Chapter 544: Yin and Yang

The first thing Li Mochen did after returning to Atlanta was to refine the elemental crystals gifted by Bethel Estandin into a composite external elixir.

Refining an external elixir was relatively simple; Li Mochen completed it in just two days and named it 'Five Elements'.

As Estandin had said, the cores of elemental demigods were extremely pure in both mana and source power. Their quantity was also vast, at least seven times that of a mage of the same level, making them excellent materials for crafting 'external elixirs'.

The mutual generation and restraint among the five elements—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—greatly enhanced the mana capacity of the 'Five Elements'. This meant the mana stored within this composite external elixir was no less than that of a lesser god.

What was even more surprising was that after the 'Five Elements' was refined and the five elements were complete, a power akin to divine power emerged within the elixir.

Like the 'Magic Vinewood Heart' before, this power was close to divine power, its essence already transformed, capable of serving as the power source for many twenty-ninth-level spells.

Thus, the 'Five Elements' external elixir became Li Mochen's fourth trump card, following the 'Heavenly Heart' Li Mochen, the new mythic armament, and the Scarlet Dragon Armor.

At this time, the refining of the 'Magic Vinewood Heart' by his secondary body had also reached a critical stage. Li Mochen planned to craft it into a necklace while preserving the life-and-death divine authority of the Blue Swamp Magic Vine.

Originally, Li Mochen could not have managed this. As a low-grade mythic item, it would have been excellent for the necklace to preserve the four ultimate domains of the Blue Swamp Magic Vine.

The power of 'divine authority', though based on ultimate domains, derived its essence from the 'Gate of Truth', or 'Source'.

Thus, fixing 'divine authority' onto an item was extremely difficult.

An obscure, profound, massive, precise, and flawless magical array was necessary; any error could lead to failure or even the destruction of the entire artifact.

The quality of the 'Magic Vinewood Heart' itself was also somewhat lacking. Although it could bear the power of the 'Source', its affinity with the 'Source' was indeed low.

Using it as the main material was not impossible, but the risk was terrifyingly high, and it would drastically increase the difficulty of designing the magical array.

However, the newly acquired 'Five Elements' external elixir and the tens of thousands of strands of merit gave Li Mochen enough confidence.

He did not lack the mana to craft a divine authority artifact, and he was confident in deducing a flawless magical array.

Li Mochen's method was simple: make a wish to the 'Divine Pneuma Spiritual Fortune Purple Gold Pagoda', then use the 'Circumstellar Divine Mechanism Mystic Pivot Locking Star Secret Art' to deduce.

Meanwhile, Li Mochen's main body entered seclusion, focusing on advancing the 'Binary Profound Transformation Method'.

The opportunities he gained in the dragon tomb only enhanced his subclasses of 'Titan Holy Warrior' and 'Dragon Bloodline Sorcerer'. His main class remained at level fifteen, and the level of his magic swordsman class was closely tied to the realm of the 'Binary Profound Transformation Method'.

Before this, Li Mochen's sixfold techniques were: Arctic Honored God corresponding to Ursa Minor, Antarctic Honored God corresponding to Octans, Gouchen Honored God corresponding to Eridanus, Zhenwu Honored God corresponding to Phoenix, Azure Dragon Honored God corresponding to Taurus, and Yellow Dragon Honored God corresponding to Ophiuchus.

Months ago, when Li Mochen reached level thirteen, he chose 'Vermilion Bird Honored God' corresponding to 'Cancer'; at level fifteen, the eighth layer of the 'Binary Profound Transformation Method' used 'White Tiger Honored God' corresponding to 'Aquarius'.

At this point, Li Mochen's body already possessed the two poles of yin and yang, the complete four elements, and the five elemental forces. Ordinary stars and constellations no longer caught his eye.

Thus, when冲击 the ninth layer of the Binary Profound Transformation Method, Li Mochen directly aimed at the Great Yin and Great Yang, that is, the sun and moon, the largest celestial bodies in the sky.

This was extremely difficult, representing the power of extreme yin and extreme yang. Each visualization by Li Mochen carried great risk. The former could directly freeze his soul and devour everything; the latter could burn all he had, turning him into a torch.

At this time, the bloodlines from Hyperion and the Blue Dragon played a role; the memories and traits from the bloodline helped him quickly adapt to these two powers.

He also occasionally borrowed the 'Five Elements' external elixir from his secondary body to suppress and regulate his internal energy channels.

Li Mochen spent a full three days finally visualizing the 'Sun Honored God' in his sea of consciousness—the so-called 'Sun Palace Blazing Sun Star Lord', also known as 'God of Great Light'.

