Ice Crystal Illusion Pearl: Ancient Style

The complexity of the Sea Race Grand Array completely exceeded the expectations of the Human Race.

One of the most notable characteristics of formations is their ability to unleash power far exceeding that of other formations under specific circumstances.

Faced with such a Super Linked Formation, whose power surpasses even the Mountain Protecting Grand Array of all the sects present.

Everyone couldn't help but feel a bit of a headache.

Some things you might need to try out to find out how powerful they really are.

However, this massive array stretching for thousands of miles in front of them, even just a glance from afar, is clearly not something to be trifled with, without any testing required.

"In many places, it appears that Third-Order Spirit Material are being used."

Han Chuan True Monarch activated his Spirit Eye Technique to discern the situation inside. "Only the middle part and some connecting points used Fourth-Order Formation Flag."

"From this perspective, we at least don't need to worry that this will be a fifth-order or pseudo- Fifth-Order Grand Array."

"The maximum power it can draw upon should still be within the fourth tier."

This can probably be considered half good news.

At least after hearing this, the people weren't completely devastated.

As long as it remains within the fourth order range, our side still has a chance to play the game, at least theoretically.

For example, Iron Fan True Monarch asked curiously, "Daoist Gang Yuan, are you serious this time?"

"Let's get serious. Now that we've collected several Core Array Foundation, is there a chance to reverse-engineer the Sea Race's array deployment principles and then prepare corresponding Formation Breaking Method?"

The two teams that were previously separated have collected nearly two hundred Core Array Foundation in total.

This sample size is indeed quite large.

However, when Gang Yuan True Monarch heard this question, he looked somewhat troubled. "This... there should be an opportunity, but the timing is hard to say."

This is indeed a major challenge.

The main problem is that people had absolutely no understanding of the Sea Race ' formations in the past; they were practically starting from scratch.

"If we reverse the formation, how long would it take?"

Cloud Vortex True Monarch asked curiously, "It won't take several years, will it?"

He knows absolutely nothing about this.

However, Gang Yuan True Monarch gave him an easy-to-understand example. "The difficulty is roughly the same as reverse-engineering Pill Formula or comprehending the swordsmanship of predecessors based on Sword Intent."

Then he added, "I meant reverse-engineering the array formation, not dismantling the Linked Grand Array."

"After all, within the Sea Race Array Dao, this should be considered one of the most complex fourth-order arrays, perhaps even the most complex."

Upon hearing this answer, Cloud Vortex True Monarch's eyes widened in surprise.

Are you kidding me?

How difficult is it to comprehend the swordsmanship of predecessors based on their Sword Intent?

Even for those Innate Sword Child, it takes at least ten years to develop, and for ordinary people, it often takes several decades or even a hundred years.

This is based on the premise that Nascent Soul Cultivator are generally quite talented. If it were Golden Core cultivators, it would be normal for them to never comprehend anything in their entire lives.

It's worth mentioning that, objectively speaking, this amount of time isn't much.

In peacetime, to master a completely new array technique in ten or twenty years is absolutely a genius-level achievement.

It is also well worth the time to study it, because the benefits it can bring in the future are undoubtedly huge.

Therefore, during the previous recovery of the Core Array Foundation...

Iron Fan True Monarch was both joking with an old friend and congratulating the Heavenly Dipper Sect on the possibility of acquiring a new array technique in the future.

But the problem is, it's wartime now.

The bright future is a bit far off; right now, we all have to face this super Fourth-tier Grand Array.

"That does sound a bit difficult."

Xiao Chen asked, "Does anyone have any quick and effective methods?"

Everyone remained silent for three breaths.

Clearly, no one could come up with a brilliant plan at this moment.

But that's okay. Although there are no shortcuts, we can still use a simple, albeit clumsy, method to cope.

Don't be fooled by the fact that it's a "clumsy" method. It's not that it's stupid, it's just that the process is a bit complicated and sounds clumsy.

Specifically, they first sent disciples to harass the enemy.

Try to get some useful information back.

Then, everyone, armed with standard array-breaking Spirit Artifact, attacked the array together, searching for its weak points.

There is no perfect formation in the world; as long as you are willing to search, you can always find a loophole.

