Chapter 364: The True Power of the Eternal Dao Domain
"This should be the youngest participant in this battle among the heavens, right?"
Many people couldn't help but express their anticipation, while others voiced their doubts, suspecting that he must have used some backdoor method to secure his spot in the small world's quota. After all, how could someone only 26 years old have not only cultivated to the Dao Fa Realm but also become one of the top contenders?
This battle attracted a great deal of attention, and soon enough, someone stepped forward to challenge him.
The challenger came from a small world's holy land. Those from upper small world holy lands disdained taking advantage of such an easy target, feeling that even if they won, it wouldn't be honorable.
"At 26 years old, you're too green. Come back after another ten years of training, but by then, you'll be 126 years old and will have missed the next Heavenly Genius Battle. It seems you were born at the wrong time!"
A young man leaped onto the stage, announcing his identity before engaging in battle.
Li Hao's eyes showed a glimmer of hope. After all, Ming Yue Jian was from the same Da Yu Divine Dynasty as him, so naturally, he hoped Ming Yue Jian would win.
As the battle began, Ming Yue Jian was quickly forced to reveal four extreme powers.
Like Bian Ruxue, he too had limitations from his time in the mortal world and had not yet condensed the Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect Extreme Power.
Of all those present, only Li Hao had condensed the Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect in the mortal realm.
Even Ji Xuanshen relied on the will and soul of the Ji family's founding ancestor, a fallen saint, to form his Dharma Aspect.
The Saint Dao's inherited soul can be condensed 270 times, but compared to 360 times, which forms an extreme power, it still falls short.
However, the Saint Dao's inherited soul is different from the Wen Dao's inherited soul. A Saint Dao's soul can mimic the saints, observe the heavens and earth, and if one's future cultivation and state of mind are sufficient, the soul can be condensed again to reach the Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect.
Ji Xuanshen used this method to elevate his Saint Dao soul to the Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect, achieving the Five Extreme Power Realm.
As for Ming Yue Jian and Bian Ruxue, both relied on the Wen Dao's soul, making it difficult to improve further. Only by reincarnating and cultivating again could they hope to glimpse the extreme powers of this realm.
Soon, with his opponent's Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect on full display, Ming Yue Jian found himself in danger. Many speculated that he might be holding back, waiting to reveal his true abilities, but in truth, he had none left to reveal.
Li Hao frowned slightly, sensing that Ming Yue Jian might lose and be eliminated from the top 100.
But for Ming Yue Jian to reach this point was already a testament to his monstrous talent. After all, he was only 26 years old.
Moreover, 14 of those years had been spent cultivating in the mortal realm. He had only been in the Lands of the Saints for 12 years, and reaching this level was already rare and commendable.
Amidst the crisis, Ming Yue Jian suddenly exploded with power. His sword light surged like a tidal wave, carrying the purest and most extreme sword intent, containing a trace of Dao's essence!
That trace of Dao's essence elevated his swordsmanship to the pinnacle of perfection. In an instant, he broke through his opponent's defenses and Dharma Aspect, piercing through with a single sword stroke!
Afterward, Ming Yue Jian relentlessly pressed the attack, his sword light never ceasing. He turned the tide of the battle and, after a brief exchange, finally pierced his opponent's chest, drawing a spray of blood.
In this battle, Ming Yue Jian won by a narrow margin!
Seeing the 26-year-old youth emerge victorious on the stage, displaying Four Extreme Powers and swordsmanship nearing the Dao realm, the crowd was left in awe.
Even some of the hidden Saints from the various heavens couldn't help but cast a glance at the Saint from Yuan Shi Sacred Land, their eyes revealing a trace of envy.
That Saint had accepted an excellent disciple. Even if he didn't make it into the top 100 in this battle, he would surely have a prominent place in the world in the future!
With this victory, Ming Yue Jian became an overnight sensation!
Though his combat power clearly couldn't compare to the Tianjiao from the upper world sacred lands who had already fought, he still left a lasting impression on countless people due to his youth. He was only 26 years old, after all!
"No wonder he's our Junior Brother Ming Yue Jian—he's amazing!"
"He's the one with the most potential to become a saint in Yuan Shi Sacred Land!"
"Indeed! And Junior Brother Ming Yue Jian possesses the rare Dao Heart Dao Body, a rare constitution with the potential to ascend to sainthood!"
"Let me tell you a secret—Junior Brother Ming Yue Jian came from the mortal world and has only been cultivating for twelve years in our sacred land!"
