The Bright Cloud Continent was famed for its awe-inspiring landscapes, and Celestial Lake City was a testament to this reputation.
On this particular day, the city was illuminated with festive fervor, a rich mosaic of lantern-lit vessels gently swaying on the lake's reflective surface.
Mirthful laughter and lively cheers reverberated across the waters, while the air hummed with the enticing scent of celebratory delicacies and the harmonic cadences of traditional melodies.
Yet, an overhead perspective would reveal a curious anomaly.
Within the extensive armada of boats, there was one that inevitably drew the gaze.
It wasn't due to its dimensions or adornments, but rather its occupants.
Seated within the vessel were three veiled women, their faces obscured, but their radiant auras were undeniably prominent.
It was a celestial brilliance, a divine luminosity that bore testament to their heavenly beauty.
This aura cloaked the boat in an entrancing halo, akin to a lotus in full bloom upon a moon-kissed pond.
Young masters from prosperous clans, captivated by their allure, sought to approach them.
However, as they encroached upon the hundred-meter radius, a formidable presence descended.
A regal aura, teeming with lethal intent, encapsulated the boat, offering a stern warning to all who dared invade their space.
It was an edict issued by a monarch, the verdict of a tribunal, threatening fatal retribution to any who transgressed the boundary.
This culminated in a near ethereal scene: the vessel, a solitary haven of serenity and elegance, drifting amidst the ocean of revelry, encircled by a two-hundred-meter void.
The mysterious boat in question was none other than the one ferrying Jiang Chen and his enthralling consorts.
Eighty days had lapsed since they set sail on their expedition, meandering from one city to another across the span of the three continents, never allowing their hearts to settle for more than a trio of days.
However, it seemed as though the customary protagonist's destiny evaded Jiang Chen.
The divine intervention, the eleventh-hour rescue, the fortuitous discoveries, the miraculous survival against all odds—everything was conspicuously missing.
The world continued its rotation, indifferent to their existence, staunch in its adherence to banality.
Yet, despite the lack of a chance encounter, Jiang Chen harbored no resentment against the passage of time.
Their journey was far from fruitless.
On the contrary, it bore delightful yields.
Through considerable 'endeavor', and under the influence of the emotion-amplifying wave, Miao Xiaorui and Mu Tao finally received their nuptial rings etched with their names—symbols of their everlasting bond.
Additionally, a novel function had been revealed in the Eternal Binding Vows Ring, one facilitating mental dialogue between Jiang Chen and his spouses, each possessing a matching ring.
This newly uncovered feature, comparable to the telephones of Earth, seemed to surpass all spatial constraints, interweaving their hearts and thoughts irrespective of their physical separation.
At this particular juncture, Jiang Chen's eyes were drawn to his three wives, who seemed to be quietly absorbing the festive surroundings.
In truth, their exchange was animated and vivacious, their thoughts interchanging through their respective nuptial rings.
A tender smile adorned his features as he observed them, his Villain's Eye unveiling their individual details.
[Name: Ning Xian
Aptitude: Top Grade
Innate Talent: Evergreen Vitality Willow Body (Awakens at the Dao Comprehension realm)
Realm: Half-step Mysterious Platform
Status: Villainess
Cultivation Methods: Starry Abyss Heavenly Scripture, Thousand Green Pill Heart Records, Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records...
Intimacy: 100
Fate Value: Unknown]
[Name: Miao Xiaorui
Aptitude: Upper Grade
Innate Talent: None
Realm: Late-stage Mysterious Platform
Status: Villainess
Cultivation Methods: Ice Heart Divine Scripture, Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records...
Intimacy: 100
Fate Value: Unknown]
[Name: Mu Tao
Aptitude: Upper Grade
Innate Talent: None
Realm: Late-stage Mysterious Platform
Status: Villainess
Cultivation Methods: Floating Spirit Heavenly Scripture, Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records...
Intimacy: 100
Fate Value: Unknown]
'Given Xiaorui'er and Tao'er's current prowess, reinforced by the cultivation methods I've bestowed, they could potentially hold their ground against an average Half-step Heavenly Origin realm cultivator.'
Jiang Chen mused, contemplating their progress.