The day ended amidst harassment from disciples of various sects.

As the sun set, the Human Race sounded the retreat and returned to their defensive formation.

"Daoist Xiao, is this the Ice Crystal Jellyfish you captured?"

Rift Void True Monarch, who had stayed behind, walked over quite consciously. "It's really beautiful, with a bright color, just like a big block of jelly."

"Well, that afternoon I happened to catch two ribbonfish, and I was just about to fry them."

"Shall we get something to eat together?"

We spent some time together on the West Front, and then soon after, we lived together for two months at the Listening Wave Sea.

Rift Void True Monarch discovered two characteristics of Xiao Chen.

First, he eats almost anything, trying everything he can get his hands on.

It encompasses everything from birds and beasts to flowers, plants, and trees.

Secondly, he is very generous and most of the time he won't mind sharing a bite with him, even if it's meat from Fourth-Order Demonic Beast.

So when he heard it from the rear...

After Xiao Chen captured a mutated jellyfish today, he's been thinking about coming over for a taste.

"Okay, let me dismantle these ice crystals first, then we can figure out how to make the jellyfish together."

Xiao Chen readily agreed, "To be honest, I'm also thinking about how to deal with these jellyfish meat."

Do you have any experience?

Although this Ice Crystal Jellyfish had undergone Bloodline Mutation, its wrists still had fist-sized blue crystals solidified on them.

It is a natural fourth-order Ice Element spiritual material, and also the most valuable part of its body.

While there are some rules to follow when handling spiritual materials, it is not particularly complicated.

Having learned from his previous studies, Xiao Chen was now able to independently break down spiritual materials.

Although his speed is still a bit slow, not as fast as those experienced masters, it doesn't matter much.

It's okay to go slowly, as long as the harvested spiritual materials are intact.

"Daoist Xiao, I have a lot of experience dealing with jellyfish, why don't you add me to the list?"

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch also came over at some point. "I happen to have a bottle of Valley Peak Snow I've been storing for over fifty years."

"Although the storage time was not long."

"But its advantage lies in the fact that the wine is brewed with snow water collected over the years, giving it a unique flavor."

Xiao Chen naturally wouldn't refuse. "Great, looks like I'm in for a treat today."

Anyway, he couldn't possibly eat such a large jellyfish by himself, so it would be even better if he could exchange it for some local specialties and drinks.

After patiently removing all the ice crystals.

Xiao Chen gestured for the other party to take the lead. "Since you have more experience, why don't you teach us how to handle this?"

Upon hearing this, the Hundred Apertures True Monarch smiled and nodded in agreement, "It's not a matter of teaching or not teaching, it's just some strange and ingenious skills."

"Speaking of these Ice Crystal Jellyfish, I've handled at least thirty or forty of them before."

"Of course, those are all third-tier, far inferior to Daoist Xiao Xiao's."

"However, since they are all the same species, some experiences can still be shared."

After exchanging a few pleasantries, he finally picked up one of the tentacles and began to say, "The first thing we need to do is detoxify it."

"As is well known, most jellyfish carry toxins, and the only difference between different species is the degree of toxicity."

"If it's not cleaned properly, it will not only cause a numb and spicy sensation when eaten, but it may also affect the circulation of vital energy."

As he spoke, he summoned a wisp of Spirit Fire, which rapidly burned from the tip of the tentacle to its root.

The outer side that was immediately exposed to the fire began to curl and char, while dark green Spirit Liquid seeped out from the inside of the umbrella.

Strangely enough, the Spirit Liquid even had a unique fragrance.

It has a floral scent, mixed with a hint of coolness.

It smells surprisingly pleasant and has a slightly refreshing effect.

"These Spirit Liquid are the unique toxins of the Ice Crystal Jellyfish."

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch had prepared a jade bottle in advance and steadily received the Spirit Liquid inside. "It can greatly slow down the circulation of the user's true essence."

"By making good use of this, it can be used to create Strange Poison or to concoct special spirit medicine."

"This fourth-tier venom is considered a semi-rare spiritual material. Although its uses are not widespread, it might come in handy in the future."

As he explained, he deftly processed each of the tentacles in turn.

