Chương 143: Hunting Demons in the Outer Seas!

The dark golden light tore through the sky, its speed far exceeding that of an ordinary Core Formation cultivator's escape light.

In just half a day, the majestic holy mountain city that stood tall and pierced the sea of clouds reappeared in sight.

As Zhou Ding rode Little Gold near the outer perimeter of Tianxing City's conventional defensive light barrier, he retrieved it into his spirit beast pouch. He then concealed his aura, transforming into an inconspicuous streak of azure light, and quietly returned to the city through the designated entrance passage.

Although he had only been away for a few days, Zhou Ding's state of mind was quite different upon returning to this familiar yet unfamiliar hustle and bustle, and feeling the omnipresent rich spiritual energy of the sacred mountain.

Xiao Jin successfully advanced to level six, and his strength was enhanced in all aspects. This weighty gain and confidence made him more composed and calm as he walked through the chaotic Tianxing City.

Upon returning to the "Cloud and Mist Cave," the cave's restrictions sensed his presence and quietly opened a portal.

As soon as he stepped into the front hall, two pairs of eyes, filled with concern and urgency, were cast his way.

"Zhou Lang!"

"Son-in-law!"

Xin Ruyin and Xiao Mei emerged from their respective quiet rooms almost simultaneously to greet her.

Xin Ruyin's beautiful eyes quickly swept over him. Seeing that his aura was calm and there were no signs of injury or disordered magic, the worry in her eyes lessened slightly, but she still asked, "Is everything alright? Little Jin, it—" Xiao Mei also stared at Zhou Ding with eager eyes, her little face full of curiosity and anticipation.

Zhou Ding looked at Liang An, a gentle smile on his face, and nodded: "Don't worry, everything went smoothly. Little Jin has successfully advanced to level six and is currently stabilizing its realm in the spirit beast pouch. I also—have gained a little."

Upon hearing "successfully advanced to level six," Xin Ruyin and Xiao Mei's eyes simultaneously lit up with surprise.

Level 6 monster!

That's comparable to a late-stage Core Formation cultivator!

With Xiao Jin as their trump card, they undoubtedly have much more confidence in Tianxing City and even in the entire Chaotic Star Sea.

"That's wonderful! Congratulations, Mr. Zhou!" the two women exclaimed in unison, their faces beaming with genuine smiles.

"Thank you for your hard work in protecting our home."

Zhou Ding smiled, then his expression turned slightly serious: "I need to go into seclusion for a few days to consolidate what I've gained. Don't disturb me unless it's urgent."

"Yes, Mr. Zhou (son-in-law) may go ahead." The two women naturally agreed.

Zhou Ding returned to his main meditation room and activated the strongest protective and soundproofing barriers.

He did not immediately begin meditation, but instead sat quietly alone for a while, carefully experiencing the transformative changes within his body.

A physical body that is incomparably powerful enough to rival a Nascent Soul cultivator; a terrifying divine sense that is as vast as the sea, covering three hundred miles, and reaching the late Nascent Soul stage; a lifespan that has increased to a long one thousand five hundred years—all of this truly exists.

Although his magical cultivation level is still at the mid-stage of Core Formation, his overall strength has undergone a tremendous change.

"Now, I can finally say that I have a foothold in this chaotic star sea," Zhou Ding muttered to himself, a sharp glint in his eyes.

Although he was once a respected elder of the Six Halls, he had no choice but to temporarily avoid the threat from Miao Li and the Reverse Star Alliance and went to Tianxing City.

Now, even without relying on external objects such as the "Eight Gates Golden Light Mirror," he is confident that he can protect himself and even hold his own against early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators, relying solely on himself and Little Gold.

Even if all means are used, the outcome is still uncertain.

The sense of security and control that comes with this strength is incomparable to anything external or empty fame.

The improvement in his strength also brought back some long-suppressed thoughts to the surface.

With a thought, he took out the yellowed animal skin map from the deepest part of his storage bag.

The map of ruins was obtained from the ancient box of "Tianjing Sanren".

On the map, the strangely shaped island marked with the words "Sky Mirror" and the dotted line pointing to the depths of the outer sea seemed to radiate an irresistible allure in his eyes.

