My Longevity Simulation Chapter 1246: Fruit Tree Inception

Sun Erlang remained concealed, a silent observer of the intense battle unfolding between the cultivators of the Five Elders Association and a colossal ape. A profound sense of awe began to dawn in his heart as he witnessed the display.

“Such power…”

This was his assessment of the formidable group of cultivators before him.

Without any discernible spiritual energy fluctuations and with the destructive range of their techniques confined to a specific area, Sun Erlang found it impossible to ascertain their precise cultivation levels. Nevertheless, their seamless coordination in combat, their unwavering fearlessness, and their composed management of every perilous situation spoke volumes about their extraordinary battle prowess, marking them as cultivators of an unprecedented caliber in his experience.

Even when contrasted with the formidable adversaries he had faced within the simulated realities of the Dao Deviation Stone, this group stood out as an elite force.

What astonished Sun Erlang even further were their methods of attack and recovery.

Beyond an array of formidable artifacts, the team occasionally deployed intriguing items, such as ancient books, elegant wine cups, and even ornate necklaces. These objects seemed to bolster their allies with various buffs while simultaneously imposing detrimental effects upon the giant ape.

Furthermore, their capacity for healing was astonishingly rapid.

For cultivators of the New Method who harbored Cave-Heavens within their beings, the process of rebirth from such a Cave-Heaven after the destruction of their physical form typically required several breaths at minimum.

However, for these remarkable individuals, a mere flash of white light sufficed to restore them to full vitality, irrespective of the severity of their wounds. One moment they were struck by the giant ape’s devastating blow and appeared on the verge of annihilation; the very next, bathed in the soft glow of white light, they were once again brimming with vigor.

No matter how formidable its resilience and thick its hide, the giant ape proved incapable of enduring such relentless attrition.

Curiously, this monstrous beast seemed inexplicably fixated on the fight, demonstrating no inclination to retreat.

It battled valiantly until its final moments, finally collapsing with a resounding thud.

The instant the giant ape met its demise, it dissolved into brilliant golden light, which then surged into the bodies of the victorious cultivators.

A wave of elation swept through the group as they erupted in cheers.

“That boss we just farmed was incredibly durable. Thankfully, we stocked up on enough supplies; otherwise, we would have been in serious trouble.”

“The experience points awarded are quite substantial, too. I’m on the verge of breaking through to the next cultivation realm.”

“It’s a shame its Snow Ape Sacred Armor didn’t drop into the illustrated handbook; if it had, we truly would have hit the jackpot this time.”

These sentiments were echoed by murmurs of agreement and sighs of disappointment from the rest of the team.

Sun Erlang, meanwhile, listened to this utterly incomprehensible conversation, his expression one of subtle bewilderment.

“Let’s move out. There’s nothing else of value here. We should head back to the [Paradise] first.”

“This Xuanhuang Realm is truly not a place for civilized beings. If it weren’t for the mission, I wouldn’t have wanted to set foot here at all.”

The group of cultivators then ascended into the warship hovering in the sky, their voices filled with animated chatter.

Enveloped in a shimmering, multi-colored luminescence, the warship vanished from the heavens as if instantaneously teleported.

Sun Erlang’s gaze remained fixed on the spot where they had disappeared. Within his mind, the Dao Deviation Stone diligently replayed the recorded events.

“Paradise…”

“It must be the domain of that Carefree Heavenly Sovereign. It appears to possess certain distinctions from the remainder of the Xuanhuang Realm.”

“They actually refer to the Xuanhuang Realm as ‘not a place for civilized beings’… How fascinating.”

“I must relay this information to Master.”

With these thoughts, Sun Erlang decided against pursuing the enigmatic warship.

Recalling the mission assigned by his master, he resumed his journey toward the Land of Truth.

Three days elapsed, and after traversing a barrier of swirling white mist, Sun Erlang distinctly perceived a significant alteration in the surrounding world.

“The prefecture I was in previously falls under the jurisdiction of the Human Dao Heavenly Land. This region must surely be the Land of Truth.”

