Chapter 1243: Zhuo Haiyue And The Thunder Saint (1)

To an Eternal, a hundred million years easily vanished in the blink of an eye, especially considering that a single samsara cycle of heaven and earth stretched more than three trillion years. Most True Saints had weathered dozens, if not hundreds, of these cycles.

But for sempiternal beings, a hundred million years represented a significant span of time. It was crucial to understand that ordinary Archimmortals and Archdeities, should they fail to ascend to the Astral Lord level, could live for a hundred million years at most.

Throughout this hundred-million-year period, the Ling Jiang Universe witnessed numerous transformations. The once-vibrant Legends of the River, such as Wu Yuan and Ming Jian, gradually dimmed in collective memory, while fresh generations of gifted cultivators rose to prominence.

The truly formidable sempiternal beings, particularly the Sovereigns who stood at the pinnacle of each macrocosm, understood the seismic shifts that had reshaped the Ling Jiang Universe. They also recognized the universe's true master: True Saint Ming Jian.

The Saint Realm established by True Saint Ming Jian had evolved into a domain rivaling a macrocosm in scale. Yet its internal expanse and profundities far surpassed any typical macrocosm, elevating it to become the undisputed heart of the Ling Jiang Universe. Countless Sovereigns pledged their loyalty to the Ming Jian Saint Realm one after another.

"True Saint Ming Jian’s Saint Realm is destined to evolve into an Eternal Realm.”

"In the next samsara cycle, True Saint Ming Jian will undoubtedly rule the entire universe."

𝚏𝕣𝐞𝗲𝐰𝕖𝐛𝐧𝕠𝕧𝚎𝚕.𝐜𝚘𝗺

"Those who cultivate within the Saint Realm under the True Saint's guidance, especially those fortunate enough to attend his rare lectures, multiply their chances of advancing to Overlord." Such proclamations echoed among the Sovereigns scattered throughout the Ling Jiang Universe.

Over a hundred million years, True Saint Ming Jian’s status in the hearts of these Sovereigns had been elevated to a level beyond imagination, and with good reason.

After True Saint Wu Yuan invaded the various Saintdoms a hundred million years ago, they had scattered like leaves in the wind. Though territorial boundaries remained temporarily unchanged, many Sovereigns had already begun contemplating shifts in allegiance, particularly those not born within the Saint Realm who felt they had limited options.

For Sovereigns throughout the universe, changing allegiances wasn't particularly challenging.

Moreover, True Saint Bu Xiu and True Saint Taiyuan had long since decreed that all Sovereigns and Overlords from both the Immutable Land and Taiyuan Divine Court should unite under True Saint Ming Jian's banner, relocating entirely into the newly established Saint Realm.

Most significantly, throughout his hundred million years of immersion in the Primordium's purifying baptism, Wu Yuan would occasionally emerge from cultivation to deliver lectures in the Ming Jian Saint Realm, sometimes sending his qi refiner self, other times as his mana body.

These teachings served to organize his own thoughts and advance his personal understanding. In teaching disciples, he also taught himself.

This generosity drove countless Sovereigns from both universes into a frenzy. How extraordinarily rare was the opportunity to hear words of wisdom straight from a supreme True Saint? Barring those from the Immortal Court, Wu Yuan welcomed all to attend.

For these reasons and more, after a hundred million years, the number of Sovereigns regularly cultivating within the Ming Jian Saint Realm had swelled beyond a hundred thousand. Those nominally affiliated with the realm reached an astonishing two hundred thousand.

The Ming Jian Saint Realm had undeniably become the greatest power in the Ling Jiang Universe, with macrocosm after macrocosm falling under its dominion. Even the once-overwhelming might of the Eldritch Court's Ling Jiang Saintdom now paled in comparison. This was partly because Wu Yuan still refrained from revealing the connection between his two true selves, maintaining the Ming Jian Saint Realm in a semi-independent state.

...

