In the city of Huagu, a place no less significant than Tianbei City, though quite distant from it and barely within the reach of the Wind and Thunder Pavilion’s influence. The city was dominated by the Bone Transformation Sect, a group renowned for its unique abilities. Despite the presence of numerous other factions, none could match the might of the Bone Transformation Sect. The sect operated with a meticulous balance—while always ensuring their own benefit, they never monopolized all the gains. Over the years, this practice had solidified their dominance over Huagu City, and few dared to challenge them. The Bone Transformation Sect primarily practiced water elemental techniques, which had a strange, almost uncanny nature. When engaging in combat, their methods would subtly erode an opponent’s body, softening their bones without their knowledge. Thus, the sect’s reputation extended far beyond the city’s borders.
After leaving Tianbei City, Xiao Yan had been on a relentless journey, traveling through deep and dense forests, and guessing he had gradually left the territory of the Wind and Thunder Pavilion. Being unfamiliar with the area, he decided to pause here, aiming to first secure a map of the Northern Region. He also needed to gather some medicinal ingredients and information.
Huagu City bore a pale, ghostly hue, giving the impression of a city built from bones, sending a chill down one’s spine. Yet, inside the city, the bustling atmosphere remained undiminished. This was the first human settlement Xiao Yan had entered after his grueling days of travel. The cacophony of voices, while initially overwhelming, slowly faded as he adjusted. He wandered into the city, seeking a shop to find his map.
Maps of the Northern Region were not rare, and Xiao Yan soon found a map shop named Map Pavilion. Stepping inside, he was momentarily lost in memories. His first encounter with Haitian Dong in the Gama Empire had taken place in a similar shop, where he had acquired the second fragment of the Pure Lotus Demon Flame. Sighing wistfully, he refocused on his task. Despite possessing three fragments, luck had eluded him in finding the fourth, something that gnawed at him. If he could ever obtain and consume the Pure Lotus Demon Flame, ranked third among the mystical fires, his strength would see a dramatic leap. Alas, fate had not been so kind.
“Is the young master here to purchase a map?” The shopkeeper, an elderly man, welcomed Xiao Yan.
“Give me your most detailed map of the Northern Region,” Xiao Yan replied, scanning the store. The old man quickly fetched a finely crafted scroll and handed it over, smiling. “This is our most comprehensive map, for just thirty thousand gold coins.”
Xiao Yan rolled his eyes but paid the price, uninterested in haggling. As he turned to leave, the old man called out, “Young master, wait a moment. You seem new to the area. Are you perhaps here for the Heavenly Mountain Blood Pond in the Tianmu Mountains?”
The mention piqued Xiao Yan’s interest. Having heard the terms before in the city, he was curious. The old man explained, “The Heavenly Mountain Blood Pond is a legendary place. Every three years, a tidal wave of energy appears atop the volcanic peak of the Tianmu Mountains. After this, the pond is filled with a mysterious red liquid. This pond only lasts five days, attracting countless powerful practitioners. Many seek to use it to break through from the Battle Emperor Peak to the Zong rank, or to cleanse and strengthen their bodies. The next appearance is next month, so many are already heading there. I can sell you a map of the Tianmu Mountains for just forty thousand gold coins. With it, you could reach the summit before others.”
Xiao Yan was amused by the sales pitch. The prospect of the Heavenly Mountain Blood Pond intrigued him. It could be a key to his imminent breakthrough. Agreeing, he bought the map.
As he left the shop, Xiao Yan also gathered some essential herbs, including the Water Spirit Lotus Seeds for the Clear Soul Pill. The trip around the city provided more information about the Heavenly Mountain Blood Pond. It was a popular destination, and many in the city spoke of it with enthusiasm. He decided to rest for the night and join the journey the next day. If he could be among the first ten to reach the pond, it might be the key to breaking through to the Zong rank.
His heart raced with anticipation. The Central Plains was indeed a place of wonders, and he was determined to seize this opportunity.
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