she tossed a storage ring to her master.


    "Master, look what I brought you!"


    "Hmm?" Chuck caught the ring, his eyes widening in surprise as he examined its contents.


    He looked at Donna, confusion etched on his face.


    "Donna, what is all this?"


    "Oh, this?" Donna grinned, striking a playful pose.


    "You might have caught us off guard with your sudden breakthrough, but luckily for you, you have an amazing disciple who wouldn''t dream of forgetting her dear master. Consider this a little care package from the family to help you conquer your Competent Force tribulation."


    Declan frowned, observing the pride in Donna''s stance and the flicker of astonishment in Chuck''s eyes.


    He could tell that the contents of the storage ring were valuable to Chuck, but he couldn''t bring himself to believe that the Blackwoods possessed anything truly useful.


    His skepticism vanished a moment later, replaced by a jolt of disbelief.


    Chuck emptied the storage ring, and the air around them thrummed with potent energy.


    Sixth-grade pills, sixth-grade psychic medicines, even sixth-grade psychic artifacts and formation disks tumbled out, along with two exquisite soul-protecting ability weapons!


    Every single item was specifically designed to protect and restore a nascent spirit during the throes of a tribulation.


    "How... how is this possible?" Declan stammered, his composure shaken.


    "Where did you get so many pills and medicines?"

 Chapter 379 - 379: Were not cut from the same cloth

    Declan muttered under his breath and rubbed the Storage Ring on his finger.


    Inside were fifth-grade pills and a high-level mystical equipment bestowed upon him by the national advisor.


    Although... there might have been more if some of them weren''t stashed away in his own treasury.


    But... he couldn''t resist the allure of Blackwood''s sixth-grade pills and mystical potions!


    "Master, why did you bring everything out? Don''t you know the saying, ''Don''t display your wealth''?" Donna asked, eyeing Declan warily as the treasures floated in the air.


    Declan''s face turned pale.


    He understood now.


    Chuck was putting on a show of force for his benefit!


    Chuck''s eyes were filled with scorn as he said to Declan, "Give my thanks to Lance. And tell him to keep his nose out of my business. We''re not cut from the same cloth."


    "You..." Anger flashed across Declan''s face, but he felt Donna''s killing intent and swallowed his words.


    Chuck might still have some reservations, but he knew that the Blackwoods were utterly fearless now!


    He let out a cold snort.


    "Chuck, the Blackwoods may have given you many pills, but you better be clear: there''s no such thing as a regret pill!"


    "Cut the crap! My master told you to get lost!" Donna roared.


    Declan left reluctantly after Donna''s angry rebuke.


    It wasn''t long...


    ...before he was far away, daring to curse through gritted teeth.


    "The national advisor was showing you favor, you should be honored! Such ingratitude, you''re a fool!"


    Soon, he saw several figures appear in the air.


    A smile spread across his face.


    "Hahaha, Brody, Chuck and that Blackwood girl who doesn''t know her place are all yours!"


    ...


    Glaring at Declan''s retreating figure, Donna turned to Chuck with a puzzled look.


    "Master, who is this Lance you mentioned?"


    Chuck scoffed.


    "He''s just one of Lance''s dogs, trying to win me over."


    Donna suddenly understood.


    Her master had told her about these things.


    The people in the grand hall were always trying to recruit others.


    Back in Azure Cloud, the Blackwoods had been courted by many imperial forces, even the emperor himself.


    If they had to choose a side, the Blackwoods were closest to Grand Tutor Gilbert.


    But now, her people gradually understood that compared to these so-called social niceties, true friends were those who could go through hardships and share riches together.


    "So he came bearing gifts for Master." Donna grumbled, "You should have accepted them, Master. My family always says, ''There''s no such thing as a free lunch.''"


    "Hmph!" Chuck snorted.


    "Even if Lance offered me a divine artifact, I wouldn''t spare it a glance. I wouldn''t want to taint myself."


    "Enough about that."


    Chuck turned his gaze to the pills surrounding him and frowned at Donna.


    "Donna, these things must have been hard to come by, right? I know the Blackwoods are not what they used to be, your people are on the run. My chances of breaking through this time are slim. Take these things back, the Blackwoods need them more than I do. It would be a waste to use them on me."


    He wasn''t lying.


    Breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm was extremely difficult.


    Countless people had perished attempting it.


    Even with all the help in the world, he wasn''t entirely confident.


    Moreover...


    He narrowed his eyes, sensing his surroundings.


    He knew that many pairs of eyes were watching him!


    "Heehee."


    Donna leaped forward, ignoring the sixth-grade pills and mystical potions that were considered rare and precious in places like Cloudview County.


    "Master, my family said that you''re not just my master, you''ve helped our family a lot over the years. This is a life-and-death friendship. Don''t even mention these pills and potions, if there''s anything better, we''ll send it to you."


    "Focus on your breakthrough, Master. As for the outside..." Donna slowly turned around, sensing the probing consciousness from all directions.


    These consciousnesses were filled with murderous intent and danger, making her feel like a wary beast.


    "Leave it to us! As long as we''re here, no one will disturb your breakthrough!"


    ...


    "Donna... the Blackwoods... everyone from Cloudview County..."


    Lightning surged as Chuck looked at Donna''s back.


    This was the first time in many years that he had sensed Donna''s aura.


    Apart from the pride he felt for his disciple''s growth, he was more grateful to the Blackwoods.


    Strangely, his initial uncertainty about breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm transformed into unwavering determination.


    "I will break through to the Basic Mastery realm, I must!"


    He knew that the Blackwoods, as well as many fellow cultivators from Cloudview County, had already made arrangements.


    They were near Amber Hill!


    They didn''t even know how strong the enemy was, nor what preparations the enemy had made.


    His breakthrough this time was too sudden.


    But they still stood by his side without hesitation.


    Just like back in Cloudview County, when they faced countless unknown dangers together.


    He had lived for almost a thousand years, and this was the first time he had desired so strongly to accomplish something.


    Because his disciple, his friends, all hoped that he would succeed, that he would live!


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared in the sky, forming a lightning dragon that collided with his Competent Force.


    He slowly stood up, clenching his fists.


    Bathed in the terrifying power of the lightning tribulation, a smile appeared on his face, flushed red by the purple lightning.


    "My friends, wait for me to break through this Basic Mastery tribulation, and we shall face the enemy together!"


    ...


    High in the sky, numerous figures were watching Amber Hill!


    They were Heavenly Path Venerable projections from the imperial, and the one standing at the forefront was a Heavenly Path Basic Mastery projection from Sunshine Mansion, along with Brody, ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking.


    However, Brody kept a subtle distance from the Basic Mastery projection. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Even the other Heavenly Path projections from the imperial followed closely behind Brody, as if they belonged to different factions.


    "It seems Chuck is attempting to break through to the Basic Mastery realm this time. The Blackwoods must have made preparations."


    The Basic Mastery projection looked at Donna''s massive figure in front of Amber Hill and then glanced sideways at Brody.


    "Congratulations, Brody. The Blackwoods must be prepared for a fight. As the most powerful projection of the imperial, you might be able to break through to the Basic Mastery realm after this battle."


    Brody''s face darkened with anger.


    He glanced at the other imperial projections behind him and saw a flicker of vigilance in their eyes.


    The Basic Mastery projection''s words sounded like congratulations, but they were actually a trap.


    This was going to be a fierce battle, and in a battle, there would be casualties.


    Only by inheriting a portion of the fallen''s power could he break through to the Basic Mastery realm!


    Although they couldn''t disobey the commands of their main consciousness, it didn''t stop them from playing little games with each other.


    Brody could sense that the projections behind him had ulterior motives.


    After the upcoming battle, these projections might very well use the old geezer''s words to get rid of him!


    "Don''t you dare try to sow discord among our imperial projections!"

 Chapter 380 - 380: This will be a bloody battle

    Brody scoffed.


    "I''m afraid it''s you who will die, Hudson! Why do you think, out of all the Sunshine Mansion projections, they sent you? Because you''re the most useless! You''ve lived for eight thousand years and you''re still only at the middle stage of Basic Mastery! Your power would be better off with the rest of us!"


    "You..." Hudson''s face contorted with rage. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The other imperial projections narrowed their eyes.


    It was no wonder Brody thrived in the imperial court, able to lead so many projections and even hold an official position.


    With just a few words, he shattered Hudson''s attempt to sow discord and united the imperial projections.


    These projections were not only independent, but they also came from different regions.


    They radiated outwards from Sunshine Mansion, gradually spreading across the Emerald Empire.


    Naturally, the projections from Sunshine Mansion were the oldest.


    The oldest projection in the imperial court had only lived for two thousand years before dying of old age!


    However, this didn''t mean that the projections from Sunshine Mansion held the highest status.


    They all looked down on each other.


    Brody, for one, held the Sunshine Mansion projections in contempt.


    He had reached the peak of Pinnacle Apprentice at the age of five hundred and was only a hair''s breadth away from breaking through to Basic Mastery.


    He was confident in his abilities!


    "Heh." Hudson, an old fox himself, sneered.


    "Brody, Brody, do you really think you''re so talented? If it weren''t for the Basic Mastery expert who died in the Battle of Glory City, and the twenty-plus Competent Force experts who perished alongside him, you wouldn''t have received so much natural energy or obtained the Phoenix Blood Physique. You wouldn''t have made it this far!"


    Brody was about to retort...


    ...when all the projections in the sky turned their attention towards Amber Hill.


    "Boom!"


    Dark clouds gathered, unleashing a torrential downpour that stretched for thousands of miles.


    Bolts of lightning crashed down towards Amber Hill!


    In an instant, the projections shot forward.


    They didn''t fear the lightning tribulation.


    Their main consciousness had given them an order: stop Chuck from undergoing the tribulation, even at the cost of their own existence!


    They knew this was their main consciousness''s way of forcing the Blackwoods out and annihilating them.


    As expected...


    As they pressed forward, figures emerged from all directions!


    Upon seeing these figures, the projections were consumed by rage.


    "Finally shown yourselves, you rats! You filthy rats!!!"


    Donna, Bill Daoist, The Celestial Star Swordmaster, Sam...


    These were the ants who had been hunting down their weakest projections all these years, playing a game of hide-and-seek across the imperial lands.


    These were the ants who had tortured their captured projections day and night, forcing them to share in their agonizing memories.


    They glared at the group from Azure Cloud, their killing intent burning especially fiercely for the dozen or so Rogue Cultivators among them.


    Those Rogue Cultivators were capable of anything!


    ...


    Thunder roared, wind howled, and heavy rain lashed down as over a hundred cultivators from Azure Cloud faced off against the Heavenly Path Venerable projections.


    For years, they had been fighting a guerrilla war against the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, knowing full well that even killing a projection would only make the main consciousness stronger.


    They held their breath, their heartbeats echoing in their ears amidst the storm.


    Despite years of fighting wits and courage against the Heavenly Path Venerable projections...


    ...they had to admit, they were terrified.


    If they could, they would rather flee and never face such an overwhelmingly powerful enemy again.


    Over the years, they hadn''t managed to kill a single Heavenly Path Venerable projection.


    Instead, they resorted to capturing and imprisoning them.


    But today, bloodshed was inevitable!


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster stared at the approaching Heavenly Path projections, their expressions mocking.


    He couldn''t deny the fear that gripped him.


    His voice, though icy, trembled slightly.


    "Donna, is it true that killing their projections will only make them stronger?"


    "Yes." Donna nodded solemnly.


    She wouldn''t lie to her comrades about the true power of a Heavenly Path Venerable, even if it meant discouraging them.


    "Besides capturing them, are there any other weaknesses we can exploit?"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s knuckles turned white as he gripped his sword.


    "Can we use formations to trap the energy they release upon death?"


    "We''ve tried, but it doesn''t work."


    Donna''s gaze locked onto Brody.


    Twenty years ago, she had fought against Psychic, ranked eighteenth on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, and lost.


    Now, she wanted to see how she measured up against Brody, the third-ranked prodigy!


    The others also fixed their gazes on the Heavenly Path projections.


    Bill Daoist exhaled slowly, assessing the strength of their opponents.


    "Two hundred and five in total. Hudson, at the middle stage of Basic Mastery, will be my opponent. In addition, there are twelve at the Competent Force realm, one hundred and twenty-one at the Developing Skill realm, and the rest are all at the Emerging Ability realm. None of them are to be underestimated."


    "Among those at the Developing Skill realm, a few are particularly formidable. They''re already at the peak of their realm."


    "This will be a bloody battle."


    A bloody battle indeed.


    They were completely outnumbered, and unlike the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, they wouldn''t grow stronger from the deaths of their comrades.


    If a Heavenly Path Venerable projection died, it would be replaced by another, potentially even stronger one.


    If they died, they died.


    Their battle against the Druids had at least been a fair trade, but this... this was different.


    This was never a fair fight.


    By killing the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, they were only making the main consciousness stronger!


    As if sensing the fear in his companions, Bill Daoist lowered his head slightly, his voice heavy.


    "So, my friends, are you afraid?"


    Thunder boomed over Amber Hill, the rain intensified, and the Heavenly Path Venerable projections drew closer.


    Despite their own strength, the cultivators from Azure Cloud couldn''t shake the bone-chilling cold that seeped into their hearts.


    "Damn it!" Sam gritted his teeth.


    "My mother always told me, as the head of the Jones family, I should never act impulsively. I should always prioritize our interests. Looks like I''m making a bad business decision today. I''m scared, but I will fight!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster glanced at the young man, a sudden sense of relief washing over him.


    "Let''s fight then. There''s no point in being afraid. My friends, if I fall today, I have two favors to ask. First, tell Olivia that... that I never got to say what was in my heart. And second, Jayden of the Crimson Gate Syndicate...


    he beat my brother to near death. I want him dead."


    As their voices faded, the gazes of the Azure Cloud cultivators hardened with resolve.


    "To hell with the Heavenly Path! I came here to kill these bastards!"


    "Alright, let''s see just how terrifying this Heavenly Path really is!"


    "They call Azure Cloud a backwater, treat us like country bumpkins. If Senior Chuck becomes a Basic Mastery expert, then we''ll have a true powerhouse in Azure Cloud! If my worthless life can help pave the way for a Basic Mastery expert, then it''s a worthy sacrifice!"

 Chapter 381 - 381: He was... toying with her

    As the cultivators from Azure Cloud exchanged words, their fighting spirit soared.


    They knew that on Amber Hill stood Chuck, their comrade who had faced the Druids alongside them, who had shared life and death with them on the battlefield!


    No matter how terrifying the Heavenly Path was, they would not retreat!


    Sensing their determination, Bill Daoist exhaled slowly, a smile finally gracing his lips.


    Truth be told... he was afraid too.


    But now, he understood.


    Perhaps it was on that day, when the Blackwoods had sought him out in the Abyss, when he had stepped foot into the chaotic battleground of Azure Cloud and fought alongside these people, that he had forged an unbreakable bond with the people of Cloudview County.


    "Hoo."


    He unleashed his psychic powers, summoning the Great Wall that stood guard at the border of Azure Cloud to shield Amber Hill from behind.


    Eyes fixed coldly on the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, he charged forward.


    "Come, my friends! Let us fight together! Do not let a single one set foot on Amber Hill!"


    "Kill!!!"


    ...


    The Emerald Empire had existed for hundreds of thousands of years, an epoch of countless power struggles and the rise and fall of mighty psychics.


    Now, the empire was ruled with absolute authority by the emperor.


    Over the years, the Emerald Empire had enjoyed periods of great prosperity, while its borderlands were periodically ravaged by disasters.


    Sometimes, it was warmongers like Grand Tutor Gilbert who led their psychics on campaigns of conquest.


    But peace and prosperity often bred corruption and complacency.


    Now, within the Emerald Empire, two pairs of eyes were fixed on Amber Hill. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A Competent Force expert attempting to break through to Basic Mastery, along with a rising star like Chuck, was impossible to miss.


    Perhaps they sought to recruit them like Lance, or perhaps...


    ...perhaps they simply watched the events unfolding on Amber Hill like a play, amused by the spectacle.


    And if the mood struck them, they might descend like hunters toying with their prey!


    "Fools, utter fools."


    Decked in luxurious robes, Declan floated high in the air, far from the raging battle on Amber Hill.


    The anger he had felt when trying to recruit Chuck had vanished, replaced by a strange sense of pity.


    "With such talent, he could have pledged his allegiance to the national advisor and lived a life of peace and comfort. Yet he chooses this path of destruction. And those Azure Cloud psychics, daring to oppose the Heavenly Path... they are courting their own annihilation. Even the expert from Crystal Crest wouldn''t dare to confront the Heavenly Path directly."


    As his words echoed through the air, the battle on Amber Hill erupted!


    Thunder roared, lightning flashed, and torrential rain lashed down as the might of a Competent Force expert undergoing the tribulation shook the heavens.


    Over three hundred psychics unleashed their powers, their advanced mystical equipment blazing with energy.


    The chaotic yet magnificent spectacle filled the sky and earth with a maelstrom of psychic energy.


    The hundred or so cultivators from Azure Cloud were all seasoned veterans.


    Their war against the Druids had raged for over a century.


    Though outnumbered and outmatched, their techniques and skills inferior to those of the Heavenly Path Venerable projections, they fought with unwavering determination to defend Amber Hill, pushing back against their formidable foes.


    It was ironic, in a way.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable projections, though sharing the same consciousness, were hampered by their own distrust and inability to cooperate fully.


    On the other hand, the cultivators from Azure Cloud, hailing from different backgrounds and with different experiences, fought together as one.


    Bill Daoist and Hudson, both at the Basic Mastery realm, clashed in a dazzling display of psychic might high above the battlefield.


    Donna and The Celestial Star Swordmaster, however, found themselves in a dire situation.


    On the side of the Blackwoods, besides Donna, The Celestial Star Swordmaster, and an elder named Martin, there was only Charlie Crackle, the Exploding Sky Serpent who had accompanied Donna.


    They were four Competent Force experts against twelve, including the monstrously powerful Brody!


    "I''d heard rumors of the Blackwoods'' rising stars. Nathan and Amelia, who both endured the nine-nine tribulation lightning. And then there''s Marcus, a prodigy from my own Psychic Sanctuary. To think I''d encounter another survivor of the nine-nine tribulation lightning here, near Amber Hill."


    Brody''s voice was calm as he addressed Donna.


    "A pity you''re only at the initial stage of Competent Force. If you were at the peak, with your Supreme Overlord Body, you might actually pose a challenge. Unfortunately..."


    Brody was truly exceptional!


    He stood over seven feet tall, his face bearing the weathered look of a seasoned general.


    Clad in silver armor etched with intricate runes, he cut an imposing figure.


    The armor itself was no ordinary artifact.


    It shielded him from Donna''s attacks, her punches, which had even given the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice pause, failing to leave so much as a dent.


    Every time she got close, shadowy apparitions would erupt from the armor, catching her off guard.


    The spear he wielded was equally extraordinary.


    It was massive, over ten feet long, its head covered in grooves.


    With each swing, though its movements were visible to the naked eye, the spear seemed to pierce through space itself, its attacks arriving from unexpected angles.


    The spear pulsed with mystical energy, wreathed in protective phoenix flames that burned with an unnatural intensity.


    Above Brody''s head, a golden bead hovered, emitting seven points of light that formed a pyramid-shaped barrier, trapping Donna within.


    Adding to his already formidable power was the Phoenix Blood Physique.


    A silver phoenix phantom danced around him, its screech amplifying his attacks, making them seem unstoppable, his psychic energy inexhaustible.


    "He''s strong!" Donna thought, her back against the edge of the barrier.


    She had been pushed to her limit.


    Brody, the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice, was at least ten times stronger than the eighteenth-ranked expert she had faced before!


    Donna herself was no longer entirely human.


    Twenty years of cultivating psychic powers, though she was only at the initial stage of Competent Force, had transformed her.


    Her once fifteen-foot frame had shrunk to thirteen feet, her skin, visible beneath her vest-like armor, a tapestry of corded muscle and bulging veins.


    She fought unarmed, her fists her most powerful weapons.


    She was already giving it her all.


    The Supreme Overlord Body and the Thunderclap Diamond Physique enhanced her strength to unimaginable levels.


    Even a peak Competent Force expert wouldn''t dare to take one of her punches head-on.


    Her eyes, one black, one gold, pulsed with power.


    She was drawing upon the full might of the sixth-grade Buddha-Demon Disk, her body crackling with lightning, her strength growing exponentially.


    And behind her...


    Grotesque tentacles, crackling with electricity, writhed in the air like the limbs of a monstrous kraken.


    Her vertical eye, ever vigilant, tracked Brody''s every move.


    But even so...


    One of her arms hung limp, pierced by multiple spear wounds that stood out starkly against her bulging muscles.


    Thankfully, her Supreme Overlord Body possessed incredible regenerative abilities.


    Her bones cracked back into place, and the gruesome wounds on her body closed rapidly, flesh knitting itself back together at a speed visible to the naked eye.


    "He''s not even at full strength."


    Donna gritted her teeth and vanished in a flash of movement.


    But Brody simply stood there, casually swinging his spear.


    When she reappeared, several new wounds marred her body.


    A faint smile played on Brody''s lips.


    He was... toying with her!


    No.


    Donna''s eyes narrowed.


    She saw it.


    A flicker of relief, a subtle increase in Brody''s power.


    She glanced beyond the confines of the barrier and saw that her comrades from Azure Cloud had slain one of the Heavenly Path Venerable projections!


    It was a hollow victory, a grim reminder of the terrifying truth they all faced.


    Their enemies were already terrifyingly powerful, and with each fallen projection, the remaining ones grew stronger!

 Chapter 382 - 382: Defend Amber Hill

    "See that?" A cruel smile flickered across Brody''s face.


    For twenty years, he had been tormented by the Blackwoods.


    For twenty years, he had shared in the suffering of his captured projections as they endured the Blackwoods'' tortures.


    Now, it was time for these clowns to learn their place.


    "Nothing you do matters!" Brody taunted.


    "You Blackwoods are no different from all the others who dared to oppose us. You''re all just stepping stones on the Heavenly Path''s rise to power!"


    "Go to hell!" Donna roared, her body once again bathed in celestial lightning.


    The Buddha-Demon Disk and the Thunder Forged Adamantine Body activated, pushing her strength even further.


    This time, she was withstanding 60% of the lightning tribulation''s full power, the absolute limit of what she could handle!


    She had never pushed herself this far, not even when facing the eighteenth-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice.


    Exceeding her limits would have disastrous consequences.


    "I don''t care about your precious Heavenly Path, or how invincible you think you are! You will pay for what you did to my people!"


    Donna''s speed and strength surged.


    Brody''s expression shifted.


    He had been toying with her before, effortlessly deflecting her attacks.


    But now... this unknown girl was actually dodging his spear!


    ...


    [Special Event - Defend Amber Hill]


    [Your descendant, Donna, is fighting alongside cultivators from Azure Cloud to protect Chuck. They are under attack by multiple Heavenly Path Venerable projections from the imperial court.]


    Ethan stared at the pale blue screen, his expression grave.


    Even though he wasn''t present at Amber Hill, he knew the impossible odds Donna and their friends from Azure Cloud faced.


    They were outnumbered, outmatched, facing an enemy they could not defeat.


    Meanwhile, in other corners of the world, his other descendants were also fighting for their lives!


    [Radiant Sky Grotto]


    [Your descendant''s wife, Helen, is taking advantage of the distraction caused by the events at Amber Hill. While the imperial nobles are preoccupied, she has contacted Owen and infiltrated Radiant Sky Grotto to rescue Julian.]


    Inside Radiant Sky Grotto, disguised as a servant girl with Owen''s help, Helen finally met up with Julian.


    "Great Grandfather!" Helen bowed deeply.


    Julian, reduced to performing menial labor, stood in the mystical beast enclosure, pitchfork in hand... sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing her great grandfather in such a sorry state brought tears to Helen''s eyes.


    When had he ever suffered such humiliation in Azure Cloud?


    "We have to get you out of here, Great Grandfather," she said, her voice firm.


    "We can''t stay in this dreadful place any longer."


    "It''s not that simple." Julian smiled sadly, tossing the pitchfork aside.


    He led Helen away from the enclosure.


    "General Owen getting you in here was already a risk. Those bastards have Radiant Sky Grotto on lockdown. The moment I step outside, they''ll know."


    He led her to the heart of Radiant Sky Grotto, to the facility where the AI Bionic Robots were manufactured.


    The building was heavily guarded.


    "This is where Radiant Sky Grotto manufactures the Iron Army for the Emerald Emperor," Julian said, his voice low.


    "Inside, there are countless AI Bionic Robots, all sealed away. You are a rising star in Formation Mastery. Once you unlock the formations, you''ll have only a few precious moments, perhaps thirty minutes at most, to seize as many AI Bionic Robots as you can."


    "Leave the rest to me." Julian turned, his gaze sweeping across Radiant Sky Grotto.


    In the shadows, points of light flickered.


    A savage grin spread across his shaved head.


    "I''m going to blow these bastards who treated me like trash to kingdom come!"


    Meanwhile...


    At the foot of Kylin Mountain, outside Sunshine Mansion...


    Benjamin, who had spent years searching for opportunities, had erected an altar.


    Upon it rested the Psychic Position of the Forebearer.


    Behind him stood a young man, bare-chested, his body covered in demonic markings.


    He carried a greatsword that pulsed with dark energy.


    "Begin, descendant," the Lord of Frenzied Blood intoned, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword.


    Benjamin nodded curtly.


    He had spotted the psychics guarding Sunshine Mansion approaching, their expressions furious.


    Ignoring them, he watched as the Lord of Frenzied Blood unleashed a torrent of demonic energy, charging towards the oncoming guards.


    Benjamin dropped to his knees, bowing before the Psychic Position.


    "Forebearer, after two hundred and fifty years, your unworthy descendant begs for your blessing! Descend upon this world!"


    Ethan''s eyes narrowed as words appeared on the translucent panel before him.


    [Your descendant is performing a sacrificial ritual...]


    [Do you wish to bestow your blessing upon your descendant?]


    ...


    Panoram State.


    Ten years had passed since Adam and his son, Alexander, had emerged victorious from the battle that had raged across the seas.


    They stood on the deck of their flagship, anchored off the coast.


    Their original fleet of eight ships had been lost in the storm, their crews lost at sea.


    But by some twist of fate, they had stumbled upon the Undying Pirate Ship, an eighth-grade artifact.


    Now, they ruled a sizable portion of Panoram State''s waters.


    Over a hundred ships flew their flag, and no psychic in the south dared to set sail without their permission.


    The psychics of Panoram State called them "The Sea King" and "The Son of the Sea."


    But such titles meant little to them.


    They stood on the deck of their ship, the sea breeze whipping at their clothes, their gazes fixed on the distant horizon, towards their homeland.


    Years at sea had changed Adam.


    He still wore his eyepatch, but he had traded his rough clothes for finer garments.


    He had matured, his features hardened by the harsh realities of life at sea and the countless battles he had fought.


    Perhaps it was the contrast with his former life, but now that he had access to luxury, he had developed a taste for cleanliness.


    He wore a magnificent golden robe, his hair long and well-kept.


    He looked less like a weathered pirate and more like a wealthy merchant, his words tinged with a hint of pretentiousness.


    "Alexander, we are like the waves, and Panoram State is but a rocky shore. No matter how solid those rocks may seem, one day, they too will be swallowed by the endless ocean."

 Chapter 383 - 383: That hope lies beyond those challenges

    Alexander fell silent for a long moment.


    He knew better than anyone the hardships he and his father, Adam, had endured during their years at sea.


    They hadn''t tasted a decent meal, nor had they enjoyed a peaceful night''s sleep.


    It was seafood, day in and day out, and rainwater was their only source of drinking water.


    Their clothes were practically disintegrating on their backs.


    And except for him, the ship was manned by a spectral crew.


    His father found solace in those days, poring over old books by Martinez.


    So, when they finally returned to land, it was no surprise that his father developed an aversion to hardship and a yearning for comfort.


    That''s how he ended up like this.


    "Dad," Alexander began, his brow furrowed with worry, "what are our people doing now? When can we go back and help them seek vengeance?"


    A deep-seated longing gnawed at him.


    He yearned to be like his brother, Benjamin, able to connect with their people, to contribute to their cause.


    Otherwise, he felt like a pale imitation of a true family member.


    Every time he and his father entered the Forebearer''s space, their kin seemed oblivious to their presence.


    No matter what they accomplished in Panoram State, it paled in comparison to the trials their people faced.


    Trials he could barely fathom.


    "Our people?" Adam chuckled, his voice full of optimism.


    "Son, you have to trust in our elders. You have to trust in the strength of our bloodline. We lost everything at sea, but that''s life, isn''t it? We face hardships, and when we overcome them, even greater challenges await. But you have to believe that hope lies beyond those challenges."


    "We lost our fleet," he continued, his voice taking on a wistful tone, "but we gained the Ghost Ship. We lost our island, but we found a new land, a vast continent where we carved out our own domain."


    "Our family is facing hardships now. We''ve lost many of our own. We''ve lost Azure Cloud, lost our standing. But I believe that our people will overcome the seemingly insurmountable obstacle that is the Heavenly Path. Our family will emerge stronger than ever!"


    Alexander''s brow furrowed again.


    He didn''t share his father''s unwavering optimism.


    All he knew was that his father clung to this belief, and that it had led them down a dangerous path.


    This fleet of ships, their control over the southern seas, the crew his father had assembled... it was all part of a risky gamble.


    His father had confided in him, sharing his plan to use their resources to conquer Panoram State, to seize its fortune.


    That was the key, he claimed, to breaking through to the Developing Skill realm.


    And once they ruled Panoram State, they would return to their family and offer their aid.


    ...


    On Amber Hill, the thunder tribulation raged on.


    The battle had been raging for half a day, the two Basic Mastery experts locked in a deadly duel high above the battlefield.


    Bill Daoist, initially confident, now felt a growing sense of unease.


    Facing Hudson was like facing Shane all over again.


    The bastard even possessed a high-level mystical artifact that was slowly tipping the scales in his favor.


    Outside Amber Hill, the initial clash of over three hundred psychics had been whittled down to less than a hundred, both sides suffering heavy losses.


    The remaining cultivators from Azure Cloud had abandoned their initial assault and now huddled together behind a series of hastily erected formations, their last line of defense.


    Inside the bombarded formations, the defenders were battered and exhausted.


    Charlie Crackle, the Blackwood''s guardian beast, had been reduced to a wisp of smoke, barely clinging to existence.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was a ghastly sight, his body covered in wounds, his clothes shredded.


    He no longer resembled the legendary Sword Saint.


    In his hand, he clutched a simple broadsword.


    His own mystical sword, a priceless artifact, had been destroyed in the fighting, and he had exhausted his supply of borrowed blades.


    None of the Azure Cloud cultivators had a spare sword to lend.


    Elder Martin was dead, slain by a Developing Skill expert who had recklessly triggered a breakthrough in the midst of battle.


    He had died alongside his killer, both obliterated in a suicidal explosion of energy.


    In this battle, such desperate acts were all too common.


    Donna had lost an arm at the shoulder, and half her face had been blown away.


    Flesh writhed at the stump of her arm, and gore bubbled on her mangled face.


    Her initial rapid regeneration had slowed to a crawl.


    She had pushed her body to its absolute limit, enduring 80% of the lightning tribulation''s power!


    For the first time in her life, Donna felt the icy breath of death on her neck.


    On the other side of the battered formations, Brody, too, bore the marks of their fierce battle. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His silver armor, once pristine, was now dented and cracked.


    His helmet was gone, revealing his wild, tangled hair.


    His free hand, clasped behind his back, trembled slightly.


    But despite his injuries, his aura was even more powerful than before.


    His spear pulsed with menacing energy.


    He stared at Donna, his expression grim, a flicker of fear lingering in his eyes.


    He knew better than anyone how monstrous Donna had become.


    The girl had tapped into some forbidden power, sacrificing her own life force to draw upon the might of the lightning tribulation, pushing her physical strength to unimaginable levels.


    She had become a genuine threat, even to him, the third-ranked Pinnacle Apprentice!


    At one point, she had almost overwhelmed him, forcing him to retreat to avoid a fatal blow.


    That was the closest he had ever come to death.


    "If she were at the peak of Competent Force..." Brody thought, his gaze cold as he surveyed the forty or so battered Azure Cloud cultivators.


    "She wouldn''t need that death-defying technique to fight me on equal footing. Where did she even learn that monstrous technique, the one that blends demonic and Buddhist powers? And these Azure Cloud cultivators..."


    He drew a sharp breath, a shiver running down his spine despite the growing strength he felt from the deaths of his fellow projections.


    They might have reveled in their newfound power, but all Brody felt was a chilling dread.


    These cultivators were nothing short of insane.


    Only lunatics would fight with such ferocity, pushing them to the brink of defeat.


    "To think that a backwater like Azure Cloud could produce psychics like you," he said, his voice cold.


    "I underestimated you. What a pity. You''ve chosen to defend a lost cause. You''re all going to die here!"


    He pointed towards Amber Hill, his words venomous, but his voice betrayed his fear.


    He was terrified.


    Terrified that Donna would choose to take him down with her.


    His threats were hollow, a desperate attempt to scare them into fleeing.


    He had to survive.


    He had to become one with his main consciousness.


    He couldn''t die here, not at the hands of these ants!


    But Donna wasn''t listening.


    She and the other Azure Cloud cultivators were staring past the enemy lines, their gazes fixed on the spectacle unfolding above Amber Hill.


    The celestial lightning had coalesced into a colossal beast, a primordial elephant of pure energy, clashing against Chuck''s own Competent Force.


    But Chuck''s energy was waning, flickering like a dying flame.


    The Basic Mastery tribulation was not just a test of physical endurance.


    It was a trial by fire for one''s very essence, for their Competent Force.


    The stronger the tribulation, the more powerful the breakthrough.


    And the form the tribulation took reflected its intensity.


    Some classified Basic Mastery tribulations into five levels, with the fifth being the most powerful.


    And the primordial elephant Chuck faced... was a fourth-level tribulation!

 Chapter 384 - 384: Whats happening?

    "A fourth-level tribulation?!" Donna exclaimed, her remaining eye widening in disbelief.


    Tribulations were classified into five levels, and those attempting to break through to the Basic Mastery realm could choose whether or not to brave a higher-level tribulation once they reached the third level.


    Her master had initially been on track for a third-level tribulation.


    Never had she imagined he would attempt a fourth-level one!


    "Hahaha, so the rumors are true! Chuck is as arrogant and stubborn as they say!" Declan''s voice boomed across the battlefield as he appeared beside Brody, a triumphant smirk on his face.


    "To think he would be foolish enough to attempt a fourth-level tribulation! Such arrogance! Such folly! He''s never witnessed the true terror of a fourth-level Basic Mastery tribulation. He''s walking to his death!"


    Brody''s face darkened at Declan''s arrival.


    He had been ready to cut his losses and retreat, but this cunning old fox had seen through him.


    "Brody," Declan said, turning to him with a sly smile.


    "Chuck is as good as dead. There''s no need to concern yourself with him any longer. As for these Azure Cloud pests..."


    He glanced at the battered defenders, a flicker of fear in his eyes.


    These people were a menace.


    "The national advisor''s orders are clear: leave no survivors."


    Brody sighed inwardly.


    He had no choice.


    With a roar, he led the remaining Heavenly Path Venerable projections forward.


    Donna''s remaining eye blazed with defiance as she watched them approach.


    "Here they come! It doesn''t matter if my master succeeds or not! We fight on! If I fall, I''ll join my master in the afterlife, and together we will repay your kindness!"


    "Yes!" The Azure Cloud cultivators roared in unison.


    They would face their deaths without fear.


    But as Brody and his forces closed in, they froze, their advance halting abruptly.


    Even the battle-hungry Azure Cloud cultivators stared in astonishment.


    Every eye on the battlefield was drawn towards a single point in the distance.


    "Boom! Boom!"


    A series of explosions ripped through the air.


    The source: Radiant Sky Grotto.


    ...


    "Boom!"


    Radiant Sky Grotto was engulfed in flames, explosions erupting across its once-serene landscape.


    The bustling marketplace outside the sect, home to countless psychics specializing in unique crafts and skills, fell silent as its inhabitants watched in horror.


    The explosions were centered around the heart of Radiant Sky Grotto, its hidden sanctuary.


    "What''s happening?"


    "Who would dare attack Radiant Sky Grotto?"


    "Have they been invaded?!"


    Panic gripped the marketplace.


    Radiant Sky Grotto was no ordinary sect.


    It housed Advanced Mastery experts and was renowned throughout the Emerald Empire.


    Some claimed that while it might not be the most powerful sect, it was undoubtedly the most unique.


    Alchemists, mystical artisans, Druid poison masters... practitioners of countless unorthodox paths had gathered within its walls.


    And these unorthodox experts were not to be trifled with.


    Moreover, Radiant Sky Grotto had maintained a strong presence in the grand hall for years, with disciples like Owen serving as its representatives.


    No one in their right mind would dare provoke them.


    And yet, their sanctuary was under attack!


    Panic spread through the marketplace like wildfire.


    Inside Radiant Sky Grotto, chaos reigned.


    Believing they were under attack, the disciples scrambled to defend their home.


    Explosions rocked the hidden sanctuary, over two hundred detonations in total.


    Deep within the sanctuary, hidden within the trunk of a towering tree, a figure materialized.


    It was an elderly man.


    He rose into the air, ascending to the highest point of Radiant Sky Grotto.


    Gazing down at the inferno below, at his panicked disciples, he made a series of calculations with his fingers.


    His brow furrowed in annoyance.


    "What reckless foolishness," he muttered.


    A disciple flew towards him, bowing respectfully.


    "Grandmaster," the disciple reported, his voice trembling, "someone planted mystical bombs throughout our sanctuary. Two hundred and thirty-six of them! They were expertly concealed, their energy signatures masked. Each bomb detonated with the force of a Developing Skill expert, causing widespread destruction."


    The middle-aged disciple, fearing his Grandmaster''s wrath, quickly added, "But rest assured, Grandmaster, the casualties are minimal. The bombs mainly damaged the land within the sanctuary. It will take a few years to restore, but the mystical beast enclosure suffered the brunt of the attack. Many of our beasts perished, and it will be a long time before we can harvest their essence for our potions.


    As for casualties... only a dozen or so disciples were injured, and two lost their lives. They were caught off guard while refining materials."


    The Grandmaster of Radiant Sky Grotto remained impassive, his gaze fixed on the chaos below.


    He resembled a benevolent grandfather, but instead of addressing the explosions, he asked, "Quinn, I hear you''ve been associating with those imperial nobles lately."


    "That..." Quinn, the sect leader and a distant descendant of the Grandmaster, stiffened.


    He fidgeted nervously, his chubby face slick with sweat.


    "Grandmaster, those imperial nobles require our assistance. It''s only natural that we maintain a cordial relationship."


    The Grandmaster nodded slowly.


    "I advise you to distance yourself from them. You seem to have learned their art of selective reporting. Why tell me only the trivial matters? Why not mention what Radiant Sky Grotto has lost? And how is it that over two hundred bombs were planted right under our noses, and yet you knew nothing of it?"


    "Forgive me, Grandmaster! It was my negligence!" Quinn Daoist prostrated himself.


    But when he looked up, the Grandmaster was gone.


    He breathed a sigh of relief, then cursed under his breath.


    "Who could have done this? And how could they have bypassed our defenses and divination techniques?!" sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As smoke and dust filled the air in Radiant Sky Grotto, a servant girl took advantage of the chaos to make her escape.


    Disciples rushed past, frantically searching for the perpetrators, while a burly man in black-gilded armor stood before her, his face a mask of disbelief.


    "You..." Owen gestured at the raging inferno around them, his gaze fixed on Helen, who seemed strangely detached from the unfolding disaster.


    "The Blackwoods promised to help me rescue Julian if I smuggled you in! Is this what they call help?!"


    "Yes," Helen replied calmly.


    "But I''m afraid I have some bad news. We couldn''t get your grandfather out."


    Owen''s eye twitched at her nonchalant tone.


    Bad news? Was there any news worse than Radiant Sky Grotto being blown to smithereens?


    The explosions, the chaos... it all pointed to the Blackwoods being behind this.


    He suddenly felt like an accomplice to a crime.


    Suppressing his anger, he reminded himself of the Blackwoods'' current predicament.


    "And the good news?" he asked through gritted teeth.


    Helen frowned, trying to figure out how to break the news without sending Owen into a frenzy.


    Just then, a distant voice cut through the commotion.


    "It''s terrible! The AI Bionic Robot facility has been robbed! Ten percent of our stock, gone!"

 Chapter 385 - 385: what do we do now?

    Owen''s face was darker than a chimney sweep''s.


    Helen laughed and said, "General Owen, can you escort me out now?"


    Her words left Owen speechless amidst the chaos of the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He stared at Helen for a long moment, then sighed and led her out.


    Meanwhile, in the Radiant Sky Grotto''s beast enclosure, Julian sat cross-legged on a stone block.


    "That''s better."


    He inhaled the scent of gunpowder, a smile spreading across his face.


    After all these years of enduring humiliation within the Radiant Sky Grotto, this explosion had blown away all his grievances!


    Suddenly, he looked up and saw an elderly man with a benevolent face appear before him.


    Julian hadn''t even noticed his arrival.


    His family had always called him simple-minded, but he could tell at a glance that this old man was no ordinary person.


    He could even guess his identity.


    However, Julian remained silent, his gaze fixed on the old man''s eyes, the relaxed smile from his earlier outburst still lingering on his face.


    "You did this?" the Radiant Sky Grotto''s Grandmaster asked, surprised by Julian''s composure.


    Even without Quinn Daoist''s report, he could easily deduce everything that had transpired within the Radiant Sky Grotto with his level of cultivation.


    He knew about the stolen AI Bionic Robot, the explosions that had rocked the grotto, and even... Helen''s departure with Owen.


    Julian nodded.


    "Yes."


    Intrigued by the silver-skinned, bald giant''s honesty, the Grandmaster warned, "Let me make one thing clear, boy. Cause trouble in my Radiant Sky Grotto, and I''ll crush you with a single hand!"


    "That''s why I''m not running," Julian replied, rising from the stone block and leaping before the Grandmaster.


    He rubbed his bald head, a guileless smile on his face.


    "I sought refuge in the Radiant Sky Grotto and worked as a handyman for many years. I''ve heard tales of the Radiant Sky Grotto''s Grandmaster, how outsiders call your path unorthodox, yet you possess true power in this world. I knew I couldn''t hide anything from your eyes."


    "I''ve long yearned to meet you, Grandmaster, but the path to enlightenment seemed closed to me. Others coveted my talents, and I feared revealing my true thoughts would lead to my demise. This display was a desperate attempt to draw you out."


    With that, he knelt before the Grandmaster, his action surprising even the ancient master.


    Prostrating himself on the ground, Julian spoke with conviction.


    "Blackwood Julian, at your service, Grandmaster! For decades, I''ve honed my skills within the Radiant Sky Grotto. I''ve reached the sixth level in crafting mystical equipment, formations, and AI Bionic Robots. Talismans, beast control, astrology... I''ve studied them all and possess true skill. Please, Grandmaster..."


    "Take me as your disciple!"


    Julian clenched his fists, dirt clinging to his fingers.


    He stared intently at the Storage Ring in his hand, his jaw set with determination.


    No one knew what he had endured all these years.


    He constantly replayed Larry''s sacrifice to save him.


    He had awakened within the Storage Ring, already aware of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s destruction of his family.


    He had experienced despair, confusion, and helplessness amidst the hostile environment of the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    But the day Forebearer appeared, he knew he had to change.


    He couldn''t remain the clueless, simpleton his clan mocked him for.


    He had waited for this day, for this gamble.


    Only by becoming Grandmaster Reid''s disciple and learning from his vast knowledge could he avenge his family and Larry!


    When Reid remained silent, Julian gritted his teeth and repeated, "Please, Grandmaster Reid, accept me as your disciple!"


    Reid studied the kneeling Julian, his fingers drumming thoughtfully within his sleeve as he calculated.


    Finally, he looked at Julian with approval, though his tone held a hint of reprimand.


    "You chose such an extreme method to become my disciple?"


    Julian explained honestly, "I needed to draw you out, Grandmaster. Also, my people stole something from the Radiant Sky Grotto. I knew I couldn''t hide it from you. So I gambled!"


    "If you deemed me worthy, my crimes would be insignificant. If not, then death would be my only reward."


    Reid''s delight grew.


    "And did you win your gamble?" he asked softly.


    Julian slowly straightened his back, meeting the benevolent old man''s gaze.


    Behind Reid, flames painted the Radiant Sky Grotto red, and the shouts of its disciples still echoed through the air. sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A smile spread across Julian''s face, and he kowtowed three times before Reid.


    "Disciple Julian greets Master!"


    Later, Julian followed Reid deeper into the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He glanced back at the grotto''s entrance, where Helen had departed.


    Far beyond the Radiant Sky Grotto lay their homeland, Azure Cloud and Glory City, where his vast clan had once thrived.


    He had never been one for thinking, for bowing and scraping, or for taking risks.


    But this time, he had gambled correctly.


    He had spent years planting explosive AI Bionic Robots throughout the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He had toiled tirelessly as a handyman, not just to steal knowledge but to gather discarded scraps and even beast droppings.


    He could have escaped during the explosions, but he chose to stay.


    The moment Reid sought him out, he knew he had won.


    His two hundred explosive AI Bionic Robots, his secretly cultivated psychic abilities, the resolve he displayed before Reid¡ªhe believed these proved he was more worthy than that sycophantic Quinn Daoist, the Grotto Master who only served the powerful.


    "Father, Forebearer," Julian murmured, his eyes welling up as he trembled, unseen, "I won."


    The explosions at the distant Radiant Sky Grotto reached even the ears of those at Amber Hill, leaving them astonished.


    "Radiant Sky Grotto... what could have happened there?" they wondered.


    Declan, ever sharp from his time alongside National Advisor Lance, felt a surge of alarm at the news.


    He noticed Donna, standing within the protective barrier at Amber Hill, betray a flicker of delight.


    His keen mind instantly connected the events at the Radiant Sky Grotto to the Blackwoods, specifically Julian!


    Brody, who had been leading a group of projections in an assault on Donna and her allies, also froze at the distant detonations.


    He stared grimly towards the Radiant Sky Grotto, his expression darkening.


    He, too, had Heavenly Path projections stationed in the market outside the Radiant Sky Grotto, and through them, he was already aware of the unfolding chaos within!


    "Brody, what do we do now?" one of the projections asked.


    As the question hung in the air, Declan, sensing something amiss, sent a mental message: "Brody, what have you learned?"


    "Owen is emerging from the Radiant Sky Grotto," Brody replied, his eyes flickering.


    "No one knows what transpired inside, but it seems they are involved."


    "And now..." he continued, his voice laced with tension, "He''s heading this way!"

 Chapter 386 - 386: Damn it, what kind of monster is this?

    "What?!"


    Declan''s face paled, and a cold sweat broke out as he looked at the unfolding breakthrough at Amber Hill.


    It dawned on him: this could all be an elaborate trap!


    Chuck''s breakthrough had captivated everyone''s attention. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Simultaneously, an explosion rocked the Radiant Sky Grotto.


    Declan believed there had to be a connection.


    His eyes widened as a realization struck him.


    "Julian is at the Radiant Sky Grotto! We''ve been watching him for years. It''s highly likely the Blackwoods orchestrated this entire situation to rescue him!"


    Brody''s gaze snapped towards Donna, his expression cold and calculating.


    She met his gaze with a mocking smile, infuriating him.


    Beneath his anger, a flicker of unease took root.


    "Donna," he snarled, "the Blackwoods are truly ruthless! You''d have Chuck achieve Basic Mastery and sacrifice yourselves as a diversion just to save Julian? Are his lives worth that much to you?!"


    His words caused the Azure Cloud members to frown and glance at Donna, exactly the reaction Brody hoped for.


    He longed to see discord among their ranks.


    However, the Azure Cloud members remained silent, much to his disappointment.


    Donna, unfazed, continued to smile mockingly.


    "Do you really think," she purred, "that we Blackwoods would stoop to something so ridiculous?"


    "You..." Brody began, but a jolt of horror cut him short.


    "No! Sunshine Mansion!" he cried out.


    ...


    Sunshine Mansion.


    Just like the day of the Blackwood raid, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections, stationed within the various factions, snapped open their eyes.


    They rose into the air and sped off in unison towards a single destination.


    This time, however, it was the Blackwoods launching an assault on Kylin Mountain!


    Storm clouds gathered ominously above Kylin Mountain, forming skeletal shapes that roared across the sky.


    Mystical totems rose into the air, crackling with power.


    Every Psychic on Kylin Mountain rushed out to meet the threat.


    The grand protective formations activated, and Roberts Psychics charged out, ready to defend their home.


    Their target: a single individual, radiating an aura of terrifying demonic energy.


    Anyone struck by his long blade fell instantly.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    He had come alone to challenge Kylin Mountain!


    "Use the binding formation! That demon is unkillable!"


    "Damn it, what kind of monster is this? Elder, he''s using Druidic magic! Physical augmentation, life-burning techniques!"


