Family Meeting

The neon lights outside the window continued to flicker tirelessly, vividly rendering the hustle and bustle and the hazy allure of the city night. However, in Lin Fan's rental room, less than ten square meters, the atmosphere was as heavy as the dead silence before a storm, forming two starkly different worlds from the vibrant life outside.

In the air, invisible sparks seemed to crackle, a silent collision and compression of two vastly different yet equally immense and profound Sage auras. It wasn't a clash of energy, but a fierce conflict stemming from the fundamental principles of the Great Dao and their respective philosophies of existence. It was a condensed manifestation of the eternally opposing concepts of "Order" and "Interception" in this small, modern space.

Master Tongtian remained seated cross-legged on his well-worn yoga mat, his posture as straight as a pine tree, his back never once slumping. No divine radiance emanated from him, but his eyes, as deep as stellar abysses, seemed to hold billions of tiny sword shadows flickering in and out of existence—cold, sharp, aloof, imbued with the resolute and disdainful spirit of "one sword breaks ten thousand laws" and "my Dao is the Heavenly Dao." He simply sat there, his entire being like a peerless, ferocious sword unsheathed by three inches, poised but not yet striking, its edge aimed directly across from him. The sharp intent sliced through the air, making Lin Fan's skin tingle.

Opposite him, Yuanshi Tianzun, who had only just arrived and hadn't even sat down, stood with his hands behind his back by the door. He presented a completely different aura. He, too, was wearing modern clothes that Lin Fan had dug out of his closet—a meticulously ironed dark shirt and sharp trousers. Yet, on him, these ordinary garments exuded a majesty and nobility akin to imperial robes. His face was ancient and weathered, his eyes calm and unruffled, like a deity high above the Nine Heavens gazing down upon the changes of the mortal world. A heavy Dao rhythm of "Heavenly Dao is orderly" and "social ethics" permeated him, like invisible shackles and boundaries, attempting to draw everything in the room, including the restless sword intent, into a predetermined, unquestionable framework of rules. His very presence was a declaration of order.

Two Primordial Sages, one seeking freedom and transcendence, intercepting a sliver of life; the other emphasizing roots and order, upholding the Heavenly Dao and its principles. Their philosophies had diverged since the dawn of the Primordial Era, and the old grudges from the Investiture of the Gods were like unhealed fissures, lying between them. Now, reunited in this foreign land, in this humble mortal dwelling, the karma of the past and the sharpness of their Dao disputes ignited the moment they met. No words were needed; their auras had already clashed.

Lin Fan felt like he was caught between two colossal primordial mountains slowly closing in, struggling to breathe, his blood almost frozen. He was merely a lucky individual who had just begun to touch upon the Supreme Clarity Heart-Cleansing Mantra and had stirred a trace of Innate Qi. In the face of such an intangible standoff at this level, he was as insignificant as a lone boat in a raging storm, liable to be torn to shreds at any moment. His face was pale, a fine sheen of cold sweat beaded on his forehead. He could only desperately circulate the rudimentary heart-cleansing mantra he hadn't even mastered, barely maintaining a sliver of clarity in his mind to prevent himself from collapsing.

Goddess Nüwa sighed softly, her sigh like spring rain, carrying the power of compassion and reconciliation, quietly spreading throughout the room. She remained seated by the window, a half-finished, lifelike clay sculpture of a nine-tailed fox resting on the small table before her. She didn't unleash any powerful aura, but her gentle and harmonious Dao rhythm of nurturing all creation, like the most resilient yet softest net, gently yet firmly intervened between the two opposing fields of energy, striving to dilute and neutralize the suffocating pressure.

"Yuanshi Shixiong, Tongtian Shixiong," Nüwa's voice was ethereal and soft, breaking the suffocating silence, "This world is not the Primordial Era, and we are not as we once were. Stranded in a foreign land, our powers lost, our future uncertain, this is a time when we should be helping each other. Why be so hostile the moment we meet? Can past grievances be set aside for now?"

Her gaze was earnest as she looked first at Yuanshi, then at Tongtian. In this unfamiliar world, the once-lofty Sages had become rootless wanderers. Internal strife was undoubtedly the most foolish choice.