Sun Erlang was aware that within the confines of the Land of Truth, shielded by the Heavenly Sovereign’s principle of Truth, no cultivator possessed the ability to utter a falsehood.

Consequently, he adopted an even more cautious and deliberate demeanor.

As a newcomer, every aspect of this place was entirely alien to him. Sun Erlang resolved to first gather intelligence before attempting to find a method to meet the Truth Heavenly Sovereign.

In contrast to the Human Dao Heavenly Land, the Land of Truth presented an appearance of greater tranquility. The presence of patrols from the Five Elders Association cultivators was notably infrequent.

The delineation between mortals and cultivators within this realm also seemed remarkably indistinct.

From a distance, one could even observe them coexisting harmoniously within the same cities.

“Those individuals are indeed mortals devoid of any cultivation. It seems the influence of the immortal-mortal miasma is considerably suppressed here.”

Following a period of meticulous observation, Sun Erlang arrived at this conclusion.

What he found even more novel was the apparent absence of status hierarchy dictated by cultivation level.

He even witnessed a young cultivator, who had achieved the Golden Core stage, offering a respectful bow to an elder who was clearly a mortal.

This observation prompted him to click his tongue in sheer wonder.

Despite dedicating three days to covert observation and gaining a general comprehension of the Land of Truth's customs and populace, he had yet to discover a suitable opportunity to advance his plans.

“I can’t simply announce my intention to seek an audience with the Truth Heavenly Sovereign in the middle of the street, can I?”

While Sun Erlang was pondering his next move, perplexity clouding his features, he suddenly observed several other individuals who, like him, appeared to be outsiders.

“Are these people from the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance?” Sun Erlang narrowed his gaze.

Following them discreetly and paying close attention to their conversation, Sun Erlang quickly grasped the situation.

It turned out these four cultivators had been apprehended during the ongoing skirmishes between the Five Elders Association and the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance. They were currently undergoing a probationary period as assimilated members.

Their liberty remained largely unfettered, and they were granted permission to traverse the three main territories of the Five Elders Association, with the sole exception of the Carefree Paradise Land.

“Brother Xu, how do you find the Five Elders Association when compared to the Immortal Alliance?”

All four were clad in identical, striking greenish uniforms that bore a resemblance to prison attire. A middle-aged man sporting a long beard posed this question to his companion.

The cultivator addressed as Brother Xu, his complexion pallid as if still recovering from severe injuries, let out a soft cough before responding: “Indeed, it is far more liberating and relaxed compared to the Immortal Alliance.”

“Although we are compelled to sign that divine soul contract, even without such an agreement in the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance, we would still be unable to defy the Alliance’s directives, wouldn't we? In my assessment, there’s practically no difference.”

Another, younger cultivator interjected, “Furthermore, upon executing the contract here, there is no scarcity of cultivation techniques or essential resources. So long as one possesses adequate talent, the potential for advancement is boundless. No one will impede or suppress your progress. This is unlike the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance, hmph…”

Despite the long-bearded man’s expression betraying a hint of displeasure, he found himself unable to dispute the prevailing sentiments.

“It appears Brother Wang Yang still nurses some naive hopes regarding the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance!” The cultivator surnamed Xu, observing the look on Wang Yang’s face, couldn’t resist a sarcastic remark.

“You may remember the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance, but does the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance recall you? I have never encountered a single cultivator captured by the Five Elders Association who managed to successfully return to the Immortal Alliance. Moreover, even if you were fortunate enough to escape, the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance would likely perceive you as a spy and apprehend you immediately.”

Wang Yang’s expression wavered between melancholy and apprehension. Ultimately, he could only emit a prolonged sigh, finding no words to counter the assertion.

A brief, awkward silence descended upon the four.

“Speaking of which, when that official introduced the current situation within the Five Elders Association, he did mention that cultivators from every prefecture here have the potential to directly encounter a Heavenly Sovereign. I wonder if this is truly the case.” The younger cultivator once again spoke up, attempting to ease the somber mood.