    "It''s no use, Elder! He''s immune to the binding formation! He''s placed a death curse on himself. Even if trapped, his body will simply disintegrate and reform elsewhere! He''s left blood drops everywhere. We can''t kill him unless we pinpoint his life force!"


    Panic spread through the ranks of the Roberts Psychics as the Lord of Frenzied Blood cut a bloody swathe through Kylin Mountain.


    He was an unkillable monster, and he had come prepared.


    Lives were extinguished left and right by the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s hand.


    Young or old, man or woman, none were spared.


    Finally, several Competent Force elders arrived, their combined might barely enough to slow the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s rampage.


    Then, a spectral image of a Kirin manifested within Kylin Mountain, its psychic power immeasurable.


    Wherever the Lord of Frenzied Blood reformed, the Kirin appeared instantly to confront him.


    "Foul demon!" the Kirin roared, its voice filled with righteous fury.


    It was a being of immense spiritual power, capable of speech.


    "You dare invade Kylin Mountain? No matter your cultivation technique or talent, do you truly believe you''ve achieved immortality? Today, I will see you perish!"


    The Kirin seemed to have seen through the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s secret.


    Yet, the Lord of Frenzied Blood showed no fear.


    Demonic markings blazed across his body, and his demonic energy surged.


    Once again, he allowed himself to be destroyed, his body exploding under the Kirin''s assault.


    But just as quickly, demonic energy coalesced around a single drop of blood elsewhere, reforming his flesh and bone.


    His demonic blade reformed in his hand.


    He surveyed the Roberts Psychics surrounding him, and the imposing Kirin in the sky.


    His voice was ice-cold.


    "You destroyed my hope. Now, I will see to it that Kylin Mountain knows no peace!"


    Even if it meant his demise, the Lord of Frenzied Blood would have his revenge!


    For millennia, he had endured the crushing loneliness of the Frenzied Blood Demon Realm.


    Then, he had encountered seven fools and set foot in Blackwood.


    Over the years, his intelligence had grown, and he had come to understand the world and its ways.


    Others had tried to sway him, claiming his talents were wasted on the Blackwoods.


    They said he was the one saving the Blackwoods, not the other way around.


    Fools!


    They didn''t understand that it was the Blackwoods who had saved him, who had given solace to a lonely soul!


    ...


    "We... we have someone this powerful in our family?" Benjamin whispered, watching the events unfold within Kylin Mountain from his vantage point before the ancestral altar.


    He watched in awe as the Lord of Frenzied Blood rampaged through Kylin Mountain.


    The Kirin''s attacks would destroy the Lord of Frenzied Blood time and again, only for him to rise again, each time engaging the Roberts Psychics and elders in a deadly dance.


    Benjamin was stunned.


    He remembered receiving his family mission and being sent by Forebearer.


    He had encountered the Lord of Frenzied Blood on his journey.


    At the time, he hadn''t understood how his clan could be so confident that the Lord of Frenzied Blood could single-handedly assault Kylin Mountain, one of the seven great families of Sunshine Mansion!


    "The elders always say the Heavenly Path Venerable is a monstrous prodigy who defies the heavens," Benjamin breathed.


    "But I think the Lord of Frenzied Blood is on another level entirely."


    Beside him, Ethan observed the battle as well.


    He shook his head.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood had been with the Blackwoods for nearly two centuries, yet he had only reached the middle stage of the Competent Force realm.


    Fortunately, in addition to his demonic cultivation and swordsmanship, the Lord of Frenzied Blood had also trained in Druidic techniques.


    While he might not rank on the Pinnacle Apprentice list, Ethan suspected he could send the top-ranked apprentice running for their life.


    However, even with his power, Ethan knew it was impossible for the Lord of Frenzied Blood to wipe out the Roberts single-handedly.


    He glanced at the system interface.


    [Your descendant, Helen, has infiltrated the AI Bionic Robot vault within the Radiant Sky Grotto and obtained a large number of AI Bionic Robots.]


    [Your descendant, Julian, deviated from the family plan. Instead of escaping the Radiant Sky Grotto with Helen, he chose to gamble everything on a bold move. He awaits Grandmaster Reid within the grotto, seeking to become his disciple! New identity acquired: Disciple of Reid.]


    "It seems Julian has made his own choice," Ethan mused, glancing at Julian''s updated information.


    He didn''t fault his descendant.


    He couldn''t control everything, and his descendants had their own paths to forge.


    Julian had made his choice.


    A surge of pride welled within Ethan.


    Julian had always been impulsive and straightforward.


    Yet, this time, he had clearly put in considerable effort to earn the attention of someone like Grandmaster Reid.


    "BOOM!"


    A thunderous explosion ripped through the air, drawing Ethan''s attention back to the battle at Kylin Mountain.


    He frowned.


    The Kirin, having destroyed the Lord of Frenzied Blood multiple times, seemed to have found a way to weaken him.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood, once reckless, was now fighting with caution.


    Each time he reformed, his power seemed to have diminished slightly.

 Chapter 387 - 387: This time, I admit defeat.

    "Humph!" Ethan scoffed.


    Outside Kylin Mountain, Benjamin''s eyes widened.


    He watched as the Forebearer''s Psychic Position rose, and the black mist that formed the Forebearer gradually appeared before it!


    "Forebearer, your child greets you!" Benjamin called out repeatedly.


    Ethan, floating in the air, stepped on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and slowly turned his head to look at Benjamin.


    With a wave of his hand, he sucked the Storage Ring on the altar into his hand.


    Benjamin, now several miles away, heard Ethan''s voice transmission, "Child, your task is complete. Leave quickly. I await your growth."


    "Yes, Forebearer!" Benjamin''s face was full of joy.


    The Forebearer had praised him!


    In the blink of an eye, the Forebearer had disappeared.


    Not daring to delay, Benjamin quickly left.


    Meanwhile, in Austin''s courtyard within Kylin Mountain, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projection looked grim.


    He had seen it ¨C the figure in black mist, wielding a spear and stepping on the Twin Fish Harmony Seal, the same one that had appeared in Glory City, had returned!


    This guy was an enigma.


    Like the unkillable Lord of Frenzied Blood, even if he was killed, he would reappear the next moment before that strange Psychic Position.


    It was because of him, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and those powerful Blackwood Rising Stars that the Heavenly Path Venerable was so eager to wipe out this strange family!


    At this moment, Austin was afraid.


    He suddenly understood.


    Everything that had happened on Amber Hill in the imperial capital, the explosion at Radiant Sky Grotto, the appearance of the black mist figure and the Lord of Frenzied Blood ¨C it was all part of Blackwood''s plan.


    Perhaps he was Blackwood''s true target!


    Like Brody, he didn''t want to be a sacrifice.


    He also wanted to be the final victor!


    As he hesitated¡­


    Austin felt it ¨C the black mist figure was staring at him!


    And the next moment, the black mist figure spun the Twin Fish Harmony Seal and instantly appeared in his courtyard.


    What made Austin''s face change color¡­


    ¡­was that there were nearly a thousand caged birds in this courtyard, and the black mist figure was precisely holding the cage where Edward was trapped.


    He had clearly set up all sorts of protections, but he was still discovered by this black mist figure, and even the formations¡­ the black mist figure had precisely broken through them!


    One by one, the cages were opened, his formations destroyed by the Twin Fish Harmony Seal.


    In that instant, the caged birds opened their bright eyes and slowly walked out of their cages.


    The black mist figure''s voice was faint.


    "Austin, Heavenly Path."


    "I heard you like to collect Rising Stars from all over the world. But guess what they want to do most when they''re released from their cages?"


    Looking at the angry eyes of the caged birds¡­


    The Heavenly Path''s body trembled.


    At this moment, he understood.


    From the moment Chuck broke through, Blackwood''s true target¡­ was him!!!


    ¡­ S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Coo! Chirp!"


    In the courtyard, cages were opened one after another.


    Within Kylin Mountain, the battle raged on.


    The demonic energy of the Lord of Frenzied Blood, the psychic powers and natural energies of the Kylin Mountain Roberts'' Psychics, and the ice shards unleashed by the giant Kirin illusion were a magnificent sight.


    These caged birds were all Rising Stars imprisoned by the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    They could also sense the extraordinary nature of the black mist figure who had entered the back mountain.


    This black mist figure was also their savior.


    They had long since chosen to fly behind Ethan, glaring at Austin.


    The cages and formations that had imprisoned them were crumbling, and soon they would break free!


    Austin could clearly feel the surging anger of these caged birds.


    The Rising Stars he had imprisoned and toyed with for so many years wanted nothing more than to drink his blood and eat his flesh!


    But Austin still didn''t dare to move, because¡­


    ¡­in the black mist figure''s hand, a translucent cube appeared.


    Within the cube, black gas swirled.


    Austin clearly remembered that when he broke into Glory City that day, a Basic Mastery projection had died at the hands of this thing!


    "You wouldn''t dare use it!" Austin''s expression was calm, as if the release of his prized caged birds did not anger him.


    But the fists in his sleeves were clenched tightly.


    This did not prevent the fear from showing between his brows.


    He said to Ethan in a deep voice, "I know your purpose. You want to release the Rising Stars I have imprisoned all these years. You are very close to me. If you dare to use that thing, Edward will die, and so will these Rising Stars!"


    Ethan didn''t say a word.


    Austin took a deep breath, slowly closing his eyes, afraid that Ethan would see the resentment and anger in him at that moment.


    "This time, I admit defeat. You''ve achieved your goal. Now, get out of Kylin Mountain."


    The wind from the psychic battle swept through the back mountain courtyard, causing the black mist around Ethan to crackle like flames.


    After a long while, he said leisurely, "You''re too naive. You think I went through all this trouble just to save Edward and these Rising Stars?"


    Seeing that Austin remained motionless, as if certain that neither of them could do anything to the other¡­


    Ethan slightly lifted Edward''s cage and smiled.


    "Edward, tell him, if you could kill his projection, would you be willing to die for it?"


    Then he looked at the caged birds behind him.


    "Are you afraid of death?"


    "Coo! Chirp!"


    Edward beat on the cage, and the caged birds couldn''t suppress their anger after years of imprisonment.


    They expressed their determination to Ethan!


    "What exactly do you want?!" Austin finally opened his eyes, his expression furious and fearless.


    "Ant, don''t think that you can threaten me on my territory just because you have a trump card! My other projections in Sunshine Mansion already know what''s going on. They''re on their way here!"


    "It''s precisely because they''re on their way here that you should be even more afraid."


    Ethan snorted.


    "I''m very interested in that Kirin illusion of your Kylin Mountain, and your treasury."


    "You¡­"


    ¡­


    At this moment, within Sunshine Mansion, Heavenly Path projections were rushing from all directions at their fastest speed.


    They could even see what was happening in the courtyard of Kylin Mountain, and their eyes gleamed at the sight.


    In the sky, two Basic Mastery projections gathered.


    But neither of them said a word, and smiles appeared on their faces as they deliberately slowed their pace.


    If they could, they would be happy to see Austin suffer.


    If Austin, those Rising Stars, and that black mist figure from Blackwood could all perish together in Sunshine Mansion, it would be the best outcome for them.


    Their troubles would be solved, and the power Austin possessed would be divided among them!


    In the courtyard¡­


    Ethan and Austin were clearly aware of this, but Austin couldn''t understand why Ethan wasn''t the least bit anxious!


    He listened to Ethan''s demands, looked at the caged birds that were slowly recovering, and said through gritted teeth, "The Kylin Heavenly Crystal is in my treasury. I advise you not to waste time, otherwise the people you want to save will not escape!"


    A token appeared in Austin''s hand.


    He threw it to Ethan and disappeared.


    However, what made Austin''s face turn ugly was that after the token was thrown to Ethan, Ethan actually found his treasury with ease and looted everything inside!

 Chapter 388 - 388: Kill him! Get my things back!

    "Impossible!" Austin''s mind reeled, a chilling sense of dread washing over him as if he''d been unknowingly watched for years.


    "How could he know my Kylin Mountain treasury so well?"


    Ethan''s actions were unbelievably swift.


    In just a few moments, after obtaining the key and opening the treasury, the tide of the battle raging between the Kylin Mountain clan, the Lord of Frenzied Blood, and the Kirin, shifted drastically.


    The Roberts clan members and elders were stunned.


    The Kirin, still trying to suppress the Lord of Frenzied Blood, saw its illusory form flicker and dim.


    Before vanishing completely, it roared furiously towards Austin''s courtyard, "Who? Who dares touch my physical form? Austin, what use are you as clan leader?!"


    "What?!"


    The elders surrounding the Lord of Frenzied Blood froze.


    In that instant, the Lord of Frenzied Blood broke free from the Kirin''s restraints, his power surging back.


    He seized the opportunity, slashing down an elder with a single blow!


    "Fall back! Use the formations!"


    The sudden turn of events sent the elders and disciples, who had been hoping to trap and kill the Lord of Frenzied Blood, scrambling.


    Having witnessed his terrifying power, they no longer dared to engage him directly, instead yelling towards the back mountain.


    "Clan Leader, what''s happening? Why has the sacred beast disappeared?!"


    "Austin, what have you done?"


    "The Kylin Heavenly Crystal, used to summon the sacred beast, is in the treasury. That traitor Austin handed the key to the enemy¡­ The treasury!"


    The Roberts elders were quick-witted.


    They instantly guessed what had transpired in the back mountain.


    But what could they do?


    Their Clan Leader, Austin, a Basic Mastery expert, had lost the clan''s sacred beast to the enemy¡­ They could only watch helplessly!


    "Hmph."


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood glanced at the Roberts elders.


    Seeing them activate their defensive formations, he knew killing them would be difficult now.


    He sheathed his blade, confident they wouldn''t dare attack him again.


    He walked slowly towards the back mountain, the blood from the corpses he passed flowing into his body like water.


    As he flew towards the back mountain, he frowned, looking up at the sky above Kylin Mountain Roberts.


    He could sense them.


    Although the experts from Sunshine Mansion didn''t have enough time to arrive physically, their Competent Forces and Primordial Spirits had descended, observing everything happening within Kylin Mountain.


    ¡­


    It all happened so fast.


    Ethan didn''t even have time to examine the treasury''s contents.


    Using his psychic powers, he swept everything into his Storage Ring.


    The sheer size of the Kylin Mountain Roberts'' treasury was astounding, at least ten thousand square meters.


    At its heart lay a crystal containing the body of a Kirin.


    Ethan guessed this must be the ''Kylin Heavenly Crystal'' Austin mentioned.


    "Greetings, Ancestor!"


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood arrived from the foot of the mountain and bowed respectfully to Ethan.


    Ethan looked at him.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood stood about six feet tall, dressed in black pants and boots, his bare upper body covered in demonic markings.


    His muscles were powerful, though not overly defined.


    He had the face of a handsome young man, perpetually frowning, his eyes entirely black, from pupil to sclera.


    His gray hair was cut short.


    After all these years, the Lord of Frenzied Blood had come to see himself as a member of Blackwood, addressing Ethan as ''Ancestor.''


    "You''ve done well. If you hadn''t distracted the Kylin Mountain Roberts'' Psychics and formations, I wouldn''t have been able to get close to Austin." Ethan smiled faintly.


    The Lord of Frenzied Blood remained stoic, though a hint of a smile flickered across his face.


    "It was my duty to serve the family. Besides, I am immortal, so it wasn''t much of a hardship. However, Ancestor¡­ while you and I are fine, I''m afraid it won''t be easy for them to leave."


    He gestured towards the caged birds behind Ethan, who were slowly dispelling their defensive formations, and then pointed at the sky.


    "Indeed, it won''t be easy." Ethan nodded slowly.


    He knew that infiltrating Kylin Mountain was easy.


    He understood that the Heavenly Path Venerable had only managed to cripple Blackwood all those years ago because of the element of surprise.


    Similarly, he and the Lord of Frenzied Blood could do as they pleased within the Heavenly Path Venerable''s domain.


    The real challenge was getting Edward and the thousand chirping caged birds behind him out of Sunshine Mansion and away from the Heavenly Path Venerable''s pursuit.


    He looked at the caged birds.


    Austin had already fled, his whereabouts unknown, but the birds were still filled with rage, searching for him.


    These Rising Stars must have suffered similar hardships at the hands of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    Years of humiliation had filled them with hatred for Austin and the Heavenly Path Venerable!


    "Everyone, rescuing you wasn''t easy. I believe we all share the same goal." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As Ethan spoke, all eyes turned to him.


    He saw the determination in their eyes, and a small smile played on his lips.


    "So, if I can save you, if I can grant you the hope of revenge, what are you willing to offer Blackwood in return?"


    Offer in return?!


    The atmosphere in Kylin Mountain turned colder.


    Lightning crackled in the dark clouds that lingered after the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s battle.


    The eyes of the caged birds glowed red.


    After decades, centuries, even millennia of blood feuds and humiliation, what wouldn''t they offer?


    Everything!!!


    ¡­


    In the sky, having fled Kylin Mountain, Austin''s Primordial Spirit had converged with the Competent Forces and Primordial Spirits of his many projections.


    He glared down at Kylin Mountain.


    "Damn it! Damn it!!!"


    Austin roared.


    He was one of the oldest projections of the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    For thousands of years, he had hidden within Kylin Mountain, becoming its revered ancestor.


    He had orchestrated everything in Sunshine Mansion, always scheming from the shadows.


    He had always been meticulous, his plans flawless.


    But today, he felt utterly humiliated!


    That mysterious black mist figure from Blackwood had used his own tactics against him, catching him off guard, invading his Kylin Mountain, and stealing everything from his treasury¡­ including the Kylin Heavenly Crystal, the key to his projection''s breakthrough to Advanced Mastery!


    And his collection¡­ those were supposed to be his nourishment for his advancement to Advanced Mastery¡­


    "Kill him! Get my things back!" Austin''s eyes narrowed.


    "Don''t let a single one of those Rising Stars escape!"


    His head trembled, a physical manifestation of his rage¡­ and fear.


    "Yes!"


    The Competent Forces and Primordial Spirits unanimously agreed.


    Although some were disappointed that Austin hadn''t been killed, they couldn''t disobey his command now.


    They were afraid too.


    That bastard Austin had captured a thousand Rising Stars.


    They couldn''t imagine the disaster that would unfold if they all escaped!


    In an instant, all the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections in Sunshine Mansion sprang into action.


    But then, Austin and all his projections froze, staring at Kylin Mountain in disbelief.


    Countless black figures were swarming out of the mountain like ants from a disturbed nest.


    Cries of alarm echoed from within Kylin Mountain.


    "AI Bionic Robots¡­ They''re all AI Bionic Robots!"

 Chapter 389 - 389: Leave? Dont be ridiculous!

    "AI Bionic Robots¡­ The Radiant Sky Grotto explosion, AI Bionic Robots¡­"


    Outside Amber Hill, thunder still boomed.


    Donna, Azure Cloud''s forces, and the Heavenly Path projections led by Brody remained locked in a standoff.


    Brody stared at Donna, his face pale, having sensed everything unfolding in Sunshine Mansion.


    A swarm of AI Bionic Robots poured out of Kylin Mountain, scattering in all directions.


    Each robot carried traces of the caged birds ¨C feathers, scents, the lingering presence of the thousand escaped Rising Stars.


    Even the Heavenly Path Basic Mastery projections couldn''t divine their exact locations, only able to track their general direction through these faint trails.


    Blackwood had planned this well.


    But¡­ how could they possibly recapture this many AI Bionic Robots?


    The escape of the thousand Rising Stars was a fait accompli.


    Sweat beaded on Brody''s back.


    He was certain the many Heavenly Path projections around him felt the same cold dread.


    "You didn''t save Julian."


    Brody''s voice trembled as he spoke, his gaze fixed on Donna in the distance.


    "Your true objective was to use Chuck''s Basic Mastery tribulation to distract us, to make us lower our guard. Every second was crucial for you. Then, you infiltrated the Radiant Sky Grotto, stole the AI Bionic Robots, and transported them to Sunshine Mansion."


    "And now, those robots, carrying the scent of the Rising Stars, have helped them escape."


    "Blackwood¡­ You have outdone yourselves!"


    Brody drew a shaky breath.


    He finally understood why, even now, both Azure Cloud and the Druids feared Blackwood.


    His voice turned grave.


    "But I''m curious¡­ how did you transport the robots such a vast distance to Sunshine Mansion?"


    A flicker of triumph crossed the faces of the Azure Cloud forces.


    Though they didn''t know the specifics of what Brody was referring to, they could sense his fury.


    So, it wasn''t just them fighting here.


    Elsewhere, other Blackwood members were engaging the Heavenly Path Venerable as well!


    "Our apologies," Donna bowed to her Azure Cloud comrades.


    "We¡­ are but one part of a larger plan."


    "Hahaha!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster roared with laughter.


    "Donna, you underestimate me. I may be old, but I can still grasp the intricacies of this grand scheme. Besides, aren''t you fighting alongside us?"


    The other Azure Cloud members nodded, smiles on their faces.


    Donna had fought with a ferocity unmatched by any of them.


    The once boisterous young woman now bore the scars of battle, her body battered but her spirit unbroken.


    Guilt flickered in Donna''s eyes as she met their gazes.


    This was her clan''s plan.


    They knew that no matter how fiercely they fought the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections, it would only make him stronger in the end.


    They could have focused all their efforts on protecting Chuck, ensuring the Forebearer could aid them, using the AI Bionic Robots to fight alongside them here.


    But instead, they were deployed to rescue those Rising Stars.


    Even she didn''t know the full extent of her clan''s plan.


    Her master, Chuck''s, breakthrough had been too sudden.


    She took a deep breath, clenched her left fist, and addressed them with newfound determination.


    "I apologize. But rest assured, I, Donna, stand with you. I will fight alongside you until¡­ the very end!"


    A solemn silence fell over them as they turned their gazes towards the Heavenly Path projections in the sky.


    Donna locked eyes with Brody, sensing his rage.


    It was clear that the Heavenly Path projections in Sunshine Mansion had suffered a setback, and the projections here in the imperial capital wouldn''t let them off easily.


    Her voice turned cold. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Brody, leave now, while you still have a chance."


    "Hahaha!"


    Brody''s face darkened.


    Escape¡­ a small part of him desperately wanted to flee, to use Sunshine Mansion''s failure as an excuse to slip away.


    At least Donna was truly willing to die fighting him.


    But Declan reappeared as swiftly as he had vanished, either unwilling to let Brody off the hook or still clinging to the hope of breaking Blackwood.


    He snorted.


    "Leave? Don''t be ridiculous! You think something happening in Sunshine Mansion changes anything? You''re still in the same predicament, your situation unchanged!"


    Sam stepped forward from the Azure Cloud ranks, scoffing.


    "General Owen is on his way. What grudge do you and Brody hold against us?"


    "..."


    Brody remained silent, unable to refute Sam''s words.


    Declan, however, sneered.


    "Owen? You think he''ll make it in time?"


    "What?!"


    The Azure Cloud members'' hearts skipped a beat.


    Declan looked at them with cold indifference before turning back to the conflicted Brody.


    "General Brody, I''ve ensured that neither the Radiant Sky Grotto nor the Grand Tutor''s faction will interfere. Now, it''s your turn to fulfill your end of the bargain."


    ¡­


    On the road leading from Radiant Sky Grotto towards Amber Hill, Owen stood like an unyielding mountain amidst a blizzard, his face hardened by the biting wind.


    "Grotto Master, I am the ever-victorious general. What is the meaning of this?"


    The sky above was clear, a stark contrast to the storm clouds brewing in the distance.


    Yet, someone dared to block Owen''s path ¨C Quinn Daoist, the Grotto Master of Radiant Sky Grotto!


    The Daoist, clad in his robes, was a sturdy man with a kind, round face.


    He rubbed his cheeks, forcing a tired smile at Owen.


    "The meaning is quite simple, Levi. I''m not letting you pass. You defied the imperial decree to protect Azure Cloud all those years ago, causing me no end of trouble. And now¡­"


    Quinn Daoist sighed.


    "There are some things in this world we shouldn''t, and cannot, involve ourselves in. Accumulating too much karma will only lead to our own downfall."


    "Master always said you were too close to those in power. Karma? You''re one to talk."


    Owen scoffed, his voice turning cold.


    "I''ll count to three. Move aside, or I''ll see for myself what progress you''ve made currying favor with those nobles."


    Quinn Daoist bristled.


    "Levi, why won''t you listen? You think you''re the only one who wants to help Chuck? Many from the Grand Tutor''s lineage wanted to intervene, but they were stopped. Yet, you still insist on wading into this mess¡­"


    "One."


    "Levi¡­"


    "Two!"


    Quinn Daoist''s face paled.


    Owen''s gilded copper hammers were already in motion, leaving no room for further discussion.


    "You brute, Owen! You learned nothing in Cloudview County except how to be a barbarian!"

 Chapter 390 - 390: It was… a little zombie girl! Part 1

    Owen was intercepted, engaging in a fierce battle with Quinn Daoist.


    At Amber Hill, where thunder roared and lightning flashed, the two sides clashed once more, bombarding the final defensive formation erected by Azure Cloud!


    Brody, though reluctant, was forced to fight.


    Declan had not only cut off Blackwood''s reinforcements but also Brody''s escape route.


    To someone like Declan, Brody was just another Heavenly Path projection, a pawn in a larger game.


    It didn''t matter who ultimately became the dominant consciousness.


    "Hahaha!"


    Declan watched the battle unfold below, a wide grin spreading across his face.


    He reveled in this moment, in the intoxicating power he wielded.


    Even the mighty Heavenly Path Venerable and his projections danced to his tune.


    He looked down at Donna, her battered body not yet recovered, poised to break through the formation and confront Brody.


    "What a shame! You chose the wrong side. If only you had submitted to the National Advisor, none of this would have happened. Chuck is a fool, and so are you. You could have avoided this fate."


    "Today, you are all nothing but pitiful sacrifices!"


    His words dripped with malicious glee.


    But neither Donna and the Azure Cloud forces nor Brody and the Heavenly Path projections paid him any heed.


    They were locked in a desperate struggle for survival.


    Still, Declan''s arrogant gloating ignited a firestorm of rage within them.


    That bastard was nothing but a dog, a lapdog of the National Advisor!


    Just as Azure Cloud braced themselves for another desperate, potentially fatal, assault¡­


    "Boom!"


    An unknown object crashed into the battlefield with earth-shattering force, momentarily halting the Heavenly Path projections'' advance. sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    All eyes turned towards the rising dust cloud, fear etched on their faces.


    A moment later, an earsplitting shriek pierced through the air, followed by the emergence of shadowy figures from the dust.


    They were¡­ ghosts!


    The spectral horde spread out with terrifying speed, leaving behind a massive black formation that pulsed with eerie energy.


    Deathly energy erupted from the ground within the formation''s boundaries, reaching towards the already darkened sky, casting an ominous pall over the battlefield.


    As this chaotic scene unfolded, a streak of light shot towards Chuck, who was still in the throes of his tribulation.


    "Such potent death energy! What is that?!"


    Declan''s face contorted in fear.


    He was certain the National Advisor hadn''t sent anyone.


    That meant this was Blackwood''s doing.


    "Impossible! The Grand Tutor''s faction is blocking all reinforcements. How could Blackwood send help? Death energy¡­ Nathan?!"


    Donna and the Azure Cloud forces, however, felt a surge of hope as they recognized the familiar energy signature.


    It was Nathan, the power he had unleashed during the battle at Azure Cloud''s border town.


    This was the same deathly aura that had terrified the Druids, keeping them from setting foot in Cloudview County!


    But their hope was short-lived.


    From within the swirling mass of death energy, a delicate sound reached their ears.


    "Jingle¡­ Jingle¡­"


    The tinkling of bells.


    A small figure emerged from the black mist.


    It was¡­ a little zombie girl!


    "Gary?!"


    Donna gasped, recognizing Nathan''s most powerful zombie.


    Though Gary rarely appeared, her growing power was no secret within Blackwood.


    Nathan had once said that after consuming the mystical artifact and becoming the core of the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation, Gary had transformed into something unique.


    The Death Coffin could trap other zombies, but not her!


    "Apologies, everyone. That place was more troublesome to reach than I anticipated. I seem to be a tad late."


    Gary now looked almost human, save for her pale complexion.


    A forced smile, complete with dimples, appeared on her porcelain doll-like face as she tilted her head, her voice like the chiming of silver bells.


    "I do hope not too many of you have perished. Master would be rather cross. But if you''d like them to remain by your side¡­ as zombies, of course¡­ I can help with that."


    "..."


    Despite the timely arrival of their reinforcements, the Azure Cloud forces couldn''t help but think this zombie could use some lessons in bedside manner.


    "A zombie? A Sky Corpse!"


    Declan, initially intimidated by Gary''s entrance, now wore a strange expression as he sensed her true power.


    "Excellent! The more, the merrier!"


    Only Brody remained wary.


    He didn''t believe Blackwood would send a single Sky Corpse to their deaths.


    "It''s just me."


    Gary''s smile didn''t waver.


    The spectral horde, which had been drifting aimlessly, now converged around her, forming a massive, grotesque sword three times her size.


    The blade was as long as the hilt, its weight evident, creating a jarring contrast with her small frame.


    She turned her gaze towards Declan, her smile turning cold.


    "You have a rather unpleasant tongue. But don''t worry, I won''t kill you. I just want your tongue."


    However, no one paid Gary any attention.


    With her arrival, they felt it.


    Above Amber Hill, where Chuck was undergoing his tribulation, his Competent Force, previously on the verge of collapse under the onslaught of the fourth-level Basic Mastery tribulation, was stabilizing.


    Fear gripped the Heavenly Path projections.


    Even Hudson, who was battling Bill Daoist high in the sky, felt a surge of panic.


    They could sense it.


    Chuck was about to break through!


    "What have you done?!"


    Brody rounded on Gary, his voice laced with fury.


    He remembered the streak of light he had dismissed earlier, the one that had shot towards Chuck.


    "Nothing much. Just wiped out a greedy man''s entire family and borrowed a few trinkets from his treasury. You know, the kind of trinkets a Competent Force Psychic undergoing a tribulation might find useful."


    Gary''s smile remained fixed in place as the ground rumbled beneath her feet.


    She launched herself into the air, dust billowing in her wake, and in a flash, she was standing before a terrified Declan, his face ashen.


    Her previously gentle expression morphed into a mask of cold fury.


    "Isn''t that right, greedy man?"


    "Now, hand over your tongue!"


    ¡­


    Escape!


    With Gary''s arrival, escape became a luxury neither Declan nor the remaining Heavenly Path projections could afford.


    They watched in horror as, above Amber Hill, Chuck''s Competent Force clashed with the monstrous, lightning-wreathed elephant formed by the thunder tribulation.


    And then, it began to merge with it.


    It was the telltale sign of an imminent Basic Mastery breakthrough!


    "Demonic cultivator!"


    Declan roared, his eyes bloodshot, but his words were laced with fear.


    The moment Gary turned her gaze upon him, he had already begun his desperate flight.


    He didn''t even care that she had slaughtered his entire clan.


    He didn''t even know if he could defeat her.


    All he cared about was escape!


    But his Competent Force quickly picked up Gary''s pursuit, and his face contorted in terror.


    She was using a ghostly formation, its power amplified by the mournful wails of the dead¡­ the wails and accusations of his slain family!


    "Hand over your tongue!"


    Her chilling words echoed behind him, and Declan couldn''t help but think that if a hell existed where tongues were ripped from their owners'' mouths, it would sound exactly like this.


    He wasn''t the only one fleeing.

 Chapter 391 - 391: It was… a little zombie girl! Part 2

    "Scatter! Run!"


    Brody roared, urging the other projections to flee in different directions.


    Over the years, he had been blackmailed and threatened by Blackwood, but this¡­ this was the first time he felt true terror.


    Because this time, it wasn''t just him who had lost.


    It was Austin, back in Sunshine Mansion, as well.


    They had always viewed Blackwood as insignificant, as mere annoyances.


    Even when they had sensed a growing threat, they had dismissed them as nothing more than a nuisance. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But now¡­


    He didn''t know what the other projections were thinking, but Brody felt it deep in his core: Blackwood had become a venomous serpent, slithering out of the darkness and sinking its fangs into them.


    Now, it was they, the projections of the Heavenly Path Venerable, who should be afraid.


    Chuck''s breakthrough, the explosion at Radiant Sky Grotto, the theft of the AI Bionic Robots, Azure Cloud''s resistance, the attack on Kylin Mountain, the freed Rising Stars¡­


    It was all part of a grand, terrifying plan, and they had walked right into Blackwood''s trap.


    "Fool!"


    As he fled, Brody shot a venomous glare at Declan, who was kneeling on the ground, his tongue ripped out by Gary.


    If it hadn''t been for that arrogant, incompetent fool, Chuck wouldn''t have gotten his hands on the treasures needed for his Basic Mastery breakthrough.


    He wouldn''t be in this mess!


    And¡­


    "Austin! You arrogant fool!"


    That scheming manipulator, lurking in the shadows of Sunshine Mansion, looking down on the world, imprisoning Rising Stars¡­


    Brody shuddered to think what horrors awaited them now.


    He had been running for what felt like hours.


    Finally, he slowed to a stop, staring down at the city below and the cultivators rushing towards him from all directions.


    They were asking him what had happened, but Brody felt no relief, no joy at having survived.


    He stared at the peaceful scene below, his gaze uncomprehending.


    Slowly, he turned, looking back at the clear sky behind him, at the storm clouds in the distance¡­ Blackwood¡­ they weren''t pursuing him.


    They had¡­ spared him?


    "Why? Why would they spare me?"


    Brody''s eyes were vacant, his expression lost.


    A cool breeze washed over him, and his form flickered, a sign of a projection nearing its end.


    His power was growing, but his face grew paler, his heart colder.


    He felt it now¡­ the humiliation, the blatant, mocking humiliation inflicted by Blackwood.


    "Damn them! Damn them all!"


    He glared in the direction of Amber Hill, his veins throbbing with rage.


    For the first time in his long existence, he felt like a failure, a laughingstock.


    He could almost see them, the Blackwood clan, laughing at him, mocking him.


    Just like they had all those years ago, when they had brazenly sent their AI Bionic Robots to ransack his treasury, their gazes filled with disdain.


    ¡­


    High above, a mountain-like illusion clashed with a raging torrent of water.


    It was Hudson, one of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s Basic Mastery projections, locked in battle with Bill Daoist.


    But now, even as his power surged, Hudson''s face was ashen, darker than the storm clouds above.


    "We''ve been played."


    Though locked in combat, Hudson could still see through the eyes of the other projections.


    He had seen what had transpired at Kylin Mountain, how Austin''s bizarre obsession, cultivated over millennia, had led to this disaster.


    He felt the sting of humiliation.


    "To be outmaneuvered by these insects¡­"


    He roared in frustration, but there was nothing he could do.


    This time, they had been thoroughly outmatched by Blackwood.


    And then there was Bill Daoist.


    The old man, who should have been defeated and fleeing for his life by now, was actually laughing at him, his eyes filled with mockery.


    Hudson took a deep breath, steeling himself.


    He withdrew his psychic powers, preparing to make his escape.


    But then, his expression shifted.


    The thunder tribulation above Amber Hill had ended.


    Through the dissipating arcs of lightning, he saw Chuck''s eyes snap open.


    And then, in the blink of an eye, a powerful aura, crackling with the energy of the storm, appeared beside him.


    Standing between Hudson and escape was none other than Chuck, newly ascended to Basic Mastery.


    "Hudson!"


    Bill Daoist, who had been fighting a surprisingly tough battle against Hudson, who had clearly been hiding his true strength, laughed.


    The death of the other projections had only served to empower the remaining ones.


    But now, reinforcements had arrived.


    "Young friend Chuck, join me! Let us finish him together!"


    "Gladly!"


    Chuck didn''t waste words.


    His Primordial Spirit emerged, taking the form of a colossal, primeval elephant that seemed to weigh down the very sky.


    Hudson''s eyes narrowed.


    He unleashed his torrent once more, knowing that these two, these insignificant ants, now blocked his path.


    He would have to carve his way through if he wanted to survive.


    His psychic powers surged, and he sneered at them.


    "You think you can stop me? A mid-stage Basic Mastery, who crawled out from whatever hole he was hiding in, and a newly ascended one, still wet behind the ears?!"


    "You honestly believe Blackwood''s schemes can change anything?"


    "Get out of my way, or die!"


    Chuck, though weakened from his tribulation, merely smiled.


    "Do you know why I broke through to the fourth level of Basic Mastery?"


    Hudson frowned.


    "I spent many years in Azure Cloud," Chuck continued, his voice soft but steady.


    "I faced many challenges alongside Blackwood. We thought the Druid invasion was unstoppable, that without the Emerald Empire''s help, we would never reclaim our homeland. But we did."


    "I thought Basic Mastery experts were invincible. But at Azure Cloud''s border town, I, alongside Blackwood, drove back three Druid elders."


    "I thought the Heavenly Path Venerable was unbeatable. But during my tribulation, I saw¡­"


    He looked down, his gaze piercing through the clouds, settling on the Azure Cloud forces below.


    They had driven back or killed all the remaining Heavenly Path Venerable projections on the ground.


    Just like in Azure Cloud, after repelling the Druids, they were calmly cleaning the battlefield, collecting the bodies of their fallen comrades.


    As if sensing his gaze, the Azure Cloud forces looked up.


    A cold wind whipped through the air, ruffling Chuck''s hair.


    They stood in silence, united in that single moment, even Hudson.


    Finally, Chuck looked back at Hudson, a small smile playing on his lips.


    "I learned something from Blackwood. We must all acknowledge our insignificance, especially when facing an enemy as terrifying as you."


    "But we are willing to try. We, the insignificant ants, will fight until we can face you head-on!"


    "And now, I will see if I can¡­"


    "Shake¡­ the¡­ heavens!"


    Bill Daoist finished, his voice echoing Chuck''s words, his gaze hardening with resolve.


    As the last word left his lips, the sky roared.


    The pressure of their combined Basic Mastery power swept across the land, a raging tempest unleashed.

 Chapter 392 - 392: You will see an even stronger Blackwood!

    Half an hour later.


    Within the Imperial Domain, Hudson dragged his battered body to Brody''s manor, his face pale and expressionless.


    Brody stood at the entrance, his teeth gritted as he watched Hudson approach.


    As he passed by, Hudson stiffly turned his head to meet Brody''s gaze. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Brody," he said, his voice low and heavy with humiliation, "I think I know why the Blackwoods let you go. It''s because you''re one of the few failures in our Order. You''re ranked third, yet you''ve received so much of the Order''s power. You should be able to advance by leaps and bounds in a short time."


    "But..." Hudson paused.


    "Once a man compromises, he''ll do it countless times. Once a man gives in to fear, he''ll be consumed by it. If I were you, I wouldn''t be a burden to the Master. I''d end it all."


    With that, he slowly entered the manor and found a secluded spot to meditate, his brow furrowed.


    Outside, Brody clenched his fists, his face a mask of frustration and shame.


    Inside the Sunshine Palace, the Heavenly Path projections who had rushed to Mount Kylin were gathered with Austin, their faces grim as they watched the countless AI Bionic Robots scattering in all directions.


    They had all heard Chuck''s words on Amber Hill!


    They were reminded of a time, many years ago, when they, like the Blackwoods, were treated like ants, struggling even to break through to the Developing Skill level.


    But now... they looked down upon the world, their arrogance blinding them to the true heroes.


    And today, Mount Kylin ran red with blood.


    The sacred beast Qilin''s body had been stolen, the treasury emptied.


    The Heavenly Path projections of the Sunshine Palace were left reeling, played for fools by the Blackwoods.


    In the Imperial Domain, on Amber Hill... few projections remained.


    "Hah..." Austin''s jaw was tense as he pondered the situation.


    Finally, he let out a breath, a faint smile playing on his lips.


    "Interesting. It seems we''ve stumbled upon a group of opponents worthy of our attention."


    ...


    On Amber Hill, Ethan appeared on the battlefield, his face impassive.


    There was no trace of joy in his demeanor.


    He knew that everything that had transpired in the Imperial Domain was but a prelude.


    This time, his family had given the Heavenly Path Venerables a taste of defeat, but it didn''t mean they had been truly vanquished.


    What didn''t kill them would only make them stronger.


    The Heavenly Path Venerables they faced in the future would be even more formidable.


    "But..." Ethan''s eyes glinted with cold determination.


    At that moment, Blackwoods all over the world learned of their family''s victory.


    As if sensing their Forebearer''s will, they raised their heads to the sky, imagining they could see his gaze, hear his voice.


    "You will see an even stronger Blackwood!"


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has rescued a large number of Rising Stars from Mount Kylin, completing the special event ''Rescue the Rising Stars Plan''.]


    [Family Will +5]


    ...


    [After Declan threatened Chuck, your family located the Oracle Chamber and its guardian, Jimmy. From the Oracle Chamber, you obtained information about National Advisor Lance''s attempt to recruit Chuck and Declan''s embezzlement of sixty percent of the treasures gifted to Chuck by the National Advisor.]


    [You dispatch Gary to Pineview County to recover the embezzled treasures.]


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has completed the special event ''Chuck''s Breakthrough''.]


    [With the combined efforts of your family and the Azure Cloud, Chuck has successfully overcome the tribulation and reached the fourth-level Pinnacle Apprentice realm of Basic Mastery Psychic!]


    [Family Will +8]


    ...


    [Congratulations! Your family has slain over a hundred Heavenly Path projections and captured twelve more.]


    [Obtained a large number of spoils of war...]


    ...


    Outside Amber Hill, Ethan stood with Donna and the Azure Cloud members.


    The bodies of a dozen Azure Cloud comrades lay scattered on the ground, surrounded by their belongings.


    There was no joy of victory, only the somber weight of their sacrifice.


    Many Azure Cloud members had chosen to self-destruct or trigger their own thunder tribulations to protect Chuck during his breakthrough.


    "Sob... sob..."


    A muffled sobbing broke the silence.


    It was Declan!


    He was still trapped by the ability weapon, unable to utilize half of his Heavenly Energy.


    His tongue had been cut out, leaving him to whimper pathetically in his cage.


    "What should we do with him?" Donna frowned.


    Chuck pondered for a moment before releasing the barrier.


    Declan glared at them, his eyes filled with hatred.


    He had resigned himself to death, but while he had been too afraid to resent the destruction of his family in Pineview County before, now he directed all his rage at the Azure Cloud.


    However, the Azure Cloud members simply stared back at him calmly.


    "Now, get back to your Imperial Domain," Chuck finally said.


    "And take a message to your National Advisor."


    Declan stared at them in disbelief as they turned to leave.


    It was only when they were gone that he realized he wasn''t dreaming.


    Ignoring his injuries and his hatred, he dragged his battered body towards the Imperial Domain.


    He endured the strange looks from passersby until he finally stumbled back to the National Advisor''s mansion, feeling like he was in a daze.


    He reached the main hall and saw National Advisor Lance seated on his throne.


    Then...


    Before he could even speak, before he could tell the National Advisor everything, a blade materialized out of thin air and shattered his Competent Force.


    His head rolled across the floor, his eyes still wide with confusion.


    He had returned to what he thought was the safest place, only to die here.


    His blood stained the hall crimson.


    On the throne, National Advisor Lance, his usually dignified face creased with a frown, waved his hand dismissively.


    On Declan''s back, words were carved into his flesh:


    [Thank you for your patronage, National Advisor. But what you gave me was nothing to you, while my comrades were willing to give their lives for me.]


    "Crash!"


    A teacup shattered on the floor.


    The National Advisor''s subordinates exchanged uneasy glances as they stared at the bloody message on Declan''s headless corpse.


    "Go to Pineview County," Lance ordered, his voice heavy.


    "This greedy fool has ruined my plans. I want his entire family line extinguished!"


    "But..."


    His subordinates hesitated, exchanging nervous looks.


    Finally, one stepped forward.


    "National Advisor, the Hill family... they''re already dead."


    "He must have other relatives!"


    ...


    Spring arrived once more.


    Strangely, it was as if nothing had happened on Amber Hill.


    The Heavenly Path projections weren''t consumed by their previous day''s rage, and the Blackwoods didn''t make any further moves against them.


    The nobles of the Imperial Domain carried on as if nothing had changed.


    The only topic of conversation was the explosion at Radiant Sky Grotto.


    On Crystal Crest, Ethan lay on the grass behind the mountain, gazing up at the sky.


    He realized he had changed.


    In the past, he would have been ecstatic about their victory, eager to launch the next attack.


    But now...


    He was more patient, more cautious than ever before.


    And it wasn''t just him.


    His entire family had undergone the same transformation.


    They were like slumbering beasts, no, something more than beasts.


    They were a coiled spring, their rage waiting for the moment to be unleashed.

 Chapter 393 - 393: The ninety-nine thunder tribulation

    "The only way to kill a terrifying opponent like Heavenly Path Venerable is to become even more terrifying than him." Ethan let out a long breath and slowly sat up.


    He admitted that after their last encounter, which had cost Heavenly Path Venerable dearly, they had also awakened a true monster.


    Now, he had no idea what the monster''s next move would be.


    Fortunately, he and his people were fully prepared. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As he pondered, a message appeared: [Your descendant, Julian, is cultivating his psychic abilities in Radiant Sky Grotto and is ready to break through to the Competent Force level!]


    "Julian is about to break through?" Ethan''s eyes lit up, and he vanished in an instant, reappearing within Radiant Sky Grotto.


    The last time he was here, Julian had blown the grotto to smithereens.


    Two years had passed, and it was still under repair.


    Meanwhile, the culprit, who had once only been able to do odd jobs in Radiant Sky Grotto, had now set up a large courtyard in the back mountain.


    In front of the courtyard stood a tree.


    This was a secret realm created by Ancestor Reid within this blessed land, where Ancestor Reid was currently cultivating his psychic abilities.


    Within the courtyard were many familiar faces, the same people who had fought alongside Ethan against Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections at Amber Hill.


    After Julian became Ancestor Reid''s closed-door disciple, Radiant Sky Grotto naturally became their base of operations.


    Even Benjamin had come here to seek refuge, bringing with him everything Forebearer had plundered.


    When Julian had told Ancestor Reid about Heavenly Path Venerable and asked if he was afraid of this monstrous anomaly, Ancestor Reid had simply rolled his eyes...


    "Great-Grandpa, are you about to break through?" Sensing Julian''s aura, Donna barged into Julian''s forging room.


    Their original purpose in coming here was to rescue Julian.


    But life was full of twists and turns.


    Who could have predicted that the accident during Chuck''s breakthrough would lead to such a battle with Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections?


    And who could have imagined that Julian, once so reckless, would learn to plan every step of the way?


    "Yes, I''m about to break through." Julian''s appearance was still the same.


    Apart from his eyebrows and body hair, he was completely bald.


    However, he was much calmer than his usual boisterous self, finally displaying the demeanor of an elder.


    "Congratulations, Great-Grandpa!" Donna was overjoyed.


    She presented Julian with all the spoils of war from the Amber Hill battlefield and what Benjamin had brought from Sunshine Mansion.


    "Great-Grandpa, see if there''s anything here you can use."


    At that moment, within the Forebearer space, Blackwood descendants from all over the world gathered in spirit, watching Julian''s every move through the images Olivia projected using her psychic powers.


    However, this kind of psychic projection could only be maintained for two to three days each year.


    As Julian opened his Storage Ring, the Blackwood descendants practically drooled.


    They had been too well-behaved in recent years.


    Amelia was wealthy, but all she had was medicine...


    Ethan also looked at the items inside.


    They were, after all, spoils of war obtained from Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections and the treasures from the Kylin Mountain branch of the Roberts family, one of the seven great families of Sunshine Mansion.


    There were quite a few treasures.


    There were also many things that particularly caught Ethan''s eye.


    The most important of these was the ''Kylin Heavenly Crystal'' that had appeared in Kylin Mountain that day!


    [Fifth-grade treasure: Kylin Heavenly Crystal]


    [Made from the special material ''Eternal Crystal,'' it contains the corpse and bound remnant soul of a Kylin.]


    [The Kylin remnant soul can be summoned and possesses the peak strength of the Competent Force level. As long as the crystal remains intact, the remnant soul will not be destroyed. The corpse within is preserved by the crystal and can absorb the world''s energy to create ''Kylin Essence Blood'' once every five years.]


    It was indeed a fifth-grade treasure!


    When the Kylin phantom had appeared, it had suppressed even the Lord of Frenzied Blood.


    The creature''s true combat power could even be ranked on the Pinnacle Apprentice list.


    Unfortunately, the Kylin remnant soul felt a strong sense of loyalty to the Roberts family and had been playing dead ever since it fell into the hands of the Blackwoods.


    However, simply summoning the Kylin phantom did not make it worthy of being a fifth-grade treasure.


    Its true value lay in its essence blood!


    [Kylin Essence Blood]


    [Those who absorb Kylin Essence Blood will gain varying Kylin characteristics. Only one drop can be absorbed in a lifetime.]


    In the past two years, the Kylin Heavenly Crystal had produced one drop of essence blood.


