"So it is, yet Master Long holds such firm conviction—there must be some reason behind it, surely?" After a brief thought, Han Li gently asked the elder of the Long family. Upon hearing Han Li's question, the young lady in the feathered robe and the bearded man exchanged a subtle glance and turned their attention toward the elder. "Indeed, I have my own means to verify the truth of this matter. However, the specifics of my method are not something I can reveal to you all at this time. Fortunately, Lady Ye's earlier statement has indirectly confirmed that the Xilan Pool indeed exists somewhere in the realm of the demons. Thus, it now depends on whether we are truly willing to take this risk and secure such a magnificent fortune. To be honest, I, along with the Saint Princess and Brother Hui, will certainly make this journey. Additionally, several Saint Spirit-level beings from the Spirit Realm will also join us. As for the human realm, the three great dynasties and other major powers will surely not allow this matter to fall through, which is why we have come to you three. Indeed, originally I had intended to invite only Lady Ye and Brother Lin. Your arrival, Master Han, has proven to be a pleasant surprise." Then, let us see whether the three of you are willing to take a risk and commit yourselves," the elder of the Long family said firmly. After hearing this, the three of them exchanged glances, yet none immediately responded, each displaying a different expression. "I don't know when Lord Long intends to go to the demonic realm after the outbreak of the demonic calamity. As I understand, this current calamity is far more severe than any of the previous ones. A single misstep, and our human race might even face total extinction. Should our departure timing be off, I fear that our several families may struggle to survive the demonic onslaught." The young lady with the feathered robe finally exhaled deeply and said. "This matter has long been considered by me. Therefore, I have set the timing for entering the demonic realm several decades after the outbreak of the calamity. By then, the human race should have weathered the most intense phase of the demonic assault and entered a period of stabilization, with all powers supporting one another. Under such circumstances, we shall find an appropriate moment to quietly enter the demonic realm, and I believe there should be no major issues." Moreover, since Mr. Han hasn't mentioned it, he is already an independent cultivator with no concerns whatsoever. As for the Yuan-Stage cultivators from the Ye and Lin families, surely there are more than just the two of us, aren't there?" The elder of the Long family flashed a surprised glance and spoke calmly. "Hmph! You Long old fellow truly keeps up with the latest news! Very well—if our Lin family indeed faces no serious threats during the demonic calamity, then I shall join you on this journey. Look here," the man with flowing hair—among the three of Han's companions—was the first to respond. Clearly, the Spirit-Refreshing Pool and the Pure-Heart Lotus had proven especially alluring to him, compelling him to remain even though his expression remained gloomy and unwilling to voice any refusal. "Since there is a method to conceal one's aura and enter the demonic realm, one's chances of survival naturally increase significantly. However, even with the most flawless disguise, if one remains active within the demonic realm for an extended period, there will inevitably be moments when the disguise begins to show cracks. How long, then, would this round trip to the demonic realm take?" If the journey is too long, the chances of failure will surely be extremely high, and my younger sister will likely need to carefully consider whether to truly embark upon it. Of course, if the duration is relatively short, I would certainly not miss such a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." After taking a deep breath, the feathered maiden asked. "Your question, Lady Ye, has indeed left me somewhat at a loss. As I understand, the Washing Spirit Pool and the Pure Spirit Lotus are located at the very center of the shattered realm of the Demon World. Even under the most favorable circumstances, the round trip would take over a dozen years—should any complications or unforeseen events arise, the duration could easily multiply several times over. Moreover, we cannot begin our journey immediately when the Demon Cataclysm first erupts. Therefore, in terms of time, we actually do not have much flexibility." The Thousand-Season Princess said, her expression slightly troubled. "Over a dozen years? Indeed, that is quite a long time. I shall need to return and carefully reflect upon this matter. At present, I am unable to offer my answer with any certainty." The young lady's face shifted between expressions of concern and hesitation before she replied with some uncertainty. "Never mind. Of course, the Lady Ye can return and carefully consider her decision. However, her celestial wind lineage possesses the great power to shatter the void—a crucial asset for the journey to the demonic realm. It would be truly a pity if she were to decline." The elder of the Long family did not find the young lady's reply surprising; instead, her words carried deep significance. "As to whether I go or not, I shall carefully weigh my options." The young lady said this and then remained silent, offering no further words. Then, as to Mr. Han, he shall see the situation at the time. If he has the time, he shall make the journey. Should he truly be too busy to spare, I shall not insist. However, let me make it clear upfront. Whether or not he goes, I have