As with Ning Xian, he had only amplified their cultivation base once, fully aware of the need to consolidate their swiftly boosted cultivation.
Subsequently, he redirected his assistance towards the enhancement of their aptitude which, as a fortunate side effect, further amplified their celestial allure.
Moreover, he facilitated their deeper understanding of the cultivation methods he had imparted, and the results were highly gratifying - each had achieved minor accomplishment-level.
While Jiang Chen was engrossed in his thoughts, a private exchange was underway amongst the women.
Their utterances, though imperceptible to the ear, were transmitted clearly via the mental link their nuptial rings afforded.
[Ning Xian: Sister Tao, are we genuinely considering that?]
[Mu Tao: Unquestionably.]
[Ning Xian: But what if Husband finds them displeasing?]
[Mu Tao: That's inconceivable! If we are fond of them, Husband will be too. What's your opinion, Sister Xiaorui?]
[Miao Xiaorui: I believe it's a sound plan. We require additional assistance to combat a True Dragon!]
[Ning Xian: ...]
[Mu Tao: Hehe, Sister Xiaorui, you're like a transformed individual when we converse here.]
Before they could extend their covert conversation, Jiang Chen's voice sliced through their mental exchange.
Taken aback, they promptly withdrew from their telepathic chat group.
"Husband, is something amiss?"
Ning Xian, perpetually naive and endearing, queried, her eyes brimming with worry.
Mu Tao and Miao Xiaorui also swiveled their gazes towards Jiang Chen, their faces marked by curiosity.
"Elder Ge has just relayed a message."
Jiang Chen disclosed, a touch of expectancy coloring his tone. "Feng Jun is predicted to return to the sect in two days. It's about time we made our way back as well."
When he had initially encountered Feng Jun, he had guided him to Ye Fan.
Perhaps, this time, history was poised to replicate itself.
Without further delay, Jiang Chen immediately mobilized his Yuan Power.
The seemingly unassuming boat started to morph under the sway of his energy.
In the blink of an eye, it transformed from a rudimentary watercraft to a complex flying artifact, radiating a grand aura.
The artifact propelled into the sky, cleaving through the air like a keen blade, leaving the clamor of the lakeside celebrations in its wake.
...
Five days hence, the towering gate of the Starry Abyss Sect swam into sight.
Having settled his wives in their newly refurbished dwelling within the sect, Jiang Chen lost no time.
He took flight, his purpose mirrored in his gaze. His destination - the Sect's Main Hall.
In a flash, Jiang Chen found himself before the magnificent entrance of the Sect's Main Hall.
Notably, Sect Master Feng Jun was present, anticipating his arrival, unmistakably informed of his return.
"Greetings, Supreme Elder!"
Upon recognizing Jiang Chen, Feng Jun promptly bowed his head in deference.
"Dispense with the formalities, Sect Master."
Jiang Chen responded with an acknowledging nod. Then, without beating around the bush, he hit the nail on the head, "I'm in pursuit of the continuation of the Starry Abyss Heavenly Scripture. Could you guide me?"
"The succeeding part of the Starry Abyss Heavenly Scripture?"
Feng Jun echoed in astonishment. "I'm unaware of such, but our sect's progenitor, Chu Xingming, left a decree. He instructed that a sect member who ascends to the Heavenly Origin Realm should pay a visit to our Ancestral Hall. By merging their Heavenly Origin Power with his legacy statue, they could unravel the founding mysteries of our sect!"
This disclosure kindled a flicker of gratification within Jiang Chen.
It served as a beacon, hinting at the onset of a fresh narrative.
His preliminary suspicions had been accurate - the Ancestral Hall held the keys to his queries.
His apprehensions concerning its safeguard, however, were assuaged by Feng Jun's explanation.
Nevertheless, his circumstance necessitated the highest degree of vigilance.
Keeping his emotions under control, Jiang Chen asserted, "Then, let's advance to the Ancestral Hall, Sect Master Feng Jun."
"Very well, Supreme Elder."
Feng Jun concurred with a grave nod.
He then soared into the air, charting the course.
Jiang Chen, his mind abuzz with expectation, trailed closely behind.
