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When one is in high spirits due to good news, their energy naturally lifts. Tang San unconsciously quickened his pace and returned to the Tang Sect within ten days.
During this time, Tang Xiao had carried out Tang San's plans, enabling Dai Mubai to rise prominently within the Star Luo imperial family.
Tang Xiao's series of actions undoubtedly earned him immense prestige within the Tang Sect, and the disciples naturally grew more convinced of his leadership.
In contrast, Yu Xiaogang's previous efforts, though they brought significant short-term gains to the Tang Sect, failed to maintain its foundation. The subsequent loss of these gains caused the disciples to lose faith in him.
During this period, Yu Xiaogang spent most of his time lying alone in his room, dispirited and melancholic.
If not for Tang Xiao's consideration of Tang San's feelings, Yu Xiaogang might have already been expelled from the sect's core leadership.
Occasionally, Tang Xiao would consult Yu Xiaogang on certain matters, but Yu Xiaogang seemed uninterested and ignored him.
Upon returning to the Tang Sect, Tang San immediately headed to the main hall.
After learning about Tang Xiao's arrangements, he was quite satisfied. "Thankfully Uncle Tang Xiao stepped in; otherwise, the Tang Sect's situation could have been quite precarious."
Dragon Duke and Snake Grandmother also praised Tang Xiao's actions.
After a pause, Tang San noticed fewer people in the hall and asked, "Uncle Tang Xiao, where are Teacher Yu Xiaogang and Father?"
Tang Xiao replied, "Master Yu Xiaogang has been deeply blaming himself for not handling things well earlier. As for Brother Hao... where is he, by the way?"
Although Tang San hadn't explicitly mentioned it, Tang Xiao had already guessed what had happened when Tang San brought back the soul bones to the Hao Tian Sect.
Unfortunately, those two soul bones were seized by the Spirit Hall after the destruction of the Hao Tian Sect.
Tang Xiao felt helpless about this. Had Tang Hao not done what he did, with his strength, the Hao Tian Sect could have quickly rebuilt its foundation.
Tang San paused for a moment, then said, "I obtained the Sea God's inheritance and healed Father's injuries using the Sea God's light. We previously agreed that he would come to the Tang Sect as soon as possible."
"Lord Hao Tian has returned?" Meng Shu's face lit up with joy.
With only Tang Xiao in the Tang Sect, it had already grown to such prominence. If Tang Hao were to appear, the Tang Sect's strength would rival the top three sects, and further expansion would be entirely possible.
Tang Xiao shook his head and asked in confusion, "No, Brother Hao hasn't come to the Tang Sect. Xiao San, did you perhaps forget to tell him where the Tang Sect is? Maybe he's still on his way here?"
Tang San's expression darkened, and he said gravely, "That's impossible. Before I left, I clearly told Father where the Tang Sect was, and he promised to come here as soon as possible."
Calculating the time, six months had passed, yet there was still no sign of Tang Hao. How could this be?
Tang Hao wasn't inexperienced or naive; after so many years of wandering, how could he possibly get lost?
Tang Xiao quickly reassured him, "Xiao San, don't worry. Brother Hao hasn't come to the Tang Sect, likely because he was delayed by something."
"Let me send some disciples to look for news of Brother Hao across the continent. In the meantime, go see Master Yu Xiaogang first."
"Brother Hao is very strong and received grandfather's personal teachings. There aren't many who can match him on the continent. You don't need to worry about his safety."
At this point, Tang Xiao's face broke into a slight smile. "Xiao San, there are some things you might not know yet."
"Back then, grandfather became the strongest person on the continent by relying on the Great Sumeru Hammer technique. He didn't pass this technique down to the next generation but instead skipped a generation and taught it directly to Brother Hao."
"The power of this secret technique cannot be underestimated. When Brother Hao first broke through to become a Title Douluo, he used it to defeat three Level 95 Super Douluos from the Spirit Hall."
"Xiao San, you are the only descendant of the Hao Tian Sect. When Brother Hao returns, I will definitely have him teach you this secret technique. Additionally, starting now, I've decided to teach you the Hao Tian Nine Absolutes Technique."
Tang San interrupted, "Uncle Tang Xiao, I have important matters to attend to this time. My cultivation will have to wait."
Dragon Duke and Snake Grandmother were sharp individuals and immediately understood the implication of his words. "We have other important matters to attend to. We'll take our leave first."
After the two left, Tang San explained, "Uncle Tang Xiao, my eighth trial requires me to obtain the Heart of the Sea God."
"According to the Sea God, this item should be located in the Sunset Forest, which falls under the influence of the top three sects. I'm worried that if I enter, they might discover me, leading to unforeseen trouble."
Tang Xiao fell into deep thought.
If it were within the borders of the Star Luo Empire, with Dai Mubai and the noble families supporting him, finding the Heart of the Sea God wouldn't be difficult.
Unfortunately, the Heart of the Sea God had ended up in the Tian Dou Empire.