    As the junior, Benjamin naturally got the first taste.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, has consumed a drop of Kylin Essence Blood and gained the trait: Kylin Arm]


    [By focusing his essence blood power, his right arm can possess the strength of a top-grade Psychic Gear. As his strength increases, his right arm can eventually possess the strength of a top-grade ability weapon.]


    "Every five years, each member of the family gets a drop of blood. No wonder the Kylin Mountain branch could become one of the seven great families." Ethan smiled faintly and then looked at the other spoils of war.


    [high-level ability weapon: Frostgold Bell Mirror]


    [The wielder of this mirror can summon frost to kill enemies within a hundred miles and control the power of frost. In times of danger, the mirror can transform into a golden bell for protection.]


    A high-level ability weapon!


    The Blackwoods had been longing for something like this for who knew how long.


    Ethan''s Celestial Pole Energy Spear was powerful enough, but it was purely an offensive weapon.


    This Frostgold Bell Mirror, on the other hand, allowed the user to control psychic powers and protect themselves.


    It could be used for both offense and defense.


    This high-level ability weapon was seized from Heavenly Path Venerable''s Basic Mastery projection, Hudson, by Bill Daoist and Chuck.


    Bill Daoist already had a high-level ability weapon, and this one didn''t suit him, so he gave it to Chuck.


    Chuck... that arrogant fellow said that his physical body was comparable to a lower-grade high-level ability weapon, so this thing was useless to him, and he gave it to Donna.


    However, Ethan guessed that Chuck saw how much effort the Blackwoods were putting in during his breakthrough and decided to give it to them.


    Besides these, there were many other treasures, all below the fifth grade.


    They would be distributed to the family members during the next grand ceremony.


    However, looking at the many treasures in the Storage Ring, Julian didn''t want any of them.


    He simply bowed towards the ancient tree outside the courtyard.


    "Master, your disciple is about to face the thunder tribulation. Please keep an eye out and don''t let your precious disciple get ambushed."


    "..."


    The ancient tree shook, and Ancestor Reid, who was inside, remained silent.


    The old man''s phantom face twitched slightly, as if he wasn''t quite used to his disciple''s shamelessness.


    Before long, Julian walked out of Radiant Sky Grotto with his head held high, not taking a single item with him, not even a hair.


    This display of confidence made the Blackwoods frown.


    Donna wanted to ask Forebearer, but seeing that Ancestor Reid was closer in the ancient tree, she didn''t want to bother him with such a trivial matter.


    She bowed and asked, "Senior, what kind of thunder tribulation is my Great-Grandpa facing?"


    Ethan and Ancestor Reid, who was inside the ancient tree, both smiled.


    "The ninety-nine thunder tribulation."

 Chapter 394 - 394: The iron had finally revealed its edge

    "It seems Julian has truly found a good master."


    Watching Julian undergo the tribulation outside Radiant Sky Grotto, Ancestor Reid casually waved his hand, summoning a protective talisman for his disciple. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Ethan was happy for Julian too.


    In the two years since Julian had become Ancestor Reid''s disciple, he hadn''t learned many techniques directly from his master.


    Only when Julian encountered something he couldn''t understand in his various professions would Ancestor Reid''s avatar appear to enlighten him.


    Ethan remembered a conversation he had overheard between the master and disciple.


    "The path is walked by oneself. People say we cultivate the Unorthodox Path, but there are countless ways to cultivate psychic abilities. Who decided that the way the majority cultivates is the right way? There is truth in the world, and that is the Great Way. Everyone sees the Great Way differently, but ultimately, they all lead to the same destination."


    Several days passed.


    On Amber Hill, the site of the great battle two years ago was still scarred and broken.


    Julian sat cross-legged at the spot where Chuck had undergone his breakthrough.


    Many eyes still watched Amber Hill, but when they saw Ancestor Reid''s protective talisman, none dared to cross the line.


    As thunderclouds gathered, the Blackwoods watched anxiously as Julian underwent his tribulation.


    This time, Julian''s tribulation was a surprise to them all, even Ethan.


    Julian rose into the air, and Ancestor Reid''s talisman appeared beneath him, transforming into... a gigantic furnace!


    Pieces of ore materialized from all directions.


    The thunder tribulation in the sky intensified, changing from a nineteen-fold tribulation to a thirty-nine-fold tribulation, and finally... a ninety-nine-fold tribulation!


    The ores slowly melted and integrated into Julian''s body.


    "This..."


    Having cultivated their psychic abilities for over two hundred years, the Blackwoods naturally knew something about forging techniques.


    Watching Julian transform himself into a furnace for his breakthrough, they began to understand.


    Ethan was equally astonished by this strange sight.


    [Your descendant, Julian, aided by Ancestor Reid, is using his great psychic powers to conceal his true potential. Each profession can conceal one level of the thunder tribulation, allowing him to progress step by step, integrating ores and using the Unorthodox Path to transform himself!]


    ...


    Radiant Sky Grotto had existed since the founding of the Emerald Empire.


    Although Ancestor Reid rarely appeared in person, his name was known throughout the land.


    The news that such a powerful figure had taken on a closed-door disciple naturally attracted the attention of many factions within the Emerald Empire.


    They all witnessed the commotion on Amber Hill.


    Not far from Amber Hill, Quinn Daoist, the master of Radiant Sky Grotto who had intercepted Owen that day, watched the thunder tribulation in the sky with a complicated expression.


    Every Psychic in Radiant Sky Grotto dreamed of becoming Ancestor Reid''s disciple and inheriting his legacy, but they rarely even caught a glimpse of the legendary figure.


    After all these years, they had never seen Ancestor Reid fight.


    And now, an unknown individual had become his disciple?


    "Fellow Daoist Quinn."


    A figure appeared beside Quinn Daoist.


    It was Hudson, the Heavenly Path projection who had been besieged by Chuck and Bill Daoist before fleeing in disgrace after Owen and the black mist figure came to his rescue.


    Hudson seemed to be somewhat acquainted with Quinn Daoist.


    His presence didn''t alarm the latter.


    He chuckled and said, "Ancestor Reid is indeed a mighty figure. Julian was originally destined for a sixty-nine-fold tribulation, but he''s actually undergoing a ninety-nine-fold one! It''s a pity he didn''t pass on his legacy to you, the Grotto Master."


    Quinn Daoist remained silent.


    Soon, even Hudson fell silent.


    They, along with everyone else in the empire, witnessed a breakthrough method they had never seen before!


    "He''s... using his own body as a furnace and the heavenly thunder and earthly fire as his tools!"


    Beneath the raging thunder, the iron ore surrounding Julian melted away, transforming into molten metal.


    Under the increasingly powerful lightning, the liquid metal encased Julian in a giant black cocoon!


    Formations, talisman scripts, AI Bionic Robot patterns...


    These Unorthodox Path techniques were etched onto the surface of the cocoon, one by one!


    "Impossible? He''s mastered all the Unorthodox Paths... every single one!"


    Hudson gritted his teeth, his face dark.


    He could sense Julian growing stronger.


    In the near future, this young man would become their most formidable obstacle.


    And there was nothing they could do about it.


    Behind Julian stood Ancestor Reid!


    He turned to Quinn Daoist and said in a low voice, "Fellow Daoist..."


    But before he could finish, Quinn Daoist scoffed.


    "I know what you''re going to say. You want me to help you deal with Julian. Don''t be ridiculous. Even if Julian hadn''t come along, Master would never have chosen me as his heir. Your problems are your own. I only do what I believe is right."


    ...


    The black cocoon endured the thunder tribulation for three whole days, wasting none of its power.


    The powerful figures of the empire watched in awe.


    The Blackwoods did the same.


    Within the ancient tree in Radiant Sky Grotto, a gratified smile appeared on Ancestor Reid''s face.


    "Good disciple."


    Although he rarely left the ancient tree, nothing that happened in Radiant Sky Grotto escaped his notice.


    He had noticed Julian''s unique qualities the moment he stepped foot in the grotto.


    He watched as Julian entered Radiant Sky Grotto and knelt in his room for half a month, clutching a Storage Ring and weeping.


    But after those fifteen days, he saw Julian rise to his feet, his eyes filled with determination.


    And then... he watched as Julian began doing menial tasks.


    At first, he could clearly sense the anger within Julian.


    But slowly, Julian grew accustomed to his humble existence, disguising himself as nothing more than an ordinary person.


    However, the boy never stopped secretly learning within Radiant Sky Grotto.


    Every time he was alone, Julian would practice the Unorthodox Paths he had observed.


    Ancestor Reid had never met a child so unwavering in his determination.


    In Julian, he saw a reflection of his younger self.


    It was then that he decided to take Julian as his disciple.


    But it wasn''t enough.


    For decades, in his eyes, Julian was like a piece of crude iron, slowly being stripped of its rough edges.


    Radiant Sky Grotto became a crucible, tempering the iron and infusing it with the world''s energy.


    And in that explosion, Julian didn''t disappoint him.


    The iron had finally revealed its edge.


    It was then that Ancestor Reid knew he had finally found someone worthy of inheriting his legacy.

 Chapter 395 - 395: I will live on, well

    "Crack!"


    Three days had passed, and all those watching Amber Hill gazed with solemn expressions.


    "Crack! Crack! Crack!"


    They clearly saw that the black cocoon had absorbed all the power of the thunder tribulation.


    The formations on the cocoon were dimming, and a restrained aura emanated from within as cracks spread across its surface.


    As the cocoon shattered, Julian, his body bare, floated in the air, not a trace of aura leaking out!


    While undergoing the tribulation, his limbs had been silver, but now, Julian had returned to flesh and blood.


    The muscles on his body weren''t as exaggerated as a bodybuilder''s but rather like a work of art sculpted by the heavens and earth!


    "Larry... everyone..."


    In the past, Julian would have roared with excitement, showing off to his clan members.


    But now, he frowned, glancing at the Storage Ring in his hand ¨C the one he had received upon arriving at Radiant Sky Grotto.


    His voice was calm, but a flicker of pain crossed his eyes. "I will live on, well."


    Then, without a moment''s hesitation, he sped towards Radiant Sky Grotto.


    His speed was frightening, comparable to the fastest warp shuttles!


    This single action alerted all the experts in the Emerald Empire that the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings needed updating.


    "Damn it, damn it!"


    Inside the Hall residence, Brody, who was meditating in his secret chamber, withdrew his Competent Force that was scouting outside.


    He abruptly stood up, cold sweat dripping down his back. "How can he be so strong? He just broke through to Competent Force, how is this possible?!"


    He still hadn''t forgotten Donna, who had fought him that day.


    She was already a match for him, and if she had fought with all her might, she might even have perished alongside him.


    But from the probe of his Competent Force just now, he was certain.


    Julian, who had just broken through to Competent Force, could already fight him!


    Even though... he himself, after the deaths of many projections, now possessed the strength to compete for the top spot on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings.


    Besides him, the Venerable projections of the Heavenly Path all over the world frowned.


    They were beginning to think that perhaps their intrusion into Glory City that day hadn''t been such a good idea after all.


    ¡­


    After his breakthrough, Julian returned to Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He bowed towards the ancient tree where Old Ancestor Reid was in seclusion and then immediately returned to his room, stepping back into the Forebearer Space.


    At this moment, all the Blackwood people were waiting for news of Julian.


    Amidst the joyful congratulations of his clan members¡­


    Julian knelt before Ethan. "Forebearer, your descendant has broken through to Competent Force!"


    [Your descendant, Julian, using the power of the thunder tribulation, has fused various ores and numerous previous special traits, gaining the trait: Unorthodox Path Body.]


    [His body, tempered by heavenly lightning and earthly fire, has become like tempered steel, possessing the speed, strength, and hardness of the strongest top-grade ability weapons. His body can serve as a formation base, with himself as the array. He can transform into an AI Bionic Robot, multiplying his combat power¡­]


    The information on the ''Unorthodox Path Body'' trait stretched long in the event log, dazzling Ethan''s eyes!


    The Blackwood people were simply overjoyed that Julian had overcome the nine-nine thunder tribulation.


    Most of them could only sense Julian''s soul and couldn''t truly comprehend how powerful he had become.


    Only Ethan knew clearly.


    Julian was now a true human weapon!


    Every part of his body was as strong as a top-grade ability weapon.


    Even an ordinary peak Competent Force expert wouldn''t be able to completely destroy a common top-grade ability weapon even with all their might.


    Moreover, Julian''s trait allowed his body to accommodate formations, enabling him to become an AI Bionic Robot¡­


    He was proficient in Unorthodox Path techniques, and his strength would continue to grow as he learned more in the future, further enhancing his power.


    "Peak Competent Force¡­ He broke through directly to peak Competent Force."


    "As long as he can successfully temper himself to the Basic Mastery level and cultivate his Unorthodox Path techniques to the Fifth-Grade, he can then summon the Basic Mastery tribulation!"


    Looking at Julian, who was laughing with his clan members, Ethan''s eyes gleamed.


    He felt sincere joy.


    Heavenly Path Venerables were monsters, but the Blackwoods¡­ also had their own monster!


    ¡­


    With the great battle at Amber Hill and Julian''s breakthrough through the nine-nine thunder tribulation, the entire Emerald Empire was reminded once again of the Blackwood clan in Cloudview County.


    But time had a way of making people forget.


    The Emerald Empire continued to function as usual.


    [Year 258 of the Blackwood Clan]


    Three years passed in the blink of an eye.


    After his breakthrough, Julian continued to cultivate psychic powers and study Unorthodox Path techniques under Old Ancestor Reid''s guidance.


    Donna and the others had already appeared.


    It seemed someone was always watching them, so they decided to settle down in Radiant Sky Grotto as well.


    Clan members from all over the world became even more motivated by Julian''s breakthrough.


    They also avoided any further conflict with the Heavenly Path Venerables.


    Ethan''s figure appeared in the sky.


    He stood on an ability vessel, with nine other vessels flying behind him.


    They flew over a vast forest, their speed gradually slowing down as they headed towards Amelia''s location!


    "Sir, we have bypassed the Endless Forest, avoiding the areas guarded by the Druids. A hundred miles ahead lies the Golden Empire." Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Edward, who had been trapped in Kylin Mountain, stood at the bow of the vessel as a young man reported to him.


    Aboard these ten ability vessels were all the Rising Stars rescued from Kylin Mountain that day!


    After escaping from Sunshine Mansion, the numerous projections of the Heavenly Path Venerables had been like ants on a hot pan, constantly trying to capture them.


    They were no longer safe within the Emerald Empire''s territory and had no choice but to embark on a long journey to the Golden Empire.


    "I understand."


    Edward faced the wind and responded softly.


    His expression was blank as he gazed ahead.


    Though there was nothing there, his gaze remained deep and unreadable.


    Ethan, standing beside him, observed Edward''s demeanor, a deep worry flashing in his eyes.


    Five years had passed since they were rescued.


    Whether it was during their escape or now that they had reached safety, Edward remained like this, his face an emotionless mask.


    Even after returning to the Forebearer Space, he had only cried his heart out once.


    After that, he hadn''t spoken an unnecessary word.


    [Your descendant, Edward, fell into Austin''s hands the moment the Heavenly Path Venerable invaded Cloudview County. He witnessed with his own eyes the Venerable''s projection slaughtering his clan members, one by one, dying before him, while he was powerless to stop it. He has gained the trait: Numbness.]


    [He had screamed until his voice was hoarse, cried until he had no more tears, until he had no strength left. Few things in the world could stir his emotions anymore.]


    [Your descendant, Edward, was imprisoned by Austin for decades, gaining the trait: Caged Bird.]


    [A caged bird, facing a confined environment, experiences a 50% increase in fear. To avoid such a predicament again, his psychic power cultivation speed increases by 20%.]


    In addition to these traits, everything that had happened was changing Edward.


    But he remained silent and expressionless, like a block of ice.


    Even Ethan couldn''t fathom what was going on in the child''s mind.


    "Sigh."


    Ethan let out a long sigh.


    Edward was like this, and who among the rest of the family had truly recovered from the events of that year?


    Even he, the Forebearer, was no exception.


    But life had to go on.


    They had to keep moving forward.

 Chapter 396 - 396: How could he just die like that?

    [Blackwood 262 Year]


    The grand ancestral sacrifice was long over, and the Blackwood clan continued their diligent cultivation of psychic powers.


    [Your descendant, Julian, has forged a high-grade ability weapon: Cloud Thunder Sword.]


    [It can gather the thunderclouds of heaven and earth, summoning heavenly lightning.]


    [Your descendant, Amelia, has refined a Sixth-Grade Ability Pill: Tribulation Pill.]


    [It can be used to negate 10% of the power of a thunder tribulation.]


    [Congratulations! Your descendant, Benjamin, has broken through to the Transcendental Seed stage. Your descendant, Alexander, has broken through to the peak of Emerging Ability.]


    The descendants continued their cultivation as usual. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The resources from Kylin Mountain Roberts had solved the Blackwood clan''s resource problem, providing them with enough to last for at least a century.


    However, what truly concerned Ethan this year was an event displayed on the panel before him.


    It was an event that once again brought all the clan members together within the Forebearer Space.


    [Special Event ¨C News from Venerable Phil of Crystal Crest]


    [Venerable Phil has never ceased his investigation into the Heavenly Path Venerable. The Blackwood''s decisive victory at Amber Hill, the rescue of numerous Rising Stars from Kylin Mountain, and Julian''s breakthrough to become a Nine-Nine Competent Force have given him hope for defeating the Heavenly Path Venerable.


    He has begun searching for the location of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary to help the Blackwoods rescue their kin trapped within.]


    "The location of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary?"


    Ethan couldn''t suppress the joy on his face.


    Over the years, they had never given up searching for the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    The thirteen clan members trapped inside desperately needed rescuing.


    The clan constantly worried for their safety, especially since it was the Heavenly Path Venerable''s territory!


    In an instant, Ethan appeared at Crystal Crest.


    ¡­


    At that moment, on Crystal Crest, Venerable Phil had summoned his closed-door disciple, Samuel, and Mary.


    Mary had been cultivating on Crystal Crest all these years out of necessity.


    Crystal Crest was located within Sunshine Mansion, and according to Venerable Phil, his every move was monitored by the Heavenly Path Venerable, making it impossible to send Mary away.


    Now, Mary, too, was on the verge of breaking through to Competent Force but had yet to face the Six-Nine thunder tribulation.


    However¡­


    She had already reached the peak of Developing Skill at over two hundred years old, considered her prime in terms of Developing Skill cultivation.


    She had been a picture of strength and vitality.


    But now, her hair was dry and white, her once dark skin had turned pale, and her eyes held an inextinguishable rage.


    Only Ethan knew.


    On the night she received news of the Blackwood clan''s supposed annihilation, Mary''s hair had turned white overnight.


    After all, those who had perished were her and Julian''s descendants.


    She couldn''t even bring herself to leave Crystal Crest to pay her respects to the children one last time.


    "Master, didn''t you find news about the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary? Where is it?"


    Samuel glanced at Mary beside him.


    It had been so many years, and she had been cultivating on the mountain this whole time.


    He remembered when they first arrived; Mary had been fearless and full of life.


    Now, she resembled her white hair ¨C devoid of vibrancy.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable originated from their sect, causing such immense suffering.


    It was their responsibility to clean up this mess.


    "Do you truly wish to find the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary?"


    Venerable Phil gazed at Mary intently.


    Hearing this, Mary nodded resolutely.


    Her children were still trapped inside!


    "Then, let us begin."


    ¡­


    Within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary¡­


    Years had passed, and the number of Sunshine Mansion Rising Stars who had initially entered the sanctuary had dwindled to less than a thousand after countless battles.


    After years of fighting over resources, the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary had been thoroughly depleted.


    The initial scramble for resources had subsided, and now they each guarded their own small territories.


    On this day¡­


    All the experts within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, except for the Blackwoods, gathered inside a sealed cave.


    They stared at a¡­ remarkably simple stone archway tomb before them.


    Dust covered the tombstone.


    Neil, who had once besieged Marcus, stood among the crowd, his gaze fixed on Kyle, who had become the de facto ruler of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Kyle knelt on one knee, gently wiping away the dust from the tombstone.


    "Evan Torres'' tomb?"


    The inscription on the tombstone caused everyone to exchange puzzled looks.


    This cave was located in the deepest part of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, protected by a powerful formation.


    It had taken them decades to break through.


    They had expected to find some hidden treasure or a way out, but to their surprise, it was just a simple tomb?


    "Evan Torres?"


    Hidden underground, Joseph, one of the Blackwoods, frowned.


    "This cave, located in the deepest part of the sanctuary, can''t be this simple. The Heavenly Path Venerable''s Psychic Sanctuary¡­ Perhaps Evan was his true name."


    As expected¡­


    Through Neil''s eyes, they witnessed a collective gasp from the Psychics within the cave.


    A phantom image appeared above Evan''s tomb, flickering with scenes like a slideshow.


    Marcus whispered, "These are the scenes I saw within the Heavenly Path Tear."


    Everyone focused their attention.


    The scenes were identical to what Marcus had seen, but they moved faster, also experiencing a gap around a thousand years ago.


    When the images resumed, the Heavenly Path Venerable had already created the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    He then took the sanctuary and traveled everywhere he had been, from his mortal days to his journey in cultivating psychic powers.


    By the time he returned to the sanctuary, he had shed a single ''Heavenly Path Tear.''


    "Karma, such karma! In my lifetime, I have committed countless wrongs. It seems I am not fated to undergo the tribulation."


    "Master¡­ You said I lacked the aptitude and should not have resorted to killing. I should not have harmed my fellow disciples, creating such karma. In the end, I am nothing but a withered old man, ah¡­"


    Then¡­


    He actually¡­ died!


    His body began to decompose, transforming into every part of the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary!


    "How is that possible? How could he just die like that?"


    Joseph''s expression shifted drastically.


    "Then¡­ then what destroyed our clan? Wasn''t it the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projection?!"


    The Blackwoods were all stunned.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable was dead?


    Then, the numerous Heavenly Path projections outside¡­ were they all fake?


    At that moment¡­


    Ethan''s face darkened, mirroring the expressions of the other Blackwoods.


    They watched as¡­


    After the Heavenly Path Venerable''s death, a figure entered the newly formed Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    He lingered within for many years until one day, he seemed to have a revelation.


    Step by step, he gathered the scattered remnants of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s soul.


    The soul remnants, composed of black energy, dispersed from the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary in all directions!


    A sinister smile spread across the man''s lips.


    "With such a magic formula, as long as I have enough time, the world will be mine!"

 Chapter 397 - 397: We will live each day as if it were our last Part 1

    At that moment, on Crystal Crest, Venerable Phil turned to Luna and said in a grave tone, "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary¡­ it lies within Sunshine Mansion. It is the Heavenly Path''s true body."


    "I have found a way to kill him. If we eliminate all his projections and gather their power, he will be forced to undergo the tribulation."


    "The Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary will also open, and that is when he will be at his weakest."


    His voice echoed with determination.


    Venerable Phil''s expression was solemn. "At that time, I will personally take action and cleanse this stain from my Crystal Crest!"


    Mary''s eyes glinted with a cold light.


    "When?"


    "In a hundred years!"


    As Venerable Phil''s words fell, the Heavenly Path Venerable projections scattered across the Emerald Empire let out cold laughter.


    ¡­


    Ethan listened intently as Phil explained everything.


    After the Heavenly Path had used his fellow disciples from Crystal Crest to trigger their thunder tribulations, boosting himself to break through to Basic Mastery, Phil had begun investigating everything about him.


    When he discovered the existence of the Heavenly Path''s projections, he had deduced the truth.


    Someone like the Heavenly Path would never be content with mediocrity; he constantly challenged the heavens.


    It was then that Phil uncovered the terrifying truth ¨C the Heavenly Path had devised a cunning plan to divide himself into countless fragments.


    However, even the most heaven-defying techniques had their flaws and consequences.


    During the decades of clashes between the Blackwoods and the Heavenly Path, Phil had managed to deduce the weaknesses of the Heavenly Path''s technique.


    In order to reincarnate, the Heavenly Path needed a core, his most vulnerable point.


    While his soul fragments underwent countless reincarnations, experiencing hundreds, even thousands of lifetimes, his core had to remain stationary, hidden within the void¡­ within Sunshine Mansion!


    Phil needed a hundred years.


    During that time, he would use his deductions and immense psychic powers to force the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary to reveal itself.


    This was not only to rescue the thirteen Blackwoods but also to completely destroy the Heavenly Path.


    On that day, the Heavenly Path would never allow his core to be destroyed.


    His projections would stop at nothing to protect it!


    Within the Forebearer Space, silence fell upon the clan members.


    They understood the gravity of the situation.


    Finally, Joseph spoke, "Forebearer¡­ a hundred years¡­"


    He trailed off, noticing the resolute expressions on everyone''s faces.


    A hundred years¡­ it was too short!


    Even if the Heavenly Path Venerable would be weakened, even if Phil was going to take action, they would still face the Heavenly Path''s powerful projections.


    Over the years, as they had eliminated one projection after another, the remaining ones had grown even stronger.


    "For us, a hundred years is not a short time," Olivia said, her voice low. "After their defeat at Amber Hill, the Heavenly Path will not rest. We must seize the initiative."


    The Blackwoods nodded in agreement.


    They couldn''t just sit back and wait for things to happen.


    Just like before, when they had been caught off guard, unaware of the Heavenly Path Venerable''s plans, he had already made his move!


    Moreover, they knew that the Heavenly Path was not like any ordinary enemy they had faced before.


    His projections would also devise ways to deal with the Blackwoods.


    Perhaps they had already begun their counterattack.


    As Olivia finished speaking, all eyes turned towards the Forebearer standing at the center.


    Ethan''s face remained impassive, but black mist swirled around him like raging flames.


    The Twin Fish Harmony Seal in his eyes spun wildly, forming a vortex that seemed capable of devouring everything in its path!


    He had once been powerless to save his clan.


    He had wallowed in despair for five years.


    For decades, he had harbored the same burning hatred as the rest of his clan.


    But over time, he had calmed down.


    He and his clan had proven time and again that the Heavenly Path was not invincible.


    They could be even more formidable.


    Now, it was not his clan who should be afraid, but the Heavenly Path! S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "From this day forward," Ethan''s voice rang out like a chilling wind amidst a blizzard, "we will live each day as if it were our last. In a hundred years, we will either fade into obscurity, or¡­ it will be the end of the Heavenly Path!"


    "Yes, Forebearer!"


    The Blackwoods responded with unwavering determination.


    Their souls vanished from the Forebearer Space like wisps of smoke.


    Soon, only Olivia and Joseph remained.


    Joseph, always cautious, couldn''t help but feel uneasy.


    Even ten thousand years wouldn''t be enough, let alone a mere century.


    He pondered for a moment, recalling the final scene he had witnessed through Neil''s eyes in the cave within the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    "Forebearer," he said cautiously, "the Heavenly Path Venerable should be dead. Then who was that person who appeared afterward? I suspect there might be someone else pulling the strings behind the scenes."


    Ethan and Olivia exchanged glances.


    With a nod from Ethan, Olivia sighed.


    "Perhaps, a long time ago, our clan became entangled in matters we should never have interfered with."


    Joseph was taken aback.


    ¡­


    After emerging from the Forebearer Space, the clan members immediately resumed their cultivation.


    Meanwhile, across the Emerald Empire, the Heavenly Path Venerable''s projections were converging!


    Brody, leading a group of projections, sped towards Radiant Sky Grotto.


    He had received intel that Donna and the Azure Cloud members had left.


    "Julian, Donna!" Brody growled through gritted teeth.


    Years had passed, but he hadn''t forgotten his humiliating escape from the Azure Cloud''s pursuit, nor the humiliation he had suffered at the hands of the Blackwoods.


    However¡­


    He had also learned something from the Blackwoods ¨C in the world of psychic cultivation, one either progressed or regressed.


    Hudson had called him a failure, a burden to the Heavenly Path, and had even urged him to end his own life.


    This had made Brody realize that the danger he faced came not only from the Blackwoods but also from the countless other Heavenly Path projections.


    He had to confront his fears, become stronger, and rise above the rest to become the true inheritor of the Heavenly Path''s legacy!


    The Heavenly Path had resided within him for three years before departing.


    During those years, Brody had relearned the meaning of perseverance.


    Lost in thought, he arrived at a mountain, sensing the presence of numerous Azure Cloud members.


    One by one, the Heavenly Path projections charged towards the mountain.


    But Brody frowned, a sense of unease washing over him.


    He hovered in the sky, muttering under his breath, "Something''s not right¡­ This feels familiar¡­"


    Before he could finish his sentence¡­


    "Boom!"


    A blinding flash of light erupted, engulfing his vision.


    He watched in horror as the Heavenly Path projections that had entered the mountain transformed into AI Bionic Robots disguised as Azure Cloud members, exploding one after another!


    The firelight painted the sky crimson.


    "It''s a trap! Those are AI Bionic Robots created by Julian!"


    "Cunning Blackwoods! Good thing we sent projections to other locations as well¡­"


    "No! The other locations are also swarming with Julian''s AI Bionic Robots! They planned this escape meticulously!"


    Brody watched as the remaining projections fled from the inferno below, their enraged curses echoing through the air.


    In the past, he would have joined their outrage.


    But now, as he felt his power grow with each dying projection, he simply stared impassively in the direction Donna and the Azure Cloud members had escaped.

 Chapter 398 - 398: We will live each day as if it were our last Part 2

    "You spent years preparing, yet you still let them escape?" Brody scoffed, gazing at the gradually forming domain in his hand, his eyes cold.


    "But I should thank you for making me stronger. When we meet again, I will repay every bit of humiliation you inflicted upon me. And you¡­ you will regret ever letting me live!"


    Meanwhile, high in the sky, Donna flew alongside her Azure Cloud comrades, a triumphant smile playing on her lips.


    "The Forebearer was right. We must live each day as if it were our last. I''m glad I was cautious every step of the way; otherwise, leaving Radiant Sky Grotto would have led us straight into the Heavenly Path''s trap."


    "Hahaha, those AI Bionic Robots must have taken out quite a few Heavenly Path projections!" Sam burst into laughter, then turned to Donna with a curious glint in his eyes.


    "Donna, where are we headed?"


    "To cultivate," Donna replied, her gaze fixed on the horizon.


    She knew that in a hundred years, they would face a decisive battle against the Heavenly Path Venerable, a battle even more perilous than the one at Amber Hill.


    "There''s no better place for us to train than the Five Elements Forbidden Zone."


    "The Five Elements Forbidden Zone? What is that place?" Sam''s face paled slightly at the ominous-sounding name.


    ¡­


    As Donna and the Azure Cloud members made their escape, the Heavenly Path projections within Sunshine Mansion were also gathering.


    Their destination¡­ the Druids'' territory, where Nathan was cultivating!


    They arrived at the edge of the Endless Forest and waited patiently.


    One by one, Psychics rose into the air, their formidable auras on full display, creating an intimidating sight.


    It wasn''t long before their expressions turned grim.


    An old man clad in black robes approached, his face etched with Druidic markings.


    "Shane, where is Nathan?" Austin demanded, his gaze fixed on Shane.


    He had spent years scheming, uncovering Shane''s secrets to force his cooperation.


    Their deal was simple: hand over Nathan!


    But Shane stood before him empty-handed.


    The Druid elder sighed.


    "He''s gone. He''s been secluding himself within the Psychic Sanctuary for months, cultivating. I set up formations around his cultivation spot, alerting me to any movement. But¡­"


    Shane''s face contorted with a mixture of anger and humiliation.


    "But I never expected him to have been hiding his true strength all these years. He saw through all my formations. Moreover, our deal¡­ the White Rising Star of the Druids, Arnold, discovered everything. Two months ago, Nathan slipped away. When I arrived, all that remained was a message inscribed with psychic power."


    "What did it say?" Austin asked, surprisingly calm about Nathan''s escape.


    He seemed more interested in the message itself.


    Shane spat out the words through gritted teeth.


    "He said¡­ that he would have both our heads one day!"


    "Hahaha, I eagerly await that day!" Austin threw back his head and laughed, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    The anger he had felt over the escaped Rising Stars had long faded.


    Instead, he felt a surge of exhilaration.


    Throughout his rise to power, he had overcome countless obstacles, clawing his way from a branch family to become the head of the Roberts family, wielding absolute authority over Kylin Mountain.


    But as the years passed, he had begun to crave a worthy opponent.


    Now¡­


    Those Rising Stars sought to tear him limb from limb, and the Blackwoods had a prodigy who dared to threaten his life.


    The thrill of the hunt had returned!


    Unbeknownst to Shane and Austin, however, a pair of eyes watched them from atop a distant mountain, observing Austin''s gleeful expression.


    "Mr. Nathan, it seems you''ve attracted the attention of some rather¡­ peculiar individuals."


    Over the years, Nathan''s friend, Mike, had broken through to Basic Mastery.


    He eyed the distant Austin with a mixture of amusement and disgust.


    If someone like that were after him, he wouldn''t be able to meditate peacefully.


    Nathan nodded slowly.


    "That is the man who invaded my Glory City, the enemy of my clan." S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Seeing Nathan''s calm demeanor, Mike and Arnold exchanged glances, a flicker of hope igniting within them.


    Although Nathan had dedicated himself to cultivation these past few years, they could sense the lingering resentment within him, threatening to consume him.


    But now¡­ the Nathan they knew was back.


    Moreover, things were different now.


    They no longer saw the Blackwoods as enemies.


    In fact, they wouldn''t mind having them as allies, offering a helping hand to a friend in need.


    ¡­


    Just as Ethan had predicted, the Blackwoods were now incredibly cautious.


    They knew that the Heavenly Path Venerable would stop at nothing to exact his revenge!


    However, their constant vigilance also fueled their growth.


    [Blackwood Year 265]


    Donna, leading the forty-three survivors of Amber Hill, arrived at a strange and desolate land.


    It was the northern edge of the continent, the coldest region in the entire Emerald Empire.


    A pristine expanse of snow and ice stretched before them, a world of pure white.


    When the twelve border cities had been ceded to the Druids, many factions had initially considered migrating north to establish a new haven.


    But even their most ambitious plans hadn''t taken them this far¡­


    "Legend has it that further north, the cold is so extreme that even Emerging Ability Psychics can''t withstand it. And beyond that¡­ even Developing Skill Psychics would need to expend their psychic power to survive. This place is also home to snow beasts that attack on sight."


    Sam had only read about such places in books.


    But since leaving the Azure Cloud, he had journeyed to countless locations, albeit for brief periods.


    Still, he had experienced the vastness of the world firsthand.


    Gazing at this world of snow and ice, he couldn''t help but shiver, even though he felt no cold.


    "Donna, is the Five Elements Forbidden Zone located in a place like this?"


    "Yes," Donna replied, nodding slightly.


    She took out an energy locator.


    "General Owen gave me this. He visited the Five Elements Forbidden Zone with the Grand Tutor during their military campaigns. It''s the ideal place to train one''s physique. My master also cultivated there."


    "Here, we should be able to avoid the Heavenly Path''s gaze while you train in peace. Then, in a hundred years, you can join me in our assault on Sunshine Mansion."


    "Alright!" The Azure Cloud members voiced their agreement without hesitation.


    They had learned from the Blackwoods that if the Heavenly Path wasn''t stopped, the Azure Cloud would eventually face annihilation.


    Having witnessed the Heavenly Path''s ruthlessness firsthand, they didn''t doubt the Blackwoods'' words.


    They continued their journey until they reached a valley blanketed in snow, the sky ablaze with colorful aurora borealis.


    Sam stopped abruptly, his eyes narrowing.


    He sensed an incredibly dense concentration of elemental energy emanating from the valley ahead.


    He cautiously extended his hand, his expression shifting drastically as his psychic power surged forth.


    There was nothing there, yet a wave of multicolored light erupted, attempting to devour his hand!

 Chapter 399 - 399: wimps

    "This is¡­ the Five Elements Forbidden Zone?" The Azure Cloud members gasped.


    Even Ethan, who had received prior notice, was astonished.


    [Five Elements Forbidden Zone]


    [Grand Tutor Gilbert once stumbled upon this place during a fierce battle with a demon realm powerhouse. He ventured inside to search but found nothing. This place is filled with an extremely aggressive force of natural laws. The deeper one goes, the stronger this force becomes. The weak will have their bodies torn apart, making it a natural training ground for body cultivators.]


    [This place possesses even stronger supernatural energy than other locations, but the environment is harsh, with frequent appearances of snow beasts, making it desolate.]


    "There''s nothing fun here. How about we play a game? Let''s all enter the Five Elements Forbidden Zone. Whoever covers the shortest distance is the ''wimp''," Donna said with a grin, stepping onto the Buddha-Demon Disk and entering the Five Elements Forbidden Zone.


    Immediately, the force of natural laws began to assail her.


    "..." The Azure Cloud members all rolled their eyes and didn''t move a muscle.


    The male cultivators exchanged glances and decided that if none of them entered, then none of them were "wimps."


    Compete with Donna? They had witnessed her battle with Brody that day; she was the most powerful body cultivator they had ever seen!


    The Five Elements Forbidden Zone lived up to its name. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They had only explored a little and already sensed its terrors.


    This place was an abyss that lured people in step by step.


    The deeper one went, the richer the supernatural energy became, but¡­


    "Sister Donna," Sam, her relative, called out worriedly, "Don''t go too deep. Once entangled by the force of laws within, it''s like a mortal stuck in quicksand, extremely difficult to escape."


    Donna paused and gave Sam a mischievous smile.


    "You should worry about yourselves."


    "What¡­"


    Before they could inquire further, the Azure Cloud members'' faces darkened.


    They heard wolf howls from outside the Five Elements Forbidden Zone, and pairs of scarlet eyes stared at them through the wind and snow.


    Donna ignored the Azure Cloud members behind her.


    She knew those snow beasts couldn''t harm them.


    As she ventured deeper into the forbidden zone, she allowed the cosmic energy to assault her body.


    Gently stroking the black and white radiant Buddha-Demon Disk behind her, she whispered, "Charles, Christopher, when the time is right, I will bring you home."


    "I will bring our brothers, sisters, and descendants home."


    ¡­


    [Blackwood Year 267]


    Riverton.


    Thanks to Amelia, a Sixth-Grade alchemist and pill master, this city had transformed from a marketplace into a place filled with the fragrance of medicine.


    The influx of Psychics bringing resources for alchemy had attracted many alchemists and pill masters.


    However, when the Psychics arrived this year, the supernatural medicine and pills no longer had their original potency.


    One day, ability vessels arrived from an unknown origin, and Riverton''s most renowned Medical Saint departed the city, escorted by thousands of Rising Stars.


    It was said that the Golden Empire and the Emerald Empire once shared the same lineage, but the Endless Forest had divided them.


    The Golden Empire frequently engaged in conflicts with another nation, the Mystic Empire.


    Ethan had some understanding of these two nations.


    They were more vast than the Emerald Empire, but the Emerald Empire seemed more prosperous, with richer supernatural energy.


    At least only the Emerald Emperor dared to claim the title of ancient god.


    The Golden Empire''s ruler called himself "Emperor" but was not favored by the heavens, while the Mystic Empire''s ruler was essentially a puppet controlled by religious sects.


    When the Emerald Empire''s grand hall discussed the rulers of these two nations, it was as if they were giving them the middle finger.


    At this moment, the ten ability vessels soaring freely within the Golden Empire landed on a floating island at the edge of the Golden Empire''s battlefield!


    On the island stood a grand hall.


    The Rising Stars who had followed them sat cross-legged, cultivating their psychic powers, as Psychics who had ascended to the floating island walked past them.


    Most of the richly dressed Psychics from the Golden Empire would exclaim in astonishment upon seeing these Rising Stars.


    One person walked forward and asked the gloomy young man sitting behind the desk, "Fellow Daoist, I heard that we can hire capable individuals here to carry out missions for us or fight for our Golden Empire? I am here under the general''s orders, seeking ten Developing Skill experts to help us conquer a Competent Force sect from the Mystic Empire!"


    Edward slowly looked up at the newcomer and said in a deep voice, "We don''t accept Energy Stones, only supernatural medicine and supernatural ores. Also, all mission rewards belong to us. If anyone dares to play tricks, don''t blame us for being ruthless. As for injuries or the need for supernatural medicine and pills below Sixth-Grade, you are welcome to purchase or refine them here."


    With a wave of Edward''s hand, someone else arrived shortly after.


    [Your descendant, Edward, has come to assist Amelia. He sees the endless conflict between the Golden Empire and the Mystic Empire as a great opportunity for profit. By becoming mercenary Psychics, they can obtain a large amount of resources to support their people. At the same time, it allows the thousand Psychics they brought from Sunshine Mansion to grow through missions.


    In a hundred years, they will become seasoned veterans.]


    [New identity acquired: ''Demonic Monarch''.]


    "Edward truly understands how to manage things."


    Amelia alone had already earned a considerable income in Riverton.


    Now, with Edward bringing a thousand Psychics, they were seizing a golden opportunity to profit from the war.


    Moreover, Edward had once been a Duke behind the scenes in Azure Cloud.


    Even after years of imprisonment, he had not forgotten how to deal with major forces and survive in the cracks.


    However, this was not a long-term solution; it was only a temporary means of survival and development.


    Ethan also observed the thousand Rising Stars.


    They truly lived up to their name!


    In fact, most of them were not very high in cultivation level.


    It seemed that Austin, many Heavenly Path Venerable projections, and Joseph had something in common: they would never allow Rising Stars to truly rise.


    The only difference was that Joseph would eliminate them completely, while the Heavenly Path would treat them like birds to be admired.


    "No wonder there are so few Rising Stars in Sunshine Mansion and Azure Cloud. In recent years, even ordinary forces or the mortal world in the Emerald Empire have rarely seen Rising Stars emerge."


    Ethan let out a long breath.


    He didn''t pay much attention to these Rising Stars, and the Blackwood people didn''t reveal too much information about Blackwood to them either.


    He knew that the reason these Rising Stars were currently willing to obey the Blackwood people was because they had a common enemy in the Heavenly Path.


    However, Rising Stars were all proud individuals.


    No matter the outcome of the war with the Heavenly Path in the future, most of these Rising Stars would likely choose to leave.

 Chapter 400 - 400: We definitely will…

    "Let them be," Ethan shrugged.


    In the past, the family might have used some tactics on these Rising Stars, but after all these years, even Olivia understood that building good relationships might be more beneficial for the family.


    That day, Amelia emerged from her alchemy practice, frowning.


    Edward stood at the edge of the floating island, Energy Stone light illuminating the area.


    Yet, even so, Edward shivered, several Psychics by his side.


    Almost every night, Edward was like this.


    "Edward¡­ you''re in the Golden Empire now, you don''t need to be afraid anymore."


    Amelia stopped herself.


    The Forebearer had told her that during Edward''s imprisonment, nighttime was when he was most afraid.


    "Great-grandmother," Edward said, feeling a little calmer upon seeing Amelia.


    His eyes were misty.


    "I can''t help but be scared. The cage in the courtyard was so small, every time I moved, I would bump into the cold bars. I¡­"


    Edward clenched his teeth, then looked out into the night with Amelia.


    He wanted to say that every time he touched those cold bars, he would remember the day Austin had lifted him up, the cold blade piercing his kin right before his eyes.


    He could only close his eyes.


    But Austin would still slap him with the sword dripping with his people''s blood, as if showing off.


    Every night, it was like that day, eyes closed, unable to see.


    Touching the cold bars was like that sword still slapping him.


    It reminded him of the bloody scenes from that year.


    "Edward." Amelia placed her hand on Edward''s shoulder, feeling him flinch.


    Her voice was firm.


    "We will go back."


    "We definitely will¡­"


    ¡­We will go back, back to our homeland, back to Glory City where time stood still.


    That night, Blackwood people all over the world looked towards Cloudview County, their eyes burning.


    But they all knew that only they would return.


    Time flowed like sand.


    Ethan cultivated his psychic powers beside his children.


    He was slowly making progress.


    Only by breaking through to Basic Mastery could he stand in Sunshine Mansion and face Blackwood''s most powerful enemies.


    Basic Mastery allowed a Competent Force to leave the body and transform into a spirit, roaming freely between heaven and earth.


    Their most significant characteristic was the construction of their own domain, where they could freely control the rules within.


    This was the true power of Basic Mastery.


    Back then, if it weren''t for the people of Azure Cloud Border Town providing him with psychic powers, Ethan wouldn''t have been able to kill the Moon God.


    [Blackwood Year 270]


    [You are attempting to form a domain with the light and shadow diagram.]


    Rules gradually integrated into the light and shadow diagram, like constructing a world.


    The clansmen were not idle either.


    Amelia and Edward continued their ''mercenary'' business in the Golden Empire.


    Thousands of Rising Stars were also growing through missions, and Amelia''s medicine and alchemy skills were also improving.


    In the depths of the northern Five Elements Forbidden Zone, Donna ventured deeper every day, now having traveled for 600 miles.


    Psychics from Cloudview County also cultivated their psychic powers in the outer areas.


    Every time a blood beast was killed, the Azure Cloud Psychics would leave the corpse for Donna.


    Her ''Buddha-Demon Disk'' already possessed some Rogue cultivator techniques, and absorbing the flesh and blood of blood beasts could also increase her cultivation.


    [Your descendant, Donna, absorbed a large number of blood beast corpses, lived in the north, and comprehended part of the ''ice'' elemental rule. Cultivating psychic powers in the Five Elements Forbidden Zone, under the tempering of cosmic energy, her compatibility with the Buddha-Demon Disk grew higher and higher.


    She began to comprehend the Buddhist and demonic techniques of Charles and Christopher.]


    The more Buddhist and demonic techniques Donna comprehended¡­


    Ethan discovered that the girl''s cultivation became even more ruthless, almost to the point of recklessness.


    Several times, the Azure Cloud Psychics had to risk their lives to rescue the exhausted Donna from the depths.


    ¡­


    After Austin took many Heavenly Path projections to the Endless Forest to hunt him down, Nathan did not flee.


    However, it was precisely because of this that he escaped the control of the two elders.


    However, the Endless Forest was vast.


    With the help of Mike and Arnold, he found a hiding place.


    It was the most barren place in the Endless Forest.


    Long ago, a great battle took place here between the Druids and the human cultivators.


    Countless people died here, and the land was soaked with the blood of living beings, making it difficult for even a blade of grass to grow.


    Many years ago, this place was also explored by many Druids and human adventurers, but nothing of value remained, only endless death energy.


    This was also the most suitable place for Nathan to cultivate his psychic powers.


    Several death energy cultivating tribes within the White tribe and the Druids also considered this place a sacred ground for cultivation.


    After cultivating here for several years¡­


    One day, Nathan, who was meditating in the center, suddenly opened his eyes, filled with shock.


    He no longer relied on the Death Coffin.


    After years of cultivating White psychic powers, he had a new understanding of ''death.''


    Arnold and some elders of the White tribe had told him that ghost cultivators who cultivated psychic powers communicated with heaven and earth, corpses, and souls.


    They could speak. Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This time, Nathan truly understood the true meaning of these words.


    He saw it.


    As his cultivation progressed, the death energy in this ancient battlefield transformed into scenes that appeared before his eyes.


    It was the great battle that took place on this ancient battlefield.


    Countless Druids and humans clashed, blood and sand covering the ground.


    [Your descendant cultivated psychic powers on the ancient battlefield and began to gradually comprehend the true meaning of the technique left behind by the Death Coffin.]


    [Cultivation speed increased by 20%.]


    ¡­


    In the icy land, Lucas was on the move.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, traveled thousands of miles through the snowy land, comprehending natural energies every day, enriching his swordsmanship cultivation. His injuries have recovered to 100%!]


    [He possesses the Five Elements Rule Sword within his body.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has become accustomed to living in the snowy land as an ordinary person and has become accustomed to the ordinary attack methods of swordsmanship, gaining the trait: Return to Simplicity.]


    [Swordsmanship cultivation increased by 100%, comprehension increased by 30%.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has broken through to the middle stage of Competent Force!]


    Even after so many years, Diana was still unable to get up.


    Lucas had asked, and Diana had told him what happened that day.


    She had sensed an extremely powerful Druid within the Druid tribe who was prepared to completely annihilate Blackwood.


    Having recovered 10% of her strength, she had misjudged her own power, as well as the strength of the Druid Divine Bird Tribe.


    She hadn''t expected the Divine Bird Tribe to have an Ability Master Psychic, nor had she expected to encounter a Druid gathering that day.


    The ensuing battle left her more severely injured than she had been many years ago, but it also deterred the Druids, making them afraid to advance.

 Chapter 401 - 401: White Tiger

    At this moment, Diana, resting in a tent made of animal hide, looked at Lucas, her voice faint.


    "Perhaps it was because I made a move that day that your family suffered such a disaster. That day, I could sense Psychics from the Emerald Empire watching."


    At Diana''s words, Lucas''s movements paused.


    His brow, dusted with snowflakes, twitched slightly before he resumed his sword practice.


    A flicker of guilt crossed Diana''s eyes.


    "Even they couldn''t fully discern the extent of my battle with those so-called ''elders.'' But there''s no doubt they''re aware of my existence. Only those who have reached at least the Advanced Mastery level are qualified to negotiate with the Druids, and that''s made Blackwood a thorn in their side."