In the blink of an eye, Jiang Chen, accompanied by Sect Master Feng Jun, found themselves before the imposing edifice, once the dwelling of the esteemed Chu Xingming.
The expedition was rapid and unimpeded by diversions, as Jiang Chen's sole attention lay in accessing the Ancestral Hall.
"Do you regularly visit this place?"
Jiang Chen's gaze remained fixed on the majesty of the hall as he addressed his question to Feng Jun.
"No."
Feng Jun answered, his tone grave, "I only ventured here once, upon succeeding the position of the Sect Master. This would be my second visit."
He shook his head, elaborating, "Only the successive Sect Masters are granted access to the knowledge of the Heavenly Origin Realm and the heirlooms left behind by our ancestor."
"Understood."
Jiang Chen responded, a faint smile playing on his lips. He didn't dwell on the conversation and stated, "Let's proceed inside."
"Yes!"
A glint of expectation shone in Feng Jun's eyes as he nodded, trailing behind Jiang Chen towards the Ancestral Hall.
Despite holding the title of Sect Master for almost a century, the mystery surrounding Chu Xingming's concealed secrets and the true origins of the Starry Abyss Sect continued to intrigue him.
Within a few paces, Jiang Chen and Feng Jun found themselves standing on the cusp of the Ancestral Hall.
Parting the imposing doors, they ventured into the sanctified expanse within.
Despite its antiquity and infrequent use, the hall was impeccably maintained, preserved by layers of intricate wards, bearing testament to the profound skills of its constructor.
Within, commemorative tablets densely covered the space, tier upon tier, resembling a forest of stone.
Jiang Chen projected his divine sense over these tablets, tallying a total of thirty.
Each one signified a successive Sect Master of the Starry Abyss Sect, with the uppermost one belonging to the Founding Sect Master, Chu Xingming.
"Thirty Ancestors!"
Jiang Chen expressed, a hint of astonishment gleaming in his eyes, "Our Starry Abyss Sect must span a history of at least three thousand years!"
The profound age of the sect left a profound impact on him.
"Indeed."
Feng Jun confirmed, a surge of pride gracing his visage, "The Starry Abyss Sect has upheld its prominence for three thousand six hundred years. Throughout these millennia, it has consistently remained one of the paramount powers on the Mysterious Truth Continent."
"Considering the Founding Ancestor's legacy is at stake, there's no time for delay."
Jiang Chen asserted, his smile subtle but brimming with resolve.
Disregarding the towering array of tablets, he advanced towards the depth of the hall.
Beyond the imposing formation of ancestral tablets, a broad platform unveiled itself, bordered by jade railings that shimmered with a surreal luminescence.
A solitary figure stood there, an elder robed in attire as pristine as the whitest snow.
His stature was lofty and slender, emanating an aura of immortal elegance as he stood in silent vigilance by the railing.
His gaze appeared to be fixated on the relentless waves of the cloud sea, akin to an eternal guardian observing the passage of time.
This was the Founding Sect Master, Chu Xingming.
However, the man himself had long left this realm, leaving only this legacy statue, meticulously sculpted by his own hands, as his timeless testimony.
"Disciple Jiang Chen offers his respects to the Ancestor."
Jiang Chen respectfully declared, extending a bow towards the statue of Chu Xingming.
"Disciple Feng Jun, likewise, offers his respects."
Feng Jun mirrored, joining Jiang Chen in his act of reverence.
Upon the conclusion of their formalities, Jiang Chen approached Chu Xingming's legacy statue.
He stopped in front of the statue, his gaze meeting Chu Xingming's.
The intricate engravings conveyed a sense of reminiscence and reluctance seemingly dwelling in Chu Xingming's eyes, alluding to a history brimming with untold tales.
"Ancestor, the time has arrived to uncover your secrets."
Jiang Chen softly murmured. He extended a hand, resting it on the statue's shoulder. "What drove you to establish the Starry Abyss Sect?"
The instant his fingers brushed the statue, a rush of Heavenly Yuan Power erupted forth, coursing into the legacy statue like a river suddenly sprung to life.
A note from AlphaWIA:
Get early access to (+75) more chapters by joining my Patreon.