Tang San added, "The Sea God also mentioned that the Heart of the Sea God once fell into the hands of the Tian Dou royal family and was renamed the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud. Perhaps we can follow this lead..."
Tang Xiao immediately rejected the idea. "Back then, Xue Qinghe ascended to power through a palace coup."
"Many people fled the palace to avoid being purged. This line of inquiry is simply untraceable."
If they could locate these people based on fragments of information, Xue Qinghe would surely have found them first.
Political struggles were life-and-death affairs. After ascending to power, Xue Qinghe naturally purged those who opposed him to consolidate his rule.
The Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud was likely stolen during the chaos in the palace.
The thief was either captured by Xue Qinghe and executed or went into hiding in the Sunset Forest to evade pursuit.
In either case, following this lead to find the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud was virtually impossible.
For now, the Tang Sect's primary focus was helping Dai Mubai consolidate his position and build momentum for him.
They couldn't spare extra manpower to help Tang San experiment and make mistakes step by step.
Therefore, finding the correct direction for investigation was crucial.
After careful consideration, Tang Xiao arranged, "This way: I'll send some unfamiliar faces to scout the Sunset Forest first. You don't need to rush there. In the meantime, spend these days training with me in the Hao Tian Nine Absolutes."
"Your Blue Silver Grass martial soul is nearing the ninth ring, and your Hao Tian Hammer martial soul's cultivation should also be prioritized."
"When the time is right, you can go complete your trial."
"By the way, I noticed that the mark on your forehead has dimmed compared to when you last returned. Has something changed?"
Tang San didn't know why, but after leaving the Sea God Island, the mark on his forehead suddenly became dimmer.
However, he didn't dare bother the Sea God over such a minor issue and chose not to dwell on it.
…
After leaving the main hall, Tang San headed to Yu Xiaogang's residence.
Lately, Yu Xiaogang had been sitting at the door every day, lost in thought. His age was already advanced, and with his soul master cultivation stalled at Level 29, his complexion had grown increasingly aged and haggard.
When Tang San arrived, Liu Erlong was standing behind Yu Xiaogang with a bowl and chopsticks, but it seemed he had no intention of eating.
"Teacher, what's wrong?" Tang San hurried forward anxiously.
The sudden shift in the continent's political landscape was something he hadn't anticipated.
Looking back, it was his fault that Yu Xiaogang was in this predicament. Otherwise, the latter wouldn't have blamed himself for this matter.
Of course, whether Yu Xiaogang truly blamed himself was just Tang Xiao's interpretation. To spare Yu Xiaogang's dignity, Tang San didn't reveal the truth.
In reality, Yu Xiaogang was simply bitter about losing the power he once held but was powerless to do anything about it.
Hearing Tang San's voice, Yu Xiaogang quickly turned around. "Xiao San, you've finally returned!"
With Tang San's identity as a teacher and his return, who in the Tang Sect would dare disobey his orders in the future?
After enduring such a long and painful period, relief had finally come.
"Teacher, let the past remain in the past. Right now, the Tang Sect's focus is on Mubai."
Tang San suddenly smiled and said, "Teacher, don't forget—Mubai promised to appoint you as the Imperial Tutor. In the future, you'll be the nation's strategic advisor. Whenever the country faces 'difficult problems', they'll need your expertise to resolve them."
Upon hearing this, a smile inadvertently appeared on Yu Xiaogang's face.
The position of Imperial Tutor not only carried a transcendent status but was also an affirmation of his wisdom.
After all, throughout the history of the two great empires on the continent, every Imperial Tutor had been among the most brilliant strategists of their time.
"Teacher, you've grown so thin from hunger. Shall we eat while we talk?" Tang San took the bowl and chopsticks from Liu Erlong and handed them to him.
Yu Xiaogang nodded heavily. "That's right, Xiao San. Tell me about your experiences during this time. If there's anything unclear, I can help brainstorm some ideas."
Having his wisdom acknowledged by his disciple naturally motivated him to put on a good show.
Tang San recounted the previous events. Regarding his father's whereabouts, he remained far less optimistic than Tang Xiao.
With no news of Tang Hao, Tang San was deeply troubled.
However, Yu Xiaogang's attitude mirrored Tang Xiao's—they both believed Tang Hao hadn't encountered any misfortune.
His absence at this moment likely meant he wanted to covertly cooperate with the Tang Sect's actions.
"Xiao San, you must understand that with Lord Hao Tian's strength, staying in the shadows is far more intimidating than appearing in the open."
"Mubai has been gaining significant attention lately, and many people are plotting against him in secret. If Lord Hao Tian remains hidden, wouldn't those plans be exposed?"
Tang San was puzzled. "But why didn't Father tell me?"
Yu Xiaogang chuckled, set down his bowl and chopsticks, and unconsciously clasped his hands behind his back.