Within the Long Shan Universe, a parallel situation unfolded. The Saint Realm established by Wu Yuan's body refiner self quickly attracted over a hundred thousand resident Sovereigns, though most originated from the Eldritch Court's Long Shan Saintdom.

...

In the Ling Jiang Universe, the Ming Jian Saint Realm radiated prosperity. Countless worlds flourished within its boundaries, each nurturing multitudes of living beings across diverse ecosystems.

At the very heart of this majestic realm stood the Dragon Star Continent, the most resplendent and vibrant region of all. Ming Jian had deliberately named the Saint Realm's main continent after the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, honoring the humble origins that shaped his journey.

A silver streak cut through the air as a figure emerged from an enormous spacetime vortex. Her eyes widened at the first glimpse of the magnificent continent below, with its sprawling landscapes and glittering halls rising toward the heavens. Waves of powerful auras surged skyward.

So this is the legendary Dragon Star Continent.

The silver-robed beauty mused silently.

Ming Jian is indeed one who treasures old connections.

This marked her first journey into the Ming Jian Saint Realm after a hundred million years.

It seems Overlord Shan Jin, Overlord Xue Li, and the others have all taken up residence here

. She thought to herself.

She knew that the Taiyuan Divine Court headquarters had long since relocated to the Saint Realm, leaving its original establishment with a far smaller population.

With a graceful motion, the silver-robed figure soared away from the Saint Realm passage, following an intuitive pull. As she flew, she observed countless sempiternal lifeforms traversing the skies above the continent. They were primarily Astral Monarchs, with occasional Sovereign powerhouses gliding majestically among the clouds.

The concentration of powerhouses here dwarfed any Saintdom she had ever encountered throughout the universe.

Suddenly, a flash of blue caught her attention. A figure bearing a cold and aloof countenance, emanating traces of eternal Dao resonance, shot forth from a hall suspended in the void. This new arrival descended swiftly, immediately drawing the attention of powerful beings in all directions.

"Overlord!"

"It's Overlord Lan Yan!"

"Greetings to Overlord Lan Yan." Many Sovereigns and Astral Monarchs bowed respectfully as the blue-robed figure passed.

The residents of Dragon Star Continent recognized Overlord Lan Yan instantly. She was the highest Overlord Law Enforcer of the Saint Realm, who commanded extraordinary respect and authority.

Overlord Lan Yan, however, flew directly toward the silver-robed beauty, descending gracefully.

"Overlord Lan Yan." The silver-robed beauty offered a respectful greeting, her heart tightening involuntarily beneath her composed exterior.

"Sovereign Haiyue, we haven't crossed paths since our parting at Spacetime Island a hundred million years ago," Overlord Lan Yan smiled warmly as she studied the other woman. "Now, I see you've blossomed into a formidable late-stage Sovereign."

Indeed, the silver-robed beauty was none other than Zhuo Haiyue.

"I never properly expressed my gratitude for your guidance back then, Overlord," Zhuo Haiyue said, genuine appreciation warming her voice.

"Back then, I merely followed the Dao Master's instructions," Overlord Lan Yan replied with an elegant smile. "You and the True Saint shone as the two most brilliant talents on Spacetime Island. Naturally, I offered what guidance I could.

"Time flows like a swift river. You've cultivated to the eighth-stage Sovereign level in just a hundred million years. Your chances of ascending to Overlord in the future are exceedingly promising."

"I’m far from your level," Zhuo Haiyue demurred, shaking her head. "Your strength is remarkable even among Overlords. Besides, my rapid advancement is mostly thanks to the True Saint's consistent support behind the scenes."

Becoming an eighth-stage Sovereign in a mere hundred million years was considered extraordinarily rapid progress among the countless Sovereigns throughout the cosmic sea. Even many Overlords hadn't developed at such a pace during their formative periods.

"If I couldn't at least reach late-stage Sovereign in a hundred million years, I would be squandering all the resources given to me," Zhuo Haiyue added, her voice tinged with determination.

