It took a long journey eastward from the fortress guarded by Erlang Shen before they finally reached the presumed heart of the entire Eastern Immortal Continent—Heaven.

Standing high above the clouds, Ye Wen looked down. The formidable nature of his Lapis Lazuli Eyes allowed him to discern every detail on the ground, so clearly that he could count the legs of a single ant.

“Compared to the scarcity of settlements we saw before, this place truly lives up to its designation as the center of the Eastern Immortal Continent!”

Dongfang Kui also peered down, but unfortunately, she could discern nothing through the thick layers of mist beyond vague hints of emerald green, not even small lakes or rivers.

“Are there many people here?”

“Indeed. In this brief moment alone, I have already spotted several towns, and countless villages besides!”

As the two spoke amongst themselves, the Vermillion Bird Divine Lord, whom they had barely encountered on their journey, suddenly appeared from nowhere: “This central region of the Eastern Immortal Continent is truly a blessed land. Not only is it free from natural disasters, but the soil is fertile, the terrain gentle, and it boasts numerous lakes and rivers, making it exceedingly suitable for habitation. That is why more people reside in this area!”

“Furthermore, this locale serves as a nexus, connecting the north, south, east, and west. People from every corner of the continent converge here, making it the most bustling place in the Eastern Immortal Continent... However, precisely because of this vibrancy, very few Immortal Sects establish their mountain gates in this immediate vicinity!”

The Vermillion Bird Divine Lord’s explanation gave Ye Wen a clearer understanding of the situation. Connecting this to what he had observed on his travels, he realized that the population density of the Eastern Immortal Continent was far from saturated. The vast regions to the west, in particular, seemed sparsely populated—he wondered if frequent conflicts with neighboring realms were the cause.

Most people were concentrated in the central area, yet even here, saturation had not been reached. Almost anyone arriving here could find a suitable place to survive and easily acquire enough land to support a family.

Concurrently, he had learned the locations of several sects along the way. If time permitted, Ye Wen might try visiting them. At least, based on what Erlang Shen had mentioned, these sects, while not top-tier in the Immortal Realm, possessed some renown and were reputed to be quite hospitable, meaning a visit was unlikely to result in being turned away at the door.

The Cuiyan Sect, in particular, was situated atop Cuiyan Peak. Although this mountain was not within the so-called ‘buffer zone,’ it lay quite close to it, positioned southeast of Mount Shu. Ye Wen recalled seeing only one towering peak piercing the clouds from a distance—though it wasn't a floating mountain range, its presence was no less imposing than those that were.

And upon that very peak sat the Cuiyan Sect. Hearing the name, Ye Wen initially assumed it was a sect composed entirely of female Immortals. Yet, Erlang Shen had informed him otherwise: the sect was not solely female; in fact, when it was first founded, it comprised only men, not a single woman. But whether due to the name or some other reason, over the subsequent centuries, the number of female disciples grew until the gender ratio had completely inverted from its founding composition.

“However, the direct lineage heirs of the sect are still men...”

“Good heavens, what a ferocious Harem Sect! I wonder if the founder intended such an outcome when naming the sect!”

Ye Wen kept his private musings to himself. If such words were overheard, the Cuiyan Sect would likely clash with Mount Shu immediately, as the implication verged on tarnishing their reputation.

Despite learning of several other sects along the way, the memory of this ‘neighbor’ remained the strongest, fueling Ye Wen’s strong urge to pay them a visit.

Just then, the Vermillion Bird Divine Lord spoke up: “The most renowned sect in this region is undoubtedly the Heavenly Secret Gate. I hear the Sect Master Ye has a degree of rapport with the Gourd Immortal, Cui Jun. It seems your sect might gain a slight advantage when purchasing magic artifacts and elixirs from the Heavenly Secret Gate in the future!”

“Oh?”

This wasn't the first time Ye Wen had heard such remarks; Erlang Shen had previously advised him to seek out talents skilled in alchemy and artifact crafting from the Heavenly Secret Gate. Back then, Ye Wen had suspected the Heavenly Secret Gate might be like sects on Earth, such as the Hundred Herbs Alliance or the Artifact Forging Pavilion—sects whose livelihood depended on manufacturing magical items and pills.

