Pursuit

But that's all.

The Immortal Palace's philosophy and cultivation methods are too extreme.

Its members often pursue the ultimate and unpredictable nature of Spell Divine Ability, but they have shortcomings in their cultivation foundation, State of Mind refinement, and even their understanding of the Great Dao.

This results in them having outstanding Magic Duel abilities among those of the same level, but their probability of breaking through to higher realms, especially condensing Nascent Soul, is far lower than that of Cultivator from orthodox sects.

In contrast, the Holy Hall, as a long-standing and powerful force in the Hongyun Demonic Path, possesses profound foundations and a complete system of Cultivation Method. It is indeed a Nascent Soul Realm stage Old Ancestor oversees the sect, making it a truly terrifying force capable of lasting for millennia.

These thoughts raced through Su Bai's mind, but on his face, he subtly revealed a hint of admiration for Dragon Daoist's strength.

Following Lu Ming's words, he spoke in a tone as if a Overseas Rogue Cultivator were hearing a secret for the first time, subtly probing, "In that case, this Dragon Daoist's strength is truly unfathomable! He was actually able to repel those cunning Cultivator from the Immortal Palace."

"When I was wandering overseas, I heard some older Cultivator mention that those from the Immortal Palace were almost invincible in Magic Duel among those of the same level."

Lu Ming's expression turned serious for once. He put down his teacup, looked at Su Bai, and said in a warning tone, "The Combat prowess of the Immortal Palace Cultivator is indeed not to be underestimated."

"Their strange and unpredictable Law Technique often produce effects that defy common sense."

"Remember this: in case—and I mean just in case—you, little Alchemist, get targeted by the people from the Immortal Palace, don't fight them head-on. Those lunatics don't play by the rules."

"Run if you can, if you can't... perhaps revealing your identity and surrendering might give you a chance to survive, thanks to your value as an Alchemist."

He paused, then changed the subject, his face regaining the arrogance befitting an elite of the Heavenly Punishment Platform. "However, while the Immortal Palace Cultivator are strong, they shouldn't underestimate the Punishment Officer of our Heavenly Punishment Platform! Those who have established themselves on the Heavenly Punishment Platform have all fought their way through mountains of corpses and seas of blood."

He leaned forward slightly and lowered his voice. "Brother Long, he's at the Peak Foundation Establishment, and his main cultivation path is the extremely rare Body Cultivator!"

His muscles, bones, and flesh were already incredibly tough and his strength was boundless. Ordinary Law Technique hitting him were like a tickle.

"Furthermore, he possesses rich combat experience and unparalleled bravery. In terms of head-on combat prowess, he is among the best of all the Punishment Officer on our Heavenly Punishment Platform!"

"No matter how extraordinary the methods of that Immortal Palace's envoy are, they will suffer a defeat against the old dragon's indestructible body and brute force."

"Body Cultivator?!" Su Bai was genuinely taken aback this time, his face showing just the right amount of surprise.

Body Cultivator is rare in the current Cultivation World because its cultivation process is painful and lengthy, consumes huge resources, and has extremely demanding requirements for Talent. However, once mastered, its close combat power is indeed terrifying.

He was secretly delighted; another extremely valuable target had been added to his list of prey he wanted to Copy!

"Just waiting for November when [Immortal Talent Reflection] refreshes."

Su Bai was making plans in his mind.

The Heavenly Star City in the Demon Star Sea is indeed Treasured Land that gathers the Elite of the Human Race. All kinds of rare Talent emerge one after another. As long as you are willing to inquire, you can always find a suitable Copy sample.

"Old Long is now completely focused on his precious son."

Lu Ming sighed, his tone tinged with sympathy, "The Heavenly Punishment Platform understands his difficulties and has granted him a long leave."

"He's staying by Xiaolong's side every step of the way, hoping that one day Little Dragon will come to his senses, change his mind, and give up those unrealistic ideas."

He glanced at the sky outside the window, downed the remaining Spirit Tea in his cup, and stood up. "Alright, it's almost time. I have to go over and relieve you, and while I'm at it... give that little bastard Little Dragon a good talking-to!"

"So young, with such Talent and a bright future, how could you have gotten involved with those Evil Dao of the Immortal Palace!" His tone was filled with exasperation and disappointment.

