Refining a Magic Treasure

After the three family heads departed, the Water Palace returned to its usual tranquility. Yet beneath that calm, turbulent currents churned.

Word that Xu Yuan had accepted the invitation to the Azure Billows Water-Land Assembly spread without wings. Along both banks of the Clear Sand River, whether within the Wang Family, Lin Family, and Zhao Clan themselves or among the smaller factions dependent on them, all quietly began adjusting their attitudes toward the Water Palace.

The half-hearted probing and petty acts of outward compliance but inner defiance from before vanished almost overnight.

At the same time, the efficiency with which the Water Palace's various orders were carried out rose sharply.

Wang Ming could clearly feel that his words as the Water Palace's steward carried more weight than ever before. In some matters requiring coordination with the three families, he would barely reveal his intention before the other side had already made the necessary arrangements.

This was the most direct change brought by absolute strength. Slaying the demon ape had displayed a sharp edge capable of breaking any deadlock, while the vast spiritual pressure that had naturally seeped out during the refinement of his natal magic treasure—enough to fill all three family heads with awe—had revealed unfathomable foundations.

A sharp edge could break enemies; only deep foundations could win hearts. Now, throughout the Clear Sand River region, Xu Yuan's will was the highest will.

Xu Yuan understood this perfectly, yet he showed little reaction. He remained secluded within a quiet chamber of the Water Palace, spending most of his time consolidating his cultivation and nurturing the newly formed embryonic Thousand Net Dharma Net.

Spiritual energy swirled through the chamber. Xu Yuan sat cross-legged, his eyes lightly closed and his breathing long and steady, faintly harmonizing with the entire Water Palace and