Yuanshi Tianzun's gaze slowly shifted from Tongtian to Nüwa. A faint, almost imperceptible expression, a form of acknowledgment, appeared on his normally placid face. He nodded, "What Nüwa Shimei says is not without reason. However, rules cannot be broken, and order cannot be disrupted." His voice was steady and powerful, carrying an inherent adherence to his own principles. "Even in this world, we must clarify hierarchy and establish regulations to face the unknown and find a sliver of hope. For my third brother to act so recklessly, to reside in a humble mortal dwelling, has already disgraced us Sages. If we indulge his capricious behavior further, it may lead to greater calamity and implicate the innocent beings of this world."

The accusatory tone in his words was undisguised, directly labeling Tongtian as the source of "calamity." The unfinished building incident, the online game scandal, and even the potential abnormal fluctuations in the financial markets that might be detected—in Yuanshi's view, these were all proof of Tongtian's disregard for "order" and his reckless actions.

"Hmph!" Tongtian scoffed openly upon hearing this, his voice cold and laced with biting mockery. "Yuanshi, put away that hypocritical pretense of benevolence! Disgraced me? What a colossal joke! The Primordial Era is gone, and we are like stray dogs, stranded in this desolate land, struggling to survive day to day. Who are you putting on that arrogant Saintly airs for? Rules? Order? When you enforced your rules and order during the Investiture of the Gods, did you ever consider the camaraderie among fellow disciples? Did you ever give my disciples of the Intercepting Sect even a sliver of hope?"

Mentioning the old grudges of the Investiture of the Gods, a fierce malevolence flared in Tongtian's eyes. The billions of sword shadows seemed poised to burst forth, and the temperature in the room plummeted. Lin Fan couldn't help but shiver. It was a hatred etched into his bones, the blood feud of billions of disciples either slaughtered, enslaved, or used to fill the sea's eye. Even as time passed and worlds changed, it could not be erased.

"The Investiture of the Gods was a major trend of the Heavenly Dao, and it was also to fill the celestial positions and maintain the operation of the Primordial Era," Yuanshi Tianzun's brow furrowed slightly, his tone still steady, but a hint of coldness crept in. "Your Intercepting Sect's disciples were of mixed quality. Those with fur and horns, those born from wetness and eggs, who did not cultivate virtue and did not understand the celestial numbers, deserved to be on the list. This was a predetermined fate, not something that could be defied by human power."

"Predetermined fate?! Well said, predetermined fate!" Tongtian suddenly stood up. Although he had no magical power to support him, his towering posture and soaring sword intent made even this small space tremble. "It's nothing more than your Heavenly Origin Sect disciples having shallow roots, wanting to use the Blood Essence of my Intercepting Sect's myriad immortals to complete your killing tribulation! Those who follow you prosper, those who defy you perish—this is your order! Your rules!"

Seeing the two old grudges resurface, the atmosphere instantly teetered on the brink of losing control. Lin Fan was burning with anxiety but couldn't interject. He could only look to Nüwa for help.

Nüwa sighed again, her voice rising slightly, with a hint of undeniable authority. "Enough!"

She stood up, walked between the two, and swept her gaze over Yuanshi and Tongtian. "Two Shixiongs! What is the point of arguing about the past of the Primordial Era now? Do you intend to fight again in this tiny space? Regardless of how much divine power you two have left to squander, even if you could fight, this fragile mortal world, these countless ignorant descendants of the Human Race, can they withstand the aftershocks of a Sage's wrath?"

Her words struck Yuanshi and Tongtian like a wake-up call. Yes, this was not the Primordial Era. There were no incredibly robust barriers between heaven and earth, no vast starry skies to bear their might. Once out of control, the consequences would be unimaginable. Moreover, their current states were dire. If they truly fought, who would win or lose was uncertain, but this city, and even wider areas, would likely face utter destruction. As Sages, even in their fallen state, this concern for living beings (or rather, this apprehension of immense karma) still existed.

The restless sword intent around Tongtian slowly receded somewhat, but his eyes remained as sharp as knives. He sat down again, turned his head away, and no longer looked at Yuanshi, temporarily suppressing his anger.

Yuanshi Tianzun also took a slight breath, and the heavy order-infused Dao rhythm around him slightly receded. He glanced at Nüwa, then at the cramped environment, his brow furrowing even deeper. However, he did not continue to provoke Tongtian. He then turned his gaze to Lin Fan, who had just breathed a sigh of relief.