Walking to the window, Lu Ming suddenly remembered something, turned back to Su Bai with a grin, and added, "By the way, congratulations, Jiu, on successfully joining the Star Luo Pill Pavilion! From now on, you'll be a truly influential figure in the Alchemy Street! Bye!"

With that, he darted out of the window.

Su Bai stood by the window, watching the Lu Ming disappear into the distance, his gaze calm and thoughtful.

Dragon Daoist is Body Cultivator with formidable strength. He is always by his son's side and is protected by his colleagues from the Heavenly Punishment Platform on a rotating basis... making assassination extremely difficult.

However, the allure of his son Little Dragon's seemingly Xuanhuang Tier Thunder Method Talent, as well as Dragon Daoist's own top-tier Body Refinement Talent, was unparalleled for Su Bai.

Over the next few days, Su Bai waited patiently for the Star Luo Pill Pavilion's Pill Gathering to begin, while in between his cultivation and pill refining, he began to conduct a more in-depth investigation of the Dragon Daoist's son.

He changed into a plain-colored long robe commonly worn by lower-ranking Disciple of the Starlight Academy, slightly adjusted his demeanor to make him appear younger and more energetic, and then quietly headed towards the vicinity of the Starlight Academy.

As the core institution for cultivating reserve talents in the Heavenly Star Alliance, Starlight Academy covers a vast area with continuous halls and magnificent buildings.

Although outsiders are strictly prohibited from entering at will, the outer walls are more symbolic and not very high. Moreover, the Academy has a large number of Disciple with high mobility, so management is not monolithic.

With Su Bai's Foundation Establishment Realm cultivation and exquisite concealment techniques, scaling the courtyard wall and sneaking in was not difficult.

In addition, he was handsome and had an extraordinary temperament, so he blended in perfectly with the Disciple of the Academy.

He roamed freely within the Academy for two or three days, using excuses such as asking questions and "finding fellow villagers" to quickly figure out the daily routine of the Thunder Method Prodigy Little Dragon, Xiaolong, as well as the location of his secluded courtyard.

At the same time, he also observed from afar the Dragon Daoist, Lu Ming, and another unfamiliar Heavenly Punishment Platform Punishment Officer were taking turns on duty nearby.

The three did not conceal their presence, but they kept their auras under control and their eyes sharp, constantly watching the movements in the courtyard.

"They're really protecting them very well..."

Hidden in the canopy of a lush ancient tree, Su Bai thought to himself, "It's all thanks to Dragon Daoist's deep love for his son that the Heavenly Punishment Platform dispatched its elite forces to protect him."

"On the other hand, while Starlight Academy provided Little Dragon with decent cultivation resources, it doesn't seem to have strengthened its defenses. Perhaps they are confident in their own Academy's defenses, or perhaps they feel that the Heavenly Punishment Platform is sufficient?"

He saw from afar that the young man known as Little Dragon often practiced Thunder Method alone in the courtyard. The lightning flashed and the power was considerable, but his face always carried a melancholy and preoccupied expression, and his brows revealed a sense of unwillingness.

Clearly, the strange and wondrous Thunder Method displayed by the Immortal Palace still stirred within him, their influence undiminished.

Su Bai turned his gaze to the Dragon Daoist not far away.

Even from a distance, he could feel the immense, dormant volcanic Qi and Blood emanating from the other person—steady, profound, and explosive.

He quietly activated his Sword Heart Talent, unlocking his perception ability, and remotely locked onto Dragon Daoist, simulating the possibility of conflict with him.

Instantly, a clear sense of danger, far exceeding that of an ordinary Foundation Establishment Cultivator, returned to them.

"The warning level is very high... even stronger than Lu Ming's normal level! This Dragon Daoist's strength is indeed well-deserved." Su Bai thought with a chill.

Sword Heart's warning is a dynamic assessment based on the information, atmosphere, and environment currently revealed by both sides.

"Given the current level of warning, I should have a higher chance of winning in a direct confrontation."

Su Bai calmly analyzed, "But this isn't absolutely accurate. When it really comes to a life-or-death battle, there are too many variables. Once all the cards are played, even Sword Heart's warnings will change. We can only say that the odds of winning are high, but it's by no means a sure thing."

Compared to the assassination reward of 100,000 Spirit Stone, the reward seemed less appealing to Su Bai than the precious Body Refinement Talent of Dragon Daoist.