"It's simple. When you left, Lord Hao Tian had already been in seclusion for several years and wasn't aware of the current situation on the continent. Indeed, based on the previous state of affairs, it would have been most beneficial for Lord Hao Tian to step into the open for the Tang Sect's sake."
"But after you went to the Sea God Island, the situation on the continent changed drastically overnight. After assessing the situation, Lord Hao Tian might have decided to change his plans temporarily. Unfortunately, by then, you were no longer on the continent. To avoid alarming anyone, Lord Hao Tian couldn't communicate his decision to go underground with you in advance."
"Let's wait a little longer. Mubai still needs to visit the cities affected by the war on the frontlines. Lord Hao Tian will likely appear in the shadows soon. At that time, I'll have Mubai keep an eye out."
Though Yu Xiaogang appeared dispirited, he hadn't entirely given up. He had kept himself informed about the latest developments on the continent.
When it came to the divine trial, however, he disagreed with Tang Xiao's cautious approach.
"If a large number of strangers suddenly appear within the influence of the top three sects, it will inevitably raise their suspicions. Moreover, can you guarantee that these people won't leak our plans if they're captured?"
If the plan were to be exposed, how would they operate in the Sunset Forest in the future?
The new headquarters of the top three sects were all located near Tiandou City, and they treated the Sunset Forest as their backyard, guarding it fiercely.
"Xiao San, have you forgotten about the Dragon Halberd Sect? Zhao Wuji has long been active near Tiandou City. Their presence there wouldn't raise suspicion."
"The Dragon Halberd Sect is our strategic partner around the clock. We can definitely seek their assistance in this matter."
Tang San nodded thoughtfully.
Indeed, Zhao Wuji had been operating within the Tian Dou Empire for a long time and was undoubtedly more familiar with the empire's situation.
…
Meanwhile, elsewhere.
Relying on his speed, Ning Tianchen flew to the Sun and Moon Continent in just half a month.
With his previous sea voyage experience and the nautical chart he obtained from Chen Haobai, he didn't waste much time at sea.
Upon reaching the Sun and Moon Continent, he landed at Binhai City.
Compared to the Douluo Continent, the situation on the Sun and Moon Continent was far more severe.
The Crescent Moon Empire had suffered a total collapse, allowing the Radiant Sun Empire to push deep into its heartland, cutting the empire into eastern and western halves and completely severing communication between the two sides.
The Crescent Moon Empire's capital was in the west, so the western half of the empire could still organize a decent resistance force. In contrast, the east, cut off from imperial orders, saw most cities surrender to the Radiant Sun Empire, with only a few continuing to resist.
Although the Radiant Sun Empire's army hadn't yet reached Binhai City, the city's lord, Zhang Chenghuan, had already submitted a letter of surrender. They were simply waiting for the enemy forces to arrive to take control of the city.
After landing, Ning Tianchen first gathered intelligence on the situation within the city, then tasked a young child with delivering a letter to the Cang family estate.
Cang Tianyou had long retired, and nearly all major and minor family matters were handled by Cang Jinghong.
Upon reading the tone of the letter, he immediately understood something and rushed to the family's secluded cultivation area to find Cang Tianyou.
"Father, that friend has returned!"
Upon hearing this, Cang Tianyou set aside the incomplete soul tool he had been studying and abruptly stood up.
"Hong, are you sure?"
Cang Jinghong didn't say much, handing over the letter. After all, he hadn't personally seen Ning Tianchen—it was merely a guess.
Ning Tianchen hadn't left a letter when he departed last time, so he couldn't verify the handwriting. However, the tone of the letter certainly sounded like Ning Tianchen.
"He wants us to meet at the city lord's residence. Since that's the case, Hong, you prepare first, and I'll come along shortly."
Meanwhile, inside the city lord's residence.
More than a year had passed since Ning Tianchen's last departure.
His reappearance left City Lord Zhang Chenghuan both surprised and delighted.
As long as Ning Tianchen was present, the Radiant Sun Empire would never dare cause trouble in Binhai City.
Though Zhang Chenghuan had indeed submitted a letter of surrender earlier, he couldn't guarantee that the Radiant Sun Empire would accept it.
After all, the Radiant Sun Empire had more than one general leading their troops, and some of them were known for their brutal tactics, including massacring entire cities.
Upon meeting again today, Zhang Chenghuan could sense an otherworldly aura emanating from Ning Tianchen, clearly indicating that his strength had once again increased—and by a qualitative leap.
"Friend, do you have any instructions?" Zhang Chenghuan asked with a cheerful smile.
Ning Tianchen inquired, "What about my two friends? Have they begun traveling across the continent?"
Zhang Chenghuan shook his head.
He didn't know the whereabouts of the Yu Die sisters. It was possible that they had already started their training on the continent, but due to their lack of fame, no one knew of them.
"I won't stay in Binhai City for long this time. Give me a rough overview of the situation on the continent and how much territory the Radiant Sun Empire has occupied."
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