    "Heavenly Path is the forerunner of certain forces within the Emerald Empire, exploring and bringing disaster upon Blackwood. Perhaps¡­ that day, I shouldn''t have intervened."


    With a sweep of his sword, the falling snowflakes seemed to freeze in time, the chill in the air intensifying.


    Only after a snap of his fingers did everything return to normal.


    Lucas sighed.


    "It has nothing to do with you. If you hadn''t acted, Blackwood would have been in grave danger."


    "Ultimately, it boils down to our lack of strength. We''ll discuss your situation later. Right now, I just want to become stronger. I believe everyone in the family, like me, needs to become stronger."


    In truth, he had never forgotten what happened to his family in Azure Cloud.


    He couldn''t even hold a sword when he was bedridden.


    He glanced at Diana.


    The Demon Lord still wore a guilty expression.


    "Demon Lord," he said, "you said that at the end of this journey, at the place of your birth, my strength would be restored. I haven''t reached the end, yet I''ve fully recovered, and my swordsmanship has even improved. You''ve done more than enough."


    A smile graced Diana''s face.


    "I''ve examined your injuries. It was the force of a Basic Mastery expert. Your swordsmanship is not weak, but it''s too flashy. This natural energy, combined with my remaining psychic powers, is precisely what''s suppressing your injuries. Your swordsmanship has improved, and walking like an ordinary person is the path to returning to simplicity. It''s only natural that your injuries have healed."


    All these years, Lucas had been carrying her on his back.


    She knew he must have realized long ago that she had lied.


    But Lucas''s perseverance surprised even Diana.


    She had never met anyone like him, someone who would pursue a goal so resolutely, even knowing it was false.


    Perhaps it was precisely because of this, coupled with Lucas''s extraordinary talent, that he had come so far.


    She looked at Lucas, who had resumed his sword practice.


    In this icy land, he was like a long sword, unsealed from its sheath of ice and snow.


    After a long moment of contemplation, she seemed to have thought of something.


    "Lucas, there was once a Psychic known as the Sword Saint. With a single sword, he made the world tremble before him. I know where he rests. Many years have passed, but his sword should remain. I''ll take you to find his inheritance."


    Lucas sheathed his sword.


    Always decisive, he hoisted Diana onto his back once more and rose into the air, standing on his sword case.


    "How do you know where he rests? And how can you be sure his sword remains?"


    Diana rested her head on Lucas''s shoulder.


    "Because I met him."


    "¡­" Lucas rolled his eyes.


    If he didn''t have a vendetta to fulfill, he wouldn''t even want the Sword Saint''s inheritance.


    ¡­


    Within Radiant Sky Grotto¡­


    Since breaking through to Competent Force, Julian had finally gained some recognition.


    In Old Man Reid''s eyes, he had become a treasure.


    Old Man Reid was an eccentric character.


    Radiant Sky Grotto was a powerful force, with numerous talented individuals, some even more prestigious than Owen, the ever-victorious general. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yet, according to Old Man Reid, even if Julian was only at the Developing Skill level, he was still stronger than those guys.


    Apart from Julian, only those who could innovate unorthodox techniques were qualified to meet Old Man Reid.


    There was once a Psychic in Radiant Sky Grotto who had created a new technique that could instantly tidy up a messy room with a single use.


    The other Psychics scoffed at him, but Old Man Reid appeared personally and praised him as a "good disciple."


    [Your descendant, Julian, under the guidance of Old Man Reid and with the abundance of Sixth-Grade Psychic materials in Radiant Sky Grotto, used an Eighth-Grade Psychic vein to refine his first Sixth-Grade Psychic Puppet!]


    In the back mountains¡­


    Julian and Old Man Reid gazed with delight at the colossal creature before them.


    It was a white tiger, six feet tall and sixteen feet long, with sleek muscles.


    It looked no different from an ordinary tiger, nuzzling Julian affectionately.


    Who would have guessed that it was an AI Bionic Robot?


    [Sixth-Grade Psychic Puppet: White Tiger]


    [Its body is crafted from various Psychic materials, its flesh and blood refined from the remains of an unruly Competent Force level Psychic beast. It contains an Eighth-Grade Psychic vein, providing it with boundless Psychic energy. Its soul is forged through ghost control techniques¡­]


    [Possessing the physical strength of a top-grade ability weapon, it can manipulate the metal elemental rule and wields the peak-level Profound techniques ''Golden Forest Kill Formation'' and ''Thousand Shadows.'']


    [The Psychic Puppet can transform into a top-grade ability weapon: White Tiger Sacred Armor.]


    [When transformed into armor, its two peak-level techniques become available to the wearer.]


    "Good, good, good! What a good disciple!" Old Man Reid stroked the Psychic Puppet as if it were a priceless treasure.


    "Quickly, quickly! Let your Psychic Puppet carry me for a stroll around Radiant Sky Grotto!"


    After the white tiger carried Old Man Reid on a wild run through Radiant Sky Grotto, throwing the disciples into chaos¡­


    Old Man Reid was overjoyed.


    "Quick, disciple! Have this Psychic Puppet transform into armor. I want to try it on!"


    "Hahaha! Another unorthodox path has emerged in this world, originating from my Radiant Sky Grotto!"

 Chapter 402 - 402: So thats it, so thats it!

    After Elder Reid''s initial excitement, his power puppet, White Tiger, curled up beside the ancient tree.


    It was Julian''s first time inside the tree, and the space within was like a vast starry sea.


    Elder Reid explained that it was a high-level power equipment that had accompanied him for tens of thousands of years.


    Elder Reid had also suppressed his earlier childlike demeanor upon encountering something new.


    His brilliant disciple had serious matters to discuss, and he had a good idea what they were.


    Julian had been working so hard all these years, and now he was even showing him the power puppet technique.


    He must want his master to take him seriously.


    "Master," Julian said, gazing at Elder Reid, his voice deep.


    "I have something to ask. Why... why was my Blackwood family met with such a disaster?"


    His gaze was calm, but a raging fire burned in his heart, directed at both the Emerald Empire and the Sunshine Mansion''s Heavenly Path.


    He refused to believe that the Venerable of Heavenly Path attacking his family that day was a coincidence.


    Becoming Elder Reid''s disciple wasn''t just about learning skills; it was about gaining knowledge.


    He believed that with Elder Reid''s power, he would surely have answers.


    Perhaps, for the sake of his talent, he might even help him deal with Heavenly Path.


    Elder Reid hesitated for a long time before letting out a long sigh.


    "My disciple, your Blackwood family should never have risen in Azure Cloud, and they should never have risen in Sunshine Mansion."


    Julian frowned.


    Elder Reid continued, "Everything in this world has a cause and effect. In truth... the ancient god is nearing the end of his lifespan. Long ago, factions began to form within the Emerald Empire. Our empire is different from other places. Our ancient god, our officials, they are all blessed by heaven and earth, bestowed with divine laws.


    They are the rightful rulers of humanity."


    "For example, when the ancient god ascended to his position, he was already at the Advanced Mastery level. When one becomes the ruler of a prefecture, they immediately attain Competent Force. This is why there are struggles for power."


    Julian knew this.


    Back then, Edward had sought the position of Duke and was almost bestowed with divine law, but the ancient god had refused.


    When the Oracle Chamber had appeared, the Blackwood family had also learned of the ancient god''s severe injury.


    It turned out the injury was a lie, but his approaching end was very real.


    He frowned.


    "Then... what does that have to do with my Blackwood family?"


    "There are many things your master doesn''t know," Elder Reid said.


    "I only know that the empire''s two largest factions are the Grand Tutor and the national advisor. Grand Tutor Gilbert has been away on expeditions for many years, while the national advisor manages domestic affairs. When the ancient god''s lifespan began to dwindle, the struggle for the throne also began."


    "Initially, the national advisor supported one of the princes. This prince was eager for achievements, and when the Druids invaded, he ceded the twelve border prefectures in exchange for a millennium of peace."


    "..."


    Julian knew this.


    That prince had been killed by William.


    Unaware of Julian''s thoughts, Elder Reid continued, "Later, Lance supported another prince, the current Twelfth Prince. This one possesses Competent Force cultivation but is known for his eccentric, violent, and suspicious nature. With Lance''s help, more and more people sided with the Twelfth Prince. However, your Blackwood family... you subtly aligned yourselves with the Grand Tutor."


    "Even so, the Twelfth Prince didn''t consider the Blackwoods a threat. You were just in that small place, Cloudview County, unable to cause him any trouble."


    "But then, for some unknown reason, someone emerged within your Blackwood family who could actually intimidate the Druids into inaction. Such a powerful individual must be of Advanced Mastery level, and not just an ordinary one! Such a figure would definitely catch the attention of both Lance and the Twelfth Prince!"


    Julian understood.


    It turned out that the seeds of disaster had been sown for his family long ago!


    His eyes widened, and he gritted his teeth.


    "Then why Heavenly Path? I sensed that many within the Emerald Empire knew of Heavenly Path''s existence!"


    "Within the Emerald Empire, Basic Mastery Psychics are forbidden from taking action. Otherwise, the empire will surely know. This is the empire''s rule, for a single strike from a Basic Mastery Psychic can level a city and cause irreversible damage to a thousand miles. Ordinary Basic Mastery duels are always held in the sky."


    Elder Reid said solemnly, "Your Blackwood family wouldn''t have been attacked by a Basic Mastery Psychic otherwise. The ancient god would have restrained them. Any Psychic above Basic Mastery wouldn''t be able to escape his notice. Unfortunately, you went too far."


    "The ancient god remained silent, secretly observing which of his children would excel. But that doesn''t mean he''s truly weak or without temper. He let the twelve border prefectures go because he wanted to see what those princes could accomplish. But your Blackwood family interfered..."


    "In the grand hall, your Blackwood family made the ancient god lose face. Edward even proclaimed himself king during the court assembly, provoking the ancient god. He wouldn''t protect the Blackwoods anymore, nor would he restrain anyone from acting against them."


    "This gave Lance the opportunity to make a move against your Blackwood family. However, he couldn''t do it directly. The Grand Tutor held your Blackwood family in high regard, and Lance didn''t want a direct conflict with him." Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That''s where Heavenly Path came in."


    When Elder Reid mentioned Heavenly Path, a look of shock flashed across his eyes.


    "As for Heavenly Path, I only learned of them after the Blackwood incident."


    "This person can assume countless forms, reincarnating thousands of times. It''s astonishing. But such a heaven-defying method might escape the eyes of someone like me, who lives in seclusion, but how could it escape the notice of the national advisor and the Grand Tutor?"


    "I suspect that Heavenly Path must have joined one of the factions long ago, most likely Lance''s."


    "However, someone like Heavenly Path, with such ambition, Lance would never allow them to grow unchecked."


    Upon hearing this, Julian''s body trembled.


    "Lance sent Heavenly Path to destroy my Blackwood family?!"


    "He set a trap," Elder Reid shrugged.


    "Someone in your Blackwood family could intimidate the Druids. Lance probably didn''t know what other trump cards your family held, and he probably didn''t know what Heavenly Path was truly capable of. Moreover, Heavenly Path was right there in Sunshine Mansion. A conflict between them and your Blackwood family was inevitable. That''s how that disaster came to be."


    "That was your Blackwood family''s great tribulation."


    "I doubt Lance expected Heavenly Path to breach your Blackwood defenses so easily, nor did he expect them to win so effortlessly."


    Then, Elder Reid smiled faintly.


    "He also didn''t expect that your Blackwood family would have the strength to fight back after a few years, and now you''ve played right into his hands."


    "So that''s it, so that''s it!" Julian felt like all the strength had drained from his body.


    After all these years, he finally understood everything!


    Back in Azure Cloud, they had been so naive, truly believing they could remain untouched with the strength of a single prefecture.


    They never imagined that the Emerald Empire was like an abyss, slowly swallowing them whole.


    At this thought, Julian''s expression suddenly changed.


    "Master, what about Radiant Sky Grotto...?"

 Chapter 403 - 403: Tell me, what brings you here?

    "What''s this?" Elder Reid chuckled, stroking his long beard.


    He was somewhat pleased to see his disciple concerned about Radiant Sky Grotto being dragged into the conflict, but his words were dismissive.


    "Do you think these power struggles can affect Radiant Sky Grotto? Levi dared to defy the imperial decree and returned to the imperial capital unscathed. Now, I''ve merely taken on a disciple. What can they possibly do to me?"


    "However..." Elder Reid suddenly sighed.


    "My disciple, I advise you and your Blackwood family to let go of thoughts of revenge. Even I cannot interfere in this empire''s struggle. That Heavenly Path is no simple matter. Let it go."


    "Let it go?!" Julian''s face flushed red.


    Seeing Julian''s reaction, Elder Reid knew his disciple couldn''t let go of the hatred.


    He said, "My disciple, Lance won''t allow Heavenly Path to grow stronger unchecked. That person is too ambitious. Otherwise, their projections wouldn''t be spread throughout the empire. Now that you''ve forced them to reveal themselves, even the ancient god will eliminate them for the sake of his princes."


    But as soon as he finished speaking, Elder Reid felt a pang of worry.


    Julian was fiddling with the Storage Ring on his finger, the one left by Larry.


    He knew the Blackwoods would never truly let go.


    ...


    The Blackwoods were now privy to these behind-the-scenes machinations.


    It turned out they had never escaped the whirlpool of the empire''s power struggles.


    Those high and mighty royals and officials had merely treated them as pawns, even Heavenly Path...


    They were like spectators to a cruel game, watching the Blackwoods and Heavenly Path tear each other apart.


    But at this point, the Blackwoods couldn''t afford to care about any of that.


    They continued to cultivate their psychic powers, waiting for the decisive battle with Heavenly Path in Sunshine Mansion a century later.


    Among them, the fastest cultivators were the younger generation, Benjamin and his father, Adam.


    [The North]


    It was a military camp, unlike any other in Azure Cloud.


    Massive ability vessels were stationed at the edge of the Endless Forest, stretching towards the north.


    Aboard them, numerous Psychics clad in silver armor stood in neat rows, far surpassing the Azure Cloud army of Cloudview County.


    These soldiers were worthy of being called "celestial warriors."


    Countless high-level power equipment, talismans, formations, and even hundred-meter-tall Giants could be seen.


    A palace floated in the sky. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Inside, a young man stood beside an old man reading a book.


    The old man, though his hair was streaked with gray, had a resolute face and an air of authority that commanded respect with every move.


    He was the Grand Tutor, Gilbert!


    "Grand Tutor Gilbert," Benjamin said respectfully.


    "Thank you for saving me during my training in the demon realm. I would have died without your help."


    "Saved you?" The old man lowered his book slightly and glanced at Benjamin, a hint of amusement flickering across his wrinkled face.


    "You jest. You were being chased by a Developing Skill beast in my army''s territory, and after being rescued, you claimed to be a Blackwood and an old acquaintance. Isn''t that a bit too convenient?"


    Benjamin scratched his head, the awkwardness of a young man caught trying to be clever evident on his face.


    "I can''t hide anything from the Grand Tutor''s discerning eyes."


    "I know about the Blackwoods. The empire''s struggle hasn''t been kind to your family. I must admit, I bear some responsibility for that." Grand Tutor Gilbert didn''t bother with trivialities.


    "Tell me, what brings you here?"


    "Grand Tutor, I wish to cultivate under your guidance!"


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, after years of training and with his family facing a decisive battle against Heavenly Path in Sunshine Mansion, seeks to rapidly increase his strength. He decides to try his luck with Grand Tutor Gilbert.]


    [Receives a blessing from Grand Tutor Gilbert: Earth-rank technique: Heavenly Fire Tempering Formula]


    [Uses psychic powers to summon heavenly fire to temper his bones, meridians, and psychic powers]


    [Receives a treasure from Grand Tutor Gilbert: high-level power equipment: Divine Fire Banner]


    [Due to his diligence in cultivation, earns Grand Tutor Gilbert''s appreciation and gains a new identity: adopted son of the Grand Tutor!]


    One night, Benjamin stood at the bow of an ability vessel, gazing at the grand hall where Grand Tutor Gilbert read.


    A dangerous glint flickered in his eyes.


    "Foster father, it''s best if you have nothing to do with Glory City."


    ...


    Benjamin now served as a scout in Grand Tutor Gilbert''s army in the north.


    Under the starry sky, Ethan watched his son, who had pulled himself out of despair, amidst the icy plains of the north.


    Benjamin, who had once wandered alone for five years, had matured.


    Standing at 1.75 meters tall, he was strikingly handsome.


    He might seem carefree and easygoing, but at night, or when facing adversaries, his mind was sharp and calculating.


    Looking at Benjamin now, clad in armor, with a hint of stubble on his face, on the verge of breaking through to Developing Skill, Ethan felt a mix of pride and concern.


    This boy had been through so much from such a young age.


    He had faced hardship since he was ten, constantly on the run, encountering danger at every turn.


    He had found a brief respite in the fishing village, only to be forced to flee once more.


    Year after year, Benjamin had made his mark in various prefectures and counties of the Emerald Empire, astonishing Rising Stars everywhere with his talent.


    At Benjamin''s age, other Blackwood youths would be safely cultivating within the family estate, protected from harm.


    But Benjamin was different.


    He had experienced more than any of his peers, traveled to more places than even his elders.


    He seemed to have grown accustomed to it.


    Even now, becoming one of Gilbert''s thousand adopted sons didn''t seem to faze him.


    [Your descendant, Benjamin, accustomed to a life of solitude, adventure, and combat since his youth, gains the trait: Lone Wolf]


    [Unafraid of loneliness, mental fortitude increased by 50%, strength increased by 10% when alone]


    He might put on a carefree facade, acting casually among his kin, but Ethan could see the loneliness in Benjamin''s eyes.


    Ethan had come to understand his descendant.


    Loneliness was Benjamin''s armor.


    Deep down, he yearned for companionship, but... he had learned to live without it.


    "Forebearer, I''ve been by Gilbert''s side for a long time."


    Under the cover of night, Benjamin took out the Forebearer Psychic Position and spoke into it.


    "Although Gilbert is conquering new territories in the north, his faction in the imperial capital is also supporting a prince. He''s just not as obvious as the national advisor. I''ve tested the waters. Even though I''m his adopted son, getting Gilbert to help us deal with Heavenly Path is impossible."


    "Just like back in Amber Hill, the Grand Tutor''s faction and the national advisor''s faction are keeping each other in check, content to let us fight Heavenly Path."


    Ethan nodded slightly, the Forebearer Psychic Position illuminating Benjamin''s face.


    Sensing that his message had been received, Benjamin tucked the Forebearer Psychic Position back into his robes and melted into the darkness.

 Chapter 404 - 404: ...Well, Ill have to live that long first!

    After becoming the Grand Tutor''s adopted son, Benjamin didn''t let it go to his head, nor did he use it to seize power.


    He knew deep down that he wasn''t cut out for these power struggles.


    He pressed onward on his journey.


    "A century is but a blink of an eye for us psychics," Benjamin said with unwavering determination.


    "The Forebearer said to live each day as if it were our last, and so should I, if I want to face the Heavenly Path. I must be at least as strong as Elder [Frenzied Blood, please provide translation], to even stand on the battlefield."


    Years passed.


    He continued his journey, meeting elders and entering the Forebearer space, yet he never spoke of the hatred he held from that fateful day.


    But he never forgot the day his father, Oliver, sent him away from Sunshine Mansion.


    Nor did he forget his father''s words, urging him to keep moving forward, never looking back.


    These words became the guiding principle and belief that carried him to where he was now.


    He had to keep moving forward, because the Heavenly Path was right behind him!


    Fortunately, he wasn''t alone on this journey; many of his kin walked alongside him.


    ...


    Panoram State.


    Unlike Benjamin, Alexander and his father, Adam, were taking a break atop a tall building.


    Ruins surrounded the building, and numerous psychics huddled around bonfires amidst the debris, bartering and sorting through spoils of war.


    It was clear that a battle had just transpired.


    Adam, as meticulous as ever, couldn''t stand the dust that clung to him.


    He showered furiously, then used his technique to cleanse himself further before finally stopping.


    [Your descendant, Adam, after years of seafaring and battling psychics in Panoram State, has developed a penchant for the finer things in life. He has acquired the trait: Clean Freak.]


    [Becoming dirty will send him into a frenzy, increasing his combat power by 20% but decreasing his sanity by 50%.]


    Dressed in fresh clothes, Adam stood on the rooftop, the cool night air whipping at his clothes.


    He looked down at his son, Alexander, who was tearing into a beast leg, his face smeared with grease.


    Adam couldn''t help but wrinkle his nose in distaste.


    He tore his gaze away from the unkempt psychics below and looked towards the Emerald Empire.


    "How has the family been all these years?"


    His initial goal in setting out to sea was to seek treasure, but he never expected to become a pirate or discover this new continent.


    Since arriving in Panoram State, he had to engage in battles every so often to defend their territory.


    The new friends he made in Panoram State all said that he and his son were fearless, daring to oppose the Panoram State empire...


    Everyone praised them as the most valiant father-son duo in the world.


    But only Adam knew that everything they faced here was nothing compared to...


    "I heard that back in Azure Cloud, the family faced enemies that were nothing short of extraordinary."


    "The Azure Cloud Pavilion, standing for tens of thousands of years in Azure Cloud, single-handedly challenged an entire county. Duke Michael, who maintained his disguise for centuries, even deceiving his own children. The Druids... and now, the Heavenly Path..."


    "Any one of these individuals is more formidable than the entire Panoram State."


    Adam''s expression was a mixture of emotions as he spoke.


    On the one hand, he yearned to experience all of this alongside his kin.


    On the other hand... he was afraid.


    Ever since discovering his true identity, he learned about his father Nicholas''s experiences and understood why his mother had chosen to raise them in a small fishing village.


    He understood his mother''s fears, her worry that he would sacrifice his life for the family, just like his father.


    He wasn''t afraid of that; no matter what anyone said, he knew his father did the right thing.


    He was just afraid...


    Afraid that he wouldn''t be good enough, that he wouldn''t be able to keep up with the rest of his family, just like when he first set sail.


    His mother had pleaded with him not to become another ''valiant Nicholas,'' but he... he wanted to be even better!


    "A hundred years... to conquer the entire Panoram State. That''s the most I can achieve."


    Adam let out a long breath.


    "Although I''ve never met the Heavenly Path, nor do I know how powerful he truly is, if it were my father, he wouldn''t cower in the face of an unknown enemy. He would fight with everything he had to secure a future for the family."


    Adam inherited Nicholas''s handsome features, bearing a striking resemblance to his father, but with an added touch of elegance and meticulousness.


    The cool night breeze ruffled his soft hair, momentarily obscuring his determined features.


    Down below.


    Alexander, who was laughing and joking with the other psychics, seemed to sense his father''s gaze.


    He slowly lifted his head and rolled his eyes at his father.


    "What are you looking at, Brother Alexander?" chuckled a psychic beside him.


    "By the way, I heard you mention wanting to go on an adventure, to explore the entire sea?"


    "Just a thought," Alexander waved his hand dismissively. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He took after his mother in appearance, lacking Adam''s refined features.


    Instead, he possessed the rugged charm of a seasoned sailor.


    "Look at my old man, always itching for a fight. As his son, I can''t just abandon him. But hey, I''ll take you guys to my hometown someday, show you around. Hehehe, I''ve got some enemies back home, you guys can help me out."


    "You got it, hahaha! Just say the word, when do we set off?"


    "About a hundred years from now."


    "...Well, I''ll have to live that long first!"


    Alexander and Benjamin, the only two descendants of the seventh generation, possessed contrasting personalities.


    [Your descendant, Alexander, has befriended many like-minded individuals in Panoram State, addressing everyone as ''brother.'' He has acquired the trait: Gregarious.]


    [The probability of gaining favor with others has increased by 10%.]


    ...


    The descendants of Blackwood were scattered across the globe, each living their lives, growing stronger, all for a common goal.


    Decades, even a century, was an eternity for ordinary people.


    But for most of the Blackwood clan, it was but a blink of an eye.


    Nathan, for instance, had been cultivating his psychic powers in the ancient battlefield, only seeing Mike and Arnold a handful of times over the years.


    It was only when he saw his kin in the Forebearer space that he would inquire about their children and steal a moment with Luna.


    Luna, too, had grown in her abilities.


    Cultivating alongside the Fox Saint had imbued her with an ethereal aura.


    The couple, one radiating deathly energy, the other an ethereal beauty, made for a rather peculiar pair.


    Lucas, on the other hand, hadn''t changed a bit.


    Every time they met, Amelia would pester him about Diana, but all Lucas would offer was a gruff "She''s alive," much to Amelia''s annoyance.


    Julian and Mary, however, were a different story.


    The events of that day had hit them the hardest.


    Julian was a changed man, and Mary''s hair had turned white.


    They were once the most formidable couple in the family, but now they were shadows of their former selves, always clinging to each other in the Forebearer space.


    No one dared to disturb them during these moments, hoping that they would find solace in each other''s arms.

 Chapter 405 - 405: Such potent deathly aura!

    [Blackwood 300 Years]


    That day, within the Patriarch''s Realm, the Forebearer vanished.


    It wasn''t until a full ten days later that the Forebearer reappeared within the Patriarch''s Realm, resuming their usual position observing the Blackwood clan.


    "Forebearer, your... your aura..."


    Though Olivia no longer possessed a physical form, she remained a unique presence within the Blackwood clan.


    The moment Ethan reappeared, she detected his change.


    While unable to sense the Forebearer''s aura directly, she perceived a subtle shift, as if he had grown... stronger!


    Over the years, she had entertained countless theories about the Forebearer''s true nature, but eventually, she ceased speculating.


    She understood that despite the Forebearer''s enigmatic nature, their dedication to the clan was absolute, mirroring the unwavering loyalty of every Blackwood member.


    The Forebearer''s will was the clan''s will.


    Olivia would obey any command without hesitation.


    "Indeed."


    Ethan offered a slight nod, acknowledging Olivia''s delighted expression.


    Exhaling slowly, his gaze swept across the clan members within the space, carrying an almost palpable weight.


    "I am ready."


    ...


    [Blackwood 360 Years]


    Only two years remained until the century mark prophesied by Elder Phil.


    As the deadline approached, a strange and somber atmosphere descended upon Sunshine Mansion.


    Even within the Emerald Empire, countless eyes watched the mansion closely.


    It seemed everyone knew that in two years'' time, the monstrous prodigies of Sunshine Mansion would clash with the Blackwood clan in a battle for the ages.


    Yet, strangely, aside from Julian at Radiant Sky Grotto and Mary at Crystal Crest, there was no news of any other Blackwood members.


    Even those two seemed solely focused on honing their psychic powers, making no other moves.


    The Rising Stars rescued from Kylin Mountain Roberts had also vanished without a trace.


    "Two years... No matter what, I will open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary."


    Atop Crystal Crest, intricate formations materialized above Phil, layering upon each other before ascending into the clouds.


    It was a display of Advanced Mastery, a celestial manipulation of wind and cloud.


    The formations vanished into the sky, leaving no trace.


    Mary and Samuel sat beside Phil.


    "I can feel it," Phil said to Mary, "the Heavenly Path''s projection is encroaching upon Sunshine Mansion. The century mark is upon us. Are you Blackwoods prepared?"


    He knew that despite Mary''s presence at Crystal Crest, she possessed a secret means of communication with the rest of her clan.


    "Yes."


    Mary''s curt nod and subsequent silence drew Phil''s brows together.


    "I don''t know what you Blackwoods have been planning these past years, nor if you can truly aid me. But know this: we have only one chance. Once I open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary, if the Heavenly Path achieves Advanced Mastery, neither you nor I can stop them."


    Mary simply nodded again, her silence fueling Phil''s frustration.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the ancient battleground of Endless Forest, a pair of eyes opened, so black they seemed to devour all light.


    Taking the eyes as their epicenter, a wave of dark energy rippled outward, emanating a terrifying aura.


    Druids cultivating psychic powers around the battlefield felt the shift.


    Their faces paled, and they hastily ceased their practice, taking to the skies to escape the epicenter of the terrifying energy.


    "Such potent deathly aura!"


    "This isn''t our Druidic aura, it''s human psychic power! Curse them, who dares use our sacred grounds for their own ends?"


    "Quickly, report back to Lord Apostle and the elders!"


    As the Druids fled, the dark energy above the battlefield coalesced, forming a swirling mass of black clouds.


    Within the clouds, a pair of colossal eyes materialized, their gaze fixed upon a lone figure meditating at the center of the battlefield.


    Nathan!


    He had been meditating for years, his clothes now little more than tattered rags that seemed ready to disintegrate at the slightest breeze.


    The man once known as the ''Steadfast Patriarch'' in Azure Cloud now exuded an even greater sense of composure and serenity.


    His dark eyes slowly returned to their normal state as he murmured, "Forebearer, your child is ready. The Death Coffin is ready to return."


    As if responding to his words, the Patriarch''s Soul Brand resting on his chest gently rose into the air.


    A single word materialized before him: "Good."


    "Yes, Forebearer, I will retrieve the Death Coffin now."


    Nathan reached out, taking the Soul Brand back into his hand.


    He rose to his feet and turned towards a specific direction ¨C the location where the two Druid elders cultivated their psychic powers.


    With each step he took, the entire battleground trembled.


    Wisps of dark energy rose from the ground ¨C the restless broken soul of the fallen warriors.


    These broken souls, one after another, joined the procession behind Nathan, forming a vast army that stretched as far as the eye could see.


    The storm clouds above mirrored his movements, gathering and churning with increasing intensity.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared across the sky.


    ...


    The world was in constant flux.


    The Druids residing near the Three Realms of Azure Cloud had also undergone significant changes over the years.


    After countless battles against Azure Cloud, with tribes both falling and rising, they had gradually formed larger communities beyond the borders of the Three Realms.


    However, instead of launching further attacks on Azure Cloud, they adopted a defensive stance.


    The Divine Bird Tribe had suffered losses, and their revered Forebearers were in seclusion, recovering from their wounds.


    Naturally, the responsibility of guarding against human Basic Mastery Psychics at the borders of the Three Realms of Azure Cloud fell upon the shoulders of Elders Shane and Lester.


    This Druid alliance, led by Shane and Lester and comprised of twenty-some tribes, had established a Druid city ¨C Oakdale City. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Unlike human cities, Oakdale City embraced nature.


    Its walls were formed by massive vines, woven together by Druidic rituals that commanded the power of the forest.


    The Druids lived within this living fortress, resembling ants bustling within their intricate nest.


    Totems, both floating and grounded, were scattered throughout the city.


    At the heart of Oakdale City, several figures opened their eyes.


    Each one was a Druid Apostle or High Priest.


    "Mr. Nathan has finally caught up."


    Within a pool of lightning, Mike opened his eyes, arcs of electricity dancing within them.


    His prime spirit had long been observing the ancient battleground.


    As he watched the lone figure and the tempestuous storm clouds gathering above, a smile spread across his face.


    He had not remained stagnant over the century.


    His strength had grown, and his breakthrough to Basic Mastery had earned him the esteemed position of an elder.


    He no longer feared the Blackwoods as enemies.


    He had known for a long time that a family like theirs, facing such circumstances in Azure Cloud, would eventually turn against the Emerald Empire.


    And so it had come to pass.


    The enemy of his enemy had become his friend, which was why he had been aiding Nathan all these years.


    As for Arnold... Mike knew that the talented Rising Star had simply been frightened by the Blackwoods.

 Chapter 406 - 406: I will have your life!

    "Mr. Nathan should take back what belongs to him." Mike slowly rose to his feet.


    As soon as he moved, Mike raised an eyebrow. Beyond the energy barrier, he sensed two powerful auras. In the blink of an eye, Shane and Lester appeared!


    Lester still wore his large black robe, his withered face visible beneath the hood, one sleeve still hanging empty. It was difficult to discern Lester''s thoughts, at least for Mike.


    Shane, the short, rat-faced old man, glared at Mike with fury. "Mike, why was Nathan in the Ancient Battlefield? And in the central zone, no less? Don''t tell me you don''t know, only those above Adept can enter the central zone of the Ancient Battlefield!"


    He couldn''t help but be furious! He felt like he had been played. Back then, he wanted to hand Nathan over, but he hadn''t expected Mike and Arnold to hide him.


    This had made him break his promise to the Basic Mastery Psychic from Sunshine Mansion, costing him a hefty reward. But this dirty business he had done behind the backs of humanity, he could only swallow his anger.


    And now... he had just found out that Mike had actually hidden Nathan in the Ancient Battlefield!


    "I did it." Mike tightened his clothes, only glancing at Shane before looking at Lester. "Master Lester, Nathan has been living in our tribe with your permission for a long time, and he even married nine wives. He''s practically one of us."


    "I gave Nathan the right to cultivate his psychic powers in the Ancient Battlefield. Is there a problem with that?"


    "No problem." Lester replied without hesitation.


    "You..." This answer made Shane even angrier, but he didn''t dare to rebuke Lester. Instead, he shouted coldly at Mike, "Mike, you were just a commoner back then. You think that becoming a Basic Mastery allows you to ruin my plans again and again? You dare to disrespect me?!"


    As his voice fell, his aura pressed down on Mike.


    But now, Mike was also a Basic Mastery, and he had been stable for a hundred years. Although he was far from being a match for Shane, who had been immersed in the Basic Mastery realm for many years, he was not afraid of mere pressure.


    His short black hair swayed as he sneered, "You should worry about yourself. Nathan is here to settle the score with you."


    Then he looked at Lester. "Master Lester, Nathan is practically half a member of our Druids. If his belongings are taken, according to our Druid rules, we must take them back. What do you say?"


    "To the victor goes the spoils." Lester was as straightforward as ever. He shook his head at Shane, whose face had turned ugly.


    "That coffin is half mine, but I haven''t been able to research anything from it all these years. I give up."


    "Shane, what happens next has nothing to do with me."


    "Lester?!" Shane didn''t finish his sentence.


    Lester turned to Mike and said, "I''ve returned the things Nathan left with me. That doesn''t make me his enemy, does it?"


    "Of course not." Mike nodded quickly, relieved. It was just as Shane had said, Basic Masteries were also ranked.


    As an ancient existence among the elders, he really didn''t want Nathan to have another enemy like Lester.


    "I believe Mr. Nathan will also thank Master Lester for keeping his advanced psychic equipment safe."


    "You..." Shane was dumbfounded. He hadn''t expected Lester to give up the Death Coffin so easily! It seemed that in Lester''s eyes, Nathan was now more valuable than him!


    Just as he was about to say something...


    A calm, deep voice rang out from the sky above Oakdale City, reaching everyone''s ears.


    "Shane, I told you all those years ago, I will have your life!"


    As the voice faded...


    Shane''s face changed drastically. He couldn''t suppress the terror in his heart!


    Because... Nathan, who was in the Ancient Battlefield, had disappeared in an instant, obviously having broken through.


    Not only that...


    "Thump! Thump! Thump!"


    He looked in horror at the place where he cultivated his psychic powers in Oakdale City, at the place where his totem suppressed his cultivation.


    A silver coffin was trembling violently, as if responding to its master''s call.


    Then, the coffin broke free from its restraints and soared into the sky!


    Shane couldn''t help but be afraid. Nathan had been terrifying all those years ago. Now, if Nathan had broken through to Basic Mastery, coupled with this coffin...


    Moreover... S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    What he feared even more were the Blackwoods who had driven them away from Azure Cloud. Many of them were still alive!


    Gritting his teeth, Shane was about to give chase.


    However, Mike blocked his path and sneered, "Shane, where are you going?"


    Nathan''s voice rang out again from the sky.


    "Please wait a moment. I won''t keep you waiting long."


    ...


    Adept Force practitioners value subtlety, using psychic powers to control natural energies. A Peak Apprentice can reach a thousand miles.


    If one wants to become a Basic Mastery, they need to project their Adept Force out of their body.


    This projection is not about letting the soul leave the body, a method even some Developing Skill practitioners can do.


    This projection refers to the crucial step between Adept Force and Basic Mastery, which requires one to directly inject their Adept Force into their soul sea.


    At this point, one can perceive the rules of heaven and earth, and a Psychic can observe how certain things are formed.


    For example, a Psychic who cultivates the earth element rules can see how the soil on the earth is formed and use it for their own purposes.


    Compared to Adept Force, it''s like the difference between an ordinary person holding a spear and a sniper who is proficient in spears.


    Some say that there is a third eye in the human body that can see things that ordinary people cannot. Achieving Adept Force projection is probably like this.


    Most of the Psychics on the Emerald Empire''s Peak Apprentice rankings have reached the Adept Force projection realm.


    Ordinary Adept Force practitioners summon natural energies, but they can already manipulate natural energies with ease, naturally making them more powerful than ordinary Peak Adept Force practitioners.


    And if one wants to become a Basic Mastery?


    Then they need to use the rules they understand to construct a domain and then integrate it into their Adept Force.


    For example, when Marcus wielded the Sky Hall, which transformed into a halberd, the pressure that formed around him was a shadow of a Basic Mastery domain.


    The stronger the rules integrated into the Adept Force, the stronger the domain. Only in this way can one withstand the five levels of thunder tribulation that come with breaking through to Basic Mastery!


    At the same time, these five levels of thunder tribulation are also a gift from heaven and earth, helping Psychics who have achieved Adept Force projection to construct their domains and transform their Adept Force into prime spirit.


    This prime spirit will also be continuously perfected through cultivation, making it even stronger, even to the point of constructing a unique paradise in a place invisible to others.


    Places like the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary and the Radiant Sky Grotto are paradises created by extremely powerful individuals, and they consumed a great deal of their creators'' effort.


    However, most of the time, Basic Mastery Psychics prefer to strengthen their domains with psychic powers rather than construct paradises.


    This is also why Basic Mastery Psychics are so rare. Projecting one''s prime spirit is already a difficult hurdle for many.


    Integrating rules into one''s Adept Force not only requires a deep understanding of the rules but also sufficient opportunity.


    For example, fire-type Psychics can easily find places that contain the power of fire-type rules, such as volcanoes.


    However, many times, even after they have absorbed all the rule power of a volcano, they are still unable to become Basic Masteries.


    This is because the rule power within the volcano may not be compatible with them.


    After all, even fire has different rules, such as the difference between ghost fire and ordinary flames.

 Chapter 407 - 407: Such a familiar aura

    Meanwhile, at the ruins of the Boulder tribe, once eradicated by Blackwood and his Azure Cloud forces, the air crackled with ominous energy.


    The sky churned with thunderclouds as countless spectral figures formed from death energy drifted haphazardly across the tribe''s former territory, Crestwood Hills.


    Their presence was chilling, their silent screams and howls enough to send shivers down the spine of even the bravest Psychic.


    These lost souls, dead for who knows how long, their consciousness long faded, still crawled from their final resting place, forming a spectral guard around the heart of Crestwood Hills.


    And there, at the center of it all, stood a man.


    The wind whipped around him, his tattered clothes billowing like flames. He reached out a hand, gently caressing a silver coffin.


    "It''s been over a hundred years. We meet again. Is this your spirit?"


    Nathan could sense the Death Coffin''s joy. At his current level, he could even see its spirit!


    It was a skull. Ability weapons possessed psychic powers, and advanced psychic equipment could even develop sentience.


    But a spirit was formless, voiceless, visible only to its master. To see the spirit meant that he had truly earned its recognition.


    The Death Coffin''s spirit chattered excitedly, likely complaining about how Shane and Lester had poked and prodded it for years, urging Nathan to teach them a lesson.


    But Nathan had no time for such trivialities now.


    "Boom!"


    Thunder roared, and he slowly raised his head, the pressure of the approaching tribulation intensifying.


    Nathan took a deep breath, slowly knelt, and took out the Forebearer Psychic Position. "Forebearer, your descendant has prepared for over a hundred years, cultivating diligently. Now, with the Death Coffin returned, I am ready to break through to Basic Mastery. Please grant me your protection!"


    The Forebearer Psychic Position pulsed with light, and Nathan settled into his meditation, heart at ease. He knew the Forebearer was watching over him.


    And he was right.


    Beside him, a young man stood with his hands clasped behind his back, gazing at Nathan with pride. His eyes flickered to the rapidly gathering thunderclouds above and then to the numerous gazes focused on Crestwood Hills ¨C the watchful eyes of powerful Druids, all Developing Skill practitioners or above.


    Ignoring the prying eyes, Ethan knew Nathan had a plan. He dared to attempt a breakthrough in the Endless Forest, and besides¡­ his Forebearer was here.


    Ethan glanced at Nathan''s personal timeline.


    [Blackwood Year 280: Your descendant, Nathan, cultivates in the Druids'' Ancient Battlefield. He struggles to grasp the rules without success, lacking the aid of the Death Coffin.


    He begins to recall his time wielding the Death Coffin, using the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation to absorb numerous Sky Corpses, and the domain he formed from the Death Coffin''s psychic powers during his battle with Mike. He begins to explore the rules of souls and death...]


    [Blackwood Year 286: Nathan delves into the rules of souls, gradually understanding how the souls of Sky Corpses are formed during the creation of Zombies.] S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [He secretly communicates with the Death Coffin, using its spirit to investigate the four Sky Corpse bodies in the boundless Sea of Death. He begins to have the spirit convert the body of the Druid elder, ''Moon God,'' observing the process of soul formation during Zombie conversion.]


    [Blackwood Year 295: Using the rules he has learned through cultivation in the Ancient Battlefield, Nathan awakens the first unconscious soul in the Ancient Battlefield with the ''Natural Disaster Soul Summoning Technique.'']


    [Blackwood Year 302: He gathers more and more souls from the Ancient Battlefield, further enriching his understanding of the rules of death and souls. He breaks through to the peak of Adept Force! He develops his own understanding of corpse control techniques and the Death Coffin''s abilities, no longer bound by the cultivation methods of its previous owner, Elias.


    He gains the trait: Master of Dead Souls.]


    [He can control the souls of the dead and gradually learns to create Zombies independently. His control over dead souls enhances his power, allowing him to command them.]


    What followed was an endless cycle of cultivation.


    Nathan was a diligent individual. In the Ancient Battlefield, he spent every day comprehending the rules and communicating with the souls there.


    [Blackwood Year 350: Your descendant, Nathan, controls one-tenth of the dead souls in the Druids'' Ancient Battlefield! Using these souls, he integrates the rules of death and souls into his Adept Force, constructing his own unique domain ¨C the Domain of Dead Souls. With each dead soul he controls, his domain expands.]


    [Blackwood Year 360: With the time to confront Sunshine Mansion drawing near, your descendant, Nathan, decides to reclaim the Death Coffin and attempt a breakthrough to Basic Mastery, even without perfect preparation!]


    Looking at the thunder tribulation in the sky and the image of a Vajra gradually forming within it, Ethan frowned.


    "A third-level Basic Mastery tribulation?"


    Nathan had already informed him through the Death Coffin about this. Even with the psychic medicine the family had prepared for him over the past year, it would only be enough for him to overcome a third-level Basic Mastery tribulation.


    Given enough time, the countless dead souls in Crestwood Hills could gradually be integrated into Nathan''s Adept Force, making his domain even more powerful. He might even be able to attempt the fourth-level Basic Mastery tribulation that Chuck had overcome.


    But right now, the family was about to face Heavenly Path. This was their chance to destroy them, and they needed a Basic Mastery!


    "If only we had another hundred years¡­" Ethan sighed.


    Sensing the increasing number of observers, Ethan frowned. Overcoming a third-level Basic Mastery tribulation was already good; he couldn''t ask for more. The most important thing now was to protect Nathan!


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, figures were converging on Crestwood Hills from all directions.


    Crestwood Hills was once home to the Boulder tribe, but after years of war between the Druids and Azure Cloud, with constant battles between Oakdale City and Cloudview County, the Druids had long since retreated.


    Now, Crestwood Hills had become a place where Druids and Cloudview County Psychics occasionally clashed.


    The news of a Basic Mastery breakthrough here had attracted the attention of not only the Druids but also figures from Border town!


    A dozen individuals from Border town hovered in the sky miles away, their expressions grave as they felt the pressure of the tribulation emanating from Crestwood Hills.


    "Such a familiar aura."


    Among the Cloudview County group, a man in black robes raised an eyebrow. This was Old Ancestor Ralph of the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate.


    Over 140 years had passed since Blackwood''s incident. Chuck of the Arcane Society had vanished without a trace.


    Although the three realms of Azure Cloud had merged into one, and more and more capable individuals from all over the Emerald Empire had fled to Cloudview County, his Ghost Eye Demonic Gate could still be considered the number one sect in Cloudview County.

 Chapter 408 - 408: The thunder tribulation is about to begin!

    Over a century had passed, enough time for many to forget, but Old Ralph still reminisced about the days he''d fought alongside the Blackwood clan.


    Feeling the energy emanating from Crestwood Hills, a flicker of anticipation ignited within him. "Back then, Mr. Nathan could already manipulate spirits. What a shame..." he murmured, a sigh escaping his lips.


    "That''s impossible, it couldn''t be Nathan," a stern voice interjected. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Standing beside Old Ralph was a middle-aged man in purple robes, his face radiating righteousness. "I may have only arrived in Azure Cloud a century ago, but even I''ve heard of this Nathan. Wasn''t he the Blackwood Steadfast Patriarch?"


    "His talent was mediocre at best. It was a feat for him to even break through to the Adept Realm. And breaking through the ninety-nine thunder tribulations? That was all thanks to his coffin, a high-level psychic artifact. Even his fight with Mike was the same story."


    Old Ralph''s brow furrowed as he glanced at the speaker.


    The Blackwood clan, through their various branches, had established a powerful presence in Azure Cloud, contributing to its current prosperity and attracting numerous experts.


    Yet, these newcomers seemed to hold no respect for the Blackwoods. This Grant, currently ranked 89th on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking under King Phillips, was a prime example!


    Despite Old Ralph''s attempt to suppress his anger, Grant continued his relentless chatter. "With such limited talent, how could he possibly break through to the Master Realm in just a century? If he truly did, his comprehension would be unparalleled. "


    "Alas, even with such comprehension, it wouldn''t be enough. Where would he find the opportunities and resources? Back then, in Azure Cloud, they sucked Azure Cloud dry for years, leaving it barren."


    "Look at Azure Cloud now, after they''re gone. It''s more prosperous than ever! They can''t steal resources from Cloudview County anymore. I bet Nathan hasn''t even reached the middle stage of the Adept Realm."


    "Grant is right. Azure Cloud is truly flourishing."


    "With the Blackwoods gone, King Phillips, through the Fortune Sanctum Parker family, has established trade routes with other states and counties. We no longer have to risk being hunted to trade precious materials."


    Azure Cloud had indeed attracted many talents over the past century.


    The natives, witnessing these outsiders rambling on, remained silent but exchanged knowing glances, their eyes reflecting shared anger.


    Only they knew that the current prosperity was built upon the foundations laid by their predecessors. Where would these newcomers be without their hard work?


    Old Ralph silently took note of Grant and the others who spoke so carelessly.


    He decided to have a word with Kenneth and Old Walker''s people upon his return. Once the war with the Druids was over, they wouldn''t need these fools anymore. It was time for some fresh blood in Cloudview County''s psychic forces.


    Fortunately, their mindless chatter didn''t last long.


    As the energy within Crestwood Hills intensified, Grant sensed the approaching aura of the Druids. "Many Druids," he said, his voice grave, "even Master Realm experts. The one breaking through within Crestwood Hills is using psychic powers. It must be one of our human predecessors. "


    "Thankfully, I''ve already sent word to Senior Phillips and Senior Holy Flame. Everyone, if the Druids dare to disturb our predecessor''s breakthrough, it will mean war!"


    Seeing everyone nod in agreement, and with more and more Azure Cloud psychics arriving, a hint of a smile touched Grant''s lips.


    He didn''t care who this breakthrough senior was; he wouldn''t mind owing a Master Realm expert a favor.


    Half a month passed quickly.


    For some unknown reason, the Druids were gathering in increasing numbers. Normally, they would stop at nothing to prevent Azure Cloud from gaining another Master Realm expert. Yet, they remained strangely restrained, showing no signs of aggression.


    For many Azure Cloud psychics, witnessing an Adept Realm expert breaking through to the Master Realm was an incredibly rare opportunity.


    "The thunder tribulation is about to begin!"


    They stared at Crestwood Hills in awe as the thunderclouds in the sky grew denser, their pressure mounting.


    The thunder tribulation formed a roaring, wrathful King Kong, and arcs of lightning crackled in the air.


    And then, beneath the thunder tribulation...


    They saw it. From the heart of the black mist that shrouded the center, an intricate magic circle gradually emerged, spiraling outwards.


    Ghosts wailed, their agitation amplified by the pressure of the thunder tribulation. They began to float, swirling around the center, unleashing a ghostly wind that swept across the land.


    "Since when did Azure Cloud have such a powerful ghost cultivator?"


    "Is this the Astral Projection of the Adept Realm? This senior must have cultivated psychic powers for over fifteen hundred years to accumulate such a profound foundation. How else could they control so many ghosts?"


    "That wrathful King Kong... It''s the tribulation of the Master Realm, designed to suppress the breakthrough of the Adept Realm expert. It has already taken form. "


    "I''ve witnessed Master Realm breakthroughs before. It seems our senior''s Astral Form, the embodiment of their Master Realm psychic understanding, is about to emerge... Look... That''s..."