The Bright Cloud Continent was famed for its awe-inspiring landscapes, and Celestial Lake City was a testament to this reputation.
On this particular day, the city was illuminated with festive fervor, a rich mosaic of lantern-lit vessels gently swaying on the lake's reflective surface.
Mirthful laughter and lively cheers reverberated across the waters, while the air hummed with the enticing scent of celebratory delicacies and the harmonic cadences of traditional melodies.
Yet, an overhead perspective would reveal a curious anomaly.
Within the extensive armada of boats, there was one that inevitably drew the gaze.
It wasn't due to its dimensions or adornments, but rather its occupants.
Seated within the vessel were three veiled women, their faces obscured, but their radiant auras were undeniably prominent.
It was a celestial brilliance, a divine luminosity that bore testament to their heavenly beauty.
This aura cloaked the boat in an entrancing halo, akin to a lotus in full bloom upon a moon-kissed pond.
Young masters from prosperous clans, captivated by their allure, sought to approach them.
However, as they encroached upon the hundred-meter radius, a formidable presence descended.
A regal aura, teeming with lethal intent, encapsulated the boat, offering a stern warning to all who dared invade their space.
It was an edict issued by a monarch, the verdict of a tribunal, threatening fatal retribution to any who transgressed the boundary.
This culminated in a near ethereal scene: the vessel, a solitary haven of serenity and elegance, drifting amidst the ocean of revelry, encircled by a two-hundred-meter void.
The mysterious boat in question was none other than the one ferrying Jiang Chen and his enthralling consorts.
Eighty days had lapsed since they set sail on their expedition, meandering from one city to another across the span of the three continents, never allowing their hearts to settle for more than a trio of days.
However, it seemed as though the customary protagonist's destiny evaded Jiang Chen.
The divine intervention, the eleventh-hour rescue, the fortuitous discoveries, the miraculous survival against all odds—everything was conspicuously missing.
The world continued its rotation, indifferent to their existence, staunch in its adherence to banality.
Yet, despite the lack of a chance encounter, Jiang Chen harbored no resentment against the passage of time.
Their journey was far from fruitless.
On the contrary, it bore delightful yields.
Through considerable 'endeavor', and under the influence of the emotion-amplifying wave, Miao Xiaorui and Mu Tao finally received their nuptial rings etched with their names—symbols of their everlasting bond.
Additionally, a novel function had been revealed in the Eternal Binding Vows Ring, one facilitating mental dialogue between Jiang Chen and his spouses, each possessing a matching ring.
This newly uncovered feature, comparable to the telephones of Earth, seemed to surpass all spatial constraints, interweaving their hearts and thoughts irrespective of their physical separation.
At this particular juncture, Jiang Chen's eyes were drawn to his three wives, who seemed to be quietly absorbing the festive surroundings.
In truth, their exchange was animated and vivacious, their thoughts interchanging through their respective nuptial rings.
A tender smile adorned his features as he observed them, his Villain's Eye unveiling their individual details.
[Name: Ning Xian
Aptitude: Top Grade
Innate Talent: Evergreen Vitality Willow Body (Awakens at the Dao Comprehension realm)
Realm: Half-step Mysterious Platform
Status: Villainess
Cultivation Methods: Starry Abyss Heavenly Scripture, Thousand Green Pill Heart Records, Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records...
Intimacy: 100
Fate Value: Unknown]
[Name: Miao Xiaorui
Aptitude: Upper Grade
Innate Talent: None
Realm: Late-stage Mysterious Platform
Status: Villainess
Cultivation Methods: Ice Heart Divine Scripture, Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records...
Intimacy: 100
Fate Value: Unknown]
[Name: Mu Tao
Aptitude: Upper Grade
Innate Talent: None
Realm: Late-stage Mysterious Platform
Status: Villainess
Cultivation Methods: Floating Spirit Heavenly Scripture, Wind Void Steps, Dormant Spirit Stirring Divine Secrets, Heavenly Spring Coalescing Sea Records...
Intimacy: 100
Fate Value: Unknown]
'Given Xiaorui'er and Tao'er's current prowess, reinforced by the cultivation methods I've bestowed, they could potentially hold their ground against an average Half-step Heavenly Origin realm cultivator.'