Many disciples from Yuan Shi Sacred Land felt proud as they witnessed the astonishment on the faces of those around them, sharing even more shocking details.
Upon learning that the young man was from the mortal world, many people were dumbfounded, realizing the terrifying talent of Ming Yue Jian.
While the crowd celebrated, some of the sacred sons from the middle-world sacred lands in the waiting area had their eyes filled with calculations. Someone immediately leaped onto the stage, unwilling to miss the opportunity to secure a spot in the top 100.
At this point, Ming Yue Jian had expended a great deal of energy and had exposed many of his sword techniques. Facing another battle, his opponents would be better prepared unless he had more hidden cards.
Soon, a second challenger stepped onto the stage, revealing his Five Extreme Powers and launching a fierce assault. Ming Yue Jian, still recovering from the previous fight, had already used up his Immortal Power, which allowed for rapid recovery. Now, using divine power, he couldn't restore himself as quickly, and soon, he was defeated.
Although his swordsmanship and Four Extreme Powers had put him on the path to the top 100, he became a target for many who saw him as an easy opportunity.
As Ming Yue Jian was defeated, many sighed in regret. If he had made it into the top 100 at just 26 years old, it would have been a legendary achievement, an honor to be remembered for a thousand years.
Nevertheless, even though Ming Yue Jian lost, he left a deep impression on countless people, just as much as the victor did.
After Ming Yue Jian's defeat, others continued to step onto the stage to defend their positions.
Soon, Lin Qingying took the stage.
Dressed in a simple green robe, she looked elegant and serene, as if untouched by the world, like a tranquil green lotus in the forest.
As she stepped onto the stage, many disciples from Jian Zu Sacred Land, who had come to watch, cheered for her with enthusiasm.
Her expression remained calm as she stood on the stage, but her first glance was toward Li Hao. Upon seeing Li Hao's encouraging smile, a gentle warmth appeared in her usually serene eyes.
This battle was her chance to enter the top 100.
Before setting out, she had spoken to Jian Sheng (Sword Saint), asking if she could reduce the punishment for her master's transgressions if she made it into the top 100.
Jian Sheng had agreed.
As Lin Qingying and Li Hao exchanged looks, Bian Ruxue, who had once fought Lin Qingying, also focused her gaze on the stage.
Women's thoughts are often more sensitive, and Bian Ruxue immediately noticed the connection between Lin Qingying and Li Hao. Following Lin Qingying's gaze, she saw Li Hao and Lin Qingying exchange a glance that, though silent, seemed to carry a special understanding.
Bian Ruxue's expression changed slightly. She had long known that Li Hao was her betrothed, the "Brother Hao" who had accompanied her in the courtyard to practice swordsmanship in her youth. But now, the affectionate gaze that once belonged solely to her seemed to have shifted to someone else.
A strange feeling stirred in her heart, as though a needle had pricked her chest, leaving her slightly uncomfortable.
Just as Lin Qingying stepped onto the stage, someone challenged her.
Lin Qingying wasn't well-known, so many participants were eager to take the opportunity to challenge her, planning to watch the first match and, if given the chance, challenge her second and secure an easy win.
Swoosh!
A sword resembling frost appeared in Lin Qingying's hand. She knew that to dissuade further challenges, she had to win swiftly and decisively.
If her exhaustion or techniques were revealed, she would face a series of consecutive battles. No one could guarantee victory after three grueling matches.
As soon as the battle began, Lin Qingying wasted no time in displaying her strongest swordsmanship.
Void Sword Dao!
All things return to void; everything becomes nothing!
To be the softest to the extreme is to scatter, and scattering to the extreme becomes nothing!
In the boundless void, everything is nothing. No matter how fierce or sharp you are, what can you hit? What can you hurt?
The three-foot-long sword in her hand vanished, transforming into a void of sword intent. In an instant, a beam of light sliced across her opponent's neck, leaving a sword mark!
Then, the sword reappeared.
The young challenger's face paled as he touched his throat, having sensed death approaching him only to recede in an instant.
When he touched the wound on his neck, he realized that he had already lost.
"Sword Dao!"
In the waiting area, many Sacred Sons' eyes gleamed as they stared at the woman on stage.
Her reputation may have been obscure, but she was clearly a formidable opponent, her swordsmanship already having reached the Dao realm!
"This woman must be one of the foremost talents in Jian Zu Sacred Land."
"Not only has her swordsmanship reached the Dao realm, but it's an exceptionally terrifying sword Dao!"
"I can't figure out this sword Dao; I can't see through it."