“Brother Zhang, you can be assured on this matter. I made inquiries beforehand, and it is absolutely true. However, the methods for meeting a Heavenly Sovereign vary from one location to another, and without exception, they are all exceedingly arduous. Only those with unparalleled talent can achieve such a feat.”

“For instance, within the One Heart Immortal Sect, individuals who achieve twenty consecutive victories in arena combat without suffering a single loss possess a high probability of being granted an audience with the One Heart Heavenly Sovereign.”

“Another illustration is found in this Land of Truth. It is said that one merely needs to meditate and comprehend the Dao beneath the Truth Fruit Tree. The longer one can maintain this state, the greater the likelihood of receiving guidance from the Heavenly Sovereign,” the cultivator surnamed Xu elaborated with visible enthusiasm.

“I too attempted the trial of the Truth Fruit Tree previously…” The cultivator surnamed Xu deliberately trailed off.

Only when the attention of the others had fully converged upon him did he resume, “Arduous! Arduous! Arduous!”

“You are all aware that the Land of Truth permits no falsehoods. Yet, the trial presented by the Truth Fruit Tree requires one to fabricate untruths to the greatest extent possible!”

The cultivator surnamed Xu’s expression took on a peculiar hue: “While seated beneath the fruit, one experiences the sensation of becoming an all-powerful creator deity. It is necessary to bring something into existence from the void and to construct a fabricated, alternate reality. The more intricate and lifelike the details of this world, the longer one can endure the tree’s purifying influence.”

“Hold on…” Upon hearing this, Wang Yang could not refrain from interrupting the cultivator surnamed Xu.

“Are there any constraints on the fabrication of this world? If not, wouldn't it be simple if one merely adapted the unique customs and traditions from the small worlds of the Xuanhuang Realm as a substitute?”

The cultivator surnamed Xu responded with a shake of his head, “At the very least, small worlds that genuinely exist within the Xuanhuang Realm cannot manifest within the illusory domain of the fruit. It is akin to…”

He mused for a moment before speaking with deliberation: "It bears some resemblance to the principle that one cannot cultivate conflicting techniques. Any world meticulously replicated will crumble into dust the moment it solidifies. Only those born purely from imagination can achieve stable existence and withstand the scrutiny of the fruit. Expressing it in words is indeed rather profound. However, once you experience it firsthand, you will undoubtedly comprehend."

"Even if one ultimately fails to meet the Truth Heavenly Sovereign, simply meditating beneath the Truth Fruit Tree presents an immense opportunity for us cultivators. The act of weaving a world encompasses countless grand Daos. It is exceptionally challenging to achieve relying solely on a cultivator's individual strength. During the test, one primarily draws upon the tree's power. It's akin to the Heavenly Sovereign granting us a brush to freely paint..." The cultivator with the surname Xu's expression grew distant, as if reliving a wondrous memory.

"What is the purpose behind the Heavenly Sovereign's actions?" Wang Yang inquired, his brow furrowed slightly.

"Purpose? Why trouble yourself with such thoughts? All I know is that completing the test incurs no penalties and, conversely, offers an exceptionally high likelihood of achieving enlightenment and a breakthrough. Such a rare boon is typically reserved for a select few within the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance. Yet, here in the Five Elders Association, every individual is granted the chance to partake."

"The Truth Fruit Tree takes root and flourishes within illusions, blooming in every city. Any interested party is welcome to sit in meditation beneath its boughs."

"This time, the fruit's appearance in the mortal realm also seems imminent. You will all have the chance to experience it directly. If it weren't for the fact that each person is bestowed only a single opportunity in their lifetime, I would certainly seize the chance to create a world once more," the Xu-surnamed cultivator expressed with a hint of regret.

The other three individuals displayed a spectrum of reactions.

Meanwhile, Sun Erlang, who had been discreetly observing from a distance, narrowed his eyes.

"Such a coincidence? Just as I was drifting off, a pillow is delivered? Could it be that I've been discovered, and this is some sort of elaborate trap?"

This thought was the first to cross Sun Erlang's mind.