"Mortal, Lin Fan." Yuanshi's voice rang out, startling Lin Fan. His gaze seemed to pierce through Lin Fan's body, looking directly into the depths of his soul. "Do you know what vortex you have entered by taking in Tongtian and Nüwa? The government of this world is watching, mysterious Dao traditions are lurking, and unknown forces are coveting because of Shimei Nüwa's casual creations. How can your mere mortal body handle this? And how can you protect them? Or rather, what do you seek?"

The question was extremely direct, even somewhat aggressive. It not only pointed out the immense risks Lin Fan was currently facing but also implied a scrutiny of his motives. In Yuanshi's view, a mortal who harbored two beings of unknown origin and troublesome circumstances without regard for the cost (at least, what he perceived as the cost) must have an ulterior motive.

Lin Fan felt a pang of panic under Yuanshi's all-seeing gaze, but he quickly steadied his nerves. After experiencing so much, from his initial panic to his current "awakening," he was no longer the trembling office worker he once was. He took a deep breath, met Yuanshi's gaze, and replied neither subserviently nor arrogantly, "Senior Yuanshi, I don't know how big a vortex I've entered, but I can see the trouble right in front of me. As for what I seek..."

He paused, glanced at Tongtian, who sat with his eyes closed but was clearly listening, then looked at Nüwa, whose eyes were gentle and encouraging. He said frankly, "Initially, it was just pity, then fear, but now... I do have something I seek. I don't seek gold or jewels, nor eternal life—those are too distant. What I seek is an opportunity to change my own destiny, a chance to see a broader world and experience different scenery. Senior Tongtian taught me the Supreme Clarity Heart-Cleansing Mantra, and Lady Nüwa's sculptures aid my cultivation. For me, these are already blessings I never dared to imagine in the past. I know the risks, but I am willing to bear them. As for protecting them... I dare not boast, but I will do my best to handle the trivial matters, deal with the troubles at the mortal level, and at least... not let the two Seniors worry about their livelihood."

His words were plain, without grand pronouncements, but they conveyed a firmness and sincerity born of reflection.

Yuanshi Tianzun listened quietly, a barely perceptible surprise flashing in his eyes. He had expected the mortal to defend himself fearfully or to seize the opportunity to demand more benefits. He hadn't anticipated such an answer. Not greedy, knowing when to advance and when to retreat, responsible, his disposition was actually purer than many beings in the Primordial Era. He couldn't help but look at Lin Fan with a newfound respect.

"Besides," Lin Fan added, his tone carrying a hint of helpless self-deprecation, "even if I wanted to withdraw now, it's probably too late, right? Those people outside, will they believe I have no connection with the two Seniors?"

That was a practical point. From the moment Chen Jing had set her sights on him, he had already been tied to the same boat as Tongtian and Nüwa.

"You have some self-awareness," Yuanshi Tianzun commented indifferently and did not dwell on it further. He then turned to Nüwa, "Shimei, you mentioned earlier that there are mysterious Dao traditions in this world that can perceive our origins? And how did those creations of yours leak out?" He had clearly sensed the extraordinary nature of the "Xirang" and other sculptures on the windowsill, but he was more concerned about potential threats.

Nüwa then recounted in detail her encounter with the mad old Daoist outside the supermarket a few days prior, and how he had immediately recognized her as "unwelcome by the Heavenly Dao" and "leaked from elsewhere." She also mentioned that her casually drawn Orchid Grass Painting might have fallen into the wrong hands and attracted attention (though she hadn't personally witnessed Zhou Wenyuan's reaction, her Sage-level state allowed her to sense it).

"It seems this world is far from as simple as it appears on the surface," Yuanshi Tianzun's expression grew more solemn after listening. "'Unwelcome by the Heavenly Dao'... Hmph, the Heavenly Dao of this world is dead and silent, repelling all laws. We are indeed like beacons in the night here, attracting attention. That old Daoist could sense it, so his lineage must be related to the Primordial Era, or perhaps... he knows some truth about the shattering of the Primordial Era and our wandering here. As for the leaked painting, although it was an accident, it also reminds us to be more cautious. Even mortal objects can carry our Dao rhythm and attract unnecessary trouble."

He pondered for a moment, his gaze sweeping over Tongtian and Nüwa. "The immediate priority is to clarify a few matters and make plans."