"Cultivators possess profound Law Technique abilities, capable of moving mountains and overturning seas, but the physical body remains fundamental, the vessel that bears all."

Before Nascent Soul to the Nascent Soul stage and can initially break free from the constraints of the physical body, a powerful physical body means greater survivability, longer combat endurance, and higher resistance to various types of damage.

Su Bai knew the importance of the physical body. "If I could Copy top-tier Body Refinement Talent, it would make up for my current shortcomings."

"Based on the description, Little Dragon's Lightning Attribute Spell Talent is at least Yellow Tier, and there's even a high probability it's Mysterious Tier... making him an excellent choice."

Su Bai smacked his lips, his heart filled with anticipation.

"The Talent of this father and son is so enviable... We mustn't let the Immortal Palace or the Holy Hall get there first and snatch them away, otherwise, who knows when we'll encounter such a good example of Talent again."

Thinking of this, Su Bai made a decision that seemed quite unbelievable to outsiders.

This Azure Fish Hall assassin, who had accepted the assassination mission, has now decided to temporarily act as a bodyguard.

"Well, there are still more than two months until [Immortal Talent Reflection] refreshes."

"I need to at least Copy one of their Talent."

Su Bai made up his mind and began to sneak back to the Starlight Academy in his spare time to keep a watchful eye on Dragon Daoist and his son from a distance, both to observe their movements and to guard against any sudden actions that might come from the Immortal Palace or the Holy Hall.

Several days passed peacefully, and before they knew it, it was the eve of the Alchemy Competition.

After finishing his day of cultivation and studying Pill Formula, Su Bai changed into a set of dark-colored, practical clothing for easy movement.

He took out the cold Azure Fish Mask and gently placed it on his face.

The black robe extended from the edge of the mask as if it were alive, quickly covering his entire body and perfectly concealing all his aura and features.

Then, he put on a large gray Veiled Hat and Robe over his outer garment, completely concealing the Azure Fish Hall's signature eerie attire.

At this moment, he looked like an ordinary night owl who didn't want to show his true face.

Having prepared everything, he quietly left the Number Nine Pill Shop, his figure blending into the night, and once again stealthily headed towards the Starlight Academy.

With practiced ease, Su Bai scaled the courtyard wall, concealing his presence, and moved through the shadows of the Academy buildings, soon arriving once again near the secluded courtyard where Little Dragon lived.

He sprinkled some Shadow Dust on himself, further blurring his figure and aura, and concealed himself in the shadow of a rockery, observing from afar.

The courtyard was dimly lit, both inside and out.

One could vaguely see the imposing figure of Dragon Daoist Long standing near the courtyard gate, motionless like an iron tower, his piercing gaze sweeping across the surroundings.

In the shadows of another building not far away, the presence of Lu Ming and another Punishment Officer was faintly discernible, forming a triangular formation.

"Dragon Daoist, Lu Ming, and a Punishment Officer... three Top Grade Foundation Establishment Combat Power from the Heavenly Punishment Platform are guarding a Qi Refining Stage youth."

Su Bai thought to himself, "Plus, here's my 'bodyguard' with ulterior motives... Tsk tsk, this protective setup is almost on par with the level of protection given to some of the important prodigies of the Heavenly Star Alliance. The Starlight Academy has really put on a lot of face this time."

As he was silently marveling to himself, Sword Heart suddenly felt a slight, unexpected tremor!

"Um?"

A sense of alarm arose in Su Bai's heart, and he instantly spread his Divine Sense to the fullest extent, scanning the courtyard and its surroundings.

But the speed and stealth of the opponent's actions exceeded his expectations! Almost at the same instant that Sword Heart issued his warning, in the courtyard, in the shadow of the window of the Quiet Chamber where Little Dragon lived, the air rippled strangely like water!

A figure seemed to grow directly from the shadows!

The man was dressed in a blood-red robe, his face shrouded in a distorted, blood-red light, making it impossible to see clearly.

He appeared just inches away from Little Dragon, who was meditating inside the house, looking dazed!

No nonsense, no probing.

As the Blood-Robed Person appeared, his right hand shot out, fingers spread, and a thick, ink-like Black Substance, exuding an ominous and devouring aura, surged from his palm!

This Black Substance, as if alive, instantly expanded, transforming into a gigantic black cocoon that descended upon the astonished Little Dragon!