"No, it must be that Master already knew beforehand that methods exist within every domain of the Five Elders Association to directly commune with the various Heavenly Sovereigns, which is why he dispatched me on this errand. Otherwise, under normal circumstances, what opportunity would an external cultivator possess to encounter a ruler at the pinnacle of the Longevity Immortal realm?" After a moment of contemplation, Sun Erlang experienced a sudden clarity.

"The Truth Fruit, you say?"

Sun Erlang's heart stirred with anticipation.

He possessed the Dao Deviation Stone within his mind, coupled with the accumulated experiences from a past life within the simulated realm. Engaging in this so-called world-creation beneath the fruit tree should undoubtedly afford him a certain advantage.

"First, I shall give it a try. If it proves truly unworkable, then I shall devise another strategy."

Having reached a decision, Sun Erlang waited with unwavering patience.

Over twenty days elapsed. On this particular day, the usually tranquil city was suddenly overcome with a subtle unrest.

A vast shadow began to creep across the ground, originating from the city's core and rapidly expanding.

It eventually eclipsed the entirety of the city.

Subsequently, a magnificent, verdant giant tree emerged from the encroaching darkness.

Its presence felt both tangible and ethereal.

Adorning its branches were numerous luminous emerald fruits that appeared remarkably succulent, irresistibly drawing the eye upon initial observation.

"The Truth Fruit Tree has manifested in the world and shall remain for seven days and seven nights. All sentient beings within this land are permitted to seek enlightenment beneath its canopy."

Ding!

A clear, resonant bell chime echoed, its sound propagating far into the distance.

A majestic voice descended from the heavens, perceptible to everyone present.

"We express our gratitude for the Heavenly Sovereign's benevolence!"

An untold number of beings within the Land of Truth prostrated themselves in unison, offering thanks.

Their collective gratitude was repeated thrice, the reverberations lingering in the air.

Following the conclusion of these solemn rites, cultivators began to approach the shadowy expanse beneath the Truth Fruit Tree one by one, settling into meditation with their eyes closed.

The city instantly became profoundly silent, as if in deference to the cultivators immersed in their trial.

The group of defectors from the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance, whom Sun Erlang had previously encountered, also made their way with measured steps toward the Truth Fruit Tree.

Sun Erlang hastened to follow in their wake.

En route, they encountered no checkpoints or patrols.

The Heavenly Sovereign's declaration that all living beings were welcome to attempt the trial was indeed not an empty promise.

Beneath the expansive boughs of the fruit tree, Sun Erlang observed not only humans but also various flying insects and beasts occupying patches of ground within the tree's generous shade.

This unusual spectacle stirred a sense of profound emotion within Sun Erlang.

"It is said that the ancient Sages imparted their wisdom without discrimination. Not merely humans, but all creatures of the world were recipients of their guidance. This Truth Heavenly Sovereign indeed embodies a measure of that same spirit."

Following the lead of others, Sun Erlang directly planted himself on the ground.

His eyes were shut.

Instantly, the world around Sun Erlang dissolved.

The subtle rustles and minor noises that had previously permeated the city faded into nothingness.

Even with his eyes closed, Sun Erlang perceived it as if they were wide open.

Before him lay a boundless expanse of pure white void.

"Bring a world into being..."

A cascade of regulations and data flooded Sun Erlang's consciousness.

"First, the general blueprint of the world."

Sun Erlang proceeded to define it based on the simulated reality he had previously encountered within the Dao Deviation Stone.

The vacant world began to acquire color.

However, an unforeseen event occurred: just as the world was nearing its formation, it crumbled with a thunderous roar, much like a sandcastle succumbing to the tide.

It reverted once more to its state of blankness.

"Even a world modeled after the Xuanhuang Realm fails to materialize?"

"A world conjured from pure imagination?"

Sun Erlang couldn't help but furrow his brow slightly.

Yet, inspiration struck him in the ensuing moment. He recalled a world that his master had referenced as an illustration during a past lesson.

An idea immediately sparked within him.

"The immortal path does not manifest; only materialism endures."