    As the thunder tribulation reached its peak, all the observing psychics held their breath.


    Witnessing an Adept Realm expert breaking through to the Master Realm would be beneficial for their own cultivation!


    But in the next moment, their expressions turned grave.


    "It''s a third-level Master Realm tribulation!"


    Above the black mist, the Dead Souls, swirling like a storm, began to coalesce.


    An Astral Form emerged!


    It was...


    Two gates, massive and imposing!


    Even from afar, they could sense the ancient and mysterious aura emanating from the closed gates.


    The two black gates radiated deathly energy. Two bronze rings adorned their surface, which was engraved with the image of a ferocious Asura.


    The gates simply floated there, as if an unspeakable horror awaited anyone who dared to pull the rings and open them.


    "This..."


    Unlike the others, who were simply astonished, Old Ralph was stunned as he gazed at the two gates.


    He remembered a time when he had led the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate disciples back to Azure Cloud and participated in the border war.


    Back then, they had combined their powers to unleash the Ghost Eye Demonic Gate''s secret technique, the "Gates of the Underworld," summoning millions of souls from the underworld to vanquish their enemies...


    These gates... they looked eerily similar to the Gates of the Underworld.


    "A third-level Master Realm tribulation."


    The sky churned, filled with ghostly energy and crackling lightning.


    The wrathful King Kong formed by the thunder tribulation slammed its fist against the ghostly gates.


    A deafening boom echoed as psychic energy rippled outwards.


    On the Druids'' side, Shane, who was being held back by Mike, breathed a sigh of relief despite his apprehension.


    His companion, Moon God, had died at the hands of the Blackwoods.


    He knew that Nathan, even at the early stage of the Adept Realm, had been able to fight Mike.


    He also knew that the Death Coffin, a high-level psychic artifact whose secrets he had never been able to unravel, had returned to Nathan''s possession.


    His greatest fear was that Nathan, blessed with extraordinary talent, had stumbled upon some incredible opportunity or enlightenment in the Ancient Battlefield, allowing him to break through to the fifth level of the Master Realm.


    But if it was only the third level...

 Chapter 409 - 409: That... That... Senior... Holy shit!

    Shane himself had endured a third-grade Master Realm tribulation. Moreover, he had spent many years honing his strength in the Master Realm, reaching the middle stage. Even if Nathan had that strange coffin, it wouldn''t be enough to bridge the gap!


    However, as half a day passed...


    Shane''s face turned ashen.


    "BOOM!"


    The thunder roared once more. This time, the Master Realm thunder tribulation was even more intense, the dark clouds swirling with greater fury.


    Torrential rain poured from the darkened sky.


    At the heart of the maelstrom, upon the ancient Ghostly Gates, intricate runes began to appear, etching themselves onto the surface. A frame emerged, encasing the imposing doors.


    The three-headed King Kong, the embodiment of the third-grade tribulation, transformed, sprouting an additional pair of arms.


    "Fourth-level... a fourth-level thunder tribulation?!"


    Beside Shane, Mike was ecstatic. He recognized the aura of this tribulation. He had witnessed Nathan breaking through the third-grade tribulation and knew that with Nathan''s talent, he shouldn''t be limited to the fourth level.


    However, he also understood the Blackwoods'' predicament, the reason why Nathan had to settle for the third. Yet now, for some inexplicable reason, Nathan dared to challenge the fourth-level tribulation!


    But Mike''s joy was tinged with worry. Nathan''s foundation wasn''t stable enough for the fourth-level tribulation. Those Dead Souls hadn''t even reached the Adept Realm. How could they possibly withstand the might of a fourth-level tribulation?


    As if to confirm his fears, within half an hour, the four-armed King Kong''s relentless assault on the Ghostly Gates had left them on the verge of collapse, riddled with cracks.


    "Hahaha!"


    Shane burst into laughter, but his amusement was abruptly cut short.


    The four-armed King Kong in the sky transformed once more, now boasting eight powerful arms!


    "This... This is insane! Mr. Nathan, have you gone mad?!"


    Mike roared towards Nathan at the heart of the tribulation, his fists clenched tight. The fourth-level tribulation had been a near-death experience, with Nathan''s Astral Form, the Ghostly Gates, almost shattered. And now...


    He had actually provoked a fifth-grade tribulation!


    The eight-armed King Kong exuded an overwhelming pressure that made the air crackle. Bolts of lightning rained down from the sky like pillars of celestial wrath.


    It wasn''t just Mike.


    Even Shane stared in disbelief at the fifth-grade tribulation. Nathan''s Ghostly Gates were already damaged. Even if they were intact, they wouldn''t last ten seconds against the eight-armed King Kong.


    "This doesn''t make sense. Why would he choose to break through to the fifth grade? Challenging the fourth-grade tribulation was already a gamble, but the fifth..."


    Shane felt his wrinkled hand trembling within his sleeve.


    He couldn''t see Nathan''s expression within the tribulation, but he knew that someone who could push the Druids to their limits, endure years of humiliation within their ranks, and then disappear into the Druids'' Ancient Battlefield for a century was no suicidal fool!


    A chilling realization dawned upon him. His greatest fear was coming true.


    "No, I don''t believe it... Is it... Is it that coffin?"


    The tribulation raged on, but Shane felt a surge of danger. Without hesitation, he activated his domain, enveloping Mike within its protective embrace.


    "Shane?!"


    Mike reacted instantly, but before he could question Shane''s sudden attack, he activated his own domain, summoning three thousand bolts of lightning to shield himself from the onslaught of psychic constructs within Shane''s domain.


    But as he prepared to counterattack, he froze.


    Shane had vanished. His aura, now miles away, was rapidly receding.


    Yet, even this shocking turn of events paled in comparison to the awe-inspiring spectacle of Nathan summoning a fifth-grade tribulation!


    Everyone, mirroring Mike''s initial astonishment, stared in disbelief at the eight-armed King Kong wreaking havoc within the tribulation.


    "He''s lost it! He probably realized he couldn''t survive the fourth-grade tribulation and decided to die a spectacular death!"


    "Alas, his ambition exceeded his grasp. We thought Azure Cloud would have another Master Realm expert, but he let his arrogance lead to his downfall."


    "Let''s go, everyone. It''s a shame. He could have easily overcome the third-grade tribulation. Why risk it all?"


    The Azure Cloud psychics sighed. If it had been a fourth-grade tribulation, they might have held some hope, seeing the Ghostly Gates crumbling but still holding on. But a fifth-grade tribulation...


    They turned away, unable to bear witness to the inevitable tragedy. They felt a pang of regret for the fallen expert and vowed to learn from his mistake, to never court such reckless risks. Sometimes, what seemed like an opportunity was nothing more than a path to destruction.


    Grant''s face darkened. He had been prepared to fight the Druids, to earn the favor of a Master Realm expert, but it had all been for naught.


    He turned and headed back towards Azure Cloud with the other disheartened psychics.


    They had traveled for about sixty miles when...


    Old Ralph, his brow still furrowed in thought, muttered, "That familiar ghostly energy... and the Gates of the Underworld from our Ghost Eye Demonic Gate. I thought it was Mr. Nathan breaking through to the Master Realm within the Druids. Now it seems... I just hope it isn''t him..."


    He glanced back, his gaze widening in disbelief as a wave of shock washed over him. He froze mid-air, unable to comprehend what he was seeing.


    "Bro Ralph..."


    An Adept Realm psychic, who had been approaching Old Ralph to discuss something, followed his gaze and gasped, his eyes wide with astonishment. "Everyone, look! That... That... Senior... Holy shit!" Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    His exclamation drew everyone''s attention.


    Above the roaring thunder tribulation, above the floating Ghostly Gates, a silver coffin had appeared!


    "Creak¡ª"


    The Ghostly Gates slowly swung open, the sound of ancient hinges grating against time itself, yet strangely ethereal, like an echo from an era long gone.


    From within the gates, countless grotesque, skeletal hands, resembling a macabre blooming chrysanthemum, shot out, grasping the eight-armed King Kong''s descending fist in a vice-like grip!


    "Mr. Nathan?!"


    Old Ralph cried out. The moment he saw the Death Coffin, he knew. Nathan was back!


    And...


    He was actually confident enough to withstand a fifth-grade thunder tribulation!


    Nearby, Grant stared at the unfolding spectacle: the transforming tribulation, the black-wreathed skeletal hands grappling with the eight-armed King Kong''s lightning, the overjoyed Old Ralph, and the silver coffin hovering above the Ghostly Gates.


    The stories he had heard countless times during his years in Azure Cloud, the tales that had become almost mythical in his mind, came flooding back.


    "Gulp."


    Grant swallowed, his throat suddenly dry.

 Chapter 410 - 410: Beneath the Ghostly Gates

    Ethan watched in awe as countless ghostly hands emerged from the Ghostly Gates in the sky. His Competent Force avatar, already weakened by the thunder tribulation, was now being held back by the ghostly hands pouring out from the open Ghostly Gates.


    "It''s the Death Coffin!"


    Nathan, who had been grimacing in the center of the lightning pillar, now had a peaceful expression on his closed face. Ethan could clearly sense that the aura of the Death Coffin beside him had changed while Nathan was undergoing the third level tribulation.


    The coffin trembled, seemingly expressing its dissatisfaction that its master was content with only enduring a third level thunder tribulation. This dissatisfaction had somehow transformed the third level tribulation into a fifth level one!


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has begun communicating with the Death Coffin Spirit. He has entered the fifth level of the Death Coffin and gained recognition from the sixth level.]


    [With the help of the Death Coffin Spirit, your descendant Nathan has projected his Competent Force and received an influx of rule power from the ''Death Rule'' of the Death Coffin''s fifth level.]


    [Sixth Level Space - Elias'' Death Domain]


    [The domain left behind in the sixth level by the previous owner of the Death Coffin after his death. It was also Elias'' cave dwelling during his lifetime, possessing everything formed by the Death Rule. With the consent of the Death Coffin''s master, new corpses can be generated here using psychic powers to refine Zombies below the Zombie Emperor level (Basic Mastery realm).]


    [Using the Death Rule and the corpses of the dead, within Elias'' Death Domain, a Zombie Emperor can be refined every 3,000 years without any other materials, a Sky Corpse every 800 years, and a Zombie King every 300 years. Using the Death and Soul Rules, only 30% of the materials are needed to quickly refine Zombies above these levels.]


    [Using the Soul Rule, ghosts can be refined... Lesser Ghosts, Malignant Ghosts, Ghost Kings, Sky Ghosts, Ghost Emperors...]


    [Fighting alongside Zombies and ghosts within Elias'' Death Domain. These undead creatures, within the domain, are empowered by the Death and Soul Rules, their injuries heal faster, and their psychic powers are slightly enhanced...]


    [Elias'' Death Domain respects not gods or immortals, only the dead. Those who enter Elias'' Death Domain will face the most ferocious counterattack from the dead.]


    [Your descendant, Nathan, has formed two domains and his prime spirit has been established. He has obtained the prime spirit technique: Soul Calamity.]


    The Death Coffin was as powerful as ever!


    Ethan finally understood. At the beginning, Nathan possessed the ''Dead Souls Domain,'' which wasn''t even complete. However, with the help of the Death Coffin, the opening of the fifth and sixth levels of the Death Coffin had not only completed Nathan''s ''Dead Souls Domain'' but also granted him Elias'' Death Domain.


    With these two complete domains, how could he not break through to the fifth level of Basic Mastery?


    And then there was the ''prime spirit technique.'' As far as Ethan knew, ordinary Basic Mastery realm cultivators needed to continuously perfect their own domains to obtain such a prime spirit technique. This was another aspect of their power, besides being able to use rules to enhance their techniques. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, many Basic Mastery realm experts were unable to cultivate a ''prime spirit technique'' in their entire lives. The more powerful the Basic Mastery thunder tribulation they endured, the more they were recognized by heaven and earth, and the greater their chances of cultivating a prime spirit technique.


    This was also the reason why many Competent Force cultivators pursued higher-level spirit tribulations when breaking through to Basic Mastery.


    What Shane had said before about Basic Mastery being divided into three levels was true.


    "Has Nathan also cultivated a prime spirit technique?"


    Looking at the information on the semi-transparent panel, Ethan finally breathed a sigh of relief. He knew that Nathan''s Basic Mastery tribulation was no longer a problem!


    "Impossible, his Competent Force was almost shattered just now, how is this possible?!!"


    Around Crestwood Hills, the Psychics who had thought Nathan was about to die were staring at the scene in the sky in disbelief!


    As the Ghostly Gates opened wide, and ghostly hands reached out, the gates themselves began to change!


    Beneath the Ghostly Gates.


    A series of steps began to appear, nine in total.


    The aura of the Ghostly Gates continued to grow. At first, the eight-armed King Kong, entangled by the ghostly hands, was still able to struggle slightly. But as these steps appeared, the gigantic, lightning-wreathed King Kong began to roar towards the heavens, as if struggling. Ghostly energy began to stain its lightning body, and everyone watched as the eight-armed King Kong...


    Shattered!


    "He... He passed?" Grant stared at everything in front of him in disbelief. The arcs of lightning still crackled in the sky, but the eight-armed King Kong was gone. The silver coffin slowly descended, and a wave of Basic Mastery pressure swept out from it across Crestwood Hills, heading closer and closer to where they, the Azure Cloud members, were!


    He suddenly remembered what Fellow Cultivator Ralph had just said. He wanted to say something, but in a flash, a figure appeared before all the Azure Cloud members!


    The man carried a coffin on his back, his old and tattered clothes flapping in the wind. His long hair fluttered, and the vicissitudes of time were etched on his resolute face.


    Patriarch Ralph froze in mid-air as if petrified, memories flashing through his mind in an instant, bringing tears to his eyes. "Mr. Nathan."


    "Brother Ralph."


    Nathan looked at his old friend from many years ago. Seeing his expression, he simply said, "I''m back." The words spoke volumes.


    He had learned from Daniel that even though their Blackwood family had been away from Azure Cloud for many years, their former friends had been protecting everyone related to them.


    "We... We greet the Blackwood Master!"


    Grant and the other Azure Cloud members'' voices rang out. It was as if they had never said anything before. Now that Nathan had returned as a Basic Mastery expert, although they were in disbelief, it didn''t stop them from trying to curry favor.


    Nathan merely glanced at them.


    Ralph frowned, not bothering to expose the slander these insignificant people had uttered against the Blackwood family before. Just as he was about to speak, Nathan shook his head at him. "Brother Ralph, let''s catch up with you and our old friends some other time."


    With that, he cupped his hands towards Patriarch Ralph and, as if he had heard something, headed off in the direction Shane had fled.


    Watching Nathan''s departing figure, his foot on the Death Coffin, Patriarch Ralph finally smiled. He had forgotten how many years it had been since he had smiled like this.


    "Mr. Nathan is back, those freaks from the Blackwood family must still be alive."


    Then, a cold glint flashed in his eyes as he looked towards Grant and the others, staring so intensely that it sent shivers down their spines.

 Chapter 411 - 411: These were the rules of the Druids!

    As Nathan achieved Basic Mastery in the sky, unlocking the sixth level of the Death Coffin, the coffin''s aura intensified, carrying him through the air with almost blinding speed.


    A hint of melancholy flickered in Nathan''s eyes as he stood atop the Death Coffin.


    Having broken through to Basic Mastery, he could sense his old friends from Cloudview County. That''s why, after the tribulation, he didn''t even bother with the fleeing Shane and immediately appeared before Patriarch Ralph.


    Yet, when he actually saw his old friend, the joy of reunion unexpectedly vanished.


    He thought he was still the same person, but after over a century, he realized he had truly changed. He had become more timid, even... afraid to connect deeply with his old friends.


    Because before them stood the Heavenly Path, the old grudges. What lay ahead was a battle for the survival of his family!


    With this thought, his eyes flashed with black light, and he shot forward once more.


    Meanwhile.


    Above the Endless Forest, Shane was also making his escape using his techniques. His prime spirit had sensed Nathan breaking through the fifth level thunder tribulation.


    He had even witnessed the ghostly hands from the Ghostly Gates crushing the eight-armed King Kong. That was... a human prime spirit technique!


    "How is that possible? He cultivated a prime spirit technique right after breaking through? And his domain, his aura... he''s already at the mid-stage of Basic Mastery? How... how is this possible?!!"


    He understood now. It was all because of that coffin!


    The third level Basic Mastery tribulation transforming into a fifth level one, the bestowal of rules upon Nathan, it was all the coffin''s doing.


    Such fortune was beyond his imagination. He had cultivated psychic powers for over thirty thousand years and had only managed to master two prime spirit spells.


    Moreover, prime spirit spells varied in strength. He could sense a dangerous aura from Nathan''s prime spirit technique, one that surpassed his own.


    "What exactly is that coffin?!! I''ve investigated it for over a hundred years, but I couldn''t figure it out. Yet, it granted Nathan such immense fortune and made a fool of me!"


    Shane frowned in frustration. But just then, a figure blocked his path, startling him. When he saw who it was, rage filled his aged face.


    "Lester?!!"


    Lester, who had participated in the massacre of the Blackwood family at Azure Cloud Border Town, now stood in the sky, his domain fully unleashed. Numerous magic formations completely blocked Shane''s path. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the formations shimmered, Lester''s face remained expressionless beneath his hood, the wind ruffling his empty sleeve.


    His thin lips parted slightly. "Within the territory of my Divine Bird Tribe, there are few places you can escape safely. If I were you, facing such danger, I would flee back to the Bird Totem''s base without hesitation. Or... towards another Tribe. The Moon Dragon Totem is the closest from here."


    That direction... wasn''t that towards the Moon Dragon Totem?


    Cold sweat dripped down Shane''s forehead. He hadn''t expected his long-time companion to block his escape route, nor had he anticipated Lester''s meticulous planning in intercepting him on his only path. "Lester, we''ve been together for years, and you''re stopping me for an outsider? I am an elder, a Tribe elder!"


    "I know."


    Lester''s voice was devoid of emotion as more formations materialized around them. "But you are foolish. You still fail to see Nathan''s value to us Druids. The Blackwoods were destroyed, and Nathan''s enemies are not only the Heavenly Path of Sunshine Mansion but also the national advisor of the Emerald Empire. That''s why I agreed when Mike asked me to save him back then."


    "Don''t... Don''t act like you''re so high and mighty for the Bird Totem!" Shane roared in anger. "Didn''t you also agree to take Nathan''s coffin back then?"


    "Value requires assessment."


    Lester remained calm as water. "The coffin couldn''t be opened, so naturally, it lost its value. You''ve been trying to get rid of Nathan for over a century to obtain the Death Coffin, haven''t you? Unfortunately, you made another mistake by making a deal with Austin of Kylin Mountain. Austin is a Heavenly Path projection. I''ve heard stories about him.


    If he grows powerful, I fear he will endanger our Bird Totem."


    "Nathan is different. He owes our Bird Totem a debt, and he will repay it. As a Basic Mastery expert, he will seek revenge, and I am happy to witness it. It''s just a shame..."


    "You don''t understand."


    Clouds drifted past, and despite the bright sun, Shane felt a pervasive chill as Lester''s words reached his ears.


    At this moment, Shane knew with certainty that Lester, this emotionless bastard, was truly going to help Nathan kill him!


    Lester saw greater value in this, and after weighing his options, he, a Tribe elder... was expendable. Moreover, in Lester''s eyes, he was no longer pure, just a petty man willing to disregard the Bird Totem''s future for his own selfish gain by colluding with Austin!


    "I..."


    Shane wanted to speak, but sensing Lester''s killing intent, he choked back his words, his face ashen.


    Behind him, the sound of something tearing through the air!


    Nathan and Mike arrived side by side!


    ...


    In the vast expanse of the sky, Nathan stared at Shane silently.


    Over a hundred years had passed. After being rescued by Mike and falling into the hands of the Druids, he had to endure everything he once despised for the sake of avenging his family one day.


    He had to linger on within the Druids Tribe, a group he once considered his sworn enemies. He had to marry nine burly wives just to survive.


    He knew the truth.


    The day he was brought back to the Druids, except for Mike who genuinely wanted to save him, all the other Druids were secretly delighted by his misfortune. He was like a caged beast, and they enjoyed seeing him, the one who had once repelled millions of Druids at Azure Cloud Border Town, being treated like a clown within their midst.


    Even Shane had been toying with him, manipulating his soul, and crushing his once proud spirit.


    But today...


    Like the Dead Souls buried deep within the Ancient Battlefield, he had risen from the depths of darkness, standing tall before these three Basic Mastery Druids!


    He looked at Shane, who was feigning composure. However, Nathan''s Soul Rule allowed him to sense a terrified soul within Shane''s body, a soul that yearned to beg for mercy but couldn''t overcome its final shred of pride.


    "Thank you, Master Lester. I will repay my debt to the Druids, to Mike, and to you."


    Nathan smiled at Lester and Mike. "I will handle the rest myself. I owe you both too much, a debt I can never repay."


    Lester''s lips curled up slightly in response, and he simply nodded.


    Mike, however, frowned, worry filling his eyes. "Mr. Nathan, you''ve just broken through to Basic Mastery. Are you sure about facing Shane alone?"


    But Nathan''s resolve was firm, leaving Mike no choice but to relent. He and Lester retreated into the distance, setting up a grand formation to prevent Shane''s escape... and Nathan''s.


    This was the way of the Druids, settling internal disputes within a sealed arena. The victor lived, the loser perished, and right and wrong were decided.


    As their totems rose, Shane, who had been ashen-faced, finally cracked a smile upon seeing Nathan choosing to face him alone. He saw a glimmer of hope!


    He had fled because he feared Mike joining forces with Nathan.


    But in a one-on-one battle, what did he have to fear?


    The totems were revealed, their fates sealed. No outsider could interfere. These were the rules of the Druids!

 Chapter 412 - 412: Youre courting death!

    "Hahaha, Nathan, you''re still the same arrogant human!" Shane roared with laughter.


    "Just stepping into the Basic Mastery realm, and you think you can withstand the tribulation of a fifth-level Basic Mastery like me? You dare challenge me to a duel after cultivating your prime spirit technique? You''re courting death!"


    His words barely finished before Shane made his move!


    As expected of a Basic Mastery Psychic steeped in power for thirty thousand years, Shane''s psychic domain was vast, instantly encompassing the entire sky.


    Just like when he fought Daoist Bill, he trapped Nathan within his domain in the blink of an eye.


    This was Shane''s Sacred Spirit Domain.


    Within it resided psychic constructs he had generated over thirty millennia. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The more constructs he had, the stronger he became.


    Druids had longer lifespans than humans.


    Although their psychic power cultivation was slower, it meant they had more time to perfect their abilities at the same level!


    Now, facing Nathan, a novice who had just entered the Basic Mastery realm, Shane unleashed even greater power than he had against Daoist Bill.


    The entire domain was teeming with psychic constructs, each radiating immense pressure, causing the Sacred Spirit Domain to shimmer with a seven-colored radiance.


    Within the domain, a chain materialized in space, clinking with the sound of clashing metal.


    Druidic runes were etched onto the chain, emanating a sinister and powerful aura.


    It snaked through the Sacred Spirit Domain like a dragon, quickly weaving a complex web that ensnared the psychic constructs.


    "This Slaughter Chain hasn''t been used in ten thousand years. Consider it an honor to die by its hand!" Shane declared.


    As his voice faded, the Slaughter Chain began to whir like gears in a machine, exuding the aura of a high-level psychic artifact!


    The psychic constructs within the Sacred Spirit Domain surged toward Nathan in a dense wave!


    A totem rose within the space, and Shane''s various spells, no longer requiring psychic power, bombarded Nathan from the constructs.


    Nathan remained silent.


    The Ghostly Gates that had appeared during his tribulation reappeared, their doors flung wide open.


    Ghostly hands reached out, intercepting the incoming chains.


    Shane, who had nearly killed Daoist Bill, lived up to his reputation.


    Unleashing his full power, he forced Nathan to deploy the Death Coffin to block the relentless assault of the Slaughter Chain, even as the Ghostly Gates absorbed most of the attacks.


    Nathan was left dodging and weaving within the Sacred Spirit Domain.


    But Shane''s attacks were too swift, suppressing him in a short amount of time!


    "Soul Scourge!" Nathan chanted, his fingers moving in a magic formula.


    His prime spirit technique, awakened after breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm, manifested!


    Nathan''s domain surged outward, and ghostly figures crawled out from within, engaging Shane''s psychic constructs.


    Even the four Sky Corpses from the Four Symbols Death Energy Formation appeared, charging into battle under Nathan''s command.


    The battlefield within the domain became a chaotic clash between Shane''s army of psychic constructs and Nathan''s forces of zombies and ghosts, all entangled with the Slaughter Chain.


    Despite his efforts, Nathan was losing ground.


    He was forced to rely on the Death Coffin for defense.


    "Can he really not defeat Shane?" Ethan, standing beside Nathan, watched with a grave expression as Nathan desperately evaded the attacks.


    He was ready to intervene at any moment.


    However, for Nathan to have reached this point was already remarkable.


    Moreover...


    Nathan''s prime spirit technique, Soul Scourge, wasn''t primarily offensive.


    [Prime Spirit Technique: Soul Scourge]


    [Summons Dead Souls with the technique, locking onto the enemy''s energy flow.


    While the enemy cultivates psychic power, it gradually unravels their soul, and when their mind wavers, it allows the Dead Souls to gradually erode their soul like poison until they permeate it entirely, ensuring a fatal blow or causing their cultivation to regress.]


    This technique was terrifying, capable of silently killing an enemy.


    Given a hundred or a thousand years, as long as the enemy showed weakness, it could even kill a Basic Mastery Psychic.


    However, it wasn''t a technique suited for direct combat.


    Currently, the greatest effect of Nathan using Soul Scourge was to enhance the combat prowess of the Dead Souls and zombies under his control.


    ...


    "Mike, this is a life-or-death battle. You cannot interfere," Lester said, frowning as he saw the killing intent surface on Mike''s face.


    "It''s not beneficial."


    "But Master Lester..." How could Mike not see that Nathan was clearly losing?


    However, seeing Lester''s serious expression, he could only feel anxious.


    If Nathan were truly killed by Shane, Lester wouldn''t even bat an eyelid.


    He would simply believe that Shane''s value outweighed Nathan''s!


    The battle raged for an entire day.


    Nathan was covered in wounds within the domain, and Mike felt as if a thousand ants were gnawing at his heart.


    Shane laughed wildly.


    "Nathan, hahaha, you should regret your arrogance! If you and Mike had joined forces, I might have held some respect for you. But you chose to fight alone, and now my Sacred Spirit Domain will gain another psychic construct!"


    He was ecstatic!


    His greatest fear had been Nathan''s prime spirit technique.


    However, after their confrontation, he discovered that it was a technique that affected the soul.


    He was also wary of the Death Coffin, but apart from its durability, it hadn''t displayed any other techniques.


    Shane had even peered into the Death Coffin''s interior.


    It was nothing more than a high-level psychic artifact used to aid in psychic power cultivation!


    Moreover...


    "Surrender your Coffin and let it acknowledge me as its master! You and the Coffin are a mismatch! We are the true match!" Shane''s face was flushed with excitement.


    With a flick of his Slaughter Chain, it struck Nathan''s chest, nearly knocking his prime spirit out of his body.


    While manipulating the Slaughter Chain, he used his prime spirit technique and shouted at the Death Coffin, "Spirit, can you not feel it? My Sacred Spirit Domain, with thirty thousand years'' worth of accumulated psychic constructs! You are also a high-level psychic artifact that creates zombies and ghosts!"


    "Follow me! He only broke through the fifth-level thunder tribulation and became a Basic Mastery because of you, a talentless waste! I am different! If we become one, I can break through to Advanced Mastery!"


    However, his words did not elicit a response from the Death Coffin.


    It simply moved to protect Nathan once more.


    This enraged Shane.


    He even sensed... disdain in the Death Coffin''s aura?


    "You''re courting death! Once your master is dead, let''s see how long you can remain sealed!" Shane unleashed his prime spirit technique once more.


    But at that moment...

 Chapter 413 - 413: He didn’t have the courage to become Nathan’s enemy

    Shane''s expression shifted.


    Nathan, hunched over, suddenly lifted his head.


    Despite being wounded multiple times, his psychic essence fracturing, and the zombies and ghosts released from the Death Coffin being destroyed, Nathan''s gaze remained resolute.


    A slight, bloody grin even played on his lips.


    "It''s called the Death Coffin," Nathan''s voice echoed through the clashing domains.


    "What?" Shane faltered, not catching Nathan''s words clearly.


    "I said," Nathan boomed, "it''s called the Death Coffin! It''s been with me for two hundred years. From the start, it knew I wasn''t anything special, but it still followed me. Know why?"


    Shane didn''t answer.


    He didn''t know how to.


    Fear gripped his heart.


    He saw the mocking smile on Nathan''s face!


    "Because it only recognizes me!" Nathan roared.


    His name was Nathan, and he had been pushing his limits within the Death Coffin since the Emerging Ability phase!


    No one knew how many times he had died within the Coffin, nor how he had overcome each of its trials.


    The Death Coffin had accompanied him for two hundred years.


    Even during his years among the Druids, it still obeyed his commands.


    The Death Coffin had witnessed his growth, and he had witnessed the Coffin transform in his hands, gradually breaking free from its seal as an ability weapon to become the powerful high-level psychic artifact it was today!


    Moreover¡­


    As Nathan''s cold shout rang out, the lid of the Death Coffin creaked open, and a wave of deathly energy surged out!


    "Impossible!" Shane''s face paled, and he stumbled backward.


    Even the speed of his Slaughter Chain faltered.


    Then, a figure wreathed in deathly energy emerged from within the Death Coffin!


    As the graceful figure slowly opened her pitch-black eyes, even the composed Lester couldn''t help but gasp.


    "Moon God?"


    "When did you refine the Moon God into a zombie?!"


    ¡­


    The most crucial words in "Death Coffin Corpse Control Techniques" were "Death Coffin."


    When Nathan had reached the Competent Force level and refined Sky Corpses, he didn''t need to exert himself.


    The boundless Dead Sea on the fourth level of the Death Coffin could automatically refine Sky Corpses using the souls, flesh, and bones of the deceased in a formation.


    The same went for the Zombie Emperor.


    Such corpse refinement techniques were rare, whether among the Druids or in the Emerald Empire.


    White, a Druid, was skilled in refining corpses and souls.


    The formation Arnold had used to break through to the peak of the ninth level of Competent Force had also required the blood of a million living beings.


    Even for Psychics, such techniques for refining corpses and souls were horrifying.


    They had once been forbidden arts in the world.


    However, as these taboo techniques gradually faded into obscurity, there were no longer any true forbidden arts.


    It was because of Rising Star Arnold, who possessed the White Spirit Manipulation technique, that the Druids had placed such importance on him.


    And now¡­


    A Basic Mastery corpse puppeteer had appeared, commanding a Zombie Emperor.


    Only then did the world remember why such techniques had been deemed forbidden!


    Even Shane, a master of psychic arts, felt a chill run down his spine!


    "Moon God?!"


    As the Death Coffin opened, a figure gracefully emerged.


    Wasn''t it the Moon God?


    Her figure was as graceful as ever.


    Once clad in a white dress, the Moon God now wore a black, translucent gown.


    Her hair was styled with two hairpins that shimmered with starlight, accentuating her elegance and nobility.


    The long gown flowed down, covering her feet, and her hands, peeking out from her sleeves, revealed black fingernails, making her resemble a black lotus blooming in the mortal realm.


    All exposed skin was deathly pale, etched with flower-like runes that added an air of mystery to her cold, pure beauty.


    As the Moon God appeared¡­


    "Crack, crack, crack!"


    With her at the center, a Basic Mastery domain spread outward, forming layers of frost that swiftly encased the double domain where Shane and Nathan were battling.


    The psychic constructs under Shane''s control were frozen one by one!


    The frost the Moon God had once wielded had been more offensive, colder than the ice sculptures she now created.


    But now, as a Zombie Emperor, her ice sculptures exuded a chilling coldness, as if the deathly energy within the black ice would seep through skin, flesh, and bone, reaching even the soul.


    [Moon God]


    [Level: Early Zombie Emperor]


    [Materials: Blood and bones of millions of beings, numerous materials, Danny''s corpse, Druid corpses, large quantities of Druid totem powder, Pure Land without Roots, a large portion of the boundless Dead Sea¡­]


    [Zombie Emperor Ghost Technique: Soul-Devouring Eternal Freeze]


    [Freezes the enemy''s physical body from the outside in, eroding their domain and psychic power until it reaches their soul. Transformed from the Moon God''s Basic Mastery spell, Thousand Miles Ice Seal, into a zombie ghost technique.]


    ¡­


    The true terror of the "Death Coffin Corpse Control Techniques" lay in the Death Coffin''s ability to allow these zombies to inherit some of their former techniques, magic formulas, and even Basic Mastery techniques.


    These were then transformed into different techniques and formulas due to the infusion of ghostly energy.


    Sensing the aura emanating from the Moon God, Mike''s expression was a mixture of emotions.


    When Nathan had broken through, he had thought Nathan had caught up to him.


    But now, not only could Nathan fight Shane for an entire day, but he had also somehow refined the former Moon God into a Zombie Emperor!


    Beside him, Lester stared at the Moon God.


    A flicker of killing intent crossed his eyes, but he let out a sigh and made no move.


    Lester couldn''t afford to act rashly.


    He had initially wanted to use Nathan.


    But with the appearance of the Moon God, he sensed the terror of Nathan''s "Death Coffin Corpse Control Techniques" and the strangeness of that Coffin.


    He knew that Nathan was a truly monstrous existence!


    "No wonder, no wonder some in the Emerald Empire wished for the Blackwood family''s swift demise, and the Heavenly Path wanted to eliminate the Blackwood prodigy as soon as possible. Perhaps I should have¡­" he murmured, glancing at Nathan, who seemed not to notice him.


    At least for now, he didn''t have the courage to become Nathan''s enemy.


    On the battlefield¡­


    Neither Nathan nor the Moon God had any intention of wasting words on Shane!


    With the Moon God''s arrival, the battle against Shane resumed.


    In an instant, within the formation Lester had erected, the Moon God''s Soul-Devouring Eternal Freeze transformed the battlefield into a domain of ice.


    Back in Azure Cloud Border Town, the Moon God had felt that Owen and Daoist Bill had countered her.


    But now¡­


    The Moon God no longer possessed her former consciousness.


    As the ice domain spread, her face was as beautiful as a blooming white lotus.


    Her psychic power might not surpass Shane''s, but her ice domain could freeze all of his psychic constructs.


    Even Shane''s Slaughter Chain was now encased in black ice, its gears jammed.


    "Damn it!" Shane cursed.


    He had been pursuing Nathan, confident in his numerous and powerful psychic constructs.


    But with the Moon God''s arrival, the Slaughter Chain could no longer lock onto Nathan.


    He now faced Nathan, who was simply and directly swinging the Death Coffin at him!


    Zombies and Dead Souls crawled out of Nathan''s domain, relentlessly trying to block his path.


    The Moon God''s Soul-Devouring Eternal Freeze and Nathan''s Soul Scourge constantly eroded his body and soul.


    With each passing moment, he could feel himself weakening¡­


    S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 414 - 414: The Blackwoods… had never truly left!

    Three hours passed.


    Shane''s domain vanished, leaving only a frozen wasteland in the sky.


    Zombies and Dead Souls faded back into the icy landscape.


    Mike and Lester, having composed themselves, couldn''t help but sigh as they saw Shane, frozen mid-air like a specimen, his psychic power holding him in place.


    Shane''s psychic power was gone, the rules of death eroding his body and soul. Lester''s formation prevented even his prime spirit from escaping.


    He looked down at Nathan with unwillingness, meeting his calm gaze.


    As death approached, a strange peace settled over him. "All these hundred years among the Druids¡­ you were waiting. You weren''t afraid of us taking your Coffin because it wouldn''t recognize anyone but you as its master. I''m afraid its level is even higher than Lester and I imagined."


    "The Moon God''s body¡­ it contains the blood of millions of Druids, harvested by the Blackwoods on the battlefields of old. There are countless other materials within, accumulated by the Blackwoods over a century ago. You¡­"


    As Shane''s voice faded, Mike and Lester''s expressions shifted.


    The answer dawned on them.


    They understood how the Moon God had been refined into a zombie!


    "All these years," Shane sighed, "it wasn''t us keeping you captive. You never truly submitted, never had any intention of becoming one of us Druids. You only needed a hundred years, until the Moon God was refined into a Zombie Emperor within your Coffin. Then, the world would be yours to roam."


    Nathan didn''t deny it.


    Half of what Shane said was true.


    After obtaining the Moon God''s corpse, he had begun refining her into a Zombie Emperor. Unfortunately, the Heavenly Path had arrived too soon. Back then, he had left all his accumulated resources within the Death Coffin, along with a final command for it to follow in Azure Cloud Border Town.


    He had instructed the Death Coffin to find his family''s descendants after his death. He hadn''t expected to be rescued by Mike and the two Druid elders.


    "With such a technique at your disposal, we couldn''t hold you, nor could the Heavenly Path. Given enough time, you would become even more terrifying than them."


    Shane''s pupils dilated. He looked at Lester, a sneer twisting his lips. "Lester, you love to weigh values. You''ll regret this decision."


    With that, his prime spirit shattered, his body and dao extinguished.


    His last vestiges of psychic power activated the high-level Druid soldier psychic artifact he wore, sending it floating toward Nathan. Even in death, he wore a sneer directed at Lester.


    Lester felt a chill course through him as he watched Shane''s dying smile.


    Nathan collected Shane''s corpse.


    The Moon God returned to the Death Coffin.


    Nathan slung the Coffin over his shoulder and turned back to Mike and Lester, a faint smile on his face as if nothing had happened. "Thank you both for your help. As I said before, I owe the Druids a debt, and I owe you both as well. So¡­"


    "I''ll repay the Druids'' debt first."


    Lester and Mike exchanged glances.


    At that moment, Nathan seemed like a stranger to them, a terrifying stranger. It was as if the gentle and kind Nathan they had known for over a century had suddenly become incredibly calculating, his entire being radiating a deathly, somber aura!


    "Nathan," Lester asked, bewildered, "given the current state of the Blackwoods, how do you intend to repay your debt to the Druids?"


    Nathan didn''t answer.


    He turned away, gazing toward the border of the Azure Cloud Tri-Region.


    "Woo¡ª"


    Just then, the sound of a psychic retreat horn echoed from the Azure Cloud border!


    "What''s that?!"


    Mike and Lester''s expressions changed drastically.


    Their prime spirits swept toward the border, where they saw a massive cloud of dust rising into the air!


    It was the Azure Cloud Psychic army stationed at the border of the Azure Cloud Tri-Region by Martinez¡ªover a thousand ability vessels, millions of Psychics, the entire might of Cloudview County accumulated over centuries. They hadn''t expected that while Nathan and Shane were battling, their attention diverted, millions of Azure Cloud Psychics would gather.


    And they were heading toward¡­ Oakdale City, the heart of Druid territory!


    Cold sweat dripped down their backs.


    They couldn''t imagine what would happen to Oakdale City, caught completely off guard, if these human Psychics attacked.


    "You¡­" Lester''s face darkened. He glared at the impassive Nathan, fury burning in his eyes. "How could there be so many Psychics? Nathan, what are you planning? When did they gather?!"


    Besides anger, a chilling realization dawned on him as he watched the retreating Psychics.


    "The tribulation, your tribulation!" Mike stared at the unfamiliar Nathan, his expression complex. "Your Basic Mastery tribulation, it drew our attention. And you, using some unknown method, gathered the Azure Cloud Psychic army. If you had failed your tribulation today, or if we had stopped you from killing Shane, or if you had lost to Shane¡­ the Azure Cloud Psychics would have¡­"


    "Taken Oakdale City!"


    Recalling the events surrounding Nathan''s breakthrough, Mike suddenly felt naive.


    No, it was Nathan who had changed. He had become crueler, more cunning.


    Perhaps Nathan had never truly trusted Lester, nor him.


    Even if they hadn''t intervened today, Nathan had already made thorough preparations for his tribulation! With the Azure Cloud army on the move, Nathan would still have achieved his goals of reclaiming the Death Coffin and killing Shane.


    What terrified them even more was the realization that they had assumed the Blackwoods had lost control of Cloudview County. But in reality, the Blackwoods, through unknown means, still held the reins of Azure Cloud from the shadows. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Blackwoods¡­ had never truly left!


    Nathan ignored Lester and Mike''s reactions. He sensed his old friend''s anger but remained indifferent. His gaze was fixed on Sunshine Mansion, and he let out a long sigh.


    Mike had been sincere to him all these years.


    But gradually, he could no longer be the person he once was. He had to be prepared for every eventuality, even if it meant resorting to unpleasant methods, even if he had once despised those who played dirty.


    He raised his head slightly. Having reached the Basic Mastery realm, his prime spirit detected someone observing them, spying on them!


    A powerful soul in the sky was watching everything unfolding within Druid territory through psychic power.

 Chapter 415 - 415: It was a silent declaration of war!

    "Nathan¡­ Nathan Blackwood"


    On Kylin Mountain within Sunshine Mansion, Austin sat in his room.


    Outside in the courtyard, numerous Heavenly Path Venerable projections watched a scene unfold¡ªeverything happening in Crestwood Hills, Druid territory!


    Panic filled the faces of the Heavenly Path projections.


    They had witnessed Nathan''s Competent Force transforming into Ghostly Gates, his breakthrough from the third level of the thunder tribulation to the fifth level of Basic Mastery, and his ability to kill Shane, a seasoned Basic Mastery Psychic, upon entering the realm. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And then there was¡­ Nathan''s forbidden corpse refinement technique!


    It had been over a century since the Blackwoods had last revealed themselves, and it just so happened to be two years before Phil would use his psychic power to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary.


    Nathan, now possessing Basic Mastery power, had sensed their observation.


    But instead of stopping them, he¡­


    ¡­simply stared back at them, his expression unreadable.


    It was a silent declaration of war!


    "How is this possible? He''s been hiding among the Druids, cultivating, for all these years? The Ancient Battlefield must have been his opportunity!"


    "What is that Coffin? It allowed him to break through to Basic Mastery at the age of three hundred and eighty! And his corpse refinement technique¡­ he created a Zombie Emperor in a mere century! What kind of inheritance is this?"


    "He''s provoking us, Austin! The main body''s mark is on you. Give the order! Nathan must die! Otherwise, his forbidden techniques¡­ no matter who becomes the main body, once he goes into hiding, he''ll be a threat to us all!"


    "¡­"


    The Heavenly Path projections were grave.


    In their shared memories, they had encountered countless terrifying beings.


    But very few had truly made them feel threatened.


    Nathan was undoubtedly one of them.


    Achieving Basic Mastery in a mere century, refining a Zombie Emperor¡­ that Death Coffin clearly held an extraordinary inheritance.


    If Nathan went into hiding, who knew if even their combined projections, forming the main body, could defeat him after a thousand, ten thousand years?


    However, Austin remained silent.


    He fiddled with the teacup on his table.


    A red crystal was embedded in his forehead, pulsing with light.


    It gave him a divine, inviolable aura, making him appear even more imposing than he had a century ago.


    This was the Heavenly Path mark, the symbol of the Heavenly Path''s reincarnated soul residing within the projection.


    Through the mark, he could sense the calls of all the projections, know what they were doing.


    Every second, he processed a vast amount of information.


    He also sensed their fear.


    Even the reincarnated soul was telling him: the Blackwoods were now worthy adversaries.


    Austin didn''t dare give the order lightly!


    They knew very little about the Blackwoods'' movements over the past century.


    All they knew now was that Nathan had become a Basic Mastery Psychic.


    But what about the other Blackwoods?


    Moreover, there were others he had to consider¡­


    Phil, who was attempting to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary on Crystal Crest, the true rulers of the empire, those truly powerful Psychics¡­


    After much deliberation, Austin looked at Nathan in the scene before him.


    He slowly rose to his feet.


    His prime spirit shot towards Crestwood Hills.


    ¡­


    Crestwood Hills.


    Nathan waited patiently, now dressed in clean clothes, just like the farmer he once was.


    But Ethan, standing beside him, knew that Nathan was no longer that farmer.


    He glanced at the Forebearer space.


    All their clansmen were gathered inside, talking amongst themselves.


    For a hundred years, they had been waiting to return to Azure Cloud, to storm Sunshine Mansion.


    In those hundred years, they had learned many things.


    An entire day passed.


    Nathan''s brow twitched.


    In the distance, a familiar figure appeared¡ªAustin!


    It was Austin''s prime spirit.


    Even though Austin had worn a mask back then, Nathan would never forget his figure, even if he were turned to ash!


    He was the first Heavenly Path projection to invade the Blackwoods, crushing anyone in his path like ants, descending upon them like a god!


    "Nathan."


    Austin frowned, seeing how quickly Nathan had composed himself.


    After a long hesitation, he spoke, his words nearly making Nathan erupt in fury.


    "Let''s call a truce, Nathan. I swear on the Heavenly Path''s reincarnated soul, as long as you Blackwoods agree to let go of this grudge, I will have nothing to do with you for the rest of eternity. No matter what happens, it won''t involve either side. What do you say?"


    "Let go of my ass!" Ethan couldn''t help but curse, despite years of cultivating.


    Even Nathan, now much calmer, couldn''t contain his rage.


    Veins bulged on his forehead as he suppressed his fury, his voice a low growl.


    "A truce?! You barged in all those years ago, slaughtering my Blackwood descendants when we were weak, and now you want a truce?!"


    Austin knew how furious Nathan was.


    He took a deep breath, waiting for Nathan to calm down before speaking again.


    "There are many things you don''t understand. It''s not that I''m truly afraid of you Blackwoods. I just don''t want to be burdened by the grudges of others."


    Nathan frowned.


    Austin chuckled.


    "Did you really think there would be a good outcome if you fought me to the death? When I left Crystal Crest all those years ago, my master pursued me relentlessly. I was less than two thousand years old then. Let me tell you what happened."


    Nathan, though still angry, remained silent, listening as Austin continued.


    "Crystal Crest, that sacred land¡­ I used schemes to make my fellow disciples help me break through to Basic Mastery. The entire world knows this."


    The crystal between Austin''s brows pulsed.


    His voice was low.


    "I had a way to escape. After my tribulation, even my master couldn''t find me. I escaped my master, but I couldn''t escape the eyes of the other powerful beings in the Emerald Empire."


    "Back then, I met someone. He was the only one who could save me."

 Chapter 416 - 416: From that day forward, I was exposed...

    At that moment.


    High above, on the floating island in the northern sky, Grand Tutor Gilbert, the second most powerful man in the Emerald Empire, sat quietly at his desk.


    His adopted son poured him some tea.


    "Adopted father, please have some tea."


    "Yes."


    Gilbert nodded slightly, then frowned and asked, "How is Sunshine Mansion faring these days? Phil is about to open the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. It''s been two years; if Blackwood wants revenge, they should be making their move soon, shouldn''t they?"


    As he spoke, he looked towards the Psychic Sanctuary in the distance.


    Blackwood Benjamin was cultivating psychic powers inside, his energy extraordinary.


    The young man, who appeared to be in his twenties, replied respectfully, "Adopted father, news from Sunshine Mansion says that Blackwood Nathan has been hiding among the Druids. He revealed himself when he broke through to the fifth level, Basic Mastery. He practices the Corpse Control forbidden technique from hundreds of thousands of years ago."


    "He possesses a high-level psychic equipment and has spent many years refining a Zombie Emperor. He recently killed ''Shane,'' a Druid elder of the Basic Mastery realm. He is truly extraordinary and will likely reach Advanced Mastery in the future, perhaps even higher."


    "Oh?"


    Gilbert''s interest was piqued.


    "You have such a high opinion of him? This Blackwood patriarch is truly a dark horse."


    "Indeed, Adopted father. Nathan rose from humble beginnings. He was but a slave, a farmer by birth. To have come this far, he must be truly blessed by the heavens."


    The young man glanced at the increasingly dense psychic energy emanating from where Benjamin was cultivating his psychic powers.


    He asked with a puzzled expression, "But Adopted father, there''s something I don''t understand. Why are you so concerned about that small place, Azure Cloud, and the feud between Blackwood, Heavenly Path, and the Druids?"


    "How can I not be concerned?" Gilbert held his teacup but did not drink.


    He stared at the steam rising from the hot tea and murmured, "The empire is filled with those who only seek power and profit. The princes within the empire are constantly fighting for the throne, truly believing that His Majesty is about to ascend to immortality. Lance is far too rebellious. They are like birds in a cage; no matter what they do, it amounts to nothing."


    "The Blackwoods are righteous. They dare to fight the Druids, Lance, and even the ancient gods."


    "Heavenly Path..."


    Gilbert blew on his tea, watching the ripples on the surface.


    "Heavenly Path also dares to fight, to fight against people, against heaven. It is often only such people who can defy fate and possess unparalleled talent."


    The young man frowned.


    Hearing the Grand Tutor''s words, it seemed he was very familiar with the ambitious Heavenly Path Venerable.


