134: Chapter 134 The Nascent Soul Ceremony, the Establishment of the Luoxia Sect

The tribulation clouds dispersed, and the barren mountain had become scorched earth.

The Black Lotus Cult stronghold, hidden deep underground, had now transformed into a giant pit a hundred zhang in diameter, with magma surging at the bottom and heat steaming.

Not to mention survivors, not even a single piece of architectural debris remained.

The might of the Heavenly Tribulation was truly terrifying.

Lin Yue stood suspended in the air at the edge of the giant pit, his aura completely stabilized at the Early Nascent Soul Stage.

His star dragon nascent soul sat cross-legged in his Dantian, holding a star in its left hand and a dragon shadow in its right, its eyes slightly closed, exhaling and inhaling pure spiritual power.

Each breath caused the Heaven and Earth Spiritual Qi within a ten-mile radius to fluctuate.

"This is the power of a Nascent Soul..."

Lin Yue clenched his fist, feeling the surging power within his body.

Compared to the Golden Core Stage, the total spiritual power in the Nascent Soul Stage had increased at least tenfold, and the qualitative change was a world apart.

The most intuitive manifestation was that he could now briefly control the power of heaven and earth!

Although the range was small and the duration not long, this had already touched the threshold of the Law.

"Congratulations, Master, for officially stepping into the Nascent Soul realm."

Hao Tian's voice echoed in his Sea of Consciousness, with a hint of relief:

"The Origin of the Grotto-heaven has recovered to 80%, and the Star Fruit on the World Tree have begun to ripen faster. It is estimated that the first batch of fruits can be harvested within three months."

"Very good."

Lin Yue nodded, his gaze turning towards Luoxia City:

"Let's go back first. The commotion of the Breakthrough was too great; the city must be in chaos by now."

He raised his hand and tore open a spatial rift—this was an ability only Nascent Soul Cultivators possessed, short-distance Void Realm travel.

Although the distance was limited, the speed far exceeded flying on a sword.

With one step, he reappeared a hundred miles away... in Luoxia City, at the City Lord's Mansion Plaza.

At this moment, it was bustling with people, almost all the prominent figures in the city had gathered.

Grand Elder Lin Cang stood on the high platform, his face rosy, his voice booming:

"Everyone! I'm sure you all witnessed the celestial phenomenon just now!"

"That's right! It was the City Lord who condensed his Nascent Soul in the Burial Dragon Abyss, triggering the dual-Origin phenomenon!"

"This is the greatest event since our Luoxia City was founded! From today onwards, our Luoxia City officially has a Nascent Soul Cultivator guarding it, and the Southern Region's power structure will defer to us!"

As his words fell, the entire audience erupted.

"The City Lord has reached Nascent Soul?!"

"Dual-Origin phenomenon! Ancient records say that's a legendary Dao Foundation!"

"Heaven bless our Luoxia City!"

"City Lord Lin is mighty!"

Cheers roared like a tsunami.

But among the crowd, a few gazes flickered uneasily.

These were the informants planted by the Seven Star Alliance Investigation Team.

They quietly retreated from the crowd, preparing to transmit the intelligence.

However, as soon as they turned, they were stopped.

Lin Hu, leading a team of Sharp Soldiers Camp Cultivators, looked at them expressionlessly:

"Gentlemen, during the Grand Ceremony, the entire city is under martial Law. Any communication requires approval from the City Lord's Mansion."

"You... are you trying to imprison us?" one informant said, feigning courage.

"Imprison?"

Lin Hu grinned, revealing his stark white teeth:

"We're merely inviting you to temporarily stay in the City Lord's Mansion's 'Guest Courtyard.' You will be released after the Grand Ceremony concludes."

"Of course, if you are unwilling..."

He placed his hand on the hilt of his saber.

The Sharp Soldiers Camp Cultivators all took a step forward, their Killing Intent chilling.

The faces of those informants turned pale, and they eventually followed obediently.

On the high platform, Lin Cang took in this scene, a look of satisfaction flashing in his eyes.

That boy Lin Hu is getting more astute at handling matters.

"Grand Elder."

Lin De, the head of the Pill Workshop, leaned over and whispered:

"The City Lord has broken through to Nascent Soul. According to custom, a 'Nascent Soul Grand Ceremony' should be held, inviting forces from all directions to observe. What do you think..."

"Do it! Not only do it, but make it a grand event!"

Lin Cang said without hesitation:

"The date will be set for seven days from now. The invitation list... all Sects and Families in the Southern Region, not one to be missed. Additionally, the Qinglan Sect, the Seven Star Alliance Investigation Team, and the Star Track Pavilion must all receive formal invitations."