"The legacy of the Heavenly Mirror Hermit—The Outer Star Sea—" Zhou Ding's fingers gently brushed across the rough surface of the map, his eyes deep.

The Outer Sea is a true paradise for monsters, a forbidden zone for humans, and a treasure trove where opportunities and dangers coexist.

In the past, due to his lack of strength, although he possessed this map, he could only keep it hidden and dared not entertain any thoughts of getting involved.

After all, the depths of the outer sea are teeming with level seven and eight monsters, and even legendary level nine and ten monsters lurk there, making it far more dangerous than the inner sea.

With his previous cultivation level of mid-stage Core Formation, going there rashly would be tantamount to courting death.

But now, the situation is different.

Xiao Jin has advanced to level six, making him as strong as someone in the early stages of the Nascent Soul realm. He also possesses incredible defensive capabilities, making him an excellent tank and combatant.

His own strength increased dramatically, his divine sense became powerful, and his ability to protect himself greatly improved.

More importantly, he has a long lifespan, giving him ample time to prepare, to take risks, and to seek out extraordinary opportunities that could fundamentally transform his path.

"With my current strength, as long as I don't venture into the core and most dangerous areas of the outer sea, but only search for the ruins of this 'Heavenly Mirror' on the outer edge, and incidentally hunt some level six and seven demonic beasts to obtain materials and demon cores, which can then be exchanged for spirit stones and cultivation resources—that should be feasible." Zhou Ding quickly weighed the options in his mind.

There are many alien sea monsters, and they are generally of high level. The materials and demon cores on their bodies are priceless.

Hunting monsters can hone your combat skills, acquire resources, and explore ruins—a win-win situation.

More importantly, the outer sea is far from the major powers of the inner sea and the environment is complex. There, he can act more freely and does not have to be as cautious as he is in Tianxing City.

Having thought this through, Zhou Ding had already made up his mind.

A few days later, Zhou Ding ended his brief seclusion and adjusted himself to his best condition.

He arrived at the front hall, where Xin Ruyin was tending to the newly transplanted spirit flowers in the courtyard, while Xiao Mei was in the pavilion nearby, intently drawing a complex talisman.

"Ruyin, Xiaomei, there's something I need to discuss with you," Zhou Ding said.

Upon hearing this, the two women put down what they were doing and came over.

"Zhou Lang, what is it?" Xin Ruyin asked.

"I plan to go to the Outer Sea," Zhou Ding said bluntly.

"An alien sea?!" Xiao Mei exclaimed in surprise, and Xin Ruyin also looked surprised.

"Yes, my strength has improved, and Xiao Jin has also advanced, greatly increasing our ability to protect ourselves."

Although the outer sea is dangerous, the opportunities and resources it offers far exceed those of the inner sea.

I have an ancient map that points to a possible site of ancient ruins in the outer seas, and I want to go and explore it.

At the same time, they also planned to hunt some demonic beasts on the edge of the outer sea to obtain cultivation resources.

Zhou Ding revealed his plans in detail.

"The alien sea is too dangerous! Young master, I'll go with you! I'm a Core Formation cultivator now, I can be of help!"

Xiao Mei immediately jumped up, her little face full of eagerness, waving her little fists: "My Azure Wave Sword and talismans are not to be trifled with! And the Five Elements Universe Formation that Miss gave me can even trap a late-stage Core Formation demon beast!"

Although Xin Ruyin did not speak, her calm and beautiful eyes were fixed on Zhou Ding, and her concern and determination were self-evident.

She spoke softly, her voice gentle yet undeniably firm: "Zhou Lang, the outer sea is no small matter. The more people there are, the more protection we'll have. Although I'm not good at direct combat, my knowledge of formations might play an unexpected role in the complex environment of the outer sea. Let me go with you."

Seeing the unwavering trust and determination in the eyes of the two women, Zhou Ding felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

But he slowly shook his head, his tone gentle yet unusually firm: "I am naturally aware of your strength. In particular, Ruyin's array formation and Xiaomei's talismans are both top-notch among their peers. However, this trip to the outer sea is not a simple training or short-distance demon hunting."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the two women, and said seriously, "The outer sea is teeming with monsters, a harsh environment, and fraught with danger. Not only are there powerful monsters, but also unpredictable celestial phenomena, natural dead zones, and—other monster-hunting cultivators who also live on the edge and whose intentions are unfathomable.