Some of them looked at Lin Qingying with solemn expressions, noting her name and appearance.
In Jian Zu Sacred Land, Hao Yue Sacred Son (Bright Moon Sacred Son) stood stunned, his pupils slightly dilated.
It was the first time he had seen Lin Qingying display her Void Sword Dao. Although the array on the battlefield blocked much of the sensation, he had a strange feeling that her sword Dao might not be inferior to his Sun and Moon Sword Dao. In fact, it might even be superior!
The graceful, elegant figure of Lin Qingying, whom he had once tried to push from his mind, now resurfaced.
Her effortless victory and unrivaled beauty caused a ripple in his heart.
His expression changed as he realized that if she entered his heart, it would affect his swordsmanship. Immediately, he averted his gaze, shifting his thoughts elsewhere.
On the other side, Bian Ruxue felt lost.
Previously, Lin Qingying had defeated her in Jian Zu Sacred Land, but after Bian Ruxue's epiphany, she had believed that if they fought again, she could win.
But after witnessing this battle, she no longer felt confident.
How had Lin Qingying improved so quickly? Could she also have experienced an epiphany?
Bian Ruxue's expression turned complex as she watched Lin Qingying claim victory. Then, she saw Lin Qingying glance toward a certain person again—toward the boy who smiled warmly at her. Bian Ruxue's face changed.
A thought rose unbidden in her mind, but she quickly dismissed it as impossible. Even if Li Hao's swordsmanship had entered the Dao, revealing extraordinary talent in the Cang Lan Realm, that didn't mean he could be to Lin Qingying what he had been to her in their childhood…
In her youth, under Li Hao's guidance, her swordsmanship had improved quickly, but that was just basic swordsmanship—nothing like what she had now.
Despite her constant denials, Bian Ruxue's face remained somewhat pale. A strange feeling lingered in her heart, as if she had truly lost something precious.
Lin Qingying's entry into the Dao with her swordsmanship and her effortless victory extinguished any further challengers' thoughts. Everyone noted her presence, recognizing her as a formidable opponent in the Supreme Heavenly Genius Battle.
Many of the top 100 competitors also took notice of her and quietly memorized her appearance.
Not long after Lin Qingying's match, Chi Guang, Hao Yue Sacred Son, and Lin Shu Hai also took the stage to defend their positions.
Because they were not as well-known, all of them faced challenges.
As the upper-world Supreme disciples had not been challenged, the number of top 100 spots was dwindling. Any further delay would mean missing out entirely.
Chi Guang easily subdued his challenger with his mastery of the Flame Dao, his victory earning him recognition across the heavens.
Lin Shu Hai displayed his Wen Dao Emperor's Book, dazzling in both elegance and power, leaving a lasting impression on all.
Hao Yue Sacred Son also advanced. His Sun and Moon Divine Eyes garnered much attention from the crowd.
Seeing that all of his familiar faces had already taken the stage, Li Hao decided it was time for him to act.
By now, over 70 spots in the top 100 had been claimed.
Moreover, some of the Supreme Saint disciples had yet to take the stage.
As Li Hao stood up, countless eyes turned toward him.
In terms of reputation, Li Hao's fame among the heavens was on par with that of the Supreme Saint disciples.
Seeing him about to step onto the stage, the crowd erupted into murmurs of excitement, their gazes full of anticipation.
"Is that Hao Tian finally going to step forward? I wonder how strong someone whose name is inscribed in blood on the Tian Bei truly is?"
"The Tian Bei only reflects certain aspects. While he's undoubtedly strong, we probably won't see much in this match."
"That's true. I heard he took first place in Cang Lan Realm's quota battle. Who would dare challenge him? That girl with Dao-level swordsmanship was also from Cang Lan Realm."
Many people discussed the possibility of someone challenging Li Hao, though they doubted anyone would be foolish enough to do so, given his reputation and the rumors surrounding him as a top contender for first place in the Heavenly Genius Battle.
Who would be foolish enough to provoke him during the top 100 battle?
Amid the crowd's anticipation, Li Hao walked toward the stage.
Under the light of the Ying Gu Jing, his age appeared.
28 years old!
He had spent 10 years on the run in the Void, and nearly two years in the Lands of the Saints.
When the number appeared, the previously lively scene fell into a sudden silence, as if someone had pressed a mute button. The silence lasted only briefly before people erupted into a clamor of shock.
Even the Saints from the heavens fixed their gazes on him, their eyes filled with surprise.