"First, our recovery. This world is devoid of spiritual energy, making conventional breathing and cultivation almost impossible. Junior Brother Tongtian uses his sword intent to nurture himself, and Shimei Nüwa entrusts her creations to external objects—these are all attempts. However, progress is slow, and we need to find other methods. Perhaps... we can start by analyzing this world's rules, or by searching for items similar to those three broken artifacts?" As he spoke, he glanced at the three "junk" items from the amnesiac old man, which Lin Fan had carefully put away. With his eyesight, he could naturally discern the extraordinary nature of these broken artifacts.

Although Tongtian had his head turned away, his ears twitched slightly upon hearing this, clearly paying attention.

"Second, dealing with this world's forces. Official surveillance can be ignored for now; they are hesitant and dare not act rashly. However, we must be wary of that mysterious old Daoist and the potential lineage behind him. They know that we are 'unwelcome by the Heavenly Dao,' and perhaps know more details. Whether they are friend or foe is yet unknown. We need to find a way to contact them, or guard against them."

"Third, establishing a base of operations. We cannot hide in this humble mortal dwelling forever." He emphasized the words "humble dwelling" with undisguised disdain. "We need to find a suitable place that can accommodate us and also serve as a base for exploring this world and attempting recovery. Preferably, it should have a certain degree of autonomy and defense."

"Fourth, is this mortal, Lin Fan." Yuanshi's gaze fell upon Lin Fan again. "Since he is already involved, and his disposition is acceptable, perhaps he can be cultivated to some extent, to handle mortal affairs, gather information, or even... serve as a bridge for us to communicate with this world. However, his cultivation is low, and his self-preservation ability needs to be improved as soon as possible."

Yuanshi Tianzun's points were clear and logical, instantly outlining the current predicament and the issues that needed to be addressed, showcasing his characteristic trait as the leader of the Heavenly Origin Sect, adept at planning and strategizing. Even Tongtian, who was at odds with him, had to admit at this moment that these words hit the nail on the head.

Nüwa nodded. "Shixiong's considerations are thorough. Recovery cannot be rushed; it requires multiple attempts. That amnesiac old man might be a breakthrough. The broken artifacts he possessed might contain fragments of rules that no longer exist in this world. As for a base of operations..." She glanced at the cramped room and also frowned slightly. This place was indeed too confined and under strict official surveillance, not a long-term solution.

Tongtian, who had been silent, suddenly spoke coldly, "Easy to say. A suitable place? Where will the resources come from? Do you, Yuanshi Tianzun, have vast assets in this world to squander?"

His words were sarcastic, but they also pointed out the most practical problem—money! Or rather, resources!

Whether it was purchasing suitable real estate (especially one that needed to be sufficiently hidden, spacious, and possibly possess special geographical conditions), or buying various materials that might be used for research and recovery attempts (such as precious medicinal herbs, minerals, or even some high-tech equipment), all required substantial financial support. The money Lin Fan had earned from stocks could cover daily expenses, but it was like a drop in the ocean for such a grand plan.

Yuanshi Tianzun was momentarily stumped by Tongtian's words. Although he had gained a preliminary understanding of modern economic rules upon arriving in this world, he had no immediate ideas on how to quickly acquire a large amount of wealth. He couldn't exactly "trade stocks" like Tongtian; in his view, that would be beneath his dignity and the risk was uncontrollable.

Seeing this, Lin Fan's heart stirred, and he cautiously interjected, "Um... regarding the resource issue, I might have a not-so-mature idea."

Suddenly, the gazes of the three Sages converged on him. Under the scrutiny of these six gazes imbued with supreme will, Lin Fan felt immense pressure, but he steeled himself and said, "Lady Nüwa's creations seem to... have extremely high value in this world."

He briefly explained Zhou Wenyuan's admiration for the Orchid Grass Painting and the potentially sky-high prices in the art auction market. Although he didn't know much, the evaluations like "containing Dao rhythm" and "transcending skill," coupled with the pursuit of top collectors, implied something obvious.

"A rough sketch by Lady Nüwa could cause such a sensation. If... if Lady Nüwa were to be slightly more serious and create a few more works, or produce more substantial sculptures..." Lin Fan didn't finish his sentence, but the meaning was clear—sell art!

This suggestion plunged the room into a brief silence.

