Returning to the Pavilion, Mustering for the Forest Sea

The Azure Cloud Crane flew swiftly, carrying Ye Chen and Emperor Xuanwu back to the territory of Black Wind Mountain by dusk.

Looking down from high above, even Ye Chen felt a flicker of surprise at the changes in the Heavenly Star Pavilion.

The once desolate, lifeless main peak of Black Wind Mountain and several surrounding peaks were now shrouded in layer upon layer of formation light. The Five-Element Mountain-Guarding Formation had stabilized completely. As its radiance flowed, it subtly aligned with the earth veins, its aura forming a seamless whole, far beyond what it had been before their departure. Within the formation's bounds, several spiritual streams had been diverted into winding channels, nourishing the newly cleared medicinal fields and Spirit Plant Garden. Though little time had passed, the plants Ye Ling had so carefully tended already brimmed with vitality. Flecks of green stood out vividly among the gray-black rocks.

New halls and dwellings had been built along the mountainside and at its foot, arranged in pleasing tiers. Though far from luxurious, they were simple and practical. On the training ground, hundreds of Heavenly Star Pavilion disciples were drilling, their shouts perfectly synchronized. Their cultivation was still shallow, but their spirits were full and their gazes resolute-a world apart from the frightened, unsettled rogue cultivators first gathered here.

Farther out, mine shafts and watchtowers had been established, forming the beginnings of a defensive network. The entire Heavenly Star Pavilion now showed signs of flourishing prosperity and a foundation taking firm root.

"It seems Ye Yun and the others have done well while we were away." Emperor Xuanwu offered a rare word of praise, satisfaction showing on his honest, broad face.

Ye Chen nodded slightly. He had not deliberately meddled in the details, merely established a framework, supplied resources and protection, and given Ye Yun and the others free rein. From the looks of things, these followers painstakingly nurtured by the Lineage truly could shoulder responsibilities on their own.

The Azure Cloud Crane let out a long cry and landed in the plaza before Chen Hall on the main peak.

"Welcome back, Pavilion Master!"

Having received word in advance, Ye Yun, Shi Meng, Ye Ling, and the other core members, along with several stewards and disciples, were already waiting in formation. At the sight of Ye Chen and Emperor Xuanwu returning safely, joy and reverence spread across their faces.

"Young Master, you're finally back!" Shi Meng was the first to rush forward, grinning broadly. "You have no idea! While you were gone, I led the brothers out and wiped out that bandit stronghold to the east-the fools who didn't know whom they were messing with. We seized plenty of good stuff! And that Blackwind Demon Python to the west, the one always harassing our mining teams? I pounded it into minced meat! Now everything within five hundred li of our Heavenly Star Pavilion is peaceful as can be!"

His voice rang like a great bronze bell, and his face all but proclaimed, "Go on, praise me!" The others broke into good-natured chuckles.

Ye Chen patted his sturdy shoulder. "You did well."

Those simple words made Shi Meng beam even more brightly. He puffed out his chest and lifted his head as though he had received the highest possible honor.

Ye Yun stepped forward and cupped his fists. "Young Master, everything within the pavilion operated normally during your absence. We recruited three hundred and twenty new disciples, all of whom passed the assessments and have been assigned to their respective halls. The medicinal fields and Spirit Plant Garden are beginning to take shape, and the first batch of qi-condensing grass and origin-stabilizing flowers will soon mature. The mining teams discovered a small scarlet flame iron vein fifty li to the northeast, of acceptable quality. In addition, through the combined efforts of Mo Yu and several guest elders skilled in formations, the mountain-guarding formation has been refined and its power increased by thirty percent. It can now withstand sustained attacks from early-stage Void Insight cultivators."

His report was orderly, clear, and concise.

Ye Ling smiled brightly as well. "Young Master, look at that valley over there! The star-tear orchids and moonlight moss I transplanted have all taken root! And the dragonblood fruit tree saplings we brought back from Fallen Dragon Valley have sprouted new shoots! In just a few years, we'll be producing our own spiritual fruit!" She pointed toward a distant valley wreathed in spiritual energy, her eyes filled with pride.

Mo Yu's figure appeared beside Ye Chen like a phantom. In a low voice, he said, "Young Master, the number of people spying on the surrounding area has doubled. Most are covert agents from the Sacred Emperor Palace and Blood Demon Sect, though there are informants from other small and medium-sized factions as well. We have disposed of seven groups attempting to infiltrate or approach the core area. There are no other irregularities at present."

As Ye Chen listened to their overlapping reports, all brimming with vigor, the faint chill left in his heart by the Heavenly Sword Pavilion's internal strife quietly dissolved. This was the foundation he had built with his own hands in this world. Though still young, it was filled with vitality and loyalty.

"Thank you all for your efforts." Ye Chen's gaze swept over them, his voice warm yet firm. "The Heavenly Star Pavilion owes its progress today to all of you. Ye Yun, bring me a list of those who have made outstanding contributions recently. They will be rewarded according to their merits."