There were multiple Sun Star Lords in Daoist legends, such as Dijun, Haotian, and Taiyi. Li Mochen did not intend to reference the dharma bodies of these three; he merely used the yang flame laws he had comprehended to condense his own 'Sun Honored God'.

In his dantian, the corresponding entity was the 'Moon', that is, the Great Yin.

In fact, the bright moon was not the Great Yin itself; the dark chaos beyond the moon was.

What people saw as the 'Great Yin Star' in the night sky was merely the yang force condensed and forced out by the endless darkness, not the essence of the Great Yin.

When this step was completed, half of the magic tower Li Mochen was in turned into a sea of fire; aside from the brick walls, almost all matter melted under the extreme heat; the other half became an ice prison near absolute zero, with everything frozen.

Fortunately, Li Mochen had anticipated this and stored everything away beforehand. The secondary body's artifact refining site was at the topmost floor of the magic tower, unaffected by the overflow of his techniques.

At this moment, Li Mochen was stunned by the drastic changes within his body.

He felt the essence of his soul sublimating and expanding; endless life force derived from the two poles of yin and yang, merging into his flesh and blood. This caused his mana and source power to instantly expand more than fivefold—and this was only the beginning. With each subsequent cultivation, he would gain vast amounts of true essence mana.

The vitality of Li Mochen's physical body also greatly increased, which would soon lead to a tremendous, fundamental improvement in his constitution.

However, after cultivating the 'Binary Profound Transformation Method' to the ninth layer's perfection, the peak of the eighteenth-level class, Li Mochen stopped.

Li Mochen's ambitious heart aimed at the most terrifying phenomena deep in the astral realm. He intended to make them the endpoint of the 'Circumstellar Primordial Cycle Dual-Phase Non-Aspect Scripture' and the 'Eighty-Eight Constellation Meditation Method', but he felt his current accumulation was still insufficient.

He needed half a year to study these phenomena, discern their origins and truths, and then condense the final celestial images and primordial cycle gods in his soul sea and dantian.

After this seclusion ended, Li Mochen often used his magic tower to observe the starry sky. He focused on the two celestial phenomena, feeling anticipation and excitement in his heart.

After taking over the original body, the foundation he had built with this body was unparalleled. Once the tenth layer of the 'Binary Profound Transformation Method' was completed, he was confident he could skip the transitional stages of Legend and Demigod and directly attain 'Ancient God'.

Even if he abandoned those two powerful celestial phenomena, Li Mochen was highly confident that when he rose to Legend level five, he could cross the boundary between human and god, which was insurmountable for many demigods and scattered immortals.

At this point, Philip I and his group were no longer on Li Mochen's mind. He was now more concerned with the apocalyptic divine war Estandin had prophesied.

Also, the war with the 'Bloodwing Grand Duchy'—they were stirring, ready to burst out of Rochelle Canyon at any moment and launch a counterattack against the Rising Sun Group.

As for his sister Jennifer, Li Mochen felt it was time to act. The completion of the 'Five Elements' and the condensation of the Great Yin and Great Yang had given him the confidence to face that archmage head-on.

However, before this action began, Li Mochen had to attend a private banquet hosted by the Mayor of Atlanta for the President's special envoy, at the strong request of Conshuri.

This was more of a venue for George Mattiola, the general, to mediate the conflict between them and Philip I.

As a rapidly expanding force nearly independent of the Wiltonshine family, the Rising Sun Group had to participate.

That evening, Li Mochen and Philip I arrived almost simultaneously. After exchanging glances, they ignored each other and walked into the banquet hall.

Representing the mayor in receiving Li Mochen was Rosy Vanderrick of the Vanderrick family. The first heir of the Vanderrick family was related to the Atlanta mayor by marriage, as cousins.

Li Mochen had never met this person before, so naturally there was no friendship; after a few casual remarks, they had nothing more to say.

Rosy seemed to notice Li Mochen's indifference, and his expression showed some displeasure. Nevertheless, he dutifully led Li Mochen to a private meeting room in the backyard of the residence.

"Ha, finally meeting you, the youngest billionaire in all of America."

Upon meeting, George Mattiola warmly gave Li Mochen a cheek kiss: "Your grandfather said you went to Stanford to visit your future teacher, right? Is Professor Estandin in good health? Many are worried about him."

The man appeared around forty but was actually three hundred years old, having participated in World War I and II. As a demigod warrior of the Violet family, he had extremely delicate features and a physique as robust as a mountain, incongruous with his beauty. His embrace was forceful.

"The professor looks well. I'm sorry I couldn't attend your welcome party, General. My meeting with the professor was arranged long ago."

