Shui Miao’s confidence was closely tied to his recent recollection of the arrays in the other three layers.
The first layer was the Five Elements Storm Array.
The second, third, and fourth layers were great arrays of water, metal, and earth respectively, while the fifth layer was the fire array of the Fire Holy Hall, clearly following the sequence of the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the arrays in the earlier layers were quite similar.
Following this pattern, Shui Miao assumed the core of the fifth layer’s array would also be in the same position as before.
Bu Fa stroked his beard, considering it worth a try.
Thus, Shui Miao instructed Bu Fa to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth layer’s array, following the layouts of the previous arrays.
Bu Fa, with his profound cultivation, could sense with his divine consciousness without being deceived by illusions.
Shui Miao’s confidence stemmed from his recent insight into the formations of the other three levels stored in his memory.
The first level was the Wind and Cloud Five Phases Formation.
The second, third, and fourth levels were respectively the Water Element Formation, Metal Element Formation, and Earth Element Formation, while the fifth level was the Fire Element Formation of the Fire Sanctuary. Clearly, the formations followed the sequence of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the previous formations were largely similar.
Relying on conventional human thinking, Shui Miao assumed the core of the Fire Sanctuary’s formation on the fifth level would also be in the same familiar location.
Bù Fǎ stroked his beard, considering it worth a try.
Thus, following the layouts of the previous formations, Shui Miao guided Bù Fǎ to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth level’s formation.
Bù Fǎ, with his profound cultivation, used his spiritual sense to avoid being deceived by the illusion formation.
After a moment, Bù Fǎ opened his eyes, his eyebrows twitching slightly. “Shui Miao, the location you mentioned indeed hides a powerfully enchanted artifact. Based on my deduction, I suspect a top-grade immortal treasure cauldron is concealed beneath. This cauldron is of medium quality and contains a Five Elements mutual generation formation. Try using your Spirit Devouring Power. Even if it gets damaged, it’s no great loss—our Dwarf Clan has even better cauldrons.”
“What? A Five Elements mutual generation formation?”
“Yes, the more sophisticated the formation, the more it employs the Five Elements mutual generation method to continuously produce spiritual energy. Here, it generates fire-attribute immortal power, clearly indicating the cauldron’s artifact spirit has attained immortality.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a surge of Spirit Devouring Power into the fifth-level treasure vault.
The moment the Spirit Devouring Power entered the vault, flames burst forth in all directions, and the formation activated with intense ferocity. Waves of Infernal Prison Fire engulfed the Spirit Devouring Power. Yet, the corrosive essence of the Spirit Devouring Power proved extraordinarily formidable, and it only grew more potent by assimilating the Infernal Prison Fire. Just as the Infernal Prison Fire neared the core artifact, the cauldron, a stream of幽blue flames suddenly erupted from the direction of the cauldron, firmly halting the advance of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished that any flame could resist the Spirit Devouring Power.
“That should be the artifact spirit’s lifebound flame. If you extinguish these flames, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the formation’s power will weaken by half.”
Seeing that Shui Miao’s Spirit Devouring Power could rival the eerie blue flames, Bù Fǎ became exhilarated.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao concentrated his mind, unleashing the Spirit Devouring Power at full capacity to hasten the absorption of the eerie blue flames. Yet, the relentless surge of the blue flames threatened to engulf all the Spirit Devouring Power, nearly severing Shui Miao’s connection to it. Compelled to retreat, Shui Miao withdrew the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Roar!”
The eerie blue flames did not diminish as the Spirit Devouring Power retreated. Instead, they amassed vast quantities of fire, morphing into a fierce, roaring dragon of flame!
“Not good! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit! It’s coming out of the formation to kill you! Run!”
Seeing the fiery dragon take shape and charge outward, Bù Fǎ was alarmed and immediately fled with Shui Miao.
In a flash, Shui Miao released a strand of Spirit Devouring Power, concealing it within the cave wall.
Shui Miao left no room for error. Since the artifact spirit was enraged and pursuing him, its rear defense would surely be vulnerable. Using the Spirit Devouring Power, he could leverage minimal effort to achieve maximum effect, restraining the artifact spirit. Moreover, if the artifact spirit exerted its full power, the Spirit Devouring Power might find an opportunity to exploit.
Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao fled to the fourth level, with the fiery dragon in close pursuit.
Using magical artifacts to conceal themselves, Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao darted around chaotically. The experts of the three sects on the fourth level, confused and thinking the fiery dragon was attacking them, retaliated in panic. This further provoked the fiery dragon, which unleashed a wave of destruction, instantly incinerating many experts. The remaining experts, terrified by the dragon’s ferocity, fled in fear.
Enraged beyond control, the fiery dragon pursued them all the way to the cave entrance before finally relenting.
“Elder, can that artifact spirit detect us?”
About a hundred meters outside the cave, Shui Miao was somewhat intimidated by the fiery dragon’s power.
Bù Fǎ was equally astonished. “Yes, I underestimated it. The quality of that cauldron is far higher than I anticipated, rivaling the best cauldrons of our Dwarf Clan. This Luó Tōng is not to be underestimated. To deploy such a terrifying formation and use a supreme immortal treasure on just the fifth level—it’s truly horrifying!”
A supreme immortal treasure!
Hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a magnificent treasure! The Dwarf Clan, having existed in the immortal realm for so long, possessed only one supreme immortal treasure cauldron. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain this supreme immortal treasure cauldron! As his thoughts churned, Shui Miao recalled the strand of Spirit Devouring Power he had left on the cave wall. “Elder, is there a way to lure that fiery dragon out?”
“Unless… unless you use the Spirit Devouring Power to lure it…” Bù Fǎ suddenly had an idea and guessed Shui Miao’s intention. He quickly sent a mental message to Shui Miao: “Shui Miao, if we succeed in luring it out, I’ll use a magical artifact to block the cave entrance. Seize the chance to deal with the artifact spirit on the fifth level.”
“Stupid artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao channeled a surge of Spirit Devouring Power, merging it with immortal power to form a black dragon that prowled outside the cave entrance, taunting the fiery dragon.
The experts of the three sects, upon seeing the mysterious black dragon suddenly appear, realized that a powerful expert was lurking in the shadows. Terrified, they retreated to a distant hill to observe, not daring to remain nearby.
“Roar!”
The artifact spirit of the Fire Sanctuary was clearly hot-tempered and easily provoked. Enraged, the fiery dragon charged out of the cave.
The fiery dragon lunged straight for the black dragon. Bù Fǎ, with Shui Miao in tow, teleported to the cave entrance and immediately summoned a supreme-grade protective shield, firmly blocking the entrance.
Shui Miao swiftly flew into the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Fire Sanctuary, Shui Miao released all his Spirit Devouring Power, directly enveloping the cauldron’s location.
The artifact spirit suddenly realized Shui Miao had returned and tried to recall its lifebound flame, but Bù Fǎ firmly blocked it outside.
The Spirit Devouring Power enveloped the cauldron, corroding it from within.
“Ding, ding, ding…”
The Soul Lock Bell on Shui Miao’s body suddenly rang. The artifact spirit attempted to seize Shui Miao’s soul but was blocked by the Soul Lock.
With the energy supply to the cauldron cut off by the Spirit Devouring Power, the flames in the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Outside the cave, the fiery dragon fiercely attacked Bù Fǎ.
Bù Fǎ was not idle either, simultaneously activating several magical artifacts to counter the fiery dragon.
However, the cauldron was, after all, a supreme immortal treasure. Subduing it in a short time was simply impossible. At the current rate, it would take at least several months to fully conquer it. Shui Miao focused his mind and shouted loudly to the cauldron, “Elder artifact spirit, let’s stop fighting, alright? How about we become friends?”
“Brat, you’re cunning and despicable. I disdain being friends with you.”
A rough, male voice emanated from the cauldron’s direction.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Elder, you’re so powerful, and I’m no match for you. Can’t I use a little cleverness? But my intention to befriend you is sincere—that’s beyond doubt. If you disdain being friends with me, it’s because you’re prejudiced against me. Once you realize I mean no harm, you’ll regret saying those words.”
“Brat, spare me your sweet talk. Did you think a few words would make me trust you? Do you take me for a fool?”
The rough voice was deafening.
“Haha, of course you’re not a fool. How could a fool set up such an exquisite formation?” Although Shui Miao knew the other was merely an artifact spirit, he deliberately said this to probe for information about the deepest parts of the ancient tomb and the owner of the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault, Luó Tōng.
To Shui Miao’s surprise, the cauldron’s artifact spirit fell silent.
Why the silence?