Then he handed the collected venom to Xiao Chen, saying, "Daoist Xiao, please keep this safe. There's one more thing to be careful about."

"The flesh inside the umbrella-shaped cap is the most tender, but it may also contain toxins."

As he spoke, he gathered his true energy in his palm and rhythmically tapped the umbrella three times.

With a 'pop' sound, the remaining Demon Power inside was shattered.

Then a colorful bead the size of a walnut appeared.

"Um?"

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch was taken aback upon seeing this.

Normally, it should be expelling poisonous mist at this time, so why is it a Spirit Pearl?

The next moment, he realized that the situation was not good.

According to the information I heard before coming here, this Ice Crystal Jellyfish has Mutated Bloodline and is extremely proficient in illusion magic.

In other words, this Spirit Pearl is very likely related to illusion magic.

"Everyone be careful, something might be wrong with this bead."

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch quickly tried to warn him, but it was too late.

Suddenly, Rift Void True Monarch was caught off guard and drew his Flying Sword to stab at him.

This is bad. I just said I was very experienced in handling jellyfish, and now this has happened.

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch immediately tried to summon his spiritual shield to defend himself.

However, he discovered that the Spirit Shield, for some reason, was no longer obeying his commands.

In his haste, he had no choice but to try his best to dodge.

Suddenly, a large hand grabbed his collar from behind and lifted him into the air.

"Smack!"

Before he could even see what was happening, he was slapped hard across the face, and his entire left cheek swelled up.

Immediately, a muffled voice rang out. "Hundred Apertures Daoist Baiqiao, wake up!"

Faintly, one could still hear the sound of an explosion.

"Smack!"

Another resounding slap.

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch finally came to his senses and realized that he was being grabbed and shaken by Xiao Chen, dodging the Law Technique of the Rift Void True Monarch below.

He then realized that he had also been infected.

"Hundred Apertures Daoist Baiqiao, quickly lend a hand."

Xiao Chen, who was standing nearby, hurriedly said to him, "Rift Void Daoist has been bewitched by the illusion and has completely gone mad."

"Things have come to this, quickly follow me and kill him!"

The moment he heard the word 'kill,' the Hundred Apertures True Monarch vaguely sensed something was amiss, but the situation was urgent and he couldn't afford to think about it too much.

So he hurriedly recited the mantra and cast Law Technique to attack.

However, strange things then began to happen.

No matter how hard he and ' Daoist Xiao ' attacked, ' Rift Void True Monarch ' below was able to withstand it with his exceptionally strong Spiritual Power Barrier.

After fighting for quite a while, all his attacks were simply blocked, having absolutely no effect.

"Ring~!"

A clear, ringing bell rang out from somewhere, and the whole world seemed to tremble.

Then the ringing grew louder and louder, and the frequency of the ringing also increased.

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch felt a splitting headache, and the sky and earth around him began to collapse, as if he had encountered a major calamity.

In a daze, he seemed to have already landed on the ground.

A thick Spiritual Power Barrier surrounded him, completely enveloping him.

At the same time, right beside him, less than a foot away, Rift Void True Monarch was also imprisoned by the same Spiritual Power Barrier.

He had just opened his eyes and was looking around in confusion.

Outside the barrier, a large group of Human True Lord were watching them with concern.

Qian Shu True Monarch was still holding a bell in his hand, shaking it vigorously.

Could it be that he was actually still in the Illusion Realm just now, and has only now finally broken free?

The Hundred Apertures True Monarch felt somewhat confused.

He could no longer tell whether he had escaped the Illusion Realm or fallen into a new Illusion Realm.

Fortunately, this time, he doesn't need to worry about this problem.

On the contrary, after Qian Shu True Monarch woke him up, he took out a sachet for him to smell and fed him Calming Pill.

It took quite a while for him to recover from his dazed state.

The Gang Yuan True Monarch next to him also used the same method to completely awaken the Rift Void True Monarch.

"What happened to you? You suddenly fell under an illusion spell, it gave us quite a fright."

After rescuing everyone, Iron Fan True Monarch finally asked the reason.

Logically speaking, this place is already within the Human Race's grand formation. Although it was set up temporarily, it is still Fourth-tier Defensive Formation.