Nüwa was slightly taken aback. She had never imagined that her casual creations, imbued with Dao rhythm and insights into creation, would become commodities that could be exchanged for "resources" in the eyes of mortals. This made her feel a mix of emotions, a sense of novelty, and a subtle discomfort, as if her Divine Spark as a creator had been "tainted."

Tong Tian, with a playful smile tugging at the corner of his lips, looked at Yuanshi. "Oh? Trading the creations of a Sage for mortal gold and silver? Yuanshi, you, the Heavenly Origin Sect's leader who values face and tradition above all else, what do you think of this method? Does it align with your so-called 'order' and 'hierarchy'?"

His words were filled with mockery, as if he wanted to see how Yuanshi would respond to this "undignified" proposal.

Yuanshi Tianzun's expression indeed became quite interesting. His brows furrowed, clearly engaged in an internal struggle. On one hand, he vehemently rejected the idea of linking a Sage's Dao fruit to mortal wealth, considering it blasphemous. On the other hand, he had to admit that this might be the fastest, most effective, and relatively "gentle" (compared to Tong Tian's financial market plunder) way to accumulate resources.

After a long pause, Yuanshi finally gritted out a sentence, "Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures. However, there must be moderation, no indiscriminate creation, and certainly no falling from the dignity of a Sage! The chosen works must contain Dao rhythm and enlighten the mind, not pander to the vulgar. The resources obtained must be used for righteous purposes, to establish a foundation, not for extravagant pleasure!"

His words were tantamount to tacitly approving Lin Fan's proposal, but with a series of "high-minded" conditions attached, a way to barely maintain his pride.

Hearing this, Tong Tian let out a scoff but offered no further objection. Although he disdained Yuanshi's affectation, he also knew this was the most feasible method for now.

Goddess Nüwa, seeing that neither of her senior brothers had explicitly objected, also nodded gently. "If we can exchange useless works for useful resources to help us establish ourselves, it would be a good deed. However... it will trouble Lin Fan to manage this."

Seeing that the plan had received preliminary approval, a weight lifted from Lin Fan's heart. He quickly said, "Your Ladyship, please rest assured, I will do my best to handle it, finding reliable channels, and I will absolutely not let your works be buried or... sold at a low price." He had already begun to mentally plan how to contact auction houses and how to package and promote them. This was definitely a "business" with a profit margin of a thousandfold!

"The matter of resources can be temporarily resolved by this method," Yuanshi said, bringing the topic back. "However, the foundation for our existence is not solely built on resources. This place is under strict surveillance and is not suitable for staying long. We need to find a new location as soon as possible. I have observed the map of this world; the outskirts of cities might have places with beautiful scenery and sparse human presence that could be considered. It would be best if it had a certain degree of independence, making it easier to set up some simple protective measures."

Although he had lost all his magical power, the Sage's knowledge and deductive abilities remained. Combined with his understanding of modern society, he proposed directions for site selection.

"This matter can also be entrusted to Lin Fan," Goddess Nüwa said, looking at Lin Fan. "You are familiar with this world, so you can inquire extensively and find a place that meets the requirements."

"Yes, Your Ladyship," Lin Fan replied, feeling the burden on his shoulders grow heavier. Buying a house (or rather, buying land) was no small matter, especially when the funds were not yet in place. But he also understood that this was a necessary step.

"As for that amnesiac old man and the potential lineage behind him..." Yuanshi pondered. "I can personally make contact."

As he spoke, Tong Tian and Goddess Nüwa both looked at him.

"Senior Brother intends to go in person?" Goddess Nüwa asked with some concern. "You have just arrived in this world, your condition is unclear, is it...?"

"It's fine," Yuanshi interrupted, raising his hand. "That old man's condition is strange, his memory is sealed, and ordinary means are difficult to communicate with. Although I have no magical power, my understanding of the soul and karma remains. Perhaps I can glimpse a trace of his foundation. Moreover, if there truly is a lineage behind him, my personal appearance would be more solemn and could be used to test their attitude."

His considerations were thorough. Tong Tian's rebellious nature could easily lead to a fight at any moment; Goddess Nüwa's gentle disposition, while kind, could sometimes be overly compassionate. For him, the Heavenly Origin Sect's leader who valued etiquette and rules, to make contact was indeed the most suitable choice.

Tong Tian snorted but said nothing, a tacit agreement.