Hearing this now confirmed his assumption: the Heavenly Secret Gate engaged in exactly that kind of trade. Unlike the Earthly factions, however, the Heavenly Secret Gate was not specialized; they boasted several high-level masters whose prowess in alchemy, artifact crafting, and array formations were all formidable.

If Ye Wen wished to develop these skills for the Mount Shu Sect, fostering good relations with the Heavenly Secret Gate was undoubtedly the most convenient and cost-effective choice.

Moreover, the Heavenly Secret Gate possessed considerable inherent strength and did not need to rely on the goodwill of others for survival. Setting others aside, the Gourd Immortal Cui Jun was extremely well-regarded in the Immortal Realm, a renowned figure whose power was outstanding and seniority exceptionally high. Even if someone did not respect his seniority, they would certainly fear his might. If Cui Jun took a liking to a young cultivator and accepted them as a disciple, that person would be ecstatic beyond measure. His previous eagerness to take on Xu Xian and Ye Wen was not arrogance; it stemmed from this very status he had maintained for one or two millennia.

“Right, the Gourd Immortal Cui mentioned something called the Seven Gourd Wonders. I wonder if Divine Lord has ever heard of it?”

Whenever this old man came up in conversation, Ye Wen was reminded of the Seven Gourd Wonders. Cui Jun had mentioned it only once, and Ye Wen had no idea what sort of divine ability it entailed. Since the Vermillion Bird Divine Lord seemed relatively knowledgeable about the Heavenly Secret Gate, perhaps he could glean some inside information.

“The Seven Gourd Wonders?” To Ye Wen’s surprise, the Vermillion Bird Divine Lord looked utterly bewildered. He finally stated, “Perhaps that is a divine ability the Gourd Immortal has recently comprehended? I have never heard of it before. The Gourd Immortal’s most renowned ability used to be fire control; he could roam the Immortal Realm relying solely on his Samadhi True Fire!”

“Fire?”

The Vermillion Bird Divine Lord nodded, then instantly preened, “But my Vermillion Bird Divine Flame is also famous throughout the Immortal Realm, so I am not afraid of that fellow. As for these Seven Gourd Wonders you mention, they have piqued my interest. I must question him thoroughly the next time I see him!”

Saying this, the Vermillion Bird Divine Lord turned his gaze toward Ye Wen’s eyes: “As for Sect Master Ye’s eyes—if Sect Master Ye can truly master the Pure World Lapis Lazuli Fire, he too could become one of the foremost fire-wielding experts in the Immortal Realm. However, Sect Master Ye seems to be primarily cultivating Daoist techniques and does not appear to know how to command this Buddhist divine fire! I wonder how Sect Master Ye came by this marvelous Buddhist method?”

Being so easily seen through, Ye Wen remained unconcerned. Moreover, the Hunyuan Baolian Jue that Ye Wen currently practiced was hardly a purely Daoist scripture, meaning the Vermillion Bird had not truly seen through him. Thus, Ye Wen merely offered a polite concession before deflecting with a simple reply: “This Pure World Lapis Lazuli Fire was merely an unexpected gain!”

Though the Vermillion Bird said nothing, his expression clearly showed disbelief. After all, Ye Wen’s internal Buddhist energy, while not overwhelming, was certainly detectable by anyone with even modest skill. They likely also perceived that this energy was not cultivated by Ye Wen himself, suggesting it came from some unique opportunity—a personal matter best left unprobed.

Erlang Shen had been more attentive to this. His perception of the Western Buddhist Kingdoms was not favorable, and as a frontier guardian, he remained vigilant against those people—no one truly believed Erlang Shen was stationed there merely to guard against the Olympians. Initially, Erlang Shen had wondered if Ye Wen had any ties to the Western Buddhist Realm. After some subtle testing, he gathered the source of Ye Wen’s Buddhist power and spoke no more of it. In any case, there were many skilled in Buddhist lore within Heaven, and one more cultivator holding such power was hardly a concern.

As they spoke, the group arrived outside the gates of Heaven. The towering structure seemed to have no discernible top. Ye Wen stood before it, craning his neck, feeling that the colossal gate nearly pierced the firmament. Standing before it made him feel utterly insignificant.

He drew his gaze back, unsure if the gate possessed some inherent strangeness or perhaps carried arrays designed to attack the spirit, intending to instill a sense of smallness to inspire greater reverence for Heaven. At his current level of cultivation, he couldn't determine the truth of the matter.