Based on normal reasoning, such a hot-tempered artifact spirit should have responded immediately.
Yet, after a long while, the aged voice spoke again, though this time it sounded less irritable and more composed: “Kid, who exactly are you? With such meager strength, you dare to come treasure hunting, and you’re actually a living cultivator!?”
Huh? Why this tone?
Something’s wrong!
Hearing this, Shui Miao was greatly shocked. The tone and content of the question clearly didn’t match the previously hot-tempered artifact spirit. It sounded more like the tone of the one who had set up the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault formations—Luó Tōng himself.
After a pause, Shui Miao clasped his hands and replied, “Reporting to Elder, I’m actually nobody important. I just came with Elder Bù Fǎ of the Dwarf Clan to broaden my horizons. As for treasure hunting… I merely saw an opportunity and wanted to try my luck. But now I understand this treasure is beyond my reach.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious. “You came on strong, your spiritual power is unique, and now you have the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you seize the treasure. Why would you say something so lacking in confidence?”
“Reporting to Elder, it’s because I believe you are not the cauldron’s artifact spirit. You are Forging Sage King Luó Tōng himself.”
Shui Miao focused his mind and withdrew the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Ha ha ha ha…”
The aged voice laughed heartily. “Well, well, well! Human cultivators are indeed clever. But you’re not entirely correct. I am actually just a strand of residual consciousness left behind by Luó Tōng. I never expected a mortal to come treasure hunting in this Rakshasa World, let alone one who has cultivated the most malevolent Spirit Devouring Power yet retains a pure heart. What also surprises me is your sharp wit. Without understanding formations, you still managed to break my Fire Sanctuary formation. You have promise, great promise!”
“Elder, you know about the Spirit Devouring Power?”
Shui Miao had always been wary of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Of course I know. But that’s not what interests me. Since you’re here, I won’t let you go.”
“Whoosh!”
Suddenly, a short, elderly man appeared before Shui Miao. Before Shui Miao could clearly see his features, the man teleported him to a pitch-black, extremely dark place where nothing was visible.
“What? A Five Elements Generating Array?”
Shui Miao’s confidence stemmed from his recent insight into the formations of the other three levels stored in his memory.
The first level was the Five Phases of Wind and Cloud Formation.
The second, third, and fourth levels were the Water, Metal, and Earth Grand Formations, respectively, while the fifth level housed the Fire Grand Formation of the Fire Sanctuary. Clearly, the formations followed the sequence of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the previous formations were largely similar.
Relying on conventional human thinking, Shui Miao assumed the core of the Fire Sanctuary’s formation on the fifth level would also be in the same familiar location.
Bufa stroked his beard, considering it worth a try.
Thus, following the layouts of the previous formations, Shui Miao guided Bufa to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth level’s formation.
With his profound cultivation, Bufa’s spiritual sense remained unclouded by illusions.
After a moment, Bufa opened his eyes, his eyebrows twitching slightly. “Shui Miao, there is indeed a powerful artifact hidden at the location you mentioned. Based on my deduction, I suspect a top-grade immortal treasure cauldron lies beneath. This cauldron is of medium quality and contains a Five Elements mutual generation formation. Try using your Spirit-Devouring Force. Even if it gets damaged, it’s no great loss—our Dwarf Clan has even better cauldrons.”
“What? A Five Elements mutual generation formation?”
“Yes, the more sophisticated the formation, the more it employs the Five Elements mutual generation method to continuously produce spiritual energy. Here, it generates fire-attribute immortal power, clearly indicating the cauldron’s artifact spirit has attained immortality.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a stream of Spirit-Devouring Force into the fifth-level treasure vault.
The moment the Spirit-Devouring Force infiltrated, flames burst forth across the vault, and the formation activated with intense ferocity. Waves of Infernal Prison Fire surged, engulfing the Spirit-Devouring Force. Yet, the corrosive power of the Spirit-Devouring Force proved exceptionally potent, as it absorbed the Infernal Prison Fire, growing even more formidable. Just as the Infernal Prison Fire neared the core artifact—the cauldron—a surge of eerie blue flames erupted from the direction of the cauldron, firmly halting the advance of the Spirit-Devouring Force.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished that any flame could resist the Spirit-Devouring Force.
“That should be the artifact spirit’s lifebound flame. If you extinguish it, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the formation’s power will be halved.”
Witnessing that Shui Miao’s Spirit-Devouring Force could resist the eerie blue flames, Bufa became exhilarated.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao concentrated his mind, unleashing the Spirit-Devouring Force at full capacity to hasten the absorption of the eerie blue flames. Yet, the relentless surge of the blue flames seemed inexhaustible, nearly engulfing the entire Spirit-Devouring Force and severing Shui Miao’s connection to it. Compelled to retreat, Shui Miao withdrew the Spirit-Devouring Force.
“Roar!”
The eerie blue flames did not diminish with the Spirit-Devouring Force. Instead, they amassed vast quantities of fire, morphing into a blazing dragon that roared with ferocity!
“Not good! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit! It’s coming out of the formation to kill you! Run!”
As the fiery dragon took shape and charged outward, Bufa panicked, grabbing Shui Miao and fleeing.
In a flash, Shui Miao released a strand of Spirit-Devouring Force, concealing it within the cave wall.
He left no room for error—since the artifact spirit was enraged and pursuing him, its defenses would be weakened. Using the Spirit-Devouring Force allowed him to leverage minimal effort for maximum impact, diverting the artifact spirit’s attention. Moreover, if the artifact spirit exerted its full power, the Spirit-Devouring Force might find an opportunity to strike.
Bufa and Shui Miao fled to the fourth level, with the fiery dragon in hot pursuit.
Using artifacts to conceal their presence, Bufa and Shui Miao darted around chaotically. The experts from the three factions on the fourth level, confused and thinking the fiery dragon was attacking them, retaliated in panic. This further provoked the dragon, which unleashed a wave of destruction, instantly incinerating many experts. The remaining experts, terrified by the dragon’s power, fled in fear.
Enraged beyond control, the fiery dragon pursued them all the way to the cave entrance before finally relenting.
“Elder, can that artifact spirit detect us?”
Shui Miao, standing about a hundred meters outside the cave, was somewhat intimidated by the fiery dragon’s power.
Bufa was equally shocked. “Yes, I underestimated it. The quality of that cauldron is far higher than I anticipated—on par with the best cauldrons of our Dwarf Clan. This Luo Tong is not to be trifled with. To deploy such a terrifying formation and use a supreme immortal treasure on just the fifth level… it’s utterly horrifying!”
A supreme immortal treasure!
Hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a priceless treasure! Even the Dwarf Clan, after millennia in the immortal realm, possessed only one supreme immortal cauldron. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain this supreme immortal treasure cauldron! As his thoughts churned, he recalled the strand of Spirit-Devouring Force he had left in the cave wall. “Elder, is there a way to lure the fiery dragon out?”
“Unless… unless you use the Spirit-Devouring Force as bait…” Bufa suddenly had an idea, guessing Shui Miao’s intention. He quickly transmitted his thoughts mentally: “Shui Miao, if we succeed in luring it out, I’ll use an artifact to block the cave entrance. Seize the chance to deal with the artifact spirit on the fifth level.”
“You wretched artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao merged a stream of Spirit-Devouring Force with immortal power, transforming it into a black dragon that circled outside the cave entrance, taunting the fiery dragon.
The experts from the three factions, seeing the mysterious black dragon suddenly appear, realized a hidden expert was lurking nearby. Terrified, they retreated to a distant hill to observe, not daring to remain nearby.
“Roar!”
The Fire Sanctuary’s artifact spirit was clearly hot-tempered and easily provoked. Enraged, the fiery dragon charged out of the cave.
As the fiery dragon lunged toward the black dragon, Bufa and Shui Miao teleported to the cave entrance. Bufa immediately summoned a supreme-grade protective shield, firmly blocking the entrance.
Shui Miao swiftly flew into the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary.
Upon reaching the Fire Sanctuary’s entrance, Shui Miao released all his Spirit-Devouring Force, directing it toward the cauldron’s location.
The artifact spirit, suddenly realizing Shui Miao had returned, tried to recall its lifebound flame but was blocked by Bufa outside.
The Spirit-Devouring Force enveloped the cauldron, corroding it from within.
“Ding, ding, ding…”
The Soul-Locking Bell on Shui Miao’s person suddenly rang. The artifact spirit attempted to seize Shui Miao’s soul but was blocked by the bell.
With the Spirit-Devouring Force cutting off the energy supply to the cauldron, the flames in the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Meanwhile, outside the cave, the fiery dragon relentlessly attacked Bufa, who fought back by summoning several artifacts.
