Volume 63 — Awakening the Ancient Rival
The Obsidian Root Palace pulsed with immense energy, its influence now stretching far beyond its walls. Lin Feng hovered above, petals of the First Bloom spinning violently, each movement resonating perfectly with hidden spiritual currents. The fourth secret had matured, and now its true test awaited: confronting an ancient sect that had suddenly awakened, drawn by rumors of the palace's power.
Caiyi's eyes widened. "Lin Feng… this sect… they're centuries-old. Their cultivation is unparalleled, and yet… the palace's influence seems to be guiding even them."
Lin Feng's gaze was sharp, aura flaring. "Exactly. The fourth secret isn't just about battle or perception—it's about orchestrating energy and influence on a massive scale. Peach Spirit… we need full synchronization. This is the ultimate test of the palace's reach."
Host, the Peach Spirit whispered, the ancient sect's power is formidable. Your mastery of hidden spiritual energy, perception, and battlefield influence must combine flawlessly. One misstep could allow them to challenge your control.
The ancient sect's cultivators arrived, a wave of terrifying aura emanating from their combined presence. Attacks of overwhelming force and precise coordination targeted the palace from every direction. Lin Feng's petals flared brighter, aura radiating outward, subtly manipulating energy flows, redirecting attacks, and guiding terrain shifts across the battlefield and surrounding region.
Caiyi followed closely, synchronized perfectly. "They don't even realize… their every action is being guided, shaped, controlled."
Lin Feng's expression hardened. He integrated hidden energy, perception, and environmental manipulation to perfection. Rocks rose to intercept strikes, winds redirected energy, and currents guided enemy movements into subtle traps. The battlefield itself became an extension of his will.
The ancient sect's leader's eyes widened in disbelief. "Impossible… our coordination… every attack… it's being undone before it can even strike!"
Lin Feng hovered above, petals spinning in a radiant storm. "This… is the true power of the fourth secret! Not just mastery, not just combat, but full orchestration and control. The palace and I are one!"
The sect faltered, unable to contend with the palace's influence. Caiyi exhaled, awe in her voice. "Lin Feng… the fourth secret… it's absolute. The palace… it dominates everything."
Lin Feng's gaze glimmered with determination. "And yet… there are still mysteries hidden even deeper within the palace. Our journey is far from over."