The Ethereal Domains

Chapter 1432: Hero Valley; Big Dream Mountain

Hero Valley; Big Dream Mountain

Cha-Eun Xiao, as a charismatic leader, gives his orders to a group of loyal followers who are about to embark on a crucial mission. He sets the stage for their departure, emphasizing the significance of their upcoming battle and the need for unity. The men gather in groups and bid farewell to each other, fully aware of the uncertain and perilous journey that lies ahead.

Amidst this tense atmosphere, Cha-Eun Xiao briefly interacts with his three elder mentors, expressing his intention to share valuable Divine Yin Yang Fruits with them, a gesture of gratitude and concern. However, the elder mentors, displaying immense wisdom and selflessness, decline the offer, choosing to prioritize Cha-Eun Xiao\'s needs over their own. This selfless act deepens Cha-Eun Xiao\'s respect and admiration for them, underscoring their transformation from enemies in his past life to beloved family members in his current one.

As Cha-Eun Xiao reflects on his past experiences, he acknowledges the complex blend of emotions that martial artists encounter in their journeys—hatred and gratitude, warmth, and regret. These emotions have shaped his life, and he takes a moment to contemplate the profound impact of his interactions with others.

With a mixture of determination, gratitude, and a tinge of nostalgia, Cha-Eun Xiao swiftly departs from his current location, followed closely by his allies. The Moon Queen, ever watchful, observes these events, her presence silently noted in the midst of this emotional and action-packed scene.

The Moon Queen, having lived for many years, keenly observed the deep connection between Cha-Eun Xiao and the three old men. She couldn\'t help but feel a tinge of jealousy as she regarded the selflessness displayed by the three great elders, who willingly sacrificed something precious for Cha-Eun Xiao\'s sake.

She pondered over the situation, her thoughts filled with questions and uncertainty. Cha-Eun Xiao was her grandson, flesh and blood, yet the circumstances had led to this unexpected turn of events. She wondered if it was the will of the heavens or some other force at play.

Despite her inner turmoil, the Moon Queen remained composed, standing silently for a prolonged period. Finally, she released a long sigh and led the people of the Qiong-Hua Palace away. However, deep within her heart, she made a solemn decision: after the war concluded, if she were still alive, she would journey to the Oracle District to consult with Yue Gongxue and Cha Nantian about their desires regarding Cha-Eun Xiao.

She questioned herself about what could be done to mend her strained relationship with Cha-Eun Xiao. After observing him for an extended period, the Moon Queen concluded that he was an honorable man who placed immense value on friendships and family bonds. His caring nature extended to his brothers, sisters, lovers, and friends. He was loyal and considerate to all, treating them with respect and kindness. He carried the weight of responsibility and duty as the head of his family, a trait she found admirable.

With a deep sense of pride and admiration, the Moon Queen couldn\'t help but remark, "That is a good kid over there," recognizing the genuine goodness within Cha-Eun Xiao. She mused on the capriciousness of destiny and the twists it brought into their lives.

...

In the region where the sects of the Qing-Yun Realm had united, the landscape remained unchanged, with campfires still dotting the area. The daily routine of camp life continued, complete with smoke signals in the evening, affirming the persistent presence of the base.

However, the formidable cultivators had departed, leaving behind those who had not yet reached level five of the Dream Origin Stage. These individuals had little to offer in the fight against the Demon Soul Dao and were not even suitable as cannon fodder. Thus, they decided to disband and return to their homes.

Cha-Eun Xiao had previously cautioned them, emphasizing the futility of their participation in the battle due to their weakness. Although they didn\'t fear death, they were determined not to endanger their comrades\' lives. These martial world denizens were willing to sacrifice their lives but not at the expense of others.

Observing the situation, the Moon Queen saw that Cha-Eun Xiao was an honorable and responsible man who cherished his bonds with friends and family. He exhibited care and consideration for his loved ones, as well as loyalty to his friends and subordinates. He treated his concubines and followers with kindness, never asserting his superiority but, instead, fostering a familial atmosphere.

Amid her reflections, the Moon Queen couldn\'t help but remark, "Heaven\'s will does tease us."

...

A substantial group of over ten thousand individuals had returned to the base, reuniting for a common cause. These men, though unable to participate in the direct battle against the Demon Soul Dao, realized the importance of their base as a strategic location. Their return was motivated by their desire to protect it.