However, subduing a supreme immortal treasure cauldron was no easy task. At this rate, it would take months to fully conquer it. Shui Miao focused his mind and shouted toward the cauldron, “Elder artifact spirit, let’s stop fighting. How about we become friends?”
“You cunning, despicable brat! I would never befriend someone like you!”
A rough, male voice emanated from the cauldron.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Elder, you’re so powerful, and I’m no match for you. Can’t I use a little cunning? But my intention to befriend you is sincere—that’s beyond doubt. If you refuse, it’s only because you’re prejudiced against me. Once you realize I mean no harm, you’ll regret those words.”
“Stop your sweet talk, brat! Do you think I’m a fool to believe you so easily?”
The rough voice was deafening.
“Haha, of course you’re not a fool. Only a fool would fail to set up such an exquisite formation.” Though Shui Miao knew it was merely an artifact spirit, he deliberately said this to probe for information about the deepest parts of the ancient tomb and the master of the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault, Luo Tong.
To his surprise, the cauldron’s artifact spirit fell silent.
Why?
Based on its fiery temperament, it should have responded immediately.
After a long pause, the aged voice spoke again, but this time it sounded less irritable and more composed: “Kid, who exactly are you? With such meager strength, you dare to come treasure hunting—and you’re actually a living cultivator!?”
Huh? Why this tone?
Something’s wrong!
Shui Miao was startled. The tone and content of the question clearly differed from the previously fiery artifact spirit. It sounded more like the voice of Luo Tong, the master who had set up the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault formations.
After a moment, Shui Miao clasped his hands and replied, “Elder, I’m nobody important. I merely came with the dwarf elder Bufa to broaden my horizons. As for treasure hunting… I saw an opportunity and decided to try my luck. But now I realize this treasure is beyond my reach.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious. “You came with such momentum, your spiritual energy is unique, and now you have the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you seize the treasure. Why suddenly sound so discouraged?”
“Elder, I believe you are not the cauldron’s artifact spirit. You are the Forging Sage King, Elder Luo Tong.”
Shui Miao willed the Spirit-Devouring Force to withdraw.
“Hahaha…”
The aged voice laughed heartily. “Well, well! Human cultivators are indeed clever. But you’re not entirely correct. I am merely a strand of primordial spirit left behind by Luo Tong. I never expected a mortal to come treasure hunting in this Rakshasa World, let alone one who has cultivated the most malevolent Spirit-Devouring Force yet retains a pure heart. What also surprises me is your sharp wit—despite knowing nothing about formations, you broke my Fire Sanctuary formation. You have potential, indeed!”
“Elder, you know about the Spirit-Devouring Force?”
Shui Miao had always been wary of the Spirit-Devouring Force.
“Of course I know. But that’s not what interests me. Since you’re here, I won’t let you go.”
“Whoosh!”
A short, elderly man suddenly appeared before Shui Miao. Before Shui Miao could get a clear look, the man teleported him to a pitch-black, extremely dark place.
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a surge of Soul Devouring Force into the fifth layer’s treasure vault.
As the Soul Devouring Force entered the vault, flames erupted, and the array activated fiercely. Waves of crimson infernal fire enveloped the Soul Devouring Force. However, the Soul Devouring Force’s corrosive power absorbed the crimson infernal fire, growing even stronger. Just as the crimson infernal fire approached the core treasure—the cauldron—a sudden jet of deep blue flame shot out from the cauldron, countering the Soul Devouring Force head-on.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished that any flame could resist his Soul Devouring Force.
“That should be the artifact spirit’s life flame. If you destroy this flame, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the array’s power will be halved.”
Seeing that Shui Miao’s Soul Devouring Force could withstand the deep blue flame, Bu Fa became excited.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao focused his will, intensifying the Soul Devouring Force’s consumption of the deep blue flame. However, the deep blue flame kept surging forth, nearly enveloping the entire Soul Devouring Force and severing Shui Miao’s connection to it. Forced to retreat, Shui Miao withdrew his Soul Devouring Force.
“Roar!”
The deep blue flame did not recede with the withdrawal of the Soul Devouring Force. Instead, it summoned a massive surge of fire, transforming into a roaring fire dragon!
“Oh no! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit. It’s coming out of the array to kill you! Run…”
Seeing the fire dragon take form and charge outward, Bu Fa was startled and immediately fled with Shui Miao.
In a flash of lightning, Shui Miao released a surge of Soul Devouring Force, hiding it within the cave wall.
Shui Miao’s plan was flawless—if the artifact spirit pursued him in anger, its defenses would be weakened. By using the Soul Devouring Force, he could both distract the spirit and exploit any opportunity if the spirit committed its full strength.
Bu Fa led Shui Miao to the fourth layer, with the fire dragon in hot pursuit.
Using a treasure to conceal their forms, Bu Fa and Shui Miao darted through the fourth layer. The experts from the three sects, confused, mistook the fire dragon for an attack on them. Panicking, they fought back, further enraging the fire dragon, which unleashed a deadly onslaught, incinerating many experts instantly. The remaining experts, terrified by the fire dragon’s might, fled in fear.
The enraged fire dragon chased them all the way to the cave’s entrance before finally halting.
“Senior, it seems the artifact spirit can detect us,” Shui Miao, somewhat frightened by the fire dragon’s power, said from over a hundred meters outside the cave.
Shui Miao’s confidence stemmed from his recent insight into the formations of the other three levels stored in his memory.
The first level was the Wind Cloud Five Phases Formation.
The second, third, and fourth levels were the Water Element Formation, Metal Element Formation, and Earth Element Formation, respectively, while the fifth level was the Fire Element Formation of the Fire Sanctuary. Clearly, the formations followed the sequence of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the previous formations were quite similar.
Relying on conventional human thinking, Shui Miao assumed that the core of the Fire Sanctuary’s formation on the fifth level would also be in the same familiar location.
Bù Fǎ stroked his beard, considering it worth a try.
Thus, following the layout of the previous formations, Shui Miao guided Bù Fǎ to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth level’s formation.
Bù Fǎ, with his profound cultivation, used his spiritual sense to avoid being deceived by the illusion formation.
A moment later, Bù Fǎ opened his eyes, his eyebrows twitching slightly. “Shui Miao, the location you mentioned indeed hides a powerful magical artifact. Based on my deduction, I suspect a top-grade immortal treasure alchemy furnace is concealed beneath it. This furnace is of medium quality and contains a Five Elements Mutual Generation formation. Try using your Spirit-Devouring Power. Even if it gets damaged, it’s no great loss—our Dwarf Clan has even better furnaces.”
“What? A Five Elements Mutual Generation formation?”
“Yes, the more sophisticated the formation, the more it employs the method of Five Elements Mutual Generation to continuously generate spiritual energy. Here, it produces fire-attribute immortal power, clearly indicating that the artifact spirit of the furnace has attained immortality.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a stream of Spirit-Devouring Power into the fifth-level treasure vault.
The moment the Spirit-Devouring Power infiltrated the vault, flames erupted in all directions, and the formation activated with intense ferocity. Waves of Infernal Prison Fire swiftly engulfed the Spirit-Devouring Power. Yet, the corrosive strength of the Spirit-Devouring Power was extraordinarily potent; it not only resisted the Infernal Prison Fire but absorbed it, becoming even more formidable. Just as the Infernal Prison Fire neared the core magical artifact—the alchemy furnace—a sudden burst of eerie blue flames erupted from the direction of the furnace, firmly halting the advance of the Spirit-Devouring Power.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished that any flame could resist the Spirit-Devouring Power.
“That should be the artifact spirit’s lifebound flame. If you extinguish these flames, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the formation’s power will be halved.”
Witnessing Shui Miao’s Spirit-Devouring Power capable of rivaling the eerie blue flames, Bù Fǎ became exhilarated.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao concentrated his mind, unleashing the Spirit-Devouring Power at full capacity to hasten the absorption of the eerie blue flames. Yet, the relentless surge of the blue flames persisted, threatening to engulf all the Spirit-Devouring Power and sever Shui Miao’s connection to it. With no other option, Shui Miao withdrew the Spirit-Devouring Power.
“Roar!”
The eerie blue flames did not diminish as the Spirit-Devouring Power retreated. Instead, they amassed an immense amount of fire, morphing into a blazing dragon that let out a furious roar!
“Not good! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit! It’s going to chase you out of the formation to kill you! Run!”
Seeing the fiery dragon take shape and charge outward, Bù Fǎ was startled and immediately fled with Shui Miao.