Li Mochen lied through his teeth, certain the other party couldn't verify with Estandin. He simply wasn't interested in participating in a negotiation that was doomed to fail and where he wouldn't make any concessions.

If Conshuri hadn't told him that George Mattiola might announce the President's decision, Li Mochen would have gone straight to the astral realm to find that mage tower.

Once both sides' personnel were seated around General George Mattiola, he got straight to the point: "As you all know, I am here on the President's mission to mediate your disputes. Today is our final discussion."

His gaze first fell on his lower left: "Conshuri, I have spoken with Philip repeatedly. He is willing to make further concessions, completely abandon the blood soul seed implanted in you, and everything of the Wiltonshine family, retreating to the Old Continent. Everything here will be yours to inherit. And Conshuri, you will swear to forget the past and start your life anew. Is that acceptable?"

"No!"

Conshuri refused decisively, his expression cold and indifferent: "I'm sorry, but I cannot forget my hatred. If I forget it, then the person Conshuri is no longer worth existing."

"One must look forward, Conshuri. Don't let hatred cloud your heart."

General George Mattiola sighed, looking at Conshuri with disappointment, then turned to Li Mochen: "And what about you, Andrew? If you are willing to accept peace, we can legally strip most of Margaret's siblings' property and record it under your name, worth about thirty-five billion gold shields. Additionally, the Howard family can剥离 two hundred billion gold shields in assets as compensation. If you accept, the President, myself, and even the National Progressive Association will be grateful for your personal sacrifice."

Li Mochen looked at him with a half-smile, thinking the man's stance seemed somewhat biased. The latter part clearly intended to pressure him.

Just a trivial loss of property to end the previous hatred? A beautiful thought.

Why specifically mention the National Progressive Association? Was this the power behind Philip I?

Li Mochen had heard of this organization. Originally named the Southern Planters' Association, it could be considered the ghost of the defeated after the Civil War.

At its peak, it encompassed all planters in the southern states and dozens of top-tier families from the Old Continent. It was infamous, second only to the KKK.

In modern times, the organization had changed its name and become one of the largest secret societies in all of America.

Li Mochen was only surprised that the Violet family might also be a member of the National Progressive Association. Their territory was clearly in the North.

"I will not accept."

Li Mochen shook his head: "Unless those across from me die before my eyes."

This was also the obsession of the original Li Mochen, a necessary path to resolve his soul fusion, with no room for compromise.

Those he stared at—Philip I, Alexandra Howard, and others—all changed expression, their eyes sharpening.

George Mattiola frowned deeply, his gaze suddenly sharp, a hint of displeasure flashing across his face.

"Won't you reconsider, Andrew? Once war begins, it will cause tens or even hundreds of thousands of casualties among your followers. It could even affect Atlanta and harm the public interest of all America. I personally do not wish to see our nation suffer such internal损耗."

This time, Li Mochen simply didn't speak, responding only with his gaze to General George Mattiola.

The latter understood his answer. His face slightly darkened, but he didn't press further.

"Then, Mr. Linden, you are also unwilling to withdraw from this conflict?"

"Of course."

Rote Linden nodded slightly: "The Linden family stands with our allies."

"Then let me confirm one last time: neither side is willing to compromise and end this conflict?"

The meeting room fell into dead silence. After ten seconds, General George Mattiola shrugged helplessly: "Very well. As some predicted, my mediation efforts have failed. Now, allow me to convey the President's request, which is also the opinion of Mayor Endel of Atlanta. They hope you will swear that your war will never break out within Atlanta's city limits, nor will you actively attack each other's commercial facilities or personnel anywhere in America. The American government hopes you will resolve this conflict through a scheduled decisive battle. We will designate a battlefield in the dark world, supervise both sides' personnel entering, and conduct a no-holds-barred war until one side is completely defeated."

He paused: "This war will be supervised by eight archmages and eight demigods, allowing no one to withdraw. The Lady of Liberty herself will personally observe your battle."

The Lady of Liberty?

Li Mochen's mind tightened, then calmed down.

It was no longer like before, needing to worry about the secret of his origin from another world being discovered. His soul fusion with the original had reached over 90%, almost as one.

The Lady of Liberty's attention was to be expected.

Although her main divine duty had shifted to 'Freedom', all 'strife' in the world could still greatly please her—especially a demigod-level conflict.

The goddess only disliked large-scale death; population reduction would decrease strife and freedom, weakening her power.

"Acceptable."

Conshuri locked eyes with Philip I across from him; their gazes clashed in the air, sparks seeming to fly.

"I want to know, when will this battle begin?"

"That depends on the wishes of both sides."

