With a rush of air, Luo Chen descended through the drifting clouds and landed on the plaza of Heaven-Earth Peak. A Dao Sect disciple immediately stepped forward to receive him, but before the man could speak, Luo Chen produced a jade identity token. Spirit light flowed across its surface, and his status was revealed at once.

The Adept's expression brightened. "Ah, so you're a guest elder of the Star Gate. Right this way."

Luo Chen nodded and followed him into the mist. The moment he stepped onto the plaza, however, he felt as though he had passed through an invisible barrier. A faint pressure settled over his entire body, subtle enough to escape the notice of ordinary people but strong enough that even his formidable physique felt slightly constrained.

"Is there a defensive formation active here?" he asked.

The disciple glanced back in surprise. "Senior, you noticed? There is a defensive formation around Heaven-Earth Peak. I heard it's never been used, and it's usually inactive, but today is Ascension Day. We do not expect anything to happen, of course, but with so many people gathered here, it's better to be careful."

Luo Chen glanced back at the boundary he had just crossed. There was nothing visible to see or tangible to...