Chapter 460: Recognition
At the very moment Li Hao crossed the boundary, his ranking number suddenly leaped forward, jumping from beyond the thirtieth place to seventeenth in an instant!
Such a drastic rise was impossible to achieve through slow endurance within the Tenth Wilderness Area.
The elders of various sects outside were no ordinary individuals—they immediately noticed this change, their expressions shifting.
"That number 996… He must have broken through the Tenth Wilderness Area!"
"A rank increase like this… That can only mean a breakthrough! Which sect does he belong to?"
The elders from Xingchen Palace, Wan Shan Jian Lou, and several Tianyi Sect factions exchanged glances, their expressions turning serious.
Meanwhile, among the crowd, Li Tie Mu stood there in shock.
The strong liquor in his mouth was completely forgotten, trickling down his beard like water, soaking into his robe.
Yet, he didn't even notice.
Others might be unsure, but he knew exactly who that number belonged to.
That was… Li Hao.
That little brat… He broke through the Tenth Wilderness Area?!
Li Tie Mu was utterly stunned.
The difference between the Tenth and Eleventh Wilderness Areas was vast—it was the divide between True Immortal Realm and Immortal Lord Realm.
Yet, Li Hao had actually broken through that barrier?
This kind of power had far surpassed the level needed to defeat the Ancestral Dragon!
Hearing the surrounding discussions, Li Tie Mu suddenly snapped back to his senses, cold sweat forming on his back.
He quickly composed his expression, ensuring no one detected anything unusual.
This brat… this damn brat…
From Divine Sword Mountain to now, Li Hao had given him one surprise after another.
And here, finally, he had revealed his true hand.
"This kid even fooled me… He has no known bloodline inheritance. How the hell did he do it?"
Li Tie Mu was both thrilled and baffled.
His gaze swept toward Yue Xi, Murong Qingwu, and Gu Yan to check their rankings.
He saw that Murong Qingwu was the highest, already ranked around 3,000th place.
Meanwhile, Gu Yan and Yue Xi were both slightly behind, ranking around 3,500th place.
At this moment, the various sect prodigies were all pushing forward, making these rankings already quite impressive.
From these positions, it was clear that they were likely still in the Ninth Wilderness Area.
"Never thought this brat would be the most terrifying contender of all… Could it be, as Yuan Lord once said, that there are people whose comprehension surpasses even the bloodline inheritance of Imperial Clans and Ancient Immortal Legacies?"
Li Tie Mu muttered internally, his fingers unconsciously tightening.
Besides shock, his heart was filled with excitement—he had found a true treasure.
Li Hao's sudden leap in ranking instantly caught the attention of the sects outside, sparking endless discussion.
In the clouds above the Wilderness Area, Chu Xiang Tian and a group of royal heirs all turned their gaze toward the celestial ranking monument.
They hadn't paid attention to this ranking number before.
They didn't know which sect this mysterious person was from.
But now, this cultivator had surged past countless royal heirs and princesses.
This alone proved that he was incredibly powerful.
"Seems like there are hidden tigers among the sects after all."
"Those imperial brats are too arrogant—they should learn that sect geniuses are no weaker than them."
"That Bo Ya Xue Jian has already climbed to seventh place. He's probably the strongest sect prodigy in this competition."
"Bo Ya Xue Jian… It seems like he hasn't pledged allegiance to anyone yet. Looks like he wants to make a name for himself first before considering his options."
"Heh, maybe he doesn't care about our Immortal Dynasty at all and has his eyes set on Heavenly Palace instead."
"I heard he possesses a Chaotic Dao Bloodline… A Snow Spirit born from primordial chaos, with unparalleled mastery over Water Origin."
Their discussions carried a mix of mockery, curiosity, and contemplation.
Deep in the Wilderness Area, atop a solitary mountain.
Both the white-haired elder and the golden-armored general were visibly surprised.
They hadn't expected that this young brat would actually shatter the mist wall.
This wasn't just courage anymore—this was proof that he possessed a power surpassing peak True Immortal Realm, Tenth Layer!