In the waiting area, Shuang Sheng Fo Zi's face darkened. He had long known Li Hao's age and was also aware of something even more terrifying.
"28 years old?"
"Am I seeing things? Or did the Ying Gu Jing malfunction from too much use?"
As the crowd recovered, they burst into fervent debate.
It wasn't just the nobles, aristocrats, and royal family members who had come to watch. Even the Sacred Sons and Sacred Daughters from the various heavens waiting to fight were stunned, their faces showing disbelief.
They had all heard of this youth's fame and incredible talent, but now, with his age clearly displayed, they finally grasped the full extent of his terrifying potential. Some even doubted their own eyes and understanding.
28 years old? How was that possible?
How could someone cultivate to this level in just 28 years? There wasn't enough time!
Previously, when 26-year-old Ming Yue Jian had shocked everyone, they had thought it couldn't get more astonishing. But now, Li Hao was only two years older, and the gap between their abilities couldn't possibly be closed in just two years.
"28?"
In the crowd, Bai Yuan from Ming Jia Sacred Land's expression shifted. The previous sense of nonchalance faded, replaced by intense scrutiny as he stared at the boy in the ring.
On the other side, Qiu Tian Lv's face also changed, his gaze deepening.
From Yin Yang Sacred Land, Lin Zhuo's face darkened as well. Previously, he had been eager to compare his abilities with Li Hao's, wondering how strong this blood-inscribed Tian Bei challenger could be. But now, he realized Li Hao had only been cultivating for half as long as him!
Even if Lin Zhuo won, it wouldn't be something to boast about.
As they watched his figure, everyone across Tian Yuan Realm was left in awe.
At only 28 years old, Li Hao had earned fame across the heavens, left his name inscribed in blood on the Tian Bei, and claimed first place in the Cang Lan Realm's quota battle—all while offending two Supreme Saints!
Li Hao's accomplishments were no secret, having long since spread across the heavens.
"Wait a minute! He's only 28 years old, but didn't they say he was on the run from the Void Saint for 10 years? So that means he really only cultivated for…"
"18 years?!"
When someone exclaimed this, even more people were left dumbstruck.
"Not even a Supreme Saint disciple…"
In the heavens above, Jian Zhu (Sword Master) sat calmly behind the others from Jian Zu Sacred Land. He could tell that Li Hao wasn't a disciple of a Supreme Saint, but this level of talent was unbelievable.
A strange expression crossed his face as he recalled how Li Hao often visited him to go fishing, never appearing to be in cultivation. Was there really someone in the world who could advance in cultivation as easily as eating and drinking?
Even if that were true, wouldn't such rapid breakthroughs cause some problems?
With a smile on his lips, he glanced toward the Fo Zun and the Xu Sheng, his eyes narrowing slightly.
If Li Hao survived the upcoming trials, the next thousand years might very well belong to him.
After all, only a Supreme Saint could rule an era and receive the world's incense offerings.
Not only did Jian Zhu foresee this future, but many other Saints realized it as well. Li Hao's rate of cultivation was too terrifying. From the Tong Li Realm (Unified Power Realm) to the Dao Fa Realm, he had ascended through nine great realms in only 28 years—a nearly inconceivable achievement.
And this didn't even account for the time he spent on the run, when he couldn't have been cultivating.
As Li Hao stood on the stage, all of Tian Yuan Realm was buzzing with shock. He hadn't even started fighting, yet the revelation of his age had left an indelible mark on countless people's minds.
The Saint from Yuan Zu Sacred Land, who was hosting the event, appeared briefly stunned, but quickly regained his composure. His gaze swept across the waiting area, where many faces still showed signs of shock, before he spoke:
"Who will challenge?"
A brief silence followed, as no one answered.
Just as the Saint was about to announce Li Hao's advancement, a sudden voice rang out:
"I will!"
With those words, a young man in a purple robe stood up, his cold gaze sweeping over the arena.
His body radiated with a purple aura, exuding a regal air. He came from Yin Yang Sacred Land, the same as Lin Zhuo.
He was also a disciple of a Supreme Saint, with a reputation that carried weight.
This time, he didn't use the power of Gui Xu to instantly teleport onto the battlefield. Instead, he walked slowly through the air, step by step, toward the arena.
Under the Ying Gu Jing, his age was revealed to be 72 years old.
At this age, he was still considered young among the heavens' geniuses.
"It's Yan Qingchuan from Yin Yang Sacred Land!"
"Is he really stepping forward? He's a reincarnated Saint and a strong contender for the top three. Is he really going to fight Hao Tian now?"