"Yes, Young Master!" Ye Yun and the others answered in unison, their faces alight with excitement. Following Ye Chen meant not only guaranteed safety, but tangible resources and guidance as well-things they had never dared dream of before.

Back in Chen Hall, Ye Chen first listened to more detailed reports and dealt with several matters requiring his decision. He then inspected the newly established Pill and Artifact Hall, Scripture Pavilion, and other sites, gaining a clearer understanding of the Heavenly Star Pavilion's current state.

As night fell, Ye Chen stood alone at the railing of the Starwatch Terrace behind Chen Hall.

This newly built retreat stood on high ground with an unobstructed view. Above lay the vast starry sky, subtly resonating with the Star Map in his sea of consciousness.

Like a silent mountain, Emperor Xuanwu guarded the entrance to the Starwatch Terrace.

The night breeze was cool, carrying the fresh scent of mountain vegetation. Distant lights flickered among the peaks, shining from the disciples' dwellings and patrol watchtowers. Beneath the stillness, life thrived.

Before I knew it, I'd already spent quite some time in this realm. Gazing at the stars, Ye Chen felt a faint ripple stir within his heart. From his initial curious explorations to founding the Heavenly Star Pavilion, becoming embroiled in the struggles of the Primordial Wilderness's factions, and investigating ancient secrets... everything was utterly different from his comfortable life in the Ye Clan, which had seemed almost eternally unchanging.

Danger, challenges, the unknown, creation... these experiences had stirred unfamiliar ripples across the lake of his heart, which had lain still for a thousand years. Perhaps this was what it meant to be "alive"? Not merely to exist, but to experience, create, and influence.

He recalled Ye Ling's innocent smile as she watched her spirit plants sprout, Shi Meng's undisguised pride as he reported his victories, Ye Yun's meticulous seriousness when handling affairs, and Lin Qingxue's stubborn, lonely gaze as she faced pressure from her sect...

Such vivid people and emotions were difficult to encounter in the Ye Clan. There, everything was so perfect, so orderly, yet also... so lacking in human warmth.

Transcendence... is it ultimately about a more eternal existence, or about experiencing a richer life? The thought quietly crossed his mind. But he soon shook his head. It was too early to ponder such things. The road had to be walked one step at a time.

His immediate priorities were to increase his strength, gather the fragments, unravel the ancient mysteries, and prepare for the possible arrival of the return to ruins tide. His next step was to explore the Ancient Land of Life-the Endless Forest Sea.

"Young Master." Ye Yun's voice came from behind him.

"What is it?" Ye Chen did not turn.

"Two things." Ye Yun approached and lowered his voice. "First, our covert agent stationed on the outskirts of the Sacred Emperor Palace sent back an unclear report. It seems the Sacred Emperor emerged from seclusion yesterday. His aura... is reportedly unfathomable, and the palace has raised its security to the highest level. Second, about an hour ago, a visitor arrived outside the Mountain Gate. He called himself Yun He and said he was an old acquaintance of yours. He is waiting in the guest quarters."

"True Person Yunhe?" Ye Chen turned. This mysterious old Daoist was certainly well informed.

"Invite him over."

"Yes."

Before long, True Person Yunhe's familiar figure drifted into view. He still wore a worn Daoist robe, with crane-white hair and a youthful face, a fly whisk in hand and an affable smile.

"Young friend Ye, it's been days since we last met, and your bearing is finer than ever!" True Person Yunhe cupped his hands and laughed from afar. As his gaze swept over the Heavenly Star Pavilion, a flicker of astonishment crossed his eyes. "My, my! Your abilities truly reach the heavens. To breathe such life into Black Wind Mountain in so little time-impressive, most impressive!"

"You flatter me, True Person. Please, sit." Ye Chen gestured toward a jade stool on the Starwatch Terrace, and Emperor Xuanwu silently served spirit tea.

"I presume you haven't come merely to praise my Mountain Gate?" Ye Chen went straight to the point.

True Person Yunhe sipped the tea and smacked his lips. "Excellent tea! Rich in spiritual energy, with a lingering flavor. Far better than this old Daoist's coarse mountain brew!" He set down the cup, his smile fading slightly, and lowered his voice. "To be frank, I came to bring you some news, young friend Ye, and to ask a favor."

"Oh? Please go on."

"First, the Sacred Emperor has emerged from seclusion." True Person Yunhe's expression grew solemn. "Through certain special channels, I learned that he was not merely cultivating this time. He used an incomplete secret treasure passed down from ancient times, apparently to divine something. Upon emerging, he immediately summoned several trusted subordinates responsible for monitoring the Fallen Star Sea and... your pavilion. Your actions in the Fallen Star Sea have likely drawn his keen attention, perhaps even... murderous intent."

Ye Chen remained calm. "As expected."