    Grand Tutor Gilbert took a sip of tea and waved his hand at the young man. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Benjamin is a good lad. His ninety-nine thunder tribulation is now stable. Go to the warehouse and fetch a drop of ancient god blood for him. Consider it a gift from his godfather to celebrate his breakthrough."


    "Yes, Adopted father."


    ...


    "Grand Tutor Gilbert?!"


    On Crestwood Hills, Nathan heard a name from Austin that sent a chill down his spine.


    "Yes."


    Austin didn''t seem to notice Nathan''s astonishment.


    His voice was heavy.


    "I met Grand Tutor Gilbert when I was truly desperate. Countless people within the empire wanted me dead, hoping to curry favor with my master. But the Grand Tutor offered me a way out, and I became his... adopted son."


    "At that time, he was already leading the northern expedition to slay demons and expand the empire''s territory. I became one of his soldiers. I truly believed he admired me. He saved my life and even spared no expense in teaching me and gifting me rare treasures from this world, even... ancient god blood."


    Ancient god blood!


    When these three words were spoken, both Nathan and Ethan''s expressions changed.


    Austin continued, "Everyone who consumes ancient god blood experiences different effects. Those who are unworthy will surely die. I consumed the ancient god blood and cultivated the ''Grand Dream Ancient God Technique.'' I dreamt for a thousand years, and my cultivation base soared!"


    But when he spoke of his cultivation base soaring, Austin showed no joy, only a wry smile.


    "However, I served under him for so long that I forgot that everything we gain comes at a price. I also cultivated my master''s technique. I once tried to calculate my fifth level Basic Mastery tribulation, and I could sense that ever since I consumed the ancient god blood, a pair of eyes had been watching me!"


    "It was as if... those eyes were delighted by the items purchased with a shopping list. That''s when I knew Gilbert wasn''t saving me; he was choosing a perfect vessel for those eyes!"


    At this point, Austin''s face was contorted with rage.


    "That''s why I fled. I created my own magic formula. I am worthy of the title of Rising Stars. I was born to defy the heavens! This is the Heavenly Path!"


    "I reincarnated and cultivated again. I wanted to spread my projections throughout the land and one day take my revenge. But I never expected..."


    "My projection, Michael, clever as he is, would take advantage of my inattention during each reincarnation and try to make the Rising Stars consume the ancient god blood. He wanted to seize the body of a Rising Star who had consumed the ancient god blood, break free from my control, and even become the original. But he never expected that there was a spy from the Oracle Chamber by his side!"


    "From that day forward, I was exposed..."


    Austin said, looking at the pale-faced Nathan with a sardonic smile.


    "It was you Blackwoods who forced my hand. Your biggest mistake was letting Joseph, who had consumed the ancient god blood, enter the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary. Everything about me was exposed to those eyes. You left me no choice. You ruined my millennia-long plan!"


    ...


    Silence hung heavy over Crestwood Hills.


    The Heavenly Path Venerable, who the Blackwoods believed to be incredibly powerful, who had orchestrated the downfall of Sunshine Mansion for millennia and even driven all of Blackwood to despair with his projections throughout the Emerald Empire, now had a ferocious expression, as if silently railing against the injustice of fate.


    Nathan remained silent.


    After a long while, Austin sighed.


    "It was you Blackwoods who forced me into a corner. I could have had more time. Perhaps in another thousand years, two thousand years, I would have become even stronger and escaped the Grand Tutor''s notice. But you forced my hand and exposed me completely. I had no choice but to jump from the frying pan into the fire."


    "Lance."


    Nathan uttered a name without hesitation.


    Above the entire empire, besides the ancient gods, there were only two individuals who sat at the pinnacle of power, manipulating everything within the empire.


    From the moment they ascended to their positions, they held the authority of heaven in their hands.


    "Hahaha, Lance!" Austin laughed maniacally.


    "I had to exhaust every means to please him. Do you know what he sees me as? He sees me as a dog, a dog that can be discarded at any time! I''ve done so much for him, yet he''s always wary of me..."


    "And the things you''ve done for him include that day you intruded upon my Glory City?"


    At this point, Nathan''s anger seemed to have dissipated.


    There was a time when the Blackwoods viewed the Heavenly Path Venerable as an insurmountable mountain, an invincible being.


    Now it seemed they were all wrong.


    Heavenly Path was no different from anyone else.


    He was just stronger, his psychic cultivation techniques more unorthodox.


    "I''ve done so much for him, yet he wants me to reveal the location of all my projections. He wants me to swear an oath on my core, to serve him loyally for all eternity!"

 Chapter 417 - 417: Ridiculous, what do we have to fear from him?

    Austin finally calmed down.


    He saw pity in Nathan''s eyes.


    Perhaps the Blackwoods would never understand the unimaginable hardships he had endured, rising from a small family to his current position.


    For a moment, he no longer wished to dwell on the past with Blackwood.


    His gaze turned solemn.


    "Nathan, let''s call it a truce between me and the Blackwoods. You''re just like me!"


    "You think you belong to the Grand Tutor''s faction? Your Blackwood Joseph has already become a vessel ripe for possession. The Grand Tutor doesn''t even care for the lives of his adopted sons. You''re all just fish in a barrel, waiting to be devoured."


    "You constantly oppose Lance. He sees you as a thorn in his side, a pain in his neck."


    "We face the same fate. There''s no need to continue this pointless feud over past grievances. Let''s spare each other and live to see another day. Perhaps in the future, we can even work together. We can break free from the Emerald Empire''s control!"


    "We rose from obscurity, let us ascend to the heavens together!"


    "..."


    In an instant, the wind howled and clouds churned.


    The two figures standing high above the earth seemed like puppets controlled by the vast, boundless sky.


    Austin, in his madness, yearned to ascend to the heavens in a single bound! S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, to Austin''s astonishment, Nathan merely frowned slightly and said softly, "After all this, why didn''t you simply come to Blackwood and explain your situation when you were in such dire straits? Perhaps we could have stood together then. I might even have helped you."


    "You..." Austin was speechless.


    Nathan continued, "Oh, right, back then, you saw Blackwood as nothing but ants. You speak of the dangers you''ve faced, yet you slaughtered my Blackwood children. If we were still as weak as we were then, would you be standing here saying these words to me?"


    With that, Nathan vanished and reappeared right in front of Austin in the blink of an eye!


    His eyes narrowed, and Austin''s projection in his gaze seemed lifeless.


    "Don''t you dare feign pity in front of me, and don''t you dare think your struggle against the world is somehow extraordinary or noble!"


    Nathan made no attempt to hide the coldness and anger emanating from him. "For over a hundred years, I haven''t forgotten the hatred in my heart, not for a single day. Two years remain until the Heavenly Path Psychic Sanctuary opens. You should remember that day, and you should have expected this day to come!"


    "Foolish!"


    Austin''s eyes widened. "Have I not made myself clear enough? Come to your senses! The past is the past. The dead cannot be brought back to life. If you continue to fight me, it will only lead to mutual destruction!"


    Nathan remained unmoved. "Mutual destruction it is then. I will make you live in fear. Even if we both perish and descend to the underworld as Malignant Ghosts, I will become your nightmare. Besides, we have a special gift prepared for you."


    ...


    On Kylin Mountain, Austin''s face was dark.


    Nathan had not continued their confrontation but had chosen to shatter his projection!


    "Madman, shortsighted fool!"


    Austin roared.


    He couldn''t believe that even after he had laid everything out so clearly, Nathan still clung to his old hatred!


    They could have simply let bygones be bygones.


    Both he and Blackwood had extraordinary futures ahead of them, perhaps even godhood!


    "A special gift, what gift? What have the Blackwoods been up to all these years?!"


    Thinking of the icy gaze in Nathan''s eyes when he shattered his projection, Austin''s heart was filled with trepidation.


    He sensed the Blackwoods'' determination.


    They would stop at nothing to kill him.


    All the projections in the courtyard were aware of the exchange between Austin and Nathan, and they were all furious.


    "He refuses a toast only to be given a forfeit!"


    "Ridiculous, what do we have to fear from him?"


    "If Blackwood wants to play with fire, we can unleash another bloodbath upon them!"


    "..."


    But before their words could fade, they froze!


    It was the imperial capital.


    Their projection, Brody, was still within the imperial capital when he saw Blackwood Donna, who had not been seen for over a century, appear!


    For Blackwood, the imperial capital was fraught with danger, yet Donna strolled through the city with an air of arrogance.


    It was a suicidal move, yet Austin and the other projections felt no joy.


    They remembered what Nathan had said about a special gift!


    Hall Manor.


    "She''s shown herself again?"


    Brody shot to his feet.


    Over a hundred years had passed.


    He had long since broken through to the Basic Mastery realm after the deaths of the other projections, and with their assistance, he had even overcome the fifth level thunder tribulation!


    He leaped into the air and flew straight towards Donna''s location!


    "I am not the same person I was back then. I haven''t even come looking for you Blackwoods, and you dare to deliver yourself to my doorstep? Very well!"


    ...


    Stepping into the imperial capital once more.


    After a century of cultivation, Donna looked no different than she did all those years ago, except for a more composed demeanor and attire.


    Behind her were several old friends who had accompanied her to the forbidden zone.


    These individuals, weathered by time and experience, seemed like they had stepped into another world upon entering the bustling imperial capital.


    "Brody? You''ve reached the Basic Mastery realm?"


    On the bustling street, Donna and her companions immediately noticed Brody tailing them from a distance.


    Brody even sent a voice transmission to Donna, challenging her to a duel!


    However, upon hearing Brody''s provocative transmission, the Azure Cloud group merely glanced at him before continuing on their way.


    By the time Donna and her companions reached their destination, Brody''s expression was one of astonishment.


    The place Donna and the others had gone to was¡ª


    Peaceful Loft!


    This elegant building stood out amidst the bustling city with its tranquility.


    Even carriages and passersby would slow down out of respect.


    The sounds of stringed instruments drifted from within, and occasionally, when the doors opened slightly, one could catch glimpses of dancing figures.


    Everyone in the imperial capital knew that Peaceful Loft belonged to the Twelfth Prince, Prince Jace.


    Prince Jace, barely six hundred years old, was known for his eccentric and tyrannical nature, yet he had a peculiar fondness for such extravagant affairs.


    "Why would they... seek out Prince Jace?"


    Brody was filled with doubt and a sense of unease.


    He was part of the national advisor''s faction within the imperial capital, loyal to Prince Jace.


    And now, Donna and her companions had entered Peaceful Loft, clearly having made prior arrangements.


    Yet, he was stopped at the entrance by guards!


    The guards informed him that Prince Jace was entertaining distinguished guests!


    "Distinguished guests? What distinguished guests?" Brody''s heart raced.


    Weren''t the Blackwoods at odds with both the national advisor and the Twelfth Prince? Why...


    Meanwhile, the projections on Kylin Mountain witnessed this scene, and they were all filled with suspicion.


    A sense of impending crisis gripped their hearts.


    ...

 Chapter 418 - 418: I require information

    Inside Peaceful Loft.


    Donna and her companions had already met with Prince Jace, and Ethan was also present.


    In the largest private room on the third floor of Peaceful Loft, low, long guest tables and cushions were arranged in two rows on either side.


    Seated on the cushions were several men dressed in court attire, clearly officials from the grand hall.


    Surprisingly, the courtesans of Peaceful Loft were seated alongside these officials as equals.


    The four officials wore grim expressions, though it was unclear whether they were angered by being grouped with the courtesans or by some other matter.


    Seated in the main seat was a strikingly handsome young man dressed in white, a truly exceptional prince.


    This young talent was currently playing a guzheng, his brow furrowed in concentration.


    The music was elegant and serene, calming the listener''s heart.


    This was the Twelfth Prince, Jace!


    Only Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster entered the private room.


    Prince Jace continued playing until the last note faded away.


    He then pressed down on the strings, turned to Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster with a smile, and gestured for them to enter.


    "Welcome, esteemed guests from the far north. Please, have a seat."


    "..."


    Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster frowned slightly and looked around.


    All the seats were occupied.


    They exchanged glances, about to find a place to stand.


    Prince Jace suddenly slapped his forehead and exclaimed in mock distress, "Oh dear, my apologies. I was so engrossed in my music that I didn''t notice the room was full."


    He shook his head with a wry smile.


    Prince Jace turned to Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster apologetically.


    "Please wait a moment."


    As his words left his lips, his previously refined demeanor transformed into one of ferocity.


    With a flash of his Storage Ring, he drew a longsword, his Competent Force radiating outwards!


    The four officials paled at the sight and immediately dropped to their knees, begging for mercy.


    However, Prince Jace remained unmoved by their pleas.


    He slowly killed two of the officials as their terrified colleagues watched on.


    The room echoed with pleas for mercy, but the remaining two officials could only tremble and beg for their lives.


    The courtesans, however, seemed unfazed, their expressions blank.


    Blood splattered on Prince Jace''s face.


    He casually wiped it away and smiled at Donna and the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who were frowning deeply.


    "There, now we have seats. Please."


    ...


    "This world is full of fools. Yesterday, I sent for a few of my subordinates, telling them there was an important position available in Fairview City. I instructed them to come to Peaceful Loft in their court attire."


    The courtesans, unafraid, began clearing away the bodies and wiping the blood from the floor.


    The two surviving officials, weeping and terrified, scrambled out of Peaceful Loft.


    Prince Jace took a handkerchief from a servant and wiped the blood from his face, as if nothing had happened.


    "Those four were the most foolish. I asked them what they would do if they were given the position. They spoke eloquently, their every word about serving the country and its people, but they offered no real solutions. The two who are dead now, I had intended to appoint them as magistrates in charge of psychic affairs in Fairview.


    One was to unify the psychic cultivation techniques, and the other was to eliminate all dissenters."


    "Ever since I became a prince and set my sights on the throne, I''ve encountered countless fools trying to take advantage of me."


    As he spoke, a courtesan served Prince Jace tea.


    He took a sip and turned his attention to the young woman in the yellow robe before him, her brows slightly furrowed.


    "Donna, your Blackwood clan has not dared to show its face for a century. And now you emerge and seek me out. I do hope you''re not here for the same reason as those two fools. Otherwise, I''m afraid Peaceful Loft will cease to be a place of peace."


    "I require information."


    Donna stated calmly.


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    "How did the Blackwoods gain an audience with Prince Jace?"


    As night fell, Brody, who was waiting anxiously outside Peaceful Loft, grew increasingly impatient.


    The people from Cloudview County had been inside for most of the day.


    He knew a fair bit about Prince Jace.


    Rumor had it that the prince was a creature of habit.


    With the national advisor''s support over the years, his schedule was practically public knowledge.


    He would fish by the river from dusk till dawn, indulge in food and wine at Peaceful Loft during the day, and attend court at noon.


    Brody could only recall a handful of times when Prince Jace had deviated from his routine in the past century.


    The most recent instance was when Jace''s younger sister was forced into a political marriage with the Golden Empire by the Empress.


    And now, Prince Jace had altered his schedule for the Blackwoods?!


    Laughter even emanated from within Peaceful Loft.


    "What could they possibly be discussing?"


    Brody clenched his fists.


    After all these years, the Blackwoods had resurfaced, and their purpose was undoubtedly to eliminate Heavenly Path!


    The memories of being repeatedly visited and blackmailed by the Blackwoods over a century ago came flooding back, filling him with resentment.


    What infuriated him the most was that Donna, the body cultivator who was once a complete lunatic, hadn''t charged at him with reckless abandon as he had anticipated.


    He had even prepared to conceal his true cultivation level and then unleash his Basic Mastery psychic powers to crush Donna.


    But now, everything had caught him off guard.


    Meanwhile, on Kylin Mountain, Austin, observing through Brody''s eyes, was also deeply troubled.


    Over a century had passed, and he had heard tales of the Blackwoods'' ferocity.


    They were known for their direct confrontations and brutal tactics.


    Even their schemes revolved around violence.


    But now, their every move seemed unreadable.


    He had just confronted Nathan not long ago, and now the Blackwoods, instead of being wary of Lance, had sought out Prince Jace!


    "The special gift Nathan mentioned..."


    Austin murmured, and then a terrifying thought struck him.


    "Jace! Blackwood!!!"


    A barrage of messages from his projections flooded his mind, causing his veins to bulge and his face to contort in rage!


    ...


    The imperial capital was a city that never slept, its streets illuminated by countless lanterns.


    Donna and the Azure Cloud group strolled through the streets without a care in the world, their faces filled with joy.


    Brody continued to follow them.


    If they dared to leave the imperial capital, they would face his most relentless pursuit!


    However, Brody was rooted to the spot, as if petrified.


    In Donna''s hand, he saw... an energy locator!


    "How could this be? Prince Jace, how could he give such a thing to the Blackwoods?!"


    He was certain that all his other projections were witnessing the same thing, and feeling the same shock.


    For the first time, Brody felt true fear.


    After consuming the ancient god blood and realizing he was being watched, he had broken free from the Grand Tutor.


    He had escaped one cage only to enter another ¨C that of the national advisor, Lance!


    To gain Lance''s trust, he had to offer something of value, and this energy locator...


    It could lock onto the energy signature of all his reincarnated bodies through his original soul, revealing the approximate locations of his projections!


    Only with this assurance could Lance trust him and offer him protection within the Emerald Empire, shielding him from Grand Tutor Gilbert''s grasp.


    Without it, Lance would never have allowed him to grow to his current strength.


    Now, the Blackwoods possessed his lifeline, the key to his survival.


    His numerous projections scattered throughout the Emerald Empire would have nowhere to hide!


    This also meant... he had become Prince Jace''s abandoned pawn!

 Chapter 419 - 419: I bring you good news

    "How is this possible? In Prince Jace''s eyes, am I truly worth less than Blackwood?"


    Brody didn''t dare delay for even a moment. His face pale, he flew out of the imperial capital.


    He knew that even with his Basic Mastery cultivation, being abandoned by both Lance and Prince Jace meant he was no longer safe within the imperial capital, not with his methods.


    From this moment forward, they were on the run.


    "Blackwood has always opposed Lance, how could they possibly sway Prince Jace and Lance to their side?!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, inside Peaceful Loft, Prince Jace dismissed all the courtesans.


    Before him stood a bronze mirror. In the mirror''s reflection appeared a middle-aged man dressed in elegant robes, resembling a scholar. It was the national advisor, Lance!


    "Twelfth Prince, you gave Heavenly Path''s lifeline to the Blackwoods?"


    Lance''s brow furrowed deeply. "Austin from Kylin Mountain just contacted me, begging me to persuade you to reconsider. He''s even willing to swear an oath of allegiance to you."


    "Teacher, you still trust him?" Jace responded with a cold voice. "Back then, in order to break through to his current realm, he sacrificed all his fellow disciples, letting them perish under his thunder tribulation. To survive, he willingly became Gilbert''s adopted son. And to escape Gilbert''s clutches, he turned to us."


    "A man like him will never be content serving under another. Sooner or later, he will betray us as well."


    Lance fell into deep thought.


    After a long silence, he finally spoke. "It''s a pity about his talent. With him on our side, we could have claimed Sunshine Mansion and its wealth. His projections control the entire region. By abandoning him, you''ve abandoned Sunshine Mansion as well. As for Blackwood, they''re nothing but ignorant fools. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If I were you, I would never choose to help them."


    At the mention of Blackwood, Lance couldn''t suppress his anger. The twelve border regions were impoverished and desolate. He still couldn''t understand why the Blackwoods insisted on clinging to that worthless land, making him lose face time and time again. He wished for nothing more than to bury them all in a ditch.


    "Teacher, there are no absolute enemies, and there are no absolute allies. That''s what you taught me."


    Jace took out a map and smiled. "Years ago, you had Heavenly Path test Blackwood, and they suffered a crushing defeat. Did they ever lower themselves to seek my help? Besides, continuing to support Heavenly Path carries the risk of backlash. As for Sunshine Mansion, it''s still within our grasp if we desire it. We might as well seize this opportunity for greater gains.


    Take a look at this map."


    Lance glanced at the map Jace was holding and raised an eyebrow. "This is..."


    ...


    Within the Forebearer space.


    Ethan sat on the ground, his fingers interlocked beneath his chin, his elbows resting on his knees. His expression was calm and composed.


    Over a century had passed, and their approach was no longer as reckless as it once was.


    In this world, their enemies were far more formidable than they had imagined. Gilbert, Lance, even Heavenly Path... these individuals who held the reins of power were far more terrifying than any opponent he had encountered before. They would never allow any potential threat to grow unchecked.


    Long ago, the Blackwoods had believed that as long as they held onto Azure Cloud, they had nothing to fear. They even dared to defy the ancient gods in the grand hall, their arrogance knowing no bounds. They thought they could withstand the Druids, as if the world were truly that simple.


    Reality had dealt Blackwood a heavy blow, a blow that Ethan would never forget.


    Before Ethan, a group of Blackwood clansmen stood silently, awaiting their Forebearer''s command.


    He raised his head slightly, his gaze sweeping over the faces of his clansmen.


    Over a hundred years had passed.


    They were like caged beasts, ready to break free and tear their enemies to shreds!


    A translucent panel appeared before him.


    [Your descendant, Donna, reports that she has met with Prince Jace and reached an agreement. Prince Jace will hand over ''Heavenly Path''s lifeline'' to Blackwood in exchange for two gifts: a peace treaty with the Druids and the continent of Panoram State!]


    To eliminate Heavenly Path, they needed to find his projections. Otherwise, he would simply reemerge in another location, stronger than before!


    The Blackwoods had been searching for Heavenly Path''s projections for years, but their efforts had yielded little success.


    However, Ethan was certain that Lance possessed a way to control Heavenly Path. Otherwise, he would never have kept such a dangerous individual under his wing!


    "Heavenly Path''s lifeline... with this, his projections will have nowhere to hide!"


    Nathan''s eyes gleamed with excitement. The Druids and Panoram State were of little consequence in the grand scheme of things. However, during the struggle for the throne, they represented political achievements, which were invaluable. Prince Jace, eager to bolster his own position, would surely agree to certain conditions in exchange for such achievements.


    This was the special gift Nathan had prepared for Heavenly Path!


    However, Nathan hadn''t anticipated that Prince Jace''s gift would come as such a pleasant surprise.


    "My apologies for the sacrifice you''ve made."


    Luna turned to Daniel, Adam, and Alexander, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Daniel, you''ve spent years in Azure Cloud, claiming vast territories from the Druids. Now, all your efforts will be attributed to Prince Jace. And Adam, Alexander, you''ve fought tirelessly in Panoram State for over a century, finally uniting the entire continent. Yet, you''re willing to relinquish it to another."


    Daniel smiled faintly. "It''s just land and titles. Besides, after two hundred years of constant warfare, we Azure Cloud folks deserve a rest."


    Adam shrugged nonchalantly. "Alexander and I went to Panoram State seeking experience and challenges. We''ve gained what we sought, and more. We''ve even earned the allegiance of Panoram State''s most powerful psychic and claimed their most prized treasures."


    "Indeed."


    Ethan, seated in the main seat, narrowed his eyes. He turned to Amelia, who stood among the crowd. "Amelia, from the edges of the empire inwards, leave no stone unturned. Heavenly Path''s projections will have nowhere to run!"


    "As you command, Forebearer!"


    Meanwhile, a fleet of nearly a hundred ability vessels, originating from the Golden Empire, sailed across the Endless Forest, heading straight for the Emerald Empire!


    Onboard were numerous psychics, their faces etched with the hardships of countless battles. Their very presence radiated a chilling aura that would make even the bravest souls tremble. These were the thousand Emerald Empire Rising Stars who had been rescued from Kylin Mountain!


    For over a century, they had fought tirelessly on the battlefields of the Golden Empire, facing unimaginable dangers and witnessing the deaths of many comrades. Now, they returned to their homeland with a single purpose: to eliminate Heavenly Path!


    At the forefront of the fleet, Amelia, clutching a Psychic Position, suddenly opened her eyes. Her gaze pierced through the distance, towards the Emerald Empire. Just a few thousand miles ahead lay Cloudview County, the place they once called home.


    Her voice, filled with a mix of sorrow and determination, echoed through the minds of every Emerald Empire Rising Star.


    "I bring you good news."


    As Amelia''s words faded, the eyes of every soul aboard the fleet snapped open, their gazes burning with anticipation.

 Chapter 420 - 420: The road ahead will not be easy

    That day, all the Blackwoods within the Forebearer space were in a frenzy.


    They knew that the opening of the Skywalking Psychic Sanctuary was still two years away, but from the moment Nathan broke free from the Druids'' control, their confrontation with the Heavenly Path had already begun!


    Years of family hatred made them eager to capture the Heavenly Path, skin him, and break his bones!


    At this moment, they had received Ethan''s order and had already returned to their true bodies, beginning to take action.


    Ethan opened the clan member panel and found Amelia''s information.


    He instantly disappeared from the Forebearer space and appeared beside Amelia.


    Amelia stood at the bow of the ability vessel.


    Behind her, a total of more than thirty people were waiting for her command.


    More than a hundred years had passed.


    Amelia had been lost for five years, only finding herself again when Ethan''s abilities manifested once more.


    It was then that she rediscovered her purpose, refining medicine in Riverton until she became a renowned alchemist in the Golden Empire, and then spending a hundred years refining medicine on the border battlefield of the Golden Empire.


    Now, she still had the same dirty appearance as before, always wearing the same yellowed alchemist robe, her hair a mess, and her face plain, appearing somewhat naive and dull.


    A medicine gourd still hung at her waist.


    As the thirty-two powerful Psychics behind her approached Amelia, they all took a deep breath, a strong fragrance of medicine assaulting their nostrils.


    Ethan knew that these thirty-two powerful individuals represented the most elite among the Rising Stars!


    After escaping from Kylin Mountain, on the battlefield of the Golden Empire, all of these thousand people had broken through to the Developing Skill realm.


    There were those with accumulated potential and those with lofty aspirations who vowed not to break through to Competent Force unless they had undergone ninety-nine thunder tribulations.


    Such a force of Rising Stars would cause a sensation wherever they went.


    This was also thanks to Austin''s eccentric hobby of collecting and nurturing Rising Stars.


    One must know that these Rising Stars were the most talented and unaffiliated individuals in the entire Emerald Empire.


    Gathered together, one could imagine how terrifying they would become if given time to grow.


    It was no wonder that Austin was alarmed and felt a great calamity approaching after these people were rescued.


    Among the thirty-two powerful individuals, their cultivation might not be the strongest, but they were carefully selected by Amelia and Edward. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    They possessed formidable talent, and after years of nurturing, they were absolutely loyal to the Blackwoods.


    Under the Blackwoods'' command, they led the other Rising Stars.


    The most impressive one to Ethan was the childlike figure standing in the center.


    This person had his hair tied in pigtails, looking no more than five or six years old.


    He wore a red bellyband and shorts, his chubby face flushed red.


    But in reality, he was already over twelve hundred years old.


    His name was Isaac.


    A thousand years ago, Isaac was hidden by a sect, intended to be used as an ingredient for alchemy.


    He was born unable to grow, and even his intelligence was somewhat underdeveloped.


    However, he was blessed by heaven with a natural jade-like physique and a Heaven-grade technique, allowing natural energies to gather within his body.


    He reached Emerging Ability at fifteen, Developing Skill at thirty, and by the age of eighty, he had already undergone ninety-nine thunder tribulations and reached Competent Force.


    Just as he was about to be used for alchemy, he fell into the hands of the Heavenly Path.


    From then on, Kylin Mountain had one more dog, barking madly at the Heavenly Path every day...


    According to Isaac, the Heavenly Path liked to keep people like him, who were blessed by heaven, as dogs, so that he could feel superior to heaven.


    Now, Isaac had reached Basic Mastery, fifth level Basic Mastery!


    The Blackwoods had once discussed Isaac''s talent.


    Within two thousand years, or with enough resources, he would definitely break through to Advanced Mastery.


    And Isaac also regarded the Blackwoods as his benefactors.


    This child was single-minded and particularly obedient to Amelia''s commands.


    Other alchemists would capture him for alchemy, but only Amelia fed him medicine.


    In his simple mind, Amelia was the best person in the world.


    It was also because of Isaac''s existence that these Rising Stars followed the Blackwoods'' orders without question.


    Among them were many prominent figures from within the Emerald Empire.


    There was the cold and elegant woman named Angela, rumored to be the reincarnation of a powerful being, awakening memories of her past life from time to time.


    There was the renowned Go player, a Rising Star in the Way of Go, who had no equal in the entire Emerald Empire.


    There was Gregory, who rose from humble beginnings, spending a thousand years honing his blade.


    With a single swing of his sword, his enemies would either die or be dismembered...


    In the past thousand years, Rising Stars were rare in the Emerald Empire.


    The Blackwoods, upon their breakthrough, could easily defeat those on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings.


    It was not because the Competent Force Psychics of the Emerald Empire were too weak, but because those with true talent had become caged birds!


    And now, this force was being used by the Blackwoods, waiting for Amelia''s command!


    "The Heavenly Path has been plotting for ten thousand years. His projections, starting from Sunshine Mansion, are spread throughout the state capitals of the Emerald Empire. Almost one projection every year. Now, we, the Blackwoods, have obtained his lifeline, allowing us to trace the approximate whereabouts of the Heavenly Path''s projections.


    The identities of each projection are recorded in this jade slip."


    Amelia''s voice was low.


    A jade slip appeared beside her.


    As she channeled her psychic powers, cyan natural energies emanated from her body.


    In front of those Rising Stars, there were ability jades.


    The information about the Heavenly Path Venerable was rapidly imprinted into the ability jades.


    Those were the locations of the Heavenly Path''s projections!


    "A total of 4,218 projections, scattered across the Emerald Empire!"


    A fierce wind surged upon the ability vessel.


    All the Rising Stars frowned as Amelia''s icy voice reached their ears.


    "During this time, with the death of each Heavenly Path projection, the others will become stronger. No one knows how powerful the enemies we encounter next will be."


    "You were trapped in Kylin Mountain by the Heavenly Path for many years. Now that you have finally regained your freedom, you have a bright future ahead of you."


    "The road ahead will not be easy. You can still back out now."


    As a healer, Amelia couldn''t help but feel a pang of sympathy as she looked at these Rising Stars from the borders of the Golden Empire.


    After a hundred years of companionship, she remembered each of their names.


    These Rising Stars were strong, but even the Heavenly Path''s projections were full of uncertainty!


    With the death of other projections, the power of the Heavenly Path''s projections would dissipate, and some projections might even inherit the physique and techniques of their predecessors.


    Even though these Rising Stars were aware of the current strength of the Heavenly Path''s projections, once the battle began, no one knew how powerful a seemingly weak Heavenly Path projection could become!


    However, as Amelia finished speaking, all the Rising Stars smiled.

 Chapter 421 - 421: It was equivalent to... taking on the entire state!

    Isaac grinned.


    "Amelia, for over a hundred years, I''ve been fighting tooth and nail in the Golden Empire, nearly dying several times, all to kill those Heavenly Path bastards!"


    "We''ve been mercenaries in the Golden Empire for over a century, taking on countless dangerous missions, all for this day, haven''t we?" Angela said with a charming smile.


    "Amelia, if I really do meet an untimely end, you guys who make it out alive better write on my tombstone that I escaped the cage."


    "To hell with the cage!"


    "Every single one of us is exceptionally talented. We''ve been suppressed by Heavenly Path for centuries. Now that we''re working together, I don''t believe he can win!"


    "Hahaha, we''ll fight to the death! Who''s afraid of him?!"


    "..."


    The Rising Stars laughed heartily, each accepting their mission!


    They leaped from the ability vessel one by one, heading towards their assigned locations, scattering across the Emerald Empire.


    All of them were filled with rage, having been dormant for a hundred years.


    Today, they would overcome this insurmountable chasm!


    The sky was filled with streaks of light, like sparks scattering from a falling meteor.


    Amelia stood quietly at the bow of the vessel.


    As each person departed, they would say to Amelia, "See you at Sunshine Mansion."


    She watched silently as the Rising Stars left.


    Only Isaac remained by her side.


    Isaac tugged at Amelia''s sleeve.


    "Amelia, what about you? Where are you going?"


    "Sunshine Mansion."


    Amelia rose into the air with an expressionless face, Isaac following closely behind.


    They hadn''t gone far when Isaac stopped in front of Amelia, his lips twitching.


    "Amelia, you''re going the wrong way. This isn''t the way to Sunshine Mansion. Why are you lost again?"


    Isaac couldn''t help but feel speechless.


    Over the years in the Golden Empire, Amelia would always get lost whenever she traveled.


    There was even one time when she received a request from a powerful figure in the Golden Empire to save someone, but she ended up running in the opposite direction for three months.


    Unable to find her way, Edward had to ask Isaac to bring her back.


    Isaac vaguely remembered Amelia hiding in a cave, trembling and red-eyed, as if she had been crying.


    She was muttering, "I''m lost again. Something must have happened. Whenever I get lost, they all die..."


    Who would have thought that the respected Healing Hand of Apricot Forest would have such a problem?


    If Isaac hadn''t seen it with his own eyes, he wouldn''t have believed it.


    Amelia''s voice reached Isaac''s ears.


    "Many years ago, Edward was at the edge of the floating island. He told me he was sick and could no longer bear to be alone in confined spaces or touch cold metal. It was a lingering effect of being trapped in a cage for many years."


    "Can it be cured?" Isaac asked doubtfully.


    He had his own issues too.


    He was afraid of chains... Back in Kylin Mountain, when Heavenly Path transformed him into a dog, the chain around his neck nearly choked him to death.


    "It''s a heart ailment. Every single one of you has this heart ailment."


    Amelia sighed, a flicker of fear in her eyes.


    "I''m the same, Isaac. You should lead the way. If I get lost, it''ll be very difficult for me to find my way back."


    "You..."


    Isaac puffed up his cheeks.


    Although he wasn''t very bright, he could tell that Amelia, like them, had a heart ailment.


    He couldn''t help but frown.


    "Amelia, aren''t you a medical genius? Last time I was beaten half to death, you healed me in ten years. When will your illness be cured?"


    "..."


    Amelia remained silent for a long time.


    Led by Isaac, their speed towards Sunshine Mansion increased.


    After a long while, she finally raised her eyes.


    "I lost my way from Cloudview County and was terrified by Heavenly Path. Once he''s dead, our heart ailments will be gone."


    Once he''s dead... our heart ailments will be gone...


    Amelia didn''t notice that the Forebearer had already appeared beside her.


    He felt a pang of sympathy, as he had an idea of how Amelia''s ailment came to be.


    [Your descendant, Amelia, heard Olivia shout "Run" when Heavenly Path invaded Glory City. She didn''t hesitate to use the Celestial Botanical Technique to escape. She had intended to seek help from Blackwood''s friends, but she couldn''t find anyone who could save her family. Panicked and lost, she wandered to the Golden Empire. Trait acquired: The Lost.]


    [Her soul is damaged, her sense of direction reduced by 99%, her cultivating psychic powers speed reduced by 50% when alone, and her temperament reduced by 50%.]


    ...


    "The Lost..."


    Looking at the panel above Amelia''s head, who in this world hasn''t lost their way?


    After experiencing great calamities, it''s natural to have some trauma.


    Even Ethan was lost for five years.


    The truth is, as long as one is human, they will have their vulnerabilities.


    It was fortunate that Amelia had Isaac by her side. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Under Isaac''s guidance, they headed towards Sunshine Mansion in Cloudview County.


    It took half a month for Amelia and Isaac to reach Sunshine Mansion.


    At the heart of Sunshine Mansion lay Stonelake City.


    In reality, Sunshine Mansion had two main cities.


    One was primarily inhabited by ordinary people, while the other was Stonelake City.


    Initially, it was a Psychic marketplace, but it gradually expanded as various sects and races from all over Sunshine Mansion came to establish shops, buying and selling ability weapons and pills.


    This place gradually became the true main city in the hearts of Sunshine Mansion''s Psychics.


    Even the Emerald Empire''s government offices were established here.


    One could see Psychics traversing the sky on their swords, and tall towers stood around the city.


    If one used their psychic sense, they would know that there was a formation protecting the city.


    If one wanted to enter the city, they had to throw ten low-grade Energy Stones to activate the formation, which would then leave a mark on their body.


    After that, if they were to engage in any killing within the city, the authorities would be alerted.


    This contributed to the harmonious atmosphere within Stonelake City.


    Coupled with the fact that Sunshine Mansion was located in the prosperous south and emphasized "courtesy," Stonelake City had always been a model of etiquette for the entire Emerald Empire.


    However.


    Only after paying the Energy Stones and entering Stonelake City did Amelia clearly realize that this prosperous Sunshine Mansion was actually a single person''s domain!


    Inside an ordinary inn.


    Sitting cross-legged within the inn''s energy-gathering formation, Amelia''s expression was grave, while Isaac couldn''t help but exclaim in shock.


    Within the Heavenly Path energy locator between them were the identities of all the Heavenly Path projections in Sunshine Mansion!


    With the emergence of numerous Rising Stars, the Heavenly Path projections scattered across the Emerald Empire were fleeing, and a significant portion of them were heading towards Sunshine Mansion.


    There were over four thousand Heavenly Path projections, but the number of projections in Sunshine Mansion alone... exceeded thirteen hundred!


    Moreover, each of their identities was extraordinary.


    "Head of the Roberts family in Kylin Mountain, Austin, peak Basic Mastery."


    "Supreme Elder of the Parker family in Fortune Sanctum, Griffin, mid-Basic Mastery."


    "Current heir to the Duke''s Mansion in Golden Valley County, Ian. Competent Force projected."


    "Celestial Sect scholar, Owen! Boulder Mountain''s direct disciple, Mason! Crimson Gate Syndicate''s Order Sanctum Hall Master...."


    The identities of the Heavenly Path projections flashed before Amelia and Isaac''s eyes, sending shivers down their spines!


    Even though they knew they were going to fight Heavenly Path, upon arriving at his base and truly understanding the identities of his projections, they couldn''t help but be astonished.


    Heavenly Path''s claws were like a giant web, enveloping the entire Sunshine Mansion!


    This was what they were up against.


    It was equivalent to... taking on the entire state!

 Chapter 422 - 422: It had all happened so swiftly, so unexpectedly

    Kylin Mountain Roberts.


    Once prosperous, Roberts had been reduced to a ghost town after the Lord of Frenzied Blood''s massacre and the theft of the Kylin Heavenly Crystal, the family heirloom.


    Some Roberts fled, while those who remained met a grim end, slaughtered for condemning Austin.


    Now, only numerous Heavenly Path projections remained in Roberts.


    Austin sat in the main hall, his brow furrowed with worry even after a fortnight.


    Through the perspectives of all his projections, he had witnessed the unfolding chaos.


    From the edges of the Emerald Empire, Rising Stars began hunting down his projections.


    Some, driven by madness, had even resorted to capturing his projections, aiming to inflict upon them the same humiliation they had once suffered.


    In just half a month, over twenty projections had perished.


    Their fear, the agony of their torment, the shame of their humiliation, and even the anguish and sorrow of their kin being slain - all these emotions converged within Austin''s mind.


    Were it not for his suppression of certain human emotions, he would have succumbed to madness by now.


    One reaped what one sowed.


    The bitter fruit of his actions had ripened.


    The caged birds had broken free, and after centuries of cultivating psychic powers, they returned seeking retribution, each more formidable than the last.


    Regret and remorse gnawed at Austin''s insides.


    Yet, he had no choice but to swallow this bitter pill.


    "Come then, come all of you!"


    Heavenly Path''s hand, resting on the table, clenched into a fist, his eyes blazing with icy fury.


    "I kept you under my thumb for so long, turning you into objects of my amusement. You''ll never rise above me, not in this lifetime, not in any lifetime!"


    "Kill them, kill all my projections! It will only make me stronger!"


    "Do you truly believe you can truly harm me? My true enemies are the most powerful beings in the Emerald Empire. You, and Blackwood, you''re nothing but insects!"


    ...


    Meanwhile, within the Forebearer Space.


    While the other clan members were occupied with their tasks, only Ethan and Olivia remained.


    Olivia, her soul inhabiting the Forebearer Space, drifted through the world with the clan''s Destiny Tablets, her ethereal form visible only within this sacred space.


    Both of them were observing Heavenly Path''s lifeline.


    Outside the Sunshine Mansion, all of Heavenly Path''s projections were on the run, hunted relentlessly by the Rising Stars.


    Some had even fled the Emerald Empire entirely, like stray dogs with no home to return to.


    However, the majority sought refuge within the borders of the Sunshine Mansion.


    This was Heavenly Path''s true sanctuary.


    "The Sunshine Mansion, it''s Heavenly Path''s stronghold. For millennia, he may have scattered his projections throughout the Emerald Empire, but it''s the ones within the Sunshine Mansion that hold his true attention."


    Olivia, in her spectral form, retained the appearance of her youth.


    Clad in white robes, she resembled a delicate beauty, her voice soft as she spoke to Ethan about Heavenly Path.


    Despite being a soul for all these years, Olivia had not been idle.


    Her soul had not only been locked in a battle of fate with Heavenly Path''s projections, but she had also been seeking to unravel his secrets.


    The emergence of Heavenly Path''s lifeline had allowed Olivia to pinpoint the locations of all his projections.


    [Your descendant, Olivia, now a soul, has spent years battling the fate manipulation of Heavenly Path''s projections, her spirit carrying the clan''s Destiny Tablets as she travels. ]


    [Gradually, more and more Psychics attempt to pry into the Blackwood''s energy, making it increasingly difficult for Olivia to shield their fate. However, this struggle has also led to further progress in her "Scripture of All Under Heaven".]


    [Through her soul cultivation, she has created a peak Spirit Tier technique: Heaven''s Concealment.]


    [By drawing upon the energies of heaven and earth, this technique allows the user to blend their own energy with the surroundings, concealing their cultivation level. Those at the Competent Force realm and below can remain hidden from Psychics within one major realm above.]


    [Due to her years spent as a soul, resisting intrusions and engaging in battles of fate manipulation, Olivia has gained the trait: Divine Concealment.]


    [Increases the speed of fate-based psychic power cultivation by 10% and enhances the ability to shield oneself from fate''s prying eyes.]


    Over the years, every member of the Blackwood clan had faced their own trials, yet they had all grown stronger through adversity.


    The Druids had attempted to convert Nathan, but he had silently mastered the power bestowed upon him by the Death Coffin.


    Amelia, alone in the unfamiliar Golden Empire, had carved out her own legend.


    Lucas, in the snowy plains, silently healed his wounds, his swordsmanship growing ever sharper...


    Olivia was no different.


    She had become a soul, perhaps as a consequence of the lives she had taken in the past, her sins too heavy to allow her to regain a physical form.


    Yet, she had found her own path, striving to forge a new future for her clan.


    No one knew the true extent of Olivia''s struggle against Heavenly Path''s projections and the countless others who sought to pry into the Blackwood''s secrets.


    Lost in thought, Olivia''s wandering soul seemed to sense something, and a smile graced her lips.


    "Forebearer, Heavenly Path''s projections across the Emerald Empire are being hunted, yet Austin, within the safety of the Sunshine Mansion, remains unfazed. "


    "This only reinforces the fact that his projections within the mansion are far more potent. It''s the reason for his indifference, the Sunshine Mansion is where his power is most concentrated."


    "A century has passed, and he still views us with such disdain. He believes the Sunshine Mansion to be his impenetrable fortress, a place where he holds absolute control!"


    It was as if Olivia could sense Heavenly Path''s every thought and action!


    Ethan couldn''t fathom how Olivia accomplished this, but it was clear that she had not been idle these past hundred years.


    Her cultivation techniques were beyond his comprehension.


    She had always been brilliant, her quiet intelligence often providing crucial support to the clan from the shadows.


    "Heavenly Path believes himself to be untouchable within the Sunshine Mansion."


    Ethan, pushing aside thoughts of Olivia''s hardships, focused on Heavenly Path, who remained complacent in Kylin Mountain.


    A cold chuckle escaped his lips.


    "Let''s see if this scheming bastard can maintain his composure as he always has!"


    Olivia nodded slowly in agreement.


    Her eyes glinted with a cold fire.


    She had waited for this day for far too long.


    In the past, she rarely returned home, spending her days stealing the Druids'' fortune.


    She had believed that the Blackwood clan''s abundant fortune would ensure their safety. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, Heavenly Path''s sudden appearance had shattered that illusion.


    She had been siphoning the Druids'' fortune for decades, but Heavenly Path had been plundering the Sunshine Mansion''s fortune for millennia.


    It had all happened so swiftly, so unexpectedly.


    But now, she was ready.


    And so was her clan.

 Chapter 423 - 423: Did you understand what I just said?

    At the edge of Stonelake City''s bustling marketplace stood a government building, bearing the inscription "Stonelake."


    In the Emerald Empire, government buildings held significant importance.


    With the existence of ancient gods and their divine blessings, it was said that humans, in their inherent weakness, had received divine mercy.


    This mercy manifested as official positions, a unique profession in this world.


    Becoming a mayor instantly granted one the initial strength of the Emerging Ability realm.


    Similarly, there were county executives, governors, and a hierarchical system of five official ranks, all bestowed with divine blessings.


    Upon receiving this divine infusion of power, individuals could further cultivate their psychic powers, akin to a sudden enlightenment.


    These officials served as guardians of the ancient gods, expanding their territories and safeguarding the human realm from chaos.


    However, perfection was an illusion in this world.


    As humans cultivated their psychic powers and grew stronger, they gradually began to disregard the Emerald Empire''s officials.


    This disregard, coupled with the conflicts arising from the pursuit of resources, which often contradicted the principles of governance, deepened the rift between the two sides. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The role of the Sunshine Mansion''s governor was to oversee the dukes of each county, as well as the numerous sects, clans, and independent cultivators within the mansion''s domain.


    Governor Miles, hailing from an ordinary family, had been the envy of his peers ever since he ascended to the position of a fourth-level official, tasked with overseeing the entire mansion.


    They considered it an eight-lifetime blessing to be appointed governor of such a prosperous Dragon''s Favored Land like the Sunshine Mansion.


    With the divine blessing already granting him Basic Mastery, achieving Advanced Mastery was well within reach, given sufficient precious materials.


    However, at this moment, the usually composed middle-aged man, envied by all, found himself plagued by a throbbing headache, sensing that his comfortable days were coming to an end.


    Seated before him was a disheveled woman, accompanied by a lively child who seemed as clueless as a simpleton.


    Their expressions were vacant, and their words, when they finally came, were even more baffling.


    "Greetings, Governor Miles. I''m here to kill Heavenly Path. We''d appreciate your cooperation. Otherwise, I''ll have to kill you."


    As soon as the words left her mouth, the seemingly dim-witted child leaped down from the rafters, his expression turning icy cold as he brandished a gleaming silver spear.


    Their madness was undeniable!


    ...


    Heavenly Path had been orchestrating his plans within the Sunshine Mansion for millennia.


    Many influential figures within various factions were, in fact, his projections.


    With a single thought, Heavenly Path could bend the entire Sunshine Mansion to his will.


    This was the source of both fear and apprehension towards him, as well as the reason for his own unwavering confidence.


    If he so desired, he could mobilize all the major forces within the Sunshine Mansion in an instant.


    For the Blackwoods to even consider assassinating Heavenly Path, they needed to be prepared to face the combined might of the entire mansion.


    And within the Sunshine Mansion, there was only one major force that remained untouched by Heavenly Path''s influence:


    The government!


    The Blackwoods knew all too well that they stood no chance against Heavenly Path alone.


    "..."


    Within the heart of the government building, Miles, one of the most powerful figures in the entire Sunshine Mansion, found himself blatantly threatened by Amelia, without a shred of courtesy or pretense.


    Observing Isaac''s unwavering loyalty to Amelia, ready to strike at a moment''s notice, Miles became convinced that any hint of refusal would be met with swift and brutal death.


    Despite his initial shock, Miles was a shrewd man.


    He quickly deduced Amelia''s identity and, after a moment''s contemplation, fixed his gaze upon her, his brow furrowed.


    "A Blackwood, are you? Which one might you be?"


    "Amelia."


    Having revealed her identity, Amelia settled into a guest seat with a sense of ease.


    Beside her, Isaac, relieved that the initial tension had subsided without bloodshed, also relaxed, shooting a bewildered glare at the alchemist.


    He couldn''t comprehend where she found the audacity to threaten Miles so boldly, especially since he could sense that she was no match for the governor.


    "Amelia Blackwood?"


    Miles was taken aback upon learning the identity of this audacious woman.


    The Blackwoods had a renowned alchemist, sought after by countless individuals seeking to heal old wounds and ailments.


    Rumors of Amelia''s extraordinary medicine and her exceptionally high success rate in alchemy were widespread.


    Over a century had passed, and Amelia''s legend had faded into obscurity.


    Miles only remembered because, during his visit to the imperial court two years prior, the ailing ancient god had mentioned a divine healer residing in the Golden Empire.


    Several Basic Mastery Psychics had been cured under her care, and it was said that if she were to break through to Basic Mastery herself, even those at the Advanced Mastery realm would treat her with utmost respect.