"This is a top 100 battle. Am I even qualified to watch this match?"
"This is insane! Is he trying to crush Hao Tian's spirit?"
As the discussions swirled, the atmosphere grew even more heated. No one had expected that someone would actually challenge Li Hao at this point, much less someone as powerful as Yan Qingchuan, a top contender for the Heavenly Genius Battle's top three.
In the waiting area, Qiu Tian Lv frowned.
He didn't like Li Hao and had planned to teach him a lesson in the later stages of the competition. But that didn't mean he would trouble Li Hao now.
This was merely a battle for the top 100. With their level of strength, it was unnecessary to show their full hand. Yan Qingchuan's actions were clearly breaking the unspoken rules, and Qiu Tian Lv detested anyone who broke the rules!
In the arena, Li Hao turned to look at the youth, noting the cold gaze and apparent hostility in his eyes.
He was puzzled, listening to the clamor of the crowd and recognizing Yan Qingchuan's identity. But he couldn't recall ever interacting with him before.
"Let me test your so-called 'blood-inscribed' strength first."
Yan Qingchuan stepped onto the stage, speaking with indifference, his eyes narrowing slightly.
He hadn't come to challenge Li Hao out of curiosity about his strength. Rather, an intriguing plan had formed in his mind. He and his comrades intended to block this famous youth from entering the top 100.
If Li Hao failed to make the top 100, it would be the biggest joke in history.
And Yan Qingchuan was more than happy to be the one to make the first move.
Hearing his words, Li Hao remained silent. He had always said that fame was a burden, and now he was truly experiencing it.
As the formation activated, Li Hao stood with his hands behind his back, calmly waiting for Yan Qingchuan to make his move.
Seeing Li Hao's relaxed posture, Yan Qingchuan's eyes grew colder. A 28-year-old genius had every right to be arrogant, but that didn't mean he had to like it!
"I heard you have the Eighth Extreme Power. Let me see it!"
As Yan Qingchuan's aura exploded, the Heaven and Earth Meridian appeared behind him, gathering energy. His hair fluttered wildly as his sharp gaze locked onto Li Hao.
Li Hao's eyes narrowed. Both of Yan Qingchuan's blades were infused with Dao Rhyme, indicating that both of his blade techniques had reached the Dao level!
This level of strength explained why the crowd was so excited. Yan Qingchuan was undoubtedly the strongest Dao Fa Realm cultivator Li Hao had faced so far, even stronger than Shuang Sheng Fo Zi!
"You're qualified."
Li Hao spoke softly before activating his Eternal Dao Domain.
360 layers of Dao Domain bloomed like a lotus flower before merging into one. In an instant, countless phenomena combined and overlapped, forming a single eternal, unyielding Dao Domain!
This domain resonated with the principles of the universe, drawing energy from the void itself and exuding an overwhelming aura.
As the Dao Domain expanded, it swiftly enveloped Yan Qingchuan.
"It's the Eighth Extreme Power, the Eternal Dao Domain!"
"Does such a terrifying Dao Domain really exist? I think I just saw a glimpse of 360 layers of Dao Domain!"
"That's right! According to Yun Que Lou's report, it takes 360 layers of Dao Domain to cultivate this, stacking them together to form the Eternal Dao Domain!"
"This is a domain only Saints can master, yet he's already cultivated it!"
"He's only 28, with 360 layers of Dao Domain. How did he even cultivate that? Does that mean he mastered one complete technique every month at the Dao level while also cultivating other extreme powers?"
"He must be superhuman! Don't forget he also had to cultivate other extreme powers…"
Gasps of shock rippled through the crowd. For many, it was their first time witnessing the Eternal Dao Domain, and they were left pale with astonishment.
On the stage, the Eternal Dao Domain unfolded. Yan Qingchuan's eyes flashed with excitement as he swung his twin blades. Two opposing forces, each infused with Dao Rhyme, clashed as the blades unleashed a terrifying wave of energy, like thunder and fire, toward Li Hao's Dao Domain.
Within the Eternal Dao Domain, countless sword shadows emerged, swiftly sweeping across the stage.
The collision between the sword shadows and the blade energy produced a deafening roar, and both forces dissipated simultaneously.
Yan Qingchuan's eyes gleamed even brighter as he let out a long howl. Seeing the Dao Domain begin to engulf the entire battlefield, he quickly activated his own domain!
96 layers of Dao Domain stacked together, woven into the Yin Yang Dao Domain!