Looking ahead, two heavily armored generals clutching iron maces barred their way. They offered a slight salute upon seeing Erlang Shen and began making inquiries. It seemed these two, guarding the Celestial Gate, had the authority to forego the full rites of respect, as Erlang Shen showed no displeasure. Instead, he explained the situation in detail, turning back once to point at Ye Wen with his finger.

The leading general turned to look at Ye Wen’s form, studied him for a moment, then withdrew his gaze. After speaking briefly with Erlang Shen, he turned and headed inside. The other general stood planted before the gate, holding his mace across his chest, showing no intention of moving aside. It was only when Erlang Shen returned with a reply that Ye Wen understood the procedure.

“Escorting someone into Heaven requires notification and a decree from the Jade Emperor before entry is permitted!”

“To see the Jade Emperor?” Ye Wen had not anticipated Erlang Shen would lead him directly to the Emperor. He had assumed he was simply making a tour of Heaven, meeting a few minor officials to settle the Mount Shu Sect’s affairs, perhaps not arranging a personal audience with the supreme leader of the Immortal Realm!

Indeed, Erlang Shen’s answer made Ye Wen realize his assumption was too grand. Ye Wen was meant to enter Heaven, but not necessarily to meet the Jade Emperor. Erlang Shen would be the one to approach the Jade Emperor, briefly report the circumstances, explain the situation regarding the Mount Shu Sect, and endeavor to persuade him not to take action against them, thus tacitly allowing their existence. As for Ye Wen? Someone would escort him to handle the registration and reporting procedures for the Mount Shu Sect.

Not long after, the Heavenly General returned, exchanged a few words with Erlang Shen, and then Erlang Shen led the way inside. Ye Wen started to follow, but as he reached the threshold, the General suddenly spoke: “You must be Sect Master Ye of Mount Shu?”

“That is correct. May I ask what title you hold, General?”

“Sect Master Ye is too kind. My name is Qin Qiong!”

Ye Wen started in surprise, realizing he was addressing a famous historical figure. “Qin Qiong? Squire Qin?”

Qin Qiong smiled, appearing remarkably friendly. “Sect Master Ye recognizes me?”

Ye Wen remained silent, though he thought to himself: Who hasn't heard of Qin Qiong? Even though I’m not well-versed in the affairs of that little corner known as the Sui and Tang Dynasties, I know your esteemed self was quite formidable, and among the heroes of that era, you ended up quite well! Later, he had heard legends that Qin Qiong and Yuchi Gong became door gods. Now, it seemed, it wasn't entirely myth—Qin Qiong was indeed guarding the Celestial Gate. Did that mace-wielding man represent Yuchi Gong?

He watched as Qin Qiong turned to the dark-faced General, who still stood by the gate: “I will take Sect Master Ye to register his details and will return shortly!”

The dark-faced man nodded without a word, simply leaning on his iron mace and ceasing to observe the group. Ye Wen wondered if this was simply his disposition or if he and Qin Qiong were not on good terms. However, given Qin Qiong’s unperturbed demeanor, it was likely the former—a stark contrast to the smiling Qin Qiong. Perhaps guarding this Celestial Gate instills contrasting personalities in them—one cold, one warm? A fitting pair for weary travelers seeking entry?

Unbeknownst to him, Ye Wen’s guess was close to the truth. The reason for this dichotomy lay in Yuchi Gong possessing a more inherently intimidating appearance.

After giving instructions to Yuchi Gong, Qin Qiong turned back to Ye Wen, extended an arm, and said, “Please,” leading the way. Instead of proceeding straight forward into Heaven, Qin Qiong immediately turned into a side courtyard, then executed a series of sharp turns that left Ye Wen dizzy.

He couldn't help but ask, “General Qin, might I inquire where this registration office is located?”

Qin Qiong smiled, perhaps unsurprised by the question, and continued forward without turning back. “That office is situated rather remotely. That is why I am personally guiding Sect Master Ye; I feared you might wander aimlessly and stumble into another area, offending someone important within Heaven, which would be most regrettable!”

Only then did Ye Wen understand why Qin Qiong insisted on guiding him personally. It seemed guarding the Heavenly Gate was a tedious job, involving not only standing watch all day but also moonlighting as a guide. Judging by Qin Qiong’s practiced ease, he must have escorted countless individuals over the last few centuries.