They discussed their concerns, recognizing that their base had been compromised by the events involving Lord Xiao Monarch\'s confrontation with the secret organization. They understood that the Demon Soul Dao might send its agents to investigate, and an empty base could reveal their vulnerability.

The men acknowledged the danger of staying at the base but decided to remain for one additional day, acting as decoys to mislead the enemy and buy time for Lord Xiao Monarch and the others fighting on the frontlines. They shared their bond of brotherhood and celebrated life, choosing to make the most of their remaining time together, even in the face of uncertainty.

...

Meanwhile, Cha-Eun Xiao and his group swiftly traversed a densely wooded area, their movements resembling countless shooting stars as they disappeared into the depths of the forest.

Dressed entirely in black and with their faces concealed, the group resembled the enigmatic cultivators of the Demon Soul Dao. Even those who didn\'t cover their faces were carefully disguised, blending seamlessly with their covert surroundings. They moved stealthily, akin to swift arrows heading for the imposing Big Dream Mountain.

Cha-Eun Xiao walked with Jun Yinglian on his left and Xuan Bing on his right, forming a formidable trio. The sisters Yue Shuang and Yue Han followed closely behind. An additional contingent of approximately eighty individuals from the Sky Ice sect trailed the two sisters, while the remainder moved in small teams, taking advantage of the dark shadows and advancing rapidly towards the enigmatic Big Dream Mountain.

The mountain\'s name, "Big Dream Mountain," aptly captured its ethereal allure. Clouds and mist perpetually shrouded the peak, creating an otherworldly ambiance reminiscent of a fantastical dreamland.

Situated in the God Fall District, the mountain was bordered by water on three sides, with its fourth side connected to the Sky Cyan Forest. In the daytime, the region experienced scorching temperatures, as water vapor continually ascended into the air, obscuring visibility. This ascending vapor eventually condensed into raindrops that bathed the landscape. The climate remained consistent throughout the year, characterized by mist, fog, and perpetual rainfall.

Legend held that an ancient god had once visited this mystical locale, captivated by its exquisite scenery. The god was so enchanted that he unintentionally drifted into slumber. Upon awakening, a thousand years had elapsed. Overwhelmed by the passage of time, the god composed a somewhat mediocre poem that went, "A big dream in my life, a thousand years passed, slipping away. Trees seem to be small in the dream, yet they thrust up to the heavens in reality. Time stops in the dream, yet the world has lived centuries. As long as the wonderful scene stays, it is heaven here forever."

Though the poem lacked the brilliance one might expect from a deity, it became a widely known story, giving rise to the name "Big Dream Mountain."

The locale exuded poetic charm and an idyllic atmosphere, characterized by its lush mountains and waterways. Unfortunately, it had now become the covert training ground for the Demon Soul Dao\'s ruthless assassins, responsible for spreading terror and devastation worldwide.

Cha-Eun Xiao and his group had embarked on a day-long journey to reach the coastline, where they were greeted by an expanse of mist and fog shrouding the sea. Their vision was obscured by the thick, enveloping mist, even though Cha-Eun Xiao possessed considerable cultivation power. As he extended his spiritual awareness, he could not detect any signs of life within hundreds of miles.

Surveying the desolate shore and the lifeless sea, Cha-Eun Xiao couldn\'t help but wear a bitter smile. He remarked, "I\'ve scoured hundreds of miles, but there isn\'t a single living soul in sight."

Jun Yinglian responded with a hint of cynicism, "This was to be expected. The Demon Soul Dao is not one to spare innocent lives that could potentially reveal their secrets. I believe this area has been a no man\'s land for over ten thousand years."

Cha-Eun Xiao decided to halt their journey temporarily, advising, "Let\'s rest here and wait for our companions to catch up with us. Once they do, we can proceed with our sea crossing and continue toward the battlefield."

Taking a deep breath and his eyes reflecting a steely resolve, he continued, "The Big Dream Mountain encompasses a vast territory, and all we know is that it houses one of the Demon Soul Dao\'s bases. We\'ll need to reach the mountain before we can piece together the puzzle of what lies within the vicinity."

Jun Yinglian nodded in agreement, adding, "We must tread cautiously, avoiding any inadvertent contact with the enemy, as unforeseen circumstances could jeopardize our mission."

"That\'s right," Cha-Eun Xiao affirmed.

That night, as Cha-Eun Xiao and his comrades meditated, a strange and malevolent fog rolled in from the sea. Cha-Eun Xiao\'s heightened senses detected its toxicity, and the group remained vigilant, aware of the impending danger.