As his domain manifested, it unleashed a powerful aura, but the moment it collided with the Eternal Dao Domain, it shattered like ice melting under the sun.
Yan Qingchuan was momentarily stunned. He had anticipated the Eternal Dao Domain would be formidable, but he hadn't expected it to be this overwhelming. His own domain couldn't even hold out for a moment.
Fortunately, his reaction was quick. He merged his two blades, and a third Dao Rhyme appeared, producing a terrifying black thunderfire between the blades.
Thunder represented extreme yang, while dark waves represented extreme yin. Together, they formed a black thunderfire that crackled with destructive energy.
As the black thunderfire materialized, the spectators in the waiting area—Shuang Sheng Fo Zi, Bai Yuan, Lin Zhuo, and others—instantly tensed.
If Yan Qingchuan had only displayed two Dao-level blade techniques, it would have been impressive enough to earn his reputation. But now, with this third Dao-level technique, his power had become truly terrifying!
"Yin-Yang Annihilation!"
Yan Qingchuan roared, his eyes flashing with fierce light.
It had been a long time since anyone had forced him to use his true strength. The two blade techniques were merely a prelude to this ultimate killing move.
He had intended to save this attack for the final battle, but Li Hao's Eternal Dao Domain had exceeded his expectations, forcing him to reveal his trump card early.
Boom!
The blade's destructive energy tore through Li Hao's Eternal Dao Domain, creating a path of black lightning.
Yan Qingchuan followed the path, intent on cutting through Li Hao's domain and defeating him!
"The Eighth Extreme Power is nothing special!"
He sneered as he slashed forward, the black thunderfire cutting through the seemingly impregnable Eternal Dao Domain like a knife through cloth.
Seeing this, Hao Yue Sacred Son, Chi Guang, and others couldn't help but be alarmed. They had known the Supreme Saint disciples were strong, but they hadn't expected Yan Qingchuan to be this powerful!
Li Hao's Eternal Dao Domain had easily suppressed Shuang Sheng Fo Zi, yet now it was being torn apart!
"Three Dao-level blade techniques… with such talent, he could very well become a Supreme Saint one day…"
Even the Saints watching were astonished by Yan Qingchuan's performance, acknowledging his talent.
But just as the black thunderfire was about to strike, Li Hao's expression remained calm. Yan Qingchuan's performance was indeed impressive, but it wasn't enough.
In the Dao Fa Realm, as Li Hao had anticipated, there were no opponents who could truly match him.
Boom!
Suddenly, the Eternal Dao Domain trembled, and the sword domain within it revealed its true form, transforming into countless terrifying sword auras that surged toward the black thunderfire.
The true power of the 360-layer Dao Domain was finally unleashed!
Earlier, Li Hao had merely activated the domain without fully utilizing its might. Now, the full force of the Dao Domain came crashing down!
The void trembled, and the battlefield shook violently. The ground cracked, and the law-induced storms, snow, and lightning within the arena were completely obliterated, leaving nothing behind!
Within the Dao Domain, Li Hao was the absolute ruler!
The black thunderfire rapidly contracted before vanishing entirely!
The terrifying destructive energy of the Yin-Yang Annihilation was erased as the sword shadows of the Eternal Dao Domain swept over it.
With the destruction of his blade energy, Yan Qingchuan lost his path forward. His pupils contracted as he stared in shock.
Boom!
His body was suddenly immobilized, his 48,000 pores contracting, and all 206 bones in his body were subjected to immense pressure.
The overwhelming power of the 360-layer Dao Domain had exceeded his imagination. At this moment, he felt as though he had become a mere Three Bu Xiu (Three Not Immortal), trapped within the Dao Domain of a Tai Ping Dao Jing (Peaceful Dao Realm) cultivator.
It was unstoppable!
Suspended in midair by the Dao Domain, Yan Qingchuan's body began to hemorrhage, blood spurting from his pores.
Then, the Dao Domain retracted, flinging his body across the battlefield until he slammed into the formation barrier.
The barrier trembled as Yan Qingchuan's body hit the ground.
For a brief moment, the entire arena fell silent.
Countless eyes widened in disbelief as they stared at the fallen form of Yan Qingchuan, the proud leader of Yin Yang Sacred Land. How could he have lost?
Hao Yue Sacred Son, Chi Guang, and others were equally stunned. They had expected Li Hao to be in danger, perhaps even forced to reveal more of his power, but they hadn't anticipated that his Dao Domain alone would be enough to suppress Yan Qingchuan.
The terrifying might of the Eighth Extreme Power far exceeded their expectations.