"His control over immortal energy is truly remarkable…"
Even the golden-armored general had to admit the astonishing quality of that single sword strike.
A golden candle-like glow flickered in his sharp eyes—there was a hint of admiration.
However, the white-haired elder frowned slightly, falling into deep thought.
"But the Eleventh Wilderness Area will be his limit."
The golden-armored general glanced at Li Hao, now standing within the Eleventh Wilderness Area, and then turned to the elder with a smirk.
"Old Yuan, how long do you think he'll last?"
The elder in white robes, known as Old Yuan, gazed at Li Hao for a moment before responding calmly,
"At least one incense stick's worth of time."
The golden-armored general was stunned.
Then, he burst into laughter.
"That's too much credit! Even though I admire him, the Eleventh Wilderness Area contains Dao Origins infused with the power of Immortal Lords. Their strength isn't just ten times greater—it's on an entirely different level."
"Want to bet?"
Old Yuan looked at him with an amused expression.
The golden-armored general smirked, his eyes flashing with dominance.
"I bet he won't last half an incense stick!"
Old Yuan's lips curled into a knowing smile.
"If you lose, you are not allowed to interfere with the affairs of the Demon Suppression Division. Also, this boy… he belongs to the National Supervisory Academy."
The golden-armored general narrowed his eyes but didn't back down.
"Fine. But if you lose, then this kid is mine. And you stay out of my Demon Suppression Division affairs!"
Old Yuan chuckled heartily.
He hadn't expected that the one thing they had been arguing about—which two games of chess couldn't settle—would instead be decided because of a single young cultivator.
He was absolutely certain about this bet.
He had already seen through some of Li Hao's background.
More importantly, Li Hao had yet to reveal his Immortal Seal power.
To obtain such an advanced Immortal Art, there was bound to be a test—which meant Li Hao's minimum level should be at least the Three Flower Immortal Seal!
Realizing this, Old Yuan's laughter grew even heartier.
Meanwhile, the golden-armored general furrowed his brows slightly.
For some reason, he suddenly felt like he had overlooked something important.
Still, he refused to believe his judgment could be inferior to Old Yuan's.
"Brat, you better not disappoint me…"
He turned his gaze toward the distant battlefield, his expression for the first time serious.
Right now, the highest decision-making institutions of the Yan Chu Immortal Dynasty were betting everything on a single young cultivator thousands of miles away.
Within the Eleventh Wilderness Area.
The moment Li Hao stepped through the mist wall, he immediately felt the weight of this place.
If the Tenth Wilderness Area felt like a swamp, then this place was like being buried in solid earth.
Even simple movements felt difficult, and every motion required the strength of a thousand tons.
At the same time, thunder and fire clashed before him, the void splitting apart.
Black cracks in space appeared everywhere—he couldn't even tell if they were lightning bolts or spatial tears.
"So this is the Eleventh Wilderness Area…"
Li Hao scanned his surroundings, his gaze growing serious.
Here, he could truly sense danger.
If he wanted to stay here for long, he might need to use the power of the Nine Flower Immortal Seal.
Boom!
Suddenly, the void twisted slightly, and the next moment, a golden spear wreathed in flames shot out with terrifying force!
The spear tore through the air, whistling toward Li Hao at lightning speed.
His pupils contracted slightly, but with Quadruple Space Origin, he had already sensed the spatial distortion the moment the attack began to condense.
Anticipating the strike, he dodged instantly.
His figure flickered as the spear brushed past him, the heat from the flames scorching the air near his cheek.
The spear didn't stop, piercing straight into the distance, vanishing into a black void rift.
"That was dangerous…"
Li Hao's gaze flickered.
If he had been struck, even with his Ancestral Immortal Body, he would have suffered severe injuries—possibly even near death.
Luckily, with Quadruple Space Origin, he could still handle the dangers here.
The spatial structure of the Eleventh Wilderness Area was strange and unpredictable, but for now, it was still within his comprehension.
However, if he were to continue pushing forward two or three more Wilderness Areas, he had a strong feeling that he might step into instant death.