"Then we shall trouble Senior Brother," Goddess Nüwa nodded.

"Finally, there is Lin Fan," Yuanshi's gaze fell on Lin Fan again. This time, there was less scrutiny and more solemnity. "Since you are willing to follow us and bear the risks, we will not treat you unfairly. Tong Tian has taught you the Supreme Clarity Heart-Cleansing Mantra and the seed of sword intent, which are your foundation. However, to protect yourself in this vortex and assist us in our affairs, this alone is not enough."

He paused, as if contemplating something, and after a moment, said to Lin Fan, "Extend your hand."

Lin Fan, not understanding, obeyed and extended his right hand.

Yuanshi Tianzun formed his fingers into a pen shape and, without touching Lin Fan's palm, merely drew in the air. In an instant, the surrounding air seemed to solidify. Countless extremely fine runes, shimmering with a faint clear light, flowed from Yuanshi's fingertips. As if alive, they rapidly outlined and intertwined on Lin Fan's palm, finally forming an incredibly complex micro-formation imbued with multiple true meanings such as "protection," "firmness," and "repulsion"! The moment the formation took shape, it silently vanished beneath the skin of Lin Fan's palm, leaving behind only a very faint Jade Clarity rune imprint, almost imperceptible unless one looked closely.

"This is the 'Jade Clarity Body Protection Spirit Seal'," Yuanshi said, withdrawing his fingers, his tone calm. "It is forged by me using a trace of my original Dao rhythm combined with the meager energy rules usable in this world. It can automatically protect its master, resisting three fatal crises. After its energy is depleted, it needs to be nourished by one's own spirit to slowly recover. In normal times, it can also clear the mind and improve one's perception of the Supreme Clarity Heart-Cleansing Mantra."

Lin Fan felt the faint, cool sensation in his palm and the immense protective power contained within. He was filled with excitement! This was a protective spirit seal personally bestowed by Yuanshi Tianzun! Its value was immeasurable!

"Thank you, Senior Yuanshi, for this treasure!" Lin Fan quickly bowed. This time, it was a sincere expression of gratitude. With this spirit seal, his sense of security greatly increased.

Tong Tian glanced at Yuanshi and said indifferently, "It's rare for you to be so generous."

Yuanshi's expression remained unchanged. "Since this child is the pivot, he cannot be lost."

"Pivot?" Lin Fan caught the keyword and looked up, glancing at Yuanshi, then at Goddess Nüwa and Tong Tian, with confusion.

Goddess Nüwa exchanged a look with Yuanshi and nodded slightly. Yuanshi pondered for a moment and decided to reveal part of the truth. "Your physique is special. In the unseen realm, you can attract and stabilize the coordinates for us to traverse this world. In other words, our arrival by your side was not entirely accidental. You can be considered a natural 'anchor point' connecting the Primordial Era and this world."

This news struck Lin Fan like a thunderclap, once again leaving him dizzy and disoriented!

He hadn't just gotten lucky and found Sages; he was... a "human coordinate"? The key reason why two Sages had ended up here?

This realization completely overturned his previous thoughts! The starting point of everything was actually within himself!

Seeing Lin Fan's shocked, bewildered, and even somewhat at a loss expression, Goddess Nüwa gently comforted him, "Lin Fan, you need not panic, nor should you feel burdened. This is an innate trait, not your fault. On the contrary, it is precisely because of you that my senior brother and I could meet in this world and have a temporary refuge. You have indeed provided us with protection."

Tong Tian also spoke, uncharacteristically. Although his tone was still not warm, it had lost much of its coldness. "Since it is karma, it is also an opportunity. Just do what you should do; overthinking is useless."

Lin Fan processed this earth-shattering information, his feelings complex and indescribable. So he wasn't purely a "lucky person" or an "unlucky fellow," but one of the core components of this entire event? This feeling of being chosen by fate made him feel heavy, but also faintly imbued with a... sense of mission?

He shook his head forcefully, casting aside his distracting thoughts. Regardless, the path had been chosen, and he could only walk it. Knowing he was the "pivot" made him more aware of his own value and responsibility.

"I... understand," Lin Fan took a deep breath, his eyes regaining their firmness. "I will strive to improve myself and be this 'anchor point'."

Yuanshi nodded, seemingly satisfied with Lin Fan's reaction.