"As for the Star Track Pavilion, Lady Star Radiance has not yet returned..."

"Send the invitation first. Lady Star Radiance advances and retreats with the City Lord; this courtesy cannot be omitted."

"Yes."

Lin De accepted the order and left.

Lin Cang then looked at Lin Shi, the head of the Magical Artifact Workshop:

"The City Lord has just advanced to Nascent Soul; his Lifebound Treasure needs to be re-refined. How are the Materials on your side prepared?"

"Reporting to Grand Elder, the dragon pattern jade ore vein has yielded a new batch of 'dragon vein jade marrow,' and the thunder pattern crystal ore vein has also produced three 'thunder pattern crystal cores.' Coupled with the previously stored starfall iron..."

Lin Shi enumerated them like Family treasures:

"It's enough to refine a complete set of Nascent Soul-grade Magic Treasures for the City Lord. It's just... a Grandmaster Artifact Refining is hard to find, and with my current level, I can at most refine Medium Grade Rank 4."

"No matter."

A voice came from the air.

Everyone looked up to see Lin Yue and Star Radiance descending side by side, their robes fluttering, like immortals.

"City Lord!"

"The City Lord is back!"

The entire audience erupted again.

Lin Yue nodded in greeting to everyone, then said to Lin Shi:

"There's no rush for the Magic Treasure. I've already obtained a set of Rank 5 Starry Magic Treasures in the Star Lords Palace, which is temporarily sufficient."

"Rank 5?!"

Lin Shi gasped.

Those were treasures only Late Nascent Soul Stage mighty figures could afford!

"However..."

Lin Yue changed the subject:

"The Magical Artifact Workshop in the city really needs an upgrade. Lin Shi, from today onwards, you will step down from your position as head."

Lin Shi's face turned pale.

But Lin Yue's subsequent words made him tremble with excitement:

"I appoint you as the first Hall Master of the 'Artifact Refining Hall,' fully responsible for all Artifact Refining matters in Luoxia City. In addition, I will impart to you the 'Starry Artifact Refining Chapter' from the Star Lord Inheritance."

"Within half a year, I want to see you independently refine High Grade Rank 4 Magic Treasures. Within a year, strive for Rank 5."

"Can you do it?"

Lin Shi fell to his knees with a 'thump,' his voice choked:

"This subordinate... will certainly not let down the City Lord's high expectations!"

"Get up."

Lin Yue helped him up, then looked at the others:

"The Pill Workshop will be upgraded to the 'Alchemy Hall,' with Lin De as Hall Master, inheriting the 'Starry Alchemy Chapter.'"

"The Sharp Soldiers Camp will be upgraded to the 'War Department,' with Lin Hu as Commander, and theprepared by (establishment) expanded to three thousand people."

"The Chamber of Commerce will be upgraded to the 'Ministry of Commerce,' with Lin Laosan as its head, responsible for all external trade."

"Additionally, new 'Formation Hall,' 'Talisman Hall,' and 'Intelligence Hall' will be established..."

A series of appointments were announced, and Luoxia City's power structure instantly became clear and upgraded.

Everyone was excited.

This was truly the rhythm of establishing a Sect!

"Finally..."

Lin Yue looked at Lin Cang and smiled slightly:

"Grand Elder, I trouble you to continue serving as 'Chief of Internal Affairs,' overseeing the daily affairs of all halls. When I am absent, you may act on behalf of the City Lord."

"This old man... accepts the order."

Lin Cang's old eyes were slightly red.

He knew this was Lin Yue's greatest trust in him.

"Alright, everyone go about your business. Seven days from now, at the Nascent Soul Grand Ceremony, I want the entire Southern Region... to remember this day."

Everyone roared their assent and dispersed.

On the plaza, only Lin Yue, Star Radiance, and a few Geniuses from the Hidden Dragon Academy who had rushed over remained.

The leader was none other than Lin Yan.

"City Lord."

Lin Yan bowed respectfully, his eyes full of admiration:

"Congratulations, City Lord, on your Breakthrough to Nascent Soul."

"Rise."

Lin Yue scrutinized him, a look of satisfaction flashing in his eyes:

"Early Stage Foundation Establishment? Good progress. How is the star-embracing sword being nurtured?"

"Reporting to City Lord, the star-embracing sword has become one with my will, and just yesterday, it broke through to Medium Grade Rank 3."

As Lin Yan spoke, he took out a long sword that was entirely azure.

Starlight flowed on the blade, and dragon patterns were faintly visible.

Evidently, this boy had secretly refined the sword body with dragon soul spirit spring.

"Very good."

Lin Yue nodded, then suddenly said:

"For the Grand Ceremony in seven days, I need a 'Ceremonial Sword' for the opening of the ritual. Are you willing to take on this task?"