With your current cultivation levels, you might be able to protect yourselves on the edge of the outer sea, but if you venture deeper to explore the ruins or encounter unexpected events, I'm afraid you'll be overwhelmed and would only distract me from taking care of you."

He looked at Xin Ruyin and said gently, "Ruyin, your mastery of formations is one of my greatest strengths. However, the spiritual energy is chaotic and the space is unstable in many places in the Outer Sea, so formations may not be able to be used as usual. Moreover, your cultivation is still in the early stage of Core Formation, and spending a long time in the high-intensity crisis environment of the Outer Sea will take a heavy toll on your mind."

He then looked at Xiaomei and patted her head: "Girl, I understand your feelings. But you've only just formed your core, your cultivation level isn't fully stable yet, and you lack practical experience. Battles in the outer seas are often unpredictable and incredibly cruel, far beyond what sparring can do. I need you to stay here, guard our home, cultivate peacefully, and improve your strength. Once you've reached a higher level and gained more experience, we can venture out together."

"But—" Xiaomei wanted to argue, but her eyes were already red.

She knew her cultivation was still shallow, and what her son-in-law said made sense, but she still couldn't put her mind at ease.

Xin Ruyin remained silent for a moment. With her keener sense of reason, she knew that Zhou Ding's decision must have been made after careful consideration.

His refusal to let them accompany him was not out of contempt, but rather because he prioritized their safety.

She stepped forward, gently took Zhou Ding's hand, gazed deeply into his eyes, and said softly, "Zhou Lang, I know your heart. On your journey, you must be careful in everything you do, and make sure you protect yourself. As for the ruins, you can proceed slowly and surely, and do not be greedy for quick results."

Xiaomei and I will wait for your safe return in the cave.

Her voice was gentle, yet carried immense power; it was understanding, support, unreserved trust, and the deepest concern.

"Miss----" Seeing Xin Ruyin's words, Xiaomei knew the situation was hopeless, so she pouted and said in a muffled voice, "Then—then you must be careful, young master! Come back soon! Miss and I will cultivate diligently and wait for you to take us with you!"

"Okay, I promise you."

Zhou Ding squeezed Xin Ruyin's hand tightly and gave Xiao Mei a reassuring look: "When I'm not here, keep the cave's array fully activated. Don't go out unless absolutely necessary. If there's an emergency, you can contact Xia Yuanyuan of the Miaoyin Sect for help. I'll be back as soon as possible."

The next morning, as dawn broke.

Zhou Ding bid farewell to Xin Ruyin and Xiao Mei, who had seen him off at the entrance of the cave with worried and reluctant eyes. He then rode his escape light and, instead of descending the mountain, flew towards a higher level of the sacred mountain.

The sacred mountain has fifty levels.

Unlike the bustling scene of cave dwellings, shops, and markets on the lower levels, this level appears exceptionally spacious and solemn.

🇧🇷 The buildings are sparse, and most are constructed of massive stones, exhibiting a rugged and heavy style.

The air was filled with a faint, strange charm, a mixture of spatial fluctuations and an ancient atmosphere.

Zhou Ding's escape light landed in front of a magnificent white marble palace.

This palace was exceptionally tall and covered a vast area. It was entirely constructed of an unknown white spirit jade, which radiated a warm and solemn luster in the morning light.

The palace gate is ten zhang high and is made of a single piece of "ten-thousand-year-old ironwood". It is extremely heavy and its surface is carved with mysterious patterns of the sun, moon, stars and void teleportation.

Above the temple gate hangs a huge plaque several meters long, inscribed with three ancient seal characters written in brilliant gold powder, exuding a natural and elegant Taoist charm.

Starry Sky Palace!

This place is the "Star Palace," the overlord that rules the chaotic star sea. It is located on the sacred mountain and serves as a super teleportation hub that connects the inner and outer star seas, as well as some distant sea areas!