Jiang Chen mused, contemplating their progress.
As with Ning Xian, he had only amplified their cultivation base once, fully aware of the need to consolidate their swiftly boosted cultivation.
Subsequently, he redirected his assistance towards the enhancement of their aptitude which, as a fortunate side effect, further amplified their celestial allure.
Moreover, he facilitated their deeper understanding of the cultivation methods he had imparted, and the results were highly gratifying - each had achieved minor accomplishment-level.
While Jiang Chen was engrossed in his thoughts, a private exchange was underway amongst the women.
Their utterances, though imperceptible to the ear, were transmitted clearly via the mental link their nuptial rings afforded.
[Ning Xian: Sister Tao, are we genuinely considering that?]
[Mu Tao: Unquestionably.]
[Ning Xian: But what if Husband finds them displeasing?]
[Mu Tao: That's inconceivable! If we are fond of them, Husband will be too. What's your opinion, Sister Xiaorui?]
[Miao Xiaorui: I believe it's a sound plan. We require additional assistance to combat a True Dragon!]
[Ning Xian: ...]
[Mu Tao: Hehe, Sister Xiaorui, you're like a transformed individual when we converse here.]
Before they could extend their covert conversation, Jiang Chen's voice sliced through their mental exchange.
Taken aback, they promptly withdrew from their telepathic chat group.
"Husband, is something amiss?"
Ning Xian, perpetually naive and endearing, queried, her eyes brimming with worry.
Mu Tao and Miao Xiaorui also swiveled their gazes towards Jiang Chen, their faces marked by curiosity.
"Elder Ge has just relayed a message."
Jiang Chen disclosed, a touch of expectancy coloring his tone. "Feng Jun is predicted to return to the sect in two days. It's about time we made our way back as well."
When he had initially encountered Feng Jun, he had guided him to Ye Fan.
Perhaps, this time, history was poised to replicate itself.
Without further delay, Jiang Chen immediately mobilized his Yuan Power.
The seemingly unassuming boat started to morph under the sway of his energy.
In the blink of an eye, it transformed from a rudimentary watercraft to a complex flying artifact, radiating a grand aura.
The artifact propelled into the sky, cleaving through the air like a keen blade, leaving the clamor of the lakeside celebrations in its wake.
...
Five days hence, the towering gate of the Starry Abyss Sect swam into sight.
Having settled his wives in their newly refurbished dwelling within the sect, Jiang Chen lost no time.
He took flight, his purpose mirrored in his gaze. His destination - the Sect's Main Hall.
In a flash, Jiang Chen found himself before the magnificent entrance of the Sect's Main Hall.
Notably, Sect Master Feng Jun was present, anticipating his arrival, unmistakably informed of his return.
"Greetings, Supreme Elder!"
Upon recognizing Jiang Chen, Feng Jun promptly bowed his head in deference.
"Dispense with the formalities, Sect Master."
Jiang Chen responded with an acknowledging nod. Then, without beating around the bush, he hit the nail on the head, "I'm in pursuit of the continuation of the Starry Abyss Heavenly Scripture. Could you guide me?"
"The succeeding part of the Starry Abyss Heavenly Scripture?"
Feng Jun echoed in astonishment. "I'm unaware of such, but our sect's progenitor, Chu Xingming, left a decree. He instructed that a sect member who ascends to the Heavenly Origin Realm should pay a visit to our Ancestral Hall. By merging their Heavenly Origin Power with his legacy statue, they could unravel the founding mysteries of our sect!"
This disclosure kindled a flicker of gratification within Jiang Chen.
It served as a beacon, hinting at the onset of a fresh narrative.
His preliminary suspicions had been accurate - the Ancestral Hall held the keys to his queries.
His apprehensions concerning its safeguard, however, were assuaged by Feng Jun's explanation.
Nevertheless, his circumstance necessitated the highest degree of vigilance.
Keeping his emotions under control, Jiang Chen asserted, "Then, let's advance to the Ancestral Hall, Sect Master Feng Jun."
"Very well, Supreme Elder."
Feng Jun concurred with a grave nod.
He then soared into the air, charting the course.
Jiang Chen, his mind abuzz with expectation, trailed closely behind.