Could it be that during the Cang Lan Realm's battles, Li Hao had never even used his full strength?
Realizing this, everyone gasped in shock.
Among the crowd, Lin Qingying paused for a moment before a smile appeared on her lips. She hadn't been worried earlier because she knew how terrifying Li Hao's swordsmanship was. Even without the Eternal Dao Domain, Yan Qingchuan wouldn't have been able to withstand Li Hao's sword.
However, she hadn't expected Yan Qingchuan wouldn't even force Li Hao to draw his sword.
At this moment, Yan Qingchuan slowly rose from the ground, his body battered and broken. He quickly activated his Undying Power, healing his wounds.
His expression was grim as he gazed at the young man who had just defeated him.
He had lost, and it had been a brutal defeat. If this hadn't been a competition, if Li Hao had harbored any killing intent, Yan Qingchuan would have died.
"The Eighth Extreme Power is indeed formidable."
After a long silence, Yan Qingchuan finally spoke in a low voice, admitting his defeat. He now fully understood why Li Hao's name had been inscribed in blood on the Tian Bei.
Without saying anything more, Yan Qingchuan turned and left the stage.
With Yan Qingchuan's defeat, the arena erupted in cheers. Across Tian Yuan Realm, countless voices rose in excited discussion.
They had all heard of Hao Tian's legendary name, but none of them had expected his strength to be this terrifying!
Lin Zhuo, witnessing the scene, narrowed his eyes. He had originally planned to join forces with Yan Qingchuan to block Li Hao from entering the top 100, but now Yan Qingchuan had been utterly defeated.
Even though Lin Zhuo could tell that Yan Qingchuan hadn't used his full strength—his Saint Dao's embryonic power had yet to manifest—it was clear that Yan Qingchuan had no intention of continuing the fight.
"Who else wishes to challenge?"
The Saint from Yuan Zu Sacred Land glanced at Li Hao with a look of appreciation before loudly asking the crowd.
His voice, infused with Saint Dao's power, echoed throughout the arena.
In the stillness, another figure suddenly leaped onto the stage.
"Hun Tian Sacred Land, Tian Wuji!"
The young man announced his name, coldly glaring at Li Hao.
Seeing yet another Supreme Saint disciple challenge Li Hao, the crowd was stunned. No one had expected another top contender to step forward.
After all, both of them were undoubtedly capable of entering the top 10, let alone the top 100.
"What's going on? Why is Hun Tian Sacred Land also challenging Hao Tian?"
"Exactly! Tian Wuji surely has the ability to make it into the top 100. Are they really trying to block Hao Tian?"
"Could it be that they're trying to make a name for themselves by stepping on Hao Tian's reputation?"
The crowd speculated wildly, with some suggesting that this challenge was revenge for the defeat of Qing Lu Wang (Green Deer King), also from Hun Tian Sacred Land.
Li Hao had expected the battle to be over by now, so he was surprised. He looked closely at his new opponent, sensing that there was a deliberate plot behind this.
"Qing Lu Wang was rightfully humiliated by you, but now I want to see what happens when someone inscribed on the Tian Bei in blood fails to make it into the top 100. Wouldn't that be quite a joke?"
Tian Wuji, with a tear-shaped mole at the corner of his eye, appeared both handsome and sinister. He smirked mockingly as he transmitted his words to Li Hao.
Li Hao immediately understood that he had drawn too much attention, and some people were trying to suppress him.
"Interesting."
Li Hao smiled, but his eyes grew colder.
During his match with Yan Qingchuan, he had assumed the challenge was purely motivated by curiosity and the desire for a fair fight.
But now, knowing that this was a targeted scheme, his approach would be far less merciful.
Seeing the coldness in Li Hao's eyes, Tian Wuji laughed, his delight growing at the thought of frustrating others.
"Come on, I want to experience this Eighth Extreme Power for myself."
Tian Wuji laughed as his aura exploded with terrifying power.
His body glowed with golden light as he entered Divine Power State, his Heaven and Earth Meridian and Dharma Aspect manifesting.
Having witnessed the power of Li Hao's Dao Domain earlier, Tian Wuji knew that if he didn't bring out his full strength, he would only embarrass himself.
As his five extreme powers were revealed, Tian Wuji merged with his Dharma Aspect, greatly enhancing his aura. The oppressive energy radiating from him was akin to the presence of a Saint.
"Saint Dao's embryonic power!"
Tian Wuji unleashed his true strength, revealing the embryonic form of his Saint Dao.