Surely the Sea Race couldn't just sneak in silently, could they?

After carefully investigating the situation, they learned that it was all related to the Ice Crystal Jellyfish's remaining Ice Crystal Illusion Pearl.

Yes, the bead they initially saw was real.

As Mutated Bloodline, this Ice Crystal Jellyfish's bell does not contain toxins; instead, it contains a special Spirit Pearl capable of creating Illusion Realm.

It is through this special structure that it possesses illusionary abilities that other Ice Crystal Jellyfish do not have.

In other words, its powerful illusion magic is entirely due to the power exerted by this Ice Crystal Illusion Pearl within its body.

Therefore, when the Hundred Apertures True Monarch detoxified the umbrella canopy according to his past experience.

The Demon Power that had been shattered from within the flesh by the true essence activated the Ice Crystal Illusion Pearl.

This revealed itself, instantly pulling the nearby Hundred Apertures True Monarch and Rift Void True Monarch into the Illusion Realm.

Although the Ice Crystal Jellyfish is no longer the dominant force, the effect of the Ice Crystal Illusion Pearl is inevitably weakened considerably.

However, since they were both Newly Promoted Nascent Soul, they naturally couldn't withstand such a powerful illusion.

Thus, under their influence, they began to use Law Technique to kill each other.

Fortunately, Xiao Chen was with them. He was not only safe and sound, but also noticed their unusual behavior immediately.

For their safety, they were both trapped inside by the Four Symbols Suppressing Mountain Shield.

Although it is essentially a Defensive Spell, its actual use is naturally not so rigid.

Although Xiao Chen's proficiency wasn't particularly high yet, he had the Hextech boost.

There's no need for any fancy maneuvers; you just need to trap both of them inside.

Despite their relentless attacks under the influence of illusions, the Four Symbols Suppressing Mountain Shield remained completely unmoved, showing absolutely no resistance.

This pleased Xiao Chen greatly.

It was worth it for him to spend so much time and spiritual objects to fully condense the Four Symbols Spirit Pattern before coming to the Shallow Sky Sea.

Sure enough, the defensive capabilities improved immediately, becoming significantly stronger than before.

After all, with a hundredfold increase, even a small improvement can bring huge benefits, not to mention this already considerable improvement.

"We are truly grateful to Daoist Xiao for stopping them this time; otherwise, I fear a terrible disaster might have occurred."

Qian Shu True Monarch checked his junior brother repeatedly, and only after confirming that he was safe did he remember to express his gratitude.

"No, no, no, it was my oversight."

Xiao Chen shook his head. "Hundred Apertures Baiqiao came to help purely out of good intentions. It was my oversight that I forgot to remind him."

"I should have suspected that this beast might have residual illusion magic."

"The subsequent actions were merely a case of locking the barn door after the horse has bolted; fortunately, it wasn't too late."

The main reason was that Xiao Chen was protected by the Divinity Veil and did not feel any intimidation from the Ice Crystal Jellyfish.

Therefore, when Rift Void True Monarch and Hundred Apertures True Monarch arrived, he did not immediately realize that even with their strength, there were risks involved in contacting such fresh debris.

Furthermore, special abilities like illusions are different from ordinary offensive Law Technique.

If you can't hold them off, you'll fall instantly.

There is absolutely no way to resist half of the weakening effect, nor will it trigger the self-protection of conventional protective Spirit Artifact such as Spirit Robe.

"Daoist Xiao, there's no need to speak up for him."

Gang Yuan True Monarch, however, said, "This is purely due to his own lack of skill and preparation, coupled with his gluttony. How can you blame Daoist Xiao for not reminding him?"

"This time, you were able to warn him because you were nearby and hadn't fallen victim to the attack yet."

"Then when you go out alone in the future, who will be there to warn you if you encounter Demon Beast or evil cultivators?"

Then he turned to look at Rift Void True Monarch: "Or are you planning to stay hidden in your own mountain gate for the rest of your life and never go out to adventure?"

His logic is that he himself is primarily responsible for his own safety.

You should be careful in everything you do; relying solely on others to remind you is irresponsible.