Before Little Dragon could even react, he let out a short scream before being completely swallowed by the black cocoon!

"You scoundrel, how dare you!!!"

The Dragon Daoist outside the courtyard had eyes wide open in fury and let out a deafening roar, as loud as thunder!

His burly figure unleashed terrifying speed, like a raging dragon, instantly smashing through the courtyard gate and rushing into the small courtyard. His fan-like hands, accompanied by a shrill whistling sound that tore through the air, reached for the black cocoon and the Blood-Robed Person!

But it was still too late!

Just as Dragon Daoist's palm was about to touch the black cocoon, the Blood-Robed Person, along with the black cocoon encasing the Little Dragon, suddenly became illusory, like a pen mark erased by an eraser, and then completely disappeared from the spot, leaving only a faint, nauseating smell of blood and traces of Spatial Fluctuation.

"The Holy Hall's [Blood Shadow Escape]!" Lu Ming and another Punishment Officer on the rooftop arrived in an instant. Lu Ming looked at the remaining traces and growled with a grim expression.

Dragon Daoist's face was contorted, and his eyes were bloodshot, but he had not lost his mind.

He took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his surging anger and fear, and quickly took out a uniquely shaped, leaf-shaped disposable magic Law Artifact from his pocket, crushing it without hesitation!

"Snap!"

The Jade Talisman shattered, releasing strands of soft yet strangely tracking emerald green light.

These filaments of light, as if alive, rapidly coiled around the lingering Black Substance and faint Spatial Fluctuation in the air.

The emerald green light threads mingled with the black aura, emitting a soft "sizzling" sound as they rubbed against each other, seemingly engaged in some kind of mysterious positioning.

A moment later, all the emerald green light threads pointed eastward, conveying a vague distance information.

"Eastward, about eight thousand li! Pursue!"

Dragon Daoist's voice was hoarse, yet it carried an unwavering resolve.

Without any hesitation, he took out a precious Teleportation Talisman radiating spiritual light from his Storage Bag.

That was a directional long-distance talisman issued by the Heavenly Punishment Platform to elite Punishment Officer for emergency pursuit or escape—crush it violently!

A dazzling silver-white spatial light instantly enveloped him, and the next moment, his figure vanished from his original spot, heading east in pursuit.

Lu Ming and the other Punishment Officer remained exchanged a glance, their faces showing pain and helplessness.

Another Punishment Officer muttered, "Old Long is really worried now... This directional talisman is extremely valuable. Afterwards... he'll reimburse us, right?"

Lu Ming gritted his teeth and said fiercely, "To hell with it! Let's chase after them first! If Little Dragon is really kidnapped by the Holy Hall, where will we, the Heavenly Punishment Platform, put our faces? Old Dragon will definitely fight us to the death! Chase after him!"

Having said that, he also took out his own life-saving teleportation talisman without hesitation and crushed it as well. Seeing this, the other Punishment Officer had no choice but to follow suit.

Three Laws Spatial Fluctuation flashed across the courtyard one after another, and the figures of Dragon Daoist, Lu Ming, and the other two disappeared completely.

Hidden in the shadows of the artificial hill, Su Bai also had a furrowed brow.

Things happened too fast; the people of the Holy Hall were cunning and decisive, far exceeding his expectations.

"It seems the Holy Hall is determined to abduct people at any cost."

He quickly took out several Teleportation Talisman he had previously purchased on the Black Market from his Storage Bag, scanned them, and swiftly selected one marked as a medium-range directional teleportation Talisman.

He set the teleportation coordinates based on the eastern direction and approximate distance indicated by the Dragon Daoist Law Artifact.

"Hopefully I can make it in time," Su Bai murmured to himself, channeling his Spiritual Power into the Talisman and crushing it.

A familiar wave of dizziness and a feeling of being pulled apart by space washed over me, and the surrounding scenery blurred instantly.

When he regained his footing and steadied himself, he found himself in an unfamiliar wilderness.

This area is now far from Heavenly Star City.

They were initially worried about losing him, but as soon as Su Bai appeared, intense Combat emanated from him.

Dragon Daoist, Lu Ming, and another Punishment Officer were being attacked by five Holy Hall Cultivator dressed in blood-red robes.

Little Dragon Long lay unconscious on the ground to one side, unattended.

Were we ambushed?