A faint aura of Saint Dao emerged, and Tian Wuji's Saint Dao was the Extreme Strength Saint Dao. Hun Tian Sacred Land was renowned among the sacred lands for its many body-refinement techniques.
The Saint Dao opened by Hun Tian Sheng Ren (Saint Hun Tian) was also centered on the Dao of Strength.
Tian Wuji's cultivation followed the path of extreme strength.
"The body has its limits, but the Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect does not!"
Tian Wuji's golden hair flew wildly as he roared, "Let me show you what supreme divine strength is—what it means to break all techniques with raw power!"
Boom!
With a roar, he channeled his Dharma Aspect and threw a punch at Li Hao's head.
The Dharma Aspect was enormous, and the force of the wind generated by its punch alone extinguished the law-induced storms and lightning on the battlefield, carrying the destructive power of a falling star.
"They say that Hun Tian Sheng Ren could lift an entire small world with his strength. Tian Wuji is one of Hun Tian Sacred Land's three top geniuses. His power is terrifying!"
Someone gasped in awe as the crowd trembled in fear.
Li Hao looked up at the incoming punch, a strange expression crossing his face.
It was the first time someone had mentioned breaking all techniques with strength in front of him!
After all, he had reached Nine Sections of Body Dao. If he could enhance his cultivation, the first thing he would improve was his body, aiming for Body Sanctification!
"Since that's the case, let me give it a try!"
Li Hao didn't use his Eternal Dao Domain to suppress the attack. Instead, he retracted his domain and revealed the towering form of his Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect behind him!
The Dharma Aspect resembled a god, identical in appearance to Li Hao but radiating a golden light, exuding a primal, ancient aura.
Simultaneously, the Heaven and Earth Meridian appeared behind the Dharma Aspect.
At the same time, Li Hao's own body also turned golden as he entered Divine Power State.
Having cultivated to the Tong Li End Realm (Unified Power Final Realm), Li Hao's body possessed the strength of 10 million jins. In Divine Power State, this strength increased tenfold, reaching the extreme limit—hundreds of millions of jin!
This immense physical strength allowed him to absorb even more energy from heaven and earth, filling his Dharma Aspect.
"Come!!"
Li Hao roared, and his Dharma Aspect mirrored his movements, raising its fist to meet Tian Wuji's attack.
The two massive Dharma Aspects clashed on the battlefield, their fists as large as mountains. In that moment, countless people felt their ears go numb, unable to hear a thing!
But a moment later, the sound of ten thousand thunderclaps exploded across the battlefield.
Immediately following the deafening sound came the heavy thud of footsteps, shaking the ground. Tian Wuji's Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect staggered backward, its fist disintegrating as three of its five fingers crumbled into dust.
"How is this possible?!"
Inside his Dharma Aspect, Tian Wuji's eyes widened in disbelief.
The terrifying force that had been transmitted through his Dharma Aspect left him with chills down his spine. He was utterly horrified.
In a pure contest of strength, he had lost!
At this moment, Li Hao's eyes flashed with a fervent excitement. It had been a long time since he'd felt this exhilarated in a fight.
"You're right. The Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect can contain more power, but it's not limitless. You just haven't reached its limits!"
Li Hao's eyes gleamed with a dazzling light as he took a step forward, throwing another punch.
"But I have!"
Having cultivated to the Tong Li End Realm, Li Hao's Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect was directly linked to his body.
It was akin to having a body one hundred times more powerful than normal!
When his body reached the final realm, so did his Dharma Aspect.
With this punch, the enhanced laws of the battlefield—storms, snow, and lightning—were all extinguished. The strike hurtled toward Tian Wuji's Dharma Aspect with the force of a divine fury, as though it could tear the heavens apart.
Tian Wuji stared at the incoming punch, his pupils contracting. Letting out a crazed roar, he unleashed all of his strength, his eyes bleeding as he shouted in desperation:
"The Supreme Strength Saint Dao—my strength is infinite!"
He howled, his power exploding to its limit under the embryonic form of his Saint Dao.
At the same time, he unleashed a Dao-level fist technique, pitting punch against punch!
Boom!
With that step, Li Hao unleashed a Half-Step Invincible Fist!
Although his fist Dao was only at the Sixth Section, and his technique hadn't reached the Dao level, it still carried immense destructive power.
The earth trembled, the battlefield cracked, and the sound of a hundred thousand thunderclaps echoed through the air.
Tian Wuji's Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect shattered from the blow, its strength overwhelmed by a force far beyond what it could endure.