Chapter 2195 Sacred Grove (2)

Chapter 2195 Sacred Grove (2)

Surprise flickered across Yun Lintian's face. The explanation fanned the flames of his curiosity regarding the Sacred Grove. He couldn't help but wonder how the purity of its elemental source compared to the relics within him.

"A thousand, you say," he clarified, "yet you targeted this specific grove?"

The tall woman offered a wry smile. "It presented the easiest opportunity."

Yun Lintian nodded in slow comprehension. "And what of this Qing Zong's background? Why the cautious approach?"

"He holds the unenviable title of thirteenth prince, ostracized by the Azure Royal Clan," the woman replied truthfully. "Though his royal blood remains, we have no desire for unnecessary conflict."

Yun Lintian's brows furrowed. "So, the Azure Royal Clan wields absolute control over this region?"

"Indeed," the woman confirmed. "The formation of a kingdom hinges on the control of several Sacred Groves. The Azure Royal Clan, in this case, holds dominion over seven."

A flicker of puzzlement crossed Yun Lintian's features. "Such a vital resource... shared with others?" He struggled to understand why access was granted to the city's major clans.

"A kingdom thrives on its population," the woman offered gently.

Understanding dawned on Yun Lintian's face. His lack of experience in governing a vast empire was evident. To foster loyalty, the royal clan needed to offer incentives, especially to powerful clans.

"Furthermore," the woman continued, "control isn't absolute. Take your Yun Clan, for example. Even with a thousand years of managing the grove, they could only cultivate a handful of Divine Sovereigns. The Royal Clan suffers no significant losses."

"Interesting," Yun Lintian mused, a hint of intrigue in his voice. "Tell me more about the majority of powerhouses in this Great Wilderness Realm. Are there gods in this realm?"

The tall woman, now visibly relieved that she hadn't been reduced to ashes, took a deep breath and continued, "The Great Wilderness Realm, as vast as it is, is but a tiny speck in the grand scheme of the universe. It's a realm where the strong prey on the weak, where the pursuit of power is paramount. The majority of powerhouses here are those who have reached the God Emperor Realm, the pinnacle of cultivation for most."

She paused, her eyes flickering with a hint of awe. "But beyond that, there exist legends of gods, beings of unimaginable power who have transcended the mortal realm and ascended to godhood. They are said to dwell in the Divine Realm, a place of pure energy and divine laws, far beyond the reach of ordinary mortals."

Situ Lan, however, turned towards Yun Lintian, her eyes blazing with hatred.

Yun Lintian's smile widened, a touch of amusement flickering across his face. "Hatred? Now that's truly ironic."

The woman's composure faltered. She quickly ushered Situ Lan away. "Leave. Now."

Situ Lan, a trace of blood trickling from a bitten lip, burned with self-loathing for her weakness. Before departing, she gathered Tong Qi's ashes and the severed head of her protector – a grim reminder of her failure.

Yun Lintian watched them disappear into the night, a cold smile lingering on his lips. "The Hidden Jade Valley, hm? Let's see what secrets you hold."

Situ Lan, unknowingly, carried a hidden passenger – a sliver of Yun Lintian's power embedded within her soul. Every sight, every sound she experienced would be relayed back to him.

With a final glance at the silent garden, Yun Lintian turned and walked out.

"Young Master!" Yun Ling rushed to his side, her eyes scanning for injuries. "Are you alright?"

A gentle chuckle escaped Yun Lintian's lips. "Silly girl," he said, patting her head reassuringly. "Of course I am."

Yun Ling sighed, relief flooding her features. The events within the garden remained a mystery to her.

"Let's return," Yun Lintian declared, already striding away.

"Back to the mountain?" Yun Ling hurried to catch up, concern etched on her face.

Yun Lintian's smile was faint, enigmatic. "No, to the clan."

Surprise flickered across Yun Ling's features, morphing into worry. The atmosphere at the clan house must be suffocating right now, with Yun Lintian undoubtedly becoming the target of harsh criticism.

Yun Lintian seemed to sense her thoughts, a flicker of amusement dancing in his eyes. He didn't care about it. His goal was to find a clue about his mother as well as the Sacred Grove...