Chapter 1102: The Path

Within the first defense line closest to the time-space node.

Zong Linjing and Je Haomiao looked at the approaching Lin Zheyu with some surprise.

“It’s not time for the shift change yet. Are you going to investigate the situation on the other side of the time-space node again?”

Je Haomiao joked with a smile.

This was the first defense line closest to the time-space node, where the concentration of demonic energy and demon will was most astonishing.

Both cultivators and Martial Artists kept their distance from here, avoiding it if possible.

To them, coming here was like stepping into a foul-smelling cesspool, an extremely uncomfortable experience.

“The situation seems off. Last time, I was ambushed by a Seven-Striped Demon Fiend and almost didn’t make it out. I don’t want a repeat of that.”

“I just finished a secluded cultivation, so with nothing else to do, I came over, a day or two earlier than required.”

Lin Zheyu explained with a smile.

Actually, after his Celestial Eye breakthrough, Lin Zheyu could hardly wait to enter the Array Hub and use the Celestial Eye to comprehend the array’s mysteries around him.

The Celestial Eye, after evolving, had an enhanced ability to perceive the essence of all things. This would greatly assist Lin Zheyu in reorganizing and optimizing the Martial Arts Divine Pattern.

“Haha, you rascal.”

“Since you’re being so courteous, I won’t decline. I’ll leave this place in your hands.” Je Haomiao laughed aloud.

He had long had enough of this dreary place, and now that Xiao Yu was willing to arrive earlier, he was more than happy to oblige.

Handing over control of the Array Hub to Lin Zheyu, Je Haomiao left joyfully.

“Have you had another breakthrough?”

Zong Linjing squinted slightly, asking hesitantly.

She had known Lin Zheyu for several years, and though she still couldn’t fully fathom him, she was quite familiar with some of his habits.

“Good eye, my friend.”

“I got lucky; the second shackle has loosened a bit. I estimate that it won’t be long before I can break free entirely.”

Lin Zheyu replied with a smile.

He doubted Zong Linjing could see through his concealed strength. It was mainly because they were so familiar with each other that Zong Linjing could infer it from Lin Zheyu’s demeanor and actions.

“Congratulations, my friend.”

“You haven’t been free from the first shackle for long, and already you’re on the verge of freeing the second one. Such speed, truly enviable.”

Zong Linjing remarked with a bit of emotion.

Recently, she had truly witnessed what it meant to be more diligent than a genius.

Lin Zheyu’s relentless cultivation fervor was remarkable, even while guarding the first array defense line, he never relaxed for a moment.

It made Zong Linjing feel a bit ashamed.

Though she worked hard too, she couldn’t match Lin Zheyu’s level of tenacity; at least, she didn’t have the capability.

Here, she had to constantly guard against the encroachment of demon will and demonic energy on her being. She couldn’t afford to expend her spirit and energy on cultivation.

Otherwise, if something unexpected happened, it would be troublesome.

“Just some fortuitous opportunities, nothing more.”

“You’ve already fully broken through the first shackle and solidified the second. You aren’t far from attempting to break free from the second one yourself, are you?”

Lin Zheyu remarked with a smile.

Even without using his Celestial Eye, his perception was incredibly strong now. One look and he could roughly ascertain Zong Linjing’s level of strength.

Lin Zheyu could sense that in Zong Linjing’s body, the second shackle was nearly solidified and almost fully revealed.

Ordinary Martial Artists, unlike Lin Zheyu, would only condense the next shackle after breaking free from one.

Unlike Lin Zheyu, who had condensed all seven shackles at once.

Due to the golden energy within, an extraordinary mutation had occurred, making them even stronger.

“I’m still a tiny bit away.”

“But that tiny bit feels like a chasm as wide as the sky. Without a few years, it’s likely to be very difficult.”

Zong Linjing shook her head.

The Martial Arts Shackles Realm corresponds to the cultivator’s Golden Core stage, with each shackle breakthrough representing a leap in strength.

It requires several years to achieve.

“Have you encountered any issues? Two heads are better than one. Why not share them, and we can brainstorm together?”

Lin Zheyu offered with a smile.

“Thank you so much, my friend.”

Zong Linjing’s eyes brightened as she thanked him with a smile.

Wa Zhengtian, being a warm-hearted person, enjoyed mentoring juniors. During her time guarding here, she frequently discussed Martial Dao topics with Senior Wa Zhengtian.

In those conversations, Zong Linjing often heard Wa Zhengtian’s words of praise for Lin Zheyu.

“You flatter me, my friend.”

Lin Zheyu responded with a smile.

The two sat cross-legged within their respective Array Hubs, started to exchange insights, and discussed their understandings of the Martial Dao.

Zong Linjing followed the traditional Martial Dao path.

Her practice was without major issues and could even be described as smooth.

However, the way of the Martial Dao was inherently difficult.

It’s a path even more challenging than the Immortal Dao.

In less than five years, Zong Linjing hoped to break the second shackle, which was already quite exceptional, worthy of being called a genius.

This was also why, despite many discussions with Wa Zhengtian, her strength hadn’t improved significantly.

Her cultivation was essentially free of issues, requiring no substantial changes.

The key was to bide her time, letting things take their natural course.

However, Lin Zheyu was no ordinary person.

“Would you mind if I use a spiritual divine technique to examine your physical form?” Lin Zheyu pondered for a moment and asked.

Through their conversation, he had already grasped Zong Linjing’s situation and knew how to assist her.