"The prince mentioned that breaking through the Tenth Wilderness Area already qualifies one for the Southern Region Tournament. That means… I've already earned my spot."
Li Hao's eyes flickered with thought.
As he surveyed the area, he vaguely sensed that three different points in the void were gathering Dao Origin forces.
More thunderous attacks were about to rain down.
He had no intention of staying here any longer.
Even if he used the Nine Flower Immortal Seal, he could likely survive here for a while—especially since he hadn't even used his Time Origin power yet.
Time Origin was even more terrifying than Space Origin.
Though he hadn't fully comprehended the fourth level, it was still an undeniable force.
But staying here would only serve to increase his ranking slightly.
He already had a qualified ranking, so lingering any longer would be pointless.
Whoosh!
Li Hao turned, his Extreme Realm power gathering once again, and slashed forward.
The mist wall, which had started healing itself, was instantly torn apart once more.
Deep in the Wilderness Area, the white-haired elder, who had been smiling moments ago, suddenly froze.
His expression stiffened, and his eyes widened.
Beside him, the golden-armored general was momentarily stunned.
Then—
He burst into hearty laughter, clapping his hands repeatedly.
"Smart. Smart indeed…!"
The golden-armored general laughed so hard that he abandoned his chess game altogether, tossing his pieces aside and standing at the edge of the mountain, gazing into the distance.
Whoosh!
Li Hao stepped through the mist wall, teleporting out of the Eleventh Wilderness Area, reentering the Tenth Wilderness Area.
Yet, even after returning, his ranking on the black celestial monument didn't drop.
Pulling out his identity token, he infused it with immortal energy.
At that moment, a powerful immortal law descended upon him.
The law forcefully cleared away the chaotic Dao Origins nearby, enveloping Li Hao's entire body.
But just as this immortal force was about to transport him away, an even more immense and boundless force surged from the depths of the Wilderness Area.
This force was so vast it felt as though it stood equal to the heavens.
It completely covered the immortal law that had wrapped around Li Hao, suppressing it.
Li Hao felt the clash of two powerful forces and was momentarily confused.
But before he could react, the void before him twisted—
And the next moment, everything returned to normal.
When Li Hao's vision cleared, he found himself standing on a mountaintop.
The immortal energy that had wrapped around him had disappeared.
But now—
He sensed two terrifying presences.
Though their auras were restrained, standing near them made his heart race uncontrollably.
The sensation was strikingly similar to standing beside Wang Lao.
Li Hao turned his head and saw—
An elderly man with flowing white hair, exuding an immortal-like aura of wisdom and detachment.
And—
A middle-aged man in golden battle armor, radiating pure dominance and bloodlust.
Between them was a chessboard, its pieces arranged in a half-finished game.
Seeing that Li Hao's gaze wasn't overwhelmed with fear, the golden-armored general looked satisfied.
Earlier, he had personally intercepted the immortal law force, blocking it and teleporting the boy directly to them.
"Boy."
The general spoke.
His deep, resonant voice carried a weight like rolling thunder, layered with the aura of a battlefield where billions had fallen.
Despite its calm tone, it instilled a bone-chilling sensation.
Li Hao quickly snapped back to reality.
At that moment, he realized the truth—
These two figures were unquestionably peak-level powerhouses—likely on the same level as Wang Lao.
Not daring to be disrespectful, he immediately cupped his fists and bowed.
"Junior greets the esteemed seniors. May I ask… who the two of you are?"
The golden-armored general remained calm, but a faint smile flickered in his eyes.
"You were able to step into the Eleventh Wilderness Area—that alone is commendable."
His expression was composed, but there was a clear sense of appreciation in his gaze.
"I am the Grand Marshal of Yan Chu Immortal Dynasty—the Commander-in-Chief of the Chu Immortal Army.
"Would you be willing to join my ranks?"
"Follow me into countless battles, forge eternal immortal achievements, and eternalize your name in history!"
Li Hao's pupils contracted sharply.
The man before him was actually the Grand Marshal of the Yan Chu Immortal Dynasty?!
That was a position of absolute authority—a supreme commander who led the immortal legions.