General George Mattiola seemed somewhat surprised by Consulius's decisiveness. Sipping the coffee brought by a servant, he cast another casual glance at the few people on this side: "Of course, we can't drag it on indefinitely. The time limit is four months. The President's meaning is that after four months, whichever side avoids battle will lose the government's protection. You should understand what I mean."

Li Mochen certainly understood: losing the government's protection meant being ignored by official forces. No one would care if your shops were burned down, nor would they file a case if your subordinates were killed.

To end the chaos as soon as possible, the government might even provide some help and convenience to the other side.

These terms were all favorable to Philip I and his side, especially the clause designating the battlefield in the dark world, which nullified Li Mochen's mobility advantage brought by 'Night Ruler' Delfinia.

However, after George Mattiola finished speaking, the few on that side all frowned deeply, looking troubled.

This finally made General George Mattiola show a surprised expression: "Philip, what are you thinking?"

"This doesn't align with our interests. So, let's propose a different plan, General!"

It was a female demigod who looked only about ten years old, seated at Roland Benedict's lower hand. The corner of her lips lifted slightly, carrying a hint of contempt: "Reduce the scale of the war, with only legends and demigods participating. The time will be decided by our side, and the opposite few cannot refuse."

"Ho~"

Rote Linden couldn't help but laugh: "That's a very confident proposal. Ms. Clara Kanzel, forgive me, but I fail to see the fairness in this plan."

"You will definitely agree."

The seemingly young female demigod spoke with utmost confidence: "Otherwise, I will suggest that Philip I and Howard leave this world and enter the depths of the stars. Do you know what that means, Consulius?"

"Are you planning to flee? Or are you afraid?"

Consulius Wiltenstein said expressionlessly: "Philip, I didn't know you were so cowardly. I and my descendants will be ashamed of your bloodline. If you think leaving the bright world can end all this, you are delusional. I will surely continue to pursue your trail; between us, it's a fight to the death."

Though his voice was calm and steady, without any fluctuation, everyone present could hear his determination.

Philip I and Alexandra Howard both wore grim expressions, the latter casting a dissatisfied glance at Ms. Kanzel, as this plan was clearly her own initiative.

"Indeed, it's a bit demanding. So there are other conditions; we will pay a price that will satisfy you."

Clara Kanzel smiled and placed a photo in front of Li Mochen and the others: "Mr. Consulius, I guess you are very interested in this person?"

Li Mochen recognized the person in the photo at first glance: it was Mrs. Judith Brown, one of the most famous astrologers on the East Coast of America and a close friend of the original owner's maternal grandmother.

He couldn't help but glance upward, thinking it seemed inappropriate to present a photo of a kidnapped hostage in front of a sitting general. But General George Mattiola showed no reaction.

"Of course, just this person alone isn't enough weight, so—"

Clara Kanzel's voice stopped abruptly as Philip I raised his hand to silence her. He looked at Consulius with equally calm eyes: "I have no intention of fleeing, but I have the ability to die together with you. This—"

He casually placed a gem in front of him: "You know what this is, right? I'll entrust it to the government for safekeeping. If I ultimately lose, it will be handed over to you by the government as a wager."

Li Mochen's heart tightened. He sensed a connection between this object and Consulius, very close. The dim spiritual light flowing within it was almost identical to the aura of Consulius's magic source.

"That's impossible—"

"Agreed!"

Consulius frowned and looked at Li Mochen, who had forcibly interrupted him. The latter ignored his gaze and said with a beaming smile: "I can accept your plan, but I have two conditions. First, during the war between our Rising Sun Group and the Bloodwing Grand Duchy, we have the right to refuse battle."

"A reasonable request!"

General George Mattiola nodded: "For the sake of America, and for all humanity, this is necessary. Philip, on this matter, I share the same opinion as Secretary of Defense Lieutenant General Daniel Boone. The cleansing and suppression of the Bloodwing Grand Duchy is imperative. As far as I know, many in the Joint Chiefs of Staff are looking forward to the victory of the vanguard battle in the Bloody Land."

"I have no objection."

Philip I leaned back: "I know this is also the will of many arms companies, though I don't think my descendant here has the ability to fulfill your expectations. Now, state your second condition, Lucky Andrew."

"We must be given three hours of preparation time."

Li Mochen raised his brow again: "Before the battle begins, you must give us time to assemble the many legends and demigods under our banner."

"Still reasonable."

General George Mattiola's stance this time seemed impartial, but he modified Li Mochen's condition: "One hour. The government will provide assistance to ensure your people can all reach the battlefield before the fight starts."

Li Mochen's eyes narrowed as he once again looked at the five-star 'Special Attack' general.