“By the way, Sect Master Ye, you hail from Earth?”

This time, Qin Qiong turned, scrutinizing Ye Wen while simultaneously glancing at Dongfang Kui, who followed quietly behind.

“That is correct!”

“Is the Li Tang dynasty still reigning supreme on Earth?” Qin Qiong asked curiously. “It seems an awfully long time has passed. I have been guarding the Celestial Gate for several centuries now.”

Ye Wen paused, then realized that while Qin Qiong knew he came from Earth, he was unaware of Earth’s current state. He replied, “The Li Tang dynasty perished long, long ago!”

“Oh!” Ye Wen expected a moment of melancholy from the General, but Qin Qiong seemed utterly unfazed. Seeing Ye Wen’s confusion, he continued, “After so many years, one learns to accept these things. Besides, what dynasty in the mortal realm is eternal?”

Hearing this, Ye Wen recognized Qin Qiong as a true figure of character. Most people, even if they intellectually grasp this truth, would likely become emotionally shaken upon facing such a reality. He himself, knowing the Mount Shu Sect would face issues after his departure, had nearly burst with anger when he finally witnessed it firsthand.

After exchanging words about events on Earth following the Tang Dynasty, when Ye Wen mentioned the legends of Emperor Taizong using the images of Qin Qiong and Yuchi Gong to guard the gates, Qin Qiong laughed: “No wonder Heaven saw fit to assign me and Jingde to guard duty—so there was such a precedent…”

Qin Qiong and Yuchi Gong should have followed the normal path of mortals, entering the cycle of reincarnation after death. However, the legend of them becoming door gods, coupled with countless commoners worshipping and posting their likenesses, led to their selection by the Investiture of the Gods, elevating them to become Divine Generals of Heaven, much like Guan Yu. Furthermore, their established legends endowed them with the power to ward off evil spirits, resulting in their assignment to guard the Celestial Gate—a post they had not relinquished for hundreds of years. Ye Wen felt a touch of pity for their fate upon hearing this.

As they talked, the group reached a relatively secluded courtyard. Qin Qiong pointed toward it and said, “When Heaven was first established, this magistrate’s office did not exist; it was created later, which is why this location is somewhat remote. The great length of our walk was mostly spent circling, as many paths within Heaven are forbidden to traverse. I trust Sect Master Ye will not mind!”

So the extended journey was due to necessary detours around restricted courtyards. Ye Wen mentally remarked, Doesn't Heaven need to build some elevated highways and subways? To avoid all this tedious winding, like navigating a labyrinth!

He then heard Qin Qiong add, “Sect Master Ye should memorize this location well. You may need to frequent this place in the future!”

Ye Wen immediately looked troubled. He had been so engaged in conversation with Qin Qiong that he hadn’t paid attention to the route taken. The constant twists and turns, combined with the similar appearance of every courtyard, meant he had no memory of the path.

Just as he was brooding, Dongfang Kui spoke up: “Sect Master Ye need not worry. I have memorized the route!”

Relief washed over Ye Wen. He smiled at Dongfang Kui, then followed Qin Qiong into the building. Before entering, he noticed a tablet standing by the door inscribed with: ‘Celestial Realm Sect Management Registration and Entry/Exit Administration Yamen!’

“What is with this bizarre name?” He felt the name of this office sounded far too modern, especially the ‘Entry/Exit Administration.’ What exactly did that manage? Did one need a passport or visa to leave the Eastern Immortal Continent?

Seeing Ye Wen pause to examine the plaque, Qin Qiong explained, “This is where cultivators who have recently ascended to the Immortal Realm have their files processed. Nearly all newly ascended cultivators must undergo this procedure. However, Heaven has established several arrays that centrally control the ascension passages, meaning most cultivators complete these matters immediately upon arrival. Sect Master Ye’s situation is rather rare, necessitating this personal visit!”

“Who named this place?”

Qin Qiong glanced at the sign. “This name was changed by the Gourd Immortal Cui, Senior from the Heavenly Secret Gate. He said the previous name was clumsy, difficult to remember, and didn't clearly state its function. He changed it to this... this happened perhaps a few decades ago!”

“Oh, then that explains it!”

While discussing this, they entered the room. A man clad in official robes immediately stepped forward to greet them, introducing himself with a cheerful smile: “My name is Zhong Dajun, the administrator here. You must be Sect Master Ye?”