Lin Yan was startled at first, then overjoyed:

"This subordinate will do his utmost!"

"Collect the Materials from the treasury, use the best. If you have any questions during the refining process, you may ask me."

"Yes!"

Lin Yan retreated excitedly.

Star Radiance watched from the side, unable to help but smile:

"City Lord Lin, are you planning to cultivate a successor?"

"Just giving more opportunities to young people."

Lin Yue looked into the distance, his gaze profound:

"Luoxia City cannot rely solely on me. More talents will be needed to fight against the Spirit Devouring Clan in the future."

"Speaking of the Spirit Devouring Clan..."

Star Radiance's expression turned serious:

"I just received a message from the Star Track Pavilion. The Elders there have observed cracks in the Seal of the Burial Dragon Abyss, which are spreading rapidly. At the current speed, the first Seal will completely collapse in at most two months."

"Two months..."

Lin Yue frowned.

Faster than he had anticipated.

"Also, regarding the Seven Star Alliance..."

Star Radiance lowered her voice:

"Elder Xuan Yangzi officially sent a letter yesterday, demanding that Luoxia City immediately hand over all exploration data of the Burial Dragon Abyss after the Nascent Soul Grand Ceremony and open the Star Lords Relic Mansion entrance for the Seven Star Alliance to 'jointly defend.'"

"Heh."

Lin Yue sneered:

"Joint defense is false; seizing power and treasures is true."

"Then how do you plan to respond?"

"Respond?"

Lin Yue's eyes flashed with cold light:

"They want to attend the Grand Ceremony in seven days, don't they? Then... we'll talk face to face."

"I want to see just how capable this Elder Xuan Yangzi is."

...Seven days passed in a flash.

Luoxia City was festooned with lanterns and streamers, its City Protecting Great Formation fully activated, with nine layers of light screens enveloping the entire city, making it impregnable.

Outside the city gate, a red carpet stretched ten miles, flanked by fully armed Sharp Soldiers Camp Cultivators.

Their aura was stern, and their military bearing was impeccable.

Those who could attend the ceremony today were at least Golden Core-level forces, or possessed special backgrounds.

The first to arrive was the Qinglan Sect.

Sect Master Mo Chen personally led the team, accompanied by three Nascent Soul Elders and twenty Golden Core elites.

The grandeur of their procession made all the forces who had arrived early cast sidelong glances.

"Sect Master Mo, long time no see."

Lin Yue personally greeted him, his attitude respectful but not subservient.

"Young Friend Lin... no, now it should be City Lord Lin."

Mo Chen observed Lin Yue, a look of astonishment flashing in his eyes:

"Dual-Origin Nascent Soul, a Dao Foundation from ancient legends... City Lord Lin truly opens this old man's eyes."

"Sect Master Mo is too kind. Please enter the city and take the honored seat."

"Good."

Mo Chen did not stand on ceremony, leading the Qinglan Sect members into the city, where they were arranged in the front row of the viewing platform.

Subsequently, major Sects and Families from the Southern Region arrived one after another.

After Black Stone City was destroyed, the Southern Region's power structure was reshuffled, and now only a dozen or so forces were still noteworthy.

Most of them had already secretly pledged allegiance to Luoxia City.

Upon witnessing Lin Yue's Nascent Soul might, they were even more respectful, and their congratulatory gifts were increasingly lavish.

"Heavenly Sword Sect congratulates City Lord Lin on his Major Achievement in Nascent Soul, presenting three Rank 4 sword blanks and ten thousand-year Purple Heart Ganoderma..."

"Hundred Refinements Sect congratulates City Lord Lin on establishing his Sect, presenting one Rank 4 Artifact Refining furnace and a hundred jin of Fire Origin Crystals..."

"Flowing Cloud Valley..."

The announcements of gifts were incessant.

Until—

"Seven Star Alliance Investigation Team, Elder Xuan Yangzi arrives—!"

The entire venue fell silent.

Everyone's gaze turned towards the city gate.

A team of Cultivators dressed in Seven Star Daoist robes flew through the air, led by Mysterious Yang Master.

He did not land but flew directly above the viewing platform, looking down at Lin Yue.

"City Lord Lin, congratulations on your Breakthrough to Nascent Soul."

His voice was flat, betraying no emotion.

But the oppressive power of his Mid Nascent Soul Stage was unleashed without reservation.

On the viewing platform, many Golden Core Cultivators turned pale, finding it difficult to breathe.

This was... a show of force!

Lin Yue looked up and smiled faintly.

Without any visible movement from him, the oppressive power that enveloped the entire venue suddenly dissipated like melting ice and snow.