"External assistance represents only one aspect of advancement. What truly matters is one's personal dedication and effort," Overlord Lan Yan responded gently. "If you frame your achievements that way, how could I not attribute my current strength to the True Saint's benevolence?"

Overlord Lan Yan had originally served as an Overlord within the Spacetime Dao Realm. But when Wu Yuan established the Saint Realm, following the directive of Zi Kong, the entire Spacetime Dao Realm had pledged allegiance to the Ming Jian Saint Realm.

Naturally, Overlord Lan Yan had received considerable attention, benefiting from numerous insights and direct assistance from the True Saint. After a hundred million years of diligent cultivation, she had created a limitbreak Overlord ultimate technique. Combined with the many treasures Wu Yuan had bestowed upon her, her strength now approached that of a fourth-stage Overlord. It was a truly formidable achievement.

"Come," Overlord Lan Yan said with a welcoming gesture, "the True Saint instructed me to receive you personally. He awaits your arrival in the Saint Hall."

"Waiting for me?" Zhuo Haiyue's heart quickened as she nodded in acknowledgment.

Overlord Lan Yan waved her hand, enveloping Zhuo Haiyue in an invisible force. Together they soared skyward, racing toward the magnificent halls that floated in the endless void above.

"Is that Sovereign Haiyue?"

"So she's the legendary Sovereign Haiyue? Reaching late-stage Sovereign in just a hundred million years—truly remarkable."

"I've heard that Sovereign Haiyue and the True Saint share a special bond, companions from the very beginning."

"Close friends? No one can say for sure, though they certainly emerged from the same macrocosm."

"If we're discussing friendship, surely the True Saint's best friend must be True Saint Wu Yuan?" The cultivators below continued their speculative murmurs.

Throughout the hundred million years that had passed, several exceptional talents had risen to prominence in the Ling Jiang Universe. Among them, Zhuo Haiyue had carved out a distinguished reputation. At the very least, most Sovereigns throughout the universe had heard tales of her.

...

Overlord Lan Yan led Zhuo Haiyue through the sprawling hall complex, gesturing toward various residences as they walked.

"That hall is yours," Overlord Lan Yan said, extending a finger toward an elegant, serene hall, "Everything has been prepared, you only have to move in."

"Prepared... for me?" Zhuo Haiyue's breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening slightly.

"Those permitted to dwell here must represent the very core of the Saint Realm, correct?"

"Indeed." Overlord Lan Yan smiled. "The mainland is divided into nine levels, ascending in importance. At the summit resides the True Saint himself. The higher one dwells, the greater their standing."

She gestured upward. "The eighth level houses the True Saint's masters, grandmaster, and other figures."

"This seventh level," she continued, "is where I reside, alongside fellow Overlords of the Taiyuan Divine Court and True Saint Wu Yuan's family members. We all hold positions of exceptional importance to the True Saint." Her eyes sparkled meaningfully. "And now, you will be joining us as well."

Lan Yan's unusual warmth toward Zhuo Haiyue stemmed from one simple observation—Ming Jian's actions clearly demonstrated how highly he valued her.

"The seventh level?" Warmth bloomed in Zhuo Haiyue's chest. She understood that a being of Ming Jian's power and status had no need for pretense or empty gestures. His actions revealed that he genuinely cared for her.

"True Saint Wu Yuan's family resides here too?" she asked, curiosity coloring her voice.

"Yes," Lan Yan confirmed with a slight nod. "The two True Saints share a bond forged through life and death." She released a soft sigh, laden with reverence. "True Saint Wu Yuan even gave up the entire Ling Jiang Universe for True Saint Ming Jian. Such magnificent selflessness!

"However, True Saint Wu Yuan's closest kin are all native-born beings of the Ling Jiang Universe and cannot migrate to the Long Shan Universe. Thus, they've been relocated here to the seventh level, where their safety is guaranteed.