In the blink of an eye, Jiang Chen, accompanied by Sect Master Feng Jun, found themselves before the imposing edifice, once the dwelling of the esteemed Chu Xingming.
The expedition was rapid and unimpeded by diversions, as Jiang Chen's sole attention lay in accessing the Ancestral Hall.
"Do you regularly visit this place?"
Jiang Chen's gaze remained fixed on the majesty of the hall as he addressed his question to Feng Jun.
"No."
Feng Jun answered, his tone grave, "I only ventured here once, upon succeeding the position of the Sect Master. This would be my second visit."
He shook his head, elaborating, "Only the successive Sect Masters are granted access to the knowledge of the Heavenly Origin Realm and the heirlooms left behind by our ancestor."
"Understood."
Jiang Chen responded, a faint smile playing on his lips. He didn't dwell on the conversation and stated, "Let's proceed inside."
"Yes!"
A glint of expectation shone in Feng Jun's eyes as he nodded, trailing behind Jiang Chen towards the Ancestral Hall.
Despite holding the title of Sect Master for almost a century, the mystery surrounding Chu Xingming's concealed secrets and the true origins of the Starry Abyss Sect continued to intrigue him.
Within a few paces, Jiang Chen and Feng Jun found themselves standing on the cusp of the Ancestral Hall.
Parting the imposing doors, they ventured into the sanctified expanse within.
Despite its antiquity and infrequent use, the hall was impeccably maintained, preserved by layers of intricate wards, bearing testament to the profound skills of its constructor.
Within, commemorative tablets densely covered the space, tier upon tier, resembling a forest of stone.
Jiang Chen projected his divine sense over these tablets, tallying a total of thirty.
Each one signified a successive Sect Master of the Starry Abyss Sect, with the uppermost one belonging to the Founding Sect Master, Chu Xingming.
"Thirty Ancestors!"
Jiang Chen expressed, a hint of astonishment gleaming in his eyes, "Our Starry Abyss Sect must span a history of at least three thousand years!"
The profound age of the sect left a profound impact on him.
"Indeed."
Feng Jun confirmed, a surge of pride gracing his visage, "The Starry Abyss Sect has upheld its prominence for three thousand six hundred years. Throughout these millennia, it has consistently remained one of the paramount powers on the Mysterious Truth Continent."
"Considering the Founding Ancestor's legacy is at stake, there's no time for delay."
Jiang Chen asserted, his smile subtle but brimming with resolve.
Disregarding the towering array of tablets, he advanced towards the depth of the hall.
Beyond the imposing formation of ancestral tablets, a broad platform unveiled itself, bordered by jade railings that shimmered with a surreal luminescence.
A solitary figure stood there, an elder robed in attire as pristine as the whitest snow.
His stature was lofty and slender, emanating an aura of immortal elegance as he stood in silent vigilance by the railing.
His gaze appeared to be fixated on the relentless waves of the cloud sea, akin to an eternal guardian observing the passage of time.
This was the Founding Sect Master, Chu Xingming.
However, the man himself had long left this realm, leaving only this legacy statue, meticulously sculpted by his own hands, as his timeless testimony.
"Disciple Jiang Chen offers his respects to the Ancestor."
Jiang Chen respectfully declared, extending a bow towards the statue of Chu Xingming.
"Disciple Feng Jun, likewise, offers his respects."
Feng Jun mirrored, joining Jiang Chen in his act of reverence.
Upon the conclusion of their formalities, Jiang Chen approached Chu Xingming's legacy statue.
He stopped in front of the statue, his gaze meeting Chu Xingming's.
The intricate engravings conveyed a sense of reminiscence and reluctance seemingly dwelling in Chu Xingming's eyes, alluding to a history brimming with untold tales.
"Ancestor, the time has arrived to uncover your secrets."
Jiang Chen softly murmured. He extended a hand, resting it on the statue's shoulder. "What drove you to establish the Starry Abyss Sect?"
The instant his fingers brushed the statue, a rush of Heavenly Yuan Power erupted forth, coursing into the legacy statue like a river suddenly sprung to life.
A note from AlphaWIA:
Get early access to (+75) more chapters by joining my Patreon.