In a flash, Shui Miao released a stream of Spirit-Devouring Power, concealing it within the stone wall of the cavern.
Shui Miao left no room for error. Since the artifact spirit was enraged and pursuing him, its defenses would surely be weakened. By using the Spirit-Devouring Power, he could not only employ a minimal force to counter a stronger one and restrain the artifact spirit but also seize an opportunity if the artifact spirit exerted its full power.
Bù Fǎ fled with Shui Miao to the fourth level, with the fiery dragon in close pursuit.
Using magical artifacts to conceal their presence, Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao darted around chaotically. The experts of the three factions on the fourth level, confused and thinking the fiery dragon was attacking them, panicked and retaliated, further provoking the dragon. It went on a rampage, instantly incinerating many experts. The remaining experts, terrified by the dragon’s ferocity, fled in fear.
Enraged beyond control, the fiery dragon pursued them all the way to the cave entrance before finally relenting.
“Senior, can that artifact spirit detect us?”
About a hundred meters outside the cave, Shui Miao was somewhat intimidated by the fiery dragon’s power.
Bù Fǎ was equally astonished. “Yes, I underestimated it. The quality of that alchemy furnace is far higher than I expected—almost on par with the best furnaces of our Dwarf Clan. This Luó Tōng is not to be trifled with. To deploy such a terrifying formation on just the fifth level, using a supreme-grade immortal treasure… it’s truly horrifying!”
A supreme-grade immortal artifact!
Hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a treasure! The Dwarf Clan, having existed in the immortal realm for so long, possessed only one supreme-grade immortal artifact alchemy furnace. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain this supreme-grade treasure! As his thoughts churned, Shui Miao recalled the small stream of Spirit-Devouring Power he had left on the cavern wall. “Senior, is there a way to lure that fiery dragon out?”
“Unless… unless you use the Spirit-Devouring Power to lure it…” Bù Fǎ suddenly had an idea and guessed Shui Miao’s intention. He quickly transmitted his thoughts to Shui Miao. “Shui Miao, if we succeed in luring it out, I’ll use a magical artifact to block the cave entrance. Seize the chance to deal with the artifact spirit on the fifth level.”
“Stupid artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao channeled a stream of Spirit-Devouring Power, merging it with immortal power to form a black dragon that circled outside the cave entrance, taunting the fiery dragon.
The experts of the three major factions, seeing the mysterious black dragon suddenly appear, realized that a hidden expert was lurking nearby. Terrified, they retreated to a distant hill to observe, not daring to remain nearby.
“Roar!”
The artifact spirit of the Fire Sanctuary was clearly hot-tempered and easily provoked. Enraged, the fiery dragon charged out of the cave.
It charged straight toward the black dragon, while Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao teleported to the cave entrance. Bù Fǎ instantly summoned a supreme-grade protective shield, firmly sealing the entrance.
Shui Miao swiftly flew into the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Fire Sanctuary, Shui Miao released all his Spirit-Devouring Power, directing it toward the alchemy furnace’s location.
The artifact spirit suddenly realized Shui Miao had returned and tried to recall its lifebound flame, but Bù Fǎ blocked it outside.
The Spirit-Devouring Power enveloped the alchemy furnace, corroding it from within.
“Ding, ding, ding…”
The Soul-Locking Bell on Shui Miao’s body suddenly rang. The artifact spirit attempted to seize Shui Miao’s soul but was blocked by the Soul-Locking Bell.
With the energy supply to the alchemy furnace cut off by the Spirit-Devouring Power, the flames in the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Outside the cave, the fiery dragon fiercely attacked Bù Fǎ.
Bù Fǎ was not idle either, simultaneously activating several magical artifacts to counter the dragon.
However, the alchemy furnace was, after all, a supreme-grade immortal treasure. Subduing it in a short time was impossible. At the current rate, it would take several months to fully conquer it. Shui Miao focused his mind and shouted loudly at the furnace, “Senior artifact spirit, let’s stop fighting, alright? How about we become friends?”
“Brat, you’re cunning and despicable. I disdain being friends with you.”
A rough male voice emanated from the direction of the furnace.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Senior, you’re so powerful, and I’m no match for you. Can’t I use a little cleverness? But my intention to befriend you is sincere—there’s no doubt about that. If you disdain me, it’s because you’re prejudiced against me. Once you realize I mean no harm, you’ll regret saying those words.”
“Brat, spare me your sweet talk. Do you think I’m a fool to believe you based on just a few words?”
The rough voice was deafening.
“Haha, of course, Senior is no fool. How could a fool set up such an exquisite formation?” Shui Miao knew full well that the other party was merely an artifact spirit but deliberately said this to probe for information about the deepest parts of the ancient tomb and the owner of the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault, Luó Tōng.
To Shui Miao’s surprise, the artifact spirit fell silent.
Why the silence?
Based on conventional reasoning, such a hot-tempered artifact spirit should have responded immediately.
But after a long while, the aged voice spoke again, though this time it sounded less irritable and more composed: “Kid, who exactly are you? With such meager strength, you dare come treasure hunting, and you’re actually a living cultivator!?”
Huh? Why this tone?
Something’s wrong!
Hearing this, Shui Miao was greatly shocked. The tone and content of the question clearly didn’t match the previously hot-tempered artifact spirit. Instead, it sounded like the voice of the one who had set up the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault formations—Luó Tōng himself.
After a pause, Shui Miao clasped his hands and replied, “Reporting to Senior, I’m actually nobody important. I just came with Senior Dwarf Clan’s Bù Fǎ to broaden my horizons. As for treasure hunting… I merely saw an opportunity and wanted to try my luck. But now I understand—this treasure is beyond my reach.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious. “You came on strong, your spiritual power is unique, and now you have the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you seize the treasure. Why would you say something so lacking in confidence?”
“Reporting to Senior, it’s because I believe you are not the artifact spirit of the alchemy furnace. You are Forging Sage King Luó Tōng himself.”
Shui Miao focused his mind and withdrew the Spirit-Devouring Power.
“Ha ha ha ha…”
The aged voice laughed heartily. “Good, good, good! Human cultivators are indeed clever. But you’re not entirely correct. I am actually just a strand of primordial spirit left behind by Luó Tōng. I never expected a mortal to come treasure hunting in this Rakshasa World, let alone one who has cultivated the most malevolent Spirit-Devouring Power yet retains a pure heart. Another surprise is your sharp wit—without understanding formations, you still broke my Fire Sanctuary formation. You have promise, great promise!”
“Senior, you know about the Spirit-Devouring Power?”
Shui Miao had always been wary of the Spirit-Devouring Power.
“Of course, but that’s not what interests me. Since you’re here, I won’t let you go.”
“Whoosh!”
A short, elderly man suddenly appeared before Shui Miao. Before Shui Miao could clearly see his features, the man teleported him to a pitch-black, extremely dark place where nothing was visible.
Shui Miao’s confidence stemmed largely from his recent insight into the formations of the other three levels stored in his memory.
The first level was the Wind Cloud Five Phases Formation.
The second, third, and fourth levels were the Water Element Formation, Metal Element Formation, and Earth Element Formation, respectively, while the fifth level housed the Fire Element Formation of the Fire Sanctuary. Clearly, the formations followed the sequence of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the previous formations were quite similar.
Relying on conventional thinking, Shui Miao assumed the core of the Fire Sanctuary’s formation on the fifth level would also be in the same familiar location.
Bù Fǎ stroked his beard, considering the idea worth a try.
Thus, following the layouts of the previous formations, Shui Miao guided Bù Fǎ to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth level’s formation.
Bù Fǎ, with his profound cultivation, could use his spiritual sense without being deceived by illusion arrays.
After a moment, Bù Fǎ opened his eyes, his eyebrows twitching slightly. “Shui Miao, the location you mentioned does indeed conceal a powerfully enchanted artifact. Based on my deduction, I suspect a top-grade immortal treasure cauldron is hidden beneath. This cauldron is of medium quality and contains a Five Elements mutual generation array. Try using your Spirit Devouring Power. Even if it gets damaged, it’s no great loss—our Dwarf race has even better cauldrons.”
“What? A Five Elements mutual generation array?”
“Yes, the more sophisticated the formation, the more it employs the Five Elements mutual generation method to continuously produce spiritual energy. What’s generated here is fire-attribute immortal power, clearly indicating the cauldron’s artifact spirit has attained immortality.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a stream of Spirit Devouring Power into the fifth-level treasure vault.