"Furthermore, you may not yet be aware of this, but several of True Saint Wu Yuan's closest relatives, including his mother and sister, have already become Sovereigns.

“Hundreds of millions of years ago, when the True Saint underwent Dao Enlightenment, they had barely become Archimmortals." She glanced at Zhuo Haiyue. "You may encounter them occasionally. It's hardly classified information."

"Hundreds of millions of years... from Archimmortal to Sovereign?" Zhuo Haiyue couldn't mask her astonishment, her delicate brows arching upward.

For an ordinary mortal, barely reaching the Archimmortal phase after dedicating a million years to cultivation would indicate mediocre talent at best. To reach the Astral Monarch phase after hundreds of millions of years would be considered impressive.

But to become Sovereigns? It seemed utterly inconceivable.

"Great Dao imprint?" Zhuo Haiyue wondered aloud softly, considering the possibility.

"Perhaps. But there is no point in speculating," Lan Yan replied with an enigmatic smile. "Let us simply say the True Saint's methods transcend our understanding."

"Hmm." Zhuo Haiyue nodded slightly, her admiration deepening.

The passage of countless eons had widened the gulf between herself and the True Saint to proportions she could scarcely comprehend.

"Let us proceed to the ninth level," Sovereign Lan Yan said.

She guided Zhuo Haiyue upward, level by level. As they climbed, the halls grew increasingly sparse. Finally, the pair arrived before an immense, ancient-looking azure temple.

Before the temple stood a divine sword, thrust into the ground. Its sword qi billowed outward, shrouding the endless void. Within that vast expanse of swirling sword qi, several shadowy figures could be discerned, each deep in meditation.

"Who are they?" Zhuo Haiyue asked, unable to contain her curiosity.

"Those are some of True Saint's nominal disciples," Lan Yan explained. "Those who receive guidance from the True Saint possess the potential to become Supreme Geniuses. But whether any will earn the honor of becoming his direct disciples remains uncertain. The True Saint's standards are exceedingly stringent."

Zhuo Haiyue felt a wave of disorientation wash over her.

Supreme Geniuses? Anyone whose Dao comprehension reached the Sovereign level within a million years would be hailed as a Supreme Genius among mortals.

Yet these were merely Ming Jian's nominal disciples?

"Pay them little mind," Lan Yan advised, noting Haiyue’s expression. "The True Saint has accepted numerous nominal disciples over the centuries, but few have ever truly captured his attention."

She beckoned with a graceful gesture. "Follow me."

The two women soared directly into the temple's open entrance. What greeted Zhuo Haiyue's eyes stole her breath—rows of towering divine pillars stretched before them, each inscribed with countless mysterious Dao patterns that seemed to illustrate infinite aspects of the Great Dao.

The inscriptions were far too profound. Zhuo Haiyue barely glanced at them before vertigo threatened to overwhelm her. She quickly averted her gaze.

"These pillars in the outer hall hold ultimate techniques and secret arts that the True Saint created during moments of idle contemplation.” Lan Yan explained with a light laugh.

“According to his instructions, any Overlord who has gained sufficient insight and resides above the sixth level may study them at their leisure. Each pillar encapsulates a complete secret art."

She gestured to the seemingly endless columns. "There are three thousand pillars in total.

"Successfully cultivating any one secret art guarantees a personal reward from the True Saint himself," Lan Yan added with a wistful sigh. "The difficulty, however, is nearly insurmountable. I've attempted to comprehend over a dozen of these ultimate techniques, yet haven't succeeded at all.

"Each represents an eternal ultimate technique."

Zhuo Haiyue listened in stunned amazement.

Three thousand pillars. Three thousand eternal ultimate techniques. All created by True Saint Ming Jian as mere afterthoughts.

A profound sense of awe swept through her. The True Saint, once a friend in her youth, had truly evolved into a supreme being who commanded the entire universe with absolute authority.