"Elder Xuan Yangzi has come a long way; you've worked hard. Please take a seat."

Mysterious Yang Master's pupils contracted slightly.

The oppressive power he had just released, though not at full strength, was enough to make ordinary Early Nascent Soul Stage Cultivators struggle.

Yet, Lin Yue had effortlessly resolved it?

"Interesting."

Mysterious Yang Master landed and walked towards the reserved seat:

"It seems City Lord Lin gained more from the Burial Dragon Abyss than we imagined."

"Just a stroke of luck."

Lin Yue's expression remained unchanged:

"The Grand Ceremony is about to begin. If Elder Xuan Yangzi has any questions, it's not too late to discuss them later."

"Good, this old man will wait."

Mysterious Yang Master sat down and closed his eyes to rest.

However, the members of the Investigation Team behind him had sharp gazes, scanning the arrangements of Luoxia City.

Especially the nine-layered City Protecting Great Formation, which made their expressions solemn.

"Elder, this Formation... is probably not simple."

A Formation Master whispered:

"I can't tell its rank, but it's definitely above Rank 4."

Mysterious Yang Master's eyes remained closed as he said faintly:

"No matter. Today, we observe the ceremony; the main business... we'll discuss tomorrow."

"Yes."

...At the third quarter of noon, the auspicious hour arrived.

Nine salutes of ceremonial cannons, twelve tolls of the bell.

Lin Yue ascended the high platform, clad in a starry Daoist robe, wearing a star crown, and with the starfall sword at his waist, his demeanor dignified.

"Today, I am honored by the presence of all Fellow Daoists, witnessing my Nascent Soul Grand Ceremony."

His voice was not loud, yet it clearly reached everyone's ears:

"Luoxia City has been established for just over two years. To reach this day, we relied on unity and not fearing powerful enemies."

"After today, Luoxia City will officially establish a Sect, named—Luoxia Sect!"

"The Sect motto has only eight characters: Suppress evil with stars, uphold righteousness with dragons!"

As his words fell, Lin Yan walked onto the high platform, holding a long sword.

The sword was four feet long, entirely silver-white, with nine starry gems inlaid on its blade and dragon-shaped carvings wrapped around its hilt.

It was the 'Ceremonial Sword' he had spent seven days refining—the Star Dragon Ceremonial Sword!

Although it was only a peak Rank 3, its symbolic significance was extraordinary.

Lin Yue took the long sword and raised it towards the sky.

"Today, I swear by this sword: the Luoxia Sect shall guard the Southern Region, protect all living beings, and any who invade our territory—no matter how far, shall be exterminated!"

"Any who harm our Fellow Daoists—no matter how strong, shall be slain!"

"Any who bring chaos to the world—no matter if they are gods, shall be executed!"

Three vows, their voices shaking the nine heavens.

At the same time, Lin Yue's star dragon nascent soul within him opened its eyes, the star in its left hand and the dragon shadow in its right, simultaneously releasing their Origin power!

Above the high heavens, a river of stars descended, and dragon shadows coiled!

The dual-Origin phenomenon reappeared!

Only this time, Lin Yue actively invoked it, and its might was controllable.

But even so, that vast heavenly might still filled all Cultivators below Nascent Soul Stage with awe.

Even Mysterious Yang Master couldn't help but open his eyes.

He gazed at the river of stars and dragon shadows, a complex expression flashing in his eyes:

"This child... if he doesn't die prematurely, he will surely reach Soul Transformation in the future."

"Perhaps... even higher."

The Grand Ceremony lasted for a full three hours.

Feasts, discussions on the Dao, sparring, trade fairs... there were many segments.

Until night fell, and guests gradually dispersed, leaving only a few core forces.

City Lord's Mansion, Deliberation Hall.

Lin Yue sat in the main seat, with Mo Chen of the Qinglan Sect on his left and Elder Xuan Yangzi of the Seven Star Alliance on his right.

Star Radiance, as a Guest Elder, sat behind Lin Yue.

The atmosphere suddenly grew tense.

"City Lord Lin, the Grand Ceremony is over; it's time to discuss serious matters."

Mysterious Yang Master spoke first, getting straight to the point:

"The Seal of the Burial Dragon Abyss is about to collapse, and the threat of the Spirit Devouring Clan is imminent. Our Seven Star Alliance, as the anti-Spirit Devourer Alliance, has the right to take over the Southern Region's defenses."

"Hand over the Star Lords Relic Mansion entrance, share all exploration data, and integrate Luoxia City into the Seven Star Alliance's command system—this is the final ultimatum."

He stared at Lin Yue, enunciating each word:

"Do you agree or disagree?"