With a single command, even the Tianyi Immortal Sect would have to step aside.
"With your talent and temperament, within a thousand years, I will make sure you rise to prominence within Yan Chu, becoming an Immortal General of unparalleled renown."
The golden-armored general was straightforward, making his offer without hesitation.
Li Hao immediately understood—
This was a huge opportunity.
However—
He asked calmly, "What would I need to do?"
"It's simple. Cultivate. Enlist. Follow me to conquer all enemies."
"I will have my generals train you from the bottom ranks, helping you adapt to the battlefield and accumulate immortal military merits. Step by step, you will rise through the ranks."
The golden-armored general's gaze was sharp and commanding.
"Don't worry—since I am the one recruiting you, as long as you stay disciplined, the path of endless military honors will be open to you.
"When you become a Yan Chu Immortal General, even the sect masters of Tianyi Sect will personally welcome you when you visit their mountains!"
His words were bold and imposing—but they were not an exaggeration.
Though sects held immense power, they still couldn't match the Ancient Yan Chu Immortal Dynasty.
Hearing this, the small spark of curiosity in Li Hao's heart quickly faded.
Cultivate. Enlist.
Neither path was what he wanted.
And a thousand years?
That was far too long.
With his own methods, he could achieve just as much—if not more—within that time.
Li Hao shook his head.
"I sincerely appreciate the Marshal's offer, but as someone still weak, I prefer to cultivate on my own rather than risk holding back the army."
His tone was respectful but unwavering.
Seeing Li Hao's expression, Shangguan Hong, clad in golden armor, was momentarily stunned.
He could tell—this wasn't humble modesty or deliberate hesitation.
It was a genuine rejection.
He had personally extended an offer—a rare privilege even for the elders of major sects, something that would make countless geniuses envious.
Yet, this boy had refused.
Standing beside him, Yuan Xinggang also looked surprised.
He hadn't expected Li Hao to reject such an opportunity either.
Glancing at Shangguan Hong's increasingly darkening expression, Yuan Xinggang chuckled internally—this had nothing to do with him.
"Since you're not interested in battle and conquest, why not join my National Supervisory Academy instead?"
"Become my disciple. I'll personally teach you."
"If, in the future, you can surpass my other disciples, you could even become the Grand Minister of Yan Chu Immortal Dynasty!"
Yuan Xinggang smiled as he spoke.
Hearing this, Shangguan Hong snapped out of his thoughts, his expression darkening as he glared at Yuan Xinggang.
Yuan Xinggang, however, simply met his gaze calmly, transmitting his voice privately,
"He already turned you down. That's not my fault."
Shangguan Hong let out a cold snort before turning back to Li Hao.
"Boy, do you understand what you're rejecting?"
"Even if you make a name for yourself in the Southern Region Tournament, so what?"
"At most, you'll bring glory to your sect. But if you join my ranks, the moment that news spreads, who would dare touch your sect?"
"Even if you sever ties with them, the lingering prestige alone would shield them for generations!"
Li Hao felt a bit conflicted.
He knew how rare this opportunity was—rejecting it would indeed be a waste.
"If I could join you while still cultivating freely, then I would consider it," Li Hao said.
Shangguan Hong froze, his eyes narrowing.
Was this boy… looking down on his guidance?
The most valuable aspect of serving under him wasn't just the rank or the power—it was learning how to wage war against all the tribes of the heavens!
"Hmph. Do you have any idea how many people are dying to be in your position?"
"And you just let it slip away like this?"
Frustration flickered in Shangguan Hong's eyes.
Yuan Xinggang, on the other hand, simply waved his hand, smiling at Li Hao.
"If you truly wish to cultivate freely, then you may join my National Supervisory Academy.
"I promise I won't interfere with you.
"However, until you finish your training, I will not announce your identity to the public.
"How about that?"
Hearing this, Shangguan Hong turned to stare at Yuan Xinggang, surprised.
This boy had remarkable talent, but it wasn't enough to make Yuan Xinggang lower himself like this.
His eyes narrowed.
