After leaving Qi Yunxiao's residence, Xiao Yu rode the Meteor Boat straight toward a spirit stone mine controlled by Heavenly Gate Fort, one of the Yue Kingdom's great cultivation sects.
Seven days later, Xiao Yu arrived at a vast wasteland in the northeastern Yue Kingdom, most of it stony desert. Vegetation was scarce, and weathered sand and gravel stretched as far as the eye could see. A strong gust could whip up a sandstorm that filled the sky.
After flying through the wasteland for another half day, he spotted an undulating mountain range ahead. Low grass and shrubs dotted the slopes in scattered clumps.
Xiao Yu had not flown far into the mountains when he spotted an enormous gorge running north to south, more than a hundred zhang deep.
"The spirit stone vein should be here," Xiao Yu murmured, standing on the flying boat and rubbing his chin.
He lowered the boat until it skimmed the ground. After following the gorge for a short while, Xiao Yu arrived at the entrance to a valley.
A layer of formation light covered the valley entrance. At full strength, this formation could withstand a combined assault from several Foundation Establishment cultivators. Although it did not normally operate at full power, it was still not something Xiao Yu could casually break through alone. Besides, it had a warning function; the moment he attacked, those inside would likely know.
With no other choice, Xiao Yu concealed himself outside for the time being. He trusted that someone would come out sooner or later.
Sure enough, two days later, a ripple passed through the formation light before him. An opening appeared, and a young man in a blue robe stepped out.
The young man was only at the sixth layer of Qi Refining and looked utterly exhausted.