no objection. But before I and the Saint Maiden journey to the Demon Realm, I kindly ask that the matter be kept confidential. At present, only a few of us—myself included—know of it. Should any rumors reach the outside world, do not be surprised if I am not particularly courteous. Hm, I am not afraid that others will vie for the Spirit Pool. Rather, I am concerned that should the Demon Clan learn of this in advance, our ability to enter the Demon Realm quietly and undisturbed will be significantly compromised. Unlike the young lady in the feathered robe, the old patriarch of Long family does not seem overly concerned about whether Mr. Han goes or not. After a gentle remark, his tone suddenly grows cold, issuing a clear warning. Upon hearing this, Mr. Han offers a quiet smile, appearing completely unconcerned. Yet the maiden in the feathered robe arched her brows, her expression darkening as she replied, "Lord Long, how do you see us? Do you think we would do something so self-sacrificing and detrimental to others?" "That's merely what I said," the elder of the Long family added with a chuckle. "I also believe you all are not people who lack discretion. As long as I've fully informed you of the matter, whether or not you're willing to take on this risk—whether or not you're truly ready to commit—will depend entirely on your own judgment. However, before the magical calamity breaks out, you must each provide a clear and definite answer. For if you refuse, I shall have to seek out other suitable companions." With a composed smile, the elder of the Long family continued. "Of course!" This time, the maiden in the feathered robe readily agreed. Han Li, standing by, nodded thoughtfully. With the matter now settled, Han Li and his companions naturally did not linger any longer. After a few more polite exchanges, they all took their leave of the pavilion. As for the cultivator of the Hui surname, he personally saw them off to In no time at all, only the Princess Qianqiu and the Elder of the Long family remained in the side pavilion. The young lady in yellow robes smiled gently, then vanished completely, her eyes now flashing with quick, restless glances. Meanwhile, the Elder of the Long family gazed steadily toward the main gate, his face deeply thoughtful, as though pondering something new. The atmosphere had grown utterly still and silent. But I am going to the realm of the demons, where the legend speaks—having one more companion who has broken the void will surely increase my chances of survival. Moreover, the secret techniques of the Ye family are no less remarkable than those of our Long family. Bringing this young lady along will certainly be a great asset." The elder of the Long family glanced at the yellow-robed young woman and replied calmly. "Even if this Ye lady is indeed significant, the Han friend is only at the early stage of the Consolidated Body stage. Though capable, it may not be necessary to bring along such a companion unless the Long elder truly feels short-handed and finds it difficult to locate a mid-stage colleague among the human realm. If the Long elder truly feels that way, I am willing to return to our family and arrange for another capable relative to join us." The Qianqi Princess paused, then sighed softly. "Heh—he and I have already made a promise. The number of companions we bring into the demon realm should be equal. The lady won’t regret this, will she? And actually, the Qianqi friend has missed her mark this time!" This young man from the Han family, though only a junior cultivator in the early stages of achieving the Consolidated Body stage within our human lineage, has proven, through my personal assessment, to be stronger than Elder Hui. Even if I and the Saint Princess—both late-stage cultivators—join forces, it would still be no easy task to defeat him. Moreover, my decision to invite him to participate was not made at random. His refined spiritual form and golden body likely stem from a top-tier magical technique of the ancient魔race, enabling him to manipulate the true magical energy as well. With him joining, there may be unforeseen advantages in the magical realm! Of course, if he truly declines, that would not be an insurmountable obstacle—indeed, I will find another capable independent cultivator to join the effort. After a quiet chuckle, the elder of the Long family spoke with confidence. "I am finally the Saint Princess of the Spirit-Being lineage, how could I possibly back out now? Since Master Long has already made up his mind, I shall say no more. I shall retain this magical pearl for now, as the method of commanding it has already been mastered by my esteemed colleague." I have already concluded a treaty on behalf of the Ling clan and the noble houses, and thus cannot remain in your realm any longer. I shall depart immediately tomorrow to return to the Ling clan. As for the many matters of cooperation between your Long family and our Qilin clan, I hope you will continue to give them your careful attention." Upon seeing the Long family elder had other plans, the Qianqiue Princess smiled gently, unconcerned. "Princess, rest assured—our collaboration is mutually beneficial, and I will certainly give these matters my full attention. Yet when we meet again, it may well be after the outbreak of the magical calamity." The Long family elder nodded, and though his face remained expressionless, he managed to force a faint smile. The young lady in yellow robes exchanged a few more courteous words before rising and leaving. Meanwhile, Han Li had returned to his quarters and lay upon a large bed on the upper floor of the pavilion, his eyes half-closed, deep in thought.