Cultivating for a hundred lifetimes to ascension Chapter 1380: 742: Xuan Jing Returns, A Great Change Approaches (Part 3)

Observing the situation, Zhao Sheng immediately began summarizing the recent developments within the Da Chun Realm, Black Sand Realm, and Taisu Spiritual Realm, along with other domains like Tianzhu and Chun Sheng. He further detailed the current growth and status of the various Zhao Family branches.

Because of Zhao Xuanjing’s lingering injuries, he initiated a divine thought communication, which instantly accelerated the exchange of information by a massive margin.

In a mere moment, Zhao Xuanjing obtained a profound understanding of the Zhao Family's many lineages. He could not help but offer high praise to Zhao Xi for his immense merit within the clan, even likening his work to the legendary achievements of their ancestors throughout history.

Zhao Sheng humbly insisted he was unworthy of such acclaim, repeatedly mentioning that in the presence of the Jing Ancestor, he would not dare speak of his own "merit" or "achievements."

After Zhao Xuanjing finished listening, he once again offered generous compliments. Zhao Sheng continued to politely deflect the praise, choosing instead to recount the numerous legendary "achievements" of the elder.

In this manner, the two continued to exchange mutual admiration, which naturally dissolved any lingering distance between them, allowing them to quickly become close confidants.

The phrase "it is rare to find a kindred spirit, and meeting them is a long-awaited joy" seemed to perfectly describe the bond forming between Zhao Sheng and Zhao Xuanjing.

…

Initially, Zhao Xuanjing intended to remain on Divine Art Island for ten days to half a month to focus on his recovery.

To his surprise, a talisman descended from the heavens the very next day, carrying an urgent command for his immediate return to the Sect.

It was not until three days later that Zhao Sheng received the first piece of intelligence sent back by him: "The Demon Suppression Star Domain has fallen. Nine alien demon armies covertly seized the Pocket World Divine Ship from Divine Palace Sky Kill, though they were eventually intercepted by the immortals of the Spirit Realm."

On that specific day, five Great Holy Demons manifested at once to confront the Spirit Realm immortals. They were pushed back for the time being.

The alien demon forces are currently stalled mid-journey, prevented from launching a direct assault on the Spirit Realm proper for now.

However, the following day brought a continuous stream of grim news: "...A small contingent of powerful alien demon clan experts successfully embedded themselves within the retreating forces and have secretly slipped into the Spirit Realm. Every Immortal Sect is now conducting urgent background checks on all returned disciples. Naturally, Zhao Xuanjing is also among those under suspicion."

One day later, Zhao Xuanjing unexpectedly reappeared at Divine Art Island, bearing news that was truly earth-shattering: "The natal 'Immortal Heaven' of Tu Bo Immortal Venerable was not destroyed, but it is currently in a desperate state! In the battle for control over the Immortal Heaven, Immortals and Demons have been locked in a fierce struggle until now, with no clear victor. However, the tide is slowly turning in favor of the enemy... To change the course of the war, the Taiyi Spirit Palace has once again summoned—"

"...the Immortal Ascension Merit Stele?! What exactly is that?"

Deep within the cave mansion, Zhao Sheng was filled with bewilderment and could not help but look toward Zhao Xuanjing, who sat across from him.

At this moment, Zhao Xuanjing’s face was incredibly solemn, yet his eyes flickered with a strange spark of excitement as he explained: "The Immortal Ascension Merit Stele is the supreme treasure of this entire realm. Legend says it was personally forged by a Daluo Golden Immortal. This stele is shrouded in mystery and holds power beyond description!"

"However, the most vital function of this stele for Cultivators like us is its ability to aid in the process of Cultivation toward immortality!"

Upon hearing those words, Zhao Sheng’s heart skipped a beat. Despite his seasoned composure, he was visibly shaken and moved beyond words.

"Is this the truth?"

"It is absolutely true! Provided one can accumulate sufficient merit, not only Half-Immortals of the Void like us, but even ordinary mortals could achieve immortality instantly and gain eternal life!" Zhao Xuanjing declared with total sincerity.

Hearing this, Zhao Sheng no longer held any skepticism and immediately asked with great fervor: "How does one... go about obtaining this merit?"

Zhao Xuanjing did not give an immediate verbal reply, but instead pulled an object from his sleeve.

Zhao Sheng looked closer and saw what appeared to be a common "stele," only about three inches tall, with ancient script etched into its surface.

Yet, with a second look, it seemed to pulse with an infinite radiance, and the "stele" suddenly appeared massive, emitting a blinding and majestic light.