Through the ultra-long-distance teleportation arrays built and maintained within the palace at the cost of massive resources, cultivators can instantly traverse terrifying distances of millions or even tens of millions of miles to reach the "Demon Beast Islands" deep within the outer seas, which are controlled by the Star Palace and serve as forward bases.

This greatly shortens the time and risks of long journeys, and also makes the outer sea monster hunting, which is extremely dangerous for inner sea cultivators, a feasible, albeit still dangerous, path to "wealth" and "training".

Of course, using such a long-distance teleportation array comes at a high price.

Each teleportation requires a payment of 700 low-grade spirit stones, regardless of cultivation level!

This is something that ordinary low-level cultivators cannot afford. Therefore, those who come and go from this place are at least wealthy individuals in the late Foundation Establishment stage, or Core Formation cultivators with considerable wealth.

Zhou Ding straightened his robes and calmly strode towards the heavy palace gate.

The palace door was not completely closed, leaving a gap through which one could faintly hear hushed conversations and footsteps in different accents coming from inside.

Stepping into the hall, a bright and spacious view suddenly opened up before me.

This is an extremely spacious, circular hall that is tens of meters high.

The hall floor was paved with smooth, mirror-like black stone slabs, engraved with intricate spatial array patterns that shimmered with a faint light. These patterns radiated outwards from the center of the hall like a spider web, eventually connecting to twelve enormous light gates, each five or six zhang tall, distributed on the surrounding walls, emitting spatial fluctuations of different colors!

Each light gate is a different color, representing a different alien sea called "Demon Island".

Before each gate of light, there is a cultivator wearing a silver robe of the Star Palace, with a calm aura and a cultivation level of at least the Pseudo-Core stage, who is responsible for verifying identities, collecting spirit stones, and maintaining order.

At this moment, dozens of cultivators had gathered in the hall. Most of these people possessed a sharp and powerful aura, and their bodies carried a faint scent of blood or the dust of travel, clearly indicating that they were demon hunters or adventurers who had spent years licking blood from the edge of a knife. Their cultivation levels ranged from the late Foundation Establishment stage to the Core Formation stage, with about five or six Core Formation cultivators among them.

They were scattered in various places, some meditating alone with their eyes closed, others conversing in hushed tones with acquaintances, their eyes warily scanning their surroundings.

Zhou Ding's entry did not cause much of a stir, but it still attracted a lot of attention. His mid-stage Core Formation spiritual pressure, which he did not deliberately conceal, was already among the best in this group.

Especially some cultivator teams that were preparing to gather enough people to split the teleportation fee couldn't help but show a hint of joy when they saw another Core Formation cultivator coming alone.

"Another Core Formation stage cultivator has arrived! Judging by his aura, he seems to be in the mid-stage?"

"A lone mid-stage Core Formation cultivator? That's rare. I wonder which island they're heading to?"

"Hey, who cares which island we go to? The more people there are, the fewer spirit stones we'll share. I just wonder if this senior would be willing to share a teleportation slot with us Foundation Establishment cultivators."

Several subtle thoughts exchanged rapidly in the air.

For many cultivators who are not wealthy, the teleportation fee of 700 spirit stones is a huge sum. If they can gather seven or eight people, or even ten or more, to teleport together, the cost per person is only a few dozen to a hundred spirit stones, greatly reducing the burden.

Therefore, it is common to form temporary teams and pool resources to cover teleportation costs within this Starry Sky Palace.

Zhou Ding seemed oblivious to the curious or calculating glances he received from those around him.

He walked straight to one side of the hall, where a huge jade wall displaying a notice illuminated by spiritual light stood. It clearly listed the names, approximate locations, main types of monsters produced, danger level assessments, and recent monster activity reports of the twelve "Monster Islands" for the cultivators to refer to and choose from.

His gaze swept quickly across the jade disc, finally settling on an island labeled "Black Dragon Island," with a danger level of "medium to high," primarily producing level 5 or 6 earth, metal, and water attribute monsters, and relatively close to the direction of the "Heavenly Mirror" ruins shown on the ancient map in his hand.

"This is it." Zhou Ding made up his mind and turned to walk towards the earthen-yellow light gate marked "Black Dragon Island".