    His Majesty had also lamented that if only the Blackwood''s Herb Saint had survived and grown stronger, she might not have been able to prolong his lifespan, but she could have at least alleviated his suffering in his twilight years.


    "Excellent, excellent, excellent!" Miles couldn''t help but exclaim in delight.


    He had assumed Amelia to be dead, but to think that the Herb Saint had survived.


    Given time, Amelia could potentially ease the ancient god''s pain.


    But then, a sigh escaped his lips.


    He feared that he wouldn''t live to see the day the ancient god regained his vitality.


    Amelia frowned, puzzled by Miles''s erratic behavior, alternating between laughter and sighs despite being threatened.


    However, she brushed it aside and addressed him in a serious tone, "Governor Miles, did you understand what I just said?"


    Snapping out of his reverie, Miles pushed all other thoughts aside.


    Amelia''s threat was the most pressing matter at hand.


    He pondered for a moment.


    While the majority of the world remained oblivious to Heavenly Path''s true nature, how could he, as governor, be unaware?


    "I''d heard tales of the Blackwoods'' decisiveness, but to witness it firsthand is truly something else. Miss Amelia, your arrival has been quite...eventful, to say the least."


    Miles forced a wry smile as he slowly settled into his seat.


    "But tell me, even if I were to agree, how did you come to seek my help?"


    The Forebearer had sent her.


    However, she couldn''t reveal that.


    Instead, Amelia replied, "Governor Miles, you''ve held this position for two thousand years. Your duty is to oversee the Sunshine Mansion. To be unaware of Heavenly Path''s existence would be a dereliction of your responsibilities."

 Chapter 424 - 424: Because hes a madman

    "You..." Miles instantly bristled with anger.


    In all his years as an official, this was the first time anyone had dared to compare him to a dog.


    However, seeing Amelia''s apparent lack of social graces and needing her help, he decided not to make a fuss about it.


    Yet, Amelia''s next words left him utterly embarrassed.


    "When Blackwood defied the Celestial Emperor''s decree and went to war with the Druids all those years ago, I''m afraid they also offended you, Lord Miles.


    The Celestial Emperor didn''t trouble Blackwood, which means he must have held you accountable.


    We investigated you. You only pledge allegiance to the Celestial Emperor.


    The Imperial Advisor is not on your side. He once pointed his finger at you in the Grand Hall and berated you for your incompetence in controlling your subordinates."


    After centuries of refining elixirs and pills, Amelia had truly forgotten how to interact with people.


    She was now a straightforward person, but that didn''t mean she was foolish.


    Her voice carried a hint of coldness. "Pressure from above is always passed down.


    If I were you and had been scolded by my superiors, I would definitely take it out on those below me.


    That''s what Blackwood would do. But Lord Miles, you didn''t. I don''t believe you are truly kind-hearted."


    "..." Miles''s face turned grim.


    It was exactly as she said!


    Amelia continued, "Because Lord Miles, like me, doesn''t like to talk to dead people.


    You''ve long..."


    "Say no more!" Miles waved his hand dejectedly, unable to meet Amelia''s gaze.


    Amelia had hit the nail on the head!


    He was the Lord of the Radiant Residence.


    His lifelong mission was to serve the Celestial Emperor and to be loyal to him.


    He should not have any personal desires.


    But everyone had their own selfish motives, such as admiration, anger, and pity.


    He had known for a long time that the Imperial Advisor wanted to test Blackwood, that the Celestial Path wanted to make a move against Blackwood.


    But he didn''t stop it, nor did he warn them.


    Amelia didn''t say much else.


    She was angry, but she had no reason to harbor murderous intent.


    Because Miles had no obligation to tell Blackwood that disaster was about to strike.


    People couldn''t blame their tragedies on the indifference of others, otherwise, how many enemies would there be in this world?


    She was here to threaten Miles.


    Her voice turned deep and serious. "But this time, Lord Miles, your indifference has caught up with you.


    We have already made contact with Prince Jace.


    He has abandoned the Celestial Path.


    I believe Lord Miles can also see that the existence of the Celestial Path has become a potential threat to the empire.


    It has reached the point where it must be eliminated.


    And my Blackwood is willing to become a blade for the empire."


    "Lord Miles, you should also become a blade for the empire."


    Miles furrowed his brow. "You have the support of Prince Jace?"


    Amelia simply nodded slightly.


    Miles, however, believed her without a doubt.


    The Blackwood people wouldn''t try to deceive him with something so easily verifiable.


    He frowned and said, "Since you want to kill the Celestial Path, how much do you know about him?


    Two thousand years, I have been an official here for two thousand years.


    I don''t have a deep hatred for the Celestial Path like you and Blackwood, but I know no less about him than you do.


    And there hasn''t been a single day that I haven''t wanted to kill him."


    Amelia raised her eyebrows slightly.


    Miles continued, "It was only a thousand years ago that I discovered his existence.


    At that time, I always felt that there was a strange aura permeating the Radiant Residence.


    The Radiant Residence was terrifyingly peaceful.


    Benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness had made this place the most civilized land.


    But when I was an official in other places, I knew that Psychics needed to fight, that no matter how hard I tried to manage them, I couldn''t control them.


    Yet, here, I didn''t need to."


    "Especially the Rising Stars here, I''ve met every single one of them, but I feel like I know them all so well."


    "Later, I found out that they were all the same person, the Celestial Path!"


    Seeing the disbelief in Miles''s expression, Amelia wasn''t surprised in the slightest.


    It was only natural that anyone who witnessed the Celestial Path''s abilities would be shocked for a long time.


    Miles''s tone turned grave. "I went to the Emperor.


    The Emperor knew about him too, but he turned a blind eye.


    I''m not afraid to tell you this as a joke, but I fought him."


    "You fought him?" This time, Amelia was truly surprised.


    Miles let out a bitter smile. "Yes, I fought him for less than a year."


    "..."


    Ignoring Amelia''s speechlessness, Miles seemed to have recalled something terrifying.


    His voice trembled, unsure whether it was from fear or anger.


    "That day, outside my residence in Ralph, there were countless projections of the Celestial Path, a whole day''s worth of people.


    They just stood there, staring at my residence, not saying a word.


    But I could feel it, they were mocking me.


    As long as they wanted to, they could mobilize the entire Radiant Residence to tear me to pieces!"


    The more he spoke...


    The more agitated Miles became.


    His eyes were bloodshot. "That day, I knew that the Celestial Path was no good.


    The Emperor wouldn''t kill him, the Imperial Advisor let him be.


    One day, they would suffer the consequences!


    He wouldn''t obey orders.


    He was alone and had no attachments.


    All he needed was an opportunity."


    "You Blackwood people are different.


    At least you are loyal to your homeland, willing to fight the Druids for your home!"


    "I will help you Blackwood, just like I helped you before."


    "I''ve been waiting for this day, waiting for a long time!"


    He seemed to have gone mad!


    At this moment, seeing Miles acting so strangely, Amelia was taken aback.


    For some reason, as she listened to his every word, she felt a chill run down her spine!


    But before she could ask any further questions...


    Footsteps came from outside the official residence.


    It was a Psychic from the government.


    The man was so panicked that he was incoherent. "L-Lord Miles... outside... outside there are so many Masked Men..." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At the same time, powerful auras emanated from beyond the official residence.


    "Alchemist! It''s Basic Mastery, the aura of Basic Mastery!" Isaac''s eyes widened as he alerted Amelia.


    Sensing the murderous aura coming from outside, he too was filled with killing intent, glaring at Miles!


    But Miles didn''t seem surprised at all.


    He silently looked at the wary Amelia, his madness transforming into a fanatical grin!


    "I''ve spent a thousand years exploring, searching for a way to kill the Celestial Path.


    The Imperial Advisor and the Emperor both think he''s a pawn in their hands.


    Only I know that a man like him has already figured out a way to survive."


    "I knew that as long as you Blackwood people weren''t stupid, you would come to me sooner or later!"


    "How can we truly kill him?


    I''ll only demonstrate it once!"


    "Now..." Miles chuckled coldly as he walked towards the outside of the official residence.


    "Run, Amelia. Deliver the news of his death to my grave, or come find me in the underworld."


    "Madman!" Amelia''s expression changed drastically.


    She took a deep look at Miles as he walked out of the official residence and quickly fled with the bewildered Isaac.


    Isaac scratched his head, feeling the terrifying aura behind him, and asked Amelia in confusion, "Alchemist, what''s going on?


    How... how did he bring the Celestial Path here himself?"


    "Because he''s a madman." Amelia''s face was grim.


    "The Celestial Emperor has truly raised a good dog."

 Chapter 425 - 425: Come now, Austin wishes to see you

    High above the floating imperial capital, within a magnificent palace, the aged Celestial Emperor knelt on the floor, his frail figure enveloped in a swirling white mist that seemed to mirror the setting sun.


    His face, framed by long white hair, was as withered as a dead tree.


    Who would have thought that this was the most exalted being in the entire Emerald Empire, the Celestial Emperor?


    A psychic energy signature announced someone''s arrival outside the palace.


    The Celestial Emperor opened his eyes, his voice a deep, resonant boom. "Whose message is it?"


    "Your Majesty, it is from Lord Miles of the Radiant Residence," a high-pitched voice, clearly that of a eunuch, responded from beyond the palace doors.


    "Present it to me."


    As the Celestial Emperor''s command echoed through the palace, a scroll materialized in his hand.


    The large characters that filled the scroll caused the Celestial Emperor''s pale face to contort further.


    [Letter of Apology]


    [Without Your Majesty''s grace, I, your humble servant Miles, would still be nothing more than a descendant of an insignificant family, destined for obscurity. Yet, by your favor, I stand above millions in the Radiant Residence...]


    The lengthy words of reminiscence masked the true weight of the message, hidden within a few inconspicuous lines.


    [Confession One: I have wronged a loyal subject. The Imperial Advisor instructed me to test Blackwood, but I instead used his command to seek out the Celestial Path.]


    [Confession Two: I have deceived my Emperor. I swore to guard Sunshine eternally for Your Majesty, yet my lifespan is nearing its end, and I will soon depart for the afterlife.]


    [Confession...]


    Each line detailed a transgression, yet each one also revealed unwavering loyalty.


    Until the final words.


    [Your Majesty, Azure Cloud cannot be abandoned. It is the face of our human race, and by extension, your face. The Celestial Path cannot be trusted. Neither the Imperial Advisor nor Lance can truly control him. I had to take matters into my own hands to show Your Majesty the truth. It is a shame that I, who have never done anything wrong in my life, have harmed the Blackwood clan.]


    [The Blackwood clan is unruly and defiant, but they are not disloyal or wicked. At the very least, they are willing to fight to the death against the Druids for Azure Cloud. Both jade and gold require polishing. Now... the Celestial Path can be eliminated, and Blackwood has had its edges smoothed.]


    [May Your Majesty live as long as the heavens and enjoy eternal celestial bliss!]


    ...


    Run, run like mad!


    This time, however, Amelia wasn''t running with her clan at her back.


    She didn''t have to worry about them being killed.


    She wasn''t desperately seeking help.


    She was running, her mind a whirlwind of confusion and dawning horror as she replayed the events that had led her to this point, her face ashen with the weight of it all.


    "Alchemist! What in the world did that madman mean? Who harms themselves like that?"


    "He fought the Celestial Path, and now he''s claiming we conspired with him. The Celestial Path is paranoid right now, he''ll definitely kill him!"


    "How can someone dig their own grave like that?!!" Isaac was losing his mind.


    They had come to find someone they had never met, only to have that person sell them out in an instant, and himself along with them!


    Judging by his demeanor, the man was actually trying to die!


    A fierce battle was already raging in Stonelake City!


    Amelia didn''t answer.


    She didn''t know how to answer.


    She had only just met Miles for the first time.


    Before today, she hadn''t even heard his name.


    The Lord of the Radiant Residence had been a phantom, a non-entity.


    But now, having met him, she was struck by a chilling realization: Miles was the one who had brought ruin upon Blackwood!


    It seemed he had long been wary of the Celestial Path, but for some reason, both the Celestial Emperor and the Imperial Advisor had prevented him from eliminating the threat.


    To ensure the Celestial Path didn''t become an uncontrollable force, Miles needed someone capable of killing him!


    That was why Miles was filled with regret, regret that Blackwood hadn''t possessed the strength to resist the Celestial Path back then.


    But he was also pleased with the current Blackwood, because now they had begun their revenge!


    "These nobles!" Amelia gritted her teeth, unable to comprehend why they were so fixated on Blackwood.


    Perhaps the Celestial Path was right.


    From the moment they had risen to prominence, the nobles had placed their bets on them, turning them into pawns in their twisted games!


    And now, the "stakes" were closing in from behind.


    "Blackwood Amelia, you can''t escape. Let''s stop this pointless chase and have a civilized conversation."


    Amelia didn''t recognize the voice.


    She didn''t know any of the Celestial Path''s projections.


    She didn''t turn around, didn''t speak.


    The Celestial Path wanted to talk?


    She understood.


    They shared a similar fate, puppets manipulated by the self-righteous schemes of the nobles.


    But the wounds of the past ran deep, and there was no chance of forgetting.


    The Forebearer had said it best: the clan would repay tooth for tooth, blood for blood!


    "Alchemist, there''s a huge battle happening in Stonelake City! There are thirteen of them chasing us, all of them at least Competent Force level, and... their auras are getting stronger!" Isaac, oblivious to Amelia''s thoughts, was focused on flying them to safety with his psychic powers.


    They were fast, but their pursuers were relentless.


    He had caught a glimpse of the Basic Mastery elder leading the chase, and his face had paled.


    He was a prodigy, but he had only recently reached Basic Mastery.


    The elder, however... he was at least mid-Basic Mastery, and his aura was surging, pushing towards its peak!


    "We can''t outrun them, Alchemist."


    They had been flying for what felt like an eternity, the dense forest sprawling beneath them, the sky above a clear, endless blue.


    Finally, they were forced to stop, surrounded by thirteen figures who had them completely boxed in. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In an instant, the air shimmered with energy as countless formations materialized, talismans erupting from the thirteen Celestial Path projections like a shower of deadly confetti.


    Each and every one of them was at least Competent Force level.


    Isaac''s gaze was fixed on the Basic Mastery elder, his entire being on high alert.


    If Donna and the others from the imperial capital were here, they would recognize him as Hudson, the one they had faced all those years ago!


    This Hudson was far more powerful than he had been a century ago.


    He commanded the very wind itself, his domain a swirling vortex of air currents that allowed him to appear anywhere within it in the blink of an eye.


    There was nowhere for Isaac and Amelia to run, nowhere to hide!


    The wind domain now encompassed the entire sky.


    Isaac could sense Hudson''s energy signature with terrifying clarity.


    The man commanded at least three different prime spirit techniques!


    "Amelia, it''s been over a hundred years, and Austin has always been wary of you Blackwood people.He believes you have great potential, great strength."


    "But from where I stand, your true strength lies not in your power, but in your ability to run.Back then, Donna and the others from Azure Cloud escaped my pursuit time and time again."


    "It''s a shame you, their elder, aren''t as skilled as they are." Hudson sneered.


    "Come now, Austin wishes to see you."

 Chapter 426 - 426: Who the hell allowed you to be afraid?!

    If not for Austin''s order, Hudson would have killed Amelia on the spot, to vent the frustration he had endured for years, being toyed with by Donna and beaten into a sorry retreat by Bill Daoist and Chuck!


    Unfortunately, the mark of Heavenly Path was on Austin, not him.


    However, to Hudson''s surprise, Amelia showed no fear in the face of his threat, her expression remaining as impassive as ever.


    Suppressing the killing intent in his heart, he said impatiently, "Amelia, you can''t escape. Within the boundaries of Sunshine Mansion, no one can help you, not even Miles, the Mansion Master, whom we can kill at will... If not for Austin''s need for your cooperation, you would be dead the moment you showed your faces..."


    Hudson''s voice faltered as a sudden chill surged through him!


    It was a chill emanating from his other projections!


    Amelia, still calm in front of him, slowly opened her mouth, "When we came to Sunshine Mansion, we never thought of escaping. It''s just that over the years, we''ve come to understand that we can''t fight against an entire state government, at least not on our own. So, we sought out Miles, not because we wanted him to fight you alongside us."


    "What we wanted was for him to stop those who have nothing to do with this matter."


    "Although we don''t know how Miles did it, it seems he was prepared. From now on, even within Sunshine Mansion, you are isolated and without help!"


    As Amelia finished speaking, Hudson''s eyes widened!


    Just as Amelia had said, he received news from his other projections.


    This time, the Blackwood people did not run!


    They chose to attack!


    "Damn it!"


    Hudson glared at Amelia and Isaac in front of him. He knew that even he couldn''t kill Isaac in a short time. The most important thing now was to return to Kylin Mountain!


    Unfortunately, a murderous aura descended! S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Although the sky remained unchanged, vines suddenly sprouted out of thin air. A green light emanated from Amelia, and a powerful suppressive force, a life force Hudson had never seen before, emanated from her!


    It was just as Amelia had said, she never seemed to have thought of escaping. The vines around her spread towards the other Competent Force practitioners, surrounding them!


    Her voice was terrifyingly calm.


    "Six Basic Mastery projections. Two of you died in my Glory City. Now, that power is distributed among the rest of you. You are fewer in number, your overall strength more concentrated."


    "But in fact, at this stage, you are at your most vulnerable. Because in a hundred years, only Brody has achieved Basic Mastery, which means there are five of you left!"


    "Your technique and talent are terrifying, but you also have many weaknesses. You can transform into thousands. Given enough time, even the entire world wouldn''t be able to suppress you. But the more projections you have, the more you''ll find yourself in a predicament."


    "Once your powerful projections die, their power will be evenly distributed among the rest."


    At this moment, Hudson felt nothing but panic!


    As if his weakness had been exploited, he could only watch as the psychic powers Amelia unleashed formed vines that covered the sky. Amelia didn''t have a domain, but her Celestial Botanical Technique turned the entire sky into a chaotic web. From the outside, it looked as if a green sphere had formed in the sky!


    Thunderclouds gathered and struck the green sphere. This was Heavenly Retribution.


    Amelia''s voice grew more and more mocking, "You are not as strong as we imagined! As long as we kill your powerful projections, your power will be divided. One Basic Mastery, how many Competent Force practitioners can it create? Ten? Twenty?"


    "And if your projections are left with only Competent Force, they won''t pose a threat. We have plenty of ways to deal with you!"


    "Isaac, hold him back!"


    ...


    A grand formation rose on Kylin Mountain!


    The grand formation here had once been shattered from within. It was unclear if Austin had developed a psychological shadow, but this time, the formation had layer upon layer, a thousand layers in total.


    Outside the grand formation, a figure appeared.


    It was Nathan, carrying his coffin!


    Within the formation, Austin and his many projections gathered, a hundred of them in total. Yet, they dared not venture out!


    The scene seemed peaceful. In their eyes, Nathan was alone. He was clearly at the Basic Mastery realm, yet there was no sign of any extraordinary phenomena. He had only just broken through to Basic Mastery. As long as Austin willed it, he could kill Nathan within half a day. But he...


    was afraid.


    He had every right to be afraid. Amelia''s words from afar, transmitted through Hudson''s ears, reached his very soul.


    At the same time, it also reached all the Heavenly Path projections.


    Austin could clearly sense that at this moment, all the weaker Heavenly Path projections were restless and excited. These weaklings sensed an opportunity...


    If not for the restriction in the Heavenly Path projections'' souls that prevented them from killing or harming each other, he would have loved to kill all the other projections as a sacrifice to heaven!


    Besides the drawbacks Amelia mentioned, this was the biggest drawback of the Heavenly Path. But it was also something that had to be done. Otherwise, after he projected himself, he would be putting on a show of killing himself.


    "Why are you hiding?"


    Even after more than a hundred years, seeing the many Heavenly Path projections cowering within the grand formation, Nathan still couldn''t suppress the rage in his heart. He looked at the many projections and roared, "Are you afraid? Why are you afraid?!"


    "Who the hell allowed you to be afraid?!"


    "Back then, my children died at your hands one by one because we were weak. In our eyes, the Heavenly Path was an insurmountable chasm!"


    "You bastards, show the demeanor of the strong! Our Blackwood children should not die at the hands of cowardly waste!"


    "Get out here, you bastards!"


    But the Heavenly Path projections continued to cower. Austin''s eyes flickered!


    How could he dare to go out? He didn''t believe that Nathan would come looking for him alone. Every single one of his Basic Mastery projections was facing a predicament, even his Competent Force projections were no exception. He suddenly understood. For the past hundred years, he had been searching for traces of the Blackwood people.


    But for the past hundred years, the Blackwood people had been searching for a way to kill him.


    He thought his real opponents were those people in the grand hall. He was wrong. It turned out that danger had been approaching him step by step with each passing day!


    Austin just wanted to escape now, but not like how the Blackwood people had escaped back then.


    He glanced at the projections around him. Once they were dead, he wouldn''t seek revenge for them. He just wanted to slowly break through to Advanced Mastery and become the true embodiment of the Heavenly Path, never to have anything to do with those Blackwood lunatics again!

 Chapter 427 - 427: Would you be willing to swear an oath?

    At the same time.


    At the foot of Echo Mount, beneath Crimson Gate Syndicate, stood a figure in black robes, as straight as a sword.


    In his hand, he held a black longsword, seemingly formed from shards held together by some unknown force.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster!


    He gazed at the Crimson Gate Syndicate, its grand formation activated.


    The Celestial Sword, returned to his hand after his brother Lucas was gravely injured, had been reforged by Julian of Radiant Sky Grotto nearly two hundred years ago, becoming a weapon of exceptional ability.


    And the aura of The Celestial Star Swordmaster...


    A Competent Force projection.


    Over the past hundred years, the Emerald Empire''s Pinnacle Apprentice rankings had shifted, and among them was the name Celestial, ranked third.


    He had even become a guest elder of the Divine Hall Edge Hall in the imperial capital.


    Back then, a Crimson Gate Syndicate elder, a Basic Mastery expert, had severely injured Lucas right before his eyes.


    Now, relying on his status as a guest elder of the Divine Hall Edge Hall, he had blockaded the entire Crimson Gate Syndicate, and no one dared to touch him!


    At this moment, the members of Crimson Gate Syndicate could only look on helplessly at The Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had been standing at the foot of their mountain for thirty years.


    Thirty years ago, The Celestial Star Swordmaster, having joined the Divine Hall Edge Hall, began standing outside Crimson Gate Syndicate.


    Whenever a Crimson Gate Syndicate disciple dared to descend the mountain, The Celestial Star Swordmaster would severely injure them, but he would never kill. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He had just left a few days ago, and now he was back.


    With his status, no one dared to touch him.


    He had even declared that he was here to bully the weak.


    If he couldn''t defeat their Basic Mastery elder, couldn''t he bully their disciples?


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate''s sect master had gone to the Divine Hall Edge Hall to complain, but they said that there was a reason for this.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster had been humiliated by a Crimson Gate Syndicate elder back then, so it was only right and proper for him to seek revenge.


    Moreover, The Celestial Star Swordmaster hadn''t gone too far.


    He only severely injured their disciples without causing permanent damage, and they could recover within three to five years.


    Unlike that shameless Crimson Gate Syndicate elder, a dignified Basic Mastery expert, who had beaten his brother to within an inch of his life.


    He hadn''t recovered after over a hundred years, and his cultivation had stagnated.


    He had even almost gotten their guest elder killed.


    A top-tier Competent Force psychic, ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings, had narrowly escaped with his life.


    It was clear that they were protecting their own.


    Crimson Gate Syndicate had to suck it up and endure it.


    If they were truly unhappy, they could try to kill The Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    But they better not let him escape.


    Crimson Gate Syndicate better have a perfect escape route planned, otherwise, the Divine Hall Edge Hall would make them understand what kind of people the swords of the Divine Hall Edge Hall, passed down since ancient times, were meant to cut down.


    Later, the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master went to Miles, the Mansion Master, but Miles said he couldn''t afford to offend The Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "Elder Celestial."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master, who looked young and was also on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings, descended the mountain with a bitter smile, stopping a thousand meters away from The Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "It''s been thirty years. My elder has pleaded with you and said all the right things. What will it take for you to leave my Crimson Gate Syndicate?"


    Thirty years.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate disciples had endured being severely injured, and eighty percent of them had run away.


    Even the sect master couldn''t take it anymore.


    "Wait."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was as arrogant as ever.


    He didn''t even look at the sect master.


    "When the opportunity for me to break through to Basic Mastery arrives and I can kill your elder, I will naturally leave. But it''s best not to wait until then, because I am also waiting."


    He didn''t say that he was waiting for two people.


    Lucas was still alive.


    He had been powerless back then, but now he was waiting for his brother, with whom he had once vowed to conquer the world with their swords, to return and take revenge together.


    There was one more person.


    He had heard from Donna that Olivia was only a soul now.


    But it didn''t matter, a swordsman cultivated his heart, not his body.


    "..."


    Although he didn''t know what The Celestial Star Swordmaster, that stubborn mule, was thinking, the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master swallowed the word "bastard" that was on the tip of his tongue.


    After so many years, he was afraid that even he wouldn''t be able to hold on and would run away, let alone his disciples.


    He hadn''t expected that The Celestial Star Swordmaster, ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings, would be so vindictive.


    The most hateful thing was that this guy was not only arrogant but also thick-skinned and patient.


    He was afraid that he wouldn''t be able to find another person like him in the entire world.


    "I''ll give you top-grade Energy Stones, and a psychic vein!"


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master gritted his teeth, having made a difficult decision.


    "And a high-grade psychic weapon. It''s the only high-grade psychic weapon my elder has, and the only one left in the sect. As long as Elder Celestial promises to stop harassing us after receiving these things, how about it?"


    "Good."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster nodded without hesitation.


    "..."


    He agreed too quickly.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master didn''t look happy at all.


    After a moment of silence, he said, "Are you serious, or are you just trying to trick me? At our level, we should keep our word. But given Elder Celestial''s behavior these past few years... would you be willing to swear an oath?"


    "Sure."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster nodded slightly.


    He knew he couldn''t easily fool the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master.


    However, the Divine Hall Edge Hall had plenty of disciples.


    As a guest elder, he could issue tasks and send people to continue keeping watch.


    The more he thought about it, the brighter his eyes became.


    He realized that his cultivation growth over the years was nothing compared to his wit, which was slowly approaching Olivia''s level.


    "We may be worlds apart, but our hearts are drawing closer, aren''t they?"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster smiled, overjoyed.


    But how could the Crimson Gate Syndicate sect master know what The Celestial Star Swordmaster was thinking?


    A hint of joy flashed in his eyes.


    He thought that if he had done this earlier, his sect wouldn''t have suffered such a calamity.


    He immediately went to find his elder and report this bittersweet news.


    He didn''t notice the uncontainable joy on The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s face!


    "She''s really back, hahaha, she''s back!"

 Chapter 428 - 428: So be it

    High atop Crimson Gate Mountain, within the Crimson Gate Syndicate, Elder Jayden sat cross-legged.


    Once a man devoted to his cultivation, his mind was now in turmoil, hindering his progress for years.


    The cause of his distress was a junior at the foot of Echo Mount, a bully who was slowly chipping away at his legacy.


    This junior had seized their Ore Fields and herb gardens, leaving Crimson Gate Syndicate vulnerable.


    If this continued, Jayden feared that within a century, the Crimson Gate Syndicate would cease to exist, and he would be reduced to a wandering cultivator.


    Even if he were to abandon the Crimson Gate Syndicate, peace would elude him.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s potential was far more terrifying than he had imagined.


    This was not someone who would simply give up.


    To think that he had been lurking under the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s nose for thirty years!


    Even if Jayden fled to the ends of the earth, the Celestial Star Swordmaster would hunt him down after breaking through to the Basic Mastery realm.


    "To think I, Jayden, would be subjected to such humiliation!" he despaired, trapped in a dead end.


    Not a day went by that he didn''t regret injuring Lucas at the Azure Cloud border.


    Now, it wasn''t just the Celestial Star Swordmaster at the foot of the mountain that he feared.


    He also dreaded Nathan, rumored to have broken through to Basic Mastery within the Druids, and the Blackwood people who had escaped all those years ago.


    "How did a small place like Azure Cloud become such a hub of fortune?" he wondered.


    Even the Celestial Star Swordmaster had found his opportunity there, becoming a disciple of the Divine Hall''s Edge Hall.


    As he pondered, the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader hurried in.


    "Elder Jayden," he announced, "the crisis facing our Crimson Gate Syndicate has been resolved. The Celestial Star Swordmaster has agreed to a deal. He will cease harassing us in exchange for our sect''s legacy treasure, the [Energy Condensing Cauldron]."


    Jayden stared at the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader, speechless.


    Mistaking his silence for reluctance, the Leader sighed.


    "The Energy Condensing Cauldron holds no offensive power. It''s used to refine talismans, pills, and elixirs. It''s the most inferior among high-level mystical artifacts, far less valuable than a single top-grade ability weapon. To trade it for our sect''s safety, surely this is a worthy exchange, Elder Jayden?"


    "It''s not about worth," Jayden sighed.


    "When has our Crimson Gate Syndicate ever suffered such humiliation? This isn''t just giving away a treasure; it''s my face, our Crimson Gate Syndicate''s face that we''re handing over. That man down there is relying on his power to bully us. If it weren''t for the Divine Hall''s Edge Hall, I would have killed him already.


    I regret it, I regret not joining those mysterious people all those years ago, not charging into Blackwood and wiping them all out."


    "I would have done it more cleanly and efficiently than they did," he seethed.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader frowned. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Regret was pointless.


    If Elder Jayden had gone to Blackwood back then, there was no guarantee he would have returned alive.


    What good were empty boasts now?


    He suddenly thought that perhaps if Elder Jayden had died in Blackwood, the Crimson Gate Syndicate wouldn''t be in this predicament.


    He took the Energy Condensing Cauldron from Elder Jayden and headed down the mountain.


    Even though it was the weakest of the high-level mystical artifacts, the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader couldn''t help but feel a pang of regret as he handed the storage ring containing it to the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "Hahaha, excellent!" The Celestial Star Swordmaster accepted the storage ring without hesitation.


    With a booming laugh, he declared, "I, the Celestial Star Swordmaster, hereby vow to never again involve myself with the Crimson Gate Syndicate. From this day forward, I will no longer dwell on past grievances. Should I break this oath, may I die a gruesome death!"


    "Such conviction?" The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader was taken aback.


    He had asked for an oath, but he hadn''t expected the Celestial Star Swordmaster to be so agreeable.


    It was a relief, but he couldn''t help but say, "Celestial Star Swordmaster, if I may?"


    "Oh?" The Celestial Star Swordmaster, still reveling in his victory, nodded slightly.


    "Speak freely."


    "Elder Jayden is truly old now. He injured Lucas all those years ago. While you, Celestial Star Swordmaster, have settled your grudge with our Crimson Gate Syndicate, it doesn''t mean the Blackwood people will let it go." The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader sighed deeply.


    "I implore you, Celestial Star Swordmaster, to inform the Blackwood people that Elder Jayden''s actions were his own and had nothing to do with us."


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s expression turned mocking.


    "If it had nothing to do with you, why didn''t you say so then? Why wait until now? If I hadn''t become an elder of the Divine Hall''s Edge Hall, if I wasn''t ranked third on the Pinnacle Apprentice Ranking, would you be speaking to me like this? I saw it with my own eyes when the Druids attacked. You, the people of Sunshine Mansion, were a laughable bunch."


    "This..." The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader flushed with shame.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s words had stripped away his last shred of dignity.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster didn''t belabor the point.


    With a cold snort, he said, "Don''t waste your breath on me. Tell it to the one who matters."


    "What?" Before he could comprehend, the Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader''s face contorted in horror.


    A sharp, piercing aura descended from Echo Mount.


    A sword fell from the sky!


    It was a simple, unadorned sword, its edge seemingly concealed, yet it demanded attention.


    Though it appeared minuscule against the vastness of the sky, it captivated the mind, drawing all eyes towards it.


    "This is..." The Crimson Gate Syndicate Leader looked at the smile on the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s face and understood.


    There was a sword cultivator of unparalleled talent in Azure Cloud''s Blackwood!


    As the sword descended, a cold voice echoed from the heavens.


    "Jayden, you old thief, come out and face your death!"


    At that moment, every disciple on Echo Mount looked up in unison.


    The sky was serene, with only an ordinary-looking sword hanging in the air, slowly descending towards Echo Mount.


    Yet, despite its simplicity, they all raised their heads in awe, as if welcoming a being of supreme reverence.


    A humming sound filled the air as the swords of every sword-wielding disciple on Echo Mount began to vibrate.


    "It''s him? How is he still alive?" Jayden was shaken to his core.


    He recognized the voice.


    Back at the Azure Cloud border, it was this person, a mere Competent Force cultivator, who had dared to challenge his Basic Mastery authority.


    With a flick of his sword, Lucas''s Blackwood swordsmanship had unleashed a torrent of blades, even managing to pierce a corner of his domain!


    The sharpness of Lucas''s swordsmanship was like nothing he had ever seen.


    He knew then that within five hundred years, Lucas would surely reach Basic Mastery.


    He hadn''t dared to kill Lucas back then, but he had placed a restriction on him, ensuring that this threat would never break through to Basic Mastery, leaving him to die a slow, agonizing death from the restriction.


    But he had never expected that after a hundred years, Lucas would still be alive.


    To think that Lucas, with his grievous injuries, had survived the Blackwood calamity!


    "And that sword." Jayden''s initial terror gave way to a strange calmness.


    He slowly rose to his feet.


    Lucas was back, but only to kill him.


    The sword hung in the sky, a seemingly insignificant black dot in the vast canvas, yet it pulsed with the essence of swordsmanship.


    As the sword hovered, Jayden knew that Lucas''s thunderous strike was imminent.


    "So be it, so be it!"

 Chapter 429 - 429: Danger was approaching

    Jayden lifted his head, looked directly at the sky, and responded coldly, "Lucas, all those years ago, I spared your life because cultivating psychic abilities was no easy feat."


    "Now that you''ve just entered the Basic Mastery realm, you think you can come to Echo Mount and act recklessly?"


    "I''ll spare you once more. Leave now, and I''ll let bygones be bygones!"


    There was no further response from Lucas in the sky.


    The sword was still gathering psychic energy, and the killing intent remained.


    However, Jayden''s heart was now filled with joy.


    That Lucas, who had somehow become a Basic Mastery after all these years, couldn''t wait to kill him.


    This was precisely his opportunity!


    This time, Lucas had acted recklessly and come directly to kill him.


    If he were to win the battle and let Lucas go, their grudge could be settled.


    "Seven thousand years of cultivating psychic abilities, and I''ve never had a real fight with anyone."


    "Today, I''ll let you see that the Daoism of Echo Mount is not to be trifled with!"


    With his cold shout...


    All the Echo Mount disciples looked in shock at the place where the Echo Mount Grand Elder was cultivating in seclusion.


    Having cultivated psychic abilities in Echo Mount for so many years, even though the gate of Echo Mount was closed, the Grand Elder was still the most mysterious existence in their hearts!


    Now, they finally witnessed the Grand Elder fighting someone.


    They saw a formation suddenly rise above Echo Mount, and a Daoist figure slowly floated into the air.


    It was Jayden of Echo Mount!


    In midair above Echo Mount, due to the condensation of Jayden''s psychic energy, natural energies gathered, forming tornadoes that caused strong winds to blow.


    From all ten thousand locations within Echo Mount, pillars of light surged up, one after another, and poured into Jayden''s body.


    With Jayden as the center, a brilliant light shone. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The rules of wind permeated the entire Echo Mount, transforming into countless mystical birds, displaying auspicious signs, yet not lacking the power of Basic Mastery.


    At this moment, the pressure of Basic Mastery was fully displayed.


    A Basic Mastery Psychic who had cultivated for many years, using his full strength, was actually this terrifying!


    Lucas''s sword seemed so insignificant beneath the countless mystical birds in the sky.


    "Basic Mastery, middle stage?!!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had originally returned with Lucas, was horrified.


    He could sense the aura of the entire Echo Mount.


    Jayden, who was originally at the early stage of Basic Mastery, had his aura strengthened as the mystical pillars of light appeared on Echo Mount!


    How could Lucas, who had just entered the Basic Mastery realm, be a match for a middle-stage Basic Mastery Psychic?


    "It''s our Echo Mount''s grand formation."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master frowned.


    "The Grand Elder was not destined to reach Basic Mastery."


    "Back then, if the previous Grand Elder hadn''t infused him with his own cultivation base, allowing him to comprehend the rules, the Grand Elder would have at most reached the peak of Competent Force in this lifetime."


    "The Grand Elder knew that it would be difficult for him to make further progress after becoming a Basic Mastery, so he has spent the past few thousand years using his psychic energy to fill the sect''s formation."


    "With Echo Mount''s energy infusing his body, he is almost invincible within Echo Mount."


    "Lucas... he shouldn''t have come."


    "But he said back then..."


    A trace of worry flashed in the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s eyes.


    He knew very well that if Lucas died in Echo Mount, it would be a disaster.


    "If it were anywhere else, it wouldn''t be a big deal."


    "But within Echo Mount, even if a middle-stage Basic Mastery, or even a peak Basic Mastery expert came personally, he wouldn''t be afraid!"


    "Echo Mount''s energy is enough to temporarily grant him the psychic power of a middle-stage Basic Mastery."


    "The entire Echo Mount can provide him with two more prime spirit techniques!"


    "That technique in the sky, the Heavenly Birds, is one of them."


    "Once trapped within the formation, there''s nowhere to escape, and one''s energy will be locked onto by the Heavenly Birds."


    "The other one is..."


    As the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s voice fell, Jayden''s aura in the sky erupted once more, instantly transforming into a streak of light and shadow!


    At this moment, pressure descended, and a fierce wind swept through the entire Crimson Gate Syndicate.


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s face turned pale with horror.


    "No good, this is the Grand Elder''s second prime spirit technique, Light Splitting Wind Shadow!"


    "This technique is a killing technique."


    "Even the Grand Elder can''t control it once it''s used."


    "I''ve seen him test it before."


    "It''s over... We''re all doomed!"


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s face was ashen.


    If Lucas died, the Crimson Gate Syndicate would surely be destroyed!


    "What?!!"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was also extremely anxious.


    He could sense the terror of this technique.


    The speed of wind was already fast enough, but the speed of light and shadow was even faster!


    ...


    "Damn it!"


    At this moment, Jayden couldn''t help but curse inwardly!


    He transformed into a streak of light and shadow, charging towards the sword in the sky.


    He had thought that using the Clear Wind Formation would be enough to suppress Lucas, but he hadn''t expected that once his Heavenly Bird technique was unleashed, he wouldn''t be able to suppress the sword.


    The oppressive killing intent forced him to use his full strength.


    Once this [Light Splitting Wind Shadow] was unleashed, even he couldn''t control it!


    This technique could penetrate everything, including domains, high-grade mystical artifacts...


    "Kill Lucas, and kill that arrogant Celestial Star Swordmaster as well."


    "Then escape!"


    Jayden gritted his teeth, no longer caring about the consequences!


    Under the cover of light and shadow, his eyes turned cold as he locked onto Lucas''s energy signature.


    High up in the sky, tens of thousands of feet above...


    There was a man carrying a sword case.


    That was Lucas!


    "You''re the one who''s courting death!"


    ...


    High above, tens of thousands of feet in the air.


    Lucas was floating.


    Over a hundred years had passed, and now, returning to the Emerald Empire, returning to Sunshine Mansion, he seemed a little more world-weary.


    He was wearing a coat that seemed to be made from the fur of a bear he had skinned, his messy long hair casually scattered over the bear fur on his shoulders.


    He carried the sword case he had taken with him when he left Glory City.


    Cultivating in the snowy region for many years hadn''t made him too lonely, probably because he had company.


    As Jayden rose into the air below, countless mystical birds locked onto his energy signature, surrounding the long sword that had fallen from the sky earlier.


    Then, Jayden disappeared.


    The mystical birds shattered one by one.


    Jayden had reached the speed of light.


    A domain formed below, slowly destroying the mystical birds and continuously rising!


    With every snap of his fingers, he ascended ten meters.


    Within a radius of ten miles, wherever Jayden passed, everything would be destroyed by his technique.


    Even...


    The psychic energy, domains, and high-grade mystical artifacts of a Basic Mastery Psychic.


    But Lucas still didn''t move, and it wasn''t because he was suppressed by the psychic energy of the Heavenly Birds.


    He remained calm and composed, gently stroking the sword case behind him.


    Danger was approaching.


    A gentle female voice came from within the sword case, "Lucas, this person''s prime spirit technique borrows power from the entire Echo Mount."


    "The mystical birds suppress the surroundings, while he transforms into light and shadow, sweeping across the area below."


    "His killing power is extremely strong."


    "However, this person is a good-for-nothing."


    "While his attacks are powerful, he himself is vulnerable in his light and shadow form."


    "If he really crashes into you, his physical body won''t be able to withstand it, and he will surely die."


    "Listen to me."


    "I''ll lend you some of my psychic energy."


    "Break through the mystical bird formation and avoid his edge for now."


    "When his technique ends and he''s weakened, you can kill him..."

 Chapter 430 - 430: Lucas killed Jayden?

    However, Lucas paid no attention to the female voice coming from the sword case.


    Below him, the streak of light and shadow soared upwards, getting closer and closer, occasionally revealing flickering points of light.


    Lucas unleashed the full force of his swordsmanship, his eyes narrowed slightly.


    The sword, which had been summoned upon his arrival, continued to float within the light and shadow below.


    "Are you even listening to me? You..."


    The sword case continued to chatter, but it didn''t affect Lucas''s concentration in the slightest.


    He simply replied, "I know."


    But he didn''t escape from the formation!


    Instead...


    He swooped down!


    The sword case trembled, as if something inside was radiating anger, dissatisfied with Lucas''s perfunctory response and stubbornness.


    But now, seeing that Lucas was really going to charge straight in, it didn''t say anything more, so as not to disturb his focus.


    Lucas fell towards the light and shadow in the sky!


    There was no aura emanating from him at all.


    Facing the fierce wind, he closed his eyes.


    Just like when he had arrived, there was nothing remarkable about him, nor was there the magnificence of his Sword King days, when All Swords Returned to the Sect, and sword shadows filled the sky.


    Compared to Jayden''s wind technique below, he was like a rock in a raging torrent.


    No matter how dazzling the light and shadow, how violent the wind, he remained unmoved.


    Until... he grasped the most ordinary-looking sword!


    After years of cultivating psychic abilities in the snowy region, Diana had said that the swordsmanship techniques he had cultivated before were wrong, too flashy and impractical.


    She was right, of course.


    Day and night in the snowy region, he had cultivated with this in mind, no longer bound by sword moves, but instead, infusing the rules of the world into his sword.


    Everything in the world had its own laws to follow.


    Find the law, and you''ll find the weakness!


    Amidst the fierce wind, the mystical birds, and the light and shadow...


    Lucas opened his eyes.


    "Found you."


    He gripped the sword!


    He continued to descend, until he was submerged in the mystical birds and the light and shadow.


    "What?!!!"


    Jayden, who had transformed into light and shadow, didn''t even know where he was himself.


    He had become part of the formation, like a stream of light.


    But as Lucas descended, in that instant, his expression changed!


    Lucas... had broken through his formation that soared into the sky, had broken through the suppression of his mystical birds!


    Until... he landed outside the Crimson Gate Syndicate!


    "What?!!"


    At this moment, outside the Crimson Gate Syndicate, both the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master and the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had been lost in their own thoughts, were shocked.


    There was no collision in the battle in the sky, nor was there the magnificent scene they had imagined. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Countless mystical birds remained, the stream of light continued to flicker, the pressure of the formation still lingered, but...


    Lucas appeared before them!


    "Long time no see, Celestial."


    Lucas looked at the Celestial Star Swordmaster, whom he hadn''t seen in many years, and managed a smile.


    But the Celestial Star Swordmaster was still staring at his brother in a daze.


    At this moment, an angry roar suddenly erupted from the sword case.


    "Lucas, you idiot! Do you know you could have died?"


    "When will you ever listen to me? You idiot, you idiot!"


    "Did a donkey kick you in the head? Did the ice in the snowy region freeze your brain?"


    "!#£¤!#&!#...&"


    Lucas didn''t say a word, nor did he look back.


    He walked slowly forward, looking at the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who had finally come back to his senses, his heart filled with mixed emotions.


    I have come from the snowy region.


    The snowy region is my sheath, my body is my sword, I have wandered for a hundred years, only to shed all worldly distractions.


    I have returned to my homeland.


    To slay my enemies with my sword, to drink the blood of the wicked, to unleash a single sword strike that will overcome all their tricks!


    "Clang!"


    The long sword hummed with mystical energy, its sound echoing through the air!


    "That''s..."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master and the Celestial Star Swordmaster wanted to speak to Lucas, but they suddenly stared blankly behind him.


    He walked slowly forward.


    But behind him, in the sky, a long sword transformed into a stream of light and shot downwards.


    The sword case behind Lucas opened, and the sword fell into it!


    The sword case closed.


    High in the sky...


    "Boom!"


    The dazzling light and shadow shattered, and a blinding white light spread out in all directions like ripples.


    One by one, the mystical birds exploded!


    Jayden''s battered body fell from the sky like a fallen leaf.


    ...


    "One sword... just one sword?!!"


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master''s body trembled.


    The Grand Elder had said that his formation was the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s last line of defense, capable of slaying even a peak Basic Mastery expert who dared to trespass on Echo Mount!


    But today...


    A man had come and killed the Grand Elder with a single sword strike!


    The explosion in the sky had disappeared, the Grand Elder''s body had been taken away, and everything in the sky seemed as if it had never happened.


    "Clang!"


    The sound of the long sword still echoed in his mind, and the image of the man in the bearskin coat walking towards him was still vivid in his memory.


    By the time the Crimson Gate Syndicate Master came to his senses, the man had already left with the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    "Gulp."


    The Crimson Gate Syndicate Master swallowed hard, stiffly turned around, and looked in the direction where Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster had left.


    He let out a breath of relief, as if he had survived a disaster.


    His eyes were unfocused as he murmured, "Sword King Lucas? No, from now on, he can be called the Supreme Sword Sovereign of the world."


    ...


    [Special Event - Killing Jayden]


    [Your descendant Lucas has returned and killed the Daoist with a single sword strike, avenging the near-fatal blow he suffered all those years ago.]


    [Family Will +20]


    [Obtained a large number of spoils of war, including a large amount of resources from the Crimson Gate Syndicate''s treasury.]


    [Obtained a high-grade mystical artifact: Energy Condensing Cauldron]


    [Gathers mystical energy from all over the world for its own use. Can be used for alchemy and medicine refinement, increasing the success rate by 20%. Can also be used to nurture ability weapons, talismans, AI Bionic Robots, and other Unorthodox Path items.


    Special effect: Gathers the vitality of the world, nourishes the soul, strengthens the soul. By using the Energy Condensing Cauldron to refine objects with rules from all over the world, there is a certain chance to refine ''Soul Technique Orbs'', which can bestow Soul Techniques.]


    Ethan, who was on Kylin Mountain, constantly guarding Nathan and waiting for the opportunity to kill Austin once he emerged from the Kylin Mountain formation, noticed the change on the panel before him.


    "Lucas killed Jayden?"


    Ethan was stunned for a moment before instantly appearing beside Lucas.


    At this time, Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster were rushing from Echo Mount towards Kylin Mountain.

 Chapter 431 - 431: What secret could there be?

    "Fuck! @%#!&#!£¤..." the voice inside the sword case continued to curse.


    Lucas, having finished eliminating his enemies and disposing of their bodies, headed straight for Kylin Mountain.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster, flying alongside him on his sword, stared at Lucas incredulously, as if trying to figure something out.


    He recalled the time when Lucas had sparred with him, only to be chased around the world.


    Lucas had even been forced to endure his Celestial Sword and embark on adventures with him, only to be defeated with a single move that left him bedridden for over a hundred years.


    He had hoped that breaking through to Basic Mastery together with Lucas would be a tale for the ages.


    Who would have thought that while he was secretly delighted to have become the third on the Pinnacle Apprentice rankings and eager to share his joy with his good brother before joining forces to challenge Jayden...


    Well.


    Upon returning from the Snowy Plains, Lucas had slain Jayden with a single stroke of his sword.


    "What are you staring at me for?" Lucas frowned, sensing the gaze upon him.


    He felt a flicker of displeasure.


    After over a century in the Snowy Plains, he had grown accustomed to being observed by a pair of clear, innocent eyes.


    Being scrutinized by the Celestial Star Swordmaster in this way felt unsettling.


    It was like always drinking sweet beverages, only to have a mouthful of bitter water suddenly thrust upon him.


    "Ah? It''s nothing." The Celestial Star Swordmaster snapped out of his daze, finally pushing the astonishing sword strike on Echo Mount to the back of his mind.


    He glanced at the sword case behind Lucas and asked suspiciously, "Brother, why have you been so fixated on your sword case this whole time? Are you hiding something inside?"


    As the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s eyes locked onto the sword case, Lucas quickly shook his head. "No."