The moment the Spirit Devouring Power infiltrated, flames burst forth throughout the vault, and the formation activated with intense ferocity. Waves of Infernal Prison Fire surged, engulfing the Spirit Devouring Power. Yet, the corrosive force of the Spirit Devouring Power proved exceptionally potent, as it absorbed the Infernal Prison Fire, growing even more formidable. Just as the Infernal Prison Fire neared the core artifact—the cauldron—a surge of幽blue flames erupted from the direction of the cauldron, firmly halting the advance of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished. How could there be a flame capable of resisting the Spirit Devouring Power?
“That should be the artifact spirit’s lifebound flame. If you extinguish these flames, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the formation’s power will be halved.”
Witnessing Shui Miao’s Spirit Devouring Power rival the eerie blue flames, Bù Fǎ’s excitement surged.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao concentrated his thoughts, unleashing the Spirit Devouring Power at its maximum capacity to hasten the absorption of the eerie blue flames. Yet, the relentless surge of the blue flames seemed inexhaustible, nearly engulfing the entirety of the Spirit Devouring Power and threatening to sever Shui Miao’s connection to it. Compelled to take action, Shui Miao retracted the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Roar!”
The eerie blue flames did not diminish as the Spirit Devouring Power retreated. Instead, they amassed vast quantities of fire, morphing into a blazing dragon that let out a furious roar!
“Not good! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit! It’s going to chase you out of the formation to kill you! Run!”
Seeing the fiery dragon take shape and charge outward, Bù Fǎ was startled and immediately fled with Shui Miao.
In a flash, Shui Miao released a strand of Spirit Devouring Power, concealing it within the stone wall of the cavern.
Shui Miao left no room for error. Since the artifact spirit was enraged and pursuing him, its defenses would surely be weakened. Using the Spirit Devouring Power, he could kill two birds with one stone: diverting the artifact spirit’s attention and, if it exerted its full power, creating an opportunity for the Spirit Devouring Power to exploit.
Bù Fǎ fled with Shui Miao to the fourth level, with the fiery dragon in close pursuit.
Using magical artifacts to conceal their presence, Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao darted around chaotically. The experts of the three sects on the fourth level, confused and thinking the fiery dragon was attacking them, retaliated in panic. This further provoked the fiery dragon, which unleashed a wave of destruction, instantly incinerating many experts. The remaining experts, terrified by the dragon’s power, fled in fear.
Enraged beyond control, the fiery dragon pursued them all the way to the cave entrance before finally relenting.
“Elder, can that artifact spirit detect us?”
Shui Miao, standing about a hundred meters outside the cave, was somewhat intimidated by the fiery dragon’s power.
Bù Fǎ was equally astonished. “Yes, I underestimated it. The quality of that cauldron is far higher than I expected—almost on par with the best cauldrons of our Dwarf race. This Luó Tōng is not to be underestimated. To deploy such a terrifying formation and use a supreme immortal treasure on just the fifth level… it’s truly horrifying!”
A supreme immortal artifact!
Hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a treasure! The Dwarf race, having existed in the immortal realm for so long, possessed only one supreme immortal artifact cauldron. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain this supreme immortal treasure cauldron! As his thoughts churned, Shui Miao recalled the strand of Spirit Devouring Power he had left on the cavern wall. “Elder, is there a way to lure that fiery dragon out?”
“Unless… unless you use the Spirit Devouring Power to lure it…” Bù Fǎ suddenly had an idea and guessed Shui Miao’s intention. He quickly sent a mental message to Shui Miao: “Shui Miao, if we succeed in luring it out, I’ll use a magical artifact to block the cave entrance. Seize the chance to deal with the artifact spirit on the fifth level.”
“You wretched artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao channeled a stream of Spirit Devouring Power, merging it with immortal power to form a black dragon that circled outside the cave entrance, taunting the fiery dragon.
The experts of the three sects, seeing the mysterious black dragon suddenly appear, realized that a hidden expert was lurking nearby. Terrified, they retreated to a distant hill to observe, not daring to remain nearby.
“Roar!”
The artifact spirit of the Fire Sanctuary was clearly hot-tempered and easily provoked. Enraged, the fiery dragon charged out of the cave.
The fiery dragon lunged straight for the black dragon. Bù Fǎ, with Shui Miao in tow, flashed to the cave entrance and immediately summoned a supreme-grade protective shield, firmly blocking the entrance.
Shui Miao then swiftly flew into the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Fire Sanctuary, Shui Miao released all his Spirit Devouring Power, directing it straight toward the cauldron’s location.
The artifact spirit suddenly realized Shui Miao had returned and tried to recall its lifebound flame, but Bù Fǎ blocked it outside.
The Spirit Devouring Power enveloped the cauldron, corroding it from within.
“Ding, ding, ding…”
The Soul Lock Bell on Shui Miao’s body suddenly rang. The artifact spirit attempted to seize Shui Miao’s soul but was blocked by the Soul Lock.
With the Spirit Devouring Power cutting off the energy supply to the cauldron, the flames in the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Meanwhile, outside the cave, the fiery dragon desperately attacked Bù Fǎ.
Bù Fǎ was not idle either, simultaneously activating several magical artifacts to counter the fiery dragon.
However, the cauldron was, after all, a supreme immortal treasure. Subduing it in a short time was simply impossible. At the current rate, it would take several months to fully conquer it. Shui Miao focused his mind and shouted to the cauldron, “Elder artifact spirit, let’s stop fighting, alright? How about we become friends?”
“You cunning, despicable brat! I wouldn’t lower myself to befriend you.”
A rough, male voice emanated from the cauldron’s direction.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Elder, you’re so powerful, and I’m no match for you. Can’t I use a little cleverness? But my intention to befriend you is genuine—there’s no doubt about that. If you refuse to befriend me, it’s because you’re prejudiced against me. Once you realize I mean no harm, you’ll regret saying those words.”
“Brat, spare me your sweet talk. Do you think I’m a fool to believe you based on just a few words?”
The rough voice was almost deafening.
“Haha, of course you’re not a fool. How could a fool set up such an exquisite formation?” Although Shui Miao knew it was just an artifact spirit, he deliberately said this to probe for information about the deepest parts of the ancient tomb and the owner of the Twelve Palaces treasure vault, Luó Tōng.
To Shui Miao’s surprise, the cauldron’s artifact spirit fell silent.
Why the silence?
Based on its fiery temperament, it should have responded immediately.
After a long pause, the aged voice spoke again, but this time it sounded less irritable and more composed: “Kid, who exactly are you? With such meager strength, you dare to come treasure hunting? And you’re actually a living cultivator!?”
Huh? Why this tone?
Something’s wrong!
Hearing this, Shui Miao was greatly shocked. The tone and content of the question clearly didn’t match the previously fiery-tempered artifact spirit. It sounded more like the tone of Luó Tōng, the creator of the Twelve Palaces treasure vault formations.
After a moment, Shui Miao clasped his hands and replied, “Reporting to you, Elder, I’m actually nobody important. I just came with Elder Bù Fǎ of the Dwarf race to broaden my horizons. As for treasure hunting… I merely saw an opportunity and wanted to try my luck. But now I understand—this treasure is beyond my reach.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious. “You came on strong, your spiritual power is unique, and now you’ve gained the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you seize the treasure. Why would you say something so lacking in confidence?”
“Reporting to you, Elder, it’s because I believe you are not the cauldron’s artifact spirit. You are Forging Sage King Luó Tōng himself.”
Shui Miao focused his mind and withdrew the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Hahaha…”
The aged voice laughed heartily. “Well, well, well! Human cultivators are indeed clever. But you’re not entirely correct. I am actually just a strand of residual consciousness left behind by Luó Tōng. I never expected a mortal to come treasure hunting in this Rakshasa world, let alone one who has cultivated the most malevolent Spirit Devouring Power yet retains a pure heart. What also surprises me is your sharp wit—despite knowing nothing about formations, you still broke my Fire Sanctuary formation. You have promise, indeed!”
“Elder, you know about the Spirit Devouring Power?”
Shui Miao had always been wary of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Of course I know. But that’s not what interests me. Since you’re here, I won’t let you go.”
“Whoosh!”
A short, elderly man suddenly appeared before Shui Miao. Before Shui Miao could get a clear look at him, the man flashed away with Shui Miao to a pitch-black, extremely dark place.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a treasure, one that even the dwarves of the Immortal Realm possessed only as their finest cauldrons. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain it! As these thoughts raced through his mind, he recalled the small surge of Soul Devouring Force he had left hidden in the cave wall. “Senior, is there any way to lure out the fire dragon?”
“Unless… unless you use your Soul Devouring Force to bait it,” Bu Fa suddenly realized Shui Miao’s intention and quickly transmitted mentally, “Shui Miao, if it really comes out, I’ll block its path at the cave entrance with a treasure. You can then seize the chance to confront the artifact spirit in the fifth layer.”
