Though Zhang Yan had previously sent the Wang Sisters to investigate, Elder An and his people, not being cultivators, had limited knowledge. In contrast, Gongsun Chang was different. Among the cultivators of the Daoist sects in this sea territory, he was the easiest source to inquire about matters concerning East Victory Continent.

Facing a Nascent Soul cultivator, the arrogance in Gongsun Chang’s demeanor vanished completely, leaving only fear, and naturally, he dared not conceal anything.

After Zhang Yan’s inquiries, he learned that East Victory Continent was different from East Splendor. There were countless vassal states backed by cultivation sects, with the Five Great Immortal Sects being revered among them. For instance, behind the Great Chu Kingdom was the Zhongtai Immortal Sect, one of the five great sects.

The Xianluo Sect was the largest cultivation sect in the West Ji Sea Realm, receiving sacrifices from overseas nations, and governing millions. Daily, they would hunt sea demons and spirit monsters, collect sea shells and jade pearls, and trade them with other sects for Dharma treasures and elixirs.

Moreover, there were over a hundred noble families, large and small, scattered across this vast sea domain, nominally all under Xianluo’s leadership.

Although this sect’s influence was considerable, it had only the city lord as a Nascent Soul cultivator, falling far short compared to the five major sects.

Zhang Boyant remarked, "In this case, the West Ji Sea might as well be a desolate place compared to East Victory Continent."

Gongsun Chang bowed his head and said, "Our Xianluo Sect was once strong, controlling two sea territories within the Five Seas Realm. About a hundred years ago, a tribe of demon cultivators from the Outer Continent came, and fought us in the Beimo Sea, causing significant losses and forcing us to retreat to the West Ji Sea. Then, misfortunes compounded; over ten years ago, a sea demon rampaged, devouring sea creatures. Our sect’s Great Cultivators had to intervene and, although we severely injured and drove it away, two elders died, and only my teacher narrowly escaped. Our sect was grievously weakened and has not recovered since."

Outer Continent’s demon tribe? Zhang Yan’s expression subtly changed. With a flicker of thought, he asked, "Passing by here, I’d like to visit your city lord. Where should I head?"

Gongsun Chang hurriedly replied, "Go northeast for three thousand miles, there’s a towering mountain called Dayue, which is where our Xianluo Mountain Gate is located. This humble one is a direct disciple of the city lord and willing to introduce you distinguished guests. Knowing of your arrival, my teacher would surely be delighted."

Recognizing the dire situation of the Xianluo Sect and being merely a Small Golden Core Practitioner himself, Gongsun Chang knew that if a Nascent Soul True Master killed him, the city lord wouldn’t avenge him. For his own safety, he was exceedingly compliant and full of ingratiating words.

Zhang Yan waved his hand, saying, "There’s no rush in this matter. There’s still something I don’t understand. Daoist Gongsun, why did you trouble my two disciples?"

Gongsun Chang showed a terrified look and explained, "True Master, forgive me. Recently, an Supreme Treasure of the Upper Sect Zhongtai was stolen. Rumors say the thief came to our West Ji Sea Realm, so the city lord ordered thorough checks on all overseas visitors. I acted in accordance with these orders."

Zhang Boyant disdainfully retorted, "Supreme Treasures are all imbued with spiritual nature; how could they be stolen? Who would believe such nonsense?"

Gongsun Chang chuckled dryly, saying, "I don’t know the details either; it’s just hearsay."

Zhang Yan contemplated, his eyes flickering, and said, "Perhaps the treasure isn’t a Dharma treasure but a cultivation technique, possibly."

Gongsun Chang was startled, saying, "True Master’s words suggest it might be a secret volume of Divine Passage Skills?"

Zhang Yan smiled and said, "This is merely my random speculation, don’t take it seriously."

Gongsun Chang timidly agreed.

Zhang Yan looked at his timid demeanor and chuckled, saying to Wang Caiwei, "Disciple, bring paper and pen."

"Yes, Master."

Wang Caiwei laid the paper open on the desk, set up the inkstone, and then used her slender hand to place a paperweight on both ends.

Zhang Yan picked up the brush and wrote down a list of rare treasures, then handed it to Gongsun Chang, saying, "Since your teacher is in seclusion, I won’t disturb him. As Xianluo City is a place where Eight Directions Immortals gather, there must be many rare items. I’m interested in purchasing some; Daoist Gongsun, after you return, please keep an eye out for me."

Gongsun Chang was somewhat incredulous, asking, "True Master, you’re letting me return?"

Zhang Yan laughed, "If Daoist Gongsun is reluctant to leave and wants to stay a few days, that is fine too."

Gongsun Chang’s face turned pale, and he quickly waved his hands, afraid to linger. He carefully folded the white paper and put it away, bowed with one hand, and said, "Then I shall take my leave."

Worried that Zhang Yan might change his mind, Gongsun Chang hastily bade farewell, quickly departing the Dragon Country’s Ship, then he dashed away on a smoky haze.