    His words were barely out before a furious voice erupted from within the sword case, still fuming over Lucas''s recklessness on Echo Mount. "Were you deliberately seeking thrills? Or did cultivating psychic powers in the Snowy Plains make you think you''re invincible? What if your judgment had been off and that fool''s light and shadow had struck you?


    Do you think you can see through everyone''s techniques every time? You really..."


    "Enough! I get it!" Lucas snapped impatiently, startling the Celestial Star Swordmaster.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster eyed the sword case suspiciously. "Brother, you must be hiding something in there. After a hundred years, you''re still keeping secrets from me."


    "...."


    Seeing the ''you''ve got something up your sleeve'' look on the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s face, Lucas ultimately chose not to reveal the secret of his sword case.


    He changed the subject. "Celestial, what are you doing with the Crimson Gate Syndicate? And with their leader? Did you get your hands on their advanced psychic equipment?"


    "Ah, that?" The Celestial Star Swordmaster chuckled and recounted how he had joined the Divine Hall Edge Hall and used his position to bully Echo Mount for thirty years.


    He then proudly declared, "Although I am merely a guest at the Divine Hall Edge Hall, their Swordmaster holds my swordsmanship in high regard. I have studied all the sword techniques within the Divine Hall Edge Hall, but I disdain their methods. Once I have mastered them all, I shall create my own style."


    "The Swordmaster said that if I can truly comprehend an Earth Tier swordsmanship magic formula, I can enter the Sword Pavilion with my swordsmanship and challenge his eight Sword Mountains of the Divine Hall Edge Hall. I would then become the next Swordmaster."


    "The world knows nothing of my agreement with the Swordmaster, but my status is more than enough to suppress a mere Echo Mount."


    Lucas was astonished. He hadn''t expected Celestial to have such an experience in the past hundred years. "Congratulations, Celestial. You''ve dedicated yourself to the way of the sword. You created a Spirit Tier sword technique before; Earth Tier is certainly within your reach."


    "Naturally. I already have some ideas. I was saving them for when I killed Jayden, but I didn''t expect you to do it yourself." The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s tone was calm, but a flicker of gratitude flashed in Lucas''s eyes.


    He hadn''t realized that in his absence, the Celestial Star Swordmaster had been seizing every opportunity to avenge him.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster suddenly exclaimed, "Brother, your swordsmanship wasn''t like this before. Back then, your aura was extraordinary. I heard you were in the Snowy Plains all these years. What kind of psychic powers did you cultivate? You''ve reached Basic Mastery, and your swordsmanship is completely different. That strike was truly impressive.


    Does it have a name?"


    "Nameless." Lucas chuckled awkwardly.


    He couldn''t very well tell him that Diana had once dismissed the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s swordsmanship as utterly worthless.


    He explained, "The Snowy Plains are nothing but endless snow. I was gravely injured at the time, and as I journeyed, I received help from a noble person. She told me that my sword should be used to slay, and only by returning to simplicity could I absorb the world''s psychic energy into my body and suppress my injuries."


    "Later, I recalled the strike at Azure Cloud, when my ancestor slew the Moon God with a single blow." Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster nodded slowly.


    He had been present for that battle, and the Blackwood ancestor''s sword strike had amazed him to this day.


    Lucas continued, "A sword is inherently a tool for taking life. As I cultivated psychic powers in the Snowy Plains, I aimed to replicate my ancestor''s strike. For over a century, I used the method of returning to simplicity to suppress my injuries and cultivated a sword momentum that could shatter all techniques.


    By comprehending the world''s fundamental principles, I could slay any enemy with a single strike. Fortunately, the Snowy Plains have snowflakes, and I discovered that each snowflake is unique, just like the psychic technique patterns of every Psychic..."


    As they journeyed, the Celestial Star Swordmaster listened intently to Lucas''s account of his cultivation in the Snowy Plains, his eyes growing brighter with each passing moment.


    He was gaining invaluable insights.


    "Then what about your sword case..." The Celestial Star Swordmaster pointed at Lucas''s sword case after he finished speaking.


    However, whenever the topic arose, Lucas would always change the subject, as if there was some great secret hidden within.


    What secret could there be?


    At least, in the eyes of Ethan, the Forebearer, there was no secret at all.


    He chuckled to himself, watching Lucas''s shifty-eyed demeanor.


    The sword case held Diana!


    Lucas''s breakthrough to Basic Mastery and his return from the Snowy Plains were all thanks to Diana!


    They had spent over a century together in the Snowy Plains, just the two of them.


    Lucas had learned a great deal from Diana, the Demon Lord of the Abyss.


    [Your descendant, Lucas, has cultivated psychic powers in the Snowy Plains for many years, gathering the five elements of heaven and earth to form a ''sword foundation'' within himself. He has broken through to the peak of Competent Force.]


    [Under Diana''s guidance, your descendant Lucas has begun cultivating the swordsmanship of returning to simplicity. Recalling your single-strike victory against the Moon God, he has begun to contemplate the art of shattering all techniques with one sword. With Diana''s reminder, he observed the patterns of snowflakes. After ten years of observing snow, he has gained the trait: Insight.]


    [He can now more easily perceive the essence of all things, identify weaknesses, and exploit them. His perception has increased by 20%, and his combat power has increased by 10%.]


    [Your descendant, Lucas, led by Diana, has found the resting place of the Sword Saint and inherited his legacy. He has gained a new identity: Inheritor of the Sword Saint.]


    Ethan''s expression turned strange as he read the information on Lucas''s status panel.

 Chapter 432 - 432: Let him think what he wants

    Ethan remembered when Lucas received the Sword Saint''s inheritance.


    The Sword Saint''s last trace of divine essence had requested that if the inheritor succeeded in their cultivation, they should help him fulfill his final wish: to kill a female demon and avenge his death.


    The divine essence was filled with the Sword Saint''s resentment and unwillingness.


    Then...


    This last trace of divine essence saw Diana, whom Lucas had brought with him. It remained silent for a long, long time before finally letting out an angry roar and dissipating from the world.


    [Your descendant Lucas has obtained the Earth Tier technique: Life-Severing Sword Style]


    [This sword art is all about killing. The body becomes the sword, and blood nourishes the sword. Blood Swords can absorb the opponent''s domain and rules. Mastering this sword art can lead to the Advanced Mastery realm]


    [Obtained Earth Tier swordsmanship magic formula: Blood Sword Heaven Cleaver]


    [Cultivate Blood Swords with your body, transforming it into a blood domain. The Life-Severing Sword Style absorbs rules and domains, generating ''Blood Swords'' within the blood domain to attack enemies.]


    [Obtained high-level mystical equipment left by the Sword Saint: high-level mystical equipment ''Life-Severing Sword'', high-level mystical equipment ''Heart-Protecting Mirror'']


    [Life-Severing Sword: It can serve as the core of the killing blood domain, forming a killing blood domain with it as the formation. When the blood domain is formed, it will also affect the user''s mind. Excessive killing will cause the swordsman to fall into the demonic path]


    [Heart-Protecting Mirror: The divine mirror protects its master, preventing the sword master from falling into the demonic path due to killing. The divine mirror contains a paradise within itself and can transform into a projection of the sword master, containing 60% of the sword master''s power below the peak of Basic Mastery, fighting alongside the sword master.]


    This was the inheritance Lucas received with Diana''s help!


    At that time, Diana said that the Sword Saint''s inheritance was only good for reference, and there was no need to learn it all.


    The Sword Saint was a wishy-washy and indecisive waste. He cultivated the ''Life-Severing Sword'', which was clearly a killing technique, but he insisted on putting up a facade of righteousness, refusing to fall into the demonic path.


    He spent thousands of years snatching the ''Heart-Protecting Mirror'' to protect his mind.


    Lucas deeply agreed with these words. In fact, he rarely used the Life-Severing Sword Style and the Sword Saint''s cultivation techniques.


    He only used them as references, which benefited him greatly. He had his own path of the sword.


    That high-level mystical equipment was now lying in his sword case...


    Lying there, along with Diana!


    [Your descendant Lucas, after years of cultivating psychic powers, has integrated the Sword Saint''s inheritance. Under Diana''s guidance, he integrated the ''Heart-Protecting Mirror'' into the sword case, turning the sword case into a paradise. He placed Diana inside the sword case.]


    [Your descendant Lucas, having fully integrated various sword arts, has broken through to Basic Mastery - Fifth Level Basic Mastery]


    [Obtained Profession - Sword Saint]


    Ethan watched Lucas''s information bit by bit.


    Three days later, as Lucas and the Celestial Star Swordmaster were talking, they arrived at Kylin Mountain!


    At this time, the grand formation on Kylin Mountain was still active.


    Nathan was using the Death Coffin to smash the Kylin Mountain formation. Under the watchful eyes of Austin and the other Heavenly Path projections trembling within the formation, Nathan suddenly stopped.


    He slowly looked into the distance.


    "Lucas?"


    Nathan''s eyes flashed with joy. He put the Death Coffin on his back and walked towards Lucas.


    As his father approached, Lucas, who had not seen him with his own eyes for over a hundred years, suddenly turned red-eyed.


    "Dad!"


    "Lucas."


    Nathan''s throat choked with emotion. A thousand words welled up in his heart, but he couldn''t utter a single one for a moment.


    He glanced at the sword case behind Lucas and, ignoring the presence of the Celestial Star Swordmaster, said, "Lucas, is the Demon Lord in your sword case? Thank you to the Demon Lord for taking care of Lucas all these years."


    "..."


    Lucas was immediately embarrassed.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s eyes widened. He pointed at Lucas''s sword case, then looked at Lucas''s hesitant expression.


    After a long while, he gritted his teeth and said, "You... you hid the Demon Lord in your sword case? No wonder you never said anything! You have a guilty conscience!"


    "..."


    Lucas looked at his father, then at the Celestial Star Swordmaster, who was full of curiosity. He let out a long sigh.


    Great, now his good brother would definitely think there was something shady going on between him and the Demon Lord. How else could he have cultivated his psychic powers to Basic Mastery in just over a hundred years?


    Forget it.


    It''s not like there''s anything to be ashamed of. Let him think what he wants.


    . . . . . . S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "May I ask, how do you and the Demon Lord usually address each other?"


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster''s eyes were filled with curiosity, but there was less teasing and more respect and a desire to learn.


    Lucas said helplessly, "Is this really the time to talk about this?"


    The Heavenly Path projections inside Kylin Mountain were like ants on a hot pan. The Celestial Star Swordmaster looked up at Kylin Mountain, his expression grave.


    He would have to wait until later to inquire further.


    Nathan, floating in the air, carried the Death Coffin on his back, while Lucas carried his sword case.


    Both of them had their arms crossed, their eyes filled with raging anger as they looked at everything happening within Kylin Mountain.


    They were indeed father and son. Even though they were both over three hundred years old, their postures and expressions were perfectly synchronized.


    They only needed to exchange a glance to understand each other, as if everything was still the same as it was a hundred years ago.


    However, they had experienced too much over the past century. Facing Austin below, they could only bury the events of these years deep within their hearts and focus on the matter at hand.


    The Forefather''s Psychic Position rose into the air.


    "Lucas, today, father and son will breach this Kylin Mountain together!"


    "Yes, Father."


    Like father, like son. Without another word, Nathan and Lucas immediately charged into Kylin Mountain once more, leaving the Celestial Star Swordmaster standing there alone.


    In an instant, Lucas''s prime spirit projected out, circling around Kylin Mountain, searching for an opportunity to penetrate all the formations with a single strike.


    Nathan, on the other hand, began to smash the formations from the outside with the Death Coffin once more.


    Although Nathan''s attacks were simple and crude, his Basic Mastery psychic powers still caused Kylin Mountain to tremble constantly, sending waves of pressure in all directions.


    The Celestial Star Swordmaster was not idle either.


    He used his technique to summon two flying swords and sent them in two directions.


    One was to ask for help from Azure Cloud. He didn''t know if Blackwood''s attack on the Heavenly Path this time would escalate into a full-blown war with the entire Sunshine Mansion.


    However, after more than a hundred years, their homeland was no longer what it used to be. With King Phillips around, they had nothing to fear from the Sunshine Mansion.


    The other sword was to send a message to the Divine Hall Edge Hall, requesting the assistance of two Basic Mastery experts.


    Although it might take a month or so for them to arrive, it was better to be safe than sorry.

 Chapter 433 - 433: Are you dead?!

    Within Mount Kylin.


    The grand formation roared. Every Divine Projection could feel Nathan dismantling a layer of the formation every so often.


    Even with numerous Divine Projections working tirelessly to repair it, their efforts couldn''t keep pace with Nathan''s destructive speed.


    Outside the formation, Lucas''s prime spirit loomed like a hawk eyeing its prey, ready to strike at the first sign of weakness.


    The combined might of this father-son duo pressed down on the Divine Projections like a suffocating weight.


    Austin felt a growing sense of dread within his heart. His Divine Mark flickered incessantly, his intuition screaming that both father and son possessed trump cards that could threaten his very existence.


    "Austin! What do we do now?"


    "You told us to hide in Mount Kylin, to wait for the projections to die or grow stronger, but their numbers keep increasing! Are you biding your time, or are we waiting here to die?!"


    "Give us a solution!"


    The projections roared in anger.


    Yet, the Heavenly Path remained calm, his divine soul observing every single projection.


    The crisis extended far beyond Mount Kylin!


    Across the Emerald Empire, projections were being toyed with like playthings, all herded towards Sunshine Mansion!


    Austin could feel it now ¨C Blackwood, like a hand capable of blotting out the sun, slowly descending from the heavens.


    "How can this be? They were just a small family from the Azure Cloud region, how could they push me to this point?!"


    His millennia-long plan was crumbling like paper!


    Of his entire Sunshine Mansion, only Mount Kylin remained safe.


    Every single one of his projections was being hunted down!


    "It''s fine, the projections will fight with their lives, as soon as I break through to Advanced Mastery, everything will..."


    But before Austin could finish his sentence, his face drained of color. He wasn''t alone; at that moment, every single projection froze.


    For years, their every action had been effortless because they could tap into the senses of any other projection at will. This powerful intelligence network had always brought them peace of mind, allowing them to avert danger and act swiftly.


    But now...


    "Impossible!"


    "What happened? I... I can''t sense the presence of the other projections."


    "It''s the lifeline, someone is using the lifeline to interfere with our communication!"


    The projections on Mount Kylin were horrified. For years, they had been in constant communication, each experiencing the world through the eyes of others. Now, their vision was limited to what was right in front of them, cut off from the minds of their brethren.


    Austin could no longer control everything. The Divine Mark on his forehead dimmed.


    "It''s her?!"


    Austin collapsed back onto his throne, his face ashen. A name flashed through his mind.


    Olivia Blackwood, the sickly girl from all those years ago.


    It was Olivia who had orchestrated the Blackwood family''s escape, giving them a fighting chance. She had then decisively dispersed her physical form, her Competent Force spirit fleeing into the unknown. In his long existence, Austin had encountered countless individuals, but he had never met a woman as decisive as Olivia.


    For over a century, he had constantly measured himself against her.


    It was she who had interfered with his calculations, preventing him from locating the Blackwoods. He didn''t know how she had gathered the souls of millions or amassed such vast fortune, but she used their lives and luck to torment him day and night, hindering his psychic cultivation for over a hundred years.


    Austin had initially believed that Olivia''s interference was limited to shielding the Blackwoods from his divination. But now he realized...


    "She didn''t need Jace Princes to reveal my lifeline; she could calculate my existence herself. All these years, Olivia has been accumulating fortune and cultivating her psychic powers. She..." sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Austin slammed his fist down, pulverizing the tabletop. Veins bulged on his forehead. "Damn it! She''s using my psychic cultivation to help her digest the lives and fortune she borrowed from those millions!"


    "Once she breaks through to Basic Mastery, she won''t need to hide anymore. She''ll... retaliate! She''s been waiting for this day."


    "What kind of monster have I provoked?!"


    Despite his despair, Austin drew a shaky breath.


    "At least, even though it''s difficult to see what the other projections are doing, we''ve gained an advantage."


    In the last moment before the connection broke, he had glimpsed through the eyes of his projection in the imperial city, witnessing a victory about to unfold. Sadly, he couldn''t share this information.


    "Fortunately, I''ve made arrangements for the projections across the land."


    "Let''s see who emerges victorious from this!"


    ...


    At that moment, across the Emerald Empire, every single Divine Projection was on the run!


    Starting from the edges of the empire, those who had been caged by Austin were now the predators, hunting down the Divine Projections like hawks scattering sparrows. The projections, momentarily stunned by Austin''s outburst and the sudden loss of their shared senses, were now blind and utterly lost.


    In the imperial city.


    "Impossible! Austin... the main mark... are... are you dead?!"


    Brody, having achieved Basic Mastery, sat calmly on Amber Hill, seemingly unafraid and with a plan. But the loss of contact with the other Divine Projections had shaken him to his core.


    His moment of shock was brief.


    He shot to his feet, and in an instant, Amber Hill was surrounded!


    Donna stood before him. The same Donna he had watched enter the imperial city, the same Donna he had wanted to kill. Now, he was the prey, caught in her sights.


    And then...


    "Roar!"


    An Azure Dragon''s roar ripped through the air. After over a hundred years, Charlie Crackle, the creature that had escaped the Azure Cloud region with Donna, had undergone a transformation.


    Gone was the chaotic energy of the Exploding Sky Serpent, its passage marked by thunder and lightning. Gone too was the ethereal form of the Mist Serpent.


    In its place was a strange, translucent purple Azure Dragon. Within its form, flames danced and lightning crackled, while a white mist emanated from its body, giving it an eerie beauty.

 Chapter 434 - 434: Your people, like you, are walking into a trap

    Amber Hill had long since been flattened, first by Chuck''s breakthrough and then by the countless Psychics who had clashed there.


    Charlie Crackle hovered low in the air, facing the newly ascended fifth-rank Basic Master.


    Perched atop the Azure Dragon, her hand resting on one of its horns, was a young woman in a yellow dress.


    She showed no fear.


    This was the girl who had spent a century cultivating her psychic powers in the Five Elements Forbidden Zone, who had faced down Twelve Princes Jace with calm confidence, and who had confronted Brody himself, even in her incorporeal Competent Force form, without flinching.


    After the horrors of the Five Elements Forbidden Zone and the desolate emptiness of the Snowy Plains, there was little left in the world that could frighten her.


    A black and white Buddha-Demon Disk materialized behind her as she stared down her opponent, the man who had once fought beside her but who had now surpassed her in power.


    Around Amber Hill, the Azure Cloud Psychics who had accompanied Donna to the Five Elements Forbidden Zone gathered.


    Each of their movements crackled with uncontrolled energy, a testament to their recent emergence from the Zone and their struggle to contain the raw power they had cultivated within.


    "I thought you would run. I never expected you to be hiding here at Amber Hill."


    Donna''s expression was calm, but her voice was thick with barely suppressed fury.


    There was no time to ponder the loss of contact with the other projections.


    Brody scanned the surrounding Azure Cloud Psychics, a cruel smile spreading across his face.


    "Hahaha! Run? You think I''m afraid of you? Where''s Chuck? Where''s Daoist Bill? Send them out!


    I''m a fifth-rank Basic Master, not some weakling like Hudson. Today, I''ll kill you all!"


    He could sense Donna''s aura.


    It was stronger than before, reaching the very peak of Competent Force, but it still fell short of the projected realm.


    This was the plight of physical cultivators.


    Their bodies, tempered by natural energies and infused with their power, struggled to comprehend the profound mysteries of the universe.


    Breaking through to Basic Mastery, let alone achieving Competent Force projection, was an arduous task for those who walked the path of the body.


    Even Chuck had not achieved Basic Mastery through physical cultivation alone.


    The Azure Cloud Psychics surrounding him were all physical cultivators, seven of them having reached Competent Force.


    And that strange Azure Dragon... it was a Competent Force projector.


    But could they really hope to defeat him with just these few?


    Even if Donna resorted to her life-burning technique again, it would be nothing but a futile gesture!


    Chuck and Daoist Bill had to be here.


    They wouldn''t dare to be so brazen otherwise.


    Yet, Donna made no move to summon them.


    The two Basic Masters who had faced Hudson alongside her were nowhere to be seen.


    The wind howled across the wasteland, whipping up dust devils that danced across the barren landscape.


    Still, Brody waited in vain for the reinforcements he expected.


    The only sound that greeted him was Donna''s soft chuckle.


    "You''re more composed than any of the other Heavenly Path projections. I''m curious. They''re all running for their lives, so why are you so calm, just waiting here for us?"


    Brody threw back his head and laughed, a sound as harsh and unforgiving as the wind that scoured the mountains.


    He glared at Donna and her companions, his face twisted in a mask of rage.


    "I don''t know what trick you used to cut off communication with the other projections, but did you really think you could do whatever you wanted right in front of me?"


    Donna''s face hardened as she met Brody''s gaze.


    Her reaction seemed to please him.


    "Did you really think I was still the same man you once knew? Did you think I was a fool like Austin or Hudson?"


    Brody snarled, his voice dripping with venom.


    "For over a hundred years, I''ve thought about the humiliation you Blackwoods inflicted upon me. You invaded my home, you plundered my treasures, you chased me like a dog through these very hills!"


    "But you forgot one thing. I''m not the man I used to be. I''m a Basic Master now, a fifth-rank Basic Master!"


    "I''m a general in the imperial army, a force to be reckoned with in this empire."


    "Did you think you were the only ones who grew stronger over the years?"


    "How pathetic!"


    As his words echoed across the wasteland, Donna and the Azure Cloud Psychics frowned.


    Natural energy surged from the surrounding landscape, converging on figures approaching from all directions.


    Psychics, swords humming with power, descended from the sky.


    "There may be few Heavenly Path projections left in the imperial city, but I have allies of my own. Did you really think you were the only ones who could make friends?"


    ...


    One by one, the Psychics landed on Amber Hill, their swords gleaming in the sunlight. S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    At their head stood a man clad in the armor of a high-ranking officer.


    Any citizen of the imperial city, any noble or official, would have recognized him instantly.


    He was the city''s chief guard, a familiar sight as he patrolled the streets with his men.


    The Azure Cloud Psychics, who had surrounded Brody moments before, now found themselves encircled.


    "Hahaha!"


    Brody laughed, a sound of pure, unadulterated triumph, as he surveyed the stunned faces of his enemies.


    "Did you really think you were the only ones preparing for this day, that we would just sit here and wait for you to destroy us?"


    Of all the thousands of Heavenly Path projections, Brody believed himself to be the most diligent, the most driven.


    He had cultivated tirelessly, fueled by the memory of his defeat and the burning desire for revenge.


    Driven from his home by the Blackwoods and the Azure Cloud, he had learned the importance of power, of influence.


    He had climbed the ranks, becoming a Basic Master, a general in the imperial army.


    For over a century, he had prepared for this moment.


    Today, he would wash away the stain of his humiliation.


    Today, he would solidify his place in the imperial city and claim his destiny as the one true Brody.


    "You''re the scum who dared to defy General Brody?"


    The city guard, his own Basic Master aura radiating outward, descended slowly from the sky, landing in front of Brody with a sneer.


    "I''ve heard tales of the Azure Cloud''s lawlessness, of their brazen disregard for order. It seems the Blackwoods share their penchant for chaos. But today, your reign of terror ends."


    Donna''s expression remained unchanged, a mask of icy calm.


    Brody, however, chuckled softly.


    Years of currying favor with the city guard had finally paid off.


    He looked down at Donna, his eyes gleaming with cold satisfaction.


    "It''s over for you Blackwoods. You thought you could unleash those caged birds upon us, that you could bleed us dry and wipe us out. But you made one fatal mistake. You revealed yourselves."


    "For years, we couldn''t find you. We had no choice but to wait, to prepare, for the day you would show your hand."


    "You thought you had discovered our weakness. But a weakness, properly exploited, can become a weapon."


    "Your people, like you, are walking into a trap. They''re all going to die."

 Chapter 435 - 435: Had they not faced such challenges before?

    Outside Stonelake City.


    The sprawling vines that Amelia had conjured days ago with her Celestial Botanical Technique had vanished from the sky, leaving behind only a carpet of withered tendrils on the ground.


    High above, amidst a toxic, pale-green miasma that obscured both sight and the perception of prime spirits and Competent Force alike, Hudson hovered.


    He scanned his surroundings.


    He had been battling Isaac and Amelia for days.


    Isaac, newly ascended to Basic Mastery, was a fifth-rank like Brody, but still far weaker than Hudson.


    Yet, to Hudson''s surprise, Isaac and Amelia, the extraordinary apothecary, had managed to hold him at bay for so long.


    They were a truly troublesome pair.


    Amelia''s divine arts were strange.


    Hudson couldn''t fathom what kind of heaven-defying technique she cultivated.


    Her endless vines could even temporarily bolster Isaac''s cultivation.


    And then there were her pills and strange elixirs, ensuring Isaac remained a persistent thorn in Hudson''s side.


    A figure flickered within the poisonous fog, moving with such speed that it vanished as quickly as it appeared.


    Isaac.


    That naturally gifted child cultivated a heaven-sent technique that allowed him to command lightning, making him a deadly and elusive opponent.


    And then there was his Heavenly Fire.


    A single touch could spell doom, for even ordinary water couldn''t extinguish its mystical flames.


    "How much longer can you two last?" Hudson boomed, his voice laced with amusement rather than concern.


    "You can''t defeat me. Did you really think a century of preparation would be enough to challenge us? What do you have that can possibly stand against us?"


    "So you found our weakness. Did you really believe we wouldn''t understand ourselves?"


    "You may have prepared for a hundred years, but so have we!"


    Isaac''s youthful voice, sharp with anger, cut through the miasma.


    "Hmph, look at you, acting all high and mighty even though you''ve lost contact with your precious projections."


    "And what of it?"


    The sudden turn of events had taken Hudson by surprise, just as it had every other projection.


    For a moment, panic had gripped him.


    But that moment had passed.


    Hudson threw back his head and laughed.


    "That Miles, he actually thought he could help you destroy us. How naive."


    "Let me share some good news with you. Miles is dead. He sent messages to all those factions, relying on his reputation to expose our projections in Sunshine Mansion. We can no longer gather our forces there to crush you Blackwoods."


    Amelia''s brow furrowed at his words.


    Hudson continued, his voice like a predator savoring the anticipation of a kill.


    "Unfortunately for you, the moment you Blackwoods stepped foot in Sunshine Mansion, you walked into a trap. We''ve been ready for you."


    "I imagine you Blackwoods, with your supposed influence, sought help, didn''t you?"


    "Radiant Sky Grotto?"


    "DruidsMike?"


    "The Divine Hall Edge Hall, with its newest member, the Celestial Star Swordmaster?"


    Hudson fairly vibrated with smug satisfaction.


    "What about Cloudview County? Duke Phillips? Duke Walker? Or those new allies the Azure Cloud has gathered over the years?"


    "None of them are coming! You''re alone, with no one to turn to. Here in Sunshine Mansion, you Blackwoods are nothing but trapped prey!"


    His words rang with chilling truth.


    Every faction he had named was facing its own crisis.


    Deep within Radiant Sky Grotto, General Owen, having received the Blackwoods'' message and rushed back from the demon realm border, stood before the Grotto Master, a portly, middle-aged man who barred his way.


    The same excuses, the same pleas for Owen to mind his own business.


    Far away, in the Divine Hall Edge Hall, an elder toyed with the storage ring on his pinky finger.


    He glanced at the message sword that had arrived from afar and sighed.


    "Such a pity. A perfectly good psychic vein, wasted like this. Am I, an elder of the Divine Hall Edge Hall, supposed to risk my neck for a mere guest?"


    The message sword crumbled to dust, denied even the chance to be seen by the other elders.


    In Cloudview County, the Blackwoods'' ancestral home...


    Over the past century, countless individuals had sought refuge in the Azure Cloud, fleeing trouble in the Emerald Empire.


    Among them, Daoist Holy Flame was the most renowned.


    Everyone knew that a Basic Master resided within the Azure Cloud, though he kept a low profile, rarely revealing himself.


    Today, however, he had come to Duke Phillips'' mansion, accompanied by the forces he had quietly gathered over the years.


    Within the mansion, the Azure Cloud army stood ready, alongside Duke Phillips'' own elite forces.


    They were preparing for a battle, though the exact nature of the conflict remained unclear.


    Duke Phillips'' ancestor, a Basic Master himself, sat meditating on a cushion. S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He frowned as Daoist Holy Flame approached.


    "Daoist Holy Flame, shouldn''t you be cultivating in your Divine Flame Grotto? What brings you to my humble abode?"


    "Elder Jaxon, when I first arrived in the Azure Cloud, you assured me that I was free to go wherever I pleased, with the exception of Glory City. I''m merely here to reminisce with an old friend. Surely, there''s no need for such suspicion."


    Daoist Holy Flame, his aged face framed by a crimson robe, glanced at the flicker of weakness in Elder Jaxon''s prime spirit.


    "Did you sustain those injuries facing that unknown expert all those years ago, Elder Jaxon? Have they healed after all this time? You mustn''t push yourself too hard."


    Elder Jaxon remained silent for a moment before replying coldly.


    "What did they offer you to stop me? I''ll admit, you hold the advantage today. Tell you what, split your reward with me, and I''ll turn a blind eye."


    "Well..."


    Daoist Holy Flame''s lips twitched.


    "Very well."


    In the heart of the Blackwoods'' extended family...


    Duke Kenneth of Walker Mansion had gathered with Daoist Leon, Patriarch Ralph, and even Jimmy, the Blackwoods'' old friend from the Oracle Chamber in the imperial city.


    They had all received the Celestial Star Swordmaster''s message.


    Nathan and Lucas had returned, and they were battling the Heavenly Path in Mount Kylin within Sunshine Mansion.


    The mystery that had haunted them for over a century was unraveling.


    They felt no fear in standing with the Blackwoods against this seemingly insurmountable foe.


    Had they not faced such challenges before?


    They believed that together, the people of the Azure Cloud could overcome any obstacle, scale any mountain.

 Chapter 436 - 436: Lets see if theyre so eager to die after all!

    Over the past century, the Blackwoods'' influence had spread throughout the Azure Cloud. The promise extracted from the Emerald Emperor in the grand hall had brought an influx of Psychics, bolstering the region''s strength. However, it also attracted opportunists, individuals with shifting loyalties, ready to betray the Azure Cloud for their own gain.


    Grant, the seemingly righteous middle-aged man who had questioned Nathan at the Azure Cloud border, spewing accusations against the Blackwoods, was one such individual.


    Emboldened by who knows what, he now stood before the Azure Cloud forces, blocking their path.


    He had brought with him Psychics from the Sunshine Mansion Fortune Sanctum''s Parker family, the Celestial Sect, and Golden Valley County''s Duke''s Mansion.


    A smug smile played on his lips.


    "Well, well, well. Where are all of you headed in such a hurry? I''ve taken the liberty of inviting some esteemed colleagues from Sunshine Mansion. We''re here to discuss expanding trade routes, a mutually beneficial opportunity for our beloved Azure Cloud!"


    ...


    "No one can save you now. We''ve anticipated your every move, accounted for every possible ally."


    Outside Stonelake City, Hudson''s voice dripped with false pity.


    "You Blackwoods have certainly caused us a great deal of trouble. But in the end, strength is the only truth that matters. Your attempts to destroy us with borrowed power are nothing but a fool''s dream. We''ve been in Sunshine Mansion for years, cultivating alliances even as our plans were being unraveled. We still have friends in the Emerald Empire willing to fight for us."


    "The Grand Tutor may be watching, the national advisor may have abandoned us, and you may have severed our connections, but we do not fear you. There are still those who believe in us, who believe we will overcome this. But you Blackwoods..."


    "You are nothing but a stepping stone, a minor obstacle in our path to greatness. Once this tribulation is over, no one will remember the Blackwoods. But we will remain, our names etched in the annals of the Emerald Empire!"


    ...


    Silence descended upon the poisonous fog.


    Hudson frowned.


    He had expected rage, a furious outburst from Amelia.


    But there was nothing.


    He pressed on, unable to let it go.


    "We have five Basic Masters, you know. You should be able to see them with our lifelines. The remaining two are on their way to Mount Kylin. Nathan and Lucas may believe they can kill Austin, and I''m sure they have some tricks up their sleeves. But this is a game of chess."


    "And you''ve already lost."


    Just like Michael''s game all those years ago, they had always been skilled players.


    Still, Amelia refused to give Hudson the satisfaction he craved.


    Her voice, when she finally spoke, was calm, almost amused.


    "Are you trying to play chess with my little sister? Or perhaps you''d like to test your skills against our Forebearer?"


    "What?"


    Hudson blinked, momentarily stunned.


    And then...


    "BOOM!"


    A thunderclap split the sky, echoing through the air.


    Hudson whirled around, searching for the source of the sound.


    Dark clouds gathered in the distance, shot through with jagged bolts of lightning.


    High above, countless Psychic Positions shimmered into existence, each one bearing a translucent, spectral form that swayed in the wind.


    One by one, those ethereal eyes opened, their gazes fixed upon the world below.


    A smile, slow and terrible, spread across a pale, gaunt face, as if emerging from the depths of the abyss.


    The Forebearer?


    Ethan would have laughed if the situation weren''t so dire. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He was no mastermind.


    His talents lay elsewhere.


    Oh, he could certainly outmaneuver Julian''s seven children in a battle of wits, but that was within the confines of the Blackwood family.


    Years of wandering the world had honed their instincts, taught them to adapt and survive.


    The constant threat of their enemies had kept them sharp, ever vigilant.


    If Wesley Daoist, the former Sky Sect Master, were to return, even the most impulsive Blackwood, even Donna, would see through his schemes.


    These were not people to be trifled with.


    For years, they had dedicated themselves not only to cultivating their powers but also to strategizing the downfall of the Heavenly Path.


    Above Cloudview County, the Psychic Positions of countless Blackwoods materialized in the sky.


    Ethan gazed towards his descendants, towards the battle that raged below.


    The Blackwoods were no longer the naive family from Glory City, ignorant of the Heavenly Path''s machinations.


    They had learned, adapted, and grown stronger.


    They knew the path they had to take.


    The wind whipped at his robes as thunder roared overhead, the sky darkening with storm clouds.


    The tribulation was about to begin.


    Behind Ethan, Olivia lay suspended in mid-air, as still and pale as a sleeping princess.


    The wind, whipped into a frenzy by the approaching storm, tugged at her scholar''s robes, revealing a glimpse of her delicate features.


    Her long, dark eyelashes fluttered against her pale cheeks as she slowly opened her eyes.


    For over a century, she had rarely opened them, her spirit wandering the world unseen.


    Below lay Cloudview County.


    "We''re back," Olivia murmured, her voice thin and reedy.


    As if in answer, the storm clouds above them churned and roiled, their fury mirroring her own.


    ...


    Across Cloudview County, the Blackwoods'' allies, those who had answered their call to arms, found their paths blocked.


    Even after a century, their enemies had not forgotten the battles fought at the Azure Cloud border.


    The Blackwoods had always been a divisive force within the region.


    Some whispered that they were greedy, always the first to appear whenever resources were discovered.


    Nathan, with his air of benevolence, could turn ruthless when it came to securing valuable materials.


    Lucas''s sword had tasted the blood of countless treasure hoarders.


    And Julian, blunt and uncompromising, had once demanded control of all the spirit ore veins in the Azure Cloud.


    Yet, every Psychic in the Azure Cloud knew that the Blackwoods were always on the front lines when the Druids attacked.


    When their allies in Cloudview County faced trouble, when a fellow cultivator needed aid in their breakthrough, the first congratulatory gift to arrive would bear the Blackwood family crest.


    When the people of the Azure Cloud were wronged, the Blackwoods might not retaliate immediately, but they would remember.


    The names of their enemies would be etched into the family ledger, a debt to be repaid in blood.


    Outside Walker Mansion, Grant stood with his Sunshine Mansion allies, barring the way.


    He had not witnessed the Blackwoods'' rise to prominence in Cloudview County.


    He did not know the depths of their strength, the loyalty they inspired.


    He believed that Walker Mansion and the other established powers of Cloudview County would not risk open war with Sunshine Mansion.


    He was wrong.


    Kenneth, Patriarch Ralph, and the others exchanged glances, a silent understanding passing between them.


    They spoke openly, unafraid of Grant''s reaction.


    "Sunshine Mansion sent quite the welcoming committee. It seems they''ve forgotten where they are."


    "These outsiders think we fear death. If that were true, I would have fled north long ago."


    "Kill Grant first. Let''s see if they''re so eager to die after all!"

 Chapter 437 - 437: How... how is this possible?!

    As Kenneth''s words sank in, Grant''s face drained of color.


    They... they weren''t bluffing!


    "Are you... are you insane?!"


    Inside Phillips Manor.


    Patriarch Phillips accepted half the precious materials from Daoist Holy Flame, an eyebrow arching slightly.


    "Interesting. Heavenly Path certainly has a knack for extravagance. But I suppose it''s to be expected, considering his fragmented existence and vast resources."


    Daoist Holy Flame stiffened, sensing a shift in the atmosphere.


    Patriarch Phillips''s expression had darkened considerably.


    "Elder Jaxon, you received your share. Surely you''re not going back on our agreement?"


    "Daoist Holy Flame, that''s precisely why you and your ilk are fools," Patriarch Phillips scoffed.


    "The Phillips family lives by a simple creed: unwavering loyalty. Once we choose a side, we commit fully, without reservation or selfish ambition. It''s this principle that has allowed us to thrive for millennia. Do you truly believe I, Jaxon, would disregard the teachings of my ancestors?"


    "You...!"


    In a heartbeat, Patriarch Phillips unleashed his domain, ignoring the lingering pain of his injuries.


    A wave of killing intent washed over Cloudview County.


    And then...


    "BOOM!"


    A deafening thunderclap, like the wrath of the heavens, shook the region, silencing the escalating conflict.


    Every eye in Cloudview County turned towards the Azure Cloud border.


    "What was that...?"


    An oppressive aura, a mixture of potent prime spirit energy and raw celestial power, descended from the sky.


    Daoist Holy Flame, forgetting his deal with Patriarch Phillips, shot into the air.


    All around the Azure Cloud, Psychics rose in alarm.


    "Someone''s breaking through to Basic Mastery?!"


    On the horizon, a massive storm raged, stretching across the sky for thousands of miles.


    "Impossible! That tribulation... it originated outside Cloudview County, but it''s moving towards us. It''s... it''s moving!"


    The inhabitants of Cloudview County watched in awe and trepidation.


    Normally, whether it was a Competent Force expert or a Basic Master undergoing tribulation, the area of effect remained relatively contained.


    But this...


    This tribulation moved like a celestial storm, unpredictable and terrifying.


    Even Patriarch Phillips and Daoist Holy Flame, both seasoned Basic Masters, couldn''t fathom its nature. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Their attempts to probe the tribulation with their prime spirits were met with an impenetrable veil.


    "This is bad! That tribulation... it''s heading towards Glory City!"


    "What?!"


    "Look! Within the tribulation... so many Psychic Positions..."


    "It''s... it''s the Blackwoods?!"


    Panic gripped the Azure Cloud.


    The terrifying tribulation, having originated beyond their borders, was now bearing down on Glory City.


    It finally came to a halt above the city, the sky ablaze with lightning that crackled and roared but never struck the ground.


    At the heart of the maelstrom, a figure floated serenely, untouched by the tempest''s fury.


    The lightning, as if sentient, kept a respectful distance, forming a protective barrier around Glory City.


    Slowly, the onlookers noticed something extraordinary.


    Spiritual energy, drawn from the very essence of the world, was converging on Glory City, coalescing into shimmering motes of light.


    For over a century, Glory City had slumbered, a desolate reminder of the Heavenly Path''s cruelty.


    Now, it was awakening.


    Time seemed to rewind, revealing Glory City frozen in the moments before the tragedy.


    Citizens went about their daily lives, the streets bustling with activity.


    Merchants hawked their wares, families prepared meals, and children played.


    Within the Blackwood estate, servants diligently cleaned and cooked, unaware of the impending doom.


    As the tribulation intensified, the spiritual energy grew denser, bathing the city in an ethereal glow.


    The inhabitants paused, their gazes drawn skyward.


    A flicker of confusion crossed their faces, quickly replaced by a spark of recognition.


    "Today, I undergo the tribulation of Basic Mastery. I borrow the essence of life, I draw upon the boundless fortune of the heavens, to breathe life back into Glory City!"


    A voice, cold and resolute, echoed through the air, a plea and a challenge to the heavens.


    The people of Cloudview County watched in stunned silence.


    They knew the truth of Glory City.


    The inhabitants, frozen in time, were long dead, their lives claimed by the Heavenly Path''s rampage or forfeited to maintain the temporal anomaly.


    And now, this unknown voice, this audacious soul, dared to ask the heavens to restore what had been lost.


    "She... she''s asking the heavens to revive the dead of Glory City?" Patriarch Phillips, momentarily forgetting his animosity towards Daoist Holy Flame, stared in disbelief.


    The tribulation was unlike anything he had ever witnessed in his long life.


    "Preposterous! The heavens are unfeeling, uncaring. Those people are gone, their fates sealed by their own choices. The heavens wouldn''t interfere in such matters." Daoist Holy Flame scoffed, though even his cynicism couldn''t completely mask his astonishment.


    He couldn''t shake off a growing sense of unease.


    He recognized the voice, the Blackwood audacity.


    They were using the tribulation as a platform, a desperate gamble to right a past wrong.


    But countless souls had pleaded with the heavens during their tribulations, and the heavens had remained indifferent.


    "Hmph!" Patriarch Phillips snorted at Daoist Holy Flame''s derision, though he shared the sentiment.


    All eyes remained fixed on the spectacle unfolding above Glory City.


    The voice rang out once more, filled with unwavering determination.


    "Have mercy, heavens! Restore life to Glory City!"


    Thunder roared, shaking the very foundations of the world.


    The Azure Cloud Psychics felt the raw anger woven into the voice, a challenge to the celestial order.


    The tribulation intensified, as if angered by the audacity of the plea.


    And then, something miraculous happened.


    The onlookers gasped, their eyes wide with disbelief.


    The figure within the tribulation, her voice laced with icy fury, roared her defiance.


    "Have mercy!"


    This time, the heavens responded.


    The lightning storm above Glory City convulsed, transforming into a colossal dragon of pure energy.


    Arcs of lightning, crackling with unimaginable power, snaked through the air, drawn to the spiritual energy converging on the city.


    The energy coalesced, forming pillars of light that enveloped the inhabitants of Glory City, bathing them in a radiant glow.


    And then, like withered grass touched by the first rains of spring, life returned to Glory City.


    Color bloomed on pale cheeks, chests rose and fell with the rhythm of renewed breath, and vacant eyes flickered with life.


    Even outside the city walls, plants and trees surged with renewed vigor, their growth visible to the naked eye.


    "How... how is this possible?!"


    "Life! Glory City is alive again! The dead... they''ve been revived!"


    "The heavens... they answered!"

 Chapter 438 - 438: The Heavenly Paths reign is over Part 1

    Across the world, in every place Olivia''s spirit had wandered, a strange affliction gripped the living.


    Faces flushed, breaths grew ragged, and a bone-deep chill settled in their bones.


    It was as if an invisible hand had wrapped around their very life force, threatening to extinguish it with a single squeeze.


    Death brushed against them, a whisper of oblivion.


    These were ordinary people, unaware of the cosmic drama unfolding around them.


    They felt only a fleeting moment of terror, a brush with the abyss, before the pressure lifted, leaving them shaken and confused.


    They chalked it up to fatigue, a trick of the mind, and continued with their day.


    ...


    "Olivia!" sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Above Glory City, hundreds of thousands of pillars of light descended from the heavens, each one a conduit for the world''s life force, flowing back into the city, restoring what had been lost.


    The storm raged on, lightning illuminating Ethan''s grief-stricken face as he watched Olivia, her expression contorted in a mixture of pain and determination.


    \\[Your descendant, Olivia, has borrowed the essence of life, accumulating vast fortune over the years.\\]


    \\[As she breaks through to Basic Mastery, she seeks the heavens'' aid, offering her accumulated fortune in exchange for the lives of Glory City''s people.\\]


    \\[Congratulations! Your family''s ancestral home is reborn. Glory City will soon be restored to its former glory, its people granted a second chance at life.\\]


    \\[Family Willpower gained: 200\\]


    \\[Your descendant, Olivia, is breaking through to Basic Mastery. She has chosen to undergo the First Rank Basic Mastery Tribulation.\\]


    \\[Special Trait gained: Greater Good\\]


    \\[Sacrificing oneself for the many. Her understanding of the Heavenly Dao has increased by 20%, and her comprehension of the Lifeline has increased by 30%.\\]


    At the heart of the maelstrom, Ethan watched as the pillars of light bathed Glory City in their ethereal glow.


    He saw the countless threads of life force, borrowed from souls across the world, unraveling above Olivia''s head, along with the shimmering orbs of fortune she had painstakingly gathered.


    "Why?" Ethan whispered, his voice heavy with sorrow.


    Olivia had become a spirit the day the Heavenly Path attacked Glory City.


    For over a century, she had searched for a way to reclaim her physical form, and she had found it.


    By sacrificing a fraction of the life force she had gathered, along with the fortune accumulated over a century, she could use the tribulation to forge a new body.


    This new body, infused with the essence of countless lives and the blessings of the heavens, would have possessed unparalleled potential, surpassing even Isaac''s natural gifts.


    She would have become a true prodigy, capable of ascending to unimaginable heights of power.


    But Olivia had chosen a different path.


    She had given this opportunity, this chance at a glorious destiny, to the people of Glory City.


    She had held the power of life and death in her hands, and she had chosen compassion.


    Ethan, his heart aching with pride and sorrow, accepted her decision.


    He watched as Glory City awakened, its people blinking in the sunlight, their faces filled with wonder and gratitude.


    This was his legacy, his bloodline, and he couldn''t be prouder.


    In the center of Glory City, the Primordial Bloodwood Tree, dormant for over a century, stirred.


    New buds, vibrant and full of life, sprouted from its withered branches.


    ...


    Thunder roared, shaking the heavens as Olivia''s tribulation reached its peak.


    She remained suspended in mid-air, her eyes closed, a serene smile gracing her lips.


    The wind carried the scent of fresh earth, a testament to Glory City''s rebirth.


    She could feel the life force coursing through the city, a symphony of heartbeats and breaths.


    Her elder sister''s beloved tree was alive once more.


    Old Man Dennis, his body no longer a dusty husk, sat in the Iron Forest Horse, his fingers plucking at the guzheng, filling the air with the same melody George had once played for their family.


    "They''re alive. That''s all that matters."


    Olivia''s smile widened, a childlike innocence shining through her exhaustion.


    Glory City had come so far.


    From a humble village built by refugees, it had grown into the most powerful family in Cloudview County.


    Generation after generation had poured their hearts and souls into their home, only to see it destroyed.


    During her years as a spirit, the Forebearer had urged her to reclaim her physical form.


    The entire family had rallied around her, searching for a solution, a way to reverse the Heavenly Path''s cruelty.


    When they finally found a way, a glimmer of hope in the darkness, the entire family had rejoiced.


    Olivia could still remember the joy in their eyes, the relief in their voices.


    "But I... I wanted to see the joy in your eyes when you returned to Glory City. We''ve lost so much, it''s time we took something back. I''m sorry."


    Olivia turned to the Forebearer''s glowing Psychic Position, her voice filled with remorse.


    "Forebearer, I couldn''t reclaim my body. I made a deal with the heavens. In exchange for the lives and fortune I''ve gathered, I asked for Glory City''s rebirth."


    The Psychic Position pulsed with warmth, the Forebearer''s essence washing over Olivia, a comforting presence in the heart of the storm.


    "Thank you, Forebearer."


    Olivia smiled at the Forebearer''s Psychic Position, then took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on the sky.


    The First Rank Basic Mastery Tribulation was upon her, but the lightning remained below, channeling its power into Glory City, weaving a tapestry of life and hope.


    A shimmering barrier, subtle yet impenetrable, enveloped the city, separating it from the outside world.


    The Primordial Bloodwood Tree, its branches heavy with new growth, pulsed with renewed vigor.


    A wizened face, etched into its ancient bark, seemed to observe the unfolding events with a mixture of awe and approval.


    Olivia''s Psychic Position pulsed with power, her eyes glowing with an eerie black light.


    She saw them now, the crimson threads of fate, radiating outwards from her, connecting her to every corner of the Emerald Empire.


    Dark tendrils of energy, drawn to her like moths to a flame, converged on her position, the strongest connection emanating from Sunshine Mansion, pulsing with defiance.


    In the distance, the threads connecting Austin to his projections snapped, one by one.


    The First Rank Basic Mastery Tribulation raged around her, but Olivia felt her connection to the Lifeline strengthen, her control over fate solidifying.


    She had severed the Heavenly Path''s influence, and in doing so, she had tipped the scales.


    "Forebearer," Olivia murmured, a triumphant smile spreading across her lips.


    "The Heavenly Path''s reign is over."


    Ethan watched as Olivia turned her gaze towards the Azure Cloud, her eyes cold and calculating.


    "But it seems we have some pests to deal with."