“Stupid artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao’s confidence stemmed from his recent insight into the formations of the other three levels stored in his memory.
The first level was the Wind Cloud Five Phases Formation.
The second, third, and fourth levels were the Water Element Formation, Metal Element Formation, and Earth Element Formation, respectively, while the fifth level was the Fire Element Formation of the Fire Sanctuary. Clearly, the formations followed the sequence of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the previous formations were quite similar.
Relying on conventional human thinking, Shui Miao assumed that the core of the Fire Sanctuary’s formation on the fifth level would also be in the same location.
Bù Fǎ stroked his beard, feeling it was worth a try.
Thus, following the layout of the previous formations, Shui Miao guided Bù Fǎ to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth level’s formation.
Bù Fǎ, with his profound cultivation, used his spiritual sense to avoid being deceived by the illusion formation.
A moment later, Bù Fǎ opened his eyes, his eyebrows twitching slightly. “Shui Miao, the location you mentioned indeed hides a powerful magical artifact. Based on my deduction, I suspect there’s a top-grade immortal treasure cauldron buried beneath it. This cauldron is of medium quality and contains a Five Elements mutual generation formation. Try using your Spirit Devouring Power. Even if it gets damaged, it’s no great loss—our dwarf tribe has even better cauldrons.”
“What? A Five Elements mutual generation formation?”
“Yes, the more sophisticated the formation, the more it utilizes the Five Elements mutual generation method to continuously produce spiritual energy. What’s generated here is fire-attribute immortal power, clearly indicating that the cauldron’s artifact spirit has attained immortality.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a stream of Spirit Devouring Power into the fifth-level treasure vault.
The moment the Spirit Devouring Power entered the vault, flames burst forth from all directions, and the formation activated with intense ferocity. Waves of Infernal Prison Fire surged to engulf the Spirit Devouring Power. Yet, the corrosive strength of the Spirit Devouring Power was extraordinarily potent; it not only resisted the Infernal Prison Fire but absorbed it, becoming even more formidable. Just as the Infernal Prison Fire neared the core artifact, the cauldron, a stream of deep blue flames suddenly erupted from the direction of the cauldron, firmly halting the advance of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished that any flame could resist the Spirit Devouring Power.
“That should be the artifact spirit’s lifebound flame. If you extinguish these flames, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the formation’s power will be halved.”
Witnessing Shui Miao’s Spirit Devouring Power effectively counter the eerie blue flames, Bù Fǎ was overwhelmed with exhilaration.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao concentrated his mind, unleashing the Spirit Devouring Power at its maximum capacity to hasten the absorption of the eerie blue flames. Yet, the relentless surge of the blue flames seemed inexhaustible, nearly engulfing all the Spirit Devouring Power and severing Shui Miao’s connection to it. With no other option, Shui Miao was compelled to withdraw the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Roar!”
The eerie blue flames did not diminish with the retreat of the Spirit Devouring Power. Instead, they amassed a tremendous amount of fire, morphing into a blazing dragon that let out a furious roar!
“Not good! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit! It’s going to chase you out of the formation to kill you! Run!”
Seeing the fiery dragon take shape and charge outward, Bù Fǎ was terrified. He immediately grabbed Shui Miao and fled.
In a flash, Shui Miao released a stream of Spirit Devouring Power, concealing it within the stone wall of the cavern.
Shui Miao left no room for error. Since the artifact spirit was enraged and pursuing him, its defenses would surely be weakened. By using the Spirit Devouring Power, he could not only employ a minimal force to counteract a stronger one and restrain the artifact spirit but also seize an opportunity if the artifact spirit exerted its full power.
Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao fled to the fourth level, with the fiery dragon hot on their heels.
Using magical artifacts to conceal their presence, Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao darted around chaotically. The experts of the three factions on the fourth level, confused and thinking the fiery dragon was attacking them, retaliated in panic. This further enraged the fiery dragon, which unleashed a wave of destruction, instantly incinerating many experts. The remaining experts, terrified by the dragon’s power, fled in fear.
The enraged fiery dragon rampaged uncontrollably, pursuing them all the way to the cave entrance before finally relenting.
“Senior, can that artifact spirit detect us?”
About a hundred meters outside the cave, Shui Miao was somewhat intimidated by the fiery dragon’s power.
Bù Fǎ was equally shocked. “Yes, I underestimated it. The quality of that cauldron is far higher than I expected, almost on par with the finest cauldrons of our dwarf tribe. This Luó Tōng is not to be underestimated. To deploy such a terrifying formation on just the fifth level and use a supreme-grade immortal treasure—it’s truly horrifying!”
A supreme-grade immortal treasure!
Hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a treasure! The dwarves, having existed in the immortal realm for so long, only possessed one supreme-grade immortal treasure cauldron. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain this supreme-grade immortal treasure cauldron! As his thoughts churned, Shui Miao recalled the small stream of Spirit Devouring Power he had left on the cavern wall. “Senior, is there a way to lure that fiery dragon out?”
“Unless… unless you use the Spirit Devouring Power to lure it…” Bù Fǎ suddenly had an idea and guessed Shui Miao’s intention. He quickly transmitted his thoughts to Shui Miao. “Shui Miao, if we succeed in luring it out, I’ll use a magical artifact to block the cave entrance. You seize the chance to deal with the artifact spirit on the fifth level.”
“Stupid artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao channeled a stream of Spirit Devouring Power, merging it with immortal power to form a black dragon that prowled outside the cave entrance, taunting the fiery dragon.
The experts of the three major factions, upon seeing the mysterious black dragon suddenly appear, realized that a powerful expert was lurking in the shadows. Terrified, they retreated to a distant hill to observe, not daring to remain nearby.
“Roar!”
The artifact spirit of the Fire Sanctuary was clearly hot-tempered and easily provoked. Enraged, the fiery dragon charged out of the cave.
The fiery dragon lunged straight for the black dragon. Bù Fǎ, with Shui Miao in tow, teleported to the cave entrance and immediately summoned a supreme-grade protective shield, firmly blocking the entrance.
Meanwhile, Shui Miao swiftly flew into the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Fire Sanctuary, Shui Miao released all his Spirit Devouring Power, directing it straight toward the cauldron’s location.
The artifact spirit suddenly realized Shui Miao had returned and tried to recall its lifebound flame, but Bù Fǎ firmly blocked it outside.
The Spirit Devouring Power enveloped the cauldron, corroding it from within.
“Ding, ding, ding…”
The Soul Lock Bell on Shui Miao’s body suddenly rang. The artifact spirit attempted to seize Shui Miao’s soul but was blocked by the Soul Lock.
With the Spirit Devouring Power cutting off the energy supply to the cauldron, the flames in the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Outside the cave, the fiery dragon relentlessly attacked Bù Fǎ.
Bù Fǎ was not idle either, simultaneously activating several magical artifacts to counter the fiery dragon.
However, the cauldron was, after all, a supreme-grade immortal treasure. Subduing it in a short time was simply impossible. At the current rate, it would take at least several months to fully conquer it. Shui Miao focused his mind and shouted loudly to the cauldron, “Senior artifact spirit inside the cauldron, why don’t we stop fighting? How about becoming friends?”
“Brat, you’re cunning and despicable. I disdain being friends with you.”
A rough, male voice emanated from the direction of the cauldron.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Senior, you’re so powerful, and I’m no match for you. Can’t I use a little cleverness? But my intention to befriend you is sincere—there’s no doubt about that. If you disdain being friends with me, it’s because you’re prejudiced against me. Once you realize I bear no ill will, you’ll regret saying those words.”
“Brat, spare me your sweet talk. Do you think I’m a fool to believe you based on just a few words?”
The rough voice was practically deafening.
“Haha, of course, Senior is no fool. How could a fool set up such an exquisite formation?” Although Shui Miao knew the other party was merely an artifact spirit, he deliberately said this to probe for information about the deepest parts of the ancient tomb and the owner of the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault, Luó Tōng.
However, to Shui Miao’s surprise, the cauldron’s artifact spirit fell silent.
Why the silence?
Based on conventional reasoning, the artifact spirit’s temper was so fiery that it should have responded immediately.
But after a long while, the aged voice spoke again, though this time it seemed less irritable and more composed. “Brat, what exactly is your background? With such meager strength, you dare to come treasure hunting, and you’re actually a living cultivator!?”
Huh? Why this tone?
Something’s wrong!