At this point, this "family meeting" held in a small rented apartment, involving three Sages from the Primordial Era and one mortal, had finally concluded its main agenda. They had determined to exchange Goddess Nüwa's artworks for resources, for Lin Fan to find a new base, for Yuanshi to contact the amnesiac old man's lineage, and for the initial strategy of focusing on cultivating Lin Fan as a communication bridge and for self-protection.

Although a chasm of ideology and historical grievances still lay between Yuanshi and Tong Tian, in this strange, spirit-depleted land, facing common difficulties and an unknown future, a fragile alliance based on practical interests had been preliminarily formed.

However, just as the atmosphere of the meeting eased slightly, and Lin Fan was about to make tea for everyone (though Tong Tian might have preferred instant noodles), an unexpected change occurred!

The "Xirang" statue, which had been quietly placed on the windowsill, emitting a gentle Dao rhythm, trembled slightly without any warning!

Immediately after, the warm luster on the statue's surface began to flow like ripples on water, and a creative life force, far exceeding its usual level, dense and pure, spread out like a stone dropped into a calm lake!

Simultaneously, the faces of the three Sages, Goddess Nüwa, Yuanshi, and Tong Tian, changed drastically, and they rose abruptly! Their gazes instantly pierced through the walls, all looking in the same direction—the direction of the small hotel where the amnesiac old man was staying!

There, a desolate, ancient, and majestic aura, as if it had slumbered for eons, was slowly awakening like a sleeping dragon! That aura faintly echoed the life force emanating from the "Xirang" statue, stirring the sparse energy rules of the surroundings and creating a strange resonance!

"It's those three remnant artifacts!" Tong Tian's eyes flashed with brilliance. "Someone is trying to activate them! Is it that old man? Or... someone else?!"

Yuanshi Tianzun's expression was extremely grave. "The aura is ancient and mixed, containing Dao rhythms of space, purification, and slaughter... It is absolutely not something the amnesiac old man himself could evoke! External forces are involved!"

Goddess Nüwa closed her eyes and sensed for a moment, then suddenly opened them, her voice carrying an unprecedented murderous intent. "More than that! There is another aura... cold, filthy, filled with the intent of devouring and destruction... It is approaching that hotel! The target is that old man and those three remnant artifacts!"

Hearing this, Lin Fan's heart sank. The nerves that had just relaxed instantly tensed!

Trouble, far from receding, instead surged forward with a fiercer, more direct posture!

The family meeting had just finalized its strategy, but the true test had already arrived unexpectedly!

A cold glint flashed in Yuanshi Tianzun's eyes. He made a decisive command: "Tongtian, you remain here to protect Nüwa Shimei, Lin Fan, and the '息壤'. I will go investigate!"

Before his words even fell, he had already taken a step forward. His form seemed to merge with the surrounding order and rules, becoming indistinct. In the next instant, he had vanished from his original spot. It wasn't teleportation, but rather an incomprehensible method for Lin Fan, utilizing a gap in some "rule" to achieve an effect akin to shrinking the ground to an inch.

The power of a Sage, even in a place devoid of spiritual energy, should not be underestimated!

Tongtian looked in the direction Yuanshi had disappeared, let out a cold snort, and did not object. Sword intent surged around him once more. Though not yet manifested externally, it already enveloped the small rented room, forming an invisible sword domain barrier. Any external force attempting to intrude would first have to endure the slaughter of his supreme sword intent!

Goddess Nüwa also stood up, her hands hovering over the '息壤' sculpture on the windowsill. Gentle yet boundless creation power flowed into it. The sculpture shone brightly, emitting an even more profound, peaceful Dao rhythm, further stabilizing the surrounding space and counteracting the fluctuations caused by the clash of the two powerful distant energies.

Lin Fan stood in the center of the room, feeling the solemn atmosphere of the two Sages standing ready, as well as the faint, heart-stopping pressure emanating from afar. Sweat beaded on his palms from clenching them tightly. The 'Jade Clarity Body Protection Spirit Seal' he had just obtained felt slightly warm.

He knew that peaceful days were completely over.

A conflict centered around Primordial Era treasures, lost Dao lineages, and mysterious enemies had begun silently under the cover of night.

And he, Lin Fan, an ordinary person who had only just learned of his "nexus" identity, had been swept into the very heart of this storm.

His adventure had only just begun.