Rift Void True Monarch, but readily lowered his head to admit his mistake. "Senior Brother is right, I was too careless this time."

"I clearly heard that this jellyfish is skilled in illusion magic; I should have been prepared."

"Thank you very much, Daoist Xiao, for saving me!"

Upon hearing this, Hundred Apertures True Monarch also bowed and expressed his gratitude, saying, "I also bear some responsibility. I know that Fourth-Order Demonic Beast are completely different from Tier 3 Demon Beast, especially since this one has Mutated Bloodline."

"In the end, they still followed past experience and didn't take it seriously."

"This old fellow is hundreds of years old, yet he made such a basic mistake, almost causing trouble for everyone."

"Thanks to Daoist Xiao's profound Law Technique, he managed to stop us all by himself, otherwise we would probably be dead here today."

A clear look of shame appeared on the face of the Hundred Apertures True Monarch.

His tone was exceptionally sincere. "Fellow Daoist Xiao has truly saved my life today; I am deeply grateful."

"If you ever need my help in the future, please just let me know or write me a letter, and I will do my best to assist you."

His later statement was actually a bit of an exaggeration.

This is, after all, within the Human Race's grand formation. If any major disturbance were to occur here, it would immediately alert the other True Lord.

Therefore, even if Xiao Chen didn't stop them, the other True Lord would have stopped them.

To say it was a life-saving grace is really an exaggeration.

However, this was Hundred Apertures True Monarch did intentionally.

In fact, his initial purpose in coming here was to get closer to Xiao Chen.

After all, even looking at the previous battle reports, everyone could tell that Xiao Chen was not only powerful now, but his future prospects were also immeasurable.

If you can get along well with him, there will only be benefits and no drawbacks.

Otherwise, Crane Cry True Monarch wouldn't have been willing to give away two rare spiritual items at once.

In that case, the Hundred Apertures True Monarch's rich experience told him that giving gifts was not the only way to build relationships.

Sometimes, voluntarily owing someone a big favor is a way to build closer relationships.

It's important to understand that favors are something that must be repaid.

He's making a promise now, so that if Xiao Chen contacts him for help in the future, it'll be a great opportunity to build a closer relationship.

After a while, they met more and more and naturally became familiar with each other.

Therefore, even though it wasn't that serious, he still said it was a "life-saving grace" and that he was willing to "do his best" to repay it in the future.

As a result, they didn't get to eat and drink together and get closer as initially planned.

But it was still some progress, so the trip wasn't a complete waste.

"Hundred Apertures Daoist Baiqiao's words have reminded me; Daoist Xiao Xiao's spiritual shield technique is truly formidable."

Crane Cry True Monarch revealed a curious expression. "In my opinion, this should be some kind of extremely profound Secret Method."

"It must be a top-tier technique passed down from High Antiquity."

"This method is indeed quite difficult to cultivate, and Daoist Xiao's ability to demonstrate such skill is truly a testament to his exceptional talent."

He didn't actually see anything particularly impressive about it.

However, based on normal circumstances, there are very few top-tier defensive techniques that can seal two cultivators of the same level for a full quarter of an hour and still remain unharmed.

If we exclude the more similar approaches of our time, then it can only be the High Antiquity methods.

The others thought similarly.

Iron Fan True Monarch also praised, "Indeed, this Law Technique appears ordinary, but it is in fact incredibly sturdy; it can be described as a masterpiece of simplicity."

"I also noticed that its surface contains the Four Symbols Phantoms, which are lifelike and have a distinctly Ancient Style to them."

"Daoist Xiao's foundation in cultivation is indeed solid, far surpassing ours."

Gang Yuan True Monarch was taken aback for a moment.

For a fleeting moment at first, he felt that this Law Technique looked somewhat familiar.

However, it was only a Yellow-grade Spell; how could it possibly have such power?

So he didn't think much of it and just considered it a coincidence.

After all, there are quite a few Law Technique in the Cultivation World that seem to have similar effects.

Only Xiao Chen, listening to everyone's awkward praise, quickly waved his hand and said, "Ahem, there's nothing special about it, you're all too kind."

What the hell is this "Ancient Style"? I don't know how you guys figured that out.