"You must not be careless," True Person Yunhe warned. "I have observed the Sacred Emperor for many years. His mind is as deep as the sea, and his strength... may already be infinitely close to that level. If he acts personally, few in the Primordial Realm can stop him. Though you are strong, your foundations are still shallow. You must remain cautious."

"Thank you for the warning, True Person." Ye Chen nodded. "And the second matter?"

"As for the second..." True Person Yunhe rubbed his hands, a sheepish smile appearing on his face. "It concerns the Ancient Land of Life. I hear you intend to explore the Endless Forest Sea?"

Ye Chen's gaze shifted slightly. "You know about that as well?"

"Heh heh, this old Daoist may not be good at much, but I have long ears and plenty of friends." True Person Yunhe chuckled. "I ventured deep into the Endless Forest Sea in my youth. It is indeed wondrous, but also perilous in the extreme. Near the World Tree Remnant Root in the core region especially, ancient restrictions linger, space is chaotic, and certain... ancient beings beyond description lie dormant. Without the correct route and the right timing, it is all too easy to become lost or even perish."

He paused and looked at Ye Chen. "Though my talents are modest, I have studied formations and restrictions somewhat. Back then, I was fortunate enough to record a relatively safe route, along with several weak points and patterns of change in the restrictions near the World Tree Remnant Root. I came today hoping to exchange this map for a favor."

"What favor?" Ye Chen asked.

"If you discover anything near the World Tree Remnant Root related to the 'Source of Green Wood' or 'longevity dao marks,' would you consider trading with me first? I am willing to offer treasures, information, or a promise of equal value." A trace of eagerness flashed in True Person Yunhe's eyes. "To tell you the truth, I have been trapped at my current realm for nearly a thousand years, and my lifespan is almost exhausted. I urgently need wondrous objects containing immense life essence or Great Dao patterns, to seek a sliver of hope for a breakthrough."

He spoke sincerely, with even a hint of the pleading of a man nearing the end of his days.

Ye Chen looked at the old Daoist before him, who had always seemed so mysterious and detached. For the first time, he saw a fierce longing for life in the man's eyes. The path of cultivation defied heaven, wresting life from its grasp. How difficult it was. Even someone like True Person Yunhe could not escape the shackles of lifespan.

"Agreed." Ye Chen did not hesitate. "If I find anything, you will have the first opportunity to trade."

"Thank you, young friend! How generous of you!" Overjoyed, True Person Yunhe hurriedly drew a green jade slip from his robe. Neither metal nor jade, it had the warm, smooth texture of ancient wood. He solemnly handed it to Ye Chen. "I poured my heart's blood into recording this back then. Though I dare not call it foolproof, it should allow you to avoid more than seventy percent of the known dangers. The route and information on the restrictions are all within. You need only examine it with your divine sense."

Ye Chen accepted the jade slip and briefly probed it. It did indeed contain an extraordinarily detailed map of the Endless Forest Sea's core region, marking dangerous areas, safe routes, restriction nodes, and even places where certain rare spiritual treasures might appear. The vast amount of information had been compiled with painstaking care, making it immensely valuable.

"This map is precious. I will remember your kindness, True Person." Ye Chen put away the jade slip and spoke earnestly.

"Mutual benefit, mutual benefit." True Person Yunhe waved a hand, unable to hide his delight, as though a great burden had been lifted from his heart. He then exchanged further intelligence with Ye Chen concerning the Sacred Emperor Palace's recent movements and the subtle shifts among the factions of the Primordial Wilderness. Only when the moon stood high overhead did he take his leave, his figure melting into the night and vanishing.

After seeing True Person Yunhe off, Ye Chen turned the green jade slip in his hand and looked south. The Endless Forest Sea, the World Tree Remnant Root... perhaps the clue to the next fragment lay there.

"Uncle Xuan," he called.

"This old servant is here." Emperor Xuanwu stepped forward.

"Make preparations. In three days, you will accompany me to the Endless Forest Sea. Ye Yun and Mo Yu will come as well; Shi Meng and Ye Ling will remain to guard the Mountain Gate. Inform Lin Qingxue that she may join us if she wishes. The Heavenly Sword Pavilion should also have records of the Endless Forest Sea. Our knowledge may complement theirs," Ye Chen instructed.

"Yes, Young Master." Emperor Xuanwu accepted the order. "Should we bring more people?"

"No need." Ye Chen shook his head. "The Endless Forest Sea has a peculiar environment. More people may not be an advantage. In the core region, quality matters, not numbers."

He gazed up at the stars. The brilliant river of stars was reflected in his dual pupils, as was the incomplete Star Map in his sea of consciousness, pointing toward the distance.

A new expedition was about to begin. Yet the news of the Sacred Emperor's emergence hung like a sharp sword above his head, foretelling a greater storm quietly gathering.

The lights of the Heavenly Star Pavilion burned silently in the darkness, like stubborn, undying sparks in this chaotic world.