Hearing this, Shui Miao was greatly shocked. The tone and the content of the question were clearly not those of the hot-tempered artifact spirit from before. Instead, it sounded like the tone of the one who had set up the Twelve Palaces Treasure Vault formation—Luó Tōng himself.
After a pause, Shui Miao clasped his hands and replied, “Reporting to Senior, I actually have no significant background. I merely came with Senior Dwarf Bù Fǎ to broaden my horizons. As for treasure hunting… I just saw an opportunity and wanted to try my luck. But now I understand that this treasure is beyond my reach.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious. “You came with such momentum, your spiritual power is unique, and now you’ve gained the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you seize the treasure. Why would you say something so lacking in confidence?”
“Reporting to Senior, it’s because I believe you are not the artifact spirit of the cauldron. You are the Forging Sage King, Senior Luó Tōng.”
Shui Miao focused his mind and withdrew the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Hahaha…”
The aged voice laughed heartily. “Well, well, well! Human cultivators are indeed clever. But you’re not entirely correct. I am actually just a trace of primordial spirit left behind by Luó Tōng. I never expected a mortal to come treasure hunting in this Rakshasa World, let alone that this mortal would cultivate the most malevolent Spirit Devouring Power while still maintaining a pure heart. Another surprise is your sharp wit. Without understanding formations, you still managed to break my Fire Sanctuary formation. You have promise, great promise!”
“Senior, you know about the Spirit Devouring Power?”
Shui Miao had always been wary of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Of course, but that’s not what interests me. Since you’re here, I won’t let you go.”
“Whoosh!”
Suddenly, a short, elderly man appeared before Shui Miao. Before Shui Miao could get a clear look at him, the man teleported them to a pitch-black, extremely dark place where nothing could be seen.
The experts from the three sects, seeing the sudden appearance of the mysterious black dragon, immediately realized a hidden expert was lurking and hastily retreated to distant mountaintops, too frightened to remain nearby.
“Roar!”
Clearly a hot-tempered spirit, the Fire Holy Hall’s artifact spirit was enraged. The fire dragon roared and charged out of the cave.
As the fire dragon lunged toward the black dragon, Bu Fa and Shui Miao instantly darted to the cave entrance, where Bu Fa immediately summoned a supreme shield treasure, firmly blocking the entrance.
Meanwhile, Shui Miao swiftly flew into the fifth layer’s Fire Holy Hall.
Arriving at the entrance of the Fire Holy Hall, Shui Miao unleashed all his Soul Devouring Force, directly surging toward the cauldron’s location.
Suddenly realizing Shui Miao’s return, the artifact spirit tried to retract its life flame but was blocked by Bu Fa outside.
The Soul Devouring Force enveloped the cauldron, beginning to corrode it.
“Clang! Clang! Clang!”
Suddenly, the Soul Binding Bell on Shui Miao’s body rang, as the artifact spirit attempted to steal his soul but was blocked by the bell.
With the cauldron’s energy supply cut off by the Soul Devouring Force, the fire within the fifth layer’s Fire Holy Hall gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Outside the cave, the fire dragon furiously attacked Bu Fa.
Bu Fa, not idle, simultaneously activated several treasures to counter the fire dragon.
Shui Miao’s confidence stemmed largely from his recent insight into the formations of the other three levels stored in his memory.
The first level was the Wind Cloud Five Phases Formation.
The second, third, and fourth levels were respectively a Water-based Grand Formation, a Metal-based Grand Formation, and an Earth-based Grand Formation. The fifth level, the Fire Sanctuary, housed a Fire-based Grand Formation. Clearly, the formations followed the sequence of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Moreover, the core layouts of the previous formations were quite similar.
Following human habitual thinking, Shui Miao assumed that the core of the Fire Sanctuary’s formation on the fifth level would also be in the same familiar location.
Bù Fǎ stroked his beard, feeling it was worth a try.
Thus, based on the layouts of the previous formations, Shui Miao guided Bù Fǎ to sense the direction he indicated within the fifth level’s formation.
Bù Fǎ, with his profound cultivation, used his spiritual sense to avoid being deceived by the illusion formation.
After a moment, Bù Fǎ opened his eyes, his eyebrows twitching slightly. “Shui Miao, the location you mentioned indeed hides a powerfully potent magical treasure. Based on my deduction, I suspect that beneath it lies a high-grade immortal treasure cauldron. This cauldron is of medium quality and contains a Five Elements mutual generation formation. Try using your Spirit Devouring Power. It wouldn’t be a pity even if it gets damaged. Our Dwarf Clan has even better cauldrons.”
“What? A Five Elements mutual generation formation?”
“Yes, the more sophisticated the formation, the more it utilizes the Five Elements mutual generation method to continuously produce spiritual energy. What’s generated here is Fire-based immortal power, clearly indicating that the cauldron’s artifact spirit has already attained immortality.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a try!”
Shui Miao immediately channeled a stream of Spirit Devouring Power into the fifth-level treasure vault.
The moment the Spirit Devouring Power entered the vault, flames erupted in all directions, and the formation activated with intense ferocity. Waves of Infernal Prison Fire surged forth, enveloping the Spirit Devouring Power. Yet, the corrosive force of the Spirit Devouring Power was extraordinarily potent, and it not only resisted the Infernal Prison Fire but absorbed it, growing even more formidable. Just as the Infernal Prison Fire neared the core magical treasure, the cauldron, a sudden burst of幽blue flames shot out from the direction of the cauldron, firmly blocking the advance of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Huh? What kind of fire is that?”
Shui Miao was astonished. How could there be a flame capable of resisting the Spirit Devouring Power?
“That should be the artifact spirit’s lifebound flame. Once those flames are extinguished, the artifact spirit will be crippled, and the formation’s power will be halved.”
Witnessing Shui Miao’s Spirit Devouring Power rival the eerie blue flames, Bù Fǎ couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement.
Upon hearing this, Shui Miao concentrated his mind and unleashed the Spirit Devouring Power at full strength to hasten the absorption of the eerie blue flames. Yet, the blue flames continued to surge endlessly. Just as they were on the verge of engulfing all the Spirit Devouring Power and severing Shui Miao’s connection to it, he had no choice but to withdraw the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Roar!”
The eerie blue flames did not diminish with the retreat of the Spirit Devouring Power. Instead, they amassed a tremendous amount of fire, morphing into a ferocious fire dragon that let out a deafening roar!
“Not good! Shui Miao, you’ve enraged the artifact spirit. It’s going to chase you out of the formation to kill you! Run!”
Seeing the fire dragon take shape and charge outward, Bù Fǎ was startled and immediately fled with Shui Miao.
In a flash, Shui Miao released a stream of Spirit Devouring Power, concealing it within the stone wall of the cavern.
Shui Miao was meticulous. Since the artifact spirit was enraged and pursuing him, its rear defense would surely be vulnerable. By using the Spirit Devouring Power, he could kill two birds with one stone: leverage a small force to counteract a larger one to restrain the artifact spirit, and if the artifact spirit indeed exerted its full strength, the Spirit Devouring Power would have an opportunity to exploit.
Bù Fǎ fled with Shui Miao to the fourth level, with the fire dragon in hot pursuit.
Using magical treasures to conceal their presence, Bù Fǎ and Shui Miao darted around chaotically. The experts of the three sects on the fourth level, bewildered, mistakenly thought the fire dragon was attacking them. In their panic, they counterattacked, further enraging the fire dragon, which went on a rampage, instantly incinerating many experts. The remaining experts, terrified by the fire dragon’s ferocity, fled in fear.
Enraged beyond control, the fire dragon pursued them all the way to the cave entrance before finally giving up.
“Senior, can that artifact spirit detect us?”
About a hundred meters outside the cave, Shui Miao was somewhat intimidated by the fire dragon’s power.
Bù Fǎ was also deeply surprised. “Yes, I underestimated it. The quality of that cauldron is far higher than I expected, almost on par with the best cauldron of our Dwarf Clan. This Luó Tōng is not to be underestimated. This is only the fifth level, yet he’s set up such a terrifying formation and even used a top-grade immortal treasure. This is truly horrifying!”
A top-grade immortal treasure!
Hearing this, Shui Miao’s heart raced. Such a magnificent treasure! The Dwarf Clan, having existed in the immortal world for so long, only possessed one top-grade immortal treasure cauldron. How wonderful it would be if he could obtain this top-grade immortal treasure cauldron! As his thoughts churned, Shui Miao recalled the small stream of Spirit Devouring Power he had left on the cavern wall. “Senior, is there a way to lure that fire dragon out?”