What was Yuan Xinggang planning?
Li Hao was also taken aback by the offer.
After a brief moment, he quickly bowed.
"Thank you, Senior! I would be honored."
Seeing Li Hao's acceptance, Shangguan Hong's expression shifted.
He was still a bit irritated, but he quickly calmed down.
This boy had just won him a bet, after all.
After thinking for a moment, his expression softened slightly, and he spoke,
"Since you have your own aspirations, I'll make you an offer as well."
He flicked his fingers, sending a golden command token toward Li Hao.
"This is a Chu King Token. In times of crisis, you can use it to command the Tiger Lion Immortal Army anywhere in the empire."
"Also, I will officially enroll you in the Chu Immortal Army, granting you the rank of Ten-Man Commander."
"You will receive immortal stipends, and I give you one hundred years."
"By then, the Southern Region Tournament will be long over. At that time, you can decide whether to formally join or not."
The golden command token landed in Li Hao's palm.
It was cool to the touch, and when he looked closer, he saw that the golden light faded, revealing a bold, ancient 'Chu' character engraved on it.
Li Hao was slightly stunned.
He hadn't expected both of these powerful figures to value him so highly.
Without hesitation, he quickly bowed deeply.
"Thank you, esteemed seniors, for your recognition.
"I will carefully consider my decision!"
"What is your name?"
Yuan Xinggang asked with a smile.
"Hao Tian."
"Hao Tian…"
Shangguan Hong nodded.
"A good name."
"I don't recall any notable Hao family. You must be from another region."
Li Hao hesitated slightly, unsure how to respond.
Seeing his momentary pause, Shangguan Hong waved his hand.
"It doesn't matter."
"A true hero isn't defined by his origins.
"I value you, not your background."
"Go now. Don't waste this opportunity."
Li Hao let out a small sigh of relief.
His respect for Shangguan Hong grew.
Once again, he bowed deeply.
"Thank you."
"Go."
With a flick of his hand, Shangguan Hong sent out a vast surge of energy, instantly transporting Li Hao away.
Once Li Hao's figure vanished, Yuan Xinggang turned to Shangguan Hong, his expression filled with amusement.
"You actually gave him a Chu King Token?
"Even among the royal heirs, only the most favored princes receive one!"
"Hmph."
Shangguan Hong crossed his arms.
"Old Yuan, just what are you planning?
"This kid is talented, but your attitude toward him is a bit too accommodating.
"And earlier—you bet that he'd last a full incense stick in the Eleventh Wilderness Area."
"Now I want to know…
"What exactly did you see in him?"
Yuan Xinggang was briefly stunned.
Then, he chuckled.
So that's why Shangguan Hong had gone out of his way to make such an offer—he had simply been influenced by Yuan Xinggang's confidence in Li Hao.
After a moment of thought, Yuan Xinggang's gaze turned sly.
"If you promise that, when you cleanse the corruption in the Demon Suppression Division, you don't harm any innocents, then I'll tell you."
Shangguan Hong raised an eyebrow.
He thought for a moment before nodding.
"Fine. I promise."
He knew this had always been Yuan Xinggang's concern.
And now, with Li Hao as leverage, Yuan Xinggang had successfully secured his promise.
Seeing him agree so readily, Yuan Xinggang smiled.
But as he recalled certain memories, his expression darkened slightly, a hint of melancholy and nostalgia appearing in his eyes.
"That boy reminds me of someone from the past."
"If my guess is right…
"He might have inherited a legacy even greater than ours."
Shangguan Hong was startled.
Greater than them?
"Whose legacy?"
He asked.
Yuan Xinggang glanced at him.
After a long pause, he softly spoke,
"A legacy from the Era of the Fallen Emperor."
Shangguan Hong's expression instantly darkened.
He turned, looking toward the space where Li Hao had disappeared, falling into deep thought.
At the same time—
Whoosh!
Li Hao reappeared in the plaza before the black celestial monument.
All around him, other cultivators were being teleported out one after another.
Yet—
The moment Li Hao appeared, countless eyes turned toward him, filled with shock and disbelief.