The return journey to Cleanness Void Sect wasn't sped up by the Dragon Palace invitation. Xiaoqi proceeded methodically, arriving at that familiar, mist-shrouded mountain gate only after more than ten days.
Learning that Xiaoqi not only bravely won third place at the Heavenly Axis Ask-the-Heavens Conference, making a name in Central Plains, but also received the Eastern Sea Dragon Palace's feast invitation—the entire Cleanness Void Sect was practically celebrating and shocked. Sect Leader Xuan Xuan True Man personally came out of seclusion, holding Xiaoqi's hand, excited his beard trembled slightly, repeatedly saying good. Senior Brother Mu Qingfeng, Third Sister Liu Yun and others were also overjoyed, proud. Xiaoqi's achievements undoubtedly elevated Cleanness Void Sect's prestige to an unprecedented height.
For the Dragon Palace trip, after discussion between the Sect Leader and elders, they unanimously agreed this was an excellent opportunity for Cleanness Void Sect to establish connections with top external powers. They strongly supported Xiaoqi's journey. They only repeatedly exhorted that Dragon Palace was no ordinary place—he needed to be prudent, prioritize befriending others, be careful in all matters.
Xiaoqi stayed at the sect for half a month. On one hand, he submitted conference gains, especially that peak-grade spirit artifact Xuan Gui Shield and some spirit stones and pills, to the sect to (give back to) his teachers (the sect only symbolically took a portion, most still belonged to Xiaoqi). On the other hand, under Senior Brothers' protection, he used this opportunity to thoroughly consolidate realm cultivation gains, adjusting his state to perfect peak.
Zhao Tiezhu formally became a Cleanness Void Sect external body cultivation disciple. Though his (seniority) made him Xiaoqi's junior, he still called "Brother Little Seven," not caring at all. Pang Hong and several other independent cultivators were also accepted as sect guest advisors, temporarily settled.
Everything prepared. As the Dragon Palace feast date approached and Xiaoqi prepared to depart, the Dragon Palace's promised escort arrived as scheduled.
This day, before Cleanness Void Sect's mountain gate, the cloud sea churned. Accompanied by clear cries and abundant water vapor, an strange carriage descended, breaking through the clouds.
What pulled it weren't spirit horses, but two sea-horse-like yet entirely covered with crystal blue scales, single-horned, with wings on their ribs—strange sea beasts! Their forms were graceful, their auras notably Foundation Establishment late stage, eyes flickering with intelligence. The carriage itself was like a giant white giant mussel opening its shell. The shell's edges inlaid with various rare corals and pearls, emanating soft halos and abundant water elemental qi—luxurious yet elegant.
A Dragon Palace guard captain in silver scale armor, handsome features, with a pair of small jade horns on his head, jumped from the carriage. He cupped hands respectfully toward the welcoming Sect Leader Xuan Xuan True Man and Xiaoqi. His voice was clear: "By the Dragon King sovereign's decree, we specially come to welcome Daoist Tang Xiaoqi, heading to the Eastern Sea Dragon Palace for the feast."
Such an (display), again made Cleanness Void Sect disciples' eyes swim with longing, their hearts even more drawn to that mysterious Eastern Sea Dragon Palace.
Xiaoqi bid farewell to the Sect Leader, and Senior Brothers.
"Xiaoqi, this journey to the Eastern Sea, broadening horizons is important, but safety comes first." The Sect Leader exhorted sincerely.
"Silly boy, don't be a coward at Dragon Palace either. Show off our Cleanness Void Sect's spirit!" Third Sister Liu Yun was still that cold proud yet caring.
Senior Brother Mu Qingfeng patted his shoulder. Everything was unspoken.
Xiaoqi bowed farewell to each. Then he brought the excited Zhao Tiezhu and the rabbit spirit who had somehow hopped onto his shoulder, curiously () that gorgeous carriage, onto the sea beast carriage.
The carriage's interior was far more spacious than it appeared outside. The decor was extremely luxurious—laying on soft unknown sea beast furs. Warm jade tables and chairs were arranged. On the tables were spirit fruits and nectar, aura-rich.
"Hold on tight." The Dragon Palace guard captain smiled slightly. His hand formed a seal.
Those two blue winged seahorses let out happy cries. Their wings flapped, pulling the mussel carriage. In an instant, it transformed into a flowing light ribbon, plunging into the cloud sea. Its speed was incredible, far exceeding ordinary flight artifacts!
Outside the carriage, clouds and mist rushed backward rapidly. Below, mountains and rivers quickly diminished. Xiaoqi could sense the carriage wasn't flying straight, but following certain trajectories, as if passing through layers of invisible spatial barriers. Speed was incredibly fast, clearly a Dragon Palace special traveling method.
Zhao Tiezhu clung to the carriage window, watching the scenery below quickly change, shouting: "Wow! So fast! This is much faster than my own flying! Dragon Palace is indeed extravagant!"
The rabbit spirit was more interested in those fruits on the table emitting tempting aroma and spiritual energy. Its little paws quickly grabbed a crystal clear "Water Jade Grape," stuffing it into its mouth, eyes squinting, face showing enjoyment.