C1355 An Xin!
C1355 An Xin!
Lin Qiyuan, acting swiftly, used his token to deactivate the protective shield generated by the grand formation. Following him were the Ming Chang Royal Family's elite, including Nie Xiong, as well as Liu Wuya, the Sect Master of the Drifting Cloud Sect, and others. These individuals were the most esteemed within the valley.
Yet now, they had all pledged allegiance to Tianyuan Palace. Their former alliances had dissolved, transforming into various halls within the Tianyuan Palace. Lin Qiyuan, Lin Xuan's father-in-law, held the highest rank and power among them. In Lin Xuan's absence, he had taken the reins.
"Your servant, Lin Qiyuan!"
"Your servant, Nie Xiong!"
"Your servant, Liu Wuya!"
"Greetings, Hall Master!"
They emerged from the valley, bowing respectfully to Lin Xuan. Since founding Tianyuan Palace, Lin Xuan had established rules to ensure the sect's smooth operation. Such formalities were essential.
"Alright, let's go inside," Lin Xuan said with a nod, gesturing with a sweep of his sleeve. The group instinctively straightened up. Lin Xuan allowed Tian to frolic nearby as he made his way deeper into the valley, with Lin Qiyuan, Nie Xiong, and the rest in tow.
Lin Xuan's absence had been brief, yet the continent's landscape had shifted dramatically, becoming fraught with peril. They were acutely aware that war had engulfed the land. Beyond the few dominant overlords, everyone lived in a state of constant threat. Their small force was no exception.
Even formidable forces, with Emperor Level Experts at the helm, had fallen one by one. The continent had lost its former tranquility. Thankfully, Lin Xuan had timely evacuated them from Fengwu State to this secluded, unnamed valley. Otherwise, they might have faced destruction.
Still, they lived in a state of perpetual anxiety, no longer daring to venture out recklessly. To the vast continent, they were but insignificant ants; amidst such turmoil, even the slightest disturbance could engulf them.
Fortunately, Lin Xuan had the foresight to set up a high-level Spell Formation in the valley before his departure. He also captured three King Level Demonic Beasts to reside nearby, offering their protection. Additionally, the war had not yet reached this area, which was the only reason they remained safe. However, there was no telling how long this peace would last.
It wasn't until Lin Xuan's return today that everyone truly felt at ease, knowing they had their pillar of strength back. Lin Xuan was known for his ability to work wonders and turn the impossible into reality. Moreover, he was believed to have attained Emperor Level strength, which was more than sufficient to safeguard the entire Tianyuan Palace.
In these tumultuous times, the ability to protect oneself was incredibly precious, a realization that had now dawned on them. As they made their way through, every martial artist they encountered bowed respectfully, their faces alight with admiration and joy.
For Tianyuan Palace, Lin Xuan was the sky that held up the entire sect. With his return, the issues that once seemed insurmountable were no longer concerns. Upon entering the valley, they found it transformed from its once desolate state. In the months that had passed, numerous palaces, houses, and other structures had been erected, bustling with activity and exuding the vibrancy of a well-established faction.
Lin Xuan surveyed the scene and nodded in approval. Yet, he knew this place would soon be left behind in favor of a superior location. Shortly after, they reached the main hall, where Lin Xuan took his place at the head. The Martial Puppet stood by his side, its aura of cultivation discreetly concealed. If it hadn't been, the overwhelming presence of an Emperor Level Expert might have been lethal to most of the martial artists present.
Revealing himself on the road had been a necessity to expedite their travel and avoid complications. Now, among the closest of his relations in this world, there was no need for such displays. Below him sat Lin Qiyuan, Nie Xiong, and Liu Wuya, while the younger generation, including Liu Qianyu and Nie Mingchang, were also present in the hall.
With a sweeping glance, Lin Xuan assessed everyone's cultivation levels, which were much the same as when he had left. Most had maintained their previous realm, with only a few having advanced to level 1.
These individuals hail from a lower-tier region, the Fengwu State. Even within Fengwu State, they are not among the elite. Their progress is to be expected. Lin Xuan can only ensure that they live a life free from worries, with ample wealth and resources. As for any significant achievements, he doesn't hold out much hope.
"Hall Master Lin, in the months I've been away, how has the sect fared? Have we encountered any issues?" Lin Xuan inquired, turning to Lin Qiyuan.
In private, Lin Qiyuan is Lin Xuan's father-in-law. But in this setting, protocol must be observed. Without it, the sect's continuity would be at risk.
"Responding to the Hall Master, with the resources you provided, I've allocated them accordingly over these past months. The sect has seen smooth development, with many disciples making notable strides in their cultivation. As per your instructions, we've kept a low profile to avoid drawing attention from external enemies and powers. However, as you predicted before your departure, the entire continent has been engulfed in war. Countless warriors have perished, and numerous sects have been wiped out. As a fledgling establishment, Tianyuan Palace must consider its next steps. Hall Master, could you offer some guidance?"
The others in the hall also turned their attention to Lin Xuan. As the hall master of Tianyuan Palace and the heart of the sect, everything depended on his guidance. They were too weak to dictate their own destinies.
"Don't worry," Lin Xuan reassured them with a smile, "This conflict, instigated by the Devil Cloud Sect, will soon be resolved. You have no need for concern."
Lin Xuan offered his assurance, though he kept the details vague. The notion was too far-fetched for Lin Qiyuan, Nie Xiong, and the rest to grasp. They couldn't yet believe it. It was better to wait until he accomplished the task and let the results speak for themselves.
Upon hearing Lin Xuan's words, Lin Qiyuan and the others, though not fully comprehending, chose to trust him unconditionally. They had witnessed Lin Xuan's capabilities and strength, and that was enough to sustain their faith.
Lin Xuan posed several more questions and received thorough responses, which allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of the current state of Tianyuan Palace. After some time spent in conversation, Lin Xuan requested that the others leave, keeping only Lin Qiyuan behind.
"Father-in-law, how are you finding life here? Is there anything that's not to your satisfaction?" Lin Xuan inquired with a warm smile.
Among all those in the valley, Lin Qiyuan shared the closest bond with him.
"Life here is very good, and I owe much of that to you, Xuan. Without your help, neither I nor the Lin Family would have experienced such good fortune. The level of cultivation I've reached now was once beyond my wildest dreams. But what about you, Xuan? These past few months have been tumultuous, with the continent engulfed in war. Are you doing okay?" Lin Qiyuan always treated Lin Xuan as a younger family member, and his demeanor was affectionate and kind.