“Unless… unless you use the Spirit Devouring Power to lure it…” Suddenly, Bù Fǎ had an idea and guessed Shui Miao’s intention. He quickly sent a mental message to Shui Miao: “Shui Miao, if we succeed in luring it out later, I’ll use a magical treasure to block the cave entrance. Seize the chance to deal with the artifact spirit on the fifth level.”
“You wretched artifact spirit! I’m not afraid of you!”
Shui Miao channeled a stream of Spirit Devouring Power, merging it with immortal power to form a black dragon that prowled outside the cave entrance, taunting the fire dragon.
The experts of the three sects, upon seeing the mysterious black dragon suddenly appear, immediately realized that a powerful expert was lurking in the shadows. Terrified, they retreated to a distant hill to observe, not daring to stay nearby any longer.
“Roar!”
The artifact spirit of the Fire Sanctuary was clearly short-tempered and easily provoked. Enraged, the fire dragon charged out of the cave.
The fire dragon headed straight for the black dragon. Bù Fǎ, with Shui Miao in tow, flashed to the cave entrance and immediately summoned a top-grade protective shield, firmly blocking the entrance.
Meanwhile, Shui Miao swiftly flew into the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary.
Upon reaching the entrance of the Fire Sanctuary, Shui Miao released all his Spirit Devouring Power, directly enveloping the location of the cauldron.
The artifact spirit suddenly realized that Shui Miao had returned and tried to recall its lifebound flame, but Bù Fǎ firmly blocked it outside.
The Spirit Devouring Power directly enveloped the cauldron, corroding it from within.
“Ding, ding, ding…”
The Soul Lock Bell on Shui Miao’s body suddenly rang. The artifact spirit attempted to hook Shui Miao’s soul but was blocked by the Soul Lock.
With the energy supply to the cauldron cut off by the Spirit Devouring Power, the flames in the fifth-level Fire Sanctuary gradually dimmed and extinguished.
Outside the cave, the fire dragon desperately attacked Bù Fǎ.
Bù Fǎ was not idle either, simultaneously activating several magical treasures to counter the fire dragon.
However, the cauldron was, after all, a top-grade immortal treasure. Subduing it in a short time was simply impossible. At the current rate, it would take at least several months to fully subdue it. Shui Miao focused his mind and shouted loudly to the cauldron, “Senior artifact spirit within the cauldron, why don’t we stop fighting? How about becoming friends?”
“You brat! You’re cunning, despicable, and contemptible. I disdain being friends with you.”
A rough male voice emanated from the direction of the cauldron.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Senior, you’re so powerful, and I’m no match for you. Can’t I use a little cleverness? But my intention to befriend you is sincere, without a doubt. If you disdain being friends with me, it’s because you’re prejudiced against me. Once you realize I bear no ill will, you’ll regret saying those words.”
“You brat, spare me your sweet talk. Did you think I’d believe you based on just a few words? Do you take me for a fool?”
The rough voice felt deafening to the ears.
“Haha, of course, Senior is no fool. How could a fool set up such an exquisite formation?” Although Shui Miao knew full well that the other party was merely an artifact spirit, he deliberately said this to probe for information about the deepest parts of the ancient tomb and the owner of the Twelve Palaces treasure vault, Luó Tōng.
However, to Shui Miao’s surprise, the cauldron’s artifact spirit suddenly fell silent.
Why did it fall silent?
Based on normal reasoning, given the artifact spirit’s fiery temper, it should have responded immediately.
But after a long while, the aged voice spoke again, though this time it seemed less irritable and more composed: “Kid, what exactly is your background? With such meager strength, you dare to come treasure hunting, and you’re actually a living cultivator!?”
Huh? Why this tone?
Something’s not right!
Hearing this, Shui Miao was greatly shocked. The tone and the content of the question were clearly not those of the previously fiery-tempered artifact spirit. Instead, it sounded like the tone of the one who had set up the formations of the Twelve Palaces treasure vault—Luó Tōng himself.
After a pause, Shui Miao clasped his hands and responded, “Reporting to Senior, I actually have no significant background. I merely came with Senior Bù Fǎ of the Dwarf Clan to broaden my horizons. As for treasure hunting… I just saw an opportunity and wanted to try my luck. But now I understand that this treasure is beyond my reach.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious. “You came on strong, your spiritual power is quite unique, and now you’ve gained the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you seize the treasure. Why would you say something so lacking in confidence?”
“Reporting to Senior, it’s because I believe you are not the artifact spirit of the cauldron. You are Forging Sage King Luó Tōng himself.”
Shui Miao focused his mind and withdrew the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Hahaha…”
The aged voice laughed heartily. “Well, well, well! Human cultivators are indeed clever. But you didn’t guess entirely correctly. I am actually just a trace of primordial spirit left behind by Luó Tōng. I never expected a mortal to come treasure hunting in this Rakshasa World, let alone that this mortal would cultivate the most malevolent Spirit Devouring Power while still maintaining a pure heart. Another surprise is that your mind is incredibly sharp. Without understanding formations, you still managed to break my Fire Sanctuary formation. You have promise, great promise!”
“Senior, you know about the Spirit Devouring Power?”
Shui Miao had always been wary of the Spirit Devouring Power.
“Of course, I know. But that’s not what interests me. Since you’re here, I won’t let you go.”
“Whoosh!”
Suddenly, a short, elderly man appeared before Shui Miao. Before Shui Miao could get a clear look at him, the man flashed away with Shui Miao to a pitch-black, extremely dark place where nothing could be seen.
“Brat, you’re full of tricks and despicable schemes. I wouldn’t deign to befriend you.”
A rough male voice emanated from the cauldron’s direction.
Shui Miao smiled faintly. “Senior, you’re so powerful, and I can’t even defeat you. Can’t I use a few clever tactics? But my desire to befriend you is genuine, beyond doubt. If you refuse to befriend me, it’s because you have a bias against me. Once you realize I mean no harm, you’ll regret saying these words.”
“Brat, don’t try to sweet-talk me. Do you think I’m an idiot to believe you with just a few words?”
The rough voice was deafening.
“Haha, Senior, of course you’re no idiot. Only a genius could create such an exquisitely intricate array,” Shui Miao intentionally flattered, aiming to probe deeper into the ancient tomb’s mysteries and learn more about Luo Tong, the master of the Twelve Palace Treasure Vault.
Unexpectedly, the cauldron’s artifact spirit fell silent.
Why the silence?
Normally, with such a fiery temper, it should have responded immediately.
But after a long pause, the aged voice finally spoke again, this time calmer and steadier: “Boy, who exactly are you? With such meager power, you dare to come here seeking treasures. And you’re even a living cultivator!?”
Hmm, this tone was different.
Something was off!
Hearing this, Shui Miao was greatly surprised. This tone and questioning style clearly didn’t match the previous fiery artifact spirit. It sounded more like the voice of Luo Tong, the master of the Twelve Palace Treasure Vault array.
Pausing briefly, Shui Miao respectfully responded, “Senior, I’m really nobody special. I merely accompanied Senior Bu Fa of the dwarves to gain some experience. As for seeking treasures… I simply saw an opportunity and wanted to try my luck. But now I realize I can’t possibly claim this treasure.”
“Oh?”
The aged voice sounded slightly curious, “You arrived with great momentum, your spiritual energy is unique, and you now hold the upper hand. It’s only a matter of time before you claim the treasure. Why, then, do you suddenly speak so doubtfully?”
“Senior, because I believe you are not the cauldron’s artifact spirit. You are Master Luo Tong, the Forgemaster Sage.”
Shui Miao, with a thought, withdrew his Soul Devouring Force.
“Hahaha…”
The aged voice burst into laughter. “Very good! Human cultivators are indeed clever. However, you’re not entirely correct. I am merely a fragment of Luo Tong’s original divine consciousness left behind. I never expected any mortal to come to this Rakshasa World seeking treasures, nor did I expect this mortal to cultivate the most sinister Soul Devouring Force while maintaining a pure heart. What’s more surprising is your sharp mind. Without understanding arrays, you still managed to break through my Fire Holy Hall array. You have great potential, great potential indeed!”
“Senior, you know about the Soul Devouring Force?”
Shui Miao had always harbored doubts about the Soul Devouring Force.
“Of course I do, but that’s not my concern. Since you’ve come, I won’t let you leave.”
“Whoosh!”
Suddenly, a short old man appeared before Shui Miao. Before he could even get a clear look at the figure, the old man whisked him away to a pitch-black, pitch-dark place where not even one’s hand could be seen before one’s face.
Tai Sui Yellow Amulet Paper FuLu Taoist Love Talisman Traditional Chinese Spiritual Charm Attracting Love Protecting Marriage