When the news broke that the four major powers—Xingyin Pavilion, Datan, Huazong, and Fenyan Valley—had formed the so-called "Heavenly Alliance," the Central Plains were instantly electrified, as if struck by a colossal bomb. Each of these powers was renowned throughout the region; any one of them alone could be considered a dominant force. Datan, in particular, transcends the simple label of a major power—its immense influence and commanding presence are undeniable. Though it has recently appeared composed and unassuming, anyone with even a modicum of awareness could sense the formidable strength quietly simmering beneath its calm exterior. The alliance of powers of this caliber, in terms of both strength and momentum, far outshines the earlier "Minghe Coalition." Compared to this new "Heavenly Alliance," the "Minghe Coalition" seems no more than an ordinary shrimp, easily crushed by a mere finger's pressure. Everyone understands that with these four powers forming an alliance, their combined strength will expand to an unprecedented level—making them no longer hesitate even in the face of the immensely powerful Huan Palace. A new superpower capable of standing on equal footing with the Huan Palace has finally emerged once again in the Central Region. As the entire Central Region erupts with excitement over this groundbreaking news, numerous sects and power houses begin to take notice. Across the world, all harbor the mindset of seeking shelter under a great tree. The momentum and influence of the "Tianfu Alliance" are nothing short of astonishing; in the future, few powers on this continent will be able to rival them. To benefit from their protection—whether for sects or other institutions—will undoubtedly bring immense advantages. Thus, on the third day after the news was announced, the Xingyin Pavilion became exceptionally bustling, with numerous senior leaders from various factions traveling great distances to join. Their goal was simply to become part of this alliance. Yet, despite the overwhelming volume of joining requests, the old herbalist and Xiao Yan did not accept them all. This alliance was their sole means of countering the Huan Pavilion, and thus held paramount importance. Many of the requesting factions were mere political allies—only now coming over due to the alliance's growing strength. Should the alliance eventually falter, these very same factions would swiftly turn against them, severely undermining their morale. Therefore, such "bad apples" must absolutely be rejected. However, these matters did not require Xiao Yan to worry excessively, as the Wind Elder, who had been overseeing operations in other areas of the Star-Fallen Pavilion, was now urgently summoned back by Yao Lao. For years, the two had worked in tandem—Yao Lao handling the external affairs while the Wind Elder managed internal operations—proving to be a key reason for the Pavilion's thriving success. Though the Wind Elder's strength and reputation fell slightly short of Yao Lao's, he was particularly adept at administrative management. Thus, upon the alliance's success, Yao Lao promptly assigned other elders to take over the Wind Elder's previous responsibilities, allowing him to return and address these pressing issues. Master Feng's managerial capabilities were undoubtedly outstanding. Soon after returning to Xingyin Pavilion, he began systematically handling a wide array of affairs—though seemingly numerous, these were managed with remarkable order and efficiency, to the point that Xiao Yan and Ye Lao found themselves somewhat humbled. Yet, amidst the alliance's bustling activities, Xiao Yan was somewhat surprised that the Huan Pavilion had not stirred with significant activity—seeming entirely indifferent to an alliance capable of threatening them. Regardless of the Huan Pavilion's response, after discussions, Xiao Yan and the others had decided to establish a dedicated intelligence bureau. The primary objective of this bureau would be to investigate the locations of all branch pavilions and even the main pavilion of the Huan Pavilion. With the Huan Pavilion being their greatest adversary, the alliance needed a clear understanding of their outposts. Once the right moment arrived, they might gradually shift from a position of defense to one of initiative. Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that the joint efforts of the four major powers following the alliance had proven exceptionally effective—within just fifteen days, two branch pavilions of the Huan Pavilion were discovered. Although there were some personnel losses during the detection efforts, the results achieved were undoubtedly substantial. Regarding these offshoot halls, Xiao Yan indeed felt a strong impulse to personally lead an assault and utterly wipe them out. However, upon calmer reflection, he managed to suppress that impulse. Though the alliance has grown immensely in strength, a full-scale, decisive battle against the Spirit Hall at this very moment would inevitably result in a mutual annihilation—something Xiao Yan did not wish to see. For beyond the Spirit Hall lies an even more formidable force: the Spirit Clan. Therefore, the current "Heavenly Alliance" cannot be considered arrogant merely because of its rapid growth. To successfully challenge the Spirit Palace or even the Spirit Clan, only four words suffice: thick accumulation, gradual emergence! Quietly gathering strength, patiently awaiting the moment of decisive counteroffensive. … As the entire alliance surged with astonishing potential, the month had slipped by quietly and unnoticeably. At the Xingyun Pavilion, in a tranquil courtyard, Xiao Yan, Yao Lao, Cai Lin, Xiao Yi Xian, and others had gathered here—an uncommon occurrence given the recent busyness, which had made it difficult for each of them to free themselves. "Heard that, Xiao Yan found himself somewhat speechless, his hand unconsciously brushing his forehead. If the strange luminous orb in his mind proved to be of no use, then all these maps he had searched for over the years would have been for nothing. "The Pure Lotus Demon Fire is due to emerge in another nine months. By now, you should have prepared adequately. The Huan Palace and even the Huan Clan will surely send true masters to seize it. Therefore, our strength must be enhanced as soon as possible," said the Yeold. "Reaching the level of Dou Sheng is no easy feat—each step forward is significant. If I were given another three months, I should be able to reach the mid-level of a one-star Dou Sheng. Even then, when the nine-month period ends, I might only reach the peak of the one-star Dou Sheng tier," Xiao Yan said, with a sigh. "I'm not saying you, but Cailei. As the Seven-Color Sky-Eating Python, she possesses the potential to reach the Half-Saint level at the fastest pace, provided she has sufficient energy. Moreover, her Sky-Eating Python body is exceptionally strong—she can even hold her own against a true Saint-level warrior. If she can attain the Half-Saint rank, her contribution to your strength would be immense." The old doctor smiled and added, "Your young girlfriend from the ancient clan reportedly entered a period of seclusion after returning from the Wild Ancient Realm. Should she now emerge from that seclusion, with her legendary divine-blooded lineage, she might very well become another Saint-level warrior for the clan. When you call her in, she would undoubtedly prove to be a significant asset." Hearing the elder's words, Xiao Yan could only shake his head with a wry smile. Cai Lin and Xun'er were both exceptionally gifted—Cai Lin's true form was a seven-colored sky-devouring serpent, rarer even than the Taoist ancient dragons, while Xun'er possessed a legendary divine-bloodline, both of which gave them a significant advantage in cultivation, achieving remarkable results with far less effort. Compared to them, Xiao Yan indeed felt rather ordinary. Yet, in this world, there were inevitably many injustices. If one insisted on such comparisons, it would be difficult for Xiao Yan to achieve his current standing. "Though the seven-colored sky-devouring serpent only requires energy to advance, that energy is extraordinarily immense. Where shall we find such a magnificent and daunting sanctuary to supply it?" Xiao Yan sighed lightly. "In this realm, there exists a place that, for Cai Lin, might allow her to refine her physical form. She possesses the exceptionally rare 'Nine-Color Original Stone' of the world. Should the right circumstances arise, she might even evolve into the being comparable to the ancient Sky Serpent King—the Nine-Color Devouring Serpent!" The old pharmacist's eyes slightly narrowed, yet a gentle smile spread across his face. "What place?" The gaze of Xiao Yan and Cai Lin swiftly converged upon the old pharmacist.