Inside his cave abode in the B-grade area, Han Li sat cross-legged beside the spirit spring, condensing a wisp of pale blue water spirit power at his fingertips as he traced intricate formation patterns in the air. This was the "Water-Fire Balance Formation" he had created after half a year in seclusion. Built upon water spirit power, it concealed fire-attribute fiendish energy, combining hardness with softness to counter sinister demonic beasts. The instant the patterns took shape, the spiritual energy within the cave abode surged, almost forming a small vortex.
"After half a year of arduous cultivation, I've finally crossed the threshold of the Compound Formation." Han Li withdrew the formation patterns, a trace of satisfaction flashing in his eyes. Since his promotion to B-grade steward, he had been permitted to use the Formation Research Room in the Scripture Pavilion. Under Elder Mo's guidance, he had devoted himself to studying Compound Formations, creating more than a dozen, including the "Five Elements Rotation Formation" and the "Wind-Thunder Combined Strike Formation." His cultivation had also stabilized at the foundation establishment early-stage peak, leaving him only one step from the middle stage.
As he pondered, a fluctuation came from his cave abode's restrictions. Elder Mo's voice sounded through them. "Steward Li, Elder Sun requests your presence. A new assignment has arrived."
Han Li opened the restrictions and met Elder Mo's smiling gaze. "Elder Mo."
"Something has gone wrong with the 'Starfall Grand Formation' in the Falling Star Archipelago. Elder Sun specifically asked for you." Elder Mo handed him a jade slip. "This formation is a Spatial Anchor Point established by the Star Palace in its early years, maintaining stability between the Green Wave waters and the Shattered Star Sea. Spatial fluctuations have been abnormal lately, and the formation's core has suffered damage. Someone